Victory Over Fear
"I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears."
Psalm 34:4
God's will is to deliver us from all fear, as fear can be a terrible thing and can destroy our health. Fear can control our lives, take away our happiness and joy, and can determine the kind of life we live. You must understand that one of the big weapons that Satan uses against us is fear. When he finds what we are afraid of, he immediately begins to use these fears to trap our minds, and sends constant reminders to keep us in bondage. When we fall into Satan's trap, we are always tempted to sin, and take the easy road, which leads to more sin and more sin. I am sure that each of you reading this devotional has something that you are afraid of. It may be fear of heights, fear of being in closed places, fear of the dark, fear of snakes; regardless of what your fear is God wants to deliver you from it. God wants you to depend on your faith in Him to overcome your fear. He wants you to completely trust Him and have faith in Him, that regardless of what you may face in life, He will be with you and see you through even the fiercest storms. Fear can be just like stepping into quicksand, as the more you struggle in it, the deeper you sink. Once you realize that fear can be overcome by faith in God, then He is free to work in your life without being hindered by interference from Satan. If you find yourself caught in the "quicksand" of fear, reach out your hand to God, and let Him pull you out, so that you can enjoy the fullness of the life God promises. When you let faith be your friend, and fear be your enemy, and put God in control of your life, you will have victory over fear
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
The Fruit Of The Spirit
The Fruit Of The Spirit
"But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control."
Galatians 5:22
When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, some of the benefits are shown in the scripture above, and will reflect the kind of life you can expect to have. When you begin looking at this scripture it includes fruits for everyone. The fruit of love, joy and peace is for your own personal enjoyment. These three fruits are the ones that will make you happy and contented, and the ones that will keep you above all the worries and cares of the world, as you will be comfortable and at peace, regardless of what is going on around you. The fruits of patience, kindness and goodness are fruits that you share with others. We need patience in dealing with people. We also need kindness and goodness to fulfill God's commandment that we must love others as we love ourselves. These three fruits help us show our love for others, and fulfill God's commission to us about how our relationship is to be with all the people we meet. The final three fruits deal with our relationship with God. Faithfulness is the way that we honor God, as we must put our trust and faith in Him, and depend on Him for all things. Gentleness and self control are necessary to keep us focused on honoring God and keeping His commands. This wonderful scripture has something for everybody. It has fruit that we can enjoy for ourselves, it has fruit that we can give to others, and it also has fruit that we share and honor God with. If you have Jesus, you have all nine of these fruits, and you are now complete in Jesus, as you partake of them.
"But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control."
Galatians 5:22
When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, some of the benefits are shown in the scripture above, and will reflect the kind of life you can expect to have. When you begin looking at this scripture it includes fruits for everyone. The fruit of love, joy and peace is for your own personal enjoyment. These three fruits are the ones that will make you happy and contented, and the ones that will keep you above all the worries and cares of the world, as you will be comfortable and at peace, regardless of what is going on around you. The fruits of patience, kindness and goodness are fruits that you share with others. We need patience in dealing with people. We also need kindness and goodness to fulfill God's commandment that we must love others as we love ourselves. These three fruits help us show our love for others, and fulfill God's commission to us about how our relationship is to be with all the people we meet. The final three fruits deal with our relationship with God. Faithfulness is the way that we honor God, as we must put our trust and faith in Him, and depend on Him for all things. Gentleness and self control are necessary to keep us focused on honoring God and keeping His commands. This wonderful scripture has something for everybody. It has fruit that we can enjoy for ourselves, it has fruit that we can give to others, and it also has fruit that we share and honor God with. If you have Jesus, you have all nine of these fruits, and you are now complete in Jesus, as you partake of them.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Hope For The Future
Hope For The Future
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
This scripture contains a wonderful promise that brings hope to the heart of every believer. The word hope is such an important word, as any man without hope has nothing to look forward to, and without a future, life would be meaningless, which King Solomon stressed in the Book of Ecclesiastes, when he said "everything is meaningless." When people think there is no hope they have no reason to do things that are right, so they lie, cheat, destroy, commit adultery, steal and even murder because there is no hope anyway. Just recently, during the horrible earthquake in Haiti, we saw what a sense of hope can do, as all the people had left, was a little hope that relief help would arrive in time to save them. This sense of hope gave them something to look forward to, and gave them the will to live. Lack of hope removes any sense of brightness for the future, and only leaves the darkness. This scripture tells us that we have a bright future because we belong to Jesus. We have hope that when Jesus comes that He will take us home to be with Him, where we will spend all eternity in Heaven. The hope of an eternal home in Heaven should inspire you to want to seek the plans that God has for you, to let Him direct your life, to seek His will in all that you do, so that you can make your future bright. We don't know when Jesus will return, but we know he is returning soon, and you need to be ready. God has given you hope to have a bright future, but you need to accept His promise today.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
This scripture contains a wonderful promise that brings hope to the heart of every believer. The word hope is such an important word, as any man without hope has nothing to look forward to, and without a future, life would be meaningless, which King Solomon stressed in the Book of Ecclesiastes, when he said "everything is meaningless." When people think there is no hope they have no reason to do things that are right, so they lie, cheat, destroy, commit adultery, steal and even murder because there is no hope anyway. Just recently, during the horrible earthquake in Haiti, we saw what a sense of hope can do, as all the people had left, was a little hope that relief help would arrive in time to save them. This sense of hope gave them something to look forward to, and gave them the will to live. Lack of hope removes any sense of brightness for the future, and only leaves the darkness. This scripture tells us that we have a bright future because we belong to Jesus. We have hope that when Jesus comes that He will take us home to be with Him, where we will spend all eternity in Heaven. The hope of an eternal home in Heaven should inspire you to want to seek the plans that God has for you, to let Him direct your life, to seek His will in all that you do, so that you can make your future bright. We don't know when Jesus will return, but we know he is returning soon, and you need to be ready. God has given you hope to have a bright future, but you need to accept His promise today.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Charge Your Faith
Charge Your Faith
"But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit."
Jude 1:20
The book of Jude is a small book in the New Testament but has this important scripture, that tells us that we need to build ourselves up in our faith. If you have ever had your car battery go dead, you have to recharge it. Car batteries don't recharge themselves automatically, and when they go dead they are worthless. If we don't charge our faith, it can also go dead and become worthless. The way we can keep our faith charged is to keep our relationship plugged into God at all times. Just like our car battery, if we don't keep our relationship with God plugged in, all the time, we can lose it and it will be worthless. There will be many times in your life where you walk in faith, due to a health issue, job, finances, relationship, or many other situations, where you will be depending upon your faith in God to provide for you. Just like Peter, when his faith was charged he could walk on water, but when it began to fail, he began to sink. Your faith will carry you through many adversities in life, as long as you keep connected to God, and depend upon Him. God also wants to stay connected to you, and tells you that He will provide all your needs, if you will just keep your faith and trust in Him. We see many examples throughout the Bible where people like Moses, David, Abraham, Jacob and others kept their faith, by staying in a close relationship with God. If you find yourself in situations where you are struggling, maybe it's time to recharge your battery of faith, by getting closer to God, and build yourself up by the power He will provide to keep you fully charged.
"But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit."
Jude 1:20
The book of Jude is a small book in the New Testament but has this important scripture, that tells us that we need to build ourselves up in our faith. If you have ever had your car battery go dead, you have to recharge it. Car batteries don't recharge themselves automatically, and when they go dead they are worthless. If we don't charge our faith, it can also go dead and become worthless. The way we can keep our faith charged is to keep our relationship plugged into God at all times. Just like our car battery, if we don't keep our relationship with God plugged in, all the time, we can lose it and it will be worthless. There will be many times in your life where you walk in faith, due to a health issue, job, finances, relationship, or many other situations, where you will be depending upon your faith in God to provide for you. Just like Peter, when his faith was charged he could walk on water, but when it began to fail, he began to sink. Your faith will carry you through many adversities in life, as long as you keep connected to God, and depend upon Him. God also wants to stay connected to you, and tells you that He will provide all your needs, if you will just keep your faith and trust in Him. We see many examples throughout the Bible where people like Moses, David, Abraham, Jacob and others kept their faith, by staying in a close relationship with God. If you find yourself in situations where you are struggling, maybe it's time to recharge your battery of faith, by getting closer to God, and build yourself up by the power He will provide to keep you fully charged.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Can You Spot A Christian
Can You Spot A Christian
"You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy."
Psalm 45:7
At your place of work can you tell the Christian from the non Christians? If they are real Christians, and have really accepted Christ as their savior you most definitely will be able to tell them. They will be different than people that do not know God, as you will be able to see the peace and joy in their lives. Their actions and behavior will be different, as they will stand out from the crowd, and will have a smile on their face, be courteous and caring. They will speak with a kind and gentle voice to all the people they come into contact with. There will be something special about them, and others will seek their friendship, advice and counsel. They will be faithful, truthful, and will work at their jobs doing the very best they can. Now look at the non Christians in your work place, and see if you can spot them. Look for the complainers, grumblers, people who show little respect for others, people who don't put their best efforts into their jobs, as they arrive late, leave early, and don't get along with others. People will not look up to them or seek their counsel. A real Christian will be easy to spot as they will stand out like a sunflower in a field of weeds. Then try to identify someone who has recently been saved, and accepted Jesus as their Savior, and notice the change in them. I bet you will notice a complete turnaround in all their behavior and actions. The scripture above tells us that anyone who has accepted Jesus, will rise above their companions as they will be anointed with the oil of joy.
