Season vs. Time
To everything there is a season. Here in Michigan, we can almost guarantee that on the first day of spring, we will likely NOT have spring weather. That is because that calculation is based on time (a calendar). Here in Michigan, we also know that spring will eventually show up, according to season (not time). Seasons are not about clocks or calendars, but about readiness. Is it your season?
Visionary
"What’s the problem with always seeing the big picture", you ask? Let me explain. I am a visionary. I can dreamcast the most beautiful, colorful, detailed plan or event. I can write it down and make it plain. Coming up with a plan has never been my weakenss. However, when it comes to executing the plan, I seem to fall short. Consistency is my struggle. I can admit it. I recently completed grad school, and have so many plans and expectations for my career. I am feverishly coming up with post graduate plans to take my career to the next level. Completing my degree has finally opened the door to that corporate job that I have dreamed about- so I thought. I’ve picked out my office decor on pinterest. I have already allocated what I am going to do with the extra money I will be making after my promotion. I’m even parusing German car websites (which will remain nameless) for my dream car that I just KNOW I will have in the next couple years. All that is great, but there is one missing piece: How faithful have I been over the things that I already have? Am I expecting promotion based on merits that I have not yet achieved? The bible says that if we are faithful over a few things that God gives us, he will put us in charge of more things (Matthew 25:23). It’s nice to have an idea of what you want and where you want to be. However, I need to remember that there is also a process that comes with a plan. Ditching the process is not an option if I want all that God has for me. Instead of working so hard on manifesting my vision, I should spend more time perfecting what he has already been gracious enough to give me. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with grinding to get to the next level. But know that our expectations and “visions" don’t always happen over night. Patience, consistency, and faithfulness all play a role.
On another note, I have opened my heart to completely believing and trusting in God and his promises. I know now that it is not about my power, but about the spirit of God that causes me to be victorious!(Zechariah 4:6) God is gracious enough to do what he said he would to (Isaiah 55:11) if I only believe! I believe him, I trust him, he WILL move on my behalf.
So fresh & so clean!
Since I stayed in town over the long holiday weekend (tears), I decided to deep clean my apartment in phases. I cleaned out my coat closet, spare bedroom, my bedroom, and my bedroom closet over the course of 4 days. I threw about 15 bags of trash away, gave away 5 bags of clothes, and 3 bags of shoes. This is the most de-cluttered my living space has been in years, and boy do I feel accomplished! I believe that a clear space perpetuates a clear mind. If you want to see how someone is doing mentally, just look at the space they surround themselves with- it’s very telling. Getting rid of all the useless clutter and junk in my apartment has me feeling like I finally have the space and clarity to do things I’ve been wanting to do (like re-decorate, for example). But even more than that, I can’t help but feel like this whole experience was symbolic of the place at which I am in my life. “Out with the old, in with the new!"
Think. Then Speak.
"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours out foolishness" Proverbs 15:1-2
What are the intentions of what you say? The bible says that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. So if the words out of your mouth are creating a tumultuous environment, chances are there is turmoil in your heart (Luke 6:45). The bible gives us very clear instructions on communication, with the primary focus being LISTENING. Make sure you are thinking before you speak. Once words leave the mouth, you cannot take them back!
Proverbs 23:9 Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn your prudent words.
Proverbs 17:28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they should hold their tongues.
Proverbs 29:20 Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
What are the intentions of what you say? The bible says that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. So if the words out of your mouth are creating a tumultuous environment, chances are there is turmoil in your heart (Luke 6:45). The bible gives us very clear instructions on communication, with the primary focus being LISTENING. Make sure you are thinking before you speak. Once words leave the mouth, you cannot take them back!
Proverbs 23:9 Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn your prudent words.
Proverbs 17:28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they should hold their tongues.
Proverbs 29:20 Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Selfishness versus Sacrifice
In this day and age, it seems like everything is magically conformed to convenience. How many times have you had a thought like, "They should just handle it this way...it would be easier." and magically, as if your brain were in tune with the universe, the update is made and you are now living in the reality of the brilliant idea you had just days ago. Whether it's movie tickets, bank statements, take-out orders, etc- everything is designed to be most convenient for you. This cultural norm is accelerating more rapidly than ever before. With the technology and information revolution at hand, updates and upgrades are a given in virtually any capacity.
While this is ideal for all of us, it has in many ways spoiled us into thinking of sacrifice as a thing of the past. Some of the most important decisions in our lives are based on sacrifice. The most important being the choice you make to receive Christ as your Lord and savior. Acceptance is the first step. As you begin to grow and walk with him, you realize that this commitment takes sacrifice. There may be times where you come to a place of discomfort with the decision you make to be a doer of his word. In Romans 12:1 Paul, in view of God's mercy, urges the offering of our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God as true and proper worship. Worshipping God with the way you live your life requires sacrifice. It requires commitment. If we were the type of people who defer to the most convenient and self serving way to do things, we would begin to place our walk with Christ in a capacity that is most convenient for us. Jesus told his disciples that whoever wants to be his disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow him. Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for him will find it (Mark 16:24-25).
