And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; go not fear nor be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8

 

Have you ever been on a guided tour? You visit a new place and this guide takes you through the facility, showing you everything important and helps you understand the purpose of this place you visited. Without them guiding you, you’d probably get lost or run around in circles.

 

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. Romans 8:14

 

As a child of God, you have a guide who leads you through each day, providing you information (wisdom) that is important at that time, He instructs you in the way you should go (Psalm 32:8) so you don’t get caught up in the day’s chaos, and most importantly, He never abandons you in the middle of the day! He is God! He can see far beyond your day, your week, even your life. He has a specific plan to grow and prosper you (Jeremiha 29:11).

 

 

The Holy Spirit, living inside of you, is ready and willing to lead you through today and all the tomorrows of your life. Put your trust in Him to guide you every day and know that each day’s lesson has a purpose to build a character in you after your Savior, Jesus Christ. God bless!

 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

 

The past two weeks of work have been very challenging to say the least. Every day had its challenges and some were to the extreme which took every ounce of my emotional energy to work through. I often found myself praying to God for help, and with every prayer He continued His work in each day, providing me wisdom and sound reasoning.

 

Life has its challenges and apart from the power of God, very little can be accomplished. But God! With His help, you can do so much more! Your load can be lifted, so you can exist without the burdens of life holding you back from staying aligned with God’s will and purpose. His Holy Spirit goes with you throughout each day, to encourage, strengthen and protect you from the whiles of Satan. And believe me, Satan is on the prowl right now, looking for vulnerable children of God he can influence and destroy their good works.

 

Don’t take on the challenges of life alone. Seek after God and His strength will sustain you so you can maintain a joyful heart, love others unconditionally and be that shining light in this dark world. God bless!

 As newborn babies, desire the purse milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. 1 Peter 2:2-3

 

Growing up I remember my grandmother liked Corn Flakes cereal. To sweeten them, she would sprinkle sugar all over the top of her corn flakes, then pour milk into the bowl. Alternatively, I liked Frosted Flakes, which were really is corn flakes already coated with sugar, a lot of sugar, and were delicious. God brought this memory and today’s verse to mind as I laid in bed a few nights ago and wanted to share my thoughts.

 

As Christians, we have the choice how much we want to include Jesus in our life. For some people, everything they do, think, say involves Jesus. Their life is sugar coated with Jesus, all they have to do is live life to its fullest and leave the rest up to Him.

 

For others, they bring into their life the world and its ways, and sprinkle Jesus over these things, in hopes of receiving God’s blessings. Sadly, this group of people miss out and have no clue that the love of the world is enmity with God (James 4:4). The world’s ways has nothing spiritual or beneficial to the person who is trying to live a God honoring life.

 

I encourage you, if you want to live a life pleasing to the Lord, crave only the pure word of God, and seek after the righteousness of Jesus Christ. When you do, you won’t have to sugar coat anything, it will all be for the glory of God!

 …a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:7-9

 

Years ago I suffered with a health issue that kept reoccurring multiple times, and each time it required a three day stay in the hospital, like 4 times over the course of several years. Each occurrence was painful and I maintained an constant attitude of prayer (and many prayed for me). Finally in 2000 I made an appointment with a specialist who performed major surgery in Atlanta and corrected my problem. Looking back now, I see that period of time helped me change some things in my life that improved my health.

 

For the believer in God, you know He created you. Although you might have some imperfections in your body, God did not make any mistakes when He created you. He has a plan for your life and those things you consider hindrances to a fulfilled life, are really tools He uses to develop a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him. He wants you to rely on Him and His strength. Some of the most influential Christians in history had a “thorn in their flesh”, yet that maintained an intimate relationship with their Creator.

 

Maybe you have a “thorn in your flesh”. Don’t discredit its purpose to grow you into a deeper relationship with God. He knows what’s ahead and won’t allow it to destroy you, but will use it to do a mighty thing in your life to bring honor to Him and bless others, including yourself, when you rely on His strength to see you through! God bless!  