"You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy."
Psalm 45:7
At your place of work can you tell the Christian from the non Christians? If they are real Christians, and have really accepted Christ as their savior you most definitely will be able to tell them. They will be different than people that do not know God, as you will be able to see the peace and joy in their lives. Their actions and behavior will be different, as they will stand out from the crowd, and will have a smile on their face, be courteous and caring. They will speak with a kind and gentle voice to all the people they come into contact with. There will be something special about them, and others will seek their friendship, advice and counsel. They will be faithful, truthful, and will work at their jobs doing the very best they can. Now look at the non Christians in your work place, and see if you can spot them. Look for the complainers, grumblers, people who show little respect for others, people who don't put their best efforts into their jobs, as they arrive late, leave early, and don't get along with others. People will not look up to them or seek their counsel. A real Christian will be easy to spot as they will stand out like a sunflower in a field of weeds. Then try to identify someone who has recently been saved, and accepted Jesus as their Savior, and notice the change in them. I bet you will notice a complete turnaround in all their behavior and actions. The scripture above tells us that anyone who has accepted Jesus, will rise above their companions as they will be anointed with the oil of joy.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Prepare Yourself
Prepare Yourself
"Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him."
Revelation 1:7
When I was in school and knew that a test was to be given on Monday, I would study all weekend as I wanted to make sure I passed it. I believe most people would want to pass, and do good in anything that they know is going to be happening in their future. In the scripture above the Bible is telling us that Jesus is going to be coming. The coming of Jesus is going to be the greatest event that will ever happen to all mankind, and we know about it. There is no college exam, no job interview, no business meeting, that will ever compare. There will never be anything more important than preparing for the greatest event of all ages, the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We know when winter is coming and we winterize our cars. As we get older we have our wills made, so that our families will be taken care of. These are a couple of examples as how we prepare for things we know about in our future. However, when it comes to preparing for the greatest event of our life, one that will determine where we will spend all eternity, so many just go about their daily business, "unconcerned". If there is one thing that I could ever impress upon you, it is that you need to prepare for the return of Jesus. You need to immediately begin to prepare by reading His Holy Word, praying to Him and getting your life in order. We don't know when His return will be. It could be tomorrow or next week or next year, but we do know definitely He is returning. Get prepared, do everything you can and be ready.
"Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him."
Revelation 1:7
When I was in school and knew that a test was to be given on Monday, I would study all weekend as I wanted to make sure I passed it. I believe most people would want to pass, and do good in anything that they know is going to be happening in their future. In the scripture above the Bible is telling us that Jesus is going to be coming. The coming of Jesus is going to be the greatest event that will ever happen to all mankind, and we know about it. There is no college exam, no job interview, no business meeting, that will ever compare. There will never be anything more important than preparing for the greatest event of all ages, the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We know when winter is coming and we winterize our cars. As we get older we have our wills made, so that our families will be taken care of. These are a couple of examples as how we prepare for things we know about in our future. However, when it comes to preparing for the greatest event of our life, one that will determine where we will spend all eternity, so many just go about their daily business, "unconcerned". If there is one thing that I could ever impress upon you, it is that you need to prepare for the return of Jesus. You need to immediately begin to prepare by reading His Holy Word, praying to Him and getting your life in order. We don't know when His return will be. It could be tomorrow or next week or next year, but we do know definitely He is returning. Get prepared, do everything you can and be ready.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Keep Your Heart Pure
Keep Your Heart Pure
"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."
Psalm 51:10
If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, this message is for you. When you were born again, God made you a new creation, one with a pure and clean heart. All the old sins have been removed, there are no scars left, no traces of sin remain, no memory of your past, as everything has been forgiven, and you can start all over as if you are a new born baby. You have a clean slate, so the question to you is, "do you want to keep your clean slate spotless", or do you want to start filling it up again with more sin? God has given you a second chance, and if you don't change your lifestyle, control your speech, mind and actions, and begin obeying God and what He commands you to do, your clean slate will again be contaminated, just like it was before, and be filled with sin. The scripture above says to "Create in me a pure heart.". A pure heart is one without sin. God does not allow any more sin to contaminate a pure heart, as He wants your heart to stay pure, absence of sin. When you were saved, God also says that He will, "renew a steadfast spirit within me". This means that He will instill His Holy Spirit within you to convict you every time you are tempted to sin. This Holy Spirit will let you know what is right and wrong. It will keep you from going astray and reverting back to your sinful habits. However, in order for this to work in your life, you must dedicate yourself to God, and make Him the most important thing in your life. Unless you are willing to place God first in everything, your pure heart and clean slate will begin to get dirty again with sin.
"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."
Psalm 51:10
If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, this message is for you. When you were born again, God made you a new creation, one with a pure and clean heart. All the old sins have been removed, there are no scars left, no traces of sin remain, no memory of your past, as everything has been forgiven, and you can start all over as if you are a new born baby. You have a clean slate, so the question to you is, "do you want to keep your clean slate spotless", or do you want to start filling it up again with more sin? God has given you a second chance, and if you don't change your lifestyle, control your speech, mind and actions, and begin obeying God and what He commands you to do, your clean slate will again be contaminated, just like it was before, and be filled with sin. The scripture above says to "Create in me a pure heart.". A pure heart is one without sin. God does not allow any more sin to contaminate a pure heart, as He wants your heart to stay pure, absence of sin. When you were saved, God also says that He will, "renew a steadfast spirit within me". This means that He will instill His Holy Spirit within you to convict you every time you are tempted to sin. This Holy Spirit will let you know what is right and wrong. It will keep you from going astray and reverting back to your sinful habits. However, in order for this to work in your life, you must dedicate yourself to God, and make Him the most important thing in your life. Unless you are willing to place God first in everything, your pure heart and clean slate will begin to get dirty again with sin.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Read-Hear-Keep
Read-Hear-Keep
"Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near."
Revelation 1:3
I believe this scripture tells us how God wants us to read the Bible, as there are three key things that we need to understand. This wonderful scripture tells us that we should "Read" His word, then we must "Hear or Understand" His word, and last we must "Keep, or put into Practice" His word. It won't do you any good to simply read God's word, if you don't hear or understand what it is saying to you. Also it doesn't mean anything if you read it and understand it, if you don't keep and obey what it tells you. I hear many people say that they read their Bibles daily, but they don't understand it. If you find yourself in this situation, you need to develop a closer relationship with God, as you are not where you need to be. You need to pray that God will give you the ears to hear and understand what the Bible is telling you. God wants you to understand His word, and when you pray and ask for wisdom, you will find that the more you read, the more you will understand what God is saying to you. Believe me, this really works as God will begin to give you more and more insight into what the scriptures mean. When the meaning of His word begins to jump off the page as you read them, you will then be at the place you need to be. When you are this point, then you need to keep and put into practice, in your life, the commands of God. The words of the Bible is your roadmap to a bountiful, peaceful and joy filled life when you are able to read, and hear and put into practice God's Holy Word.
"Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near."
Revelation 1:3
I believe this scripture tells us how God wants us to read the Bible, as there are three key things that we need to understand. This wonderful scripture tells us that we should "Read" His word, then we must "Hear or Understand" His word, and last we must "Keep, or put into Practice" His word. It won't do you any good to simply read God's word, if you don't hear or understand what it is saying to you. Also it doesn't mean anything if you read it and understand it, if you don't keep and obey what it tells you. I hear many people say that they read their Bibles daily, but they don't understand it. If you find yourself in this situation, you need to develop a closer relationship with God, as you are not where you need to be. You need to pray that God will give you the ears to hear and understand what the Bible is telling you. God wants you to understand His word, and when you pray and ask for wisdom, you will find that the more you read, the more you will understand what God is saying to you. Believe me, this really works as God will begin to give you more and more insight into what the scriptures mean. When the meaning of His word begins to jump off the page as you read them, you will then be at the place you need to be. When you are this point, then you need to keep and put into practice, in your life, the commands of God. The words of the Bible is your roadmap to a bountiful, peaceful and joy filled life when you are able to read, and hear and put into practice God's Holy Word.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
God's Gentle Whispers
God's Gentle Whispers
"When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice."
