S- Psalm 107:6 - "Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He delivered them out of their distresses."
O - Psalm 107 is THE PSALM to read when you are in trouble or have made a mess of your life. It reveals a merciful God who helps his imperfect, needy failing children. In verse 4-7, God helps those who are lost and can't find their way. In verse 10-14, he helps those who are in prison due to their misdeeds. He helps the foolish sinners who have messed up their lives (vs. 17-20). Further on in this Psalm, he helps desparate helpless people caught in a storm. What is the key in all these stories that releases the love and mercy of God? It was not trying harder. It was passionately calling out to God. It was stirring themselves up "to take hold of God (Is. 64:7).
A - I read this in a forward "When I say "I am a Christian", I don't speak of this with pride. I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide. When I say "I am a Christin", I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on. When I say "I am a Christian", I'm not bragging of success. I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess." I will remember that God is a merciful God who comes to our aid when we call upon Him.
P - Lord, I thank you today for mercy and grace. I thank you that you forgive us when we fail, find us when we are lost, help us when we are hurting! I thank You for you really are so good to us all! Amen.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
GO AND TELL
by Mary White
S--John 1:40,41,45 “Andrew heard what John said and followed Jesus. The first thing he did was to go find Simon (Peter)…45 Philip found Nathaniel and told him.”
O--John the Baptist was telling everyone about Jesus…people heard and they followed.
A--John told Andrew (he followed). Andrew told Peter (he followed). Jesus calls Philip, he follows. Philip told Nathaniel, (he followed). Who have I told recently? How many people will spend eternity with the Lord because I told? Sometimes all it takes is to share our own story, if I share they may follow. I want to see others come into the saving knowledge of Christ.
P--God give me boldness to “Go and Tell”.
S--John 1:40,41,45 “Andrew heard what John said and followed Jesus. The first thing he did was to go find Simon (Peter)…45 Philip found Nathaniel and told him.”
O--John the Baptist was telling everyone about Jesus…people heard and they followed.
A--John told Andrew (he followed). Andrew told Peter (he followed). Jesus calls Philip, he follows. Philip told Nathaniel, (he followed). Who have I told recently? How many people will spend eternity with the Lord because I told? Sometimes all it takes is to share our own story, if I share they may follow. I want to see others come into the saving knowledge of Christ.
P--God give me boldness to “Go and Tell”.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Thursday July 29, 2010 Is: 57-59, Ps.103; 2 Peter 3 S-"Dont be Distracted"
Thursday July 29, 2010
Is: 57-59, Ps.103; 2 Peter 3
S-"Dont be Distracted"
2 Peter 3:2 MSG bible: I've written to you, both letters reminders to hold your minds in a state of undistracted attention. Keep in mind what the holy prophets said, and the command of our Master and Savopir that was passed on by your apostles.
O-We are being told for the second time...... saying, "friends....don't be distracted and decieved." Keep your eyes focused on the Lord and His coming, as He will come like a theif in the night. Mocker's have said, this Jesus you talk about ....He is not coming, but Jesus says He is. He is waiting to give those that have not accepted Him a chance to have everlasting life. He says, "we live our lives as if nothing has changed." Be careful and don't be distracted by the things of the world, but keep yourseld holy, and building your relationship with God, so that you will know Him.
A- Here we are given a warning for the second time....why twice, because it is easily to get distracted and to be busy and go about ouor life without thinking that one day, our life will end one day. It is the most important thing to think about, eternity....where do you want to spend it. This scripture is a wake up for me, because I can get so busy and distracted and even though I am christian, "am I ready"....do I live each moment of my life without being distracted.....the answer is no. I need the Holy Spirit, my life's helpmate to help me to stay focused and not get tripped up, by stupid stuff.........
P- Lord, Thanks for the wake up call, again....in your word. Sometimes it is so easy to be so busy, and be distracted by the busy-ness, even when it is for you, and for the kingdom. Help me, to keep my focus on the things that are pleasing to you, and the things that are good for me, that will be fruit to my life, and not destruction. Take my heart and mold it...... More, Holiness is all we need. Help us to be on our guard to keep our minds and souls clean for you and for ourselves. Amen.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
THE WORD IS FRUITFUL
by Vivian Bills
Wednesday - July 28, 2010 - Isaiah 53-56; 2 Peter 2
S - Isaiah 55:11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.
O - God is saying that just as rain and snow work to make a land fruitful, so His Word will produce fruit also.
A - I think we underestimate the power of the written Word of God. Reading the Word is what opened me up to the reality of God before I was saved. So many Christians don't spend time reading the bible every day. No wonder they have a hard time seeing God work in their lives! "I don't know how to witness to this person. I don't know what to say." Use scripture. Tell a story from the bible. Encourage them with a one liner from the Word. Watch His transforming power.
P- Lord, help me to carry Your Word in my heart. Help me to remember scripture and references so that I may use it for Your glory.
