Renewed Purpose: God's Glory

John 9:3 (KJV) Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

STOP THINKING IT'S ABOUT YOU!  Everytime something goes wrong (or right) in our lives, we tend to try to figure out what we did or didn't do to bring about the results.  Everything that happens to you isn't always about you!  I encourage you in the new year to shift your focus from yourself to God's purpose for your life.

God has a special purpose for you in this earth, and the outcome is for His glory.  If we believe that all things work together for our good (because we love the Lord and are called according to His purpose), then we must also believe that God should get the glory out of every situation.  No matter what you are facing or will face in the coming year, give God glory in all of it.  The transformation of our thinking is what will bring glory to God.  No longer "Poor me!", but "God's gonna get the glory out of this!".

When we start looking for God's glory in the midst of our storms, trials, and circumstances, then we will find it.  Our purpose is God's glory.  There are tasks that God has for you to do while you're here, but don't ever forget that everything you do should be for His glory.  Stop trying to be recognized, stop seeking fortune, and please stop thinking you will gain the approval of people.  I expect to make some unpopular decisions in the new year because I have decided to follow only God's direction for my life.  Do you know what else I expect?  I expect God to get the glory!  HAPPY NEW YEAR!

It Could Have Been Me

I am taking this time to reflect on how blessed I really am. Sure, there are things I would like to be different. Of course, I could be in better financial position, have a better car, be a better homemaker, have a better job, live in a better house,... I could go on and on. Things could always be better, but I must remember they could also be so much worse.

I could have no money no car, no job, and no home. There are plenty of people who would love to be in my shoes today. I think about the people I met in the homeless shelter last week, and I weep for myself. Why? Because they had a better perspective on their situation than I have on mine. They knew that other people were outside in the cold trying to find a warm place to sleep. They were grateful for a roof over their heads and warm beds; they had hope for a better tomorrow. They, like Paul, learned to be content in whatever condition they find themselves. It could have been me in that shelter, and I thank God all the more for His provision. It's been nothing but God's grace and mercy that have gotten me this far.

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 NASB)

Blessed Hope

Titus 2:13 (KJV) "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;"

Sometimes we just don't see our way out of a situation.  We don't know how this or that is going to work out.  Take heart because there is always still hope!  As long as you have Jesus Christ, there is still hope.  Your trials and tribulations are the sandpaper necessary to smooth and polish your faith.  Please just hang in there and see the salvation of the Lord.

He cares for you, and He has the best intentions for you.  Don't give up hope; don't give up on the Christ.  He has already made a way out of your circumstance; it just hasn't manifested itself yet.  Wait for your due season, and know that your hope is BLESSED!

Revive Us Again

Sometimes in our spiritual journeys, we get worn down, discouraged, and frustrated. When our reality looks nothing like the promises of God, it's easy to lose heart. It would make sense to just cut our losses and choose another path. Have you ever felt this way? You are not alone.

If you decide to wait for someone else to encourage you or build you up, you could be waiting a while. People won't always catch on to your vision, and you have to find your own way through the rough patches. I encourage you to go to the Rock, Jesus Christ. He understands everything you feel because He once walked this earth just like you. He had moments when He didn't want to face His situation as well. Let Him guide you in His perfect way.

No one said following Christ was easy. No one would dare discount the pain and suffering that you endure. The mental anguish is oftentimes worse than any physical pain a person can inflict, but you have to hold on to the promises that God made to you. Go to Him and ask for some new wine, some fresh oil, a revival! Ask Him to create in you a clean heart and to renew a right spirit within you. He doesn't expect you to go through alone; He wants you to depend on Him. He loves you, so trust Him.

My New Love Motto

Let all that you do be done in love. (1 Corinthians 16:14 NASB)

I've decided that this verse is my new motto. It sounds very simple and easy, but if I examine my motives for absolutely everything I do (at home, at school, at play), I think I will be surprised. If I don't act and react in love, then what am I doing? Certainly not following Christ, that's for sure. His commands are to love God with all my heart, soul, and mind, and to love my neighbor as myself. Love was at the heart of everything Jesus ever did.

I Corinthians 13 gives us a picture of what love does and doesn't look like, and that should be our model. No pretense, no hidden agendas, no ladder climbing, no need for recognition or praise. We should do things just because our hearts are bursting with love. Charity is more than a tax deduction; it's our duty as human beings. No one should ever rejoice in the suffering of another person. We like to talk about reaping what you sow,....but God forgave us, didn't He? He extended His mercy to us when we didn't deserve it.

We need to extend mercy to our fellow man. We need to offer our love through every action we take. Love isn't spiteful or revengeful. Love is kind and merciful; love is gracious and forgiving. Love is what we should demonstrate if the spirit of God is in us because God is love!

The Season of Charity

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. (Matthew 25:40 KJV)

As the holidays approach, more opportunities arise to help those in need. We need to get off of our cushy pews in our cushy church buildings, and get to work. The work of the church is to be Christ's body. He did many charitable works and miracles while He was on the earth, so why wouldn't His body continue the work He began? We like being AT church, but we aren't really comfortable BEING the church.

I challenge all of you to find a cause, a project, or specific people that need your help. The living sacrifice that Romans 12:1 discusses is about doing your absolute best for the body of Christ as an act of worship. We owe it to each other to offer our resources to those in need. Resources include money, material goods, and time. Jesus Christ feels what we're going through, so we have to remember when we don't help our brothers and sisters, we are not helping Christ.

I think we will find that once we begin to participate in more charitable opportunities, then we will be more fulfilled ourselves. The body suffers if the toes are cold, if proper nutrition isn't provided, or even if the mind is battling demons. Take some time to find some volunteer opportunities in your area, or make your own. Somebody always needs something. Let's get to work!