John 10:4
Do you hear God speaking to you? If you don't hear Him speaking to you, your relationship is not what it needs to be. God does not play "hide and seek" with us. He wants you to know His voice and He will speak with you, but you have to get to know Him personally. You have to go to God in prayer and develop an intimate relationship with Him, by making Him the most important thing in your life. Most people make understanding God's word sound so difficult. They think it takes years of fasting and praying to be able to communicate with God, and hear Him talk to them. Jesus promises us in scriptures like the one above that, as His sheep, we will hear His voice. There are examples found in our Bible where God spoke to people through a gentle whisper. I like the one when God spoke to Elijah, when he got in trouble and ran from Jezebel. God took Elijah to a cave and let him hear the thunder and the shaking of the earth. Then Elijah heard God speak to him through a gentle whisper. If you have a personal relationship with God, you will hear from Him in a gentle whisper when you are also tempted to sin, as you will be convicted. So often, however, you don't listen to this gentle whisper, as you find it is more enjoyable and pleasurable to continue your sinful habits. Listening to God speak to you, is not always what you want to hear, but if you have the right relationship with Him, you will find that He will talk to you in a gentle whisper, and will direct your paths and lead you to do things that are right
"When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice."
John 10:4
Do you hear God speaking to you? If you don't hear Him speaking to you, your relationship is not what it needs to be. God does not play "hide and seek" with us. He wants you to know His voice and He will speak with you, but you have to get to know Him personally. You have to go to God in prayer and develop an intimate relationship with Him, by making Him the most important thing in your life. Most people make understanding God's word sound so difficult. They think it takes years of fasting and praying to be able to communicate with God, and hear Him talk to them. Jesus promises us in scriptures like the one above that, as His sheep, we will hear His voice. There are examples found in our Bible where God spoke to people through a gentle whisper. I like the one when God spoke to Elijah, when he got in trouble and ran from Jezebel. God took Elijah to a cave and let him hear the thunder and the shaking of the earth. Then Elijah heard God speak to him through a gentle whisper. If you have a personal relationship with God, you will hear from Him in a gentle whisper when you are also tempted to sin, as you will be convicted. So often, however, you don't listen to this gentle whisper, as you find it is more enjoyable and pleasurable to continue your sinful habits. Listening to God speak to you, is not always what you want to hear, but if you have the right relationship with Him, you will find that He will talk to you in a gentle whisper, and will direct your paths and lead you to do things that are right
Friday, July 22, 2011
God Has A Plan For You
God Has A Plan For You
"What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
James 4:14
We never think about just how short our lives are until we begin to reach our twilight years. When I was young, I don't ever remember thinking about my life, as I just assumed that it would last forever. As I became older, and the years kept passing, I began to realize that life is brief, and I needed to begin to fulfill the purpose and the plan that God had assigned to me. I began to seek God more and more, and as I developed a closer relationship with Him, He started to speak to me about His plan and purpose for my life. His plan was not what I had envisioned me doing, as I felt that I was not the right person to do what He wanted me to do. These things were completely out of my comfort zone, and ones that in my eyes should have been given to someone else, much more capable than myself to carry out. So many times during these years I have felt overwhelmed, with what God put on my heart to accomplish. However, as I have gone forward doing the best I could do, I am amazed as to how God has blessed me, and how He literally has performed miracles in making all these things happen. I get to lead people to Jesus, almost on a daily basis, which is something that I never dreamed I would be doing. Little did I dream how that could be done, but He has shown me, piece by piece, just like a puzzle, many wonderful and creative ways to spread His word. It is so amazing that God has plans for us, even in our twilight years, where He can use us to bring people to know Jesus. God also has a divine plan and purpose for your life, just listen and follow it.
"What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
James 4:14
We never think about just how short our lives are until we begin to reach our twilight years. When I was young, I don't ever remember thinking about my life, as I just assumed that it would last forever. As I became older, and the years kept passing, I began to realize that life is brief, and I needed to begin to fulfill the purpose and the plan that God had assigned to me. I began to seek God more and more, and as I developed a closer relationship with Him, He started to speak to me about His plan and purpose for my life. His plan was not what I had envisioned me doing, as I felt that I was not the right person to do what He wanted me to do. These things were completely out of my comfort zone, and ones that in my eyes should have been given to someone else, much more capable than myself to carry out. So many times during these years I have felt overwhelmed, with what God put on my heart to accomplish. However, as I have gone forward doing the best I could do, I am amazed as to how God has blessed me, and how He literally has performed miracles in making all these things happen. I get to lead people to Jesus, almost on a daily basis, which is something that I never dreamed I would be doing. Little did I dream how that could be done, but He has shown me, piece by piece, just like a puzzle, many wonderful and creative ways to spread His word. It is so amazing that God has plans for us, even in our twilight years, where He can use us to bring people to know Jesus. God also has a divine plan and purpose for your life, just listen and follow it.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Giving Back To God
Giving Back To God
"On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made."
1st Corinthians 16:2
I have heard many people say that tithing is not for today's culture, as it was only a principle of the old law. Abraham was the first man to tithe, and lived before the law had been established. All of us are the descendants of Abraham, and we, also are expected to tithe, as the Bible tells us that we will be blessed when we give. In the Book of Hebrews in the New Testament, the Bible also taught tithing too as it says to give a tenth back as a tithe. I believe that tithing brings God's blessing, and when we give freely that we will also receive freely. We need to understand that everything we have has been given to us by God, although many think they have earned it by their own sweat, not realizing that God has enabled them to have what they have. Whatever your status in life is you have not gotten there by yourself, God has made it possible. We see examples each day where a fire, tornado, hurricane or a flood has destroyed, in an instant, everything that man has accumulated. This should demonstrate just how powerful God is, and just how powerless we are. God does not want you to be greedy and keep for yourself what you have been given, but wants you to take all the blessings He has given you and return part of them. The Bible says to return a tenth of what God has blessed you with back to Him, so that others can be blessed. You prosper when you obey God's word, and will be blessed when you tithe.
"On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made."
1st Corinthians 16:2
I have heard many people say that tithing is not for today's culture, as it was only a principle of the old law. Abraham was the first man to tithe, and lived before the law had been established. All of us are the descendants of Abraham, and we, also are expected to tithe, as the Bible tells us that we will be blessed when we give. In the Book of Hebrews in the New Testament, the Bible also taught tithing too as it says to give a tenth back as a tithe. I believe that tithing brings God's blessing, and when we give freely that we will also receive freely. We need to understand that everything we have has been given to us by God, although many think they have earned it by their own sweat, not realizing that God has enabled them to have what they have. Whatever your status in life is you have not gotten there by yourself, God has made it possible. We see examples each day where a fire, tornado, hurricane or a flood has destroyed, in an instant, everything that man has accumulated. This should demonstrate just how powerful God is, and just how powerless we are. God does not want you to be greedy and keep for yourself what you have been given, but wants you to take all the blessings He has given you and return part of them. The Bible says to return a tenth of what God has blessed you with back to Him, so that others can be blessed. You prosper when you obey God's word, and will be blessed when you tithe.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Do You Thank God
Do You Thank God
"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."
Psalm 100:4
It has been a practice of ours for several years to take my mother, who will soon be 93 years old, out to lunch on Sunday after church. I have noticed during this time in the restaurants, that very few people pray before eating their meals. My wife never lets us begin to eat until we pray, and thank God for all the blessings that He bestows on us, and to bless the food that we are about to eat. In the Old Testament there was a special offering just for thanksgiving. The New Testament also says that when we pray, we are to do so with thanksgiving. We are to thank God for our food and all the other things that He so freely gives us. In our culture we have been blessed with so much, as in the eyes of the rest of the world, we are all rich when compared to the plight of many of the third world countries. However, we take all of these blessings for granted, and seldom do we take the time to thank God for all that we have. When we look at how Jesus viewed giving Him thanks, we see that when the ten lepers were healed, only one returned to thank Him. Nine never came to thank Him, and Jesus asked WHY they never came. This implies that God wants us to have a grateful heart, and to thank Him, for all that He provides. Each morning, take just a moment and thank God for all His blessings, as this is important to Him. You probably thank someone who opens a door for you, or someone who goes out of their way to be nice, but do you forget to thank God, as He has given you everything, He even gave you His son.
"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."
Psalm 100:4
It has been a practice of ours for several years to take my mother, who will soon be 93 years old, out to lunch on Sunday after church. I have noticed during this time in the restaurants, that very few people pray before eating their meals. My wife never lets us begin to eat until we pray, and thank God for all the blessings that He bestows on us, and to bless the food that we are about to eat. In the Old Testament there was a special offering just for thanksgiving. The New Testament also says that when we pray, we are to do so with thanksgiving. We are to thank God for our food and all the other things that He so freely gives us. In our culture we have been blessed with so much, as in the eyes of the rest of the world, we are all rich when compared to the plight of many of the third world countries. However, we take all of these blessings for granted, and seldom do we take the time to thank God for all that we have. When we look at how Jesus viewed giving Him thanks, we see that when the ten lepers were healed, only one returned to thank Him. Nine never came to thank Him, and Jesus asked WHY they never came. This implies that God wants us to have a grateful heart, and to thank Him, for all that He provides. Each morning, take just a moment and thank God for all His blessings, as this is important to Him. You probably thank someone who opens a door for you, or someone who goes out of their way to be nice, but do you forget to thank God, as He has given you everything, He even gave you His son.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Don't Let Sin Control You
Don't Let Sin Control You
"For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace."
