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Showing posts from August, 2011

What Do You Say?

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21 (NKJ) Death and life are in they power of your tongue. By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth (Psalm 33:6). When we speak a word, we are either blessing or cursing. Our positive words release life and negative words bring death. Proverbs 12:25, (NKJ) says a good word makes the heart of a man glad. May we speak words of life and blessing to those within the sound of our voices.

Surrounded by His Unfailing Love

Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him. Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart! Psalm 32:10-11 (NIV) Rejoice in the LORD and be glad! Those who trust in the Most High, are surrounded by His great unfailing love. His unfailing love for us will not be shaken. It's an everlasting love! His unfailing love, is our support and comfort. It preserves our lives. Live in reliance on the faithful love of our heavenly Father.

Return to Your Father's House

So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. Luke 15:20 (NIV) The prodigal son took his share of his father's estate and wasted it all on a wild lifestyle, far away from home. When he came to his senses, he returned to his father's house. If you have strayed away from our heavenly Father, return home, the place where His glory dwells. You are His child and He longs to embrace you and surround you with His love and compassion. The father of the prodigal son put the best robe on him. He had a ring put on his finger and sandals on his feet. He celebrated with a feast. Our heavenly Father will rejoice over you.

The Best Pathway

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Psalm 32:8 (NLT) We all want the best for ourselves, our spouse, children, family and friends. Our Father, God says, the path He puts us on, is the best one for us. Let us follow, as He instructs us and teaches us the way to go. The good plans the LORD has for you are to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Do not lean on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do.

Let the Faithful Pray

Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:6-7 (NIV) Let all the faithful saints of God continually pray. The prayer of a righteous person avails much. When the floodwaters come, you will be on higher ground. Our heavenly Father is our hiding place. He protects us from trouble and surrounds us with joyous songs of victory. Hallelujah!

A Forgiving God

But you are a forgiving God, one who is compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive. Nehemiah 9:17 (GW) Our heavenly Father is a forgiving God. He does not hold grudges. When we confess our sins, He removes them from us, as far as the east is from the west. Because of His endless compassion, God never abandons His children. He is full of mercy and patience. He is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Amen.

The Secret to Success

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8 (NIV) Many books have been written on success, but our heavenly Father revealed the secret to success long ago, in His wonderful Word. God says when we meditate on His Word day and night and do everything that is written in it, we will be prosperous and successful. He instructs us to talk about His truth, always. Proverbs 7:1 says to treasure His commands within us. Proverbs 7:3 says to write them on the tablet of your heart. When we are careful to obey the LORD's instruction we will be successful wherever we go (Joshua 1:7). Amen.

This Good Work in You

I’m convinced that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it through to completion on the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 (GW) We were created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). Our heavenly Father began a good work in you, and He is faithful to carry it through to completion. For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose (Philippians 2:13). Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9).

Be Strong & Courageous!

Love the LORD , all you godly ones! For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD! Psalm 31:23-24 (NLT) Let us love the LORD, with all our hearts, minds, souls and strength! The LORD preserves the faithful. Keep your hope in the LORD. Don't be arrogant and try to do life without God. Be strong and courageous, as you fight the good fight of faith. Remember, the righteous are as bold as a lion (Proverbs 28:1).

Good Things Stored Up

How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you. In the shelter of your presence you hide them from all human intrigues; you keep them safe in your dwelling from accusing tongues. Psalm 31:19-20 (NIV) Our heavenly Father has an abundance of good things stored up for those who fear Him, an endless supply. He lavishes His goodness on those who abide in Him, blessing them in the sight of all. In His Presence, we are hidden from the schemes of man. In His shelter, we are safe from tongues that speak against us. May we honor God in all that we do and dwell in the shelter of His Presence.

The LORD Knows

I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy. You have seen my misery. You have known the troubles in my soul. Psalm 31:7 (GW) The LORD knows the troubles of your soul. And He says, “In the world you’ll have trouble. But cheer up! I have overcome the world.” In Psalm 91:15, our heavenly Father says, “I will be with you in trouble, and I will deliver and honor you.” Let your soul be in peace and call on the LORD who is full of lovingkindness and rich in mercy.

