Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Serving

Serving
Tanya James
Is it just me or does it seem like the art of servanthood has truly gotten a bad reputation lately? It just doesn't seem to be something people care about anymore. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind may be those who work in customer service and the attitudes some of them may carry.
However, I am talking about serving others outside the work place (although inside the work place is important as well). But when is the last time, you went out of your way to serve another person? By serving, I mean in the most simplistic way of helping or assisting another person.
Obviously it's important because the Bible is full of examples of people serving others. Jesus was constantly reaching out to help another person. So if we are called to follow His lead and lifestyle ... why have we allowed serving to fall by the way side?
Do we think being a servant is beneath us? Is it that there aren't enough accolades or praises given to those that serve? Or do we just not care enough to help someone else because we are too busy caught up in what we need for ourselves?
Perhaps you are one of the people that still believe in and take the time to serve others. Why are you serving?
It's important to continuously check your motive for serving. Are you serving to get something back in return? Are you serving, so you can brag about what you did later? Are you only serving because you feel you have to and not because you want to? If your motives for serving are not pure ... you really might as well not be serving at all.
Hopefully you are serving ... and hopefully you are serving out of the goodness of your heart ... but if not, it's never too late to start ... or to start over. Let's all make a conscious effort to find ways to be more Christ like and one of those ways would be to roll up our sleeves and look for opportunities to serve others. There is always someone that can use a little extra help or assistance ... just remember to keep a pure heart while serving.

I COME TO YOU, GOD

I COME TO YOU, GOD

Hebrews 12:22-29
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+12:22-29

Dear Father,

I come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, to the city of
the living God. I join with the thousands upon thousands of angels
in joyful assembly, with the assembly of the firstborn ones, whose
names are written in heaven. I come to you, my God, the judge of
all the earth.

I come to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, and to Jesus
the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that
speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

I come to you, my God, thanking your for receiving a kingdom
which cannot be shaken. I am so thankful. And so I worship you with
reverence and awe. Receive me, I pray. You, my God, are a consuming
fire. Burn away all that is worthless in me, that I may be to you a
vessel of pure gold, useful and holy.

With awesome reverence and in the name of Jesus I come to you,
asking these things according to his will. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE:
I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before
me.
-- Psalm 119:30
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+119:30&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Yesterday we made a commitment to follow the Lord Jesus
whole-heartedly. Let's not forget it and slip back into old habits
and bad patterns. Let's choose the way of truth again today, and
tomorrow, and ....

PRAYER:
Righteous Father, your way and your Word are my source of life
and guidance. I choose your will and your truth today. Help it come
alive in me through joyful obedience. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

THE BIRTHRIGHT

THE BIRTHRIGHT

Hebrews 12:16-17
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+12:16-17

Dear Father,

Keep me from being immoral or irreligious and, like Esau, selling
the birthright you have for me. I want to inherit your blessing,
even if it comes to me through tears.

Hold me close to you. Fill my mind with thoughts of you. Fill my
heart with love for you. May I use my strength to perform acts of
care and love which you initiate.

I love you, Lord.

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Who Will Go?

Who Will Go?
Bishop Vashti McKenzie
Three year old Joshua Childers wandered away from his two parent mobile home wearing nothing but a t-shirt, tennis shoes and a diaper earlier this year. His father, Adam fell asleep tired from working the night shift while his mother was on the phone.
Local officials, neighbors, friends and strangers mounted a massive search and rescue effort according to published accounts. Three days later the little toddler was found in the Mark Twain National Forest in his t-shirt, one tennis shoe, no diaper, but not worse for the wear. Probably in the back of the boy's mind was a thought - this is not a trip to be taken again soon.
Joshua is a blessed little boy. He has a two-parent family. He wandered away and people were concerned enough to look for him. People who meant him no harm found Joshua, and returned him to the lifestyle he was accustomed.
In Luke's gospel, there are a series of stories detailing the account of the lost. There is the coin lost somewhere in a darkened environment. There is the son who walks away from home. There is the sheep that wander away from the flock.
The woman lights a candle and goes looking for the coin. The father waits for the prodigal to return. The shepherd leaves the 90 and 9 and goes looking for the stray lamb just like Joshua's parents, law enforcement and volunteers went looking for him.
According to the Justice Department, an average 2,185 children go missing every day. Today, there are 797,500 children under 18 who are missing, 203,900 taken away by family members and 58,200 taken by non-family members. The Center for Missing and Exploited Children have assisted law enforcement agencies with 148,160 cases of missing children resulting in 132,000 children recovered. There are thousands of children who wander away, walk away or are taken away. For most of them, there are the appropriate authorities and people who care enough to go looking for them. However, some children are never found.
Four year old Maddy McCann went missing over two years ago during a family vacation while her parents dined in another room in Portugal. She hasn't been found yet. Others missing individuals never live long enough to be found, like Caylee Anthony. And still, for too many families, it is a tragic end as in the case of three year old Christopher Pidgeon. The toddler went missing from his home in Texas for only a few hours, not the 52 hours in the Childers' case. He was later found in a neighbor's swimming pool. He died.
The truth of the matter is many children go missing. You never see their stories splashed on TV; somehow they don't fit the "America needs to care" profile. The Chicago defender last year concluded in an article written by Kathy Chaney that missing black youth get unequal national media coverage. Sadly enough there are children, youth and adults who have no one who cares enough to go looking for them.
I'm glad for a Savior who cares enough about the walkers, wanderers, and willful who go missing in action in our communities. There are those missing in our churches. Who goes looking for them? Who goes looking for those who wander away from bible study? Who mounts a search effort for those who walk away from worship services?
Who cares about those who are lost in a spiritual wilderness with only a t-shirt, tennis shoes and a diaper? While we are struggling with the struggle in our comfort zones being about being busy, who goes looking for the lost these days? Who gleans the fringes of the fields? Who is going after those who don't deserve service and are a drain on your resources? Is the harvest still plentiful and are those who serve too few?
The question rings from heaven again today, as it did for Isaiah - who will go for us? And the response is what? Will it be here I am Lord, send me?

CALL FOR PEACE AND HOLINESS

CALL FOR PEACE AND HOLINESS

Hebrews 12:12-15
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+12:12-15

Dear Father,

When my hands droop and my knees are weak, put me in a place where
I will get exercise. Open my eyes so that I can find level paths on
which to lead the lame so they will not trip and get hurt but will
walk and find healing.

May I always strive for peace with every other person in the world
and to seek holiness for myself, knowing that without it I will
never see you.

Enable me to help others find grace and to keep those in your
family from becoming bitter, which causes trouble and leads to
defilement.

In the name of your Son I ask. Amen.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

VERSE:

VERSE:
The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth
of the wicked speaketh frowardness.
-- Proverbs 10:32
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Proverbs+10:32&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
How many times have you said just the "wrong" thing? For me, it
is more often than I would like to recall. Jesus' words on this
topic are indeed convicting to me: "Out of the abundance of the
heart does the mouth speak." In other words, poor words and bad
timing in our speech are more issues of our heart than issues of
social skills and decorum. Let's ask God to purify, mend, and
re-focus our heart on his will and passions.

PRAYER:
Almighty God, loving and merciful Father, please purify my heart
of all evil, hate, duplicity, prejudice, malice, lust and greed. By
the powerful name of Jesus, please drive away any evil power or
enticing temptation that would corrupt my heart and wound my soul.
Fill my heart with love, grace, righteousness, holy passion,
gentleness, forbearance, sensitivity, courage, conviction, and
forgiveness. Give me discernment to know which of these qualities
are needed at any given moment. Sanctify me -- body, soul, and
spirit -- with your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

RESPECT FOR GOD'S DISCIPLINE

RESPECT FOR GOD'S DISCIPLINE

Hebrews 12:3-11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+12:3-11

Dear Father,

Help me to keep my eyes on Jesus. Despite the hostility poured on
him by sinners, he obeyed you, even to the point of death.

