Bleach Germs Sin and God's Word

I was once told to stop using so much bleach and to stop keeping my house so clean so that some germs could get in allowing our bodies to build up ammunity to them. I laughed at the comment because if anyone knows me they know that is not going to happen.

Besides it doesn't matter how much bleach or Lysol I use germs are always present. Just like sin!

Sin is everywhere and it needs to be handled just like germs. We need to be constantly on guard, prepared, covered and protected with God's Word. His armor is our weapon of defense. It is our safety, protection and it is what kills and keeps sin at bay.

Bleach is a killer to germs like God's Word is to sin.

We need more of God's Word, we need to be using it more, sharing it more, speaking it more, and storing it more because sin is spreading.

Jesus wrap us in Your armor and protect us from sin. Amen

Teaching our Children Selfless Living

How do you teach your kids to be selfless?

I have noticed with my two that we have been headed in a direction of selfishness. Are we giving them more than they need? Are we showing them what living a selfless life looks like?

Do they see and understand through our actions what selflessness is, does, and it's purpose? Or do they see selfish living?

Jesus was the most selfless person, so if we desire to be like Him, won't we too desire selflessness for ourselves and our children?

Jesus help me and G to set a better example of selflessness. May we put our selfish desires aside and do more for You and others. Amen

Be Reminded

"Now you can have sincere love for each other as brothers and sisters because you were cleansed from your sins when you accepted the truth of the Good News." 1 Peter 1:22

Is there a hurt or fault that is so bad that you can't forgive? Do you, in your heart hold such resentment towards that person(s) that you are allowing Satan to have such a stronghold on you that you are full of more bitterness than you are love?

If so, be reminded that not only did Jesus forgive you, He took everyone of your sins upon himself and then died so that you might be saved.

How can you not forgive when you have been forgiven?

Easily Tainted

Do you know how quickly we can be absorbed by the things of this world? Think about a paper towel placed in a cup of coffee. If you roll it up and stand it straight up you can actually watch as the coffee moves up the paper towel. Do you know what the coffee does to the paper towel? It turns it brown.

My point, the coffee represents the world and we are the paper towel. The more we sit and soak in the things of the world the more we become tainted and like the world. 

So, how do we really separate ourselves from the world? Do we really even desire to be separated from the World?

I often find myself caught up in so much of the worldly stuff and when God slows me down I realize just how easy it is to lose sight of the things of heaven. 

Is this what I am teaching my boys, the busyness of life, the pleasure of worldly things, a right now mentality? 

These are my own personal convictions, convictions that the Lord reveals to me with so much force it knocks the breath out of me. 

We desire more time in our days, yet so much of the time we are given is wasted on wants, self, pleasure, money, feel good things. 

Could it be that are minds, thoughts, and hearts are being saturated with more of the world than with God's Word?

Oh, brethren this is truth. If we don't discipline ourselves and spend time in God's Word, we will become tainted. We will begin to go through the motions and pace of the world instead of living and action on God's Word.

I need a change to take place within me that is so powerful, so strong, so overwhelmingly real that my heart is shattered and then put back together new and absorbed with only Christ and His Word. 

"You would not be pleased with sacrifices, or I would bring them. If I brought you a burnt offering, you would not accept it. The sacrifice you want is a broken spirit. A broken and repentant heart, O God, you will not despise." Psalm 51:16-17

  

Jesus only You are able to turn our tainted hearts back to white. Please do so Father. Move in a mighty way with in us. May the move be so real, so strong, so life-changing that we are never the same again. Shatter the hardness and remove any and all callouses within us. Jesus help us to be better stewards with our time. And may we be more thankful for the time You are giving us to be changed, and make right what has been wrong. Amen

Altar Sunday

Is your need and desire for Jesus so great you run to the altar?

Their Hearts are Tender and Sponge-like

"When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instruction with kindness." Proverbs 31:26

It's important to remember how much of an impact our words have on our children.

Be wise and heed the counsel of the Holy Spirit when speaking to your children. Your words will either build them up or tear them down. Don't let your words become your child's downfall.

Jesus take control of what we say O Lord keep our lips sealed so that nothing ugly will spew out. Remind us that there are little hearts involved along with little ears that hear more than we know. Amen

Mom, Mama, Mommy, Mother...

She is more than my mom, mama, mommy, mother. She is my best friend and there is not an ounce in me that could possibly love her anymore. I am beyond capacity.

Today she celebrates another year of life, and it's another year I savor and cherish. The older I get the more I realize just how important every second is with those you love.

I have said many times before that I have the most amazing parents in the world and could not be anymore blessed than I am.

She has been my biggest supporter, encourager, comforter, protector, care-taker and listener. She is now and will always be the best Nana to two little boys who think she hung the moon.

I know where she learned it, from her mama. Her mama was the same way!

Loved mama, is what you are, not by just me, but by 8 grand kids, two daughters, three son-in-laws, a husband, two sisters, three brothers, and a mommy and daddy who although went on ahead of you still love you more than their hearts could hold.

You have blessed me, set the most amazing example for me, and have showed me that living a life for the Lord is done through action and character.

You my sweet woman, surpass them all. There is none greater than you.

No matter how old I get, I will ALWAYS be your baby.

Happy Birthday Sugar

God's Abundance of Blessings

"He is so rich in kindness that he purchased our freedom through the blood of his Son, and our sins are forgiven. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding." Ephesians 1:7-8

I would be lying if I told you I was aware of all of the amazing gifts and blessings the Lord pours out upon us.

I have begun studying the book of Ephesians and in Chapter 1 alone, Paul lists blessing after blessing. And who receives all those blessings? All who belong to Christ Jesus.

I can't shake this immeasurable amount of love God has for me/us. It's overwhelming, yet so simple.

All who believe in Christ are identified as His own and given the Holy Spirit, whom He promised long ago.

What on earth can ever compare to God's blessings? Nothing!

Brethren, God loves you and He wants to pour out His blessings on you. Let Him and accept them.

Jesus thank You for showing me over and over in Your Word Your love for me. There is not one thing I deserve yet You continue to shower Your blessings all over me. Thank You that I am Yours forever. Amen

How Brief the Time

"Lord remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away. My life is no longer than the width of my hand. An entire lifetime is just a moment to you; human existence is but a breath." Psalm 39:4-5

I could not help but come back to this verse today as I was watching my boys play and talk and do all the things a 5 and 3 year old do. I can't believe how quickly time goes by. I can't believe how quickly August came.