Sacrifice and commitment are two very important components in the overall structure of our existence- as believers, and in all other facets. Do not allow yourself to be so far removed from commitment and sacrifice that it hinders your ability to do what the Lord has called you to do.
While this is ideal for all of us, it has in many ways spoiled us into thinking of sacrifice as a thing of the past. Some of the most important decisions in our lives are based on sacrifice. The most important being the choice you make to receive Christ as your Lord and savior. Acceptance is the first step. As you begin to grow and walk with him, you realize that this commitment takes sacrifice. There may be times where you come to a place of discomfort with the decision you make to be a doer of his word. In Romans 12:1 Paul, in view of God's mercy, urges the offering of our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God as true and proper worship. Worshipping God with the way you live your life requires sacrifice. It requires commitment. If we were the type of people who defer to the most convenient and self serving way to do things, we would begin to place our walk with Christ in a capacity that is most convenient for us. Jesus told his disciples that whoever wants to be his disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow him. Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for him will find it (Mark 16:24-25).
Sacrifice and commitment are two very important components in the overall structure of our existence- as believers, and in all other facets. Do not allow yourself to be so far removed from commitment and sacrifice that it hinders your ability to do what the Lord has called you to do.
Dealing with Offense
What do you do when someone offends you? And I don’t just
mean a superficial offense, such as cutting you off on the freeway, or failing
to hold the door open for you on your way into the office. I mean real offense
like betrayal, lack of appreciation, or belittlement. Even after you’ve thought
about it and allowed your emotions to settle, you are still bothered by it. You
may have even talked it over with someone you trust and consider to be wiser
than you. And even that person acknowledges your right to be offended. They
urge you to talk to the person about it. After all, communication is key. How
will they ever know that they’ve offended you if you don’t communicate that to
them? You consider a rational conversation with the person, in which you both
will remain calm while maintaining honesty. You are confident that you will
make your concerns known, and your offender will be convicted and vow to
change. You rehearse the script in your head- how you will say things, how the
other person would/should respond (funny how the other person never sticks to
your version of the script). You are confident that this is what you should do,
right? Wrong.
Before you resort to what many view as healthy
confrontation, I urge you to pray about it (1 Thess 5:17). All adults have
encountered some pretty deep offense at some point in our lives. The bible
tells us that trials come to make us strong (James 1:2-8). This may be an
instance for you to grow as a person. Seeking the Lord for strength is an act
of faith, showing that you trust God to work out the situation. What a relief
it is to know that your issue can be resolved without you having to have a
single conversation with the offender! The higher you go in your walk with
Christ, in your relationships, in your career, and in your life- you will
encounter various types of people, attitudes, and beliefs. God has a desire to
elevate us according to his plan (Jeremiah 29:11). It is in our best interest to
show that we trust God first when dealing with people. It is best to pray
earnestly for the person who has offended you. Put your trust in God, and ask
that he soften the person’s heart, and lead them to a place of understanding.
You will be blessed by this. It may not always be about the other person. The
issue may be you. Whether it is a need for you to strengthen your prayer life,
a need for you to strengthen your faith, a need to strengthen your leadership
and/or submission- God will never leave you hanging. Trust him with your
offenses.
Peace in the midst of my dirt
I remember being lost. I remember feeling emptiness
inside. I remember the lack of God in my life. I used to date (and I use that
term loosely) a drug dealer. I remember walking into his house and immediately
feeling the presence of evil. It was hard for me to identify then. But now I
realize it was the lack of the Holy Spirit. For as long as I can remember, I
have always felt the enormous presence of God. I have lived alone for almost 10
years. I have never been scared (well, you know- I have had a few episodes
after watching a movie or something like that). But I’ve literally had people
tell me that they don’t see how I can live alone. Grown men have told me that.
And they were strictly talking about the fear aspect. Not so much about the
lonely aspect. But anyways, I have always felt God in me and with me. The
closest thing I can compare it to is a puppy that moves each and every time you
even LOOK like you’re about to move. It follows you everywhere- into the
kitchen, the bathroom, the window, the door. You can’t get rid of him. That’s
how I’ve ALWAYS felt about the presence of God in my life. So when I was in
those situations that God wasn’t in- I felt his absence. I remember being out
there. I remember the first time I saw someone do a line of cocaine. I remember
rolling with alcoholics. I remember being around people who asked the guy I was
with if he had any needles. I remember seeing a prostitute walk up and down the
street in literally a white t-shirt that she made into a dress, and some heels.
