Manna for Your Morning

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. 
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! — Proverbs 3:5-8 (MSG) In our hearts, we may make our plans, but remember, it is the LORD who establishes and directs our steps. (Proverbs 16:9) In the coming year, may we listen for God’s voice and follow through with the action He is calling us to take. Not our will, but His be done. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are His ways higher than our ways, and His thoughts than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9).

The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. — Psalms 97:5 (NKJV) Which do you think is greater, your problems or the Presence of God? Let's not be so focused on our problems. Instead, may we gain a greater awareness of God's presence in our lives. Let us surrender our hearts, minds and mouths to the power of His Holy Spirit within us. Nothing can stop us, with God on our side. Continually come before His presence with thanksgiving (Psalms 95:2). He will show us the path of life; In His presence is fullness of joy; at His right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalms 16:11). What fuller lives we could live if we just learn to enjoy the Presence of Almighty God as we go about our day, regardless of the circumstances around us.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. — Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) Instead of focusing on the bad reports and negative news, let’s fix our minds on the good report. Jesus is the truth (John 14:6); anything that contradicts Jesus is a lie. Fill your minds with things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Where your mind goes, your emotions and will tend to follow.

It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night, — Psalm 92:1-2 (NKJV) Let us declare the faithfulness of God every night. He pours out new compassions and mercies on us each morning and faithfully brings us through each day. Psalm 139:17-18 says, “ How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You.”  God is faithful! Morning , noon and night, He is with you!

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. — Ephesians 3:20 (NLT) If we want infinitely more, exceedingly abundantly above (NKJV), or superabundantly, far over and above (AMP), we must allow God’s Holy Spirit to work in us and through us. We need to surrender, submit and cooperate with the Holy Spirit and then we will see His mighty power manifest in our lives. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6, NKJV).

Just as Death and Destruction are never satisfied,  so human desire is never satisfied. — Proverbs 27:20 (NLT) Now that the anticipation and excitement of Christmas Day 2013 has come and gone, we may look back and say, “if only...” The natural inclination of human desire is to want more. Let us be thankful and appreciative for the time we shared, the gifts that were exchanged, etc. In Philippians 4:11, the Apostle Paul says, he learned to be content in whatever state. May we do likewise.

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. — Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) The fullness of time has already come. Now is the the time of salvation. Now is the time of deliverance. Jesus was sent to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound (Isaiah 61:1b). This Good News is to be proclaimed all over the world, to all people. JESUS is the greatest and most perfect gift anyone can receive!

Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.   — Psalm 37:5 (NLT)  Thoughts from my fourth hike: From the view at the beginning of this hike, it was obvious that it was a steep, uphill climb. It took courage to even start this hike, but once on the path, I stayed committed to complete the course. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we commit to follow Him. Sometimes we encounter a lot of uphill battles, but stay committed to Jesus. In difficult situations, remember to always pray and NEVER give up! (Luke 18:1, NLT) At the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint (Galatians 6:9b, AMP). The view from the top is sweet! The view from the top!

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. — Psalm 119:105 (NKJV) At night, the bright light given by a lighthouse is used to guide ships safely into port and it also warns them of danger, things they cannot see in the darkness. In like manner, God’s Word is a lamp we can use to guide our feet. It lights up our path and warns us of the dangers of traveling on the wrong paths. Follow the light of the Word!

I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. — Psalms 16:8-9 (NKJV) Keep the LORD before you in all that you do, and you can rest in hope. With God by your side, nothing on this earth can move you. Our God is greater and above all! Let your heart be glad, because He always leads us in triumph (victory & success) in Christ. (2 Corinthians 2:14) Amen!

For we walk by faith, not by sight. — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV) A thought from my hike yesterday: I could not always see the top of the mountain, but I continued to take each step, looking as far ahead as possible. Eventually, we reached our goal, the mountaintop. As we journey through life, we may not be able to see the destination God has in mind, with our eyes. But if we take each step, as He directs, with faith, He will guide us to our desired destination. The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day (Proverbs 4:18, NIV). Keep walking by faith, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

Attention, all! See the marvels of God! He plants flowers and trees all over the earth,
 bans war from pole to pole, breaks all the weapons across his knee. “Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything.” — Psalm 46:8-10 (The Message) Simply put, be still and recognize that He is God. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse (Romans 1:20, NIV). Remember now your Creator, the One who formed you in your mother's womb. Above all, He is God!

Stay on the path that the LORD your God has commanded you to follow. Then you will live long and prosperous lives in the land you are about to enter and occupy. — Deuteronomy 5:33 (NLT) Yesterday, on a hike, I was reminded of the importance of staying on the path. For us to stray off the path would have meant time spent wandering in the wilderness or we could have fell off the cliff to our own destruction. Much the same results we get when we stray off the path of life God has placed before each one of us. Proverbs 23:19 (NIV) instructs us to set our hearts on the right path. The Amplified version says, direct your mind in the way [of the Lord]. As long as we seek His will in all we do, He will show us which path to take (Proverbs 3:6, NLT). He does not fail to guide us along on our path. On our hike, we encountered muddy puddles, big rocks and steep hills. His path may lead us through some adverse winds and floodwaters but He will always make a way for us, through it all. (Isaiah...

When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was . — Matthew 2:9 (NKJV) The wise men followed the star and it led them to Jesus. May we keep our eyes on Jesus, the Light of the world (John 8:12) and follow His ways. As believers, we are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14a). Let us do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that we may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then we will shine among them like stars in the sky (Philippians 2:14-15, NIV)!

