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Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Saved with a Promise

Acts 16:31 (NIV)

31They replied, Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved you and your household.

*Many times we worry about the salvation of others, and whether or not they will make it into heaven with us...We may even base our connection with them on their current state that could be lacking Christ. However, our focus should not be on judging and making predictions about others. Our focus should be on how God is guiding us to impact them, while evaluating what we believe God is capable of in order to be saved and believe in His ability to reach other...even through you. If we know our worth and God's love towards others, we would know that He isn't just picking and choosing who is saved...He has a plan for us to assist others in understanding and accepting salvation if we only believe. Is your mind on being a vessel to lead others to salvation, or if you aren't saved have you thought about the benefits of being saved? Or are we too busy trying to remove ourselves from who aren't like us? Sometimes the sweetest people are those who aren't caught up in reviewing the life of others. Let God guide u.

Monday, September 28, 2015

Wonders of His Wisdom

1 Peter 2:1-3 (NIV)

1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

*Our spiritual walk is a continuous process of growth; therefore, no one is perfect, but everyone has the ability to grow and become more refined. Discussing people in a negative light does not assist with growth, but hinders your ability to see the bigger picture;therefore you are now more distracted by what you feel in see currently vs how God needs us to build up each other to refine the details of our purpose daily. We should have a passion to seek God daily, and look for things outside the everyday norm...particularly if we are aware of His goodness. If we refine our way of thinking with a positive focus, we can see his guidance and methods of preparation for the next phase of life more clearly. Don't stifle your well being and that of others with negativity... Be the light in a dim room, the fire of encouragement, and crave God's for wisdom beyond what you have come to know. Have a good day!

Saturday, September 26, 2015

Meditation on Stewardship

1 Corinthians 4:2 ESV

Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.

*Understanding the responsibility of being trustworthy as a steward for God is one of the keys to winning souls and taking you to the next level. First, what you current have or who you currently have in your life is who God entrusted you with...Are you aware of the value of that trust? Now, think on these things...How do you treat them? Is it all about you; do you judge or criticize more then help;do you keep things well maintained or groomed; how do you feel or treat who and what you have? What we do with what we currently have determines when we are ready to excel and if we are responsible enough to go to that next level. Remember, God sees all we do including those things that we do to ourselves. Are we representing Him in our stewardship? God is telling us that it is REQUIRED that we be good stewards that are trustworthy; therefore, this is not an option. If you feel as though you are lacking in an area or aren't achieving what you desire, then a good starting point would be to evaluate how you treat who or what you have... Most importantly, is it up to part with God's standards?

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Submit to Christ for the Sake of Life

Romans 8:1-4 (NIV)

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh,God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

*If you are a born again believer, you have been given the power to overcome the desires, feelings, and actions of the flesh. There is no such thing as losing control in Christ if you believe in His capabilities and the strength He has bestowed upon you. Anything short of that is something we choose to do. Choose to overcome temporary habits, feelings that contradict what you know in the word, or unlawful desires. We can do all things that Christ strengthens us to do (Philippians 4:13). Now, imagine if we took that to heart...We wouldn't have to blame things or people for submitting to the flesh if we admit the truth of our own choices, and pray to obtain strength to overcome our ungodly desires.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Brotherly Love

Hebrews 13:1-6 (NIV)

1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 3 Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. 4 Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 6 So we can confidently say,

“The Lord is my helper;
I will not fear;
what can man do to me?”

*There are so many people outside of ourselves and who we know that require love. If we bother to open our eyes and look around, we will see many people that need the love of Christ. We are His vessels that can provide love, and remind people of His desire for their lives despite what they encounter daily. I won't harp on this subject, but allow the word to speak for itself... Are you focused on those you only know, or also those God wants you to know and impact? How's your love walk? Is your life lining up with what you believe? If not, it's never to late to make changes...

Monday, September 21, 2015

What's Your Focus?

Colossians 3:1-4 (NIV)

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your[a] life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

*If we align our thoughts with God, and ask Him to help us focus on His will for our lives, then everything that concerns us will work out with His guidance and our faith in action, and everything we desire will fall into place. When we realize we belong to Him and make Him the head of our lives, then all issues seem less of a burden and clarity appears because the problem no longer takes over our mind or outweighs other elements of our lives...We now free ourselves of worry and embrace the freedom of things God has delivered us from and blessed us with in spite of everything. God becomes the heavy weight, and makes the weight of this world light. After all, His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matt. 11:30) because there is nothing too hard for Him, and He takes on our cares. So, as you begin your week, focus on the positive and watch the negative disappear. There is no room for faith and failure within God's plan for you and His purpose for your life.

