Daily Delights

February 2, 2012

2012-02-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

Just when I need Him, Jesus is near. Just when I falter, just when I fear; Ready to help me, ready to cheer, Just when I need Him most.

Psalm 145:18 “The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.”

He’s as close as the mention of His name…….

February 1, 2012

2012-02-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

In spite of the fact that people talk about going to heaven when they die, the reality is….not many will be going there. How do we know this to be true?

The Bible says so…

Matthew 7:14 “….narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life (heaven), and few there be that find it.”

What is that narrow way that is so hard to find? It’s the place of coming to the end of self, self will, and sin. It’s a brokenness over the sin that put Christ on the cross and a vehement desire to repent….to turn from that path of sin.

This is a complete emptying of self…. a very hard (narrow) place to come through.

Have you been there? It’s the only way to heaven! You’ll know when you’ve come to that place of repentance, because EVERYTHING changes. Life as you once knew it changes. Your perspective on sin changes. You are a brand new creation.

II Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Is that you?

January 31, 2012

2012-01-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

By the biblical definition of ...a Christian (like Christ), are you a Christian?

How do you know that? What are the changes in your life that prove that you are one? If you were on trial for “being a born again Christian”, would there be enough evidence to convict you? What are the things about your life and your spirit that reveal that you are like Christ?

I John 1:6 “If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.”

I John 2:4-6 “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.”

It’s easy to say, “I’m a Christian”. The proof is in a changed life!

II Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

What is really new with you? Are the proofs of Bible Christianity seen in you?

January 30, 2012

2012-01-30T01:00:00.000-08:00

Absolute obedience to God’s will means complete abandonment of my own will.

“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it.” Mark 8:35

Obedience to Christ is proof of my love.

January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

Is there a burden on your heart that you need to see God do something about? How much do you desire God’s intervention ?

“Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:” Isaiah 59:1

So what is the problem? Perhaps we should look deeper into our soul and spirit. Examine the attitudes and spirit of our inner woman. God’s ability to answer prayers has not diminished.

“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.” Isaiah 59:2-3

What are the sins, attitudes and opinions that are robbing us of Holy Spirit power in our prayers? God has not changed....we have. Examine what it is, that is hindering our prayers.

Renew a right spirit within me, Lord.

January 28, 2012

2012-01-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

"O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.” Psalm 31:23

Just serve the Lord with gladness dear Christian! Never cease to love Him for He cares for you!

January 27, 2012

2012-01-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

This Too Will Pass Away

If I can endure for this minute
Whatever is happening to me,
No matter how heavy my heart is,
Or how dark the moment may be—
If I can remain calm and quiet
With all my world crashing about me,
Secure in the knowledge, God loves me
When everyone else seems to doubt me—
If I can but keep on believing
What I know in my heart to be true,
That darkness will fade with the morning
And that this will pass away, too----
Then nothing in life can defeat me
For as long as this knowledge remains
I can suffer whatever is happening
For I know God will break all the chains
That are binding me tight in the darkness
And trying to fill me with fear—
For there is no night without dawning
And I know that my morning is near.

~ Helen Steiner Rice

Psalm 30:5 “For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning.”

Psalm 119:71 “It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.”

January 26, 2012

2012-01-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

Discernment Vs. Judgment

The God given ability to understand why things happen to me and to others. The Word of God will help develop my discernment and I can learn and trust that God’s got a good reason for any judgment that may come my way.

I Samuel 16:7b “....for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”

January 25, 2012

2012-01-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

Without forgiveness–we can become adversaries to one another.

II Corinthians 2:10-11 “To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.”

Or are we.....?

January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

II Corinthians 10:12 “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”

Why are you comparing yourself to others? Why does it matter if someone can do something you don’t have the talent to do? Or, why does it matter that someone is prettier, thinner or smarter in some area? The God who created you, has a plan just for you. Be content and let Him work His plan in you.

January 23, 2012

2012-01-23T10:50:00.001-08:00

Jeremiah 32:17 “Ah Lord God! Behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee.”

Your problem is not harder than what God has already done!

