"Do you know that fear is the evidence of idolatry? When we allow fear to turn us back from obedience, we allow it to rob us of God's (Rev. 21:8) redemption. Ask Him to examine your heart and reveal every fear and give true repentance for believing the lies of the enemy that say you are in control and are responsible for the security which can only come from God!" posted by Ken Carpenter.
Last week, I asked a friend/Pastor who has a Deliverance Ministry what sin "back pain" was the result of; wondering what was stopping the healing of my back. He told me worry and/or fearfulness. My mind immediately thought of some financial difficulties I have due to doctor's bills. So, I repented of the worry; trusting God to provide for my bills.
Well, then day before yesterday, he posted on Facebook, the above opening statement and the LORD immediately brought to mind something I have had hidden in my heart since 1987!
On June 10th at 4:00 p.m., in 1987, I was driving home from work, and was praying for the granddaughter of my boss, who had discussed with me, earlier that day about getting an abortion. She and her husband were not ready to start a family (he thought) and she was giving serious consideration to terminating. All of a sudden I began weeping uncontrollably and praying in The Spirit and couldn't understand why. I mean I was concerned about the girl and the baby, but saw no reason for such an emotional outburst. Well, when I got home an hour later, my phone was ringing. I wasn't able to answer before they hung-up and as that was before answering machines and voice mail, I sat on the side of the bed, thinking "if it was important they would call back!" They did! "Are you Cheri's mom?" was the question, raised to my "hello"! I was then informed that my daughter, and my mother had been in a "near fatal accident" and that I needed to come to the hospital immediately. My daughter had already been transported to Nashville and my mother was still at Sumner; soon to be transported too! I drove to the hospital, screaming the name of JESUS; over and over and over! JESUS! My only thought! My only anchor!
At that moment my life changed! My daughter was in the hospital, in traction for 30 days, coming home, to be in a body cast for 6 weeks. My mother was in ICU for 72 days; the only bones not broke in her, were her arms. From that point on she was disabled; and I became her primary caregiver until her death in 2007.
I wish I could say that during that time I grew stronger in my walk with The LORD, but that was not the case. I backslid terribly. The "cares of the world" . . .
I thought I was coping; doing good considering; however, worry was my constant companion; fear- my ally!
Whenever a loved one left to go to work, home, on a trip (it didn't matter) I had to have a phone call from them, letting me know they had arrived safely! The sound of sirens on the road, would send me to the phone, wanting to know where all of my loved ones were; so that I would know they were safe!
I have been in bondage these 25 years!
"Ask Him to examine your heart and reveal every fear and give true repentance for believing the lies of the enemy that say you are in control and are responsible for the security which can only come from God!"
I had done that, and boy did He ever! The pain He uncovered!
I have repented for the fear and for believing the lies! I know that I am not in control! That only God is and He's my security, and The security for my loved ones!
Such freedom!
Last night, while thinking about what God is doing in me; He gave me a picture in my mind of a Master Jeweler cutting a diamond. Each facet He cuts: so that I will reflect a greater brilliance when His light hits me!
Even so - Maranatha!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Saturday, June 16, 2012
"But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence, but of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God - and righteousness and sanctification and redemption - that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD."" 1 Corinthians 1:27-31
"He who glories, let him glory in the LORD." GOD has been dealing with me all week, with this verse.
I confess, I've been preoccupied with the lack of interest in my blog and the LORD showed me that my heart was not in the right place. I was focusing on the "stats" and becoming disheartened; feeling like I was wasting my time! I reasoned, "I try to support my friends, why arent' they supporting me, in my effort?"
When I started three years ago, posting scripture to my Facebook page, it was just as an encouragement to my friends; as the LORD put upon my heart. Occasionally, I would even post a note, when something was heavy on my heart. However, I had no idea, who or how many was reading. The occasional "like", encouraged me to continue, although that was not why I did the post! I just felt compelled to be an encouragement; knowing that the Word of God never returns void!
I have now decided to "return to" posting the scripture the LORD lays on my heart, to my Facebook page, and if there is more, then in obedience, I'll post to my Blog! That may happen daily - it may not; I will not be in bondage to my blog nor it's "stats"!
"As if" I had anything to say, on my own, that anyone would want to follow! If I say anything of any value on Facebook or my Blog,(or anywhere else in the world, for that matter) it will be The LORD; using my mouth and receiving ALL the glory!
Take that, devil!
Even so - MARANATHA!
"He who glories, let him glory in the LORD." GOD has been dealing with me all week, with this verse.
I confess, I've been preoccupied with the lack of interest in my blog and the LORD showed me that my heart was not in the right place. I was focusing on the "stats" and becoming disheartened; feeling like I was wasting my time! I reasoned, "I try to support my friends, why arent' they supporting me, in my effort?"