Saturday, September 19, 2015

How Do You Treat Others?

Today, I ask the Lord to help us with how we view people and treat each other... There are so many assumptions made, empty promises, and a lack of compassion yet a desire for others to be helpful or compassionate. Are we really sowing what we expect to reap in this area, or pretending to do so...#BeWhatYouWish2Attract...#UntilThen,BeWithGod

Matthew 7:12 So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is  the Law and the Prophets.

Photo: Found on Facebook

The Weight of Your Name

Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)

22:1 A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
and favor is better than silver or gold.

*As you may have heard and know, your name carries a lot of weight... It depicts who you were, where you are today, and can provide signs of where you trying to get to...We call this our reputation. What kind of weight does your name carry? Better yet, is your reputation and weight up to part with God's standards? If we conduct ourselves according to the will of God, no matter what we've done in the past, our name can be wiped clean and depict a new creature in Christ. If we choose not to go this route, our name will reflect who we truly are because that hidden nature behind our name will come out and reflect our true beliefs and intentions...God knew how much your reputation weighs on your ability to minister and reach His people, which is why it holds more value than riches and can provide you with more favor than money can buy. Do you know what reputation your name depicts, and is it a reflection of Christ? It's never too late to make changes, but you have to choose to do so...

Friday, September 18, 2015

Making Way for Peace and Change

Isaiah 32:17 (NIV)

17The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.

*We are promised peace and many things in the Bible, but often it is our responsibility to prepare ourselves and atmosphere for the things God has promised. For instance, peace is available to us, but it is dependent on how we conduct ourselves/who we choose to be around/ where we go/ and how we treat others. Personally speaking, God touched my heart about merry-go-rounds, and continuing to be around the same type of people,but expecting peace or different results. Sometimes you have to ask God who or what elements should be in your life to receive what you've always desired, or even how to handle things. Change can be unknowing or even uncomfortable at times, but it often works out for the better. I'm ready for some peace and something new...I'm tired of the same scenario and attitudes with  different faces or in a different location....How about you?

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Learn to Live with God

Psalm 121:5-6 (NIV)

5The Lord watches over you the Lord is your shade at your right hand;6the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.

*God is constantly speaking to us and trying to protect us if we are willing to listen. He is our protection 24&7, and if we are obedient and die to our flesh then we will have fewer negative consequences. God is not trying to keep you from enjoying life.. .He is trying to spare us from experiencing unnecessary hardships and heartaches. Sure, you will still go through things in life, but if you let go and ask for His guidance and covering, then the challenges will be handled better and less drama will occur. How much are we willing to go through without Him? Let's learn to live with the aid of His guidance, and not live to learn and be full of regret.

Monday, September 14, 2015

The Ultimate Confidant

Hebrew 4:15-16 (NIV)

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

*If no one else understands, God does. He sees the way people treat us, the desires of our heart, and the constant fight to keep hope alive. He has gone through our temptations, but did not fall short to them because He wanted to show how we can overcome like Him and that sin has no power. He is our comforter when others do not care, and guidance when others have no clue how to show us the way. I pray we all have confidence to seek Him first in order for all things to be added (Matt. 6:33), and to alleviate the pressure when no one gets it. I am a person who relies heavily on this, and I am learning that God is my best friend. I am also embracing the fact that if no one else gets it, He does. I hope if you are going through something similar that you are able to embrace this truth as well.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Who Should Really Get the Credit?

