Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. Ephesians 4:25

 My favorite bottled water is Callaway Blue. It’s bottled spring water, in the next town over from us and sold locally. I’ve tried a variety of bottled water, but nothing compares to this brand. I’ll admit, it cost more than other brands, so sometimes I refill the bottle with regular tap water. The bottle is blue, so you can’t tell the difference between Callaway Blue Spring water and tap water unless you drink it.

 There are many people today who claim to be Christians; they look like Christians, act like them while in public, even speak like them, yet deep inside their heart is a counterfeit soul that deceives everyone. Today’s verse says that we, as Christians, are not to lie about our belief and faith. We are to be genuine and live out the truth of God’s character in our words and actions. True, we are all humans and fail miserably, but you know your heart and if it’s not in tune with God’s Holy Spirit, you are living a lie and God will judge you for being a deceiver.

 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 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 5:1-2

 Ask yourself, “am I living for God”, “do I live out my faith behind closed doors”? If you can’t answer yes to these questions, maybe it’s time to fill your soul with the truth, the gospel truth and God’s Holy Spirit. What you fill your mind with affects your heart. Reading your bible fills you with God's truth. Your heart is what God sees and if it’s not genuinely true, your “good deeds” will not be recognized on the day of judgment. Live out your faith in truth, so the world can see the true character of Jesus Christ. God bless!  

 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

 It’s been 4 days since I’ve written a blog. God usually drops a thought or verse in my mind and I let His Spirit guide me as I write. After 4 days of silence, I begin to question if He’s really there, or maybe I’ve done something wrong. Maybe you’ve felt that way as well, God’s silence is difficult for His children, who are constantly relying on Him for wisdom, encouragement, and love, especially in this world that is out of sync with His ways.

 After years of having a relationship with God, I can assure you, He is still within the heart of those who’ve accepted Him as their personal Savior. Sometimes He remains silent to see how we live, given the wisdom He’s already provided us. A good example of this is, as parents we help our kids learn to walk, and once they get on their feet, we allow them to go wherever their feet take them. But, when they start heading for something dangerous, we intervene, better yet, when they are about to fall, we try to catch them. I believe this is what God is doing in our lives when He remains silent. So, what should we do when God remains silent in our life?

 Today’s verse encourages us to keep the faith and seek after Him, even when we don’t hear Him speak. As a child begins to walk, they usually head towards their parent, because they know that’s his/her safety net and within the grasp of the parent’s arms are lots of love. When we sustain faith in the moments, days, even weeks of silence, God wants us to continue reading His word, praying, and living the way He has purposed for our lives. Yes, we need God daily, and He is right there with us, but sometimes we need that time of quiet to strengthen our faith and show God how much we utilize the resources He’s given us. When you encounter moments of silence, don’t fret! Just keep doing what you know to do and He’ll join you on the other side of your steps of faith. God bless!

 Ephesians 5:13 NLT

[13] But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, 

I just read about the arrest of another middle aged High school teacher who had a sexual relationship with a student. What was even more sick, the 25 year old school secretary orchestrated the relationship, and she was arrested as well. What is going on in our schools? 

Today's verse might be over 2,000 years old, but its words are still true today, your sins will eventually be discovered. It doesn't matter what you believe to be right, God's laws and the laws of this country draw the line between good and evil behavior. 

If you are currently breaking one of God's laws, STOP! The eternal consequences of your decision to continue in deliberate sin will have an eternal impact on your soul. The devil would have you believe it's ok, but it's not, and quite frankly if you have any morals, you know in your heart what you are doing is wrong. Ask God to help you break the addiction, and the pressure to continue in wrong behavior so you can be spared judgement today and into eternity. Your sins will be exposed. 

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

 One of our daughters recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. She is so precious, and as a grandfather I can relish my time with her, then give her back to mom and dad to take care of all her necessities. It makes me think back to my experience raising 4 kids along with the hard work and challenges that we went through. Now they get to experience the joys and challenges of raising a child. If you’ve ever had that experience, you know it comes with a lot of joys as well as difficult times. I certainly wouldn’t want to do it all over again.