When I started three years ago, posting scripture to my Facebook page, it was just as an encouragement to my friends; as the LORD put upon my heart. Occasionally, I would even post a note, when something was heavy on my heart. However, I had no idea, who or how many was reading. The occasional "like", encouraged me to continue, although that was not why I did the post! I just felt compelled to be an encouragement; knowing that the Word of God never returns void!
I have now decided to "return to" posting the scripture the LORD lays on my heart, to my Facebook page, and if there is more, then in obedience, I'll post to my Blog! That may happen daily - it may not; I will not be in bondage to my blog nor it's "stats"!
"As if" I had anything to say, on my own, that anyone would want to follow! If I say anything of any value on Facebook or my Blog,(or anywhere else in the world, for that matter) it will be The LORD; using my mouth and receiving ALL the glory!
Take that, devil!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Ecclesiastes 3
"What profit has the worker from that in which he labors? I have seen the God-given task with which the sons of men are to be occupied. He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor - it is a gift of God.
"I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, and nothing taken from it, God does it, that men should fear before Him. That which is has already been, and what is to be has already been; and God requires an account of what is past." Ecclesiastes 3:9-15
The above verses are so jammed packed with pearls, it's hard to know where to begin. The following are just a few points that jumped out at me and my thoughts thereon.
"He has made everything beautiful in its time"!
There is beauty in youth. There is beauty in being old. The old have enjoyed the beauty of their youth, however the youth have not experienced the beauty of being old. Maybe if the old didn't try and hold onto their youth, but enjoyed the beauty of their agedness, the youth would have greater respect for the aged.
"He has put eternity in their hearts"!
Everyone is searching for answers. Some may have not even considered the question, but they are still on the same quest. What is the meaning of life? Why am I here? What happens when I die? Some settle for lies; happy is the man who finds The Way, The Truth and The Life!
I know where I will spend eternity! Do you?
"whatever God does, it shall be forever"!
If you listen to the experts you will find their answers are based on man's interpretations of incomplete and faulty data and erroneous conclusions of other men. Not until an expert seeks the Creator will he understand the creation and man's role therein.
"men should fear before Him"!
Fear related expenditures are off the charts! We are either paying for Hollywood to scare us or paying a doctor to prescribe something for our irrational fears. Alarm systems, big dogs or at least dogs with big barks, even mechanical dogs to scare away intruders without the mess, guns, fences, self-defense classes, ball bats; just to name a few of man's efforts to be less fearful. Fear of failure; fear of crowds; fear of flying; fear of being alone; and the list goes on and on. Oh, and I won't go into Zombies!
Jesus said, "Fear not!" He doesn't want us to live in fear of the world and its ruler. We are to cast our cares on Him, because He cares for us. The only fear a Christian should have is fear of God. That is healthy and shows our love and respect for Him!
However, one who is living without Jesus should be very afraid!
Father God, thank You for sacrificing Your Son for our redemption. Thank you for Your Word through which we may have knowledge and wisdom in our lives! Thank You for putting eternity in our hearts so that we would have a desire to know You and Your love! Thank You for the beauty in our world which testifies to Your power and goodness. Thank You for all You are doing everyday to redeem Your Church! We give You glory and praise!
Even so - MARANATHA!
"I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, and nothing taken from it, God does it, that men should fear before Him. That which is has already been, and what is to be has already been; and God requires an account of what is past." Ecclesiastes 3:9-15
The above verses are so jammed packed with pearls, it's hard to know where to begin. The following are just a few points that jumped out at me and my thoughts thereon.
"He has made everything beautiful in its time"!
- God has made everything. He created; It did not evolve
- We can find beauty in everything
- Every time has beauty
- In its time there is beauty
There is beauty in youth. There is beauty in being old. The old have enjoyed the beauty of their youth, however the youth have not experienced the beauty of being old. Maybe if the old didn't try and hold onto their youth, but enjoyed the beauty of their agedness, the youth would have greater respect for the aged.
"He has put eternity in their hearts"!
- Is that like the "God shaped hole" in our hearts, that nothing else will fill?
Everyone is searching for answers. Some may have not even considered the question, but they are still on the same quest. What is the meaning of life? Why am I here? What happens when I die? Some settle for lies; happy is the man who finds The Way, The Truth and The Life!
I know where I will spend eternity! Do you?
"whatever God does, it shall be forever"!
- It is the height of arrogance to believe that mankind can destroy the earth or save it.
- Man is not god! Only God is God!
- Nothing that man does is eternal. That's why we find "ruins" of past civilizations.
If you listen to the experts you will find their answers are based on man's interpretations of incomplete and faulty data and erroneous conclusions of other men. Not until an expert seeks the Creator will he understand the creation and man's role therein.
"men should fear before Him"!
- Why is man afraid of everything but God?