I remember the first time I saw a gun. Man I used to hang with some BUMS lol. I
remember seeing someone cook crack for the first time. I remember being around
people who went on coke binges for days straight. Hit the club on Friday night
and be toasted until Sunday morning. I’m talking about an after party that
lasted from after the club on Friday, THROUGH SaturDAY, and then back to the
club on Saturday night. I remember being made fun of because I had a regular
job. I remember being cheated on. Humiliated. Embarrassed. I remember people
purposely trying to break me down. Break my spirit. Take my pride. Take my
comfort and my peace. So many people didn’t understand my peace. I mean, I
really didn’t either. Now that I can see things more clearly in the spiritual
realm, I realize that all of that was a plot by the enemy to destroy me. The
enemy’s mission is to destroy. The God in me would not allow that to happen. I
thought I had it all figured out. Lol. What an idiot. I see so many people
trying to school other people, as if they’ve arrived. Neglecting to give God
glory for what they have. Whether it be material (which means nothing) or
otherwise. They are so lost and don’t even realize it. I say that in terms of
identifying myself in the same way. That’s why I can give God credit for
everything. Because I know I am a hot mess. And God still blesses me. Still loves
me. Still forgives me. I think others’ perception of me is so far off from what
I really am. I’m not a diva. I’m a dirty bird. I’m a wretch (in 2012 terms- I’m
a rat). Yes, I am. I’ve sought self worth and peace in all of the places that
everyone does. Men, money, clothes, image…then I tweaked it and tried to make
it about my career, my education, my life experiences. Those don’t mean
anything either. If God can send Jesus- through a virgin and a carpenter,
surely your prestige means nothing to him. Please excuse the tears that roll
down my face when I think about the fact that I should be dead. Or even worse-
I should be dying. A painful death. I should have had to put my parents through
the process of burying me. I should have had to explain to my niece that I
didn’t have much longer to be with her. But God saved me from all of that. He
covered me through it all. Yes I am thankful for his presence. Yes I cringe at
the thought of being in those places where his presence cannot be felt. My
heart hurts for those who are still there. For those who are looking in every
place but the right place for the peace they need so desperately.
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"What's up with this VOID??"
Full joy, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment come from knowing Christ, and Christ alone. Your lonely time, your bored time, your sad time, your confused time- all provide a time for you to reach out to God and get to know him. He needs to be your everything. He is your peace, your love, your comfort and fulfillment. But you have to do your part in reaching out to him, and making the effort to KNOW him. Knowing people doesn’t matter. Having things does not matter. Your career, your education, your relationships (romantic or otherwise), and even your family cannot define who you are if you are a child of God. We know the power of his resurrection, but I challenge you to get to know the fellowship of his suffering. Die to your selfish desires daily. Press in to what God sees fit for your life. Knowing him is loving him, and loving him is serving him. He is so eager to have a relationship with you. He very much wants to talk to you, communicate with you. And he wants you to KNOW him. He wants you to KNOW his face, and be able to recognize it. This is what is missing from your fulfillment of peace. It’s not more money, it’s not a spouse, it’s not your location. It is the lack of fellowship with the Lord. He has every good intention for you, and he will move in your life in an awesome way. Trust him.
Philippians 3:10 (NIV) I want to know Christ- yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.
Psalm 17:15 (NIV) As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.
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Understanding < Peace
Philippians 4:7 (NIV) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The peace that the Apostle Paul spoke of was a peace that is of a higher level. The peace that passes understanding represents peace through Christ Jesus, which transcends whatever it is that you understand to be your problem or issue.
The peace that you have through Christ is GREATER than your own human understanding, so it trumps every time.
Learn to accept and receive what is already yours (unearthly, heavenly, spiritual, and divine peace) through Jesus Christ, and know that this peace is greater than what you can comprehend, and certainly greater than what you are dealing with.
Sin that Separates
Isaiah 59:1-2 (NIV) Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you so that he will not hear.
Have you ever felt like God was far away? I can remember times in my life where I would be really down in the dumps. I would pray, and pray, but for some reason it just felt like God could not hear me. For some reason, things did not feel the same. I have always felt a very strong presence of God in my life, sensing his spirit with me wherever I go. It took time for me to realize that the separation I was feeling was because of my own sin. Sometimes we overlook the sin in our lives and blame our feelings on depression, a broken heart, or stress. I have realized that we, as Christians, cannot blatantly live in sin and expect the same presence of God in our lives. God is ever present and it says in his word that he is the lily of the valley. That means that even in our lowest point, he is with us. But the word of God also says that our iniquities separate us from God. If you read the entire 59th chapter of Isaiah, it can come off a little harsh. But there is a lot of truth in that harshness. It is time for us to be real about seeking the face of the Lord. Let's get real about staying away from sin. Challenge yourself to rise to the level of greatness that is within you, so that you will not have to fight through separation from God. If someone or something in your life causes you to sin, you may want to consider cutting them out. Nothing is worth that separation and longing for the ear if the Lord.
