Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10 

Last week we moved Lori’s daughter and her husband from their old house to the new one. To say they had a lot of stuff was an understatement, LOL. We knew there would be some heavy stuff too, and being old and slightly out of shape, I knew we needed some strong hands. Thankfully we had some extra help and it was much appreciated! 

I recently put some thought into today’s scripture and this came to mind: weakness equals dependence. When we are weak in something, we have to depend upon someone or something to help us move the heavy burdens from our lives. For Christians, that strong arm is Jesus Christ. He is dependable and available 24/7 to help carry or move our burdens so we can continue the life of His perfect will. He might not totally eliminate the weight of life’s burdens, but He surely will provide all that is needed when you are not strong enough on your own as He provides the strength!   

Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22 

Maybe you are facing a mountain that is weighing heavy on your soul. Put your dependence in Jesus Christ and let Him help you. He loves it when you depend upon Him for help, because He uses that time to strengthen your faith and trust in Him as He moves whatever it is from your path. Nothing is impossible with God.

 Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. Psalm 116:2

 This morning I woke up to a text from my youngest son, who simply said “Good morning dad have a good day love you”. If you have young adult children like me, you know they live busy lives and sometimes hearing back from them might take hours, even days, but when you do, joy fills your heart. My heart is full already this morning!

 There is another Father who longs to hear from His children and that is God. God loves His creation, just like an earthly father, and nothing can move that love from Him for each and everyone of us. He wants to be an integral part of each human life. Unfortunately, we get busy with life and often neglect to acknowledge the fact that He is the reason for our existence and miss out on much needed communication.

 Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve reached out to God, to simply say hey and give Him thanks for all He’s done in your life. He is patiently waiting to hear from you. Let Him know you love Him today in prayer. It only takes a few minutes to communicate with your creator. You’ll be blessed for it!

 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

 One of the most frustrating parts of life is decision making. Should I take this job, should I get involved with this person, which house should I purchase or what is the next chapter of my life going to look like? These and more questions will be asked as you navigate through life. You want to make each decision count so you don’t mess up. How can you find answers to the decisions that need to be made?

 Today’s scripture gives perfect insight into that decision making process. Involving God in each and every decision is key to staying on track with God’s perfect will for your life. God rarely provides an immediate answer, He takes His time so your dependence upon Him grows in intensity as each day passes. The one danger in that process is getting impatient and making a decision on your own without God’s voice of direction. Many people in the bible have done such and paid dearly for their hasty decision.  

 God oftentimes provides answers through people and circumstances. Something someone says might be just the spark that ignites your thought process to see His answer, sometimes it comes from closed doors, such as a deal that falls through or a person ghosts you. The key is to be patient, remain faithful in DAILY prayer and be ready for the unexpected. God is on your side and wants to bless you with His perfect plan for your life. Nothing great happens overnight, so hang in there and trust that God is working to provide the best resources in your decision making process. God bless!  

 The Lord gave the word; Great was the company of those who proclaimed it. Psalm 68:11

 When I ran across today’s scripture the story of Paul Revere came to mind. As the story goes, he rode through the streets of Concord Massachusetts  announcing the “British are coming”, to warn those of the British army’s intentions to attack. This announcement spread through the community and the citizens were ready to defend their city.

 From the beginning of time until now, another enemy is on the prowl to attack all of mankind, Satan (1 Peter 5:8). Sadly, many of the Paul Revere’s of Christianity remain silent instead of warning those outside the faith that there is victory through Jesus Christ! As today’s scripture says, the Lord gave us the word, Jesus Christ, and those who have professed Him as their Savior, should be ready and willing to share the good news of salvation (Matthew 28:19). Unless the announcement is made, people within your circle of influence will remain unaware of the danger they live in and will remain captive to Satan’s deceptions for all eternity.

 Paul Revere risked his life to warn others of pending doom. Jesus Christ has already won the battle, it’s up to you to announce where victory can be found. Make that announcement today and everyday through your life’s words and actions. God bless!

 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7

 Not too many people find joy in the midst of a trial. The washing machine breaks down, the roof leaks, you just wrecked your car or your baby is sick and you feel helpless….or maybe all of these things happen at once. Life has a way of running into these difficult moments, leaving one to question how they will manage through it financially, emotionally, even spiritually.