- Why do we pay to be made afraid?
Fear related expenditures are off the charts! We are either paying for Hollywood to scare us or paying a doctor to prescribe something for our irrational fears. Alarm systems, big dogs or at least dogs with big barks, even mechanical dogs to scare away intruders without the mess, guns, fences, self-defense classes, ball bats; just to name a few of man's efforts to be less fearful. Fear of failure; fear of crowds; fear of flying; fear of being alone; and the list goes on and on. Oh, and I won't go into Zombies!
Jesus said, "Fear not!" He doesn't want us to live in fear of the world and its ruler. We are to cast our cares on Him, because He cares for us. The only fear a Christian should have is fear of God. That is healthy and shows our love and respect for Him!
However, one who is living without Jesus should be very afraid!
Father God, thank You for sacrificing Your Son for our redemption. Thank you for Your Word through which we may have knowledge and wisdom in our lives! Thank You for putting eternity in our hearts so that we would have a desire to know You and Your love! Thank You for the beauty in our world which testifies to Your power and goodness. Thank You for all You are doing everyday to redeem Your Church! We give You glory and praise!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
"There is no fear of God before their eyes." Romans 3:18
"But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this?" Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor? What if God, wanting to show His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, and that He might make known the riches of His glory, which he prepared beforehand for glory, even us whom He called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentile?" Romans 9:20-24
It is apparent that the world does not fear God.
It is also apparent that the "church", as a whole, doesn't fear Him either.
Do you fear God?
When you look around do you take for granted all He created or even worse, attribute everything to "mother nature", like the world does? When you hear people talk about "her" do you even realize that those very words rob God of credit for the miraculous? They give credence to the pagan's worship of the earth; worshiping the creation instead of The Creator!
Many years ago, a margarine commercial coined the phrase, "It's not nice to fool mother nature!", and it showed a woman dressed in grecian garb, raise her hands in anger, with lightening and thunder, because the margarine tasted like butter.
Very soon, our God WILL show his wrath, and will make known His power and woe to all who are not covered by the Blood of Jesus!
If you have taken for granted God's power and not had more than a little respect for His terrible (awesome) power, you need to repent.
One day, we will all fall on our faces before Him and acknowledge Him for Who He IS!
Even so - MARANATHA!
"But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this?" Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor? What if God, wanting to show His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, and that He might make known the riches of His glory, which he prepared beforehand for glory, even us whom He called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentile?" Romans 9:20-24
It is apparent that the world does not fear God.
It is also apparent that the "church", as a whole, doesn't fear Him either.
Do you fear God?
When you look around do you take for granted all He created or even worse, attribute everything to "mother nature", like the world does? When you hear people talk about "her" do you even realize that those very words rob God of credit for the miraculous? They give credence to the pagan's worship of the earth; worshiping the creation instead of The Creator!
Many years ago, a margarine commercial coined the phrase, "It's not nice to fool mother nature!", and it showed a woman dressed in grecian garb, raise her hands in anger, with lightening and thunder, because the margarine tasted like butter.
Very soon, our God WILL show his wrath, and will make known His power and woe to all who are not covered by the Blood of Jesus!
If you have taken for granted God's power and not had more than a little respect for His terrible (awesome) power, you need to repent.
One day, we will all fall on our faces before Him and acknowledge Him for Who He IS!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Saturday, June 9, 2012
"A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9
"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." 16:25
"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Proverbs 16:18
"The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility." Proverbs 15:33
"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." Proverbs 14:34
Why do we place such importance on "pride"; in ourselves and in our nation?
We are told to "take pride" in our appearance.
We are asked, "Have you no pride?"
When we accomplish something, we are proud!
And when something is destroyed, we determine to rebuild, because we are proud!
"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." 16:25
"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Proverbs 16:18
"The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility." Proverbs 15:33
"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." Proverbs 14:34
Why do we place such importance on "pride"; in ourselves and in our nation?
We are told to "take pride" in our appearance.
We are asked, "Have you no pride?"
When we accomplish something, we are proud!
And when something is destroyed, we determine to rebuild, because we are proud!
Knowing that blessings come from God; that there is nothing good in us is a step in the right direction! We are to give God the glory for the good that comes our way.
Being a good person and working for God is "what seems right"! But that leads to pride! You are doing it on your own, not at His leading! Let Him direct your steps. Humbly ask Him to lead you in all you do; every hour of every day. Not just on the big things; but in every situation; defer to Him, who created the universe!