Help me submit to your discipline, for I know that it assures me
that I am your legitimate child, not just a slave.

Help me to respect your discipline, as from a heavenly Father,
even more than discipline I received from my earthly father.

Help me bear up under the painful aspects of your discipline,
understanding that it yields the fruit of righteousness.

Teach me to rely on you and trust you, as a small child does a
father. Let me become as a little child, that I may enter your
kingdom!

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

The Gospels Early History

The Gospels Early History
Acts 5-6 Sunday: Hebrews 8-10
Monday: Deuteronomy 1-3
Tuesday: II Chronicles 21-24

Acts 5
1
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,
2
And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
3
But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
4
Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
5
And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.
6
And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.
7
And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.
8
And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.
9
Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
10
Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.
11
And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.
12
And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.
13
And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.
14
And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)
15
Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.
16
There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.
17
Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,
18
And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.
19
But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,
20
Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.
21
And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.
22
But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned and told,
23
Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.
24
Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.
25
Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.
26
Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
27
And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,
28
Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
29
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
30
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.
31
Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
32
And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
33
When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.
34
Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;
35
And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.
36
For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.
37
After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.
38
And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:
39
But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.
40
And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
41
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
42
And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.



Acts 6
1
And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
2
Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.
3
Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.
5
And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:
6
Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
7
And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
8
And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
9
Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
10
And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.
11
Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.
12
And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,
13
And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
14
For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
15
And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

ACTS OF FAITH

ACTS OF FAITH

Hebrews 11:20-12:2
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+11:20-12:2

Dear Father, my trustworthy God,

Give me faith like Moses, who loved your way more than the
treasures of Egypt. Give me faith like the people of the Exodus,
who were willing to walk through the sea at your bidding, but keep
me from wavering and rebelling as they did. Give me faith like
Rahab, who placed her loyalty with you and your people. Give me
faith like Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the
prophets, who did mighty works in your name and suffered with
patient endurance for your sake.

Dear God, I rejoice to be in the company of your holy people, this
cloud of witnesses who lived by faith in you.

May I lay aside every weight of sin and run with perseverance the
race that is set before me, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and
perfecter of my faith.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Friday, September 25, 2009

ABRAHAM'S FAITH

ABRAHAM'S FAITH

Hebrews 11:8-19
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+11:8-19

Holy Father, in whom all faith is safe,

I cannot imagine what it would be like to be asked to do what you
asked Abraham to do. He was willing to sacrifice the very son you
had promised to him, the son through whom you promised to make a
great nation. He believed that you could do what he had never seen
done before-raise someone from the dead.

May I stay so close to you that I will never doubt your
instructions to me. Like Abraham, I want to be willing to follow
you to unknown parts of the earth. Like Abraham, I want to trust
you when you ask me to do difficult things.

Abraham believed you and you counted it to him as righteousness.
May my faith be counted to me as righteousness as well.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

CONFIDENT IN CHRIST

CONFIDENT IN CHRIST

Hebrews 10:26-39
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+10:26-39

Holy God, who has promised to return,

How foolish I would be to keep on sinning after coming to the
knowledge of your truth. Give me the strength to forsake whatever
sin I become aware of in my life. I submit myself to your
examination and ask to see myself as you see me.

In the face of suffering or ridicule, I want to stand strong in
truth, always aware that confidence and perseverence will be richly
rewarded in the life to come.

May I not be among those who shrink back and are destroyed, but
among those who hold on to faith and keep their souls.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Benevolence Revisited

Benevolence Revisited
Milan Ford
Today is Wednesday, September 23rd.

Nearly two years ago, the metropolitan area of Atlanta was facing an unprecedented water drought. In fact, some of the largest cities throughout the Southeastern United States were at that time prepared to declare massive water emergencies.

As of today, Atlanta has encountered more rainfall in a week than it has over the past 5-7 years. Many of the counties around the perimeter of the city have already experienced massive flooding.

Thousands of metro Atlanta residents are without power and there are countless reports of structural damage to homes, schools, and even churches. And tragically, eight people, including a 2-year old that was swept away right out of his father's arms, have died.

In a region where heavy rain and flooding is a rare occurrence, I am reminded of something I heard a pastor once say: "A movement of God can never be PLANNED, but it must always be PREPARED for."

Although many day after day have chosen to give up on HER, I firmly believe that it is during the darkest of hours, where THE CHURCH shines its greatest light.

Let's just be honest for a second here. The line is always a mile long for people who believe that churches today don't give enough to those in need.

However, I think it's time I start a new line. One for people (like me) who believe that some of our churches today may be giving too much...while we as INDIVIDUAL believers, may be giving too little.

I realize the statement above sounds a bit ridiculous, but after reading this, you may just change your mind. At least I hope so; I'd hate to be in this line all by myself.

In Acts 3, two of Christ's disciples-soon-to-be-apostles, Peter and John, were on their way to a temple to pray. As they approached the temple's gate, they saw a lame man lying in front, asking all who were entering the temple for help.

Not just any kind of help. But the kind of help most people all over the world, especially those who live in or around the city of Atlanta, are asking for now: Financial help.

So just as he had done with everyone else on that day, the lame man proceeded to ask Peter and John for help as well. And it is here where the story gets interesting.

In verse 4 of the chapter, the writer says that Peter, standing beside John, 'fixed' his eyes on the lame man. Another translation says that Peter 'fastened' his eyes upon him.

I found it interesting that the word 'fasten' in the Greek literally means "to look INTO or to fix one's mind on someone as an EXAMPLE."

I have to admit, I just love this passage of scripture. For hidden within it, lies an exchange of the heart that many believers today tend to overlook when giving to those in need.

As our churches continue to grow in size, the manner in which we have INSTITUTIONALIZED our benevolence has caused many within our communities to grow weary and frustrated with the church, vowing never to return.

Instead, other faiths and civic organizations are often the first to respond, while we as the Body of Christ wear our knees out to the bone asking God to deliver those He has already given us charge and a blueprint on how to help. Just in case you aren't familiar with it, here it is:

"Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul, neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all." - Acts 4:32-33.

When we as believers rise up and take the initiative to give those around us, the mission of the church is validated and is positioned to witness the message of Christ like never before. Our approach to giving must become more strategic if we are ever going to make a lasting difference in the earth today.

Isn't it interesting that this same lame man was laid daily at the very gate that Christ himself, before ever being crucified, would pass in order to enter the temple to pray and teach?

(See John 7:14; John 10:23)

With a ministry that only spanned a total of 3 years, it is quite possible that Christ saw this lame man during one of his visits to the temple, but decided to heal another, instead of him.

Perhaps in God's providential plan, Christ passed over the opportunity to heal this man, knowing that the day would come when Peter and John would have to return to that same temple gate in order show us all that we as believers have the same power to heal, just as He did.

Today, I challenge you to look around your community and do the following:

ASSESS what you have.
GIVE what you can.
But when you cannot give, MOBILIZE.
VERSE:
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him
deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
-- Luke 9:23
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Luke+9:23&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Offering ourselves to God isn't easy because it means we must
first die to our own selfish will. Like Jesus did in the Garden of
Gethsemane, we face our own cross and must cry out, "Not my will,
dear Father, but your will be done!"