It is so easy to get caught up in the craziness of life that before we know summer has flown by, School is about to start, and a new year is already at our heels.

Life has been far from normal for the Morgan family, especially since April when the Lord called G out of something we though he would do forever. 

I hold my breath not wanting to miss another second with my family. Just this morning Avery was telling me how excited he was to begin school and turn 6. I made a sad face and he said, "Mommy, why don't you want me to get big?" 

What do you even say to a little boy who can't wait to be big like his daddy? I want them to stay little forever, but I know it's just not reality. 

So I cling to the Lord trusting Him with every growth spurt, every new school year and every new age. Time is so brief and I don't want to waste it being so busy that I miss the little things God is showing me and teaching me.

Lord remind me how brief my time and my families time is. Remind us that are days are numbered and that we must spend every second of those days honoring and obeying You. Loving one another and sharing Your Word with any and every one we come into contact with. Amen

Out of Commission

This is the longest I have ever gone without posting a devo. I have missed it, but it has been a nice break, and well I have been out of commission since Monday.

I am finally getting back on my feet and have been missing writing.

I love sharing God's Word with you so I am thrilled to be back.

Go Farther

“May grace and peace be yours, sent to you from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.” Ephesians 1:2

When is the last time you spoke, text, emailed or called someone and said, “May grace and peace be yours, sent to you from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord?”

How does it make you feel just reading it? Do you laugh or mutter to yourself, “I would never say that, it’s weird.”  Maybe those words make you feel weird and so to say them would just be plain awkward.

Why?

Whatever the reason is, Paul did it because he had a genuine love for people and Christ. He didn’t just settle with a mere, “I’ll pray for you.” He always went further.

Paul was so good about pouring out the sweetest blessings and prayers to the Churches. I have yet to read one of his letters where He did not either pray or speak God’s richest blessings, love, grace and peace to fall on the Church and its people.

How often do we pour out sweet blessings and prayers to those we are in contact with? I don’t know maybe people find it weird, or uncomfortable, but honestly when I read Paul’s letters I find joy and hope in them. I like to read those sweet words from him and I want to pour out the same comfort and hope it brings me to others.

Although Paul had to be stern at times with those in the Church, he still wanted God’s best for them.

Isn’t it sad to think that maybe we don’t always want the best for others. Do we wish to have the Lord withhold His blessings, grace, and peace from those who have hurt us or offended us?

Do we want God’s absolute best for our brothers and sisters in Christ? So often I hear people say that Christians fight more amongst one another than any other religion. That is devastating!

Paul knew that he was not capable of giving any greater gift than the gift of Christ Jesus. He also knew that God was the ONLY one that could give grace and peace.

God’s Word is so powerful, so what better way to bless and be blessed than by praying and speaking God’s Word over others. Let’s go farther and do more than just mutter an “I’ll pray for you.”

May grace and peace be yours sweet brethren, sent to you from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

One and Same

“We are all one body, we have the same Spirit, and we have all been called to the same glorious future. There is only one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and there is only one God and Father, who is over us all and in us all and living through us all.” Ephesians 4:4-6

There are several key words in this passage I believe we need to pay close attention to.

One and Same

We are ALL “ONE” body-The Church

We have the “SAME” Spirit-The Holy Spirit

We have ALL been called to the “SAME” glorious future-Heaven

There is only “ONE” Lord-Jesus Christ

“ONE” faith-Our faith and trust in Christ

“ONE” baptism-The same baptism and emersion as Jesus

“ONE” God and Father-He is the Creator, Inventor, Ruler, and over ALL

We as the Body of Christ are ONE and the SAME in Christ Jesus.

Are we living and working as ONE and the SAME?

Do we believe we are ONE and the SAME?

Do others outside of the Body of Christ, see the Body working together functioning as ONE and the SAME and want to be a part of it?

Jesus in You and through You we are ONE. Help us as the Body to live and do as though we are ONE and the SAME in You. Unite us to be stronger and to function as a ONE. Amen

Faithful Followers

"It is written to God's holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus." Ephesians 1:1


The minute I read this passage I thought what an unbelievable compliment. Paul referred to the people of Ephesus as "Faithful Followers" of Christ Jesus.

Do we live our lives in such a way that we too are known as "Faithful Followers" of Christ Jesus?

For me, there is no greater compliment or reputation that I would rather have and be known as than a "Faithful Follower" of Christ Jesus.

Jesus I want to be known as a Your faithful follower from here to eternity. Help me to live my life in such a way that others are drawn to You. Amen

Altar Sunday

When you find yourself unable to get to the altar, remember Jesus is everywhere.

Nothing is Certain

Enjoy prosperity while you can. But when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. That way you realize that nothing is certain in life." Ecclesiastes 7:14

As I read the stories and listen to the news of this horrible shooting in Colorado, I am reminded of how important it is to know the Lord and have a personal relationship with Him.

As I think about these people, I can see them settling in their chairs with their popcorn and drinks excited to watch the movie and then in an instant, something they NEVER expected in a theater, happened.

Nothing is certain and I believe we are now more aware of that today.

Therefore, we must never become complacent or too comfortable.

I am saddened by the actions of this young man. Satan had a huge grasp on him and he believed the lies an corruption of Satan.

We have to be connected to Christ and never allow any separation between us and Him.

It is my prayer that those who lost their lives this weekend had a personal relationship with Jesus.

Jesus be with the families who are mourning the loss of their loved ones. I pray that hearts and eyes will be focused on You and that we will all realize that You are in control and that no matter what we must praise You in good times and in bad. Give us the strength to do so. Amen

Lacking or Not Accepting

God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please Him." Ecclesiastes 2:26

Would it be fair to say that if we are lacking in wisdom, knowledge and joy that we might be lacking in our relationship with Christ?

Solomon tells us that God "Gives" them to those who please Him.

Maybe it's not that we are lacking, maybe we are just not accepting what He is giving.

Just a Normal Days Conversation

Here is one of the conversations I had today with my 5 year old.

"Mommy I can't wait until Jesus comes. Do you know why?"

Me: "Why?"

Avery: "Because the devil won't exist anymore. Won't that be a great day mommy?"

Me: "Yes baby that will be a great day."

