Free but Not Automatic Refills

Romans 15:13, May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

The scriptures are clear that all we must do is ask, believe and accept the Holy Spirit within us and God will fill us with Love, Joy and Hope. We must ask for this and we must do this continually so we can be refilled and keep our hearts overflowing with the Love of God.

In Psalm 51:12, Restore to me the joy of your salvation; and uphold me with your free spirit. It is confirmed that restoration of the Holy Spirit is free. Our Father has more Love than we can imagine and He wants to share it with each and every one of us. I count on His over abundance of perfect Love to Love my Wife, Children and others. Without this Agape Love, I could not truly Love them as I should. As I have discovered over the last year. So I seek Him daily to refill my cup so I can continue to Love them as I should. I know that without this Love in their hearts it would be impossible for them to Love me.We must seek Him for this otherwise the Love would run low, hence no automatic refills.

Paul, describes this bending of knee to ask for Gods power to fill us in Ephesians 3:16-20, I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. 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. God wants to bless you and we all need His Love to get through each day and be the Men God has designed us to be. Paul describes how God will fill you with strength through the Love of Christ and how with it we can be or accomplish unimaginable things.

Let's Pray: Father God, Thank You for all that You do in our lives Father. Please forgive us for our sins again Your Kingdom and others here next to Us. Father overflow our hearts with Your perfect Love. Father we ask that You refill us with the Holy Spirit so that we may live more Christ like and walk in the path You have designed for each and every one of us. Father we want to not only Love You, but to share that Love with those around us. Father we Thank You for all that You continue to do and for the blood of Your perfect son Jesus, as it is in this blood we ask for these things.....AMEN

Gods Intervention

Jeremiah 29:11-13, For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

God has a plan for all of us. I often wonder what that plan is as everything I ever dreamed about I have destroyed or at least made a big mess of. Now God is in control, He will steer my life and all I have to do is follow.

All I ever wanted was to be good husband to a beautiful wife, a loving father to my children and a shining example for others to look up too. Ephesians 5:25-26, For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. Well I have successfully derailed those dreams and I tell you, it doesn't feel good to wake up and miss the ones you Love more than your self. Finally after doing things my way for years and making mess after mess, I gave the reins to God.

Now I can't say everything is wonderful as you know. But it isn't worse either, each day is a challenge to be this new person God wants me to be. I make mistakes and now i learn from each of them. Most I catch before I ever make them, but the key is knowing the choice was a bad one and not repeating it. Proverbs 2:6-9 ” For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go.”

If all was left up to us to run our lives, I would never see my wife and child again, all who once loved me would have shunned me and who knows what i would have done. Psalm 118:8 “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.” So the revelations God has shown me I stand on, I know better than to try and circumvent the suffering and pain. God is working and I see it all around me. He is using me in others lives daily. As much as I wish all would be healed with my wife today, I trust in Gods plan for my wife and I, the hard part is being patient and letting Him work.

Let's Pray: Father God, Thank You for granting us another day Lord. Father I ask that You help others see that even though the path has struggles along it, that You will guide us through if we only seek you. Father as You say in James 1:5 “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” Father we invoke Your wisdom now. Help us see the path we should be traveling. Father Thank You for all that You do in our lives, forgive us for our sins and father we ask all of this in Jesus mighty name...AMEN.

Just When You Think You are Safe

Isaiah 59:19, For he (the enemy) will come like a raging flood tide driven by the breath of the LORD.

I have said it before, that I am trying to keep this real so that all can see there are good days and bad days. Today is not a good day, it started off that way, although I was a little irritated and not sure why. I just know the enemy has been working on me overtime this morning and he even worked me over in church to the point I left. I was getting nothing except angry. So I needed to leave and get my head clear.

I awake this morning with another nights average of two hours of rest. I was frustrated from the beginning and I am almost positive the thoughts of missing my family was a large contributor. I went to meet the serve team for breakfast, missed them. Arrived at church very early and chatted with a few people, then started on today's blog. I felt God move me in that direction this morning as I was waiting on services to start. When finished, hadn't published it yet, I read a few other daily devotionals and all of a sudden the enemy stepped in. One thing after another and the more I got frustrated, then frustration turned to anger. Ephesians 4:26-27, And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.

I finally moved into the sanctuary when it opened, as I sat there I watch couple after couple come in and sit down. Most of them had a story similar to mine, yet there they are, still married and looking happier then before. I am sitting alone, I feel as if I have a plague or am a leper. Again the enemy striking, now I am reflecting on my wife, that as the last place I needed to go this morning. I thumbed through pictures getting more angry and offended. What makes these other couples so special, how is it fair that their marriages were worth saving and why is mine stagnate. I look at my ring, feeling contempt. This I know was the enemy again. So I started to pray, I mean I am in the house of God, surely He will lift these feelings of anger, loneliness, abandonment, shame, selfishness, jealousy and hopelessness from me. After several minutes of prayer, I looked up. I seen several of my mentors come in and I couldn't move to say good morning. Fearful that they would see right through me. I feel I have been a big enough burden and complainer, this was Sunday, I don't want to laden people today. John 10:10, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy"

So the sermon starts and the pastor who was delivering the message today is wonderful. Yet every word I actually heard just placed another angry stone on the wall. I ask my wife if she was coming to the next service as they usually do and I knew that would turn my day around. Then another stone on the wall. She is not coming, really?! I not only was looking forward to that moment, but expecting it. Then the enemy strikes again. So I sent a few more texts and I was trying to change my attitude. Finally I had to leave, the walls were closing in, my head was spinning, I heard almost nothing the pastor had said. Maybe I can just call and hear my daughter. So I leave and try to call, nothing, so I text and ask permission to speak to her. Meanwhile a business associate called and I changed my unknown schedule to an active one.

Well finally I was running out of time and patience so I text to say I just wanted to leave my daughter a message. Then I called and immediately found that the attack was not over. My wife was offended and made sure I knew about it, I tried to explain, fruitlessly. So I just apologized, regrouped and left the message a few minutes later. Then I am even angrier. The enemy is reminding me that she can speak, hold, kiss, touch or anything else anytime she wants, yet I have limited engagement rules. My wife can do or say whatever she wants, set any "boundaries" she wants and I am supposed to stand and "humble" myself. Is this fair the enemy reminds me? Well absolutely not so I get even more angry, now at God. James 1:13-15, Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, ...it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth DEATH.