Romans 6:14
The devil will do his best to convince you that sin has control of you, and that no matter what you do you will not be able to control it. If you are struggling with any kind of addiction such as drugs, alcohol, sexual, gambling or any other addiction, Satan will temp you anyway he can to continue your habit. The people you run around with, your co-workers, your school mates or even others in your family may be contributing to your addiction. We have a relative that had struggled with drug addiction for many years, and told us that when he tried to clean up his act, and get clean from drugs, that every where he looked he was tempted. This is Satan at his best, as he does not want you to be free of your addiction, but wants you to become his slave, where he will be in control of your life. However, you have a choice, which only you can make, and that choice is that you can turn your life over to God, who will forgive you of your addiction, which is a sin, and then He will take control of your life. When you choose to ask Jesus into your heart, you will be immediately convicted when you are tempted or start to sin. You will find that when you are a real follower of Christ, that when the urge to revert back to your sinful habit emerges, you will be convicted by the silent tug on your conscience, that you are no longer a child of the devil, but a follower of God. This quiet voice is a reminder that you belong to the Lord. You may have to make some life style changes, such as your friends, and places you go, but God will direct you, as sin will not be your master, God will be.
"For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace."
Romans 6:14
The devil will do his best to convince you that sin has control of you, and that no matter what you do you will not be able to control it. If you are struggling with any kind of addiction such as drugs, alcohol, sexual, gambling or any other addiction, Satan will temp you anyway he can to continue your habit. The people you run around with, your co-workers, your school mates or even others in your family may be contributing to your addiction. We have a relative that had struggled with drug addiction for many years, and told us that when he tried to clean up his act, and get clean from drugs, that every where he looked he was tempted. This is Satan at his best, as he does not want you to be free of your addiction, but wants you to become his slave, where he will be in control of your life. However, you have a choice, which only you can make, and that choice is that you can turn your life over to God, who will forgive you of your addiction, which is a sin, and then He will take control of your life. When you choose to ask Jesus into your heart, you will be immediately convicted when you are tempted or start to sin. You will find that when you are a real follower of Christ, that when the urge to revert back to your sinful habit emerges, you will be convicted by the silent tug on your conscience, that you are no longer a child of the devil, but a follower of God. This quiet voice is a reminder that you belong to the Lord. You may have to make some life style changes, such as your friends, and places you go, but God will direct you, as sin will not be your master, God will be.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Wait On God
Wait On God
"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry."
Psalm 40:1
I want to follow up on the previous devotional and talk some more about waiting for God. When we don't receive the answers we want from God, we become impatient and make hasty decisions, which so often are not the best ones. To see the consequences of not waiting on God, we can look at King Saul. In the early part of his rule as king, he did battle with the Philistines. God had instructed Him to wait for Samuel to pray and offer a sacrifice for the battle. When Samuel was delayed and did not get there, Saul began to get pressure from the people, and took the place of Samuel and offered the sacrifice himself. That sin led to other weaknesses in Saul, and in the end he lost his entire kingdom. If Saul had only waited a few more hours, Samuel would have arrived and the requirements of the Lord would have been met. If Saul had only been patient and waited as per God's instructions, he would have been a victorious king, instead of being a defeated man. There are times in my life when I have run ahead of God, often because I was being pressured by other people, just as Saul was, and I did not wait for God to direct me. Sometimes, we think that God may be slow in answering our prayers, or speaking to us, but really He is always on time--His time. When we pray and wait for God to direct our paths, and get our timing aligned with His, and wait until we get a word from Him before we proceed, then we will have the results that we desire. I pray that God will help you to know how to wait on His counsel, and let you be victorious in all that you do.
"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry."
Psalm 40:1
I want to follow up on the previous devotional and talk some more about waiting for God. When we don't receive the answers we want from God, we become impatient and make hasty decisions, which so often are not the best ones. To see the consequences of not waiting on God, we can look at King Saul. In the early part of his rule as king, he did battle with the Philistines. God had instructed Him to wait for Samuel to pray and offer a sacrifice for the battle. When Samuel was delayed and did not get there, Saul began to get pressure from the people, and took the place of Samuel and offered the sacrifice himself. That sin led to other weaknesses in Saul, and in the end he lost his entire kingdom. If Saul had only waited a few more hours, Samuel would have arrived and the requirements of the Lord would have been met. If Saul had only been patient and waited as per God's instructions, he would have been a victorious king, instead of being a defeated man. There are times in my life when I have run ahead of God, often because I was being pressured by other people, just as Saul was, and I did not wait for God to direct me. Sometimes, we think that God may be slow in answering our prayers, or speaking to us, but really He is always on time--His time. When we pray and wait for God to direct our paths, and get our timing aligned with His, and wait until we get a word from Him before we proceed, then we will have the results that we desire. I pray that God will help you to know how to wait on His counsel, and let you be victorious in all that you do.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Plant Your Seeds
Plant Your Seeds
"But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel."
Psalm 106:13
There have been many times in my life where I did not wait on God to direct my paths. I became impatient, wanting to get the work done now, in my timeframe, without waiting on God's counsel. Our time is not God's time, and when we begin to do God's work, He knows when the time is right. Several years ago God placed upon my heart the need to start a program to feed the poor, as there were not any in our community. I struggled for months trying to find a place, get volunteers from the churches, and find financial support to begin a food distribution program, as there was much need. I spoke at many churches, contacted various agencies, and met with many civic organizations and business leaders trying to get the program established. Many times I became impatient, and felt like giving up, but I kept plodding along, with a small program that only provided food for about 60 families. During this whole process, I now realize that I was planting seeds that needed time to grow, as God was not ready for this to take place at that time. Little by little this seed began to take root, and now five years later, there are at least 10 different food distribution sites, at churches and community centers in our area. The seeds that were planted, have grown into a valuable resource for the needy in our community. I have found that when God places a calling on your heart to do His work, give it your very best effort, and plant the seeds that He wants you to plant, then wait on God. In his time frame your seeds will take root and begin to reap a bountiful harvest.
"But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel."
Psalm 106:13
There have been many times in my life where I did not wait on God to direct my paths. I became impatient, wanting to get the work done now, in my timeframe, without waiting on God's counsel. Our time is not God's time, and when we begin to do God's work, He knows when the time is right. Several years ago God placed upon my heart the need to start a program to feed the poor, as there were not any in our community. I struggled for months trying to find a place, get volunteers from the churches, and find financial support to begin a food distribution program, as there was much need. I spoke at many churches, contacted various agencies, and met with many civic organizations and business leaders trying to get the program established. Many times I became impatient, and felt like giving up, but I kept plodding along, with a small program that only provided food for about 60 families. During this whole process, I now realize that I was planting seeds that needed time to grow, as God was not ready for this to take place at that time. Little by little this seed began to take root, and now five years later, there are at least 10 different food distribution sites, at churches and community centers in our area. The seeds that were planted, have grown into a valuable resource for the needy in our community. I have found that when God places a calling on your heart to do His work, give it your very best effort, and plant the seeds that He wants you to plant, then wait on God. In his time frame your seeds will take root and begin to reap a bountiful harvest.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Claim Your Miracle
Claim Your Miracle
"He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave."
Psalm 107:20
I receive many requests from my readers asking for prayer for themselves, or for a member of their family that is struggling with health issues. I always make it a point to get back with these people, and try to encourage them and tell them that God is aware of what is going on in their lives, and that to hold on to their trust and faith in God that His perfect will be done in their situations. I always tell them to pray, and that I will pray with them also, and ask God to heal them, and to give them peace and comfort whatever God's will is. The scripture above is also one that I give almost everyone that requests prayer for a health issue, that could use God's power to heal. I have given this scripture out for years as it tells me that God's word can still heal, and is still alive in our world today. Just recently a good friend of mine had requested prayer for his mother who was admitted to the hospital, and the doctors, based on preliminary x-rays, had not given them much hope for her survival. I sent him an e-mail with Psalm 107:20 and hours later new x-rays were taken and everything was fine and the problem had disappeared from the x-ray. She was released that afternoon, as the doctors were baffled as to what had happened. She is home and is doing well. The miracles of healing that we see in the New Testament, are still with us today, and the Bible tells us that if we pray, and have faith and trust in God that all things are possible. If you are dealing with a health issue that needs a miracle, God can still provide it today. Trust God and claim your miracle.
"He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave."
