Thanksgiving Friday!

Thought I posted this from my phone yesterday. CLEARLY it didn't.

Today I'm thankful for family. Right now I'm on my way to a funeral. My aunt passed on Christmas, and my family has come together in an awesome way. Thank you Lord for blessing me with such an amazing group of loved ones!

I'm also thankful for life. We woke up today, saints! Let's do something amazing just because we are still here. Thanks, God, for another day.

What are you thankful for today? How have God's blessings been falling on you? Send up some praise and gratitude!

He's Going to Do It!

So, the year is coming to a close. Maybe you had some prayer requests up before the Lord that haven't been answered yet. You might be feeling a bit discouraged that you haven't attained that promise that you know the Lord has for you.

I know exactly how you're feeling. Right now I'm trying to ignore my left hand that clearly doesn't have a ring on it yet! But that's neither here nor there. We cannot allow ourselves to grow despondent. We cannot cave in to doubt and disbelief. We cannot allow ourselves to begin to question God or even ourselves.

We just have to trust. We just have to believe. We just have to stand and having done all to stand: stand.

He's going to do it!

The Lord is a keeper of His word. Just like He showed Joseph his future greatness, the Lord kept His word. Joseph may have had to suffer through slavery and imprisonment on the way, but the Lord kept His promise.

Just like the Lord kept His word to Abraham. Abraham may have had to wait years for God's promised heir for him to show up, but the boy did show up!

And even David had to wait for the fulfillment of his destiny. He was anointed king years before he took the throne. And while he waited, David was on the run just to stay alive!

With even the biggest promise, the dispatch of a Redeemer that would save mankind and bring them back to right standing with God, there were generations that passed before the word came to fruition. But, the Lord kept His promise.

How much more will God keep His promise to you? Don't lose heart! Don't give in! Keep believing God's word. Keep standing on His promises. You won't be left hanging. You won't be disappointed. Our God is faithful and just.

He's going to do it!

Verse of the Day: God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Numbers 23:19

Tomorrows vs. Today

Right now many people are evaluating their lives and looking for ways to improve on themselves in the coming new year. Resolutions are being prepared, new classes are being enrolled in, and self-help books are being bought. All because the calendar is telling us that a fresh, new year is upon us.

However, every day we wake up is a fresh, new opportunity to do better than the day before. Each new day is a clean slate ready for us to get our shine on. No matter the day of the week or the date on the calendar, every time we greet another day is a time for us to go to a higher place.

All of us have areas that we need to improve. We all have projects that we need to start (or finish). We all know that we can do a bit better in how we are living.


Why wait until January 1st to start on a journey of purpose? Why not start now and experience the satisfaction of improving your life? Who knows what will happen tomorrow? Right now all you have is today.
 
It seems like we all live glorious tomorrows. It is in our tomorrows that we place our hard work, dedication, diligence, and productivity. Our tomorrows shine with the glow of completing projects and fulfilling dreams. Our tomorrows are the keepers of our destiny.
 
Yet if we do nothing today, we will never get to tomorrow. So, why not start today? Take today to start on that resolution. Use today as day one of that great project. Tomorrow is not promised, but today is here. Grab hold of it, and make it great!
 
Verse of the Day: So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Ephesians 5:15-17

You're So Special!

The holiday season is big on emphasizing others. We finally pop out of our own little bubbles and take notice of the ones around us during this time of year. We spend our time, money, and brain power coming up with ways to be a blessing to others.

This is all well and good. But let me insert one little selfish moment for you as you go about spreading cheer and love.

You're SO special!

You're so special because God loves you.
Even with all that we do that is contrary to His will. The many ways we disappoint Him and fail over and over again. God still loves us. God still loves you. He wants you to spend time with Him. He longs to hear your voice and speak with you. He has worked out an incredible purpose and destiny for your life. You're SO special!

You're so special because God gave His best for you.
God knew that the world needed a way it could rightly get back to Him. And out of His great love for us, He chose to give His best: His own Son. (John 3:16) Who in their right mind would give up their own offspring to rescue a bunch of stubborn, disobedient creatures?! Let alone, allow their child to die for them!

Yet, God did this. Just for us. Just for you. He gave His best just to give you the opportunity for you to choose to come back to Him. He didn't even know if you would comply. And He still chose to give His best for you anyway. You're SO special!

You're so special because God gave His all for you.
God sent His only son as a way out for us. There was no other way, and He freely gave His all. Not only did He allow His Son to come and be our deliverer, but He also sent His Holy Spirit to be our comforter and guide. (John 14:26) His angels keep watch over us and protect us. (Psalm 91:11) He has blessed us to embody the fruit of the spirit and experience those traits that are unique to His kingdom. Everything God has in His possession He has made available to us. All we have to do is grab hold of what He has offered us. You're SO special!

Today keep reminding yourself of your special position with God. You are His prized possession, and all He wants to do is show you His love and give you His all. You're SO special!

Verse of the Day: The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3

Thanksgiving Friday!

This week I am grateful that I am going into a break!!! So well deserved and needed. My eyes are on Monday when I get to sleep in all day if I want to! Can't wait.

Today I am thankful for my family. We are all gathering together for our Christmas dinner today since the holiday falls on a Sunday. I'll get to see my uncles, cousins, and friends that I rarely see for the rest of the year. And this year Granny hooked it up, so we don't have to cook as much! I'm thankful to be a part of such a loving bunch. My days were filled with laughter, love, and warmth, and I thank God for choosing this family for me to grow up in.

I'm also thankful for the dawning of new beginnings. With the close of a year, my mind always seems to look forward, and there are a lot of great things on my horizon. God is showing me where He wants to take me, and I am ready and willing to go! Thank You Lord, for Your words of promise to me! Thank You for showing me why I'm here!

I'm also grateful most of all for Jesus. If He hadn't chosen to come, we wouldn't be celebrating right now. If Jesus hadn't chosen to have His majesty shrouded in the humble form of a baby boy, we wouldn't have the comfort and joy that we're experiencing right now. Jesus, I am so happy You chose to come to earth! I'm so happy that You didn't just come, but You fulfilled Your mission giving up Your innocent life for the countless souls who were on their way to hell. Thank You for giving us the choice of eternal life!

Have a blessed Christmas everyone!

