Sing-A-Long Saturday

Today's song comes from a group called We Are Messengers. It is entitled "Magnify". This beautiful song is a prayer asking God to magnify his name by opening the singer's eyes to see God and his glory! Enjoy!

Click Here to Listen

Teach Them to Your Children

As my grandchildren prepared for breakfast it was chaos. Getting bowls, finding the baby highchair, spilled milk and the other mishaps that preceded this moment caught on video all faded as my grandchildren sat to eat and I simply said, "Let's Thank Jesus for this meal." I turned back to grab myself a chair and upon turning back, this is what I saw. Three beautiful children holding hands and praying. They even included their special baby doll, Ivy.

Friends, your children, nieces, nephews, and so many others are watching you. They notice everything and take it all in. God commands us to teach our children His laws, to be obedient, and to love him. Maybe like me, you made mistakes in raising your own children. Today is the day to learn from the Lord and raise the children in your life to do the same.

     Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. Remember the day you stood before the Lord your God at Horeb, when he said to me, “Assemble the people before me to hear my words so that they may learn to revere me as long as they live in the land and may teach them to their children.”

                                           Deuteronomy 4:9-10

A Prayer for Guidance

4. Show me the right path, O Lord;

Point out the road for me to follow.

5. Lead me by your truth and teach me,

for you are the God who saves me.

All day long I put my hope in you.

6. Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love,

which you have shown from long ages past.

7. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.

Remember me in the light of your unfailing love,

for you are merciful, O Lord.

Psalm 25 4-7 NLT

Dear God,

Show me where to go from here.  I am your servant and I love you and honor all that you do.  Lead me by your promises and teach me your Word.  I trust in you to give me wisdom and salvation.  Your patience is with me as I wander through life.  Help me to keep on track and forgive me when I make a wrong turn.  Look into my heart and know that my love for you is sincere.  Forget about my past and see into my future, full of love and devotion to you.  I cherish the mercy and grace that you offer me. Thank you!  Thank you!

His Unfailing Love is New Every Morning!

I have been recovering from a period of depression and emotional issues. It's been a long journey, but even as I heal, the Lord is faithful to meet me at my point of need. He has never left my side or failed to counsel me. This month marks the anniversary of an emotional breakdown that happened last year. It caused me to go through the scariest time of my life. I feared I had failed God and that he no longer had need for me. I believe that the enemy fought to have my life emotionally, spiritually and physically.

I was put on medication that has helped stabilize my moods and allowed me to gain emotional, physical, and spiritual footing. Part of my health problem was that for years, and I do mean years, I was unable to sleep through the night. My mind ran non-stop, waking me at 2 or 3 every morning and not allowing me to go back to sleep. I was literally drained. The medicine has helped immensely, but it has a downfall. This medicine makes it so difficult to wake up in the morning that by the time I'm awake life around me has begun. What that means is that meeting with God during a quiet time is nearly impossible. And I miss Him so much!

Today, however, God woke me at 6:16 am. Wide awake. Mind clear. Alert and ready to sit with him. As I sat in the living room my simple prayer was, "Speak to my heart, Lord. What do I need to know for this day?" And through my devotional he spoke saying, "I will instruct you and teach you int he way you should go, I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." Psalm 32:8

So I sat quietly before proceeding with the devotion- waiting for him to lead. The next verse lead me to pray for his guidance, "Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight." Psalm 119:35

In a quiet whisper within my spirit I heard him tell me to take a meal to a friend who is overwhelmed today. "Ok, I agreed."

And so I continued on in my devotion. This verse leading me to the next message from my Lord, "Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for  I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life." Psalm 143:8  I sat and waited. I prayed, "Ok, God show me your unfailing love. Show me that no matter what, you love me and let my heart know that I haven't strayed to far. That this past year is truly behind me because your unfailing love will lead me on."

