Jesus Take My Reins
Good Day to all. I have started a new page for those that want to read. God has always been so good to me and my family and I would like to dedicate a page for His honor. Read if you would like or pass, as this is from the heart and to share God's Love.
May you have a blessed day.
March 6, 2010
Faith, Justification and Reconciliation
Romans 5: 1,2
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Let's start here. We have been justified (to be just, right, or valid; to declare quiltless as if we did no sin). Christ did for us what we can't do for ourselves. When He died on the cross he paid the price for our sins so we could be justified. This justification is not something we can boast about in ourselves, we were made right with God because of Jesus. Our sins were crucified on the cross once and for all. When Jesus was crucified that was a one time act, not something that has to be repeated in order for our sins to be forgiven.
Hebrews 11: 1
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Footnotes: Two words describe faith: sure and certain. A beginning and ending point. The beginning point of faith is believing in God's character ~ He is who He says. The end point is believing in God's promises ~ He will do what He says. When we believe that God will fulfill His promises even though we don't see those promises materializing yet, we demonstrate true faith.
So, therefore, we believe (faith) that our sins are forgiven and we have been made right with God because of the blood that was shed for us. Not only did that act of obedience take away our sins, but also gave us access to the promises of God. One being eternal life with God plus many others.
Romans 5: 9-11
Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through Him! For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life! Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Reconciliation what does this mean: To restore, to change, to renew, reestablishing relationships. God bringing us back to Him.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made Him who had no sin, to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.
When you accept Christ into your heart, you become a new creation. God strips you of the old person so the new person can be transformed into what God wants you to be. Because of Jesus, were are reconciled to God (remember we are restored, changed, renewed etc). That doesn't mean we won't sin, because we will, there is no one that is perfect. But we have a God that renews us daily and brings us back to Him. He restores us daily!!!
We have been justified through faith and reconciled to God through Christ.
God Bless.
March 3, 2010
1 Corinthians 3: 11-14
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward.
Your relataionship with Jesus is as solid as you make it. Your intentions will be shown for what they truly are. A genuine heart to please God and live your life worthy for Him will be tested. It is how you pass the test that will reveal who you are.
We must recognize and then fight for what we know is right and how God wants us to be a light for those around us. We must test our motives to see if what we are saying or doing lines up with the word of God and how God wants us to live. Fighting the good fight takes effort and not giving up. You have seen what God can do in your life and have felt His presence, so when the enemy attacks don't allow him to rob you of who you are by believing his lies and backing down.
Growing pains aren't fun but when you pass that stage, you find relief. I know that when I choose, on a daily bases, to be near God I have the strength inside to have courage, to be bold for God, to fight against the bad so love can shine through. Staying connected to God is a choice that I make everyday. If you give the enemy a foothold, he will take it. He will attack your thoughts, he will attack your emotions, he will put any obstacle in your path to get you on a downhill slide. So, when thoughts enter your head that is not right, your emotions are going crazy or an obstacle gets in your way, immediately recognize it for what it is and call on God.
The more we build on our foundation (relationship) with God, we understand and really know inside what we are made of and what God can do through us. When we do make a mistake God is right there to pick us up, dust us off to try again. How strong is your foundation? Do you know that God is with you at all times?
Don't allow what the world has to offer you, which isn't anything, to cause you to live by the standards of this world. When a storm comes your way, don't allow it to blow down and destroy your foundation. A strong foundation will withstand what tries to come against it to destroy it.
What is truly in your heart will come out whether good or bad. If your intentions are not right, you can't fool God, He knows ALL. You can say all the right things, try and do the right things but when push comes to shove, where is your heart? Are you willing to make a wrong choice, word you may have said, action that wasn't good into a right by doing what God puts in your heart to do? Are you willing to love instead of hate despite what has happened to you? Are you willing to forgive and forget, just as God forgives and remembers no more?
Jesus showered people with love, compassion, mercy and forgiveness. This is a great foundation to build on. The more layers we put on a foundation the stronger that foundation will be. If you don't lay rubar (sp?) in your foundation before you pour the concrete it will crack under pressure over time. Other words, it is up to you as to how strong your foundation is? If it is thin and weak, it will crack and fall apart. If it is thick and strong, it will hold up under the mightiest storm. How fast will you recover when the enemy strikes at you? Start today building that stronger foundation, so you can fight the good fight and withstand what the enemy will throw at you or against you.
JESUS IS MY FOUNDATION MAKE HIM YOURS.
God Bless
March 1, 2010
Understand Who You Are In Christ
2 Corinthians 5:21 God made him who had no sin, to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
Knowing and understanding who you are in Christ gives us the power, because Christ dwells within us, to accomplish what God wants done. God will not put you into a situation where He won't be. Understand that when God calls you to do a specific task, He has your back, front and both sides. The enemy, however, will throw his arrows to try and take you down. We are God's children and He is our protector at all times. When you give your heart to God, He doesn't say okay you have eternal life now and you are on your own. NO, He gives us the Holy Spirit to guide us through life and to help us in ALL ways.
Our attitude needs to be this and say it with the utmost confidence. I AM THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD!! I can do all things through Christ Jesus. I am the head not the tail, I am above not beneath.
The confidence I have today is because God has grown that confidence, it is not because of anything I have done. Where I am today, in my walk with God, is because I desire more of Him and God does the rest. I know that desire also comes from God, He has given me that desire. When you call on Jesus, that is the Holy Spirit at work in your life. It only takes one step from you, receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior, to start the best journey you can ever take.
Know this, life throws us curves whether you are born again or not. The difference, in my opinion, is I would rather God fight my battles then me do it alone. Alone I can not succeed, but with God I can do all things. God knows what you deal with from day to day. Why not have Him on your side? He desires to be there, HE LOVES YOU MORE THEN YOU KNOW!
Being a child of God doesn't mean you have to go around with a bible in your hand, preaching to others, being "religious". Being a child of God is a relationship, the most positive relationship you could ever imagine. God will change traits in you that aren't desirable into desirable traits that glorify Him. GOD IS GOOD and everything about Him is superior. It is the good things God will do that causes others to want what you have, Jesus Christ.
I can say with total confidence that I am the righteousness of God, I am His child. So when I do make mistakes and I will, God is there to pick me up, dust me off and try again. No one hits perfection, we just strive to be more like Jesus.
Jesus showed love, unconditional love. He showed mercy, understanding and forgiveness. He was an example of how to treat others and to do good for all He had contact with. He didn't come to condemn the world but to save it. He came to show God's love to all people, not tear them down and destroy them. Jesus showed understanding and gave help to all that asked of Him.
I want that in my life, there is enough negative in the world, I desire more peace and positive outcome. I desire to help those in need, to give love in a cruel world. Those desires come from God. It is human nature to take care of me, myself and I to have our focus on what we want at whatever cost. It is human nature to not think about how we treat others in what we say or how we act. It is human nature to take care of #1.
But it is God's nature to LOVE everyone and that just sound alot better to me. As a born again Christian, we have the blood bought right to do it God's way. We have it inside of us to make positive changes in a negative world. Christ lives in us, therefore, we are the righteousness of God. I encourage you to take hold of "who" you are and know that God is on your side. The more you desire God in your life, the more He works in your life and I promise you this ~ the better your life will be.
WE ARE THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD and because of that WE HAVE THE POWER IN US TO FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT and MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THIS WORLD.
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
February 27, 2010
Faith, Hope and Love
Are you wanting more of this in your heart? Great, the Holy Spirit is speaking to you. God wants us to desire good things and He sends the Holy Spirit to advance us in these areas. When you start to crave these characteristics that is God working in you. Love is the greatest of the three found in 1 Corinthians 13: 13 and God wants us to develop a sincere love for all people.
God loves us all no matter what we have done or not done. When you receive His love and really understand this it is easier to love others. Love covers a multitude of sin 1 Peter 4:8. There is no greater feeling then to share love with others and to just have that kind of peace inside knowing you the love you share with others will be returned back to you.
I was thinking this morning how great it is to reflect back and see the changes God has made in me. Because of those changes I have a better understanding of love and what love does to those around me. What is in a man's heart will flow from his mouth and in his actions. We will never to perfection, but we sure can try. Ask God to increase love in your heart. There is just something about wanting more of these qualities that truly has a positive effect on our lives as well as those around us.
The more we choose God to work in our lives, the more He will give to us. He won't push Himself on anyone, but gives us the freedom to make choices. It is up to us what path we would like to travel. I would rather walk in love then hate. I would rather receive all that God has for me then to struggle to find another way. I would rather be at peace then war. I would rather make someone's day better then worse. I would rather forgive then hold anger inside. I would rather live for God then to live without Him.
Allow God's love to engulf you. That feeling is greater than any riches you could obtain on this earth. His ways are far better then our ways. Just fall in love with Jesus and He will do the rest.
God Bless.
February 22, 2010
God is the maker of all things. He molds us and prunes us into what He has predestined for us.
The molding and pruning in our lives isn't always a pleasant thing to go through, but it is the experiences in our lives that molds us into who we are. In my life there has been many changes along the way and it is the pruning that has had the biggest impact for who I am today. Perfect? NOT at all, but growing as a person and in spirit is a good thing and God uses that to help me help others.
One part of pruning is dying to the flesh and that is a hard one. Our flesh screams out in frustration, wanting something done, not waiting on God's timing because we want it now. God's ways are not our ways and what we think is best. God knows exactly what we need and He knows how to carry us through.
The more I want God to work in my life and through my life, he needs to do works in me that I just might not be real thrilled to go through. But enduring the trial will develop the characteristics God desires for us to have. I can say that when He is pruning you, draw that much closer to Him. God will give you understanding if you ask Him for it. You might have to turn to Him several times for reassurance in order to keep your flesh in check.
I have recently went through something that was heartbreaking. But what I have learned is that God is molding me and getting me ready for something greater in my life. I have a calling on my life and in order for me to be able to withstand the pressures and attacks from the devil, I have to be pruned so I can grow. I know that when these attacks come on me that it isn't the person themselves that are bad, it is the fact that the devil will use whatever resources he can to stop me from taking that next step that God is pulling me towards. He knows that if he can stop me and I allow circumstances to over take me, that he might just be able to block me from God's will in my life. Now, he can't stop God from anything, but he can try to convenience us we aren't worthy to do anything.
What are we suppose to do when these attacks come? DRAW closer to God. The other day I was venting to God and He showed me this. Vent all you want to me, tell me exactly what is on your mind and be completely honest and don't hold back. Believe it or not after that my head was clearer and my heart was softer for this: understanding started to flow, love engulfed my heart and the path was open for God to work. He then told me that when the flesh wants to take over, as it will from time to time, start talking with Him again and He will restore my heart to the right place.
So, though it isn't easy, allow God to prune your life. Because I guarantee you the reward is far greater then you could ever imagine. We have to endure the storm to get to the other side.
God Bless
February 19, 2010
Be Aware At All Times!!
The devil will stop at nothing to divert your path. He will use whatever resource he can to discourage you. He will tell you lies and laugh in your face when you believe them. He wants you destroyed and put you down in the pit.
The 1st part of John 10:10 says: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy...
The closer you get to God, the harder the devil trys to redirect your path in the opposite direction. Even the devil knows that when you desire more of God and the goodness of God in your life then you are a threat to all that is evil. Good has dominion over evil. But the devil will try to make you think otherwise.
Be on guard at all times and learn to recognize those methods. I have learned through my life that when God is getting ready to do something great in my life, whether it is answering a prayer or fulfilling a need or a desire, the devil tries his darnest to stop that blessing. Because of just not understanding this scheme, the devil has stolen from me. BUT the closer I get to God and the more I learn. I'm learning and recognizing that what I say and what I do during those attack makes a difference. The faster I see where I went wrong with my words, reaction and attitude and immediately turn to God, then the devils plan gets voided out.
God wants us to turn to Him when the devil is on the attack. But many times we turn to God last instead of 1st. Our 1st reaction should be God help me, show me, comfort me, control my emotions etc. That doesn't mean we can't confide in friends, God gives us friends to help us along the way. God will use our friends to give answers, show us a wrong, comfort us and just be a support line. But we need to ask God for help and direction so the line of communication will be open and lined up with what God needs to do or say. God has a voice and sometimes you will directly hear from Him, but other times He uses vessels (other Christians) to get you the answer.
So the next time you are under attack, take a deep breath and look up to heaven for your need. Don't allow the devil to kill to steal or to destroy what God has planned for you.
Now here is the better news, it is the 2nd part of John 10:10 it says: I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
How great is that!!! Just keep your eyes and attention on God. Life throws us many curves, but it is how fast you react to counter act that move that will straighten you back out and on your way to the fullness of God and what He has planned for you.
May you find peace and joy today as God touches your life and renews your spirit. God Bless!
February 17, 2010
Expect God To Work In Your Life
What good is it if you don't expect good things from God. God is your source to ALL your needs and wants. Where would I be today if I didn't expect God to work in my and through me? I can't and won't try to do it alone.
We must have faith that what God says, He will do. James 1:6,7 says: Only it must be in faith that he asks with no wavering (no hesitating, no doubting). For the one who wavers (hesitates, doubts) is like the billowing surge out at sea that is blown hither and thither and tossed by the wind. For truly, let not such a person imagine that he will receive anything (he asks for) from the Lord.
God gives us faith and He wants it to grow. It can't grow if you don't use it. Jesus said in Matthew 7 Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. You have a need ask God to provide you a solution. And when you do ask don't doubt that He will answer you. He might answer you right away or sometimes we have to wait. When waiting don't say well God didn't answer me so what I asked for isn't what I needed. But just maybe what you asked for IS something you need, but God is testing you to see just how bad do you need it. In order for our faith to grow it will be tested. Do you trust God? Do you rely on God? Do you believe in God?
God knows what we need when we need it. Expect God to show up and stop hesitating and doubting that God will provide. Just because you don't get a quick answer doesn't mean God is not wanting to fulfill your need. Our faith must grow and we must understand that God is on our side. Why would Jesus say ask and it will be given to you if His words had no meaning to them.
Do you give to your kids right on demand everytime that have a want? When you say I will think about it, do they give up asking for it again? No, so why do we as adults give up so easy. When I ask God for something I expect Him to show up and do somthing. That doesn't mean I don't have to wait from time to time. Do I give up? No!! I know that God puts good desires in my heart and when the time is right He causes them to happen. Now if I were to doubt that God wants to do anything good for me or my family, why would He show up and fulfill my need.
Putting your total trust (faith) in God will show you many things. God is the key to my life, without Him where would I be today? I know that when I apply faith in my life, it always grows. God didn't put the desires in my heart to stay in closet, to be afraid, to hide in a corner. Everytime I step out in faith, it causes my faith to grow. Now if I never was to act on the promptings in my heart then I would never experience my faith growing. I desire God to use me and I have faith that He will. The more I hold fast to Him and rely on Him and trust in Him the more it grows.
God is teaching me to step out of the box and do things that I wouldn't normally do. Let me say this, when I step out of that box my faith grows more and more everytime. I have missed some opportunities for my faith to grow because of fear. Fear will only stop progress and that is exactly what the devil wants. I expect God to increase my faith so I have the courage to be all that He has called me to be. If I doubted that God is not holding my hand, then guess what I would be walking alone. God's hands are big and warm and I don't have to feel them everyday to know that He is with me, I just know He is there!!!
Don't hesitate! Don't doubt! Ask God! Allow God to change you from glory to glory and whatever calling you have on your life, take hold of it and expect God to fulfill it. Once you start applying faith and expecting God to show up let me tell you from experience, HE IS THERE ALWAYS.
God Bless and have a super day.
February 11, 2010
MAKING DECISIONS
Have you ever regreted a decision that you have made? Did you make that decision on the spur of the moment? You wanted something so bad, you didn't take the time to wait on God for the right answer.
God has a plan for each of us and He made that plan in advance. Ephesians 2:10 says For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. As God is our Father, He wants us to go to Him for all our wants and needs. But we must not get in a hurry as God has a plan, in advance, for us. We need to know what path to take in order to advance to what God has planned for us. Sometimes we "think" we know, but that isn't always the case.
Have you ever experienced a situation where you wanted something but it seemed like every turn you made there was a closed door? Did you take heed in that or did you say I will get it one way or another. You were bound and determined to get it no matter what.
I personally don't think God wants to withhold any good thing from us, BUT He wants us to go to Him and rely on Him for the answer. Maybe the time isn't right that doesn't mean God isn't going to fulfill your need. Maybe we think we wanted it but if we took the time to pray and wait on God we would see that really wasn't something we need. But later we find out that God had something bigger and better for us.
When a door is closed don't force it open, there is a reason! This is something we learn in life. Who hasn't rushed a decision to only regret the decision. We think we want it so bad that we jeopardize the right decision, or should I say the right path God is leading us to.
As I get older I'm realizing that all my "wants" are really not beneficial to me. I have come to know that some wants take me off the path to where I'm suppose to be going. Some "wants" aren't necessary but a decoy to the wrong path but once on that path you might be stuck with something that gives you alot of grief.
Allow God to direct your path and decisions. Even if you have to wait, that doesn't mean He won't fulfill your want. He just has something even bigger planned for you. God knows how to give good gifts to His children. He knows when the time is right. He knows what is best. Don't be a spoiled child that throws a fit because you don't always get what you want. Instead be thankful that God has your best interest at heart and He will guide you along the way.
Bottom line GOD LOVES YOU and He wants His children to shine and enjoy life to its fullest. So 1st pray before all decisions, 2nd wait on God for an answer (some come instantly and some we have to wait on) and 3rd enjoy your life as God works out the plan He prepared in advance for each of us. The ride will take you to heaven on earth and then beyond.
God Bless
February 3. 2010
God Is A Forgiving God. Return to Him and allow Him to set you free.
Many times in the old testiment you will see just how forgiving God is. He desires a relationship with you and His love for you is so great that He is always willing to forgive and set you back on the right track. Are you willing to go that extra mile for God and to allow Him to work in your life?
Don't let the upsets of life pull you down, instead look to heaven and praise our Father for all the goodness and love He pours out on us everyday. If you are feeling alone and feel as there is no hope-that is only the devil trying to convinence you that hope is lost. He wants you to not understand just how forgiving God is, so you won't turn to Him. There is nothing you can do that will turn God away from you while you still have a breathe in your body. God doesn't treat us the way we treat other people. When He forgives, it is forgotten to be remembered no more. Where we tend to hold on to feelings and remember the wrong done to us. When that feeling is deep inside we truly do not forgive.
Thanks God he is not like that. Ask God to help you let go and move forward. Ask Him to teach you how to love and live as an example of His work in and through you. We will never be perfect while on this earth but we can be better and grow.
When God puts your life back together, work to keep it! Don't fall back and allow pieces of your life to be scattered again to the point of total displacement. Though God will piece you back together because He loves you reconize the process and regain composure of your life. The only way to keep this from happening is by a close and sincere relationship with God. The closer you get to Him the closer He will be. God gives us choices he just won't push Himself on you. It is up to us to pray, read and desire more of God.
The best advise I can give you when you see things falling apart, is to start immediately praising God for all He is. Sing and dance for Jesus. God knows all about life and what happens. It is what we do when life throws us curves that make a difference in the outcome.
You are never alone is this ole' world, God is always beside you.
God Bless
January 29, 2010
God Deserves Our Praise not our complaints!!
