OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW

...but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Philippians 3:13, 14 NLT) This is the last day of 2012. For some of you - its a big "whew" because you made it through. For others, you want to say a big "Praise God" for all the blessings that have come your way. However you feel - Paul tells us to now "forget the past and look forward to what's ahead." I feel very blessed to be part of a church that is on fire and wanting to move forward. I am looking forward with intentionality to 2013. As a church - we are starting this season with a 21 day fast starting NEXT Monday. I am praying for great breakthrough for many lives during this time. We are also excited about being part of THE STORY which will bring us through the Bible in 31 weeks. As said last night by Gregg Johnson "If we have just the Word we will dry up. If we have just the spirit we will blow up. But if we have both the word and the spirit - we will grow up." That's what I want for all of us. I pray that God would help us to all grow up in 2013. I pray that His spirit would so consume our lives that God would be first and foremost in all that we do. I pray that all bitterness and disappointment from the past would be exactly that - the past. I pray that God would fulfill your dreams and desires and that you would be a fully devoted follower of Christ in 2013. May God richly bless you today!

THE END IS NEAR!

“Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.” (Revelation 16:15 NLT) Recently we saw a group of people standing by the Mayan Ruins in Mexico waiting for the end of time. Based on their predictions - the world as we know it was to end and be over. Over my lifetime I have seen many such groups make and remake their predictions of the end of time and the when the second coming of Christ would be. And, again and again, they have proven to be false because those predictions didn't happen. Here's the thing - the Bible is specific with this fact - No one knows the exact time or hour of when Christ is returning and He could come anytime. We need to live everyday as if he is coming for His children today. We need to be "watching" and to be ready for that great event. Yes, the world is coming to an end but until that time - let's walk fully with the Lord and in His provisions and promises for our lives right now. Don't be fooled by the fact that He hasn't come in the past and He won't be coming in the future. He is coming back for His children and He has prepared a place in heaven for us. Keep your heart diligent so you won't miss it when He does return. Who knows - 2013 could be the year!

FOR THOSE DEALING WITH OPPRESSION

The Lord has sworn to Jerusalem by his own strength: “I will never again hand you over to your enemies. Never again will foreign warriors come and take away your grain and new wine. You raised the grain, and you will eat it, praising the Lord. Within the courtyards of the Temple, you yourselves will drink the wine you have pressed.” Go out through the gates! Prepare the highway for my people to return! Smooth out the road; pull out the boulders; raise a flag for all the nations to see. The Lord has sent this message to every land: “Tell the people of Israel, ‘Look, your Savior is coming. See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.’” They will be called “The Holy People” and “The People Redeemed by the Lord .” And Jerusalem will be known as “The Desirable Place” and “The City No Longer Forsaken.” (Isaiah 62:8-12 NLT) Have you been dealing with discouragement lately? Have you been dealing with opposition in your life? Do you feel like giving up and throwing in the towel? The list could go on and on because the enemy wouldn't be an enemy unless he is throwing these things your way. But here's the thing - God is bigger then your enemy and He has already made a place of victory for you. Our God is into the restoration of our souls. He is all about bringing you freedom from your captivity and joy into your life. "Pull out the boulders" of your life. "Raise a flag for all the nations to see." Whereas you were once worthless and not "desirable" and "forsaken" - you are not those things anymore. Take the authority that God has already given you and declare your victory. "Go out through the gates" and walk in your God-given victory. Don't let the enemies lies and condemnations enter your heart and your mind. Don't believe the doubts that have come your way. Speak to that mountain in the name of Jesus and say, "Be thou removed." I agree with you in this regard in Jesus' strong name. Amen!

FREEDOM IS YOURS

So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. (John 8:36 NLT) A simple but true statement. If I could have any Christmas present this year - it would be that each and every one of you would experience true freedom in Christ. That your past and present would no longer harass and torment you. That the presence of Christ would fill your life and all fear would be gone. I would pray that your mind would be filled with God's thoughts and you would have true peace. That your bodies would be well and your relationships whole and well. If Jesus has set you free - then you are free indeed. I agree with you in that regard in Jesus'strong name. Amen!

I WANT TO BE LIKE JOE!

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ...(Ephesians 5:1, 2 NLT) One Sunday I was at the front of the church when a man approached me saying that he was new to the church and wanted prayer. I asked him what he wanted me to pray for and his answer startled me a little by simply saying, "Pray for me so I will be more like Joe." He didn't say "Pray that I be like God" or "for God to touch his life." He simply wanted to be like Joe. In a way, he was really praying, I want to be like God because Joe was living a sold out life for God. His faith was contagious and this man saw the difference that it made in his life. He wanted to be just like him. May I encourage you that people are watching how you live out your faith? Your family and neighbors and fellow employees are watching if your faith is genuine and if it is really changing you into a better person. Your children and grand children are observing your faith whether it is genuine or not. Personally, I think that man's prayer was one of the greatest prayers ever. God was living in Joe's life that the only God this man could see was how God was living in Joe. So, imitate God in all you do so you an say, "Follow me as I follow Christ."

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR IN YOUR LIFE?

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. (Ephesians 1:3 NLT) As a kid, I remember singing a song in church called "Count Your Many Blessings - Name Them One By One." It was a moderately upbeat hymn that people would sing loudly and with gusto. Afterward the song leader would ask for "testimonies" of which the people would speak out in the little church we attended. It would from the little boy on the front row about his pet dog to the oldest grandma in the back with some sort of ailment that was slowing her down. It would be about the little mundane things and even the great and seemingly impossible difficulties one would face. It was always a reminder that we need to be thankful in everything that we do. As I read this verse this morning I was reminded of how much we have to be thankful for in our lives. For me, this list could go on and on because I know that I have watched and seen the favor and blessings of God on my life. How about you - do you have a thankful heart? Are you mindful of God's blessings that surround you and your family? Let's make a list together about what we are thankful for and give God all the glory and praise for what He has done for you. Have a great day! Song - COUNT YOUR MANY BLESSING: When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. Refrain Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God hath done! Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly, And you will keep singing as the days go by. Refrain When you look at others with their lands and gold, Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high. Refrain So, amid the conflict whether great or small, Do not be disheartened, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

YOU ARE MORE THAN VICTORIOUS TODAY!

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. (Romans 16:20 NIV) Be encouraged and let your heart be filled with hope. Victory is yours today. It is your promised inheritance as a child of the king. We have been learning about our authority as Christians - that, we need to name the lie and insert the truth. That, we need to take authoriy over the enemies lies in our life. What has been your downfall? What has been your nemesis? What has hindered you from the victory that has been promised to you? Today, you can begin to walk in the confidence that you have the victory in Christ. You can walk in the knowledge that God will soon crush Satan under your feet. I pray that you would sense God's mighty power with you today - that you would rise up with hope and joy and confidence in the God who has already declared Satan defeated. You are more than victorious. Walk in that truth today!

THE REASON FOR YOUR TRIAL

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. (Romans 5:3, 4 NLT) It's kind of ironic... The thing (problems) that we want to get rid of is the thing we need more of to help us be stronger. It is all part of the process to develop strength of character in our lives which then that which leads to a confident hope of salvation. You are probably thinking "God, get me out of this mess" and He is saying, "No, this is what's needed to bring you into a deeper relationship with me." It's what will make you stronger in your Christian walk. Your God loves you so much that He is allowing you to be refined like silver in the fire - which gets heated up 7x's to remove the dross. Instead of complaining about how hot the fire is right now - begin to thank God that He is allowing something to be in your life that will develop and purify your life right now. God has not left you nor will He leave you. He will go with you - all the way. He won't leave or forsake you. Grab hold of His hand today and let Him lead your steps today.

WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR FAITH IN TODAY?

Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. (Romans 4:20, 21 NLT) I've been thinking lately of all the blessings in my life and the many promises God had made and fulfilled to me over the years. Admittedly, my life didn't exactly turn out as I planned it, but I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I'm where God wants me to be. To be sure, some seasons we're a lot harder than others but God has always brought me through and has always provided the needed strength to face every obstacle. One of the promises made to me over the years was that "my latter years would be greater than my former years." I'm not sure exactly what that means but I'm filled with anticipation of the future for my life, my family and my church. I think I understand a little more about Abraham now I'm a little older. Whatever life brought his way only made him trust in God more and more. His faith grew stronger and stronger and he wanted to give all the glory to God. Abraham wasn't a super faith man but just a man like you and me who believed in a super God. He believed that God plus nothing was everything! Abraham knew that and gave glory to God. Ask yourself these questions today - Who do you have your trust in today? Are you fully convinced that God is able and willing to touch your life? Are you thankful for what he has already done for you? Your God is so willing to come alongside your life right now. Call out to Him and let Him be God for you and your situations today!