Thank You Jesus for the wisdom and desire You have placed within my boys. I love these precious moments when You place things on their sweet little hearts. May You continue to do so forever. I pray our conversations about You will become more and more and deeper and deeper. Amen

It was Known Long Ago

"Everything has already been decided. It was known long ago what each person would be. So there's no use arguing with God about your destiny." Ecclesiastes 6:10

When you wonder why the Lord moved you out of your comfort zone and into a place unfamiliar, remember He has a plan for it. And though you don't understand it now, you will in His timing.

My Grown Babies

I have a group of college students that entered my life almost four years ago. I love them, and I say that with a Jesus-mommy type of love.  

They make me smile and bless me daily with their sweet texts, emails, and phone calls. I have even had several of them visit me since G and I have moved and I love every minute I get with them. 

I pray for them often and still mother them, probably more than they like, but they are so sweet they never say anything. (And they keep calling too! :)

These "Babies" which I know are so grown-up and so far from babies, are "My babies" and I love them. I love Jesus in them. I love their hunger and passion for the Lord, and that they desire purity in every form. 

I love their honesty in every form. I love they are not afraid to express their brokenness, fears, frustrations, and concerns. I love that the Lord has built a bond of trust between us. 

Oh, theses sweet things I love as though God gave them to me as my own. 

I say all of this to say, there are so many young men and women that surround us that need to be taken in under the Lord's wings and loved, listened to, and guided by the Word. 

They need to hear and know that we get what they are going through in this phase of life. Because all though it might not be the same, the Lord still carried us through it and He will do the same for them. They need to be shown faithfulness, consistency, and Jesus in every part of our lives. 

The Lord gives specific instruction on this very topic and today I find this passage to be lacking when it needs to be thriving.

"Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that is appropriate for someone serving the Lord. They must not go around speaking evil of others and must not be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to take care of their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God." Titus 2:3-5

"In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely in all they do. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching." Titus 2:6-7

There is always someone in need of discipleship. And believe me, you both will be blessed and ministered to. 

Jesus thank You for these sweet babies who are now men and women. Bless them Father as they enter they enter into new phases of life. May they continue to have a heart and love for You that is contagious on everyone they are around. Thank You for the blessing they are to me and my family. We love them tremendously and thank You for allowing us the opportunity to be changed and ministered to by them. Help us to continue to be and example of Your Word and love. In Jesus name, amen

Do You Know the Answer?

What does it mean to be complete in Christ?

Here's a hint: Read Colossians 2:9-10

Altar Sunday

"As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouths shut! Don't be a fool who doesn't realize that mindless offerings to God are evil. And don't make rash promises to God, for he is in heaven, and you are only here on earth. So let your words be few." Ecclesiastes 5:1-2

Keeping Your Word

The Lord hates those who don't keep their word, but he delights in those who do." Proverbs 12:22

How well do we keep our word? Do we keep our word with our friends and family, in our jobs, with our children?

How well do we keep our word with the Lord?

Is He delighted in us?

Guest Writer- James Mejias

Having a hero-savior complex is pride at the very top of its game. It is here that man is tested to see what he is really made of. Here is the place where the enemy seduces our weakest members at maximum strength. Where he offers us power, money, fame, status, identity, destiny, instant gratification and immortality. Here is where we can cultivate the lie that we deserve equal status with God and feel entitled to be the "one" worshipped. So ask yourself, who do you want to love more? Christ or yourself? It's time to stop thinking we must be the hero. The more we try to save people, the more we will destroy them.

What Do You Think?

What's worse, not reading God's Word or reading God's Word yet still living like the world and not doing what it says?

You might be thinking how is that possible, but believe me it is possible.

So my next question is...

If your reading are you obeying?

And my last question is...

What do your actions, speech, thoughts and life look like?

A Work of Art

"For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10

An artist takes time and pride in their work. Their completed piece is a work of art, a masterpiece. Every piece of art we view had a beginning. It was a blank slate. 

We are similar. Christ is the artist and we are the work of art. We started from nothing. Yet through Christ were transformed into a beautiful masterpiece, one that He is pleased with and loves.

The amazing thing about Christ's art is the way He signs it. It's always in red and it's very distinct. You can tell which pieces (people) are Christ's workmanship because they all have the same type of covering-His blood.

You and I brethren are Christ's masterpiece. We have been created anew to do the good things God planned for us to do long ago. 

So put God's masterpiece on display and let the beauty of His work shine and do well for those who view it. 

Jesus sometimes it is so hard to see the beauty that You created from a blank slate. But thank You for creating me and marking me in the prettiest red there is, Your blood. Set me apart and on display for Your glory. May I do the good that You planned for me to do long ago. Amen

A Praise to be Shared

"Sing to the Lord, all you godly ones! Praise his holy name." Psalm 30:4

Brethren we serve an amazing, loving, and very invested in His children God.

I got a wonderful text today from my sweet friend Dana. She is a precious woman who is battling Breast Cancer.

She has been on a roller coaster over this past year and today she told me that the Dr said...

"Getting my treatment but talked to the doctor - everything is smaller!! Not hugely smaller but smaller. The clinical trial doc had said if it stabilizes or shrinks, that is success. So YAY!!! Thanks for your prayers!!"

SO THANK YOU FOR PRAYING BRETHREN! It is helping! Let's continue to flood the Throne room for Dana and her family.

You are loved!

Jesus we praise You for the wonderful news today for Dana. We continue to seek Your face and Your will in her life. Jesus we also continue to ask bodly with complete faith for You to completely heal her. Thank You Jesus for this great news, it's hope and we know hope comes from You. Amen

Special Favor

"But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's special favor that you have been saved!)" Ephesians 2:4-5

Do you ever need to know you are loved, forgiven, accepted, and wanted?

If so then let this passage fall all over you. No matter how many times you have to repeat it to yourself, do because once Christ gets His Word all over you, it will change you.

Let God's richest mercy set you free. Let His love fill you with joy, and capture your heart. Christ died and rose from the grave to give you/us life.

God chose you and it is through His special favor that you are saved.

Praise Him!

Jesus thank You. You are worthy of all the praise. Fill us with the understanding of how great Your mercy is and how loved we are. Amen

Altar Sunday

"Build altars in the places where I remind you who I am, and I will come and bless you there." Exodus 20:24

The Church is a great place to find an altar. It is also a wonderful reminder of who Christ is.