PRAYER:
Dear Father, thank you for sending Jesus as my Savior. Lord
Jesus, I want to follow you. I don't want it to be half-hearted or
hypocritical. I want your life to be seen in me. So please, gently
show me the areas where my heart needs to be softened and my
character needs to be shaped by the Spirit so that I can more
perfectly reflect your glory, grace, and character to those around
me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

A Lifestyle Of Giving

A Lifestyle Of Giving
Tanya James
"Give and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you." Luke 6:38
"...whatever a man sows, that he will also reap." Galatians 6:7b
When I read those two scriptures, I get very excited about giving. I mean uncontainable excitement and guess what, I am not even thinking about financial giving. It seems sometimes we get stuck there - believing the only way we can give is with money. This means if we don't have any money, we may feel that we have nothing to give.
However, there are so many other ways to give. Matter of fact, giving should be a part of your lifestyle. It should be something that you do so freely and regularly that it's just a natural part of who you are.
So you ask, "How can I give something other than money?"
You can give of your time by serving in a ministry within the 4 walls of your church or even volunteering with an organization in your community. Going even further than that, make sure you are giving your time to your family. Don't always give the best of you to everyone else and only give your family your leftovers.
You can give of your heart and compassion to those that may simply need someone to talk to, or a shoulder to cry on or someone to pray with them. Sometimes giving of your heart may be sharing an encouraging word or even a simple hug or hello to a stranger.
Of course, you can also give of your money - in addition to your regular tithes and offering - you can give to some of the special projects your church may be working on. You can give to that youth trying to save money to go study abroad. You can give to that family down the street that may be struggling due to someone being laid off. You can give to your local homeless shelter or children's hospital ...
Needless to say, daily we are presented with opportunities to give - lets all make an effort to give something of ourselves daily until it becomes a lifestyle. I guarantee you will find out what it means to be blessed to be a blessing!

VERSE:

VERSE:
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that
ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto
God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this
world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye
may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of
God.
-- Romans 12:1-2
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Romans+12:1-2&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
The motivation for our holiness is God's incredible mercy and
grace. We offer ourselves to him because he has already shown us
his love through the sacrifice of Jesus. As we offer ourselves to
honor him, we are worshipping him. As we refuse to be molded into
the lifestyle of the world, we offer him praise. As we consistently
do these things with our lives, God's will becomes even clearer.
With the Spirit's help, we are daily being transformed to be more
like Jesus (2 Cor. 3:18) as we display more of the character of God
(Gal. 5:22-23).

PRAYER:
Father, as the old hymn says, "Have thine own way Lord ... mold
me and make me after thy will!" I gladly offer you my heart, my
life, and my future to be used to your glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, September 21, 2009

A PERFECT SACRIFICE

A PERFECT SACRIFICE

Hebrews 9:11-14
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+9:11-14

Dear Father,

Thank you that when Christ appeared as a High Priest, he entered
into the Holy Place and took not the blood of bulls and goats, but
his own blood, thus securing eternal redemption for us.

How much more perfect and pleasing to you was his sacrifice than
that of animals, for he offered what was truly perfect-his sinless
body.

Thank you, Father, that through this offering he has purified my
conscience that I might serve you, the true and living God.

Infuse my body, soul, and spirit with your grace. Give me a soft
and obedient heart that yields readily to your will. Give me a
broken and contrite heart that despises sin and yearns for true
holiness.

Keep me from loving the things of this world. Make me willing to
surrender anything that I possess or could possess, that I may walk
with you.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

CALLING DISTANCE

CALLING DISTANCE

But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us.
(2 CORINTHIANS 1 : 9-10)

Remember the times God has set you free, the times He has moved on your behalf, and the times He has come through when it seemed no answer would or even could come.

He is not going to begin failing you today. He will answer your prayers today, because He never changes. God will turn your tragedy into triumph and your trial into a testimony when you trust and depend upon Him.

Dependence on Him is not defeat; dependence is simply staying in constant contact. Trusting God means realizing He is the source of your deliverance, and then staying within calling distance of Him.

JESUS, YOU ARE THE SOURCE OF MY DELIVERANCE, MY HEALING, AND MY RESTORATION. I WILL STAY CLOSE TO YOU SO THAT I MAY HEAR YOUR VOICE AT EVERY TURN AND THROUGH EVERY SITUATION. AMEN.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

The Do-Good Seed

The Do-Good Seed
Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
If I were to ask if you believed in sowing seeds you'd probably say, "Oh, yes amen, Brother Dollar. I give money every time I go to church, hallelujah!" It is good for Believers to be stirred up about giving their finances into the work of God. But I need to shed some light on a misconception that has taken place in the Body of Christ. We have limited seed to being just money. Think about it. Every time you hear a preacher talk about sowing seeds, most likely money is the first thing that comes to mind. Although money is a powerful seed to sow, it is not the most powerful. There is a seed that will always produce and is often overlooked. I call it the do-good seed. It is birthed out of the love of God.
In the beginning God created us in His image, which means we are godlike and we're His reflection in the earth. In Christ we are restored to the position of power and authority that Adam lost to sin in the garden. Now that we are bought back from the curse of sin, God wants us to use the same two free gifts that He gave to Adam and Eve--dominion and seed (Genesis 1:28, 29).
The Bible says that God is love and God made man in His image, which is love. Now isn't that interesting? God made man in the image of love and in the likeness of love. It is through the walk of love that we gain complete mastery and dominion in life. If we master love we can walk in our God-given authority like never before, because love is where our true power lies.
You may be thinking, "Well, Brother Dollar, I understand the love of God, but what does that have to do with sowing seeds to get a good harvest?" Love has everything to do with sowing a seed and getting the desired results you want in life. Why? Jesus said that all the laws and prophets hang on the commandment of love, which is first loving God and then others (Matthew 22:40). The law of seedtime and harvest works by this greater law--love. Seedtime and harvest means whatever thought, word and deed you sow--good or bad--you will reap the results of it. Simply put, what goes around comes around.
Love is an action word and can be expressed in many ways. It is the most powerful seed you can sow into the life of another. In Luke 6, Jesus gives the law of love. We've become so familiar with this passage of scripture that we've missed what God wants us to understand. Jesus said to love your enemies and do good to people that hate you. He says to pray for those who despitefully use you (Luke 6:27, 28). Jesus wanted us to understand the importance of demonstrating love to the unlovable.
When you release the love of God into the lives of others, God is released. The do-good seed is the action of love you extend to another person who has done you wrong and doesn't deserve your goodness. If there is someone in your life who irritates you, add his or her name to the top of your Christmas list this year! This is not a sign of weakness. It takes a powerful person to do right by someone who has done them wrong.
I have probably been ripped off more than the U.S. Internal Revenue Service by people who said that they loved me. One man stole thousands of dollars from me and it cost me the exact amount of money he had stolen from me to bail him out of jail. That was hard on my flesh! But I've discovered whenever I sow a do-good seed, God rewards me.
The seed you sow in response to how another person treats you becomes the deciding witness of the harvest you will receive. If someone sows hate and you retaliate and sow hate in return, there are laws that have been released. Hate will be your harvest because "If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them..." (Matthew 18:19). When someone hates you, you have the power to determine your own harvest by responding in love. Don't use your opportunity to sow love to come into agreement with selfishness by responding negatively. Your seed will have authority over their hate if you'll retaliate with good. This is how you overcome evil with good--sow a better seed than the seed that was sown toward you.
Believers must understand and operate God's principle of seedtime and harvest. I've taught for years that the law of seedtime and harvest is an established law God intends for man to use to create any outcome he desires. The Bible says whatever a man sows is what he will reap (Galatians 6:7). Most Believers assume that when the Word of God speaks of seedtime and harvest, the only seed that exists is money. The truth of the matter is our words, thoughts and actions are also seeds. However, according to Jesus, the most powerful seed is the Word of God. It is the seed that must be planted in order for all other seeds to produce, including the do-good seed.
Everything in the Kingdom of God works by seedtime and harvest. You could be sowing positive or negative seeds, but your love walk will determine the growth action and harvest of what you sow.
When it comes to sowing, God is not requiring anything of us that He hasn't already done. When He saw mankind in a sinful state, He sowed the ultimate do-good seed--Jesus--as an expression of His love for mankind. Even though humanity deserved eternal damnation, God gave His most valuable and precious possession. As a result, He has reaped a harvest of sons and daughters. Love is the key to experiencing fulfillment and satisfaction, and should be the motivation behind every seed you sow.
Sow the do-good seed and from it you will reap a harvest that will affect every area of your life including your health, finances, relationships and more. Purpose to share His love through acts of kindness and He will overtake you with His blessing!