 As a child of God, you have to recognize the fact that every trial that comes your way has been sifted through God’s hands. He knows the difficulty strains you, it tests your faith and most certainly your patience. But through the God approved difficulty, He has a plan to grow your faith, to strengthen your trust in Him as you lay your burden at His feet, humbly seeking His help (1 Peter 5:6).

 Sometimes the greatest difficulty in the trial is letting go and letting God help you.

 Maybe your have your mind wrapped around your difficulty, plagued by stress, anxiety and sleepless nights. If this is you, it’s time to truly stand strong on your knees and pray to the God who can do all things through you with His strength (Philippians 4:13). You know He can do it, He’s done it before and He is capable to doing it again. TRUST HIM COMPLETELY and He will come through for you, as you give Him the praise, glory and honor He so much deserves. God bless!

 Click the link below for encouraging verses during times of trials.

Trials and Tribulation verses.

 Oh, fear the Lord, you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him. Psalm 34:9

 The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists’ Science and Security Board just released this year’s Doomsday Clock prediction, putting us at 90 seconds before midnight. A number of things is considered in their decision, the worlds security level, climate change and breakdown of social norms. At no other time in history has the Doomsday clock been this close to disaster. If I raised your anxiety level, I apologize, but the truth of the matter is, this world is truly headed towards some form of disaster and it’s time to wake up to whom you should really fear.

 Today’s scripture talks about fearing the Lord. A healthy fear, or understanding of God should move you to live a more God honoring life. The decisions you make, the things you do, words spoken and your obedience to God, all fall under that respect for the Creator of this Universe.  When you acknowledge whose really in charge, God blesses your life and provides the necessities to sustain your daily life. This world has nothing to offer but heartache and anxiety. Trusting God with your life is the only way to stay anchored in this troubled world.

 Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me, you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

 The peace of God transcends all understanding. Put your faith and trust in Him by fearing Him, respecting Him, worshiping Him and giving Him all your worries. When you do, your life will be enriched and your needs met. God bless!

 Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of hell. Proverbs 9:17-18

 If you peel back the layers of flesh, you will find desires bent towards sin like no other. There is deep within every human a desire to pleasure self. Although you might keep it well hidden in the back of your mind, it lies in wait until something or someone brings it to the surface of your mind. The one holding the strings of temptation and desire is Satan himself and he knows what dark secrets you hold, he knows the adrenaline rush of sin that will motivate you to turn from Godly obedience and pursue it. The question is, will you actually follow through with the sinful pleasure in a moment of weakness (James 1:14)?

 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive a crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12

 The human flesh naturally seeks to entertain itself with pleasures of the world. That is why Jesus Christ joined His creation on planet earth, to be our sacrifice for sin’s payment, so that we can live free from sin’s bondage. We have a Savior who can sympathize with our earthly desires. He remained faithful to the very end of His life. Only through the power of His Holy Spirit, living inside every child of God, can keep the dark thoughts and sinful pleasures locked way forever so you can honor God through your body (1 Corinthians 6:20). When you remain obedient to God, you continue to receive His precious blessings.

 God knows your struggles with the flesh. Call upon Him to help you keep those pleasures out of reach so you can focus on living for Him, and serving Him through your life’s testimony, changed by the power and blood of your Savior, Jesus Christ. God bless!

 

 

 

 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. Ephesians 5:10

 Have you ever considered what things in your life are acceptable to God? When you enter into a new relationship, there is a time of learning each other: what they like, what you like together, what personal friendships are positive in your relationship with each other and what certain behaviors and words are acceptable. During this time, change happens, things that were always done are no longer, and thought patterns change as the two become one in unison.

 Today’s verse is short and to the point, have you found out what is acceptable to God? So often you go through life doing the things you do, places you go, friendships you keep all the while some of these might be hindering your relationship with God. Unfortunately, the enemy, Satan, has a way of whispering lies to God’s children, encouraging them to do what feels natural and good. As your relationship with God is hindered, so are blessings withheld until you’ve completely yielded every area of your life to Him.