For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace. — Isaiah 9:6 (AMP) Jesus is all you will ever need. He is our Wonderful Counselor. Open up and confide in Him about the concerns of your heart, because He cares for you. He is our Mighty God. Nothing is too difficult for Him. No mountain is too high and no valley is too low. Jesus is the Everlasting Father. He watches over us and takes care of us. He is the Prince of Peace. Jesus has given us His peace. He does not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27). Call upon His Name!

 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. — John 1:6-9 (NKJV) We also have been sent from God. May we, like John, live our lives in such a way that others may see our witness by our behavior, as well as hear it by the words that come out of our mouths. We can only do this by having the same mindset John had in John 3:30, where he says, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” Let Christ increase in our hearts and minds that we might bear witness of Him to a world that desperately needs to know Him.

Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren.  — Luke 1:36 (NKJV) What area of your life has the enemy called barren? Don’t listen to the lies of the enemy. Our God is a turn around God; He turns situations, circumstances and conditions around. Where there is darkness, He brings light. Where there is sickness and disease, the Sun of Righteousness arises with healing in His wings (Malachi 4:2). Where there is death, He brings resurrection power. Your story is not over yet. Keep believing God for your miracle! For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment (Luke 1:37, AMP).

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?” — Matthew 2:1-2a (NKJV) The wise men were looking for Jesus. Who or what are you searching for today? Is your heart longing for more of Jesus? In Jeremiah 29:13, the LORD says, “you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” If you are seeking Jesus, take comfort in knowing that Jesus is near. In Revelation 3:20, He says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” Come, dine with the King!

“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” — Matthew 2:2 (NAS)  When the wise men saw Jesus, they fell down and worshiped Him (Matthew 2:11). Does Jesus sit on the throne of your heart as King? Is He the ruling authority in your life? Let us be sure to worship Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 17:14). He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, He who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8). Glory Hallelujah!

Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. — Matthew 1:19 (NIV) After Joseph considered divorcing Mary secretly, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20). When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife (Matthew 1:24). As a faithful man, Joseph was willing to allow his love to be a covering for Mary. He did not want to publicly shame or disgrace her. And even though he did not necessarily understand the situation, he obeyed God. Will you be a faithful man or woman of God and totally trust Him enough to just obey Him, when you situations in your life just don’t make sense? Will you keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins? (1 Peter 4:...

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” — Matthew 1:23 (NKJV) No matter what we go through in this life, our comfort is that God is with us. He promises never to cut us off from His Presence. He hides those who trust in Him in the secret place of His presence from the plots of man (Psalm 31:20). When you are going forward on the path the LORD has for you, “Go in peace. The presence of the LORD be with you on your way,” (Judges 18:6). When the enemy tries to steal your joy, remember: In His presence alone, is fullness of joy! (Psalm 16:11)

“A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.” — Luke 2:32 (NKJV) Jesus is the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world (John 1:9). Light reveals things and Jesus revealed the love God has for all people, and nothing can separate us from His great love. Matthew 4:16a (AMP) says, the people who sat (dwelt enveloped) in darkness have seen a great Light. Don't sit under that dark cloud of depression, doubt or hopelessness. Come into the Light, bask in His love, and enjoy the abundant life He came to give us. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” — Luke 1:34 (NKJV) When the angel told Mary she would conceive in her womb and bring forth a Son, her first response was to ask how. When we are presented with difficult situations, that seem impossible, our first inclination may be to ask God, how He is going to work it out. Sometimes, we even wonder when? When is that promise going to manifest in our lives. What is more important than knowing how or when is knowing WHO. We serve a great big God and nothing is too difficult for Him. With our God, the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the gospel preached to them (Luke 7:22). For with God nothing will be impossible (Luke 1:37). Amen!

And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. — Luke 2:21 (NKJV) Before you were conceived in the womb of your mother, God knew you, by name. His eyes saw your unformed body (Psalm 139:16a, NIV). Our heavenly Father created you in His image, with a plan and a purpose for your life. All the days ordained for you were written in His book before one of them came to be (Psalm 139:16b, NIV). Listen to the desires and dreams delivered to your heart by God, and fulfill your God-given destiny. Live in the full potential of all God created you to be! Mount up with wings like an eagle and soar toward your calling. As you keep your eyes on the Master, He will show you the way. But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. —I saiah 40:31 (NKJV)

And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; — Luke 1:31-32a (NAS) JESUS is great! God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). The government will rest on His shoulders. And His kingdom will have no end (Luke 1:33).  He is called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Whatever you are battling today, the name of Jesus is higher and more powerful. His name carries more weight. Keep your eyes on Jesus and you have the victory! Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness (Psalm 29:2, NKJV)!

And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” — Luke 1:28 (NKJV) We are highly favored and blessed because the Lord is with us. He forgives all our sins and heals all our diseases. He redeems our lives from the pit and crowns us with love and compassion. He satisfies our desires with good things so that our youth is renewed like the eagle’s (Psalms 103:3-5, NIV). See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3:1a, NIV) His unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth (Psalms 103:11, NLT). Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, all the days God gives you!