O - God is saying that just as rain and snow work to make a land fruitful, so His Word will produce fruit also.
A - I think we underestimate the power of the written Word of God. Reading the Word is what opened me up to the reality of God before I was saved. So many Christians don't spend time reading the bible every day. No wonder they have a hard time seeing God work in their lives! "I don't know how to witness to this person. I don't know what to say." Use scripture. Tell a story from the bible. Encourage them with a one liner from the Word. Watch His transforming power.
P- Lord, help me to carry Your Word in my heart. Help me to remember scripture and references so that I may use it for Your glory.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
KNOWING JESUS
By Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 7/28/10 Isaiah 50-52; Ps 92; 2 Peter 1 – KNOWING JESUS
S – 2 Peter 1:2-3 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the KNOWLEDGE of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our KNOWLEDGE of him who calls us by his own glory and goodness.
O – We are told in Christian circles that we have been given everything we need to live this Christian life. But the word KNOWLEDGE has been jumping out at me lately. In the Greek, this word, epignosis, expresses a thorough participation in getting to know the object. It appears to me, then, that grace, peace, and all we need for life and godliness comes through our thoroughly knowing Jesus. How thoroughly do we know Him? Getting to know someone requires spending time with them.
A – Lord, often we go through our day without spending time with You to get to know You better. We need a revelation of Jesus – who then reveals the Father. I think it is best said in The Message, “Grace and peace to you many times over as you deepen in your experience with God and Jesus, our Master. Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One who invited us to God.”
P – Lord, that we may know You. That we may endeavor to spend time with, listen, embrace, experience You. Holy Spirit, give us a revelation of Jesus and our Father, that we may live the life we have been called to live. (I can't recommend highly enough the ministry that has overwhelmingly helped me to get to know God as a loving Father – check out their free audio teachings online at www.liberatedliving.com).
Monday, July 26, 2010
HE CARES!
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 7/26/10 - Isaiah 46-49; 1 Peter 5 - “HE CARES!”
S – 1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
O – Whatever things concern the child of God, no matter what those things may be, God concerns Himself with them. When we understand that God cares for us, we can commit our cares to Him.
A – This is especially meaningful to my life right now as I await the decision of the parole board regarding my brother’s release from prison. I know that I can look to Him for grace and strength and be assured that He will be my strength and give grace no matter what the outcome. The bottom line is: He cares. When we get that down inside of us, there is peace, no matter what.
P – Father I thank You for caring for Your children. I thank you that Your care is clothed with love and grace and mercy. I thank You that even in our fiery trials we can cast all that concerns us once and for all upon You.
Monday, 7/26/10 - Isaiah 46-49; 1 Peter 5 - “HE CARES!”
S – 1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
O – Whatever things concern the child of God, no matter what those things may be, God concerns Himself with them. When we understand that God cares for us, we can commit our cares to Him.
A – This is especially meaningful to my life right now as I await the decision of the parole board regarding my brother’s release from prison. I know that I can look to Him for grace and strength and be assured that He will be my strength and give grace no matter what the outcome. The bottom line is: He cares. When we get that down inside of us, there is peace, no matter what.
P – Father I thank You for caring for Your children. I thank you that Your care is clothed with love and grace and mercy. I thank You that even in our fiery trials we can cast all that concerns us once and for all upon You.
Friday, July 23, 2010
HE DID IT ALL
by Mary White
S--I Peter 2:24 “He Himself (Jesus) bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to our sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed.”
O--Peter is explaining what Jesus did for His people when He died on the cross.
A--I am overwhelmed when I read this scripture…that Jesus, who knew no sin became sin for us so that we could live a righteous life and have eternal life. That by His wounds He provided healing for us. He has given us life, and life more abundantly. Sometimes I forget, and take this knowledge for granted, forgive me Lord. Sometimes I don’t walk in my healing, again, forgive me Lord. I so want my life to reflect your love, mercy and grace.
P--Forgive me Lord for taking your gifts for granted, and help me live a life that is reflective of your goodness and love.
by Mary White
S--I Peter 2:24 “He Himself (Jesus) bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to our sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed.”
O--Peter is explaining what Jesus did for His people when He died on the cross.
A--I am overwhelmed when I read this scripture…that Jesus, who knew no sin became sin for us so that we could live a righteous life and have eternal life. That by His wounds He provided healing for us. He has given us life, and life more abundantly. Sometimes I forget, and take this knowledge for granted, forgive me Lord. Sometimes I don’t walk in my healing, again, forgive me Lord. I so want my life to reflect your love, mercy and grace.
P--Forgive me Lord for taking your gifts for granted, and help me live a life that is reflective of your goodness and love.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Who was he? And, Who am I?
By Mary-Elizabeth Badonsky
S: Isaiah 37:35 “I will defend this city and save it for my sake and for the sake of David my servant.”