Psalm 107:20
I receive many requests from my readers asking for prayer for themselves, or for a member of their family that is struggling with health issues. I always make it a point to get back with these people, and try to encourage them and tell them that God is aware of what is going on in their lives, and that to hold on to their trust and faith in God that His perfect will be done in their situations. I always tell them to pray, and that I will pray with them also, and ask God to heal them, and to give them peace and comfort whatever God's will is. The scripture above is also one that I give almost everyone that requests prayer for a health issue, that could use God's power to heal. I have given this scripture out for years as it tells me that God's word can still heal, and is still alive in our world today. Just recently a good friend of mine had requested prayer for his mother who was admitted to the hospital, and the doctors, based on preliminary x-rays, had not given them much hope for her survival. I sent him an e-mail with Psalm 107:20 and hours later new x-rays were taken and everything was fine and the problem had disappeared from the x-ray. She was released that afternoon, as the doctors were baffled as to what had happened. She is home and is doing well. The miracles of healing that we see in the New Testament, are still with us today, and the Bible tells us that if we pray, and have faith and trust in God that all things are possible. If you are dealing with a health issue that needs a miracle, God can still provide it today. Trust God and claim your miracle.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Salt Of The Earth
Salt Of The Earth
"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
Colossians 4:6
Jesus said we are to be the salt of the earth to the world. To me this means that we are to use God's word to promote the kingdom of God to everyone. I can remember several years ago talking to a man who was a so called "intellectual". who did not believe in God and the Bible. As we talked, he said that his mother had just died because of a hernia that she had in her stomach, which had become infected, and she had suffered for many weeks before she passed away. He described her situation in detail to me, stating that there was a large protrusion from her stomach, where the hernia was located. I told him that my mother had almost the same type hernia, and the same problem as his mother, but my mother was healed. My mother is now almost 93 years old, and was healed years ago. He stated that he still did not believe in healing or the Bible, to which I replied, "how do you explain the fact that your mother is dead from the same health issue, while my mother was healed, and is still living." This seemed to take him by surprise. I was able to then share the Bible and my personal faith with him. I believe this is what is meant by being the salt of the earth, and sharing our faith in God, and what the power of it can do in our lives. I would encourage each of you to share your own personal stories about how you have seen, and experienced God work in your lives, as it can make a difference in being able to bring others to know Jesus. By doing so you are being the salt of the earth.
"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
Colossians 4:6
Jesus said we are to be the salt of the earth to the world. To me this means that we are to use God's word to promote the kingdom of God to everyone. I can remember several years ago talking to a man who was a so called "intellectual". who did not believe in God and the Bible. As we talked, he said that his mother had just died because of a hernia that she had in her stomach, which had become infected, and she had suffered for many weeks before she passed away. He described her situation in detail to me, stating that there was a large protrusion from her stomach, where the hernia was located. I told him that my mother had almost the same type hernia, and the same problem as his mother, but my mother was healed. My mother is now almost 93 years old, and was healed years ago. He stated that he still did not believe in healing or the Bible, to which I replied, "how do you explain the fact that your mother is dead from the same health issue, while my mother was healed, and is still living." This seemed to take him by surprise. I was able to then share the Bible and my personal faith with him. I believe this is what is meant by being the salt of the earth, and sharing our faith in God, and what the power of it can do in our lives. I would encourage each of you to share your own personal stories about how you have seen, and experienced God work in your lives, as it can make a difference in being able to bring others to know Jesus. By doing so you are being the salt of the earth.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
My Perfect Peace
My Perfect Peace
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you."
Isaiah 26:3
As I have mentioned in previous devotionals this is my favorite verse in the Bible, because it is telling me that as long as I keep my eyes focused on God that He will give me perfect peace. It is so difficult when problems suddenly pop up in our lives that they can seem overwhelming and we can fall apart. We begin to think about the worst possible outcomes, and often think that everything is hopeless and there is no way out. Worry can quickly turn to fear of what the future might hold. When I have situations suddenly appear in my life I claim this scripture, which tells me that God is right there by my side, and that everything is going to be all right. No matter how bad the situation looks in my eyes, I claim this scripture, as I know God is still in control, and that His perfect will for me and my circumstances will work out to the plan He has for me. Throughout the years this has proven so true, as in my eyes things sometime seemed to be falling apart around me, but as I claimed this scripture as mine, they always worked out for the better, and always something good came out of them. Many times I would get impatient waiting on God, but when the timing was right God always came to my rescue. If you are going through situations in your life today, I would encourage you to claim my scripture and make it your own. You will discover, as I have, that when you keep your eyes and mind steadfast on God, that He will give you peace and comfort in all that you do, no matter how bad the storms are, or how high the mountains are, He will deliver you from them.
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you."
Isaiah 26:3
As I have mentioned in previous devotionals this is my favorite verse in the Bible, because it is telling me that as long as I keep my eyes focused on God that He will give me perfect peace. It is so difficult when problems suddenly pop up in our lives that they can seem overwhelming and we can fall apart. We begin to think about the worst possible outcomes, and often think that everything is hopeless and there is no way out. Worry can quickly turn to fear of what the future might hold. When I have situations suddenly appear in my life I claim this scripture, which tells me that God is right there by my side, and that everything is going to be all right. No matter how bad the situation looks in my eyes, I claim this scripture, as I know God is still in control, and that His perfect will for me and my circumstances will work out to the plan He has for me. Throughout the years this has proven so true, as in my eyes things sometime seemed to be falling apart around me, but as I claimed this scripture as mine, they always worked out for the better, and always something good came out of them. Many times I would get impatient waiting on God, but when the timing was right God always came to my rescue. If you are going through situations in your life today, I would encourage you to claim my scripture and make it your own. You will discover, as I have, that when you keep your eyes and mind steadfast on God, that He will give you peace and comfort in all that you do, no matter how bad the storms are, or how high the mountains are, He will deliver you from them.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Things Above
Things Above
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Colossians 3:2
In the book of Colossians, Paul is giving us many of the rules for Holy living, and the scripture above is one of the keys. When we are born again, we become new creations, and the old habits and sins must pass away. I know when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I was just overwhelmed with love. It was as if God's presence was with me every waking moment of my day. I couldn't get enough of reading my Bible, as I wanted to soak up all of the wisdom and knowledge found there. My focus was no longer on myself, or on my own wants and desires, but was geared toward helping others and sharing my happiness with them. All my thoughts were now directed to serving God, and doing and obeying all His commands. A new lifestyle emerged, one that was not focused on my selfish ambitions, but one that wanted to serve others. I wanted to share my new found life with others, and tell them the peace and contentment that I now had, which I had never had before. I wanted to shout it from the rooftops the way I felt, and wanted to share it with everyone. This is how my daily devotionals began, as I wanted to share my daily thoughts with others, and let them know the joy they may be missing by not asking Jesus into their hearts. When you become this new creation, you will feel the presence of Jesus with you, everywhere you go and in whatever you do. The old habits and lifestyle doesn't seem important anymore, as it is replaced with a newness of life, as your thoughts are no longer on the earthly things, but on the things above.
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Colossians 3:2
In the book of Colossians, Paul is giving us many of the rules for Holy living, and the scripture above is one of the keys. When we are born again, we become new creations, and the old habits and sins must pass away. I know when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I was just overwhelmed with love. It was as if God's presence was with me every waking moment of my day. I couldn't get enough of reading my Bible, as I wanted to soak up all of the wisdom and knowledge found there. My focus was no longer on myself, or on my own wants and desires, but was geared toward helping others and sharing my happiness with them. All my thoughts were now directed to serving God, and doing and obeying all His commands. A new lifestyle emerged, one that was not focused on my selfish ambitions, but one that wanted to serve others. I wanted to share my new found life with others, and tell them the peace and contentment that I now had, which I had never had before. I wanted to shout it from the rooftops the way I felt, and wanted to share it with everyone. This is how my daily devotionals began, as I wanted to share my daily thoughts with others, and let them know the joy they may be missing by not asking Jesus into their hearts. When you become this new creation, you will feel the presence of Jesus with you, everywhere you go and in whatever you do. The old habits and lifestyle doesn't seem important anymore, as it is replaced with a newness of life, as your thoughts are no longer on the earthly things, but on the things above.
Monday, July 11, 2011
The Fourth One Is With You
The Fourth One Is With You
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
Isaiah 43:2
When I read this scripture, I think about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, when they were thrown into the fiery furnace. This must have been the scripture that they used as their strength, as they certainly were not burned, nor did they even have the smell of smoke upon them when they came out. Only the ropes that tied their hands was burned away. When we have problems and struggles in our lives, do we depend on these promises? The Bible tells us that we certainly can depend on God to see us through our tough times. We must remember that there was someone else in the fiery furnace with them, a fourth One--the Son of God. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ will go through the waters when we go through the waters. He will go through the fire when we go through the fire. We will emerge without being defeated, and our victory will be assured because the fourth man will be with us. Today, I want you to remember that whatever crisis you may be facing, the fourth One is with you all the way, and is standing with you. He knows your pain and your suffering, and what you are going through. Just remember that God will bring you through your crisis in the way He wants, which may not be the immediate answer you are looking for, but He knows the plans He has for you. God will bring you through your crisis victoriously, and through His will you will not be burned.