Verse of the Day: And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:10-14

In Prayer

This morning I'm in a more prayerful mood. So, I decided to pray for all of us this morning.

Lord, I pray for everyone reading this blog. I pray for their families and loved ones. Bless all of us today. Allow us to feel Your presence and touch as we go about our day.

This is a time of remembering your Son and the fact that He came to save us. Thank you for sending Him, thank you for allowing Him to repair the breach. Help us to not get so caught up in the presents, errands, cooking, and fellowship that we forget the real reason we are celebrating: Jesus' birth.

Father, watch over us during this season. Keep your arms of protection wrapped around us, shelter us with your wings. There is so much negativity going on, and we ask that you shield us with your mighty hand.

God, we ask you to order our footsteps. Allow us to live on purpose following your will in all things. Help us to hear the voice of the Spirit clearly with any decision that we have to make. Let us walk in assurance that we are in your will.

Give us a boldness to speak to others of your goodness. When you nudge us to open our mouths, help us to follow through and speak the Word of the Lord to those who are in the most need of hearing it. Let us point someone to You today. Let us be that example to the world of what it means to be in Christ.

Thank You, Lord, for your many blessings. We could not have reached this point if it was not for you. We thank You for Your awesome love, and we praise You.

Amen.

Have a great day, everyone!

Verse of the Day: My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. Psalm 5:3

Rise Above

This morning my co-worker was complaining how their happy mood was ruined by another person's grumpiness. I told him that he should never let someone else's emotions dictate his own. "You can choose to be happy," I said. "You can choose to rise above."

All too often we allow the cares of the day, other people's actions, and the like to blow our own emotions in helter-skelter directions. We catch an attitude because of someone else's behavior, we get depressed seeing someone else get what we wanted, we stop caring because it doesn't seem like anyone else does...

Yet we have the ability to choose to be happy. It's our choice to remain at peace. We can choose to dwell on the positives in life. We can choose to remain unaffected by others.

Since we know the Truth, possess the real love of God, and walk with Him as our guide, we have no reason to ever be swayed by what goes on in this world. We are possessors of the ultimate promise in Jesus, so why let a mere person stop us from walking in that light?

As you go about your day today, try to rise above any negativity that comes your way. Don't give in to the quick attitudes and refuse to dip into anger. Remember who you are in Christ, and what He has promised to you. Those little cares of the world mean nothing when compared to eternity. Don't let them keep you from walking in your eternal bliss.

Verse of the Day: The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? Psalm 118:6

Oh, Wait... It Is Christmas!

The holiday  mood hasn't gotten to me yet it seems. I only started Christmas shopping on Sunday. I guess with all of the homework, games, and other things going on, I didn't realize how close the holiday is.

Yesterday I attended two holiday parties which were polar opposites of each other. Thankfully, the second one was the one I really enjoyed, and that put me into a more festive holiday mood.

As a believer in Christ, Christmas automatically means more to me than presents, good food, and a tree. It means that my Savior chose to come down in the humble form of a man to save humanity from their sins. It means that God became what He created in order to save it from certain death.

What a love!

Now that I am in the holiday spirit, I am looking at ways I can choose to show love. Just as Jesus showed the greatest love in coming and dying for us, we too can show love to others. We can choose to go out of our way for someone else. We can choose to go above and beyond to let someone else feel the love of God. We can choose to give instead of receive.

As this year comes to a close, let's purpose in our hearts to exemplify Christ's self-less love. Not everyone has a loving family, money for gifts, or even a place to put a tree. Not everyone can say they will have a Merry Christmas.

With the love that we show to those we do not know we can bring more than just cheer. We can introduce a love that lasts far beyond the Christmas season. It's a gift that keeps giving for all eternity.

Verse of the Day: A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. John 13:34

Ceaseless Communication

In I Thessalonians 5:17 we are told to Pray without ceasing. We are to be in communication with the Lord at all times, without stopping, no interruptions.

How many of us truly keep up with this command?

Anybody?

No one?

We basically don't even attempt ceaseless prayer because we don't see how we can do any one thing ceaselessly but breathe - and we do that automatically.

However, the premise of this verse is played out in our lives more than we think. We just don't apply it to prayer.

Many of us give ceaseless attention to our phones. I know my phone is the first thing I check when I wake up, and the last thing I look at before I go to sleep. It never leaves my side during the day, and I am always checking it for updates. Let's not even talk about what happens if I forget it somewhere. It's ceaselessly a part of my day.

Others of us give our ceaseless attention to that special man or woman in our lives. We think about them constantly: wondering how they're doing, anticipating the next time we'll see them, thinking of ways to make them feel special. They are constantly on our minds.

Then there are those of us who ceaselessly give our focus to our jobs. We wake up with the job on the brain, spend all of our time at the job, and constantly think about our work. Ceaseless!

There are many other items that can be placed in that slot. Yet what should be taking precedence is our relationship with the Father.

He is who should be the first person we think about in the morning. It should be Him we are looking to for guidance as we go about our day. When issues arise, it is He who we should talk to. As we go through our day, we should be looking for ways to show Him love in how we live.

Jesus modeled this principle perfectly. He was a man who lived a life of prayer. He did nothing unless He got the okay or example from the Father. As a result, He lived a life of focused purpose. Never once do you see Jesus worried, afraid, lost, or depressed. He stayed on target and was able to fulfill His life's mission without extra time or detours.

Who knows how much our lives could improve if we just took on an attitude of constant communication with God?

Today, make the effort to put this verse into practice. Before you check in on the apps on your phone, text a friend, call that special someone, take on another project at work, or do whatever it is that snatches most of your time during the day, have a conversation with your Heavenly Father. Ask Him what's on His heart for you today. Listen for His words of love and give Him some in return.

He wouldn't ask us to consistently stay connected if it wasn't for our good. Let's put that word to work!

Verse of the Day: Pray without ceasing. I Thessalonians 5:17

Thanksgiving Friday!

Good morning! It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, and I will rejoice and be glad in it!

Today I'm thankful that my Theology Class is OVER!!!! I finished my paper, took my final, and now I can let that thing go. I didn't do as well on the final as I had hoped, so now I'm thinking that I'm going to get a high B. We'll see what my teacher gives me. I'm grateful for what I've learned, but I am happy to get my life back! That class was very demanding.