Go and be blessed

Listen to Christ First

"He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name." Psalm 23:3

Somewhere along the way we can lose ourselves. Why this happens I don't know. Maybe it's because we listen to everyone tell us who to be, what to do, how to do it, when to do it, thus causing Christ's voice to be drowned out.

I have often heard women say they don't know who they are anymore or what there purpose in life is. Goodness I have wondered that myself many times.

Honestly I have given into so many demands and commands of others that I have often forgot whose matters most and that is Christ.

Christ defines me. Christ gives me purpose. Christ is the one who has the say in what I do on this earth.

I can tell you from experience that listening to Christ is going to be WAY better than listening to man.

Man is harsh, demanding, unloving, short fused, judgemental, belittling, and many other things. Why? Because they are mere human, we are human. I know those are harsh but we can all be that way at times.

Christ is the complete opposite of man. He is understanding, kind, gentle, patient, loving in all areas, encouraging, and He does not force us.

It's crazy that we choose man over Christ.

I don't know where you are in your life, but if you are being pressured, forced, or just confused about what you should be doing or where you should be, listen to Jesus first before you listen to man.

Let Christ define you. Let Christ lead you to where you should go. Let Christ fill you with purpose.

Otherwise it can be frustrating and even miserable.

Jesus help us to step back into Your will for our lives. You know what is best for us. No matter how hard it might be help us to stand firm in You and who You called us to be. May we find our true identity in You. Amen

Legalism…Legalist

"Have you lost your senses? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort?" Galatians 3:3

I have been finding legalism so fascinating these last few days. As I search the depths of God's Word I have been finding that legalism is spoken a lot through-out the Bible. 

What is legalism-it is dependence on moral law rather than on personal religious faith.

In my terms, legalism is focusing more on the "Do's and Don'ts" rather than on our faith in Jesus Christ.

I like how Paul puts it, "And yet we Jewish Christians know that we become right with God, not by doing what the law commands, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be accepted by God because of our faith in Christ-and not because we have obeyed the law. For no one will ever be saved by obeying the law." Galatians 2:16

Brethren, there is a reason God is speaking on legalism in His Word. There is a reason He calls out the Pharisees as much as He does. They were legalist to the extreme.

It is because we too, especially me, can get caught up in legalism and not even realize how bad of a Christian legalistic we are being.

Does all of this mean we don't have to follow the law? No! It means we need to make sure we are living by faith and knowing that we are accepted by God because of Christ Jesus. 

All we do when we focus on legalism is rob ourselves of joy. We become so focused on what not to do that we miss out on what Christ has done for us and how far we have come. "For no one can ever be made right in God's sight by doing what his law commands. For the more we know God's law, the clearer it becomes that we aren't obeying it." Romans 3:20

Therefore showing us our need for Jesus. 

We can never win God's approval if our only effort is trying to keep the law.

The more we live a legalistic life, the more we separate ourselves from God's grace. (Galatians 5:4)

The Pharisees were miserable people. All they did is walk around demanding that there rules were followed. They were joyless people, especially when Christ came because He revealed that there law was getting them nowhere. It was faith they needed. 

Legalism causes a feeling of guilt, self-hatred, the need to "do good", hopelessness, failure, inadequacy, and the expectation of living up to the demands of others, especially yourself.

It even can lead us down a path of doubting God's love for us.

In closing, "There is only one God, and there is only one way of being accepted by him. He makes people right with himself only by faith, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. Well then, if we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law."  Romans 3:30-31

Jesus re-pattern my thought life to focus on Your love, forgiveness, mercy and grace, and the amazing fact that I am accepted by You. Keep me from trying to be perfect in my human effort. Amen

Healed by His Wounds

"He personally carried away our sins in his own body on the cross so we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. You have been healed by his wounds!" 1 Peter 2:24

Jesus personally carried away our sins in his own body on the cross.

He personally did this for you and for me. He placed upon Himself suffering, sorrow and sin so that you and I would not have to.

He took our place upon that cross!

His wounds healed us.

The holes in His hands and feet healed us.

There is no greater love.

God's Gift-Our Freedom

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes form the gospel of peace." Ephesians 6:13-15

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance." Psalm 33:12

"When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe His commands, His laws, and His decrees that I am giving you this day." Deuteronomy 8:10-11

Sweet as Honey

"Kind words are like honey-sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24

A little honesty for you today, okay A LOT of honesty. I am horrible at telling G the things I love the most about him. 

You might be wondering if this is something that should be done every day and well for me, yes I think it should be, for many reasons too. 

One is because G's love language just happens to be Words of affirmation. This happens to be one of the things I am the worst at. 

So last night as I was spending time with the Lord, He reminded me of why it is so important. 

It's important because I desire the same thing from the Lord. I want to hear words of affirmation from Him. I want to hear all the ways He loves me. 

And for some odd reason it is easier for me to accept it from the Lord than it is from G.

Anyway, what better way to be an encouragement to your husband than by telling Him the things He does well and the reasons you love him.

It will also help you overcome any anger, bitterness, or frustration you have towards him. Jesus likes it when we overcome anger with love. Not that I am angry at G, because I am not, I am just telling you from personal experience when I have been it has helped. 

Jesus likes to call it, counting our blessings.

So brethren, can you share 10 things you love about your spouse? Could you do it for the next 10 days?

Jesus as I shower G with kind words let them fill his soul with sweetness and bring health to his body, just as Your Word says. Amen

A Dedicated Christian

"I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." 1 Corinthians 9:27

A dedicated Christian is...

Disciplined

Faithful

Committed

Consistent

Obedient

How well are we training our bodies, our speech, our thoughts, our attitudes, and our actions to do what they should? Are we training them or are they training us?

The Spirit must become our Personal Trainer if we want to become a dedicated follower of Christ.

Altar Sunday

Could I encourage you this morning to grab the hand of a friend, your spouse, your children, your parents, or whomever and go to the Altar and pray. Pray with them, for them, and over them.

And whatever you do, don't let Satan distract you, discourage you, or put fear, embarrassment, or anything else in your mind, that you miss out on the most amazing opportunity to bless someone you love.

Let's fill the Lord's altar today and flood the throne room.

If I Choose This...

Y'all I love God's Word! I love it. I love it. I love it!

I normally don't do this, okay I very rarely ever do this, but I want to share some questions with you from the Commentary in my Bible that I really like.

You know I am a big "It's your choice" person. God gives us "The Choice" to choose, act, do, think, say, etc. and these questions go so well with helping us make choices.