I don't think we truly understand the power of praise. God is a zealous god and wants His children to not only be obedient to Him, but to praise Him. I truly believe that no matter what you face in life, you can find something good to praise God about. He is the one that gets us through trials and tribulations along with the peaceful and wonderful times in our lives.
You know the quote "if it wasn't for bad luck, I would have no luck at all." This saying is so irritating to me. When things aren't going just right, we forget about all the goodness God has shown us. God didn't promise our lives to be a bed of roses 24/7. Complaining gets us NO WHERE!! It only drives us deeper into a negative mind set (where the devil wants you) and gets us away from praising God for who He is and what He has and is doing in our lives.
The best way to get through any situation is praising God on a daily bases. God knows how to give good gifts to His children, but we can't go around like spoiled little brats, throw a fit when things aren't always as we think they should be.
Praising God will stop Him, make Him still and pushes back the enemy. Praise expresses admiration, appreciation, and thanks. Considering all that God has done and does for us, what could be more natural then out bursts of heartfelft praise? So, in the mist of your storm--PRAISE GOD!
Let's look at Paul and Silas. Acts 16:22-25 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. After they had been severly flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose. The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. But Paul shouted, " Don't harm yourself! We are all here!"
Look at that closely and think about this: It is how you act in your storm that really makes an impact on others!! Paul and Silas did nothing wrong but was stripped, beaten and thrown into prison. Now, don't you think that had the right to complain about how they were treated? They made a choice, they could have easily whined and cried about their situation, telling God how unfair things were and how tough life was and so on. NO they 1st chose to praise God while in the storm. 2nd they had a positive impact on those around them. 3rd God did something about their situation and did it quickly.
You can find something to praise God about if only it is just praising Him for who He is. I have been studying "Praise" this week and have found some scriptures that I want to share. BUT also during this week, as I was really focused on praising God, I took note of how each day went. I encourage you to do the same thing.
Here is just a start, there is so much more to learn and understand. I encourage you to take the time to read and meditate on these scripture. Take notes and remember to record your day. During your study, if you come across scripture about Praise, please e-mail what you find. I would love to read and study more on this subject.
Today, is the Lord's day I will rejoice and be glad in it. He deserves the glory and the honor. How great is our God. HE IS ABSOLUTELY AWESOME!!
God Bless
January 22, 2010
Old Garment ~ New Garment Old Wineskins ~ New Wineskins
Luke 5:36-39
No one tears a patch from a new garment and sews it on an old one. If he does, he will have torn the new garment, and the patch from the new will not match the old. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. And no one after drinking old wine wants the new wine, for he says, 'The old is better.'
Matthew 9:16-17
No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.
Mark 2:21-22
No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins.
Notice that all three say the same thing but use a slightly different way of saying it. Asking God for help to patch something up in your life is the 1st thing we do when needing help. Father, you just got to fix this. So God comes in and patches that problem, starts making some changes and so forth. At first, this is such a good thing God has done, BUT (that dreaded but) we soon forget what God has done and the goodness we feel from Him and before you know it the once fixed problem is back into play plus it gets worse. So why is that? You can't blame it on God, because God is always with us and promises to never leave us. We go back to the old ways and forget what God has done. We choose to live our life the way we want too. We go back to old habits and stop working towards our relationship with God. Old habits are easy to us 2nd nature because we have practised it so long in the wrong way, it is just natural for us. In order to change an old habit it takes 30 consecutive days to honestly work for better change to make a conscience effort to improve.
God knows in order for us to change He has to make changes in us that we simply just can't do for ourselves. But we have a role to do here. We have to try and we have to make efforts in a positive way. God will change you as long as you want Him to. You can't let hard work get you off track, you must stay steady and not give up.
In order for us to not tear or burst ruining what God has done just to start all over again, we must stay close to Him on a daily bases. This doesn't mean you are always going to feel the presence of God daily, you aren't always going to want to try, you aren't always going to be in the right frame of mind to serve God. What this means is you make an honest effort to get closer to God no matter how you feel. You don't have to spend X amount of time daily in His word (sometimes I read for 15 minutes and then other times I'm reading much longer). Pray to Him without ceasing (my prayers never end, I'm always talking to God) In order for you to not shrunk back to your old ways, you have to make the effort to draw closer to God. When you do that God gives you the strength, the determination to resist the old and cause the new to grow more and more. God knows what you need! God knows where your heart is! God understands life and the pressures of life! God loves you for who you are because He created you!!
So don't turn back to your old ways of doing things because it seems easier. When you catch yourself doing that, ask God to forgive you and help you. Before you know it your life has changed for the better and you have more desire to stay close to God and allow Him to continue a work in you that He desires.
As long as we are living and breathing we have a choose to make. Do I get renewed daily or do I try it alone? Do I expect God to work in me or do I try and work out my life by myself? Do I make an effort to please God or do it my way to please only me? Do I look at the bigger picture or just live in the moment? Do I serve God because I simply love Him or am I trying to get something from Him? Do I want the fullness of God and the help He gives me or just want to be left alone to work out my life as I see fit? I choose the first rather then the last because living for God fulfills my life and makes me a better person as He continues to change me and causes me to grow closer to Him. Though I make mistakes and have not arrived, I am a better person today then I once was. There is NO greater feeling then when God shows up and fills me with His presence. He rewards those that diligently seek after Him and He gets things done that glorifies Him. In return my life has never been so good in many ways because of HIM!!!!!!!
God Bless
January 21, 2010
Discernment
What it is: Philippians 1:10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
In order to know what God expects from us and to walk in His way, it is vital to learn discernment. We need to know what road to take in order to make right decisions and act in a way that pleases God. Ask yourself this: Did I ask God what He wants me to do? Alot of times we get so caught up in the moment, we forget to ask God to direct us. So you made a decision only to regret the outcome. So how do we fix this problem? By asking God to forgive us and then look to Him for the right answer. Don't get in a hurry for something, but 1st ask God and 2nd wait for Him to answer. This sometimes is hard, because we want things to bad or right now. We feel as if we know what we are doing and jump into situations that later cause problems. Waiting on God for an answer takes discipline, but with practice and a diligent mind to serve God, we make decisions based on what God wants us to do rather then regretting a possible outcome because of thinking we know what is best.
To ask God for the right things: Matthew 7:9-10 Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?
In the same manner, God knows how to give to His children in the right way. If you are really trying to serve God and make a difference in your life, then God is there to help you along the way. When you need to make a decision, don't be afraid to wait on God for an answer. God's way and His path for your life is worth waiting for. He will direct your path and cause you to make wise and stable decisions. Decisions that will be right and what you need. I always look at it like this. When I ask God for something and I recieve it then it was meant to be otherwise it was not. I have learned over the years that if I jump the gun and do something without asking God first I just may not be as happy about it as I thought I might. Now God doesn't hold it against me if I make a bad decision, He is a forgiving God, and shows me what I did wrong and inturn causes me to draw closer to Him as I seek the solution to make it right. This is how I have learned discernment by the mistakes I have made.
Learn to ask God for daily decisions, pray without ceasing. Your eyes don't have to be closed to pray. Daily, when I remember, I'll say okay Lord what do I do. I'll ask for right words, right actions and to make a difference in other people's lives. I then try hard to follow His promptings and to be obedient to what He is telling me to do. The more I obey Him, the better I learn to hear His voice and to act when He says. The only way to hear from God is work at it and to learn His voice. His sheep will know His voice!! Don't be afraid to step out and do what God wants you to do, the devil will try and convince you not say or do what God is wanting you to do. He will be fear in your mind and tell you lies--don't believe him, he is a liar.
Not all things are easy, but the rewards are greater then any fear or rejection you might go through. People can be hard and critical, but dont let that stop you from the blessing of God. His grace is sufficient for your needs. He will equip you with what you need when you need it. Bottom line you are NEVER alone, that is a joy knowing that I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me and calls me according to His purpose.
God Bless and Have a Wonderful Day.
January 19, 2010
God knew you before you were concieved and has a predestined purpose for you. Sometimes we get so caught up in our daily routine, we simply forget our purpose or start thinking "What is my purpose".
My personal purpose is linked to horses and those around me that ride or that is involved in horses. So my job is to be the best I can be and to do my job. But it also involves being a light to those that are around me (God's purpose) to have compassion and to show love. Now God didn't place me in the medical field, in child care, in a law office, being a house wife and only maintaining a household and so forth. So that evidently is not where God's purpose is for my life. He gave me a passion for horses and that is where He is going to use me to fulfill His purpose for my life and the work that needs to be done.
Now God's purpose isn't just about me. It isn't about always making me feel good, about meeting all my needs and wants, about what only satisfies me. It is about what needs to be accomplished for God and being a light for those around me. God's word states we are to be a light unto this world. To make a difference in other people's lives. To help those in need and to show love to everyone. To lead them to Christ and to be an example for others.
Romans 8:17 says As children of God we are heirs of Him and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory. This to me means as a heir (child) of God we will have to sacrifice from time to time. It isn't always about what makes me feel good, it is about the task at hand. Maybe look at it this way: it isn't about what I'm going through now it is about what I will recieve later.
When Jesus was walking on this earth, He came for a purpose. Do you really think He wanted to suffer and go through what He went through? NO, but Jesus was determined to do God's will and fulfill the purpose for which He was sent.
So today when you are out and about think about having more compassion for others and do what God prompts you to do. I can say from my experience God's promptings aren't always hard to follow, it is our minds that stop us. Fear of being rejected or what do I say or how do I go about that comes to mind. But really if you are rejected remember that Jesus was rejected by many. If you say the wrong thing He will help you with words, as God knows your heart and always has a way of making a situation turn out right. If you go about doing something and it falls apart, well God is there to pick up the pieces and put you back on track.
God sends His Holy Spirit to guide us. We learn to listen to Him more and follow Him the more we get to know Him. That is only done by spending time with God. Reading the bible, study guides, having Christian friends and praying will indeed take you closer to God and in turn give you a heart to want to please God. This also helps you realize your purpose for where God wants you to be and what He is asking you to do.
May you have a Blessed day as you further your walk with God on a daily bases.
December 6, 2009
If your not putting God 1st in your life on a daily bases then you are missing out on God's blessings. God has abundance waiting for you in many forms. He is loaded with favor for His children. God wants to be your EVERYTHING.
If we could only understand and grasp the goodness of God, we would desire more of what God wants for us. Our God is not a cheap God. His goodness and mercy follows us everyday of our lives. Giving to God what He wants from us, that is our time and desire to have more of Him, opens the hands of heaven. Putting God 1st can be the best part of your day if you choose to put Him 1st.
It's not about what I think or feel, it's about wanting more out of my life. To be more productive for God. To touch others lives and encourage them in the Lord. God has so many GOOD things for us. Learning more about Him causes us to grow and become what God wants us to be. We can not do it alone, that is impossible. Your strength comes from God, your goodness comes from God, sincere love comes from God, being able to forgive and show mercy comes from God. But the only way to have abundance in these areas is through a daily personal time with God. We can be hot for God one day and not the next. Being luke warm doesn't cut it. Can we survive on luke warm ~ yes. But what kind of growth will we obtain ~ not much.
Why wouldn't we want to have the abundance? It feels so much better being full then half full. How can we be productive for God if we aren't willing to invest time with Him? Your best investment is with God. It's not about how much God will give me in material things, cause He will bless you with material things. It's about how much God will give me and do for me in my spirit. When our spirit is full, there is this certain peace that comes over us. A peace that gets us through good times as well as hard times. A peace knowing that God is working in our lives and is making good changes. A peace that only comes from Him.
God takes care of our needs. Sometimes we are blind to that, thinking we did it by ourselves. Get your eyes off yourself and know that all good things come from heaven above. God gives us a certain confidence about ourselves, but I know that if it wasn't for God I would not be where I am today. Though I haven't reached my full potential, I'm making progress in the Lord.
Don't get caught up in the world and what it has to offer. Get caught up in God and what He has to offer, it is much better then anything we could ever imagine. For His thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways are not our ways. Thank God for that, cause He is superior in all things. I would rather do it God's way because it glorifies Him. Have you ever thougth about putting a smile on God's face instead of wanting God to put a smile on your face? Sometimes we neglect to do that. Everyday we should ask ourselves "What can I do today that will glorify God and put a smile on His face" If we only turn to God when we want something that isn't glorifing Him that is using God. I don't want to use God and try to get goodness from Him just because of something I might want.
To truly love God is worth more then gold or silver or anything that has value as we see value today. Building your relationship with Him and wanting to know Him more is a blessing we can give back to God. Ask God to show you how to love Him more, cause really we can't do that alone. The devil will do anything in his power to kill, steal and destroy your relationship with God. So recognize that and don't allow what God so wants to give you to be taken from you. Stay close to God and He will stay close to you. Stay connect to the vine and remain in Him at all cost.
I can tell you one thing the closer I get to God the better my life is getting. Not because of anything I have done, but because God loves His children and wants to be a part of your life. IT IS OUR CHOICE TO MAKE!! May you have a blessed day and always give thanks to God for all that He is and all that He does.
December 4, 2009
God's Promises Are Valid and Solid
John 15:1-17
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself, it must remain in the vain. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
"I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit - fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: LOVE EACH OTHER.
Notice that Jesus used IF 5 times. God is a generous God, He gives us choices. If we want God to move more in our life, then we have to do as He tells. It is not hard to remain in the vain. Putting God first is always the key to a super day. We have to commit time to learn all we can about Him. The more we learn, the more we understand. The more we understand the greater our relationship, thus the more God shows up and works wonders in our lives.
God doesn't want to withhold any good things He has for us, but there is a process. He will not spoil a child, as this would not glorify Him. We have to work on our relationship in order for it to grow. Just like you don't enter marriage until you develop a relationship and get to know one another. God has an abundance of EVERYTHING. He desires to give to us ALL He is.
I can tell you from experience that time spent with God is the most valueable time you will ever spend. Putting God in the center of your life makes for a great life. Even when we go through struggles and trials, you can find peace and joy. Life isn't all about: what can I get out of it, what can I do for my own increase, in other words it's not all about me, myself and I.
Wrong motives will keep God from giving to us what we ask for. Ask God to change your thinking and to get you on a straight path that will glorify Him. Jesus didn't just put words out there to impress us, He told only the truth. If we remain in Him, He will remain in us. When this happens and we put God first in EVERYTHING and our motives are in line with God's word and His purpose, then we reap what Jesus has sown. Jesus planted many seeds by showing us the way. When we desire to grow in that seed, God brings a harvest.
God is looking for people that has a heart for Him. He isn't looking for perfection, because He knows better. Jesus was the only person that was perfect. Why is that? Because He is the "Great I Am" He was God sent down here, born from a virgin, to be that example and to demonstrate His love and show us the way. He gave us His all in just a short amount of time. Jesus didn't allow the world to seperate Him from God, instead He glorified God by obeying His command and serving unselfishly what He was sent here for.
May you find the time to give God today. It is not wasted time, it is the most fulfilling time you will get out of any day. God bless and have a super day.
November 30, 2009
Part 2 of What Is My Purpose?
Sunday service helped me understand something about God's purpose for my life and I would like to share with you.
Let's look in Matthew 25:14-30. I encourage you to really read and study this. I won't type all this out let's talk about it. It is a parable that Jesus used. There are 3 men each one is given a certain amount of talents. One 5 talents, one 2 talents and one 1 talent. The man with 5 talents entrusted to him gained 5 more, the man with 2 talents entrusted to him gained 2 more but the man with 1 talent entrusted to him did nothing with it and had no gain from it.
God gives us abilities (purpose) for a task He wants done. What you do with that talent or ability is up to you. If you choose not to use that talent or ability you will simply lose it. Why do you think God gives us those talents or abilities? Could it be that is your purpose in life? We all can't be actually the same, if we were what a boring world we would live in, what good would it be? Things could not be accomplished because we are not balanced out as a whole.
Stop thinking or asking "God what is it that you want me to do." What is your talent or ability? That is your God given purpose. It is up to you to make it into, along with God's help, all that it can be. People need to see God in all areas not just one area. God knows by giving you an ability where He wants you to work. It is in that area He needs you to touch other peoples lives.
So NO MORE "I CAN'T"
YES YOU CAN!!!
God puts other people in our lives to help us not to second guess the talents and abilities He gives us. He causes us to grow so we can be more productive for His Kingdom. God will develop your talents and abilities, thus fulfilling His purpose for our lives. We aren't to be just like someone else, He has a plan and a purpose. Just like I can't be like you, you can't be like me meaning God created us to be an individual, not a carbon copy of our neighbor. Your talents and abilities are given to you for a reason, stop second guessing yourself and where you should be.
God gives us only what we can handle, He won't give you an ability that you can't do. Why would He do that? What purpose would that serve? So, what God has put on your heart means He will equip you to do the job. Work hard and see what God does. If you don't work at what God gives you then you will find yourself without. Don't be lazy and unproductive. I encourage you to get up and start working towards those talents and abilities that God has given you. Whatever your desire is, it has GREAT importance!!! There is no job, talent or ability that is without purpose ~ IT IS GOD GIVEN!! Don't waste it because if you work hard and ask God to help you ~ He will and you will develop and have increase.
There is nothing small about God!!! His ways are greater then our ways, His thoughts are greater then our thoughts. He will cause you to increase at just the right time as you develop your talents and abilities, it is a process that is well worth the effort!!!
Today, the sun is shining and a cool but beautiful morning, make the most of it. It is absoluately amazing what God can do. God Bless and have a wonderful day.
November 28, 2009
What is your purpose?
A revelation came to me this morning. I can't tell you how many times I have asked God what is your purpose for me or what road should I take.
Jeremiah 29:11 says For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Isaiah 55:8 says "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways"
God wants all of us to come to Him, to lean on Him, to trust in Him, rely on Him and to be believe in Him. He wants us to have a personal relationship with Him on a daily bases. Once we develop that relationship, God then is able to use us according to His plan. Once we take our eyes off ourselves and get closer to God something wonderful happens. God's purpose, His plan, for us is revealed. His plan for each of us is on an individual bases and the only way to know what path we are to take is to get closer to Him and allow God to close doors in one area so He can open doors in other areas.
How many times do we complain because we don't understand the process. We feel like the people are against us, we feel like we can't catch a break. We get so caught up in what is going on around us that we forget that God has His hand on us, and if we allow Him, He will make our paths straight and be in line with what He is wanting us to do. Don't look at a closed door in a negative way. God is our provider and He will not leave us.
Sit back and watch God work, it is simply amazing and He is simply unchanging. I can't tell you how many doors have closed in my live resently that God has opened the flood gates of heaven and opened doors wide for Gary and I. Why would God want to do this? Because He loves all His children. HE HAS A PLAN. I can say this, His plan is so much bigger then I could ever imagine or have ever thought.
The one thing that all of us have in common, that is a common purpose, is that God wants His children to be close to Him. Pray, read, study, sing songs of worship get to know God. Don't worry about the details of your life. Commit to God and watch Him work.
Time with God is time well spent. He knows your heart and He will make changes in you as needed as you grow. Every step towards God is the best step you will ever take. Follow the promptings He puts in your heart. Don't let fear stop you, sometimes you have to do it afraid. BUT, let me tell you, stepping out of the box for God isn't so bad actually it is the greatest feeling afterwards you will have.
