He Is...

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1

He is alive

He is forgiving

He is kind

He is patient

He is loving

He is merciful

He is slow to anger

He holds no records

He is perfect

He is holy

He is faithful

He rose from the grave

He is our healer

He is our protector

He is our comforter

He is our guidance

He is our strength

He is everlasting

He is Creator of all things

He know us in detail

He loves us in spite of our faults

He is giving

He is…Lord

Give Him thanks!

Jesus You are more than we could ever acknowledge. Thank You for all that You are and all that You do. Amen

Altar Sunday

What state is your heart in when you enter the House of the Lord?

It's important for our hearts to be prepared before we enter His house. All to often we walk into Church like we walk into work.

But Jesus deserves and desires more than that from us.

Can You List 100?

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” Hebrews 12:28

If asked, could you list 100 things you were thankful for.

Have you ever tried to write them out?

Writing them out seems to open your eyes and heart, and makes you realize how much God loves you and blesses you.

What would happen to our hearts and thoughts if we wrote our blessings out every single day?

We would be transformed and changed. Our hearts would be softened, love would seep in, and anger and bitterness would slip away.

Our lives would be more patterned and shaped like Christ’s.

Things would be different, better, joyful.

We would react differently to our circumstances. We would focus more on His glory, His love, His character.

This is our choice! Let’s choose to focus on what we are thankful for, everyday.

Let’s not wait until something bad happens or our time is shortened to begin counting our blessings.

What are you thankful for?

Jesus we are too blessed to ignore it. We are too blessed and loved by You to not acknowledge it. Thank You for all You have given us. We are too blessed to not spend time praising You. Amen

A Similar Heart

“Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.
 I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me.
 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,
 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful^[b] one see decay. You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:5-11

We need to constantly speak God’s Word into our hearts so we are more aware of His goodness than we are our troubles, worries and fears.

That is exactly what David did all throughout the Psalms. He set the example for us and showed us the importance of keeping our hearts open and our eyes on Christ.

He taught us the importance of praise and what a thankful heart looks like.

He showed us the need for confession and repentance.

Through David the Lord showed us His mercy and forgiveness.

Is Jesus alone your portion and cup?

Jesus thank You for David’s story! He had a heart that pleased You, I pray You find our hearts to be pleasing to You. Hearts that are thankful, full of love and mercy. We love You, thank You for Your goodness. Amen

I Am Most Thankful For...

“Oh, what joy for those whose rebellion is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of sin, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!” Psalm 32:1-2

For me, I am not sure there is anything greater or that I am more thankful for than what Christ did for me. He took my place, He became the ultimate sacrifice, and He covered me in His blood, forgave me and bridged the gap.

There truly is joy in those of us whose rebellion has been forgiven and whose sin has been put out of sight.

Jesus thank You for forgiving me! Thank You that my sin has been put out of sight. Thank You for this precious gift of life that I now have because I have You. Amen

A Thankful Heart is an Aware Heart

"Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Is there a better way to give thanks than by living out this passage?

A joyful heart is a thankful heart.

A praying child is a thankful, trusting child

A thankful heart is a heart aware of the mercy and grace it’s been given.

Jesus our joy is found in You and we thank You and praise You for Your goodness, mercy and love. But most of all we are thankful for You and what You did on the cross for us. Amen

God Has it All Under Control-Trust Him

“I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the wonderful future he has promised to those he called. I want you to realize what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people.” Ephesians 1:18

The election has been on the minds of Americans today. Who will it be, who will win?

Only the Lord knows and has known for sometime. He knows who will be placed in the role of leading America.

He knows His heart, His thoughts, His every move and every intention.

The Lord knows the direction our country will go with whoever wins.

I find comfort in knowing that our God knows the future.

I find comfort in knowing that the Lord has my best interest at heart because I am His and He promises to protect His children.

Do you know the one thing that bothers me the most about all of this? The lives of those who are lost! There is more concern and talk about our new President than there is about those who are lost.

I get it, I really do, but I get Hell too. I get that in just a few short hours our new President will be named, life will go on, and we will all keep doing what we need to, to make it each and every day.

But here is what is bigger than all of that. In the end it’s either Heaven or Hell.

Salvation is the biggest and most important thing for us and it comes down to each of us individually making the choice. But it also comes down to us who are in Christ to get out and share His name and His Word with as many people as we can and as often as we can.

The two candidates didn’t waste time getting out and spreading their name and their plans for America’s future. They have been traveling and speaking for months.

Isn’t Christ worth that same effort and dedication plus a whole lot more? He is!

He is the one that determines our future, not the President. He is the one that saves us from death, not the President. He is the one that can heal us, not the President. He is the one that died for us. He is the one that is true, honest, perfect and holy. The President, whom ever that will be is human. He will fail us, but Christ will not.

All I am saying is if we as Christians keep our priorities in the right order, which is Christ first, then everything else will line up according to His will and plan.

Let’s pray for those who are lost, and let’s pray for our future President that Christ will be Lord of His life and He will seek Him first before He makes any decision.

Jesus open the eyes of the blind and the heart of our future President. May they experience You in a new and personal way. I pray You become more and more at home within their hearts and that their roots will go down deep into the soil of Your marvelous love. May they get a glimpse of how high, far, wide, and deep Your love is for them. I pray You become their first priority and that they put their complete trust and faith in You. You are our future. You are our hope. You are our every thing. Without You we have nothing! Thank You for seeing the bigger picture. Amen

Effort and Choice

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1

We must remember to give thanks to the Lord no matter our circumstances. I find this to be very hard at times.

Do you?

There are a lot of times when we allow stress, illness, frustration, hurt, money, appearance, etc to distract us from our blessings and God’s goodness.

God is so much better and greater than any of those things. Yet we still tend to focus more on them than Him.