 Happy is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity. Proverbs 28:14

 

As people get older, they gradually become set in their ways. They develop a pattern of living that they are comfortable with and know it works, leaving other ideas and options about life off the table. By doing so, they miss out on the adventures that life has to offer. I too struggle with this as I age over time and become less interested in changing my ways. Can you relate?

 

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you. John 15:16

 

As a child of God, it’s important to never lose your purpose for being here on earth. God has gifted you with a talent to serve Him, that is why He chose you as one of His children. That’s right, God chose you to be saved and do the work of the Lord in your daily life. If you become stagnant in your faith, you will lose out on God’s blessings and life can, and will, become more difficult. I don’t know about you, but I’m looking for a better life and not one with more problems!

 

Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicket way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24

 

Today, ask God to test your heart and see if there are areas in your life that have become hard to God’s will and purpose. As they become evident, begin to chip away at the hard shell, and find that soft, flexible spirit that lives inside you, ready to serve Him and transform your life into the image of Jesus Christ! God bless!  

 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, and whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he. Proverbs 16:20

 

Happiness is something that is experienced outside the body. It’s the little things, maybe a gift from someone, a beautiful view of large mountains or simply receiving a heart felt smile from someone close. All of these little moments in life make special memories, which can be thought over and over.

 

Happiness, found through obedience in the Lord, takes it much deeper though. When you walk within the Lords will, even your enemies are at peace with you (Proverbs 16:7). Life is filled with more blessings and experiencing God on a deeper level. Nothing should stand in the way of your relationship with Him. When you guard it, you make way for happiness and joy to fill your heart, mind and soul.

 

Are you stumbling through life, looking for long lasting happiness in people, things and experiences?  Turn your focus towards walking closely with the Lord and see the benefits of obedience and finding God’s will for your life. Happiness will soon turn to joy and nothing will diminish your strength, for “the joy of the Lord is my strength”. God bless!

 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near when you will say, “I have no delight in them.” Ecclesiastes 12:1

 

Yesterday at church our high schoolers stood on stage and shared their experience at summer camp from the previous week. I was amazed at the challenges they face at such a young age. Issues with emotional stability, depression, figuring out their purpose and most of all friendship with others. The spiritual awakenings that occur at summer camp are real, yet they can be short lived once the teens return to the reality of life.

 

The one very important message I received was our teens need prayer and support to help them stay the course, so they can keep their faith strong and vibrant. Left to themselves, that spiritual awakening will eventually fall asleep until the next spiritual high awakens them once again.

 

If you have children, pray for them, be the example they need in their life. The music they listen to, the company they keep and the sources of information they take in will influence their lives, either for the good or bad. Help them make right choices with love. Spending time with them is the best thing you can do to keep that relationship strong and sustain the lines of open communication so they can share their concerns with you. I look back over my parenting years and I know I could have done much better. Don’t live with that regret, support your children and other families in your community. They need your prayers. Start today and don’t give up on them. God bless!

 So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples. And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. Matthew 9:19-20

 

Muti-tasking, a word used to describe someone who can do multiple things at one time. It’s necessary in most work places these days with the demands placed on employees to accomplish much with fewer people. I personally know the stress it can bring on self, as I have to multi-task daily at work, and even times at home. We type “A” personalities function well as a multi-tasker.

 

Today’s passage comes from Matthew 9:18-26 where Jesus was speaking to people in the Synagogue, when a “ruler” approached Him, asking Him to come and bring his daughter back to life. For all of us, that request would be a tall order, and probably would have on our mind “how are we going to bring a dead girl back to life”. As Jesus walked to this man’s house, a woman who had a health issue reached out in faith by touching His garment and was healed. Jesus turned to her and said “Be of good cheer, daughter, your faith has made you well”. Upon arrival, He held this girl’s hand and brought her back from the dead. Talk about multi-tasking in one day!