God wants to bless His children and He will open the flood gates of Heaven. Once you start a relationship with God, He will take you on a journey that is so fulfilling. He will show you things and open doors that will put you in a state of AWE that is simply amazing. God doesn't show favoritizm, His love is for everyone!! He wants to bless His children. He knows what you need and what you want. He will provide greater then your mind can imagine.
You don't have to be like someone else. You don't need to rely on anyone except God. God will put others in your life to help you, but know that God will develop you along the way. Be a blessing to others, share what God has done in your life (I'm not talking about bragging about yourself, there is a difference) What is happening in our lives right now is not anything we have done to get to this point, IT IS GOD!!! I want others to want what I have and that is a personal relationship with God.
I can tell you many changes in my life that is from God Himself. He has changed my life in many ways. Though I'm not perfect, He is working in me daily. I see big changes in my temper (because I can have one) THANK GOD it is not what it used to be!! And when I do loose my temper, God is quick to act. He is teaching me forgiveness in areas I thought I would never be able to conquer. He has given me patience and has taught me to wait on Him. My flesh might scream out from time to time, but God's peace and comfort just comes over me. He helps me see things in a different light. He gives me understanding and reminds me of His word when I need it. The closer I get to Him, the more He reveals things to me. I wanted to share some of this because it is NOT me that has done these things, IT IS GOD!!! There is so much more, but what I am trying to do is share with you the love that God has for everyone. Looking back over the years I am just simply amazed how God has worked in our life.
Give God 1st place in your heart. Give Him the 1st part of your day, if only a few minutes because that will change too. Commit your life to Him. Some people are afraid of that because they just don't understand. God will take the bad and replace it with good. Don't be afraid to let go, because the journey with God is greater then anything you will experience during your lifetime.
I am here for anyone that needs someone to talk to. Please don't hesitate to call me anytime. God is ready for you and is ready to increase your life. Let Him in and let Him work.
God Bless and Sincerely, Cindy 405-255-5801 is my cell.
November 16, 2009
Do you ever ask yourself "Where is God?"
God is with you and me every second, it is us that block Him from working more in our lives. Are you waiting on God? Really it is God waiting on us. God is always available!! The only way God can work in your life is by YOU asking God DAILY for Him to help you. Sometimes we get so caught up in our daily lives we forget one simple request ~ God I ask You to be with me today and help me along the way. It isn't that God won't help you when you forget to ask for Him daily, it is that God gives us a choice daily to follow Him. You want more of God in your life? Then include Him more!! God wants to be the center of your life. To be involved in everything you do.
We need to train ourselves, just like we train our horses, to be presistent in our relationship with Him. You can't show a horse the barrel pattern one time and expect him to perform like a seasoned barrel horse. The same way with our relationship with God. You can't ask God one day to better your life and cause you to grow in Him then the next day get to busy for God and you just expect God to work more in you.
The only way you grow is by daily training. The more put into your relationship with God the more you understand God and His ways. We are human and make mistakes all the time. How can a person overcome earthly ways and passions by themselves? We can't!! The world is full of selfishness, lies, deceit, anger, bitterness, wrong motives, doing things in a worldly manner and so forth. The only way to overcome and be more like Jesus is through a close relationship with Him. The more I crave God and take the time to increase God in my life, I see change. If I want more of God but won't take the time in prayer and reading His word to get closer to Him and His ways then I am like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. BUT the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it ~ he will be blessed in what he does. (James 1:23-25)
God doesn't want you to go through life just barely getting by. We have a daily choice to make. You might ask, why can't God just show up and immediately change me. If God did that, and this is only my opinion, why then we would need God? If God just did everything for us without us making an effort to get closer to Him and learning His ways, we would be like spoiled children. God doesn't want spoiled children that take him for granted!!!
I don't want to just get by, I want more out of my life. I want more of God to work in me and through me. I want others to want what I have and that is GOD HIMSELF. My relationship with God won't help your relationship with God, just like your relationship with Him won't add to my relationship with Him. We are individuals and God treats us accordingly. God's purpose for my life is not the same purpose for your life. We do have common things to go by, love your neighbor as yourself, treat others as you would treat yourself, forgive one another as we all fall short and sin, be honest and stand by your word and so on. But God wants us to go deeper in our relationship with Him.
One thing I can tell you and I hope that it encourages you is this: when I make that effort to grow in Christ the more God Himself shows up and changes me from glory to glory. The happier I am and the more productive I am in serving God. But when I don't take the time, my day IS NOT the same. I do believe that God uses every situation in my life to cause me to grow. Though I'm not perfect, God knows my heart and He knows your heart too. He forgives me when I fall short and picks me up because I ask Him to.
The only free thing we get out of this life is a free, paid in full - sins are forgiven salvation and eternal life with Jesus when we invite Him into our hearts and receive this precious gift that is available to anyone that calls on His name. He offers us more then just love, support, patience, kindness, gentleness, daily forgiveness and a place called heaven where we will be with Him forever.
God wants to make a difference in your life, he doesn't want you to just get by! But the only way we can know what other great things God has to offer is by that personal relationship with Him. God will show up in big ways, when we make that extra effort to know Him better. He sends us the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our paths, causes us to remember His word when needed and teaches us along the way. He is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!! And I have never been let down!!
He didn't promise us a life without problems, trials and tribulations. He offers us a support line and that He will always be there for us. He knows what is best and will direct your path, if you allow Him to do that. He won't leave you helpless and without solutions. We must learn to TOTALLY trust Him, believe in Him and rely on Him daily for what we need and what He knows is best. Remember Matthew 6:25-34. In short, don't worry about your life! God knows what you need! Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and God will do the rest.
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
November 12, 2009
Honesty vs Dishonesty
Proverbs 16:11
(NIV Bible) says Honest scale and balances are from the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making.
(Amp Bible) says A just balance and scales are the Lord's; all the weights of the bag are His work {established on His eternal principles}
God desires us to be honest in our dealings. This pleases Him and it should please us as well. Too many times, we can get caught up in how the world handles business deals, friends, family and etc. We say to ourselves "what a person doesn't know won't hurt him/her" When we choose to not be honest then we set ourselves up to lie, covering up the truth. What will you gain? It might appear at first that we will get what we want, but it always seems to come back one way or another. Being dishonest about anything is not what God calls us to do or to be.
Are we afraid we might lose something if we don't tell the truth. The devil will sure convince you that you just might. But really honesty brings forth better responses and outcomes. You might say how can that be, because beings dishonest in your dealings always catches up to a person. Honesty isn't always easy, because it can hurt. There are many levels or degrees in being dishonest. The more you practice being dishonest the easier and easier it gets and to the point that you believe your own lies and can't see what you are doing to yourself and your reputation. Have you ever been around a person that is just a liar, you can't trust anything that comes from their mouth? You know not to trust them and take their word for what it is. Have you been close to someone that tells you one thing but later you realize that weren't honest about it?
God does NOT reward dishonesty! God does reward honesty!! One way to beat that battle is to be honest with God about your dishonesty. Because one person you CAN NOT fool is God, He knows!!! Only God can help turn your life around, forgive you of your sins and cause you to make a complete change.
If you think being dishonest isn't a big deal, well simply you are wrong! There is not one person that isn't tempted in this area. Remember the devil comes to kill, steal and destroy. He will give you every reason that seems okay to lie, cheat, be dishonest, treat others as if they won't ever learn the truth and will convince you that what you are doing isn't all that bad. For a short time you might get by with it, but one day it will catch up to you and that my dear friend will not be a good day.
Your reputation should mean more to you then false gain. Because what is gained in that manner is NO gain at all. It might appear or feel great for the moment, but what goes around WILL come around. So the bottom line is this how you have treated others will reflect how you will be treated.
Ask God for discernment and courage to be consistently honest and fair. Because really isn't that the way you would want to be treated. Do unto others as you would have done unto you.
God Bless
November 10, 2009
Stepping Out Of The Box For God
I would like to share my experience with you. On November 1, 2009 is where it all began. Nov. 7th and 8th would be our NBHA District Finals. We always have church service when we have a Sunday race. T-Ray Ministries has always done our services, so I called Theresa Sun. Nov. 1st as God was prompting me to be apart of the service. So I'm on the phone with Theresa, asking her if I could be apart of the service. She shared with me that she really needed someone to lead the Praise and Worship at the beginning and if I felt like God was leading me into that position. (Well, to give you alittle of my history, I have been on our Praise and Worship team at church for alittle over a year singing with 4 other people. Now singing with a group is SO different then singing by yourself.) I immediately told her NO, that was not my comfort zone.
She asked me, then are wanting to speak about whatever God would lay on my heart. I told her that we both needed to pray about this for a couple of days and then touch base. Immediately hanging up the phone, I said "Okay God what do you want me to do" as clear as if God was standing right in front of me he said "What do you think I've been preparing you for." I was shocked to say the least. God knew I needed an immediate answer because if I was to ponder on this, the devil would have given me every excuse NOT to do what God was asking me to do. (God knows us better then we know ourselves). I then immediately called Theresa back and told her what God told me and that I would lead the singing.
I don't have the prettiest voice to sing by myself, but I can tell you that God is working to improved me in that area, but still to sing in front of people without a team is a scarey thing. All week long, I stayed as close as I could to God, really studying and practicing my singing. The week went so good. Wednesday God gave me something else that I NEEDED.
Hebrews 13:5 and then 21. Those scriptures gave me so much comfort and I knew then that God confirmed what He was calling me to do. He will not leave you and He will equip you for the job. God is so awesome. I can't explain His presence as He prepared me for Sunday other then AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday afternoon Theresa showed up to set up her equipment and it was then that I would go over the songs. I was very hesitant to sing in the microphone, but I had to. So here I go and got through that okay. Later on that day, a very special lady approached me. We were talking about something that lead to me singing and she immediately said "Cindy you have a beautiful voice" I said you have not heard me sing to my knowledge because I have never publicly sang anywhere other then church. She was convinced that yes she has heard me sing somewhere. As we were talking and I was trying to convince her she was wrong she then added, well if I haven't heard you, then God is telling me this. I was blown away. God knew I needed another boost of confidence. I'm not talking about fleshly confidence I'm talking about confidence that God had in me and that I was equipped to do the job.
Now it is Sunday early morning and I wanted to go over the songs one more time. As I was singing her comes Beverly, that special lady, and sits down. You know God put her there for a reason. I don't know if she usually shows up that early before services begin, but she was there. Her support meant more to me then she will know.
Now it is time to start services. Theresa opens with prayer request and prayer. Now it is my turn. I can't tell you how bad I was shaking. I gave part of this testimony and told the crowd if they sang loud it would drowned me out and they wouldn't have to really hear me, we all got a good laugh out of that. The songs went good, but I did mess up on the starting of the second song, but you know God immediately came to the rescue. I was able to get all of us back in line with the song and we all got a good laugh. Not a laugh of oh my gosh that was stupid, but a laugh of you see we don't have to be perfect to love and serve God.
I am so grateful that God showed up many times through this process. I believe God used that day and the days preparing to show me ALOT. It doesn't matter what other people think, what matters is what God thinks. No negative thought even entered my mind afterwards about what people were saying or thinking. I did not stand up there alone, Jesus was holding my hand all the way through.
No, I'm not the best singer or have the prettiest voice. God had a reason and a purpose for placing me there Sunday. Only God knows the whole purpose, but I know someone was touched and encouraged to step out of the box when God calls you do to something that is NOT comfortable for you to do.
Serving God isn't always about staying in our comfort zone!
God Bless
November 5, 2009
What makes me think I can do anything for God?
Hebrew 13:5
...He (God) Himself has said, I will not in any way fall you nor give you up nor leave you without support. (I will) not, (I will) not, (I will) not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let (you) down (relax My hold on you)
Hebrews 13:21
Strengthen, (complete, perfect) and make you what you ought to be and equip you with everything good that you may carry out His will: (while He Himself) works in you and accomplishes that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ (the Messiah); to Whom be the glory forever and ever (to the ages of the ages)
When God calls you to do something for Him, rest assured, you CAN and are EQUIP to do it. We need not to think we have to reach a level of perfection before God will use us as a vessel to reach others. If God only used people that are superior in a certain area, He would no one to use. Look at what God said in Hebrews (above). Think about it, God will use any person that is willing to do the work that needs to be done. God, Himself, will show up and work out all the details and His will, will prevail. So don't let the I'm not good enough attitude keep you from what God is calling you to do. But rely on Him to get the job done. The blessing will certainly over ride the deception of I can't Lord, how am I.
I am confidenced that God's power is stronger then anything. He is greater then anything that tries to stop His will and purpose for all that call on His name. He will not call you to do something that He is not going to give you the equipment to fulfill. You do not need to be perfect but only willing to say "Okay Lord, I'm yours. Help me" Because really it doesn't matter what others think, what matters is what God thinks and what He has put in your heart to do. He doesn't call you to do it by yourself instead he calls us to be vessels so He can do what needs to be done. Thank God!! He doesn't except us to do it alone!! Amen!!!
Now spend some time with God and allow His Holy Spirit to direct and equip you with what needs to be done.
God Bless
October 12, 2009
How do you react when faced with a correction?
One of two ways: 1st, to take it to heart and think about it or 2nd get upset and think "who do they think they are"
There is not one person alive that doesn't need correction from time to time. We would hope that we always would react in the "right" ways, but we are human and make mistakes. Why then is it so hard to make a wrong right? Are we afraid of what someone might think when we make mistakes and the first is to blame someone else instead of realizing we were at fault. Who likes to be wrong? NO ONE!! But it can't always be someone elses fault. It is time to take responsibility for our own actions.
With this being said, lets remember that we are human and mistakes will happen. It is how you react that makes who we are. I know for myself, when someone points something out that I did, God has showed me the truth. I don't always react in a Christain way, but I can tell you that God has a way of dealing with me. Have I made it to the top, NO! But I have learned and still learning to take correction. Just because we grow into an adult doesn't mean we are not held accountable for our actions and that we don't need to make things right. The main thing here is when God Himself, or He uses others to correct us, is that we take the time to see what God is trying to do in us.
We all want to grow closer to God and climb higher in our relationship with Him, but if we have a bad attitude about correction how can we do that. I believe sometimes, it is how we go back and make something right, that causes those that don't believe in God to think "what is it about that person, what do they have cause I sure would like to have it to" Our attitude and the desire to love as God calls us to love everyone, makes a HUGH impact in other peoples lives. I think we can agree on that.
So the next time something is pointed out. Stop, reflect and pray for what God wants you to do. Don't make people think they can't approach you when they have something to say. Does it hurt, yes it can! But we can grow from it, if we allow God to help us.
Remember, God created everyone and loves everyone. God needs us look at others the way He looks at them. If we can't say I acted ugly, I'm sorry, you were right, I was out of line. How is that going to cause others to want what we have and that is the love of Jesus and eternal life with Him.
It's not about being perfect, it is about acting in love!! God loves you for who you are and if you allow God to make chances in your attitude, you will find yourself in a better way. I needed this as sometimes it doesn't sink in, until I type it and read myself.
What we say and how we say it ~~ is such a reflection of who we are.
God Bless
October 12, 2009
God is Awesome and He will take to where you need to go, but sometimes He allows us to sink deep to get our attention.
I would like to share alittle of my situation with you.
God is not finished with me yet. I have a calling on my life to serve God. BUT, I haven't been obedient to my calling. I have allowed situations in my life to take control of me instead of me clutching on harder to God to go forward.
For the past almost 4 years, the devil has been trying desperately to convince me from time to time, that my life on this earth was about over. I fought and fought, I have rebuke, I have spoken scripture over and over on my life. I know that God has a plan but the devil is trying to take my attention off God and put me under. I finally have had enough. Sunday morning, after our Praise and Worship practice, sat down with a really good friend of mine and told her my story. I NEEDED HELP!!! I'm tired of this feeling!!! I'm not afraid to be called home, in fact, what a day that will be when I see my Jesus face to face. My faith is strong and I have no fear in that department. But down deep, I know that God has a purpose for me and that the devil is a liar and is only here to kill, steal and destroy. I know that God hears my plea.
So I'm setting there talking with Liberty and the spirit of God flowed through her with a passion, so strong! What she said to me and what she did, obeying God, once again restored me. Yesterday, they had a special prayer, with the laying of hands and faith, that released the burden that the devil so wanted me to believe.
God calls the elders of the church to lay hands on those that are sick to be made whole. Sick isn't meant just for "sick people" it is for those that need a special touch from God. Can and will God do this without the laying of hands ~ ABSOLUTELY!! But He also works in other ways. Why, because I was not the only person needing a special touch from God, this I am convinced of. There are many that need that specific touch but are afraid to ask for it or maybe they just don't know, that is why God made it known in His word about the laying of hands. Don't be embarassed to ask for that needed touch, if we didn't need it from time to time, then God would not made it known in His word.
I am so THANKFUL for all the God does for His children. He LOVES you and me very much and there is NOTHING He won't do.
I am alive and well, because God is NOT finshed with me. I want God to fulfill His purpose in my life and I'm convinced He will. Will I always be obedient? NO, but God will chance me and rearrange me to get me to where I need to be. He will do the same for you. It is by the Grace of God that I am what I am, though not perfect (for that will never happen), He will never give up or leave my side. And the great news is HE WON'T LEAVE YOUR SIDE EITHER.
God Bless as you allow God to make changes and experience the touch of our Lord and Savior.
August 21, 2009
Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer
Winning the Battle in Your Mind
I would highly recommend that you read this book. What a breakthrough!!! Our attitude is everything when serving God and having the RIGHT attitude makes everyday life alot better.
So be patient, brethen, [as you wait] till the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits expectantly for the precious harvest from the land. [See how] he keeps up his patient [vigil] over it until it receives the early and late rain. James 5:7
This says so much and something we must learn as it develops character in us. You know that it is God's will for us to be patient in all our situations. Once we overcome this, you will see manifestion of God's good and perfect will in us. We aren't to always get what we want when we want it, that would be like a spoiled child that can be unbearable to be around. You know the type of children I'm talking about. They get what they want when they want it or else. Parents, because we love our kids, want to give them things just as God wants to give us things. But when the attitude of not getting what we want when we want leads to throwing a fit, being ungrateful then being around that child or person is not pleasant. It is not developing character at all, it is only developing bad behavior of being negative when we aren't getting what we think we deserve. God knows what we truly need when we really need it. God's timing is perfect and He never fails to show up on time.
I can think of numerous times in my life where God showed up just in the time. And boy what a relief that is. Yes, God gives His children many things and blesses us in many ways. So don't get inpatient while you wait. One thing that Joyce says in her book, that I really like, is "Patience is not the ability to wait, it is the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting". Now how powerful is that and what a relief. God will not let you down just enjoy the ride until you get there. Victory is so much sweeter when we wait with a good attitude while God works out all the details.
So, my friends, lets put a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts as God works each day out with His perfect timing. You won't be disappointed!!
Read the book, you will find so much great information that will encourage your walk with God. I did!!
God Bless and Happy Trails.
August 6, 2009
How time flies by. It has been almost a month since I posted. I want to share some thoughts with you today. How we can get so caught up in life that we forget all the goodness of God in our lives. I have been so busy that I have been neglecting my walk with God. During that time I have found myself confused, frustrated and having a negative attitude. Still going to church every Sunday as I feel that is the only thing that has kept my head above water. Feeling a numbness inside but not dealing with it and asking God to help me. I have been doing things apparently my way and not staying in God's word the way I am suppose to.
