Freedom

In America today we are celebrating Memorial day, a holiday that represents one of our founding ideals—freedom. Freedom is held near and dear to the American heart. It’s the reason we left England on the Mayflower and decided to come to this unfamiliar territory. The sound of freedom is sweet but has a bitter reality. Wherever there is freedom, there is also death. America has not stayed free by luck or chance. It has stayed free because men and women were willing to die.

Freedom is not just an ideal in the American heart but it is an ideal in the Christian heart as well. Romans 8:2 says that through Jesus Christ the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. Just like the death of American soldiers has made a way for the freedom of America so the death of Christ has made a way for freedom for all of those who believe in him.

Today, if you are looking for spiritual freedom believe that Christ lived, died on the cross, and rose again on the third day to set you free. If you have already received this freedom rejoice and celebrate. Today is a day to give honor to those who have died for us—men, women, and most importantly Jesus Christ.

If you would like to pray the prayer of salvation click on this link. http://www.jesussaves.cc/index.php/english/prayer-of-salvation/

By: Danielle O’Neil

5 Prayers for Lent

1. Psalm 51

2. Isaiah 58

3. Litany of Penitence

4 . Litany of Humility

5. This one, from Thomas Merton:

My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going.
I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end.
Nor do I really know myself,
and the fact that I think that I am following your will
does not mean that I am actually doing so.
But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.
I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road,
though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore will I trust you always,
though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for you are ever with me,
and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.

Taken from: http://rachelheldevans.com/

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The Power of Prayer

Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain in the land for three years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. James 5:17-18

How many times in our daily lives do we fail to pray? Don’t feel bad all of us could pray more. I am guilty as charged as well. Why is this? We know we should but we don’t. Are we really to busy to pray today?

There are lots of reasons and/or excuses we fail to pray but one of the main ones is that we really don’t believe it will do anything. We may gain this perspective based on past experiences when we prayed and didn’t receive the answer we desired. James 4:3 may have the answer to why that happened, it says, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. Also, in chapter 1 of James, it tells us that if we doubt we should not expect anything from the Lord, we will only be like the waves tossed back and forth by the sea.

The bottom line is that we would all pray more if we really believed in the power of prayer. In order for us to move forward in our prayer lives we must base it off of something more true than our experience. Our prayer lives will always be lacking if we base it off of ourselves. It must be on God’s word.

God’s word is telling us that Elijah was a human being, just like us. He was not some kind of super human and God heard his prayer. His prayer changed the atmosphere around him not just for a little while but years.

Don’t underestimate the power of your prayer today. It might just change the whole world around you.

Joy

Happiness is a temporary emotion founded upon circumstances. Joy is a lasting emotion founded upon the Word of God.

Regardless of our circumstances we can KNOW that according to Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." No matter what you situation is today,

God loves you and He does want to come and work within your circumstances. But you must invite Him to come in and work on your behalf. First, acknownledge Jesus Christ as the son of God and ask Him to forgive you. Second, ask God to take complete control of your life. Thirdly, begin to thank God that He will lead and guide you through your circumstances.

Joy Will Come! It is on the way even now!!

All Things Work Together for Good!

Romans 8:28 ~ The Amplified Bible

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.

Do you ever look back on your life and feel like you've made a mess of things? Do you wish there was a "do over" button? Sometimes it's willful sin, other times it's just a innocent mistake. The beautiful part of God's grace is that He can take a mess and weave His love and grace around it to bring good for us and glory to His name. Friends, be encouraged that He knows right where you are today. Nothing has taken Him by surprise. Find hope today that even if your life is not what you hoped, you can trust Him that through obedience and patience He will make all things beautiful in His time.

Unshakable

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly, he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress. I will not be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2

Do you ever just have those days where you feel like if someone tapped you you would just collapse? If someone were to touch you or say the wrong thing to you you would fall apart right there on the spot? What makes us get this way? How do we get to a place where we are so fragile? So shakeable?

The last sentence of Psalm 62:2 says I will not be shaken. Maybe you are sitting here saying I wish I could only say that. I want to point out however that before David the psalmist wrote that he made four other statements.

The first part of Psalm 62:1 says, "Yes, my soul, find rest in God." In order for us to become unshakable we first must find rest in God. This means we have to stop trying to rest in everything else we have in our lives for security purposes. Our jobs, money, talents, success, relationships, ministry, even our plans for the future will not give us true rest. If any of these things are the primary focus of our lives we will surely be exhausted. We must tell our souls today to find rest in God.

The second statement David makes is, "My hope comes from him." Once our souls have rested in God then comes our hope. Hope cannot come by anyother way but resting in God. Hope is the result of looking only to God.

Thirdly David says, " Truly he is my rock and my salvation." Once our souls have found rest and our lives are filled with hope then we are able to testify of God's strength and of his saving power.

Lastly, David says, that God is his fortress. God must be our dwelling place. The ultimate place of security. We cannot survive in our man made fortresses of success, money, relationships, etc. God is the only fortress that will endure.

In order to be unshakeable we must find rest in God, recieve hope from him, recognize that our strength and salvation is from him, and dwell in him as our fortress. All of this is available to you today. Be Unshakable!

Written By: Danielle O'Neil

Walking In Newness Of Life!

Romans 6:4,5 ~ The Amplified Bible

We were buried therefore with Him by the baptism into death, so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious [power] of the Father, so we too might [habitually] live and behave in newness of life. For if we have become one with Him by sharing a death like His, we shall also be [one with Him in sharing] His resurrection (by a new life lived for God).

The new year always provides another opportunity for a fresh start. We make resolutions, set new goals, attempt to do something different to gain a different set of results. Sometimes we find success and other times we lose heart. The great news is that when we choose Jesus and invite Him into the middle of our lives, he gets deep into our heart and starts doing a new work from the inside. We see our old life dying and sense new desires and a new spirit. We are dead to that old life! It is by His glorious power that we are daily renewed! Let us intentionally walk in this newness of life today!

Mighty God

We find five powerful words that describe Jesus Christ in Isaiah 9:6. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Today ponder what is our Mighty God,

Mighty God; Jesus Christ is the second person of the trinity. John 1:1 tells us that “In the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God.” Jesus Christ is the Word and He became flesh. Jesus said in John 10:30 “I and the Father are one…” So all the miraculous miracles that you have experienced are from Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ came as a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes but today He is the high priest ever interceding to God on our behalf.

Lift up your needs to the Mighty God today. He hears and answers our prayers. Submit prayers to www.gpn.cc where our global prayer family can be praying for you!

The Meaning of Christmas

Imagine living in the worlds best kingdom. What would it look like? When the word kingdom is mentioned do you automatically think of the middle ages with lords, ladies, and knights in shining armor like I do. Does the thought of a kingdom have a mystical and romantic tone to you?

What if I told you that the establishment of a kingdom is what Christmas is all about? Sounds crazy, huh. Well, it’s true!

In Luke 1:26-38 we have a detailed account of Jesus’ birth announcement to Mary delivered by the angel Gabriel. In the midst of calming Mary down and telling her not to be afraid he tells her the identity of the son she is about to conceive. He says, “He will be called the Son of the Most high. The Lord will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

Jesus did not just come to save us from our sins in order that we may live a happy life. He came for a much more meaningful reason! He came not to be our life coach but our King!

This is good news and gives us great hope. If Jesus was just the most incredible life coach then he would only be as good as this life but since he is King of Kings he lasts. He rules and reigns, above and beyond this life. His kingdom will never end.

No matter what you are facing this holiday season, dwell on the meaning of Christmas: the establishment of God’s kingdom forever, that rules and reigns no matter your personal present!

I Can Do All Things

Philippians 4:13. We know it but o they really KNOW it? Hopefully this will help and bless you....

This verse declares "I can do all things..."

I CAN DO is the Greek word 'ischuo' pronounced 'is-khoo'-o' which means: to be strong, robust, in sound health, to have power to do extraordinary deeds, to exert, to wield power, to overcome. The the phrase "all things" is the Greek word 'pas' and it means: individually, each, every, any, all, the whole, everything collectively. So God's Word is saying: "I can do each and every individual thing that I personally face or comes my way." Who can? I can!

Next is what I really want you to see.... "through"...that's the would the KJV uses and the one most people use when quoting this verse but the King James missed the translation here. If it was 'through' it would be the Greek word 'dia' which means: across, from point to point. But the actual word use is 'en' which means: in, inside, in the realm or sphere of, something that operates from the inside or within. If the word was 'through' it would mean that Christ is the instrument but he's not. He is the source of all things. We are the instrument Christ has chosen to use.

So "I CAN DO" I am the instrument that the source (Christ) will use if I allow. So to me it's saying "I can do, I have the power, the ability to overcome by extraordinary deeds each and every thing IF I live and operate from inside, in Christ...IN his character. IN his will. IN his timing. Because he is my source...he strengthens me." The key to being able to do all things is being IN or INSIDE Christ. Begin to say today "I CAN DO ALL THINGS IN CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME!"

Provided By- Pastor DALE CROFT

Want To Be Fit For The Kingdom

Being Fit is so important in the western world today. Our image takes precedent in many situations. The truth is that the the most important "being fit" is being fit for the what God has called you to be.

It's not performance based but rather honor based. Focus on honoring the name of Jesus and being fit with His Word and you WILL become fit for what God has for you!

2 Thessalonians 1 ~ Message Bible

11-12Because we know that this extraordinary day is just ahead, we pray for you all the time—pray that our God will make you fit for what he's called you to be, pray that he'll fill your good ideas and acts of faith with his own energy so that it all amounts to something. If your life honors the name of Jesus, he will honor you. Grace is behind and through all of this, our God giving himself freely, the Master, Jesus Christ, giving himself freely.

Honor The Name Of Jesus

Begin your days with praise and worship to the one and only true God. Then take a moment and look at yourself in the mirror and say something positive about YOU! Throughout the day when greeting others give them a compliment. All these small acts will bring honor to God.

2 Thessalonians 1 ~ Message Bible

11-12 Because we know that this extraordinary day is just ahead, we pray for you all the time—pray that our God will make you fit for what he's called you to be, pray that he'll fill your good ideas and acts of faith with his own energy so that it all amounts to something. If your life honors the name of Jesus, he will honor you. Grace is behind and through all of this, our God giving himself freely, the Master, Jesus Christ, giving himself freely.

Honor Him today! By submitting All to Him through your worship!! Honor Him today by honoring yourself! Honor Him today by honoring others!

Just Believe

…” Don’t be afraid, Just believe.”
-Mark 5:16

In today’s world, there are lots of dangers and tragedies. All one has to do is look in a newspaper, turn on a TV, or talk to a neighbor to hear of the injustices going on in the world. In all honesty I have been discouraged, hoarded everything I have, and looked at the world and said in mind, “It is dead. What can we really do? Let’s stop bothering God about it, and pray to him for things that can actually be fixed.” “Why try to fix the things that are dead?” “Let’s direct our focus to the things that are living.”