"Humble yourself in the sight of the LORD, and He will lift you up." James 4:10
Humility is not thinking less of yourself...but thinking of yourself less. ~ C.S. Lewis
Father, I humbly ask you to forgive me of the sin of pride. I repent for all the prideful acts I've committed! You are the King of Kings and the LORD of LORDS and I want to only walks in Your way. Lead me, and guide me in everything I do. If I do any good, let me give You the glory! Give me ears to hear your whispered instructions and eyes to see what You wish me to see! If there is a need, that I can help You with, make it known to me. I lay my will at your throne. Let me live to exalt You!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Friday, June 8, 2012
Proverbs 10:24
"In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise." Proverbs 10:19
"The fear of the wicked will come upon him, and the desire of the righteous will be granted." Proverbs 10:24
"The mouth of the righteous is a well of life, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked." Proverbs 10:11
There is nothing as fierce, in this world like a mama protecting her cubs. God gives her strength to deliver her babies from danger with no thought to her own safety. The thing with human Mamas, is that it doesn't matter if her babies are grown with, babies of their own, that instinct still rises up to defend and protect; kicks in and the only thing in it's wake is the debris to be picked-up.
Today our weapons are words, and they cause injury that only God can heal.
Cleaning-up debris this morning!
Father, I humbly repent of the caustic words; uttered in haste.
I ask LORD, You put a guard over my mouth to help me restrain my lips.
I thank You LORD that my mouth is a well of life and that which I desire will be granted, because I am the righteousness of Christ! Only in Him, Jesus Christ my LORD and Savior, am I made righteous!
Even so - MARANATHA
"The fear of the wicked will come upon him, and the desire of the righteous will be granted." Proverbs 10:24
"The mouth of the righteous is a well of life, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked." Proverbs 10:11
There is nothing as fierce, in this world like a mama protecting her cubs. God gives her strength to deliver her babies from danger with no thought to her own safety. The thing with human Mamas, is that it doesn't matter if her babies are grown with, babies of their own, that instinct still rises up to defend and protect; kicks in and the only thing in it's wake is the debris to be picked-up.
Today our weapons are words, and they cause injury that only God can heal.
Cleaning-up debris this morning!
Father, I humbly repent of the caustic words; uttered in haste.
I ask LORD, You put a guard over my mouth to help me restrain my lips.
I thank You LORD that my mouth is a well of life and that which I desire will be granted, because I am the righteousness of Christ! Only in Him, Jesus Christ my LORD and Savior, am I made righteous!
Even so - MARANATHA
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Proverbs 1:7
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." Proverbs 1:7
To what extent; how far do you have to fall?
At what point will you finally turn to God and say, "Okay, I'm wrong. I'll do it Your way!"?
Don't wait too long!
"Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they will not find me. Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD, they would have none of my counsel and despised my every rebuke. Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled to the full with their own fancies. For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but who ever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil." Proverbs 1:28-33
What would you give to live in peace?
What price would you pay?
Can you even imagine living without fear of evil? To know that you will dwell in safety and be secure; what a concept!
"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." Isaiah 26:3
We have learned that verse, but how many of us live it?
"Whose mind is stayed on You"! That's the key!
When we focus our mind on our LORD, we give no place to the enemy!
When we seek Him with all our heart, we will find Him and we will dwell with Him.
The more we know Him, the more we fear Him, the more faith we have.
Through the sacrifice of Jesus, we have the ability to go boldly, and dwell safely with the King of the Universe, where no evil can befall us - but how many of us do?????
Give yourself over to God!
Put down pride! Put down self! Stop making excuses! Listen to yourself! "That's fine for her, but I could never . . . !"
Humble yourself before God! Repent!
Don't wait too long, because God might just give up on you, because you gave up on Him!
God loves you! He sent His Son to die for you! And yes, His mercy is everlasting! However, a day is coming . . .
Repent, while there is time!
Even so - MARANATHA!
To what extent; how far do you have to fall?
At what point will you finally turn to God and say, "Okay, I'm wrong. I'll do it Your way!"?
Don't wait too long!
"Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they will not find me. Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD, they would have none of my counsel and despised my every rebuke. Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled to the full with their own fancies. For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but who ever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil." Proverbs 1:28-33
What would you give to live in peace?
What price would you pay?
Can you even imagine living without fear of evil? To know that you will dwell in safety and be secure; what a concept!
"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." Isaiah 26:3
We have learned that verse, but how many of us live it?
"Whose mind is stayed on You"! That's the key!
When we focus our mind on our LORD, we give no place to the enemy!
When we seek Him with all our heart, we will find Him and we will dwell with Him.
The more we know Him, the more we fear Him, the more faith we have.
Through the sacrifice of Jesus, we have the ability to go boldly, and dwell safely with the King of the Universe, where no evil can befall us - but how many of us do?????
Give yourself over to God!
Put down pride! Put down self! Stop making excuses! Listen to yourself! "That's fine for her, but I could never . . . !"
Humble yourself before God! Repent!
Don't wait too long, because God might just give up on you, because you gave up on Him!
