ENJOYING BLESSINGS, While Staying Vigilant

Ephesians 6:11-12, Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

The day after Christmas....the day after we are reminded of the most high blessing we could ever receive, the birthday of Son of God being born. Many of us also received many other blessings during this season, some of these gifts were items, some monetary and some were actions. Some received all of these and some none. I myself feel very blessed for what I have, what I received and what I experienced. I didn't fail to give thanks for all of this and feel humbled. In one of my devotionals "Jesus Calling" (Sarah Young), she wrote: "I AM THE GIFT that continuously gives-bounteously, with no strings attached." Gods blessings and grace are the biggest Gift of all. Yet there are powers out there, that even on the most renowned Christian holiday, are hard at work to try and steal or destroy these blessings. Thus the opening scripture today.

We must always, yes even on Christmas, be prepared for the enemy to try his best to cause mayhem and destruction in our lives. I awoke this morning, not sure of what the day would bring, yet I felt this deep sense the enemy was working behind the scenes. I am not sure what he is trying to do, I am not sure which direction he is going to come at me, but I know he is lurking out there...waiting. 1 Peter 5:8, "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." You see I have had many blessings this season, from grace, to gifts, to even the ability to visit with family. I am so deeply grateful and I know there are more to come. Yet I know, I felt this sense of heightened alert, as I know the enemy is very cunning and patient (2 Corinthians 11:3, But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ.). The Holy Spirit alerted me this morning and then gave me peace right after. However, while experiencing this I couldn't help shake the feeling of something looming. I know it can come through many channels, including attacks on my Loved ones, friends, or even myself. With the Holy Spirit granting me peace I know the attack has not been or will not be successful. As I know God has me covered. Psalm 46:1, "God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him."

In the past I would have worried, angered and been unable to shake the sense of dread. That in itself would show not only that I was untrusting in the Lord, but left the door open for the enemy to sneak in and steal my blessings or at least damage them. Deuteronomy 28:47-48, Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joyfulness and gladness of heart, because of the abundance of all things, therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you, in hunger and thirst, in nakedness, and lacking everything. And he will put a yoke of iron on your neck until he has destroyed you. Satan is constantly looking for these open doors, even in believers, to capitalize on. He will use doubt, deception and even rumor to build doubts or questions. This will manifest into all sorts of UN-Godly decisions and actions, none of which end in anything good and can only cause destruction and hurt. God wants none of this for any of us. Be on your guard. If you are experiencing any attacks in this season, ask God for His help. Isaiah 54:17, "no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” Stop trying to lean on your own understanding of the situation and asks for Gods perspective. I used to try and figure it all out, you can see where that got me. Now I let God be my defender, my protector and my voice in times of struggle. He is my navigator, my counsel, my Love of Loves, my Savior, my deliverer and my Father in Heaven. 

You see God not only protects me, He surrounds me with people who have nothing but Love in their hearts for God and me. Like God they have only good intentions for their actions involving me. When the enemy cannot get to me directly, he will enlist the help of others close to me who may be vulnerable for one reason or another. If your circle is complete, your Loved ones are not open for attack, then he will wait. I have grown attune to what the Holy Spirit whispers to me. I then pray and ask for Gods strength, wisdom and fortitude to Honour Him in my actions or responses. I once, horribly failed everyone in my life including my God and although I am far from perfect I am attempting to not repeat my failures. God wants nothing but good things for my life and yours. Romans 8:28, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Ask for Him to redeem you, live your life to Honour Him and see what amazing things He can do in Your life. Let go of the past, the hurt, the anger, your own failures and let God move in you. I promise everything in your life will change for the good. There will still be struggles, but they will seem insignificant with God guiding you through them. 

I trust God to fight my battles, but when they come to my door I trust he gives me the weapons I need to fight the enemy on his own ground. He has delivered me from so very much, mostly my own self. I TRUST in Him for everything. I am thankful for everything and I do not question even the smallest of blessings as this can only be seen as being unfaithful to my God. I feel Gods grace moving in my life daily and I am proud to serve Him in whatever form He directs me too. The enemy will have no foothold to build a stronghold in my life ever again. I know there are still those out there that question me, I am okay with that as I know when they find God, they too will see me through Gods eyes. Even some Christians do not see me through Gods eyes. For those I know they are trusting in themselves and not in God, as I have done many times in the past. Proverbs 28:26, "Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered." This is a lesson hard learned and can be very very painful. Yet once we trust in God, all becomes clear and easy to handle. I trust my God to protect me in all things, not just a few. I implore each of you to rebuke the enemy, trust in God for ALL things and enjoy the life He wants for you. Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.  