A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 1:2, 3 NLT) Last night (Tuesday) I was finishing up a meeting with our church council when a young man wandered into the meeting thinking that he was attending a AA meeting that he had been court ordered to attend. (This happens on a regular basis as it used to be a place where they met on a regular basis.) After explaining to him that they no longer met there but that we had Celebrate Recovery - I took him across the street to meet some of the men who were finishing up their Bible Study. I then introduced him to Pastor Ron who then shared his experience of how he overcame drugs and alcohol. We then prayed together and invited him back and we all went our separate ways. I went north on Seventh Street and Pastor Ron went east on Hercules. I made a few phone calls when I received a phone call that Pastor Ron had been in an accident. He and another car collided in an intersection causing Pastor Ron's vehicle to roll a number of times. I turned around and hurried to where we thought he might be. When I arrived, his car was upside down with all the windows blown out and Pastor Ron was sitting outside of his demolished car. Thankfully, he and the occupants of the other car we're all fine. Pastor Ron went to the hospital and was released about 4 AM this morning. As I read this passage - "We pray for you constantly" - I was struck by the fact of how much we depend on one another's prayers. I am thankful today for this man in my life and that God's grace was with him last night. As God puts us or others upon your heart - don't ever neglect to thank God for them and to pray for them. Your prayers mean so much and they go to the very heart of God. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!

JESUS IS WAITING FOR YOU TODAY

Then he returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:40, 41 NLT) If you are like me in any way - one of the things that is constantly under attack in my life on an on-going basis is my time with Jesus. It seems that there are many excuses and barriers that hone in on my special time set apart for Him. Jesus nailed it with his disciples when He said, "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." I want quality time with my Lord but my flesh wants to stay in bed and get an extra ounce of sleep and stay warm a little longer. If we want to grow and be strengthened in The Lord - we "must" carve out time with Him everyday. It is there that we gain new strength and courage for the journey ahead. May I encourage you to make this a priority today? May I encourage you to just sit at His feet and to listen to Him speak. Jesus is/has been waiting for you. Go to Him and hear what He has to say to you today.

THE SIN THAT IS HOLDING YOU BACK TODAY

But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12 NLT) One of the things that all of us has to deal with in life is pride. It's a disease that effects community life and families alike. It comes in and raises its head in our personal lives and becomes the barrier to our growth in Jesus and with others. It makes you take offense personally and it causes you to hold on to bitterness and unforgiveness about the past. It feeds sin and keeps God away from touching our lives. The book of Provers tells us that we need to hate pride with a vengeance. It tells us also that pride "goes before our destruction." It is something that God absolutely hates. Either we deal with this issue or we will be humbled by God Himself. (sometimes very publicly). I think that it is interesting that often God brings situations in our lives to keep us humble - failures, sickness, lack of resources, etc. Those gentle prodding's can lead to greater rebuke if we don't heed their warnings in our life. Notice what the Apostle Paul had to say... "even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud" (2 Corinthians 12:7 NLT). Perhaps, instead of complaining about your "thorn" you should be thankful today that God has allowed it to be there to keep pride back and so that you would live humbly today. My prayer is that you would let go of your pride and humbly let Jesus lead and guide you today.

WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO FOR YOU TODAY?

Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” “Be quiet!” the crowd yelled at them. But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him. (Matthew 20:30-32, 34 NLT) I was struck this morning as I read this passage about the willingness of Jesus in reaching out to us in order to meet our needs. Think this through with me as two blind we're alongside a road begging for money to help them out for the day. They then heard that Jesus was coming their way. Jesus, the one who did all the miracles that they had been hearing about was now coming their way. They began to cry out for His attention and they were not going to be denied. Against the protest of the crowd, they cried louder and louder. Jesus, hearing their cries, comes over to them and says, "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus, feeling sorry for them reached down and touched their eyes so they could see. Two things stand out to me about Jesus 1) Jesus heard their cry and 2) Jesus felt sorry for them. Your cries are not missing your Saviors hears today and He has compassion and mercy for what you are going through today. Press through any roadblocks and barriers today and keep calling out to Jesus because He is listening to you right now and saying "What do you want me to do for you?" He is ready and willing to surround you with His love and mercy today!

WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF TODAY?

Jesus responded, “Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!” Then he got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly there was a great calm. (Matthew 8:26 NLT) Why are you afraid of today? What has grabbed your heart with fear? What person or situation has caused you to not move forward with your life? Today, Jesus wants to step into your boat and with one word - you can have peace. Today, you can walk away from that fear and walk in the confidence of God's presence. You don't have to fear any man or any situation. There is nothing that can take His peace away from you - whether it be financial worries - health concerns - relational problems - job related, etc. You are God's child today and He has PROMISED you His peace. Accept it. believe for it and walk in the confidence of receiving it. the reality of fear is this: FEAR - F - alse E - vidence A - appearing R - eal. Have a great Thanksgiving and may Christ fill/ permeate your life with His great and overwhelming peace!

YOU CAN HAVE PEACE TODAY!

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. ...(Matthew 5:43-46 NIV) I was saddened as I watched the news this morning of Israel and Hamas fighting with each other. The war between the two has escalated and sadly many innocent lives are being destroyed or ruined. I am equally sad as I deal with so much conflict in families in the High Desert. Word bombs and hateful things are being thrown back and forth and sadly, innocent lives (especially children) are being hit the hardest. I was praying over a situation yesterday and The Lord prompted me to tell a family in conflict that they have the power within them for this conflict to cease if they really want it to. By the power of Christ within them - they have the power for this conflict to be over! In our own strength - none of of us have this power but with Christ - all things are possible. Whatever situation or mountain you are facing today - if you are filled with Christ - you can overcome and see the victory before your eyes. Don't allow the enemy to lie and condemn you. Take your God given authority and declare victory today. Pray for peace and pray for help and and strength that comes from the hand of God. He wii see you through and will carry you to hat place of victory today!

ARE YOU RUNNING YOUR RACE?

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? (Galatians 5:7 NIV) I've watched the Christian walk of multitudes of people over my lifetime. Some walk so slow that they never keep up. Others just plod along and stay in the race. And others start out fast and get out in front of everyone only to lose strength for final stretch and fall out of the race. I've seen it all! It's so sad to me to see people who "have once tasted of the goodness of The Lord" to fall away and disengage from their relationship with God and with the church. Paul refers here to a race here that is interrupted by something/ someone and they are soon diverted in another direction. How tragic! What is keeping you from running your race today? What is keeping you from going all in with God? You were running a good race. Who / what cut into your race? Perhaps this is a reminder today to you - your team needs you. Get back into the race while there is still time. The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. Click "like" if you agree.

ARE YOU TROUBLED TODAY?

I took my troubles to the Lord ; I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer. (Psalms 120:1 NLT) In all my years of ministry I have never seen so many people with so many troubles. It could be financial, relational, spiritual, mental, and the list could go on and on. David didn't qualify this verse by saying that God only helped certain types of troubles but that He was available to answer the prayer for every trouble we might have. There are some who translate this word trouble with the word "distress." It's not just stress but "distress." People are troubled and distressed. As Christians we have the great privilege of taking our troubles to A God who hears and answers us. As Christians we can also point the way to others who are trying to find rest from their troubles also. If you are experiencing trouble today - call out to God and ask Him to help/ deliver you today. He so loves you and wants to bring you the things you need in your life. God is waiting to hear from you right now.

HOW TO LIVE A FULFILLED LIFE

Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. (Psalm 37:4, 5 NLT) On Friday night we had a night of prayer and worship at the church. It was a great time of being in the presence of The Lord for an extended time together. I was so taken by one of my grandsons who stood by me for almost an hour in worship and praise. As I would look down at him from the corner of my eye I would see his little hands lifted to Jesus as he worshipped along with me. He was delighting himself in The Lord. As I would go and pray with others - he would go with me and stand right beside me and put his hand out to pray with them also. I can't think of a better way to raise our children and grand children than by getting them to the house of The Lord and being in His presence. Yes, sports and hobbies and activities are all important but nothing is as important as being in God's house and learning to delight ourselves in The Lord. It is the true key to living a successful life on earth. It is the key to a truly fulfilled life. May I encourage you today to make being with Jesus a high priority today? His promise is this: As you trust Him He will help you in every and all aspects of your life. That's a promise we can all stand on today.

DON'T GIVE UP EVER!

For I have stayed on God’s paths; I have followed his ways and not turned aside. I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. (Job 23:11, 12 NLT) Job was facing one trial after another. Even his friends had let him down and we're heaping criticism and condemnation upon him. Job had every reason to give up and curse God, but he didn't. Instead, he dug deep into what he knew about God and had learned over about Him over the years. He stayed on God's path and hung on to what He knew to be true. The faith that had got him this far was the faith he trusted to take him to the end. Your trial, whatever it might be, is nothing compared to God and His power. You might be feeling like giving up and throwing in the towel but don't give up - ever! Your God who brought you this far will be faithful to carry you to the end. You can trust Him today and every promise spoken in His Word. Take His Words and treasure them in your heart and watch the victory that God has in store for you today!