 ...that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. — Ephesians 2:12 (NKJV) Twenty-four years ago, my life was a mess and there was absolutely not an ounce of hope within me. But I thank God, for two co-workers who were faithful women of God. On Dec 5, 1989, they witnessed to me about the love and forgiveness God gives each and every one of us through Jesus Christ. That very day, God opened my eyes, to see Him and I opened the door of my heart and let Him in. That was truly the best day of my life. During my 24 year journey, the road has not always been easy, but I praise God that He has brought me this far! Let us always be His witnesses on our jobs, in our families and in our neighborhoods. There are many more, people in our world who are hurting, hopeless and without God.  And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to ev...

Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. — Luke 1:30-31 (NKJV)  You, my beloved, have found favor with God. May you continue to believe the wonderful promises God has spoken to you beyond the point of their conception in your heart. Just as Mary continued to carry the Baby within her until the days were completed for her to deliver, we have to carry our seed of promise and regularly nurture it with the Word of God. Once it is fully developed, we have to endure the pains of labor and keep pushing on until the time of delivery. Then comes that appointed time, when that which is conceived in us is birthed into reality. Amen and Hallelujah!

“Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” — Luke 1:45 (NKJV)  When the angel Gabriel told Mary she would conceive and bring forth a Son, the Holy One who is to be called the Son of God, Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word,” (Luke 1:38). Believe that the Lord will fulfill every promise He has spoken to you. It will be as the Israelites experienced in Joshua 21:45, not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass. Only believe!

God himself put it this way: “I’ll live in them, move into them; I’ll be their God and they’ll be my people. So leave the corruption and compromise; leave it for good,” says God.
“Don’t link up with those who will pollute you. I want you all for myself.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16-17 (The Message) If we live in the land of compromise, we are standing on middle ground, and in danger of being lukewarm. In Revelation 3:16, God says, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. As children of God, we are not supposed to succumb to the ways of this world. Instead, we are to let the light of His love and grace shine so brightly through us, that we light up the darkness that is in the world. Live as children of light (Ephesians 5:8)!

I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation. — 2 Corinthians 7:4b (NKJV) The Apostle Paul was beaten with rods three times, stoned, shipwrecked, in perils (serious and immediate danger) of waters, in perils of robbers, his own countrymen, and the Gentiles, in perils in the city, the wilderness, and the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness (2 Corinthians 11:24-27). Yet, in all these things, the Apostle Paul says he was exceedingly joyful. This shows, that our joy is not a matter of having the right circumstances in our lives. Our joy comes from knowing Who our God is and that He is able. Nothing is too difficult for Him. Our joy comes from knowing who we are. We are sons and daughters of the Most High God. He chose us and accepted us into His family. We can hold onto our joy, knowing that no matter what trials come, they will also pass, and God ...

We don’t give people any opportunity to find fault with how we serve. Instead, our lives demonstrate that we are God’s servants. We have endured many things: suffering, distress, anxiety, beatings, imprisonments, riots, hard work, sleepless nights, and lack of food. People can see our purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives, our sincere love, — 2 Corinthians 6:3-6 (GW) Like the Apostle Paul, we must endure some things in this life, but let us also maintain a good witness before all. Hebrews 12:1 says we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Let our lives reflect the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. May sincere love and genuine kindness be the source of everything we do and every word that comes out of our mouths. We are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing His Kingdom on the earth. Let's serve with distinction!

As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. — 2 Corinthians 6:1 (NIV) The word vain means to produce no result or to have no meaning. Let us not take the goodness of God for granted. In Him, we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). Pastor Matt Pollock has described grace as having everything you need, when you need it. God’s provision is not for us to just sit back and grow spiritually fat. His grace has a higher purpose. He equips us that we might fulfill the call of God in our lives. Having received God’s grace, let us engage in an active pursuit of completing the mission we have received from God and focus on fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Amen!

As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16b (NKJV) I am so thankful that our God dwells IN us and walks among us. When tragedy strikes, He is there. God gives us the strength and courage to open our eyes and face another day. When you receive that bad report from the doctor’s office, He is there. When your spouse walks out on you, God is in you, never to abandon you. When your loved one passes, God is in your midst. Whether you are dealing with depression, alcoholism, or drug addiction, God is there with the Power to break the chains that imprison us. He is our strength. Never underestimate the POWER of His PRESENCE. It breaks the yokes and raises the dead. In His Presence, there is power to heal and sins are forgiven. There is nothing too hard for Him (Jeremiah 32:17). Mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, (Psalm 97:5). No flesh should glory in His presence (1 Corinthians 1:29)....

For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation. — 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NLT) Now is the time of God’s favor (2 Corinthians 6:2, NIV). Regardless of what has happened in the past, now is just the right time for you to seek God’s help. He hears you now! Whenever you need Him, He is always there. Now is the day of salvation. NOW is the time! Let’s share the Good News with others, who also need God’s help.

...when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears. Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, — 2 Corinthians 7:5-6 (NKJV) If you are troubled on every side today, know that in spite of your circumstances, you have the God of all comfort standing by your side. He comforts us in all our tribulation (2 Corinthians 1:4). His perfect love casts out fear, (1 John 4:18). The God of peace will speak peace to any conflict that has been stirred up against you. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday (Psalm 37:6).

We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. — 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NLT) Never believe the lies of the enemy when he says, you are insignificant and don’t matter to God. As a child of God, you have a great and precious treasure inside: Jesus! He chose to live in you. God wants to use you on this earth, to do great things for His kingdom. May we continually submit to His wonder-working power which is at work in us.