January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T10:50:00.000-08:00

Our Wonderful Lord gave us the greatest example of yielding to the Holy Spirit in His thinking, because ....when He was going through the agony of death on the cross—we were on His mind. That is outward thinking! When we yield to the Holy Spirit of God, it helps our perspective and self worth and gets our minds on the lost around us. Yielding gets our mind off of ourselves.

The God of peace and low self worth, cannot abide together!

Philippians 4:8-9 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

January 21, 2012

2012-01-21T10:40:00.000-08:00

The world says we need “self-esteem”. In truth, we need to understand our “self-worth”. Our Creator God has a plan and purpose for each one of us. Have you missed it? As a Christian, that purpose becomes crystal clear at the moment of salvation. We are not left here on planet earth, to live for ourselves. When we turn the focus of our life inward, toward our own selves, we have then forgotten the reason we were left on this earth. And it isn’t about us!

Matthew 28:18-20 “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

With a purpose like this—how can we miss our worth in God’s eyes! It doesn’t matter so much how we see our own self esteem.....it matters that we understand how God sees our worth from his perspective.

I am here for His purposes! It is not about me. Inward thinking is the world’s thinking. Turn your eyes upon Jesus...look full in His wonderful face. And the things of this world will grow strangely dim.......in the light of His glory and grace. You will have found your purpose!

January 20, 2012

2012-01-20T10:39:00.000-08:00

Living with shame on our conscience is simply the result of our sin. Sin-shame is something we bring on ourselves. Confessing our sin before the Lord frees us of the bondage that sin-shame brings on our life.

Romans 4:7 “...Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.”

Have you truly been forgiven? Is your conscience clean and clear before God and men?

January 19, 2012

2012-01-19T01:00:00.000-08:00

If we as Christians, live clean lives before the Lord, then we need never fear that someone may expose us or humiliate us. Living a pure life in all Godliness leaves us with a clean conscience and no shame.

I John 4:18 “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.”

January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T08:46:00.000-08:00

Are you concerned about how people see you? Do you need the approval of people in your life? Why? Our Christian lives can be lived in a phony state because we are men pleasers rather than God pleasers. Our fear of being exposed, humiliated, rejected or threatened creates a huge fear of man in our life and reveals that man, is actually bigger in our minds, than God Himself.

That is a serious state to be in. It creates its own kind of bondage and renders us useless and defeated for the Lord’s work. Our labor for the Lord is not to be about us anyway. So if we are concerned about how we will be seen or perceived, we are exposing the fact that we are serving with the wrong motive. We are a hypocrite.

Proverbs 29:25 “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.”

January 17, 2012

2012-01-17T01:00:00.000-08:00

Our main purpose for this life is to bring glory to God. If this is not the purpose we are pursuing every day, then we need to stop and make corrections in our motives and re-evaluate our true relationship with the Lord.

“Whether therefore ye eat or drink or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” I Corinthians 10:31

January 16, 2012

2012-01-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Rag Doll

Lord, I come to you like a broken rag doll.
My dress is torn and stained. My arm is half hanging on.
My eyes aren’t shining and trusting like they once were.
And my expression isn’t innocent and transparent anymore.

I’m not the unused, brand-new doll I once was.
Yes, my smile is still there, but not as spontaneous as it once was;
It’s a little more forced now, a bit more tired.

I need to be picked up by you, Lord.
Picked up, held tightly, loved, and reassured.
Reassured that no matter how I look,
Or how dirty and scuffed up and broken I am,
That you love me just like when I was brand new.

Would you please hold me Lord?

Deuteronomy 33:27 “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms:”

Psalm 61:3 “For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.”

January 15, 2012

2012-01-15T09:15:00.001-08:00

God answers knee-mail.

Jeremiah 33:3 “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.”

He’s waiting to hear from you.

January 14, 2012

2012-01-14T09:13:00.000-08:00

In our instant society, it is very easy to be impulsive in our decisions, speech and even in our opinions. Many things in our culture feed the spirit of instant gratification. Knowing the importance of right timing in the things we say and do, is a reflection of a cautious character versus a rash one. There are a lot of things that can be said and done, but they may not be the right things to say or do, especially for a Christian. Discerning how important right timing is in
accomplishing right actions, is closely connected to our walk with the Lord.

Proverbs 19:1-2 “Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool. Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.”