Rejoice in the Morning!

Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. Psalm 30:4-5 (NIV) We may cry our eyes out, in the night, but let us rejoice in the morning that we are alive to see the dawn of a new day. It is a sign that we have received brand new compassions from our heavenly Father. We can be joyful knowing that His wonderful favor rests upon us. Praise the LORD!

A Greater Power

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. 2 Chronicles 32:7-9 (NIV) King Hezekiah encouraged his troops with these words. We too can be strong and courageous because we have a greater power with us, the LORD our God. The battle is not yours, but God’s (2 Chronicles 20:15). Do what God calls you to do and rely on Him for the rest. Our heavenly Father helps us and causes us to be victorious. Be confident of this.

Power & Peace

The LORD sat enthroned over the flood. The LORD sits enthroned as king forever. The LORD will give power to his people. The LORD will bless his people with peace. Psalm 29:10-11 (GW) The LORD gives power to His people and blesses us with peace. God has given us a spirit of power, love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). And He is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think (Ephesians 4:20). Our heavenly Father gives us a peace, which surpasses all understanding. His peace will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Praise God for His provision of peace and power! Amen.

Our Strength and Shield

Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:6-7 (NIV) Just like a mother is attentive to the cry of her newborn baby, the ears of the LORD are always open to hear the cries of His children. Our mighty God is the source of our strength. He is a protective shield around us. We can completely trust our heavenly Father to help us work through the challenges we face. Sing praise to the LORD and let your heart be filled with joy!

Success in Serving

He dedicated his life to serving God in the days of Zechariah, who taught him to fear God. As long as he dedicated his life to serving the LORD, the LORD gave him success. 2 Chronicles 26:5 (GW) As long as King Uzziah dedicated his life to serving the LORD, he experienced success. May we dedicate ourselves to serving the LORD everywhere we go, whether it is working in the home, in the workplace or in the church. Seek God's guidance in every situation and He will give you success.

Keep Believing!

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD! Psalm 27:13-14 (NKJ) Jesus came that we may have life, and that we may have it more abundantly (John 10:10), a rich, satisfying life (NLT). Even if you cannot see the good in your current situation, keep believing that you will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. He will work everything together for good to those who love God, and have been called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Surely His goodness and love follows you all the days of your life (Psalm 23:6). Be of good courage.

Whom Shall I Fear?

The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 (NKJ) The light of the LORD shows us the way. When we walk with our heavenly Father, there is no need to fear. With God on our side, who can stand against us? He is a strong fortress of protection and the strength of our lives. Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the LORD is safe and set on high (Proverbs 29:25).

Walk in the Light of His Truth

Examine me, O Lord, and test me. Look closely into my heart and mind. I see your mercy in front of me. I walk in the light of your truth. Psalm 26:2-3 (GW) Darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining (1 John 2:8). Let us walk in the light, as our heavenly Father is in the light (1 John 1:7). In the light, we have abundant life, peace and joy. In the light of God’s truth, there is freedom and forgiveness. Live as children of light.

He is Good!

Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of his covenant. Psalm 25:8-10 (NIV) The LORD is good all the time! He does what is right and shows those who go astray the way they should live. God guides the humble to walk in His ways. Our heavenly Father is loving and faithful to those who follow Him. The LORD is forever faithful in all His promises. His word will not return to Him empty, but will accomplish the purpose for which He sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

Love is Key & Essential

I may have the gift to speak what God has revealed, and I may understand all mysteries and have all knowledge. I may even have enough faith to move mountains. But if I don’t have love, I am nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:2 (GW) As children of God we are to love our heavenly Father with all our heart, mind and soul and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. We are even called to love our enemies. Without love we are nothing. When we love someone, we simply enjoy being in their presence. Those who love God, delight themselves in His Presence. They desire His Presence more than the gifts He gives. Those who love their neighbors, love the frustrating boss, and the co-worker who offends. Unconditional love causes you to forgive the spouse who disappoints and the disobedient child. Love extends a helping hand to those in need. Let love be your guiding force.