And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16 (NKJV) Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? (1 Corinthians 3:16) As we continually hold in the forefront of our minds that God dwells in us and our bodies are His temple, I think we will be less likely to abuse our bodies with unhealthy or unholy habits. Therefore “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18) As offspring of Almighty God, our speech and behavior should resemble His and not the world. Since we have the promise of His constant Presence, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spi...

O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open. — 2 Corinthians 6:11-13 God’s heart is wide open to us. He has freely spoken to us. God has opened the floodgates of heaven, to His abundant blessings, and prosperity, but we stand on the other side of the gate pushing against it, preventing it from opening, because we are resisting God and what He wants to do in our lives. Release your concerns. Abandon yourself to Abba Father. Surrender all to Him and let the floodgates open. Submit to His will and His Holy Spirit within. Always respond to God with your heart wide open.

And they have overcome (conquered) him by means of the blood of the Lamb and by the utterance of their testimony, for they did not love and cling to life even when faced with death... — Revelation 12:11 (AMP) We overcome the devil, who deceives the whole world (Revelation 12:9), by the precious blood of Jesus and by the words we utter out of our mouths. Our tongues have the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21). Choose to speak words of life. Tell others about the goodness of God and what He has done in your life. We conquer the lies and deception of Satan as we speak truth: the Word of God. In Deuteronomy 6:7, God’s people were instructed to talk about the Word when they sit in their homes, when they walk by the way, when they lie down and when they rise up. We overcome the works of our enemy by continually speaking God’s Word and sharing our testimonies.

Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. — 1 Corinthians 15:8 (NKJV) There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NAS). The Apostle Paul, persecuted the church of God, until the appointed time: that day on the road to Damascus, when the Lord opened his eyes to see the light of the truth (Acts 9). In due time, Sarah gave birth to the child of promise. What might you give birth to, in due time?  Do not grow weary in doing well. Passionately pursue your dreams, and in due time you will see the fruit of your labor.

But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15 (NLT) Every day we make all kinds of choices: what to wear?, what to eat?, etc. But the most important choice we make daily is whether to walk with God, or go along with the ways of the world. Choose wisely. You cannot drink from the cup of the Lord and from the cup of demons, too. You cannot eat at the Lord’s table and at the table of demons, too (1 Corinthians 10:21). Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him (1 John 2:15). Choose today whom you will serve.

 Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being. — 1 Corinthians 10:24 (NKJV) Don’t buy into the hype of the iPhone, iPad, iPod and other iProducts. It’s not all about you. The “I” should  not  be first. You will experience true JOY in life when you put J esus first, O thers (spouse, children, neighbor, enemy) second, and then Y ourself. Instead of being a self-seeker, looking out for your own interests, be a God-seeker, seeking to do His will and no good thing will He withhold (Psalm 84:11).

For God shows no partiality [undue favor or unfairness; with Him one man is not different from another]. — Romans 2:11 (AMP) God does not show favoritism and there is no partiality with Him. He loves each and every one of us. And there is nothing on this earth or in heaven that can separate us from His love. Psalm 139:17 (NLT) declares, “How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!” May we be as consumed with thoughts about God and share His unconditional love with everyone He brings our way.

For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out]. — Hebrews 11:6b  (AMP) No matter what happens in this life, we must believe that God is the REWARDER of those who sincerely seek Him. God, richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment (1 Timothy 6:17, NIV). The LORD has plans for you that are good and not for disaster, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, thoughts of peace toward you and not evil (Jeremiah 29:11). And He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, (Ephesians 3:20). Diligently seek Him out, knowing that He cares and He will faithfully respond to those who seek Him.

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. — Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) Believing that God exists is the first step in the right direction. He is the great I AM. He is in your past, present and future. And He will always be all that you ever need: Savior, Healer, Deliverer, Helper, Counselor, Friend, Comforter, Guide, Protector, etc. We must also believe that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. His eyes search the whole earth looking for those whose hearts are loyal (fully committed) to Him, that He might show Himself strong on their behalf (2 Chronicles 16:9). Diligent implies consistent, rigorous devotion and attention. Diligently, seek the LORD, not just in bad times or when its convenient, or when you “feel” like it.

For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. — Romans 15:4 (NKJV) The Scriptures, even though inscribed long ago, were written for us. They were written to give us hope and encouragement. In the Word, we can see the faithfulness of God. We see that even though God’s people endured and persevered through all kinds of difficult situations, God faithfully brought them through and gave them double for their troubles, many times over. Let us heed the words of Joshua 1:8 and never let the Book depart from our mouths, and consistently meditate in it day and night, so that we may observe to do according to all that is written in it. Then we will make our way prosperous, and then we will have good success and a living hope.

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: — Romans 12:6a (NKJV) We all have a variety of gifts, given to us by God. For a gift to be of benefit to anyone, it must be accepted, opened and put to use. If we are to enjoy our gifts and talents we have to unwrap them, and explore how we may use them to be a blessing. Just as a muscle that is not used begins to waste away over time, a gift that is not used as God purposed, is a waste. Be sure to use your gifts and talents. You don’t have to wait until January 1st and make it a new years'  resolution. Don’t let the music die inside of you. Sing your song now!

rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; — Romans 12:12 (NKJV) Let us rejoice in hopeful expectation to see the Lord work in our lives and hearts. As long as our hope is anchored in the Lord Jesus Christ, we will not be disappointed. We can be patient in all kinds of troubles and tribulations, knowing that Jesus has given us the victory. We are more than conquerors! Continue steadfastly in prayer because our help comes from the LORD. Amen!