God loves you! He sent His Son to die for you! And yes, His mercy is everlasting! However, a day is coming . . .
Repent, while there is time!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Jeremiah 18:12
"The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words." Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seem good to the potter to make. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying: "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the LORD. "Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel! The instant I speak concerning a nation and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, to pull down, and to destroy it, if that nation against whom I have spoken turns from its evil, I will relent of the disaster that I thought to bring upon it. And the instant I speak concerning a nation and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it, if it does evil in My sight so that it does not obey My voice, then I will relent, concerning the good with which I said I would benefit it. Now therefore, speak to the men of Judah and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, 'Thus says the LORD: 'Behold, I am fashioning a disaster and devising a plan against you. Return now everyone from his evil way, and make your ways and your doings good.'"'" And they said, "This is hopeless! So we will walk according to our own plans, and we will every one obey the dictates of his evil heart." Jeremiah 18:1-12
"Then He charged them, saying, "Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod." And they reasoned among themselves, saying "It is because we have no bread." But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, "Why do you reason because you have not bread? Do you not yet perceive nor understand? Is your heart still hardened? Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember?"" Mark 8:15-18
"Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses." Mark 11:24-26
How many are praying for our country to turn back to God?
How many are praying for a loved one who is afflicted?
How many are fighting and praying in hopes of overcoming a personal trial?
How many have cried out to God for help; angry because God seems to be far away?
How many read their Bible and look for scriptures that will support their cause, and skim over the hard ones that call for change?
How many repent in "lip service only" with no turning around?
How many are worshiping a god they have manufactured in their own image; saying "Well my god wouldn't do (such and such)" ????
FORGIVENESS! We want it but we don't want to give it!
Well, if you don't give, then you won't get it! It's that simple!
And if your preacher isn't telling you to repent and forgive, you need to find one who will!
If your prayers aren't being answered, then you need to ask God to reveal to you what, you haven't done; what is standing in the way! I assure you it's unforgiveness! Resentment, jealousy, judgement; all things we harbor against someone in our past; all need to be acknowledged. You need to forgive and ask forgiveness for holding onto those things, even little things that happened when you were a child. Those things shaped you into the adult you are and are blocking the blessings God has for you!
Don't just say, "That's just the way I am!"
You weren't created that way! Someone or something caused you to be that way and you need to give it up to God! By not giving it to God you are in essence saying, "This is hopeless! So I will walk according to MY own plans, and I will obey the dictates of MY evil heart." You are saying, "God is not big enough to take care of MY problem!"
I assure you God is big enough!
Ask God to help you open your eyes; open your ears; soften your heart; so that you can receive from Him. Let Him shine light on the darkness you have walled-up or have hidden in the recesses of your heart. Let Him reveal the past hurts that have shaped you into the crippled person that you are and let him heal you so that you can change.
It may be that you were sexually abused as a child; maybe someone made fun of you because of the way you looked or acted or even spoke. Or maybe your parent was unable, emotionally, to give you what you needed and you judged him/her. You have to forgive. Don't just say, "Oh, I forgave them!" (This is important!!!) No, you have to acknowledge the act, forgive them, and then ask forgiveness for judging them!
IF -
Then repent from holding onto the things that are separating you from Him.
Believe! He is able! Trust Him! Then thank Him!
Thank You, Father for the change you have made in me.
Thank You for shining the light on those things that held me back from walking closer to You.
Thank You, Holy Spirit for the comfort you have given me!
Thank You Jesus for forgiveness in You!
I will praise You with everything I am!
Even so - MARANATHA!
"Then He charged them, saying, "Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod." And they reasoned among themselves, saying "It is because we have no bread." But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, "Why do you reason because you have not bread? Do you not yet perceive nor understand? Is your heart still hardened? Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember?"" Mark 8:15-18
"Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses." Mark 11:24-26
How many are praying for our country to turn back to God?
How many are praying for a loved one who is afflicted?
How many are fighting and praying in hopes of overcoming a personal trial?
How many have cried out to God for help; angry because God seems to be far away?
How many read their Bible and look for scriptures that will support their cause, and skim over the hard ones that call for change?
How many repent in "lip service only" with no turning around?
How many are worshiping a god they have manufactured in their own image; saying "Well my god wouldn't do (such and such)" ????
FORGIVENESS! We want it but we don't want to give it!
Well, if you don't give, then you won't get it! It's that simple!
And if your preacher isn't telling you to repent and forgive, you need to find one who will!
If your prayers aren't being answered, then you need to ask God to reveal to you what, you haven't done; what is standing in the way! I assure you it's unforgiveness! Resentment, jealousy, judgement; all things we harbor against someone in our past; all need to be acknowledged. You need to forgive and ask forgiveness for holding onto those things, even little things that happened when you were a child. Those things shaped you into the adult you are and are blocking the blessings God has for you!
