Rev. Denise Glavan Heath
1Thessalonians 5:15 reads, “Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.” Wrong means not correct or true; incorrect—unjust, dishonest, illegal, or immoral. Let me ask you this: If you are wronged, do you become a tit-for-tat kind of person? For example, when driving in your car and you get cut off by a person, do you show them the finger—honk—scream at the person? Or do you just waive and say, “I’m sorry!” How do you handle the situation? Is road rage a part of how you respond? Or you respond with goodness and politeness? Where you kill people with kindness and you do what is right? Maybe we all might need to take inventory on this one. How we respond to frustrating situations! God Bless. Amen.
Have you ever been told, “It is not your problem.” Sometime, in life, we see a loved one or someone close to us who is not making good choices. We see this person has a problem, or an issue and we want to step in and fix it for that person. We reason in our mind that we are helping the other person. That we can change the person for the better. All the while this person has not asked for our help, nor asked for us to fix the problem. See, out of our love we want to help a person get through those difficult times—but we can’t save anyone. Only the person, with God’s help, can save him or herself—not us. Learning to let go and let God is one of the hardest things to learn in life. Because we know what can happen to this person. We know how dangerous drugs are, alcohol is, gambling is, uncontrolled spending, overeating, bad relationship are. Psalm 46:19 reads, “Be still, and know that I am God.” So, we pray and pray. Setting limits and boundaries. All the while letting this person know we are there for them. Sometimes that is all we can do! God Bless. Amen.
What do you need to turn over to God and trust Him to see you through? Trust means the firm belief in the reliability, the truth, the ability, or the strength of someone or something. That said, can you or better yet, will you trust God in this circumstance? Trusting and believing that God is bigger than the situation you are in. Jeremiah 17:7 reads, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD whose confidence is in Him.” Psalm 31:14 says, “But I trust in you, LORD; I say, “You are my God.”” Then Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trust! Trust in the LORD! He will see you through this situation. God Bless. Amen.
In a time where life has become topsy turvy—where things are confusing and disordered, evil and wrong seem right, and where things seem so upside down. We need to revisit God’s goodness and God in our lives. Goodness is the quality of being morally good or virtuous. It is knowing and understanding right from wrong. It is the firm and persistent resistance of all moral evil and chooses to follow in God’s ways and understanding. For God’s ways are always good The goodness of God refers to His benevolent and positive attributes, encompassing everything He is, does, or will ever do. It includes many things: His love, mercy, justice, grace, forgiveness, and the overall impact He has on all things. God’s goodness comes through God’s actions and character because God is righteous, holy, and benevolent. This implies that God is the ultimate standard of goodness and that all His ways are worthy. God wants us to strive to be good people. So, when someone is rude, respond in kindness. When someone is hateful, respond in love. When someone wants to do wrong, respond in strength and virtue. When someone is mean, respond in forgiveness. When others are following society’s ways, respond in God’s ways. Be a follower of God not society. It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
There are situations in our life that can cause us pain and heartache. These situations can bring the worse out in us. Because when we are in pain, it seems as if we want others to be in pain too. In fact, there are times when we want to scream and shout at the unfairness of life. But that really does not get us anywhere nor solve the problem. As believers in God, we know that God is our source of strength. Even when life gets difficult and hard, we must remember life is life, there are moments of joy that are accented by times of undeniable pain and heartache. What God promises is that He will be with us in all situations and circumstance. Psalm 125:2 reads, “As mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, both now and forevermore.” God is our shield and guards us with his providential hand, God does not leave us nor forsake us but guides us in all our ways. When you’re worried you can remember that God is surrounding you on all sides! And that is all we really need to know in life! For life will always get in the way. And for that reason, we must always strive to make the most out of every situation we are in. While holding on to God to see us through! God Bless. Amen.
Does your life feel a little shaky—out of control? Are you worried about something? Maybe fretting about a situation, you are in? Are you fearful of the future and what the future will bring? Sometimes, in life, the darkness of life becomes so overwhelming, you wonder how in the world will I ever get through this situation. But remember it is always the darkest before the light emerges. Soon things will change, soon things will get better for it always does. When life is dark and overwhelming, we need to remember to place our trust in the LORD God Almighty. And realize, that He is with us in all situations and circumstances. He is the one sure thing in this life of uncertainty. Take a deep breath, pray, trust and settle yourself down, place your hope in the LORD. Psalm 33:20-22 tells us, “We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.” Remember this, when things are getting a little too shaky. God Bless. Amen.
What do you like most about yourself? Not just your looks, but what is inside you. What is it that you offer to others? Are you a kind, caring, loving, generous, gracious person? Are you a person with integrity, honest and trustworthy? Are you a hard-working person who always does their best and never gives up? Or are you self-center, conceited, proud, arrogant or pompous person. Are you dishonest, mean, angry or hateful. Or are you rude and saying mean things about others? How would you describe yourself? Some of these qualities are good, some not so good, and others are just wrong. We choose how we will respond to life. We choose the type of person we will be. So, what type of person are you? Did you know that God is capable of using anyone and everything for His good but what He wants are people with character. He wants His servants to be people of a pure heart and a clean mind. But most importantly God wants us to love Him. “And you shall love the Lord you God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:30) If we do this, we learn to love ourself and others as well. We learn to like who we are, as much as what we are. Our journey is learning to love our Lord. Then everything else falls into place. God Bless. Amen.
My prayer for you today, on this day of our LORD is that you find peace—that peace which passes all understanding. May you also find joy—for the joy of the LORD is our strength. May all you meet, see through your actions and your words what a great and wonderful God you serve. May you find time to tell those you love just how important and special they are to you. As the day unfolds try to do at least 6 random acts of kindness. Now as you go forth into the day serve your LORD with gladness. Enjoy, for this is the first day of the rest of your life. Laugh, enjoy, sing and dance. And may peace and understand, compassion and love be a part of every moment of the day! God Bless. Amen.
Have you ever been told to count to 10 before you speak when angry? Anger can be very harmful, not only to you, but toward the other person as well. Anger is a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility. It is an emotion characterized by antagonism toward someone or something you feel has done you wrong. There is an old Indian tradition that when someone was angry, that person must leave the village. That person goes to a certain tree outside the village. It is called the anger tree. Then the angry person yells, scream, and shout at that one specific tree. They say that the tree becomes stunted in growth, never flourishes as the other trees around it. I think this is what happens to us when someone yells at us. It hurts us. Ecclesiastes 7:9 reads, “Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” Sometimes counting to 10 is the best course of action. God Bless. Amen.
What is something you do not want to happen to you? What is something that you want to avoid? What is something that you dread? Dread is the fear that something bad will happen, dread can also be the desire to avoid something at all costs. For dread is the anticipation of a negative event or a feeling of unease about the future. When you are dreading something, fear sets in, making you feel apprehensive and distressed long before the actual event. Where a person feels and experiences persistent feelings of impending doom. For example, dreading the loss of a loved one. Dread of losing your job, financial problems, or impending divorce. Sometimes we forget God, when we are in this mode. God seems to take a back seat, for we are consumed with impending doom. I believe, when we ask God to take away the thing/s we dread in life—that the peace which passes all understanding transpires. Isaiah 26:3 reads, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” God is there—turn to Him. He will help. He will calm your spirit of dread! God Bless. Amen.
We all want to receive a blessing from our parents. We want our parents’ approval. We want them to acknowledge that we are succeeding in life and are doing well. In the Old Testament Esau said to his father after Jacob stole his blessing he said, “So you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me too, my father!” Then Esau wept aloud.” (Genesis 27:38) To have a blessing means the act or words of one that blesses someone else. It also shows God’s favor and protection. But sometimes that just doesn’t happen, a parent or our parents do not give us a blessing. Nor acknowledge us. And our need to receive one can get in the way of life. So, we go out of our way to get their approval, but the blessing just doesn’t come. One thing we all need to remember if we cannot get the blessing we want from someone we love, remember God gives us blessings. Psalm 90:17 reads, “Let the favor of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands…” Ephesians 1:3 says, Blessed be the God and Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.” Then Corinthians 9:8 tells us, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” God loves you and wants you to be the best you can be. He believes in you. Blessed be our LORD and may you feel God’s blessings manifesting in your life on this day. God Bless. Amen.
Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Let that sink in. There will never be a day like this day. There will be good things that happen, not so good and maybe a little bit of bad. But once this day is gone it can never be repeated—it is gone. So, choose to enjoy it. Make the most out of it. Have fun, laugh, dance and sing at the top of your lungs. And most importantly, give thanks. For it is a day to give thanks and rejoice in the Lord God Almighty. For He is our God there is none like Him. He makes all our days worth living. Psalm 100 reads, “Make a joyful noise to the LORD all the lands! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the LORD is God! It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him, bless his name! For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures for ever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” Let us give thanks and praise our LORD. And make this day a day to remember. God Bless. Amen.