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. — Romans 12:1-2 (NLT) We will experience lasting transformation when we truly worship God by surrendering all of our members to Him and continually renew our minds with His Word.

“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”  — James 4:6 (NKJV) Humility is the acknowledgement that anything we accomplish in this life is only by the grace of God. Humility recognizes that everything we have belongs to Him. God empowered us with the strength, wisdom and all that we needed to come this far. Romans 12:3 (AMP) says, [not to have an exaggerated opinion of your own importance]. So, don’t get puffed up with pride. Instead, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, (1 Peter 5:6, NKJV). Be thankful for all of your successful endeavors and continue to depend on and be devoted to God, with all your heart.

For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39 (AMP) Be persuaded beyond doubt that nothing on this earth can drive a wedge between you and the love God has for you. If anything is threatening you and trying to induce fear, stay rooted and grounded in His perfect love which casts out all fear. As you trust in and rely on the stability of God’s love, you will find the inner strength and confidence to mount up with wings like an eagle and soar toward all that God has for you, His wonderful purpose and plan.

What then shall we say to [all] this? If God is for us, who [can be] against us? [Who can be our foe, if God is on our side?] — Romans 8:31 (AMP) With God on our side, we cannot lose. No weapon that is formed against us will prosper (Isaiah 54:17). The Spirit Himself makes intercession for us (Romans 8:26). Our Advocate, Christ is at the right hand of God, He also makes intercession for us (Romans 8:34). We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37). Let us give thanks to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). Amen!

Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. — Romans 5:3-4 (AMP) As we endure the challenges of this life, we can be sure that our faith is being strengthened, patience is produced and our character is being develop and growing in maturity. And this kind of character creates a joyful and confident hope within us. This hope never disappoints or deludes because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts. (Romans 5:5) Because God loves us and is working all things together for good, we will not be disappointed!

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. — Galatians 2:20 (NKJV) Let us live a lifestyle of faith. When the storms cloud our vision, we must continue to walk by faith. Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). According to Pastor Matthew Pollock, FAITH is... FOLLOWING without knowing where... WAITING without knowing when... BELIEVING without knowing how... TRUSTING without knowing why...

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;” — Isaiah 43:1-3 (NKJV) Let us be confident that our God stands by our side and He will see us through the storms. At times, it may seem that we are in over our heads, but He will not allow us to drown or be burned. If we continue to put one foot in front of the other, we will eventually pass through the difficult waters and through the flames of adversity. Rely on God to give you the strength and He will bring you through!

Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? — Romans 2:4 (NIV) Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? (Romans 2:4a, NLT) Thank God for His patience and tolerance, but let us never take the kindness of God for granted. His kindness should lead us to repentance. It should cause us to turn around from going our own way and follow God and His ways. In order for situations in our lives to change, we must change. We have to become more and more like our heavenly Father. It is the acceptance, forgiveness and love of God that will draw others and cause them to work with us and not against us.

“I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, until I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob.” — Psalm 132:4-5 (NKJV) We make room in our lives for our favorite sports, T.V. shows, Starbuck runs, workouts, etc. Be sure to find a place for the LORD in your life. Make a home for Him in the chambers of your heart, where He will have preeminence, first place. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength (Mark 12:30). Let us examine ourselves and see what or who has our hearts?

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. — Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV) The LORD awakens us morning by morning, and covers us with new compassions. He packs each new day full with bright promises and gives us a fresh start. It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to declare His lovingkindness in the morning (Psalm 92:1-2). Psalm 30:5 says, joy comes in the morning. Let us awaken the dawn and fix our eyes on Jesus, the Bright and Morning Star (Revelation 22:16). May your heart be filled with hope and expectation as you rise to face each new day.

And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him, and said to him, “The LORD is with you, you mighty man of valor!” Gideon said to Him, “O my lord, if the LORD is with us, why then has all this happened to us?” — Judges 6:12-13a (NKJV) Have you ever felt like Gideon and wondered, if God is with you, why is all this “stuff” happening to you? You can be certain that God is with you, because He said, He would never leave you or forsake you and our God is faithful. Let us remember that our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18, NIV). Surely God will be with you and you shall defeat your enemies (Judges 6:16).

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. — Romans 8:28 (NKJV) Let us refuse all doubt and live in what we know: ...we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one (1 Corinthians 8:4). Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him (John 9:31). And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him (1 John 5:15). Throughout the good, the bad and the ugly, continue to lift up your petitions to God, knowing that He hears you and that He is working all things together for GOOD. Amen!

You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You. — Isaiah 26: 3 (AMP) As we keep our minds on the LORD, we will experience a continual flow of perfect peace. Let's fill our minds with thoughts of Him. Our God is mighty and strong and over all the universe. Our God, Jehovah Jireh, foresees all our needs and makes provision for us. He heals and restores us, spirit, soul and body. He delivers and saves and gives us the victory! Our God, Jehovah Shalom, is our peace. Keep your mind stayed on Him. And remember, no matter what you are going through today, this too shall pass.

let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. — Hebrews 10:22 (NAS) James 4:8 assures us that when we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. And Hebrews 4:16 encourages us to come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. So let us draw closer to our heavenly Father, in complete confidence that our God is faithful, that He loves us and nothing we do will make Him love us less. Nothing can separate us from His great love. His desire is to spend time with us. We were created for fellowship with our Creator. Draw near to Him in full assurance. In His Presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). His Presence makes our joy complete.

