Lesson 7: Speak to your mountains
Matthew 17:20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (New International Version)
It’s high time that the people of God took charge of their situations by confessing God’s Word over their lives. The Bible teaches us we have the power of life and death in our own tongues and it further continues to emphasize the importance of the words we speak.
Matthew 12:33-37 Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 35The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."
What kind of words have you been confessing? Have you spoken doubt and unbelief? If you continue to say you’re broke, lonely, or depressed, then you will be. It’s a self fulfilling prophecy.
The angels of God have been dispatched on your behalf to help you work out any situation you may find yourself in, but it’s only the Word of God they will hearken to. His word will cause them to move into action on your behalf.
Begin to speak the words God says about you over your life. Affirmations of praise and thanksgiving and words of faith and will obligate our Father to fulfill His promises to us. Start calling those things that are not as though they were. Declare that you are more than a conqueror. Confess that you can do all things through Christ and that He who has begun a good work in you can complete it and watch you life begin to change.
Living a life of favor and expectancy sounds impossible but it’s not. God tells us in Ephesians 3:20 that He is able to do exceedingly and abundantly more than you could ever ask or think according to the power that lies within you.
By utilizing these lessons, you will activate the power of the Holy Spirit inside you. This will cause you to have favor before God and man. In this manner you can expect God to honor His Word and fulfill His promises for your life.
Showing posts with label online bible studies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label online bible studies. Show all posts
Friday, March 12, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
7 Lessons for L.I.F.E.: Lesson 6
Lesson 6: Seek God’s Wisdom
Proverbs 8:11 for wisdom is more precious than rubies and nothing you desire can compare with her.
Seeking God for wisdom in our day to day activities is not always our first choice. Rather, we generally choose to follow the desires of our flesh.
God has perfect knowledge and insight into our lives. We should not lean on our own understanding but trust Him in everything we do. Focusing on God and seeking His Kingdom first takes the emphasis off of us and our earthly desires and frees us up to receive what God desires for us.
God’s ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. Ask God for wisdom.
Proverbs 8:11 for wisdom is more precious than rubies and nothing you desire can compare with her.
Seeking God for wisdom in our day to day activities is not always our first choice. Rather, we generally choose to follow the desires of our flesh.
God has perfect knowledge and insight into our lives. We should not lean on our own understanding but trust Him in everything we do. Focusing on God and seeking His Kingdom first takes the emphasis off of us and our earthly desires and frees us up to receive what God desires for us.
God’s ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. Ask God for wisdom.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
7 Steps to Building God Confidence in Children: Step 6
Step 6: Foster Responsibility and Independence
Learning to be responsible includes learning to:
• respect and show compassion for others;
• practice honesty as a matter of course;
• show courage in standing up for our principles;
• develop self-control in acting on our principles;
• maintain self-respect.
As parents we are always teaching our children with our words and our actions. Talk with your children about moral and ethical dilemmas to help them learn to stand up for their principles. Your child’s ability to reason through certain issues even reckless and selfish ones will improve as they mature. If you have taken the time to have meaningful discussions, it will help them in the deliberation process. Allow your children to work through problems on their own. Remind them that you are there to help if necessary, but give them the room to fail and help them to understand why. Help your children to learn that they should not allow others to bully them, but teach them that they should not handle conflicts or solve problems with violence. Teach your children to respect others and be tolerant of other peoples differences.
As parents, we can give our children the best in us by helping them acquire habits and character traits that they can rely on in their own lives. If we help them learn to take pleasure in thinking and behaving well, they will have the best chance to lead good lives as individuals and as citizens in the community
Learning to be responsible includes learning to:
• respect and show compassion for others;
• practice honesty as a matter of course;
• show courage in standing up for our principles;
• develop self-control in acting on our principles;
• maintain self-respect.