Following Christ

Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. (Matthew 16:24 NASB)

If I want to follow Christ, there are a couple of steps I've got to follow: deny myself and take up my cross. Hmmmm... Deny myself is more than not focusing on me. It's getting over me, all my past hurts, all my disappointments, all my shortcomings, all my negative experiences. Nothing else matters but my journey following Christ. I am nothing, but Christ in me is everything.

Step two is take up my cross. I must be willing to share in Christ's suffering. I must be willing to immerse myself in the work of the kingdom. I do this knowing I won't be popular or well-liked, or even supported. I expect to be persecuted, as was Jesus Christ. I look past this world to my eternal home daily. This is what gets me through the betrayal of so-called friends and known enemies. I know this world will hate me, but I press on doing the will of God in Christ Jesus.

And I don't complain. I deny myself and take up my cross willingly. I don't expect an easy path, so I don't get surprised at the roadblocks, detours, and construction. I praise God through it all because I made a conscious decision to follow Christ. I was not coerced or forced into this life. I live this life because I don't want to be lost. I have decided to follow Jesus; no turning back!

I Can Make It

For the past month or so I have been severely discouraged about my calling, my purpose in life. It just felt like I wouldn't ever accomplish the vision God gave me. It occurs to me that He never gave me a time limit. If I could get it done in a year, what would be my purpose then?

My problem is that God allowed me to see a vision, and I wanted it to happen right now. That isn't how He works. I must prepare and be prepared for the process. The process is everything I have to go through to become the person God had in mind for that vision. It's more like He's saying, "This is where I want to take you, but you're not the you that you're going to be when this happens. Get ready for the transformation."

And I have surely changed and grown in the past year.....and I'm still not what God needs me to be to fulfill my purpose. I'm on step two, but He needs me to be at step 4,763. That's how far I have to go, and on the way there will be hills and valleys, ups and downs, joys and sorrows, victories and disappointments. But that's all part of the process. He's making me, and in some respects breaking me, but I can make it! I've come too far to give up. Philippians 4:13 is my mantra: I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!

Please be patient with me; God is not through with me yet!

God's Word Prevails

Isaiah 55:6-11(NASB) "Seek the LORD while He may be found; Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way And the unrighteous man his thoughts; And let him return to the LORD, And He will have compassion on him, And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, And do not return there without watering the earth And making it bear and sprout, And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."

Get into the Word (the Bible) today.  Find out what God's Word has to say about you and your situation.  Know that His Word will come to pass EVERY TIME.  You can be confident that God's decrees and declarations will prevail in your life.  Trust Him and believe in Him.  He cannot fail.

One Thing

One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD And to meditate in His temple. (Psalm 27:4 NASB)

We ask God for so much day in and day out. Sometimes we should get alone with God to just seek His face. After all, one day with Him is better than a thousand elsewhere. When you get into that place with God, you can't even imagine how you survive outside of it. That feeling of peace, joy, and hope that exists in His presence cannot compare to anything else on this earth.

I just want one thing right now, and that is to dwell in the presence of the Lord. I need the fulness of joy, the blessed hope, and the peace that passes all understanding. I want God's will to be accomplished in my life. I want only His perfect plan for me; I need to fulfill the purpose He created my life to complete. The only way I am going to be all I can be is to meditate in God's temple, search His will, seek His face.

O, I want to see Him, look upon His face. There to sing forever of His saving grace. On the streets of glory, let me lift my voice. Cares all past, home at last, ever to rejoice!

You Must Master It

"If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it." (Genesis 4:7 NASB)

Most people know that Cain killed Abel. He was basically jealous of his brother's favor. Cain didn't offer God a worthy sacrifice; he should have repented and corrected the error. Instead, he was angry with Abel and killed him. God warned Cain that sin was waiting to trip him up, but he fell into the trap anyway.

How many of us continue to go down paths that we know won't end well? How often do we just give in to our fleshly desires? If God said to Cain "but you must master it", then it must be possible to overcome our sinful nature. We can't blame anyone else for our shortcomings. We need to own up to our faults, confess them to the Lord, and ask for His help.

We must exercise self-control, which just so happens to be a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5). With God's spirit living inside us, we can not only offer an acceptable sacrifice, but we can interact with one another in love. We must conquer sinful urges through the power of the Holy Spirit. You can master it!

Show Me YOU!

Then Moses said, "I pray You, show me Your glory!" (Exodus 33:18 NASB)

This prayer belongs to many believers all over the globe. God is so awe-inspiring, that it is impossible to contain our desperation for more of Him at every opportunity. The more of God we see, the more we want to see. The problem is that no flesh can enter into the presence of God. We can't see Him and live. That's why we must die daily to our fleshly desires, attitudes, and motivations. If we want to see God, our human-ness must be sacrificed.

If we remain in the natural (versus entering the spiritual), then all we will ever catch is a glimpse of God's magnificence. We will constantly be a step behind His glory, seeing where it has been, instead of where it currently is. It is so critically important that we constantly seek God's face, and stop begging so much. His blessings are in His presence. The fulness of joy is in His presence. His presence is more important than any physical need we may have. Moses understood how much he needed God's glory. The desire He had for God could not be sated by things.

I ask God now to show me His glory. God, show me You! I know if I see You, then my path will be illuminated by the light of Your glory. Lord, if I can only see You, I have a chance to make right decisions and seek Your will for my life. Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere, so cast me not away from Your presence, Lord. Show me Your glory!

Be Encouraged!