 

Where am I going with this you might ask? Jesus Christ is the perfect example of a multi-tasker. He cares for every detail of your life and can work miracles, all the while helping your brothers and sisters in Christ. He can do all things through Himself. So, don’t feel like God is too busy working miracles in the lives of others. Your needs are just as important as the next persons. Just like the bleeding woman, put your faith in Him and He will help you every time! God bless!

 “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

 

This past week has been one of the most challenging weeks I’ve experienced in my career. Every day, multiple issues, very difficult issues, arose and had to be dealt with, face to face. These issues have been heavy on my heart, constantly running through my mind and taking a tole on me emotionally, even physically.

 

I can’t tell you the number of times I constantly went back to the Lord, in prayer, to seek wisdom and strength to navigate those challenges. Looking back on this Saturday morning, I and my team, did the best we could to sustain ourselves through the daily grind. I could see God working in each situation. And it’s not over yet, there will be spillover into next week, but I know God is already aware and working in those circumstances.

 

What challenges are facing today, this coming week? Although they might seem overwhelming and drain you emotionally, God is still on the throne and is ready, capable and willing to help bring you through those challenges, so you can find some peace in the middle of complete chaos. Nothing works perfectly in this broken world, but God provides the stepping stones to help you walk through the raging waters of adversity and challenges you face.

 

Put your trust in the Lord with everything that zaps your strength and He will help sustain you, so you can keep your character in check. Come to Him who gives rest to the weary! God bless!

 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many. Mark 10:45

 

One thing many strive for these days is to get out of debt, to be free of the financial obligations placed on them so they can use their money to enjoy the comforts of life. It is a great feeling to have this heavy burden lifted so you can do more with what you’ve earned.

 

Today’s passage is a great reminder of mankind’s debt to sin and that Jesus came to save us, so we can live a life, free to worship and commune with God. Jesus Christ’s life should be an example of how you are to live, a life of service to Him, helping others in times of financial crises, a loving touch when those need comforting and a prayer warrior who covers those who need it most.

 

As a child of God, you are free indeed. Use your freedom to help others and live a life pleasing to the Lord. God has a plan for your life, and your willingness to use this newfound freedom to serve Him will bless others and help transform your life into the image of Jesus. God bless!

 “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. Matthew 27:42

 

The setting is at the cross, where Jesus hung, in the process of dying for the payment of mankind’s sins. A sin offering for you and me. Yet, we read that spectators were still doubtful of Jesus power and said if He truly is the Son of God, He can come down from the cross and save Himself. But, Jesus didn’t come to save Himself, He came to save us! His death was part of His plan, and sadly those who witnessed this historic event still doubted.

 

Sometimes we go through difficult situations or circumstances that make us question the purpose of God’s plan. We yearn for God to remove the burden, the illness, the pain experienced at that moment. Yet, through those difficult moments, God is working, and it’s best for us not to doubt what He is doing, but trust Him and remain faithful, even to the point of death.

 

As you prepare for today, begin it with prayer, asking God to help you stick with His plan and be patient as He works in your life to make a better you and transform you into His image. His work never stops and neither should you! Trust Him today, and every day, with your life and see what He can accomplish through a faithful child of God! Blessings!

 Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will accomplish for you today. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace. Exodus 14:13-14

 

Yesterday I had the honor of meeting a Vietnam War Veteran. He was telling me that he served in the Army’s Infantry unit back in 1967. Out of the 167 men in his unit, only 3 returned home. He was one of them. At a wise old age, he is enjoying life and living to the fullest. Sadly though, men died for our freedom. They fought a fight none of us would want to take part in, yet, these brave men did it for the ones they love and this great nation.