Your Suffering Is Now Over!

And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over.” (Mark 5:34 NLT) We live in a day in which the power of God is minimized and often shoved to side like an unwanted piece of clothing. Churches neglect this teaching are afraid that they might "offend" someone. This woman was tormented and harassed. She had been dealing with sickness and pain for many years. In desperation - she thought in her heart that if she could just touch the hem of His garment that she would be made well. And... She was right. She pressed through the crowd and reached in to just touch His garment and her suffering was immediately gone. As I read this today - I was quickened in my heart to encourage you to reach out for Jesus. He is never too busy for you and His power is definitely stronger than your present need. As she touched Him HER SUFFERING WAS OVER! I like what is said about Jesus in Hebrews 13:8 - "Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow." The same power that touched and delivered this woman is the same power that will touch you and your suffering can go away today!

ARE YOU IN A STORM TODAY?

When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. (Mark 4:39 NLT) What is raging in your heart today? What has gripped your heart and mind over this last week? What are you worried about that you can't stop thinking about it and is making you sick? The early disciples were a lot like that - The boat they were in was in the middle of a storm and they thought they were going to die. In desperation they wake up Jesus (yes, He was asleep) and asked Him to do something about it. Their situation was dire. They needed help. They needed a Savour. Jessus spoke to that storm and immediately the storm lifted. You can do the same thing today. Call out to Jesus today and let Him speak peace over your situation. Let Him breath peace to whatever storm you are facing. Don't wait another minute. Call out to Him now and you will see what a might God He really is!

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW?

.You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35 NLT) At my dad's memorial service we asked people to write down their favorite memories of my dad. Of the hundred's of cards turned in - here are the top three: 1- His great smile that made everyone feel welcomed and loved 2- His jokes in which he couldn't get the punch line out because he was laughing so hard himself, and 3- He always had dollar bills to hand out to the kids. He had been doing this for many years. We figure that over time that he has "invested" thousands of dollars in young people's live one dollar at a time. Some are now adults themselves who remember receiving a dollar bill from him for memorizing their scripture verses. Someone once said that we should all do something that will outlast our lives on earth. What are you doing with your life right now? How are you affecting those around you? Is what you are doing with your life right now going to have eternal results or is it going to fade away like tonight's sunset? Think about that today and remember what Jesus said... "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

OUR DAYS ARE NUMBERED

You have decided the length of our lives. You know how many months we will live, and we are not given a minute longer. (Job 14:5 NLT) Obviously, because of the recent passing of my father, I have been thinking a lot about life on earth, the process of growing old, death and the hereafter. I was in a store yesterday and looked around at the great number of "older" people shopping and or just passing time. It struck me, in a funny way, that I am only one generation behind them and that will someday be Denise and I. There are a few things that strike me as interesting about death and dying: 1- We waste a lot of years on earth. At the end, our lives are measured by how we used our life while on earth , 2- Sickness and suffering is one of God's last acts of mercy for people to repent and come back to Jesus, 3- Death is the only portal between here and the hereafter. It is something we must all face. 4- Only God knows the amount of time we all have to live. We must follow and trust Him with all our hearts. Someone once said, When you we're born - that was God's gift to you. What you do with your life is your gift back to God."

THE POWER OF PRAISE

Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! (Acts 16:25, 26 NLT) Are you in prison today? No, not a physical prison but a spiritual prison of some sort. It could be a bad habit that you can't break or a bitterness you can't shake. It might be an oppression or a physical sickness that you are having to endure. It might be a relationship that is not healthy right now. The list could go on and on. Don't allow your present prison to define where God wants you to be. Don't let it be the place where you are going to spend the rest of your life. Like those in this Philippian jail - start to give and sing praises to God. THERE IS POWER IN PRAISE today. Your praise goes right to the heart of God and releases His resources to break you out of your prison - whatever it may be. Sing praise. Speak praise to God. Believe God and His power to free you today and then watch those prison bars sane right off your life.

CAN GOD TRUST YOU WITH WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE?

"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. (Luke 16:10 NIV) We live in such a consumer driven society. We already have so much but it seems that we always want more. Compared with most of the world we are abundantly blessed beyond measure, yet, it seems that we are the most dissatisfied. I think it is time for us to count our blessings with what God has already given us rather than complain about what we don't have. Are you thankful for your family? Your Heath? Your job? Your faith? Can you look back and remember God's faithfulness to you and the many miracles He's given you along the way? Try this today... Rather than asking God for one more thing - how about just thanking Him for what you already have? Watch how it will change your perspective and outlook about life and God. God will receive the glory and you will feel better about life!

GIVE GOD PRAISE TODAY!

The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. (Psalm 126:3 NIV) There are so many miracles in my life that I couldn't even begin to count them. I have had physical healing miracles, financial miracles, family miracles, spiritual miracles, relational miracles, etc., etc. And... the list could go on and on. Oftentimes our focus is on what God hasn't done rather than what He has done. It is so easy for us to live our lives in a funk and only see what is right before us rather than look at the big picture. I challenge you today to stop for a moment and reflect upon all that God has done for you and is doing for you right now. Stop whining and complaining and give praise to God Almighty today. Stop looking for the bad in everything. Tell God that you are thankful today and want to be a person of praise and and thanksgiving. Push negativity down and start speaking positive things about your life and about God. Don't wallow in your self pity and problems. You have a great God that deserves your worship and praise. God is good - all the time. Give Him praise today!

GIVE PRAISE TO GOD TODAY

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised. (Psalm 113:3 NIV) One of the joys of living in the High Desert is our sunrises and sunsets - both of which are spectacular. The beautiful hues of red and orange take my breath away each and every time I see them. As I was driving to my office yesterday morning I was taken by the sun's rising over our valley and was filled with praise to God for His almighty acts and mercies and blessings on all of our lives. By nature I am a morning person so naturally the sunrises are my favorite. As it ascends over our easterly mountains - I am reminded of the scripture that declares to us that "His mercies are new every morning." The past is over and the struggles of yesterday are behind us. I choose today who I will give my allegiance to. I choose how I will direct my life. I can choose my words and who will hear them. It's a new day with a clean slate. I choose to praise my God and give Him thanks today. My God is good and I want everyone to know that today. I PRAISE MY GOD!

I LOVE GOD'S HOUSE

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. (Psalm 84:10 NIV) Unlike a lot of people - I have been a Christian most of my life. The Sunday after I was born I was in my moms arms at church. They didn't have a nursery in those days so I was often put under the pulpit to sleep or play while my parents went about pastoring the church. I even amused the audience from time to time playing peek a boo while the service was going on. Often, I remember going to sleep on the pews during service and waking up in my bed at home. Other than a few short rebellious stints in my life - I have and do enjoy being in God's house still. I love to worship Him and I love to be around God's people. I love seeing my own life change and the life of those around me. I don't ever want to lose that wonder and mystique - ever. I want to always look forward to what God has in store and the lessons and impressions He will bring to my heart. Like David I want to say, "I will enter His gates with thanksgiving and praise" and "It is good for me to be in the house of The Lord." I am a blessed man!

MY GOD IS BIG!

For nothing will be impossible with God." (Luke 1:37 ESV) Each and every one of us live with limitations. As I helped my dad out of bed this morning I was very aware about the limitations we have while on earth - especially as we age. Bodies can only do so much. Minds can only hold so many thoughts. Fincances only go so far, etc. As a result - when we think about God, we do it through the filters of our own limitations. We don't understand what it means to have ALL power or ALL knowledge and ALL wisdom. As a result - we see God only through our finite minds and don't see what He can really do. The fact is - God is ALL powerful and He is ALL WISE and He can do anything. NOTHING is impossible with God - ever. There is no situation out of His control and there is no problem that is too big for Him. He is powerful enough to control the universe but He is also powerful enough to know and be concerned about the little scratch you have on your finger. You can trust Him today with your needs - whether they be big or small. He is waiting for you to call on Him. He loves to hear your voice. He loves to meet your needs FOR NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBE WITH HIM!

"SATAN, YOU HAVE GONE FAR ENOUGH!"