January 13, 2012

2012-01-13T06:43:00.000-08:00

Be alert! There is a lion stalking you today..... He is looking for a weak Christian to pluck out and devour to satisfy his own appetite!

I Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” Lions never go after the strong....they’re looking for the weaker and more spiritually frail. Strengthen yourself in the Lord for this day.

Be aware of your weakness....Satan is.

Watch where you’re walking! Don’t allow yourself to sit at the world’s feet today. You used to live in that darkness but you have been bought out of the slave market of sin and corruption. Don’t allow yourself to be a partaker or walk with fools in this world.

Ephesians 5:6-8, 15-16 “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for

because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”

Remember Whose child you are! Ephesians 5:17 “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will the Lord is.”

Stay vigilant!

January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful salvation I have been given! In spite of my wretched wickedness, He showed mercy and provided redemption for me.

.....it’s a merciful salvation!

Titus 3:5 “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost:”

.....it’s a personal salvation!

Romans 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”

....it’s obtainable for everyone who is willing to repent and turn from sin!

Matthew 7:7-8 “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”

January 11, 2012

2012-01-11T06:42:00.001-08:00

Life at times, is hard. Sometimes it is very disappointing and our adversary would like to dishearten us, so that we become fainthearted and withdraw ourselves from service. It takes real determination to purpose in our hearts that we will accomplish God’s goal for us, in His time, regardless of the opposition that we may face.

Lord...help me hang in there!

II Timothy 4:7-8 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

January 10, 2012

2012-01-10T06:40:00.000-08:00

We hear a lot of talk about the importance of being a “virtuous woman”. What is virtue? It is the moral excellence and purity of spirit that only comes as I obey and live out, God’s Word. In a nutshell.....it’s living in obedience to God’s Word.

How few women actually live this way. Just because we are good cooks, keep a clean house, keep up on the laundry, make cookies for the preacher and the neighbors and take care of all our wifely duties.....doesn’t mean we are walking in obedience to God’s Word. In some area perhaps we are—but not in all.

We’ve told our children that “delayed obedience is no obedience at all ”How many times have we done “our duty” but thought evil of our husband while grudgingly doing it? That is impure thoughts abiding in a disobedient spirit. We lack true virtue.

Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Virtue is wrapped up in the things we think about and the obedience of our walk. How do we really measure up?

January 9, 2012

2012-01-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

How good you are to me Lord. Just having another day to live, comes from Your hand. Why You have allowed me the privilege of knowing You as my personal Saviour from sin, is hard to fathom, when so many have never even heard of You. You have blessed me with Your Word, a scriptural, Bible preaching church and Christian brethren who love You and most love me too! How blessed I am! Help me not to forget that.

Psalm 154:7 “They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness.”

January 8, 2012

2012-01-08T06:39:00.000-08:00

Psalm 104:33 “I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.”

Give me a song in my heart today LORD, that is a sweet sound in your ears and a blessing to all I meet during this day.

January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T06:37:00.000-08:00

Lord, give me the inward strength to withstand daily stress to accomplish your best, everyday!

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9

Help me to endure without giving up!

January 6, 2012

2012-01-06T06:39:00.001-08:00

“Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready but the flesh is weak.” Mark 14:28

Too many Christians are living lives totally unaware of God’s desires and Satan’s plans for their life. We need to stay alert and be aware of that which is taking place around us so we can have the right responses to them.

Be vigilant for Jesus sake!

January 5, 2012

2012-01-05T06:38:00.000-08:00

Encourage yourself in the Lord today...Your Good Shepherd is in control.

Luke 15:4 “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.”

Do you have any idea of just how precious you are to your Good Shepherd? Sit in His presence and remember all the good things He has done for you. Notice His care and His power and His love for you. It surrounds you every day. Don’t fail to notice the goodness of God in your life.

January 4, 2012

2012-01-04T01:00:00.000-08:00

If you are a child of God, you are no stranger to Him. Imagine that! You are known by the Good Shepherd. All good shepherds know their sheep. God is no different. He sees you personally. He knows your name and your life’s circumstances and every little need that is weighing you down. He cares for you and He wants to lead you to the green fresh pastures that will refresh your heart and soul. Let Him lead you....trust Him to do it.

John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”

Psalm 100:3 “Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.”