As people of God, we want what is best not only for ourselves but for everyone. We love because through God we understand the importance of love. 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 reads, “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” Sometimes we lose sight of “always persevering.” Persevere means to continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little or no prospect of success. Thus, in life as we persevere through life’s difficulties, we learn to trust God to see us through the situation we are in. Today, remember no matter what you are going through God is with you. God loves you and so whatever happens know that God will walk with you, giving you the strength and courage you need. So, hold on to Him. Trust Him for He will get you through—moment by moment—step by step—breath by breath. God Bless. Amen.
James 2:17 reads, “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” So here is the question what do your actions reveal about your faith? Action means the fact or process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim. So as a believer in God is your aim to show others your belief in God? Or is your aim to demonstrate to God how you feel about Him? Are your daily actions revealing that you are a faithful person, a person of God? Or do your actions only sometimes express your faithfulness in God? Maybe your actions make known that you really do not believe in the LORD God Almighty! Occasionally we need to assess our life, take inventory and maybe just maybe head in a different direction: such as getting a little closer to God! It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
Every night I pray for a list of people—government officials, family, friends, and acquaintances. This is called intercessory prayer—the act of praying to God on behalf of others. It involves lifting up the needs, challenges, and joys of others before God. There are different types of prayer. Intercessory is just one type of prayer. Prayer is how we communicate with God Has anyone ever said to you, “I am praying for yo. u.” It feels good and comforting. We all like to hear that someone is praying for us. Throughout the Bible we find that someone is praying, or we are told to pray. For example in Matthew 6:7a it reads, “And when you pray…” Today, pray for 10 people. Lift them up to God. If you want, you can tell the person you said a prayer for them today. It just might make that person’s day. Remember there is power in prayer. God Bless. Amen.
“Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” (Jeremiah 32:17) “Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the splendor and the majesty, for everything in the heavens and on earth belongs to You. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom, and You are exalted as head over all. Riches and honor come from You, and You are the ruler of everything. Power and might are in Your hand, and it is in Your hand to make great and to give strength to all.” (1 Chronicles 29:11-12) “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:36) Sometimes, we need to be reminded what a great and awesome God we serve. Praise be to God the creator and sustainer of all live. He is mighty and wonderful. He is our all in all. God Bless. Amen.
When you were young did you ever say, “I’m not playing with you anymore!” “I don’t like you.” “You’re mean.” “I’m going home.” I think we all have. When we didn’t feel appreciated or liked, we left. As an adult, we do not do that. We stick it out. We turn the other check. We buck-up, shake it off, and move on. We adult. We don’t act like a child. Can you imagine, God acting like a child saying, “I don’t like what you are doing. You are mean, rude, hateful, sinning people. I am going back to where I came from. I am done with you.” When we act like a child, when we sin, when we fall short of what God has called us to do and to be, God never stops believing in us. Never does He stop loving us. Never does He quit forgiving us. Our God is all-powerful, almighty, full of love and compassion always and forever. God never gives up on us. Jeremiah 31:3 declares God’s love is everlasting. It states, “The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: ’I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with lovingkindness.’” Psalm 136 tells us, “His love endures forever.” So, keep in mind, no matter what you do, how you act, or what you say God’s love is never ending! And if you have wronged someone, or made a mistake, or sinned go to God in prayer. He is there. He is always there. Waiting. He never gives up on us. He loves us! God Bless. Amen.
Life happens. We wake up to a new day. The sun is shining, birds are singing, and joy fills the air. Then something happens, life becomes hard and discouraging, filled with pain and heartache. And we don’t know what to do, where to turn, so we sit down to catch our breath, and we pray. We pray and pray and pray, for when life get hard and we know not what to do, we turn to God, because God is the one sure thing when life is filled with undeniable pain and heartache. Psalms 5:1-2 reads, “Listen to my words, LORD, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray.” Today, know that God is with you. He will comfort you and sustain you and He will give you the strength and courage you need. And the hope to carry on. For you are not alone as you face life’s problems. God Bless. Amen.
I was in High School; it was early morning. I was out riding my horse with my dear childhood friend Debbie. We were heading for the prairie to enjoy a morning ride. We rode often together. She taught me about horses and the love of riding. We were heading northeast, and the most glorious sunrise was forming in the sky. We stopped riding and just looked at the pinks, reds, and golds within a bright, breathe taking, star like sunrise, that filled the sky. I had never seen anything so beautiful. I looked at Debbie saying, “That is what I think God would look like.” She said, “Isn’t it amazing!” As we both described what we saw. Watching in wonder and awe. If you were to describe God to another person, what would you tell the person? That our God is amazing, all powerful, all knowing, kind, merciful, compassionate, all loving and forgiving. He is our all in all. Would you say He is King of kings, Lord of lords, mighty and wonderful. Creator of all things. Savior, sustainer, redeemer, exalted, and deliverer of all life. How would you describe the most important part of your life, our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Psalm 147:5 reads, “Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.” Zephaniah 3:17 says, “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.” Today, let us give thanks and praise God, for He is our God and there is none like Him. God Bless. Amen.
If you could do anything today, what would it be? Would you meet a famous person? Drive a race car? Travel to the moon. Go skydiving? Climb the highest mountain? Would you win the lottery? Get a book you wrote published? Graduate from school? What would you do? Any of these things are possible, but you have to strive to obtain them. Sometimes we want things, and we make a big-to-do about them, yet we go about getting them in the wrong way. Maybe we need to reassess our priorities. For life is not about what we can do or obtain or want. Life is about appreciating and enjoying what we have. For if push came to shove wouldn’t you say our relationships are the most important thing we have? Maybe we need to focus more on putting God first, then family and friends, then self. Philippians 4:11-13 reads, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether will fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
Shame is a horrible thing to carry around with you. To have shame means a painful feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong or foolish behavior. Who hasn’t done something foolish or wrong? Thus, shame emerges. Shame can cause us to get stuck in life because we feel so bad, so embarrassed, that we think we do not deserve to be forgiven. Thus, we carry our shame with us. That burden no one needs to carry. Yet we do. The hardest person to forgive is your SELF! God forgives you. PERIOD!!!! The journey we need to take is to learn how to forgive ourselves. We all make mistakes. We all do dumb things. We all sin. That does not mean we are a bad person, it means we are human. Today, hear these words, “God loves you. God believes in you. God forgives you. God will never give up on you.” Now focus on those words. Chant them over and over again. As you do this you will reprogram your thinking and soon you will get rid of the shame and come to realize just how special you are. Luke 12:7 reads, “Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than the sparrows.” Believe it. God Bless. Amen.
At times, we get so worried about someone we love, we want to save them. We would do anything to save them, but they have no desire to be saved. We plea, beg and bargain with them but to no avail. We get frustrated with them because they do not understand nor see the journey they are taking and just how hard and dangerous it can be. So, in our humanness we pray for them, begging God for help. As people of God, we know life is filled with troubles and tribulations. And we know that sometimes all we can do is pray. So, we pray for those we are concerned about. Hoping and praying that this person will see the light. Romans 8:26-27 reads, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words. And he searches the hearts of men and knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Today, whatever you are going through know and remember God is listening, God is there, and with God there is hope. So, continue to pray, for there is power in prayer. God Bless. Amen.
If you had $2,000,000, what would you do with it? Buy a house, a new car, clothes, jewelry, and a boat? Would you travel? Would you save a million to live on? How would you send your money—remember you have to pay taxes on the money so you will have to set some money aside for taxes. Do you think this money would solve all your problems? It might help for a little while. But after you have bought everything you wanted, your problems will still be there. Money is fine and dandy, but it does not solve your problems. No matter if you are young or old, male or female, intelligent or not, rich or poor money does not solve your problems! We think it might, but it doesn’t. People are people, problems are problems. In life you have to learn to deal with your problems. Sure, money can help, but life is filled with bad times, accented by times of joy and laughter. Life is life. How you choose to handle life’s difficulties is the key and with God on your side, He will help you can get through any situation you are in. You just have to turn to God for the strength and courage you need. Deuteronomy 31:6 tells us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” It is something to remember when dealing with life! God Bless. Amen.