"'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: You have gone far enough, princes of Israel! Give up your violence and oppression and do what is just and right. Stop dispossessing my people, declares the Sovereign Lord. (Ezekiel 45:9 NIV) The enemy has gone far enough! He has captured our children and has ravaged our dreams. He has tried to bring havoc to our lives and has wounded and destroyed too many people's lives. By the authority that Christ gives - we speak - "Enough is enough!" God has declared a victory over us and we need to walk in that anointing today. The enemy has limits to what he can do to you today. God has surrounded you with angelic protection today and He won't allow any more to come into your life then what you can handle. Don't allow the lies, condemnations and negativity ruin your day. You are a child of the King who has already declared over you victory today. The Sovereign Lord has declared that over you. Accept it and stand in the victory that is yours today!

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

"Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. (Revelation 22:12 NIV) A few years ago - we used to hear a lot of sermons about the Second Coming of Jesus. Preachers would preach with elogance that Jesus could come anytime. Movies were made about being left behind what the earth would look like if millions of Christians were raptured. It seems as if this message has now taken a back seat and I fear that for many - it is not at the forefront of many of our hearts. But the reality is this, every day is a day closer to that event taking place. We are told that we don't know the day or the hour but it is coming. It's like THE BIG EARTHQUAKE in California. We know it's coming - it's just a matter of when. The problem then becomes that we are not in a state of readiness and alertness. May I encourage you today that Jesus could come anytime and it is so important for us to always stay ready and to be looking for His soon coming to rapture us to heaven. As I write this today - my heart yearns for that moment in time when we will all be joined together in heaven where there will be no more crying, no more sorrow and no more pain. It will be where we are all together worshipping Him and Him alone. (I can't wait for that worship service). Don't be lazy about this today. Always be on the alert and know that Jesus is coming soon!

DO YOU NEED OPEN HEART SURGERY?

And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. (Ezekiel 36:26, 27 ESV)

Have you ever got into a funk?  I know I have - many times over.  Life has a tendency to wear us down and to cause us look more at our circmstances then to our Master and King - Jesus Christ.  God's promise to us today is that He will give us a new heart to replace the stony heart that develops by the "junk" that creeps into our lives.  Recently, my dad had a double by-pass heart surgery.  The doctor explained that during the operation that his heart would be taken out of his body and put on machines while they worked on the heart.  His chest cavity would be filled with ice to lower the body temperature until they we're able to place the heart back into his body.  Through many hours of surgery - They were able to replace arteries and valves allowing the blood to flow properly again.  It was almost like getting a new heart.  May I challenge you today to allow God to step into your life and do some open heart surgery?  Would you allow Him to deal with the hardness that has crept in and taken over?  Sure,  you can exist without this procedure but you won't have a quality of life.  Please be encouraged today that even if this process is painful - its rewards are so fulfilling and satisfying.  I am a candidate for open heart surgery today by Dr. Jesus and I pray that you will become one too.  God Bless you today!

FROM ONE FRYING PAN TO ANOTHER

In distress you called, and I delivered you;  I answered you in the secret place of thunder; I tested you at the waters of Meribah.  Selah (Psalm 81:7 ESV)

Have you ever called out to the Lord in a season of stress and anxiousness.  I know I have - over and over.  It's interesting in this passage that His answer to us comes to us in a completely different way than we would think.  I want my answer to be like Jesus speaking to the storming sea and saying the words "peace" and all of a sudden everything is calm.  But that's not always the way that He works.  This passage tells us that He answers in the "place of thunder" (noisy/ confusion/ unstableness/ stormy) and at the "waters of Meribah" (bitter waters).  The NLT version says that it was the place where there was no water.  It's in these places that our trust has to be totally on Him and not on ourselves. The answer to our stress is that God, at times, puts us into another place of stres and another place of having to trust in Him.  I want the quiet, the peaceful streams, the seclusion - away from everyone and everything and God puts me in another situation where I have to immediately have to start calling out to Him again.  He puts me into the "thunder" and in the places of want and need - in the places that I have to call on Him to make right choices.  It might be that your stress today is the place where your masters has placed you because He knows exactly what you need today.  Trust Him to carry you through to the next place that He has prepared for you.  (Exodus 19:4)

GOD IS GOOD!

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22, 23 ESV)

As I was on my knees praying this morning I was reflecting on how good and faithful God is.  I then opened up my Bible to this mornings devotions and read this great scripture and was blessed all over again.  I love this verse because it so true.  Over my years I've heard many people give testimony of God's faithfulness in their lives.  They would say things like "I've never seen God let me down or fail me."  Or "God has always been faithful to me in every part of my life."  Now...that is my testimony today also.  God has been a steady rock and has never let me down on anything.  Sometimes I thought He was a little slow in getting things done but in the end - He always came through at the right time.  He is always faithful and His love is a steady rock in my life.  Today is a new day and His mercies are new all over again.  Have a great day!

STANDING IN THE GAP

“I looked for a man from among them who would repair the wall and stand in the gap before me on behalf of the land, so that I would not destroy it, but I found no one. (Ezekiel 22:30 NET)

During a season of intense rebellion - God was looking for someone who was interceding for the nation of Israel.  Sadly, He found no one.  There was not one man or woman who was intently praying for the people to turn from their sins and for the hand of God to not destroy their nation.

I was thinking about this passage this morning and was convicted about the intensity of my prayers for the Victor Valley and for my city, my church and my family. I have family members who don't know Jesus Christ and it is possible that my or my wife's prayers are the only ones going up in intercession on their behalf right now.  Their souls and their future destiny are at stake and it is possible that no one else is praying and interceding for them.

What has God asked you to pray for today?  What is He asking you to intercede for and not give up on?  What family member needs to be the target of your prayers?  It is possible that you are the only one in the whole world that has that assignment today? It is possible that you are the only one standing in the gap for their soul and future destiny.  Don't allow anything to hinder you from falling on your knees today with instensity for the things your heart feels inclined to pray for.  Don't give up when others have given up.  Keep praying.  Keep believing and God will come through for whatever you are praying for.  Pray that spiritual blindness will be pulled down from them.  Pray that bondages will be broken and shackles will drop to the ground.

"Jesus, I ask you today to bring down the strongholds over our loved ones.  I pray that spiritual blindess would stop and that their eyes would be open and that repentance would come.  Lord, even if I am the only one praying for this situation - I entreat you today to hear my prayer and bring the needed deliverance.  I ask this in Jesus' strong name.  Amen."

HOW IS YOUR HEART TODAY?

Listen! I am standing at the door and knocking! If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come into his home and share a meal with him, and he with me. (Revelation 3:20 NET)

As a child, my parents had a picture on their living room wall of Jesus knocking on a house door (Warner Sallman).  There are two things about the picture that are of great importance - 1- there is no outside door knob and 2- the arch of the door is a picture of our heart.  It is a picture of Jesus knocking and knocking upon our hearts door and the only way He can come in is that we open it from the inside.  I think most of relate to that picture in one way or another.  Whether its been a few days since we've opened the door or a few months - the principle is the same - Christ won't force Himself into our lives unless we open our hearts to Him.  I've been challenged as of late to not let my heart grow cold and hard to the things of the Lord.  It seems at times that just the wear and tear of life causes our hearts to distance themselves from the presence of God and we don't allow His overwheling presence to fill us to overflowing.  We go through the motions, and from the outside it can often look like we are doing just fine.  But, underneath the surface is a completely different story.  Our heart can be filled with deceit, hardness, disdain, hate, jealousy, etc.  I challenge you today to do a little heart test and ask yourself the question - "Is my heart open to my Savior to come in and be welcome in my home today?"  If the answer is no then I pray that you will stop and take pause today and invite Him back into your life again.  You will be glad you did!

WHERE'S YOUR PASSION?

But I have this against you: You have departed from your first love! Therefore, remember from what high state you have fallen and repent! Do the deeds you did at the first; if not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place – that is, if you do not repent. (Revelation 2:4, 5 NET)

It's a little difficult for us to visualize that God would have somethng against us.  We hear so much about the love and mercy of God - that, to hear that God is upset with us doesn't really register.  But it's true - there are some things that puts us at odds with God, one being that we have lost our zeal and our passion for Him.  John tells us to remember what it was first like.  He tells to remember the "wonder" and "awe" we used to have with God - where we couldn't wait to go to His house and to spend time with Him in our daily devotions.  What happened?  Why is everything else so important?  What happened to the overwhelming desire to spend time with God that you used to have?  Are you mad a God for not answering a prayer?  Are you so busy that you can't give Him any time?  Are you afraid that God will see you for who you really are?  Are you in fear that He might actually ask you to do something?  The answer we are given today is that we would repent.  That, we would begin to do the things that God originally asked us to do.  Repentance means "to turn" - that is - to make an about face and go a different direction.  It might be a big thing or it might be a little thing - but the important thing is to just do it.  This is a call to everyone of us to return to our first love.  It is a call to do what God has called us to do and to not allow any more excuses to rule and reign in our life.  Ultimately, this is about Lordship in our lives.  Who is Lord of your life and who is in control today?  You make that choice today.