Then I found that there were people with attitudes just like mine in the word. When a synagogue leader named Jairus came to Jesus and had him go to his daughter so that he may heal her, the other leaders said,”Your daughter is dead. Why bother the teacher anymore?” Jesus replied to Jairus, “ Do not be afraid; just believe.”

I would like to encourage you not to have an attitude that says, “Well this is dead so there is nothing I can do.” I also want to encourage you that if people are saying that about a certain situation in your life not to be afraid and to believe in God.

Just because something is dead does not mean God can’t restore it and bring it back to life. Do not be afraid to ask God. Just believe.

Desires and Decisions

Desire without knowledge is not good- how much more will hasty feet miss the way! Proverbs 19:2

Have you ever wanted to do something right now? There are all kinds of things that we as humans just can’t wait to do all the way from buying something we want to building a business. It sure is hard to wait. As soon as we want it we have got to have it.

Have you ever rushed into something and regretted it later? I most certainly have.

Proverbs 19:2 tells us that desire without knowledge is not good. Notice that it does not say that desire is bad. Your desire might not necessarily be bad today. It may even be God given but without knowledge of that desire and of God it can become uncontrollable.

Hasty or rushing feet miss the way every time. Maybe you are frustrated because the thing you desire hasn’t happened yet. Think about this. Maybe God wants you to have more knowledge of him and the situation so that when he gives it you it can be everything he intended for it to be.

If your in the midst of making a decision today. Double-check to make sure you’ve got all your facts straight. Don’t give up on your desire but pursue knowledge.

Written By: Danielle O'Neil

What do you see?

What are your thoughts when you wake up in the morning? What do you look at and see within yourself and the world around you?

If I'm honest, when I wake up I don't always see the positive. I don't always see what I'm blessed with. Sometimes I see my life as mundane one thing after the other. Other times there are never ending trials. Whether I wake up and see life as boring or extremely difficult there is one problem. Christ is not the focus in those moments.

Psalm 24:1 gives a very important piece of wisdom to guide the disposition that we as Christians are to have towards life. It says Do not envy the wicked. Most of the time when I find myself seeing life as mundane or difficult it is because I'm comparing it with someone elses. It is easy as a Christian to look towards others who are living wickedly and envy them. Their life can look easier and can look like a lot more fun. The truth is it may very well be in a sense.

There is a greater truth however, no matter what life looks like, Christians have the most wonderful gift known to man- Christ. It is when we put our gaze on him that what we wake up and see in the morning changes. When we look to him we no longer see the pleasure of the wicked but grieve for them because they do not have the pleasure of Christ.

Today, if you are struggling to see your blessings, if you are struggling to see the good in your life, if you catch yourself envying the wicked, turn your gaze to Christ. He is the remedy to the desires of the heart. Turn your gaze to him, then tell me what you see.

By: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

The Name of the Lord is a Strong Tower

The Name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run in to it and they are saved! In this very turbulent time, remember to call upon the name of the Lord. His name is Jesus Christ. Proverbs 18:10

His name means peace, healer, provider and ALL sufficient one. The authority is in the name of Jesus. Call upon His name today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRvQGYnMjBk

A Life of Peace

Your home offers protection from the elements. So when a storm rolls in, you seek shelter within the safety of those four walls. The same principle applies to life’s storms. If we’ve built a solid house on a foundation of faith, then we’ve got a haven to run to when dark clouds gather and anxiety threatens to overwhelm us.

Let’s suppose a problem is worrying you, and your stomach is in knots. Friends and family try to be understanding, but they’re growing weary of you taking your heartache out on them. You are so focused on the issue that it feels as if your shoulders are bearing a heavy weight. Now listen to the liberating alternative God offers: “Cast your burden upon [Me] and [I] will sustain you” (Ps. 55:22). He doesn’t erase the ills that invade this life. Instead, He shields us from the weight of worry by taking situations into His own hands.

However, the call to a free and peaceful life goes unheeded unless a person has confidence in the Lord. Trust is built through relationship—praying during daily trials and triumphs, seeking biblical guidance for decisions, and testing God’s Word to see that it is true and practical. That’s how a house of faith is constructed brick by brick on the solid rock of Jesus Christ.

A believer who trusts in the Lord receives the peace that Isaiah 26:3 promises. But unshakeable peace isn’t instantaneous; it is cultivated through a consistent relationship with God. A lifestyle of dependence upon Him is the key to weathering storms with supernatural calm.

Today just begin to thank God for His blessings and what you DO have. Ask God to fill your heart with peace that only comes from Him. You may not be happy today but you can have peace. Trust in the Lord with all of your heart. Don't trust your circumstances or how you feel. Lean on the Lord and HE will give you peace.

Trusting God

Trust is a sacred thing. And sacred things are to be handled carefully, seriously, soberly, cautiously. To trust God with all your heart is not a casual thing. And I use to think it should always be easy to trust until my first born son was diagonised with a lifelong disability called "Autism."

It’s also not an easy thing. Since God is totally trustworthy, it should be easy to trust Him; however some people are severely wounded in their spirit and disabled in their soul as truly as if they had a physical disability. This is demonstrated by their behavior. They either trust no one or they trust almost anyone. Both extremes can be seriously harmful. Both groups need help. I’ve noticed that neither group readily recognizes there is a problem. Until they do, they will not receive the help they need.

If you are one of the trust disabled, you may already know that the first step toward being able to trust either God or people appropriately is deep level healing of wounds to the soul. God is healer and He knows how to do this. We have to ask Him to do it and seek Him about it.

Trusting God requires steps of faith, based on what the Word of God tells us about God’s trustworthiness. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. ” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).

Simply put we must turn off our minds and own reasonings. We must replace our thoughts with the Word of God because His Word are His thoughts. His thoughts are for good and not for evil but most importantly He knows everything. The beginning from the end. Which leads us then to trust Him by submitting to Him!!

Begin today by thanking Him for everything. Throughout today I have stopped to meditate on the goodness of God. I have thanked Him for my precious son who cannot read, write, or speak. How can I do this? Because I have made the choice to not rely on how I think or feel concerning this seemingly horrific situation and submit my thoughts to the plan and purposes of the one who knows best. My God!! Join me

Contributor: Sonja Hunt and Teri Winters (mom of son with autism)

Don’t be diverted!

I Timothy 4:11-116 ~ The Amplified Bible

Get the word out. Teach all these things. And don’t let anyone put you down because you’re young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity. Stay at your post reading Scripture, giving counsel, teaching. And that special gift of ministry you were given when the leaders of the church laid hands on you and prayed—keep that dusted off and in use.

Cultivate these things. Immerse yourself in them. The people will all see you mature right before their eyes! Keep a firm grasp on both your character and your teaching. Don’t be diverted. Just keep at it. Both you and those who hear you will experience salvation.

Charles Swindoll once said, "Life is so daily". I'll never forget that. Years are made up of days that fit together in a plan to make a difference in our lives. Today it is rainy and dreary here in Tennessee where I sit writing this. I could brush this day aside thinking it was just a day to get through OR I could understand that each can be a breakthrough day or a stepping stone day to something extraordinary. Don't be diverted today by lethargy or dread ~ cultivate the things that God has placed in your heart. Today could be filled with great surprises! Look for Him in the ordinary moments and in all things be thankful today!

Deal Wisely And Have Good Success!

Joshua 1:8 ~ The Amplified Bible

This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

Isn't it interesting that the Scripture says to not let the Word depart from your mouth. He could have said not to let the word depart from our heart, mind or spirit, but here it is clear He meant mouth. I believe there is life giving power and strength that comes from verbalizing what we believe in our hearts. The power to change circumstances is wielding the sword of the Spirit! The Word also says that we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony! Let us be on the offense today with God's love in our hearts and His Word on our lips!

The “Trip” of Faith

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

Have you ever hopped in a car with a friend without knowing where you are going? You have things to get accomplished that day but the friend insists that you trust them. They insist that there is a purpose why they aren't at work or at class. They tell you just trust me.

If you are like me, this causes anger. I have a schedule and I want that to be respected. This "little road trip" is a major inhibition to production. If you ever done this, at the end of it all you know that even though there is something else you "should have done" in that moment that the road trip was worth it. There was a very important purpose to dropping everything and letting your friend share their heart. It was in this moment that relationship and purpose was confirmed in your life.

Though there may have been resistance, faith in your friend lead you to acquiese to their leading.

There was a man in the bible named Noah who got in a boat because of his friend's, God's, insistence. It was when God came to him and insisted that he drop everything to build a boat and hop on with him that he found his destiny. He literally preserved the human race by faith. He knew God. He knew that what he said was true and that his commands to us are not just for our own preservation but for the preservation of every one around him.

Today, If God asks you to hop in a car, boat, or anything else with him. Do it! No matter what is going on, no mattter what people are saying, no matter what you have to do, do not refuse "God's road trip." The road trip, or the boat ride is where you will get to know the heart of God, and find his destiny for your life. Let faith in him be the evidence of the destiny you have yet to see.

Written by : Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

The Power of Belief

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened inorder that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheiritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for those who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead...." (Ephesians 1:18-20)

Belief is something we all have in one way or another. It is essential to do anything in life. You believe that when you hit a light switch it will turn on. You believe that when you boil water to a certain temperature that it will be able to cook the food you want to eat. Because you believe that your action will cause a desired response, you do whatever it is.

Believing is at the core of everything we do. If we did not believe that our actions would cause a desired response we would not do anything.

It is no different in the kingdom of God. Believing is the core of the Christian faith. Without faith or belief it is impossible to please God. The good news is that our belief in God enables him to act in our lives in a more powerful way than believing in anything else. Believing empowers us to act with the same power God used to raise Jesus from the dead.

If you are wondering why you don't have as much power as you would like, evaluate your belief. The more you believe the more power you will have to act in the same way God acted. Belief is inseperable from power in the kingdom of God.

Written by: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

God Can Do Anything

Oh that we would focus on what He can do and not what we are capable of. All of our human abilities and intellegence is like a grain of sand in compairson to His infinite knowledge and power. It's not our great faith that moves mountains, it's is Who are faith is in. Stop trying to figure out how He can do the next important thing you need Him to do. It probably won't happen the way you think. He's always way ahead of us. Just keep walking with a thankful heart as you seek His face. Seek Him, not the answers...He will show you the next step. He is your loyal and faithful Father!

"God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us."-Ephesians 3:20 The Message Bible

The Personal Residence of Jesus Christ

And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 2:22

If you were to describe yourself in terms of a building what kind of building would you be? Would you be a skyscraper, a mall, a business office, a school, a sports arena, or a humble abode?

Did you know that as Christians we are supposed to be one specific building with our fellow believers?