So I sit here now, sharing this with you, angry still but trying to calm down. I already analogized to the wife in a text, now I am apologizing to Pastor Paul, for leaving during your service. I am asking God in a moment to forgive me for letting the enemy control my emotions and thoughts. When I left the message for my daughter I couldn't even say what I wanted to say because I started to cry during the recording. I need His strength to get through this day, I am struggling more than normal today. So I also want to apologize to those I did not say hello to at church this morning, for fear they would see though me. Most of all I apologize to my wife and family for bringing the enemy to our doorstep. Without that, none of this would be occurring. Matthew 5:22-24, But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother, will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Let's Pray:  Father God, please forgive me for my rude and selfish behavior this morning. Father please reach to me and help me through this day. Father You know my heart, You know my needs and Father You know my pain. I pray You have mercy on me and grant me reprieve from all of these emotions the enemy is using. In Jesus name I ask for this attack to be lifted from me and others who may be experiencing the same attacks. Father you say in John 16:23-24, I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. I am asking on behalf of all who need your help Father to cover us in Your protection, Grant us the strength to fight off the enemy and guide us to deliverance from the enemy and our fears. Father I plea that this prayer allows me to change my attitude so that I may bring Honour to You Father, My Wife, My Family, My Church, Leaders and My Brethren. Father I ask all of this in Jesus name....AMEN

A Hole in My Heart

John 16:22, Now you are having pain. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.

Today I am struggling with missing my wife more than normal. I believe this is brought on by the enemy and he knew exactly when to reveal this to me. I am tired and not feeling well, so he used my weakness. I have been asking for God to remove this from me today, I am still waiting. All I want it to hold her, even for a short time. The enemy keeps bringing up the fact, God showed me my marriage would be restored so why hasn't God done it yet? In the scripture above I am led to read it over and over. I feel God is sending this message on my wife's behalf. 

The enemy is cunning and knows just what to use against you and when. He is patient and will strike at you with all he has. He is using my family against me, specifically my wife and my physical need to want and hold her. As I pray I was reminded that I will be restored and then led to this scripture, 2 Peter 3:9, "The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent." This scripture supports Gods will to answer my prayer and His promise. Yet as it says, it's His timing and not ours. This is where the enemy steps in and uses his persuasion to try and loosen your reliance on God. I am struggling but I know God will prevail in the end.

This is one area God constantly has to keep me prepared for, as my wife and family is the weak link in my armor and the enemy knows this. I can handle a lot of other types of attacks, this one is my biggest struggle. I know I am not alone in this type of struggle and attack. So you have to find what helps you the most, but I can share the one scripture that really helps me, Matthew 7:7, "Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you." So many would think I ask God to just restore my marriage. I actually ask Him to soften my wife's heart so she can see His creation in me and that I am here to share that with her and serve Him with her finally. I know that one day she will see this and her heart will change as God has revealed this. I, like most, find myself in episodes of impatience in which the enemy fruitlessly brings his best game. I trust my God.

Let's Pray: Father God, please help all of us under attack today from the enemy. Father forgive us of our sins and remind us what your Love and Grace is all about. Father show us why You are God. Remove the enemies attacks and replace it with peace. Father you know each of our needs and we ask that you grant our prayers. We all need to feel not only Your Love Father, but of those here on Earth that have our hearts. Father even if You simply reveal a small glimpse of what is to come for each of us, we ask you show that to us today Father. We Love You no matter what Father, I just know with a little insight and reassurance Hope is easily lifted and the enemy is quickly removed from our doorsteps. As you state in Matthew 7:7 we will continue to ask, seek and knock, waiting for You to answer these prayers. Father we Thank You for all that You do in our lives and show us how to serve You Father. We ask all of this in Jesus name...AMEN.

Praising in Prayer

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

As a rule most of us tend to go to prayer with our problems, but do you thank God for what you do have? Today will be short, I really just felt led to write about praising God while in prayer.

Even in my circumstance I have plenty to praise God for. First, his grace, mercy and Love. Without any of that, I haven't a clue of what I would be right now. God covering me in these blessings keeps me seeking Him. He has not only allowed me to spend time serving Him, he keeps my family close in my life, He feeds me, He meets all of my essential needs and He surrounds me with great Christians. He also fills these pages daily. I am truly blessed and look forward to tomorrow.

My prayer life is non stop daily. I pray first thing, while I am driving, working and anytime I feel the need to Thank our Father or ask a question. Then I listen and wait, sometimes for a while. He will answer, in his own time.

Let' Pray: Father God, Thank You for another wonderful day. Father Thank You for a beautiful family, great friends and Father Thank You for all that you do to Bless us on a daily basis. We sometimes forget without You Father that none of this would be possible. So no matter what we are facing, we will turn to You and Thank You for all You have done and all You will continue to do. Father Thank You for sending Your only son to die on the cross for us and we ask all this in Jesus name....Amen.

Friends in Need

Philippians 2:4, Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

How do you look at when friends need help? Do you suddenly become busy? Do you ignore the late phone call or blow them off? Maybe if you do you should reach down and rethink your strategy on this one. Jesus would never turn away helping someone. Therefore it is our responsibility to reach out and help others as Christians. This week many of my friends have come under spiritual attack. Even with what I felt was more pressing in my life, God showed me different.

So the enemy has been hard at work this week all around me in the believers and unbelievers alike. They have all suffered some sort of traumatic event and reached out to me for one form or another of support. With the week I have had, I asked God "Why me? Do I not have enough to deal with?" I felt His response was, "Set aside your own heart, let me work there, others need you now." Now I am really confused, am I really the right person for all of this right now? Am I strong enough? God gave me strength and wisdom to do His will in these troubled times.1 John 3:17, But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?

I still am baffled at all the requests I receive to discuss issues that I truly felt unsure of speaking about them. Yet God not only gave me the understanding, but I learned valuable information almost every time also. So I have to know in my heart God is planning something big for me. I am trying to prepare the best I know how. I can only say to you that when God sends friends to you, do not run, do not fear. The enemy is counting on you to do just that. But pray and God will equip you with all that you need to further His Kingdom. I feel so blessed to even be able to help. Its not about us, its about God and promoting what is right in this world. Galatians 6:2, Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Let's Pray: Father God, allow us the insight Lord to hear Your calling to help others in need. Father give us strength to rise above our own crisis and help those using the tools You give us.Father allow us the opportunity to praise You and Your Kingdom by answering the call of someone in trouble. Father thank You for all that You do in our lives, please for give us for our sins and we ask all of this in Jesus name...AMEN.

Leaning on Faith & Hope for Love

1 Corinthians 13:13, Three things will last forever--Faith, Hope, and Love--and the greatest of these is LOVE.

I am standing here waiting on Love and the only thing keeping me on the path is my Faith in God and Hope that the future He has shown me will be delivered. As I walk this path, I struggle with many things, my marriage and family, unemployment, homelessness, legal issues, etc... Every one of these I have had to turn over to God and rely every moment on Faith, Hope and Love.