 Today’s verse from Psalms encourages the child of God to commit every day to the Lord, and He will help you through the challenges of raising a child or whatever difficult task you face. I know there were many days when I’d find myself in deep prayer, asking, sometimes screaming, GOD HELP ME! And every time He intervened to provide wisdom, encouragement, and sometimes administer a form of discipline to me when I wasn’t being the best parent. That’s the wonderful thing about committing each day to the Lord, He sees beyond your struggle and provides what’s necessary to bring it to pass so you can face the next challenge with confidence that God’s hand is wrapped around your life and family.

 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way. Psalm 37:7

 It’s easy to compare your life with those around you. When you do this, you get a feeling that everyone else’s life is full of joy, complete, and without struggles. Their kids always behave in public, their house is always neat, their car is always clean (and it’s a nice ride)…the list of comparisons is endless. But the truth be told, behind those walls of perfection, they have the same challenges and struggles that you do. Psalm 37:7 encourages you not to rush ahead by trying to keep up with your neighbors by spending foolish amounts of money on things that will only bring more stress to your family unit. Have I hit a nerve yet? I could go on, but this blog is already too long, so I’ll wrap it up.

 Whatever struggles you are facing, commit every day to the Lord, so He can help you navigate through the challenging times, and by waiting patiently for His guidance, you’ll stay in step with Him. God will bless you when you let Him take the wheel of your life. God bless!

 But as for you, you meant evil against me, BUT GOD meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Genesis 50:20

 When bad things happen, how do you respond? Today’s passage comes from the story of Joseph. His brothers were jealous of him, so they sold him into slavery and told his father that he died by wild animals. Throughout Joseph’s experience, he remained faithful to God with every step of misfortune. Eventually Joseph became a leader in Egypt and was recognized for his faithfulness to God.

 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

 May I recommend a response that gives hope to a hopeless situation by responding with two words: “BUT GOD”.  Joseph’s life was out of his control when he was sold into slavery, and imprisoned from being falsely accused of something he didn’t do, yet He trusted God with each situation and it turned out for his benefit and God’s plan was fulfilled.

 When faced with life’s difficult moments, I encourage you to say, BUT GOD, and trust that what you experience is part of God’s plan to grow your faith and trust in Him, and bring blessings into your life that you otherwise couldn’t have dreamed up. Don’t despair when trouble comes, say, “God, I’m going to remain faithful to you and trust that what you are allowing to occur will be for my benefit”. Trust me, God will bless you for remaining faithful to His purpose and for your good! God bless!

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

Yesterday I heard someone say on the radio, “don't forget to call your mother on Sunday”. Tears developed in my eyes because my mother is no longer here to take my call. She's been gone 5 years now and I still wish I could pick up the phone and share something with her, but that's not humanly possible. Maybe you have lost your mother and you wonder how you can celebrate Mother's Day without her. 

May I suggest you let today's verse give you something to focus on instead of your loss. There are many mothers around you, of all ages and varying situations that could use some encouragement to continue in their responsibilities as a mother. Let's be honest, a mother's duty is no easy task. From the moment of a child's conception til mother draws her last breath, her children are always her primary concern. The weight of her responsibility can be emotionally draining and the love and concern you show others will encourage them to sustain motherhood. 

Everyone's life is different. Just within my circle I have 3 beautiful daughters who are mothers, a devoted wife, a one of a kind sister, and a stepmother who has been an anchor for our family in the wake of losing mom. They all need encouragement, and I'm sure you can find someone or multiple mothers who need just a word of love and encouragement this Sunday. Your mother would be happy to know you are sharing the love she gave you with other moms. God bless. 