 But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Ephesians 5:13

 The best way to make sure all areas of your life are acceptable to God is let Him expose His light on those things, people, thoughts, habits, and places that might be holding your relationship back from completeness. You know change will happen, and it might be painful to let go of certain things and people, but trust me, God’s blessings far outweigh anything you’ve surrendered to His perfect will. Be prepared and transparent with God as you take the next step in your relationship with Him. He’s ready to sanctify your life as He molds you into the image of Jesus Christ. God bless.

 On a side note, for more ways to discover God’s acceptable things, I encourage you to read the entire book of Ephesians. I love this book as it sheds light on all areas of human life. Click the link here: Ephesians

 

 But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless. Titus 3:9

 Over the years I have learned to avoid conversations with people who are always argumentative, disruptive, and divisive. They have a secret agenda to make their voice heard, even if what comes from their mouth is untrue. They debate in such a way that eventually you will question your beliefs and thoughts on the matter being discussed.

 Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words. Proverbs 23:9

 As a child of God, it’s important that you protect the integrity of your faith. Truth about your relationship with God through Jesus Christ comes through scriptures in the bible. That is why it’s so important to study up so you can protect the truth against those who seek to crumble the foundation of your faith. Satan oftentimes uses these so called “wise” people to bring division. I recall one time being in a conversation with someone and this argumentative person heard the conversation and decided to join in, only to divert the truth of a matter into more questions.

 The best thing to do with people like this is pray for them from a distance. God can and will deal with them as He sees the need. I recall in the bible Saul, who persecuted and killed Christians. His beliefs were way off base, but God confronted him and changed his life forever. Today, we read the many books he, Apostle Paul, wrote about the transforming power of Jesus Christ.  Who in the realm of your influence needs God’s intervention to straighten out their thinking and behavior? Pray for them today! God bless!

 

 And do not be conformed to this world. Romans 12:2 part 1 of 3

 Mirriam-Webster’s definition of “conformed” is: to be similar or identical, to act in accordance to prevailing standards or customs, and to be in agreement or harmony. Part of Romans 12:2 says that as Christians, we are NOT to be conformed to this world. If your actions, thoughts and acceptance of things pattern after the world’s ways, then how can others see the light of Christ living inside you? I’m reminded of the song, “This Little Light of Mine”. This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, hide it under a bushel NO, I’m going to let it shine. When you pattern your life after the ways of the world, you are in essence hiding your light. What areas of your life conform to the world? It’s time for a change!

 but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2 part 2 of 3

 After a significant head injury, many patients have to relearn how to talk, walk and perform the basic functions of life. When you become a Christian, it should be your primary responsibility to learn the new ways of a child of God. Only through reading and studying God’s word, plugging into a local church family and sustaining a consistent prayer life will you be able to transform your thinking, so you can learn how to walk through life on the narrow pathway of righteousness. You don’t have to be a biblical scholar, but you should have a good understanding of God’s standards for daily living.

 that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2 part 3 of 3

 Set apart from the world doesn’t mean you have to isolate yourself from people outside the faith. It simply means your life has changed and others should see the change and be drawn to you and you should be ready to give a response for the change they’ve seen in your life (1 Peter 3:15). The will of God is that everyone come into the knowledge of Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:4). That will happen when your life aligns with God’s will for you on the perfect path of righteousness that He has set before you. Let your light shine for Jesus Christ today! God bless!

 

 And you shall do what is right and good in the sight of the Lord, that it may be well with you, and that you may go in and possess the good land of which the Lord swore to your fathers Deuteronomy 6:18

 

After years of living as slaves in Egypt, God orchestrated the release of His people, the Israelites, and promised them a land flowing with milk and honey. Not long into their journey to freedom, they began to doubt God’s promise and their focus turned to other interest and they worshipped idols. Of course, God was not pleased with them, and because of their disobedience and lack of trust He placed them in the wilderness for 40 years. 40 years is a long time to learn a lesson in obedience.

 

As a child of God, He promises to take care of your basic needs and cover you with His grace and mercy. His blessings don’t come without your strict obedience to His will for your life. Why, because what He provides you is the best path for your everyday life. When you chose to take a step off His path of righteousness, you redirect your focus away from Him and He will certainly take action to bring you back into His safe fold. He knows the dangers that lie outside His will and the cunning traps Satan has for God’s children.