Yesterday was a day that should have been beyond trying and stressful. I did have a moment or two where I was feeling a bit overwhelmed. Not just because of my marital issues, but there was another incident that combined together should have been a calamity of a day. Yet I maintained a smile, most of the time and God gave me the grace, to address the day as a whole, as successful. Now without jumping to the conclusions, I will simply say that my Faith and Hope showed me a glimmer of Love in times that was not expected. Only God could have made me respond the way I did to the actions around me. He was working overtime yesterday in more then just me. So was the enemy though, hiding, striking and attempting to ruin another day. Yet God allowed the joy in my heart to stay intact for the day. Romans 15:13, I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him.

The scriptures say that Love is the greatest because that is what God wants most for us. He wants us to Love and be Loved. When we should be seeking our Fathers Love first then allow him to help us find our worldly Love, most of us do not follow this guide. We choose to find who we think is best for us. But once we make that bond of marriage, God holds us to it. Now you and I know He knows who we are going to marry before we are ever born. Just like everything else about us. After many tries I found the one I believe He intended for me to find. I made many mistakes and errors along the way. After the last several years I know I Loved my wife, just did not know truly how to show her. I also chose to destroy the marriage then to figure out how to truly save it. These realizations came possibly too late. Now I stand here asking God to fix my mess and hope He and her will give me just one more chance to make it right.  As I wrote yesterday, I may be standing here a very long time, but I am willing to do that. So while the power of Love holds me here, it only by the Hope my marriage will be restored and Faith in Gods promise that Love endures all things that I am able too, lets pray this gives her the same Hope and Faith. Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Out of all the things God lists that can last forever, it isn't strange at all that the list includes Faith, Hope and Love. We are required to stand on Faith not just in our God, but also that our spouse truly Loves us. There is no way to measure this, there is only Faith. Next is Hope, we must maintain Hope that we can follow the plan God has placed us on and not mess it up too bad. Then Love, the greatest of these emotions. Love conquers, endures, withstands all things according to the scriptures. Wars have been fought in the name of Love. Everyone experiences Love at some time or another in Life. God is the ultimate Love. Without Him Love would not exist. So if there is not Love or the absence of Love, then that leaves a void or darkness, which can only be the enemy. Who only represents death and destruction. I choose God, Love and Life. What do you choose? 1 John 4:18, “There is no fear in Love; but perfect Love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in Love.”

There are many of you struggling today in not just marriages, but all kinds of relationships. God wants you to choose Him and Love over the alternative. He will reward you for the choice. Stand up and be counted for God. Stand and show others that with God in your life all is possible. Show them that even when others want to break and run, or abandon Love for something much less and worldly, that God can make you strong to stand and fight for His glory and praise. He promises to deliver the faithful. He promises that hope will be supplied. He promises that Love will win out. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8, Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses Faith, is always Hopeful, and endures through every circumstance....But Love will last forever! So have Faith, Hope and Love beyond worldly limitations so that God and the Kingdom wins the day and the enemy loses another battle.

Let's Pray: Father God, Please forgive us for our previous lack of Faith, Hope and Love. Father we ask that you fill up our cups with Your Love Father, so that we may Love others with the over abundance. Father forgive us for our sins which blond us to these true emotions. Father we ask that you help each one of us fight the enemy so that we may feel these emotions as You truly designed. Father be with those who have slipped in their Faith and help them regain that Father. We declare that the enemy no longer has a foothold in our lives nor is he wanted or needed. Father be with us as we are bound to be tested from calling him out, So we ask fro your heavenly protection not just for us, but those we Love. Father thank You for all that You do and we ask all of this in Jesus name....AMEN.

Am I Surrendering or Submitting?

Ephesians 5:21, Submitting to ONE ANOTHER out of reverence for Christ. 

My light dimmed a little more today, as now comes the the big question of the toughest season, today I am to sign Divorce papers. My wife has chose to proceed stating, God cannot heal our relationship. My heart is breaking all over again. So by signing, am I surrendering or submitting? This is very debatable, as most of you know my stance on Divorce. The scripture above says we should submit to each other. Now this particular post may get a little raw, so please do not take offense to it. I have tried to keep it real all along and I will not stop now.

So for a few months now this day has been looming over my head. It has been the cause of many health issues and more hours of prayer and lost sleep, than I care to count. Yet even after pleading, praying and fasting, the result stands the same. Free will appears to be prevailing. As angry as I want to be right now I have been trying to take the narrow road. My feelings are, I am about to be everything, I vowed I wasn't going to be in life and it is about to come down upon me. I am about to be a divorced (again), a part time father, a convict and the enemy will win again. This is how I feel as I have absolutely no control and must stand and watch my wife walk away with our daughter.  Do I have any culpability? Absolutely, in at least bringing this treachery, to my door. One day I will have to answer to God for these decisions. However, that is where my culpability ends. I try to make every decision based on a Godly choice and continue to attempt to do so each and every day. Psalm 9:10, And they who know Your name [who have experience and acquaintance with Your mercy] will lean on and confidently put their trust in You, for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek (inquire of and for) You [on the authority of God's Word and the right of their necessity].

So that brings us to this choice, to sign or not to sign. I have been stead fast that signing would be an act of hypocrisy which I never want to commit again after over 40 years of it. If you read back you can see the stance on which I base this decision on, where I stood against divorce, citing not only God does not approve of it, but that If you truly believe in God, and He can heal all things, then divorce isn't even an option. So would signing be surrendering? Make me a hypocrite? I do not think so, after much counsel and many hours of prayer, I am led to believe that signing will be the ultimate submission and sacrifice to my wife and my God. Now I truly leave it in God's and my wife's hands. I have placed it at her feet and the fate of our marriage, our family and the future is now her decision, as I have done my part, lately, to fulfill submitting to each other, resisting the enemy and trusting in God.  James 4:7, So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

This was the hardest most difficult decision and selfless sacrifice of my life. I am giving her the opportunity to walk away and feel deep down as if I am quitting. Yet I will stand here and hope she does a u-turn and comes back to me, I may be standing alone for a very long time. My ring will only come off one of two ways, if she replaces it when we renew our vows or when I go to meet our Lord. Either way I am married to her, in Gods eyes, for the rest of my life. Matthew 19:6, "Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." Of this matter I do not get a choice or want one. I have only wanted two things for many years, to be married to this woman and to raise our daughter together in a Christian family setting. This is my disappointment and I will struggle with this and will the rest of my life. There are many things that are only a memory to me and unfortunately my daughter is so young, she may not ever remember them either.