Thank God He still works in us even when we aren't staying close to Him. Last week, God put me with a very close friend (as I work with her from time to time). Now my mind was not wanting to make the first move, as she normally calls me when it is time to work. (I know now why, because God knew I needed her to get my attention back on Him). Actually we needed each other. Anyway, because of this I had the desire to start reading again and renewing my mind and walk with God. THANK YOU LORD!!!
How many times do we go through this? Alot, some more then others. God knows what you need when you need it. My problem has been my attitude, I have been negative without really knowing it. Can that be? YES, when we neglect our time with God in daily study the devil will creep in alittle at a time and steal from us. He does it in a way that we can't see the forest for the trees.
Our walk with God is a daily learning experience and it is our responsibility to keep on keepin on. God gives us choices and we must press forward even when we don't feel like it. This is something I must learn, but I can say that when these times comes over me, I recognize that God brings me back alittle quicker then the last. Boy, what an AWESOME God we serve.
As I was on the porch this morning God showed me something I see everyday but didn't really take note of it. We have 2 trees in the front yard. One is very green and full while the other one is not looking good at all, not dead but not thriving, leaves are light green, yellowish burnt looking and very thinned out.
The very green tree that is healthy and full is closer to the consistent water supply. Stop and think about that.
Now the other tree is not. Which tree are you? I know which one I was for the last month.
The tree by the water supply is full of life. Why, because it is receiving life support on a daily bases. What it needs to keep alive and growing. It is getting its nutrients daily to thrive.
The only way we can be all that wants us to be is staying close to Him. Our whole attitude and outlook depends on God to stay healthy and strong. When we think we can do it by ourselves or get in a rut and some how forget about our life source, we start to wither away.
You know that is why it is so important to have Christian friends and family members in our lives. God uses them to bring us back when we just don't realize we are slipping. God has His ways and I'm so thankful. God puts people in our lives for a reason.
I wish you all a wonderful and blessed day. Make time for God and He shows up.
July 9, 2009
Do we really understand what Jesus did for us in more ways then one.
I got to thinking this morning about what Jesus did for us and do we really grasp who we are and what we can do?
John 14:12 Amplified Bible
(Jesus talking) I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.
The one GREATEST thing Jesus did for us was provide a way through Him to salvation with our Heavenly Father. BUT that was not all Jesus came to do. He walked on this earth for not only our salvation, but to teach us how to live and showed us that through Him we can be all God has called us to be. The Bible is truth and you either will believe it or not. It is not for 1/2 believing meaning, do you believe part of it but not all of it? Why would God give us his word and tell us to believe in, trust in and adhere to him for us to only say I can believe this part but surely another part is not for us today. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
As Christians, we have the power and authority in us through Jesus to have the fullness of God work in our lives. Jesus said I have come that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows) (John 10:10) So why don't we stand on that 100% Jesus said it?
Life brings many things our way. There are times when things are going smooth and great and then other times when it is not. So everyday is a new day and an opportunity to be satisfied with the fullness of God. God always provides a way to move you forward and wants to bless His children. Yes, there are times when things are not going so well. You know even when I am not at a peak, I still have the joy of the Lord in me. I know that God has a plan and that really I don't need to worry about anything. I know that God has given me authority over the works of the devil because I am His child. I know that praising and worship during my most difficult times brings me closer to God and joy that is unspeakable. I get to choose how I handle everyday and every situation meaning will difficult times take me over or will I take it over!
I believe that I can do great things through Jesus, that I can overcome what life may throw my way. I believe that if God is for me then who can be against me and defeat me. I believe that God's word is as strong today then yesterday or the day before. I believe in God's word because He said it. I believe that God will do today for His children what He did when Jesus was walking on this earth. I believe that we all can do greater things through Jesus because Jesus said it. Why is it greater because Jesus is doing it through us, it is not us doing it alone.
If we could only grasp there is no limit to what God can do. We limit God only because our minds can not understand the power of God and just how great His authority is. We convince ourselves that it can not be done, there is no way God would move like that in my life, why would God care that much and so forth. Let me tell you this, GOD'S LOVE IS FOR EVERYONE! When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we not only have eternal life, but we have the GREATEST person looking over our lives. We are no longer our own by a CHILD OF THE KING.
Believe In, Trust In and Rely On Him for everything in your life. You can do all things through Christ Jesus ~~ there is NO limits! Don't settle for luke warm when you can be boiling over with all that Jesus has and will do through you.
God Bless
July 6, 2009
Recognizing What God Has Done.
I had something happen to me this past week and Sunday at church God showed me a simple scripture (was not related to what the pastor was teaching on, but on the page next to what he was reading). I just happened to look over to the page prior to where he was teaching and there is was.
Luke 5:25
And instantly {the man} stood up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went away to his house, recognizing and praising and thanking God.
I knew right then, that God had been working in my life. We can always see the big things God does in our lives but what about the smaller things? Are we seeing or recognizing everything?
I was in the process of relisting a horse for sale on BHW (mind you I never have any trouble doing this) and it would not except my credit card (when I hit submit the page would expire and the process would stop). Now I tried this 4 times for it to happen over and over again, so I gave up. I did not immediately recognize what was happening.
It is a very long story but I realized God had another plan, so He took control because I thought I was doing what I was suppose to do. That mare is no longer for sale and we now have another game plan.
What is so cool about all of this is that God put a new person in my life for more then 1 reason and boy what a neat thing. God was doing small things to work towards the bigger thing. NOW I understand.
Yes, I need to sell horses, as that is how we make our living but God knows my heart and what we really need. For the time being this mare is off the market and I am following a new program with her. When and if she is to sell, that will be in God's hands. He knows best.
So simply learn to recognize when God is working, don't get frustrated when you are not getting your way. Stop, take a deep breathe and praise God for all of His goodness. He will not leave you to figure things out on your own. What He will do is guide you through. Don't get into a hurry as you will start to see the puzzle coming together. It is pretty neat.
God Bless
June 19, 2009
WHAT YOU SAY EFFECTS YOUR LIFE
FAITH AND DEEDS WORK HAND IN HAND
God calls us to have and develop faith. Faith is sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see. First, faith can only grow if you use it. What we ask for and what we say in our every day life needs to work together. Have you ever asked God for something and then turn around and say I probably won't get that or I'm not deserving to receive anything from God. Do you allow doubt to come into your head and meditate on it instead of expecting God to answer your prayers? Doubt is the avenue the devil uses to stop the flow of God working in our lives. God's word tell us in James 1:6-8 (NIV Bible)
But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord, he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
When you ask God for something you need to expect Him to answer your prayer. When doubt enters your mind, cast that doubt out. The devil will put ideas and thoughts into your head, what you do with that will determine the action or non-action of God. Think about a giant wave at sea. It starts small and builds to high statue and eventually come to an abrute end when it crashes on the shore. It is up and down. Is your faith like that? Up one minute, down the next, gets really hugh and almost immediately crashes. This can not be. We must continually meditate on God's word and if neccessary repeat scriptures like Matthew 1:20,21 (Amplified Bible)
He said to them, Because of the littleness of your faith [that is, your lack of firmly relying trust]. For truly I say to you, if you have faith [that is living] like a grain of mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, Move from here to yonder place, and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.
Now look at this, as this is so interesting to me as I just now saw it verse 21. (This scripture is not in my NIV Bible infact it goes from vs 21 to 22, there is not a 21??)
But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.
In order for us to really develop our faith, God is telling us to get serious. We need to not only pray but also fast. This moves mountains and grows our faith.
I would encourage you to find scriptures that will help you so when doubt and unbelief enters your head, you can fight back with God's word and stay focused on expecting God to move in the area you have asked Him to.
Now, lets move alittle further. Not only what we say effects us but also what we do. James 2:14-26 talks about Faith and Deeds. Verse 17 says: In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. So this means to me that if I'm asking God for something I will expect Him to move in that area. I will be positive and know that God will take care of all my needs. I will not give up or allow doubt to stop my answer. I will work towards my answer. Meaning I won't set idle just waiting but will do my part as well.
When I ask God for something specific and trusting Him for it I understand that God knows what is best for me. He has always provide at just the right time. I won't give up because I don't get an answer immediately. I will trust God for everything I need. Sometimes God says no to me, but you know what, He was right and I find myself saying Thank You Lord!! Just because He says no sometimes doesn't decrease my faith in Him actually it makes it grow even more. Bottom line is this, God knows best and He will provide for me as needed.
There is much going through my head right now and hope all this makes since. I wish everyone a blessed weekend and stay safe. May God surround you more then ever with goodness, mercy and favor.
June 18, 2009
WHAT YOU PUT INTO SOMETHING IS WHAT YOU WILL GET.
What is your desire in life? Where or what do you put your time in on? Are you always trying to better yourself so you can move forward?
Let's talk about your job (what you do to make a living). When you were younger, you had a passion to be: doctor, lawyer, teacher, pastor, housewife, retail business, trainer, jockey, hair stylist, CEO of a major company, computer whiz and the list goes on and on. You go to school to learn, you buy books to further your knowledge, you listen to successful people about steps to take to get to where you want to go, you put into practice what you learned and continue to gain knowledge in the field you have a passion or desire for. You are always looking to improve your abilities so you can make progress. You learn from your mistakes and are constantly moving forward. You are preparing yourself to be successful to be the best you can be.
Keeping all that in mind, let's focus now on your relationship with God. What are you doing to grow in Christ? What kind of effort are you taking to know Him better? Are you going after God in the same manner as you are going after being successful in your job (passion, desire)? Are you seeking after Him and gaining as much knowledge as you can?
Matthew 7:7-12 (Jesus Teaches about Asking, Seeking, Knocking)
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
3 things here ASK, SEEK and KNOCK
Jesus tells us to 1st ask God 2nd he says to seek God 3rd to knock. We have the privilege to ask God for anything in our lives. We have the responsibility to seek after God and what He wants for us. Then we have the right to knock on God's door.
Let's now go alittle deeper.
Do we always get what we ask from God? NO, why? Many reasons I would think, but some that come to mind is this: it is in our best interest, we have the wrong motives, it could harm us along the way, it is not the plan God has for us, etc. So we might say, but Jesus said "Ask and it will be given" Yes, He said that. But Jesus was always acting, praying and seeking after the will of God. His motives were inline with God's plan. He knew, with out ANY doubt that God was with Him. Jesus put off His human desires and stayed focused on God. In my opinion, when you are inline with God's will, he will answer our prayers as we request because we are praying for His will in our lives. That means to me, that when I pray for something I need to understand that if God does not answer my prayer the way I think He should then guess what?? He knows better then me so I'll trust God for direction and know He will take care of my need.
Okay so now how do we get to that point of complete trust in God? By SEEKING Him. This means spending quality time with Him. Putting the same effort into getting closer to Him then we do when we are working towards our goals (job, passion, desires) The more time you spend through prayer, reading the bible, other inspirational books, listening to teachings, meditating on His word, talking to other Christians and so forth the closer you get to God. Which in turn you gain an understanding, you gain a peace that only comes from God, you learn to sincerely love others, you have a change of heart YOU ARE GROWING IN CHRIST. The more we grow in Christ, we see a difference in our lives. It is no longer about what can God do for me, but rather what can I do to please God. Your motives change and your heart is getting more inline with God's plan for you. You learn that in the midst of a storm that Jesus is there to quite the winds and giant waves, you learn to trust Him for everything you need. You gain a more personal relationship with God. You are now able to do more then you ever thought possible or dared to conquer, because you know that God is with you and all things are possible through Christ Jesus. You no longer rely on yourself, you completely rely on God. You learn to wait on God for every direction you take and know that when you fail (as we all fall short of God's glory) that God is there to pick you up, dust you off and get you back on track. Your confidence no longer depends on you, but your confidence is in Jesus and all that He is.
Finally you knock and the door is opened. A recognition of God working in your life. God opening the flood gates of heaven pouring out blessings and favor in your life. A door is open that makes you go WOW.
Working on your relationship with God is a daily effort. Meaning if you don't do your part, God can't do His part. God gives us the choice to be close to Him or not. He doesn't force Himself on you, but I can tell you one thing. When you seek after God with all that you have, get ready for some exciting things to happen in your life. I'm not just talking about material things, I'm talking about changes in your attitude, love in your heart, peace in your spirit, success in all that you do. THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO WOW!
I would like to add one more things. God is forever! His love endures forever! He will never leave you nor forsake you? He is always available to ANYONE that calls upon Him. Perfection NOT needed as GOD LOVES YOU JUST THE WAY YOU ARE. Come as you are! Open your heart to Him and He will pour His love on you.
God Bless
June 11, 2009
Psalm 32:1,2
BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is he who has forgiveness of his transgression continually exercised upon him, whose sin is covered. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Romans 4:7,8
Blessed and happy and to be envied are those whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered up and completely buried. Blessed and happy and to be envied is the person of whose sin the Lord will take no account nor reckon it against him.
I was setting, reading and thinking on the porch this morning. Why does God keep loving me when I continue to fall short and sin on a daily bases? Why doesn't God just turn His face against me and say I'm done with you? Why does God continue to bless me when I can't seem to take control of my iniquities?
God brought me these scriptures above. Note the words underlined. God continually exercises, covers up and completely buries our iniquities. This gave me hope. Does God want us to keep sinning? NO!! But He understands us. When you ask God into your life, He is there daily walking with you. He never said you had to become perfect before He would work in your life. Will we ever stop sinning? NO, because we are flesh and live in a world of evil and decay that influences our emotions, thoughts and ideas. Can we improve of reducing sin in our lives? YES!! Only by the Grace of God will that happen. He will show you things and give you the tools you need to overcome.
When you give your heart to God, He takes away our sins and remembers them no more. Only the devil will try and make you think that you are not loved by God because you keep sinning. Don't ever think that God has turned His back on you because you are struggling in an area! Don't ever think God doesn't love you any more because you can't get a grip on your iniquities! God's love is unconditional!!!!
Keep asking God for daily guidance in your life. Be honest with God about your short comings. Tell Him, cry out to Him, make it known to Him. You know God already knows anyway, so why not talk with Him about it. The only way to get over that mile stone is with Jesus. It might take work, but well worth the trip.
So don't let sin stop you from getting closer to God, thinking how could I possibly go to God knowing that I'm sinning (that is what the devil wants you to think so you won't go to God and get deliverance). Only the Grace of God can help you and He will.
God Bless and Have A Super Day.
June 8, 2009
How Focused Are You?
Driving home from church yesterday I was thinking about something. Why is it when things are slow our focus is better, but when things are going faster we lose that focus?
It is much easier to stay focused when life is evened out and no big thing going on. BUT as soon as the pace is picked up we lose it. God gave me a great example and it really got me thinking. I have a horse that I dearly love and she can be a blast to run barrels on. Take her to a race and where is my head? Not attached to my shoulders that is for sure. I have tasted what she can do and want more, if only I could just sit there and let her work. But when I do down that alley, I forget what I'm suppose to do. Sound familier to anyone?
Is your walk with God something like that? When the pace picks up, you forget what to do. You STOP spending time with God, reading His word, praying and expecting God to work in your life. You wonder where is God and why are things falling apart. You may have lost your focused. The only way to develop more focus is to stay on track no matter what life throughs at you. When you catch yourself lacking in your spiritual walk, that is the time to stop and spend some time with God.
The devil will use whatever he can to get our attention on something other then God. He will throw curves in your life, he will keep you so busy that you reglect your daily time with God. When things are getting faster it is easier for distractions in your life.
NOW, if you make a special effort or should I say conscience effort to stay close to God then you will see that when life picks up and goes crazy you can stay focused and on track!!
Allow God to work His pace in your life. You have tasted the goodness of God and get excited. So excited that you lose sight. Can that happen? YES! Why? Because we stop doing what we have done to be close to God and instead put all our energy in fulfilling a task we know God is leading us to do. WHAT? Yes, this can happen. I have done it myself. Sometimes I work so hard to be a better Christian, that I forget to work on a stronger and closer relationship with God. The only way I (we) can fulfill any task that God gives me (us) is to make sure I (we) stay close to Him.
I hope that all makes since to everyone. Really what it all boils down to is this: Don't let the pace of life stop you from being closer to God and working on a better relationship with Him. When life speeds up, don't forget about God. He doesn't forget about you.
Have a great and blessed day.
June 6, 2009
Believing vs Reading
Jesus came to this earth for one purpose and that purpose was to save those that would believe in Him. God provided His word for a guide and a way to learn more about Him. His word is FILLED with answers to ANYTHING and EVERYTHING you will face. Now just reading His word will not have the full effect IF not applied and IF not truly believing in all He has written. It is one thing to just read the scriptures verses applying His word.
James 1:23-25 (NIV Bible)
Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in the mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it ~ he will be blessed in what he does.
I found something interesting this morning as I was reading. John 5:39 (Amplified Bible)
You search and investigate and pore over the Scriptures diligently, because you suppose and trust that you have eternal life through them. And these {very Scriptures} testify about Me! And still you are not willing {but refuse} to come to Me, so that you might have life.
The only way to eternal life is through Jesus Christ and believing in Him. Now, if you truly don't believe in Him and what He came to do for you then you are missing the mark. In John it was saying this: the religious leaders knew what the Bible said but failed to apply its words to their lives. They knew the teachings of the Scriptures but failed to see the Messiah to whom the Scriptures pointed. They knew the rules but missed the Savior. Entrenched in their own religious system, they refused to let the Son of God change their lives. Don't become so involved in "religion" that you miss Christ (this came from my footnotes in my NIV Bible)
So with that said, here is what came to my mind. Just reading the bible will not get you to where you want to go. BUT reading and believing in what it says. Allowing God to change you in areas and progressing. If you aren't changing and growing ~ stop and reflect. Are you truly believing in, trusting in and adhering to Jesus? Are you just going through the motions because it is the right thing to do?
The only way to get closer to God is first be honest with yourself and with God, He understands! Then ask God to help you and show you. To make things clear and to give you an understanding that can only come from Him. Life is much better when you include Jesus in everything you do. When you allow Him to change you from glory to glory. When you give up on doing things your way and believe in , trust in and adhere to Jesus you will see a change that will make you go WOW.
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
June 5, 2009
What are some of the things that hold us into bondage and keeps us from the freedom that Jesus wants us to have?
Let's start in James 3:5,6 (Amplified Bible)
Even so the tongue is a little member, and it can boast of great things. See how much wood or how great a forest a tiny spark can set ablaze! And the tongue is a fire. (The tongue is a) world of wickedness set among our members, contaminating and depraving the whole body and setting on fire the wheel of birth (the cycle of man's nature), being itself ignited by hell (Gehenna)
Our mouth can keep us from experiences the freedom we crave for. We must understand that what we say hinders a closer walk with God. Until we learn to tame our tongue (which can only be truly tamed by God) it will hold us in back and keep us in bondage. This is something that has to be monitored daily. As this is a tool the devil will use to keep us from experiencing the fullness of God.
Now lets talk about emotions that go hand in hand with our tongue, because emotions causes us to speak out in a negative way and thus keeps the fire burning.
2 Corinthians 12:20
...... that perhaps there may be factions (quarreling), jealousy, temper (wrath, intrigues, rivalry, divided loyalties), selfishness, whispering, gossip, arrogance (self-assertion), and disorder amoung you.
II Timothy 5:13
Moreover, as they go about from house to house, they learn to be idlers, and not only idlers, but gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not say and talking of things they should not mention.