I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. (Psalm 27:13,14 KJV)

Sometimes it would appear that your enemies are winning. People are believing the lies about you, speaking evil against you, and sabotaging every good thing you try to do. Take heart because God is faithful. He will keep you through the trials and tests. One scripture states that He won't suffer your foot to be moved. He has you right where He wants you, and no one can alter that.

You have a work to do, and God will uphold you with His righteous right hand until that work is complete. Walk on by faith, knowing that you are safe in God's hands. Follow His guidance step by step and day by day. Don't allow the negative to cause you to faint. Don't let your haters see you shaken. Rest in the Lord; wait on Him. Let the naysayers strengthen your resolve for pure excellence in whatever you do.

Hang in there! God's got this one! He will vindicate you in due season. Trust that if God gave you the vision, the way is already made to accomplish it. Just wait on Him to bring it to pass. Be encouraged!

What's Blocking Your View?

In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. Isaiah 6:1 (NLT)

The sixth chapter of Isaiah is a wonderful peak at the glory of God, and I am sure you've heard it preached time and time again. Let's take a moment to focus on just the first verse, and explore it a little bit. What I love about the Word of God is that He will give you a new revelation for the same passage of scripture every time you read it. The Word is truly alive and active.

Why did Isaiah see the Lord in the year King Uzziah died? King Uzziah must have been in the way! He must have been larger than life at the time, and had too much emphasis placed on himself and/or his kingship. Any time we place all of our attention on anything or anyone else, we lose sight of God. He is still there, but we allow smaller, less important things to block our view of His majesty and glory.

We get sidetracked with the cares of this world (i.e. jobs, houses, cars, education), when our primary focus should be on Christ, the solid rock. Matthew admonishes us to be kingdom minded, and everything else will fall into place (6:33). Those high places in our lives need to be brought down, so that we can see God's glory. God has not and will not change. He is still holy! His very nature demands our reverence, and our undivided attention. What in your life is keeping you from focusing on the everlasting God? What is blocking your view of God's throne, high and lifted up? It's time to evaluate and purge those things hindering your relationship with your heavenly father. Uzziah must die in order for you to see God!

Give Him Glory!

Revelation 4:11(KJV) "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created."

Sometimes we should praise God just because!  We praise Him for this and for that, but how often do we just give Him glory merely because He is worthy?  I am challenging you, as well as myself to do just that this week.  He does what He does because He is who He is ("I am that I am," as God so eloquently put it to Moses).  We say we are seeking His face, and I believe we honestly try, but sometimes we just fall short of that goal.  We seek His stuff or His blessings, rather than just giving Him glory and honor.

Sure, we all have needs that we must bring before the Lord because He asked us to cast our cares on Him.  I am suggesting that we come to Him for blessings and miracles more than we come to Him to bless His name.  There should be a balance between our prayers of supplication, intercession, praise, and thanksgiving.  We need to be more mindful of how much we are requesting versus how much we are giving.  How dare we come before God to ask Him for anything before we have honored Him with the fruit of our lips!  Why do we ask for something ELSE on the heels of some miracle He has worked in our lives without first thanking Him for what He's already done?

Take a moment to consider your current prayers.  If you are doing more praising than asking, praise God all the more!  If like me, your prayers are unbalanced, make a conscious effort not to ask God for anything for at least the first half of your prayer time.  Come to Him with words of praise and adoration.  Call out His attributes to Him.  "God, you're worthy; Lord, you're awesome; There's none like You; Father, I love you; Jesus, I thank you!"  Take this challenge with me, and I'd love to hear your testimonies of how it worked out!
 

Sometimes Overwhelmed by Life?

Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.(Psalm 61:1-4 KJV)

These words never fail to comfort me when faced with adversity. It seems sometimes I would faint, but God strengthens me to stand. I encourage you today to relax under God's wings. He loves you, and wants only the best for you. Occasionally God has to forceably remove harmful things from our lives, and it may hurt at the time. Fire purifies, not only destroys. Trust that God has your future in mind, and He knows best.

You will look back on what you thought was the worst time in your life, and you will discover how much you've grown from that time, how venomous relationships ended, and how more beneficial things landed in your path since then. Choose to seek God with all your heart, and He will strengthen that heart. Please understand that brokeness is what God uses to bring wholeness.

When your heart is overwhelmed, cry out to God to lead you to the rock (Jesus). Spend time in prayer, praise, and worship. God wants to take you somewhere, but you have to surrender your desires, your plans, and yourself. Yield to God's direction for your life, and get out of your flesh. Stop looking at your reality, and look at God's ability. It seems I say that a lot these days, but there really is nothing too hard for God. We get overwhelmed, but He doesn't. We get surprised by life's happenings, but He doesn't. We get discouraged, but He doesn't. Take comfort in the words penned in Psalm 61. God has His hands on you!

Anointed for a Future Season

1 Chronicles 10:13-14(NASB) So Saul died for his trespass which he committed against the LORD, because of the word of the LORD which he did not keep; and also because he asked counsel of a medium, making inquiry of it, and did not inquire of the LORD. Therefore He killed him and turned the kingdom to David the son of Jesse.

In I Samuel Chapter 16, we learn of the anointing of David to be the next king.  Saul had the job for the time being, but I must make note that in verse 13 we see "the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward." (NASB)  It's also important to note that in verse 14 we see "the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul." (NASB)

David knew he had been anointed by the prophet Samuel, but he didn't force his turn.  He waited patiently, did his job(s), and maintained his heart for God.  God's plan is always perfect, and He knows the perfect time to bring about a change.  It wasn't that David couldn't have been king at the time of his anointing; it's that God had a plan to handle Saul's departure before David's appointment.  Just because the Spirit of the Lord has come mightily upon you, and the anointing is fresh and strong with you, doesn't mean that your season has arrived.