JUST BECAUSE

You are my God and I will give you thanks! You are my God and I will praise you! Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good and his loyal love endures! (Psalm 118:28, 29 NET)

Denise and I took a few days off this week and are now up at Big Bear Lake enjoying the beauty of God and His creation.  Everyone of us need a break from the routine of life to recreate the "wonder" of God in our lives.  We need that place where we can sit quietly to meditate and reflect what God is doing for us right now. Oftentimes we come to Him with an agenda of our needs and wants in life.  That is fine and I know God loves to answer our prayers, but... sometimes we need to come and tell Him we love Him "just because..." That, we wouldn't come with all our needs but would come only to say that we are so in love with Him.  He has been so good to us and has blessed us immeasuredbly.  I am overwhelmed today of His blessings in my life and I am blessed by all that He had done for me. I am seeing blessings in ministry that some pastors dream about. My children and their families are following God and I get the joy of serving my father and his health related issues.  It's not always easy and even, at times, very difficult but the bottom line is this "I give praise to my God and Saviour today.  I love Him with all my heart and I am coming to Him today "just because."

HOW TO BE THE MOST AWESOME PARENT

Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD
and delight in obeying his commands. Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. (Psalm 112:1, 2 NLT)

It has always been of great concern of mine that I raise my children up so that they would walk fully in  the ways of the Lord.  Over the years,  with much saddness, I've watched so many young people go astray - even in Christian homes.  Now, there is nothing that I can do or say that will guarantee that my children and grandchildren will walk in the right path, but there are some things that I can do that will raise the percentage up that they will be followers of God - one of those being that I am a God-fearer myself - that, I would example what it is like to "delight in obeying His commands." If my/your children are seeing and being exposed to what a godly Christian man or woman is like - chances are they will emulate that in their own lives.  Again,  what I do is no guarantee that they will walk with Jesus but it does increase the odds.  Acts 16:31 tells us that if we believe on Christ that our household will also.  Proverbs 22:6 tells us to raise up a child in the right way and when they are old - they will not depart from it.  I don't ever want to be an excuse for why my kids don't follow God but I want to give them every opportunity to see what it is like to walk with Christ. There might be seasons of drifting away from God, but someday - when their lives are up against a wall - they will come back to the faith of their parents and they too will lead their children in the ways of the Lord.  Don't wait until tomorrow to lead your family but start today by asking God to make you the most awesome parent ever by personally following God's ways.  Your kids might not thank you now but they will thank you someday!

MADE TO SERVE A KING

O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter? says the Lord. Look, as the clay  is  in the potters hand, so  are  you in My hand, O house of Israel! (Jeremiah 18:6 NKJV)  

It is a fascinating thing to watch a potter take a lump of clay and turn it into a beautiful vessel.  He works and works the clay on the wheel and then He shapes and molds it into the desired image in His mind.   If the end product is not what He desires He returns it to the lump and starts all over.  Does that sound like what God is doing in your life right now?  Does that feel like what you might be going through?  Your life is on the potters wheel today.  He is taking His time to shape a vessel that He can use to serve others.  Don't jump off the wheel and run from the potters hand.  Submit.  Sit still and wait for the touch of the maters hand.  Don't be upset at the type of vessel that He's creating.  He knows what is best for you as He is the one who created and wired you the way you are.  This is not an overnight process but one that will take place over your whole lifetime.  When He's done you will be fit to serve a king!

The Discipline Of The Lord

Hebrews 12:5-6 (NLT) 12:5 And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. 6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.”

This is not a verse that I necessarily like but it’s an important verse. No one likes to be corrected or disciplined. However, without it – we would never grow. As a father, discipling my children or even my grandchildren is at times very hard. I remember my dad or mom saying “this hurts me more then it does you.” At the time I didn’t believe it at the time but when I was having to discipline my own kids – I knew what they meant. God the Father so loves us and will do anything to help us become the men and women that God wants us to be. Discipline is part of growing up. We must not make light of it and always remember that God does this out of heart of love for us.

Waiting On God

Isaiah 30:18 NLT - {18} But the LORD still waits for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for him to help them.

A few years ago my wife and I made a trip to Colorado to be with some friends in the month of December. Although the weather was cooler in Southern California it was very cold in Colorado – 12 degrees when we landed. Our plan was to get a hotel that night and meet up with our friends the next day. We picked up our luggage and made our way outside to stand under the sign that said Hotel Pickup. (Do you remember that I said it was 12 degrees out?) What should have been a couple of minutes wait turned into 45 minutes as the bus we needed never came around. I think it might have been one of the longest waits of my life. When we finally got to the hotel – we we’re completely frozen which was a good reminder for me why I enjoy living in Southern California. Waiting is not one of my strengths in life as I mostly am impatient for things to happen quickly. It is one of the areas my wife and I are opposite in as she has great patience for most things in life – including me which is a real miracle! I confess – I don’t understand the timetable that God has in life – especially when it comes to me and my own journey upon this earth. Waiting has always been hard for me and it is something that I’ve been forced to learn about over my 56 years of living on this earth. My wife has always called me “A Joseph” as he was one who had to endure a lot in life and had to wait for a long time to receive God’s promises that we’re given to him as a young boy. But God did come through for Joseph – perhaps not in the way or in the timing that he thought but He did come through and God has come through for me. Isaiah encourages us to wait for God who is waiting for us to come to Him in our need and to let Him know that we are ready for Him to show us His love and compassion. He reminds us also of the faithfulness of God and the blessing that are coming our way for waiting for Him. I know that I have no arrived and have a long way to go in life but I continue to learn about God and His ways by my learning to wait upon Him. I am often reminded that God is more concerned with our character then our comfort. Waiting then is a way for me to develop more character in my life. I guess… waiting isn’t so bad as it will bring about God’s best in walk and journey with Him.

Are You Reaping The Right Harvest In Your Life?

James 3:18 (NLT) And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.

I don’t have the green thumb like my dad does. If you we’re to go to his house you would find that there is hardly a weed anywhere and everything that he plants grows luscious and fruitful. He has always shown a real interest in farming and planting and growing things. When I was a young boy growing up, My dad used to own a small apple farm in Littlerock, California that he, my grandpa, my brother and myself regularly worked in. There was the tilling of the soil, the irrigating, the removal of weeds, the trimming of the trees and even the bird patrol. And… eventually there was the harvest. In between the rows of trees there would often be other vegetables and plants growing that would supply food to our table and product for the local farmers market. My dad and my grandpa would be so meticulous in the way that they planted the seed and the place where they wanted every seed to germinate and grow. As farmers, they knew an important fact: what you sow is what you will reap. You couldn’t plant corn seeds and expect to get watermelons. You couldn’t plant zucchini and get a pumpkin plant. You only get what you plant in your ground. I have people tell me often that they would like a different type of crop to out of their lives. As an example, someone will say to me, “I want more peace.” That’s a great prayer that I think most of us would desire that in our lives. But peace won’t come their/my way unless they are planting seeds of peace in others. Now, I know that God can miraculously touch us and give us that miracle of peace but somewhere along the line – we need to be planting the right seeds. If we need a financial blessing – we need to be practicing giving. If we need prayers answered – we should be praying for others. If we need peace – we should be peacemakers with others. The list could go on and on. In other words, invest in what it is in that you need in your life. I read about a missionary recently who was dying and was asked about what he wanted said about his life after he died. He looked at them in the eye and said, “I want it said that when I came there was much darkness but when I left there was much light.” I’ve been mulling over this for three days now and can’t get it out of my head. That’s how I want to live my life and that’s how I want to define my life as I come to the end of my days. It is then and only then that I can be assured of reaping a harvest of righteousness!

WHAT TYPE OF MAN OR WOMAN DO YOU WANT TO BE?

“But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit. (Jeremiah 17:7, 8 NLT) One of the fond memories of my childhood is that of being with my father almost every summer in the highlands of Yosemite National Park. We would go backpacking and fishing along the Merced River with absolutely breathtaking scenery. It was always amazing to walk and fish along the receded riverbanks that would show the roots of huge trees that were exposed from the spring storms and rushing streams. They were thick and long and went deep into the earth and have been exposed to every type of storms imaginable. These trees would stand tall, strong and stately. Ironically, I'm writing this in the middle of the night after attending to the medical needs of my own father whose health is deteriorating very quickly right now. Like those stately trees his roots are very exposed right now but his faith remains very strong. He is an example of what and who I want to be in life - of a man who trusted in and has had a confidence in God - a man whose roots go very deep. As I read this passage again (I suggest that you do this also) I am reminded of the type of man I want to be and the type of man I want to model to my family and even to my church and community. Storms and seasons of drought are sure to come but regardless I want to be known as the man who trusts fully in the Lord and whose roots go deep - very deep.