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, — 2 Peter 1:2-3 (NKJV) As we grow in our knowledge of God and of Jesus, our Lord & Savior, grace and peace will be multiplied unto us. Our great God has given us everything we need to live a godly life. He has given us ALL things that pertain (relate to) to life. Our physical healing pertains to life, the well-being of our children pertains to life, healthy, joyful relationships with our spouses, family and friends pertain to life. As we grow in our knowledge of God, and Jesus who is the truth (John 14:6), the less likely we are to believe the lies of the enemy. May we always endeavor to share an intimate, personal relationship with God the Father and Christ, His Son!

Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.  — Psalm 126:5-6 (NKJV) To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance; (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4). During times of hardship, we may sacrifice, sweat, and tears, but if we persevere through the pain, we shall reap a bountiful harvest with shouts of joy!

If God hadn’t been for us —all together now, Israel, sing out! —If God hadn’t been for us when everyone went against us, we would have been swallowed alive by their violent anger, swept away by the flood of rage, drowned in the torrent; We would have lost our lives in the wild, raging water. — Psalm 124:1-5 (MSG) With God on our side, who can stand against us? No weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory (Deuteronomy 20:4, NIV). Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14, NKJV)!

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; — Psalm 121:1-3 (NIV) Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? (Psalm 42:5) Lift up your eyes and put your hope in God, our Savior. He is where our help comes from. His arm is not too short to reach into your situation and turn it around. The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand; The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore (Psalm 121:5, 7-8). Amen! Thank you LORD.

I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency]. — Philippians 4:13 (AMP) We can do all things through Christ (NKJV). The key word here is “ through ” or “ in. ” If we rely on our own power and strength to accomplish anything, our confidence is in the flesh, and not in the Spirit of God. This almost always guarantees failure. In order to have the ability to do ALL things, we must operate through Christ and let His power work in us and through us. In order to experience good success and walk in victory, we are to be filled and led by the Spirit of God within us. Any type of vehicle has only one driver’s seat. If you want to get somewhere in life, leave the steering wheel in God’s hands!

If Your law had not been my delight, then I would have perished in my affliction. I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have revived me. I am Yours, save me; — Psalm 119:92-94a (NAS) In the midst of troubles and afflictions, may we delight in His statutes and not forget His word (Psalm 119:16). God’s Word gives us life and revives us. The living Word of God is the sword that pierces the darkness and allows light to come flooding in, bringing hope, peace and joy. The LORD saves us from our distress. He sends out His word and heals us (Psalm 107:19b-20). Amen!

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) Yes, the LORD will guide us, but we must pay attention. Last night, on my way home, I got on the freeway going south instead of north. I drove four miles in the wrong direction before I read the sign and realized I was going the wrong way. This little incident was a reminder of how important it is to pay attention, if we want to arrive at our intended destination. As you journey through life, make sure you stay attentive to the leading and guiding of the the Holy Spirit within you. He is like a GPS system, He will guide you in the right direction, and along the best pathway!

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. — Psalm 84:11 (NKJV) What a lovely promise we have in the Word! It may help us to remember that things are not always as they appear. Everything that looks like a good thing may not be. Like a young child whose parent does not want him to cross the street alone, even if it is to get to a playground, we must trust our heavenly Father that He is not trying to restrict us, He just wants to keep us safe and protected. Some things that seem good to you, may not be good for you. Praise God that He gives grace and glory and gives us what is good at the perfect time!

My daughter sent me this powerful question that she was asked at a church service this weekend: What if you awoke this morning and all you had were the things you thanked God for yesterday? It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; (Psalm 92:1). And forget not all His benefits (Psalm 103:2)! . . .giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, — Ephesians 5:20 (NKJV)

This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. — 1 John 1:5, 7 (NKJV) May we live in the light of God, and let it brightly shine through us and touch those around us. His light is full of LOVE and abundant life. The spout of God’s love is constantly pouring His love into our hearts and upon us, each and every moment of the day. Let it continually flow out of you, so those around you can be drenched in His love. We never have to fear that our cups will run dry, because our heavenly Father has an endless supply and He will always refill them. Let all that you do be done with love (1 Corinthians 16:14), as you live your life in His brilliant light.

For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God. — 1 John 5:4-5 (NLT) Little children, you are of God [you belong to Him] and have [already] defeated and overcome them [the agents of the antichrist], because He Who lives in you is greater (mightier) than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4, AMP). Jesus said, “be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Our victory is already a done deal, we just have to walk it out. Keep fighting the good fight of faith!

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. — 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) God, the Creator of the earth and all it contains, cares about you. He had you on his mind before He laid the foundation of the earth. Even before he made the world, God loved you and chose you (Ephesians 1:4, NLT). How precious are His thoughts about you. They cannot be numbered! You can’t even count them because they outnumber the grains of sand! And when you wake up, He is still with you! (Psalm 139:17-18) He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head (Matthew 10:30, MSG)! He goes before you and follows you. He places His hand of blessing on your head (Psalm 139:5, NLT). Amen!

casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. — 1 Peter 5:7 (NKJV) Whatever care we have needs to be cast on the Lord, whether it is something we care about so much we don’t want anything to happen to it or whether it's a heavy, burdensome care that causes us anxiety and worry. The “ing” on the word cast, indicates that it is a continual process. When we cast something, we throw it. That means it doesn’t land anywhere near us. Leave that care in God's hands and let your mind stay on the Lord and He will keep you in perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3).