January 3, 2012

2012-01-03T08:46:00.001-08:00

Psalm 18:35-36 “Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.”

You Can Survive

A raging storm has come my way...the rain is pouring down.
The clouds have hid the light of day. There’s darkness all around.
My soul is tossed with fear and doubt. Lord, why must this storm be?
I’ve tried to live my life for you and serve you faithfully.

A gentle hand reached out to me and took me in His arms.
“Child, I will guide you through the storm and shelter you from harm.
There is a special purpose for this storm that’s in your life.
Just trust in Me. I know what’s best.
My child, you can survive.”

You can survive though the storm has come your way.
You can survive through the heartache and the pain.
Though your eyes be filled with tears, My Word will calm your fears.
I will stay right by your side. You can survive.

Lord, I’ll trust you with my life...to lead each step I take.
May I bring glory to Your name in all I do and say.
Your precious Word will strengthen me. Your love will comfort bring.
I’ll keep my eyes upon Your face. A song of joy I’ll sing.

I will survive though the storm has come my way.
I will survive through the heartache and the pain.
Though my eyes be filled with tears, God’s Word will calm my fears.
He will stay right by my side. I will survive.

Isaiah 43:1-2 “But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not; for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.”

January 2, 2012

2012-01-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

When life’s trials come into our lives, it is at that moment that we must consciously yield our personal rights and expectations to the Lord. Trust wholly in Him. Remind yourself that our God is still on the throne, He is still able to do what He has always done. Sometimes we can get angry or frustrated because of the adversity, but this is not meekness. This is the perfect time to solely rest in the One we say that we trust.

Psalm 62:2 “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.”

January 1, 2012

2012-01-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

Quarantine the viruses of the past on the hard drive of your life.

Romans 12:2 “And be not conformed to the world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

To quarantine you must refuse the evil and choose only the good.

Isaiah 7:15 “Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good.”

Reformat your mental computer and reprogram your mind. We choose to be transformed.

December 31, 2011

2011-12-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

What if this would be the year that Jesus comes? The year that we’ve been waiting for so long. We’d have so little time to get our lost world won, If this should be the year that Jesus comes.

Ephesians 5:16 "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."

II Timothy 3:1 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come."

Each one.....reach one. Time is running out.

December 30, 2011

2011-12-30T01:00:00.001-08:00

Gratefulness Vs. Unthankfulness

Have you made known to God and to others, in what ways they have benefitted your life? Guard against the tendency to take for granted the blessings of those who have had a part in your life and times.

I Thessalonians 5:18 “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

I Corinthians 4:7 “For who maketh thee to differ from another? And what hast thou that thou didst not receive? Now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?"

Express your gratefulness...

December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

You don’t have to die in order to live in the presence of God. You start living in His presence the very moment you are saved!

John 10:10 “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy; I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

Psalm 16:11 “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”

How can a person say they are saved and not live in His presence here on earth? It’s the craving of the saved heart to have enjoyment in the presence of the Lord.

December 28, 2011

2011-12-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

Give your spirit a change of scenery..... pray !

Romans 8:26 “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

We’ll feel better just talking about it with our Lord.

December 27, 2011

2011-12-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

Life is full of responsibilities. At every age and stage in life there are required responsibilities for every one of us. Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting of me is a sign of character.

Being reliable in the small things, brings the privilege of greater things in the future. Learn to be reliable....

Romans 14:12 “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”

Take care of the little things.

December 26, 2011

2011-12-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

There are some things in this life, that we really ought to be more attentive to.

Did you know that you show the worth of a person just by giving undivided attention to his words and emotions? Attentiveness is the opposite of disinterest and unconcern.

How different, many lives would be had they been more attentive to ....their parents wisdom, their pastor’s preaching or a teacher’s instruction. If we struggle to listen to authorities that we can see with the eye, how much more difficult is it to listen and submit to God, whom we cannot see with our eyes.

“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.” Hebrews 2:1

If what God thinks is really important in our lives....we will seek after Him.

December 25, 2011

2011-12-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

Rejoice O saints of God! We have a Saviour!

Luke 2:10-11 "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."

Celebrate the birthday of our King!

December 24, 2011

2011-12-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

O Holy Night.........when Christ was born. Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices, O night divine!