Let's Pray: Father God, we ask You to look into the hearts of the weak Father. Give them the understanding and the strength to look to You Father. To let You guide their lives and to follow without question. I know this is a difficult concept, and the enemy counts on that Father. I also know Your promises Father and I hope many many more get to experience those promises. I pray that if they are struggling that You show them the light and keep the enemy at bay. Father forgive us for our sins, strengthen us to face what is to come and we thank You for Your grace which is undeserved. We ask all this in Jesus name...AMEN. 

Out of the Darkness

Acts 26:18, To open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.

Darkness....What comes to mind when you hear this word? Well, now lets add a few words like come or turn from the darkness, this should bring to mind a time in our life that wasn't very good. We all have a time (some a few of these periods) when our lives were upside down, full of sin, anger, bitterness even unforgiveness, when we were lost, misguided or even on a path of self destruction. Maybe a few of you could be experiencing some era darkness even today. I can't help but just be fascinated with the next portion of the above scripture. First was darkness to light, Satan to God, Sin turned good.  all accomplished through the forgiveness of God and symbolized by moving into the light. 

In this season of Christmas we are surrounded by millions of lights, think about the underlying significance of this. You may think it's all for decoration, but why lights? Couldn't we just used garland, tinsel, bells and such? I believe the light is representing the light of Christ. The symbol of good triumphing over evil. We are celebrating the birth of Christ, so what better way to signify this, than lights....millions of them. I also believe that with the over abundant spirit of this season in people, it forces us all to look inside ourselves. Once the  darkness inside is recognized,  the desire for change becomes stronger. They then seek the light of the Lord for redemption.1 John 2:8-11, At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining. Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

If you stop and think about everything around us in this world, it follows the dark to light principles. We tend to not go into the world at night for fear of the evil that lurks, our entertainment also broadcasts this message, even God tells us that in the beginning there was darkness then upon His command, there was light. Genesis 1:2-4, The earth was without form and void, and DARKNESS was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be LIGHT,” and there was LIGHT. And God saw that the LIGHT was good. And God separated the LIGHT from the DARKNESS. Scripture is clear that we are all born of darkness (sin), it is our nature. Then to receive the light we simply ask and believe that Jesus is the way to Heaven. To continue striving for the Light of God, we abstain from sin, forgive others and practice Loving all people, no matter who they are or what our flesh may think of them. Then with that same person, God asks us to go a step further and serve those same people our flesh wants to judge.

In Hebrew the word for darkness is "choshek" which translates to "obscured". Isn't that how we feel without God in our lives? As if our lives are obscured or unclear? The Hebrew for light is "or" and it's defined as "shine". How many Christians do you know that shine? I know many whose appearance is so brilliant in presence, that this can only be of God. Some have very little worldly possessions or status, yet they brighten any room they walk into, appearing full of happiness and Gods grace. I strive for that feeling daily. I am a long way from it, but I know that I will continue to strive and be just as full of peace as they are and in Jesus name, so full of the Holy Spirit that my joy is beyond measure. God is so Great. 2 Corinthians 4:6, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

So in this season, lets all try to not have the "Scrooge" attitude. By this I don't mean you have to run out and buy up the world. I would just  like to encourage each of you to take that extra moment and be kind to everyone you meet. Whether they deserve it or not. Remember if God gave us what we deserved it would not be pleasant at all, yet He gave His ONLY SON for the one purpose....OUR SIN. 1 Corinthians 15:3, For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures. So I believe it is a small tribute,  for a sacrifice we could never repay, and just maybe we can affect someones life in a positive manner. Who knows that may be the only kind gesture they receive all day or week. Lets come together and put the true meaning of this season back in the word Christmas. Lets help others move from the darkness in to the light. Lets take back this world, put prayer back in school, morals back in Congress and God back in first place where he deserves. It starts with you.