We all sin and fall short of God’s Glory. We all have reoccurring sins. For me it is cussing. For someone else it is gossiping. For another it is pride. Some people horde, others are slothful. Some are envious, others will not forgive which turns into pride. While others lust, or are greedy, or envy what another person has. We all have sins that we seem to cling to. We know we should give them up, but we don’t. People continue to sin for a variety of reasons, including the inherent human tendency towards sin. We are pleasure seeking creatures who have a tendency to think only of ourselves, thus throwing ourselves into sin. Sin can also occur from the lack of consideration for the consequences of our actions. 1 John 3:6 says, “No one who abides in him (referring to our Lord) keeps on sinning, no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him.” Ouch! Is this true? James 4:17 tells us, “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” Sin, separates us from God! So back to my question. Why do we keep doing reoccurring sin? It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
Ever since I was young this scripture has meant a lot to me. It comes from Philippians 4:8-10, it says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” To me this scripture is about how we are to live out our lives—how to act—how to speak to one another—how to be. Today, take an inventory of how you are acting and treating others. Do you need to change some things? Do you need to forgive and let go and let God? It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
I remember as a child my father would say, “If you hang around bad people, that is how others will look at you.” I said, “But I am not doing anything wrong!” My dad said, “You are guilty by association.” I said, “That is not fair!” My father’s words are true. 1 Corinthians 15:33 read, “Do not be misled. Bad company corrupts good character.” In life we have to make choices. The choices we make reflect what we do, say, or how we act, even whom we hang around with. When you do something wrong or hang around those who do what is wrong, people think that is who and what you are. You get a shady reputation. Today, think about what you are doing, is that the image you want to convey to others? Are you acting like a person of God? Are the words you speak Godly words? Are your actions something God would do? Are your thoughts Godly? It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
We forgive others because, we, as Christian are told to forgive as our Lord forgives us. We forgive because the Bible tells us that we are not supposed to go to sleep without forgiving the other person. We forgive others for our own well-being, which promotes healing and peace of mind. Forgiveness can and does release emotional burdens and leads to healthier relationships. For when you forgive someone, you forgive yourself for holding that grudge. For bearing a grudge against someone who has hurt you is not just about what they have done to you. Forgiveness gets you out of being a victim and doing what God has called you to do and to be. Because forgiveness frees you to take back your power. You are no longer the victim. You are following God’s way. You are able you move on in a positive way, no longer a victim of life’s circumstances. Mark 11:25 says, “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Matthew 18:21-22 tells us, “Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times? Jesus said to him, I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.” As Christian, people who walk in faith, brothers and sisters of our Lord, let us live by the words of our Lord and Savior let us forgive one another. Not just some, but all. God Bless. Amen.
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD. Serve the LORD with gladness. Enter His gates with thanksgiving. Give thanks to the LORD for He is good. Praise Him in all that you do and continually put your hope in our LORD. For there is none like our God and in Him let us put our trust! For our God is King of kings and LORD of lords mighty and wonderful is our Lord. Therefore, let us rejoice for this is the day that the LORD has made. Let us praise the LORD and give thanks. Remember this is the first day of the rest of your life use it for good and not bad, do all things with an open heart and give God the glory. Praise the LORD. God Bless. Amen.
Titus 3:4-7 says, “but when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared; he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.” God loves us unconditionally always and forever. We do nothing to receive God’s love, His grace, His mercy. When we sin, we confess our sins and are forgiven, always. God loves us so much He gave up his only begotten son. There is no greater gift than this. Sometimes we forget what God has done for us. Today, remember whom you belong to and who loves you unconditionally. God! God loves you and pours out His mercy upon you every moment of every day. Remember love does not come with conditions, rules, stipulations, agendas, or codes—it is not forced nor is it prevented. Love is freely given. You are loved! God loves you! God Bless. Amen.
During our struggles and tough times in life, we can learn from the situation and grow from it or we can let the situation destroy us. Here is something to think about our past creates who we are today—the good, the bad, or the sideways parts of life. And don’t you like and love who you are today? Remember in all situations and circumstance God can use hard and difficult times to glorify His name. Life is life. Learning to trust God is the key. Trust is the firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something. God is our all in all. I believe, it is only through God’s help that we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, that we can keep putting one step in front of the other. That we can continue to take the next breath and the next. Romans 8:28 reads, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” It is something for us to remember. Let go and trust God! God Bless. Amen.
Easter Sunday American Idol paid tributed to our Lord and Savior through singing Christian music. Singer after singer, song after song was devoted to how God touched their lives. Luke Bryan’s song was about when his children were younger, he told them about Jesus and now he tells Jesus about his children, touched hearts across TV land. At the end of the show Carrie Underwood sang “How Great Thy Art” And God’s power reigned down. It was so inspirational, so heartfelt, and had such an overwhelming feeling of God, that goosebumps occurred, praising God was on everyone’s lips and tears flowed. Today and throughout the day let us acknowledge God. Let us praise God and give thanks. Let us remember what a wonderful and mighty God we serve and how great our God is. “Oh Lord, my God, when I, in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds Thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed. Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, how great Thou art, how great Thou art, then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, how great Thou art, how great Thou art.” God Bless. Amen.
Tragedies have come and gone since the beginning of time. Joy and happiness occur daily. Life happens and if we do not seize the day, we will wake up one day and our life will have passed us by. We each, have to be intentional about making the most of each day and to give God the glory. Scripture tells us “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) Sometimes, we just need to remember, this too will pass. God Bless. Amen.
Deuteronomy 30:20a reads, “…and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life…” Here is my question for you today, “Is the LORD your life?” When the LORD is your life, His life is your life, your life dwells within Him. You are aware of Him in all situations and circumstances. You serve and represent Him in all that you do. So, do you put God first? Second? Third? Or you don’t even think about Him except on Sundays, or is it Easter and Christmas only? Is the Lord your life? What does it mean for the LORD to be your life? It means spending time alone with God daily, through prayer, meditation, reading His word, listening to Christian music, being still and listening to that still small voice. It is making God a part of your everyday life. Maybe having the LORD your life is something we need to focus on more! It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
My prayer for you today is that you find happiness in each moment of the day. That you also have peace, even in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. May you experience many blessings throughout the day. May there be forgiveness of your SELF, but also of others as well. May you extend kindness in all that you do, sprinkled with acts of love. Remember you are a beloved child of God created in His image so act accordingly. Now go forth into this day, make the most of it—for the joy of the LORD is your strength. God Bless. Amen.
When you call upon the Lord, you are seeking God’s presence and guidance through prayer and worship. It consists of trusting in God and seeking His help, often in times of need or trouble. It can also mean letting go of something and trusting God to see you through. “O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.” (Psalms 30:2) “I will call on the LORD, who is worthy of my praise and he saved me from my enemies.” (Psalm 18”31) “He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.” (Psalm 62:2) Sometimes, we just need to focus on God to get us through a tough situation. Sometimes, prayer and worship are all we can do. Sometimes letting go and trusting God is our course of action. Today, may God guide all your steps and give you strength and hope. God Bless. Amen.
What is one thing that you want to do? What is one thing that you want to accomplish? What is one thing you want to happen in your life? Now are these wants achievable or are these wants unachievable? For some of things we want, it will probably never happen, such as winning a million dollars. I want you to think about something though, to say something is achievable or not is for the person who wants something, it is their choice, their desire! My father used to say, “You can do anything you set your mind to you just have to first try.” Then he would say, “I believe in you. You can do this.” Great words! Today, whatever it is that you need to do, accomplish, or have happen in your life remember, “I can do all things through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) God is with you. You can do it. You got this. Believe. God Bless. Amen.
The wind blows, but you cannot see it, except as the trees sway back and forth or the movement of the leaves dancing to and fro! You breathe, but you cannot see the air, yet the very breath you breathe gives you life! Your heart beats between 60 to 100 times a minute, but you are not aware of every beat it beats. While your heart beats it pumps blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products. Sometimes we cannot see something, yet we know that it is there. That is how God is. We cannot see God, but God is there! God is always there. Joshua 1:8b reads, “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you…” Today whatever you are going through remember GOD IS WITH YOU—Always. He will help you! He will sustain you, even if you do not see Him or feel Him! God Bless. Amen.
“I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Psalms 16:8) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5) “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) “Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD God is an everlasting rock.” (Isaiah 26:4) “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” (Jeremiah 33:3) Scripture's tell us how our God is with us in all situations and circumstances all we have to do is turn to Him—then trust our LORD to see us through. Sometimes we just need to be reminded of this. God Bless. Amen.
What do you want? What do you wish you could achieve? What is one thing that you dream of? You know the dreams of a child who believes so hard that it will come true, the magical hoping and wishing? Hope is a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. Maybe you need to take that hope—that dream—that you wished for as a child, with an unchallengeable belief that it truly is possible to God. Sometimes we need to step out of what we think can and will happen and learn to trust God with an absurd faith—believing that no matter what transpires God is with you and will see you through. Genesis 18:14a reads, “Is anything too difficult for the LORD?” Jeremiah 32:17 says, “Ah LORD GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You.” Sometimes we just need to let go, trust God, and let God work. It is something to think about! God Bless. Amen.
“May the LORD Mighty God bless and keep you forever. Grant you peace, perfect peace, courage in every endeavor. Lift up your eyes and see His Face and His grace forever. May the LORD Mighty God bless and keep you forever.” When I was in my 20’s this was the last song, we would sing each Sunday before church let out. It is a beautiful song and words we need to remember daily. So, on this special day of the Lord, may God bless you and keep you; may His grace shine upon you. May this day give you courage and peace and may the joy of the Lord be your strength. God Bless. Amen.
All of us get tired and weary of what is going on in our lives. You want to say, “Could I just have a break, please. I am tired, oh so tired.” You go through the motions of life, and you try to stay positive, but good gravy it is hard to do at times. So, you keep putting one foot in front of the other hoping and hoping that things will smooth out. Then out of desperation you pray and pray and pray. Not really knowing what you are praying for but all you know is that maybe just maybe God can and will give you the strength, courage and willingness to keep going. Isaiah 40:31 tells us, “…but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Then Matthew 11:28-30 reminds us, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Sometimes we forget that no matter what is going on in our life, God is there. God will see you through all situations and circumstances. He will give you strength when you are weary, hope when you are desperate, wisdom when folly and foolishness is all around you, and peace when life is chaotic. So, trust in the Lord. It will work out and remember this too will pass. For God is our strength! God Bless. Amen.