Where would we be, if Jesus had not come?

I Timothy 1:15 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief."

December 23, 2011

2011-12-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 7:14 "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

Our Lord, gave Himself as the sacrificial Lamb, our Immanuel....God with us!

Let yourself be comforted in knowing that you are not alone. You are never alone for God is with us!

December 22, 2011

2011-12-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

The curse of hypocrisy runs rampant in our land. Hypocrisy is the practice of professing a virtuous belief that one does not possess. It is nothing more than falseness.

From Hollywood to our homes, people pretend to be something that they are not.

Isaiah 32:4-6 “The heart also of the rash shall understand knowledge, and the tongue of the stammerers shall be ready to speak plainly. The vile person shall be no more called liberal, nor the churl said to be bountiful. For the vile person will speak villany, and his heart will work iniquity, to practice hypocrisy, and to utter error against the Lord.....”

The curse of hypocrisy is a temporary joy. The only true joy they receive, is the brief satisfaction of fooling people. The hypocrite sacrifices permanent trust of people for what they want right now, not realizing that he/she is actually living in a house of cards. It takes work to build a life of character

Hypocrisy hides itself from wisdom... James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”

We are never justified to a hypocrite. It is a curse in our life. Today, ask the Lord to take it from your life. Repent and renounce the falseness in your life. Seek for God’s wisdom and you will not have to play act or hide any longer. There is nothing so peaceful as being an open book before God and man!

December 21, 2011

2011-12-21T01:00:00.000-08:00

Our world has a lot of things that seem attractive and catch the eye. They are not all evil things.....but are they good for me to have?

“For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalm 73:3

The closer I draw myself to the Lord, the less I am attracted to the things this world has to offer. Having an “HGTV mentality” can be a big distraction for a believer in Christ.

“Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:25-26

I will have and need no one but Him in Heaven. Shouldn’t He be enough for me right here on earth? Am I satisfied with the Lord?

December 20, 2011

2011-12-20T01:00:00.000-08:00

Are you a woman of faith? Truly?

II Corinthians 5:7 "For we walk by faith, not by sight."

Do we really? Do we visualize what God intends to do in a given situation and then act in harmony with it? Or do we fret and presume?

Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Walking by faith is walking in peace because we are trusting Someone outside of our own selves. Let’s be a woman of true faith so Christ may be seen in us.

December 19, 2011

2011-12-19T01:00:00.000-08:00

What are you going through that may be dragging you down? Joyfulness is maintaining a spirit of cheerfulness despite our physical limitations.

Living in self pity should not be an option for a child of God.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." II Corinthians 12:9

Let Christ be seen in you!

December 18, 2011

2011-12-18T07:40:00.000-08:00

I John 3:17 "But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?"

The world around us lacks compassion, but many Christians are indifferent to the needs of others. Take the time to investigate and find out what is necessary to help heal the hurts of someone else. This is Christianity in action!

December 17, 2011

2011-12-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

Lord, it’s so easy to see and respond to life’s situations from my own natural inclinations. Help me to walk in wisdom so I can see and respond to life’s situations from Your frame of reference.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Proverbs 9:10

Help me to think from your perspective.

December 16, 2011

2011-12-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Will I walk today in obedience or self-will ? Doing what I am told to do, when I am told to do it and with the right heart attitude is a gauge of my true heart’s character.

"And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul. To keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?" Dueteronomy 10:12-13

Today.....will it be obedience or willfulness for me ?

December 15, 2011

2011-12-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

Will I make myself available today, or will I be self-centered with my life? Our lives are scheduled and prioritized with things pertaining to ourselves, but will there be anyone who will hear of Christ today, because we took the time to be available to witness?

Philippians 2:20-21 "For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s."

December 14, 2011

2011-12-14T01:00:00.000-08:00

I need You, Lord. I cannot face this day and the hard things that may come my way, without You. I’m trusting You to hold me up, to strengthen me and to lead me in Your way.

Psalm 120:1 "In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me."

Trust Him dear one...

December 13, 2011

2011-12-13T01:00:00.000-08:00

Determine what is right or wrong by the Word of God. The more we spend time in the Word, the more we will come to trust it.

Psalm 119:89 "For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven."