It’s a messed up situation, really. But the more we focus on Him the more we see His goodness. So in reality if we would just stay fixed on Him, stay buried in His word, the better off we will be and the more we will realize His goodness and love.

It’s a daily effort and a daily choice.

So let’s choose to focus on Him. It is way more joyful and uplifting anyway, which I know we all need anyway.

Jesus You are good! Every single thing about You is good, perfect, holy, and beautiful. Thank You for Your unending love and mercy. Fix our eyes on You. Help us to fill our thoughts with Your word and love for us. In Jesus name amen!

Altar Sunday

“I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD, singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your miracles. I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glory shines.”

Psalm 26:6-8

The Sacrifice that Honors Him

But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. If you keep to my path, I will reveal to you the salvation of God.” Psalm 50:23

The greatest sacrifice is a heart full of thanksgiving. That is the sweetest aroma we could ever offer to the Lord.

When we acknowledge His goodness, love, mercy and grace and we express it through our praise and obedience, He is honored.

How often do we stop and thank the Lord for all He has done, does, and will do for us?

What changes do we need to allow the Lord to make in our lives so we can spend more time giving the sacrifice of thanksgiving that honors Him?

He is greater and bigger than any problem. He stronger and more powerful than any illness! He is more forgiving and loving than any human.

Jesus You are amazing, beautiful, holy, and perfect! Thank You for Your unending love and protection. Thank You for the gift of life. Amen

The Representation I want Seen in my Heart

“I will thank you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name. O Most High.” Psalm 9:1-2

I want this verse to be a representation of my heart. I want to constantly be sharing the marvelous things the Lord has done.

He is so good. He is the joy that fills my soul.

Jesus may I spend the remaining time here on earth in a state of thanksgiving. You are so merciful and loving. You are worthy of honor and praise.

I should constantly be thanking You for the forgiveness and mercy You have extended to me.

Forgive me for focusing more on the problems than blessings.

Keep my eyes and thoughts constantly on You and Your goodness.

Amen

A Heart that Acknowledges

"I will thank the Lord because he is just;  I will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High." Psalm 7:17

To offer thanksgiving means that we acknowledge God's goodness.

When our eyes are on the Lord our entire being should be in a constant state of thanksgiving.

His goodness surrounds us, let's acknowledge it! 

Jesus thank You for Your goodness. Help us to acknowledge it more an more until our hearts are full of thanksgiving. Amen

Halloween

How do you feel about Halloween?

Do you ever wonder what Jesus thinks about Halloween?

Do you even celebrate Halloween?

Jesus this is one man-made event that always leaves me feeling uneasy. I pray that we will be mindful of what is pleasing to You. Amen

How Will You Respond?

How do you respond to the Lord when He calls? When you know the Lord is impressing on your heart to do something, do you do it?

Do you share His Word when He presents the oppurtunity?

Do you forgive when He tells you to?

Do you act in love rather than anger or hate, when the situation is heated?

Do you speak in truth and honesty when asked a question?

All these things plus more are God-given oppurtunites, and He is calling us and commanding us to them as He says. Not as we think or feel.

And this can be very hard!

It can also be very rewarding.

So how will you respond to the Lord?

Jesus may our answer to You always be yes. Help us to do as You have commanded us, not because we have to but because we love You. Forgive us where we fail You. Amen

Distractions

"But I fear that somehow you will be led away from your pure and simple devotion to Christ, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent." 2 Corinthians 11:3

Do you have distractions in your life that are causing your focus to be in the wrong place?

How can we make sure Jesus is our main focus and keep the world and self from distracting us from Him?

Jesus help me to keep my focus on You. Forgive me for being easily distracted. Amen

Altar Sunday

Maybe your heart is heavy.

Maybe your body is ill.

Maybe your marriage is a mess.

Maybe your life is out of wack.

Maybe your child has strayed.

 Maybe you feel lonely and lost.

Maybe your addiction has become too strong.

 Maybe your job is stressful.

 Maybe your soul is lost.

Whatever your maybe is, take it to the altar.

Entering Fearlessly Into His Presence

“Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come fearlessly into God’s presence, assured of his glad welcome.” Ephesians 3:12

Do you know that feeling you get when your family or friends greet you at the door with a sweet loving welcome? It makes you feel loved, wanted and liked.

Do you feel that same loving welcome when you step foot into your Church? You should, and if you don’t, then we as brothers and sisters who are a part of that body should make some significant changes.

Christ is all about making His children feel loved and welcomed. He is the first to greet us personally. He is the first to wrap His arms around us. He is the first to let us know how happy He is that we are His. He is the first and only one who looks past the sin and sees our heart. He welcomes us just as we are and loves us unconditionally.

We are assured of that because of our faith in Him.

And because of our faith in Christ we can come fearlessly into His presence and know that He will be there to welcome us with loving arms.

Did you catch what Paul said? We can come fearlessly into His presence.

We can come to Him with confidence, boldness and assurance.

This gives me great peace. No matter what I have done, no matter the shame, I know that when I approach the Throne Room Christ will welcome me with loving arms.

There are no excuses for us, who are in Christ, to enter the Throne Room in fear. Christ took that away when He died for us.

God wants to visit with us. He wants us to come to Him and visit about anything and everything. He desires that one on one time with us.

Knowing now that we can enter His presence fearlessly we should be entering the Throne Room a whole lot more.

He is waiting!

Jesus You paved the way for us to enter the Most Holy Place where You dwell and meet with You. Thank You for shedding Your blood so that we can enter with confidence and boldness knowing that You are there to welcome and greet us with open and loving arms. Amen

It's All apart of His Plan

“When I think of the wisdom and scope of God’s plan, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth.” Ephesians 3:14

When I think of the wisdom and scope of God’s plan, I fall to my knees in awe. I fall to my knees thankful that me, a mere speck on the face of this earth, is a part of God’s plan.