What have you learned?
Hebrews 6:7-8 (NIV) Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
Rainy days are often looked at with gloom. Most everyone would prefer a sunshiny day, as opposed to a rainy day on any occasion. But there is a blessing in rain. Rain causes growth and excellence. There would be no harvest without rain. Consider this- you are the land, and your "not so comfortable" life experiences are the rain. You must make the choice to produce a crop, based on what you have learned through your experiences. It is important that you put those lessons to use in order to receive the blessing of God. If you have gone through trying circumstances, and still you are not producing a good crop, you are considered worthless. Take time to understand your life lessons. Use them to help yourself, and others. God allows us to go through hardships to develop us. Much like the concept of rain and harvest. Do not think that you will avoid painful situations in life. It is how you grow and develop from those situations that separates the useful from the worthless.
Forgetting what lies behind
Philippians 3:13-14(NIV) Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
A popular saying in our culture is: I can forgive but never forget. It leaves one wondering, is it even humanly possible to forget something that affected you in life? In this scripture Paul deliberately states that he is forgetting what lies behind him, and straining toward what is ahead. He did not say that he is overlooking what happened in the past. He did not say that he is ignoring what happened in the past. His exact word was forgetting. It's important for us to make a conscious decision every day to forget things that have happened before. Not just the bad, but sometimes even the good. We must stay constantly focused on moving forward. If there is something that has happened in your past that is stunting your emotional and spiritual growth- as impossible as this may sound- forget about it. Make the effort daily to focus on your forward movement, rather than past events. In Physics, an object's velocity cannot change unless it is acted upon by a force. In other words, we have to put some "umph" in it if we're ever going to get anywhere. Part of that "umph" is forgetting, and shifting that attention from what lies behind you to what lies ahead of you. One may argue that it is not healthy to ignore the past. In some cases that is true. But once you've reached the point of acceptance, the best thing to do is look forward. God has a prize for you once you have reached your goals, and he is calling you to it!
A popular saying in our culture is: I can forgive but never forget. It leaves one wondering, is it even humanly possible to forget something that affected you in life? In this scripture Paul deliberately states that he is forgetting what lies behind him, and straining toward what is ahead. He did not say that he is overlooking what happened in the past. He did not say that he is ignoring what happened in the past. His exact word was forgetting. It's important for us to make a conscious decision every day to forget things that have happened before. Not just the bad, but sometimes even the good. We must stay constantly focused on moving forward. If there is something that has happened in your past that is stunting your emotional and spiritual growth- as impossible as this may sound- forget about it. Make the effort daily to focus on your forward movement, rather than past events. In Physics, an object's velocity cannot change unless it is acted upon by a force. In other words, we have to put some "umph" in it if we're ever going to get anywhere. Part of that "umph" is forgetting, and shifting that attention from what lies behind you to what lies ahead of you. One may argue that it is not healthy to ignore the past. In some cases that is true. But once you've reached the point of acceptance, the best thing to do is look forward. God has a prize for you once you have reached your goals, and he is calling you to it!
Give Thanks in All Circumstances
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 (NIV) Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
One of the most frustrating things about life is when you feel like you are not in the place you want to be. I am a HUGE visionary, and from a very young age I have always had big dreams, visions, and aspirations for my life. Granted I have not always been diligent in pursuing those dreams. But what happens when you begin pursuing what you believe to be God’s plan for you, but things still are not adding up and you are seemingly going in circles? “What do I do?”, you ask? The answer is simple: Give thanks. No matter what place you find yourself in- it is God’s will. If he brought you TO that point, he will bring you THROUGH that point. It is imperative that you thank him in that circumstance. Even the worst of circumstances have purpose. So if you are working at what you feel to be a dead end job- thank him for it. If your children are not behaving in a way that is pleasing to you- thank him for them. If you are struggling with your health- thank God that he has given you another day, and thank him for fighting your battles. Keep the word of God in your mouth at all times. Pray without ceasing, and always remember to give thanks.
forGIVE and it shall be given unto you!
Luke 6:37-38 (NIV) Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
This is a well known scripture. It's usually tied in with tithes and offerings, or some other type of monetary or physical giving. BUT while reading this last night, I noticed that right before Luke speaks about giving and the enormous blessings you can expect to receive by doing so, he speaks about JUDGING and FORGIVENESS. Forgiveness is something that is extremely important to God. He would not be GOD if he did not forgive. It is one of the best things about him! We always speak of his mercy, and how he is loving, forgiving, and kind when we least deserve it. It's important for Christians to have that same forgiving nature. It's up to us to be forgiving, in the times that it is the most difficult for us. Just as we FORgive, it will be given unto us in that same measure. I believe that forGIVEness is along the same lines as GIVING.