O: Again one of the Israel’s enemies (Sennacherib, the king of Assyria) is promising the definite destruction of Jerusalem. In response to this King Hezekiah prays for God (once again) to be merciful to the people. God’s reply: “I will defend this city and save it for my sake and for the sake of David my servant.”
A: Who is David: A shepherd, psalmist, warrior, king, a fallen man, and yet a man after God’s own heart. Throughout generations God referred back to his covenant with David and saved the people not because they deserved it, but because David had a covenant with the Father. Who am I: A mom, wife, daughter, sister, a fallen woman, and yet a woman after God’s own heart. Who knows what can happen through me (us) if I (we) remain just a child after God’s own heart.
P: Father keep me in pursuit of your heart for the rest of my days. May the legacy I leave behind be that I pursued you constantly.
S: Isaiah 37:35 “I will defend this city and save it for my sake and for the sake of David my servant.”
O: Again one of the Israel’s enemies (Sennacherib, the king of Assyria) is promising the definite destruction of Jerusalem. In response to this King Hezekiah prays for God (once again) to be merciful to the people. God’s reply: “I will defend this city and save it for my sake and for the sake of David my servant.”
A: Who is David: A shepherd, psalmist, warrior, king, a fallen man, and yet a man after God’s own heart. Throughout generations God referred back to his covenant with David and saved the people not because they deserved it, but because David had a covenant with the Father. Who am I: A mom, wife, daughter, sister, a fallen woman, and yet a woman after God’s own heart. Who knows what can happen through me (us) if I (we) remain just a child after God’s own heart.
P: Father keep me in pursuit of your heart for the rest of my days. May the legacy I leave behind be that I pursued you constantly.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
ASK FOR PRAYER
by Vivian Bills
Wednesday, 7/21/2010 - 2 Kings 18, 19; 2 Chronicles 32; James 5
S - James 5:14 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.
O - If you are sick, ask for prayer.
A - Sometimes, we just suffer in silence. We hide our pain because it's embarrassing or because we think someone will condemn us for being sick. We assume people will treat us as Job's friends did, accusing us of not being right with God. But, we're supposed to ask for prayer. God wants us to do this, regardless of what other people may say. Put your pride aside and ask for prayer so that you may be healed. "And the prayer offered in faith will make them well; the Lord will raise them up." - James 5:15
P - Lord, I thank You for all the answers to prayer that I have experienced and witnessed. Help me to never forget your faithfulness and to never hesitate to ask for prayer because pride won't lead to healing, but prayer will.
O - If you are sick, ask for prayer.
A - Sometimes, we just suffer in silence. We hide our pain because it's embarrassing or because we think someone will condemn us for being sick. We assume people will treat us as Job's friends did, accusing us of not being right with God. But, we're supposed to ask for prayer. God wants us to do this, regardless of what other people may say. Put your pride aside and ask for prayer so that you may be healed. "And the prayer offered in faith will make them well; the Lord will raise them up." - James 5:15
P - Lord, I thank You for all the answers to prayer that I have experienced and witnessed. Help me to never forget your faithfulness and to never hesitate to ask for prayer because pride won't lead to healing, but prayer will.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
RESTORE THE TEMPLE FOR WORSHIP
By Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 7/20/10 – 2 Chr 29-31; Jas 4 – RESTORE THE TEMPLE FOR WORSHIP
S – 2 Chr 29:1-5, Hezekiah was 25 years old when he became king... he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, just as his father David had done... he opened the doors of the temple of the Lord and repaired them. He brought in the priests and the Levites... and said, “Consecrate yourselves now and consecrate the temple of the LORD, the God of your fathers. Remove all defilement from the sancturary.”
O- Hezekiah took over reign after his father Ahaz died; unlike his father, who was an idol worshiper, Hezekiah took a shift in his leadership and restored temple worship to the Lord. He gave specific instructions to the Levites to consecrate themselves, to remove all defilement from the temple, to purify the temple by removing everything unclean (vs 15-16), to consecrate and return articles that had previously been removed (v 19). Worship in the temple returned as the Levites offered burnt offerings, bowed in singing, playing instruments, and praising the Lord with words. (v 19, 28-32)
A – Wow! We are the temples of the living God. We carry His Spirit and worship happens here, in our bodies. Everything we do in this life is carried out through these temples. How's your temple doing? Do you need to consecrate your temple? Do you need to remove uncleanliness (excess food or drink, unclean viewing with your eyes, etc)? Do you need to restore good things (full night of sleep, drinking water, good nutrition, exercise, etc)? We only get one body and it is His temple. Let's take good care of this temple from which worship flows!
P – Father, forgive us for the negligence. We may not have recognzied our responsibility to restore the temple for worship by taking good care of it. And, like Hezekiah, even if our parents were not good at it, enable us to be great caretakers! He chose to restore the temple and then put action to his decision. May we do likewise.
Monday, July 19, 2010
HELP IS HERE!