Friday, September 18, 2009

BETTER THINGS

BETTER THINGS

Hebrews 5:11-6:4, 9-12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+5:11-6:4,+9-12

Dear Father,

I am eager to be a good learner. I want to get beyond needing milk
meant for babies. I want to digest the solid food of your word. I
want to be skilled in righteousness, able to distinguish good from
evil.

Let me move past the elementary teachings of Christ and go on to
maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance. Help me to
lay hold of those "better things" that belong to salvation.

Thank you, God, for remembering the work and love that I render
for your sake in serving your holy people. May I realize the
assurance of hope right to the end, so that I may not be sluggish,
but may imitate those who through faith and patience inherit your
promises.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

BETTER THINGS

BETTER THINGS

Hebrews 5:11-6:4, 9-12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+5:11-6:4,+9-12

Dear Father,

I am eager to be a good learner. I want to get beyond needing milk
meant for babies. I want to digest the solid food of your word. I
want to be skilled in righteousness, able to distinguish good from
evil.

Let me move past the elementary teachings of Christ and go on to
maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance. Help me to
lay hold of those "better things" that belong to salvation.

Thank you, God, for remembering the work and love that I render
for your sake in serving your holy people. May I realize the
assurance of hope right to the end, so that I may not be sluggish,
but may imitate those who through faith and patience inherit your
promises.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

A Consistent Pursuit Of Excellence

A Consistent Pursuit Of Excellence
Dr. Robb Thompson
"Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14 (NKJV)
They're open, 24/7-all-night gas stations, round-the-clock supermarkets, year-round pharmacies. As believers, doesn't God also call us to faithfully press forward, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week? Many believers are content to stay as ordinary as battery-run wall clocks, only enjoying fleeting moments of greatness, without ever living a fantastic life. The common visit excellence momentarily, although in their minds, they think they do great all the time. They always think about the nice things they did last week or last month. At the same time, they wonder why they annually wait in vain for someone to finally recognize their vast achievements. But what they don't realize is that their pride and their refusal of correction make them utterly unapproachable.
This is a sad observation, but it still stands true-there is absolutely no advancement or promotion without embracing correction. Without embracing the correction and modification that Captain Wingate made in Moshe Dayan's military life, certain battles might have never been won, and where would Israel be today? Remember, none of us are perfect. Every one of us has imperfections we must face. However, as long as we continue to pursue excellence, we are headed in the direction that will consistently make us more like Jesus.
Father, I thank You that I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus takes hold of me. I do not count myself to have apprehended. But this one thing I do, I assign to oblivion those things that are behind me and I press on to the things before me.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

RISEN WITH CHRIST

RISEN WITH CHRIST

Hebrews 5:7-10
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+5:7-10

Dear Father, Eternal God,

Thank you for a high priestly Savior, who in the days of his
flesh, offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and
tears, to you who were able to save him from death.

Thank you that you heard him for his godly fear, but that you
answered him by raising him from death, rather than saving him from
dying. Otherwise we would have had no sacrifice for our sins.

Thank you for Jesus' sacrificial death. Thank you for his
resurrection, which has been passed on to us through him. For we
too have died and been raised through the great love with which you
loved us!

Thank you, Father, thank you, thank you! We cannot thank you
enough! There are not enough words, not even time, not enough
breath, not enough strength, to say what we owe you for your great
salvation!

In the name of Jesus, our High Priest, I pray. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE:
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get
understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
-- Proverbs 16:16
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Proverbs+16:16&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
What are the greatest riches in life? Well surely they are not
silver and gold. Of infinitely greater value is wisdom, which helps
us understand what is valuable, what is true, what is worthy of our
heart, and what is not.

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, God of the Ages and Giver of every good and
perfect gift, please bless me with holy and practical wisdom so
that I can more fully know how you have blessed me and so that I
can be the blessing to others that you want me to be. In Jesus'
name. Amen.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

OUR GREAT HIGH PRIEST

OUR GREAT HIGH PRIEST

Hebrews 4:14-5:6
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+4:14-5:6

Dear Father, Eternal God,

Enable us to hold fast to our confession of Jesus as our great
High Priest. We adore him, for even though he passed through the
heavens to enter your sanctuary, he is able to sympathize with our
weaknesses, because in flesh like ours he was tempted just as we
are. But unlike us, he bore up under it without sinning. Through
his victory, enable us to draw near to your throne of grace, in
order that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in our times
of need so that we can have victory ourselves.

How thankful we are for our High Priest, who did not take the
honor upon himself. You yourself called him and appointed him to
act on our behalf in relating to you. And he offered himself as a
gift and sacrifice for our sins.

In the name of Jesus, our High Priest, I ask. Amen.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

LIVING BEFORE THE OMNISCIENT GOD

LIVING BEFORE THE OMNISCIENT GOD

Hebrews 4:13
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+4:13

Dear Father, omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent,

Help me to follow your teachings and live my life according to
your will even in unusual or seemingly unimportant circumstances. O
Lord, from you nothing is hidden; all things are open and laid bare
before your eyes, and to you we give an account of our actions.

Let my inmost thoughts and my most secret deeds, which you see and
judge anyway, be done in righteous adherence to your teaching, and
with a pure heart. And forgive me when I am forgetful or negligent.
And if there is rebellion in my spirit, turn me around through your
chastisement, that I may turn back to you.

In the name of Jesus. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE:
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but
under grace? God forbid.
-- Romans 6:15
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Romans+6:15&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
This matching verse to Romans 6:1-2, is the great reminder that
sin is no longer our master and no longer our choice. We choose to
live for God with every fiber of our being and loathe the life of
sin that once held us in bondage to death and defeat.

PRAYER:
Dear God, my Father ... precious Jesus my Lord ... Holy Spirit
my inner companion and holy fire ... stir in me a holy passion to
be the person of holy and righteous grace you have created me and
redeemed me to be. Amen.

Monday, September 14, 2009

THE SABBATH REST

THE SABBATH REST

Hebrews 3:7-4:11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+3:7-4:11

Dear Father,

I long to enter into your rest - into creative work that is
effortless, into joyous activity in which there is no fatigue, into
glorious praise of which I will not tire! Thank you for the Good
News that there remains a Sabbath Rest for the people of God.

Keep me from being hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. May I not
focus on the glittering things of this world and lose sight of the
glorious eternity that awaits me.

Let me not fall away from you through faithlessness and
disobedience as did your ancient people in the wilderness
wanderings. Let no rebellion sprout in my heart against you. May I
walk steadfastly and patiently in your paths.

May I learn that to enter your rest I must surrender my will.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

JESUS, FULL OF GRACE

JESUS, FULL OF GRACE

Hebrews 2:14
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+2:14

Dear Father, King of all,

How full of grace you and your Son are for our sake! You let Jesus
share in flesh and blood, partake of our nature, that he through
his death might destroy the Devil, who held the power of death, and
deliver us from lifelong bondage. Thank you for making Jesus so
like us that he can now be a merciful and faithful high priest in
our behalf, to make expiation for our sins. Thank you that, because
he has suffered and has been tempted, he is able now to help us
when we suffer and are tempted.

How great are your mercies, O God! How desperately we need your
sustenance in every moment of our lives! How glad we are that Jesus
is there by your side, pleading our case, turning away the
accusations of Satan about our weaknesses, failures, and acts and
thoughts of selfishness.

Thank you, Father, thank you! Thank you, Lord Jesus!