When I think of His wisdom and plan, I struggle to comprehend it. It is bigger than I can understand. It is greater and better than I ever imagined.

When I think of how much His love is in those plans, I am humbled, I am thankful; I am full of joy, and gratefulness.

When I think of how big and mighty God is I am left speechless before Him.

I have this amazing privilege of coming to the Most Holy God, who is the Creator of everything in heaven and earth and laying my life and heart out before Him. Knowing He is present and hears me.

I am thankful that He found me worthy enough to be a part of His plan. I pray I use my talents for His glory and honor.

Jesus thank You for allowing me to be a part of Your plan. Thank You for the amazing love that is intertwined all throughout Your plan. May I spend the rest of my life on my knees in prayer, praising You for Your marvelous plan for all of our lives. Amen

Are We Willing to Suffer for Others and Christ?

"So please don't despair because of what they are doing to me here. It is for you that I am suffering, so you should feel honored and encouraged." Ephesians 3:13

We know his story. We know what his life was like before the Lord called him to be His instrument. He was a persecutor of Christians. He went to many lengths to make sure anyone who followed Christ was chained and put to death.

But that was Saul on the other side of the cross. Today we know him as Paul who stands on this side of the cross. Paul went to great lengths to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So much that he experienced suffering of many kinds; beatings, thrown in jail, starved, etc.

Paul truly shared in the suffering of Christ. Just as the Lord said he would, "For Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for me." Acts 9:15

In Paul's letter to the Church of Ephesus he tells them to not despair because of what is happening to him. He is suffering for them, so that they can know about Jesus.

I find this to be so moving, so humbling, so powerful. Paul suffered so others could know Christ. Missionaries today put themselves out there to endure suffering so that others can know Christ. Many believers around the world endure suffering for Christ today.

I am encouraged by this. I am moved by this. I am thankful and honored to have such amazing brothers and sisters around the world who will stand for Christ and share His name with others no matter the suffering that comes.

Am I willing to do the same for others and Christ?

Jesus thank You for those who suffer so that others can know You. Thank You for their great faith. I pray many come to know You because of their commitment and love to You. Use me Father to share Your Word and love to others. Forgive me if I hid in fear afraid of suffering for You. You did it for me and for that I am grateful, honored and blessed. Thank You! Amen

The Special Privilege

"By God's special favor and mighty power, I have been given the wonderful privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News. Just think! Though I did nothing to deserve it, and though I am the least deserving Christian there is, I was chosen for this special joy of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ. I was chosen to explain to everyone this plan that God, the Creator of all things, had kept secret from the beginning." Ephesians 3:7-9

By God's special favor and mighty power, Paul was chosen.

By God's special favor and mighty power, you were chosen.

By God's special favor and mighty power, I was chosen.

We have been given the wonderful privilege of serving Him by spreading the Good News.

Though we did nothing to deserve it, and though we are the least deserving, we were chosen for this special joy of telling others about the endless treasures available to them in Christ.

That is AWESOME!

So...how are we doing in sharing this wonderful news?

Jesus let there never be an excuse in me for not sharing this amazing news. You promise to equip me with the words, help me not to ever doubt that promise or allow my fears and insecurity to get in the way. Thank You for this special privilege. Amen

God's Secret Plan

"And this is the secret plan: The Gentiles have an equal share with the Jews in all the riches inherited by God's children. Both groups have believed the Good News, and both are part of the same body and enjoy together the promise of blessings through Christ Jesus." Ephesians 3:6

There are many opinions that fly around in this space we call earth. They swirl and spread and expand into so many things.

It was the same way in Bible times. Opinions of many about Christ swirled around, spread throughout the land and expanded into the hearts of many.

It seems as though we take our opinions and try to present them as truth, when in reality the only truth that is solid and consistent today is the Word of God.

As I listen to these Presidential Debates I listen the opinions of two men and I wonder where the truth lies.

As humans we are unable to consistently hold true to our word. We will fail one another!

Both men have their opinions of how they believe our Country should be ran. All these opinions and beliefs cause division. Not only between the two but also between America.

I am not sure if you have ever talked to someone who is a strong Democrat or strong Republican, but they don't like the other very much and are quick to express their opinion on it.

We all have our own beliefs, I get that, but for us who have called on the Name of the Lord, we should be standing united as one in love.

We should not encourage or promote division or strife. Jesus is Lord, it is His foundation that we should be standing on. His Word is the Only real and lasting truth. He is Ruler and Creator of ALL THINGS.

He has the final say. What He says is the most important thing. He is not full of opinion, He is full of truth, love, mercy and forgiveness. He desires and promotes peace, kindness, unity, and love.

In Ephesians Paul makes a very strong statement to the Church in Ephesus about God's secret plan.

"The Gentiles have an equal share with the Jews in all the riches inherited by God's children. Both groupgs have believed the Good News, and both are part of the same body and enjoy together the promise of blessings through Christ Jesus."

Remember yesterday we talked about Jesus breaking down the wall of hostitlity (Ephesians 2:14).

We need to make sure we are not trying to build back up the wall of hostility towards one another. Christ destroyed it so we could worship and work together as One body, which is way stronger than a bunch of divided bodies.

Let's look to Christ and His everlasting truth. Let's work together to make sure we keep the wall of hositility down. Let's not base our decisions off of the many opinions but on the Word of God alone.

Jesus You are in complete control. Thank You that we can rest in confident assurance that You have the final say in all things. Thank You that Your love never fails. Thank You that Your Word stands firm forever. Amen

It Has Been Put to Death

"For Christ himself has made peace between us Jews and you Gentiles by making us all one people. He has broken down the wall of hostility that used to seperate us. By his death he ended the whole system of Jewish law that excluded the Gentiles. His purpose was to make peace between Jews and Gentlies by creating in himself one new person from the two groups. Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death, and our hostility toward each other was put to death. He has brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and to us Jews who were near. Now all of us, both Jews and Gentiles, may come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us." Ephesians 2:14-18

Pray brethren, the time is approaching. Let's not waste it on controversy, lets stand together and let the Light in us do the speaking. Let's become united as one body. Just as Christ intended.

"Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his and death, and our hostility toward each other was put to death."  

Jesus we trust in You that is what we are founded on. You have placed us upon the rock and we are standing firm. Unite us more Father, may we see the entire body come together and make Your name known. Amen

Altar Sunday

Don’t let fear or the concern of others keep you from going to the altar and handling business with the Lord.

Power Packed Verse

“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

This verse is packed with power, love, hope, joy, peace, and mercy.

A few things that I love about this verse

1. We are God’s Masterpiece.
1. We are a work of outstanding artistry, skill, and workmanship. We are God’s best piece of work.
2. That is AWESOME and encouraging. It makes me feel beautiful, loved, and valued.

2. We are created anew in Christ Jesus
1. Because of Christ the ugliness of my sin was carved out and removed. The red stain that covered me is now washed away leaving me white as snow. I am no longer the same person I once was. I am new in Christ. Covered in His love, filled with the Holy Spirit. I am no longer bound to my old sinful nature. My thoughts have been made new. My heart belongs to Christ, I am His and He is mine.

3. We can now do the good things He planned for us long ago.
1. As God’s masterpiece, who is made new in Christ, is now able to go and do the “Good” things He planned for me long ago. God has good things planned for me, and He planned them long ago. God wants to use me to bring glory to Him. That gives me hope and peace that my future is great because of Him in me.

If you are ever in need of encouragement or need to know you are loved and beautiful draw on this verse and let it saturate all over you.

Jesus thank You for Your wonderful workmanship! Your love in indescribable! Thank You for expressing Your love for us through this power packed verse. May we cling to every word and be reminded daily of Your love for us. Amen

Morning Meeting

“Come and listen to what the Lord your God says.” Joshua 3:9

It’s 6:00 am and the Lord has called a morning meeting. Will you attend or sleep in?

Before the Israelites crossed the Jordan River the Lord told Joshua to stop the craziness and busyness and get everyone together for a very important meeting.

What was so important about this meeting? The LORD needed to give them instructions on what was about to happen, what everyone’s roll was, and how things needed to be handled.

If the Israelites would have failed to come to the meeting and listen they would have possibly been swept away by the Jordan River, could have died, and would have missed out on God’s amazing miracle.

But they all showed up and because of that God’s plan was carried out and His miracle and power was spread throughout the land.

What did God do, He cut off the flow of water upstream so the river would pile up there in one heap, thus drying up the riverbed for the people to cross. (Joshua 3:13)

The Lord has special instructions and plans for each of us, but unless we show up to the meeting we will not know what those plans are. We will miss out on what He wants to do in us and through us.

All of us have very busy days, but there is nothing in our day that should take precedence over our meeting with Christ. We need Him in order to get through our busy day.

So let’s get up in time to attend the most important meeting of our day. Let’s come and listen to what the Lord our God says. Let’s let Him give us instructions for the day. That way we don’t miss out on His miracles and blessings.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to just hear what God is doing or has done, I want to be apart of it.

Jesus I don’t want to miss out on what You are doing or the instructions and purpose You have for me each day. Nor do I want anyone else to miss out. If we do nothing else in this life I pray we are consistent in our meeting with You. Amen

Alive and Free or Dead and Doomed?

“Once you were dead, doomed forever because of your many sins. You used to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty prince of the power of air. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.” Ephesians 2:1-2

Once moments pass us, we never get them back. We can’t rewind time we can only move forward.

So instead of living a life always looking back, we need to look forward at the life ahead, making sure from this point on, we don’t waste one moment doing useless or sinful things, or act in a manner that is displeasing to the Lord.

Life is too short to live in regret or live in doom.

We need to celebrate our new life in Christ. We need to cherish each moment He allows our hearts to beat. We need to cherish our families and friends. We need to use each moment spreading the Good News that Jesus is alive and because of Him we are alive.

Brethren once we were dead doomed forever because of our sins, but God is so rich in mercy and He loved us so very much, that while we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead.

That is worth celebrating. That is the reason we should spend each moment looking to what lies ahead. He is the reason we keep on going. He is the reason we should live in constant thanksgiving and praise.

He is the reason for our joy. He is the reason we are alive and new in Christ.

It is His love that sustained us. It is His rich mercy that saved us from our past. It is the resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ that set us free.

We are alive in Christ, death has been overcome. Let’s share this rich love and mercy with others, so they too can be set free from the chains of their past and sin and live new in Christ Jesus.

Jesus thank You for setting us free! Thank You that we are no longer dead or doomed. We are alive because of You. Thank You, may we keep our eyes on what lies before us and may our hearts be flooded with constant praise. Amen

Please bear with us as we try to fix Godly Gossip.  We are having some technical difficulties that should be fixed very soon.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

“But evil words come from an evil heart and defile the person who says them.” Matthew 15:18

A healthy heart produces healthy thoughts and healthy motives.

An unhealthy heart produces unhealthy thoughts and unhealthy motives.

When our heart is healthy our lives are healthy. We are joyful, at peace, content in our own skin, we glow, we have energy, and we do more for the Lord and others. When our heart is healthy we spend more time thinking of others than we do ourselves.

When our heart is unhealthy our lives are spent focusing more on ourselves and the problem rather than on the Healer.

Our thoughts turn negative causing more headaches and frustration. Our motives reflect laziness, bitterness, ugliness, and complacency. We tend to spend more time in seclusion and around the germs and bacteria rather than around that which can heal and help us.

Our words either offer life and radiant health or they bring sickness and destruction upon us and others.

Make sure to wash your hands and self from the germs and bacteria that cause a sick unhealthy heart.