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 7/19/10 –2 Kings 17; 2 Chronicles 28; Psalm 46; James 6 - “HELP IS HERE!”
S – Psalm 46:5 – “God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.”
O – The language speaks of the confidence of the people of Jerusalem in times of impending danger. This is especially true of the New Testament Church, which is the "habitation of God through the Spirit" (Eph 2:22; 2 Cor 6:16).
A - This is a powerful promise that we can trust God to be present with us, His church.
He will not abandon us when we are in danger, He is there as our helper, protector, and refuge.
P – Thank You Lord for being in our midst, for being an ever present help in time of trouble! We have no need to fear, knowing You are with us!
Monday, 7/19/10 –2 Kings 17; 2 Chronicles 28; Psalm 46; James 6 - “HELP IS HERE!”
S – Psalm 46:5 – “God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.”
O – The language speaks of the confidence of the people of Jerusalem in times of impending danger. This is especially true of the New Testament Church, which is the "habitation of God through the Spirit" (Eph 2:22; 2 Cor 6:16).
A - This is a powerful promise that we can trust God to be present with us, His church.
He will not abandon us when we are in danger, He is there as our helper, protector, and refuge.
P – Thank You Lord for being in our midst, for being an ever present help in time of trouble! We have no need to fear, knowing You are with us!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Bad News/Good News
S - James 1:2 - My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials ..."
O - The bad news according to the book of James is that Christians are not exempt from difficult, discouraging, painful circumstances. Trials are simply part of life on Planet Earth for both nonbeliever and believer alike. The Good News is that we can not only survive trials but thrive and grow because of them. Though we would never choose hardships, if we have God's strength and wisdom, we can grow strong and glorify God in the midst of them.
A - I will not be surprised when I face hardships since they are an expected part of life. I will seek God's strength and wisdom and expect God to work good in me through them.
P - Lord, help me to endure hardship and trial, to "stand fast under pressure", and to emerge from trial a better stronger person, for your name's sake. Amen.
O - The bad news according to the book of James is that Christians are not exempt from difficult, discouraging, painful circumstances. Trials are simply part of life on Planet Earth for both nonbeliever and believer alike. The Good News is that we can not only survive trials but thrive and grow because of them. Though we would never choose hardships, if we have God's strength and wisdom, we can grow strong and glorify God in the midst of them.
A - I will not be surprised when I face hardships since they are an expected part of life. I will seek God's strength and wisdom and expect God to work good in me through them.
P - Lord, help me to endure hardship and trial, to "stand fast under pressure", and to emerge from trial a better stronger person, for your name's sake. Amen.
Friday, July 16, 2010
THE LORD IS MY HELPER
by Mary White
S--Hebrews 13:5b & 6 “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence “the Lord is my Helper, I will not be afraid, what can man do to me?”
O--The writer of Hebrews is making his concluding remarks.
A--Have you ever felt alone, confused and afraid? God says that He will never leave us. The Word says (Isa) that He is our Refuge, our Shelter and our Shade. He is a place to run to, or better yet, a place in which I can reside. It’s been real hot lately, temperatures in the high 80’s and 90’s. If I don’t seek shelter I will truly burn and become ill. I know I need to find shade to survive. The Word says that God is our shade…but the shade does me no good unless I go to it. When I run to God I receive His help, He assures me that He is always there. I know that He truly is my Helper and I want to stay close to Him.
P--Thank you God that I can count on You. Thank You for Your promises to me. I love You Lord.
S--Hebrews 13:5b & 6 “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence “the Lord is my Helper, I will not be afraid, what can man do to me?”
O--The writer of Hebrews is making his concluding remarks.
A--Have you ever felt alone, confused and afraid? God says that He will never leave us. The Word says (Isa) that He is our Refuge, our Shelter and our Shade. He is a place to run to, or better yet, a place in which I can reside. It’s been real hot lately, temperatures in the high 80’s and 90’s. If I don’t seek shelter I will truly burn and become ill. I know I need to find shade to survive. The Word says that God is our shade…but the shade does me no good unless I go to it. When I run to God I receive His help, He assures me that He is always there. I know that He truly is my Helper and I want to stay close to Him.
P--Thank you God that I can count on You. Thank You for Your promises to me. I love You Lord.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
THE LIFE OF FAITH
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 7/15/10 Is 22-24; Heb 12 - THE LIFE OF FAITH
S- Heb 12:1-2 NIV, NKJV, NLT, NASB, Weymouth, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses to the life of faith, let us lay aside every weight, every encumbrance, that slows us down and the sin that so easily ensnares us, entangles our feet and hinders our progress. And let us run with patient endurance the race that lies before us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith..."
O - I love this scripture! The above is a compilation of 5 versions of the Bible put together - I think it says it all. We are encouraged to press on, to have endurance in this Christian Race called Life. We are called to live a life of faith!