I'm also thankful today for answered prayer. I had a couple requests up before the Lord that I wanted to see happen before the end of the year, and one of them was answered yesterday! I'm so happy for God opening the door. And this was out of nowhere! God does everything for a reason, and He's never let me down. Thank you Lord for hearing my heart's cry.

Finally, I'm thankful for wisdom. God has allowed me to be the voice of wisdom for a few of my friends and co-workers, and it's so awesome to see the Word that I've planted in my heart is producing fruit that is helping to benefit other people's lives. The word we meditate on isn't always for ourselves, sometimes it's to help out someone else.

What are you thankful for this week? What has God been doing for you? Make sure you give God some thanks and praise!

Verse of the Day: I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. Psalm 118:5

How Are You?

So, I've been up all night, up all morning and my paper is.... not finished. Womp. I only have one page left, but still... So, here I am at work, half-sleep and counting down til I have to take another crack at finishing. Moving on...

How are you?

No, really. How are you? Have you sat down and considered it lately? I'm not talking about your current state of emotion. I'm talking about the very core of your being. What's going on inside? What feeling do you get when you are alone and still? - How are you?

A lot of times we are so busy living life that we don't take time to assess our mental, physical, emotional state while we're going through life.

Are you happy? Sad? Disappointed? Depressed? Tired? Joyful? Content? Indifferent? Hopeless? Lonely?

Take some time to get a clue as to what's going on with you. Any answer in the negative, you probably need to sit down with the Father and figure out how to change that situation around.

You're not here to just exist. You have a genuine purpose to fulfill. And while you're out here living it, you are supposed to be full of life of Christ! (John 10:10) God's life brings joy, peace, contentment, and fulfillment. If you're not experiencing these things - there's a disconnect somewhere.

Don't just let life wash over you. Don't let what you're going through affect your life in Christ. Don't just put on a brave face every day and ignore your own inner cries for help.

Jesus wants you to stay full of joy. With joy (notice it's not happiness, but joy), you receive peace and contentment. It's a wonderful way to live.

If you're not living your life with joy and peace, get before the throne of God and ask Him to show you how to get there. Ask Him to guide you back into His fulfilling way of life.

Verse of the Day: These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15:11

Reading is Fundamental

The Lord is good, and his mercy endureth forever.

I am surrounded by journal articles, textbooks, and notes. How about I didn't realize unil yesterday that my paper is due today! (I thought it was due Friday.) So, I am squeezing it all in right now trying for that A!

Will post something more substantial later!

No Words

"Lord, I don't know what to say."

This has been my excuse for not witnessing on many occasions. I'll have it in my heart to go and witness or I'll see someone that I could talk to, but I just don't have the guts to go and open my mouth simply because I tell myself I don't know what to say.

I've never been that outgoing, so striking up conversations with random people has always been a challenge for me. Adding Christ into the mix?? That's an uphill battle I would rather not climb.

Now, if someone enters the house of God looking for salvation, I have no problem pointing them to Jesus. I can talk anyone's ear off inside the church. But that's not where it really counts. Jesus said go into the world and preach, not sit in the pew and wait for them to come to you. (Mark 16:15)

The Holy Spirit has convicted me about my attitude. I have the King of Kings sitting inside of me, and I'm afraid to have a conversation. There are no words.

When God called Moses to go before Pharaoh, Moses brought up his inability to speak. God told him that He would be with Moses' mouth and would show him what to say. How much more will the Holy Spirit help us when we call on Him?

Maybe you're like me and don't jump to witness since you don't know what to say. Or maybe you're staying silent out of fear of what the other person will say. Maybe witnessing as you're out and about doesn't even occur to you.

Whatever your excuse, don't let the work of the Kingdom be hindered by your inaction. I am leaning on the Holy Spirit to guide my lips and trusting that the King inside of me will stand up when I open my mouth. We can't let fear of man keep us from advancing God's Kingdom on the earth. Man cannot get us into heaven or hell, but our message could save their souls from eternal damnation.

We have to be a witness. We can't stay silent. So, let's all put down our excuses, go out into the world, and be God's mouthpiece.

Verse of the Day: And the LORD said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the LORD? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. Exodus 4:11, 12

Offended?

Sometimes as we go through our day people offend us and we don't let our offense be known. The issue may not be worthy of mentioning or the circumstances were not right to acknowledge the slight. Yet, inside our hearts the offense remains, festering and hardening into a knot of unforgiveness.

Those slight offenses build up bringing with them bitterness, anger, and the spirit of the grudge. They change how we act toward the people who have offended us. They keep us from acting in real love towards those around us.

Most concerning, however, is how these offenses hinder us from a genuine relationship with the Father. Unforgiveness keeps us out of the will of God. It blocks our own forgiveness, and keeps us from our blessings. (Matthew 6:15)

Don't let yourself get fooled into thinking that holding onto a grudge isn't sin. Just because you haven't openly addressed your anger does not mean that it does not exist. If anything, the hidden anger does more damage, eating away at your heart and causing damage to your spirit. Eventually that damage leaks into your behavior and causes you to act in ways that are not pleasing to the Lord.

God sees straight to your heart. He sees all the "knots" of unforgiveness. He can recognize the grudges you secretly hold. Nothing is hidden from Him.

So, today, take some time to examine your heart. Are you holding on to secret offenses? Are you harboring unforgiveness?

Don't let another day pass without you releasing those things to the Father. Choose to forgive and move on. Allow the spirit to ease the pain of your offense and release you into the freedom of being in right standing with Him.

Verse of the Day: Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8

Today Is Your Day!

It's a new day! You're in a new place facing something you've never faced before. You have the opportunity to do something new, achieve something you never have, go somewhere you've never gone.

God woke you up on purpose this morning. He has kept you alive to fulfill something for His Kingdom. It's up to you to get with Him and figure out just what that is. Don't think of today as just any ordinary day.

Philip was in his lane, preaching the gospel and bringing souls into the Kingdom when an angel spoke to him and interrupted his flow. Philip's obedience to the angel led him to a man of great influence who he led to the Lord. And when Philip's work was done, he was caught up in the spirit to a whole different city! (Acts 8:29-40)

Who knows what God wants to do with you today?

Today could be your day to receive your blessing. Today could be your day to be a blessing. Today, a new door of promise could open. Today your purpose could come into fruition.