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. — 1 Peter 4:12-13 (NLT) The NAS version says, the fiery ordeals come upon us for our testing. How will we ever know if we believe what we say we believe, if our faith is never tested? The fiery ordeals serve to burn away the impurities and strengthen our resolve. May we endure the hardships, knowing that after we have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, will restore, support, and strengthen us, and place us on a firm foundation (1 Peter 5:10). Glory hallelujah!

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. — 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NKJV) Stay clearheaded and alert so that you don’t end up in the snare of the enemy. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping (1 Peter 5:8, The Message). Resist him, standing strong in your faith. James 4:7 instructs us to submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Our God is greater! Amen.

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; — 1 Peter 2:9 (NKJV) God loved us and chose us in Christ before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight (Ephesians 1:4). Never listen to the lies of the enemy for one second if he tells you that your life is insignificant and doesn't matter. You belong to the family of God. God created you and chose you with a purpose and a plan. And He who began a good work in you is faithful to complete it.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. — James 1:2-4 (NIV) We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful (James 5:11, NAS). Job suffered for a little while, then, God richly blessed him in the end, and gave him double for his trouble. Let perseverance do a thorough work in you, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. — Hebrews 13:15 (AMP) Through Jesus, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise from the depths of our hearts. The Word says at all times, not just when we feel like it or when its convenient, that's the sacrifice part. As long as we have breath, we have plenty to thank God for. He has done so much for us, we could never thank Him enough. May the fruit flowing from our lips be a constant praise and thanksgiving to our heavenly Father. Praise the LORD! Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever ( Psalm 106:1 ). Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the Lord!  ( Psalm 150:6)

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, — Hebrews 12:1-2a (NKJV) How do we run with endurance? 1) We strip off everything that hinders us from drawing closer to the Lord and throw it aside. We don’t need any extra baggage. Runners strip down to the bare minimum. 2) We look unto Jesus, from whom our help comes. He will lead us to the finish line. See every hardship as a hurdle to be jumped over. Notice the Word says to run, not walk. This indicates a sense of urgency. I think we all agree that we are living in the end times. Take the vision and run with it (See Habakkuk 2:2)!

Jesus said, “ Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock ” ( Luke 6:47-48, NKJV ). But everyone who hears the words of Jesus and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on sinking sand. If you are building on sinking sand, the moment floodwaters rise, what you have built will collapse into a heap of ruins. However, if you build on the solid Rock, what you’re building will not be shaken, when the storms of life hit.  For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? — Psalm 18:31 (NLT)

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. — Ephesians 4:1 (NIV) As any parent can attest, we only want the best for our children. We want to see them do well and excel in life. Our heavenly Father desires the same for us. Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity (Hebrews 6:1a, NIV). May we live the dynamic life, full of freedom, power, and joy, that Jesus paid the price for us to have! Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves (James 1:22, NAS). Stand firm and mature [in spiritual growth], convinced and fully assured in everything willed by God (Colossians 4:12b, AMP).

As I see a flurry of halloween decorations and activities, I am reminded of the real horror in life. The truly horrific thing is to live without hope in your heart. Hope is the earnest  expectation that your future is better and more glorious than your past and your present; the belief that you will see the fulfillment of God’s promises and your dreams. To be alive and without hope is like being a zombie, the walking dead. Before we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we were in the world, dead in ours sins, and without hope (Ephesians 2:1, 12). But now in Christ Jesus we have been made alive and partakers of God’s wonderful promises. Put your hope in God and it will not be cut off. Hebrews 10:23 says, let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD.” — Jeremiah 17:7 (NKJV)

At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, — 2 Timothy 4:16-17a (NKJV)  Although people may desert you when you need them most, the Lord is faithful. He will never abandon you. Not only does He stand with you, He gives you the strength to stand. You may be hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; you may be perplexed, but not in despair; you may be persecuted, but not forsaken; you may be struck down, but, praise God, you are not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)!

This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.  — Psalm 118:24 (NKJV) Thank God for waking us up this morning, to live a life full of His grace. Praise God that His compassions never fail. Today we have received brand new mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23). The LORD is our God, and we will praise Him; He is our God, we will exalt Him. Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His mercy endures forever (Psalm 118:28-29).

Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. — 1 Timothy 1:19 (NLT) Avoid shipwreck! Keep your conscience clear and tightly hold on to your faith in Christ. He is our Life Preserver. Don't be moved by the winds of adversity nor tossed to and fro by violent waves. If we keep the faith and remember that we have the victory in Jesus, we can weather any storm and keep sailing on course, to our desired destination.

But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. — 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NAS)  Isaiah 54:17 says, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection (Proverbs 30:5, NLT). After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you (1 Peter 5:10, NAS). Amen!

It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. — Psalm 118:8-9 (NKJV) The solid foundation of God stands, and it will not be moved. Fully trust and rely on the LORD. Your help comes from Him. The LORD is your keeper and He will not slumber (Psalm 121:3, 5). The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore (Psalm 121:8). Keep your confidence in Him. Amen!