Ephesians 2 talks about how Christ is now including everyone not just Israel into the family of God. In verse 19 the chapter begins to talk about how we are no longer foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints in the household of God. That we are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ as the cornerstone. We are all being built together joined by Christ.

Today examine your life. What kind of building do you look like? A building is categorized by what it contains. Is your life consumed with work that you look like a business office? Is it so consumed with clothes that you look like a mall? Invite Christ to dwell within you today and begin to look like the personal residence of Christ.

Living Hope and Eternal Inheritance

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade. 1 Peter 1:3-4
1 Peter was originally written to exiles or people forced to move away from not only their homes but their country. Maybe you have not been forced to leave your home and country but I'm sure you can identify with some kind of loss. Most of us can say there has been a time where we have had to give up things we love or very precious things have been taken from us. Guess what? No matter what you have lost in Christ there is ALWAYS a living hope. Through his resurrection you have an inheritance that no one can ever steal from you. It never perishes, spoils, or fades. All the things of this world maybe stripped from you but no one can ever steal your eternal inheritance! Never lose hope!

By: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

No Good Thing Will He Withhold!

For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11 ~ The Amplified Bible

Hope is one of those things that can make or break a day. No matter what we have to face, if we have hope we have a skip in our step and joy that fills us with strength. I have a coffee cup that has HOPE written on the inside lip. Today, I needed a reminder to not lose hope. What cup did I reach for? Yes, that's the one I grabbed. He is our Sun and our Shield. He gives us grace, favor, glory and a heavenly hope. But...today, do not lose your present HOPE that He will fulfill what He has promised you. He is faithful!

How Do I Build My Hope? Take 5 minutes every two hours and thank God for something you DO have then listen to the song below. After that read Psalm 25 out loud!!

It will lift you up!!!

The Righteous Shall Never Be Moved!

I heard a wise pastor once say, " "sin will take you further than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay and cost you more than you want to pay." Sin and wickedness produce dire consequences...the result of sin always causes the death of something. BUT, the fruit of righteousness is full of life and good fruit. Even when it doesn't look like it, on either side, harvest always comes. Plant good seeds today!

He Is Able!

Ephesians 3:20 ~ The Message Bible

God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Glory to God in the church!
Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus!
Glory down all the generations!
Glory through all millennia! Oh, yes!

He is able! Yes, He is able! May our focus this new day be on who He is and what He can do if we will just trust Him! He leads us and works in us to bring about His plan. It will be better than what we could ever imagine. That is why are hearts rejoice as we tell of His wonders and greatness! To God be the Glory for His great faithfulness!

Being Declared Righteous

For it is not those who hear the law that are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. Romans 2:13

What comes to mind when you think of a person being righteous? Is it someone locked up in their room praying all day, a greek scholar or theologian, someone who never makes a mistake, or a person who thinks they are holier-than-thou. The word righteous can bring up negative thoughts and feelings because quite honestly it seems unrealistic.

In the original language of the bible the word for righteousness means to be just in the eyes of God. Our righteousness does not come from locking ourselves up in a room all day to pray, understanding deep theological concepts, doing everything perfectly, or correcting others faults, it comes only from the way God sees us. Our righteousness is dependant on God and nothing else.

In Romans 2 Paul is discussing isssues between the Gentiles (non-jews) and Jews (God's chosen people, Israel). Verses 12-29 talk about how Jews that are convinced they they are a guide to others are blaspheming the name of God by studying, teaching, and doing all of the physical acts of the law while neglecting to obey it in their hearts. Verses 28-29 say that a person is a Jew not by physical circumsision but by circumsision of the heart.

The point is that it is not hearing the word but obeying the word that brings righteousness. It is entirely possible to sit on the church pew every sunday, be involved at every church event, pray and study the word of God all day but never truly obey the law. God does not want containers of information but agents of transformation. Loving God and others is the ultimate fulfillment of the Law.

Righteousness is not unrealistic. It's only a two step process: love God and love others because when you are truly loving God and others you will naturally obey the law. Righteousness is not a check-list its a relationship. Obeying God's word naturally flows from your relationship with him.

Don't just go through the motions of being a Christian today. Seek God's voice and obey it. Long to be seen as just in the eyes of the Lord. Pursue your relationship with God and naturally over time you will obey his word more and more. Obey his word and be declared righteous.

First Step to Winning the Gold: Humility

First Step to Winning the Gold; Humility

Humility is defined as “ is the quality of being modest and respectful.” In Philippians 3:13 the very first thing the Apostle Paul tells us is that he does not consider himself to have attained. “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead…”

In Christianity many times we think being humble means groveling in front of others or thinking we're no good and others are good.

That’s not the Bible's picture. God says when you are humble, you are free from pride and arrogance. You know that in your flesh you are inadequate, yet you also know who you are in Christ. As you are pressing towards the goal remember today that humility if the first step to walking on the streets of gold!!

Faith

"Now" is defined as where we are living now, the immediate, the present moment. So Now means Now! Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." The first thing we need to understand about faith is that it is NOW! Not the past nor the future but right NOW we need to have faith.

Cry out to God today for NOW faith! Whatever your situation God is here for you right NOW!!

A Pure Heart

Who can climb the mountain of the Lord? Who can stand in His holy place? Only those who's hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. (Psalms 24:3-4) This is not a popular topic in the 21st century. We want to live however we want yet think we can receive from God and that we will make it to heaven. This is simply not true!

For us who want to live pure it seems impossible. I would like to strenthen the meaning of "pure" from the original language. Sure it means clean BUT it also means empty. The inference here is that we must "empty" our hearts in order for them to be clean. This is truly a lifelong journey of ridding ourselves of all the outside influences that try to steal our time, affections, and emotions. We must seek God with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength. NO ONE can be sinless but we can have hearts that are empty and ready for His word and spirit to fill us!

Let us cry out today for cleans hands and a pure heart.

If you have a bondage and need to be set free click here

Celebrate Freedom Today

Today as people look to the liberty of American citizens let us not forget our liberty as citizens of heaven. (Philippians 3:20) Liberty or freedom is defined as the quality or state of being free.

Here are some scriptures that talk about our liberty and freedom;

Isaiah 61:1 says, ““The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, Because the LORD has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaimliberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;”

Luke 4:18 says, “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed;”

John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there isliberty.”

Galatians 5:1 says, “Stand fast therefore in the freedom by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”

Galatians 5:13 says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use yourfreedom to indulge the flesh (or an as an opportunity to sin).”

Today celebratie your freedom to depend on Jesus, who set you free from sin! click here to receive Jesus Christ today!

Walk In The Spirit

Galatians 5 ~ The Amplified Bible

But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God).

To walk with the Lord provides immeasureable benefits, some of which we don't even realize at times. When we determine to walk with Jesus we are loaded with benefits, including His wonderful gifts of the Spirit and the natural guidance provided as we put Him first. We make a choice on a daily basis, it is clear that when we choose to walk in the Spirit, God's gracious presence guards us from slipping into the sinful fleshly life. All glory to our faithful Father who loves and keeps us!

Knowing God

“…Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God…” 1 John 4: 7 Have you ever desired to truly know God? Have you desired to know the one who made the stars, the heavens, and the universe? Is it even possible to know this God? Yes, yes it is! In 1 John 4 verse 7 it tells us that everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Knowing God is not about gaining academic or mystical knowledge. It is not about being born into a certain family or having a certain job. Knowing God is about love. First, in order to know God you must know that he loves you. He loves you so much that he sent his son to live, die, and come back to life. Second, to know God you must love others based on this love that has been given to you. Today, rest assured that you in fact can know God. It does not take hours of intense study, special credentials, or money but it does take a commitment to believe in his love for you and a commitment to pour out this love to others. Get to know God today. He is waiting to show you love. Just ask him to! By: Danielle O’Neil @danielleoneil.com

He Is Waiting For You

He is waiting on YOU today! God has great plans for you and He is longing to show you His love and His favor.

Isaiah 30:18 ~ The Amplified Bible

> 18 And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts Himself up, that He may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for Him, who expect and look and long for Him [for His victory, His favor, His love, His peace, His joy, and His matchless, unbroken companionship]!

> So receive His favor and blessings today.

You Are Dressed In A New Wardrobe!

Colossian 3:3-9 The Message Bible

Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you’ll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.

And that means killing off everything connected with that way of death: sexual promiscuity, impurity, lust, doing whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it, and grabbing whatever attracts your fancy. That’s a life shaped by things and feelings instead of by God. It’s because of this kind of thing that God is about to explode in anger. It wasn’t long ago that you were doing all that stuff and not knowing any better. But you know better now, so make sure it’s all gone for good: bad temper, irritability, meanness, profanity, dirty talk.

Don’t lie to one another. You’re done with that old life. It’s like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you’ve stripped off and put in the fire. Now you’re dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete.

Do you know that Christ was fashioned in obscurity? He laid His royalty down to come to earth. He was born in an obscure village to a humble family without pomp or circumstance. He grew up as a carpenter faithfully doing what His Father had called Him to do. How often do we think about what God wants us to do? Aren't we preoccupied with what "we want" and what "we need"? Our life might be invisible to the spectators around us, but it is NOT to God. He watchfully guards our lives. He is intimately involved in all our ways. His Word is our compass, are we heading in the right direction today?

If not, YOU CAN!! Simply ask God to be with you. To lead and guide every area of you life.

Pouring Out

“Not so, my Lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord. (1 Samuel 1:13)

Do you find yourself going through life just managing to keep it together, to keep yourself in? Have you ever found yourself scared of what would happen if you simply let it all out? Imagine a lake filled with water but that water never moves. It becomes stagnant, filled with bacteria. The water is vile and breeds all kinds of diseases.

This is what often times happens to our soul. We keep everything in so long that our souls begin to breed the diseases, of bitterness, distrust, selfishness, and the list goes on. We try to so hard to keep everything together that we soon find that we are not giving anything to anyone. Then we wonder why no one gives to us.

What we do in times when we have been hurt define us. How we react can make a lasting impact on the state of our souls, affecting our whole life and those we love. A lot of us end up blaming God, or those of us who are more passive aggressive simply choose to ignore his presence. But there are the few who do choose to still remember him and remember that he is good no matter what our circumstances look like.

There was a woman in the bible named Hannah who was one of the few. She was deeply hurt because she remained barren for years while her sister-wife had plenty of children. At this moment Hannah had a choice, she could have blamed God and turned away from God but she didn’t. Hannah went before the Lord and begin to pour out her soul before him. She did poured herself out to the point Eli, the prophet, thought she was drunk.

God heard her when she poured out and gave her a son named Samuel. This son became a prophet for the nation of Israel and anointed King David who the lineage of Jesus would be traced back to.

Her decision to pour out allowed God to fulfill the desires of her heart and also to carry forth his plan of salvation for the world.