As I prayed I caught a glimpse of the sunrise. A glimpse that had I sat 2 inches to the left or right on my couch I would have missed. The sun came up over the trees miles beyond. It began subtly and then in a moment it was so bright that I couldn't even look at it any longer. It was beautiful! All at once I realized that God was giving me his reminder of his unfailing love.

You see, the weather changes. The seasons change. My daily plans and activities change. The world and situations around me are in constant change both good and bad. But no matter what, the sun rises and falls every single day. Just like God's love. It is there to greet me every morning and kisses my face good night each night.

Our God is faithful. What he has said he will do. His love endures forever. Praise be to our God. Amen

Sing-Along-Saturday

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, 

but not with God; all things are possible with God."

Mark 10:27

Today's song comes once again from Charles Billingsley and is entitled "There's Nothing My God Cannot Do". Listen carefully to the words and enjoy the peppy beat!

Click here to listen!

God is Faithful To Forgive

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins 

and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9

Being a Christian is a one time decision to believe that Jesus Christ is our savior.  Living the Christian life is a maturing process that takes detours, slides down slopes and climbs mountains, all on a timeline that God has laid out and sees perfect for our life.  God knows the decisons we will make before we do and so He has our life in His hands, planned out for all the mistakes we might make on the way to complete maturity.  He doesn't get mad when we make those mistakes.  He isn't disappointed, because He isn't surprised by them.  He doesn't give up on us or love us any less for messing up.  God is perfect love!  And that love is patient and kind.  He waits for us!  Like a mother waiting on her child to listen and take hold of her hand, God stands at our side smiling patiently, waiting for us to grab His hand and go with Him.  Those moments we choose to run off are many, but he never walks on ahead of us or leaves us on our own.  He loves us and is faithful to forgive us!  

Now say a prayer of forgiveness and leave it with God.  Don't carry your burden all day.  Let it be done and trust that God will lead you to change and grow closer to Him in maturity.    

A Power Verse

So do not  fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

God wants you to know a You are not alone; He is with you. He wants you to know that he has bought you for his own and has established a relationship with you: He is your God. And by his power and might, he will strengthen you and uphold you: You do not have to be afraid. 

God is not some distant God that is uninterested in us. He is near and working for your good. He is involved in the details of your life. 

Today meditate on this verse. Write it on a notepaper and keep it in front of you. Hide it in your heart by memorizing it. The power in this verse is amazing. Whatever the day brings these words from our God will encourage and comfort your heart. Hide it in your heart so that the Holy Spirit can call it to you mind when you need reminded!

Lord, thank you for choosing me. Thank you for giving me your power to endure anything that comes my way. Just knowing you are with me removes my fear. You are my God, and you won't let go. Thank you, Dear God! Amen

The Heart God Desires

"This is the one I esteem;

he who is humble and contrite in spirit

and trembles at my word." 

Psalm 66:2

These are the words of the Lord. He seeks hearts that are humble. He desires those who are contrite in spirit. Do you know what that means? It means God is seeking hearts that are repentant, remorseful and conscience-striken. He desires hearts that fear his word and are quick to obey. 

This scripture is a gauge for our heart's condition. Are you humble before the Lord? Bowing low and giving him the due honor and respect of which our God is worthy. Are you repentant and remorseful when you break his laws. Does sin cause you to feel conscience-stricken as you read the word of the Lord?

You see, if God's word does nothing for us...there is an issue to be dealt with! God's word is alive and active. It should move us forward to purity and holiness. If reading the word of the Lord doesn't invoke change then it is a sign of a hard heart. However, God can change of heart of stone to a heart of flesh. He can remove the callouses and give life to a heart that is hard.

We all have callouses- places in our heart that are hardened due to hurt or fear. Places that need the redeeming touch of our God. So where do we begin? We begin with a prayer and these words from David are perfect! 

Create in me a pure heart, O God, 

and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Do not cast me from your presence

or take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation,

and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Psalms 51:10-12

Sunday Scripture

Rejoice in the Lord always.

I will say it again: Rejoice!