Ephesians 4:31
Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphenous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind).
God is very clear about these matters and is something that needs close attention. How do we get through our emotions and get set free? Understand, we all fall short in these areas, and the only way to conqueror them is through Jesus. If you have the deep desire to overcome in these areas or others, then God is there to help you. He understands we need Him to help us and when we approach God with a sincere heart and ask Him for help then the process starts. Will you over come them immediately? Only God knows that answer. But when you are truly seeking after God and His way, He will cause you to change and get inline with His word. Will God be mad if you fail? NO!!!
Joel 2:13
Rend your hearts and not your garments and return to the Lord, your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in loving-kindness; and He revokes His sentence of evil {when His conditions are met}
So today, pray about what you are saying and ask God to remind you when that thought comes into your head that is NOT pleasing to God or benefical to others, to keep your mouth from speaking. If it doesn't build up or edify those around you, plainly DON'T speak it.
This is not an easy task, but well worth the effort. As you begin to work on this and seek after God, you will find a change in your heart and a renewing of your mind. Again, this is something that needs daily attention and something that you should ask God daily to help you with.
Go with the old saying: If you can't say something nice then don't say anything at all.
GOD BLESS AND HAVE A WONDERFUL AND FULFILLING DAY.
June 4, 2009
FREEDOM OR BONDAGE?
Amplified Bible reads John 8:31,32
So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word (hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them), you are truly My disciples. And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free.
NIV Bible reads same scriptures
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. The you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Abide in My word ~ Hold to my teaching Why does Jesus tell us this? Why is it so important? What benefit will we gain from it?
How do you expect to fight the devil IF you don't get in God's word? How do you expect to break bondages in your life IF you don't spend time getting to know God's word?
Hebrews 4:12 (INV Bible)
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper then any double-edges sword, it pentrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow: it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
IF you don't know God's word you can not successfully fight off the evil that is so against you. When you know God and apply His word, you have all the power you need, all the resources you need to free yourself from bondages in your life. God gives us His word in due season (at just the right time), but IF you don't know Him and what His word says how can he bring into rememberance what we need in order to be conquerors. Have you ever experienced a situation in your life when God reminds you of what His word says at a time when it is needed? Now how could be do this, IF at some point we didn't read and study on it?
John 14:6 (Amplified Bible)
Jesus said to him, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except by (through) Me.
How can you know the TRUTH if you don't spend time with Him. Truth will bring you into the freedom that Jesus wants us to have. Truth will set you free from sin and bondages. Truth will give you direction and a SOLID foundation to resist the lies that the devil wants to convince you of.
God will reveal more of Himself when we truly seek after Him (look up Matthew 6:33). God does not just offer His word to give us hope but He offers His word so we know Him more and learn to rely on, believe in and adhere to Him more.
There is nothing on this earth that can keep you from God. What keeps us from God is the lies that the devil puts into our minds and convinces us that God is against us or doesn't love us.
One thing I can tell you is this, GOD LOVES YOU!! He wants to be a part of your life in ALL things you do. God is always standing at the door waiting for you. He will give you direction.
So what do we need to do? GET IN HIS WORD, so that door will open.
May God bless you today and keep you close to Him as you let Him be apart of your life.
May 28, 2009
Knowing it is time to move forward and trusting God for direction.
When do you let go? What direction do you take? Are you putting your trust in God?
Well I think we all have gone through this. There is a season for everything in our lives. There is a purpose for each situation we face. There is a time when we must realize that God just might have another path for us to take. Though it appears to be hard or something we never thought we would even consider, but when frustration keeps us unsettled ~ it is time to move forward. That doesn't mean we give up on our goals or plans, what that means is maybe God has a better way then what our minds can understand.
How many times have you tried something and it just isn't going the way you planned? You put faith into action and keep going down the same path but to no avail your plans are not succeeding. Now this gets to the point of extreme frustration. What do you do?
I believe there are times when we want something so bad that we forget to ask God for discernment. We rely more on our faith to get us there rather then seeking God for our answer. Now, don't get me wrong we are to operated in faith and apply it to our lives, but sometimes we are on the wrong path. The goal can be obtained, but maybe God is wanting you to chance something in order to get there. We sometimes are so narrow minded that we can't see the forest for the trees.
Does God want us to succeed? ABSOLUATELY!! So, stop if you find yourself in frustration constantly and ask God for discernment. Ask God, am I going in the right direction? Ask God, to show you His way and get your mind set on Him rather then the way you think it should happen. I truly believe that God puts desires in our hearts and He does want us to succeed. For His word tells us this in Psalms 37:4 Delight yourself also in the Lord and He shall give you the dires of your heart. So keep God close in your heart and be true with yourself. I know God wants me to do this, but am I trying to do it my way instead of His way.
You will be amazed if you just diligently seek after God and allow Him to work it out His way. This means reading His word, praying constantly and always thanking God for everything in your life both big and small. God's children should stand out, we are known by our fruit. That doesn't mean we are perfect nor should we expect to be perfect, what that means is people should see God in our daily lives. They should see His love through our actions, through our families, through our jobs just our every day lives.
I want to share what has happened to me this week. THIS IS NOT BRAGGING, THIS IS SHARING GOD'S BLESSING. I learned something Sunday at church. Though we hear it many times, it sunk in my heart. God wants us to diligently seek after him. So what does that mean? Faith comes by hearing His word which means we must stay in His word in order to have that special relationship with Him. We must seek after knowing God and His way and that comes by reading or hearing His word. There are times when I don't read alot, only because reading is not my favorite thing to do, but when I do spend time in God's word He works drastically in our life. God has opened the flood gates of heaven for us this week. Out of the blue I have had 2 gentlemen contact me about riding their horses. Nice horses I might add. I was so blown away with this, that my little head is spinning. I realized that God has only done this because He first loves us and then He does reward those that earnestly and diligently seek after Him. It is not because of who I am it is because of who He is. I am at AWE and so very thankful. God has a plan and just wanting to know Him more is allowing that path to open even more. I am so grateful for His presence in our lives and I am so grateful for all the opportunities He is given Gary and I. Only God knows what today will bring, so I will just lay it at His feet and go with the flow. What God is doing for us ~~ God will do for you. He doesn't have favorites, He has His children.
May you have a blessed day and seek after our God for all of your needs. Enjoy this day as God has given us a beautiful one.
May 21, 2009
You know that something is different. You don't have the security you once had. You feel naked and want it back. How do you think God feels when we stray? We go through times of being really close to Him, then all of a sudden a realization comes and you know you have to get back on track. It's not that you are lost, you need to get back to God and continue to go forward.
I had to take my wedding ring in for repair, what I didn't realize is how weird my finger would feel. I had temporarily lost a comfort level or security of it being there. I wonder how God feels when we strive to have a close relationship with Him and then, for whatever reason, we stop. God must feel naked when His child is not there relying on Him for every need. Does He keep rubbing that spot where He knows we should be? Does He long for our return? God knows how it feels!!
God is always waiting for us to grow more in Him. He wants to restore us, deliver us, live in us so WE can be productive in His purpose for our lives. He knows we will go through different levels in our relationship with Him. He knows when we are there and when we are a distance away from Him. Does that stop God from loving us? NO!!
When we realize where we messed up, God is there to help us return to Him. He will never leave nor forsake His children. Thank You, Father!! It absoluately amazes me how patient and caring God is. He puts up with alot and STILL loves us. What an amazing God we serve.
So when you feel like something is missing, check your heart. Be honest with God and allow Him to place you back to where you need to be. Once you do this, your security and comfort will be restored. And what a GREAT feeling that is.
May God bless you this day and give you the desires of your heart. May he direct your path and give you more then you are asking. Rely On, Believe In, Adhere To our Lord God Almighty.
May 5, 2009
GOING THROUGH A ROUGH TIME
I would like to share the message preached at church May 3rd.
Remember the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego found in Daniel chapter 3. This is a very good reminder as you face trials in your life. You see these 3 gentlemen had something in common: values, faith and standing firm in their beliefs. While they knew what was coming that did not hinder their faith and values as they were about to face a fiery death. They stood the test and guess who showed up ~ GOD!
God did not ever say He would make sure we never faced hard times. What he said is that He would always be there for us to carry us through. When faced with a trial understand you are not alone. During this time, and you will see after it is over, that many good things can come from it when all is said and done. This builds character in us and causes us to grow in our relationship with Christ. Look beyond your trial and look to Jesus for direction. Stay in prayer and keep your faith. Don't allow your situation to bring you down, but rejoice and praise God during that time. You see, God wants us to trust, rely and believe in Him for everything. We must truly expect God to work in our lives in order for us to gain from it.
If God is for you then who can be against you? God is there to fight our battles, give us direction and support His children. Sometimes during that time we feel like God is not there. That my friend is the way the devil wants us to think. God will NEVER leave you nor forsake you. He is always there. So learn during your rough and tough times to get closer to God. Praise Him in your time of need and stop feeling as if you are alone.
Praising God during our trials is a sure fire way of getting closer to God and just frustrating the heck out of the devil. He would rather you feel sorry for yourself, get down and out, stop praying and relying on God for all your needs. He will try and convince you that you are alone and that no ones cares for you. THAT IS A LIE!! God is always there and loves you more then you could ever imagine.
TRUST IN, RELY ON AND BELIEVE IN our God all mighty. He is there for you and will get you through every trial and tribulation you will face. Change your thinking and God will change your life.
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
April 20, 2009
Emotions and the ride it takes us on.
We have a choose to make every day and for every situation we face on a daily bases. Do you find yourself frustrated, confused, anger, feeling unstable and just going on a roller coaster ride? You have the ability inside of you to change your thinking and to get off that emotional ride. It starts with being honest with yourself, taking responsibility for your actions and making a choice to move forward. Stop going around the same mountain over and over again and get on the path to freedom.
How do we get on this path to freedom? First, through prayer and allowing God to show you what you need to do. We must be honest and willing to do what God is telling us to do whether we feel like it or not. If you are unwilling to except responsibility for your actions then you are not ready to move forward. I often wonder why it is so hard to be truthful with ourselves and realize that sometimes our emotions can cause us great pain inside and not see that maybe we are the ones causing the problem ourselves.
Did you know that we grieve the Holy Spirit when we are unwilling to take responsibility for our wrongs and to make the effort to make it right with whomever you have hurt. When we stay down and frustrated that is exactly what we are doing - grieving the Holy Spirit. When I have a spell of not having peace in my heart and seeming to always be easily frustrated with daily things or with certain people in my life, then I am choosing to stay in the flesh instead of walking in the fruit of the Spirit. All that is doing is hurting me more. We must always keep in mind what God's word says about forgiveness - Matthew 6:14,15 says For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. BUT if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Why does God say this? Because forgiving others is the same as when you ask God to forgive you. If you are unwilling to put things behind you and forgive then why should God forgive you? Who is perfect? NO ONE!!! So why not look at others as God looks at you, me or every other person. He looks at us with LOVE and He understands we just can not be perfect and we will make mistakes. God doesn't love us less for this - really He loves us more.
Forgiveness and I mean true forgiveness is a very valuable key to finding peace and happiness in our hearts. I think also, that the reason this may be so hard to achieve is because of not taking responsibility for our own actions and always putting the blame on someone else. Do you find yourself in constant situations where you just can't seem to get along with others? If so, then it is time to take a deep look into yourself and ask yourself who really is at fault. I know of a few people that always seem to blame others for their sufferings. They seem to think they are always right and do no wrong, they will not forgive and let go of things, it is always someone elses fault. The hardest thing here is accepting that maybe it isn't the other person's fault but just maybe it was there own fault and they just doesn't want to go there and take that responsibility.
You can not find true peace and happiness, get away from always being frustrated and mad all the time IF you can't be honest with yourself and take the responsibility of your own actions. God is there waiting and willing to help you BUT you have to ask God for help. Be willing to do what He is asking you to do in order to make things right. Call that friend, send a note make an effort to say I'm sorry and ask for forgiveness in the same way of you willing to forgive them. Forgivenss is not a one way street meaning I want you to forgive me for whatever I might have done, BUT I will not forgive you because you hurt me so bad.
I hope this all makes since and I pray that God will bring peace and happiness into your lives. Be willing to step up and truly forgive as we ask God to forgive us.
God Bless!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 14, 2009
II Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)
But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you (sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully); for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in (your) weakness.....
The Grace of God, what would we do without it? It is because of His grace we are able to go through and conquer. God has a way of causing us to grow and developing our character. It isn't always pleasant, but if we look at it in a different way (not: why me Lord, I can't do this, not again, I can't take another day, what have I done to deserve this and so on) meaning I can get through this, I can handle this situation, I will grow from this etc.
God has proven Himself once again in my life. I can't really put into words the strength He has given me over the last 2 weeks. Though I didn't handle everything just right, I knew there was something inside of me that was different. I am still drawing on His strength and it is absoluately amazing. My flesh was telling me one thing but God put a calming deep down in side and I knew all would be okay. Though I did react some in the flesh, God didn't stop His grace - I believe He gave more.
So no matter what you are facing today, turn your eyes upon Jesus and trust Him for all your needs. Stop for just a second and look around you and look deep inside of yourself. When you truly rest with God, it is almost like you are numb to your circumstances. Again, I just can't find the words to describe it.
I sure am glad I have Jesus to turn to and rely on Him for ALL my needs. I see character being built, I see attitude changed, I see more compassion and love then ever before. Though I have a ways to go, I'm sure glad I'm not where I once was.
Jesus, you are our light in this dark world. You have given more to us then we could ever repay. You amaze me everyday and we are ever so grateful for ALL that you have done or us. May you cause us to shine and be reformed into your image as we walk each day. Thank You, for giving us hope, peace, comfort, strength and the desire to live for you.
God Bless and have a great day.
March 31, 2009
Persistence Is The Key
Going after and working towards our relationship with God. I often think why doesn't God just make me become insistently closer to Him, to act accordingly to His will and way. It is called building character. Do I like it? Not always, because growing pains can cause hurt. Why then do I want to try to build character? Because the more I allow God to work in my life, the more God is revealed in my life and brings forth good fruit in my life. It isn't always easy, but with persistence in seeking after God the more I see Him working and changing my life. What is neat about this is that after time, I can see a difference and without realizing it I have changed for the glory of God. I can look back and be amazed at what He has done.
The only way I can have that relationship with God is by making up my mind to spend time with Him daily. There are days I am just not in the mood (that is one way the devil will attack us) but if I learn or train myself to spend time with God anyway, those moods seem to go away. The devil will do whatever he can to take your mind off God and even cause you to think I don't have time this morning to pray or read I'll be late for work or anything else you have planned. So break that cycle!!! Even if you start out with only 5 extra minutes of a morning, pick up the bible read a scripture or two. On your way to where ever you are going meditate on it and pray. Now prayer doesn't always have to be done with your eyes closed and your head bowed. Prayer is the line of communication with God. The more you exerise it, the more you will find yourself talking to God several times a day.
Just like training a horse, you have a starting point and build from there. Everyday you build on what you did yesterday. By persistence in doing so, you will eventually have a trained horse. Now, during that training time, you notice things are going great and then one day it all falls apart. Your horse acts as if it doesn't have a clue as to what you have taught it (these are your growing pains), but with persistence you work out those things and find yourself back on track. It takes time to train. TIME here is another key. The more time you spend with that horse, the better he gets. If you only spend 2 days a week training - what happens? It takes longer. Now if you train 7 days a week - what happens? You make progress quicker.
Think about it! Are you frustrated because you aren't as close to God as you want to be. It isn't God withholding His love from you, it is us not seeking after him on a daily bases. When you don't spend time with God, you aren't growing as fast as you can. I have found that the more time I spend with God, the better things go. That doesn't mean I don't have trials and tribulations in my life, what that means is I recognize God at work in me and that He gives me strength to go through all situations. So when I do fall short (as we all do), God gets me back on track and I start to see a difference in my life - BUILDING CHARACTER.
Looking back on my walk with God I can see all the changes He has done. I'm not where I want to be - BUT I am a work in progress. So I want to encourage you to make time for God. There is no set time in the day though if you can take time in the morning it does help the day go better. But the main thing is MAKE TIME and be persistent in your walk with God.
Your are blessed and highly favored by our Lord Jesus Christ.
March 30, 2009
WOW is all I can say. I know I have a calling on my life and that God has been preparing me for the work He wants me to do. Our NBHA had a race that was scheduled to run on Sat. but because of the weather it was changed to Sunday. I didn't have alot of time to prepare, but as usual, God showed up and I was amazed.
I wasn't for sure what to expect, as it was a very early service. All I know is God put alot of peace in my heart and it went well. He gave me boldness in more ways then one. So much boldness, that I did what I didn't think I would do. You know I just don't have the fear anymore as to what people may think of me. At the end of the service I just had to sing a song that touches my heart. I played the CD and just sang along with it. I know that I don't have the perfect singing voice, but what I love to do is sing to God. God doesn't care what I sound like, or if I miss a word or get off beat, He desire for us to make a cheerful noice unto Him. When you sing from your heart to God that is all that matters.
Anyway, I have to say a BIG Thank You to Crystal Hall. When she found out that we were having church service, she offered to come and sing. What a blessing it is to hear her. I just don't think I could have done it without her. This was my 2nd service (my 1st service was a few years ago) where I was the main speaker and I needed support. She was there and just blessed me so much. God puts people in our lives for a reason and I'm so thankful for her and everyone that came. I know the more God sends me out, it will only get better and better.
I also learned that there are people that do come her and read what God puts on my heart to say. That touched me so much, that all I can say is WOW. I was setting on my porch this morning and God gave me this idea. To start a page of prayer request and along with that to also share when and how God answered your prayers. So if you would like to send me an e-mail with your prayer request we can get this started. If you prefer me NOT to publish it I won't. But the more people that can see the request the more people we have to pray for whatever your need is. I can edit your request in a more general way so that it can stay private (no names). And when your prayer has been answered I would like another e-mail telling about it so I can update your request with a praise report. People need to see more of when and how God answers prayer.
GOD IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. I encourage everyone to step out of the boat and allow God to work in your life. You know stepping out of the boat may seem scary, until you test the waters and see that you don't sink. When God gives you the desire to do something, He also gives you what you need to accomplish it. Don't let fear and the thought of what people might think of you stop you from becoming all that God wants you to be.
Do your best to walk in the fruit of the Spirit (found in Galatians 5:22,23) and watch God produce more of Himself in your life and the life of others.
May you find yourself to be blessed today and to be a blessing for others. God is love and love covers a multitude of sins.
March 12, 2009
Romans 5:1-6
Therefore, since we are justified (acquitted, declared righteous, and given a right standing with God) through faith, let us (grasp the fact that we) have (the peace of reconciliation to hold and to enjoy) peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
Through Him also we have (our) access (entrance, introduction) by faith into the grace (state of God's favor) in whcih we (firmly and safely) stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God.
Moreover (let us also be full of joy now!) let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure nad affliction and hardship produce patient and unserving endurance.
And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And Character (of this sort) produces (the habit of) joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation.
Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God's love has been poured out in the hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us.
While we were yet in weakness (powerless to help ourselves), at the fitting time Christ died for (in behalf of) the ungodly.
This is the reading of my amplified bible. I love how it gives a more detailed reading. I want to encourage EVERYONE to take ahold of what God gave us at a price. There is so much hope IF we choose to really take God for His word. There is NOTHING that God will withhold from His children. Prayer and making time for God WILL change your life. Holding on to God's promises and applying His word (direction) for our lives WILL change your life.