Today, I want to challenge you to stop holding everything in before the Lord. Whatever you hold back and don’t allow to flow out of you will begin to breed bacteria in your soul. When you decide to pour it out, God will heal the barrenness of your life and give you the desires of your heart. Your pouring out is the catalyst for God’s will to be done in the earth.

Hold nothing back! Live a life poured out before him!

Written By: Danielle O'Neil

His Mercies Are New Every Morning

Lamentations 3:23-26 The Amplified Bible

It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassion's fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness. The Lord is my portion or share, says my living being (my inner self); therefore will I hope in Him and wait expectantly for The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for Him, to those who seek Him [inquire of and for Him and require Him by right of necessity and on the authority of God’s word]. It is good that one should hope in and wait quietly for the salvation (the safety and ease) of the Lord.

My hope today is in Him; His mercy, His faithfulness, His stability, His authority and His loving kindness. There is no other! At the point of your need, He is there. Let's His mercy be your hope today. Don't despair, hope in Him! His very name is faithful and True!

Desires and Decisions

Desire without knowledge is not good- how much more will hasty feet miss the way! Proverbs 19:2

Have you ever rushed into something and regretted it later? I most certainly have.

If your in the midst of making a decision today. Double-check to make sure you’ve got all your facts straight. Don’t give up on your desire but pursue knowledge.

Written By: Teri Winters of www.teriwinters.org

The Lord’s Purpose Will Stand

Proverbs 19:20,21 ~ The Amplified Bible "Hear counsel, receive instruction, and accept correction, that you may be wise in the time to come. Many plans are in a man’s mind, but it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand."

We must stand for the Lord, we must stand in worship, kneel in prayer, walk in repentance when corrected. We must walk in His Word, live out His wisdom and stand for Him when we have a choice to make. We can trust that in this, His Purpose for us will stand! We are called to live out our lives for Him and bring glory to His name!

Confession

CONFESSION Is acknowledging that we stand guilty before God. There is no place for self-righteousness. We develop intimacy with the Lord through prayer when we confess our need for His pardon. I John 1:9 says "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Take time today to open up your heart and be honest with God about your faults and failures. He will listen and forgive you!

That We May Know Him!

Phillipians 3:10 ~ The Amplified Bible

(For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope].

Do we as believers really understand that our journey should be an intentional life long pursuit to know HIM? Not just adhering to a set of rules, not just church attendance or all the other disciplines that we count important. It really is about walking this journey with our hearts and minds on Christ. It's about step by step of following after Him. I heard a Rabbi said once that he wanted to walk so close to Jesus that the dust from the road where Jesus walked would also get on his garment. At the end of the day, it's not about all the outward things we can do, it really is all about Him! I hope we have to wash the dust off our garments today!

The Roots of Righteousness

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ- to the glory and praise of God.

Phillipians 1:9-11 NIV

How many people do you know that you consider to live a righteous life? How many people do you know that at one time you would have said they lived a righteous life but now they have fallen? If we are completely honest, the track record of people living a righteous life is not good. If you know one person who has lived a righteous life, you are blessed. We recognize that righteous lives are few, yet as christians we continually strive and live in guilt when we are not obtaining it. Even in my own life it seems as if righteousness is this intangible thing that one day will apppear in my life if somehow I work hard enough or have enough of a spiritual experience.

This kind of belief has only lead to perpetual frustration. It causes us to go round and round in circles not achieving anything, hoping one day we will get to our final destination.

How can this kind of life be stopped? How can those of us who want to live a righteous life actually do it? Is it even possible to overcome all of our defiencies and sins and finally get to live out the calling of God we desperately long to live?

In Phillipians 1:9-11, Paul is praying for the Phillipian Church to be filled with righteousness. As an apostole, he desired this for the people who God put under his care. In this prayer, however, he does not start off with saying, "God please, just do what you have to do to make sure these people are righteous at your coming." He begins his prayer with praying for their love to continue to grow. He also prays that this love would be in knowledge and depth of insight.

What is this knowledge and depth of insight in? It is in the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is in this knowledge of God that love grows and is able to produce the righteousness many of us feel guilty everyday for not having.

If you find yourself frustrated today because you guilty for not living up to what you feel called to do for God, remind yourself of who God is. It is the knowing God not intellectually but personally (like you know a friend) that produces righteousness. When any of us try to produce righteousness on our own we fail.

If you happen to be one of the few who feel like you are living right in the will of God, I encourage you not to forget where your righteousness is coming from. Continue to get to know God more and more. Pride goes before the fall. When any of us stop pursuing him and stop getting to know him our love and righteousness stops too.

Today, wherever you are at in your spiritual walk be encouraged. Producing righteousness is not your job. Your job is to continue to get to know God everyday and then the fruit of righteousness will come in due season. The roots of righteousness are intimacy with God. As Christians, we continue to deepen the roots and God produces the fruit!

Written By: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

Help With Depression: Be Single-Minded; Winning The Gold

All nations and people groups around the globe watch the Olympics. Hearts are set on “their” countries' team winning! The focus is single-mindedness- On Winning. Let us today remember that we are to be single-minded on the prize before us. Not a Medal of Gold but Streets of Gold!

Philippians 3:13-16

13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

15 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

When we are single-minded it gives us help with depression too! We have something to focus on, Jesus Christ, instead of ourselves or others!!

One Touch from Jesus

When Jesus came into Peter's house, he saw Peter's mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him.

Matthew 8:14-15

In Jesus lifetime he performed many healings. Most of the time the one in need of healing would come or be brought to Jesus. Verses 14 and 15 of Matthew chapter eight describe an out of the ordinary healing. Peter's mother in law did not go to Jesus. Jesus walked in to her house. Not only did Jesus walk into her house he was able to see her lying in bed. Then he went over to her and touched her hand. Stop and think about that for a moment. Do not miss the context of the closeness of relationship between Jesus and Peter's Mother-in-law.

Most of the other healings Jesus performed the people had to run up to him. Guess why? Because Jesus did not know them. Peter's mother in law was not running up frantically to Jesus because she knew him and he most likely visited her house often.

Also, another trend in Jesus healings was that he spoke a word over and/or commanded the person who wanted to be healed to do something. It is very rare that Jesus actually touched someone.

Are you sick of always having to run in a pure panic to Jesus when tragedy hits? One touch from Jesus is all you need but you have to get close enough to him in order for him to walk into your home.

Written By: Danielle O'Neil @ www.danielleoneil.com

God’s Wisdom

James 3:17,18 ~ "Real wisdom, God’s wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor."

Do you ever wonder if the messages you're getting are from God or from the enemy? What do God's messages look like? Is He harsh and oppressive? Does He confuse us by saying one thing one day and something else the next? I say "No". Hearing from God begins by living a holy life, a life of walking in love with our neighbors, treating them with dignity and honor. That is our part to play to keep the lines of communication open. That doesn't mean we are perfect, it just means we are living authentically before Him in all our ways. He told us in the book of James that if we lack wisdom, we can ask of Him. He will give liberally without holding back. What He tells us will overflow with mercy, gentleness and consistency with His Word. Don't be afraid to ask, He is ready with mercy and blessings!

Grace and Favor

Be encouraged! The Lord is good. In his goodness He looks for opportunites to bless us. Keep your heart expectant and ready to recieve from the Lord as he only wishes good for us. Every good and perfect thing comes straight from His hand. Today, keep your conversations of prayer full of thankful praise!

God wants to bless you! God wants you to have an abundant life in ALL areas! He is just waiting on you to communicate with Him. If you have blown it.... just repent and commit to His love, mercy, and adjust your lifestyle to one of worship and praise!!

Significance of Passover

The Passover Celebration is very significant for the believer. The Passover Celebration includes Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread and the Feast of the Firstfuits.

THE PASSOVER
Exodus 12 explains the following sacrificial characteristics of Passover:
         Perfect lamb (12:5), sprinkling the blood with hyssop (12:22) and burning the remains (12:10)—Characteristics of a sacrifice.
         Moses says, “it is a Passover sacrifice to the Lord” (12:27).
         Substitutionary Atonement—Hebrew people were in peril as well. The Lamb was a substitution for their first-born.
         Peace offering—The peace offering was not an offering for peace; but rather, it was a meal eaten together by people who were at peace with each other and with God. The peace offering always followed the sin offering.

THE PASSOVER ALSO HAS FULFILLMENT IN YESHUA

         Jesus is the Passover “Lamb who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He is “Christ, our Passover lamb who has been sacrificed” (1 Cor 5:7).
         Jesus is the perfect lamb without blemish: “but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Heb 4:15).
         Jesus is our Substitutionary Atonement: “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Cor 5:21)
         He is our “peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us” (Eph 2:14-15).

PASSOVER AND THE RELATIONSHIP TO THE LORD'S SUPPER
The Lord’s Supper is a beautiful picture of the Lamb that was slain:
         The Body of Christ that was slain (Matt 26:26)
         His blood which atoned for our sins (Matt 26:28)

THE FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD

I also enjoy the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Leviticus 23:6-8), which is celebrated at the same time. It lasted for seven days, during which time the people removed all yeast from their houses. In the Bible, yeast (leaven) represents sin. 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 says, “Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”
The Feast of Unleavened Bread is also applicable today. During this time the people of Israel ate only Matzah (bread without yeast and is pierced with many holes and striped). Our Lord was pierced for our transgressions (Isaiah 53:5) and found without sin. Also, by his stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53:5). Notice that there is no lapse of time between Passover and the feast of Unleavened Bread. There is no separation between our Redemption and our obligation to walk in holiness!

THE FEAST OF FIRSTFRUITS
The final part of the Passover Celebration is the Feast of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:9-14). In the Old Testament the people would bring the beginning of the barley harvest, the first grain of the year as an offering before the Lord. They acknowledged that the whole harvest belonged to the Lord.
The New Testament application is that Christ is our first fruits: “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming” (1 Cor 15:20-23). Furthermore, His resurrection guarantees that all who place their faith in Christ will gain immortality through resurrection.

The Wisdom From Above

James 3:13-18 ~ NIV

Two Kinds of Wisdom

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

One of my professors said once that wisdom is the correct application of knowledge. The world gives us a lot of information that fill our heads with knowledge. How often do we take the time to prayerfully sit before the Lord and ask Him to give us His wisdom on matters in our lives? There is a way that seems right unto man, but the end can be destruction. We need God's wisdom in all things. Today be reminded that He wants us to pray about everything...nothing is too small to bring before our Lord who loves us so!

Contributor: Danielle O'Neil @ www.danielleoneil.com

Counselor

We find five powerful words that describe Jesus Christ in Isaiah 9:6. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Today let us look at the word "counselor."