A - Sometimes the Lord shows us an area of our life that is slowing us down in advancing the Kingdom or living the life of peace. These strongholds entangle our feet; they trip us up. But we are to have faith! We are to keep our eyes on Jesus. He has come to set the captives free. We are not on our own. Sometimes we need to hear a Word from the Lord to release our faith in order to press on - all the way to freedom and victory. Ask the Lord for an empowering prophetic word - to release faith in your life.
P - Father, you are so behind us! Jesus is interceding for us! The Holy Spirit is empowering us! Please encourage us with Your powerful prophetic word. May faith increase! May we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
Tuesday 7/15/10 Is 22-24; Heb 12 - THE LIFE OF FAITH
S- Heb 12:1-2 NIV, NKJV, NLT, NASB, Weymouth, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses to the life of faith, let us lay aside every weight, every encumbrance, that slows us down and the sin that so easily ensnares us, entangles our feet and hinders our progress. And let us run with patient endurance the race that lies before us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith..."
O - I love this scripture! The above is a compilation of 5 versions of the Bible put together - I think it says it all. We are encouraged to press on, to have endurance in this Christian Race called Life. We are called to live a life of faith!
A - Sometimes the Lord shows us an area of our life that is slowing us down in advancing the Kingdom or living the life of peace. These strongholds entangle our feet; they trip us up. But we are to have faith! We are to keep our eyes on Jesus. He has come to set the captives free. We are not on our own. Sometimes we need to hear a Word from the Lord to release our faith in order to press on - all the way to freedom and victory. Ask the Lord for an empowering prophetic word - to release faith in your life.
P - Father, you are so behind us! Jesus is interceding for us! The Holy Spirit is empowering us! Please encourage us with Your powerful prophetic word. May faith increase! May we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
HIDE AND SEEK
by Vivian Bills
Wednesday - July 14, 2010 - Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11
S - Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
O - This is what it means to have faith. It is like seeing with spiritual eyes instead of our physical eyes.
A - God wants us to seek Him out with our spiritual eyes. One of my husband's favorite answers to his inquisitive children when they ask "Why, Papa?" is "To make little children ask questions!" He always says it with a big smile. Dan delights in his children's desire to find things out. In this same way, God the Father delights in our searching Him out and discovering His will for our lives. Why do children love the game Hide and Seek so much? Is it because the discovery is so exciting and revelatory? This is how we build our faith in God. We go searching for Him and He lets us find Him.
P - Father, I thank You that You revealed Yourself to me when I went searching for You. Increase my faith, Lord.
O - This is what it means to have faith. It is like seeing with spiritual eyes instead of our physical eyes.
A - God wants us to seek Him out with our spiritual eyes. One of my husband's favorite answers to his inquisitive children when they ask "Why, Papa?" is "To make little children ask questions!" He always says it with a big smile. Dan delights in his children's desire to find things out. In this same way, God the Father delights in our searching Him out and discovering His will for our lives. Why do children love the game Hide and Seek so much? Is it because the discovery is so exciting and revelatory? This is how we build our faith in God. We go searching for Him and He lets us find Him.
P - Father, I thank You that You revealed Yourself to me when I went searching for You. Increase my faith, Lord.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Tuesday July 13, 2010 Is: 15-18; Heb. 10
S- Heb. 10:19 NIV- And where these have been forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice for sin.
MSG- Once sin are taken care of for good, there's no longer any need to offer sacriices for them.
"You are forgiven"
O- The message from Hebrews is that it does not have to be about the law and burnt offerings and sacrifices. Jesus is the only sacrificial blood that was intended for Holiness for us.
If you just ask.....and your heart is turned from it's carnal ways, you will be washed as white as snow, and be able to enter into the holiness of God. He says to the Hebrews
it's not written on paper, but rather carved in our hearts. That is why we ask the holy spirit to guide us. He IS our forgiver and our cleanser, and the lover of our souls.
A- There is no worse feeling then to know God, be close to God, and then feel this separation from God because of sin. It can be as simple as an offense that consumes your mind
and until we ask for forgiveness and truly offer that offense as a sacrifice to the Lord, do we experience that freedom that allows us to enter into the holy presence of God, once
again. Have you ever been totally consumed in worship, and not want the music to stop, because you have escaped the issues of life that way you down, and have entered into
a place of total surrender to God, and totally clean before Him. No place I'd rather be, but some times I forget, and need some time face down before my Father, to ask for forgiveness
and He is always faithful to extend the Grace and forgiveness to me.......No place I'd rather be.
P- Lord, the sacrifice of your son was an extreme price to pay for the disobedient things that I do. Lord help me to keep my eyes focused on you, and even more my heart & mind to be
in complete surrender. Every day let me start with thanking you for the ulimate sacrifice of your son, that has been given as a gift to me, for ultimate freedom to experience
your love for me. Thank you for the presence of holiness through forgivenss. Thank you for sacriifice.
Monday, July 12, 2010
"HE IS OUR SALVATION, OUR STRENGTH, OUR SONG!"