Jesus why do we choose to focus more on our sick heart and self than You. You are the healer that gives us life and health. If our heart is unhealthy keep us from contaminating others. Jesus we need Your healing. We are unable to heal our hearts on our own. Amen

The Poison and Stink of Bitterness

“Look after each other so that none of you will miss out on the special favor of God. Watch out that no bitter root of unbelief rises up among you, for whenever it springs up, many are corrupted by its poison.” Hebrews 12:15

Looking out after each other can be very difficult if there is bitterness involved. Looking out after each other can be very difficult if jealousy, anger, past hurt, insecurity, and disappointment are involved.

A bitter root begins when we allow jealousy, anger, past hurt, insecurity, and disappointment to creep in and stay. We cannot allow them to make themselves at home within our hearts.

If we do we allow the aroma they put off to seep out of us onto others and become poisonous to those who breathe it in.

Did you notice the way the Lord began this verse? “Look after each other so that none of you will miss out on the special favor of God.”

He wants every one of us to receive His special favor. So in order for that to happen we have to make sure no bitter root of unbelief rises up among us because it will corrupt others.

Jesus can deal with our bitterness and if we allow Him He will pull all the roots out that put it there in the first place. Then He will replace that bitterness with His love which spreads a way better aroma than bitterness.

Do you have some bitterness in you? If so deal with it before it corrupts and poison's others.

Jesus rid us of any bitterness and fill us with Your love so we can look out after each other and all receive Your special favor. Amen

Shame

 “The LORD God called to Adam, ‘Where are you?’ He replied, ‘I heard you, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” Genesis 3:9-10

Adam and Eve had just taken a bite of the forbidden fruit. Their eyes immediately opened thus realizing their nakedness.

Evening came and they heard God walking in the garden and ran and hid. They instantly knew what they did was wrong.

The shame of their sin caused them to run and hide. How often do we do the same thing? We try to run and hide when our sin is brought to light. But Jesus does not want us to run and hide. Yes we will have to face the consequences, but Jesus wants us to come to Him and admit what we did.

Shame can do so much harm, especially if we allow it to separate us from Christ. Often times we allow our shame to keep us out of Church, to make us defensive, even angry and bitter. Not only that but shame causes us to be insecure and feel as though we are rejected by others, or not good enough.

Satan loves it when we allow shame to separate us from Christ. He even loves it when we allow shame to separate us from one another.

Let’s take any and all of our shame to Christ and nip it in the bud. Let’s stay confessed up and make sure we don’t allow Satan to use our shame to separate us from Christ.

Do you have shame in your life? Take it to Christ and work out with Him. Don’t run and hide it won’t do you any good, and in the end it will be brought to light anyway.

Jesus forgive us for allowing shame to separate us from You. Help us to stay close to You. Father I pray as a body of believers that we never cause others to feel more ashamed. Help us to shower them with love the same way You shower us with Your love. Amen

Altar Sunday

Open the gates of your heart and let His love come a flood.

Confronting or Judging?

“So be careful not to jump to conclusions before the Lord returns as to whether or not someone is faithful. When the Lord comes, he will bring our deepest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. And then God will give to everyone whatever praise is due.” 1 Corinthians 4:5

Have you ever confronted someone who was sinning to walk away being told you were judgmental?

Oh brethren this will happen more times than not. Why, because we have fallen away from holding one another accountable. We have become quiet and timid, thus allowing sin to grow rampant.

We don’t want to step on toes, or hurt someone’s feelings.

And on the flip side of all that is the judgmental part that stems from jealousy and insecurity. I believe that is why Jesus gave us this passage.

We need to be careful when it comes to others. We need to be careful that we don’t jump to conclusions and we need to be careful that when we do confront or hold others accountable that we do it with love and gentleness.

We also need remember that the Lord sees the heart of all of us and when He comes he will bring ALL of our deepest secrets to light and will reveal our real motives behind everything we do.

So we need to make sure that we are in constant communication with the Lord, that we follow His leading and that we act and speak when He prompts us, not when we see fit. That only gets us in trouble.

Father help us to know when we are confronting because You told us to verse being judgmental because of jealousy or insecurity. Help us to be bold for You and hold one another accountable out of love, because without accountability we allow sin to grow and continue. Amen

Different Answers Same Underlying Meaning

“In the same way, ‘Abraham believed God, so God declared him righteous because of his faith.’ The real children of Abraham, then, are all those who put their faith in God.” Galatians 3:6-7

What does “Personal Relationship” mean to you?

I am sure all of our answers would come out differently but embedded throughout each answer would be the same underlying points.

A personal relationship with Christ must consist of…

Time

Investment

Love

Trust

Commitment

Faithfulness

Desire

Intimacy

Undivided attention

And it must consist of the entire heart belonging to Him.

Let’s spend time getting to know Jesus; it will be worth our time.

Jesus I love You and I want to put as much into You that this weak mortal body is can plus more. Thank You for putting Your absolute best into me. Thank YOU! Amen

Jacob's Relationship

"What's more, I will be with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. I will someday bring you safely back to this land. I will be with you constantly until I have finished giving you everything I have promised." Genesis 28:15

I have heard that some of the greatest writing is that of which relates to real life situations, and that might be so. But for me, the best writing is found in the Word of God.

The stories are real life. They do relate to us today, and unlike other stories, God’s stories are to help us in our own personal lives and relationship with Him.

Jacob could have tried to live throughout the ole’ “Do you know who my grandfather and father are?”

Better yet, Jacob could have lived his life believing he was covered because of Abraham and Isaac’s relationship with the Lord, thus not having his own relationship with the Lord. But that is not at all what God wanted for him or for us.

God wanted a personal relationship with Jacob, a one on one thriving and growing relationship. God wanted the same wholehearted devotion from Jacob that his Grandfather and Father had.