Psalm 119:152 "Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever."

December 12, 2011

2011-12-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

Psalm 73:25-26 "Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever."

I want to enjoy you oh my Father! There is nothing and no one that I need more than you. Help me to be satisfied this day...with You.

December 11, 2011

2011-12-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Daniel 1:8 "But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself."

Daniel programmed himself in advance, not to break God’s law. My life’s direction will be determined by how I program my mind in advance. With every choice we make there are consequences that we will have to live with. Program yourself ahead of time to choose the right. Purpose well!

December 10, 2011

2011-12-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

Deuteronomy 4:9 "Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons;"

We must deal with sin and take heed to our own soul before we can teach anything to our children.

December 9, 2011

2011-12-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

Things that are valuable, are vulnerable when we are unaware of their value.

Hebrews 2:1 "Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip."

How often do we take for granted a Godly spouse, a scriptural New Testament church, the privilege to hold in our hand a copy of the inspired Word of God? These are all valuable things. When they are gone from us, the emptiness of our soul is an indescribable pain in itself.

Protect the valuable things in your life. Don’t take them for granted.

December 8, 2011

2011-12-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

God is there in my distressing dilemma. As a Christian, I’ve never gone through a trial by myself!

Deuteronomy 33:27 "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them." AMEN and AMEN!

December 7, 2011

2011-12-07T07:29:00.000-08:00

Watch out for Satan’s fiery darts! He wants me to be surprised when he attacks!

I Peter 4:12 "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you."

Our adversary does not waste his ammunition on a defeated foe. Expect him to attack.

December 6, 2011

2011-12-06T07:29:00.000-08:00

Acts 24:16 "And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men."

My relationship to God is revealed in crisis times. Pray before the crisis comes. Walk in humility before the crisis time arrives. You will then be prepared for anything!

December 5, 2011

2011-12-05T07:28:00.000-08:00

The world’s silver can distract you from Heaven’s gold.

Romans 12:2 "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed bythe renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, andacceptable, and perfect, will of God."

When you are conforming to this world....you are already distracted.

December 4, 2011

2011-12-04T06:31:00.000-08:00

The Christian race is a marathon, an endurance race.

Hebrews 12:1-3 "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds."

Get rid of the things in your life that are holding you back from service. Eliminate the things that are robbing you of joy and peace. It is nothing more than dead weight!

Consider your Example and what He went through for you. Set your sights on the joy awaiting you and pick up a cross for Him!

December 3, 2011

2011-12-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

God’s Formula for Biblical Thinking:

Philippians 4:6-7 1- "Be careful for nothing; 2- but in every thing by prayer and supplication 3- with thanksgiving 4- let your requests be made known unto God."

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

His formula always works, when practiced!

December 2, 2011

2011-12-02T06:30:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 6:23 "For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:"

To reprove: to expose error, tell a fault, admonish

Proverbs 15:32 "He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding."

Get used to reproof dear one, and embrace it. Reproof is the start of change.

December 1, 2011

2011-12-01T06:29:00.000-08:00

If you’re saved and you know it------it will show.

Romans 8:16 "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God."

The guaranteed results ought to be visible!

November 30, 2011

2011-11-30T01:00:00.000-08:00

Romans 12:1-2 "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Sin will not be an option for us if we are offering ourselves as a sacrifice to God.

November 29, 2011

2011-11-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

Psalm 43:5 "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God."

Look in the mirror. What does your countenance look like? When our hope is not in God, we will be down.

November 28, 2011

2011-11-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 4:22-23 "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;"

The communication of the "old" man, has no business in the new man. My renewed mind should no longer desire fellowship with the "old" man thinking. Fill up the old mind with a new one. You will never do the will of God, if you are not renewed in your mind.

November 27, 2011

2011-11-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

Hebrews 10:22-24 "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works."

What will it take to cause you to turn from serving Christ? We are living in a day of much "wavering". During the years of easy prosperity in our country, many people got caught up in making lots of money, prestigious jobs and important positions and became satisfied with mammon instead of with Christ. They were no longer happy with just serving Him. Making a good living took precedent over making an adequate living. The falling away had begun.
We began to want more "things" of the world and before long, many had filled the corners of their lives with so much stuff that they now were in bondage to the "stuff", and the "good" living now became a must have living, in order to survive.