I think these are GREAT questions for us to ask ourselves on serious, sensitive, and everyday issues.

If I choose one course of action:

1. Does it help my witness for Christ (1 Corinthians 9:19-22)

2. Am I motivated by a desire to help others know Christ? (1 Corinthians 9:23; 10:33)

3. Does it help me do my best? (1 Corinthians 9:25)

4. Is it against a specific command in Scripture and would thus cause me to sin? (1 Corinthians 10:12)

5. Is it the best and most beneficial course of action? (1 Corinthians 10:23, 33)

6. Am I thinking only of myself, or do I truly care about the other person? (1 Corinthians 10:24)

          

7. Am I acting lovingly or selfishly? (1 Corinthians 10:28-31)

8. Does it glorify God? (1 Corinthians 10:31)

9. Will it cause someone else to sin? (1 Corinthians 10:32)

-Aren't those amazing questions for us to ask ourselves?

I wonder how many of us would change our course of action, our speech, our thoughts, our decisions, the places we go, etc. if we asked ourselves these questions first.

Oh, wouldn't it be great to see how much change would be made for His glory?

Let's try it, want to?

Jesus implant these questions and passages within me so that I can base every choice off of Your Word. Amen

Dear Anonymous Writer

I appreciate your honesty. I am so sorry to hear of your horrible experience at First Baptist Carthage. I am completely putting everything out there writing you this letter, but I know of no other way to reach you since I can't reply.

Though I no longer attend First Baptist Carthage and have not for the last several years due to moving, I want you to know that there are some very sweet loving women who do attend church there that would love and welcome you just as they did me and my family when we first visited.

I will not ask who the women were that treated you that way because that does not matter, what matters is that you know that you are loved by the Lord and by me, even though I don't know you.

I know you will disagree, but please know that First Baptist Carthage really is a wonderful Church with a wonderful Church family. The entire Church staff is actually some of our very best friends and I know that any one of them would love to meet and visit with you regarding this matter.

I again am so sorry to hear of your experience and ask that you do not assume that everyone at First Baptist is the way you described those women. I promise there are some of the sweetest most Christ-like people at First Baptist Carthage, and I would love to put you into contact with them if you would like.

Please know that I appreciate your comment and am glad you felt comfortable enough to share.

As for the title of my blog, it is to encourage people who love Jesus to spread His Word from person to person. And as you know how rampant gossip is, why not make the gossip be all about Jesus.

You are loved!

What's the Use?

Dear brothers and sisters, what's the use of saying you have faith if you don't prove it by your actions?" James 2:14

What's the use of saying you have faith if your actions don't prove it? How powerful is this passage?

True faith transforms us into new and different people. Our actions are a reflection of our faith.

Oh geez brethren this one hit me between the eyes.

Are my actions reflecting true faith or a doubting faith?

Are my actions towards others reflecting a true and transformed woman who has complete faith that Jesus indeed died for her, loves her and forgave her?

What's the use of saying I have faith if my actions prove differently?

Jesus test me and know me. Search me and reveal to me the depth of my faith. Transform me so that my actions and speech will reflect a true genuine faith in You. Amen

Am I Able

Am I Able...

To be happy
To be kind
To be loving

Am I able

To be loved
To understand and be understanding
To obey
To be faithful

Am I Able...

To be full of joy
To be fruitful
To give
To serve

Am I Able...

To be patient
To be forgiving
To listen
To be Christ-like

I am NOT able to do any of those without Christ in me.

Do you know what I am able to do on my own?

I am able to be...

Negative
Hurtful
Joyless
Fruitless
Condemning
Judgemental
Self-righteous
Selfish
Greedy
Unforgiving
Short tempered
Bitter
Angry
Worldly
Disobedient

Those we are able to do and probably do more than any of us care to admit.

But Jesus tells us in Ephesians 3:20, "By His mighty power at work within us, HE is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope."

So anytime you begin to wonder if your able, remember Christ in you IS.

Jesus thank You for reminding me that You are able to do more than I could ever imagine. Help me to focus on this daily. Do in me all that is pleasing to You. Forgive me for doing the things that are not of You. Amen

Eye Exam

"Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word." Psalm 119:37

Worthless vision produces a worthless heart. Could that really be true? It is if our eyes see only that which is sinful.

Our eyes play two important roles. They can either fill our heart with sin, or they can fill our heart with life through the Word.

What is it that our eyes are seeing more, the worthless things that lie in the world, or the truth that is found in the Word?

Sometimes, we like the Author need to ask the Lord for an eye exam. How long has it been since we have had one?

I know I am due for one. 

Jesus turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through Your Word. Amen

The Light of Your Path

"Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found." Psalm 119:35

Where are my eyes leading my heart O Lord? 

Where have I wandered?

How far have I gone?

Bring me back to You O Lord

light my path with Your shining Light

Open my eyes to see Your Light 

and lead my heart back to You.

Give me no option

on which path to take

I want only Your path

where happiness lives.

Altar Sunday

Whatever your searching for, may it be found at the altar where Jesus is.

12, 14, 16, 20, 30, 40....

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. “Galatians 5:1

These are the ages of women who are stuck in sex trafficking. Not only do these women live in slavery, but they are put in situations that no woman should ever be in.

Whether they freely volunteered themselves or were forced in, these women are loved and adored by the Lord and they need to know that and hear that.

How can we protect women from entering or being forced into a lifestyle like this?

Would you pray for all these women? Would you pray that they would be delivered and set free from this type of slavery and bondage?

Jesus there are so many women in bondage today. They are hurting, confused, lost, broken, beaten, and feel trapped. They don't know where to turn, who to trust, nor do they know their worth. Jesus use us and show us how we can help end this slavery. We know You are the only one who can deliver these women, so we are asking You Jesus to save these precious girls and women. As only You can, show them who they are in You. Their worth and the love that You have for them. Amen

Someone Who Gets You

"You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain." Psalm 139:1-6


Do you ever wonder if anyone gets you? Do you wonder if anyone notices the things that make you, you?

Sometimes it can be frustrating when you are completely misunderstood, or maybe not even misunderstood, but just not gotten. Does that even make sense?

We have always heard that our best friends, our family, our spouses, get those small things about us, but what if they don't? What if those small things that mean the world to you go completely unnoticed or ignored?