Allow God to create the circumstances of your season.  Don't force your turn; prepare while you're waiting.  Seek God's counsel, read His Word, be after His heart, and TRUST HIS PLAN.  You can't set it up better than He can anyway.  He sees the end before you ever see the beginning.  He knows what steps you need to take to walk into your season with every blessing He has promised you.  Enjoy where you are on your journey, and understand that God knows the plans He has for you.

You Are the Majority!

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? (Romans 8:31 NASB)

It is often said that the majority rules. Well, I just stopped by to tell you today that it doesn't matter if the so-called "majority" is against you. There are people who just do not want you to succeed. There are people who will make up lies about you to get the "majority" on their side and off yours. There are still other people who will just go along with the crowd (hive mind). These people may outnumber your supporters, but they are NOT the majority.

If you are walking in God's will for your life, doing all you know is right, He is on your side. God cannot be outnumbered! Earlier in Romans chapter 8 (verse 28 specifically), it talks about everything working together for your good. All the naysayers, all the hatred, all the lies, all the attacks, all the negativity are working together to make you better. The trials are what prepare us for the next level of glory. The tribulation strengthens our resolve to live for the Lord.

Trust that God knows what's best for you. He is preparing you, developing you for what He has in His perfect plan for you. Have faith that the wicked only appear to win for a short time. God will not forsake or abandon you; He promised that. Keep walking with Him, and He is for you. And if God is for you, YOU ARE THE MAJORITY! YOU RULE!

Don't Waste Your Time

Yet a little while and the wicked man will be no more; And you will look carefully for his place and he will not be there. (Psalm 37:10 NASB)

The 37th Psalm starts off by telling us not to worry about evil people. We spend so much time worrying about what devices and schemes wicked people are plotting against us, that we miss out on enjoying the abundant life God has given us. You have absolutely no control over the actions of another person. It's time that you turned that enemy over to God.

We all have that one person that we let get under our skin. Everything s/he does is a personal assault to us. Sometimes it's just our imagination, and sometimes we are really being attacked. Guess what? It doesn't matter. We have to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. If we can focus on our Savior, our enemies will matter less and less, until one day, we will look around and wonder where they went.

Jesus Christ must be the center of our universe in order for our priorities to align themselves accordingly. Everything we do, everything we say, everything we are should have Kingdom motives. Wickedness can't live in the Kingdom; therefore wickedness can't remain around you if you are focused on the Kingdom of God. It will disappear if you don't feed it. Hang in there for yet a little while.

It's Only A Test

"The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace,
Because he trusts in You. (Isaiah 26:3 NASB)

No matter what you are facing right now, know that you can have perfect peace if you put your trust in the Lord. We often fret about our tests and trials, and obstacles that the enemy drops onto our paths. If we believe that God is omniscient (all knowing) and omnipotent (all powerful), then we must also believe that He knew we would be facing that difficult situation and has already made a way through it. We just need to trust in Him.

There is calm during the storm, if we can only believe all things are working for our good. We may not like it, we may be uncomfortable in it, but peace is a state of mind. As Job stated in chapter 13, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him...". Can we trust God in the fire? Can we trust God during the storm? Can we trust God in foreclosure, illness, unemployment, persecution, repossession, etc.?

Keep your mind stayed on Jesus through the good times, so you are prepared to do so in the bad times. It really is the only way to find peace. VaShawn Mitchell wrote a song several years back called "It's Only A Test", and that is what that menacing situation is for you: only a test. Keep the faith, don't give up; it's only a test!

Humility is Necessary

"But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." Matthew 23:12(NLT)

Humility is definitely not en vogue these days. Self-promotion has gone to an entirely different level. We've gone beyond the informational "Look at what I'm doing" to the opinionated "Look how great I am." We need to be careful to always let the glory pass through us to God. We are taught in the Bible that promotion comes from God, not from man. All we need to do is our best, and turn the rest over to God's mighty hand. Humility is a result of our realizing that we are nothing without God and can do nothing without the power of the Holy Spirit.

Pride is the enemy of humility. We cannot allow ourselves to take pride in our abilities. Every good and perfect gift comes from God, and He prefers an humble servant. James 4:6(NLT) let's us know that "...God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” I don't know about you, but I need God's favor, not His opposition. Don't worry about recognition; don't worry about exposure. Those things will come as you yield to God's will for your life. He will exalt you if you remain humble; it's a promise!

You Can't Stop Lies

"Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed." Proverbs 12:19 NLT

We often get upset when we find out that someone has lied about us. It is merely a trick of the enemy to get us focused on the pain of betrayal. He doesn't want us to stay in the will of God. Satan wants us distracted from the prize, so we won't press toward it. He wants us to waste time lashing out about it and trying to fix it.

God wants us to forget about those things behind us. How can we see the road ahead of us while looking backwards? We need to let things go. We must forgive the people who hurt us with their lies. We must disassociate ourselves from messy people and love them from a distance. Some lies get told because of our associations, but even cutting those bad relationships loose, lies will still be told.

Satan is the father of lies. Recognize the enemy for who he is, and stop trying to fight battles God has already won. You don't need to defend yourself against a lie. Lies die...if YOU let them. Let people make up stories about you all they want, but you continue to do what is right in the sight of God. The lies will soon be exposed! As for the people who want to believe lies (gossip), pray for them and keep them out of your business! People don't need to know everything God has revealed to you, and they certainly don't need to know everything going on with you.

The most important relationship you have is that between you and Jesus Christ. Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you. Leave liars be, and let lies fade into vapors without you stirring them up, giving them power over you. God's Word is the truth, and it will stand forever! Rebut every lie told against you with the Word of God, and be encouraged in the Lord!