Fore (adj) FIRST in place, time, order, or rank
Give (verb) to present voluntarily and without expecting compensation; bestow
By forgiving, we are doing nothing more than giving FIRST, expecting the same measure in return. So with the amount of mercy we use by forgiving others, the same amount of mercy will be given to us by our heavenly father.
Honestly, learning how to forgive will elevate you in your walk with God. There comes a point when we need to go higher. If you are harboring unforgiveness in your heart, you may be missing out on your next destination. He needs us to get this down pat before we advance to the next level, because GOD = LOVE. Remember that God has already given us (in abundance) everything we need to make it through whatever we are dealing with. Unforgiveness will not help you. Walking in love, peace, and joy WILL. What do you represent?
How to forgive:
-By FAITH. Speak life over the situation and proclaim your forgiveness (Romans 4:17)
-Pray for the person. (Matthew 5:44)
-Remember how God has forgiven you. Also, others who have forgiven you when you did not deserve it. (Mark 6:14-15)
-Do not believe the lies of the enemy. Satan's job is to always make a situation seem worse than what it is. (John 8:44)
-Realize the blessing in the lesson, and know that God will elevate you in him once you develop perseverance, wisdom, and maturity. (James 1:2-3)
-Use your story to minister to others, glorifying God for what he brought you through. (John 12:32)
-Know that God is a God of justice. Do not worry about payback. Leave that in the hands of God. (Job 19:25)(Ephesians 6:10)
Deuteronomy 32:35 (NIV) It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them also. [keeping in mind that God has a plan and purpose for the person who offended you, so his payback may not be what YOU are expecting]
Be Blessed!
Easter Weekend Reading (ROMANS 5- ENTIRE CHAPTER)
Well, my good people, Tomorrow is Good Friday.
Easter represents the day we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. But Good Friday represents the day of his Crucifixion. If you look deep enough, you will realize that your life as a Christian can be compared to that of Jesus Christ. Sacrifice, selflessness, the Gospel, betrayal, pain, death, and triumph are all things he endured while here on earth. There would be no redemption without crucifixion. So even at the darkest hour, we can celebrate what the pain represents. There is always the promise of victory after death. And not just death in the physical sense. When you kill something (sacrifice) you can rest assured that God will provide you with an elevated level of power and understanding within him. So this Good Friday I will be celebrating the crucifixion. I will not only celebrate the resurrection on Sunday. I will rejoice in the suffering and reflect on the fact that without Good Friday, there truly would be NO EASTER SUNDAY!
Easter represents the day we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. But Good Friday represents the day of his Crucifixion. If you look deep enough, you will realize that your life as a Christian can be compared to that of Jesus Christ. Sacrifice, selflessness, the Gospel, betrayal, pain, death, and triumph are all things he endured while here on earth. There would be no redemption without crucifixion. So even at the darkest hour, we can celebrate what the pain represents. There is always the promise of victory after death. And not just death in the physical sense. When you kill something (sacrifice) you can rest assured that God will provide you with an elevated level of power and understanding within him. So this Good Friday I will be celebrating the crucifixion. I will not only celebrate the resurrection on Sunday. I will rejoice in the suffering and reflect on the fact that without Good Friday, there truly would be NO EASTER SUNDAY!
Picking a Leader is Easy...
...Always Follow Peace!
I think it's very important to make decisions based on peace. God gave us the sense of peace so that we will know when we've made the right decision. When something is constantly bothering you and you cannot find peace with it...it may be the wrong decision. We, as human beings, often second guess ourselves. So sometimes it may be an over reaction on our part. But if you are feeling uneasy about a particular decision, pray and ask God to give you direction. That sense of peace is something that belongs to us when we accept Christ into our hearts.
John 14:27 (NIV) Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
I think it's very important to make decisions based on peace. God gave us the sense of peace so that we will know when we've made the right decision. When something is constantly bothering you and you cannot find peace with it...it may be the wrong decision. We, as human beings, often second guess ourselves. So sometimes it may be an over reaction on our part. But if you are feeling uneasy about a particular decision, pray and ask God to give you direction. That sense of peace is something that belongs to us when we accept Christ into our hearts.
John 14:27 (NIV) Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Out Loud
"I have set the Lord always before me; Because he is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. You will show me the path of life; in your presence is fullness of joy; At your right hand are pleasures for evermore." Psalm 16:8-11
This passage gives so much peace. I found myself repeating this over and over one night when I just couldn't find peace in my heart. I encourage you to read scriptures, specifically Psalms, aloud when you find yourself with no words to set your mind at ease. Once you've prayed, and are perhaps trying to get some sleep, speak of his peacefulness aloud.
Happy New Year Followers!
WORKMANSHIP
Work*man*ship -noun
1. the art or skill of a workman or workwoman.
2. the quality or mode of execution, as of a thing made.