HOW TO RECEIVE THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7 ESV) Often, people will read the later part of this verse and grab hold of its promises without consideration of what is said at the beginning. They like the part that whatever we pray about will be answered without understanding that we must first "abide" in Him. Abide means to "remain, continue, stay and wait." It is to be "in the presence of" - to live with in their/ your house. it is to spend time with and get to know that person. Jesus says as we abide in Him - as we pray - He will give us whatever we desire. It's like a Father who will give to His child because He knows He can trust Him with that gift. As we get to know the heart of God, He begins to trust us that we are going to be responsible and gives us what we are asking for. He will never give to us until we are ready to walk responsively with whatever gift given to us. Get to know God today. Give Him your heart and watch how much He wants to bless you today.

LOVING THE UNLOVELY

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:34, 35 ESV) It's a very simple thing that has been asked of us - to love one another. Yet, it seems that reading about love is easier than actually doing it. For the most part - I get along with everyone as I'm a people person and love being with and interacting with those around me. However, if the truth be told - there are some people who absolutely grind me to the core and I have to dig deep to show love to them. (Just keeping it real!) it's at those moments that I have to go to God and see them through His eyes and look past my petty feelings. It is then that I must ask God for the strength to love inspite of my hurts and wounds. This passage reveals that when we love - it is a true sign that we are disciples of Christ - that we are His true followers. I pray that you would ask God today to fill you with His love and that the people who are "unlovable" in your eyes would be so loved by you today. May God richly bless you today! Amen!

FINDING GOD'S WILL FOR YOUR LIFE

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." (Jeremiah 1:5 ESV) Our destiny was carved out for us before we were even in our mom's womb - before we were even born. It is our responsibility to find and discover God's thumbprint on our lives by acknowledging how God wired and made us. As we go about living our lives we will naturally be drawn to certain things and situations that we enjoy doing and have a certain "gifted-ness" in doing. As we begin to do those things - God's will and purpose begin to unfold before us. Often we're just waiting for God's will to be dropped on our laps when we should be doing something with what we've already been given which in turn will help reveal God's perfect will for our lives. Get up and do something for God now and you will then find the place where you belong in life!

GOD IS LIKE OUR PARENTS

The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. (Zephaniah 3:17 ESV) There is something to be said about the role of parents in our life. Ideally, No matter how bad it is - we should always be able to go home and receive comfort and encouragement from the stress we all go through. They should be our cheerleaders and motivators to keep trying and reaching for your God-given dreams. As I look at this passage about God - in a way, He's like that in our lives - nurturer - protector - motivator - cheerleader. He is on the sidelines of your game saying, "You can do it, you can do it. Hang in there!" He's like the parent who shouting up in the stands - "That's my boy, that's my girl.". God, your God is proud of you today and wants the very best for you. He loves you enough to be tough on you at times and He loves you enough to push you that you might be able to do your very best for Him. He so wants to sing over you with joy today. Don't push away from Him but rush to Him and be safe in His arms today.

THE POWER OF PRAISE

Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.(Habakkuk 3:17-19 ESV) I used to go backpacking a lot in the Olympic mountains in the state of Washington. On one of my first outings - I learned a valuable lesson that has spiritual applications for us today. While I was sleeping in the tent I heard some noises outside the tent. I quickly unzipped the tent just in time to see a mountain goat take off with my boot up the mountain. I jumped out of the tent and began chasing him - barefooted. Without any effort he was halfway up the mountain - unfortunately with my boot. God promises to make our feet like the hind feet of a deer as we learn to be people of praise. You might be in a difficult situation today - you might be facing some daunting task. Be a person of praise today and be the person who lifts God up - no matter what and God will enable you to experience victory today. PS... I eventually got my boot back after a steep hike in my bare feet.

THE LORD IS GOOD - ALL THE TIME!

The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him, (Nahum 1:7 NIV) I've been a Christian a long time and have seen many highs and even many lows. But without reservation, I can say again today - God is good - all the time. There might be seasons and times that I don't understand but at the end of the day God's way is always the best way. As you go about this day today - speak a word of thanks to God by saying, "Thank you God for being so good to me and my family. I give you praise today."

JUST LIKE MY FATHER

Jesus gave them this answer: "Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. (John 5:19 NIV) The old adage "Like Father, like son," comes to mind as I read this passage this morning. Jesus did nothing without the Fathers father's glance of approval. He only ministered as He was led by His heavenly father in all matters of life. I love to watch how a young boy will emulate his father and try to be just like him. The young boy sees how his father acts and looks and tries to follow in his footsteps. We should have this attitude in regards to our relationship with our heavenly Father. We would save a lot of time and energy if we would keep our eyes focused on God's purpose and plan for our lives - that we would do nothing without our Father's approval and blessing on us. Like Jesus, we should be able to say "whatever the Father is doing - I'm doing also."

PRAY FOR EVERYTHING

Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. (Isaiah 65:24 NIV) Here's a little challenge for you today - take everything to God in prayer. Some people only pray when they eat or just before they start their day or when some crisis comes upon them. 1 Thessalonians encourages to pray without ceasing. This is learning to pray as you go about your day - on the way to work - at work - on the way fom work - at home, etc. Here's the thing... Even though God knows our needs - HE LOVES TO HEAR YOU PRAY. The Bible says that your prayer is like a sweet smelling savor. He enjoys hearing your voice and He enjoys answering your prayers. Take everything to God in prayer today - He's waiting for you right ow.

GOD GUIDES US THROUH THE STORMS OF LIFE

He calms the storm, So that its waves are still. Then they are glad because they are quiet; So He guides them to their desired haven. (Psalm 107:29, 30 NKJV) What storms and trials are you facing today? What difficulties are you trying to navigate? This verse encourages and reminds us that God is still in control of all the storms in our life. Look to Him and He will guide you through today. Your soul might be raging right now but God can quiet even that storm. Trust Him with the big things and even the little things. Trust God to quiet your heart right now. "The Lord is MY shepherd, I shall not want."

GOD'S PROMISE OVER YOU

"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. "Lift up your eyes and look about you: All assemble and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the hip. Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy; the wealth on the seas will be brought to you, to you the riches of the nations will come. Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord. All Kedar's flocks will be gathered to you, the rams of Nebaioth will serve you; they will be accepted as offerings on my altar, and I will adorn my glorious temple. (Isaiah 60:1-7 NIV) Read this passage again more slowly and look at what is promised to the people of God. These we're not perfect people but people who had messed up and even failed in what God wanted them to do. God loved them anyway and God was relentless in bringing the blessing their way. He wanted them to have it more than they even wanted it themselves. The blessing is available to you today - if you would even open up your heart just a little. God wants to pour upon you and your family untold blessings from on high. He wants you to know that you are SO loved today and that you are so special to Him - even if you've failed and messed. You are His beloved son and daughter!

OUR CHILDREN ARE COMING HOME!

Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, 'Give them up!' and to the south, 'Do not hold them back.' Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth— (Isaiah 43:5, 6 NIV) One of the hardest things for parents is to see is when their children go astray and away from the things of God. As a parent - I know what it is like to have those gut wrenching times of wondering what I did wrong and crying out to God for help. I believe with all my heart that we are entering into a new season of harvest with our children and grandchildren. I have watched with much interest the amount of young people who are making their way to the church again. Teenagers and young adults are fed up with the world system and lies and are hungry for God to do something in them today. Salvations. Water Baptisms. Dedications. These are all the things that I've been seeing with my own eyes. I am calling them from the North, the South, the East and the West. I am calling them from deception and lies. I am praying for a new generation who will stand up and be counted. If your children have gone astray - don't give up. Don't stop praying for them. Claim God's Word and begin to call them back in prayer. See them returning and see them restored. I believe with all my heart - OUR CHILDREN OUR COMING HOME!

DO NOT BE AFRAID

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10 NIV) If there ever has been a needed message to a nation today - it is this message - DO NOT BE AFRAID. America is reeling from the Colorado tragedy where a young man went on a killing spree this last week. People are asking why and wondering where is God in all this. People are fearful and wondering how safe the world really is. The fact is: there are no guarantees on this sinful earth. We have not arrived in heaven yet but we do live in a fallen world with fallen people. Our God puts His arms around us today and says, "DO NOT BE AFRAID." He tells us that in the midst of tragedy and mahem - that He will be with us and strengthen us. I don't have all the answers but I do know that God loves each of us - including those who in that theater the other night. Keep looking to your God and keep your eyes on Him. He is your source and strength - DO NOT BE AFRAID.