Diana Kriesel
Monday, 7/12/10 – Isaiah 11-14; Hebrews 9 - “HE IS OUR SALVATION, OUR STRENGTH, OUR SONG!”
S – Isaiah 12:2 – “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation." NIV
O – The writer declares that God is the author, or source of our salvation, that it is not brought about by human hands, but is traced directly to God. The believers are taught to triumph in God, not only as the One Who saves, but the One in Whom we are safe.
A - Since God is its author, since He is able to defend us, and to perfect that which has begun, we can put our confidence in Him and not be afraid of anything that may come our way. We can trust Him with all of our concerns, being confident that He will not fail us, for He is our strength. If we make Him our song, He will be our song.
P – Lord, thank You for the promise that YOU ARE our salvation, YOU ARE our strength, YOU ARE our song! Teach us to walk in that Truth and today, Lord, teach us what it means that YOU ARE OUR SONG!
Monday, 7/12/10 – Isaiah 11-14; Hebrews 9 - “HE IS OUR SALVATION, OUR STRENGTH, OUR SONG!”
S – Isaiah 12:2 – “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation." NIV
O – The writer declares that God is the author, or source of our salvation, that it is not brought about by human hands, but is traced directly to God. The believers are taught to triumph in God, not only as the One Who saves, but the One in Whom we are safe.
A - Since God is its author, since He is able to defend us, and to perfect that which has begun, we can put our confidence in Him and not be afraid of anything that may come our way. We can trust Him with all of our concerns, being confident that He will not fail us, for He is our strength. If we make Him our song, He will be our song.
P – Lord, thank You for the promise that YOU ARE our salvation, YOU ARE our strength, YOU ARE our song! Teach us to walk in that Truth and today, Lord, teach us what it means that YOU ARE OUR SONG!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Stuck or on Your Road to Freedom?
S - Hebrews 7:25 - "Therefore he is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through him..."
O - This verse speaks about sanctification, which is the road to freedom. The verb "come" in the Greek is in the present tense. Justification is a once-for-all act. Sanctification is a continuing process or should be. It is based on our continuing to come to Him to be changed. The sad reality is that we can be saved, but not keep coming to be sanctified. We, as born again believers, can get stuck in the same old sins and dysfunctional behaviors. I DON'T WANT THAT!So when I get stuck, what I do then is seek God very determinedly because I know this isn't God's will, and I know that there is breakthrough for me. Sometimes it is a long road to freedom and it is easy to give up and get discouraged, but it is worth it.
A - I will keep coming to God persistently with faith that God can change me. He can save me to the uttermost!
P - Just as I am, I come. But Lord, I don't want to stay "Just as I am". I want to change. I want growth and breakthrough through your power and wisdom. In Jesus name, Amen!
O - This verse speaks about sanctification, which is the road to freedom. The verb "come" in the Greek is in the present tense. Justification is a once-for-all act. Sanctification is a continuing process or should be. It is based on our continuing to come to Him to be changed. The sad reality is that we can be saved, but not keep coming to be sanctified. We, as born again believers, can get stuck in the same old sins and dysfunctional behaviors. I DON'T WANT THAT!So when I get stuck, what I do then is seek God very determinedly because I know this isn't God's will, and I know that there is breakthrough for me. Sometimes it is a long road to freedom and it is easy to give up and get discouraged, but it is worth it.
A - I will keep coming to God persistently with faith that God can change me. He can save me to the uttermost!
P - Just as I am, I come. But Lord, I don't want to stay "Just as I am". I want to change. I want growth and breakthrough through your power and wisdom. In Jesus name, Amen!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Don’t Get Lazy
Friday, July 9, 2010
Mic. 1-4; Hebrews 6
Don’t Get Lazy
by Mary White
S--Heb. 6:11 “We want you to show this same diligence to the very end…do not become lazy…”
O--The writer of Hebrews was encouraging the reader to continue their good works, and acknowledging their love for God through those works. And encourages others to use this same diligence to the very end.
A--Some time we may think I’ve done my share…I’ll retire now. But this verse reminds us that we really never retire from the work of God. I may almost be of retirement age, but with this age I have gained wisdom and experience that can be used to help others grow, and hopefully avoid the mistakes I have made. I have a testimony that is uniquely mine and I need to continue to share it.
P--Help me Lord not to grow weary in well doing…help me not to become lazy.
Mic. 1-4; Hebrews 6
Don’t Get Lazy
by Mary White
S--Heb. 6:11 “We want you to show this same diligence to the very end…do not become lazy…”
O--The writer of Hebrews was encouraging the reader to continue their good works, and acknowledging their love for God through those works. And encourages others to use this same diligence to the very end.
A--Some time we may think I’ve done my share…I’ll retire now. But this verse reminds us that we really never retire from the work of God. I may almost be of retirement age, but with this age I have gained wisdom and experience that can be used to help others grow, and hopefully avoid the mistakes I have made. I have a testimony that is uniquely mine and I need to continue to share it.