Lets Pray: Father God.....I thank you so very much for this life, and the People you have placed into my world who Love and support me in ways that only a Christian could do. Father I am not proud of my past, yet I am so thankful you delivered me from the darkness. I have never seen so clear, my heart fresh and full of a Love I never known before. Father I ask that you forgive, not only me, but any others who read this prayer and seek Your light Father. Help them too see and feel the Holy Spirit fill them with such a portion of Love, that no words can describe it. Father I pray you reach all those who need you and help each and every person find the peace only You can deliver. And Father I/ We pray that this season of Christmas a record number of people find Your light Father. We ask all this in Jesus name...AMEN.

BELIEVE: Understanding an Unseen Trust

John 8:24, I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you BELIEVE that I am He you will die in your sins.”

In this season of Christmas we see the word BELIEVE almost everywhere we turn. On signs, bulbs, shirts and even wrapping paper. What does it mean to BELIEVE? To BELIEVE, in the Greek (pisteuo) is to have faith or trust. In Hebrew ('AMAN) it is to be steady, be firm or trustworthy. Websters defines BELIEVE as: accept (something) as true. Now ironically if you look at the word itself BELIEVE it contains "Be" and "Lie". So many choose to understand when they are asked to BELIEVE, that they are to support or trust a lie. Think about this for just a moment. For example, we are all introduced and taught to BELIEVE in Santa Claus, The Easter Bunny and even the Tooth Fairy, only to be told later in life they are all fake, lies or even make believe. Even make believe is to accept as not real or imaginary. Sorry if I just spoiled any adults Christmas by revealing the truth about Santa, wasn't my intention. :)

So many wonder why we struggle with understanding what others are trying to teach us. Unlike Santa and The Easter Bunny, which symbolize fun times, we usually only begin to seek, understand and have faith in Jesus when we have hit bottom or had some tragedy in our life. Granted God designed it this way so we are totally broken and we can truly give ourselves to Him. But even in these times, many wrestle with the fact that all the other unseens they grew up with were eventually discovered to be falsehoods. An adult knows a child can be easily tricked, however they are not willing to be victimized again to this unseen force known as God. They feel something and yet they can't quite explain the curiosity. This is God tugging at your heart. He is trying to get through. Still we resist. John 20:29, "Jesus said to him, Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Eventually, some of us, discover this gift that has been long talked about. We feel the Holy Spirit moving in us and wonder how we ever lived without Him. We feel the warm Love of Gods touch in our lives. We hunger for His word and teachings. The blessings begin to reign down on our lives. Our hearts are now open seeing the world for the world it is and in the midst seeing all of Gods wonders all around us. Our families suddenly become so very important. The need to serve fills our hearts. Understanding what our Father in Heaven did for every one of us. The price Christ paid for you and I suddenly becomes an overwhelming feeling and we only want to serve Him and make the Kingdom proud in return. Our relationships become much stronger, with God, Family, Friends, Co-Workers and anyone else important to us. Ephesians 2:8-9, For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

What occurred has become the single most important life changing event in our life that will never be surpassed. We spend the rest of our lives in training for what is to come next. We live to Love, forgive, serve and spread Hope to others. As the Christmas season looms closer, lets remember what this season is really all about. Lets be thankful for all that we have, God's grace, our families Love, children, homes, work, food, clothing. Luke 1:47-49, And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. There are so many who have so much less. So let's not pretend, lets not be selfish, find forgiveness, find grace and serve your fellow man. Maybe if we all pitch in just a little, God will smile and see all is not lost. Maybe we can put a little faith back in Him about us. He has done so much for us, lets Glorify Him in our actions. You may even save a life, better yet a soul. Praise God. Matthew 25:34-40, Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

BELIEVE in God and with that He will help you BELIEVE in others. What do you have to lose? You once thought there was a Santa, an egg laying bunny and a fairy that replaced money for a tooth. So what are you going to lose to take that step? Two hours on Sunday? The time to read a good book (Bible)? Take that leap and He will show you a life you could never fathom. It doesn't hurt, there are no strings, just ask Him to forgive you and BELIEVE in Him. That's all there is and if your not sure what to pray, just pray the prayer below. There is no format with God. He just wants a conversation in your new relationship with Him.

Lets Pray: Father we come to You today with open hearts. Some of us will ask this for the first time, others just reaffirming with You. Father we ask humbly and in great need for You to forgive our sins. Father we know we are undeserving of any Grace, yet Your Word tells us through the sacrifice of your precious Son, we will be saved if we only BELIEVE and confess. Father we BELIEVE, unconditionally. We Trust in Your Kingdom and Your ways father. Change our hearts Father and we ask this in Jesus name...AMEN.