 

As a child of God, you have One who is fighting on your behalf, God. He knows the battle ground very well as His Son, Jesus Christ, walked it, and fought many battles that face you today. He overcame the temptations, the accusations and false statements, He even overcame death so you could have victory to live life to its fullest. Sadly, many children of God try to fight the battles of life on their own and oftentimes find themselves defeated and without hope. Wounded and spiritually broken, they wonder why God didn’t take action. What is clear, they never truly surrendered their life to Him. Doubt and a lack of faith steered them to live life by their means.

 

Friend, don’t fight the battle on your own. Today’s passage is a great reminder that the Lord will fight for you. Just like the Israelites, He will come through for you today and every day. Commit your ways to the Lord and He will prosper you and bless you! The battle is not yours, but the Lords. Let Him have full control today! God bless!

 Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5

 

Here we are, another Monday. Seems like the weekends pass by without much rest and reprieve from the previous week’s challenges. If you are like me, you wake up on Monday thinking about all the tasks that must be accomplished in order to call this week a wrap. What you do with those challenging tasks makes all the difference in how they are handled and completed.

 

One thing I do every morning is get down on my knees and pray. I pray about those challenges, releasing them into God’s hands so He knows what’s on my mind, helps me work through them and gives me the wisdom needed to make right choices throughout the week. When I include God in my work, I know I have someone at a higher level, looking beyond my view and reminding me of things I need to focus on so I’ll be ready to respond.

 

What challenges occupy your mind this Monday morning? Pray and ask God to help you. Give Him a thanks throughout the day for the work He is doing on your behalf and recognize His handiwork with others so you can open the door to what God is doing in your life. Trust me, God will bless you for making Him part of your day and recognizing His work. What do you have to lose? Include God this week and be blessed!

 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Philippians 4:10

 

You’ve seen it in others and probably experienced it yourself, when someone you love and trust lets you down. Those people you consider close acquaintances, even friends, momentarily appear to shun you, and miss opportunities to help you in your time of need. It hurts and no doubt makes you question their loyalty.

 

Over the years I have learned that there are two people I can totally depend upon: myself and God. I am responsible to meet my needs, but there are times when I truly need help, I need God. And He is right there with me, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. He knows me on an intimate level and desires to meet my necessary needs for life. I remember a time when I was single, all alone and never once felt lonely; I knew God was sheltering me from some painful moments in my past and healing my heart.

 

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. Philippians 4:11

 

The apostle Paul’s mission saw moments of great help from fellow believers and times of complete abandonment from those he thought were loyal to the cause. Yet, he learned an important lesson, to not totally depend on others, but to look to God for the help which He provided.

 

Maybe you don’t feel adequate doing time alone, without the company of others. You have a relationship with God, but it still isn’t enough. Friend, it’s time to take your relationship with God a little deeper. God has provided you His Holy Spirit and He knows your heart and prays on your behalf (Romans 8:26), He knows your every need, want, and meters out His blessings according to your openness to receive them. If you are distracted by the disappointment of others, your attention is drawn in the opposite direction. Stop looking to the temporary source of help and seek after the eternal blessing and presence of God.  “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus”. Philippians 4:19

 When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches. Psalm 63:6

 

Ever wake up in the middle of the night with something on your mind? Whatever it is, that is most likely the concern that is a priority for the coming day. Either it was placed there by your own worries or God put it there as a reminder that it needs attention. So, what do you do with your thoughts in the middle of the night?

 

Many, like myself, think through the issue, playing it over and over and how I can resolve it. I find myself working through the issue right up til the alarm goes off and still never found a resolution or a path forward. What did I gain? Nothing, but a wrestles soul with lack of sleep. I’m not fit for the day. God never intended for us to worry ourselves like this!!

 

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

 

At 3 AM when you are wide awake with something on your mind, take it to God in prayer. Don’t ponder through it, thinking you can resolve the issue. Let God have it and leave Him in charge of leading you through the day to navigate through it. He already knows the outcome and has a plan to see you through the very thing that has you worried. Trust Him with His ability to handle it, thank Him for His love and concern for you (1 Peter 5:7) and fall back asleep so you’ll be rested and ready for His plan to unfold. Believe me when I say, He’s got this, He’s God! God bless!