Between an Army and a Red Sea

"And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible." Mark 10:27(KJV)

I can't even imagine how the Israelites must have felt when they came up on the Red Sea, knowing Pharoah's army was hot on their trail. They fussed out Moses for leading them on this futile mission. But Moses stood tall and said for them to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. The truth of the matter was that Moses was a little apprehensive as well, but he believed God NOT WHAT HE SAW.

We often look at our situation in the natural and believe that it's hopeless and that we are helpless. There is, however, only one truth, and that truth is God's. If He has to part a sea for His will to be accomplished, then that's just what He will do. We see God move on our behalf time and time again, but we still fear the unknown. I don't know how He's going to work it out. I cannot imagine this relationship being restored. The doctors have given me all the facts about why I can't be healed.

My friends, the devil is still a liar. He shows you your reality. He will never show you God's ability. I am so guilty of looking at what is instead of looking through that to what God says will be. I have to believe that with God ALL things are possible. I must stand still in the face of adversity and see the salvation of the Lord. He alone holds my destiny and gives me which path to take at the appropriate time. He doesn't need to give me the detailed step-by-step plan from start to finish. That's why trust and faith in God are critical. I believe God! I believe that with God all things are possible!

Wait Your Turn

"A man’s gift makes room for him And brings him before great men." Proverbs 18:16 (NASB)

Don't force your gift upon anyone. Just make it available and wait for it to open up doors for you. God gave it to you for His glory, and there is no greater purpose on this earth. God knew before you were a twinkle in your mother's eye what He had for you. And what God has for you is for you. No one can take your place in your season.

Be patient and prepare for your moment. Don't begrudge someone else their turn, and don't try to cut in line. Let your gift make room for you...when it's time. Until then, be the best background the world has ever seen. Your transition into leadership will be much smoother if you are a great follower.

Show everyone else what leadership is about by being dedicated, supportive, and obedient. God will exalt you in due time. Rest assured that God will keep His promises to you. Don't rush into a season that isn't yours. God's timing is perfect, so wait. Let God direct your paths, and watch the opportunities present themselves in ways you couldn't have planned if you tried.

What Do You Want the Lord to Say?

"We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work." John 9:4(NASB)

The charge is clear: we must do the works of God while we have the chance. We have no idea how much time we have on the Earth, so we must use it wisely. We have to decide to impact this world for Christ and the kingdom. Working is not a passive verb, but one that requires action. The work we are to do is the work of the church (the body of Christ, not the building).

If you will just take a moment to review the current condition of the town you are in, I'm sure you will find there are needs in the community that you can help to meet. There are poor, homeless, devastated, abused, and hopeless people that need your help! I don't know about you, but I do way too much in the church building and not enough in the community. That will change this year. Jesus didn't stay inside the temple; His work was among the people He encountered on the streets.

I want to be like Jesus. I have written enough checks; it's time for me to donate some time along with that money. I must work the works of Him that sent Christ. We, the church, are the means of feeding the hungry, clothing the homeless, and offering the hope of Christ to a dying world. We cannot rely on the government to do our job! The night is coming when we will not be able to work any longer. What do you want the Lord to say when you leave this life? What is He going to say you did for the "least of these"? Read and meditate on Matthew 25:31-46 to see what your work is as a member of the body of Christ.

It's time for a change. Let's get out of the four walls and get to work!

No Turning Back

I have decided to follow Jesus.  No turning back, no turning back.  The unknown author of those hymn lyrics made a simple, yet profound statement of faith.  No matter what comes or what goes, no matter who supports me, no matter what world events take place, I'm not turning back!

We have to make a decision whether we are going to follow Christ or the world.  There are a lot of people (even in the church) who believe it's possible to do both, but I believe they're wrong.  If the cross is truly before you, then the world has to be behind you.  Christians cannot worship the things of this world and our heavenly Father at the same time.  We have to seek first the kingdom of God, and then everything else will be added to us.  We can't seek wealth, fame, and fortune, and then say "Oh, yeah, and thank God for my many blessings."  That's backwards.

There is a road that leads to destruction, and there are a whole lot of people on it.  We must be wary of the latest teachings and catch phrases.  Everything you hear that sounds good isn't necessarily biblical.  Narrow is the way of righteousness.  We can enjoy the blessings of God, but we cannot worship them.  We must only worship the CREATOR, not the creation.  The difference between worship and idolatry is the object.  Once we are giving God our all, focusing only on Him, then we will experience true success.  There will be no good thing withheld from us in that case.

We must die to our worldly selves daily.  There is no magic potion, secret handshake, or phrase filled with alliteration that will keep us in right standing with God.  We are at His mercy DAILY.  We need His grace DAILY.  But we pursue righteousness!  I have decided to follow Jesus.  No turning back, no turning back!

Seeking Divine Order to Your Life

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own." Matthew 6:33-34(NASB)

Talk about the utmost lesson in prioritizing. Seek God's kingdom first, and everything else will fall into place. Lately, I've been having trouble keeping first things first. Everybody and everything keeps demanding my attention. The problem is that satisfying all these things and people has left me unfulfilled, disappointed, and frustrated. And rightfully so because I have allowed other things to take God's place in my life, which should be first!

I was created for God's glory alone, and He is the only one I should be seeking to please. I must follow God's plan for my life, and seek Him daily. If we study His Word, spend time with Him in prayer, and really listen to what He would have us to do, we would be a lot better off in this life. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God knows the plans He has for our lives, and we should be walking according to God's will to reap all the benefits of His plan for us.