God's Comfort & Grace in Tragedy

2 Corinthians 1:3-7, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort. 

I was going continue writing on marriage today but after yesterdays deplorable actions of one man, I felt led to discuss what many people are thinking right now. As a Father my heart breaks for those parents in Connecticut who lost someone so sweet and special, a child. Now many of us, as parents, would ask "where is God in all this?" or "why did He let this happen?" I believe these things are not  Gods plan for any of us, no more than an airplane falling from the sky or any other accident. Yet I absolutely believe our Father was right there with those children comforting them in their time of need. Just as He is there for the grieving family members. The scripture above promises this for us. 

As the events of this world become more unforgiving, we should remember to turn our hearts to God for guidance, Love and comfort. Everywhere we turn we see the enemy's hand at work. Surrounding us is death, divorce and general destruction of this world. But through it all stands one beacon of Hope and Promise. We are promised to find Peace in all things and that they work together for our good. Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. God knows when we are suffering and he asks us to live through Him so that He may comfort us. He will give us peace in these troubling times as He tells us in John 14:27, Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. 

Our flesh wants to put some explanation on this horrible event and others like it.  When in fact God also prepares us for those questions. Proverbs 3:5, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. I believe, in incidents such as the school shooting that there would be no excuse good enough to fulfill my worldly questions about such things, therefore God tells us to just trust in Him and He will provide our comfort and peace. Remember, He knows all to well what it feels like to lose a child. He grieves with those who suffer in a special way, because of this intimate knowledge of this loss. Let God cradle you in His Love and carry you into peace. Know He also cradles those children right now and they are enjoying the playgrounds of Heaven. We trust Him with our children here, we should also trust Him with them in His Kingdom. 

I want to also ask each of you to pray, not just for the innocent victims and their families, but also the other children that were in the school as well as the father and brother of the suspect. They too hurt and question how someone they Loved could do something so senseless, while a whole world is looking to them for answers when there actually may not be any. We know, God is holding them too and helping them through these times of need. As parents lets take an extra moment to Love on our children and families. Take that moment also, to thank God for the ability to share another moment with them. Tomorrow is not promised, yet eternal life is. John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." So please if you haven't made that decision yet, take a moment and pray the prayer at the end of this article. Our Father doesn't want a single one of you to perish into the "lake of fire", he only wants to forgive and Love you.

Lets Pray: Father God, we come to You today with heavy hearts. Our hearts hurt for the families of this horrible school event Father. We ask that You wrap all involved in Your Grace and Love Father, comfort them and shield them from those that wish them further harm. Father You know exactly what it is like to suffer this loss, so we implore Your intervention in these times to come. Father and I ask all who do not know You, to ask You for into their hearts right now. Father please forgive us for our sins, show us the strength and path to follow the path you have laid out for each of us. Father please meet the needs of each person who cry's out to You Father. Father we turn away from our sins and choose a path to glorify You. Father we ask all this in Jesus sweet name...AMEN.

Marriage Separation: A Godly Choice?

1 Corinthians 7:10-11, "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife." 

I am going to reference a Facebook profile called "stronger marriages" (S.M.) which someone shared many entries with me. This entries have some sound Christian advice regarding marriage and I wanted to share and speak on some of it. This entry (Many struggling couples choose to separate as a way to "work on their Marriage." Separation is not a step towards healing your marriage; it is a giant leap towards Divorce. If you're serious about working things out, stay under the same roof, seek counsel, communicate, pray and don't give up!) spawned the above scripture. I stand with both authors, that separation is definitely not the answer to your marriage issues. I can speak from experience it truly is a path that is almost impossible to recover from. God can heal your marriage if you BOTH truly trust Him to do so.

 S.M. says "Forgiveness does for Marriage what breathing does for a body; you can't survive without it! Forgiveness doesn't mean that the painful mistakes don't matter, it simply means that you love your spouse too much to keep holding past mistakes against them. Choose to let go of bitterness and replace it with grace so that trust can be rebuilt. Be quick to give and seek forgiveness and your marriage will stay strong!" We all know that this is the single most difficult thing to do. Our selfish pride in most cases doesn't want or allow us to follow Gods will in this instance. Mark 11:25, "And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” This is the easiest way the enemy can continue the attack on your family. Obviously there is already some offense that has already occurred and by not finding a way to forgive then you have given the enemy permission to take your family from Gods hands and have dominion over your lives. Now I believe that either party can open this door. Both must give the relationship to God together and work in tandem to keep the enemy at bay. Satan doesn't want just your marriage, he wants your family. 2 Corinthians 11:3, "But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ."