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; — Colossians 4:2 (NKJV) Do not grow weary in prayer, but maintain a sincere and intense conviction that God hears you and He is faithful to answer. First Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to pray without ceasing. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:16). Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). Let prayer be your first course of action, not your last resort.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. — Philippians 5:6 (NLT) In every situation and circumstance, pray and petition God. Continue to give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV). And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19, NKJV).

being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; — Philippians 1:6 (NKJV) As we submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit at work in us, we can be certain that God will continue to perfect that good work and bring it to full completion. The Message version says, He will “keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish.” “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV).

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. — Ephesians 5:1 (NLT) Little children often imitate their parents. Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3). Ephesians 4:32 tells us to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us (Ephesians 5:2). Let us follow His example.

And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. — Galatians 3:27 (NLT) The one question most of us ask ourselves almost everyday is, “what am I going to wear?” Then we intentionally pick out an outfit and get dressed. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, we must purposefully choose how we clothe ourselves. We can choose to wear the garment of praise instead of the spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3, NKJV). Romans 13:12 (NKJV) instructs us to cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light. Colossians 3:12 (NIV) says, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony (Colossians 3:14, NLT).

[That you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]! — Ephesians 3:19 (AMP) The Apostle Paul prayed for believers to gain an understanding of the infinite dimensions of Christ’s love for us, this endless love which continues to reach out across the generations and for ages to come. This understanding shifts us from just a surface level knowledge of His love to a much deeper experience of God Himself. Then, in the face of tragedy or disaster, there are no questions, nor any doubt that God has us covered. May your entire being be filled and flooded with God’s Presence.

  And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. — Galatians 6:9 (NKJV) To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Wait on the LORD and your strength will be renewed; you shall mount up with wings like eagles, you shall run and not be weary, you shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:31). Do not lose heart, every promise and purpose that God has for you will come, in due season.

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. — 2 Corinthians 12:10 (NKJV) The Amplified Bible says: when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength). When we are weak, the strength of Christ works through us. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak Isaiah 40:29 (NIV). May you be strengthened in the Lord today!

So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud. — 2 Corinthians 12:7b (NLT) The Message translation says, so I wouldn’t get a big head, I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan’s angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. Are you being pricked? So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor (1 Peter 5:6, NLT). And remember what the Lord said: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness,” (2 Corinthians 12:9a, NKJV). His grace (favor, loving-kindness and mercy) is more than enough!

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, — 2 Corinthians 10:4 (NKJV) It is a spiritual war we are fighting, not a war with flesh and blood. God has given us powerful weapons for the overthrow and destruction of strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4, AMP). With these weapons, we are able to cast down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5, NKJV). Fight the good fight of faith and remember: No weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17)!

For when we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. — 2 Corinthians 7:5 (NIV) No matter what harassment comes, instead of getting distracted by the enemy, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is the Source of our faith, also its Finisher, bringing it to maturity and perfection (AMP). And His perfect love casts out all fear (1 John 4:18).

We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. — 2 Corinthians 1:8 (NLT) My beloved brothers and sisters, I think you ought to know, even as believers, we are going to go through some things. You will be burdened beyond measure, and may even give up hope of living. Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you (1 Peter 4:12). During those times, let us remember what the Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 1:9. He said, it was the best thing that could have happened because they were forced to trust God totally (The Message). The extreme difficulties we experience cause us to stop relying on ourselves and teach us to rely ONLY on God, who raises the dead (NLT). Hallelujah and amen!

And now, behold, the LORD has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the LORD spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. — Joshua 14:10 (NKJV) Caleb was 85 years old when he claimed the mountain which the LORD promised him (Joshua 14:12). As long as we are on this side of heaven, it is never too late to make the rest of your life, the best of your life. Why wander in the wilderness, when you can experience mountaintop living and move in the Presence and power of the LORD, with purpose and a plan?

Oh, that men would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.  — Psalm 107:8-9 (NKJV) Let us thank the LORD for His great goodness and for all the wonderful works He has done in our lives. The LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought. When things seem really dry, drink from the rivers of His living water. When your soul is empty and hungers for more, be filled with His Presence. In His presence is fullness of joy; at His right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11).

Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. — 1 Corinthians 13:7 (NLT) We are to love one another deeply, from the heart (1Peter 1:22, NIV). Sincere love never gives up on others. It always looks for and is ready to believe the best of every person. True love accepts people for who they are, and encourages them to do their best. Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, without growing weak (1 Corinthians 13:7, AMP). Let our love for others be strong, always hopeful and resilient!

And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. — Hebrews 6:11-12 (NKJV) Stay passionate and diligently pursue the call of God on your life. As you encounter various challenges and difficulties do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). It takes faith and patience to endure the troubles and trials. Be like those who stay the course with committed faith and then get everything promised to them (Hebrews 6:12, The Message). Complete the course! Run the race, to the end!

For the mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but My kindness shall not depart from you, nor shall My covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has mercy on you. — Isaiah 54:10 (NKJV) The LORD has established a covenant of peace with His people. And God is faithful to keep His Word. His covenant lasts forever and extends to every generation. When we bring our children up in the peaceful, loving Presence of God, we are passing on a legacy of God’s love and peace. Isaiah 54:13 says, all your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. When children are given that foundation of faith by their earthly parents, teachers, etc., they have a good strong root system of being planted in the LORD. May we continually plant seeds of God’s love and peace in the young people who are within our sphere of influence.