Don't just say, "That's just the way I am!"
You weren't created that way! Someone or something caused you to be that way and you need to give it up to God! By not giving it to God you are in essence saying, "This is hopeless! So I will walk according to MY own plans, and I will obey the dictates of MY evil heart." You are saying, "God is not big enough to take care of MY problem!"
I assure you God is big enough!
Ask God to help you open your eyes; open your ears; soften your heart; so that you can receive from Him. Let Him shine light on the darkness you have walled-up or have hidden in the recesses of your heart. Let Him reveal the past hurts that have shaped you into the crippled person that you are and let him heal you so that you can change.
It may be that you were sexually abused as a child; maybe someone made fun of you because of the way you looked or acted or even spoke. Or maybe your parent was unable, emotionally, to give you what you needed and you judged him/her. You have to forgive. Don't just say, "Oh, I forgave them!" (This is important!!!) No, you have to acknowledge the act, forgive them, and then ask forgiveness for judging them!
IF -
- You want peace?
- You want healing?
- You want a closer relationship with God?
Then repent from holding onto the things that are separating you from Him.
Believe! He is able! Trust Him! Then thank Him!
Thank You, Father for the change you have made in me.
Thank You for shining the light on those things that held me back from walking closer to You.
Thank You, Holy Spirit for the comfort you have given me!
Thank You Jesus for forgiveness in You!
I will praise You with everything I am!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Psalm 138:8
"The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands." Psalm 138:8
"O LORD, You have searched me and known me. . .
And are acquainted with all my ways. . .
You have hedged me behind and before.
And laid Your hand upon me. . .
If I make my bed in hell, behold You are there. . .
And Your right hand shall hold me. . .
If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall on me," even the night shall be light about me; indeed the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You. . .
Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. . .
Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:1-24 (in partial)
"Deliver me, O LORD, from evil . . ." Psalm 140:1
"Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with men who work iniquity; and do not let me eat of their delicacies." Psalm 140:4
"I cried out to You, O LORD; I said, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. Attend to my cry, for I am brought very low; Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are stronger than I. Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Your name," Psalm 142:6-7a
"Deliver me, O LORD, from evil . . ." Psalm 140:1
Even so - MARANATHA
"O LORD, You have searched me and known me. . .
And are acquainted with all my ways. . .
You have hedged me behind and before.
And laid Your hand upon me. . .
If I make my bed in hell, behold You are there. . .
And Your right hand shall hold me. . .
If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall on me," even the night shall be light about me; indeed the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You. . .
Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. . .
Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:1-24 (in partial)
"Deliver me, O LORD, from evil . . ." Psalm 140:1
"Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with men who work iniquity; and do not let me eat of their delicacies." Psalm 140:4
"I cried out to You, O LORD; I said, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. Attend to my cry, for I am brought very low; Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are stronger than I. Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Your name," Psalm 142:6-7a
"Deliver me, O LORD, from evil . . ." Psalm 140:1
Even so - MARANATHA
Monday, June 4, 2012
Psalm 119
"How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" Psalm 119:103
"Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like eagle's." Psalm 104:5
"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!" Psalm 34:8
Two months ago I went off sugar; probably one of the smartest things I've ever done. I have to admit I did it inadvertently, but I'm grateful and wouldn't want to go back to that poison! Now, I am amazed at the amount of sugar my friends and family consume. The fact that most have blood sugar issues makes the amounts they consume, even more distressing!
I was discussing this with my 12 year-old grandson and told him he was addicted to sugar, like everyone else, and of course he had to argue. I challenged him to go without sugar for a week and bet him he couldn't. The challenge starts today. Everyone denies their addiction or exclaims loudly, "Oh I couldn't live without sweet tea!" hmmmmmm
When I went off of sugar; it was as if my eyes were opened! There is no other drug the masses consume that is as acceptable as sugar. From infants to elderly; just about every food has sugar in it. Just about all drinks. Some foods are nothing but sugar! We reward with sugar; ourselves; our children; even groups! We celebrate with sugar. Desert is something we look forward to, at the end of a meal; the bigger the better; we ooooooh and ahhhhhh! We even knowing label such as "sinful"!
Like all sin, it's attractive, in the beginning. We try a little and it's pleasant. When it consumes us; when our cravings become something we can't live without; the ugliness shows its face. All addicts will someday look in the face of their addiction and realize they have lost control, and turn to God. Sounds like alcohol; drugs; porn; but yes, I'm still talking about sugar!
If someone took away your sugar tomorrow; said you could never have anymore; no candy, sweet tea, sodas, cake, doughnuts, ice cream, gum, peppermints; nothing - what would you do? It just might happen! Look at New York! Our world is changing! We've had it good in so many ways and haven't appreciated it! We may be in Disney's "Pinocchio's - theme park" however, our God is still in control, even if we have lost it all!