I believe 1 Corinthians 13 is our road map for Love and Marriage in short. It gives you all the guidelines needed for anything you may face in your marriage. S.M. highlighted a few of these in a post of marriage builders and killers:
MARRIAGE-BUILDERS: Time together, Thoughtfulness, Prayer, Sex, Communication, Shared Dreams, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, Humility, Generosity and Trust.
MARRIAGE-KILLERS: Unhealthy Friendships, Secrets, Lies, Porn, Financial Debt, Greed, Drama, Pride, insults, infidelity, Disrespect and Selfishness.  
I'm sure many of you can see many traits that coincide with some positive and negative issues in your lives. This is all covered by the versus in 1 Corinthians 13 which I am going to close with. The powerful meaning in these words should be read over and over into your marriage. God puts such an emphasis on Love and states there is nothing that can overcome Love except a "hard heart", Ephesians 4:18, "They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart." Do you have a hard heart? Is there unforgiveness in your life? Do you wish to feel Gods grace and blessings in your life. I heard someone speak, not to long ago of a dream, where God said "tell them to stop reaching for me.....", I was taken back and then Gods words were finished, "Tell them to start living through Me." So normally I would tell you to reach to God, but I believe that dream was meant for this message and for everyone to read the versus below and start believing them in your life and this will be living in Love and through God your relationship will be stronger than ever.

1 Corinthians 13

1)If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2)If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3)If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

4)Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5)It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6)Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7)It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8)Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9)For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10)but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11)When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12)Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

13)And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Here is a radio broadcast from Dr. Ed Young on marriage called "When the Vow Breaks". This a two part powerful message and I want to encourage everyone to hear both parts.

When the Vow Breaks Part 1

When the Vow Breaks Part 2

Lets Pray: Father God, Thank you for your undeserving Grace Father. We come to you asking for that now, o forgive us of our sins, to guide us in our lives and to show us how to forgive. Father so many suffer in their marriages and we know if they knew You, followed Your principles and gave their relationships to You, that You would heal them. Father we pray that these couples follow 1 Corinthians 13 as part of the guide for their marriage as well as the rest of the Word Father. Lord we ask for healing and understanding in these lives and we ask all this in Jesus name...AMEN.

The Constant Struggle for Patience and Peace

Habakkuk 2:3,  For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay. 

God's timing seems to be superseded by our impatience and a world full of people demanding instant gratification. You can turn on the TV daily and see examples of this, infomercials full of get rich quick schemes, news filled with those who have fallen attempting to shortcut their way to the top and commercials telling us about convenience and speed of a business. We are being trained to demand it all now. Yet God says, wait. His timing is perfect and deliberate. Still nearly every one of us try to rush Him, trying to transfer our sense of urgency onto our Father in Heaven. We know full well, this will not speed anything up but only cause ourselves some unneeded suffering. Instead we must learn to stop and wait for God to show us the path and open doors.

Now there will be times we are asked to move and times we need to be still, so that God can work in our lives. To know which we must listen ever so carefully for Gods word. If we are not careful we will follow our own will and, well, you know how that will turn out. The Greek word for patience is "makrothumia". This translates as "long suffering or endurance". Suffering actually produces endurance, so in the long run the more suffering you experience the more patient you become. Romans 5:3,  "More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance," That is surely something you did not want to hear, although it does make sense. The scriptures are full of those who suffered and until they truly understood it was Gods timing and not their own, the suffering continued. Once they understood the Kingdom principle and submitted to the will of God, they fell under the protection of God and their lives seemed to improve. 