Philippians 4:4

Thank you, Lord!

“Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭47:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As you go through the day today be mindful to thank God. His salvation is our greatest gift, and  for that reason alone we owe him our thanks. But it's in the little things we can create. Habit of thankfulness. As you pass flowers in bloom say, "Thank you, Lord."  As you watch your child play say, "Thank you, Lord." As you place dishes in the dishwasher making your task easier say, "Thank you, Lord."

Lord, help me to create a habit of thankfulness. You are worthy of all praise! Lord you are over all and the reason for all.  Let my heart thank you continually. Amen

Wise vs. Fool

So be careful how you live. 

Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise.

Ephesians 5:15

After reading this I was interested in knowing what the bible said about the characteristics of a fool and a wise person.  Obviously we all want to be living like those who are wise, but I question what makes one wise and what makes him a fool.  Here is the result of my research.  It definitely opened my eyes to my own actions and has made me think of the way I do things and handle situations.  I hope you can take from it some encouragement to either continue on your wise path, keeping in mind those actions that can quickly take you off that path.  Or if you are finding yourself a fool I pray that you can be encouraged to change your thinking so that you can be closer to God, finding the joy that comes from living like Jesus.  

A fool..........

- shows anger (Ecclesiastes 7:9)

- is resentful (Job 5:2)

- is dishonest (Provervbs 19:1)

- boasts (2 Corinthians 11:17)

- is sinful (Proverbs 24:9)

- commits adultery (Proverbs 6:32)

- destroys himself (Proverbs 6:32)

- slanders others (Proverbs 10:18)

- feeds on trash, untruth (Proverbs 15:4, Isaiah 44:20)

- repeats his foolishness (Proverbs 26:11)

- uses too many words (Ecclesiastes 5:3)

- takes the wrong road (Ecclesiastes 10:2)

- makes his own god (Isaiah 44:10)

- babbles (Proverbs 10:14)

- is quick tempered (Proverbs 12:16)

- despises discipline (Proverbs 15:5, Proverbs 1:17)

- is proud (Proverbs 30:32, Proverbs 14:3)

- plots evil (Proverbs 30:32, Psalm 14:1)

- is unreliable (Proverbs 26:6)

- belches out foolishness or untruth (Proverbs 15:2, Isaiah 32:6)

- doesn't respond to discipline (Proverbs 17:10)

- thinks only about the present and having a good time (Ecclesiastes 7:4)

- despises wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 18:2, Proverbs 1:17, Provervbs 23:9)

- gets into quarrels (Proverbs 18:6, Proverbs 20:31)

- stores up earthly riches but has no relationship with God (Luke 12:21)

- trusts in things that can't help him (Isaiah 44:20)

- says there is no God (Psalm 14:1)

- vents his anger (Proverbs 29:11)

- thinks his own way is right (Proverbs 12:15, Proverbs 28:26)

- deceives himself (Proverbs 14:8)

- spends all his money (Proverbs 21:20)

- is destroyed by his own complacency (Proverbs 1:32)

- has wandering eyes (Proverbs 17:24)

- has a lack of common sense (Proverbs 10:2)

- makes fun of guilt (Proverbs 14:9)

- plunges ahead with reckless confidence (Proverbs 14:16)

- is lazy (Ecclesiastes 10:15)

- deprives the hungry of food and water (Isaiah 32:6)

- is put to shame (Proverbs 3:35)

A wise person..........