Counselor; Jesus Christ is wisdom and understanding because the Word gives us these things. Jesus is the Word! When we don’t know what to do we turn to the Bible and it gives us our answers. As the song says, “when you don’t have the words to say, say the name of Jesus.” There is something in His name that causes our minds to be calmed and cleared. Try it right now! Say the name of Jesus!

Right now write down how you felt before you said the name of Jesus and how you are feeling now. Say His name several times and begin to feel your mind resting in Him.

Wonderful

We find five powerful words that describe Jesus Christ in Isaiah 9:6.

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Today ponder these words and take a moment to consider areas and/or situations in your life where Jesus Christ has been Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.

Let’s look at the word "Wonderful." Wonderful; Jesus Christ is full of wonder! He performed miracles that made people wonder. Luke 11:14 Time and time again we can see in our lives where Jesus has done things that are wonderful!!

Take a moment and reflect on times in your life when God performed a "wonder" in your life. Confess, Praise Him for it, write it out and put it somewhere like your mirror or the refrigerator. All during this "wonderful" Christmas season thank Him every day for being "wonderful!"

God Rewrote The Text Of My Life!

Don't we love the phrases "second chances, fresh starts, new begnnings etc". We love those because we all need them. We need His mercies that are new every morning. Our feet of clay sometimes feel like feet of mud. We step where were shouldn't, we say things before we think, we make unwise choices at times. We only wish we had 20/20 vision. The truth is, we don't. We will never walk perfectly on this earth. In ths journey we call life we need Him desperately to make up the difference in our feeble efforts. The great news is that He can take the pieces and parts and mold them together into something beautful for His glory! He wants to re-write the text of your life today. Place all the pieces into His loving hands. He can be trusted. He is faithful! By: Teri Winters @ teriwinters.org

Isaiah 18:20-24 The Message Bible

God made my life complete
    when I placed all the pieces before him.
When I got my act together,
    he gave me a fresh start.
Now I’m alert to God’s ways;
    I don’t take God for granted.
Every day I review the ways he works;
    I try not to miss a trick.
I feel put back together,
    and I’m watching my step.
God rewrote the text of my life
    when I opened the book of my heart to his eyes.

Thanksgiving

THANKSGIVING: Nothing is more basic to prayer than to "enter his gates with thanksgiving" (Ps. 100:4). Giving thanks is a function of faith, not feelings. It flows from the assurance that our heavenly Father knows and provides exactly what we need.

Hurts Produce A Harvest

Hurts will produce a harvest! It’s the truth that how we react to any given situation will determine our harvest. Today’s actions produce tomorrow’s harvest. The Word of God tells us “be not deceived, God is not mocked for whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap.” Galatians 6:7

Being hurt by a situation or individual is perhaps the most difficult thing to overcome. The danger is that once the hurt becomes part of our daily thoughts it can begin to dominate our mind, will, and emotions.—our souls. Before long we are rehearing it over and over in our thoughts and speech. Once we release our words these words begin to work. For good or for evil!

There is not a person on earth who has not been hurt from time to time. Hurts will end when we get to heaven and not a minute before. So what is the answer? How do we keep hurts from producing a negative harvest in our lives.

1. Take no thought SAYING! Stop talking about it! Quit rehearing it over and over with friends and family. Put a guard upon thy lips. Only allow blessings to flow out of your mouth.
2. Bless those who hurt you. Bless them by refusing to speak about what has happened. Refuse to speak negatively about them and when you think of them say “God bless them!” “God bring favor into their lives.” By blessing them you will bring a blessing upon YOUR life and the life of your family.
3. Pray for them. Ask God to have mercy and grace in all that pertains to them. This will release YOU!
4. Rejoice! Every time you think of the person who hurt you or the situation that turned bad…. REJOICE! Praise God for what HE has brought you through. Give thanks in every situation for this is the WILL of God.

YOUR mind, will and emotions will begin to heal and God will be bound to bless you with an abundant harvest. Begin to apply these steps today and let me hear from you on www.facebook.com/ShoutJesusSaves and www.twitter.com/ShoutJesusSaves

www.teriwinters.org

The Peaceful Fruit of Righteousness

Hebrews 12:11 ~ NASB

All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

As God's children, we come to Him in childlike trust. We grow as He teaches and trains us. There are times when the lesson is hard, we don't like it and we'd rather skip the test. It is a great comfort to know He is able to mold us and shape us into His image. Many times when I am in the middle of such a test I cry out, "my life is in your hands Lord". He desires that we trust Him, follow Him and keep our hearts right before Him. He will bring us through and on the other side we will look more like our Father. He is faithful!!!

New Life Has Come!

2 Corinthians 5:17,18 ~ The Amplifed Bible

Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!

But all things are from God, Who through Jesus Christ reconciled us to Himself [received us into favor, brought us into harmony with Himself] and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation [that by word and deed we might aim to bring others into harmony with Him].

This scripture rings true for a new babe in Christ ~ all things are new! It also is true for someone who has been walking with Christ for 50 years. His mercies are NEW every morning! What a precious Savior whose love brings a new start every single day. His love and grace follow us every single day, all the days of our lives. Let us rejoice in our Faithful Lord!

Speak Life

From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. The tongue has the power of life and death and those who love it will eat its fruit.
 Proverbs 18:20-21
 Have you ever felt discouraged in your walk with Christ because it seems like no matter how hard you try your life is not filled with the fruit of the spirit? Have you ever thought to yourself I prayed for x amount of time today and nothing in my life has changed? When I am going to see the harvest of God’s blessing?
 Proverbs 18:20 tells us that from the fruit of our mouth our stomach is filled; with the harvest of our lips we are satisfied. In order for our bellies to be full and to reap a harvest of blessing, we must speak blessing. The truth of the matter is no matter how hard we pray if our speech does not change we will never see the blessing God intends for our life. Verse 21 tells us that the tongue has the power of life and death. In order for us to have God’s best, we must speak life. Speaking life means changing our speech from negativity, gossip, and slander to positivity, encouragement, and support. You can pray all day long but if you are speaking death (cutting yourself and others down) you will never see the harvest of God. Speak life today!

By: Danielle O'Neil

Impart Grace

Grace can be defined as "to do honor or credit to (someone or something) by one's presence." As we think about our life's journey let's examine ourselves with honesty. Do the people we come in contact feel "graced" by our presence or wish thet we hadn't come in contact with them? Let us look at Scripture to see how we should communicate with others.

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesian 4:29-31 ~ NKJV

This directive from scripture isn't talking about cursing necessarily. It is instructing us to watch everything that comes out of our mouths. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that words can bring death or life. Hurtful words do a lot of damage to people and can leave them wounded and bitter. We need to put a guard over our mouths. Our mouths can get us in trouble faster than anything else. This is why we are instructed to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Ask the precious Holy Spirit today to help you to be watchful with your words. Speak words of kindness and grace, and thus you will bring glory to God!

Hold Your Tongue

Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; seek, inquire for, and crave peace and pursue (go after) it!
—Psalm 34:13–14

You really have the gift of gab,” one man told me many years ago, when I first started in the ministry. He had pointed out something that I already knew: God had given me “a ready tongue,” that is, I speak easily. Words are my tools. The Lord first gave me that gift, and then He called me into the ministry to use that ability to work for Him.

I have no trouble talking. That’s my gift; that’s also been my greatest problem. Because I seem to always have something to say, I have struggled many, many years over the RIGHT use of my tongue.

It has not been an easy battle.

Over the years, I heard various PEOPLE saying things like, “Hold your tongue.” “Do you have to speak every word that comes to your mind?” “Do you always speak first and think later?” “Must you sound so harsh?” Had I truly listened to what people were saying, I might have realized that God was trying to tell me something. But I ignored their comments and CONTINUED in my own stubborn ways.

I know I have wounded people with my words in the past, and I am sorry for that. I’m also grateful that God has forgiven me.

Several years ago, I realized that if God was going to use my life, I had to gain control of my tongue—not to just stop talking, but to keep my tongue from evil, and my lips from speaking deceit, as the psalmist David says.

I had a choice. I could hurt people with my words—and I could do that well—or I could bring my lips into subjection to God. Obviously, I wanted to be subject to the Lord, but it was still a battle.

Our words are expressions of our hearts—of what’s going on inside us. If we want to know who a person really is, all we need to do is listen to their words. If we listen long enough, we learn a lot about them.

As I learned to listen to my own words, I also began to learn a lot about myself. Some of the things I learned did not please me, but they did help me realize that I had a character flaw that needed to be addressed. My words were not pleasing God, and I wanted them to. Once I confessed my failure to God, the victory came—not all at once and not perfectly, but God is patient with me. I’m growing, and part of my GROWTH is keeping my lips from evil.

No matter how negative you are or have been, or how long you’ve been that way, God wants to change you. In the early days after my confession to God, I still failed more often than I succeeded, but every time I did succeed, I knew I was closer to God’s plan for my life. God can do the same for you.

It won’t be easy, but you can win. And the effort will be worth it.

Lord, help me use my mouth for right things. Put a watch over my mouth lest I sin against You with my tongue. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You. I ask it in Jesus’ wonderful name. Amen.

Adding a Lenten Discipline

Instead of or in addition to fasting during Lent, you might add a spiritual exercise or discipline to your life. If your church sponsors a Bible study, you might choose to join this study. Or you may want to participate in some act of kindness, such as feeding people at a homeless shelter.

I like to add something that I can do every day. It needs to be realistic, given my nature and patterns of life. So, for example, it would be a bad idea if I decided to get up at 5:00 a.m. to pray for an hour each day of Lent. This would stretch me so far that I’d surely fail. But I could take on additional Bible reading. Some years I’ve read one chapter of a gospel each day of Lent, taking it in slowly and meditating upon it. Other years I’ve used a Lenten devotional to focus my thought.

If you have no idea what to do during Lent, let me suggest the following. Set aside some time of quiet to as the Lord what he wants you to do. See if the Spirit of God guides you to something. If nothing comes to mind, I’d recommend that you read a chapter of a gospel each day. If you start with Mark, you’ll have time to read all of Mark plus all of one other gospel during Lent.

Perhaps some of my readers would like to suggest Lenten disciplines that they have tried in the past, and how they have experienced God’s grace through these exercises.

So, as we enter the season of Lent, I am grateful for the saints who have gone before me, some of whom discovered the blessings of giving up something in Lent, while others grew in their faith by adding a Lenten discipline. No matter what you do during this Lenten season, I pray that God will draw us closer to him, and prepare us for a fresh experience of Good Friday and Easter. May God’s peace be with You!

by Rev. Dr. Mark D. Roberts

Good Fight of Faith

Life can be tough, unfair, and unbalanced. At best it is challenging and a fight for a good life. As a believer we are commissioned to “fight” the “good” fight of faith. For the past several days I have been pondering this Scripture. I Timothy 6:12 “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”

Reflecting upon the comments and responses of most Christians with whom I come in contact when I ask the question, “How are you?” I am perplexed by most answers in light of this Scripture.