These scriptures touched my heart this morning and I wanted to share them with you. In trust that God will touch your life today and make a change forever.
I ask God everyday to manifest himself in my life. I want people to see Him through the works He is doing in my life. Though we will never be perfect while on this earth, God has a major impact on my life. He shows me where I make mistakes and then puts it in my heart to make it better. He has changed me in many ways and continues to lead me everyday. I will not expect anything less then what God wants from me and what He wants to do through me.
No matter what you are going through, know that God has a handle on things. Let Him make a difference in your life. Stop worrying about life and allow God to work. He knows what you need and tells us to pray without ceasing and then let Him bring forth the answers and solutions to your needs. There is a difference in praying without ceasing and worrying about your problems. Once you lay your requests at His feet, let it go, and strive to be your best everyday. Why worry, when it does absoluately NOTHING for you and adds NOTHING to your life.
We need to united with other Christians and help each other out. We need to keep a positive attitude and expect God to work in our lives. Let's change our thinking and get busy with our relationship with God. The more you put into God the more He will manifest Himself to you.
Lord, you are my strength and my stronghold. I desire more of you in my life and I give you all that I am. You are the creator all of things and have a plan and purpose for our lives. Touch each person here today and manifest your love in us to the point of if being evident to all we around. make the changes needed in our lives and cause us to become mature in your way. We give you the worry and concerns of our lives and we grab ahold of your love and your hand as we walk daily with you. Father, we ask and expect a difference in our attitudes, in our ways, in our actions and responses to everyday things. We except your love, devotion, encouragement, faithfulness and changes you give us. We stand on solid ground where no man can take away from us your love and desire (purpose) for our lives. We continually THANK YOU for always hearing our prayers and for ALL that you do. Lord, I desire you in my life, I desire your way for my life and I pray that today there will be a difference in someones life that will glorify you and make cause your love for EVERYONE to grow. Thank You, Lord for I ask all of this in your precious son's name, Jesus. Amen!!
March 4, 2009
Going Back To Basics
Have you ever been so frustrated that what you are trying to accomplish is not working? Something you have been doing for a long time with success seems to now be unsuccessful. You ask God why is this not working and ask for his hand in the matter
God showed me something the last couple of days and finally I understand.
I have been dealing with a high strung mare. Now mind you she has always been high strung but here lately I can't seem to get anything to work. So I go out on a quest to find the answer. I seek advice from others, rack my brain over and over trying to figure this out. Well during this time I did get alot of helpful information and learn some new things. BUT frustration continues to overwhelm me and I still can't get it right. I am trying and trying to only find myself asking God over and over the same question. The answer came but it did take me over a week to really understand what God meant.
First God told me that learning new things is always helpful and helps us grow, BUT don't try to be someone I didn't create you to be. In other words, God gave me skills and the ability to do what I do and that is what makes me different from you. Just as God created you and gave you gifts and talents to make you the person you are. We all share a common factor but there are more ways to skin a cat then just one way.
So I go out and try again with this mare, but only to get that more frustrated to the point of I'm telling Gary I have had it and that is it I'm selling her.
Second, God (in his very soft and gentle voice) kept telling me to go back to what you know. Okay, I'm like but Lord I am ~ not realizing at the time that really I wasn't.
The very next morning, God put in front of me what all along I knew but had forgotten. And all of a sudden I knew and understood what He said to me. I lost some basics along the way and God made it ever so clear. I was like how did I forget that! I couldn't believe I lost sight of what God had given me, my abilities and talents that God gave me.
So now I am having better days with this mare, and boy I'm I thankful.
Sometimes we have to look into our hearts and not our minds to find the answers. Our minds can cause us much grief and frustrations at times but our hearts always leads us back to where we know we are suppose to be.
Thank You, Lord for giving me back my hopes and dreams. I know they were never gone just hidden from my sight. Ask and you will recieve, knock and the door shall open, seek and you shall find. Lord, your words are always true and your love divine. Thank you for this great reminder.
God Bless
January 12, 2009
Making Goals for 2009 and Staying On Track
God has been talking with me about setting goals and staying focused to achieve those goals. It is very important that we seek after God and allow Him to work in us and through us. To be more productive in serving Him and to accomplish what He has put in your heart to do.
So, I asked God what is the first step? How do I get started? He said, write down your goals that include both short term and long term. That way they are always in front of you and it reminds you on a daily bases.
First and the most important goal for 2009: My spiritual walk with God. Being close to God and making Him #1 will set the pace and also put me in the right place to serve Him. I have daily goals, weekly goals, monthly goals and yearly goals. Ask God to be very specific in these areas so you can stay on track. Start with today and go forward.
Second goal for 2009: My personal goals. What do I want to accomplish in my personal life? What can I do on a daily bases to make a difference for my family, friends and those that come into my life? Where do I want to be in a week, month and a year from now.
Third goal for 2009: My professional (work) goals. What can I do today that will effect me climb the later and be more successful a week, month and a year from now.
God has a plan for each person and the way to obtain it is to have goals that can be reached and to look ahead for the bigger picture.
My bible is a Life Application Bible, it has really good notes and charts. What I'm going to share with you today is TRAINING FOR THE CHRISTAIN LIFE this is found in Philippians on page 2152 if you have the same bible and would like to look at it for yourself. It is long with alot of typing, but I feel goes hand in hand with setting goals. So if you have the time, look it over and really think about what God's word has to say.
Let's start in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 it says: Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave to that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Note from the bible: Paul uses this illustration to explain that the Christain life takes hard work, self-denial, and grueling preparation. As Christains, we are running toward our heavenly reward. The esssential disciplines of prayer, Bible study, and worship equip us to run with vigor and stamina. Don't just be on the sidelines watching others, don't just get into the race to go only 1/2 the race. Rather, train diligently-your spiritual progress depends on it. At times we must even give up something good in order to do what God wants. Without a goal, discipline is nothing but self-punishment. With the goal of pleasing God, our denial seems like nothing compared to the eternal, imperishable reward that will be ours. When Paul says he might be disqualified, he does not mean that he could lose his salvation, but rather that he could lose his privilege of telling others about Christ. It is easy to tell others how to live and then not to take our own advice. We must be bareful to practice what we preach.
Philippians 3:13,14 says: Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and staining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Note from the bible: Sometimes trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that is leaves us drained and discouraged. We may feel so far from perfect that we can never please God with our lives. Paul used perfect to mean mature or complete, not flawless in every detail. (I want to add here in my own words that God knows we can not or be perfect in this life time. That is why he sent His son to earth for us. We are to try and do our very best for Him and when we do slip and fall, God is there to pick us up, dust us off and to try again.) We should press on in the Holy Spirit's power, knowing that Christ will reveal and fill in any discrepancy between what we are and what we should do. (Again, in my own words I will added: Paul say forgetting what is behind. Don't let the devil have a foot hold of where you are going. When we sin and ask God to forgive that sin, He removes that sin from his memory. He says he takes our sins and throws them as far away as the east is from the west and remembers them no more. The devil, however, reminds us daily about our failures and wrong doings to keep us from progressing. Don't look back but PRESS, STRAIN, STRETCH, REACH and LENGTHEN your stride to go after what God has in store for you.)
1 Timothy 4:7-10 says: Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.
Note from the bible: Are you in shape both physically and spiritually? In our society, much emphasis is placed on physical fitness, but spiritual health (godliness) is even more important. Our physical health is susceptible to disease and injury, but faith can sustain us through these tragedies. To train ourselves to be godly, we must develop our faith by using our God-given abilities in the service of the church (adding my words here, not only in the church but also in our daily lives. God gives us talents, abilities and the resources to make a difference in our lives and the lives of others)
2 Timothy 4:7,8 says: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day -- and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Note from the bible: Paul is nearing the end of his life and he could confidently say he had been faithful to his call. The good news is that the heavenly reward is not just for giants of the faith, like Paul, but for all who are eagerly looking forward to Jesus' second coming. Paul gave these words to encourage Timothy, and us, that no matter how difficult the fight seems -- keep fighting. When we are with Jesus Christ, we will discover that it was all worth it.
So with all that said, set your goals for both this life and everlasting life with Jesus. God will except you right now as you are. NO PERFECTION needed to ask Jesus in your life today. God knows who you are, what you have done and where He wants you to be. Ask for his hand and He will give it.
May God Bless each and everyone today and expect great things from God as He works in your life.
January 6, 2009
Well we made it through Christmas and we are now into a brand new year. I wish all a very blessed and prosperous new year. May you find favor with God and that new and exciting doors will be opened in '09.
What happens when a friend or someone you know finds success? How does that make you feel and most importantly how do you react to it?
Ephesians 2:10 says For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Sometimes success comes with a heavy price tag. This should not be!! When you are living your life the way God intended for you, there should never be a feeling as if someone is out to get you. BUT this happens more then not. People have a hard time with success when it is not their success. I think we can all agree that when someone works hard to obtain a skill or develop more of the ability God has given them, then they should climb higher and come into a more successful place.
Don't be jealous or envious of what someone else has or is doing, but make up your mind to be all that God has called you to be. When you do this, you will find yourself busy developing your skills rather then wishing you had what someone else has. God has a plan for each person, when you take your eyes off of yourself and put your attention on God's direction for your life, then you will be in the right place to grow and develop. And when you least expect it, guess what, you will find yourself in a more successful and fulfilling place.
We should always be happy for a friend or relative that is succeeding! This should be a sincere reation/emotion, not a "I'm glad for you" (when you are face to face with them) then turn around and say "who do they think they are" reaction. This world is big enough for anyone that has the desire, ability and determination to succeed in the same area as the one you might be jealous or being envious about.
So in all things do unto others as you would do unto yourself. When you find yourself having feelings that are not right ~ stop ~ take a deep breathe ~ and then ask God to help you. God grants success everyday and He does not show favortism to anyone, as God will treat us all the same. When you work hard to develop your skills and stay determined to do it, you will find yourself in a higher place.
One more thing, we are human and we all make mistakes. There is not one of us that doesn't do this from time to time, wish we had what someone else had. So be honest with yourself, God is always willing to help us get back on track. God wants everyone to find success and to be fulfilled in this life.
God Bless!!
November 25. 2008
I want to wish everyone a safe and HAPPY THANKSGIVING. As we go into this time of year, let's us be thankful for ALL things God has given us. This also means the simple and little things as well.
Psalm 92:1,2
It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night.
Psalm 95:2
Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.
Psalm 100:4
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise: give thanks to him and praise his name.
God is so merciful and has so much compassion for his children. He provides for us in ways we can't imagine or recognize. Sometimes what God has given us, we take for granted. We don't say Thank You, Lord enough and even take for granted how he provides us with our daily needs. Yes, we remember to thank God for the big things, but what about the small things or even the daily pleasures He gives us. When was the last time you thanked God for your spouse, your children, your parents, your friends, your job, your daily meal, heat in your home, and what about the water we drink, the air we breathe and so forth. Many of these things we do take for granted because they are always there and in front of us.
This was an eye opener for me, yes I thank God daily but I don't always remember whats right in front of me. Now, I'm not saying you are not thankful for your family and so forth. What I'm saying is how many times do we thank God for what he has given us.
Stop and take a moment to reflect of what God has given you and thank Him for it.
You know, I learned this in church on Sunday and the more I think about it makes me wonder, being Thankful and telling God daily how much we love him and how thankful we are for what He has given us. If we were more thankful, I mean sincerely thankful, what does God have in store for us? We seem to find ways to complain about our daily lives. At one time we asked God for what we have, but now it seems to be a headache for us or a struggle to keep up with. But, what do we do? We ask God for something new or different. Why would God want to give me something new, if all I do now is complain what he gave me yesterday! We are always striving to get ahead, but forgetting the blessings God has already bestowed on us. Are we taking care of what He has given us? Why would God give us more, if we can't take care of what he gave us yesterday!
God gives us things because He loves us and cares for us, what a wonderful Lord and Savior we have. I am so thankful that God has so much mercy and patience with me. I am thankful that God has shown this to me, because I have taken for granted things in my life.
I didn't say all this to step on anyone's toes, but then again I got my toes stepped on. It made me realize just how thankful I am to God for ALL His wonderful blessings and the love He has for ALL of us.
SO DONT' FEEL BAD BUT START PRAISING GOD FOR ALL YOUR BLESSINGS. HE IS AN AWESOME GOD.
November 22, 2008
Now lets talk about this--How Do We Stay Connected With God
John 15:1-17
I will encourage you to read this and study what it says. It talks about the vine and branches. This is key to staying connected to God in my opinion. If we want God to work in our lives ~~ we must stay connected. Jesus is our vine and we are the branches. God comes in and cuts off the branches in us that bears no fruit in our lives. He then prunes the good branches that bears good fruit so that it is more fruitful.
We must remain in Him and then He will remain in us, so we can be all that He wants us to be. Apart from God we can do nothing. Remaining in God has rewardsand blessings of many kinds. There is nothing more valuable then God's love and action in our lives. Staying close to Him brings a joy and happiness that can not be described. The more time and effort we put into knowing Him more and wanting more of Him, the more He shows himself to us. In order to be complete we have to work on our relationship with Him. Even though God desires us to be close to Him, he lets that decision be up to us. He gives us a chose to either work on our relationship with him or not.
If you are feeling disconnected, as sometimes I go through that, then stop and re-evaluate your walk with God. Usually the reason I feel that way sometimes is because I haven't given God any time in my life. If I make time for God, then He is always there to help me in all that I do. Now, don't get me wrong, God will never leave you nor forsake you. But if we choose to put God on the sidelines, then that is where he will be there and He will wait for us to come back to Him.
Please take the time to read John 15 and look deep inside yourself and ask, am I putting all that I have in a relationship with God? Stop wondering where God is and go find Him, because really He is right there with you.
What a friend we have in Jesus that he laid down His life for us, so that we could be with Him forever. There is no greater reward then this ~~ eternal life with our Lord and Savior.
Have a super and blessed day.
November 21, 2008
What Christians Should Do
Today read Colossians 3:1-17 and ask God to help you to become more like Him.
During my study this morning, God brought me to this. To me it has 10 points I would like to share.
This really spoke to me this morning. We are wanting to get closer to God and have Him work more in our lives, but what are we willing to do to receive more of Him? In order to receive the fullness of Christ, we must make some changes. We have to be renewed daily in order to walk closer with God. There is just no other way to do this. We can't walk in this world and act the way it acts. God wants total control of our lives and really it isn't as hard as it might seem.
God is all about love. When we start applying that love in our lives, it isn't so hard to change. When we desire more of God, then He will make the changes in us that we need. He will cause the old self to die and will replace it with our new self. What I have learned is that I can not change things about me by myself, but if I ask God to make changes that pleases Him then I start seeing or noticing changes. My heart is renewed with love and peace. My thoughts are no longer the same, my wants and desires change, my life is changing for the better.
Change sometimes causes people to fear, because they are so used to their ways, they fear they might have to give up something that they like or have fun doing. What I have found is that God's plan for me out weighs what I think I like or have fun doing. Really, what he takes away from us isn't so bad ~ example: going to the bars, if this is something you really enjoy doing you won't want to give that up. You might think, but I have fun, my friends to there, I'm not huring anyone and so forth. But, think about what happens while you are there, did you drink to much and can't remember what happened, did you get out of line and act inappropriately and so forth? Does your conscience tell you one thing and you go against it, only later to feel guilty about it? Does that stop you from going again?
Your conscience is your guide, so if you are wanting God to work more in your life, then you really need to put thought into what He is trying to tell you. Now giving up the bar scene really isn't a bad thing, because God has a much better plan for your life. He will replace it with something of greater value and guess what, your fun has a whole new meaning. We are so used to what the world has to offer us, that we get to thinking that God isn't fun or look what I have to give up to follow God. All I can tell you is this, what God has taken away from me (things that seem to have meaning or give me pleasure), really had no meaning or pleasure at all. It was a false feeling. I have never been so happy and have so much fun as right now in my life. God has changed me so much and I have found that God offers more fun and pleasure then what the world has to offer. So to me change is not a bad thing, but only a way of looking forward to what God has instore for me and my family.
So, what I try and work on is this ~~ changing the things I can change and then letting God change the rest. To really try and remember Gods word, like those things listed in Colossians and work towards a better life with God.
I used the bar scene as only an example of earthly pleasure, but there is so much more to think about. Is God talking to you about how you treat others, what you say about others, how you react in difficult situations? Are you acting out in rage, anger, talking about others? Or are you walking in love, and working towards being more gentle, being kind, having more compassion towards others and just loving others as God loves you?
I hope I have not step on any toes on this subject. I just want more of God in my life and this is what He showed me today. It brought light to me and things to really think about. I hope you get the same encouragement as I got .
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
November 10, 2008
I would like to share the message given at church on Sunday 9th. It really spoke to me and hope you will get the same from it.
Exodus 3:7-14 I won't type it all our but will encourage you to read it. This is about Moses when he saw the burning bush and went over to see this sight and what was happening.
The Lord knew about the misery of his people in Egypt and had heard their cries, so he summoned Moses and spoke powerful encouraging words to him and told him what He wanted Moses to do. Now as God was instructing Moses, Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Isrealites out of Egypt?" Moses felt as if he not qualified, inadequate (who am I) to do the job at task.
Okay, lets talk about this for a second. How many times have you felt like God wanted you to do something and fear of not being good enough, smart enough, not having the means to do what God was wanting you to do come over you. We are saying, Lord, who am I, to go out and take on such task.
Now, let's move down to scripture 14 and see what God told Moses. God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM" Think about this for a second. If God has laid something on your heart to do or say, don't you think that He will be there holding your hand during the process. It isn't what we are, it is WHO HE IS.
God is looking for people that will do what He needs done. There is NO qualifications needed, only a heart to step out and go forward. Studying the bible and reading about all the men and women you will see that many were very average everyday people just like you and me. The difference you will find is some trusted God and allowed God to work in them to get the job done. Were they afraid? I would say yes. Did they question their ability to do something God wanted them to do? I would say yes.
God will only prompted you to do what He wants you do. Our job is to step out, trust Him, and let God use us for the task at hand. He WILL NOT put you into something that His hand won't be there to lead you through. He will develop you more as you stay on His path and trust in Him. He will cause you to have the confidence, the ability, the words to go forward.
Don't be afraid to do something God wants you do, because we serve the great I AM. Now isn't that just to cool. It is actually the coolest feeling inside when you take that fear inside of you that wants you to not go forward, because of feeling inadequate, and taking that moment to trust God and watch Him work.
So when fear attacks ~~ attack back with, I am what I am, because of the I AM.
I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST THAT STRENGTHENS ME.
There was alot more to this but this is what really touched me and gave me encouragement I need to go forward.
God Bless and have a super day.
November 8, 2008
Actions Speak Louder Then Words.
Colossians 4:5,6
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Sometimes as Christians we have such a passion for God and we want others to have that same passion. We must be careful how we address ourselves to the outside world. Our words will either have a positive result or negative result. We must be respectful to others at all times. Sometimes the best witness to an unbeliever is our actions and attitude instead of our direct words. I truly believe that God will put you in the right place at the right time when a person is ready (God knows when they are ready) to listen and accept God's love and grace.