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
Isaiah 43:2
When I read this scripture, I think about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, when they were thrown into the fiery furnace. This must have been the scripture that they used as their strength, as they certainly were not burned, nor did they even have the smell of smoke upon them when they came out. Only the ropes that tied their hands was burned away. When we have problems and struggles in our lives, do we depend on these promises? The Bible tells us that we certainly can depend on God to see us through our tough times. We must remember that there was someone else in the fiery furnace with them, a fourth One--the Son of God. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ will go through the waters when we go through the waters. He will go through the fire when we go through the fire. We will emerge without being defeated, and our victory will be assured because the fourth man will be with us. Today, I want you to remember that whatever crisis you may be facing, the fourth One is with you all the way, and is standing with you. He knows your pain and your suffering, and what you are going through. Just remember that God will bring you through your crisis in the way He wants, which may not be the immediate answer you are looking for, but He knows the plans He has for you. God will bring you through your crisis victoriously, and through His will you will not be burned.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Keep Your Peace
Keep Your Peace
"For when I am weak, then I am strong."
2nd Corinthians 12:10
There are few days that Satan will not try to rob you of your peace, as things will go wrong, when you least expect it. The drive to your job, could produce anger when someone cuts you off in traffic, and blows their horn at you. The waitress at the local coffee shop could spill coffee on your new suit, or a fellow employee could blame you for her mistake in sending out a wrong invoice. There are numerous ways that Satan will attack you with small, and even large issues, that will try to take away your peace. Having peace in your life about all things is important, as it affects the way you treat others. If you enter your work place complaining and upset about what happened on your way to work, they will know that you are not at peace with yourself, and this will rub off on them. No matter what you do, things are going to come up that can destroy your peace if you let them. This is why it is so important to begin your day by spending a few minutes with God, praying and asking Him to watch over you. These few moments will enable you to prepare yourself for these attacks by Satan, and not let your emotions get out of hand. It is so easy to want to retaliate when anyone does us harm, or irritates us by their rash behavior, but this is where you need to remain calm, and not let their bad behavior ruin your day. Keeping your composure and peace during the attacks by Satan is like driving a nail in his coffin, as he wants to distract you and get your focus off God. Be aware of these attacks before you leave home each day, and take God with you, as Satan is no match for the power of God. Keep your peace.
"For when I am weak, then I am strong."
2nd Corinthians 12:10
There are few days that Satan will not try to rob you of your peace, as things will go wrong, when you least expect it. The drive to your job, could produce anger when someone cuts you off in traffic, and blows their horn at you. The waitress at the local coffee shop could spill coffee on your new suit, or a fellow employee could blame you for her mistake in sending out a wrong invoice. There are numerous ways that Satan will attack you with small, and even large issues, that will try to take away your peace. Having peace in your life about all things is important, as it affects the way you treat others. If you enter your work place complaining and upset about what happened on your way to work, they will know that you are not at peace with yourself, and this will rub off on them. No matter what you do, things are going to come up that can destroy your peace if you let them. This is why it is so important to begin your day by spending a few minutes with God, praying and asking Him to watch over you. These few moments will enable you to prepare yourself for these attacks by Satan, and not let your emotions get out of hand. It is so easy to want to retaliate when anyone does us harm, or irritates us by their rash behavior, but this is where you need to remain calm, and not let their bad behavior ruin your day. Keeping your composure and peace during the attacks by Satan is like driving a nail in his coffin, as he wants to distract you and get your focus off God. Be aware of these attacks before you leave home each day, and take God with you, as Satan is no match for the power of God. Keep your peace.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Meeting Others Needs
Meeting Others Needs
"At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need."
2nd Corinthians 8:14
In many of my devotionals, I talk about being a witness for God and ministering to meet the spiritual needs of others. Today, I want to discuss the importance of ministering to others by meeting their natural needs. When we think about natural needs we typically think about food, clothing and shelter as being the life essential needs of people. The Bible has dozens of scriptures where God expects us to always help the poor and less fortunate. James tells us that if we say to the hungry and naked, "be fed and be clothed", but offer no help, we have only dead faith. We live in a world which is filled with natural needs that are going unmet, as we only have to turn on our televisions to see pictures of starving people, and where entire nations have no food, clothing and shelter. We don't even have to look outside our nation, as in your own towns and cities, there are people going hungry, and who do not have shelter from the elements. Over the years, I have found that when we begin to meet the natural needs of people, this opens the door to meet their spiritual needs as well. When you begin to distribute food to the needy, in your local community center or church, you are able to minister to the people at a spiritual level and tell them about Jesus. The people in line at the local food bank usually are not the people in the church pews on Sunday, and are the ones that need Jesus the most. This can be your ministry to meet their natural needs and also their spiritual needs.
"At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need."
2nd Corinthians 8:14
In many of my devotionals, I talk about being a witness for God and ministering to meet the spiritual needs of others. Today, I want to discuss the importance of ministering to others by meeting their natural needs. When we think about natural needs we typically think about food, clothing and shelter as being the life essential needs of people. The Bible has dozens of scriptures where God expects us to always help the poor and less fortunate. James tells us that if we say to the hungry and naked, "be fed and be clothed", but offer no help, we have only dead faith. We live in a world which is filled with natural needs that are going unmet, as we only have to turn on our televisions to see pictures of starving people, and where entire nations have no food, clothing and shelter. We don't even have to look outside our nation, as in your own towns and cities, there are people going hungry, and who do not have shelter from the elements. Over the years, I have found that when we begin to meet the natural needs of people, this opens the door to meet their spiritual needs as well. When you begin to distribute food to the needy, in your local community center or church, you are able to minister to the people at a spiritual level and tell them about Jesus. The people in line at the local food bank usually are not the people in the church pews on Sunday, and are the ones that need Jesus the most. This can be your ministry to meet their natural needs and also their spiritual needs.
Meeting Others Needs
Meeting Others Needs
"At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need."
2nd Corinthians 8:14
In many of my devotionals, I talk about being a witness for God and ministering to meet the spiritual needs of others. Today, I want to discuss the importance of ministering to others by meeting their natural needs. When we think about natural needs we typically think about food, clothing and shelter as being the life essential needs of people. The Bible has dozens of scriptures where God expects us to always help the poor and less fortunate. James tells us that if we say to the hungry and naked, "be fed and be clothed", but offer no help, we have only dead faith. We live in a world which is filled with natural needs that are going unmet, as we only have to turn on our televisions to see pictures of starving people, and where entire nations have no food, clothing and shelter. We don't even have to look outside our nation, as in your own towns and cities, there are people going hungry, and who do not have shelter from the elements. Over the years, I have found that when we begin to meet the natural needs of people, this opens the door to meet their spiritual needs as well. When you begin to distribute food to the needy, in your local community center or church, you are able to minister to the people at a spiritual level and tell them about Jesus. The people in line at the local food bank usually are not the people in the church pews on Sunday, and are the ones that need Jesus the most. This can be your ministry to meet their natural needs and also their spiritual needs.
"At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need."
2nd Corinthians 8:14
In many of my devotionals, I talk about being a witness for God and ministering to meet the spiritual needs of others. Today, I want to discuss the importance of ministering to others by meeting their natural needs. When we think about natural needs we typically think about food, clothing and shelter as being the life essential needs of people. The Bible has dozens of scriptures where God expects us to always help the poor and less fortunate. James tells us that if we say to the hungry and naked, "be fed and be clothed", but offer no help, we have only dead faith. We live in a world which is filled with natural needs that are going unmet, as we only have to turn on our televisions to see pictures of starving people, and where entire nations have no food, clothing and shelter. We don't even have to look outside our nation, as in your own towns and cities, there are people going hungry, and who do not have shelter from the elements. Over the years, I have found that when we begin to meet the natural needs of people, this opens the door to meet their spiritual needs as well. When you begin to distribute food to the needy, in your local community center or church, you are able to minister to the people at a spiritual level and tell them about Jesus. The people in line at the local food bank usually are not the people in the church pews on Sunday, and are the ones that need Jesus the most. This can be your ministry to meet their natural needs and also their spiritual needs.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Nothing Is Impossible
Nothing Is Impossible
"For nothing is impossible with God."
Luke 1:37
I have found this special scripture in the Bible several times, and it is usually found dealing with the birth of a baby. The scripture above talks about Elizabeth, just prior to her giving birth to John the Baptist. Elizabeth was getting old, and considered to be too old to have a child, but an angel spoke to her telling her that nothing is impossible with God. We also see this repeated in the story of Abraham and Sarah, as both were beyond the age of having a baby, but God intervened and Isaac was born. Can you imagine the excitement both Elizabeth and Sarah much have felt, when God told them they would become mothers, and give birth, at their age, to men who would shape the world as we know it today. God provided the strength for both of them to have their babies, even though it was impossible in their eyes at their old age, to ever think it was possible. We must never think or say that nothing is impossible with God, as there are countless examples of miracles being performed when God unleashes His power on any situation. I have personally witnessed my mother being healed of life threatening situations, but through her prayers, God reached down and healed her body. So, if you are struggling with situations in your own life today, and you don't know any solution or any way out, remember that God is still in control, and that everything is possible with God. There is nothing that you are facing that He cannot fix in your life. It could be a health issue, a broken relationship, or the loss of a job, or any other problem, but remember God can mend all of these and restore you, but you need to surrender and ask Him.