- holds back his anger (Proverbs 29:11)

- gives wise, persuasive speech (Proverbs 16:23)

- welcomes advice (Proverbs 13:10, Proverbs 20:18, Proverbs 12:15)

- inherits honor (Proverbs 3:35)

- welcomes discipline (Proverbs 15:31, Proverbs 9:8)

- uses few words (Proverbs 17:27)

- is even tempered (Proverbs 17:27)

- is mighty and strong (Proverbs 24:5)

- calms anger (Proverbs 29:8)

- chooses the right road (Ecclesiastes 10:2)

- brings healing (Proverbs 12:18)

- is humble (Proverbs 12:23, James 3:13)

- shines bright (Daniel 12:3)

- is hungry for knowledge (Proverbs 15:14, Proverbs 10:4)

- stays calm when insulted (Proverbs 12:16)

- gives good advice (Proverbs 15:7)

- thinks about eternity and "big picture" (Ecclesiastes 7:4)

- fears the Lord (Proverbs 1:17)

- has wealth and luxery (Proverbs 21:20)

- walks in wisdom (Proverbs 28:26)

- has an understanding heart (Proverbs 14:33)

- thinks before he acts (Proverbs 13:16)

- avoids danger (Proverbs 14:16)

Dear God, thank you for showing me the ways in which I can live to my fullest potential.  Help me to be wise and seek wisdom instead of getting caught in worldly living.  Show me the way to change and give me guidance on what to do.  I want to live like Jesus and I thank you for being patient with me.  Amen

Sunday Scripture

But then I recall all you have done, O LORD;

I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago.

They are constantly in my thoughts.

I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.

Psalm 77:11-12 NLT

Sing-Along-Saturday

Diamonds

Today's song is 'Diamonds' by Hawk Nelson. Did you know diamonds are made of pure carbon? They form over millions of years when carbon is put under extreme pressure and heat deep within the earth. As I was researching diamonds I found this quote, "Rough diamonds are rare. And they are the hardest known natural substance. But in their raw form they are remarkably unremarkable! It is only through the diamond craftmanship of man that the full beauty of a diamond can be observed."  Isn't that amazing! Only in the hands of a craftsman does a diamond become beautiful. 

God is working his master craftsmanship in us. In our natural form we are remarkably unremarkable! But with His Spirit working within us, we become a unique and amazing pure diamond.  He knows just what it will take for us to draw close to him. He knows just what pressures it will take to make us sparkle and shine as he polishes away our rough spots! He is making diamonds out of us!


Click Here to Listen to Diamonds

Lyrics:
Here and now I'm in the fire, in above my head
Being held under the pressure, don't know what will be left
But it's here in the ashes
I'm finding treasure

He's making diamonds 
Making diamonds
He's making diamonds out of dust
He is refining
And in his timing
He's making diamonds out of us

I'll surrender to the power of being crushed by love
‘Til the beauty that was hidden isn't covered up
It's not what I hoped for
It's something much better

Oh The Joy of the Lord
It will be my strength
When the pressure is on
He's making Diamonds

I won't be afraid to shine
I won't be afraid to shine
I won't be afraid to shine

‘Cuz He's making diamonds out of dust
Making diamonds out of us



Quote from http://www.whiteflash.com/about-diamonds/diamond-education/diamonds-how-do-they-form.htm

Official found on you tube @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yf1ARbpB0gA

Success!

Study this book of instruction continually.  Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it.  Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.

Joshua 1:8 NLT

I was just reminded this morning that if I am not in God's Word then most likely the choices I make aren't in His will and most likely won't be successful in His big picture for me.  I won't know how to live Godly if I don't know how God wants me to live.  I won't know what to choose, when faced with difficult decisions, if I don't know what Jesus would do.  If I haven't spent time reading and getting to know God then I won't prosper in the blessings He has for me!  I will struggle to live a prosperous life if my mind is on the world and not fixed on living like Jesus.  It is so easy to get distracted!  It is so easy to get swept away by the things of this world, which is why God wants us continually meditating on His Word so that we can stay grounded.  Yes, he wants us to obey Him, but I think just the same He wants us to know His character and what He stands for so that we can live like that too.  Obeying God's instructions and knowing what He says and does in certain situations is what we should base our actions on.  If we don't know those things then our life can't be lived out like God wants and our success will be worldly success which won't last long nor will it impact the kingdom or carry through to eternity.  So to succeed in life we must know God's Word and use it when it comes time to make plans in our own life.  We must know it so well that in a moment of quick decisions we can make the right call and respond in the right way.  It is something that we must do from now until our death.........continue an open relationship with God and His promises and instructions.