When you consider the scriptures I've listed above; are the "good things" delicacies and sugary confections? Or are they the Word of God?
Trust me there is no "substitute" for the sweetness of God's word! Everything else this world offers pales in comparison!
Until we dine at His Table -
Even so - MARANATHA
"Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like eagle's." Psalm 104:5
"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!" Psalm 34:8
Two months ago I went off sugar; probably one of the smartest things I've ever done. I have to admit I did it inadvertently, but I'm grateful and wouldn't want to go back to that poison! Now, I am amazed at the amount of sugar my friends and family consume. The fact that most have blood sugar issues makes the amounts they consume, even more distressing!
I was discussing this with my 12 year-old grandson and told him he was addicted to sugar, like everyone else, and of course he had to argue. I challenged him to go without sugar for a week and bet him he couldn't. The challenge starts today. Everyone denies their addiction or exclaims loudly, "Oh I couldn't live without sweet tea!" hmmmmmm
When I went off of sugar; it was as if my eyes were opened! There is no other drug the masses consume that is as acceptable as sugar. From infants to elderly; just about every food has sugar in it. Just about all drinks. Some foods are nothing but sugar! We reward with sugar; ourselves; our children; even groups! We celebrate with sugar. Desert is something we look forward to, at the end of a meal; the bigger the better; we ooooooh and ahhhhhh! We even knowing label such as "sinful"!
Like all sin, it's attractive, in the beginning. We try a little and it's pleasant. When it consumes us; when our cravings become something we can't live without; the ugliness shows its face. All addicts will someday look in the face of their addiction and realize they have lost control, and turn to God. Sounds like alcohol; drugs; porn; but yes, I'm still talking about sugar!
If someone took away your sugar tomorrow; said you could never have anymore; no candy, sweet tea, sodas, cake, doughnuts, ice cream, gum, peppermints; nothing - what would you do? It just might happen! Look at New York! Our world is changing! We've had it good in so many ways and haven't appreciated it! We may be in Disney's "Pinocchio's - theme park" however, our God is still in control, even if we have lost it all!
When you consider the scriptures I've listed above; are the "good things" delicacies and sugary confections? Or are they the Word of God?
Trust me there is no "substitute" for the sweetness of God's word! Everything else this world offers pales in comparison!
Until we dine at His Table -
Even so - MARANATHA
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Psalm 101, 94, and 103
"I will behave wisely in a perfect way. Oh, when will You come to me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set nothing wicked (worthless) before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will not know wickedness." Psalm 101:2-4
Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence. If I say, "My foot slips." Your mercy, O LORD, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul." Psalm 94:17-19
"Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. The LORD executes righteousness and and justice for all who are oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses. His acts to the children of Israel. The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children, to such as keep His covenant, and to those who remember His commandments to do them." Psalm 103:1-18
You are holy LORD and You are calling me to holiness. I submit myself to You! Clean me up; perfect me. Make me a reflection of You in all my ways. You know my weaknesses, my innermost secrets. Shine Your light on everything in my life that is not pleasing to You. Give me the strength to acknowledge my sins; to bring them to Your Altar, and to lay them down, forever! Thank You, Father for your comfort and mercies! Thank You for the sacrifice of Your Son, in whom I have forgiveness and the means to approach Your throne! Thank You for Your Word; with which I receive encouragement and instruction. Thank You for Your Spirit, Who gives me the power to overcome the temptations of this world and victory over the enemy! I will praise You and Bless Your Holy name while I have breath!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence. If I say, "My foot slips." Your mercy, O LORD, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul." Psalm 94:17-19
"Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. The LORD executes righteousness and and justice for all who are oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses. His acts to the children of Israel. The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children, to such as keep His covenant, and to those who remember His commandments to do them." Psalm 103:1-18
You are holy LORD and You are calling me to holiness. I submit myself to You! Clean me up; perfect me. Make me a reflection of You in all my ways. You know my weaknesses, my innermost secrets. Shine Your light on everything in my life that is not pleasing to You. Give me the strength to acknowledge my sins; to bring them to Your Altar, and to lay them down, forever! Thank You, Father for your comfort and mercies! Thank You for the sacrifice of Your Son, in whom I have forgiveness and the means to approach Your throne! Thank You for Your Word; with which I receive encouragement and instruction. Thank You for Your Spirit, Who gives me the power to overcome the temptations of this world and victory over the enemy! I will praise You and Bless Your Holy name while I have breath!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Saturday, June 2, 2012
"But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day, for I do not know their limits. I will go in the strength of the LORD GOD: I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only." Psalm 71:14-16
It is my desire to hope continually; to not just remember to hope when hope seems lost! I also want to hope for things that are everlasting, not fleeting. I don't want to waste my hope on things of this earth. I choose to place my hope in my God because I know You are faithful and true!