"For nothing is impossible with God."
Luke 1:37
I have found this special scripture in the Bible several times, and it is usually found dealing with the birth of a baby. The scripture above talks about Elizabeth, just prior to her giving birth to John the Baptist. Elizabeth was getting old, and considered to be too old to have a child, but an angel spoke to her telling her that nothing is impossible with God. We also see this repeated in the story of Abraham and Sarah, as both were beyond the age of having a baby, but God intervened and Isaac was born. Can you imagine the excitement both Elizabeth and Sarah much have felt, when God told them they would become mothers, and give birth, at their age, to men who would shape the world as we know it today. God provided the strength for both of them to have their babies, even though it was impossible in their eyes at their old age, to ever think it was possible. We must never think or say that nothing is impossible with God, as there are countless examples of miracles being performed when God unleashes His power on any situation. I have personally witnessed my mother being healed of life threatening situations, but through her prayers, God reached down and healed her body. So, if you are struggling with situations in your own life today, and you don't know any solution or any way out, remember that God is still in control, and that everything is possible with God. There is nothing that you are facing that He cannot fix in your life. It could be a health issue, a broken relationship, or the loss of a job, or any other problem, but remember God can mend all of these and restore you, but you need to surrender and ask Him.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Love Yourself
Love Yourself
"Love your neighbor as yourself."
Romans 13:9
The above scripture is small but it is a powerful one, and should have a definite influence on your walk as a Christian, as it contains a message that is very important to you. Most people think of this verse as they must love others as they love themselves, but what is so often lost in this meaning, is that we have to love ourselves. I have found through counseling with people over the years, that many have a bad self image of themselves, so how can we love others, if we don't love ourselves. We hate ourselves, and therefore, we hate our neighbor. Satan loves it when we have a bad self worth or image of ourselves. When we feel worthless, and think that we have done things that are too bad for even God to forgive, or think that we are not good enough for God's favor to shine on us, this is playing into Satan's hands. The devil wants to "put us down", but God wants to "build us up." If you have a bad self image of yourself, you need to remember that God made you as one of a kind, as you are unique and special in His eyes. God has an individual plan just for you and your life, and He loves you. You belong to God, as He paid the price for your sins, and He does not want you to criticize yourself, and feel unvalued. God has placed great esteem on you, just the way you are. So if you are thinking about yourself, and that you are not measuring up to your standards, or the world standards, you can measure up to God's standards. God loves you, and wants you to love Him. He wants you to ask Him into your heart, where He will live with you, and where He will provide all your needs, and give you peace and joy.
"Love your neighbor as yourself."
Romans 13:9
The above scripture is small but it is a powerful one, and should have a definite influence on your walk as a Christian, as it contains a message that is very important to you. Most people think of this verse as they must love others as they love themselves, but what is so often lost in this meaning, is that we have to love ourselves. I have found through counseling with people over the years, that many have a bad self image of themselves, so how can we love others, if we don't love ourselves. We hate ourselves, and therefore, we hate our neighbor. Satan loves it when we have a bad self worth or image of ourselves. When we feel worthless, and think that we have done things that are too bad for even God to forgive, or think that we are not good enough for God's favor to shine on us, this is playing into Satan's hands. The devil wants to "put us down", but God wants to "build us up." If you have a bad self image of yourself, you need to remember that God made you as one of a kind, as you are unique and special in His eyes. God has an individual plan just for you and your life, and He loves you. You belong to God, as He paid the price for your sins, and He does not want you to criticize yourself, and feel unvalued. God has placed great esteem on you, just the way you are. So if you are thinking about yourself, and that you are not measuring up to your standards, or the world standards, you can measure up to God's standards. God loves you, and wants you to love Him. He wants you to ask Him into your heart, where He will live with you, and where He will provide all your needs, and give you peace and joy.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
You Can Depend On God
You Can Depend On God
"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you."
Isaiah 46:4
It is wonderful to know that God is there even in our old age to carry and sustain us. He said in the scripture above that even when our hair is gray that He will be there to deliver us from harm and provide all our needs. What a wonderful promise to know that we can be able to depend upon God to still be with us. As our bodies deteriorate and our health begins to fail, and as our ability to hold down a job makes us more dependent upon others, it is so comforting to know that God is still there to give us His assurance that He will never leave us. I have watched my mother, who is now in her 90's, depend upon God all her life to carry her through one circumstance after another. Her faith in God has not diminished, as she has had God touch her body several times to heal her from what looked like life threatening situations. God has been faithful all these years, and has answered her prayers, when things looked grim in our eyes. God knows what we go through in life, as He knows all our struggles, and He also wants us to be faithful in all that we do, and to call on Him when we need help. As our seasons come and go in life, we need God in different ways during each season, but He knows what we need and helps carry our burdens. I know that I am approaching the winter season of my life, but I know that God is still there watching over me, just like He did in the spring of my life. His hand had lead me and directed my life to fulfill the purpose that I was designed to fulfill, and as my journey comes to an end, God is still there sustaining me.
"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you."
Isaiah 46:4
It is wonderful to know that God is there even in our old age to carry and sustain us. He said in the scripture above that even when our hair is gray that He will be there to deliver us from harm and provide all our needs. What a wonderful promise to know that we can be able to depend upon God to still be with us. As our bodies deteriorate and our health begins to fail, and as our ability to hold down a job makes us more dependent upon others, it is so comforting to know that God is still there to give us His assurance that He will never leave us. I have watched my mother, who is now in her 90's, depend upon God all her life to carry her through one circumstance after another. Her faith in God has not diminished, as she has had God touch her body several times to heal her from what looked like life threatening situations. God has been faithful all these years, and has answered her prayers, when things looked grim in our eyes. God knows what we go through in life, as He knows all our struggles, and He also wants us to be faithful in all that we do, and to call on Him when we need help. As our seasons come and go in life, we need God in different ways during each season, but He knows what we need and helps carry our burdens. I know that I am approaching the winter season of my life, but I know that God is still there watching over me, just like He did in the spring of my life. His hand had lead me and directed my life to fulfill the purpose that I was designed to fulfill, and as my journey comes to an end, God is still there sustaining me.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Save Your Family
Save Your Family
"When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted."
Psalm 138:3
I have a tremendous desire to see all people come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior, but I really get excited when I am able to lead a family member to Christ. I had the opportunity about two years ago to lead my first cousin and her husband to Jesus, and even got to baptize them, which made the occasion even more special. I believe this is probably one of the strongest desires that any Christian can have. Family should be important to everyone, and being able to minister to them, and lead them to Christ should make it more special. I realize that sometimes it is more difficult to minister to your own relatives, than it is to others, but I would like to challenge you today to look for members of your family and other close relatives that do not know Jesus. Spend time with them in whatever setting you can find, and tell them your own story of how you asked Jesus to come into your heart, and the difference it has made in your life. Tell them about the peace and joy that knowing where you will spend all your eternity is like. Tell them how your life has been changed, and that when you have trials and troubles, how God has given you faith and trust to deal with them. Tell them how you used to depend upon yourself to deal with all the issues of life, and now how you can depend upon God to provide all the answers. They probably knew what you were like before you were born again, and they should be able to see the kind of person you are now, but just telling them your story may be the final piece of the puzzle to bring them to Christ. Tell them about Jesus.
"When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted."
Psalm 138:3
I have a tremendous desire to see all people come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior, but I really get excited when I am able to lead a family member to Christ. I had the opportunity about two years ago to lead my first cousin and her husband to Jesus, and even got to baptize them, which made the occasion even more special. I believe this is probably one of the strongest desires that any Christian can have. Family should be important to everyone, and being able to minister to them, and lead them to Christ should make it more special. I realize that sometimes it is more difficult to minister to your own relatives, than it is to others, but I would like to challenge you today to look for members of your family and other close relatives that do not know Jesus. Spend time with them in whatever setting you can find, and tell them your own story of how you asked Jesus to come into your heart, and the difference it has made in your life. Tell them about the peace and joy that knowing where you will spend all your eternity is like. Tell them how your life has been changed, and that when you have trials and troubles, how God has given you faith and trust to deal with them. Tell them how you used to depend upon yourself to deal with all the issues of life, and now how you can depend upon God to provide all the answers. They probably knew what you were like before you were born again, and they should be able to see the kind of person you are now, but just telling them your story may be the final piece of the puzzle to bring them to Christ. Tell them about Jesus.
Monday, July 4, 2011
God Knows All Things
God Knows All Things
"Because the hand of the Lord my God was on me, I took courage.."