I believe we cause ourselves so much unneeded suffering just from our lack of patience. I watch people get angry in traffic, lines (especially at Christmas) and even at work. If someone or something does not meet our expectation of speed or want, then we tend to become offended or angry with them or it. If you cannot see it yet, this behavior is clear...it is selfishness in its purest form. Not a behavior God favors. We are instructed to Love in all circumstances, even when your in a hurry. John 13:35, By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

I clearly understand this principle, but there are times I get frustrated. For over a year now I have been struggling trying to find full time employment, full time living arraignment and get back to being self sufficient and productive. Now i can say that during this time my relationship with God has bloomed, my peace and understanding has found new meaning and life itself has found a new importance. I too get impatient or frustrated at times. Calling on God to show me something. However, God has been keeping his promise to me, He keeps me fed, I do have a roof over my head, no matter how unconventional and i am clothed. I thank Him daily for these things. I even have felt inspired to write again as you can tell. Now I pray God shows me favor in the other areas soon. If not I will stand firm, facing the storms of this life and wait (not as patiently as I'd like) but I will try my best. I will listen for the voice to say "move" or "stand still". Psalm 31:14-15, "But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hand..." I know God has me, I know  my children are protected. What more could I possibly demand at the moment and not seem selfish? I Love others even though they may not in return. I judge NO ONE even though some judge me. I struggle with what I find to be my needs in life. Yet in all things I remember, it could be worse and as long as I feel the Love of God I will make it through anything. Isaiah 40:31, "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

 So for a few moments lets close our eyes, meditate on what we do have and be thankful for even the air that fills our lungs. Then give thanks to our Father in Heaven for His abundance of Grace and patience he shows us daily if not every minute. So when you are in that traffic, in those lines, at work or anywhere else and you start to feel impatient about something, stop and think who is really in charge and don't you think He knows whats best for you? By wanting it right now you are saying you are smarter than our Father and you know whats best. Not a position I care to defend. So remember God's timing is perfect and it may keep you from harm, teach you something or even introduce you to someone who becomes important in your life. Patience is the only way to find out.  "Galatians 5:22, But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness"

 Let's Pray:  Father God, thank you for waiting patiently for us to understand what you desire for us Father. Please forgive us for our sins Father and we ask you grant us the ability and strength to wait on your will for us Father. We do not want to be of this world but of the kingdom of Heaven. So Father help us push out the selfishness we possess and replace it with the Holy Spirit. Help us find that we are not here for ourselves but to Love and serve others and You. Father please grant us the vision to see the direction we are to go. We ask this in Jesus name....AMEN.

The Tongue: A Weapon for Good or Evil? Pt 2 Responsibilities

James 3:1-10, Don't be in any rush to become a teacher, my friends. Teaching is highly responsible work. Teachers are held to the strictest standards.  And none of us is perfectly qualified. If you could find someone whose speech was perfectly true, you'd have a perfect person, in perfect control of life.  A word out of your mouth may seem of no account, but it can accomplish nearly anything - or destroy it!  A careless or wrongly placed word out of your mouth can do that. By our speech we can ruin the world, turn harmony to chaos, throw mud on a reputation, send the whole world up in smoke and go up in smoke with it, smoke right from the pit of hell. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image.  Curses and blessings out of the same mouth! 

In America we are blessed to live in the land of Freedoms which include the First Amendment, Freedom of Speech.  Now just because we have this freedom, doesn't always mean we should exercise it. As it says in James 3, the tongue can bless or curse from the same mouth. It can build up or destroy. We are not perfect although if we are living for God, our tongue should never be boastful or self serving. It should speak only of life and never death, as these are the ways of Jesus. When speaking of Kingdom things we are held to a higher standard, for not only the content and accuracy, but the intent or use of the words. Ephesians 4:14-15, "so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ..."

1 Peter 3:10,  For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit"...I Love this verse as it leaves no room for question. It is clear if you Love life, speak Love and life. Pretty straight forward right? Unfortunately there are those who will twist scripture to benefit some agenda, this person may want to achieve. This is dangerous ground to tread on as we see in Matthew 18 (Matthew 18:6, But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea). God has a special place for those who would manipulate others via the Word of God, as these unknowing or misled persons will surely sin from this behavior. I have seen it first hand and the stronghold some can have on others using scripture, can be terribly powerful. Prayer is the only way to break it, as God will have to reach the heart of those entombed in the lie. As for the deceiver he/ she's only hope is to stop, confess and pray for mercy as they will be judged for this at a much higher standard. Matthew 12:36-37, "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.”