It could even go as far as to say that maybe they know them but choose to be absent minded of them. Do you know what that can do? It can cause hurt, frustration, brokenness and any and all other emotions that flood your heart.

What do you do in situations like that?

You turn to Jesus. He is the one who gets EVERYTHING about you. He knows what makes you, you. He knows what you like and dislike. He knows your favorite things and even the things you despise. He knows what you love, what your passionate about, and He knows every fear, every doubt, and every thought. He knows where you are every second of your life and He cares about the littlest things just as He cares about the big things.

Oh, mercy does Jesus get you. He gets you and He gets me and the best part is, He loves every single part of us.

There is no one on earth that knows you better or loves you more than Jesus.

Jesus help us to get so wrapped up in Your love that our relationship with You deepens and strengthens. Thank You for getting us, every part of us, quirks and all. Amen

The Highest Price Paid

"You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19

I was bought at a high price. Every part of me belongs to the Lord. He sees me, knows me and has carved apart of Himself in me. 

He bought me at a price higher than I am worth. But to Him it was worth His life.

It's a debt I can never return, but I can live in gratitude and faithfulness because of it. 

Jesus thank You for seeing so much value in me that You paid the highest price, Your life. Amen

Pray For a Cure

Man Leaves Touching Message for Wife before Dying of Cancer from sharethemessage on GodTube.

Faith rather than Performance

"Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on our own good deeds. It is based on our faith. So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law." Romans 3:27-28

There are so many things in this world that are based on our performance. The most obvious are sports and business. Sometimes you can even find performance to be big in marriages, children, siblings, and even among Christians, and Churches.

This need to perform and be the best is a man-made thing. It can be crippling, devastating, and most often disappointing. What does it stem from? There are, I am sure, many answers to that question, but for me, right now those answers are too overwhelming. 

This need to be the best, biggest, richest, prettiest, smartest etc. is more of what the world requires than what Jesus requires.

Could there be more freedom found in the fact that Jesus loves us just the way we are? He loves the relationship and faith we have in and with Him. He does not love us or accept us based on the deeds we do or the way we perform, but on our faith in Him.

The purest form of love is to be loved for who you are, and not for how you perform or what you do.

That love is only found in Jesus.

Just maybe this passage will give us a deeper desire to strengthen and grow in our faith rather than in the way we perform.

Jesus thank You for loving me for who I am and for my faith in You. As I allow these precious thoughts to seep in every pore of my body, I pray it will break down the insecurities and walls that have been built within me. Amen

Who Determines...

"If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in every part of our lives." Galatians 5:25

Right now who is determining your worth, values, and standards?

Is it you, the world, your spouse, or the Lord?

Jesus this is a tough question and one many of us don't want to answer, especially when we look at our lifestyles through Your eyes. Help us to address this and allow the Holy Spirit to determine who we are and our worth. Amen

Altar Sunday

Will your knees find the altar today?

If the Spirit calls, won't you go?

Go to the altar. It might be just what you need to keep your fire burning.

If for no other reason, do it for our Father. Today is His day.

Happy Father's day Jesus. May today and every day from here on out, be all about You. Amen

Forgetting the Past

“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more. Isaiah 43:25

When the past is placed in front of you and the thoughts flood in, you have a choice.

You can either dig up what Christ has buried, or throw down the shovel and cling to Christ's forgiveness as you move forward to what lies ahead.

What is your choice?

"No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead." Philippians 3:13

Jesus' Choice

 "Who has believed our message? To whom has the Lord revealed his powerful arm? My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot, like a root in dry ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. He was despised and rejected— a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows[a] that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own.
Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all. He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. Unjustly condemned, he was led away. No one cared that he died without descendants, that his life was cut short in midstream. But he was struck down for the rebellion of my people. He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone.
But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man’s grave. But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin,    he will have many descendants. He will enjoy a long life, and the Lord’s good plan will prosper in his hands. When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins. I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels.
He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels. Isaiah 53

To Love and Respect

"So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." Ephesians 6:33

Love and respect, the two things that make a marriage work. Jesus made the list so simple.

Could we go as far as to say that love and respect are the two most important things in a marriage?

I think so.

We have taken something so simple and turned it into a long list of this and that.

For women it's a list of 100 things and for men it's a list of, well, 3.

Why such a difference in the lists? Well men need only a few things, respect, live, and well we all known what the third one is.

Women "need" well actually they think they need a gazillion things but in reality, the thing we desire most is the one thing God listed. Love!

If a man loves His wife as Christ loves the church every other need listed will be met.

If a woman respects her husband every need of his will be met.

I know it's easier typed and said, than done right? Oh, how well I know the truth of that.

I also know Jesus made it simple and we make it so difficult.

If Jesus, whom is love is within us then we are able to do the very simplest command given in our marriages. Love and respect.

Could it be that more joy, life, compassion, commitment, and faithfulness could consume our marriages if we practiced love and respect the way Jesus tells us to?

We have "The Choice" to love and respect our spouses.

And though we have been given the choice, Jesus has also given us the command to love and respect. It was not a suggestion.

Jesus we have added to a list of two that You made simple. Help us see how love and respect fulfill every other need we have. Amen

The Choice

"You didn't choose me I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last." John 15:16

I am thinking of changing the name of my blog to "The Choice".

Why? Because the more I study God's Word the more I realize just how much choice Christ has given us, and that He made the first choice. I find "The choice" to be full of many emotions, responsibility, obedience, and faithfulness. I also know that with every choice comes a consequence that is either good or bad.

Take Adam, Eve, Noah, Abraham, Paul, Mary, Moses, etc. They all had "The Choice" to follow Christ, to be obedient, to be faithful, and to live and serve Jesus.

He left the choice up to them and it began in Genesis.

Adam and Eve were told to never eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The choice: Eve listened to the serpent and chose to eat the fruit.

The consequence: their eyes were opeened and sin entered the world. Genesis 3


There are choices all around us, every second of the day. We are never free from the conflict. "The old sinful nature loves to do evil, which is just opposite from what the Holy Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and your CHOICES are never free from this conflict." Galatians 5:17

There is also a reason why God gave us choices.

The most important reason, is because Jesus wants us to choose Him. Not because we are forced too, but because we love Him and want to obey Him. We choose Him because He chose us, died for us, and showers us with tons of mercy and grace.

Christ gives the command we make "The Choice"

Do It For Yourself, God's called You Too

"Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God."