REACHING FOR YOUR DREAMS

They told him, "This is what Hezekiah says: This day is a day of distress and rebuke and disgrace, as when children come to the moment of birth and there is no strength to deliver them. (Isaiah 37:3 NIV) This might be an unusual scripture to journal on but it has been a scripture that I've thought a lot about over the years. The principle is this - that God gives visions and dreams to all of us but like a child conceived in its mother's womb and because of complications never reaches the point of birth - so it is with many of our dreams and visions for our lives. For those of you that know me - this verse is very personal to me as I look back on when my own grandson died shortly after being born pre-maturely. As I read and re-read this verse today I want to encourage you in regards to your own dreams for your life - that you would not only dream big dreams but that you would pray for safe passage of the dreams to reality. I was once told that the riches place on earth is our graveyards because it is there that unfulfilled dreams lie dormant. I pray that you would stir up your God-given dreams and visions today. I pray that you would look at the obstacles before you and realize that God says, You can do this and I can help you." Don't allow the obstacles to stop what God has put before you today.

PERFECT PEACE

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! (Isaiah 26:3 NLT) More than anything - we need peace. We wake up everyday to a world that is filled with strife and hate. We work with people who are stressed and angry. We deal with our families who have all sorts of problems. Then, on top of all of that - we're trying to make some sense about our own lives and how we live amongst all the stress and drama that surrounds us. God's promise is simple - 'trust in Him, put your thoughts on Him and He will give you peace.' I live this scripture out everyday. I pray it. I believe it and I release it to you today. No matter what is going with you today - Your (my) God can and will give you His peace if you just ask Him for it. May God richly bless you today with peace. Amen.

DOING THE HARD STUFF

But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. (James 1:22 NLT) I've heard thousands of sermons over my lifetime and I've read God's Word over and over. It has been a source of wealth and blessing for my life and that of my family. Yet, I still struggle over certain principle's that are too hard to do and to follow. My stubborness comes out and my attitude kicks in. See, it's easy to listen to a sermon or read it in God's Word but it's harder to put it into practice and live it out on a daily basis. It's easy to forgive someone you like and much harder for someone you don't like. It's easy to love God when He asks you to do something you like but much harder when it's something you don't like. James tells us to not deceive ourselves and to not fool ourselves in this regard. We must accept the hard stuff as well as the stuff that is easy to do and the stuff we like. Let's make up our minds to just "do" God's Word today. Let's be obedient when He first speaks to us and calls us and not wait until our backs are up against a wall. It's the only way to experience His happiness and peace today!

GOD, HAVE MERCY ON ME

But LORD, be merciful to us, for we have waited for you. Be our strong arm each day and our salvation in times of trouble. (Isaiah 33:2 NLT) Never in my life have I felt the need more than now for God's mercy and grace in my life. It's not that I wasn't aware of it or didn't need it before but it's just - well, I KNOW how much I need it now. Life's experiences have taught me that I need to be dependent on God for every situation. I realize that I am totally at His mercy and I need Him for every aspect of my life. I can't do anything without His presence going with me. Life has also taught me that God never gives up on us and He is always faithful - always! Don't give up on God either. Wait for Him. Trust Him today and call out for Him to help you. Cry out for His mercies - they are new every morning. Remember that God is FOR you today!

A PRAYER OF BLESSING FOR YOU TODAY,

Now may the God of peace—...the great Shepherd of the sheep - may he equip you with all you need... for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. (Hebrews 13:20, 21 NLT) Have confidence in this today - GOD WANTS TO BLESS YOU in all you do. He wants to help you do His will - whatever that is. That's like having to take a test but He's right next to you with all the answers. He does not want you to fail today. God is with you and God wants to bless you abundantly today. Start your day right now with a prayer of thanksgiving on your heart for His blessing before they come and then sit back and watch the hand of God great things for you!

WHEN DARKNESS COMES

As for me, I look to the LORD for help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me. Do not gloat over me, my enemies! For though I fall, I will rise again. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light. (Micah 7:7, 8 NLT) There comes a times in every persons life where the darkness settles in and seems take over our thinking and reasoning. It hovers over you like a dark cloud and it saps your energy right out of you. I understand this. I've had to deal with this many times in my life. Michah encourages us during those times to not panic but to sit down, rest, and contemplate the promises of God. It's taking what God has already said and not budging from His promises. It is knowing and having a faith in God that no matter how dark it is - God will see me through. He is confident that God will bring the light and the needed answer or victory. If you are experiencing this today - I pray for you right now that Jesus may give you the strength that you need and that He would fill your heart right now with hope. I pray that God's light would shine upon you and direct you through whatever valley you are going through. I ask this in Jesus' strong name. Amen.

God Will Not Forget

For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do. (Hebrews 6:10 NLT) There are some of you today who feel that God has forgotten you - that He just doesn't care for you and your needs. You might feel like you're making no progress at all - that... you make 1 step forward and 2 steps back because of all the obstacles it seems that God is putting in your way. Here's the thing - that's not truth at all. God does care about you and God hasn't forgotten you. He knows what is best for you and He knows exactly what you need in your life right now. Stay faithful and God will bring the things you need at the right time and at the right place. Quit trying to be God by trying to control everything around you. Let God do His thing in your life and develop an attitude of thankfulness for what He has done for you in the past. God hasn't forgotten you - ever. You are still on His radar and you are still His son or daughter and He has great plans for your life today. You are so valuable to Him and so loved today. God has not forgotten you ever and He will not forget you in the future.

HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE

Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother's name was Jekoliah; she was from Jerusalem. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, just as his father Amaziah had done. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success. (2 Chronicles 26:3-5 NIV) We all like success stories - especially about people who had nothing and then had a measure of success in their lives. The problem lies in the fact that we hear and read "their" stories and somehow think that will never happen to any of us. That... we we're somehow destined to be "unsuccessful" in our endeavors. That's a lie from the pit of hell! God has His thumbprint on every one of our lives and has a success story for every one of us today. If we do the will of God and follow God with all our heart - we are a success no matter what we do. Sure, we might not all be kings or presidents of nations but we are all called to do something specific in life - whether it is loving children in the church nursery or running a large corporation. IF we just dod what God has called us to do - we are a success. Uzziah was only sixteen years of age. He didn't wait until he was older. He immediately began to do what God had called him to do. He "sought" the Lord and "listentened" to those who instructed him which was the formula for success. Don't believe the lies of the enemy today. God loves you and has a great plan for your life. Follow God with all your heart and you will always be a success in God's eyes!

DO YOU HAVE TRUST ISSUES?

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. (Jude 1:24, 25 NIV) Far too many people today are recovering from some hurt or wound in their past causing them to not trust anyone around them - even those that have proven themselves trustworthy. They try to move forward in life and relationships but are unable to overcome the hurtle of trust that is thrust before them over and over again. As a result - they revert back to some of their old behavior and defense mechanisms that keep them in their protective bubble so they won't be hurt again. In Jude 24 we are presented with an opportunity to put our trust in the one who is ABLE to keep us from stumbling. God is able - think about that for a moment. He doesn't want you to stumble and fall. He doesn't want you to be wounded or hurt. He only wants total victory for you today. But... are you willing to let your guard down and trust Him? Are you willing for Him to take the control of your life - to become the driver in your vehicle? People might have let you down and have hurt you but God will NEVER let you down. You are His child today. Trust Him in His majesty, power, and authority that He will bring you through whatever you are going through today. Remember... God is good and you can trust Hm!

Praying Desperate Prayers

Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. When I am in distress, I call to you, because you answer me. (Psalm 86:6, 7 NIV) I remember a time in the early part of my ministry where I was desperate for God to touch the church that I was pastoring. The church had been in existence for years but had never had a major breakthrough. I was young, it was my first church and I didn't know what to do. I had grown up in a growing and thriving church and was not used to being in a dead, non-growing enviornment. I preached my heart out, visited the people, encouraged them and everything stayed the same. After about a year I found myself in deep prayer over the church and the people. I remember walking up the stairs from the basement to the church sanctuary and couldn't go any further for the desperation I felt and burden I felt. I knelt on those stairs, prayed and prayed, cried and cried. I called out to God to bring breakthrough to that little country church. When the burden finally lifted off my shoulders I got up and went about my business. I let go of my ego and put the matter in the Lord's hands. I remained faithful and just watched as God slowly brought in a harvest that has continued to this day in that church. Today, that church is one of the largest in that community and has a deep affect to many people's lives. I look back now at a moment when I was willing to pray a desperate prayer. I look back and say, "God never fails His kids and He always hears our prayers." May I encourage you today to pray desperate prayers to the God who loves you and wants to do something big in your life. He is waiting for you and He is willing to touch you now. Are you willing to give it all to Him? Are you willing for Him to do it His way? As one dear saint told me... "Let go and let God!" That's great advice for all of us.