 

If you truly want to be blessed in this life, do what is right and good in the sight of the Lord, so it may go well with you. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind (Matthew 22:37) because He loves you and wants your undivided attention. Nothing can replace God’s blessings when you walk in obedience to possess the good land which the Lord has promised for His children! God bless!

 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 1 John 4:15

 Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see God in person, here on earth? Well, I have some good news! If you are a Christian, you have God living inside you through His Holy Spirit (1 John 4:13). That’s right, He is no further from you than your heart, mind and soul. Unfortunately, Christians get distracted by the things of this world that they fail reflect God’s character living inside of them. He is like a spring, waiting to be tapped. Have you tapped into His life sustaining spring?

 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. Ephesians 5:1

 As a child of God, you are to imitate His character so others can see Him, living through your life. What is the main characteristic of God? Love.

“And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” Ephesians 5:2

 The world will never see the image of God unless His children live their life in total obedience and loyalty to Him. Otherwise, He will simply be this invisible being people talk about, which makes it hard for those outside the faith to believe in Him.

 You have the God of this universe inside of you. It’s up to you to reflect His love and other characteristics documented in the bible. Make time to study and reflect on His character and ask God to help you empty yourself of the world and fill your life with the sweet love and characteristics of His being so others can say, they have seen the face of God living through you! Blessings!

 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. Colossians 3:12-13

 Yesterday I talked about the dangers of self-isolation. Today, I want to discuss the tools needed to live alongside others. No doubt, it can be a challenge at times living amongst others, either in the same household, at work, church or the neighbor across the street. Today’s passage speaks about the tools needed to make that happen.

 Why do I call them tools? Stop and re-read the verses above. Can you say you have mastered them? I can pick out a few that I struggle to live by. Tools are something we use to fix things. We don’t naturally know how to use them, thus it takes time, sometimes years to incorporate them into our lives, but with God’s help, we can do it. Years ago I had to learn how to apply “longsuffering” into my relational tool box. God had to break some things in my life to help me fix my attitude and grow into a heart of servanthood. For me, it’s the tool I use on a frequent basis these days when needed.

 Which of the tools above do you need to become more familiar with in your quest to live alongside others? Ask God to help you learn His ways and He will accomplish it with your willingness to be obedient and learn through brokenness. A tool will rust unless it’s used. Let God use them to help you live amongst others, so your light can shine God’s grace, mercy and love to those within the realm of your influence!

 

 A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgement. Proverbs 18:1

Ever wish you could simply drop off the grid and find yourself in a remote location where no one else exist and people can’t connect with you? This desire often happens after some stressful event such as a failed relationship, loss of a job, embarrassing situation or simply you’ve had enough of living next to other human beings. Many people need a break from the realities of life, but what does isolation really do to your soul?

 Today’s passage sheds light on that very topic. Left alone, a man seeks his own desires and ways he wants to live, but the majority of those choices he makes could very well be wrong, leading to more poor choices and the feelings of guilt add more weight to the already burden that put you in a state of isolation. Left alone, Satan oftentimes uses this time to whisper lies of deceit and self-destructive thoughts that can put more distance between you and God. His ultimate goal is the make you feel unworthy of God’s grace, mercy and love. Is this really where you want to be?

 And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.: Genesis 2:17

 From the beginning of time, God created man in His image and made him a suitable helper. Man was never meant to go at life alone, but to journey through life with others, weather that be a spouse, friend or close brother/sister in Christ. Maybe you need some time alone to reset your mind, heart and soul, that’s ok. Just don’t continue to live in isolation and leave yourself vulnerable to the whiles of Satan. God is right there by your side, ready to give you the companionship you need, even when everything inside of you screams, LEAVE ME ALONE. You need a partner, find it in Christ and allow Him to bring you a friend or spouse to help you carry the weight of your burdens. Together, you can find the value in connecting with others.

 

 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the father except through Me. John 14:6

 

One of the golden rules of hiking is to stay on the trail and not create a new path. Evidence of rule breakers is erosion of soil off the main path, destruction of vegetation and disturbance of wildlife living within proximity of the path. Each year many hikers who deviate, often find themselves lost or get injured on terrain not safe for hiking.