Your actions will betray your priorities. What are your actions saying you value most in this life? If your actions aren't pointing to God's kingdom, you may need to evaluate where your focus lies. That's what I'm doing right now in my life: evaluating. It's time to identify those things that are enhancing the kingdom of God and concentrate my efforts on those. All this other filler and fluff (not necessarily bad things, mind you) need to take a backseat. I am going to seek God's kingdom first and His righteousness, so that everything else takes care of itself in divine order.

Accept the Help Sometimes

"Pride leads to conflict; those who take advice are wise." Proverbs 13:10(NLT)

It's okay to admit you don't know everything. No one will be surprised because none of us knows everything. We all have strengths and weaknesses, and we all have different experiences, skills, and talents. What is disturbing is that some people would rather fail than seek help from someone else. They can't bear to share the credit of success with someone else, or to admit they aren't perfect.

Think about it. If you refuse every suggestion that someone gives you, s/he will soon stop making suggestions and just let you do it your way. Win or lose, the outcome of the project becomes your burden alone. Not only will you get all the credit for success, but you'll also receive all the blame for failure. How will you ever grow as an individual if you never learn new ways of doing things? Abundant life involves growth and development.

We can learn, not only from our own experiences, but from the experience of others. Take time to listen to advice from others. I'm not suggesting that you can use all the advice you're given, but at least find out if you can use it before you refuse it. Sometimes we allow our pride to drive a wedge between ourselves and the people who can help us. Begin to have discussions with those attempting to advise you. Find out if the suggestions are viable, or how they can be altered to work in your situations.

Seek God's counsel above all else. Ask Him to guide you into the proper place with the right people. Line up with His Word, and pray without ceasing. If any advice is contrary to God's Word, you MUST discard it. Pray for discernment and wisdom in all things.

Victory in the Valley

"No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their vindication is from Me," declares the Lord. Isaiah 54:17 NASB

I was reminded this week that the enemy has plenty of weapons. Just when you think things are going well, he pulls out a rocket launcher against you. Well, God never said that the weapons wouldn't exist. He said they wouldn't prosper. I believe that the closer we get to where God wants us to be, Satan becomes more urgent in his attacks.

The enemy wants us to give up before the promises of God are manifested in our lives. We cannot give in, and we cannot lose our faith in God's divine plan. We must continue to trust that God is in control, no matter the obstacle opposing us. The pressure is what creates the pearl from the sand and the diamond from the lump of coal. The pressure is what releases God's oil of annointing on our lives.

Know that whatever demons you are battling today will NOT win. We are assured in Psalm 37 that the wicked only appear to win briefly. The righteous will always prevail by the power of God. You will make it through this storm, and the weapons formed against you will fail, but you have to persevere. You have to trust God; you have to submit to His will. Let Him take you through the valley of the shadow of death to strengthen you. There are skills that you will learn from this valley that will assist you on the next mountain top. Learn from this experience, and encourage someone else with the lessons you learn. Trust that your time in the valley isn't in vain. God is with you, and He is a shelter for you from the enemy. Trust God.

Victory in the Resurrection

"I don't know why Jesus loved me. I don't know why He cared. I don't know why He sacrificed His life; oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did." - Andrae Crouch

Jesus is amazing. We don't have words enough to describe how amazing He really is. He gave up His throne to walk this earth for our benefit. We did not even understand how badly we needed a savior, but He did it anyway. He knew He would be persecuted, rejected, ignored, alienated, and ridiculed. He still chose to become the ultimate sacrifice. He knew He would have to shed His blood for the remission of our sins, although He was and is sinless!

He understood how dire our situation was, and that we could not reconcile ourselves to God the father. Jesus Christ knew that we would never be able to keep the law. He knew everything about us, and still He loved us enough to die. As we approach Resurrection Sunday, let us not take for granted the greatest sacrifice ever made. We tend to tell and re-tell the story without really pondering what it meant for Jesus to fulfill the prophecy of the Messiah.

Take some time today to earnestly consider the sacrifice that Jesus made for you. He died so that I/you can live eternally. Not only that, but He rose from the dead as He said that He would. Jesus Christ defeated death, hell, and the grave on that Easter Sunday morning. Victory is in His resurrection. You are an overcomer because of His resurrection. You can conquer any obstacle you face today through faith in Jesus Christ, and His ability to make you victorious!

Do You Need a Reason?

"He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit," Titus 3:5 NASB

No matter how good we think we are, or how much we've improved in our lives, we must remember that our so-called righteousness is nothing but filthy rags before God. We can do all the good deeds we can think of and still not be worthy of salvation. We can never earn God's grace, mercy, or favor. These things He gives to us because of who He is.

When we recognize God's character in our everyday lives, we can almost understand how worthless we really are on our own. The God of the universe, who placed every star in the sky and knows each of them by name, is actually mindful of me. The only wise God our savior, who touches the hills and they smoke, calls me friend. There is no good thing in my flesh, yet this same God chooses to offer me protection, grace, and mercy every day! I will never be worthy, but I can come boldly before His throne through the blood of His son, Jesus Christ.

God allowed His only son to become the ultimate sacrifice for ME, to redeem me back to Himself, to reconcile my relationship with Him. I owe Him my life! Although I can't work for my salvation, I can work BECAUSE of my salvation. I just have to maintain the proper perspective. God's mercy found me, and I will spend the rest of my life praising Him for reaching me. I was sinking to rise no more, but His love lifted me. God is far too big to be concerned with me, or so I thought. God is God, and our finite minds cannot comprehend His infinite wisdom. He deserves our worship and our praise! Let's make it a sweet sound to His ear.

Blueprint to Life

"Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding." Proverbs 9:6 KJV

There must come a time in the life of every Christian when we put away foolish things. Growth and maturity are signs that the Holy Spirit is indeed living inside of us. Just as one's physical body undergoes puberty to develop, so must the spiritual body undergo its own changes. Our relationship with God through Christ Jesus should develop into a deeper, more profound, more pronounced kinship as we grow in the way of understanding.