We are all works in progress. We must remember that we are always evolving, no matter what our age. Every day if we want, we can learn something new and hopefully with age we gain experience. I remember when I was young my parents would say, “Respect your elders.” It was ingrained into my being. Sure, at any age there are people who are wise beyond their years and vice versa! But usually wisdom comes with experience and age. Job 12:12 reads, “Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?” Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Sometimes we need to listen, research, find out the facts before we speak. For wisdom is the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgement and understanding. Ephesians 5:15-17 tells us, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the LORD is.” Wisdom is the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgement, the quality of being wise. Wisdom involves not just knowing facts but also applying that knowledge practically and ethically. Wisdom is something we all need to strive for! God Bless. Amen.
They say to forgive is divine and if you are in conflict with someone forgive that person and you are on the road to internal peace. However, forgiveness can be very hard to do, especially because of the injustices that have been done to you. To forgive means to cease holding resentment or anger towards someone who has wronged you, and to release yourself from the burden of those negative emotions. Forgiveness involves making a conscious choice to release feeling of anger, bitterness, and the desire for revenge. Forgiveness does not mean condoning or excusing the actions that caused harm, but rather choosing to move on without being controlled by those feelings. Scripture even tells us, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew6:14-15) So here is the question if we know this is true why don’t we forgive others the wrongs they have inflicted upon us? It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
What is one good thing you did yesterday? Did you help a person in need? Did you visit someone who was sick, or someone in the hospital, or a person in prison? Did you open a door for a stranger, pay someone’s toll, or buy someone coffee who is behind you in the drive through. Or did you give your waiter an extra tip? What is one good thing you did yesterday? Now think about one bad thing you did yesterday. Did you talk trash about someone, or take your frustrations out on someone, or cut someone off while you were driving. Did you flip someone off, or think ill-will of someone? Did you make fun of someone, or bully your neighbor, or did you kick your dog? What is one bad thing you did yesterday? Today, try to be a better person than you were yesterday. Put others before your needs. Put God first, family and friends second, and yourself third. Philippians 2:3-4 reads, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Do not look to your own interests, but each of you to the interests of others.” It is something to try! You just might have a better day than you did yesterday! God Bless. Amen.
Do you have regrets in your life? Regret means feeling sad, repentant, or disappointed over something that has happened or been done, especially a loss or missed opportunity. Regrets can and do haunt us. Is there something you wish, you could change the outcome of? Is there a situation in your life that every time you think of it you cringe? The sad part of life is we do not get re-do’s! We do not get to re-do any of our past. The past is the past, all we can do is to learn to forgive ourselves and forgive the wrongs that were done unto us and others as well. 1 John 1:9 reads, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Today, let go and let God grant you grace and mercy, and remember the past is the past all we have is the present—all we have is today. God Bless. Amen.
Have you ever talked trash about another person? Do you talk about other people? Do you gossip? Do you let things slip that you shouldn’t? When someone tells you a secret, do you keep it? As people of God, we are supposed to have integrity. Which means the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles? Sometimes we forget how important integrity and honesty are. Sometimes we make excuses so that we can justify why we are telling someone something, knowing full well what we are doing is betraying another person. Or we say things that we do not know if what we are saying is true or not. While growing up my parent would say, “When someone hears your name what type of person do they think of? Remember your name is how people define you!” So, are you living up to your name? 2 Corinthians 8:21 reads, “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the LORD but also in the eyes of man.” Leviticus 19:16 reads, “You shall not go around as a gossip among your people.” Proverbs 11:13 says, “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” Sometimes it is better to keep silent than speak of others in a demeaning way. It is something to remember. Amen. God Bless.
I was raised to make lists. When I was younger my lists were in my mind. As I got older my lists were on paper: a grocery list, a chore list, a list of the things I needed to get done over a period of time, a list on my calendar for things to come and on and on my lists go. My lists keep me organized and are prioritized. I love my lists; boy I can accomplish many things and not forget something when I have my list. Here is my question of the day. Is God on your list of things to do daily? Is God a priority? If not, maybe you need to add Him to your list and spend time daily with the LORD God Almighty. For spending time with God puts everything else in perspective. Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still and know that I am God.” It just might make your day go better. It is something to try. God Bless. Amen.
Scripture reveals to us what a mighty, wonderful, and awesome God we serve. It tells a story, gives us guidelines to live by, comforts us in times of need, and reveals to us standards, rules, and instructions for what we need to do. Scripture holds an answer to our questions and moves us in the right direction to best live out our lives. “Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.” (Psalms 40:4) “The LORD is the strength of his people, he is the saving refuge of his anointed.” (Psalms 28:8) Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14) “The LORD lives; and blessed be my rock, and exalted be the God of my salvation…” (Psalm 18:46) Here are some scriptures to renew your spirit on this day. May God bless you and keep you, may you feel His presence throughout the day. Remember, the joy of the LORD is our strength. So, open your Bible, read, learn, and come to understand what an amazing God our God is! God Bless. Amen.
On this day may God bless you and keep you safe. May God’s face shine upon you in all that you do. May you feel deeply loved for indeed you are. As you go forth into the day smile, laugh, dance, greet those you come in contact with because life is too short not to enjoy the moment you are in. Be kind to yourself and others as well. If you need a hug, give a hug. If you need to talk to someone, call them, don’t wait till they call you. If you are hungry, ask someone to go have dinner with you. Be what you want others to be. And try to be a better person than you were yesterday. Remember this is the first day of the rest of your life—there are no re-do’s so make this a great day. God Bless. Amen.
Sometimes we just have a bad day. Where everything or anything goes wrong. You just want to go to your room until the day is over. But sometimes another person is having a bad day, or is sick, or just frustrated. There is nothing you did expect be in the way of another person who is angry and frustrated. How do you handle that kind of situation? Do you get mad right back at the person? Do you go inward and become quiet? Do you remove yourself from the situation until the person stops taking it out on you? What do you do? In the book “The Four Agreements” one of the things you learn is that you do not take anything personal, but that, at times, is very hard to do! Because it hurts when someone take their frustration out on you. The Bible encourages to respond to meanness, with kindness and blessing, rather than returning evil for evil. 1 Peter 3:9 reads, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing…” One way to handle a situation where someone is frustrated and mean is to say, “I love you. I am not here for you to take your frustrations out on me.” Walkway until the person gains control of themselves. Then pray. Because the bottom line is the only person you can control is yourself. Tit for Tat never works. As my father always said, “Kill them with kindness.” It is something to try! God Bless. Amen.
Why do you suppose we hold grudges? Is it to prove a point? Isit to punish the person, you are mad at. To get even? To hurt the person, you are holding a grudge against. To hold a grudge means to harbor persistent anger, bitterness, or resentment towards someone for a perceived wrong, often refusing to forgive or forget. When you hold a grudge, you don’t let it go when you feel someone’s wronged you or insulted you. Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Leviticus 19:18 says, “You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.” Here is something to think about, aren’t you glad God doesn’t hold grudges—boy we would be in big trouble if He did! Maybe we need to do as God does? God Bless. Amen.
What are some of the things you ask God for: to win the million-dollar lottery, a new job, a new house, clothes, how about a new car or truck, or do you ask for good health, to heal a loved one, a miracle? Maybe you ask God for wisdom, knowledge or clarity of mind? To ask means to say something, to obtain an answer to something. John 16:24 reads, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” Yes, scripture tells us to ask, but we like Jesus need to say at the end of each of our prayer requests the words that Jesus spoke while hanging on the cross. He said, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” (Luke 22:42) Thus, we leave all situations in God’s hands trusting Him to see us through. Trusting God to answer our prayer as He wills, not as we want. It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
While growing up we always had to say “please” and “thank you”. We had to open doors for those in need. I was told to smile and if I didn’t, I was told an elephant would come and sit on my lip and break the frown right off my face. We were taught to respect our elders—always—saying “yes sir” “no sir” “yes ma’am” “no ma’am”. We were taught to be polite, kind, and nice. I think times have changed. But what hasn’t’ changed is that we all want to be liked and accepted. We even like to hear, on a regular basis, that we are doing a great job and that we are appreciated. The other thing we want to hear daily is that we are loved. Today, may you know that you are loved, you are accepted, and that God believes in you and wants what is best for you! He is proud of you. He supports you. For you are a beloved child of God created in God’s imagine. Believe it, cherish it and remember it. Psalm 136:26 reads, “Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.” So, remember to tell those you love just how much you love them and appreciate them. That you are glad that they are a part of your life. Be polite, kind, nice, and have good manners. Be thankful and praise God. For this day will never happen again—there are no re-do’s. Therefore, make it the best day ever! God Bless. Have a great day! Amen.