No matter what, today is your day! Grab hold to it, get with God, and make the most of these 24 hours. Expect greatness. Look for the miraculous. Anticipate with joy God's movement on behalf.

You're not sitting there breathing for nothing, God's going to use you today!

Verse of the Day: Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance. In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted. Psalm 89:15, 16

Thanksgiving Friday!

Hello, Blessed and Highly Favored of God! I pray  you have enjoyed a fabulous week! I woke up this morning to snow on my car!!! Had to break out the snow brush and drive slow. I guess winter has finally arrived in the Chi.

This week I am grateful that I only have one more week of class left! I'm so serious. This has been the most challenging one yet. I'm teetering on the edge of a B or an A, so I'm pushing hard to do well on this research paper and final exam. Pray for me, saints!

I'm also thankful for God's anointing power. It's so amazing how God has anointed us for our purpose in Him. We have the exact gifting and talent necessary to achieve our life's work for the Kingdom. It may take a little more training, experience, and knowledge getting on our part, but the foundation God has given us is sure. We're already ready!

Lastly, I'm thankful for unexpected blessings. I was unexpectedly blessed a couple of times this week, and it always makes me smile. God always finds a way to show me He loves me. Now I'm looking for opportunities to show unexpected blessings to someone else. It's even better to give love than to receive it sometimes.

What are you thankful for this week? Make sure you take a moment and show the Lord your gratitude!

Verse of the Day: Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple. Psalm 65:4

Step Out of the Boat

Yesterday I talked about following the Holy Spirit's voice and having the faith to go and do something extraordinary.

Peter did this when he saw Jesus walking on the water in the midst of a storm. (Matthew 14) For a moment, Peter had a clear vision of who God was and what He is able to accomplish. Peter put his faith out there, and when Jesus told him to walk on the water, Peter did just that.

Can you imagine how exhilarated Peter must have felt as he walked on water?! As long as Peter stayed focused on Christ, he was able to continue to work in the miraculous. Yet, the very second Peter started paying attention to the wind and waves bustling around him, he began to sink.

Maybe you had your moment of clear vision and stepped out onto the water yourself. Maybe you heard the voice of the Lord and followed His call. You might know the exhilaration of working in the miraculous.

And maybe you, like Peter, started noticing the signals from the world that what you were doing was impossible. Maybe you paid too much attention to doubt and fear as you got further from your place of security. Perhaps you know what it's like to start to sink.

That's no reason to give up. It's no excuse to never get out of the boat again.

Peter went on to become one of the strongest leaders for the early church. It was he who preached the first sermon after Jesus went back to heaven. He was the one who participated in the working of miracles on the temple steps. He helped organize and put together the workings of the church.

Don't let past errors keep you from future victories! Learn from what you have gone through, build up your faith, and step out again with Jesus. He will always be there to catch you, and as you stay focused on Him, He will lead you to your place of miracles.

Verse of the Day: And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. Matthew 14:28, 29

Follow God's Lead

The Holy Spirit at times will prompt us to say or do something out of the ordinary. It may be something huge like starting a business or something as simple as starting a conversation with a stranger on the bus. But, no matter what the Holy Spirit prompts us to do, it's in our best interest to listen.

Many times, however, we tend to second guess that Inner Voice. We rationalize why we can't start a business right now. Or we look at factors as to why we can't possibly be hearing right - that person is sporting a major attitude, and it doesnt' look like they want to talk to anybody on this bus.

But amazing things can happen when we step outside of our comfort zones and follow the Lord's lead.

When Moses followed God's voice, he was able to become one of the greatest leaders the nation of Israel has ever had. Esther's obedience to God's will caused her to preserve her kinsmen from certain death. Samuel's answer to God's voice enabled him to become one of the greatest prophets to walk on the earth.

What is the Holy Spirit telling you to do? What has He dropped in your spirit? Are you listening and acting on His word? Or, are you creating excuses for not listening?

God wants to do great things with you and through you! Follow His lead, He will only steer you into success. The fact that you haven't done something before should be your motivation to act. When you do something you've never done, you get a result you've never had. And with God, that result can only be epic greatness.

Verse of the Day: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. John 16:13

Work The Word!

Last night I took some time to exercise my faith and confess the Word. I had to face some difficult issues yesterday, and I knew that before I went to sleep, I needed to strengthen my spirit. So, I took out the Word and reminded the Lord and myself of what He had spoken over my life and the life of my family.

It was David's remembrance of God's Word that helped him when he was facing hardships and trouble. The book of Psalms is full of David's prayers where he clung to God's Word to sustain him.

Jesus was able to endure the temptation of satan by His continued dependence on God's Word. With every situation the devil presented, Jesus was able to overcome it with the Word of God.

It is in God's Word that we are to put our trust. (Proverbs 30:5) It is His Word that never fails. (Isaiah 55:11) His Word will bring life, order, and blessing. (John 6:63)

It is our job to work the Word. Our faith to believe, confess, and meditate on the Word brings about the changes we seek. We have to grab onto what God has spoken over our lives. Whether it's a written Scripture, a Word received during quiet moments of prayer, or a prophetic Word, we have to put our active faith in agreement with it. We can't just let it lie dormant.

What Word of God are you using to activate your blessing? What Word are you standing on in faith? What Scripture are you holding onto that speaks to your situation?

Make sure you are keeping God's Word on your lips!

Verse of the Day: This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Joshua 1:8

Giving Back

During the holidays, most people remember about giving back to those in need. Charities see an uptick in donations and volunteers, churches host food/toy drives, and neighborhoods band together to sponsor Christmases for families in need.

As Christians, it is our responsibility to think of those less fortunate all the time. Jesus instructed us that when we show love to a stranger in need, we are actually showing love to Him.

Today I was thinking about the last time I gave to a stranger in need. Nowadays, people give to the places that they know, ones that they can be assured won't mess around with their donation. You know, their church, this particular charity (because those other ones can't be trusted), this family, that particular cause. We can't be just throwing our goodwill around to just anybody.

But it is those we don't know that could be the ones in the greatest need. It's the face that we don't recognize that could be the most blessed by our love.

Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you this holiday season. Instead of putting money in the red pot outside the mall, He may lead you to a young lady inside the mall scouring through the clearance rack. The Lord may stop you from writing your annual check to your favorite charity and have you drop off some cash in someone's mailbox instead.