People can't do for you what God has called you to do for yourself.

No one can love for you.

No one can be joyful for you.

No one can be content for you.

No one can fight your illness for you.

No one can overcome your addiction for you.

No one can place Jesus in your heart for you.

No one can be kind for you.

No one can be patient for you.

No one can read God's Word and learn it for you.

No one can exercise for you.

No one can heal for you.

No one can attend church and fellowship for you.

No one can tend to your heart for you.

No one can change for you.

And ...

NO ONE CAN CHOOSE LIFE, LOVE, JOY, or JESUS but YOU!

Don't wait or expect someone to do for you, what Christ has called you to do for yourself.

Jesus You created us to do fulfill a purpose, and no one else can fulfill another ones purpose. Help us to take charge and begin doing what You have called us to do. Our strength and ability comes from You, help us to draw from that and find joy in it. Amen

"Do for others what you would like them to do for you." Matthew 7:12

Or do for others because of what Christ has done for you. Yes, it's hard. Especially when it's not reciprocated. But think about it from Jesus' standpoint. He did it even when it wasn't returned.

What does Jesus do for us?

He loves us because He wants that love in return.

He is kind to us because He wants us to be kind.

He is forgiving and wants us to be forgiving.

He is gentle and wants us to be gentle.

He is faithful and wants that faithfulness in return.

He is merciful and compassionate and wants us to be merciful and compassionate in return.

Christ saved us by dying on the Cross. He went above and beyond for us. He showed us real love. What if we started showing and doing for others what Christ did for us?

Are we able to do it? Can we do it?

Well...that is up to each of us. It's our choice!

Altar Sunday

Does the altar have the same impact and meaning on us today that it did in Jesus' day?

What impact has the altar made on your life?

Needed Change that Seems Impossible

"He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." Psalm 40:2

Is there change being made? Change in me, change in others because of Him in me? Is there change for His glory and His good?

OR

Is there no change, or change that is against Him?

What do you do when you feel like change has become stagnant?

I want Him and His Word to constantly be changing me, clear up to the day I reach Glory.

Is my heart indeed changing? So often I feel as though it has changed in the opposite direction.

It becomes a rut, an overwhelmingly thick muddy rut.

In that rut I see the things He desires me to change, yet it seems impossible to do so. It seems as though all I am able to do is see the needed changes, yet when I try nothing happens, because I look down and realize how stuck I am.

I could share some of these needed changes, but I am not there yet.

Lately is seems as though I have come to live with the fact that I will just be in a rut. But I know God speaks to me differently. Freedom is mine through Him. It's just the accepting and living in that freedom that I somehow can't get to.

Jesus lift me out of this rut and set my feet high upon the Rock. Amen

A Confident Heart

"My heart is confident in you, O God; no wonder I can sing your praises." Psalm 57:7

Is my heart truly confident in the Lord? Oh, this verse has brought lots of emotions with it.

Does my everyday life reflect a heart that is confident in the Lord?

Jesus fill my heart with such confidence that praise overflows. Amen

Doing the Opposite

"He will never judge by appearance, false evidence, or hearsay." Isaiah 11:3

I can't get over this verse. As I seek to know more about Jesus I realize how much I want to be like Him, yet come up short everytime. Thank goodness He makes up the difference.


These are qualities I fail to posses, I think alot of us do. We are so quick to judge by appearance. I mean think of how many times you assumed something of someone based on appearance alone.

We spend hours and hours and lots of money trying to work on our own appearance. It's sad!

Let's not fail to mention how often we falsely accuse one another based on false or in accurate evidence, plus extremely poor hearsay.

We are quick to listen to gossip and assume something instead of finding the facts from both sides first.

If I am seeking to know Christ I am seeking to be like Christ and that means less judging by appearance, less believing in hearsay, and no more believing false evidence.

Would it be safe to say we do the complete opposite of what Jesus does?

Jesus shape and mold me to be more like You. Let me see what You see. Amen

Day 20-The Beatitudes

"God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 


God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. 


God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. 


God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs."


Matthew 5:7-10


Learn from them and be wise, brethren. I hope God's Word has impacted you over these 20 days. If so PLEASE share how you have been impacted. I would LOVE to hear!

Day 19-The Beatitudes

"God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them." Matthew 5:5


"God blesses those who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full." Matthew 5:6


Can I tell you brethren how hard it has been to not spill my guts about all God is speaking to me through these verses. But I will remain obedient to His instruction and finish up our 20 days of memorizing with only His Word.

God has a lot to say, I hope you are listening.

Day 18-The Beatitudes-Godly Living is found in these

"God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of heaven is theirs." Matthew 5:3


"God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4


Though the first of 8, they ALL must be taken as a whole. We can't merely pick one or two and ignore the other's.

Describing a Relationship

"I know the greatness of the Lord-that our Lord is greater than other god." Psalm 135:5


When was the last time someone came up to you and asked you what a relationship with Jesus was like?

If never, how about now? I am asking you today. What is a relationship with Jesus like?

Would you describe yours?

You should ask someone, it's a great way to start talking about Jesus. Besides, you never know what impact it might make.

Day 17-A Verse to Live By

"Serve only the Lord your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him." Deuteronomy 13:4

Altar Sunday

When you approach the altar and need more than just visitation time. I don't know about you, but today I need a complete cleansing of my heart. I need Jesus to do some major demolition within me.

Jesus do what only You can do. Clean out my heart and fill it up with more of You. Please don't let me walk away the same. Change me to be more like You, loving and kind, patient and gentle. Faithful and trustworthy. Remove all of me so You can be seen. I know it will hurt, but i want less of me and more of You. Chisel away! Amen

Day 16

"Unfailing love and faithfulness make atonement for sin. By fearing the Lord, people avoid evil. Proverbs 16:6


Love does cover a multitude of sin.

Missed and Loved

There are so many of you that we love dearly and are so precious to us. We have been blessed to meet so many wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ and though we have become distant, only by miles, we want you to know you are adored and loved by us.

We miss you terribly. We pray for you often. We wish we could take the time to call each one of you and visit. More than that, we wish we could come see each of you and squeeze your necks. We can relate to Paul. He had a longing in his heart to return to see so many of his brothers and sisters, and so do we.

There are pieces of G's heart and my heart, that have been left with each of you. It brings us great joy to know that though in this lifetime, being together might come far and few between, we know in heaven we will be with you forever.