My husband Gary and I are watching the second season of 1923. It is an action packed, scary, filled with tribulation after tribulation, wondering what next will happen, type of TV series. After the 3rd episode I said to Gary, “We are going to have to watch something else so I can sleep tonight!” Throughout the night I thought about what had transpired so far in the series and realized how evil, hardship, and frustration exists in our daily lives. And the one sure thing throughout our lives and throughout time is God. Psalms 121:1-2 reads, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 91:1-2 says, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” In life, sometimes all we can do is hold onto God to get us through the situation we are in, for He is our all in all, a mighty help in times of trouble. “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.” (Psalm 91:4-6) Remember God is with you. He is the one sure thing in this life of ours. God Bless. Amen.
Most people, when trying to reach a goal, see the effort in getting there as a means to an end. They don’t always take time to experience each moment as life unfolds. Such as: I want to be happy! I want to enjoy my life! I want to live life to the fullest! Just because you want or say something does not mean it will happen. What needs to occur is learning to live in the moment you are in. Saying, “I want to be happy!” does not make you happy. Choosing to be happy only occurs by being intentional about it, moment by moment—step by step. Life happens. You can choose to let life beat you down or you can choose to make the most out of every situation you are in and not let it get you down. Things that can change your perspective on life. When you wake up each morning smile at yourself in the mirror and say, “I are going to have a good day. I woke up.” Laugh at the moments that frustrate you, remember this too will pass. Life is too short to be upset by what life throws your way. John 15:11 reminds us, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” Smile, laugh at the things to come, look at the beauty around you, dance, sing, praise God and give thanks, enjoy for this is the first day of the rest of your life. Make it a good one, no matter what life throws your way. God bless. Amen.
What is a mighty, wonderful, and amazing thing God has done in your life? From a religious perspective, many consider the creation of the universe, the incarnation of Jesus, and the offering of eternal life through faith in Jesus to be a mighty, wonderful and amazing act of God. Other than this what amazing things has God done for you? When I was in 5th and 6th grade, I was bullied by the kids in my grade. I would tell my parents I was sick, I didn’t want to go to School, I was afraid. I begged my parents not to make me go to the sixth-grade banquet, but they said I was going. I cried and cried. Then two days before the banquet I had an emergency appendectomy. And to my relief I did not have to go to the banquet because I was in the hospital. I was told that on the night of the banquet the students were reprimanded for their behavior toward me. When I went back to school in 7th grade those students were nice to me. It was as if 5th and 6th grade meanness never happened, and no one ever talked about it. To this day I believe God spared me. Psalms 40:5 says, “Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.” Today, let us think about all the wonderful things that God has done in our life. Let us give thanks for our many blessings. So, what has God done for you? What blessings has He manifested in your life? Count them and praise the LORD for our God is an awesome God. Praise the LORD for He is good and wonderful and mighty. God Bless. Amen.
Values are fundamental beliefs and principles that guide an individual in actions, judgments, and choices, shaping his or her perceptions of what is desirable or undesirable. What kind of values do you have? Do you see everything in white or black, right or wrong, or is there ever any gray in your decisions? Do your values consist of integrity, honesty and being trustworthy? Do you have a good character or when people see you do they think what a schemer you are? Are you rude and inconsiderate? Or are you a kind and compassionate person. What type of person are you? 2 Peter 3:11b reads, “…what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.” Titus 2:7 tells us, “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in you teaching show integrity and dignity.” Then Proverbs 10:9a says, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely…” Sometimes we just need a reminder of who and what we are, people of God who do not live by secular standards but who fear the LORD and walk humbly. God Bless. Amen.
Seasons come and seasons go. I love Spring, the buds on the trees begin to show a multitude of colors as they start to turn into leaves. Daffodils and Tulips emerge from their sleep. The birds begin to fill the air with their songs. It is a time of new beginnings. Summer is beautiful with all the wonderful colors throughout the land. Birds sing, frogs croak, crickets make their sound, bees are everywhere keeping our plants alive. Going on long hikes, being out in the open and enjoying the dog days of summer. Fall sneaks in and lets us know winter is on its way. The beauty of autumn. The reds, the golds, the rust, and oranges are everywhere and the rustle of the leaves under your feet reminds you of your younger days. The days are warmer preparing you for winter. Then winter comes, oh the beauty of the snow across the land. Going sledding, hot cocoa, warm fires and a good book. Baking, laughing and wishing spring would come again. Our life is like the changing of the seasons. There is beauty but also hardness and ugliness. You choose how to see your life. Is it a good life with beauty or are you miserable and see only pain and heartache? The choice is yours and yours alone how you view your life. God gave us life. There is good, bad, and not so good, but it is our life. Today choose to see the good. Smile, enjoy, laugh, and dance because you never know what is around the corner. Life is life so make the best of it. Ecclesiast 3 reads, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…God has made everything beautiful in its time.” Enjoy and remember this is the first day of the rest of your life. God Bless. Amen.
Happiness what is it? It is a state of well-being and contentment: Joy. It is also a pleasurable or satisfying experience. It is good fortune, prosperity. Happiness is something that people seek to find and is different for everyone. It is a feeling. Typically, happiness is an emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, satisfaction, contentment, and fulfillment. While happiness has many different definitions, it is often described as involving positive emotions and life satisfaction. What will make you happy? A new car? A new home? A new job? Mend a relationship? Be healed of an illness? Have a loved one be healed? Win a million dollars? What will make you happy? Sometimes, we think that happiness comes from external things but in reality, happiness is an inside job! You choose to be happy, mad, sad, or glad. Remember the joy of the LORD is our strength. (Nehemiah 8:10) happiness comes from within. Because it is a feeling! Charles Swindoll says, “life is 10% and attitude is 90%.” Today, take a look at your life, are you happy? If not why, because happiness is a choice. It is something to think about—for the only person who can make you happy is yourself! God Bless. Amen.
What does it mean to make a vow to the Lord? Making a vow to the Lord God Almighty means making a solemn, binding promise or commitment to God, often regarding a specific action or course of behavior, with the expectation of fulfilling that promise. “When a man makes a vow to the LORD or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.” (Numbers 30:2) Have you made a pledge, a vow to the LORD and did not keep it? How about your vow to the Lord, Jesus the Christ your Savior and that you will serve Him in all your ways? Your marriage vows, being a good parent to your children, how about saying that you would do something—yet you didn’t follow through with what you said you would do. To name just a few things that we as humans might not live up to what we said we would do. As a child, my parents taught me—what you say and what you do—reflects the type of person you are. I was also told that my word was everything and that when someone heard my name that person had a preconceived idea of the type of person I was. Take an inventory of what type of person you are, do you need to make an adjustment on how you interact with others to be the man or woman that God has called you to be? Remember, the vows we have made and kept, reflect the type of person we are! It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
Love is a risk. When you love, you can get hurt. But on the flip side of it, love is so much more. Love is fulfilling and even though you can and will get hurt, healthy people are willing to risk it for love. Love makes your heartbeat faster. You want to spend time with your love. You even are willing to do silly things together. Love fulfills your life. There are different types of love—love of a parent, a sibling, a friend, a child, a grandchild, a pet, a spouse and the greatest is our love of God. When you love, you would and will do anything for that person. A perfect example of love and the willingness to do what needs to be done for the other person. And this is what God did for us through His Son—Jesus the Christ. God loved us so much He was willing to sacrifice His only begotten Son so that you and I might be forgiven and have everlasting life. John 15:13 says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” When you think about it, love is everything, we just forget that sometimes. Today, let us strive to be more like God—loving—forgiving—never giving up on another person. It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
Let us praise the LORD and give thanks, for our God is King of kings LORD of lords mighty and majestic is He. He is there when we need Him, even though sometimes we do not think that our God acts quickly enough. He holds us up when we are down. He gives us strength and courage when we are unable to keep putting one foot in front of the other. When we are sad and lonely He fills our being with peace and joy lifting us up until we can function again. Our God loves us unconditionally and it is because of His love we are able to love ourselves and others as well. He forgives us when we sin and fall short of His Glory. Our God reigns. He is clothed in majesty and wonder; He is armed with strength and power. Our God is an awesome God. He is our all in all. Praise be to God. God Bless. Amen.
Storms come and go in our life. Some storms have raging winds, torrential rain, hail, and even tornadoes. These storms can destroy anything and everything and at times can be very scary. But after the storm, if you look up into the sky, you can see a beautiful rainbow and you know peace and calmness has come. When our life is filled with storms and tribulations we turn to God for help. We cry out unto the Lord asking for help and reassurance. Scripture tells us this, for people across time have turned to the Lord for help in times of trouble. Psalms 42:11 reads, “why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” Today, no matter what you are experiencing put your hope in God, for our LORD will give you the strength, the courage, and the wisdom you need to get through whatever you are going through. The other thing God will do is give you that peace that passes all understanding, so trust in the LORD with all your strength and your might. Turn to the LORD. Find comfort in Him. For the storms of life, will soon pass. God Bless. Amen.