In all things we are to be led by God. Even our charitable work can be a time for the miraculous. Our giving back can create moments for the glory of God.

Don't let this season pass without checking what the Holy Spirit would want you to do. He may show you a new path that will bring much greater joy to the Kingdom.

Verse of the Day: Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Matthew 25:34-36

Thanksgiving Friday

Happy Friday, Everyone! We made it to the end of another great week. God is so good.

This week I'm thankful for another year of life. I'm grateful for what I've learned this year, how I've grown, the friends I've made, and the experiences I've had. God has blessed me so much.

It's true there are some things that I would like to have done by now. I would like to be married or at least engaged. I would like to have done some more things in the ministry. Yet, I won't complain. In fact, looking at some of the people who are in the places where I'd like to be and seeing the challenges they are facing, I can hold off for a while. God knows when I'll be ready.

I'm also thankful for the will to carry on. This week has been trying with work, volunteer activities, homework, and family items all cluttering up every minute. I seriously thought about just loosening the reigns and trying for a 'B' instead of an 'A' in this class I'm taking. (I really am tired, ya'll.) BUT, I have the will to carry on. I am continuing to press toward the mark! I'm grateful for the strength God is giving me.

Finally, I'm thankful for the Word. It is truly a light unto my path right now. The Word is reminding me of God's goodness, and it's keeping me focused on my end goal: Victory!

What are you thankful for today? How has God been blessing you? Go ahead and give God some praise!

Verse of the Day:  I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Psalm 27:13

Greatness of the Word

This morning I've been meditating on the first chapter of John. I've been focusing particularly on the aspect of Jesus being the Word:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men... And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:1-4, 14

Jesus Christ is God's Word. He is the Word that helped create the heavens and the earth. He is the Word that enacted an everlasting covenant with Abraham. He is the Word that established God's law with Israel.

Jesus is the physical manifestation of the Word that revealed God to Samuel. He is the Word that revealed truths to Jeremiah and the prophets.

It is this Word that established the early church. Because of the Word thousands were added to the Kingdom, miracles were performed, and bondages were broken. The Word enabled the Gentiles to be freed from the snares of sin.

This same Word - Jesus - dwells on the inside of you as a believer. The Word that spoke and healed the centurion's servant has given you power and authority. (Luke 10:19) The same Word that said "peace be still" and the winds and waves ceased storming, has said that you can do greater works than that. (John  14:12)

What have you been doing with the Word that lies on the inside of you? What life have you brought to seemingly dead situations? What greater works have you done because of the Word that you hold?

We have so many benefits because of our faith in Christ! Yet, if we don't act on those benefits, if we don't take advantage of our privileges, we won't see the miraculous.

If Peter hadn't stepped out of the house and preached the Word on the day of Pentecost, thousands of souls would not have come to know Jesus. If Paul and Silas had stayed silent in the jail cell, a whole household would have missed out on heaven's promise.

Imagine what could be lacking if you don't act on the Word that lies on the inside of you. Think of how many situations in your own life that can be changed if you apply the Word to them in faith.

You have a powerful, precious gift. Use it! Why settle for what is 'normal' or what everyone else has? As a Christian, you have the ability to lead an extraordinary life. Well, go on and live it! Use the Word!

Verse of the Day: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name... John 1:12

Pulling On Joy, Again

This morning, it took everything in me to get out of bed. I am so exhausted! (It's not from partying, either.) Yet, I still had responsibilities, and I pressed in to work. Right now I'm willing myself to make it through today. Pray my strength...

But one thing I'm aiming to do is to not complain. I'm trying to become a person that is always a light of joy, so that others can be blessed by the joy of the Lord they see in me. So, I'm casting this burden on the Lord, and letting Him care for me.

I wrote a post a while ago that's appropriate for today. And, to be honest, my brain is so tired, it's taking some effort to string these few sentences together. I hope you enjoy and have a blessed day!

---------

With all of the chaos that’s going on in the world today, it may be a bit hard to find some joy. It’s so easy to focus on everything that seems to be going wrong: the job you can’t find, the money you don’t have, the inspiration that you’ve lost… How can one find joy in the midst of so much despair?


I love the scripture that where it talks about David encouraging himself in the Lord. (I Samuel 30:6) Often encouragement comes down to us deliberately choosing to look past the problem and see the God that is always there. No matter what we go through, God is always orchestrating things for our good. We just get so caught up in the process that we tend to disregard the positives sometimes.

Don’t let this happen to you. Whenever you feel despair knocking at your door, block it out by remembering the goodness of the Lord. Remember how He helped you overcome obstacles in times past. Remember where He sent unexpected blessings in your time of need. Think of how He sent His mercy when you knew you deserved punishment. Take heart in how he rescued you from destruction.

God is so good! And He is the same God today that He was when He walked you through all of those other valleys of darkness. Don’t lose hope! Reach deep inside and pull up some joy! The joy of the Lord will give you the strength to make it through! (Nehemiah 8:10)

Verse of the Day: Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

Go, Ti! It's Your Birthday!

Brownies!
My bday 'cake'...

I am praising God for another year of life!

God is sooo good! I've seen some doors close, but a lot more have opened. God has proven His faithfulness, and kept me in perfect peace. I have no reason to complain.

I've had a year of great health: No hospital visits, no prescriptions, no real trauma in my body. Grateful!

I've moved to new employment: I'm loving what I'm doing, couldn't find a better commute, and I get to have a life!

I have family and friends who love me: No matter how I may act, my family and friends show me so much love. God has truly blessed me with a group of people who have enriched, blessed, and inspired my life.

I am reaching for my dreams: This blog is doing so well. Thank you all for reading, commenting, and supporting! I am thankful for all of you! It's so humbling that you all choose to visit every day to get some spiritual refreshment. Thank you!
I'm also grateful for the fabulously wonderfully gifted, smart, and motivated teenagers that the Lord has placed in my care. Helping them grow in their Christian walk has pushed me to a higher level of accountability, and I'm proud to take on the challenge.

This coming year is going to be just as awesome. I'm expecting great things from God. I'm also expecting to do great things for God. He has blessed me more than I deserve, and I am happy He has called me His own.

I pray you all have a blessed day too! (Afternoon Ti, anyone? We still need to get our devotion on! I'll be back later.)