This is what the enemy does, he plants the seeds of deceit, dishonor, adultery, unforgiveness and the idea God cannot fix it all, therefore destroying marriages and families. He wins without even breaking a sweat. So my family because, starting of my choices, the lack of faith in our God and free will, loses to the enemy. We become another worldly statistic. Do not follow my families fate. James 3:16, For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. Find God, trust in Him and fix your marriage and family now. If you are in my shoes, stand fast and pray. God can fix your marriage and family. Let Him work and stay out of the way. That is my plan and should free will and the enemy win, I will be standing here until my Father comes and to get me.

Let's Pray: Father God, You know more than anyone how this makes hearts hurt. Divorce is not the answer yet so many feel it is the only way out. How can so many believers fall victim to the enemy's deceit that you cannot heal all things? Father I am still standing, asking for Your intervention. Not just in my marriage, but in the countless others who are struggling as we speak. I pray that anyone else who may be going through this same trial comment and be included in this prayer. We believe God can Heal all things. I pray this over my wife and your spouses too. I can believe for all of us, I know our God is capable of miracles and I ask for one here, to give break through to all those struggling at this very moment God. I ask for this in Jesus name and I will continue to stand in His name for that is right and good. I will not be moved or shaken again. Father with all our faults, forgive us and grant these prayers in the name of Jesus....AMEN.

I Chose the Narrow Road, Will You?

Matthew 7:13-14,  “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.  But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

This is an exact description of the events of the last seven and a half months. At every turn, I have been faced with adversity and I have chose the narrow road, why? At first I wasn't sure, but now I know that God is directing my path. Anyone can take the wide road as it is an easy path, with little resistance and worldly in nature. Yet the narrow road has been bumpy and full of surprises, some of which haven't been vary pleasant and I have fallen and stumbled. Yet I know, in the end, I choose Life and only the narrow road leads to that.

Everyday I reflect on my past, why didn't I choose God before? Why didn't I choose my wife and family before? Why didn't I choose Life before? As I pray about these questions and seek answers, I keep hearing "you wasn't ready". Now that's not saying the events of last year are justified, they are nothing more than siding with the enemy in resisting God and choosing sin. The response however baffles me, "I wasn't ready?" I wasn't ready for what? To be a true Husband, Father or Christian? Talk about provoking thought. I think what I am hearing is this, God wants me to choose the narrow road, just as he does for you. We all to often take the path more traveled then the one less traveled. Matthew 20:16, "many are called, but few are chosen." Much like the movie theater, as the crowds pour in they tend to move to the right, the line backs up. Try going to the left and see what happens. No wait and you get a much better seat in most cases. God want you to choose the left also. You see he knows all the choices I would make and all the giants I will face in my new path. He knew my biggest struggle is my wife and family, and the facing of divorce, yet he makes me stand firm instead of walk away. Why? He is bigger than all of this and this scripture explains why; Ephesians 2:10, For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

He wants you to follow Him in your choices in life and these choices are usually against the grain of the world and full of dissent by others as they don't understand. They only know the worldly ways, not those of Christ. So how could they understand prayer can heal, Love endures ALL things and God forgives us, just as we should forgive each other? These are not the ways of the world, in which the doctors are always correct, Love is what you read about in books and forgiveness has to be earned and then it is conditional.  Choosing the narrow gate and road requires immense trust in God. Knowing HE will protect you and guide you. I know this path is full of stumbling and trouble as the enemy will make my choice very difficult. I can't say I am totally prepared, but I can say I am as prepared as possible. I give it all to God and follow in full submission with total obedience. Can you say the same? If not make that choice now. I am not saying it will be easy, in fact the stress is outlandish at times.Yet God knows just when to step in before you break. Psalm 5:11, But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; let those also who love Your name be joyful in You. 

As we speak, I received news that was not what I wanted to hear, but was expected. The reasons used were as I heard they would be. God told me this answer would be the one I would receive and so I knew what to expect. Does it make it easier? No, it still hurts. But I know just as God makes me look past my own pain and selfish behaviors, to become selfless, He will do the same for you. James 3:17, But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. When you face similar circumstances you will reach to Him and He will not only show you your selfish ways, but he will deliver you from them. Remember words of God are; we can, we will, we know and words of the enemy are I can't, I won't and I refuse. Life versus death, good versus evil, we versus I, God versus the enemy. Who will win in your life? To make you problems bigger than God is to say He is not big enough. Take the road less traveled, the narrow road, I can not promise and easy path, but I can promise one of selfless, Loving and much more fulfilling nature. If we fail along the way, we know we have done EVERYTHING and not just made a feeble attempt. As the attempts are what God is watching, so in our hearts we and He know exactly what has been put into it. Yesterday was yesterday, so live in today and make each attempt for Christ, for Love and for yourself. Don't follow the path of world as we will surely quit and use words of death to justify it. We honestly do not want to wander for 40 years in the wilderness, so we have no choice but to choose Him and His guidance. Numbers 14:10-12, 33,  Then the glorious presence of the Lord appeared to all the Israelites at the Tabernacle. And the Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt? Will they never believe me, even after all the miraculous signs I have done among them? I will disown them and destroy them with a plague." -"And your children will be like shepherds, wandering in the wilderness for forty years. In this way, they will pay for your faithlessness, until the last of you lies dead in the wilderness."

 Let's Pray:  Father God, grant us insight O Lord in your ways. Father thank you for guiding us in our daily walk Father. Forgive us as we stumble and sin Lord. Forgive us for our selfish ways and Lord show us a different way. Show us Your way. Father grant us the wisdom and understanding of your ways, while keeping us strong. Lead those of us who have gone astray or have been misled back to You Father. Lord navigate us through the narrow path. Show us your Love Father in this path so we may face the worldly obstacles in our path. Father we thank You for all that You do and ask all of this in Jesus name....AMEN.

Who do You Honour?

John 5:23, so that everyone will honour the Son, just as they honour the Father. Anyone who does not honour the Son is certainly not honouring the Father who sent him.

Dave Burwell writes: Readers may think this is a stretch, but the meaning once taught about honour seems much different than the definition of honor used today.  The Greek word used for honour is time (pr. tee-may’) which in it’s simplest form means to esteem, to respect, have great regard for, and value highly.  In both dictionaries used (see above); there are two primary definitions:
High regard or great respect given!
High regard or great respect received!
When reflecting on these two meanings, I can only wonder if the “u” that has been removed from honour to get to honor signifies a proverb of the problem.  If a person or group stops focusing on others (U instead of I) then they fall into the trap that Jesus refused in John 5:41, "I receive not honour from men."