It is also my desire to praise You more and more than continually; to go beyond continually! Every breath I take, in and out, be filled with praise to You and You alone; waking or sleeping, praises to You on my lips and on my tongue. Every word in my mouth proclaiming Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day; never forgetting the miracles You have done for they are limitless.
It is my desire to put down the ways of the enemy as I go in the strength of the LORD GOD! As the minions of darkness come against me, may I recognize their actions and rebuke them in the strength of the LORD and in the power of YOUR NAME, bringing peace where there is conflict.
It is my desire to elevate You and You alone; may You increase and I decrease. I will mention You!
Your word says: "Delight yourself also in the LORD and He shall give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
I thank you Father that You do give me the desires of my heart! Delight us both, in answering my prayer; so I have even more about You to proclaim!
Even so - MARANATHA!
It is my desire to hope continually; to not just remember to hope when hope seems lost! I also want to hope for things that are everlasting, not fleeting. I don't want to waste my hope on things of this earth. I choose to place my hope in my God because I know You are faithful and true!
It is also my desire to praise You more and more than continually; to go beyond continually! Every breath I take, in and out, be filled with praise to You and You alone; waking or sleeping, praises to You on my lips and on my tongue. Every word in my mouth proclaiming Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day; never forgetting the miracles You have done for they are limitless.
It is my desire to put down the ways of the enemy as I go in the strength of the LORD GOD! As the minions of darkness come against me, may I recognize their actions and rebuke them in the strength of the LORD and in the power of YOUR NAME, bringing peace where there is conflict.
It is my desire to elevate You and You alone; may You increase and I decrease. I will mention You!
Your word says: "Delight yourself also in the LORD and He shall give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
I thank you Father that You do give me the desires of my heart! Delight us both, in answering my prayer; so I have even more about You to proclaim!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Friday, June 1, 2012
Fear God - Repent!
"God will hear, and afflict them, even He who abides from of old. Selah
Because they do not change, therefore they do not fear God." Psalm 55:19
People evidently enjoy fear! Horror movies continue to thrive in Hollywood and there seems no end to how much men will pay to be scared! The more destruction; the more bloodshed; the more suspense; the more people love it. I guess because we have been sheltered from most of the horrors the rest of the world experiences on a daily basis, we need to get our adrenaline rush from somewhere.
Webster defines "fear" this way: "n 1: an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by expectation of awareness of danger; also: an instance of, or a state marked by this emotion. 2: anxious concern 3: profound reverence esp. toward God syn dread, fright alarm, panic terror, trepidation".
Maybe, maybe if we had a healthy fear of God, the movie industry wouldn't be making raking it in!
Psalm 111:10a says "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom"
There is nothing in Hollywood to compare with what this lost world will experience during the end of days when God pours out His wrath! "It is a fearful (formidable and terrible) thing to incur the divine penalties and be cast into the hands of the living God!" Hebrews 10:31 Amp
"All men shall fear, and shall declare the word of God; for they shall wisely consider His doing."
Psalm 64:9
You who enjoy scary movies, examine your heart, read your Bible, and repent!
The time you waste would be better spent getting to know God, The Maker of the Universe! Because IF He doesn't know you, when He returns, you will get the real scare of your life; and it will go on, and on, and on . . .
Repent - like your life depends on it - because it does!!!!!
Even so - MARANATHA!
Because they do not change, therefore they do not fear God." Psalm 55:19
People evidently enjoy fear! Horror movies continue to thrive in Hollywood and there seems no end to how much men will pay to be scared! The more destruction; the more bloodshed; the more suspense; the more people love it. I guess because we have been sheltered from most of the horrors the rest of the world experiences on a daily basis, we need to get our adrenaline rush from somewhere.
Webster defines "fear" this way: "n 1: an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by expectation of awareness of danger; also: an instance of, or a state marked by this emotion. 2: anxious concern 3: profound reverence esp. toward God syn dread, fright alarm, panic terror, trepidation".
Maybe, maybe if we had a healthy fear of God, the movie industry wouldn't be making raking it in!
Psalm 111:10a says "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom"
There is nothing in Hollywood to compare with what this lost world will experience during the end of days when God pours out His wrath! "It is a fearful (formidable and terrible) thing to incur the divine penalties and be cast into the hands of the living God!" Hebrews 10:31 Amp
"All men shall fear, and shall declare the word of God; for they shall wisely consider His doing."
Psalm 64:9
You who enjoy scary movies, examine your heart, read your Bible, and repent!
The time you waste would be better spent getting to know God, The Maker of the Universe! Because IF He doesn't know you, when He returns, you will get the real scare of your life; and it will go on, and on, and on . . .
Repent - like your life depends on it - because it does!!!!!
Even so - MARANATHA!
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