Verse of the Day: (My favorite!) For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jeremiah 29:11

Go On And Do It!

Good Morning and Happy Monday! I hope your holiday weekend was as pleasant as mine (minus the two days spent at the library). I enjoyed some good food, my family, and friends. Now, let my busy week begin!

When the Lord called Gideon to deliver the Israelites, Gideon was so skeptical that the Lord was with him. Gideon questioned God picking him. He balked at even considering that the Lord would favor him. Gideon's insecurity led him to test God several times with fleece.

Yet God went along with Gideon's tests. He showed Gideon that He was with him and assured Gideon that He was working with him. And once Gideon started acting on God's call, you never saw Gideon wavering again. What you did see was the miraculous working of the Lord through Gideon's hands.

Many of us have heard the call of the Lord ourselves. We've tried to question whether God really wanted to use us. We've tried to offer up our own little "tests" to prove that God is really with us.

But how many of us move past the questioning stage? How many of us actually step out in faith once God proves that He's with us?

Is there anyone still in bondage because we're too afraid to step out in faith? Are you missing out on experiencing miracles because of your fear?

Don't miss out on your destiny because of fear! God may have called you to do something so extraordinary, unheard of, and peculiar... but if God's asking you to do it - you can't expect anything but spectacular results!

Your life is supposed to be full of God's glory, but if you aren't doing what God is asking, how can His glory shine through?

Verse of the Day: And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour. And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.
And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee? And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house. And the LORD said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man. Judges 6:12-16

I'm Thankful Today

Today is turning out to be one CRAZY day! I have been running around since I landed at work. I'm just now getting to sit down and settle my thoughts.

Today I would like to share some things I am thankful for:
- I am alive! God is good.
- I still have my health and strength.
- My father is still alive and has not gotten any worse. I would love to see improvement, but I am grateful to have my daddy on this side of heaven.
- I have amazing family members and loved ones who would go out of their way to help me and make me happy. - I love you guys!
- I'm blessed to work at a job I enjoy. So grateful.
- Jesus loves me. - Sounds cliche', but it's really the most important thing of all.

What are you thankful for this week?

Have a Happy Thanksgiving! Don't hurt yourself at the table on Thursday or in your wallet on Friday! I'll be back on Monday.

Verse of the Day:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!

His faithful love endures forever.

Give thanks to the God of gods.

His faithful love endures forever.

Give thanks to the Lord of lords.

His faithful love endures forever.

...

He remembered us in our weakness.

His faithful love endures forever.

He saved us from our enemies.

His faithful love endures forever.

He gives food to every living thing.

His faithful love endures forever.

Give thanks to the God of heaven.

His faithful love endures forever.

Psalm 136:1-3, 23-26

Woke Up This Morning With My Mind On Jesus!

This morning I woke up at four in the morning. I repeat - FOUR - in the morning!

For a girl who sets her alarm for 6:30, but doesn't get out of bed til 7ish... this might have been an issue.

But as I laid there, a song was ringing through my spirit that tells of love for our Savior. As I lay in my bed, I realized that there was a reason why I was awake. Instead of rolling over and trying to get a couple more hours of sleep, I allowed my heart to sing it's song, and I meditated on the goodness of the Lord. I even took some time to talk with the Father.

It's amazing what love will do. It has a way of overtaking your entire being. I remember times when I was crushing on certain boys - I would stay up late daydreaming about them, think about them during the day, anticipate our next time seeing each other. My every spare moment was spent consumed with how much I was head over heels.

How much more should we be thinking about the love of our Father? Like David, we should long to dwell in God's presence all the time. (Psalm 27:4) We should anticipate spending time with Him. Our heart's should be full of longing for His touch.


It was so good to bask in the presence of the Lord this morning. And you know what? Right now I'm not even sleepy or tired. I'm wide awake and ready for the day. My morning worship has set the tone for my day, and my spirit is already primed and listening for the Lord's voice. My whole demeanor is another place. God is good!

Do you wake up bright and early to worship? Or, do you fellowship with God in the evenings? Although I'm a morning devotion girl, I usually spend that quality time in the evenings. After this morning, though, I might just consider switching up my routine. Either way, there's something about spending time with God.

The next time you wake up at an odd hour, don't just roll back over... It might be the perfect time for you to spend with the Lord.

Verse of the Day: O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.  Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Psalm 63:1-3

Thanksgiving WEEK!

Okay, before we break out our Black Friday schedules, Christmas decorations, and holiday songs, we need to take some time to remember that holiday that comes before Christmas: Thanksgiving.

Showing how appreciative we are of the people around us, the blessings we have, and the love that we share is important. None of us really deserve anything. But the Lord saw fit to bless us with so much. The least we can do is stop and show some gratitude.

When Jesus performed a miracle for the ten lepers only one took the time to come back and thank Him. I'm sure the other nine were grateful to Jesus as well, but it was the one that showed his gratefulness that impressed Jesus. The former leper returned because he realized that Jesus was the Christ, the living God. With this realization, he wasn't only healed, he was made whole.

When you take the time to consider the blessings you have, you can't help but recognize the hand of God on your life. When you think about where you could be and how your life should be going, you can't help but see the greatness of God's work in your life.

And in those moments when you stop to give praise and thanksgiving, you open up yourself to the Spirit's ability to make you whole. When your heart is uplifted towards heaven, the Lord can do a greater work on your inner man to bring you closer to Him and change you more and more into His image.

So, don't just let this week breeze by! Make sure your days this week are sprinkled with moments of thankful praise!

Verse of the Day: And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?  There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. Luke 17:15-19

Thanksgiving Friday!

Happy Friday, Everyone!

This week I am thankful for God's wisdom. I have been juggling so much, and just to be able to know what to do, when to do it, and what to leave alone has been a blessing. Looking at how some people are overwhelmed, stressed, and breaking down... I am grateful that I have peace of mind in the midst of all of the things swirling around me.

I am also thankful for open doors. God is showing His favor for me. I have run across some great people and some great information that is helping me so much in my purpose. I am also finally getting the confidence to walk through some doors that God's been holding open for me for a while now. I may have been apprehensive before, but I am taking on God's boldness! I'm so excited about what God has given me the privilege to do for Him.