Now we are not perfect, this is a fact. So in trying to follow in the footsteps of Jesus we must first bridle our tongues, so that we can be sure what escapes is that of Love and Life and not of death or deceit. Proverbs 29:20, "Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him." The enemies fastest and easiest way into our lives, I believe, is our tongue. James 3:8, "But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." When in a Pastoral role (Pastor in the Greek means, Shepard and as we know a Shepard guides and protects) we are responsible to speak Gods will, not our own. We deliver a powerful teaching which can change people for the Glory of God. Yet misused we can destroy them also. Everyone at some point, has this role bestowed upon them. Matthew 28:18-20, And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” 

The point here is that as we lead in teaching the ways of the Kingdom, we be very careful what we say and how we say it. Dr. Ed Young likes to say he follows the K.I.S.S. (Keep it simple stupid) policy so as to not over complicate things. As each of us share the Gospel with others, it doesn't matter if it is friends, family or strangers, just be sure to check your heart and facts before you speak, just to make sure it aligns with the will of God. By not saying anything, rather then misleading others, you lay a much wiser foundation then one of deceit or ignorance. You never know who else is watching or listening and you may harden a heart from your unwise words as well. James 1:26, "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless."


Lets Pray: Father God, we thank you for the many blessings you show us in our lives. Father we ask for your forgiveness and plead that you sharpen our minds so that we may share your wisdom to all. Praising You and the Kingdom in the Glorious way You designed. Father for those misleading others, forgive them and change their ways and hearts Father, Help them see the hurt they cause. For those mislead do not let them be turned away from Your Love and Grace Father. Help them see the truth in You though the Holy Spirit. Father we all are here to serve You and others and we ask these things in Jesus name....AMEN
 

Entitlement or Privilege, What is Your View?

James 4:1-12 (MSG) - 1) Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. 2) You lust for what you don't have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn't yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it. 3) And why not? Because you know you'd be asking for what you have no right to. You're spoiled children, each wanting your own way. 4) YOU'RE CHEATING ON GOD. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. 5) And do you suppose God doesn't care? The proverb has it that "he's a fiercely jealous lover." 6) And what he gives in Love is far better than anything else you'll find. It's common knowledge that "God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble." 7) So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud NO to the Devil and watch him scamper. 8) Say a quiet YES to God and he'll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. 9) Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. 10) Get down on your knees before the Master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet. 11) Don't bad-mouth each other, friends. It's God's Word, his Message, his Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk. You're supposed to be honoring the Message, not writing graffiti all over it. 12) God is in charge of deciding human destiny. Who do you think you are to meddle in the destiny of others?

Normally, I don't use the entire scriptures unless I am proving a point. Well here is a very simple but important one. We all too often feel we are entitled to so many things in this world, when in reality we should feel privileged and blessed just to experience those things. When you stand proud, want your way, act spoiled and quarrel over the things you think you have a right to, this is entitlement and "YOUR CHEATING GOD" James 4:4.


Our God is a jealous God and by behaving this way, this could make Him very angry. A worldly example of entitlement is heard daily in the employment community, W.I.F.M. (what's in it for me). Unfortunately this is the way many many people think in everyday life. How about asking yourself whats in it for God? When you are making that deal, standing in that line, dealing with your wait staff, or even speaking with your spouse/ family, you should ask how you can please God in this situation. When you show up at church on Sundays, this is a privilege to be able to hear the word of God spoken into your lives, without fear of death or imprisonment. There are still countries today and even readers of this blog in those countries that risk these things to hear the Word. Have you even pondered the fact that God fills our lungs with air and yet you may feel entitled to this also, when in fact it is a privilege to have such a forgiving and gracious God, for giving us what we don't deserve and not what we deserve. Galatians 2:16, Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.

 When we change our view and look at things through Christ's eyes, our whole life changes. We now see the good in those the world calls bad, we have patience with those we once were short with, we see and hear everything and everyone with the heart after Gods own. We now are open to receive the blessings of Christ and many will visibly see the difference in our character. The Holy Spirit changes everything about us. Life becomes brilliant and vivid for the first time. You literally come into the light. James 1:17, Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 

Lets Pray: Father God, please allow us to see the flaws in our behaviors. Allow us to have the strength oh God to look to you for the Holy Spirit. Father we want to change, we want to see the world for what it is and not all the bitter, pain filled, destructive mess that it has become. Father we ask for you to forgive us of our sins, guide us to a better path and show us the direction you want us to follow. Father we Love You and wish to be more Christ like daily. We ask this in Jesus sweet name...AMEN.