Maybe people couldn't tell if you were Christian five years ago, but do they still wonder today? If your actions, speech, and attitude still betray your faith, perhaps you should spend more time in prayer and Bible study. It is utter foolishness to pretend to be a follower of Christ. Pretenders don't have all the benefits: perfect peace, unspeakable joy, etc. Pretenders don't understand the power they could have over their flesh through the Holy Spirit. Pretenders have no authority over the enemy, and are therefore defeated.

Let the foolishness go! Live abundantly! Listen to what God's Word is saying to you. This particular plan is simple enough. Grow up in Christ, and see how much better life can be. Jesus came so that we can live, and that's just what I'm going to do: live! What say you?

Keep It; God Doesn't Want It

"Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, an endless river of righteous living." Amos 5:24 (NLT)

In the 5th chapter of Amos, God is letting Israel know how displeased He was with their "show". Like us at times, Israel claimed to be God's people, but they weren't living accordingly. God let them know, as He is letting us know, that He doesn't need our programs and services. He has no use for our insincere sacrifices; we can keep them.

Why waste our time going through the motions or following meaningless traditions? God desires and requires holy and righteous living above anything else we can offer Him. We must offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to Him. Once we do that, we will be able to live as He requires through the blood of Jesus Christ and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

God doesn't need us, we need Him. It's time we started acting like it. Coming before God any kind of way and offering to Him lip service without heart is unacceptable. He rejects that; He doesn't want it. He desires to be worshiped in spirit and in truth. That means no pretense, no cover-ups, no fairy tales. We need to repent often (daily), and live according to His Word. We can't claim to be God's children and live in such a way that discredits our claim. God is holy, and we must be holy to worship Him.

Do What's Right Even in Adversity

"Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." Psalm 37:5 (KJV)

There is always a tendency to want to get even with someone who has wronged us, or delight in some evil person's demise. The 37th Psalm let's us know what will happen to wicked people, but it isn't our place to try and make it happen. God is the only just judge in these matters. We have to do what we know is right, no matter what people are trying to do to us.

We have to trust in God, and know that He is working it out for us. Everyone doesn't want you to succeed, especially if they can't take credit for it. God is using your haters to strengthen you. He wants to make it perfectly clear that He's the one who brought you out (brought it to pass). When we see our enemies being justly handled, it isn't right to mock them. It's nothing but the grace of God keeping you from your rightful punishment.

Pray for those who persecute you, whether they do it in the open or behind your back. Turn them over to God. Read the entire 37th Psalm, and give God the glory for your deliverance from evildoers. Jesus prayed for the people who crucified Him (and those who are still crucifying Him). We must pray for our enemies, and have compassion for them. We have to love them because that's what is right. Doing what's right according to the Word of God is what invokes the promises and blessings of God.

Speak the Word

"You will also decree a thing, and it will be established for you;
And light will shine on your ways." Job 22:28 (NASB)

God's Word has power! We need to speak God's Word over our lives, and allow God to breathe life into our dead situations. If Job could decree a thing and have it established, why couldn't we? If we surrender our will over to God's perfect will, then we will have what we decree because it will be in line with His Word.

We are leaving blessings sitting on the shelf because we won't exercise the power God has given us through His Word. Open up your mouth and declare the promises of God over your life, over your children, over your finances, over your job, over your marriage, over everything! Stop allowing the enemy to tell you what you cannot do or cannot have. You have power over the devil through Jesus Christ, and it's high time you used it.

Turn that frustration into praise. God, I thank you for your refining fire! God, I praise you for purifying me through the trials and the tests. I speak life over this thing, and I decree that what I do for Christ will last! I won't tuck my tail between my legs, take my toys, and go home. After I've done all to stand, I am going to continue to stand in faith. For I know that you, O Lord, will sustain me and hide me in times of trouble. I decree success in Jesus' name for God's glory! I declare victory in every area of my life, according to God's Word!

Have You Found Him Yet?

Jeremiah 29:13(KJV) "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart."

A lot of us are continually asking God for more of Him, but we just aren't doing what we need to do to receive more of Him. He clearly isn't saying go to church more, or get involved in more activities with the church. This is a spiritual thing, not a religious thing. Instead of getting more involved in church, we need to get more involved with God Himself.

We have to seek Him, not because He's lost, but because we are. He is always there, waiting with outstretched arms, waiting for us to turn our will over to His. We keep looking in all the wrong places for God. There is nothing wrong with church involvement, but it cannot take the place of our relationship with God.

When we get into that secret place and open up our hearts to God, it is there that He can speak to us and make Himself known. It is in that blessed quietness, that perfect peace, that we cultivate our relationship with our creator. That's where He gently speaks to us, nourishes us with His Word, and encourages our hearts, as we worship Him.

Seek Him with all your heart, and He guarantees that you will find Him.

It Really Does Take All That!

2 Samuel 6:22a shows us a king who is not ashamed to worship God with his whole heart. "I will become even more undignified than this..."(NIV). He didn't care what people said or thought about him dancing before the Lord with all his might.

So, why is it exactly that we care what others think or say? Why are we more concerned with how people see us rather than how God sees us? Why do we let people determine how we worship and praise our God? Somewhere along the way, "religion" got in the way of WORSHIP. I encourage you to allow the Spirit of God to take control, and stop being afraid of men and their faces.

The very next opportunity you have to praise and worship God in public, I dare you to just let loose, let the make-up run, let the heel break on that shoe, let the hairpins fly! He is worthy of all that and much more. Will you become undignified for His glory today? Think about it.