Finally, I'm grateful for love. I am reveling in the love of the Father. I may not have a man, boyfriend, or boo, but I am blessed by the Best: I am loved by pure Love itself. There's nothing better.

Enjoy your weekend!

Verse of the Day: And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:16, 18

Big God

This morning I've just been meditating on the goodness of God. We serve such a big God, and yet He still takes interest in our individual lives. It's still so amazing to me!

He doesn't have to pay attention to us, listen to our prayers, or even give us the time of day. We are so far beneath His awesome power, wisdom, and holiness. Yet He still loved us so much He sent His Son to die so that we could spend eternity with Him.

We serve such a Big God. He's big in grace, big in love, big in splendor, big in holiness... And He takes care of us with big mercy. I am just bubbling over with gratefulness this morning!

How can we not show the Father our love and devotion? How can we not dedicate ourselves to serve Him? How can we not tell everyone we know about the benefits of His love and what He has done for us?

Lord, I stand in awe of You because of your greatness. I stand in awe of you because of Your love for me. I stand in awe of You because of Your righteousness. You are awesome! You are mighty! You are miraculous!

And I am honored to call You my Father. I am honored to be able to approach Your throne. I am honored that You want me near You.

Be magnified in my life. Be magnified in the earth. Lord, I give you praise.

Verse of the Day: Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. Psalm 103:1-5

Blessed By the Best!

Every time you ask my grandmother how she's doing, she'll reply with a smile, "I'm blessed by the Best!" She knows who she is and who she belongs to. No matter what comes her way, she knows that her Heavenly Father is taking care of her.

When you think about it, that is a perfect way of looking at life. No matter how people may act up, disappoint, and cause things to be difficult for you, the Lord of Heaven is still blessing you. I'd bet you'd rather Him take care of you than any human being you can find on this planet.

Yet, it's so easy to forget when the cares of the world get in the way. We tend to focus on how so-and-so overlooked us, how our friends mistreated us, and the let downs we experience from people we care about. We focus on the pain, hurt, and frustration we feel from those around us.

However, there's a God within us who shows us perfect love. He loves us the best, He rewards us the best, He never forgets about us, He's always there no matter what. Even when we are the ones who overlook, mistreat, and let Him down, He still shows us unconditional love.

Isn't that the best?

So, put on a smile today no matter how those folks around you act! Keep a positive outlook no matter how it may seem to be cloudy in your sphere. The Best of the Best is in love with you! You are truly blessed.

Verse of the Day: The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love... Jeremiah 31:3a

Strength for Today

So, last night and this morning my phone was ringing - I was being called to do my most dreaded part of my job. This morning when the phone rang, I actually had to pull on my Heavenly Father's strength. "Lord, give me strength to handle today" were my first words of the day.

In that moment the Holy Spirit showed me exactly what to do, and I felt the weight of everything lift off of my shoulders. God is so good.

The Lord will never give us more than we can handle. He wants to take on our heavy burdens and make things more bearable for us.  However, if we're not giving Him our all, if we're not including Him in every facet of our lives, we're holding everything forcing ourselves to deal with the stress and work of it all.

The Lord just wants to be included. He wants to show you how powerful He is. He wants to display His wisdom and knowledge to you. He wants you to experience miracles every day.

However, if you're not opening the door to let Him in and you're choosing to shoulder all of it yourself, you're missing your chance to experience the Lord's sweet rest.

So, no matter what pops up in your path today, make sure you pull on the Father's grace and ability to help you. Allow His wisdom to influence your decisions, let His power take on your challenges. Give Him the opportunity to handle your heavy burdens. He's ready, willing, and able. Don't deny Him the pleasure of assisting you.

Verse of the Day: I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1, 2

New Stuff!

Hey Everyone, I added some info about myself to the blog! I figured it was only right. I've been blogging for about a year now, time to get to know me a bit better. So, click on the "About Me" tab and enjoy!

Great Sacrifice

I've been studying Christ for my Theology class, and it is truly amazing what He did for us.

Jesus was GOD, living in heaven's splendor, enjoying the benefits of being omnipotent and omniscient. He did not know what it meant to want for anything. He had legions of angels singing His praises and ready at His disposal. He had never experienced temptation, hunger, thirst or pain. He was surrounded by riches. He was immortal, and could have rested in glory unfazed by what was going on with that tiny little planet called Earth.

Yet He chose to come down out of His splendor... for you.

Jesus could have chosen to be born to a queen living in some semblance of splendor (what splendor really compares to heaven?). But He chose to come the humblest route, born in a manger because his parents couldn't find room in a hotel. He grew up the son of a lowly carpenter, doing work with His hands, sweating over sawdust and wood.

The Son of God - who spoke and things were made - chose to live a life full of hard work... for you.

Jesus submitted Himself to be tempted by the devil - His nemesis, the very creature that had single-handedly started the destruction of the world Jesus had helped create. Jesus withstood the devil's daggers, doubts, and temptations because He had a bigger goal in mind.

This was all before Jesus got to the cross! Would you have given up heaven, the very things that made you God just for some folks who turned their back on you at their first chance? Would you have gotten off your throne knowing more than half the people you were giving up your glory for would question every facet of your existence?

Thinking on the great sacrifice Jesus gave for us, even before He reached the cross, let's make sure we live our lives showing proper gratitude and love. It's the least we can do.

Verse of the Day: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. John 1:1-5

Thanksgiving Friday!

Today I'm thankful for the men and women who have served and gave their lives for our nation. Because of their sacrifice, we can live in freedom! Thank you, Lord for giving us people like them.

I'm also thankful for having the day off! Thus, the abbreviated post...

What are you thankful for today? Give God some praise!

What's Your Witness Saying?

Paul and Silas had been whipped, put in stocks, and thrown in the deepest part of prison. Yet they were not despondent. They did were not angry. They did not lose hope.

In fact they were so full with the joy of the Lord that they burst into praise and worship. As they sang praises to God, He was moved to deliver them from their situation. Their chains were miraculously loosed. The very ones who had beaten them, dressed their wounds and set them free. More importantly, a whole household came into the Kingdom of God.

What is holding you prisoner right now? Who has wrongfully "beaten" you and tried to put you in bondage? How are you responding? What is coming out of your mouth? What actions are you taking?