Faithful service to Christ, in and through the New Testament church that He died for, took second, third or last place in their lives.

How does this happen? The foundation for most people’s forsaking of the Lord comes from our own selfishness. They will love and stay faithful to God when He is good to them and giving them everything they want but when trials come and God seems far away....they neglect Him.

Our true devotion to Christ will be seen in the trials of life. In the hard times.

Will you still thank Him, praise Him and serve Him as faithfully in hard times? You give up more than you can even imagine, when you allow yourself to "waver" . It may not be seen or noticed immediately. But make no mistake, it will be noticed sooner or later. After all He has done for us, "hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering". What will it take to turn you aside?

November 26, 2011

2011-11-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

II Corinthians 10:12 "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise."

Get your eyes off of others and keep them on the Lord. Comparing ourselves to others is the quickest path to defeat.

November 25, 2011

2011-11-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

Still defeated? Discouraged and down? You probably are doubting God’s ability to help you. Why doubt the One who spoke and the earth was formed? See your doubt as sin and a lack of faith.

James 4:17 "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."

Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen"

Realize that there is nothing to hard for God!

Jeremiah 32:17 "Ah Lord God! Behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee!"

Don’t be faithless.

November 24, 2011

2011-11-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

Feeling down? Discouraged? Lonely and defeated? You’re probably thinking about yourself too much! People who are thinking on the temporal life all the time, never learn to live the "eternal" life.

Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

Think about the lost who need the Saviour. Think about the goodness of the Lord shown to you personally. Think about the cares and concerns of others.

November 23, 2011

2011-11-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, help me to be an over comer today. The world is no friend to us but when I, with God’s help, can overcome sin in my life, it shuts the Devil’s mouth! Over comers have a testimony that is noticeable. I must determine to fight my accuser with scripture.

Ephesians 6:17 "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:"

I might have an accuser... Revelation 12:10 "And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night." (I can hardly wait for this!!)

But I also have an advocate.... I John 2:1 "My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous."

Knowing these truths.....let’s be Over comers today!

November 22, 2011

2011-11-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 5:18 "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit."

"Be filled", is not just a command, it is expected for a Christian. Whatever I am filled with is what will control me. Lord, I just need more of You.

November 21, 2011

2011-11-21T01:00:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, the people perish..."

We need a vision of a Holy God and our view of ourselves will change. Be willing to look inward and say, "Search me O God, and know my heart..". Look outward and see the lost. No man lives beyond his vision.

November 20, 2011

2011-11-20T01:00:00.000-08:00

Need a good bath?

Titus 3:3-5 "For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;"

Oh, how good a cleansing, spiritual rebirth feels!

November 19, 2011

2011-11-19T01:00:00.000-08:00

Our Christian life is all about a relationship with Jesus Christ! My appetite for this relationship with Christ is developed....in church!

Ephesians 3:21 "Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen."

November 18, 2011

2011-11-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

Hebrews 10:25 "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

Don't be guilty of disobedience to this clear command of God. You have much to lose.

November 17, 2011

2011-11-17T01:00:00.000-08:00

Living in this world, it is easy to drift from the Word of God.

Hebrews 2:1-3 "Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation: which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him."

-Once we drift...then we become dull and can come to the place where we despise the Word of God and even those who teach it to us.

Hebrew 5:11 through 6:20

Stay close to the fire of the Word of God, lest you lose the things you have been given.

November 16, 2011

2011-11-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

In the book of Psalms, King David experienced opposition. If you are serious about serving the LORD, you will face opposition too.

Psalms 86:14-15 "O God, the proud are risen against me, and the assemblies of violent men have sought after my soul; and have not set thee before them. But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth."

Of whom shall I be afraid?

November 15, 2011

2011-11-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

Being grateful and thankful is the KEY to spiritual victory!!

-There will be no more need for an offended spirit.

-When living in gratitude and thankfulness, the battles you have lived with, are turned.

-The bitterness you have coddled and driven others away with, will be gone!

-You can begin to enjoy a sweeter love and closeness with your spouse and with your God!

-Your appreciation for the brethren will cause you to be more long suffering on their behalf.