 Look also at ships; although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. James 3:4

 

How’s the communication in your marriage? Is it seasoned with love or is it filled with criticism? If you really sit back and think, just a few harsh words from your spouse can steer you in a path of sadness, depression, anger and eventually loss of love for them.

 

Today’s passage comes from a section of reading on the tongue and it’s power (James 3:1-12). Harsh words can steer a relationship into troubled waters, opening wounds that can sink your relationship. If you look at the relationships Jesus had with His disciples, He gave them encouragement and showed them great love. I’m sure nestled in between the written scriptures, Jesus laughed with His followers, embraced them in times of difficulty and said “I love you” my child.

 

Whoever guards his mouth and tongue, keeps his soul from troubles. Psalm 21:23

 

If your relationship is going to sustain itself over the years, you must work at taming the tongue so your marriage will be seaworthy. It’s easy to pick apart your spouse’s ways, but find time to build them up. Something drew you to them in the first place, find that attraction and mend the past to renew your love for them. The tongue is a powerful tool, and with the right words it can steer your relationship into calmer waters! God bless!

 

 No one can come to Me unless the Father who send Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. John 6:44

 

One thing I’ve learned over the years of being a Christian, God chose me to enter into His family of believers. He longed for my love and dedication to Him. When He provided the opportunity to receive Him as my Lord and Savior, I accepted His offer and joined the family of God.

 

Maybe you are feeling the tug of God’s Spirit, calling you into His fold or maybe you have already accepted His free offer of salvation and enjoying the blessings of being a child of God. Just remember, God called you first! You were chosen by Him. Live your life to honor Him in every area of your life. You should feel honored that He signaled you out and loved you enough to provide grace and mercy for your soul.

 

As one chosen by God, how will you live your life today? May your thoughts, actions and words reflect the true character of Jesus Christ. God has great plans for your life through His will and purpose as being a member in God’s family. Don’t miss the opportunities to serve Him and be blessed in a lifetime relationship with the God of this universe. God bless!

 But I am poor and needy; Yet the Lord thinks upon me, You are my help and my deliverer; Do not delay, O my God. Psalm 40:17

 

If you are like the average person, it’s not too long into the day that you have a certain need, maybe you received an unexpected bill and no way to pay it, a diagnosis that isn’t good and you need assurance that everything is gonna be ok, you got word of a loved one whose going through a rough patch and it breaks you heart for them. The list is endless, but we all have moments where we need help, we need our Savior and Lord God.

 

Today’s passage was written by a man in much need. David, as a young man, was on the run from a jealous king who wanted him dead. Hiding in caves and always fearful for His life, he was in much need of God’s protection. His prayer life was amped up 10 fold. I can expect by the Psalms of David that he remained in a constant state of prayer.

 

Blessed is he who considers the poor; The Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. Psalm 41:1

 

What is troubling your heart today? You may be poor in spirit, feeling depressed and helpless, but GOD! He sees your troubled soul and thinks upon you. Call out to Him today and He will bring peace and comfort into your life and help you in the time of trouble. Call on Him today! God bless!

 He (God) made their hearts, so he understands everything they do. Psalm 33:15

 

Over the weekend I was able to go see my grandson. Upon arrival I greeted my son and his wife and headed straight for the little man. Shortly after picking him up, my son gave me a bottle to feed him. As I did, he squirmed and moved about…he just wasn’t content. His dad took over and almost immediately, he calmed down and was back to feeding and drifted off to sleep. My son knows his child and knew exactly how he liked to be held when fed and it shows…..he’s doing a great job as dad taking care of my grandson!

 

Today’s verse is a great reminder that God, your creator, knows you intimately. He created you and from day one has been watching over you, providing for your care and giving you His very best. You might not see all the good things He’s doing in your life, but they are there and one day everything will come into view and you’ll appreciate every moment, good and bad, that you experienced in this earthly life.