God Will Restore

Restore us, Lord God Almighty; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved. (Psalm 80:19 NIV) I have watched over the years how devastating life can be. I have watched people lose their houses, their jobs and income. I have see families torn apart through strive and division and I've seen the heartbreak of losing someone that they love. i have seen it all. Life can be very hard at times. But on the flip side, I have seen over and over again of how faithful God and how He always takes care of His children. He promises restoration to us and I've thought about that alot. Restoration doesn't mean that He will necessarily bring back each and every thing that we lost but He will bring back that which is better for our lives. Restoration might also be a healing to our hearts over some loss that we've experienced. It tells us in Psalm 23 that he "restores our soul" - indicating that he heals the hurts and wounds that we have. This is a picture of a lamb that has rolled over on its side and cannot get up on its feet. The shepherd picks him up and gets him back on his feet again. This is what God wants to do to you today - bring restoration to your life. Trust God to bring you "through" whatever trial you might be experiencing and that He will accomplish what is best for your life today.

GOD HELPS US EVEN WHEN WE MAKE MISTAKES

Amaziah asked the man of God, "But what about the hundred talents I paid for these Israelite troops?" The man of God replied, "The Lord can give you much more than that." (2 Chronicles 25:9 NIV) Amaziah (a 25 year old king of Judah) invested his money in the wrong place by hiring Israelite troops to protect him and his people. That was not part of God's plan at all. Amaziah was worried about protecting his investment but God was wanting to protect his soul. God sends a man (we don't know who) and warns him to not go ahead with his plans. He proclaims to Amaziah that "the Lord can give you much more than what that" (referring to his investmest of 100 talents). Don't hold on to things that could in the end bring destruction and leaness to your soul. Yes, it might have been a costly mistake but it is better to let go of something that is the wrong decision and decide to go God's way. I love what the scritpures say in the Book Of Joel that God will "restore what the canker worm has eaten up in your life." He can give you so much more than what you've lost. God loves you so much that He will send His messengers to you to warn you of not going your own way. Let Him guide you through your mistakes and let Him lead you to the right paths. God will take care of you - trust Him today with every part of your life and you will be a blessed man or woman of God.

Tailor Made Trials Just For You

Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. (Jonah 1:17 NIV) People often equate any trial in their life as coming from the devil and don't take into consideration that it is possible that the trial came from God Himself. God loves you too much to allow you to continue to do your own thing and will at times create a trial tailor made for you. Jonah had a call on His life and was running from that call. God told him to go one direction and he purposely went another to run from the call of God. God created a fish just Jonah's size that came and swallowed him up. It took 3 whole days for Jonah to repent and return back to God? Can you imagine being in that fish for three days with temperatures around 110 degrees? It could have been over sooner Jonah didn't quite get it. Finally, he relents and repents and the fish vomited him up on dry ground. (The fish probably left a bad taste in his mouth). Stop running from God today. Come back to the place where you should be. Submit to Him and to the leadership God has placed in your life. Only a God who loves you would go to such extremes to get your attention. Turn to Him today and you will be at peace.

How Are You And Jesus Doing Today?

"Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart,with fasting and weeping and mourning." Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity. (Joel 2:12, 13 NIV) I think all of us will relate to this verse at one time or another. It is interesting - we all live our life in cycles 1- Things are great. God is close to us and we have a season of abundance 2- We become lax and lazy and take things for granted. We forget God 3- A crisis will come and we find ourselves at the bottom of things 4- We then repent (hopefully) and God brings restoration back into our lives. Where are you in this cycle? Are you in that place and abundance and have taken things for granted. Is God first place in your life right now? Are you listening to and heeding the voice of God in your life right now? Are you hardened to the things of and ways of God? Is your heart indifferent today? Are you on fire for God or is your heart cold and calloused. My prayer for you today is that would do a heart check today and ask God to bring you back to the place where you need to be. Do you need to set aside time to be with God? Do you need to fast and pray? I pray that God would become real and close to you today and that His Holy Spirit would draw you into His presence today. I pray that you would be honest about how things are with you and Jesus today and that you would be willing for Him to speak the needed changes that you need to make. God is waiting. Are you willing and ready?

Our Victory Is On The Way

So David and his men went up to Baal Perazim, and there he defeated them. He said, "As waters break out, God has broken out against my enemies by my hand." So that place was called Baal Perazim. (1 Chronicles 14:11 NIV) in this passage - the Philistines were coming with full force against David in Jerusalem. David, goes to where they are and "heads them off the pass" as you might say. As David tells us - God gave such an overwhelming victory that it seemed like a dam was broke and the waters rushed out. In other words - it was BIG and it was QUICK. May God do that for you and more today. May He give you the courage to meet your difficulties straight up and give an OVERWHELMING victory today. I pray this in Jesus' strong name. Amen!"

The God Of The Impossible

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26 NIV) Every person who walks with God faces obstacles that are so daunting and overwhelming that we wonder if even God can fix it. I know I have - over and over. I've looked at certain things and thought that there was no way around that mountain. Fortunately for us, God knows that our faith is at times minimal and very weak. It becomes a reminder to us that "I can't but He can." He absolutely loves it when we call out to Him for help and assistance. He loves and even longs for His children to come to Him with any need they might have. Your God is the God of the impossible today. Go to Him and tell Him how much you love Him and tell Him your need today. Watch how He will then come through for you again and again."

What Do You Want

As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" Jesus stopped and called them. "What do you want me to do for you?" he asked. "Lord," they answered, "we want our sight." Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him. (Matthew 20:29-34 NIV) What do you want me to do for you? I think this is a fair question for all of us to answer. This is the question that Jesus asked the two blind men who we're trying to get His attention. Their answer - "We want our sight." If God we're to ask you "What is it that you want" - could you answer that? James says that we have not because we ask amiss. I think at times we go to go with a bunch of generalities when God is asking us to get specific about our wants and needs in needs in life. People will say to me, "But I don't want to pray for the wrong things." My answer to that is that God promises to fulfill the desires of our heart and if our desires are wrong - He can change them. So... in response to Jesus' question to you "What do you want me to do today" - just come to Him with your specifics and trust God to come through for you in regards to your needs."

Who Do You Trust In Today?

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. (Psalm 20:7 NIV) Who or what you trust in today makes all the difference in how you live your life on a daily basis. Are you worried and anxious or are you trusting in Christ to give you the answers you need? Are you trusting in the government to bail you out or in your savings account to get you through or are you trusting in God to provide for all your needs? Are you seeking help in decisions for your life from your friends or are you seeking and asking God what it is that He wants you to do? Who you trust in can mean the difference of a powerful contented life or a life filled with remorse and heartache. Take it from someone who has often trusted in the wrong things and has paid for it dearly in life - you must trust in Christ for every detail of your life. As the scriptures say, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."

What's Bugging You?

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (Psalm 51:10-12 NIV) For about a week something has been bothering me. I couldn't quite put my finger on it but I knew something was wrong. Finally, I asked the Lord about it and He pointed out something I had said to someone that was negative and critical. It was wrong and I have dealt with it. Yikes... I hate doing that but its the only way the Holy Spirit can truly use us for His glory. I want a clean heart today and I want to be used of God but like David - I/ we have to go to God and ask for repentance. It is then that He restores our joy and makes us pliable to be used by Him.

Today Could Be The Day

"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. (Matthew 24:42 NIV) I think sometime we often become desensitized to the fact that Jesus is coming back to earth someday... and this could be that very day. How would you live your life if you knew this could be the day that Jesus would return to earth and bring His children home? Who would you call or what would you do? Matthew warns us to keep watch or be on the alert because know one knows the time or the hour of Jesus' return. Many people think that they will have time to in the very end to get it right with God. From experience - that is not always the case. Your life could be over just like that. Why wait until the last moment when you could make the decision to live for God right now? Decide now to make Jesus Lord of your life and decide now that today will be a day that you will follow Him with all your heart soul and mind. After all - today could be the day that Jesus returns - will you be ready?"

Are You Like A Stubborn Donkey?

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. (Psalm 32:8, 9 NIV) One of my favorite pictures is that of a road in the middle of nowhere that suddenly splits into two roads without any sign indicating the direction of either one. Life is like that in a lot of ways - we have many choices but there is only one right way. The Psalmist teaches us about God's desire to lead us through this maze called life and it's interesting that God says that He will lead us with His "eye on you." When I was growing up - we called that the "stink eye." My mom could get us kids to do almost anything just with the look of her eye. She had this certain look that we knew that if we didn't straighten up we would really get it when we got home. Here's the thing: God wants to lead us but we've got to be looking His way and need to get rid of the stubborness that we would be characteristic in mules and donkeys. I would rather follow God's leading with my own volition rather than to have to be led by the "bit and bridle" method - a not so fun way of livng life. Look to God today and follow His leading and you will be at peace today."