3. the product or result of labor and skill; work executed.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
God took time to specially craft and save us by his grace. You are not an accident, and God says so. He did not save you because of who you are or because of anything you have said or done. He has a perfect plan and purpose for your life, and you can rest assured on the fact that he created and designed you (workmanship) to carry it out. Do not be discouraged when you make mistakes or fall short of what you feel is your full potential. Every single lie that the enemy has told you, or setback that you've encountered is known by God. In fact, he knew about it before you did. Has it ever occurred to you that God has NEVER ever been surprised!? He looked beyond all of those things and still chose you. He knew what he was getting when he called you. And he carefully created you to withstand all of those things, and do the works for which he prepared in advance for you to do.
Prodigal Son
Greetings! Once again I had a life-changing encounter with the holy spirit last night. I was actually listening to the song "Prodigal Son" by Fred Hammond. There is a line in the song that says,
"Each day I return to the place where you departed. Saying, maybe today my lost one will come."
This is from the perspective of the Father waiting for the son to return. It blessed me so much because it made me realize the amount of love the father felt in his heart for his son. Imagine him going and waiting at the same place, day after day, waiting for his son-the son that took his inheritance and turned his back on family. The father had hope each day that it would be the day his most beloved son would return and make his home complete. THAT'S LOVE.
It is hard for us to grasp the love of God. The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians that it is a wide, long, high, and deep love that surpasses knowledge. We, as human beings, may never be able to fully understand that love. I know we all search for love sometimes in the wrong places, but the love of God is the only true and real love. It will stand the test of time, and no matter how many times we selfishly turn our back on God, he is always there, waiting with open arms to take us back, and appoint us.
Luke 15:20 So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
The father did not wait for his son to make it all the way. As soon as he spotted him, he ran to him out of compassion and embraced him. It is true, the closer we get to God, the closer he gets to us. He will meet you at the point of your need, and does not wait for you to make it all the way to him. Always remember you are the apple of his eye. This is hard to comprehend because we all figure that God has so many other things to focus on. But really- he knows you. Every little thing about you he wants to be a part of. We often think of God as being so powerful that nothing can hurt him, but God has the potential of being hurt. He can be sensitive, and deeply longs for a relationship with us. Not for his benefit- but ours. So he does wait patiently for us to return to him. And when we do- we get the same treatment as the prodigal son. Feasts, favor and best of all the embrace of someone who truly loves us.
Power of Love
Romans 8:37 (NIV) In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Please grasp the following concept revealed to me this morning by the holy spirit:
The power we have as conquerors (triumphant winners over all) is made possible through LOVE and LOVE and LOVE.
Affirmative statement: I am made more than victorious through the Love of Christ. The power I have is within his love.
~The love of God is enough to cause you to win~
Please grasp the following concept revealed to me this morning by the holy spirit:
The power we have as conquerors (triumphant winners over all) is made possible through LOVE and LOVE and LOVE.
Affirmative statement: I am made more than victorious through the Love of Christ. The power I have is within his love.
~The love of God is enough to cause you to win~
In my spirit (heavy) this week...
Ephesians 3:20-21 (Amp) Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]. To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it).
Isaiah 30:18 (Amp)
And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts himself up, that he may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for him, who expect and look and long for him [for his victory, his favor, his love, his peace, his joy, and his matchless, unbroken companionship]!
Lamentations 3:25 (Amp)
The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for him, to those who seek him [inquire of and for Him and require him by right of necessity and on the authority of God’s word].
Psalm 62:5-6 (Amp) My soul, wait only upon God and silently submit to him; for my hope and expectation are from him. He is my rock and my Salvation; He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved.
Romans 10:10 (Amp) For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (Amp) Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.
Isaiah 30:18 (Amp)
And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts himself up, that he may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for him, who expect and look and long for him [for his victory, his favor, his love, his peace, his joy, and his matchless, unbroken companionship]!
Lamentations 3:25 (Amp)
The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for him, to those who seek him [inquire of and for Him and require him by right of necessity and on the authority of God’s word].
Psalm 62:5-6 (Amp) My soul, wait only upon God and silently submit to him; for my hope and expectation are from him. He is my rock and my Salvation; He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved.
Romans 10:10 (Amp) For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (Amp) Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.
Justice League
The Justice League, also called the Justice League of America, is a superhero team that appears in comic books. The team includes Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Black Canary, Aquaman and others. Their main purpose is to provide justice for those who have been mistreated, and cannot well represent themselves.
The Justice League, of course, is fictional. But even in real life, we operate under the same philosophy. Many people spend money on high priced lawyers to make sure they are fairly and justly treated when going to trial. Others rely on family or friends to "have their back" and make sure they are never mistreated, or are on the losing side of a battle. We rely on government, law enforcement, and different forms of leadership to be the voice for those who don't always feel like they have one. We all believe that at some point either our money, education, titles, jobs, family, associations, etc. will justify us in some capacity.