P--Help me Lord not to grow weary in well doing…help me not to become lazy.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Thursday July 8, 2010 Hos 13-14, Ps: 100, 102, Heb. 5 S-The Password
S-The PasswordPs. 100:2 (NIV) Worship the Lord with gladness, come before Him with a joyful song. (MSG) Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourself into HIS presence. O- The Psalmist is saying for us to "get on your feet" and praise God. He is the creator and maker of each one of us and each has been chosen by God for His purpose. Be glad and and "thank" Him for your existance. The message bible says, that the password into His presence is "thank you."
A- Often when we are down, worship can seem to be the hardest thing to do. What this psalm is saying, is to get up
and just start thanking God, it is the key to freedom, and the key to entering into His presence. Worship is water
to our soul, and that water can put out any turmoil that is going on in your mind, because it becomes all about Him.
P- Dear Lord, give us a song of Thanks on our hearts today. For those who are heavy hearted and in crisis, give them a
song that will bring laughter to their soul. For everyone, put a song on our hearts that keeps a surrounding presence
of you, around our minds to keep our focus on you, and to be thankful for our existance. Amen.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
HE SEES EVERYTHING
by Vivian Bills
O - God sees and knows everything; you have no secrets before Him.
A - Growing up without knowledge of God, my view of sin was very simple. Sin was the bad thing I did that my parents found out about. I loved my parents, so I didn't want to hurt them. My sister taught my very early on that what my parents didn't know, wouldn't hurt them. But now, I know God and love Him. If you hide your sin from other people and you somehow feel safe because nobody else knows, then you really don't know God. Don't you realize that He sees everything? You can't hide from Him.
P - Lord, I am so grateful that I can't hide from You. Remind me always, Lord, that You see my every move. I thank You for Your love and protection. Give me the strength to resist the temptation to sin; I don't want to sin because I love You.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
LIVING IN HIS PRESENCE
by Cathy Weymouth
Tuesday 7/6/10 Hosea 6-9; Heb 3 -LIVING CONTINUALLY IN HIS PRESENCE
S - Come, let us return to the Lord... he will heal us... he will bind up our wounds. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence.
O - Hosea was a prophet to the nation of Israel during rebellious times. This took place years before Jesus' ministry on earth while Israel was under the Law. We, however, live in New Covenant times, freed from the Law.
A -When I read, "on the third day he will restore us," I thought of Jesus spending three days in the tomb. Because of the cross and resurrection, we ARE restored! And we are now continually in His presence. We live "in Christ." I recently heard on a CD teaching that we do not need to strive to get closer to the Lord. Because we are "in Him," we ARE close; we can't get any closer. At times our attention may wander. We may forget our position in Him. We may be distracted by other things in this life. But as Christians, we live continually in His Presence. Wow.
P - Father, I'm not sure that we understand this. Would you give us revelation concerning "Christ in us" and we being "in Christ?" I think many of us strive to get closer to you. May we instead rest in being close and open our hearts to you - right within us - closer than a heartbeat away.
Tuesday 7/6/10 Hosea 6-9; Heb 3 -LIVING CONTINUALLY IN HIS PRESENCE
S - Come, let us return to the Lord... he will heal us... he will bind up our wounds. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence.
O - Hosea was a prophet to the nation of Israel during rebellious times. This took place years before Jesus' ministry on earth while Israel was under the Law. We, however, live in New Covenant times, freed from the Law.
A -When I read, "on the third day he will restore us," I thought of Jesus spending three days in the tomb. Because of the cross and resurrection, we ARE restored! And we are now continually in His presence. We live "in Christ." I recently heard on a CD teaching that we do not need to strive to get closer to the Lord. Because we are "in Him," we ARE close; we can't get any closer. At times our attention may wander. We may forget our position in Him. We may be distracted by other things in this life. But as Christians, we live continually in His Presence. Wow.
P - Father, I'm not sure that we understand this. Would you give us revelation concerning "Christ in us" and we being "in Christ?" I think many of us strive to get closer to you. May we instead rest in being close and open our hearts to you - right within us - closer than a heartbeat away.
Monday, July 5, 2010
KEEP A GRIP!
by Diana Kriesel
Monday, 7/5/10 – Hosea 2-5; Hebrews 2 - “Keep a Grip!”
S – Hebrews 2:1 – “It's crucial that we keep a firm grip on what we've heard so that we don't drift off.” (from The Message Bible)
O – The writer of Hebrews exhorts us not to be superficial hearers of the Word, lest we lose the benefit what has been preached. It is important to “keep a firm grip” on the Truth of God’s Word so that it does not slip away. The original translation actually speaks of this as “allowing it to run out as leaking vessels” so the possibility is that if we do not ‘keep a grip’ on what Christ says, His Words can flow by us without us benefiting from them. We must secure them and let them be our source of Life.