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

JESUS, FULL OF GRACE

JESUS, FULL OF GRACE

Hebrews 2:14
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+2:14

Dear Father, King of all,

How full of grace you and your Son are for our sake! You let Jesus
share in flesh and blood, partake of our nature, that he through
his death might destroy the Devil, who held the power of death, and
deliver us from lifelong bondage. Thank you for making Jesus so
like us that he can now be a merciful and faithful high priest in
our behalf, to make expiation for our sins. Thank you that, because
he has suffered and has been tempted, he is able now to help us
when we suffer and are tempted.

How great are your mercies, O God! How desperately we need your
sustenance in every moment of our lives! How glad we are that Jesus
is there by your side, pleading our case, turning away the
accusations of Satan about our weaknesses, failures, and acts and
thoughts of selfishness.

Thank you, Father, thank you! Thank you, Lord Jesus!

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE:
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to
all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts,
we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present
world…
-- Titus 2:11-12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Titus+2:11-12&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Grace is not about excuses for our sins, but about a deep-seated
thanksgiving for pardon and a life-changing commitment to say "No!"
to all that is evil, corrupt, and wicked no matter how alluring or
how pervasive they may be in our culture.

PRAYER:
LORD, God of Jesus, my Abba Father, I praise you for your costly
grace and love demonstrated to me in Jesus. Now galvanize my
commitment to say "No!" to all those sins that required my Savior's
pain and humiliation. Through your Spirit, form in me a righteous
lifestyle that is self-controlled and is reflective of your
righteousness. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Friday, September 11, 2009

God's Way

God's Way
Pastor Paula White
I believe a life of success is built on those things that are of great value in the eyes of God. A life of success will exhibit signs of inner spiritual maturity - not outward signs of material acquisition.
The Bible repeatedly describes the behavior, beliefs, and actions that will lead to a successful life. Some of the most notable marks of spiritual maturity and a level of true success in life include:
An Ability to Love. Love is giving. Love flows from having received love and value from the Lord. Spiritually mature people are givers. They are motivated to help others succeed, even more than they want to benefit themselves.
A Joyful Outlook on Life. True joy is not rooted in the material trappings money can buy. Spiritually mature and successful people realize that, often, the "things" we think will make us happy don't. True joy is rooted in an awareness of the greatness of God and the many blessings He showers on us on a daily basis. Joy flows from the inside out, and is not based on external things, people, or situations.
A Peaceful Spirit. Striving for "outward success" can keep us restless, always on the hunt for something to satiate our anxiety, fears, or unsatisfied yearnings of the heart. Genuine peace is a feeling of wholeness and calm that stems from knowing one is in right relationship with God. Spiritual mature people have a genuine peace that stays with them even when the world outside is falling apart.
Patience. Spiritually mature people realize that true success in anything is very rarely gained overnight. Success comes from being able to persevere, and when necessary, wait for the desired result. Spiritually mature people have learned that long-lasting fixes and cures take time, slow-cooked meals are generally far better than fast food. Rewarding relationships require patience and take time to build. Often, success is sweeter and more sustainable when it comes slowly!
Attitude of Kindness and a Humble Stance. True success carries an attitude of humility, courtesy, and respect for others. A spiritually mature person allows others to express their opinions and make their own choices -- while still being strong enough to express and make best decisions for their own good. Before God, the successful person meekly carries the attitude, "Not my will, but Your will, be done."
Faith in God. The spiritually mature person leads a life of success by putting their trust solely in God. They realize that to trust oneself is folly, and to trust others without question is naïve. They recognize the sovereignty, wisdom, and divine direction of God, and apply His Holy Word to their life on a daily basis.
Self Control. The successful, spiritually mature person has developed willpower and restraint, seeking what is best for all involved, in the ways and times that are most beneficial and appropriate.
When we seek to develop these godly characteristics, we are well on our way to creating a life of success - God's way!

JESUS, PIONEER OF SALVATION

JESUS, PIONEER OF SALVATION

Hebrews 2:5-13
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+2:5-13

Dear Father, King of all,

Thank you for subjecting the world to come to our Lord Jesus
Christ.

Thank you that Jesus was willing for a time to be made lower than
the angels and to taste death for every person, according to your
grace.

Thank you for raising him up and crowning him with glory and honor
because of his willingness to carry out your will.

I am so thankful that the Lord Jesus was willing to pioneer our
salvation, thankful that he was made perfect through what he
suffered for us, thankful that he could bring many sons to glory.

How generous of him to not be ashamed to call us brethren!

In the name of Jesus we ask. Amen.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

ATTENTION TO TEACHING

ATTENTION TO TEACHING

Hebrews 2:1-4
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+2:1-4

Dear Father,

Help me to pay close attention to all of your teaching, lest I
drift away from it. How shall I escape if I neglect so great a
salvation?

Thank you for your message of hope. Thank you for the teaching of
repentance and the kingdom that was proclaimed by the Lord himself
and then passed on by his emissaries to the world, and then to my
generation, then to me.

Thank you for the signs, wonders, miracles, and gifts of the Holy
Spirit by which you bore witness to the truth of this message.

Father, let me live in the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus,
that wonderful Good News that you love us and want to make of us
your pure and holy children.

For this, Father, all praise, honor, glory and dominion belong to
you.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

AN HEIR OF HOPE

AN HEIR OF HOPE

Titus 3:4-15
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Titus+3:4-15

Dear Father,

Thank you that your goodness and loving kindness have appeared.
Thank you for saving me, not because of my righteous deeds, but in
virtue of your own mercy, totally undeserved, by the washing of
regeneration and the renewal of the Holy Spirit. You richly poured
it out on me through Jesus Christ, my Savior.

Thank you for doing all this so that I might be justified by your
grace and become an heir in hope of eternal life! Thank you that I
can be sure of all these things, because you said so.

Help me apply myself to good deeds, which are excellent and
profitable to me. Teach me to avoid stupid arguments that are
unprofitable and futile. Help me to be all that you want me to be!

May your grace continue with me and with all whose love arises in
faith.

In the name of Jesus, the all-wise and blessed Savior. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE:
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any
twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and
spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the
thoughts and intents of the heart.
-- Hebrews 4:12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+4:12&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
What is the greatest tool to repair the human heart? ... by-pass
surgery? ... angioplasty? ... artificial heart? ... transplant? How
about the Word of God? You see, while these other techniques can be
of great aid to the physical heart of people, God's tool for heart
surgery is his Word. This sharp scalpel can reach the soul and
spirit as well as being a physical blessing. So how much of your
heart are you offering to God and his powerful heart-healing tool
to touch? As you open God's Scripture, as you hear the message of
God preached, why not ask for the Holy Spirit's help to help you
understand, apply, and put into practice what is being taught?
Let's offer our hearts to the Great Physician to do his work in us!

PRAYER:
Holy God, I ask that as I open your Scriptures and hear your
Word preached and taught, that the Holy Spirit penetrate my heart
and convict me of sin, discomfort me in areas where I need growth,
and stir me in areas where I need motivation to be more like Jesus,
in whose name I pray. Amen.

THE WISDOM OF RESPECT

THE WISDOM OF RESPECT

Titus 3:1-3
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Titus+3:1-3

Dear Father,

Help me to have respect for rulers and authorities, to be
submissive and obedient.

Help me to be ready for any honest work, and to speak evil of no
one.

Help me to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect
courtesy to every one.

Help me not to be foolish, disobedient, or led astray. Help me not
to be a slave to various passions and pleasures, or to pass my days
in malice or envy, hating others or being hated by them.

In the name of Jesus, the all-wise and blessed Savior. Amen.