I know I used to think just like this. I did not truly Honor my God, Wife, Children, or anyone else in my life, yet I demanded it from everyone. Now I did go through the motions, I stepped up when called upon, I tried to lead the best I knew how, I attempted to do the right things when needed.......I FAILED MISERABLY, as I did not know the true understanding of what this meant. I know many of you think the same as I did. Well today we are going to try and change this perspective a little. It doesn't matter who you are or what season of life you are in, you can use this guide to make a difference.1 Peter 2:17, Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

First is respecting God and His Kingdom, this should be what everything else is founded on. God expects us as Christians to Honour Him and rightly so, if nothing more for the selfless acts God has provided for us to wipe away our sins. We should honor Him with our first fruits, time (beginning of the day), money (tithes) and any other favor in our lives. Our Father deserves these fruits without a reminder or asking for it. We should give freely as we do our Love to Him, while expecting nothing in return. However follow this Kingdom principle and you will find yourself highly blessed. Proverbs 3:9, Honour the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce.

Second, as most of us are adults I am going to place the spouse in this position. As Children our parents would be second, yet they move down when we marry. This particular area is where I failed miserably. I now understand the principle of Honouring my wife, I only got to practice it a short while daily. But I still do it even as we are apart. I follow this Kingdom Law, even when I am alone. 1 Peter 3:7, In the same way, you husbands must give Honour to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. I learned a little late that I should show her Honour in everything that I do through life. As she is my wife through this life, I will continue to Honour her the rest of my life no matter what. The first thing I can do is Love her unconditionally, no matter what choices are made, no matter what happens in this world, I choose to Love her and in doing so all my decisions are based on this Love. Hebrews 13:4, "Let marriage be held in Honour among all."
Some would tell you I discovered this a bit late, but what is too late? It is never too late as long as we breathe air and have a pulse. Don't wait, start Honouring your spouse today and men, YOU lead the way. There are plenty of scriptures on the Bible to help you understand how to do this. She will regain Love and Respect for you and your relationship will have a new found direction. God can show you how to do this.

Father, Mother, Children and other family members. Loving and Honoring them is just as important as that of your spouse. Romans 12:10, Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honour. Yes they may annoy you, upset you, even offend you. Turn to God and learn how to Love and Honour them even when they will not do the same for you. Show that your light is so very strong and God is the reason. I have witnessed so many children bring their parents to God, by simply leading the way through living Godly. Your own children will return Honour to you if you show it to them. Remember learning is done by mimicking in most cases. So let them see you lead and they will follow.

One of the biggest challenges to Honouring people is when you are upset or at odds with them. This is when Jesus wants you to shone the brightest. This season is when you can make the difference in how your spouse, family and others around you see you. The will have no choice but to Honour you if in times of difficulty you show nothing but Love and Respect. This plants seeds that will grow in all of them. Honouring people in these times also praises God and I can't think of a bigger reason to do it then that. God is waiting to bless you, just ask Him to redefine your life and let Him work. Romans 12:17-21, Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Let's Pray: Father God, Thank You for all that You do in our lives every day. Father we ask that You forgive us of our sins and help us understand the true way to Honour not only You, but those around us also. Father I pray You do not let another couple fall trap to the dishonoring of a covenant by one spouse or the other. Father do not let another family be destroyed and the enemy put another notch in his belt. Father you see the ways of this world and we ask that You show all of us how to Honour You daily. Guide us through the traps the enemy has prepared for us. Show us the fortitude to not only Honour You with our decisions, through Love, but to Honour others close to us by the power of Your Love. Father we ask all of this in Jesus name....AMEN.

What About Tomorrow?

James 4:14-17, How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.” Otherwise you are boasting about your own plans, and all such boasting is evil. Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.

What will your life be like tomorrow? Well I know I don't have a clue, none of us do. The only guarantee I have is my salvation. Can you say that? Can those around you? Yesterday we spoke about witnessing to the lost. I light of a recent news tragedy, I believe I am led to question, Have we done everything to prepare for tomorrow? Have we received Christ by asking for our forgiveness? Have we asked others for forgiveness? Have we forgiven all those who offended us, moreover forgiven ourselves? Have we truly let those around us know exactly how we feel? Have you told or shown your spouse how much you Love them? Your children? Have we told or shown others in our lives the same? Hebrews 3:13, But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

The first order of business, is our salvation. In these days we could be gone at a moments notice. Are we prepared? Have we asked our Father to forgive us? I believe that the times that are upon us that this is something that just cannot wait. If you do you risk much more than our minds can comprehend. So I implore you waste not another minute and stretch to Jesus. Ask Him to forgive your sins, take a leap of faith. What do you have to lose? It doesn't cost anything, but a moment of your time, yet the payoff is eternal. There is no retirement plan that beats His plan. I Promise. Just start a conversation with God and the rest will come. I will include in the prayer the words for your guidance. Acts 3:19, "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."

Now that you have secured your salvation, have you forgiven others and asked for their forgiveness? Let not another minute pass bye. Give those you love and those you don't freedom from your offense and forgive them. If you have offended reach out to them and ask for their forgiveness. Not only will you feel liberated, you will gain Gods grace. Make sure that you truly forgive, just going through the motions will not find that grace, remember God see yours heart of hearts. Dig down, you can do it and give it your all. Matthew 5:23-24, "So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift." You will be blessed beyond your understanding. Read the entry "The Letter", and as yourself do you want to be this person? I know I don't, so I fight for what I believe to be Gods will, and I hope that letter will start you thinking about what truly matters to you. So waste no more time follow your heart and Gods will for your life. Matthew 6:14, "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."

Lastly, have you reached to those you care about and truly let them know how you feel. We should take every opportunity to let those we care about, know how they are appreciated and Loved daily. Any of us could be lost and called home tomorrow, so we want to make sure we are truly letting all know our true feelings. They deserve to know as do we, our time here is short, sometimes too short. God has a plan and none of us can pretend to know it or understand it. The one thing I do know is I choose to act as Christ would and only speak life from now on, to show those around me how much I truly Love each and every one. In Jesus name, never miss another opportunity to pray with them, share with them the positive things in Life. Join me in this celebration of a new dawn. A new perspective and fresh look on what is to come. I promise the days will seem much brighter, the colors much more vivid and let God will be praised from your new lease on life. 2 Corinthians 6:2, 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.