Most respond something like this, “well I am just trying to survive….” I well remember the old fashion testimonial services where a well meaning saint would stand and say “just pray for me that I can make it to the end…” While these comments are sincere and sound fine to my “religious” ears, is this REALLY to be the response of the believer? Is this the attitude Timothy commissioned us to have in our daily fight?

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Timothy says to “fight the GOOD fight of faith…” Good in the original language means beautiful, as an outward sign of the inward good: “kalós – attractively good; good that inspires (motivates) others to embrace what is lovely (beautiful, praiseworthy); i.e. well done so as to be winsome (appealing).” (Helps-Word Study)

So my question for you and ME is “What does our “fighting” the good fight of faith look like to others?” Would they say “_____ is fighting the fight of faith that is attractive, inspiring, beautiful, and praiseworthy?” or would others say, “_____ is beat down, worn out and sure hope I never have their faith walk?”

Written by: Teri Winters @teriwinters.com

Steep Yourself In God Reality

Matthew 6:33,34 ~ The Message Bible

“If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.

My new years resolution is to stop worrying. Easier said than done right? To stop doing something, we need to replace that action with something else. The Scripture is so clear when it states, "don't worry about anything, but pray about EVERYTHING!" Our mind is going to be active in either a negative way or a postivie way. I'm choosing the discipline of whispering my concerns to Him instead of rehearsing my fears. How about you? Will you join me? I believe He will bless and honor our decision to cast our care on Him instead of worry. He can handle it! He is Faithful!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1nJrioKNvI

Plan to Win

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22
Plans are a essential to life. There are the normal everyday plans such as work, school, appointments, hang outs with friends, etc and then there are the plans that will change our lives forever where we go to college, who we marry, how many kids we have, our career path, where we live etc. These plans can get out of control in a hurry.
How many times when making an important plan we trust whatever we want to do the most? I know that I sure have. How many times have we plunged ahead doing what we want asking God to bless our plans knowing that it is not really of him? What happens every time we make a decision based solely upon what we want to do? That's right it fails. Are you sick of it yet? Sick of planning and planning only to fail over and over again.
Proverbs 17:22 gives us the key to a winning plan. It says that plans fail for the lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. If you want your plans to succeed surround yourself with Godly advisers. That sounds simple enough. Why don't we do it then? It is uncomfortable. A lot of times we hear exactly what we don't want to hear. Humbling ourselves before others and asking for their advice is hard.
Let me encourage you today. If you are in the process of making a plan the only thing harder than taking the advice of God and other Godly counselors is not taking it. While submitting to many advisers may seem difficult or even unnecessary it is the only way to have a winning plan. If we want blessing in our lives we have to play by God's rules which are found in his word.
The good news is God wants you to succeed and he has given you the key! Seek out Godly wisdom today! Plan to Win!

Prince of Peace

We find five powerful words that describe Jesus Christ in Isaiah 9:6. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Right now I want us to focus on "PRINCE OF PEACE"

Prince of Peace; Jesus Christ took our torment and nervous times on the cross! This is such a powerful thought. While He hung on the cross EVERY situation that would cause torment and nervousness in our lives Jesus Christ bore it for us on the cross. So today whatever you are being tormented with or your nervous about, simply cast it over on Jesus. If it is an unsaved child simply picture there name in the blood of Jesus. If your bills are piled up high put them in the blood. Whatever the situation place them in the blood and believe that the Prince of Peace will bring you Peace!!

Live With An Attitude of Gratitude

The Apostle Paul said "In EVERYTHING give thanks for this (giving thanks for everything) is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." I Thess. 5:18

How can we give thanks for everything? First we must realize that we are "in Christ Jesus." Our very breath comes from God, our life is hid in Christ Jesus according to Colossians 3:3! Hid means concealed. When we are true believers nothing can happen to us that is not allowed by God who is the author and finisher of our faith. Remember however that God has put certain laws and principles in place. If we step away from those principles and go our own way there are consequences. For instance, God tells us not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers. If we are we will bear the consequences of our decision. For the sake of our devotion today I am assuming we are in the will of God and relying on Him for our direction and living in obedience to His word. Since we are then we are "IN Christ Jesus" and our life is concealed. This is how and why we can give thanks in EVERYTHING! Because He knows and cares for us. He will perfect all that concerns us!

Secondly we can give thanks in everything by doing what the famous quote by Charles Dickens says. "Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some."

This quote is so true. We have all had bad things happen. Some that we could control and some that were forced upon us. For a healthy outlook on life we must move forward and have an attitude of gratitude for where we are today. Standing firm that God has a plan and we are right in the middle of it.

Today begin to have an Attitude of Gratitude! You will be right in the center of God's will!!

If God Be For Us, Who Can Be Against Us?

Romans 8:31-38 ~ The Message Bible

So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God’s chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ’s love for us? There is no way!

It has been said that if a person has a handful of true friends in their lifetime that they are the most fortunate. We who know Christ truly have the very best situation of all. We have the Creator of the universe, the all loving, all powerful heavenly Father as our true friend. He loved us sacrificially when He sent His Son to take our place at the cross. What a sacrifice, what a price that was paid for us! He gave His all to have us in relationship with Him.

As we draw closer to the resurrection season, reflect on what Jesus bought back for us in his death and resurrection. Our lips should always be filled with praise and thanks! We can now run right into the presence of our Heavenly Father whenever we need Him. Oh, to God be the glory!

Forgiveness: How?

Psychologists generally define forgiveness as a conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed you, regardless of whether they actually deserve your forgiveness.

Forgiveness does not mean that you gloss over or deny the seriousness of an offense against you. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting, nor does it mean condoning or excusing offenses. However if you have truly forgiven someone you will release the other from blame, leaving the event in God's hands, and move on.

Forgiveness is vital to our spiritual, physical and emotional health. Depending upon God to give us the ability to forgive is vital. We cannot forgive without the help of our creator God. So how do I forgive? Jesus tells us: First that forgiveness is done by prayer. Matthew 11:25 says “and when you stand praying, forgive, so that your heavenly father will forgive you.”

No prayer = No forgiveness

Secondly you must love those who have hurt you. This is done by the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. “The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost.” Romans 5:5

No Holy Spirit = No forgiveness

Prayer and the Holy Spirit are the two ingredients to forgiveness. Begin your journey to forgiveness today by having a fervent prayer life and being empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Doing The Impossible

My grandfather grew up in the rugged mountains of West Virginia. He had hard working parents, but with five children to feed each kid had to do their part to keep the family going. One day his father instructed him and his brother to put barbwire fencing along the trees. He and his brother set off to do the task compliantly. As soon as they began, they found that this task was not as easy as they had hoped. Their hands were getting cut in doing the task. They could not figure out how to do what their father had instructed them. They gave up.

When their father came home he asked them if they had put up the barbwire fencing. They told him we tried but it was impossible. Their father told them it was not impossible and that they were all going to do it. In a few hours the task was done. What the boys had thought was impossible was more than possible with the instruction, presence, and help of their father. It was possible with their father because he had already mastered the task.

Have you recieved a command from your heavenly father? If you are a believer, the answer is yes. As believers our mission is to love God and to love others which is much easier said than done. The test of our love for God is if we obey his commands. At times this is as impossible as putting up a barbwire fence.

The good news is that Phillipians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strenghtens me." Romans 8:37 says that in all things we are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus, who loved us.

No matter what God is telling you to do. He is with you. You have the instruction, presence, and help of the one who has already mastered the task that he is now asking you to do. Nothing is impossible with him. You can do the impossible with his help today.

Author: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

True Abundance In Christ!

John 10:9-11 ~ The Amplified Bible

I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture. The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd risks and lays down His [own] life for the sheep.

At first glance to most of us the word abundance brings to mind plenty of money, a desired home, a healthy body, a good family and daily happiness. All of those things are certainly desirable and good. Is that what the Holy Spirit meant when He inspired John to pen verse 10:10? Could it be that He meant a whole lot more than that? Could our amazing God have meant abundance which referred to deeper, eternal heart issues that bring life and joy to all those other areas whether they are in abundance or not? Jesus came, He invited us to take on His life, to be "in Him". Those things that we used to be are to be let go of. Instead of selfishness, He gave Himself as an offering. Instead of anger, He shows mercy. Instead of hate, He gives love. Instead of reminding us of our failures, He gives forgiveness. Instead of fear, He gives us peace. Instead of sadness, He gives us joy! Instead of death, He gives us eternal life! All of this we have in Him ~ wherein lies true abundance!

Instantaneous Change

You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness. Psalm 30:11

Psalm 30 is a narrative of how David had become prideful and thought that he was indestructible. God turned his face from him. David realized it and called out for help. He was mourning over the loss of God. When he cried out for help the Lord answered him and turned his mourning into dancing.

For David, one cry instantaneously changed his circumstance and relationship with God.

The lesson for us as believers is not to underestimate what crying out to God can do. If you are going through a tough time today and need your circumstance and/or relationship with God to change, cry out! He may just turn your mourning into dancing!

It is important to remember that if YOU don't change your habits, mentality, and old ways of doing things you will be right back where you were.

By: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

Rule and Reign In Jesus Name

It is time to rule and reign "In Jesus Name!" We are living in dark times, have you noticed? Don't be afraid we have been told these times are coming. The prophet Isaiah said in Isaiah 60:2 says "For, behold, the darkness ( misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness) shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people. Sounds like the times we are living in doesn't it? BUT

Yes! It goes on to say "but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee." What does "glory" mean in the original language?

glory, honour, glorious, abundance

abundance, riches

honour, splendour, glory

honour, dignity

honour, reputation

honour, reverence, glory

glory!

WOW! So there is gross darkness BUT! THE GLORY!!! Will rise within and around us. The glorious church!

God tells us in the first verse to "Arise, Shine" What does the word arise in this verse mean?

to arise

to arise (hostile sense)

to arise, become powerful

to arise, come on the scene

to stand

to maintain oneself

to be established, be confirmed

to stand, endure

to be fixed

to be valid

to be proven

to be fulfilled

to persist

to be set, be fixed

IT IS TIME TO RULE AND REIGN NOT BE AFRAID AND ASHAMED! Take Your Rightful Place and Run Your Race For Soon You Will See My Face says the Lord!

Written by Teri Winters

The Wise Answer Comes From The Lord

Proverbs 16:1-3 Amplified Bible (AMP)

The plans of the mind and orderly thinking belong to man, but from the Lord comes the [wise] answer of the tongue.

All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirits (the thoughts and intents of the heart).

Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.

He knows our hearts. Scripture says He knows our down sitting and our up rising. Even the hairs on our head are numbered. He knows all about us and loves us completely. We can moment by moment roll our cares over on Him and trust Him to guide our paths. He is Faithful and True!