The Books of History

The Books of History
II Chronicles 6-10 Wednesday: Psalms 114-116
Thursday: Proverbs 26-27
Friday: Obadiah

2 Chronicles 6
1
Then said Solomon, The LORD hath said that he would dwell in the thick darkness.
2
But I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever.
3
And the king turned his face, and blessed the whole congregation of Israel: and all the congregation of Israel stood.
4
And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, who hath with his hands fulfilled that which he spake with his mouth to my father David, saying,
5
Since the day that I brought forth my people out of the land of Egypt I chose no city among all the tribes of Israel to build an house in, that my name might be there; neither chose I any man to be a ruler over my people Israel:
6
But I have chosen Jerusalem, that my name might be there; and have chosen David to be over my people Israel.
7
Now it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel.
8
But the LORD said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart:
9
Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house; but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins, he shall build the house for my name.
10
The LORD therefore hath performed his word that he hath spoken: for I am risen up in the room of David my father, and am set on the throne of Israel, as the LORD promised, and have built the house for the name of the LORD God of Israel.
11
And in it have I put the ark, wherein is the covenant of the LORD, that he made with the children of Israel.
12
And he stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands:
13
For Solomon had made a brasen scaffold of five cubits long, and five cubits broad, and three cubits high, and had set it in the midst of the court: and upon it he stood, and kneeled down upon his knees before all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven.
14
And said, O LORD God of Israel, there is no God like thee in the heaven, nor in the earth; which keepest covenant, and shewest mercy unto thy servants, that walk before thee with all their hearts:
15
Thou which hast kept with thy servant David my father that which thou hast promised him; and spakest with thy mouth, and hast fulfilled it with thine hand, as it is this day.
16
Now therefore, O LORD God of Israel, keep with thy servant David my father that which thou hast promised him, saying, There shall not fail thee a man in my sight to sit upon the throne of Israel; yet so that thy children take heed to their way to walk in my law, as thou hast walked before me.
17
Now then, O LORD God of Israel, let thy word be verified, which thou hast spoken unto thy servant David.
18
But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house which I have built!
19
Have respect therefore to the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O LORD my God, to hearken unto the cry and the prayer which thy servant prayeth before thee:
20
That thine eyes may be open upon this house day and night, upon the place whereof thou hast said that thou wouldest put thy name there; to hearken unto the prayer which thy servant prayeth toward this place.
21
Hearken therefore unto the supplications of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, which they shall make toward this place: hear thou from thy dwelling place, even from heaven; and when thou hearest, forgive.
22
If a man sin against his neighbour, and an oath be laid upon him to make him swear, and the oath come before thine altar in this house;
23
Then hear thou from heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, by requiting the wicked, by recompensing his way upon his own head; and by justifying the righteous, by giving him according to his righteousness.
24
And if thy people Israel be put to the worse before the enemy, because they have sinned against thee; and shall return and confess thy name, and pray and make supplication before thee in this house;
25
Then hear thou from the heavens, and forgive the sin of thy people Israel, and bring them again unto the land which thou gavest to them and to their fathers.
26
When the heaven is shut up, and there is no rain, because they have sinned against thee; yet if they pray toward this place, and confess thy name, and turn from their sin, when thou dost afflict them;
27
Then hear thou from heaven, and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, when thou hast taught them the good way, wherein they should walk; and send rain upon thy land, which thou hast given unto thy people for an inheritance.
28
If there be dearth in the land, if there be pestilence, if there be blasting, or mildew, locusts, or caterpillers; if their enemies besiege them in the cities of their land; whatsoever sore or whatsoever sickness there be:
29
Then what prayer or what supplication soever shall be made of any man, or of all thy people Israel, when every one shall know his own sore and his own grief, and shall spread forth his hands in this house:
30
Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according unto all his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou only knowest the hearts of the children of men:)
31
That they may fear thee, to walk in thy ways, so long as they live in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers.
32
Moreover concerning the stranger, which is not of thy people Israel, but is come from a far country for thy great name's sake, and thy mighty hand, and thy stretched out arm; if they come and pray in this house;
33
Then hear thou from the heavens, even from thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to thee for; that all people of the earth may know thy name, and fear thee, as doth thy people Israel, and may know that this house which I have built is called by thy name.
34
If thy people go out to war against their enemies by the way that thou shalt send them, and they pray unto thee toward this city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name;
35
Then hear thou from the heavens their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause.
36
If they sin against thee, (for there is no man which sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them over before their enemies, and they carry them away captives unto a land far off or near;
37
Yet if they bethink themselves in the land whither they are carried captive, and turn and pray unto thee in the land of their captivity, saying, We have sinned, we have done amiss, and have dealt wickedly;
38
If they return to thee with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their captivity, whither they have carried them captives, and pray toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, and toward the city which thou hast chosen, and toward the house which I have built for thy name:
39
Then hear thou from the heavens, even from thy dwelling place, their prayer and their supplications, and maintain their cause, and forgive thy people which have sinned against thee.
40
Now, my God, let, I beseech thee, thine eyes be open, and let thine ears be attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.
41
Now therefore arise, O LORD God, into thy resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let thy priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.
42
O LORD God, turn not away the face of thine anointed: remember the mercies of David thy servant.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


2 Chronicles 7
1
Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the LORD filled the house.
2
And the priests could not enter into the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD had filled the LORD's house.
3
And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the LORD upon the house, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.
4
Then the king and all the people offered sacrifices before the LORD.
5
And king Solomon offered a sacrifice of twenty and two thousand oxen, and an hundred and twenty thousand sheep: so the king and all the people dedicated the house of God.
6
And the priests waited on their offices: the Levites also with instruments of musick of the LORD, which David the king had made to praise the LORD, because his mercy endureth for ever, when David praised by their ministry; and the priests sounded trumpets before them, and all Israel stood.
7
Moreover Solomon hallowed the middle of the court that was before the house of the LORD: for there he offered burnt offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings, because the brasen altar which Solomon had made was not able to receive the burnt offerings, and the meat offerings, and the fat.
8
Also at the same time Solomon kept the feast seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt.
9
And in the eighth day they made a solemn assembly: for they kept the dedication of the altar seven days, and the feast seven days.
10
And on the three and twentieth day of the seventh month he sent the people away into their tents, glad and merry in heart for the goodness that the LORD had shewed unto David, and to Solomon, and to Israel his people.
11
Thus Solomon finished the house of the LORD, and the king's house: and all that came into Solomon's heart to make in the house of the LORD, and in his own house, he prosperously effected.
12
And the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice.
13
If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;
14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
15
Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.
16
For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.
17
And as for thee, if thou wilt walk before me, as David thy father walked, and do according to all that I have commanded thee, and shalt observe my statutes and my judgments;
18
Then will I stablish the throne of thy kingdom, according as I have covenanted with David thy father, saying, There shall not fail thee a man to be ruler in Israel.
19
But if ye turn away, and forsake my statutes and my commandments, which I have set before you, and shall go and serve other gods, and worship them;
20
Then will I pluck them up by the roots out of my land which I have given them; and this house, which I have sanctified for my name, will I cast out of my sight, and will make it to be a proverb and a byword among all nations.
21
And this house, which is high, shall be an astonishment to every one that passeth by it; so that he shall say, Why hath the LORD done thus unto this land, and unto this house?
22
And it shall be answered, Because they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, and laid hold on other gods, and worshipped them, and served them: therefore hath he brought all this evil upon them.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