2 Corinthians 10:17-18 (NIV)

17But, Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord. 18For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

*Anything we obtain should be all about thanksgiving towards God, and not what we believe we do for ourselves. It is God who gave you the wisdom and knowledge to maneuver through a certain task or be successful. We do not just come up with things on our own. What you do and who you are from a positive standpoint was generated through God's efforts, should be a reflection of Christ, and it's preparation for your purpose and the type of people you will encounter. Are you giving yourself too much credit? Is God really approving everything you do or pursue, or are you going at things blindly or listening to men? If we stay focused on allowing the things we do and say to reflect Christ, and we depend on Him, we wouldn't stifle His approval to grant us with the best. Leave Christ's opinion in all you do, and He will continue to excel us and see us through.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Victory Over Turmoil

Psalm 30: 8-11 (NIV)

8 To you, O Lord, I cry,
and to the Lord I plead for mercy:
9 “What profit is there in my death,
if I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise you?
Will it tell of your faithfulness?
10 Hear, O Lord, and be merciful to me! O Lord, be my helper!”
11 You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
you have loosed my sackcloth
and clothed me with gladness,
12 that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent.
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!

*Guys, when I read these versus, it reminds me of all those desires that I have had to quit... Just through in the towel due to feeling of being trapped or like I just couldn't get it right. I reflected on those who have been confused by the enemy and actually taken their own life due to these feelings. Then, God reminded me of how His work, your purpose, and your life would be in vain if you give up. What good are you to Him, others, or yourself if you give up? When it feels the hardest is often when we are on the presupus of our breakthrough. Notice how the verses depict a sudden change... Let's pray for one another to hold on and believe for change. We must uplift one another, and individually keep the armor of God on (Ephesians 6:10-18) in order to be protected and be delivered from the war with our minds, flesh, and the illusion of hopelessness.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Store Properly

Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)

19Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

*As we begin the work week, I pray we do not become lost in what we need to obtain physically... I hope we will remember to work according to God's guidance, and supply our heavenly home with riches from the things we do for Christ. God wants us to enjoy the elements of Earth, but it must not become our focal point. We are here for a purpose that runs deeper than riches, and will impact our success on Earth and the honor we receive in heaven. Let's let go and depend on God, and all things will be added. Your dependency, obedience, and humility depict what comes to us.

Sunday, September 6, 2015

What Are You Sowing?

Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)

9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

*Many times we may become tired of being the positive one, the faithful one, the person who cares for others when it feels like others do not care, or maybe you could even be tired of being the only light for Christ in a dark environment. To be honest,it takes a lot of energy to properly be these aspects and more. However, we must hang in there and learn to do things through the strength that Christ provides (Philippians 4:13) rather than our own strength. Your light could be the only one that shines on the truth, and allows someone to make the choice to choose a pathway towards Christ. If we do not give up, we will be rewarded because through all the struggles for Him, He sees and has not forgotten. If you actually pay attention, you will notice that He sends bits of encouragement and people to encourage us if you are within His will and fighting for His cause. However, what is lacking the most is how we treat each other...especially those who are believers. Many of us are so quick to be kind to the world, but treat our brothers and sisters in Christ very harshly. These are people who are still growing in Christ too...People who need your love, strength, and consideration... Not your criticism, judgment, and attitude of "I will deal with you when I feel like it." Notice God points us out for a reason in this verse because He knows we are already going through a lot by being different and living for Him...The last thing we need is to turn against each other when we were meant t be the vessel to strengthen one another. So, as you go about your day, think about your actions for God and how you treat people. Even think on the reason why you do the things you do, and why people do or don't want to be around you. Is it due to standing strong in Christ, or is your flesh getting in the way and causing issues? Do you really exercise the golden rule, or even realize what type of seeds you are sowing based on your words and actions?

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Steady and Unmoving is the Word

1 Peter 1:24-25 (NIV)

24For,

All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;the grass withers and the flowers fall,25 but the word of the Lord endures forever.

*When I think of this verse, I think of how people are forever changing, and trying to find themselves despite consideration for others or their circumstances. Just as quickly as grass grows and flowers bloom, they are now subject to the elements and can he damaged or even destroyed by the circumstances of life. Humans are the same way...We go through periods of our life when we flourish, are beautiful, act accordingly, and provide happiness to others...Then, there are those times when we become a little weak, damaged, and may dry out and almost wither away to nothing... Yet, God remains in control and His word will forever restore and cause change if you allow it to do so...There is no back and forth with God like humans..."It is what it is" with Him. I am so thankful that He never changes and remains the same. Allow Him to help you steady your life, and help you grow and flourish. Sure, you will have to weather storms, but at least you can properly grow through them with Him. Our phases are different stages of our lives that we can learn from with His word, or you can choose to be ever changing or going in circles with the same ordeal year after year without explanation. Which will you choose?