Fashioned For Faith

I am inwardly fashioned for faith, not for fear. Fear is not my native land; faith is. I am so made that worry and anxiety are sand in the machinery of life; faith is the oil. I live better by faith and confidence than by fear, doubt and anxiety. In anxiety and worry, my being is gasping for breath--these are not my native air. But in faith and confidence, I breathe freely--these are my native air. A John Hopkins University doctor says, "We do not know why it is that worriers die sooner than the non-worriers, but that is a fact." But I, who am simple of mind, think I know; We are inwardly constructed in nerve and tissue, brain cell and soul, for faith and not for fear. God made us that way. To live by worry is to live against reality. - Dr. E. Stanley Jones

Today begin to live by faith. As the old song says, "take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there..." leaving them on Jesus Christ means Don't take them back on yourself, don't confess your burdens, don't discuss them with others, LEAVE THEM ON JESUS!! You will be obeying Scripture AND will live longer!!

Being Thankful is the Will of God

Do you ever have days when you just don't feel like being thankful? Of course, we ALL do! Yet God's word is clear that in Everything we are to give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMP "Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]." This is a big command God is giving us. "Does He not know what I am going through", one might ask. Yes He does.

He knows more than what we are going through. He knows how it is going to turn out. He knows the beginning from the end. AND He knows that our mouth is connected directly to our mind and our heart controls our emotions. When we begin to speak out of our mouth thanksgiving for ALL God has done instead of the problem we are going through at the moment, our mind is filled with good thoughts and our heart gets happy!

So today no matter how you are feeling take 5 minutes and give Him praise!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtxmSAqMtDA

He Will Renew Your Strength!

Isaiah 30:31 NASV

But those who keep waiting for the LORD will renew their strength. Then they'll soar on wings like eagles; they'll run and not grow weary; they'll walk and not grow tired."

Each day we have a choice, to follow Him or to get frustrated and do things our own way. Some days it seems like the wait is too long and the plan isn't clear. We feel like we just need to do something about our situation. We grow weary, we don't understand and we decide to figure out a way to fix things ourselves. Many times these fleshly fixes get us into a real mess. Today as I encourage myself in this I would like to encourage you also. Spend time with Him, cry out for His solution and His plan. His promise is clear! He is faithful!

True Freedom

Ever wonder what true freedom is? It is being made new by the blood of Jesus Christ, the son of God. II Corinthians 5:17 says Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. Walk today in the confidence that Jesus Christ has forgiven you and that you are made complete in Him! Need to accept Him today?

Praise the Lord, all you people!

Psalm 117 ~ The Amplified Bible

1 O praise the Lord, all you nations! Praise Him, all you people!

2 For His mercy and loving-kindness are great toward us, and the truth and faithfulness of the Lord endure forever. Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)

All ye people ~ that's us! We are the people of God! He inhabits the praises of His people! Let us praise Him on these last few days of 2012, for His mercy and His faithfulness to us is evident. His truth and loving kindness are great and will endure always as we walk this journey with our Lord!

Set Your Mind on Things Above

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things that are above not on things of this earth. Colossians 3:1-2

What have you been thinking about lately? What consumes your thoughts daily? Is it your job, your spouse, your kids, money, TV, the internet? The list could go on. Life can be very hard. There is a constant pressure to perform and provide for yourself and possibly for your family.

Our thoughts eventually become our words and our words eventually become actions. Think about it. You have never said anything that you haven’t thought about. You have never done anything that hasn’t crossed your mind. Our life begins and is rooted in our thoughts.

This is why the bible speaks very strongly about our thoughts. Specifically in Colossians 3:1-2 It tells us not once but twice to set our minds on things above. Why is this? It is because If we set our minds on things above then we will do the work of things above. In order for us to live for Christ our minds must be dwelling on him.

Because of Christ’s death to the world we also die to the world and because of his resurrection we become resurrected with him. We no longer have to carry the burden of our sin. We are no longer confined to the law saying do this and don’t do that. Our minds are free to think of Christ alone.

When we set our minds on things above we begin to start breaking free of sexual immorality, impurity, evil desire, covetousness, idolatry, anger, wrath, malice, and obscene talk. We start to to put off the old self and put on the new self that Jesus died for.

Set your mind on things above and you will be able to put on kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Aligning your thought life to the word of God is the key to peace.

By: Danielle O'Neil

Honor God In Everything You Do!

Do you every wake up in the morning with your mind already in full gear and full fear? Do you find yourself trying to figure everything out before you even pause to say "good morning Lord, thank you for a new day"? I must confess that I do. We can't and won't ever figure everything out. He is God and obviously we are not. We can not lean to our own understanding, but we can count on His! Today take a minute, pause and put your mind at rest. Turn your heart toward the Lord and put your trust in knowing that He knows what's best and He will see you through. Remember, we can't live tomorrow today, we're not there yet - but He is!

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don’t, dear friend, resent God’s discipline; don’t sulk under his loving correction. It’s the child he loves that God corrects; a father’s delight is behind all this. Proverbs 3:5-12 - The Message Bible

Delight In His Word!

Psalm 1:1-3 ~ Amplified Bible

Blessed (happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather. But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night.

And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].

Where do you turn when strength is weak and answers are not visible? How many things do we lean on or run to when trouble comes? Oh that we would first turn to the solid rock of His word. Jesus told us to always pray and NEVER quit. That message seems simple enough but do we do it? Turn the tv off, get away from the computer and as I heard a dear preacher say this past Sunday, "spend time on the real facebook, get on your face with the Book"! The answers, the comfort, the strength and the living presence of Christ will meet you there!

By the Grace Of God

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them- yet not I but the grace of God that was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:10 (NIV)

1 Corinthians is a letter written by the apostle Paul to the church of Corinth. Paul's letters make up two thirds of the New Testament. Before Paul met Jesus he persecuted the church. He killed every Christian he could find. Then one day when he was traveling God made him blind for three days then opened his eyes. Paul was radically saved.

Paul is the one who is telling the Corinthian church that it is by the grace of God he is what he is. Paul had every reason to boast. In 2 Corinthians 11:22-23 he tells us that he is a Hebrew, an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, and a servant of Christ. He has been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severly, and been exposed to death again and again. Paul the prime example of a New Testament servant, who has sacrificed more than we could ever imagine and is the writer of much of the scripture we study today, does not take any credit for who he is. He tells us it is by the grace of God.

How many times in our own lives do we take the credit for our accomplishments? We become puffed up with pride because we preached a good sermon, lead someone to Christ, our kids serve the Lord, we have been on x number of missions trips, the list goes on and on. Reality Check: you and I would be nothing without the grace of God. We were the sinners that we judge everyday before we met Christ. It is only by the grace of God we aren't sinners like the rest of the world.

This grace that you and I have experienced is not to go without bearing fruit. After Paul acknowledges that he is who he is by the grace of God he tells us that this grace was not without effect. The grace he obtained from the Lord caused him to work harder than any of the New Testament servants.

Experiencing the true grace of God causes us to be eager to serve Christ. God's grace does not give us a license to sin or to sit on the church pew feeling superior to others. No! The grace of God draws us to repentance and servant hood. Grace motivates us to do whatever we can to make God's day. Experiencing his grace and mercy causes us to stop focusing on ourselves and start desperately seeking to know him.

What's even more amazing is that our new found servant hood is not of anything within ourselves. Our renewed heart is only a work of his grace. We can't even take credit for pursuing him.

Today reflect on who you would be without Christ. Recognize that it is only by his grace that you are what you are. This grace should create a heart in you that is eager to please the Lord in whatever way you can. Let grace do miracles in you today.

His Grace Is Sufficient!

2 Corinthians 12:9 ~ The Amplified Bible

But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!

Did you really read the last line of this Scripture? That His strength and power will rest and pitch a tent over us? I need to be in that tent, don't you? I can bring my weaknesses, troubles and dangers to Him and put myself in His care. So may times we think about how hard it is to live a Christian life, maybe that is because we don't really know how to cast our care and find His strength and rest. Today, cast your care! Find that tent! Dwell there! He is faithful!

Right on Time

You see just at the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:6

Have you ever needed something at a specific time? Maybe you are feeling that way right now, where something needs to come through for you. These times can be discouraging as we wait for something, the right thing to happen. Sometimes we are even powerless over the situation only making the anxiety worse.

Whatever your need is there is nothing that is too big for God today. You see just at the right time when were powerless Christ died for the ungodly. Do you remember when God came into your life at just the right time? Or maybe you haven't accepted Christ and reading this devotion right now is just the right time to recieve him.

If God saved you at just the right time, will he not provide whatever else you need at just the right time too?

If you are needing something from God today, continue to trust him. Reflect back on the timeliness of your salvation, and know that he is an on time God.

Written By: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com

Everlasting Father

We find five powerful words that describe Jesus Christ in Isaiah 9:6. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Reflect today on Jesus Christ as Everlasting Father. We know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God yet He is of the Father. The everlasting father!

As Everlasting Father Jesus Christ Is one with the Father and they are from everlasting to everlasting. Jesus is the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end. There is no time in eternity. Time is an earthly measurement. So what does this mean for us? Simply, the Jesus Christ sees us through His blood and His plans for us are not limited to time. As Father He cares for us, is concerned about every area of our lives.

Perhaps you are reading this devotion today and you did not have a positive earthly father. Take a moment and release all the hurt and pain from that horrible experience. Ask Jesus Christ to come in and fill the lonely empty places of your heart and soul. Take a few deep breathes and say JESUS, JESUS, JESUS.... You will begin to feel His presence. Listen to the song below and worship. Begin to call out the name of Jesus!!

We Bless Your Name!

Psalm 1 ~ The Amplified Bible

1 Blessed (happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather.

2 But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night.

3 And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].

After the celebrations and festivities of Christmas it can almost feel like a "let down" at times. Let us always remember that His mercies and the power of His Word are new and living each and every day. Seasons come and seasons go, but His Living Word endures forever! Let's continue to celebrate His birth, His life and His wonderful love!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HQ5q0BwPjk

ADVENT DEVOTION – HOPE

The first candle of Advent signifies HOPE. As we light the candle of hope we are reminded of the faith of our ancestral fathers and mothers of the faith – the ancient patriarchs. About 4000 years ago God called Abram from the land of Iraq and said, “Go forth from your country, and from your relatives and from your father’s house, to the land which I will show you; and I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing; and I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed” (Genesis 12:1-3).

Abram heard thecall and responded in faith. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for; the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was going… for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God (Hebrews 11:8-10).

The blessing of Abraham is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. In Christ all the families of the earth may be blessed. Like Abraham we journey as strangers in a foreign land. Like Abraham we hope for that which we cannot see. We hope for the healing of humanity. We hope for the resurrection from the dead and eternal life. We eagerly await the blessed hope – the appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Like Abraham we hope for a city – the New Jerusalem, a new heavens and a new earth.