We are emotional creatures. Our feelings consist of being happy, mad, sad, or glad to name just a few, that are accented by frustration, anger, and undeniable joy. God gave us these feelings and they are neither good nor bad. They just are. One thing I know is we all must learn to control our negative feelings. We have to learn to respond and not react when our feelings are raging within us. To learn to respond to negative feelings effectively start by acknowledging and identifying the feeling, then take a time out, write down the words that want to spew from you. Exercise, journal, consider seeking professional help to learn to express your feelings in a healthy manner. Ephesians 4:31 reads, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.” This verse calls for a complete removal of negative emotions that can harm us and our relationships. Today, whatever you are going through remember God can help you to calm your spirit. For in reality, we really do not want to take our feeling out on others do we? God Bless. Amen.
Sometimes we just don’t have time for God—God takes a backseat in our life. It is not as if we intentionally do this, it is that life gets in the way. Today, be intentional about spending time with God; take a moment here and there to say “Hello it is me. How are you doing today? I am doing………” Then tell God how things are going in your life. At another time during the day give thanks to our LORD. Then at another moment praise the LORD God Almighty. By doing this, taking moments for God here and there, you will find that you draw closer to God. You become more aware of God. And if you do this throughout the day, you will be amazed at what a great day you will have, for this is the day that the LORD has made let us rejoice and be glad in it. Praise God. God Bless. Amen.
Are you a responsible person? Are you optimistic? Do you see the glass half full? Are you positive and see the good in all things? Or are you a negative, frustrated, angry person who thinks life is out to get you! Life is life. Good things happen to good and bad people. Life can be frustrating and overwhelming at times, it can get downright hard to deal with. But no matter what life throws your way if you have a good attitude and have God in your life things seem to turn out better. So how can we maintain a good attitude when struggling with life? Philippians 2:14-15 reads, “Do all thing without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” Today, no matter what you are going through remember God is with you giving you the strength and courage you need. He is the one sure thing in this life of ours. He will give you hope when you feel as if the world is against you. So, keep this in mind and remember you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. God Bless. Amen.
Good morning. What are 10 things you are thankful for? I am thankful that… 1. I woke up this morning. 2. I have an amazing husband. 3. I have fantastic children. 4. I have wonderful daughters-in-laws and a son-in-law. 5 I have incredible grandchildren and great-grandchild. 6. I live in a wonderful house. 7. I have food to eat. 8. I have clothes to wear. 9. I am healthy. 10. I am a beloved child of God. Write down what you are thankful for, look it over. Now take it a step further if you are thankful for a person, be sure to tell that person or persons how thankful you are that they are in your life. Scripture tells us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) “O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1) “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2) Let us give thanks with a grateful heart. Let us be thankful instead of being ungrateful for all the things we have. For God did not call us to be complainers or whiners. God gave us life so that we might enjoy all things. Give thanks! God Bless. Amen.
I love you. I am proud of you. You’ve got this. You are doing great. You are amazing. I am so glad you are my child. I am blessed to have you in my life. Thank you for being my husband(wife), my love. Great words of encouragement. Words we all want to hear. In the book “The Greatest Miracle” Og Mandeno explains how precious and beloved we are and reminds us how very special and extraordinary we are as a person. That we are the greatest miracle in the world and that God loves us. We all need to remember the one person who loves us nonconditionally, always and forever is God. Who encourages us to do our best. Who never gives up on us. In the Bible, we are reminded of this. Mark 1:11 reads, “And a voice came from heaven: “You are my child, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” Sometimes we just need to focus on how much God loves us, accepts us for who and what we are, and that in God’s eyes we are perfect. Remember you are a beloved child of God created in His imagine. God loves you. Now love yourself as God does. God Bless. Amen.
Our God is an amazing God. He is never late in helping us, He is always on time, even though at times it just doesn’t seem that way. But if you look back over your life God was and is always there in every situation. When we are weak, He gives us strength. When we are afraid, He gives us courage. When we feel despair, He gives us hope. What an amazing God we have. Psalms 28:7 reads, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” God is with us always! God Bless and have a wonderful day. Amen.
“Rejoice in the LORD always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4) “Bless the LORD, O my soul. And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul. And forget none of His benefits. Who pardons all your iniquities. Who heals all your diseases. Praise the LORD, O my soul.” (Psalm 103:1-5) “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.” (James 5:13) Our God is an awesome God who reigns and lives among us. He is alive and well. He is our all in all. He is our King of kings and Lord of lords, mighty and wonderful is our God. Therefore, let us praise the LORD, for He is good. His steadfast love endures forever. Today, let us have an attitude of praise and thanksgiving. God Bless. Amen.
Psalms 37:23-24 reads, “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.” Sometimes we stumble and fall short of what God has called us to do and to be. Sometimes we sin walking unsteady in life. Sometimes we miss a step in life and fall or nearly fall and when this occurs, God is there. God is always there. This can be hard to imagine. At times it is inconceivable, unthinkable, unplausible, but it is true. Isaiah 46:4 says, “Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.” Deuteronomy 31:8 tells us, “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Our God is a God of grace and mercy, a God who forgives and loves us unconditionally. He is our all and all. No matter what happens in life remember God will see you through. For God will lift us up when we are down. God Bless. Amen.
When was the last time someone held the door open for you? When was the last time you smiled and said hello to a stranger? When was the last time you helped someone out? Today, let us do 5 random acts of kindness—whether it is holding a door for someone, saying hello to a stranger, buying coffee for the person behind you in line, being a kind and friendly driver, you get the picture. Luke 6:38 tells us, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you give, it will be given to you.” Try it—you just might have a better day. Maybe striving to do nice things for others daily is what God wants us to do? God Bless. Amen.
Has anyone one ever said to you, “I will keep you in my prayers.” It feels good to know someone is praying for you. Or have you ever said, “You are in my prayers.” Prayer is powerful, it can heal you, heal others, and change a situation for the better. Prayer is how we talk to God and can be done in many different ways. Prayer sometimes is a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God. Today, say a prayer for your loved ones and friends. Pray for anyone you come in contact with. Pray for our leaders and also pray for yourself. When you pray, mighty things happen. Today, let us pray together. Colossians 1:9 reads, “For this reason since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” Let us be in prayer. God Bless. Amen.
There is a difference between want and need. I want many things, I only need food, clothing and shelter to survive. Sometimes we get these two words confused in our daily lives. Want is something you desire. Need is something essential for survival. What we need to learn to do is appreciate what we have. Yes, strive for more, but be content and feel blessed for the things you do have. 1 Timothy 6:7-8 says, “…for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.” The writer of this book, which is found in the New Testament, is trying to help those who are consumed by possessions, is to learn to appreciate life daily and what you have is far greater than being consumed with the things you do not have. Thus, counting one’s blessing helps you look at life differently if you are honest, you probably have everything you need, NOT everything you want. Today, let us give things. Tell those around you how much you appreciate them; learn to enjoy the moment you are in—give thanks and count your blessings! For life is too short. God Bless. Amen.
Life is life—sometimes in life we have so many blessings that we feel over-joyed with love and prosperity. Other times, life just get downright hard, and we wonder “Why, why, why?” We even question God because life seems so unfair! During these hard times you can either give up on God or you can trust Him. The choice is yours. Something to remember when life seem hard and overwhelming. God is a constant God, a God that does not change. He is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. He is the one sure thing when life throws us punches. He is unchanging. Remember this when you doubt that there is a God—because life is hard and frustrating. Jeremiah 29:11-13 reads, “For I know the plans I have for you; declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Proverbs 3:5-7 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Today, whatever you are going through know that God is with you—He will never fail you nor forsake you. Trust Him. Believe. Have faith. It will work out, maybe not the way you want it, but it will work out. God bless. Amen.
O LORD our God You are awesome, powerful, and magnificent. You alone are our God, and we bow down before You. You are King of kings and LORD of lords mighty and wonderful are You. We ask that You fill us with Your Holy Spirit—guide us and sustain us in all that we do. Give us peace, that peace that passes all understanding. And as we go forth into this day let our words be Your words, our hands be Your hands, and our thoughts be Your thoughts. Let all those whom we meet see what a great God we serve. Today, where there is strife, let us sow harmony. Where there is anger, let us sow calmness. Where there is frustration, let us sow encouragement. Where there is meanness, let us sow kindness. O LORD our God we give thanks. Let us praise the Lord, Oh my soul, and all that is within us bless His Holy Name. For this is the day that the LORD has made let us rejoice and be glad in it! These things we pray. God Bless. Amen.
When another person is frustrated, angry, or hurt, a few kind words will go a long way. But if you choose to fight back, get mad, frustrated, or angry usually what happens is an argument occurs and can quickly get out of control. When someone is angry it is hard not to get angry right back at that person. It is tit for tat—you are mean to me and I will be mean right back at you. When you give back as much as you got, especially in retaliation for something painful things will escalate. Remember that a few kind words of love and encouragement could turn things around. Sometimes, we just must take the higher road. Sometimes, we need to stay quiet, stay centered and listen. Then when the storm passes talk it out. I knew this wonderful couple, they made a pack with each other when they first got married. When an argument would occur, they would go into different rooms, write out their feelings and frustrations then give the note to the other person. Nine times out of ten, as they wrote those harsh words, the meanness, and unkind things would not be as important. Kindness emerged. James 1:19-20 says, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to be become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” It is something to consider. God Bless. Amen.