A – It is our personal responsibility to take the Word of God and allow it to become a part of our life, changing us, purifying us, confronting us, continually conforming us into the image of Christ.
P – Thank You Father for the power of salvation, the power of Your Word in our lives. Help us to continually keep a grip on the sword of Your Word so that we are living from that place of power.
Monday, 7/5/10 – Hosea 2-5; Hebrews 2 - “Keep a Grip!”
S – Hebrews 2:1 – “It's crucial that we keep a firm grip on what we've heard so that we don't drift off.” (from The Message Bible)
O – The writer of Hebrews exhorts us not to be superficial hearers of the Word, lest we lose the benefit what has been preached. It is important to “keep a firm grip” on the Truth of God’s Word so that it does not slip away. The original translation actually speaks of this as “allowing it to run out as leaking vessels” so the possibility is that if we do not ‘keep a grip’ on what Christ says, His Words can flow by us without us benefiting from them. We must secure them and let them be our source of Life.
A – It is our personal responsibility to take the Word of God and allow it to become a part of our life, changing us, purifying us, confronting us, continually conforming us into the image of Christ.
P – Thank You Father for the power of salvation, the power of Your Word in our lives. Help us to continually keep a grip on the sword of Your Word so that we are living from that place of power.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Not Just a Feel Good Experience
S- Isaiah 6:1 - In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted.
O - In a time of change, loss,uncertainty, and transition, Isaiah had a vision of God, of the King who will never die. In our transitory, ever-changing circumstaqnces, we need a vision of our transcendent God who is high and lifted up. We need to lift our eyes beyond the temperal to the eternal. Yet this was not just a mystical, other worldly, feel good experience! From the threshold of heaven, Isaiah receives his call, his ministry to a very specific time and people on the earth.
A - I need a vision of God as "high and lifted up". I need the perspective of heaven applied to my life.
P - Lord, we lift up our eyes to You, not to avoid earth's realities, but to get your perspective and to hear your call. We receive comfort, strength, direction right now from You, our Mighty God. Amen.
O - In a time of change, loss,uncertainty, and transition, Isaiah had a vision of God, of the King who will never die. In our transitory, ever-changing circumstaqnces, we need a vision of our transcendent God who is high and lifted up. We need to lift our eyes beyond the temperal to the eternal. Yet this was not just a mystical, other worldly, feel good experience! From the threshold of heaven, Isaiah receives his call, his ministry to a very specific time and people on the earth.
A - I need a vision of God as "high and lifted up". I need the perspective of heaven applied to my life.
P - Lord, we lift up our eyes to You, not to avoid earth's realities, but to get your perspective and to hear your call. We receive comfort, strength, direction right now from You, our Mighty God. Amen.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Thursday July 1, 2010 S- Is: 1-3 Titus 3 "A God Bath"
Thursday July 1, 2010
S- Is: 1-3 Titus 3 "A God Bath"
Titus 3:5 NIV: 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.
MSG: He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it a new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our savior poured out new life so generously.
O-Paul says to remind the people to respect those that are in government and be law abiding, and always ready to help. He reminds us that we were once like them, and not always kind, but by the cleansing of God with our choice to follow Him, He made us new, and cleaned up our hearts and renewed our minds which were like filthy rags. Be BIG hearted.
A-That is a reminder to me, because especially now with the way our government is, it is easy to judge and ridicule our leaders. God knew they would become leaders of our country, and we need to respect and pray for them. Those that work with leaders to not be disgruntle but to be of good cheer. Submission is not when you agree, but rather, it is when you don't and yet you can still work together and give up your right to be right.
P- Lord, renew our minds every day. it is so easy to have our minds go astray when we are not in your word, and not worshipping you in song, and being busy about the busyness of life. Thank you Lord for your Grace and Mercy that washes us clean just by the asking and the turning away and focusing our hearts and minds on you. Amen=
S- Is: 1-3 Titus 3 "A God Bath"
Titus 3:5 NIV: 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.
MSG: He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it a new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our savior poured out new life so generously.
O-Paul says to remind the people to respect those that are in government and be law abiding, and always ready to help. He reminds us that we were once like them, and not always kind, but by the cleansing of God with our choice to follow Him, He made us new, and cleaned up our hearts and renewed our minds which were like filthy rags. Be BIG hearted.
A-That is a reminder to me, because especially now with the way our government is, it is easy to judge and ridicule our leaders. God knew they would become leaders of our country, and we need to respect and pray for them. Those that work with leaders to not be disgruntle but to be of good cheer. Submission is not when you agree, but rather, it is when you don't and yet you can still work together and give up your right to be right.
P- Lord, renew our minds every day. it is so easy to have our minds go astray when we are not in your word, and not worshipping you in song, and being busy about the busyness of life. Thank you Lord for your Grace and Mercy that washes us clean just by the asking and the turning away and focusing our hearts and minds on you. Amen=
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