Written by: danieltomberlin @ http://www.danieltomberlin.net/

The Anticipation of Jesus Christ Coming-The Advent

Advent simply means the arrival or coming of something. As we begin the Christmas season let us be expecting the arrival of Jesus Christ! No doubt Jesus came to earth over 2000 years ago. Luke 2 recounts this wonderful entrance of baby Jesus who lived on earth for 33 years before dying on a cross for OUR sins. Jesus is coming to earth again! We find in Revelation 1:7 that He is coming again!

He came and He is coming! This is great new BUT He COMES! Each and every day in our lives we should be expecting Jesus Christ to come in our lives. He comes with His love, peace and joy. He comes through the smiles and laughter of those we love. He comes by providing and protecting us. There are so many ways He comes every day in our lives.

As we begin the journey to Christmas, the Advent, let us ponder and proclaim the ways we are anticipating Jesus Christ coming into our lives this wonderful Christmas season.

Powerful Prayer

Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.
James 5:7 NIV

If you prayed today, and asked God for it not to rain would you believe him to do it? Elijah did and God did it. What we pray reveals what we believe about God. In fact even when we do not pray, that reveals what we believe about him.

Elijah believed that God cared about him enough to provide all of his needs. He believed that if he prayed according to God’s will that God would answer him. What are you praying for today? What do you believe about God?

Today, be reassured that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. The difference between Elijah and most of us is his closeness to God. The power of prayer is only dependent upon God. Therefore, the way to pray effectively is to gain closer proximity to him everyday.

Rest assured that the power of your prayers are not dependant upon you but on God!

Written By: Danielle O’Neil @danielleoneil.com

Establish Us By Your Word!

Psalm 119:130-133 ~ The Amplified Bible

The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment and comprehension) to the simple. I opened my mouth and panted [with eager desire], for I longed for Your commandments. Look upon me, be merciful unto me, and show me favor, as is Your way to those who love Your name. Establish my steps and direct them by [means of] Your word; let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

On this planet, we will encounter problems on a pretty regular basis. The temptation is to despair, and give up. The answer for joy amidst the troubles on this planet is to put our trust in the solid rock of His Word! His Word is full of power to bring joy, strength, hope and clear direction. Sometimes the problem is, we don't spend enough time in His Word for the Holy Spirit to speak to us. If we lost our keys in the morning, we wouldn't give up looking for them until we found them. He is the Word made flesh, He is the KEY that we need. If we seek, we will find. The entrance of His Word will bring light to our situations so that we can move ahead with wisdom and confidence! May I encourage you today to put distractions aside and fill up on His Word! He will flood you with light!

His Word Never Changes!

Have you noticed lately that this present world seems to be deteriorating? I have great news! His Word NEVER changes! The Scriptures are not tainted by things going on around us. They do not waver. Each Word is God-breathed, just, fair, right, trustworthy and perfect. His Word is a rock solid foundation to stand on no matter what we are facing.

Psalms 19:7-10 "The law of the Lord is perfect; it gives new strength.The commands of the Lord are trustworthy, giving wisdom to those who lack it.The laws of the Lord are right, and those who obey them are happy. The commands of the Lord are just and give understanding to the mind. Reverence for the Lord is good; it will continue forever.The judgments of the Lord are just; they are always fair. They are more desirable than the finest gold; they are sweeter than the purest honey."

Each scripture is as a compass to keep us moving firmly in the right direction. Oh that we would treasure His precepts more than than silver or gold. His Word on our lips can bring peace in the storm, love where there is hatred, joy that brings us strength, hope in the face of despair! Hide His Word in your heart, hold on to it for all you've got and speak it often to bring Christ right in the middle of your situation!

Author: Teri Winters

Encourage Yourself In The Lord

As we begin a new work week I want to encourage you. (I'm certainly having to encourage myself...students return to school this week. Lord help me! .) This week you will no doubt face challenges and pressures. You will possibly have to deal with: -dead-lines, -a heavy work load, -a demanding boss, -irritating co-workers, -gossip, -backbiting, -hardships, -unreasonable demands, -favoritism, -disappointment, -unkind words, -disrespect, -a lack of appreciation, -difficult tasks, -negativity, -irate clients/customers/students, -and more. It won't be pleasant. It won't be fun. It won't be satisfying. You may be pushed to your breaking point.

But in the midst of it all remember and follow the admonition of Ephesians 5:19_ "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." It's easily to get caught up in the negativity of life. We are prone to start thinking about and talking about (focusing on) negative things...problems...disappointments...hurts. Guess what? None of that helps. It doesn't make your life better. It doesn't bring you joy. Do you know what really works? Encouraging yourself in the Lord.

Ephesians 5:19 says one way to do that is my "making melody in your heart to the Lord." Whistle, hum, softly sing or simply think about a good spiritual song. It will give you a happy heart. It will lighten your load and brighten your day. Some people have been singing the same old sad song most of their life. That's why they stay discouraged and depressed. They are never able to break out of their funk. If you want rise above the sorrows that have been suffocating you, do what the Word tells you..."sing unto the Lord a new song." We are also encouraged to "make a joyful noise unto the Lord."

Try it...it works! It will bring you joy in the Lord and that my friends is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10) Shalom!!!

Author: Pastor Dale Croft

Fixed To The Rock!

Matthew 7:24-27 ~ The Message Bible

“These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock.

“But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don’t work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards.”

If you have ever lived by the beach and been through a hurricane you have probably seen the damage to structures built on the sand. Beautiful on the exterior, homes have been lost because the water, and high winds were too much for the foundation they were built on. In the same way, we can build what looks like a beautiful life on the surface but without the solid rock of God's Word as our foundation, we will eventually crumble. At some point in every life the storms do come. We can be blown on every side, but with God's Word as our Rock, we will come forth with hearts of praise! Today, build a firm foundation, work His Words into your life!

Real Love

LOVE is a word so carelessly thrown around in our society. We "love" french fries, ball teams, tv shows, and everyone. But this is not the kind of "love" God teaches from His word. Love is a commitment to someone. Love is a word that should be reserved for individuals not things, places, or objects. Love is a serious matter and take just a moment today and wrtie down 5 people you love. Then read the following passage and see how you are doing with your love towards them. You might be surpised!

Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor

boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not

display itself haughtily.

It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not

rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in

us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not

self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no

account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered

wrong]. It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but

rejoices when right and truth prevail. Love bears up under anything

and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every

person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures

everything [without weakening].

Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end].

1 Corinthians 13 ~ The Amplified Bible

Why Should We Pray

WHY SHOULD YOU PRAY?

Jesus was constantly in prayer. Likewise, you too, need alone time with Him. Communicating with God actively demonstrates your desire for His presence in your life and your faith in His existence. He already knows the desires of your heart but wants you to make that effort to COMMUNICATE with Him.

Prayer keeps you open to what God has for you. It allows him to MOLD you, TEACH you, and GUIDE you.

Happy Is She Who Believed!

Luke 1:45 ~ The Amplified Bible

And blessed (happy, to be envied) is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of the things that were spoken to her from the Lord. And Mary said, My soul magnifies and extols the Lord, And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

This verse of Scripture stands out to me as a hallmark of trust and hope. Mary was a young woman who had just encountered the Amighty God and His plan for her life. Have you ever thought about what she might have felt after the angel told her she would be the Mother of the Savior of the world? She was human, she must have had fear, questions, doubt, hope and excitement. I can only imagine it took a few days to process what she heard. She overcame any fear and obviously trusted her life to Jehovah God. With this call and direction for life she found great joy. She was able to focus and trust Him, rejoicing and magnifying her God! When God speaks to us, let us follow Mary's example. Let us rejoice and trust knowing our God is faithful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmjIcpIzHxo

He Cares For You

Cast all your anxiety on him for he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Are you a worry wart? Do you get stressed out easily? Is anxiety the only way of life you know?

Today listen to the words of 1 Peter 5:7, "Cast ALL your anxiety on him for he cares for you."

God doesn't want just some of your anxiety he wants it all. He loves you so much. He cares about the big things and the small things in your life. He is always there ready to listen and carry your burden.

Cast all your anxiety on him for he cares for you.

Tuesday of Holy Week

FRIENDS IN BETHANY

Readings:
Mark 14:1–9
John 12:1–8

The remarkable thing about this little village just over the hill from Jerusalem is that it offered a welcoming home to Jesus during this entire week. Bethany was the village of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. We can assume all their extended families lived there as well. They were all Jesus’ friends, which underscores the importance of our families to support and sustain us. But there is more. This family did something courageous: they were able to discern God’s will in this moment for Jesus and support Him in it. They loved Him and did not choose to dissuade Him from the fate that awaited Him. When Mary anointed Jesus with expensive perfume, it became a symbolic anointing for the work He would accomplish through His death later in the week. It was a lavish gift, but more importantly, through her action, Mary showed her acceptance of the reality of Jesus’ impending death.

Having families and close friends who can stand with us as we discern God’s plans for our lives is a great gift. There are families that actually talk together regularly about how they can better support each other. Or how they can see what God is doing more clearly. Some families help one another make hard decisions that may be difficult but right. Other families help one another accept a hard reality they do not want to face.

Is there a time when I have accepted a difficult reality for a loved one or myself? Reflect on this. In the present time, is there a family member or friend facing something difficult?

For remembering: “She has done what she could; she has anointed My body beforehand for burial.” Mark 14:8 (ESV)

Taken From Willow Creek Community Church

A Clear Conscience

Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty (evil) conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water.
—Hebrews 10:22

I have learned from experience that a guilty conscience hinders the flow of confidence. Confidence is faith in God and a belief that because He is helping you, you can succeed in whatever you need to do. However, if we feel guilty, we will shrink back from God rather than boldly expecting Him to assist us. We will give up rather than face our challenges in life because we feel bad about ourselves.

If you want to walk confidently, strive to keep your conscience clear of offense toward God and man. Even quitting when you know you should keep going will bother your conscience. God did not give us His Holy Spirit so we could be in bondage to fear. He did not send the power of His Spirit into our lives so we could be weak-willed, wimpy, or the type of person who gives up when the going gets tough. Remember: God gave us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

Lord, thank You that through the blood of Jesus I can come to You with a clear conscience. Help me to walk in power, love, and sound mind today. Amen.

ADVENT DEVOTION – HOPE

Abram heard the call and responded in faith. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for; the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was going… for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God (Hebrews 11:8-10).

PRAYER

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of Man, we eagerly await your appearing in power and glory. We pray that you will give us the strength to rejoice in hope as we persevere in tribulation so that we may be witnesses to your gospel in this present age as we hope for the age to come. Amen.

Written By: Pastor Dan Tomberlin @danieltomberlin.net