Often it is our greatest trials that will produce our greatest witness. When we are at our lowest points, our true character shines through. David chose to honor God rather than take revenge on Saul. Daniel chose to face death at the hands of lions rather than abandon his worship of the Lord. Jesus forgave the people while he languished on the cross. Paul and Silas sang praises while they were imprisoned.

Are you so full of God's joy that others can't help but hear your praises and worship to your Father? Is God witnessing your faithful spirit in the midst of your pain? Are your oppressors being moved to repentance because of the way you respond to injustice?

Or is your response like everyone else?

Verse of the Day:
And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.
And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
Acts 16:25-30

Take Refuge in HIS Strength

As soon as Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, they realized they were naked. (Genesis 3:7) Their sin removed them from the covering glory of God, and they saw their vulnerability.

Have you ever thought on it?

Human beings are naturally the most vulnerable creatures on the planet. We don't have thick fur, feathers, scales, quills, or leathery skin to shield us from the elements. We are smooth-bodied creatures who had to create our own coverings to help us navigate through earth.

We were created to exist within the glory of God. As long as Adam and Eve were living in God's glory, they weren't aware to their vulnerabilities. They didn't realize how weak they were. God was strong among them. He covered and shielded them from what they naturally could not combat. He supernaturally provided a world that worked with them to give them fruitful results.

Sin separated them from God and opened them up to the enemy's domain. At that moment, sickness and dis-ease were able to enter in. Adam and Eve would have to experience toil, stress, and pain. Death was now certain.

A Redeemer had to be found to re-establish the balance.

Christ is that Redeemer. Because of Him were are able to be enveloped by the presence of God like Adam and Eve were. We may not have the full benefits that they did in the garden, but the presence of God surrounds us all day. Whatever we come up against, the power of the Lord is there to assist us. No matter what way the enemy tries to attack us, our God is a standard against him.

However, many of us are too worried about how vulnerable we appear to be, and we don't employ our strength in God. We see what we can't do, how we can't win, what we don't have... We're too busy seeing how "naked" we are instead of grabbing hold of the one who can clothe us with His power and strength.

Don't neglect your spiritual covering! Grab hold to the One who created you and release hold of your shame. God made you for a purpose, don't let the enemy snatch that away. No matter what comes, God wants to establish His greatness in you.

Verse of the Day: I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. Psalm 18:1-3

Staying on Track

This morning I woke up asking God to help me serve with patience and love today. I repeated it as I did my hair. I sent up another quick word as I logged on to my computer at work.

I need to keep myself reminded, so I can stay on task when the moments arise. I used to keep little notes posted in my cubicle at my old office. It always helps to randomly look up and see the Word of the Lord staring you in the face. Kinda keeps you on your toes.

I should probably set some reminders up in this office pretty soon... Scratch that, today.

David consistently reminded himself of the things of God when He faced adversity. Whatever came His way, David encouraged himself in the Lord. (1 Samuel 30:6) When he was feeling weak, he reminded himself of the strength of God who was with him. (Psalm 89:8) When David was afraid, he brought to his thoughts the security of the Lord. (Psalm 9:9) As David wrestled with sin, He looked to the heavens for inspiration to stay on the right road. (Psalm 6:2)

It takes an effort to stay on the right path. We so easily slip into sin sometimes when we get overwhelmed. That's why it's important to keep the word of the Lord ever before us. It should be ringing in our ears, marinating in our hearts, and on a constant playback in our minds.

How do you stay reminded of who you are in Christ? How do you keep yourself from slipping into reckless behavior?

Verse of the Day: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Psalm 119:11

Nice to be Needed?

Can you guys at least
get in a single file line?

Lately, I've been feeling a bit needed lately. It seems like no matter where I go: home, work, church - even with friends - I'm being asked to do something. Everyone needs me. You do this so well... Yours always is right... I wouldn't even know where to begin... You're so creative...

I mean, it's nice to know that people recognize your strengths, but I haven't had the chance to relax and just be! I can't sit and chill without fulfilling some request first it seems.

As a result, I haven't been my usual self. And I find complaints slipping out of my mouth on a more regular basis. Plus, a lot of what I'm being asked to do is not being done with the right attitude. I realize I need to take a step back and look at the example of Jesus.

Jesus was the man. No matter where he went, crowds showed up. They were ever-present with their questions to be answered, their sick that needed to be healed, their demons that needed to be cast out, their spirits that needed to be enriched. And even when Jesus was able to get away from the crowds, he had to deal with the questions from his disciples.

Yet Jesus knew what was necessary to retain His sanity. He would take time away to Himself to pray with the Father. (Matthew 14:22, John 6:15) He also served from a position of love. Even when he was tired, he was moved with compassion by all who came to Him for help. (Matthew 9:36, Mark 6:34)

If I stay in right relationship with the Father, I can be constantly reminded that my life is not my own. I am not here to serve my own wants, but I am here to serve on God's behalf. If I remind myself of the love that He has for me, I can show that same love to all the people that look to me for help whether it's a small or large request.

It may take me a minute to fully grasp this truth, but I will definitely try. I don't want to turn into a mean old lady. Plus, I want to live a life of love. Jesus is my example, and if He was able to deal with all the demands on His life and still be filled with compassion, I can at least make the effort to do so as well.

Pray my strength...

Verse of the Day: And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. Matthew 14:14

Thanksgiving Friday!

God is an awesome God! I'm so blessed to know Him!

How was your week? Mine was short. These classes are making the days fly by. I'm so busy, it's like the hours are minutes! But I'm grateful that things are getting done.

This week I'm thankful for the privilege of prayer. When you think about it, God loves us a lot. He is so great, powerful, and full of wisdom. He can fathom things far beyond what our teeny brains can ever hope of comprehending. Even Einstein himself had minuscule knowledge compared to our Father.

Yet our Father allows us to have personal conversations with Him. He lets us bring our problems to Him. He accepts our worship and praise. He gives us the freedom to ask Him questions, and He doesn't answer us condescendingly. The very fact that He even responds is even more of a blessing!

I'm thankful that God gives me unlimited access to Him. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, the Creator of All is available to me. That is so mind blowing. Doesn't that make you want to pray even more?

What are you thankful for this week? Do you have anything that you can send up a praise for? Let the Lord know why you're thankful!

Have a great weekend.

Verse of the Day: The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer. Psalm 6:9