 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

 During my early years of life, I recall my mother was very active in our church’s mission program. At one point she served as the committee chairman and ensured our church stayed on tract with biblical support of missionaries in the field. Just a year before her passing, she connected me with one of the missionary couples she supported over years, who retired from overseas and settled in my state of Georgia. I was fortunate to meet with them on several occasions as they enjoyed camping at one of the campgrounds my work managed.

 After mom had passed, this couple was going through their financial records and found a record of donations my mom had made over those years of giving. To my amazement, the sum was in the thousands. As the missionary couple told me, she was faithful in supporting their mission field. It truly blessed my heart to know her loyalty to God’s kingdom work made a difference in the lives of those who were served by this sweet couple.

 As a child of God, He has equipped you with talents and resources to advance Kingdom work, it’s up to you to put those talents to work and utilize your resources to the fullest. There may be times when you wonder if your talents and resources are truly effective; just know that God sees your heart and will bless you for your obedience to do what He’s called you for “good works, which God prepared beforehand”.

 If anyone serves Me, let him follow ME; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor. John 12:26

   I’m sure my mother didn’t know where every penny was spent in the mission field, but she left that up to God to handle, while she remained faithful to give. Although those resources were utilized thousands of miles away, I’m sure her heart was with them every day, serving God, as a faithful steward of God’s resources. May you follow my mother’s example to serve in obedience and without question, for God will honor your commitment in advancing the Kingdom of God across this globe! God bless!

 James 4:14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 

You read it in the news, a young, healthy person suddenly dies, right in the prime of life. Maybe you know someone this has happened to. In those moments, you question your own life; am I living right, am I truly happy, what will I do tomorrow. The list of thoughts is endless, but they always tend to lean towards the future. 

Today's verse reminds us we aren't here for a long period of time, and life is but a vapor that vanishes at the most unexpected time. 

It's ok to think about tomorrow, but don't miss life in the moment. You never know, this might be your last day in this life and never fulfill tomorrow's dreams. 

As a child of God, knowing the purpose for your existence, will help guide your daily activities and rituals. You might be called to help others, do it today, your testimony might be just what your coworker needed to hear to chose Jesus Christ, your ability to plan a random picnic might be what your family needs to reunite them from life's busy schedules.

There are so many things that require your attention, but your memory won't be house cleaning, mowing yards, or doing mundane things, it's living life today, using the gifts and talents God has given you to make this day complete. 

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

 If you’ve ever had any exposure to the gospel, you are probably familiar with today’s verse. Jesus Christ came to earth from Heaven and showed us how the impossible was done through Him, by faith and belief. He even suggested to His disciples that a mountain could be moved with a mustard seed faith (Matthew 17:20). As a child of God, you might accept Jesus’s words, but there’s probably one thing you think is impossible to do, and that is forgive someone whose hurt you.

 The pain and long-term effects of someone’s evil intentions can be lasting days, weeks, years, maybe even a lifetime. Some examples might be your spouse cheated on you, someone stole from you, you’ve been a victim of physical assault or rape, you’ve been sexually abused as a child, you’ve suffered emotional abuse from someone close to you…the list is endless, and the pain is real. Deep down you have thoughts and feelings of revenge, but something inside you has held back from reacting. If you are a Christian, may I suggest that is the Holy Spirit harnessing your response? Why?

 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written, “It is Mine to avenge, I will repay”, says the Lord Romans 12:19

 When you take action against your enemy or offender, you interfere with God’s plan for judgement. Your judgment/response is temporary, but God’s is eternal. The appropriate thing for you to do is forgive them, so you can move on with your life. Releasing your pain into the hands of God, allows Him to work in your life to forgive them, even if they have no remorse; the pain they inflicted you will be dealt one day by the God of this universe, and you’ll be sheltered under the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ.

 The internal healing that forgiveness can bring is far beyond anything your offender can do to make good on what he/she has done to you. Let God have that person to deal with, you heal yourself and find peace in the process. God bless!

 James 5:16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. 