As parents we are always teaching our children with our words and our actions. Talk with your children about moral and ethical dilemmas to help them learn to stand up for their principles. Your child’s ability to reason through certain issues even reckless and selfish ones will improve as they mature. If you have taken the time to have meaningful discussions, it will help them in the deliberation process. Allow your children to work through problems on their own. Remind them that you are there to help if necessary, but give them the room to fail and help them to understand why. Help your children to learn that they should not allow others to bully them, but teach them that they should not handle conflicts or solve problems with violence. Teach your children to respect others and be tolerant of other peoples differences.
As parents, we can give our children the best in us by helping them acquire habits and character traits that they can rely on in their own lives. If we help them learn to take pleasure in thinking and behaving well, they will have the best chance to lead good lives as individuals and as citizens in the community
Friday, February 26, 2010
7 Lessons for L.I.F.E.: Living in Favor and Expectancy: Lesson 5
Lesson 5: Let God’s Peace rule in your heart
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (New International Version)
The end result of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives is deep and lasting peace. Unlike worldly peace which is usually defined as the lack of conflict, good feelings, or positive thinking this peace is confident assurance in any circumstance. It comes from knowing God is always in control. With Christ’s peace we have no need to fear the present or the future.
Phillipians 4:6-7Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Seemingly impossible, a life free of anxiety can be achieved when you take Paul’s advice and turn your worries into prayers. Our place in God’s heart is sure. Our destiny is ordained, and we can have victory of life’s problems if we let God’s peace guard our hearts.
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (New International Version)
The end result of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives is deep and lasting peace. Unlike worldly peace which is usually defined as the lack of conflict, good feelings, or positive thinking this peace is confident assurance in any circumstance. It comes from knowing God is always in control. With Christ’s peace we have no need to fear the present or the future.
Phillipians 4:6-7Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Seemingly impossible, a life free of anxiety can be achieved when you take Paul’s advice and turn your worries into prayers. Our place in God’s heart is sure. Our destiny is ordained, and we can have victory of life’s problems if we let God’s peace guard our hearts.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
7 Steps to Building God Confidence in Children: Step 5
Step 5: Be a Good Role Model
Joseph is a good example of how we can be role models for our children. Whether in betrayal, adversity, or success, he makes the best of his circumstances, remaining faithful and loyal to God.
1. Genesis 37:1-11 (New International Version)
2. Genesis 39:1-23
3. Genesis 40:1-23
4. Genesis 41:37-57
5. Genesis 45:1-8, 50:15-21
Joseph was a dreamer with great aspirations. He was loyal, patient, diligent, dependable, and forgiving.
If we take a lesson from the pages of Joseph’s life and exhibit before our children these qualities, then we will establish a foundation for our children to build upon.
Our children emulate what they see. They are like disciples following after our example. Live a life of faithfulness, strong moral character, and due diligence. Be fair, honest and control your temper when handling conflict. Find ways to manage your stress levels.
Be tolerant by going out of your way to be kind and compassionate to others. Help others and learn to be an active listener.
Joseph is a good example of how we can be role models for our children. Whether in betrayal, adversity, or success, he makes the best of his circumstances, remaining faithful and loyal to God.
1. Genesis 37:1-11 (New International Version)
2. Genesis 39:1-23
3. Genesis 40:1-23
4. Genesis 41:37-57
5. Genesis 45:1-8, 50:15-21
Joseph was a dreamer with great aspirations. He was loyal, patient, diligent, dependable, and forgiving.
If we take a lesson from the pages of Joseph’s life and exhibit before our children these qualities, then we will establish a foundation for our children to build upon.
Our children emulate what they see. They are like disciples following after our example. Live a life of faithfulness, strong moral character, and due diligence. Be fair, honest and control your temper when handling conflict. Find ways to manage your stress levels.
Be tolerant by going out of your way to be kind and compassionate to others. Help others and learn to be an active listener.
Friday, February 19, 2010
7 Lessons for L.I.F.E.: Living in Favor and Expectancy
Lesson 4: Be Bold in the Lord.