Thus the amazing dream Jacob had.

“As he slept, he dreamed of a stairway that reached from earth to heaven. And he saw the angels of God going up and down on it. At the top of the stairway stood the LORD, and he said, ‘I am the LORD, the God of your grandfather Abraham and the God of your father, Isaac. The ground you are lying on belongs to you. I will give it to you and your descendants. Your descendants will be as numerous as the dust of the earth! They will cover the land from east to west and from north to south. All the families of the earth will be blessed through you and your descendants. What’s more, I will be with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. I will someday bring you safely back to this land. I will be with you constantly until I have finished giving you everything I have promised.” Genesis 28:12-15

After Jacob woke up he said, “Surely the LORD is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it. He was afraid and said, ‘What an awesome place this is! It is none other than the house of God-the gateway to heaven!” Genesis 28:16

Then, following that Jacob made his Vow.

“If God will be with me and protect me on this journey and give me food and clothing, and if he will bring me back safely to my father, then I will make the LORD my God. This memorial pillar will become a place for worshiping God, and I will give God a tenth of everything he gives me.” Genesis 28:20-22

Here is the crazy thing about Jacob’s vow. It left me feeling as though Jacob was telling God okay if you do this for me then I will do this and it bothered me. But guess what brethren, God reminded me that we do the same thing to Him; a lot and that bothered me even more.

I don’t want to determine my relationship with Christ based off of what He will do for me.

We can really learn a lot about relationships from God’s Word and His advice and stories will benefit us better in the long run than if we tried to have a relationship based off of a human’s perspective.

Father, thank You so much for Your Word and the amazing stories that are found in it! They relate to us on so many levels. May we spend more time investing in our relationship with You and in Your Word. Amen

The Foolish Five Vs. The Prepared Five

"So stay awake and be prepared, because yo do not know the day or hour of my return." Matthew 25:13

Have you read the story of the Ten Bridesmaids? It's a great story, if you haven't read it, it's found in Matthew 25.

In this Parable Jesus is illustrating the importance of being ready for His return. He describes the Prepared Five and the benefit that comes from being ready and prepared verse the Foolish Five and the consequences of waiting until the last minute. Let's take a look and see where we fall.

"At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. ⁴ The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.  The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

"At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ “Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps.  The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour." Matthew 25:1-13

 

 

The Foolish Five           

 

1.They took no oil

 

2. They ran out of oil

 

The Result: They missed the Bridegroom

 

The Prepared Five

 

 

1. Took Oil

 

2. Brought extra oil just in case

 

The Result:  Were able to enter the marriage feast with the Bridegroom.

 

So what can we learn from this parable? We need to be ready and prepared at all times and we need to understand that it is our own responsibility to be ready for Christ. We cannot depend on others relationship with Christ to be good enough for us. 

 

You can't borrow or buy someone else's realtionship with Christ. You have to have your own. So really there is no need in sucking-up to your Pastor or trying to find favor with them, because in the end you will be unpreapred and found with the Foolish Five standing at the door knocking to get in, only to hear Christ say, "Sorry I don't know you."

 

I know that sounds so harsh, but the reality of it is, you need to be preparing your own heart for the return of Christ.

 

Jesus we really need You to reveal to us where we fall in this Parable. If we are trying to use Church and every now and then prayer to suffice remind us that it goes way beyond that. It's about our personal relationship with You. We want to be ready and prepared for when You return so we can enter the Kingdom of Heave with You. We love You and praise You for these amazing Parables that speak directly to us. Thank You for giving us the knowledge and wisdom to understand them. Amen

 

 

Given, Invested, Doubled

"To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance." Matthew 25:29

Have you ever made a list of all the things the Lord has given you? Well if not, I HIGHLY recommend it.

Once you make out that list spend time in prayer with the Lord asking Him if you are making the most of each gift. If you are not, ask Him to help you invest better with what He has given you.

We don't want Christ to return and find that we have buried our gifts in the ground and are unfaithful.

For those who do that will have the little they are given taken away and will be thrown into outer darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 25:29-30)

Jesus thank You for the gifts You have given me. I pray I am using them for Your glory and that with every investment made, I pray they spread and double. It is my desire to hear You say, "Well done my good and faithful servant." Amen

2 Reasons

"You don't have much faith." Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?" Matthew 14:31

I can think of only two main reasons why we doubt the Lord.

1. Fear
2. Lack of faith due to lack of knowledge in who Christ is and says He is.

What reasons do you have for doubting Christ?

Jesus You know my heart and You know how much faith and trust I really have in You. Reveal those levels to me and develop in me greater faith. Help me not doubt You. You are greater than all of my fears and You have proven Your faithfulness and love to me over and over. Forgive me. Amen

Altar Sunday

Find the most humble position at the altar today. It's better to approach the altar humble than prideful.

Keeping Routine out of the Relationship

"But I warn you-unless you obey God better than the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees do, you can't enter the Kingdom of Heaven at all!" Matthew 5:20

How do you keep from getting in a ritual or routine in your personal relationship with Christ?

If you have ever got stuck in one you will agree that complacency kicks in really quick, and brethren complancency is a bad thing.

The Pharisees and Religious leaders were a prime example of routine and ritual's when it came to their faith.

So much so they missed having a loving relationship with the One who came to save them.

I don't want to miss Jesus because I am stuck in a routine or a to do check list. I want my relationship with Christ to be alive and flourishing, not dead and complcent.

If I am not careful I can get there really quick and in doing so I walk away feeling empty.

Jesus wants a relationship with me that is fun, joyful, enjoying, interesting, full of love, excitment, and laughter. He also wants a relationship that is real and genuine and not a "Have to" but a "Want to"

How do you keep from getting in a routine or a ritual in your relationship with Christ?