2 Chronicles 8
1
And it came to pass at the end of twenty years, wherein Solomon had built the house of the LORD, and his own house,
2
That the cities which Huram had restored to Solomon, Solomon built them, and caused the children of Israel to dwell there.
3
And Solomon went to Hamathzobah, and prevailed against it.
4
And he built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the store cities, which he built in Hamath.
5
Also he built Bethhoron the upper, and Bethhoron the nether, fenced cities, with walls, gates, and bars;
6
And Baalath, and all the store cities that Solomon had, and all the chariot cities, and the cities of the horsemen, and all that Solomon desired to build in Jerusalem, and in Lebanon, and throughout all the land of his dominion.
7
As for all the people that were left of the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, which were not of Israel,
8
But of their children, who were left after them in the land, whom the children of Israel consumed not, them did Solomon make to pay tribute until this day.
9
But of the children of Israel did Solomon make no servants for his work; but they were men of war, and chief of his captains, and captains of his chariots and horsemen.
10
And these were the chief of king Solomon's officers, even two hundred and fifty, that bare rule over the people.
11
And Solomon brought up the daughter of Pharaoh out of the city of David unto the house that he had built for her: for he said, My wife shall not dwell in the house of David king of Israel, because the places are holy, whereunto the ark of the LORD hath come.
12
Then Solomon offered burnt offerings unto the LORD on the altar of the LORD, which he had built before the porch,
13
Even after a certain rate every day, offering according to the commandment of Moses, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts, three times in the year, even in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles.
14
And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the Levites to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded.
15
And they departed not from the commandment of the king unto the priests and Levites concerning any matter, or concerning the treasures.
16
Now all the work of Solomon was prepared unto the day of the foundation of the house of the LORD, and until it was finished. So the house of the LORD was perfected.
17
Then went Solomon to Eziongeber, and to Eloth, at the sea side in the land of Edom.
18
And Huram sent him by the hands of his servants ships, and servants that had knowledge of the sea; and they went with the servants of Solomon to Ophir, and took thence four hundred and fifty talents of gold, and brought them to king Solomon.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


2 Chronicles 9
1
And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to prove Solomon with hard questions at Jerusalem, with a very great company, and camels that bare spices, and gold in abundance, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart.
2
And Solomon told her all her questions: and there was nothing hid from Solomon which he told her not.
3
And when the queen of Sheba had seen the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built,
4
And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel; his cupbearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.
5
And she said to the king, It was a true report which I heard in mine own land of thine acts, and of thy wisdom:
6
Howbeit I believed not their words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the one half of the greatness of thy wisdom was not told me: for thou exceedest the fame that I heard.
7
Happy are thy men, and happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and hear thy wisdom.
8
Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee to set thee on his throne, to be king for the LORD thy God: because thy God loved Israel, to establish them for ever, therefore made he thee king over them, to do judgment and justice.
9
And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of spices great abundance, and precious stones: neither was there any such spice as the queen of Sheba gave king Solomon.
10
And the servants also of Huram, and the servants of Solomon, which brought gold from Ophir, brought algum trees and precious stones.
11
And the king made of the algum trees terraces to the house of the LORD, and to the king's palace, and harps and psalteries for singers: and there were none such seen before in the land of Judah.
12
And king Solomon gave to the queen of Sheba all her desire, whatsoever she asked, beside that which she had brought unto the king. So she turned, and went away to her own land, she and her servants.
13
Now the weight of gold that came to Solomon in one year was six hundred and threescore and six talents of gold;
14
Beside that which chapmen and merchants brought. And all the kings of Arabia and governors of the country brought gold and silver to Solomon.
15
And king Solomon made two hundred targets of beaten gold: six hundred shekels of beaten gold went to one target.
16
And three hundred shields made he of beaten gold: three hundred shekels of gold went to one shield. And the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon.
17
Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.
18
And there were six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, which were fastened to the throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the stays:
19
And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps. There was not the like made in any kingdom.
20
And all the drinking vessels of king Solomon were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold: none were of silver; it was not any thing accounted of in the days of Solomon.
21
For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.
22
And king Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.
23
And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart.
24
And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, harness, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.
25
And Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen; whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.
26
And he reigned over all the kings from the river even unto the land of the Philistines, and to the border of Egypt.
27
And the king made silver in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the low plains in abundance.
28
And they brought unto Solomon horses out of Egypt, and out of all lands.
29
Now the rest of the acts of Solomon, first and last, are they not written in the book of Nathan the prophet, and in the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Iddo the seer against Jeroboam the son of Nebat?
30
And Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel forty years.
31
And Solomon slept with his fathers, and he was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


2 Chronicles 10
1
And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for to Shechem were all Israel come to make him king.
2
And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was in Egypt, whither he fled from the presence of Solomon the king, heard it, that Jeroboam returned out of Egypt.
3
And they sent and called him. So Jeroboam and all Israel came and spake to Rehoboam, saying,
4
Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore ease thou somewhat the grievous servitude of thy father, and his heavy yoke that he put upon us, and we will serve thee.
5
And he said unto them, Come again unto me after three days. And the people departed.
6
And king Rehoboam took counsel with the old men that had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?
7
And they spake unto him, saying, If thou be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be thy servants for ever.
8
But he forsook the counsel which the old men gave him, and took counsel with the young men that were brought up with him, that stood before him.
9
And he said unto them, What advice give ye that we may return answer to this people, which have spoken to me, saying, Ease somewhat the yoke that thy father did put upon us?
10
And the young men that were brought up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou answer the people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it somewhat lighter for us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins.
11
For whereas my father put a heavy yoke upon you, I will put more to your yoke: my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.
12
So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam on the third day, as the king bade, saying, Come again to me on the third day.
13
And the king answered them roughly; and king Rehoboam forsook the counsel of the old men,
14
And answered them after the advice of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add thereto: my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.
15
So the king hearkened not unto the people: for the cause was of God, that the LORD might perform his word, which he spake by the hand of Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of Nebat.
16
And when all Israel saw that the king would not hearken unto them, the people answered the king, saying, What portion have we in David? and we have none inheritance in the son of Jesse: every man to your tents, O Israel: and now, David, see to thine own house. So all Israel went to their tents.
17
But as for the children of Israel that dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them.
18
Then king Rehoboam sent Hadoram that was over the tribute; and the children of Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. But king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.
19
And Israel rebelled against the house of David unto this day.

Friday, September 4, 2009

VERSE:

VERSE:
For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will
triumph in the works of thy hands.
-- Psalm 92:4
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+92:4&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Gaze into the heavens on a dark night and see the wonders of the
starry hosts. Think of the incredible diversity of earth's wonders.
Look at your own life and see the fingerprints of God's work in
your own experience (Rom. 8:28). As Jesus said, our Father is
working still (John 5:17). Yes, it does make us glad to know that
we are not alone in working our own life (Psalm 139; Phil. 2:13).
There is a deep-seated joy at knowing that the LORD, Creator of the
universe is at work in us and for us. No wonder singing praise is
such a natural response for us!

PRAYER:
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise you for power and glory revealed
in the majesty of your creation. I thank you for your work in
transforming and recreating me, as well. Please continue your
transforming work in me. Make me what you want me to be. In Jesus'
name. Amen.

Three Key Weapons of Spiritual Warfare

Three Key Weapons of Spiritual Warfare
Pastor Paula White
Many Christians often wonder why they are still struggling with a myriad of issues, although they have been saved and born again through Christ.
Why are so many of us are still living with illness and disease...addiction...fear and anxiety...depression...emotional scars...negative childhood memories...and more?
I have often said that it's not always what we're doing wrong - sometimes it's that we're not doing enough of what's right.
The fact is, in the natural world we live in, we will still have to struggle against many spiritual attacks, weaknesses of the flesh, and strongholds/negative mindsets. And during certain periods of difficulties we must use the extra defense, inspiration, and intervention that comes from the power of the Holy Spirit within.
In other words: to overcome certain barriers to our victory through Christ, we must be prepared to engage in spiritual warfare!
Jesus' Sermon on the Mount is filled with commands and strategies for achieving the victory He so dearly paid for.
In the sermon, there are three powerful keys for achieving victory through Christ - three eternally vital and life-transforming strategies for overcoming the challenges of life. Separately, I believe each is as important to the believer as eating or drinking. But combined together they cleanse, purify, and prepare the believer for battle -- and fill you to overflow with the power of God's Spirit.
Together, the three become spiritual weapons that will help you break generational curses, overcome bad habits and negative self-talk, and achieve the true freedom God intends for you.
The three keys that will prepare you to battle your obstacles through spiritual warfare are giving, prayer and fasting. These are not suggestions that we are given to follow -- Jesus makes it clear that God expects us to do these things by using the word "when":
• Jesus instructs us that we are to give love offerings (alms).
But WHEN thou doest alms...thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. Matthew 6:3 - 4
• Jesus instructs us that we are to pray.
And WHEN thou prayest...enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. Matthew 6:5 - 6
• Jesus instructs us that we are to fast.
Moreover WHEN ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance...and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. Matthew 6:16 - 18
When these three vital Christian principles are followed, together their combined power provides life-transforming "weapons" for engaging in spiritual warfare.
And even during periods of peace and tranquility, you will deeply benefit from engaging in a period of spiritual practice that combines these three acts.
By combining giving, prayer and fasting, you will pave the way to walking in the true freedom God intends for you. You will be equipped for spiritual warfare that will break every yoke and destroy every stronghold in your life!
Chose to live a victorious life in Jesus!