Romans 8:30 (NIV) And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
However, God has already justified us. Is is not our responsibility to make sure that "justice is served" in the way that we see fit. If a life situation has treated you in a way that you feel to be unfair, know that God has already made a way for justice in your life. Don't waste time waiting for someone to ask for your forgiveness, or make things right with you. Don't concentrate on how things look to the natural eye. God is the great justifier! Through him you have already received your justice. You don't have to prove that to anyone. The bible says that God is the King of Glory. That surpasses the law of the land. Any judge, any law, any decree; every situation comes under his name.
Isaiah 30:18 (NIV) Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him.
Romans 10:10 (NIV) For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
JUSTICE IS SERVED
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 (KJV)
This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
Romans 3:22 (NIV)
Affirmative statement: I am the righteousness of God through Jesus Christ.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. Proverbs 13:20 (KJV)
But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
Romans 3:22 (NIV)
Affirmative statement: I am the righteousness of God through Jesus Christ.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. Proverbs 13:20 (KJV)
But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
Peace
I feel a strong impression to share the tremendous level of peace I have been feeling in my spirit lately. There is no better place to be than in right standing with God. When you make the decision to let go and let GOD, you are showing him how much you truly trust him. Surrendering to him will allow his mighty hand to move in your life. One of the first signs of being in God's will is a feeling of peace. Knowing that you are living a life that is pleasing to God allows him to shine in your life, in more areas than one (and believe me, people notice!). Ephesians 4:30 tells us not to grieve the holy spirit. Grieving the holy spirit includes doing things that we know we should not do. By doing this, we cause the spirit of God that is within us grief. Disobedience to God (the Holy Spirit) breaks God's heart. I have made the decision lately to do my best not to grieve the holy spirit, and be obedient to God's still, gentle voice on the inside of me. I long to be faithful to him. I am addicted to peace. A simple rule to follow: FOLLOW PEACE
I am so grateful for the place I'm at right now, as I recently celebrated my 30th birthday. I'm not going to say it was easy to let go of my 20's (I have some GREAT memories), but I honestly feel like I am stepping into my own at this point in my life. I know who I am. I know what/who I am rooted and grounded in. I have identified and am living in my purpose. I have had enough failures and successes to make better choices and be more responsible. I am elevated..and it feels good.
I am so thankful to my heavenly father who has:
-Carried me through every mountain and every valley (sometimes while I was kicking and screaming).
-Held my face up when I was too ashamed and hurt to even look myself in the face.
-Nudged me out of my comfort zone in order to stretch me (which leads to growth).
-Saw the best in me when everyone else saw the worst in me (because he created me in his likeness, and he KNOWS what's on the inside of me).
-Provided for me before the world was framed (Gave me my family and a spiritually rich heritage- for which I was created).
I stand in Awe of you! And I am forever grateful :)
PEACE~
RECEIVE
"One moment of God's grace will do more for you than a lifetime of your own labor"
We spend a lot of time throughout our lives trying to earn the favor and grace of God. While it is our responsibility to be faithful and righteous over the things God gives us, it is impossible for us to earn his grace. God gives it to us because he LOVES us (a whole lot) and he DESIRES to bless our lives. That's it. The love of God is very hard to understand, but he loves us enough to do things for us that we clearly do not deserve. Take time every day during your prayer time to say to God:
-I RECEIVE your grace
-I RECEIVE your mercy
-I RECEIVE your favor
-I RECEIVE your forgiveness
Stop spending so much time asking God for things, or feeling like you've got to prove yourself to God because you've messed up so many times in the past. Realize that he has already given you grace to make it through whatever situation you may find yourself in, and has made provision for you to have the desires of your heart if you continue to abide in him. Speak into existence your acceptance and receipt of the things that will allow God to move in your life (His grace, his mercy, his favor). It pleases God when we let him know that we trust him enough to receive the things he's provided for us, and we trust him enough to get out of the way in order for him to MOVE! Remember, God is a gentleman. He does not force himself on anyone. We must accept him and surrender all to him.
Isaiah 30:18 (Amp)
And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts himself up, that he may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for him, who expect and look and long for him [for his victory, his favor, his love, his peace, his joy, and his matchless, unbroken companionship]!