Jesus may I take notice of Your warning given in Matthew 5:20. Show me all the areas that I have allowed routine or ritual to become habit thus dampering our relationship. Jesus it is Your love for me that leaves me desring more of You. Fuel the fire of our love within me. That is may burn bigger and brighter. I pray the fire never becomes dull or dim. Amen

A Child's Love

"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." Ephesians 2:4

He wrapped his little arms and legs around me and hung on so tightly whispering in my ear, "I love you sugar so much."

I could fill his precious love and even my love mix together, and it was right there in that moment that I felt just how strong Christ's love is for me.

He wraps His entire body around mine and whispers, "I love you Kristi. You are mine."

It's these moments that I love, I need, I live for. The moments when I feel the Lord's presence so strongly among me.

I need Him brethren. I need Him desperately.

Thank You Jesus for Your love and for expressing Your love through the love of our children. I pray You will pour out Your love today on those who are need of love. I pray they will experience Your presence in mighty way. Amen

How...

How can we as believers become more united?

How can we look to heaven and focus on the unity that will take place there and start that same unity here, right now?

I Wonder...

I wonder...

Does Jesus pull up a front row seat for the Presidental Debate?

Does He cringe at the comments that are made?

Does His heart break because of the lack of love?

Does He find humor in any of it?

Is He known by one or by both?

Who does He have a personal relationship with?

I wonder...

As He looks to what lies ahead if He is pleased or angered?

Now I wonder for us...

Us who are followers of Christ.

Have we stood back to long and allowed the bar of what Christ expects of us to be lowered?

I don't know what our future holds, BUT I do know...

That Christ is the ultimate ruler and authority.

I know that no matter what He is in control and will ALWAYS be in control.

I know that His name is to be glorified, His Word is to be our daily bread.

I know that the gate is NARROW and only a few will enter!

I know that we as followers of Christ should walk in the confidence and strength of God's protection and Word and stand up for what is right.

I know that we should vote!

And I know that no matter who wins, God is control and we need to trust Him all the way to the end!

Jesus knows and He has His children's best interest at heart. He will protect us and take care of us. Believe tht brethren it's straight from His Word.

Stand firm, stand strong, stay faithful, and do not compromise your faith for anything or anyone.

Sweet Nothing's

This has nothing to do with anything other than the fact that seeing Jesus at work in the life of my boys is amazing!

First I picked Avery up from school and he jumped in the car and said, "Mommy do you know what is a blessing?"

"What is a blessing?" I asked

Avery's exact words, " It's a blessing that I didn't have to worry about my lunch bag."

It was nothing huge but to him it was a blessing. To me it was huge because he gets it. He gets how the Lord blesses us and he knows that even small things are blessings.

Second, my sweet now four year old looked at me when we were picking up Cinderalla and said, "Mommy I don't like girls I only like you."

I LOVED THAT! It was precious and melted my heart.

Third, we were watching a movie on the Disney channel and one of the characters was stealing things and Avery said, "Mommy he is making a bad choice and Jesus is not okay with him stealing."

Then Dax chimes in and says, "Mommy that really breaks Jesus' heart and that makes Him sad."

It is in these moments that I see the Lord at work in the lives of my boys and that brings me joy!

It is so important that our children are being taught the Word of God and that they are seeing God's Word lived out in our lives.

I can't think of a more crucial time than now to ensure that our children know the truth and are standing upon the rock.

The Model Servant

“Jesus replied, ‘But if I don’t wash you, you won’t belong to me.” John 13:8

Peter didn’t understand why Jesus was persistent in washing his feet. All he knew is that Jesus the Messiah was washing his feet and that was not something a Master does. Only servants!

But then Jesus makes a profound statement, “But if I don’t wash you, you won’t belong to me.”

What does that mean, “If you don’t wash my feet I won’t belong to you?”

It means you have to be a servant. You have to lower yourselves to the most humble position, just as Christ did and serve.

Jesus did this to set the example for His disciples. He wanted them to follow His example and go out and serve others. Christ set that same example for us today.

How well are we serving others today?

Are we teaching our children what it means to serve?

Let’s take on the attitude of Christ and humble ourselves.

Jesus help me to follow the example You set for us. May I never demand to be served but willing to serve others at all times. Amen

Th

Let It Resonate

 

 

 

Father I pray that someone reading Your Word today will experience Your love for them in a way they they never have before.

 

I pray they will realize how rich in kindness You are.

 

I pray they will understand that You purchased their freedom through the blood of Your Son and that today their sins are FORGIVEN. (Ephesians 1:7)

 

 

Amen

 

Altar Sunday

Do you know someone in great need? If so, would you approach the Throne Room on their behalf.

What greater gift is there?

Jesus there are so many in greater need than I am. May I use all my energies on serving and praying for them, rather than focusing on myself.

Finish what You Started

"I strain to reach the end of the race and recieve the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven." Philippians 3:14


I bounce around in my time with the Lord. But lately the Lord has been pulling me back. Stay here Kristi. Don't move from this chapter. I have things for You to learn right here.

Stay focused and finish what I asked you to start. No matter how hard it seems, no matter how frustrated or defeated things might get. Stay here. I have things right here for you to do for My glory.

This is teaching me real comittment, which is something I struggle with. No, not when it comes to my time with the Lord, more so in things that are to hard for me, or things that I feel set me up for failure.

Things that overwhelm me, or stress me out cause me to want to give up easily. Though I never do, my heart and words would tell you differently.

This often leads to a negative attitude. Anyone ever been there before?

Well if so I get it! So does the Lord and He calls us to perserve, to stay focused, comitted, faithful, and to trust in His will for our lives.

I am so thankful He has never given up on me. I am so thankful He was comitted to completing what God called Him to do here on earth. I am thankful for His love and faithfulness that carried Him all the way to the Cross. 

Jesus finished what He started and I want to do the same.