 

Today’s passage is a great reminder for those exploring life who want to find their way to Heaven. Jesus said there is only ONE way to Heaven and that is through Him. Good works and honest intentions get people in trouble, thinking their actions will earn them a one way ticket into Heaven (Ephesians 2:8-9). Sadly, they will find out on the day of Judgement that God never knew them (Matthew 7:21-23).

 

Friend, if your ultimate goal is Heaven, stay on the path God chose for you, the journey to eternal life carved out by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He gave His life so you could receive yours. Pray something like this from your heart:

 

Dear God, I believe in Jesus Christ; that He gave His life as a living sacrifice for my sins. I confess my sins to you right now and ask Jesus to come into my heart and save my soul. Help me Lord to stay on the path of righteousness, every day, as I take each step of this life into eternity. Thank you for saving me!

 

Safe passage child of God!

 

 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

 This morning I paused from my bible study and looked at this bruise on my hand. I’ve been doing some work outside and evidently I hit something. As I continued to look at my hands, I thought to myself, “WOW, if only these hands could talk”. They’ve done so much in my life, working on a farm, helping others by handing out food and supplies to the needy, holding the hand of my wife, shielded the bright sun from my eyes, and held the hand of my dying mother. The list is endless, but the truth is, without these hands, I couldn’t have accomplished much in life.

 Today’s verse hits the nail on the head. You were created to do good works for the Lord, which He prepared beforehand. Yes, God has a “to do” list just waiting for you to get started. Are you ready to serve Him? Take a few minutes right now and look at your hands and think about all the great things they’ve experienced in your life. Now ask God to open your eyes to the many good works He still has planned for your life and get started serving Him today! God bless!

 

 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Philippians 4:4

 I’ve been rejoicing in the Lord this morning for His goodness and hand of protection from yesterday’s tornado that ripped through our town. Unfortunately, there are many who weren’t so fortunate and sustained significant damage to their homes, personal injuries and even loss of life. As I skimmed through Facebook this morning, I noticed one family who sustained significant damage to their home, yet they were rejoicing in the Lord and praising Him for keeping them from personal harm. Their house is a wreck, but they are alive and thankful for God’s blessing.

 God if faithful, by whom you were called into fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:9

 How can someone rejoice amidst the tragedies of life? Through a deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. You see, as children of God, this is not our home. We are but a vapor (James 4:14), simply passing through a brief window of time, headed towards an eternal home, Heaven. Yes, there will be difficult times in life when things don’t go your way and oftentimes seem unfair. It is in those times that we truly lean on God for understanding and the hope that He provides.

 Nothing this world has to offer is greater than the life He gives us. Rejoice in all circumstances of life and He will lift you up from the lowest times of life. God bless!

 

 “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20

 

Monday, January 2, 2023, 24-year-old Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin received a blow to his chest, while tackling a player, that stopped his heart. Almost immediately players and coaches on the field recognized the severity of his injury as he collapsed. Medical responders began CPR, which revived him, and he was taken away to a hospital for treatment. While at the hospital his heart stopped again and he was resuscitated. One week later, Hamlin has been released from the hospital with a remarkable recovery.

 

I truly believe we saw a miracle of God unfold on the playing field that night. Players dropped to their knees to pray for him and without doubt, God was there within their presence. It’s unknown how many of those who knelt actually had a relationship with Jesus, but their actions showed the world that in times of trouble, prayer is the only thing you can do when things are desperate.

 

You too might be facing a critical situation, almost life and death, and feel like you have no other options. I encourage you to round up some of your friends, family and brothers/sisters in Christ to pray for you. I truly believe in the power of prayer and it was evident by the immediate turn around of Mr. Hamlin. God might not turn your situation around that quickly, but through prayer and faith in Him, He will give you the best response to your prayer request when you have two or three gathered on your behalf. God bless!

 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” Matthew 14:27

 

No doubt we are living in troubled times. The Covid pandemic showed the world just how vulnerable we are to our health, food supply and ability of government to control human behavior. Even today, we are experiencing the aftershocks of this event and other tragedies across the globe. All of this combined has left people feeling fearful about society and themselves.