 

If you find that no one really understands you, just know God does and He loves you just like a father loves his newborn child. His love is unconditional and never ends. He is always there to provide, correct and encourage using the earthly tools as a means to shape you into His image. Trust in His care, because He knows you very well. God bless!

 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:11

 

Serving God in some capacity might seem foreign to you, even dauting. And honestly, you can expect those feelings. As humans, we are fleshly individuals, our ways are quite opposite of Gods in our thoughts and actions (Isaiah 55:8). But don’t let that discourage you from serving Him. He has given you a specific talent to use to bring Him glory (1 Peter 4:10).

 

As a child of God, you should be aware of that talent and find ways to plug into God’s working will for your life. There are many opportunities to serve Him, it might be in the mission field abroad, or right at home within your local community. Wherever it is, serve Him proudly and expect great things to happen when you rely on His power, His wisdom and His promptings to lead you into a life of service.

 

Begin this week to serve Him. Be in prayer, asking God to open your eyes to opportunities of service and to equip you for the acts of service. Keep your heart and mind pure and don’t let the lies of satan discourage you from serving Him. Blessings will follow your faithfulness. What will you do for Him this week?

 

 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness. 2 Corinthians 9:10

 

If you’ve ever planted a garden, or simply a few plants, you know in a short while, from the soil, grows the plant that started out as a small seed. Preparing the soil took some time, but the effort was worth it for the plant to grow properly and produce either flowers or something edible. From seed to your benefit, God caused it to grow.

 

God also causes something else to grow, His children. Someone was placed in your life to bring you into the fold, to open your eyes to the need of a loving Savior. With a tug of the spirit, you accepted His free offer of salvation, forgiveness of sins, and yielded a fruitful soul, meant to bring blessings to God.

 

Then Jesus said: “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the Harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Luke 10:2

 

God has equipped you with His Holy Spirit, and desires for you to share the gospel truth to a lost and dying world. When you do so for the Lord, He blesses the person you touched and causes them to come to know Him in a personal way (1 Corinthians 3:7). Nothing you do can change that life, but only God. You simply plant the seed and let God do the work.

 

What’s holding you back from sharing your faith with someone? You can’t mess up by simply sharing the truth and what’s happened in your life. By your simple words of faith and spiritual transformation, you can plant the seeds of faith and let God yield the harvest of your efforts. God bless!  

 

 

 

 

 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. So, He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood. Mark 12:42-44

 

I had someone say to me through social media, “you get what you pay for”. That’s a very true statement. For what you put in, you can expect to get out. You buy something cheaply made, you’ll get something of cheap quality. You invest in some low priced stock, your gains will be very little.

 

Today’s scripture comes from a brief passage where Jesus was watching people give to the church’s treasury. Those who had plenty of money gave a lot, but this poor widow gave all the money she had, her entire livelihood. Why? Because she invested in something eternal. Her faith was not in money or earthly things, it was in God and she knew that giving Him her last cent opened the door to God’s blessings, to fill her cup till it overflowed (Psalm 23:5).

 

When you invest your livelihood in God, you open the door for Him to work in your life, every aspect of it! When you hold back, you short change yourself to what great things He can do. Don’t do that! Give of yourself, your talents, your finances, your livelihood….let God have it all and watch Him use it for His glory and meet your every need in the process. Your investment in Him yields eternal rewards that money can’t buy. God bless!

 The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. Psalm 145:18

 

One thing that irritates me is when I call someone and they don’t answer, especially when I know they are right there by their phone. Can I get an Amen? Even more frustrating is when the cell towers are overloaded with other people using their phone and the message comes across: “all circuits are busy right now, try your call again later”.

 

I can promise you one thing, God is near to those who call upon Him, especially in a time of need. For every child of God, He gives them His Holy Spirit, who responds the second a cry for help is heard. He begins to respond in a way only the God of this universe could. Even when His response is delayed, it’s His tool to teach you patience and trust in Him. Trusting that His response is best will give you the confidence to call upon Him when everyone else has left your cry for help unanswered!  