In Whom Do You Trust?

In you, LORD my God, I put my trust. I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. Psalm 25:1-3 (NIV) Are you trusting in man, the strength of your flesh, or in God? David establishes right up front that he put his trust in the LORD and God consistently gave him victory over his enemies. When you trust in our heavenly Father, you put more faith in His Word than any bad report you receive. His Word tells us God will see us through whatever storms may come. No one who keeps their hope in the LORD will be disappointed. In Him, we already have the victory!

A Loyal Heart

“As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever. 1 Chronicles 28:9 (NKJ) These are some of the final words that King David speaks to his son, Solomon as he makes him king and they are words of wisdom to us as well. May we acknowledge our heavenly Father in all that we do and get to know Him well. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). Let us serve Him with loyal hearts and willing minds, as we seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Cherish the Lord with all your heart, mind and soul.

Goodness & Mercy

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever. Psalm 23:6 (NKJ) The use of the word "surely" should erase any doubt. We can be certain that goodness and mercy follows us everyday of our lives. The LORD says, “My people shall be satisfied with My goodness,” (Jeremiah 31:14). God is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:4) and His mercy endures forever (Psalm 136:2)! Delight yourself in the great goodness and abundant mercy of our heavenly Father. Abide in His Presence always.

Live in Peace

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15 (NIV) Followers of Jesus Christ are called to live in peace with everyone. Let His peace rule in your hearts and minds. As God's children, we have an unlimited source of peace. Refuse to worry about anything. Don't stir up strife. Instead, cast all your cares on Him. Extend grace to others as God has been very gracious to you. Live in the continuous flow of God's peace!

Never in Need

The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Psalm 23:1-3 (GW) As we abide in the LORD, we are never in need. He is the God of "more than enough!" The LORD, our God, is El Shaddai, the Benevolent Blesser. He pours out His love, grace, peace and joy in abundance. All we have to do is ask for wisdom and He generously gives it. Our heavenly Father supplies all our needs in every area of life, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). Thank You LORD!

Rise Up & Stand Firm

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.. Psalm 20:7-8 (NIV) Trust in the name of the LORD. Greater is He, who dwells in us than he who is in the world. Nothing is too difficult for our God. We are the victorious ones. We triumph over our enemy by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11). Amen!

Revive Your Soul!

The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living. Psalm 19:7-8 (NLT) Do you need some insight for living a joyful, productive and peaceful life? Give attention to the Word of God. The teachings of the LORD are perfect and will revive your soul. We can trust the instructions of our heavenly Father to point us in the right direction and make us wise. Obedience to His commands brings joy to our hearts. We not only survive, we thrive when we align our lives with the principles of God's Word. Amen.

Darkness to Light

You, LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. Psalm 18:28-29 (NIV) God changes our darkness into light. He is a God of transformation. The LORD makes us strong in our weakness. He turns our mourning into gladness and gives us comfort and joy in place of sorrow. In Christ, He does away with the old and we become new creations. Those doomed to death receive eternal life. He heals the sick and gives direction to the lost. Praise God for the power of change.

A Private Audience!

A hostile world! I call to God, I cry to God to help me. From his palace he hears my call; my cry brings me right into his presence— a private audience! Psalm 18:6 (The Message) We have a private audience with the LORD, our God. Your Creator has His eye on you. Our heavenly Father watches over you for good, not harm. His ear is attuned to our voices. He hears your call from His throne room. Your cry brings you right into His glorious Presence. Approach His throne of grace with confidence, in order to receive mercy and find grace to help you in your time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

My Strength, Savior & Shield

I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my Savior, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the strength of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:1-2 (GW) Our heavenly Father is an endless source of strength. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak (Isaiah 40:29). Praise God! We can do all things through Him who gives us strength (Philippians 4:13). Our God is Savior. With His saving power, He delivers us out of our troubles. He saves us from the flames of hell by offering the gift of eternal life through His Son, Jesus. The LORD is our shield. In the shadow of His wings, He protects us and keeps us safe. In our heavenly Father, we have everything we need. Glory hallelujah!