We spend a lot of time throughout our lives trying to earn the favor and grace of God. While it is our responsibility to be faithful and righteous over the things God gives us, it is impossible for us to earn his grace. God gives it to us because he LOVES us (a whole lot) and he DESIRES to bless our lives. That's it. The love of God is very hard to understand, but he loves us enough to do things for us that we clearly do not deserve. Take time every day during your prayer time to say to God:
-I RECEIVE your grace
-I RECEIVE your mercy
-I RECEIVE your favor
-I RECEIVE your forgiveness
Stop spending so much time asking God for things, or feeling like you've got to prove yourself to God because you've messed up so many times in the past. Realize that he has already given you grace to make it through whatever situation you may find yourself in, and has made provision for you to have the desires of your heart if you continue to abide in him. Speak into existence your acceptance and receipt of the things that will allow God to move in your life (His grace, his mercy, his favor). It pleases God when we let him know that we trust him enough to receive the things he's provided for us, and we trust him enough to get out of the way in order for him to MOVE! Remember, God is a gentleman. He does not force himself on anyone. We must accept him and surrender all to him.
Isaiah 30:18 (Amp)
And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts himself up, that he may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for him, who expect and look and long for him [for his victory, his favor, his love, his peace, his joy, and his matchless, unbroken companionship]!
Joyce Meyer's- Guard your Heart Synergy Edition
I am so excited about this teaching, as it has helped me grow in the area of knowing how to spiritually heal and take care of my heart. I am so thankful that God is moving through the teaching of Joyce Meyer.
Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
By effectively guarding your heart, you are preparing yourself for all the incredible opportunities God has for you. In this three-part teaching, Joyce will show you how to:
-Guard your heart
-Have a heart that gives life to others
-Live with a heart ready for God to work through
Synergy combines three types of learning into one package:
Listen to Joyce's audio teachings
Watch a video message of Joyce
Read more in depth with her personal teaching notes
Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
By effectively guarding your heart, you are preparing yourself for all the incredible opportunities God has for you. In this three-part teaching, Joyce will show you how to:
-Guard your heart
-Have a heart that gives life to others
-Live with a heart ready for God to work through
Synergy combines three types of learning into one package:
Listen to Joyce's audio teachings
Watch a video message of Joyce
Read more in depth with her personal teaching notes
Rest for the Weary
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
When you are carrying a load in your spirit, soul, and mind that is almost too much to bear- please take it to the Lord. The definition of a Yoke- a device for joining together a pair of draft animals, especially oxen, usually consisting of a crosspiece with two bow shaped pieces, each enclosing the head of an animal. The two oxen in the picture above are bound by a yoke.
God wants us to be joined with him, so that he can teach us, and we can learn from him by copying his movement. I don't know about you, but throughout grade school, I was always glad when I got good (nice) teachers. Something about an instructor who has humility, and knows how to bring out the best in you with a gentle and gracious spirit pushes you to do your best. God is that type of leader. His yoke is easy. He will be that "nice" teacher who is not harsh with you. His burden is light. Once we identify God's way of doing things, and put them into practice, we will come to understand that we do not have to be moved by burdens.
Dealing with Shame
Isaiah 61:7 (NIV) Instead of their shame, my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.
Shame is one of the most crippling emotions there is. When something has been done to you that has humiliated you, you feel helpless, ashamed and embarrassed. It's hard to move on from such feelings. Finding a sense of self worth, value and dignity is a process that a lot of people never fully undergo. God has promised us that we, as his people, are entitled to a double portion of our inheritance. Because of the shame we have suffered, he has promised us DOUBLE of everything he is already planning to give us. Start seeing yourself through the eyes of God. What happened to you does not define you. It qualifies you for double. Take what you learned from your situation and use it to enrich someone else's life with the Power of God. God has big plans for you, and instead of shame, God has given you matchless power and endless benefits!
Feeling like a LOSER?
How many times have you felt like you were on the losing side of a battle? It could be a battle with an enemy, an opponent, a friend, or even yourself. Remember that although it may appear as though you have suffered a loss or a defeat, the greater one is inside of you. So on the surface you may have lost, but on the inside God is doing a work in you that will ultimately make you a winner. The greater one will always come out victorious in the end. Remember, we battle against principalities, so anything that ever happens to you that makes you feel defeated is a scheme of the satan (not necessarily a reflection of the person or situation that defeated you). We have assurance through God's word that we are GREATER than him! How comforting it is to know that we ARE and FOREVER WILL BE WINNERS!
I John 4:4 (NIV) You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
How many things in life are free?
We grew up on the statement "The best things in life are free". This phrase is coined on the premise that Love is free and indubitable. Perhaps the love of your parents, spouse, or children is love that you have assurance of, and makes you appreciate the generous benefits of unconditional affection, appreciation and security. However, that is not the case for everyone. Not everyone can count on love from their parents, spouse, or even children. That is not a reality for a lot of people.
Salvation from God is the only thing in life that is free. This is an unmerited and underserved favor from God that promises eternal life. Many people live under the misconception that if you anger or disobey God, you lose your salvation. God is gracious enough to forgive our sins by our confession. Jesus paid the price for your FREE pass to eternal life- a life of ABUNDANCE, at that. What we owe to God could never be repaid. The wonderful "saved" lives that we live are compliments of Christ the King himself. Remember that only what you do for Christ will last.
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