Let's Pray: Father God, Thank You for this new day. Father Thank You for the opportunity to tell those we Love them. Father, we come to You, humbly, and ask fro your to forgive our sins. Allow us to forgive others who have sinned against us. And Father in Jesus name allow us to ask those for forgiveness. Father show those who are praying this for the first time how Loving You are. Let them feel You move as they ask for your forgiveness. Lift them up Father and bathe them in You grace. Father show each of us how to show all in our lives the Love and compassion You show Father. Thank You for giving us another day, so that we may not squander this chance to reconcile and reinforce the relationships around us Father. We ask only that You continue to guide us in this unknown walk Father, but we choose to believe in you, to believe you can fix all things, you can heal all issues and that You Father, if we just give them to You. Father we ask you give those the strength to pray this prayer so they may be saved and walk in the light. Thank You for all that You do and we pray all of this in Jesus name....AMEN.

God's Lost and Found

Luke 15: 4-24, “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

Are you lost or have you been found? Sometimes as Christians we go astray and as a brother in Christ it is my responsibility to help the lost or astray find there way back to our Father in Heaven. Jesus was able to see the good in everyone, can we really say the same? I have become more conscious about how I look at other people. I choose not to judge and to Love everyone God puts in my path. This is not always easy, although I don't believe it is my choice. My choice is to serve my God and follow Him faithfully.

Everyday God introduces me to people who are both believers and non-believers alike. I also get to meet people of other faiths and beliefs. All whom I encounter I find interesting and show nothing but a Godly faith filled Love. I listen and at times explore with them alternative possibilities to issues they may have. I am in no means a member of the clergy or a counselor but the only thing I do is listen and refer to scripture, clergy or counseling. I pray with those who allow it and show a genuine positive outlook on whatever they are facing. God leads the interaction and I feel blessed to be just a vessel He works through. I am filled with wonder at the changes I see right before my eyes. Luke 19:10,“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Now we all have those around us that we wish God would reach too. The question is, do we truly want God to reach them for Kingdom principles or do we have some more selfish motivations? I recently had to check my motivations on several issues and examine each one from a Godly perspective and make sure I was truly leaning to God for clarity on each issue. In some cases with certain people I found God giving me enlightenment in their issues and problems. Finding conformation, I move to follow the path God had sent me down for them. I know I must be careful not to fall in the path of sin. This could be counter productive or even destructive to myself and them, so I must be aware of these possibilities. Galatians 6:1, Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.

God wants us to witness to others in His name and about the Kingdom and it's principles. Praising Him and the Kingdom freely, builds favor in Him. By following these simple ideals not only do you follow God's guidelines, you help others and make yourself feel better in the process. God will bless you for your obedience and faithfulness. Witnessing is simply just telling your story and sharing with others. It's not some big fancy structured sermon. Just telling others how God has blessed your life, simple right? Step out of your comfort zone and look for the opportunities God is placing in your life. You will be amazed at the results. Just remember as I am always reminded, "God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called." Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose"

Let's Pray: Father God, we Thank You for another day serving you Father. We couldn't ask for something better. Father we ask that You forgive us for our sins and show us the life You want us to lead. Father we come to serve as you have designed, we want to serve you, our spouses, our families and those we may not even know. Father we look forward to the privilege to promote Your Kingdom in any ways You desire us too. Father help us understand what we are truly to do and give us the wisdom, strength and guidance to follow through with it. Father thank you for all that You do and we ask all these things in Jesus name...AMEN.

When You are Facing Goliath

1 Samuel 17:32-33, “Don’t worry about this Philistine,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight him!" "Don’t be ridiculous!” Saul replied. “There’s no way you can fight this Philistine and possibly win! You’re only a boy, and he’s been a man of war since his youth.”

There are days I feel like the Israelites, ready to run at a moments notice, scared to death and facing what seems insurmountable odds. I believe we all have these days, yet what do we do in response to this fleeting feeling of hope? Do you give it to God? Do you Pray up? Do you get in the Word? Or do you run, scared and cowering screaming God cannot possibly get me through this and the outcome be a winning situation. Well David stood and God delivered Him just that. David was told he couldn't win, he was laughed and mocked. Yet He followed God's will and  not only single-handedly defeat one of the most feared soldiers of all time, but he also planted fear in the hearts of the Philistines who turned and ran. This is what God can do for your problem. Deuteronomy 28:7, "The LORD will conquer your enemies when they attack you."

Lately, I have many days that Life seems overwhelming. Losing my family, my job, my freedom, an unknown future alone, all of these things at once feels like I am facing a giant. Although I still have my God. I may not see Him working, I may not see the tides turning, but I know they are. I know He will do all he can and He will Love me no matter what the outcome. See I refuse to give up and say my problems are to big for Him. My FAITH is stronger than that and all of these things I face. Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Yes some days I struggle, then I am reminded of His power. We need to remind ourselves that there are many things at work against us too. We are our own worst enemy at times, then the real enemy Satan continues to lurk and then a little something called free will. All of these things will come to bear against us, especially in stressful times or in times of healing. Luke 4:13 Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time.The enemy doesn't want restoration, healing or even positive attitudes. He wants broken families, broken people and broken spirits. But there is good news too, God looks for people who the enemy has broken. He picks them up, gives them hope and fixes there lives better than before. But they must believe he can do this, otherwise you are no different than the whole army of Israel, full of fear and unbelief. 

I had the opportunity to speak to two women yesterday, who came in together to McDonald's. As I reflected on the interaction, I know God was showing me many things about my own life in that interaction. First, is the direction he is taking me (Proverbs 3:6, in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.), I felt alive while able to give testimony to these women and then during prayer with them. They both had their own giants to slay, yet my spirit felt moved and brighter when they left. I felt they were on their way home to allow God to work in their lives and had a renewed strength to do so. Second, I discovered that God could have left them to continue down the destructive paths of divorce and an unhealthy relationship, but I feel him move through me to show them another way, His way (Exodus 4:12, "Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.”) An alternative that is positive and healthy for all involved. Mostly the new direction was Godly and breathed life. Both of these God fearing women could have dismissed me and our conversation. Yet God shook them just a little and it was visible during that interaction. It was an amazing sight to see. Third, God showed me I am not supposed to try and fix my marriage, that is His job. Just as He used me to speak life into one yesterday, he will use others to speak into mine. I also know that these ladies chose to be open to Gods work. So God was showing me how free will can work in a positive way and not how I have experienced it as of late.

Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope

God promises victory in all things, if we just believe in Him and His ability to accomplish the task. God will work against your giant, no matter what his name is. He can defeat all enemies, yet you must give Him the chance. To do this stretch to Him, give your problems to Him and then praise Him for all that He is, does and is about to do in your life. You must have faith that your problems are not to big for our God. You must have hope that all will be brighter on the other side. The common thing here is TRUST.....Trust that our God is bigger than everything. Trust in His promises and Word. Trust that he can and will lead you in a positive direction, no matter the odds. Trust that if others forsake you, He will not. Trust that He will defend you when others fail to do so. Trust that He will not let you be hurt again. Trust that he can heal all things and His shoulders are big enough for the burdens. Trust that He Loves you. Jeremiah 17:7, "But blessed are those who TRUST in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence."

In today's prayer I am going to offer an invitation. I know not everyone who reads this is a believer and I feel I would not be following the Kingdoms plan if I do not show the lost a way to meet our Savior. So if this is the first time you prayed this prayer or just renewing your covenant with God, know that He will bless you life beyond imagination. He will heal your life, your marriage, your body. You only need to believe he can and will. Once you have prayed this prayer, I ask you to connect with a good Bible based church so that you can continue to grow in Gods plan for you. 1 John 1:9, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Let's Pray: Father God, we come to you today asking for your forgiveness. We ask that you cover us in your grace and show us Your Agape Love Father. We no longer want to walk in the darkness but we want to share in the light. Father if this is our first prayer or a reaffirmation, we Thank You for just the ability to have this time with You Father. Your son died on the cross for our sins and we praise You for a sacrifice of such  magnitude and selflessness. Father each of us are facing our own giants in this life. We can learn from you selfless acts of grace. You put your children above all, we should do the same. You put others first, we should do the same. Your Love, Forgiveness and Grace is unconditional, we should do the same. Father we truly Thank and praise You for all that is provided. Father we declare victory for all who are facing a Goliath. I declare in Jesus name, addictions cast out, sickness healed, famine are fed, marriages are restored, jobless are employed and prisoners are rehabilitated so all may follow You Lord and continue to build Your Kingdom to the Glory it is. Father we ask all of these things in Jesus name....AMEN.

The Tongue, a Weapon for Good or Evil?

Ephesians 4:29, Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 

Are we all not a little guilty of corrupt talking every now and then? I know I let some things slip every now and then. Yet verse after verse in the Word, it states we are to refrain from this behavior. The worst of this, murmuring is considered an abomination. This should show us how much power the tongue carries. It can heal or damage with just a few words. It is a Christians responsibility to examine each word we are about to speak and I believe also the tone in which they are emitted. Our words should always lift others up and never speak about the negatives. If we truly seeking His grace, our words will surely allow us to grow closer to Him and others.

I have in my lifetime spewed literally death from my lips on more than one occasion. Whether it was job related (law enforcement), retaliation in relationships and yes even murmuring. Obviously these words didn't get me far in life. Through trial and error and some maturity I learned different. I still have to be careful, especially in maters of the heart. These words can leap out either while being offended or to offend another. We can choose to speak of life or death. The enemy hides in words like, I can't, it's painful, I'm scared, your wrong, i hate, and many others that speak negatives. God lives in words such as I Love, we can, yes, and many others. See in God you can succeed, you can win and you can overcome ALL things. Just speak into them both in prayer and otherwise positively, with life, as Jesus would. Matthew 12:34-37, How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” 

Jesus accomplished so much just with his tongue. He healed, Luke 17:19, And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” Jesus forgave, Luke 7:47-48, “…Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” And he gave life, John 11:43, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!". In all of these references Jesus only spoke life and just with the power of his tongue he accomplished these things. Imagine what we can accomplish as He has given us the same authority to proclaim these victories in His name, Mark 13:34, "For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch." Stand on His side, speak life and hope. Speak so that those around you know that God lives in you and all things are possible in Him. 

We all have the responsibility as a Christian to not only let God work in our lives, but to speak in all situations, positive Christ like words. Imagine this, if Jesus was standing in front of you right now, what would you say about any given situation? Would your words be of life or death? Would they be uplifting in nature or negative. Would they be selfless or selfish? Only you know, if you have to justify your position than it probably isn't Christ like. As Kingdom principles requires no defense to stand on its own. Is this business practice selfless or selfish? Is this stance on an issue positive or negative. Does this relationship or direction of it, have to be defended or does it stand on its own? Our words follow these same principles. If we have to defend them than they may not be the wisest choice. Sometimes silence is the correct action, Proverbs 17:28, Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.

Let's Pray: Father God, We ask that you guide our words Lord so that they give life not death Father. We ask that you forgive us for our sins and allow us to forgive others. Father we want to thank you for showing us your ways and allowing us to be imperfect, although You also grant us Your Heavenly grace to be redeemed. Father give us the wisdom to use our tongues to support Kingdom principles and not the enemy. Father grant us the strength to silence our tongues when we need to. Father we thank you for all that you do in our lives and we ask all this in Jesus name....AMEN.

Shooting Flies with an Elephant Gun

Psalm 121: 1-3, I look up toward the mountains. Where can I find help? My help comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let you fall. 

Some of you may be wondering what the title means, well let us put that in perspective. We all have found ourselves in a situation that just seem overwhelming and the sheer nature of it drains us physically, mentally and spiritually. We are told to hand it over to God, yet that seems nearly impossible at times. But this is exactly what we must do, before the situation completely drags us down beyond reach. We must first just reach to our Heavenly Father for this help and he will take it from us otherwise it will be the same as trying to shoot flies with an elephant gun.

Many of you may be in a season, as I am, of extreme life events that the magnitude of them can force you to stumble in your attempts to resolve them yourself. So I had to choose to give it all to God. I must look past the obvious and overlook the offenses that occur daily and give it entirely to God. In my instance, someone else is making all the decisions. Whether or not I agree with them, I have discovered that this person no longer wants my protection, help or attention. So I give them to God as they will stand alone. Genesis 3: 1 "Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field ..."  I have protected them, fought for them, in doing so been slandered and sacrificed without a care to my own issues. None of this has made a difference. So now the real weight of this situation and their choices are going to land fully on their shoulders. I fear that this may be overwhelming and the offenses from them, will only increase as they feel the pressure. I pray different occurs, but I have come to the threshold that I cannot cross anymore. As painful as it is to let go, I must and I pray to my Father above, that I do not become hard and callous to this person as I know the enemy is in a frenzy as he is winning the war and only God can stop him. Deuteronomy 3:22, You shall not fear them, for the Lord your God shall fight for you. 