 

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

 

Fear focusses our attention on ourselves and on things we do not need to consider. It fills our minds with hypothetical situations that all end in defeat and ruin. Eventually, it utterly consumes us. This is why we cannot shrink back in obeying God and using the gifts He has given us because He is ultimately in control of our futures, and we are never victims of our circumstances.

 

For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15

 

Satan uses fear as a tool to paralyze God’s children. Fear takes focus off our trust in God’s power and ability to protect His children. If you live in fear, it’s time to turn your focus off of it and onto God. He made a way to break those chains of bondage of fear by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth and defeat death, once and for all. Pray something like this:

 

Dear Lord. There are things in my life and this world that are beyond my control that cause me anxiety and fear. Please help me turn my focus away from those things and onto You, the author the perfector of my faith. I know you have my life in your hands and I trust you to guide me each day, knowing that You are in me, and greater than he who is in the world. Amen.

 

 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

 

As I get older, I depend on a certain amount of light to read and see things, such as the small print in a book or the back of the tv when connecting wires. Light makes it possible to see in the darkest spots. Today’s society is fascinated with lights, especially LED lights. You see them on trucks, motorcycles and yard décor around each holiday. Light has become a popular thing these days.

 

As a Christian, you should take just as much enjoyment in sharing the light of Christ into the dark places of your world. At work, home, grocery store, everyday interactions with people, even at church. Those outside the faith will not be able to see the wonderous works of the Lord, unless His children openly display that light. Now, you don’t have to grab a bullhorn and announce your Christianity, but your actions and words should be the first thing people notice when they greet you.

 

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:9

 

You have been chosen by God, a royal priesthood! Let your words and actions speak of the joy and blessings that you possess as one of God’s chosen so others will notice and want what you have to offer them through Jesus Christ. God bless!

 

 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act becomingly, it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

 

Most people who eat at a restaurant start critiquing everything, from the cleanliness of the establishment, quality of customer service, and the tastiness of the food. One bad thing that happens and the awareness of other negative things become a bigger issue. Pretty soon you walk out thinking I’ll never come back here again.

 

Unfortunately, husbands and wives engage in this same behavior once settled in their marriage. Common phrases are: he snores or doesn’t take out the trash, she leaves her shoes in the middle of the room or she is always late getting ready which makes us late….the list is endless. If you think about it, you’ve probably had some things run through your mind about your spouse. All of these are most likely true and irritate you to the point of asking why I married this person. Let’s look at why your married them.  

 

YOU MARRIED THEM TO LOVE THEM, NOT CRITIQUE THEM!

 

The sole purpose of marrying someone is to love them, not to critique everything they do wrong in your eyes. Yes, a spouse is good to help point out areas of your life that probably need some sprucing up, but the constant critiquing will erode at the fabric holding your marriage together. Today’s verses above speak truth of Godly love that every married couple should treasure each day in their marriage. Start today by finding the good points about your spouse and focus on those, not the negative. It might take some getting used to, but it will enrich your marriage and help you love them like God intended.  “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” Colossians 3:14

 

 ..bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. Colossians 3:13

 

Are you a people person? Do you thrive around groups of people? As it stands now, the world population is around 8 billion people and growing, so you shouldn’t have any issues rubbing shoulders with others. With this fact stated, the truth is people will hurt you, either intentionally or by accident. Sometimes people speak and act before thinking how impactful it is to their audience.   

 

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering. Colossians 3:12

 

When people offend or hurt you, how do you respond? As a child of God, your reaction is more important than the pain they caused. Sounds backwards, but the truth is your reaction speaks to the Holy Spirit living inside you. Yea, the flesh wants to seek revenge, but you are not guided by the flesh, but by the Spirit (Romans 8:5). Colossians 3:12 provides the spiritual characteristics we are to exhibit when someone hurts us. It’s a hard bullet to bite sometimes, but that’s where the “longsuffering” comes into play.

 

But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection Colossians 3:14

 

Everyday you are in a target rich environment to get hurt or offended. Don’t let the painful actions of others cause you to join in their misguided behavior. Find the love of Christ in your heart to show forgiveness and compassion to those who hurt you. As Jesus hung on the cross, His final words were, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do”. Let’s live by Jesus’ example today for forgive through longsuffering. God bless!