Last year I had some blood pressure issues that landed me in the hospital for 3 days. Friends and family mentioned that they would be praying for me. Grateful for their concern, but deep down I wondered who was really praying on my behalf. When we see someone in need, most respond with: “praying for you”. It's an easy response and makes them feel good as it does the one saying it. But, do you really pray?

I truly believe we throw out the prayer response far too often without meaning it. I know I'm guilty of it at times, maybe you are too. But who are we letting down, that person or God? God doesn't need our prayers to heal someone because he's going to do what His heart moves Him to do. But when you fail to follow through with your intentions to pray, you let God know it's not important and you allow the business of life to fill the the air with unbacked commitments. Imagine if God never remained faithful to help you? You would quickly lose faith in Him. 

Be a person of your word. If you promise to pray on someone’s behalf, stick with it. Pray silently right then so time won't erase what was promised. 

We all need prayer and God is looking to you to remain faithful to your commitments. By doing so, your prayer might just be the one to move God's heart to bring healing to the hurting. 

 Acts 16:25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 

Today's verse comes from the story of Paul and Silas l, who were doing the work of the Lord and offended a group of people. They were beaten with rods and chained up in a prison cell. Even in their pain and bondage, they praised God. What happened next was amazing. 

Acts 16:26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed. 

Praising God, even during the most horrible situations brings a change: internally, it changes your outlook on the situation at hand, and it opens the door for God to make external changes to your circumstances. Sometimes His response is immediate, other times He meters out His response, over a period of time, so you'll see the situation from the lowest depths, to better recognize His full authority over your situation and witness His miracle to release those chains that have kept you bound for so long. 

What chains are holding you back from living life to its fullest? Pornography, alcohol and drugs, stealing, depression, pride, jealousy, strong holds….the list is endless. When you are ready to get serious about releasing yourself from these toxic things, start by praising God. You might not be able to acknowledge one thing to praise Him for, just thank Him for the breath in your lungs and a heartbeat that keeps you alive so He can do a great work in your life. Give Him praise today. 

 Exodus 33:14 And He said, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest”.

Everywhere you look, you see evidence of God's creations; the birds, the sky, sun and moon, trees and flowers, even you! But have you ever noticed God's actual presence in your life?

It's a rare occasion in our town to hit 3 green traffic lights, or find a clear path to turn left without any cars approaching, and makes you wonder how that happens? Or maybe plans come together better than expected or an unanticipated check arrives in the mail that matches a bill that still needed to be paid. One might think it's luck or a coincidence, but I truly believe it's the work of the Lord God blessing you and letting you know He is right there with you! 

Jeremiah 29:13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. 

If you are like me, these blessings are always noticed and followed up with a “thank you God for being with me”. If you remain aware of those blessings and thank God for them, He rewards you with more instances of His intervention in your life, and yes, He will give you the assurance that He's always with you, even in the most simplest of times. Give Him your praise today! 

 Matthew 14:28-29

[28] And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” [29] So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 

As a child of God, your faith is like a lifeboat, meant to keep you afloat in this life, even when you encounter a horrible life event, meant to drown your hopes and dreams. I believe many of us know and trust God for everything we need and face in life, but there's a little sliver of doubt that stays kindled in the back of your mind when your earthly understanding hinders your faith. Just like Peter, he knew if Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk on water, he could do it. But, once the waves overcame his trust to walk on water, he sank. Thankfully Jesus was there to pull him to safety. 

Maybe you are like Peter, you have a close relationship with Jesus and have faith and trust in Him, but you lack the confidence to step out of the boat when you fear the unknown or your faith minimizes the trust of what He's calling you to do. Friend, don't miss the opportunity for God to show you what a mustard seed of faith can do when you confidently step out of your comfort zone and allow the power of God to work in and through you to accomplish His perfect will. You can do it with His help. Trust Him today, and everyday, as you step out in faith to do the work of the Lord.