Ezra 7:28
Just recently I received an e-mail from one of my readers asking for prayer for his daughter who had just run away from home. One of the most difficult things a parent can experience is having one of their children leave home, and not know how to deal with this situation. Not knowing where their children will be staying, or if they will have food to eat, or even knowing where they are, can be frightening to any parent. Just knowing all the danger that is out there in the world, a parent can imagine all the worst things happening to their child. The thing that we need to understand when these kinds of situations arise in our lives, is to remember that God is still in control, and knows what is happening. We cannot help but to be concerned and worried, but often times we just need to trust in God that everything will work out, as this is part of His great plan. We see the story of the Prodigal Son who left home, and after spending much time apart from his family, returned home and was reunited with his father, who welcomed him home with loving arms. We don't realize what God has planned for each of us, but we do know that He is aware of all things and all circumstances, and in His great plan for us will work all things for the good. We have to continue to trust and have faith, and just like the scripture above says, "the hand of the Lord my God was on me." Events like this can test and try our faith in God, as Satan will place trials in our way, but when we understand that God is still in control and will work things to His good, we can be at peace.
"Because the hand of the Lord my God was on me, I took courage.."
Ezra 7:28
Just recently I received an e-mail from one of my readers asking for prayer for his daughter who had just run away from home. One of the most difficult things a parent can experience is having one of their children leave home, and not know how to deal with this situation. Not knowing where their children will be staying, or if they will have food to eat, or even knowing where they are, can be frightening to any parent. Just knowing all the danger that is out there in the world, a parent can imagine all the worst things happening to their child. The thing that we need to understand when these kinds of situations arise in our lives, is to remember that God is still in control, and knows what is happening. We cannot help but to be concerned and worried, but often times we just need to trust in God that everything will work out, as this is part of His great plan. We see the story of the Prodigal Son who left home, and after spending much time apart from his family, returned home and was reunited with his father, who welcomed him home with loving arms. We don't realize what God has planned for each of us, but we do know that He is aware of all things and all circumstances, and in His great plan for us will work all things for the good. We have to continue to trust and have faith, and just like the scripture above says, "the hand of the Lord my God was on me." Events like this can test and try our faith in God, as Satan will place trials in our way, but when we understand that God is still in control and will work things to His good, we can be at peace.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Claim Your Victory
Claim Your Victory
"Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
Ephesians 6:11
You need to realize that you can't withstand the attacks of the devil, if you haven't put on the full armor of God. In Ephesians 6 we read that there are at least seven pieces of armor that we need to withstand Satan's schemes, and we need all of them. These pieces of armor are offensive weapons that we should use, as we need to be on the offense, and not wait for Satan to attack. We need to be prepared, and not wait for him to make the first move. We must do the things that God commands, as this is the way that we can defeat Satan. When we are doing the will of God, we aren't allowing Satan to get a foothold into our lives, and giving him the opportunity to tempt us to do evil. The Bible gives us the battle plan to defeat Satan, by putting on the full armor of God, and being prepared. It tells us to be on the offensive, and move forward with God as your captain. We are to stand as the conqueror, and with God's help we can defeat any attack that will come our way. Everywhere you go in life you will find evil, that will be tempting you. You will find this in your workplace, your school, your neighborhood, all throughout your daily life. You will be tempted by Satan in your thoughts, by the actions of others around you to do evil, and disobey God's commands. Don't fall prey to the temptations, but remember that God is with you, and has given you all the armor you need to withstand any attack that comes your way. Make God first in your daily life, and He will give you all you need to live a life that will be pleasing to Him, and be victorious.
"Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
Ephesians 6:11
You need to realize that you can't withstand the attacks of the devil, if you haven't put on the full armor of God. In Ephesians 6 we read that there are at least seven pieces of armor that we need to withstand Satan's schemes, and we need all of them. These pieces of armor are offensive weapons that we should use, as we need to be on the offense, and not wait for Satan to attack. We need to be prepared, and not wait for him to make the first move. We must do the things that God commands, as this is the way that we can defeat Satan. When we are doing the will of God, we aren't allowing Satan to get a foothold into our lives, and giving him the opportunity to tempt us to do evil. The Bible gives us the battle plan to defeat Satan, by putting on the full armor of God, and being prepared. It tells us to be on the offensive, and move forward with God as your captain. We are to stand as the conqueror, and with God's help we can defeat any attack that will come our way. Everywhere you go in life you will find evil, that will be tempting you. You will find this in your workplace, your school, your neighborhood, all throughout your daily life. You will be tempted by Satan in your thoughts, by the actions of others around you to do evil, and disobey God's commands. Don't fall prey to the temptations, but remember that God is with you, and has given you all the armor you need to withstand any attack that comes your way. Make God first in your daily life, and He will give you all you need to live a life that will be pleasing to Him, and be victorious.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Selfish Ambition
Selfish Ambition
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."
Philippians 2:3
Being a person with selfish ambition is a serious matter, and one that should be taken seriously. When we look at the Israelites, their selfish ambition prevented them from entering the Promised Land. Often times, we do not see our selfish ambition as our enemy, as we think that looking out for ourselves is just a natural reaction. However, true as that may be, when we only focus all our energies to serving ourselves and our own wants and desires, this is when we cross the line. The Bible gives us a very simple answer to addressing a selfish ambition when Jesus gave us his most important commandment, to love God first, then to love others as we love ourselves. When we begin to think of others as we do ourselves, we allow a spirit of humbleness to come upon us, as we are putting God's humbleness to practice in our lives. God humbled himself by sending Jesus, who was born in a manger. He humbled himself by letting Jesus die on the cross for our sins. Practice humbleness in your marriage, by placing your spouse above yourself, and not fighting or arguing with them. You should not want to live only for yourself, but should be willing and sacrifice for your family. Practice this with others around you, in your workplaces, your schools, your neighborhoods, and with all others you meet in your daily life. Search your hearts today, to see if there are any areas of your life where your own selfish ambitions are hindering your walk with God. Think about others first.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."
Philippians 2:3
Being a person with selfish ambition is a serious matter, and one that should be taken seriously. When we look at the Israelites, their selfish ambition prevented them from entering the Promised Land. Often times, we do not see our selfish ambition as our enemy, as we think that looking out for ourselves is just a natural reaction. However, true as that may be, when we only focus all our energies to serving ourselves and our own wants and desires, this is when we cross the line. The Bible gives us a very simple answer to addressing a selfish ambition when Jesus gave us his most important commandment, to love God first, then to love others as we love ourselves. When we begin to think of others as we do ourselves, we allow a spirit of humbleness to come upon us, as we are putting God's humbleness to practice in our lives. God humbled himself by sending Jesus, who was born in a manger. He humbled himself by letting Jesus die on the cross for our sins. Practice humbleness in your marriage, by placing your spouse above yourself, and not fighting or arguing with them. You should not want to live only for yourself, but should be willing and sacrifice for your family. Practice this with others around you, in your workplaces, your schools, your neighborhoods, and with all others you meet in your daily life. Search your hearts today, to see if there are any areas of your life where your own selfish ambitions are hindering your walk with God. Think about others first.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Forgive Others
Forgive Others
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Ephesians 4:32
It is so important for all Christians to be forgiving and live a life of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not something we use sometimes and not other times, but we must be able to forgive at all times. Many times we may grow impatient with people when they seem to always do something that irritates us or harms us in some way, but we must remember that we also make mistakes, even though we may try hard not to. We need others to be able to forgive us when we do things that may irritate them and harm them, so likewise we need to be willing to forgive others when they irritate or harm us. This is what grace is, and we must live grace in our everyday lives, not just sometimes, but at all times. We must understand that we receive God's grace each day of our life, and we must be willing to freely pass this grace on to others. I would encourage each of you to make it a daily habit to forgive anyone that might have offended you during the day. Take just a few moments before you go to sleep at night, and think about the occasions where you might be harboring bitterness against someone, and forgive them. In the morning when you wake, make it a point to pray that in the hours ahead that when someone irritates you or harms you, that you will forgive them in advance. Just remember all the grace that Jesus gave you when he forgave all your sins, and the price He was willing to pay, and pass this on to the people in your own life. If you make this a daily practice to never let the sun go down without forgiving others, your life will change and you will find peace, and God's favor.
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Ephesians 4:32
It is so important for all Christians to be forgiving and live a life of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not something we use sometimes and not other times, but we must be able to forgive at all times. Many times we may grow impatient with people when they seem to always do something that irritates us or harms us in some way, but we must remember that we also make mistakes, even though we may try hard not to. We need others to be able to forgive us when we do things that may irritate them and harm them, so likewise we need to be willing to forgive others when they irritate or harm us. This is what grace is, and we must live grace in our everyday lives, not just sometimes, but at all times. We must understand that we receive God's grace each day of our life, and we must be willing to freely pass this grace on to others. I would encourage each of you to make it a daily habit to forgive anyone that might have offended you during the day. Take just a few moments before you go to sleep at night, and think about the occasions where you might be harboring bitterness against someone, and forgive them. In the morning when you wake, make it a point to pray that in the hours ahead that when someone irritates you or harms you, that you will forgive them in advance. Just remember all the grace that Jesus gave you when he forgave all your sins, and the price He was willing to pay, and pass this on to the people in your own life. If you make this a daily practice to never let the sun go down without forgiving others, your life will change and you will find peace, and God's favor.
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