Thanksgiving produces JOY in the life! God values thanksgiving and sees it as an act of sacrifice toward Himself.

Hebrews 13:15 "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name."

Psalm 100:4 "Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name."

Let's practice THANKS-LIVING !

November 14, 2011

2011-11-14T01:00:00.000-08:00

If we sow forgiveness....we will have forgiveness.

Galatians 6:7 "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

If you don't forgive, you will end up....judging others.

Matthew 6:12-15 "And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

Forgiveness, is all about having fellowship restored. You will know when true forgiveness happens!

November 13, 2011

2011-11-13T01:00:00.000-08:00

Psalm 103:10-14 "He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father piteth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust."

It’s what we are now that is most important....not what we used to be! Don’t allow the adversary to beat you up over past sin. Set your eyes on the LORD. You have been delivered!

November 12, 2011

2011-11-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 2:10 "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."

God doesn’t want a partnership with us.....He wants ownership of us!

November 11, 2011

2011-11-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Galatians 5:24-25 "And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit."

We are to live moment by moment in the Spirit. Don’t become a "crisis Christian".

November 10, 2011

2011-11-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

Five Paradoxes in Scripture

1. To find something, you must lose it first. Matthew 16:25 "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."

2. To be rich, you must be poor. Proverbs 13:7 "There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches."

3. To live, you must die. Galatians 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

4. To be first, you must be last. Matthew 19:30 "But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first."

5. To be honored, you must be humbled. Proverbs 15:33 " The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility."

November 9, 2011

2011-11-09T01:00:00.000-08:00

Philippians 3:13-14 "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

The devil always deals in guilt but God always deals in forgiveness.

November 8, 2011

2011-11-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

November 7, 2011

2011-11-07T01:00:00.000-08:00

November 6, 2011

2011-11-06T01:00:00.000-07:00

November 5, 2011

2011-11-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

Pride destroys our relationship with God.

Proverbs 8:13 “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the forward mouth, do I hate.”

We need to remember that it is only by God’s grace that we are anything at all!

I Corinthians 15:10 “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.”

This Christian life that I am living is not to be about me! It’s about the One who is living in me.

November 4, 2011

2011-11-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

November 3, 2011

2011-11-03T01:00:00.000-07:00

November 2, 2011

2011-11-02T01:00:00.000-07:00

November 1, 2011

2011-11-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

If we are in good fellowship with Christ, we will be in good fellowship with each other.

I John 1:7 "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin."

To be right with God....we have to be right with people. Make things right today.

October 31, 2011

2011-10-31T01:00:00.000-07:00

Despite what the world may say, the Christian life is not a life for the weak willed. As soon as you are washed in Christ's blood and clothed in His righteousness, you begin the warfare against the devil and his armies, right up to the day that you meet the Saviour, face to face. At salvation, you acquire an enemy that you never had before. Put on the uniform of a soldier of the cross and stand fast in the battle. You are on the winning team.....so don't run from the bullets!

II Timothy 2:3 "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."

WHY?

I John 4:4 "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."

October 30, 2011

2011-10-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Psalms 34:17 "The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles."

Let's live like we have been delivered!

October 29, 2011

2011-10-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

"I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me." Proverbs 8:17

What are you looking for today?

October 28, 2011

2011-10-28T01:00:00.000-07:00

Our world thinks of rebellion....as freedom. Being your own man and a free thinker is the world's way.

But the Bible says just the opposite. I Samuel 15:23 "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry..."

Rebellion is actually demonic in nature. Freedom comes through obedience.

John 8:32 "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

October 27, 2011

2011-10-27T01:00:00.000-07:00

We cannot hide from God.

Daniel 2:22 "He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him."

Psalms 44:21 "Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart."

God sees us as we are...

October 26, 2011

2011-10-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

There is a price to pay, for a love that has grown cold. In a marriage, it can be separation from a spouse. Among friends, there may be the loss of fellowship in the friendship. In the LORD's church, it can be the loss of unity and usefulness within that body of Christ.

Revelation 2:2-4 "I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted."

He saw all the good that they had done in the church at Ephesus and commended them for it.

But there was one problem that they had not taken heed too...

"Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love."

When love wains.... there is always the loss of something precious!