 I acknowledged by sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” And you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Psalm 32:5

 

If you’ve read about King David in the bible, you know he dealt with lust, adultery and even murder, yet God said David found favor with God. David’s behaviors were not what was favored, but His willingness to confess his sins, repent and follow in obedience. Just like you, David struggled with the flesh and things were not much different then as they are now.

 

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

 

The fleshly side of each Christian is bent towards sin and sometimes it yields to it. But God is faithful to forgive when you confess your wrongdoing. Maybe you’ve done some pretty bad things and feel God doesn’t have enough grace to forgive. Those thoughts come from lies of Satan and should not be entertained any longer. God gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to forgive All sins which created the way for a personal relationship with Him. Whatever is in your past, ask God to forgive and find assurance that you are cleansed forever more! God bless!

 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3

 

This morning I read a friend’s post who said she got her vehicle stuck and her dad had to come pull her out with his tractor. In the cold weather, he had to travel a great distance to come to her aid. She was feeling pretty bad that her dad had to come so far, but as a dad, I can tell you it’s what we do when our children need help.

 

Friend, maybe you are stuck in one of life’s difficult moments and ashamed at where you found yourself. Trust me, God cares and loves you and wants to come to your aid. No distance off the path He’s chosen is too far for Him to come pull you from the muck. His love is evident by the great sacrifice He gave to leave Heaven to come here to die for you so you can have a relationship as strong as a child to their father. Call on Him today; He’ll gladly restore you back on your way! God bless!

 Godlessness in the Last Days 2 Timothy 3:1-4

3 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.

 

The story of Noah is very interesting and sad at the same time. God was not pleased with His creation by the wicked lifestyles they lived and accepted. In His anger He decided to destroy all of them, except Noah and his family because they were faithful to God. What was life like back then that stirred God’s anger to destroy all He had made? Today’s verses are the perfect illustration. And guess what….life is no different now than it was back then. He is coming back, sooner than later to gather up those who are faithful to Him. Are you one of the faithful?

 

Jesus Christ said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

 

 Jesus Christ, God’s Son, came to earth to experience the human side of His creation and show us the characteristics of God. You see, God is perfectly sinless and cannot commune with His creation unless there is a sacrifice for sin. Jesus fulfilled that requirement and His call to mankind still rings out today.

 

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:25

 

Nothing you can do will earn God’s favor, but to humbly accept His forgiveness of sins and receive Jesus Christ into your life and follow Him in obedience the remaining days of your life. Don’t be caught off guard, the final days are here, repent and be saved. God bless!

 The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant. Psalm 25:14

 

Ever question why something is happening in your life? Like me, I’m sure you are nodding in agreement. That is life, it’s a series of ups and downs, twist and turns and potholes of distraction that can really throw you off kilter if not prepared for the unknown. Walking closely with God, on a daily basis, is a good way to keep yourself from being knocked off your feet when you hit one life’s difficult moments.

 

Who is the man that fears the Lord? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. He himself shall dwell in prosperity, and his descendants shall inherit the earth. Psalm 25:12-13

 

Releasing your day into God’s hands and accepting His path will build trust In Him. He has a plan for each life occurrence and wants to grow your faith in the process. Don’t shun Him out of the day. Trust Him through prayer and studying passages in the bible that are applicable to your situation. God’s Holy Spirit will reveal to you the secret of your situation and will give you wisdom and encouragement to stand tall when everything around you is crumbling. He promises to never leave, nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:8). Trust Him today!

 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as in the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

 

Happy New Year! Today is Sunday and a great day to worship God for His goodness to this great nation. A land where freedom of religion still reins today, but for how long? I read an article this morning, in my January issue of Voice of Martyrs, where churches have been closing in Africa because Islamic rebels threaten the lives of Christians unless they convert to Islam. In one region 10 churches closed and just a few remain.

 

God continues to bless America with our freedoms to worship God without threat of persecution or death, yet on average 7,000 churches close their doors each year due to inactivity, people stop coming. I guarantee you any of the people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo would give anything to have the freedoms we have here in this country. Don’t lose sight of your freedom to worship God who continues to pour out His blessings on you. Let 2023 be a fresh start by coming together as a body of believers to worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. God bless!