This is one of the most difficult processes I have ever experienced. I have felt disappointment, frustration, anger, fear and many other emotions involving this specific process. I have to release this burden and these emotions not because I want to, I am not wanted to fight that fight anymore. So now my priorities change and I redirect my resources to those who do care and truly want and need my assistance. Their are many people out there who truly want and need some sort of ministering. They see how deep they have gone and God is speaking to them. They have severe relationship issues, addictions, some are hungry and homeless. God has blessed me to have the ability to share a moment in time with these people. I am allowed to share stories and pray with them. These people are looking for God and truly want to be helped and are listening. So if you are in a similar position as mine, reach and help those who want it. I am not saying forget the others, all you can do is pray for them, God wants you too utilize the time you have for positive achievements in His Kingdom. Love everyone, help those who need and want it and pray for the rest. I know not all can be helped, as many do not want or cannot see what God is trying to do for them. Revelation 3:20, “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.” 

Let's Pray: Father God Thank You for everything You do Father. We ask for Your forgiveness for our transgressions Father. Father we turn all those who we can no longer help, over to you Father. We ask you guide us to those who truly need and want our assistance. Father should those we turn over have a change of heart lead us back to them with open arms and heart. We still Love them Father as You know our hearts. We ask you change our hearts Father and keep them soft.  We are blessed to serve You Father and we ask only to be able to continue to do that. Father Thank You for all that You provide and do in our lives adn we ask all of this in Jesus name......AMEN.

Is it of God or is it Free Will?

Genesis 3:6, "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat."

Free will or God's will, the line can easily be blurred when making decisions. Many times in a day I have to ask myself is this God, me or of the enemy. It is not always easy to determine. It sometimes can mask itself as something other than what God may be asking us to do and there are many ways to discern which may actually be occurring. Eve ate from the tree and Adam from free will chose to follow that same path. Neither stopped to ask one simple question, Is this Gods will and if so, where is the confirmation from God? James 1:5, If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.


As in the Garden of Eden scenario we may at times ask this question, but we must be careful in listening for the answer as the enemy can truly find a way in, through this issue. I myself had to look to God a lot during the last few months. Today those stances were brought into question as possible selfishness. In the context of the situation and my background, my stances could very possibly be seen as selfish in nature. However I felt it was important enough to defend my position and notate that had I followed what my history defines me as, I definitely would not be taking a stand of any kind, especially not a Godly conviction such as this one. I also felt troubled, as the other persons decision wasn't questioned as selfishness. So I made a quick prayer to God to defend me and stepped aside as this was the only Godly thing to do in this situation. I have been consistently checked and balanced over the last several months and I believe I am my own worst critic. I question sometimes to a fault what God is asking me to do, and this presents a problem too. That is, I am easily frustrated with God, causing me to question His decisions and my actions. So I am careful to make sure they are of God and not a selfish act. (James 3:17, But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.) Someone pointed out to me today that just the mere fact of me agreeing to this meeting in the environment I did, was an act of selflessness, yet others may look at the meeting itself as selfish in nature.


This dilemma is one that had been debated since recorded history. One of the most known debated free will or Godly act was that of the Crusades of the Dark ages. Pope Urban II and the Catholic church supported the war of trying to take back the Holy lands of Jerusalem from the Muslims. Many will argue that God bestowed the directive to do this and the only reason it failed was the lack of faith among those who were fighting. Yet others would say it was devised of selfish motives by king and clergy as a right of passage to those lands. In truth we all will never know the truth until God can answer that day when we are in front of Him. I referenced this era because I wanted you to see how easily our motives can be perceived as either positive or negative. Matthew 7:1, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." I am not advocating the idea of us judging other peoples motive, nor them judging us. Simply showing how easy our motives can be called into question.


I believe what happens, especially when there are dramatic changes in people, that everything about them comes into question. Others don't understand you as they could not see your burning bush. For them you are acting out or other forms of attracting attention. They are slow, if ever, to see what God is doing in your life. Just as many mocked David standing in front of Goliath, I stand here asking God for direction and moving when he says too. 1 Peter 3:17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. Others who have been in my shoes understand, yet most doubt me and wait for the old me to emerge. God gives me free will to definitely go back and be the "old me", but most don't understand that I choose never to return to that path. I will follow the path and decisions God has paid before me, no matter where they lead. 


Let's Pray: Father God, please forgive us for any selfishness we may have in our lives. Father show us the way you want us to live. Father show others who look at us, our true hearts, so they can see we are truly walking with you Father. For those who do not know you and live by total free will Lord, we ask that you show them grace and Love. Father for those who truly are not convinced of the paths they have chosen, Father help guide them and let them be still, so you may speak and they may hear your will Father. As it says in scripture "Let Your WILL be Done" Father, not ours. Father we thank you for hearing these prayers and praise You fro all that You do in our lives. We ask all of this in Jesus name.....AMEN.

 

Hurry Up & Wait

Isaiah 30:18, Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him. 

Patience, not one of my strongest personality traits. As men most of us suffer from this character flaw. I believe mostly because we are raised in a different settings that doesn't promote patience except in specific situations.  Most of the time we push forward and if we make a mistake, then we ask for forgiveness and continue walking. When in fact, we should be waiting for God to tell us to move. Waiting will produce Blessings beyond your expectations. 

I know for me, the season I am in tests me constantly. I fight the temptation to get frustrated with things not moving as fast or in the direction I would like them too. I try not to get in the way of God, yet I was raised to handle everything, I was responsible for my own success and so on. Well you can see where that thought process landed me. So I trust God will steer my direction a little better then I was able too. Therefore I must develop patience and show God I am willing to wait for Him, this will also show my family that I trust in God for our direction and restoration. James 1:3, Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. 

God wants us to lean on Him in our walk with Him. By waiting with patience we are showing obedience to Him and showing by faith that we trust Him to deliver what he has promised. God is a Father who teaches us the lessons we need to better ourselves as husbands and earthly fathers. One of the most beneficial lessons is that of patience. Patience allows us to reenforce to our wives and families not to be in a hurry, but to let God work in our lives and guide our paths. He will answer the call and answer your prayers. Psalm 37:7-9
Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.

E. M. Bounds stated, "Faith, and hope, and patience and all the strong, beautiful, vital forces of piety are withered and dead in a prayerless life. The life of the individual believer, his personal salvation, and personal Christian graces have their being, bloom, and fruitage in prayer." Prayer is a Christians backbone, as worldly people we could never accomplish all that we must without prayer. If you struggle as I do with patience, then go to God with this and let Him bestow on you patience. 

Let's Pray: Father God, Thank You for all your grace and the many blessings you give us Father. In the name of Jesus we ask for your forgiveness for all of our sins and for our lack of patience. Father we ask that the Holy Spirit fills us with patience so that those around us may see our shining example of your work. Let this example praise Your Kingdom Father and show others that with You all things can be accomplished. Father we ask all of this in Jesus precious name.....AMEN.