I feel too, that it starts with our everyday lives and how we act and react to situations that draws unbeliever to us wanting what we have. Meaning, are you one that is always peaceful no matter what you are going through? Are you one that only speaks kind words to others? Are you one that always has a smile on your face and makes it a point to encourage others? Are you one that shows mercy and forgiveness to those that hurt you and say bad things about you? Are you one that is always extending your hand out to help others? You get what I'm saying. Sometimes words are not the beginning of leading others to Jesus.
Now don't get me wrong, words do have a place and are powerful. Being humble and gentle towards others is a great place to start. I know that words spoken at the wrong time can have a negative result. We must stay in prayer and allow God to use us as He sees fit. As God knows the heart of every person and He is perfect in His timing.
Be the best example you can be and then let God direct your path as He takes you through life. God shows mercy, gentleness, compassion and love daily to all~~that is worth so much. If God only used words, how would we handle that?
I thank God everyday for his love and mercy. Where would I be without Him?
I wish everyone a great day and God Bless.
October 29, 2008
First and foremost JESUS LOVES YOU. Good morning to all. God is really working in my life right now. I would like share with you that it doesn't matter where you are in your life today, God wants YOU!!!
1Timothy 1:15,16 says...
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners -- of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy to that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.
Now, how cool is that. Paul, the author, of that statement considered himself the worst of sinners. God demonstrated his love and mercy by excepting Paul as he was and then turning his life around. It doesn't matter where you are in life, what you have done or the kind of person you are. God loves you as you are right now and is wanting YOU as his friend.
God can and will show mercy and compassion on you. You don't have to change first for God to accept you. Only God can bring about real change. He can turn your life around and give you all his promises, according to his word and will. God has a purpose and plan for your life. Don't under estimate yourself or your life. Give God a try and just see what he will go for you and in you.
GOD IS AWESOME AND THERE IS NON OTHER LIKE HIM.
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
October 27, 2008
What does Jesus required from you?
Simple to answer, simple to follow ~~ BUT another question comes to mind, Are you willing?
Go to John 15: 1- 17 and you will find the answer. What it boils down to is this, remain in Jesus, abide in him, follow his promptings, allow him to work in you. The closer you choose to be near God, the more he will work in your life. It is a chose though, why because God will not force himself on you. The more time you spend with the God, the easier it is to obey him. The more understanding of his ways you develop causes you to put your trust in him, therefore, giving you the fuel you need to do what he is asking you to do.
Don't let fear over-ride the promptings of God. Take that step and TRUST him as he causes you to grow and become more like him. We are on a journey, that will only come to perfection when we meet our Lord and Savior in heaven, lets make a chose get closer to God. Let's allow God to make GREAT changes in our lives. Let's allow God to move in and through us, to become what God wants us to be. To be able to share his love with others and encourage our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, along with being a hope for someone that doesn't know Christ as their Savior.
God wants us to bear fruit that will last forever. God will fulfill your needs and desires in a greater way then we can ever imagine. Let's stop thinking our way is best and turn to God for answers and direction for our lives. God has a love for us that we can not comprehend, we think we know what true unconditional love is, but we simply don't. God wants to share his love with you and everyone around you, you can be that vessel that God uses to demonstrate his love. Don't go through another day in fear or doubt, choose to get closer to God and just watch him work. WOW is all I can say. Encourage each other and love one another as God loves you.
HIS WAY NEVER FAILS OR GOES UNNOTICED!!!
God Bless and have a wonderful, fulfilled day.
October 24, 2008
God did something cool today that I would like to share. It is simple and I have read this scripture many many times, but it had a deeper meaning this morning.
Psalm 37: 18,19
The days of the blameless are known to the Lord, and their inheritance will endure forever. In times of disaster they will not wither, in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.
When someone asks God into their lives and have that change that only God can do, God gives us a new identity. We appear different in God's eye. He looks at us from the bigger picture. We have been bought, therefore, we are a new creation being worked like clay to be what God wants us to be. God looks at you as holy and blameless. Though we have to be worked into that, God knows the outcome.
He promises eternal life with him and that is so important for us to remember during our stay on earth. He promises many things and blesses us beyond what our minds can conceive. Think about it, one thing he says is that in times of disaster we will not wither and in days of famine we will enjoy plenty. God will not leave his people to ruin. Look around, what has God done for you.
During this day and time, I have to say, that this scripture is so true. Yes, difficult times are here. But at the same time, you are surviving. Why? because God provides. God is pouring out blessings right and left, are you recognizing it? Are you looking deeper then your problem or situation? Are you taking the time to reflect what God is doing in your life?
I encourage you today to look inside yourself deeper. No matter what you are going through, God is working in your life. Don't think about the difficulty of your problem, look at what God has already done and what he is going to do. He will not leave you during time of hardship, that is where he is carrying you through. Don't think for even one second that God does not know what you are going through. Instead, praise him, because my friend you will not be destroyed. God provides and he does it daily.
God Bless and have a wonderful, joyful day.
October 21, 2008
GOING AROUND THE SAME MOUNTAIN OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
How many times do you find yourself in the same situation? Being frustrated, being mad, being bitter or just not finding the right answers. Asking God why did this happen or Lord not this again, haven't I been through this situation already. Well, what I have realized is this.
We are not handling ourselves the God wants us to and because of that we face yet another trial of the same feelings and frustrations. First, we must seek God's word to overcome our problem. To be honest the problem usually is how we deal with the situation not necessarily the situation itself. So, we find ourselves going around the same mountain over and over again. Why, because God wants us to look to him for answers!! Not to deal with things on our own. (something we do daily)
How do we change or move this mountain? Look deep inside yourself and ask yourself, okay Lord, what do I need to do or act in order to overcome my situations, my feelings and the way I do things. I have found, for myself, that I have not handled myself in the God wants me too. I have not followed his instructions.
I have recently went through something and decided I was NOT going to continue or react in my "normal -- flesh" ways. So I began to seek God's word and guess what, I found the answer. Actually it was always right there in front of me, but because I did not utilize God's way, it was almost foreign to me. Does that make since? I decided I would give God's way a try and it is working. I don't feel the same, meaning I have a different thought and feeling inside rather then the old way of doing things and handling situations. It is only allowing God to work in me and through me that has made a difference.
Yes, I am human and believe me when I say the flesh wants to take over. But the grace that God is giving to me right now is taking over the flesh (my way) and reminding me to let God handle my problem. God will be victorious over this and the glory is his. What I have learned about myself is that God is in control IF only I give him the power to take over.
So whatever you are facing today, seek God's way and give it a try. I believe you will find that the mountain you are going around will be moved and you will gain understanding and knowledge to take with you down the road.
We can not go through life, without God!!! Meaning, if you are ready for a change then you must follow his ways. His way is not as difficult as we make ourselves think it is. God will not leave you nor forsake you because we are going around that mountain a billion times, what he is wanting is for us to call on him and then let him show us the way~~the only way. We must decide to follow his instructions instead of looking around for another answer.
I, for one, am tried of doing things my way. It doesn't always work and I want mountains moved. How about you!!
God Bless and have a wonderful day.
October 9, 2008
Taming the Tongue
James 3: 5,6
Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
Let's think about this. What are you saying? Do we even consider what is truely being done here? Who are you hurting the most? Unfortunately, we don't consider, that it is hurting the one speaking more so then the one being said about. Don't get me wrong it HURTS the person alot that is being talked about, but in the end, the one who speaks negative about someone, it catches up and that my friend HURTS too.
Go back to the old saying if you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all. With that said~~YES, we all need TRUE friends that we can share our thoughts with, but be very picky who you confide in. A true friend will listen and guess what keep it to themselves. Usually after getting your frustrations out, you can see a bigger picture or even a fault of your own. A true friend will help you find a solution, not go behind your back to talk about your situation with someone else.
We all fall short in this! But lets remind ourselves that speaking negative about others will only end up with a big ole mess. Confide only in a true friend that understands you and that will help you see the big picture. We are to lift up ~ not bring down each other. Many times, after venting, I can see a much bigger picture (that is God not me setting me straight) and there are times the problem is me not the other person.
So please treat people with love and compassion instead of fire. God calls us to love, be peace makers, be kind and so forth. So lets try our best to be better. Remember when you fall, and we will, God is there to pick us up , dust us off and try again. Thank God he has compassion and a true love for us.
Scriptures to think about. Proverbs 15:7, Ephesians 4:29, Proverbs 18:21
The Lord is working this morning. Proverbs 17: 22 says A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Are you good medicine or are you drying up bones?
Proverbs 15: 13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. Are you putting a smile on people or are you crushing and causing heartache?
Proverbs 15: 18 A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms the quarrel. So which one are you?
God Bless and have a super day.
September 29, 2008
Take Courage and somethings you will have to do it afraid.
Remember the story of David and Goliath. Now, David was not afraid, but this gives a great example of courage and knowing that God was with him.
1 Samuel 17: 32-37
David said to Saul, "Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him." Saul replied, "You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a boy, and he has been a fighting man from his youth." But David said to Saul, "Your servant has been keeping his father's sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. Saul said to David, "Go, and the Lord be with you."
We need to take a stand! God will give you the courage to do whatever He has called you to do. When God puts a desire in your heart, I say go for it, step out of the boat and trust God to walk you through. The key thing we need to do is keep our focus on God and watch things happen. Let's look at another scripture and think about this.
Matthew 14: 25-31
During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out of fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," He said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him, "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
Peter walked on the water until he stop looking at Jesus and started looking around him at his situation. Peter was walking on water! How cool would that be? Has God called you to do something and you took that first step, staying focused on him, and then all of a sudden you feel as if you are sinking? That is because you took your focus, your trust, your confidence out of God and put it in the situation you are facing. Meaning, you are looking for answers in all the wrong places, you are not trusting God as you did in the beginning, you are placing more confidence in yourself or others rather then God.
I say, if God has moved you to do something, DO IT, don't let being afraid stop you. Learn to do it afraid and guess what? You will learn that really there was nothing to be afraid of. I have recently stepped out of the boat. God gave me a desire and He gave me the courage to do something I thought I would NEVER do. And you know what, it wasn't that scary after all and the reward was greater then I would have ever expected.
SO GO AHEAD, STEP OUT, GOD WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!!!
Take courage my dear friends and trust God! Keep your focus on Him and you will have the courage to do something for God. Isn't it time we gave back to God? Look at all the things He gives us!!
God Bless and have a super day.
September 18, 2008
Well good morning to everyone. Hope to find you in good spirits and a loving mind towards others.
I think it is time to review God's guidelines for our lives. The Ten Commandments. They are found in Deuteronomy 5.
God made a promise to his people and gave them decrees and laws to live by. He said to learn them and be sure to follow them. As simple as they seem to follow, we have a hard time doing so, WHY is the question that comes to my mind.
I truly feel if you keep this close to us and try to follow them, then we will see a major difference in our lives. No where does it say "You shall be perfect or else" God gave us these guidelines to live by.
Commandments 1 and 2 talks about no other god before Him and not to make yourself an idol. What are we putting before God, what is your #1 priority? If you are not putting your relationship with God 1st in your life and spending time with him then you are making other things more important and, to me, that is making an idol for ourselves, because we are not putting God 1st. Where do you turn in time of need or in time of happiness and fulfillment. God should be the first thing on our minds daily. He should be given priority in our lives. Are we spending more time riding, working, playing ~ doing everyday stuff rather then wanting God to be a BIG part of our lives. Are we forgetting to include God in our lives? When something great happens, are we giving the glory to God?
Commandment 3 talks about using God's name in vain or misusing it. We should not take light in this matter. We should not misuse His name by saying it in an empty or worthless way.
Commandment 4 talks about keeping the Sabbath day holy. What does that mean to me, well God said work 6 days and on the 7th day you are to rest and is a day for God. Why is this so important, because God said so ~~ simple, but seems hard to follow. If we can work, play, ride and do what pleases us 6 days, then surely we can put one day aside to fellowship and honor God. There is alot to say about this and there are different opinions, but what I'm trying to say is make a day for God important, special, a renewing of the mind. GIVE GOD SOME OF YOUR TIME.
Commandment 5 talks about honoring your father and mother. They brought us into this world, we should show respect towards them and do our best to take care of them.
Commandment 6 and 7 talks about do not murder and do not commit adultery. This two are easy, but think about how many times you have thought in your mind bad and hateful things about someone. Wishing someone was dead or gone. God does not want us to hate or wish death or bad things on anyone. See Matthew 5:21-25 it talks about anger and how to manage it. And think about how many times you have said in your mind lustful things about someone that appeals to you. See Matthew 5:27-30. When we catch ourselves doing one or the other of these two, ask God to help you change your thinking and he will do so. Fight and resist when such thoughts pop into your head and the more you fight it the less it will enter your head.
Commandment 8 talks about stealing. Don't ever take what is not yours. Work for what you want and don't expect someone to carry your load. Simple!!
Commandment 9 talks about giving false testimony. This summons it up for me ~~ If you don't have something good to say then don't say it. Don't spread rumors!! Do to others as you would have done to yourself. Who can say they are perfect and don't make mistakes. We should be honest with ourselves and with others. Honesty is the best policy. Lying to someone is wrong. Honest scales are from the Lord, Proverbs 16: 11. God wants truth to be in our hearts and come out of our mouths. To treat everyone with love and tenderness, even in those times that are difficult. Little white lyes will not help anyone. Be careful what you say and how you say it. Lots to say on this subject too, but will leave it at that for the time being.
Commandment 10 talks about wanting what someone else has. You are to be content with what God has given you. Not to be jealous of someone else. God will get you where you want to be over time. He gives to each of us according to what He knows we can handle and be trusted with. Be glad for the success of your neighbor and work hard for your success. Being jealous and envying others will cause more headache and problems along the way.
In the new testiment Jesus gives the greatest commandment of all and that is to LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENTGH and right after that to LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.
Blessings to all!!
August 27, 2008
The power of the mouth and how it affects our lives.
James 3: 5,6 and 10
Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.
Galatians 6: 7,8
...... A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Proverbs 18: 21
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Okay, now this is a subject hard to grasp sometimes. As Christians, we must learn to control our tongue and what we say. What we say WILL affect our lives, you WILL reap what you sow.
1 Thessalonians 5: 11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, .......
God calls us to edify and build each other up, not to put down and to be negative to each other. It is acting in the flesh that will cause us trouble. We must fight this and retrain ourselves to act in the Spirit. If we will be diligent in this matter, we will see a difference not only in what we say but also what others say about us. You reap what you sow. Be negative and you will hear negative, be positive and you will hear positive. God has a way of doing things and causing good to happen. How you treat others, will in fact, affect you! You decide!!!
I encourage you to really think before you speak. You can change, if you truly want to. God is there to help and if you ask Him, change will come.
So if you wouldn't want someone to treat you bad or say things about you that aren't good, then treat others the way you want to be treated and only say things that are positive and what you would want someone to say about you. That sums it up pretty good in my eyes. Do unto others as you would have done unto you!!!
God Bless and have a super day.
August 20, 2008
Well Hello guys, it has been awhile since I have written my thoughts. It has been very busy around here and things are slowing down just a bit for the time being. I was watching Joyce Meyers this morning and felt like I needed to share what was sparked once again in my heart. I hope you get as much insight to this as I did.
The Valley of Dry Bones Ezekiel 37: 1 - 10
The hand of the Lord was upon me, and be brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?"
I said, "Sovereign Lord, you along know."
Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin, I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.
So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them.
Then he said to me, "Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe into these slain, that they may live.' " So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet -- a vast army.
God's words are powerful and mighty. He calls us to be positive and to speak His words over our situations. Too many times we speak negative words; and that only produces negative outcomes. Think about it -- God puts desires into our hearts, it is our job to confess with our mouths the final outcome to that desire. If we go around saying; No we can't do that, or that is impossible, or that will never happen to me and so forth. Well, guess what you are prophesying negative words which in turn produces negative outcomes.
So change your way of thinking and get inline with God's word. This will change your life and the more you practice positive thinking and positive words you will see a BIG difference in your life.
Everyone have a super day and God Bless.
July 21, 2008
Priorities and Investing
I was watching Joyce Meyers this morning and she made a really good point. What are we doing as Christians for our youth of today. Whether you have children or not we have a responsibility to them. They need positive leadership and a positive direction. Are you leaving a positive track for them to follow. Are we spending more time working to make a living and leaving our youth to find their own way. Are we giving them quality time and a solid path to follow? I'm not talking about just spiritual ~~ that is important but how we live our everyday life reflects on them and what they learn about life.
For me, I don't have any children of my own, but I can be a positive role model for youth around me. If a child does not have God fearing parents then where are they going to learn about God? We don't have to force Jesus on anyone, it is how we act in everyday situations that make a difference. Being positive as we are around them will cause them to see a different way to things.
How do we get positive, by putting our priorities in line. FIRST and foremost our personal relationship with Jesus. The more we invest in our own relationship with God the better we are going to be in earthly relationships. SECOND our family, how can we be a positive influence if our heart is not 100% into our family and being a path for them. If we can't learn to be positive with our family and making right chooses then how can we be positive with others. THIRD our jobs. Some people have these 3 in different orders. If you place your job over Jesus and your family, then you are going to see a day when set back and think was it worth it. Jobs are important, as we all need to work to support our families, but do you spend more time working and investing your time there then building your relationship with Jesus and being a positive role model and spending quality time with your family.
You put Jesus FIRST in your life and just see how God can and will change your life. He loves you more then you know and He knows what you need. So don't let another day go by with your priorities out of whack.
Be a positive person to those that are in your life because that just might be the only positive thing they see and it is so much more important with the youth as they need good christian leadership. Don't they already have enough of the bad influence going on around them? Make a difference today.
God Bless until next time.
July 2, 2008
Good Morning everyone. Yesterday we touched on worry but let's go alittle further today and talk about fear. Fear goes hand and hand with worry in my eyes. When we fear it turns into worry ~~ so we must conquer fear in order to conquer worry.
What is the antidote for fear? To recognize Christ's presence in our life.
Mark 6:45-51 talks about Jesus walking on water. Here is sends His disciples out into the boat while He stays on the land to go pray. When he is finished, the boat is out in the middle of the lake, He goes out to them. The disciples were afraid as Jesus approached them because they thought He was a ghost. So immediately Jesus told them "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.
The disciples were afraid but Jesus' presence calmed their fears. We all experience fear from time to time. Do we try to deal with fear by ourselves, or do we let Jesus deal with it? Take heart and know that in times of fear and uncertainty, it is calming to know that Christ is always with us.
Let's look at 1 Chronicles 28:20 David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.
Now this is a powerful verse. In my footnotes David advised Solomon not to be frightened about the size of his task as king and builder of the temple. Fear can immobilize us. The size of a job, its risks, or the pressure of the situation can cause us to freeze and do nothing. One remedy for fear is found here ~~ don't focus on the fear, instead, get to work. Getting started is often the most difficult and frightening part of a job. Now here is my thought: Don't let fear control you, don't let it keep you from doing what needs to be done, don't let it take away from your dreams and goals in life. Remember we are more then conquerors through Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self discipline. When we allow our fears to take over, we neutralize our effectiveness for God. The power of the Holy Spirit can help us overcome our fear of what some might say or do to us, so that we can continue to do God's work.
So when fear creeps up on you here is a scripture to remember. Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation ~~ whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life ~~ of whom shall I be afraid?