When making a decision, what process do you use? Talk it over with your spouse, a friend, or with your child? Do you go to a counselor or a minister to discuss major decisions in your life? Do you write the pros and cons of the situation down so you can get a better understanding of what you are dealing with? Or do you go to God in prayer asking for the wisdom you need to understand the situation you are in so that you are better apt in making your decision. Or do you combine the different ways to best make your decision. The Bible tells us to first go to God when making a decision. In Proverbs 2:6 it says, “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 3:5-6 reads, “Trust in the LORD with all of your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” God can help you if you are willing to go to Him in prayer. So, pray about the situation, talk it over with a person you trust, write the pros and cons down, then go back to God in prayer. Then wait, be still, the solution will come to you. It is something to think about. It is something to try. God Bless. Amen.
We all sin. We all make mistakes. We all fall short of God’s glory. Sin is anything that separates us from God. So why is it so easy for us to see the sins of others and point it out to them; all the while we hide from our own sins. We even justify our sin or sins because we want to continue doing what we are doing. We make excuses saying, “It will be OK, no one will know.” and we do the same sin over and over again, justifying it all the way. We have an affair justifying it to ourselves it is OK I am happy. We cuss justifying it to ourselves it isn’t that bad. We steal justifying to ourselves I needed it more. We lie justifying to ourselves that the truth would only hurt them. We take the money that just fell out of a person’s pocket justifying to ourselves I needed it more. As we look around to make sure no one saw. In John 8:7 it says, “When they kept on questioning him (referring to Jesus), he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to cast a stone.” Today, let us try not to judge others. Let us worry about what we do and let us make sure we are doing what God has called us to do and to be. It is something to ponder, don’t you think? God Bless. Amen.
We all want to be heard when we talk. We want the other person we are talking with to listen to what we have to say. Not to talk nor tell us what that person feels we should do, because no one cares what you think until that person knows you care, that is accomplished through listening. When you listen you focus on the person who is talking, not on what you want to say. Nor do you let your mind think about other things, because when you do that, you are not engaged with the person who is talking. You are only concerned with what you are thinking about. To be a good listener, focus on the person who is speaking by maintaining eye contact, don’t speak, pay attention, give back clarifying statements that show you have been listening. Refrain from interrupting or jumping to conclusions. The problem is sometimes people just don’t listen—so we get frustrated. Proverbs 17:8 reads, “Even fools are thought wise if they kept silent, and discerning if they hold their tongue.” James 1:19 reads, “…a good listener is quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Today, try listening—just listen—listen to what the other person is saying. When the other person is done talking, then share your thoughts. It is something to think about. God Bless. Have a great day. Amen.
On this day of our Lord, let us try to draw nearer unto our Him. Let us be intentional about talking with our LORD God. When you are at a stoplight talk to God, when a commercial comes on TV say a small prayer, when you have a moment give thanks to our LORD for He is good His steadfast love endures forever. Sometimes we just forget to talk to God. Psalms 29:1-2 reads, “Ascribe to the LORD, you heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.” Ascribe to the Lord means acknowledge and give credit to God, praise and worship Him. Therefore, let us ascribe to the Lord! God Bless. Have a great day. Amen.
I have seen an eagle perched high in a tree as I go to the grocery store. It is magnificent, powerful and beautiful. Every time I go to the store, I look for it. Hoping to see it and all its glory. It is beautiful. Yet an eagle can also be very, very volent when it seeks it’s prey. Because eagles are predators and actively kill animals for survival. This is like life. Life can be very beautiful and wonderful. Yet it can be harsh, unforgiving, and cruel. Life occurs, there are painful moments that are accented by times of wonder and joy. I have found that when life seems cruel and unforgiving God will help you through those devastating times. When you have a relationship with God, it doesn’t matter what life throws your way, you can and will survive because God is with you. Psalm 46:1 reads, “God is our refuge and strength, and ever present help in times of trouble.” Today, whatever you are going through go to God in prayer and know that God will give you the strength and courage you need to face the situation you are in. For our God is the one sure thing in life. He is our all in all. God Bless. Amen.
There was a popular saying in the 1980’s, “Look for the rainbows during the storm.” It means that even when you are facing difficulties or challenges in life, there is still hope and beauty to be found. This signifies the ability to persevere and be resilient through tough situations and circumstances knowing that better times will come. Just like when a rainbow appears after a storm. From the Christian perspective it means the act of actively seeking hope and a promise that better times will come, even in the midst of difficult situations. As the rainbow is seen as a symbol of God’s covenant and mercy. Particularly referring to the story of Noah where the rainbow appears after the flood. It means that God will bring renewal and restoration after our trails. Genesis 9:12-17 describes God setting the rainbow in the sky as a sign of his covenant with us after the flood. Because after the storm, after the difficult times, there will be brighter days ahead. Then in Revelations 4;1,3 reminds of this again, “After these things I looked, and behold, a door opened in heaven…and a rainbow was around the throne…” The rainbow symbolizes hope after the storms of life. God is our hope, our lifeline, our Savior. So, hold on to Him and He will see you through all of life’s difficulties. God Bless. Amen.
Psalms 116:1 reads, “I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy.” Rejoice, and love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul. Let us lift our voice to worship you, oh my soul rejoice! Take joy, my King, in what you hear, may it be a sweet, sweet, sound in your ear. These words got their inspiration from Psalm 100.2 it says, “Worship the LORD with gladness, come before him with joyful songs.” Sometimes we forget to express our love for our Lord, by giving thanks and praising His Holy Name, daily if not more. These words from this song create a heart-felt joy and express our love for our Lord. “I love you Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you oh my soul rejoice!” Today, say or sing those words throughout the day. Knowing that those words will increase your attention and spiritual discernment to recognize our Lord and His will for you. And may the peace of our Lord fall upon you and sustain you, giving you that joy, hope and calmness throughout your day. God Bless. Amen.
“Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” (Psalms 55:22) “…do not be anxious about anything; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6-7) When life is hard. When life seems out of control. When life is overwhelming. God gives us strength, courage, and hope. God is the one sure thing in this life of ours. So, no matter what is going on in your life remember God is there so “cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) Remember God is our all in all, so hold on to Him. He will see you through all of life’s difficulties. God Bless. Amen.
We worry about our health when our health is not so great. We worry about our finances when our money is tight. We worry about a loved one when he or she is declining in health. We worry about putting food on the table when there is no food to be had. We worry. Here is my question to you, are you worried about something right now? Are you hoping and praying that it will work out, the way that would be beneficial to you. And you worry because the situation does not seem to be going in the right direction. Due to the worrying you pray and pray and pray some more. Trying to let go and let God, but it is so hard to do. Especially when worrying is ever present. All the while trying to remember that no matter what happens God is with you, hoping the worrying will subside, but it is so hard at times—when life just doesn’t seem to be going in the right direction for you. Scripture tells us in 1 Chronicles 28:20 that God is with us always. It says, “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Don’t be afraid, nor be dismayed; for the LORD God, even my God, is with you. He will not fail you, nor forsake you, until all the work for the service of the LORD’s house is finished.” These words are powerful; they reassure us, and we can draw comfort from them. Remember worrying will never change the situation. So all you really can do is wait, trust, and believe, and pray. And keep reminding yourself God is with me. God Bless. Amen.
“I am with you” means that someone is standing by you, supporting you, and sharing your experience, signifying their presence and connection with you, no matter what situation you are facing: it often conveys a sense of comfort and reassurance that you are not alone. So, if someone one said “I am with you” how does that make you feel? Good, reassured, hopeful—right! Scripture tells us, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you…” (Genesis 28:15) “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6) “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) “So we can confidently say, ‘The LORD is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:6) Isn’t it comforting to hear those words—I am with you? Sometimes we forget that God is with us in all situations and circumstance, that He is the one sure thing in this life of ours. For our God is our all in all, a very presence in times of trouble and good times as well. Sometimes we just need to be reminded of this. “God is with us!” God Bless. Amen.
Good morning. Praise be to God. May God bless you and keep you. May you feel His Holy Spirit moving in and through you. May you know that you are loved for indeed you are, you are a beloved child of God; created in His image. As you go about your day may love and forgiveness be a part of it. For life is too short. You never know what can and will happen; therefore, extend love, mercy, and forgiveness. May a calm and peaceful heart be a part of your day and may you feel that peace which passes all understanding. Now as you go forth in this day remember who you are and whom you belong to. For this is the day that the LORD has made let us rejoice and be glad in it. God Bless. Amen.
Has anyone ever said, “You are a kind person.” It feels good doesn’t it. If not, do you consider yourself to be kind? Are you kind? Do you show kindness in your daily interactions? Kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. It is being helpful, caring, and understanding, and doing so with a genuine desire to help others. It can also mean putting others’ needs before your own. So, are you like that, a kind person? Ephesian 4:32 says, “Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Proverbs 12:25 states, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.” Today, show kindness in all that you do, be intentional about it. Do some random acts of kindness—open a door for someone, by someone coffee, smile at everyone you meet, say hello, call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. Be kind and you will become kind. It will make your day and the other person’s day as well. God Bless. Amen.