 

God never sleeps, never stops answering prayers and His line of communication between you and Him is never disrupted by others. Put your faith and trust in Him when help is needed and watch Him take care of the little and big crises in your life! God bless!

 

 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

 

Many years ago, like many many years ago, after taking a year’s break from college, I decided to go back and move to another school. I knew my outlook on things wasn’t so positive, so I decided to read a good book on positive thinking. I found a book on the subject, “The Power Of Positive Mental Thinking”, by Norman Vincent Peale. What an awesome book! It retrained my brain to think in a positive way with a spiritual twist. I began to think and believe that everything that happened would be for my benefit. As I am finishing up the last 6 moths of this year heading into retirement, I’m glad I finished school, which provided me a great career.

 

As Christians, we need to adopt this positive thinking and attitude. Today’s scripture is a promise from God to His children, that everything you face in life is meant for your good. Yes, there will be some painful and unpleasant experiences in life, but within God’s will for your life, they are meant to prosper you and help you grow in your faith. I can look back now and see the challenging times were meant for my benefit. Although I didn’t like some periods in my life, I see now God’s plan was right on target.

 

If you are a child of God, I encourage you to stop looking at the negative and allowing it to negatively influence your emotions and behavior (this is speaking to me as well). You must look at everything in a positive manner and ask God what benefit will this provide you. You might not find the answer at the moment of crisis, but it will become evident in time and you’ll be thankful God brought you to it and thru it! Start today with a positive attitude and trust God’s ways are part of His will for your life! God bless!

 For the Lord your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you. Deuteronomy 20:4

 

Tomorrow Americans celebrate Independence Day! A day when Americans celebrate their freedom from British rule and recognized as a nation. Your independence and freedoms didn’t come without battles fought, lives lost and a loyalty like no other. I encourage you to take time to research the significant historical events that provided you the freedoms you live under today.

 

Humans have another freedom that came at a price, freedom from eternal separation from God. God’s only Son, Jesus Christ, came to earth in human flesh and lived out the biblical prophecies, displayed the true nature and character of God and ultimately gave His life as payment for mankind’s sins. Three days in the tomb, Jesus Christ came back to life, overcoming the sting of death and has been giving freedom to those who’ve chosen to believe in Him and live a life of loyalty to Him. This eternal freedom He provides brings blessings and victory to every child of God.

 

The benefit of having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, comes with God’s protective hand, that goes with you, every day, helping you overcome the struggles of sin and fruitless living. He desires for you to live life to its fullest and He is truly capable to provide for your every need. All you need to do is accept His free offer of salvation and walk with Him every day. Those battles you face in life will never be fought alone, He will be with you to help you overcome.

 

Your independence came at a cost, remain loyal to the One who will fight your battles every day and help you achieve a life noted by His words, “well done my good and faithful servant”. God bless!

 

 

 The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows who trust in Him. Nahum 1:7

 

The other night we were watching a documentary on people who’ve been successful in life. One part featured JP Morgan (a wealthy man who was a financer), whose dad told him “Never trust anyone”. Interesting, but his sole purpose was to ensure his son never let someone else take control of their company’s funds and bring them to ruin.

 

In today’s world, it can be difficult to trust others. People seem to be self-centered, only focusing on their specific needs and wants, leaving others to fend for themselves. Maybe you’ve experienced the disappointment of a close friend’s disloyalty. It hurts and makes you even more cautious in trusting others.

 

Today’s passage is a great reminder, who you can truly trust, The Lord! God is always there with you as you take each step through life. He knows the path you’ve been on, the things you are experiencing now and what’s ahead in your future. As you draw closer to Him through prayer and obedience, your ability to hear Him becomes clearer and He will always walk you through life’s difficulties and bring you on the other side without any regrets.

 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

 

God bless!