Jesus can and will calm the storm in your life. Trust in Him and have faith. God did not create us to go around in fear and to be unproductive. Just like worry, give God your fears and see him work in your life. We can not go around in life fearing what is next, what does tomorrow hold and all the what if's in life. Take hold of your life and live it according to God's word.
We can conquer! We can live! We can do anything we put our minds to!
WE CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHICH STRENGTHENS US.
God Bless and have a great day.
July 1, 2008
Let's talk about a very common problem that really shouldn't be a problem at all, WORRY. What does God's word say about this subject? Let's go to Matthew 6:25 - 34 ( I won't type out the whole thing, but will touch on some of the scripture written. I do, however, encourage you to study this and ask God to give you a complete understanding of these scriptures.)
It starts out "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life.... Okay how simple is this verse and what part is so hard for us to grasp? Worry is something that can bring you down, cause confusion and just turn our world upside down. God is very clear in this verse and the verses to follow. DO NOT WORRY. When we are a born again Christian, we have a Father that will take care of us and always provides us with what we need. Don't let the world or your situation take your eyes off of God. Worry only takes away from our lives, it adds nothing to it. God knows what you need before you even ask Him. God wants us to cast our cares, worries, situations and all things to Him. Our part is to let it go as soon as we call upon God for help and relief.
Why worry about something you can't control? All it does is add gray hairs and cause depression. God does not want us to be depressed that is why he made this scripture so clear. Now, worry is something we can control if we choose to control it instead of it being in control of us. Once you give your worry to God, stop thinking about it and trust that God will take care of you and the problem. This is something that once you practice it, it will become easier to do.
So how do we get to a place of control. Again, very simple in verse 33 I find the answer it says "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." The more we focus on God and His word, you will find peace and security. God takes care of His children. He will not leave us nor forsake us. He will not let us out of His sight to go it alone. Once you give worry over to God, watch how different you look at things. For me, I always think back to what God has done in my life and what He has pulled me through and remind myself ~~ God is with me and look at what He has done for me in the past.
Worry and struggling through life seems normal for us, because we live in the flesh and we are brained washed into thinking that is just the way it is. BUT that is not what God's word says to me. It tells me that if I choose to believe in God and His word then I can have victory during the storm. Change your thinking and what your worry disappear. Work at it and when worry strikes you the strike it back. Don't let it over power you and take away from you.
May God bless you today and as God blesses you, bless someone else.
June 26, 2008
Giving credit where credit is due. Are we honoring God and giving God the credit for the success in our lives? Or are we so focused on what we have accomplished that we forget where it came from? God gives us a purpose in life, a direction or path to take. God wants us to succeed in all things but when we do succeed who gets the credit? It should be God, why because it is God that gives us our hearts desires and causes us to succeed in all things.
When we lose sight of this we do not honor God, therefore, we take the credit for our success. So God will do what He needs to do to bring us back into a humble state. This isn't a pleasant feeling and sometimes we wonder where did God go, why is things not working out as before? Many questions start popping into our heads but the questions can be truthfully answered if we stop and take a good look at what we are doing and saying.
In Daniel 4:28-37 we can find an answer that will help us understand and reflect on the why. King Nebuchadnezzar had this same problem. He was a great king that knew there was a God and recognized God's work, but didn't acknowledge God as Lord. So God told him one day, as King Nebuchadnezzar was gloating about all he had done and all that he had built and how it was all about his hand at work, your royal authority has been taken away. You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like cattle. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes. Immediately what had been said about Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled.
At the end of that time, what happened? Nebuchadnezzar raised his eyes toward heaven and he was restored. He finally acknowledge God as Lord and gave credit where credit was due. God had to take him out and humble him causing him to see what he had done. When he finally came to a place of change in his heart, he was restored to his throne and became even greater then before. Nebuchadnezzar praised, exalted and glorified God which pleased God and thus causing God to put him back to continue his work and place where he was.
Don't get so caught up in what you think is your success and forget that it is God in charge. God deserves the praise and glory for our success. Yes we can have a good feeling of accomplishment but don't get the big head and think it is all about the great stuff you do that made you successful. Don't get so caught up into yourself that you forget where you came from. Always give God the praise and honor of your success. God wants to be a part of your whole life. If we get to a point of thinking we are great and don't need God well then get ready because God will do what He needs to in order to save us from ourselves. He does this because He loves us and wants us as His own. Just like we discipline our children when they step out of line, God does the same for us.
What we accomplish in our life can be so wonderful and fulfilling just remember to give credit where credit it due.
Wishing everyone a blessed day.
June 25, 2008
Why aren't we getting results? I was thinking this morning and I know God revealed something to me. God's word is our instructions as to how to handle all situations, but why aren't we making head way? A simple reason came to mind ~ God tells us very plain and simple in His word the hows to all the whys. BUT we don't follow His instructions.
Example: you have decided to start barrel racing. You go out and buy a horse, all the tack and get instructions as to how to ride a barrel horse. At first all goes well as you follow the instructions given to you. One day everything falls apart, you can't seem to get your horse to turn a barrel, rate a barrel or even stop. You get frustrated and before you know it everything you have learned has been forgotten and you start looking for an easier way to get the results you once had. Problem is now way beyond your hope of ever getting back to what you once had and the results you once had gotten with your horse. So what do you do? Did you once stop and think about going back and following your first instruction? Or did you try and find a different way to fix the problem? Did you forget you had an instruction book that was simple and detailed as to how to get the best and final result? All you have to do is go back review what you had learned from that book and apply it, but time has passed and you have forgot about that book that gave you so much information and thus you have not been getting positive results. You look to other means to find your answers but are only finding yourself more and more frustrated.
Think about this, God's word is full of instructions as how to live and how to get positive changes in our lives. Yet we forget what we have read and get so frustrated. We ask God for help, but feel as if we are getting nowhere. God will help you but we have to do our part and that is to go back to the book, find your answer, and here is the kicker, you must apply it once again to your life. When we do that God is always there to help us grow and climb higher. God is waiting for you to decide to follow Him and His word so He can walk with you in order to overcome your situation. Don't forget what God had taught you. Instead apply His word and see that positive changes do come about once again.
I hope I haven't confused anyone, but this was so simple to me when God showed it to me. God's word is sharper then any two edged sword, so why not apply it to my life and for me stop trying to find a different way when all along God has provided me with the tools I need, if I only use them. It doesn't have to be hard. It worked before why wouldn't it work again. For me, don't forget God's word, His promises, His help and by all means don't try and find a different way just because I might forget what God has done for me in the past. My job is to stay close to God and do my very best to follow His word, it is God's job to help me follow them as long as I make it a priority to stay close to Him. He won't love me less but He is telling me I have already shown you the answer, go back and follow it ~~ it is that simple.
God Bless and have a great day.
June 23, 2008
Good Morning to everyone. I would like to share something very important this morning. It is all about the Joy that only God can give us and freely gives us if we just take hold of it and understand that it is there no matter what we face from day to day.
First do you know who you are? You are a christian, right? Then know this ~~ you are a chosen people. 1 Peter 2:9 says But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.
God gives us joy, we must take hold of it and declare it everyday. Circumstances will cause us to lose sight of that joy, but it shouldn't. John 15:11 tells us and this is Jesus talking saying "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. God freely gives us joy ~ we must understand and know that joy is planted in us. How do I know this, well it is simple, Christ dwells within us, so the joy is there. Each day ask God to revive the joy inside of you.
Don't let what is going around you to take away what God has planted in you. Choose to believe God's word over your situation. Praise God during hard times, take your mind of your problems and spend time with God. He will restore you. God will not leave you alone, but we leave God alone sometimes when we lose our joy, peace, hope and love. Stay connected to God and just see what happens.
Psalm 4:7 says You have filled my heart with greater joy then when their grain and new wine abound. Look at this: 2 kinds of joy are contrasting here ~ inward joy that comes from knowing and trusting God and happiness that comes as a result of pleasant circumstances. Inward joy is steady as long as we trust God; happiness is unpredictable. Inward joy defeats discouragement; happiness covers it up. Inward joy is lasting; happiness is temporary. This is very interesting to me. God wants us to have both, but He also wants us to have joy no matter what we go through, because joy is far much deeper then happiness. Look in Psalm 16:9-11 and you will see.
God began a good work in us and He won't leave us alone to go at it by ourselves. He gives us all we need, if only we will grasp it and hold onto it.
Ask God today, to restore your joy. He did it for me and He will do it for you.
God Bless!!!
May 30, 2008
Today I would like to continue with a study started in Matthew 7:7
"Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you."
I would like to focus on the last part of this. First we must ask, then we must seek and then go to knocking. God tells us plainly what to do and the order to do it in. We ask God for something, we seek out his word for the answer we need ~~ now we need to start knocking. In my life God answers prayers in many different ways, something it is quick and makes me go WOW and other times He answers but He takes me down another path. God puts the good desires and plans for our lives in us whether we believe it or not. Note: that I have said good (lets keep that in mind as I don't want to be misunderstood) Since we all here are into horses, I will speak of barrel racing. Barrel racing has its place in peoples lives on different levels. Some it is just a hobby and goes all the way to means of making a living.
How many times do we give up and want to throw in the towel, but deep down you know that is not what you really want. Sometimes we must keep knocking, keep going forward and not give up. Keep striving to accomplish that desire. In Luke 11:5-8 it talks about a person going to a friends house in the middle of the night needing something. He knocks but no answer, he continues to knock to the point of getting his friend out of bed even after he was told to go away. That is called persistence! We must continue to go forward even though there are times it seems difficult.
Don't allow doubt and fear to keep you from the desires of your heart. Keep knocking because there could be a point where you are fixing to get a break through and give up right before it comes. Don't allow the devil to convince you that you can't reach that level or that you are not good enough. We all have different gifts and different levels we want to accomplish. The talents God has given you is for a reason. Some areas we have a stronger desire to develop where other areas are not as important to us. Whatever your goal is in life, always look to God for the right path. Don't give up because you are going through a hard time, push through and go forward. Don't allow what others might have to say to keep you from what you know you want. Ask God for direction, seek out what He has to say about it and KEEP KNOCKING because that door will open at just the right time.
Stay focused, enjoy what God has given you, don't give up and have fun. God wants us to be successful in all things we do. Keep Him first and always keep Him in your life on a daily bases. And remember Jesus has the reins and rides with you all the time.
May 21, 2008
Something to think about. Before I began my reading this morning I asked God to show me, in his word, what I needed today. This is where He took me Matthew 18:21-35. I won't type out all the verses but will encourage you to read them for yourself. Today, as I have read this many times, saw this in a different light this morning.
To give you the just of the these scriptures it talks about a master going to his servant to settle an account. The servant owed his master alot of money so the master ordered that he, his family and all that he had be sold to repay this debt. The servant begged for more time and the master had pity, canceled the debt and let him go. Now that same servant that had been showed mercy went out and found another servant that owed him money (a lot less than what he had owed his master) and began to choke him, saying "pay back what you owe me". This is what happened. The first servant showed no mercy for the second even though his master showed mercy to him. He refused to work with him and had him thrown in prison until he could pay the debt. When the master heard of this, he became very anger, called the 1st servant in and said "you wicked servant, I canceled your debt because you begged me. Shouldn't you do the same by showing mercy towards him." The master then had that servant thrown into prison until he could pay back the debt.
God wants us to show each other the same mercy and compassion as we want God to show us. We go to God for many things, all kinds of situations and needing help from Him. But do we do to others as God does for us. How many times do we ask God to forgive us for wrong doings, bad decisions, acting out, hateful thoughts, our anger, selfishness, bitterness, rages and anything else? What does God do? He forgives us and helps us to move forward.
Something to think about: Has someone come to you asking for mercy and compassion in the form of I'm sorry, please forgive me? Do you forgive them or thrown them to the curb so to say? Do you show them the same compassion as God shows you? If you don't ~ why then should God show you compassion when you go to Him?
The last verse of these scriptures says: This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.
Ask God everyday to put mercy and compassion in your heart, so you can treat others the way God treats us. We can not act according to God's word if we don't ask God to help us and to allow His word to flow in us and through us. Our flesh, if not kept in check, will over take our heart. The only way to grow and make a difference is by spending time with God.
Challenge: For 1 week make a special effort to spend time with God on a daily bases. Ask God to help you and to show you the way. To open your heart up to Him and allow Him to show you what you need, what you might need to work on and for His word to be real in your life.
Remember how we treat others is how we want God to treat us. If you make a mistake, don't beat yourself up, as we all fall short of God's glory, but to make an effort to improve you life and your walk with God.
It isn't about religion ~~ It is about having a relationship with God.
May 19, 2008
Why is faith so important in our lives? Why is believing in God for what we ask for so important as well? What do we need to make right decisions in our lives?
Lets start in James 1:5-8
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
First it is telling us to ask God for wisdom and trust He will give it to you. Note: it doesn't say He will only give to those that walk the straight and narrow. No matter how hard you try to live right and for God, we will fail from time to time. God gives generously to all without finding fault. That right there takes a load of my shoulders. So in order for us to make right decisions in our lives, we must ask God for wisdom on a daily bases and He will give it to you when you sincerely ask for it.
Second thing He is telling us is to believe what we ask for without doubt. How do we conquer doubt? Refuse to listen to it. Make every effort to cast it down. The devil will do whatever he needs to do to take away our faith, trust and believing in God away from us. Use God's word against such thoughts. Example: Matthew 16:17 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. AND again in chapter 18:18 it says the same thing. "I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Third thing He tells us is to not be double-minded. Stay focused on God and His word, don't allow satan to get you side tracked.
Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
Faith is something that God causes to grow in our lives. Once you believe that God exists, it tells me that God will do the rest. I cannot do anything on my own, God doesn't want us to be so dependent on ourselves that we shut Him out. God wants all of you even the smallest parts along with the biggest parts. You matter to God no matter what you are going through or the problems you have. Once you give your life over to Him, He will start the process of growing your faith.
Psalm 119:130
The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.
The more time you invest in a relationship with God, the more you will come to understand His word. Actually for me, it took a long time for me to read and get anything out of the bible. BUT I finally started to understand what I was reading the more time I spent with God and He would show me things. It is a pretty cool feeling when you realize for the first time the WOW of God's word.
God Bless and Have a wonderful day.
May 16, 2008
This morning I would like to share something that holds all of us back from time to time.
Judging others and holding grudges. A tough subject that seems hard not to do. Our flesh will always SCREAM out to judge others and to hold grudges. This is something that we must really try to overcome. Why? Because these actions and feelings will keep us from the blessings of God. So here we go.
Matthew 7:1,2
Do not judge, or you will be judged. For in the same you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Here is a footnote to better explain what Jesus is telling us. Jesus tells us to examine our own motives and conduct instead of judging others. The traits that bother us in others are often the habits we dislike in ourselves. Our untamed bad habits and behavior patterns are the very ones that we most want to change in others. Do you find it easy to magnify others' faults while excusing your own? If you are ready to criticize someone, check to see if you deserve the same criticism. Judge yourself first, and then lovingly forgive and help your neighbor.
So how do we go about this? For me it is found in a 4 letter word ~ L.O.V.E. God calls us to first, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. And the second is like it, Love your neighbor as yourself.
There is so much to study when it comes to judging others and this is such a hard pill to swallow sometimes. First and foremost only God can help you remove these actions and feelings. If you try to do it on your own, you will fail.
Mark 4:24
"Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you - and even more.
What does this tell me. We need to always be careful not to jump on the band wagon so to say when we hear people talk. We don't need to judge others by what someone else may say about them. We don't need to judge someones actions so quickly. We don't need to be so harsh with one another. I know I don't like it when someone judges my words or actions, when they have no idea what the situation was. Or when they judge me because I'm having a bad day. One thing I have learned is it is better to pray for a person then to put titles, labels or negative words out there for someone else to take and run with it. This can be difficult if we try to do it by ourselves, because we all get caught up in the moment. God will change your way of thinking when you ask Him to and you have to be sincere about changing. God calls us to love each other, that doesn't mean we have to accept bad behavior, tolerate someone doing something wrong and so forth.
So what do we do? Pray, seek God's word and allow God the time to open up our heart as well as the heart of the person involved. God's word says in James 2:12,13 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgement. God also directs us to speak truthfully (Ephesians 4:25) and in love. God also tells us in Ephesians 4:31 to get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every kind of malice. And goes on to say in verse 32 to be kind and comassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave us.
Romans 14:13
Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.
This again is a subject that has alot to say and for us to understand. I do believe if we put our minds to being more positive we can overcome, with God's help, judgement. It is something you have to diligently put into to practice in order to change your ways. Always remember one thing ~ nobody is perfect and we will stumble and fall from time to time. We are to lift up each other and encourage one another. When you find yourself slipping back into judging, stop and ask God for help. He will help you as He knows we will never be perfect as long as we are living on this earth.
May God bless you this day and guide you along your way.
May 11, 2008
What I learned today. It isn't new, but just a good ole reminder.
It starts in Matthew 7:7,8 "Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
How many times do we really want something from God but have the attitude of: He has more important things to deal with then what I want or I haven't been exactly the best lately or I don't deserve anything good and so forth.
Look again at the scripture. Where does it say (and it is pretty to the point) God doesn't have time, you have to be perfect, you must earn God's blessings and so forth. God made this scripture so simple but many times we make His word difficult. God said ASK that is the key word here. Now what is the next key word? GIVEN.
Now lets go to Matthew 21:22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ASK for in prayer.
Ask and Believe ~~ They work hand and hand. If it weren't so God would not have put it in His word. Yes, there are times God doesn't answer our prayers immediately and sometimes the answer is no. But one thing I do know is that God knows what is best for me. He wants us to ask him for things and He wants us to ask Him first before anyone else. God wants to give good things to all His children, but WE HAVE TO ASK. Don't take it for granted or have the thought that God already knows what I need so therefore I don't need to ask. If that was so why would God tell us to Ask.
This was such a great reminder for me today at church and I felt this would benefit others just as it has opened my eyes and given me a much better understanding. There was more but this really stuck in my head.
God Bless and don't forget or be afraid to ASK GOD for anything.
Where do I start, Oh Lord. Give me direction and guide me along the way.
God has a plan for each of us. We are not out in this world alone, but have a wonderful Lord to show us the way. Though we stumble and fall, He is always there to pick us up. Psalm 17:23,24 If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.
As Christians, we strive to be the best we can. But there are times we lose sight and direction from God because we fall away. I am guilty to this. I don't always handle situations the way God would want me to. I get upset with myself during those times. What keeps me going and striving forward? God's word and how it gives me peace. Remembering that no one person is perfect that walks on this earth. That does not give me an excuse to act out, but gives me insight to God's love and patience as He deals with me.
God has brought me along way, I'm not perfect nor will I be while here on earth. One thing I know I'm not the person I once was but I'm better then I was and God is here to help me. He shows me things and opens my heart so that I want to be more like Him. I can not let past situations keep me down or there will be no growth. I can't allow what people say about my actions influence me to NOT keep going forward. What person acts and reacts to all situations right all the time? There is not one.
God sent His Son, Jesus, to save the world not to condemn it. John 3:16,17 a scripture that everyone knows. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
God has so much love and shows much mercy to all of us. If only we could grasp just how much that love is. This day, remember you are special and God has a purpose and plan for you. Don't let the worries of this day bring you down, but allow God to lift you up and carry you on. You are a blessing!!!
When you are in the arena performing or out in the arena of life-remember you are not alone! God Loves You and wants to be your friend as well as your Savior!
God Bless to all.