We long for that day when we can rejoice with you at the feet of Jesus.

But in the meantime, in this day alone, know that you are immensely loved by all of us, Dax and Avery included.

You are adored by us but more so by the King of Kings.

Loving You through Him,

Garrett, Kristi, Avery and Dax

Day 15-Kindness or Cruelty

"Your own soul is nourished when you are kind but you destroy yourself when you are cruel." Proverbs 11:17


Maybe we should spend two days memorizing this passage.

Day 14-The Proper Clothing

"Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."  Colossians 3:12

Day 13- Three Things That Last Forever

"Three things will last forever-faith, hope, and love- and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13

Day 12-A Committed Love

"Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." 1 Corinthians 13:7

Day 11

Love...

"It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out." 1 Corinthians 13:6

Without love...

we have nothing

Day 10

"It does not demand its own way. it is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged." 1 Corinthians 13:5

Jesus help me to love as You love, at all times. Amen

Altar Sunday

As you approach the altar today, may the Lord fill you with an enourmous amount of His love. For then as you leave the presence of the Lord His love will radiate off of you.

Day 9- To Be an Expression of Love

"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude." 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Love is Patient

"Love is patient and kind." 1 Corinthians 13:4

I just have to ask. How is storing God's Word going?

Are you noticing a difference? Is it becoming addictive? Do you look forward to reading God's Word?

I hope by the end of these 20 days you will keep on going.

I also wanted to share one more thing with you.

Yesterday Dax and I were headed back to the clinic from Chick-fil-a and he was "dying" for his fruit. So I handed him some and he ate it, but then he wanted more. I told him he was going to have to wait until we got back to the clinic and then he could have his food. Well of course Daxie didn't like to hear that so he fussed for a little bit. So I said, "Dax you are going to have to be patient, just like mommy, daddy and nana are being patient.

And Dax responded, "Well mommy I don't have patience."

"Well you need to call Jesus and ask Him for some." I responded.

And to that Dax says, "Well mommy I can't do that, I can't have patience because patience makes my heart hurt."

Sometimes being patient is hard, and can even make our hearts hurt, but possessing patience is a wonderful virtue and characteristic of Christ.

Jesus thank You for Dax. Thank You for teaching us the importance of Your Word and the importance of being patient. Amen

Day 8-Fruit or Nothing?

"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

Day 7

"Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people." Philippians 2:14-15

Day 6-Less and Less

"He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." John 3:30

As I came across this verse to memorize, I realized that if I want God's Word to be our main focus then I need to allow God's Word to be the main focus.

In order for that to happen, my words written need to become less and less so God's Word can become the only words.

So for the next 19 days God's Word will be the only thing typed, thus allowing His Word to grow more and more within us.

Jesus take Your Word and implant it within us. May it's roots grow deep down in the depths of our hearts. Help us as we memorize, store, and apply Your Word. May it become habit forming. Amen

Beyond My Comprehension- Day 5

"Dont get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil." Proverbs 4:27

I can't think and I can't breathe due to all the smoke that fills the air. My eyes have seen things I never want to see again. My ears have heard things I never want to hear again. My heart has broke in a million pieces. And I have learned a huge lesson.

I have to pray more for the lost.

I have come to Sodom and Gomorrah and I wish never to return. As I leave I will not look back, but I will pray. I will pray Christ will become known in this City.

I will pray more for the lost in my own city.

Sin surrounds us and though it might not be as known, it is here.

Honestly brethren I am in shock. I feel like I am having a nightmare. I am sad, broken and shocked.

Especially today! Today I watched a man throw away a Bible!

Sigh...

I can't even begin to imagine how Jesus feels every time we sin. I can't imagine the saddness He feels when we reject Him.

Please pray for those in the ministry here in Las Vegas. Pray God will strengthen them, protect them, and use them to save at least one person from perishing.

Today we heard a girl use extreme profanity as she stated how hot it was here. Right after that my mom said, "She thinks it's hot here, hell is a lot hotter."

Brethren, we cannot get caught up in the desires of this life. We must be careful and on guard at all times.

We must be in constant preparation for Christ's coming.

I don't know about you, but I don't want Christ to return and find me living or partaking in sin. Goodness I don't want Christ to return and find me here.

Though He already knows I am here, and is using me and teaching me while I am here. I still want and can't get out of here fast enough.

Jesus what is there to say. There are no words to describe the saddness, brokeness and devastation that fills my heart for the people here.

Jesus help them, save them. Open there eyes to see the path of destruction they are on. Open all of our eyes to see how big the need is for the lost. You know I can't comprehend this lifestyle. It's hard enough comprehending those who voluntarily live in sin and then sit in church on Sunday. It's even harder to know I fail You. Oh Jesus when I asked You to break my heart for what breaks Yours I never knew how broken it would be.

Day 4

"Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body and spirit. And let us work toward complete purity because we fear God." 2 Corinthians 7:1

Here I am in Las Vegas and all I have been thinking for two days now is, "What would Jesus do if He were here in flesh?"

Would He turn over tables, what would He do?

As I walk through our hotel, hundreds of people surround me. And I become overwhelmed with saddness. If you have ever been to the Bellagio, you know that the Casino is right in the middle of it, So in order to get to your room, you have to walk right through the Casino.

This evening as we were walking back to our room from our Banquet I couldn't help but to be overwhelmed with the thought that though I know Jesus is Lord of my life and lover of my soul, no one else walking by me knows that.

Is there a way that just by appearance alone people could see Jesus in me? Oh, how I hope His light in me is brighter than the lights in this city.

As I see so many people engrossed in their gambling and alcohol I get a sick sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. What if Jesus came right now? How many of these people know Jesus? How many of these people will be in heaven? How many of these people will be in hell?

Do they care?

Could this place be similar to Sodom and Gomorrah?

It's nickname is Sin City. I see why, I hear why!

It's overwhelming to me. This place, this type of atmosphere.

Jesus if I exist for no other reason, may I exist to please You, share You and reflect You in such a way someone will come to know You in a personal way. Amen

Altar Sunday

As you make your way to the altar pray for someone who is lost. It might just save their life.

Day 3

"But I lavish my love on those who love me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations." Exodus 20:6

Let these amazing words penetrate to the very core of your heart. Repeat them over and over until they have become apart of you. Let Jesus lavish you with His love.

Jesus thank You for lavishing us who love You with the most amazing love there is. Amen