We Need to Clean House

Psalm 51:10 (KJV) "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."

This Psalm contains a very sincere prayer. David confesses his sin, begs God's forgiveness, and asks God to clean him up. He even asks God not to expel him from God's presence or take the Holy Spirit away from him. When you have the chance, I encourage you to read the whole prayer.

Sometimes we should just get sick of ourselves. David confessed that his sin was ever before him. Our sin often stares us right in the face, and we fail to acknowledge that it's there. Ignoring the iniquity doesn't make it go away; ignoring it causes it to grow. An untreated infection can kill. An unconfessed, unforgiven, and unpurged sin can kill our spirit.

We are so unworthy of God's mercy, yet He gives us opportunity after opportunity to make things right with Him. Whatever "secret sin" you have been holding on to, tell God about it and ask for His forgiveness. He alone can purge you and make you clean. Give the Holy Spirit a clean house in which to dwell. It's time to clean house!

The Blessing of Peace

Numbers 6:24-26 "The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace." (KJV)

This is a wonderful blessing that God offers to each and every one of us.  If you've recently suffered a loss, setback, blizzard perhaps, or whatever, know that God offers you peace.  He holds the peace that passes all understanding through Christ Jesus.  All you need to do is accept it today.  It matters not what situations you are facing today, how hectic your life has become, or how devastated you appear to be.  God offers you peace.

There is no calm during the storm like the calm Jesus can provoke simply by speaking, "Peace, be still."  He can speak those words into your life right now, if you just ask Him.  Everything will be all right if you can only believe.  I dare you to act like your life is peaches and cream today.  Walk in the promise that God will provide all your needs according to His riches in glory.  Pretty soon you'll wonder how you got over.  God loves you, and so do I.  Be blessed.

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The Presence of God

In the 34th chapter of Exodus, we see where Moses spent some serious time in the presence of God. As a result, his physical appearance changed (V.29). If we claim to have been in the presence of the Lord, can anyone tell? What has changed about us?

It is impossible to experience the presence of God and remain the same. Something has got to be different. Maybe it starts out as something internal, but it should eventually manifest into a physical change if we continually get into God's presence. We are to be peculiar (different). If people can't see that something is different about you, perhaps you should evaluate your relationship with God. Ask Him to show you His glory. Of course, your flesh will not be admitted into God's presence, so you will first have to die to "self" before you can enter that secret place.

If you are hung up on your title, your position, your clique, or yourself in general, you will remain on the outside looking in. There is no greater joy than that you receive in the presence of the Lord. Give up on you, and allow God to have His way in you. I promise you won't regret it!

God Cannot Lie, So Just Trust

"For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." We find these words in 2 Corinthians 1:20. His promises are true, and no one can change what God has promised in your life. There is no need for you to be in anguish over your 'haters' because God is in control.

It seems that more and more people are distraught about people throwing monkey wrenches in what you believe is God's plan for your life. God is using those people to strengthen you. God is using your adversity as a springboard for your success. His plans cannot be derailed, and His promises cannot be untrue. If anyone should be distressed, it's the person allowing the enemy to use him/her.

Hold your head up and walk in what you know God has promised you. The manifestation will come as He prepares a table right in front of your enemies. Stop your fretting and trust God. This is as much for me as for you. I must at all times, in all situations, even in the dark places, trust God!

If It Isn't a Sacrifice...

2 Samuel 24:24 "...I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God which cost me nothing..." (NASB)

Whatever we offer to God has to cost us something, or it isn't a sacrifice. If it isn't a sacrifice, then what is it? What purpose does it serve? God doesn't need our self-righteousness. He doesn't need us to give Him something only to be seen doing it. He wants our honesty in our giving. By giving God our sacrificial offering, we are affirming our faith in His ability to meet our needs. We are saying, "I trust You, Lord."

Abraham's sacrifice was to be his promise (his son), but Jehovah Jireh provided a ram at just the perfect moment. God is still the same; we can trust Him just as Abraham did. We can give Him our very lives as a living sacrifice. What good is an offering that costs us nothing? Sure, it can still be used for the kingdom, but how is it benefitting our spiritual lives? When we give out of our abundance it's nice, but when we give out of our scarcity.... That's the sacrifice. That costs us dearly, and that is worthy of offering to the Lord.

I trust You, and I need You to know that You can trust me with what You have blessed me with, Lord. Here is my SACRIFICE.

Get It Right!

Genesis 4:5-7 (The Message)

3-5 Time passed. Cain brought an offering to God from the produce of his farm. Abel also brought an offering, but from the firstborn animals of his herd, choice cuts of meat. God liked Abel and his offering, but Cain and his offering didn't get his approval. Cain lost his temper and went into a sulk.

 6-7 God spoke to Cain: "Why this tantrum? Why the sulking? If you do well, won't you be accepted? And if you don't do well, sin is lying in wait for you, ready to pounce; it's out to get you, you've got to master it."

It is normal for we humans to make mistakes. As we see from this passage of scripture, Cain messed up with his sacrifice. The problem here is that Cain couldn't admit his error and learn from his mistake. He instead became jealous and resentful of his brother. If you remember the story, Cain's anger led him to murder Abel.

It is critically important that we don't allow our mistakes to fester and lead us into more harmful thoughts and behaviors. God warned Cain that sin was just waiting to trip him up, and that goes for us as well. We need to admit when we are wrong, so that we can be forgiven and be given the opportunity to get it right.

We need to get it right not just with God, but with each other. Our relationships with one another depend on us owning up to our faults. Don't pretend to be perfect; learn from the mistakes and grow as an individual. When you can admit that you are wrong, then you are right!