Jesus thank You for finishing what You started. You have shown me the importance of comittment no matter how hard it is. Help me to stay focused and finish what You have started in me. Change my heart and my mind to be just like Yours. Remove any negativity or thoughts of giving up. You have called us here for a time such as this and You have placed me in Ephesians for a reason. Help me to see and understand what You are teaching me in this wonderful book. Amen

Trust Issues

'For the word of the Lord holds true, and everything he does is worthy of our trust. He loves whatever is just and good and his unfailing love fills the earth." Psalm 33:4-5

Do you struggle with trust issues? Maybe there is a reason why you do. If so does it affect your relationship with the Lord?

Do you find it hard to trust Him?

There are so many times in all of our lives when things happen that we don't understand why. Maybe we trusted God in a certain area for it to turn out differently than what we expected and that left us doubting Him.

And brethren I believe that in those times, when the Lord looks at our hearts, He understands our stuggle, our trust issue.

So do you know what He does? He reveals Himself to us through something we least expected. He shows us that His plans, His ways are better.

He uses His Word to speak to our doubtful hearts. He says, "My Word holds true, and everything I do is worthy of your trust. I love whatever is just and good and my unfailing love fills the earth."

There is really not a better place to go if you struggle with trust issues than the Word of God.

His Word is true friend, believe in His promises. He is faithful and His Word brings life and hope.

He is worthy of all of our trust.

Remember His ways are better than ours, so if some things turned out differently than you expected, it's okay. God is with you. He loves you. He has your best interest in mind at all times.

Let Him deliver you from your doubts.

Jesus You indeed our worthy of our trust. You are exactly who You say You are. Your every Word holds true. Help us not to doubt. Amen

The Need to Know More

"He is Jesus Christ, the Word of life." 1 John 1:1

In this mind boggling thought that I am loved by the King of Kings and Lord of Lords leaves me a little...speechless.

As I spend more time getting to know Jesus, it is hard for me to wrap my mind around the fact that He loves me unconditionally and desires to have a realtionship with me, a sinner.

What undeserved mercy!

I have spent a lot of time reading His Word to get out of it what I wanted and in doing that I have missed out on getting to know more about the One who desires to have a realitionship with me.

I don't know, maybe my lack of really getting to know Christ the way my heart desires is because of the shame I feel.

How sad to allow that to hinder my realtionship with Christ.

Jesus, the One who loves me, is not only loving, but He is patient (extremely patient) kind, Good, Just and Fair. He is the Word of Life, the Lamb of God. He is the light that penetrates every dark area in me. He is the One who knows what is best for me and my family. He is the One who has a plan for me, us. He is the One who went all the way to the cross to die for me.

The more I spend time with Him the more I realize how much He knows about me. Do I seek to know Him like He knows me? Am I nailing my sin and self to the cross so I can walk with Him in the newness of life He so eagerly desires to give me?

There is only greatness that comes from knowing and serving Christ. I will say, the more you seek Him the more you realize just how holy He is. So much that it makes you feel as though you should be face down.

Even then you don't feel low enough.

There is no greater thing than knowing Jesus. There is no greater thing than allowing Him to take control of your life and reveal to you things about Himself that will leave you amazed.

I want and need more of Him. How about you?

Jesus I want the most of You that this weak mortal body can contain. I want to experience Your love in the deepest most real way possible. Amen

The Only Words I Have

There are no words that would even come close to sufficing for the pain and suffering you are going through. I know I tell you often that I love you and it's only because love seems to cover a mulitude of all things.

Love is strong, because it's His love. I want you to know you are loved, your family is loved. And honestly Dana I can't get out any other words. The knot in my throat and the tears, they won't let anything else come out.

But besides that, I know with every ounce of Jesus that is in me, you my precious sister will be healed. I believe that and cling to that.

I hate cancer and I use the word hate very strongly.

But I love Jesus, I love His Word and those two things are beautiful, lovely, and forever. So I am spending time with Him, on my face for you. I am covering every part  of your body with His Word, because it is the only medicine there is that works.

There is hope in Him, there is comfort found in His Word. There is peace found in Him.

Hold on to Him Dana, He will hold you up. He will supply your every need for the day. He will show You His love.

Jesus as we seek Your face we ask that Dana feels Your constant presence. We pray protection for her and her family from any arrows Satan tries to shoot at them. I pray they will cling to You and remain faithful no matter the circumstances. Oh Father I pray that for all of us. Jesus there is no one that comforts, heals, or provides for us better than You. Jesus please relieve Dana's pain. Give her strength to continue to fight. Boost her immune system in her body. But most of all Father, reach down and remove ALL of the cancer from her body. Amen

Open Your Bible

"May God bless you with his special favor and wonderful peace as you come to know Jesus, our God and Lord, better and better." 2 Peter 1:2

Our desire for peace, love, comfort, hope, and healing is big. We do all that we can to ensure our lives are filled with them. So much that a lot of our prayers are, Lord please do this, let this happen, etc. And those arent' bad prayers.

But how can we constantly ask the Lord to bless me with this, bless them with that, bless, bless, bless...when we are not even taking the time to get to know Him better? Better yet, how can we expect our lives to change, or to become more like Him, if we are not spending time with Him, reading His Word?

Paul says, May God bless you with his special favor and wonderful peace as you come to KNOW Jesus, our God and Lord, better and better.

Wow, brethren Paul is telling us that if we want the special favor of God, then we are going to have to spend time getting to know Him. We are going to have to get in the Word and allow Him to teach us about who He is. Prayer is great, but in order to really know God we have to open our Bibles.

Then and only then will we begin to receive His special favor.

Before we begin to ask God for this and that, lets spend some time getting to know Him, through His Word.

Jesus You go on in 2 Peter and tell us that as we get to KNOW You better, Your divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life. Help us to remember that knowing You is the most important thing. And in order to know You we have to spend time with You. Amen