What does joy mean to you. Does it mean being excited, happiness, having fun. Does joy mean contentment and peace in your everyday life. The dictionary says joy is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness. It is an emotion that evokes well-being, success, good fortune or the prospect of possessing what one desires. Joy is being delighted, having bliss, or to enjoy what one is doing. Does being a believer in our Lord create joy in your life? When I smile and think of the Lord and how much I love Him I experience joy. There is a song that expresses our joy in the Lord it goes, “I got that joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart! Where? Down in my heart. Down in my heart to stay…And I’m so happy, so very happy I’ve got the love of Jesus in my heart. Down in my heart.” Psalms 35:27 reads, “Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my righteous cause. Yes, let them say continually, “The LORD be magnified, who has pleasure in the prosperity of his servant!” Today, let the joy of our Lord shine forth in all that you do. Give thanks and praise the LORD! Praise the LORD for He is righteous and good. His steadfast love endures forever. For we got that joy of the Lord. For the joy of the Lord is our strength. (Nehemiah 8:10) God Bless. Amen.
Holy Holy Holy LORD God Almighty King of kings and Lord of lords mighty and wonderful are You. We love You Lord, Oh Lord how we love You. You are our all in all. Full of grace and mercy. Always there for us no matter what is going on in our life. You give us comfort and sustain us when nothing else will. Sometimes in the business of our lives we forget to spend time alone with You to tell You of our hurts and our concerns, our joys, our happiness, our sorrows and our pains. Oh Lord, help us to remember all the wonderful things You have done in our lives. Help us to have a thankful heart. To always give thanks in all things. Forgive us. Create in us a desire to love You more and to serve You better. Help us to forgive others the way You have forgiven us and to do all things with compassion and love. Now as we go forth into this day help us to remember whom we belong to and whom we serve—our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ. These things we pray Amen. God Bless.
It feels good to know that someone loves you. It makes you feel good and all warm inside of you. Did you know that God has always loved you? He loves you unconditionally. He has loved you since the beginning of time and will never stop loving you nor give up on you. Psalms 139:13 reads, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” God is the one sure thing in this life of ours. God believes in you and wants what is best for you. Sometimes the choices we make are unhealthy and set us up for failure. But even when we make mistakes, God still loves us and does not give up on us. God loves us. The key is learning to love ourselves the way God loves us—even when we make mistakes. So don’t be so hard on yourself—forgive yourself—then move on and try to make healthier choices. Remember God loves you and we all make mistake. The key is to learn from our mistakes, move on, and then not make them again. This is accomplished by learning to love yourself the way God does. God Bless. Amen.
Hate is a very strong word. It is filled with meanness, anger, and malice. When I was little the meanest, most horrible thing I could think of or say, was to say, “I hate you!” I said this once to my parents. They both responded, “Well I love you.” I couldn’t believe they said that. I huffed and walked away saying yet again, “I hate you!” And yet again they said, “Well I love you!” Who is one person you hate? Why do you hate this person? What is something you hate? Why do you hate this thing? To hate means a feeling of intense or passionate dislike for someone or something. It can also be described as an extreme dislike or disgust for that person or thing. They say that hate turns in on itself and hurts the person who is spewing out all this hatred, more than on the person or object they are thinking about or spewing the hateful words upon. Proverbs 10:12 says, “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.” Today, if there is someone in your life that you hate, or something you hate go to God in pray—turn the hate over to God—then let go and let God. Let it go, for life is too short to hate anything—forgive just as God has forgiven you. It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
If someone asked you what type of relationship you have with God what would you say? Sunday only! Only when I am hurting and in need of something! I talk to Him a couple of times a week! I speak with God daily! I read the Bible daily and have a good relationship with God! I share my joys and concerns throughout the day, for God is my lifeline in this life. How much time you spend with God is between you and God. I have found the more time you spend with God the smoother, the easier, your daily life will be. What God wants from you is for you to WANT to spend time with Him. And to know that God loves you, believes in you no matter how much time you spend with Him. God wants a relationship with you. God is please to speak with you any time, any place. But if you think you need to spend more time with God, why aren’t you? James 4:8 reads, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.
Praise the LORD! Now smile when you say, “Praise the LORD!” Did you feel the difference? Whenever you smile, whether you answer the phone, talk with someone or even text your demeanor changes. A smile not only changes you and your demeanor but others as well. Smiling is important because it can improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your immune system. Smiling can also help you feel more confident and improve how you feel. Read the next paragraph smiling. You will feel a difference. Praise the Lord! For this is the day that the LORD has made let us rejoice and be glad in it! Today as you go forth, may you know that God loves you—always and forever! That God forgives you—learn to forgive yourself. And as this day unfolds remember you are a beloved child of God created in God’s image—so do all things as a beloved child of God—serve the LORD with gladness—praise is Holy Name. Now may God bless you today and always, for this is the day that the LORD has made. Praise the LORD! God Bless. Amen.
What are you thankful for? To be thankful means feeling and expressing appreciation for the things and people in your life. It can also mean being conscious of the benefits you have received. You can be thankful for your health, your spouse, your children, your stepchildren, your daughters in laws, your sons in laws, your grandchildren, your great-grandchildren, your parents, your family, your siblings, your home, your job, your community, your freedom, God. When you acknowledge what you are thankful for, you are intentional about looking for things to be grateful for. You focus on the good not the bad, the positive not the negative, the glass half full not half empty. You become thankful for the small things. You even begin to tell those you love how thankful you are to have them in your life. You acknowledge God and how mighty and wonderful He is. You praise His holy name and give thanks for all the wonderful things He has done in your life. You realize God gave you life and you appreciate all the things you have. Thessalonians 5:18 reads, “…give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.” Colossians 3:17 tells us, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” So, what are you thankful for? Maybe it is because you woke up this morning and God is with you. God bless. Amen.
Isaiah 58:11a reminds us, “The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.” Isaiah 40:28-31 says, “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary, his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” Then Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Sometimes we forget how much God loves us—that He will not forsake us—that He is with us in all situations and circumstances. Today, whatever you are going through God is with you. He will give you the strength and courage you need, step by step, moment by moment. All you have to do is trust Him, even when you do not feel He is there—God is there He is always there. God Bless. Amen.
Have you ever wanted God to come and fix a problem you have? You know like God waves His magic wand and fixes the problem for you. I have. Do you ever get mad because God did not fix your problem the way you wanted it fixed. So, you throw a temper tantrum, because you didn’t get your way? I have. Have you ever gotten so mad at God because the situation at hand is not going your way? I have. Have you ever yelled, screamed, and cried out in pain from a situation. Yelling at God at the unfairness of life. Then telling God, you are not going to talk to Him again? I have. This is called the 2-year-old mode that we get into. Where we are out of control and having noise outburst of anger because things are not going our way. These outbursts can be physical, verbal or both. These temper tantrums are destructive not toward God but toward our self. Throwing a fit will never change the outcome of any situation. Never! Life is life. Good things happen and so do bad things. We experience life, death, and illness in this life of ours. There are great moments which are accented by times of undeniable pain and heartache. Life happens. What God promised us is that He will be there with us in all things. God is not a magical God nor is He the fixer. God is our all in all. And when life throws you heartache and pain God is with you every step, every moment. All you have to do is hold onto Him and He will see you through whatever you are experiencing. Deuteronomy 31:8 reads, “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” God is with you always, even during the rough times of life. God Bless. Amen.
Today, you may encounter things that you cannot control. You may feel helpless or frustrated by these events wondering, “What in the world is going on!” If you let it, these events can ruin your day. Or you can choose to push through whatever is going on in your life, remembering God is with you. And making the most of your day, despite the frustrations. Isaiah 59;19 reads, “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” Isaiah 54:17 says, “No weapon that is formed against you will prosper…” 1 John 14:27 states, “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” When we have a relationship with God, we know that no matter what is going on the good, the bad, or the sideways, God will see us through that moment, that frustration, that day. Because God is the one sure thing in life. Therefore, instead of letting these events, that you cannot control, ruin your day, let these events inspire you and motivate you. For with God on your side how can you fail, how can your day be so bad? You woke up, didn’t you? God Bless. Amen.
To fail means to be unsuccessful, to lapse or become invalid, to lose an opportunity or something valuable due to negligence. When you are set up to fail it becomes a no-win situation designed in such a way that the person in the situation cannot succeed at the task which they have been assigned. When we walk with God no matter what happens, no matter the circumstance, no matter the situation we are in, we do not fail, because God is with us. No matter what challenges or difficulties, you face in life, you can always RELY ON GOD to be there for you, to support you, and never abandon you. This signifies that God’s love and faithfulness are unwavering and you can completely trust in His promises. This does not mean God is a magical God who fixes the things you want fixed. What it means is God is with you and will not fail you. Hebrews 13:5b-6 tells us, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. So we can say with confidence, The LORD is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” Think about this, no matter what you are going through God is with you. No matter the situation, God is with you. No matter the outcome, God is with you. God is the one sure thing in this life of ours. So turn to Him. Confide in Him. Listen to that still small voice and most importantly trust God to see you through. God Bless. Amen.