Dear God, thank you for your instructions.  Thank you for giving me the Bible to lead my life decisions and to guide me through my life!  You are so patient with me and I long to get this right!  Please give me your wisdom and desire to live Christ-like.  Amen

Like an Olive Tree

But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God;

I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever.

For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people.

And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.

Psalm 52:8-9

King Saul was in pursuit of David. David's life was on the line, and as a result he was on the run and in hiding. He approaches a priest named Ahimelech who gives him food and arms him with Goliath's sword. David then goes into hiding.

However, Doeg, one of King Saul's herdsmen, hears the conversation among David and the priest and runs to tattletale to King Saul. As a reward, Doeg is given the go-ahead to kill Ahimelech and 84 other priests.

Prior to this verse David cries out to God in this psalm about the injustice of Doeg's massacre and Saul's pursuit. Evil is rampant and justice will come.

In contrast, David defends his own character by comparing himself to an olive tree in the house of God. Flourishing, alive, and in the presence of the Lord! David states his trust and  thankfulness to God and will forever praise His name.

Can you relate? Have you been treated unjustly? Are you enduring the pain of another's evil acts?

Look up my friend. Take your eyes off the evil and injustice of this world. Know that our God is just and will prevail and ultimately give evil its due. Focus on the Lord and his faithfulness. Focus on what he has done and praise His name. For He is good! Despite the circumstance you too can flourish like an olive tree in the house of God!

Choose To Be Free

Don't you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey?  You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.

Romans 6:16

I thank God for the brave men and women who selflessly served our country, and continue to serve so that I we may have freedoms and safety in our land.  We have a great coutry with many freedoms that many others don't have the privilege to claim.  Thank God everyone in the world has the opportunity to claim freedom in Christ!  But that too, is a choice that not all take advantage of.  We are slaves to whatever we choose to obey and so if we choose sin, bitterness or drugs then we are a slave to those things.  If we choose God and life our lives devoted to His instructions then we are free.  Today we all have a choice and as we celebrate the freedom our country has we too can celebrate our freedom from choosing a God first life.  Enjoy your fireworks and your cookouts and your friends but never forget God's place in your life and choose to be free in Him, as well!    

Sunday Scripture

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever isnoble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Sing Along Saturday

Christ is our savior now and forevermore!  Jesus didn't just die for us all but for each of us!  He knows us individually and died with each one of us on His heart.  Praising our risen Lord this beautiful morning.  As we prepare to celebrate our country's independence, let us not forget our freedom in Christ, as well!  

Enjoy this song by Charles Billingsly  Now and Forevermore

God, Deliver Me!

Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you , and you will honor me.

Psalm 50:15

God promises through this verse that he will deliver us from the trouble we face on this earth. Do you face sickness, marriage struggles, or a financial debt? Whatever it is you face today, God will deliver you when you call upon his name..

I am learning that God delivers us in a variety of ways, all according to what will bring us to seek and honor Him. He is always working for our best even when it doesn't feel the best.

One way is to deliver us from the trials: For example, a man facing cancer is completely healed through surgery to the astonishment of the doctors. God delivered the man from the illness.

God also delivers us through the trials: A woman has cancer. Though she is not immediately healed, through the trial she is a light to those who witness her godly character and strength as she leans on the Lord through the fire. God may choose to heal her body, but through the fire of cancer, she is being delivered.

God delivers us out of a situation and into a better place: A child battling cancer, though faithful prayers for healing are offered, dies and enters into heaven. 

Whatever it is that you face today, call upon the Lord and ask him to deliver you. Know that he will deliver you, though he may choose to do it in a way that you do not expect or in ways you fail to understand. Know that He is faithful!

"God does deliver- When we can't understand his methods we can trust his character!" 

                                                                                                                    -Jennifer Rothschild