Luke 12: 8-9 I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God. But he who disowns me before men will be disowned before the angels of God.
How often have you been at work in a discussion about a particular moral topic and instead of speaking up, you sat quietly by and allowed others to speak untruths or defame the gospel and moral value systems?
We disown God when we hope no one will think we are Christians, decide not to speak up for what is right, are silent about our relationship with God, blend into society, and accept our culture’s non-Christian values. By contrast, we honor God when we become bold in His name by living moral, upright, Christ loving lives, looking for opportunities to share our faith with others, helping others in need, taking a stand for justice, loving others, acknowledging our loyalty to Christ, and using our lives and resources to carry out his desires rather than our own.
Luke 12: 8-9 I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God. But he who disowns me before men will be disowned before the angels of God.
How often have you been at work in a discussion about a particular moral topic and instead of speaking up, you sat quietly by and allowed others to speak untruths or defame the gospel and moral value systems?
We disown God when we hope no one will think we are Christians, decide not to speak up for what is right, are silent about our relationship with God, blend into society, and accept our culture’s non-Christian values. By contrast, we honor God when we become bold in His name by living moral, upright, Christ loving lives, looking for opportunities to share our faith with others, helping others in need, taking a stand for justice, loving others, acknowledging our loyalty to Christ, and using our lives and resources to carry out his desires rather than our own.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
7 Steps to Building God Confidence in Children: Step 4
Step 4: Create a safe Loving Home Environment
Psalms 133: 1-3 How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.
Kids who don’t feel safe will suffer. Children exposed to parents who fight and argue may become depressed and withdrawn. Remember to respect your kids.
Unity in the home is called precious and a blessing. Too many outside commitments can lead to little time spent with your children. A family cannot experience wholeness until each member is willing to put the other first.
Though many life situations are beyond our control, parents can still establish homes that are peaceful and secure. Start by rejoicing in the accomplishments of others. Encourage your children to voice honest doubts and real struggles. A consistent walk with God, established routines, clearly communicated boundaries, and traditions when consistently applied create homes that are free of volatility. Such homes become retreats; safe places of comfort and renewal.
Our families can be a powerful witness to others for good. We can either point to God or away from Him. When our homes are havens for peace and respect for one another, people take notice.
Make your home a place where disagreements are fair, different opinions are respected, and words are loving.
Who is the power behind your family? What do people see when they look at your family? What traits do you admire about other families? How can you incorporate those traits into your family? What positive aspects are being built into your own family?
Psalms 133: 1-3 How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.
Kids who don’t feel safe will suffer. Children exposed to parents who fight and argue may become depressed and withdrawn. Remember to respect your kids.
Unity in the home is called precious and a blessing. Too many outside commitments can lead to little time spent with your children. A family cannot experience wholeness until each member is willing to put the other first.
Though many life situations are beyond our control, parents can still establish homes that are peaceful and secure. Start by rejoicing in the accomplishments of others. Encourage your children to voice honest doubts and real struggles. A consistent walk with God, established routines, clearly communicated boundaries, and traditions when consistently applied create homes that are free of volatility. Such homes become retreats; safe places of comfort and renewal.
Our families can be a powerful witness to others for good. We can either point to God or away from Him. When our homes are havens for peace and respect for one another, people take notice.
Make your home a place where disagreements are fair, different opinions are respected, and words are loving.
Who is the power behind your family? What do people see when they look at your family? What traits do you admire about other families? How can you incorporate those traits into your family? What positive aspects are being built into your own family?
Friday, February 12, 2010
7 Lesson for L.I.F.E.: Living in Favor and Expectancy
Lesson # 3 be a Faithful Steward over God’s Greatest Creation: “You”
Psalm 8:3-9 (New International Version) When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
It can be easy to feel unimportant in a world so full of people, places, and things. To feel small is a healthy way back to reality. But, God does not want us to dwell on our smallness. Instead, He reminds us in Psalms that He has given us dominion and crowned us with glory. Humility means proper respect for God not depreciation of our self worth.