A PURE MIND

A PURE MIND

Titus 1:15-16
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Titus+1:15-16

Dear Father,

Let me have a pure mind, so that all things may be pure to me. For
to the corrupt and unbelieving, nothing is pure. Their minds and
consciences are corrupted, and professing to know you, they deny
you by their deeds. They are detestable and disobedient, unfit for
any good deed.

O God, I want to flee from all such behavior and be yours alone.
Guide my mind and keep my heart and move my body! Give me
salvation, sincerity, and selflessness.

In the holy name of Christ Jesus I ask it. Amen.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

VERSE:

VERSE:
I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy
name, O thou most High.
-- Psalm 9:2
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+9:2&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
When was the last time you made up a song? The last time you
made up a song of praise to God? Worried that you can't do it?
Don't think it will be good? Don't worry! your only audience is
your Abba Father who longs to hear your heart sing regardless of
your voice's perfection or your melody's tune. He wants to rejoice
and be glad with you. So open your heart and raise your voice to
praise your God.

PRAYER:
Holy and Merciful God Almighty, I praise you for the sun rising
and setting in glorious splendor. I praise you for the gift of
grace. I praise you for the miraculous preservation of your people,
even though they have repeatedly been under attack. I praise you
for sending Jesus, the Son of Abraham and the Son of David, my
Messiah and Lord. I praise you for raising him from the dead. I
praise you for your promise to send him back for your children. I
praise you for your work in my life. I praise, O LORD, and I am
glad to be your child. In Jesus' name I offer my praise. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE:
I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy
name, O thou most High.
-- Psalm 9:2
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+9:2&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
When was the last time you made up a song? The last time you
made up a song of praise to God? Worried that you can't do it?
Don't think it will be good? Don't worry! your only audience is
your Abba Father who longs to hear your heart sing regardless of
your voice's perfection or your melody's tune. He wants to rejoice
and be glad with you. So open your heart and raise your voice to
praise your God.

PRAYER:
Holy and Merciful God Almighty, I praise you for the sun rising
and setting in glorious splendor. I praise you for the gift of
grace. I praise you for the miraculous preservation of your people,
even though they have repeatedly been under attack. I praise you
for sending Jesus, the Son of Abraham and the Son of David, my
Messiah and Lord. I praise you for raising him from the dead. I
praise you for your promise to send him back for your children. I
praise you for your work in my life. I praise, O LORD, and I am
glad to be your child. In Jesus' name I offer my praise. Amen.

The Psalms

The Psalms
Psalms 111-113 Thursday: Proverbs 25
Friday: Amos 5-9
Saturday: John 19-21

Psalms 111
1
Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
2
The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.
3
His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
4
He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.
5
He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
6
He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.
7
The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure.
8
They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.
9
He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.
10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.



Psalms 112
1
Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.
2
His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
3
Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
4
Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
5
A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.
6
Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.
7
He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.
8
His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.
9
He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.
10
The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.



Psalms 113
1
Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.
2
Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.
3
From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD's name is to be praised.
4
The LORD is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens.
5
Who is like unto the LORD our God, who dwelleth on high,
6
Who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth!
7
He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill;
8
That he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people.
9
He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD.

FURTHERING THE FAITH

FURTHERING THE FAITH

Titus 1:1-9
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Titus+1:1-9

Dear Father, the God who never lies,

Grant that my life will further the faith of your chosen people
and increase their knowledge of the truth that accords with
godliness, in hope of eternal life which you promised ages ago and
at the proper time manifested through the preaching of your word.

May the leaders of your people be blameless, good stewards of the
responsibility which you give them. May they hold firmly to your
sure word as taught by your apostles. May they love and demonstrate
everything that is good, and by word and deed refute the advocates
of evil.

In the name of Jesus I ask. Amen.

Become Uncivilized

Become Uncivilized
Milan Ford
It is very rare to encounter any one my age or older that was not a huge fan of the Rocky movie series growing up. The popular boxing saga starring Sylvester Stallone, consisted of six films over the span of thirty years. Although many would agree that the last few installments weren't exactly fan favorites, the first three films were truly awe inspiring. My favorite of all the films by far was Rocky III.Now just in case there may be someone reading this that has lived on the planet Mars for most of their life, and did not see that movie, here's a brief summary:Rocky Balboa, a once struggling Italian boxer from Philadelphia, who used to work in a meat factory and serve as a debt collector for a city crime boss, has recently been given a shot to compete for the boxing heavyweight championship of the world by Apollo Creed, the champion at the time. As the ultimate underdog, Rocky Balboa shocks the world and defeats Apollo Creed after only two attempts.And now, with newfound fame and riches, Rocky Balboa sets out to defend his title as the new world champion. For three years, Balboa successfully defends his title without very little effort. But then (insert suspenseful music here) Clubber Lang appears on the scene.Lang, a flamboyant and powerful boxer in his own right, has become the No. 1 contender, and has issued a challenge to Rocky Balboa to compete for the crown. Just as Rocky prepares to accept Lang's challenge, Rocky's trainer, manager, and mentor, Mickey Goldmill, stuns Rocky when he tells him that he should not accept the challenge.Despite Rocky's ability to defend his title successfully in the past, Mickey explains in the quotation below why this new challenge would result in a tragic defeat."...the worst thing happened (to you) that could have happened to any fighter - you got civilized."I just love that quote.Simply because as it relates to matters of faith and our individual pursuits of God's purpose in our lives, the worst thing you and I can ever become as believers is civilized.Now I realize that this may come as a slight surprise since we tend to use the word civilized as something we should encourage others to aspire to, but when it comes to the many obstacles you and I must face in this life, obstacles that we must fight and conquer, a civilized faith and posture in God will result in defeat time after time.According to Webster's definition, the world civilized means to be easy to manage or control; to bring out of a primitive state; to be marked by refinement in taste and manners; to become cultured.Do you remember when you first became a follower of Christ? There was absolutely nothing on earth that could stop or derail you from your relationship with God.No co-worker.
No family member.
No crazy church usher.
No job layoff.
No credit report.
Not even the devil himself could distract you from the good fight of faith.But after a few rounds in the ring of life, after knocking out a few goals and competitors off our list, and after hearing the roaring sound of applause over the years, many of us have become civilized and settled in a pattern of faith that will no longer yield us the victory we are looking for now.This quest for civilization and normalcy in our lives has unfortunately plagued many of our churches as well, causing our gatherings on Sunday morning to often be filled with retired fighters longing for a glimpse of their glory days, rather than of hungry, uncivilized believers of God, ready to knock down the very gates of hell.Today, there is very little reason to ring the fight bell, because very few believers today want to fight any more. In fact, very few even want the training necessary to win.Today, I pray you will become the exception to the rule. The world is waiting ringside to see what authentic, committed, and uncivilized faith in God really looks like.So, if you're up to the challenge, but just in need a little inspiration to get you started,
I believe I have just the thing for you.Click here and listen.Now, let's get ready to rumble!!
(Sorry, I've always wanted to say that!)