How could God be concerned for a people who constantly disappoint Him? The answer is simple. God considers us highly valuable because we are His creation. Our true value is God’s estimate of our worth, not out peers’. Other people evaluate and categorize us according to how we perform, what we achieve, and how we look. But God cares for us because we belong to Him. So we can face life without fear.
The next time you question your worth as a person, remember, Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God has declared how valuable we are to Him. Because of His affirmation, we can be set free from feelings of worthlessness.
How do you treat God’s greatest creation, “You”? Use your resources wisely because God holds you accountable for your stewardship, even over yourself.
Psalm 8:3-9 (New International Version) When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
It can be easy to feel unimportant in a world so full of people, places, and things. To feel small is a healthy way back to reality. But, God does not want us to dwell on our smallness. Instead, He reminds us in Psalms that He has given us dominion and crowned us with glory. Humility means proper respect for God not depreciation of our self worth.
How could God be concerned for a people who constantly disappoint Him? The answer is simple. God considers us highly valuable because we are His creation. Our true value is God’s estimate of our worth, not out peers’. Other people evaluate and categorize us according to how we perform, what we achieve, and how we look. But God cares for us because we belong to Him. So we can face life without fear.
The next time you question your worth as a person, remember, Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God has declared how valuable we are to Him. Because of His affirmation, we can be set free from feelings of worthlessness.
How do you treat God’s greatest creation, “You”? Use your resources wisely because God holds you accountable for your stewardship, even over yourself.
Friday, February 5, 2010
7 Lessons for L.I.F.E.: Living in Favor and Expectancy
Lesson 2: Be grateful.
Exodus 16:2 in the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron.(New International Version)
Once again, we find the children of Israel complaining. Even after the many miraculous works of God, as soon as times got tough, they wanted to go back to the familiarity of slavery.
Truthfully, they didn’t really desire to go back to Egypt, they just wanted life to be easier.
With jobs, children, spouses and the wear and tear of everyday life, it's easy to forget all of the blessings God has given us. We can lose our perspective on God's control of our lives when the physical, mental, and emotional demands or our many roles and responsibilities take their toll. Our perspective becomes somewhat convoluted and ungratefulness creeps in if we focus too heavily on material things while taking what we have for granted. We become complacent and our tendency is to forget that all good things come from God. Our security is no longer in Him but in what we possess. We congratulate ourselves rather than glorify Him.
We must be careful not to see God as a "Sugar Daddy" or someone we call on only when we need Him; neglecting to commune with Him when life is going well. Our relationship with God during the good times shows where our sense of security really lies.
Like the Israelites in Numbers 31: 48-50, we should eagerly offer up a sacrifice and a testimony of praise when God has delivered us.
If we are to truly have a relationship with God, include Him and acknowledge His presence even in the good times.
Be grateful.
Exodus 16:2 in the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron.(New International Version)
Once again, we find the children of Israel complaining. Even after the many miraculous works of God, as soon as times got tough, they wanted to go back to the familiarity of slavery.
Truthfully, they didn’t really desire to go back to Egypt, they just wanted life to be easier.
With jobs, children, spouses and the wear and tear of everyday life, it's easy to forget all of the blessings God has given us. We can lose our perspective on God's control of our lives when the physical, mental, and emotional demands or our many roles and responsibilities take their toll. Our perspective becomes somewhat convoluted and ungratefulness creeps in if we focus too heavily on material things while taking what we have for granted. We become complacent and our tendency is to forget that all good things come from God. Our security is no longer in Him but in what we possess. We congratulate ourselves rather than glorify Him.
We must be careful not to see God as a "Sugar Daddy" or someone we call on only when we need Him; neglecting to commune with Him when life is going well. Our relationship with God during the good times shows where our sense of security really lies.
Like the Israelites in Numbers 31: 48-50, we should eagerly offer up a sacrifice and a testimony of praise when God has delivered us.
If we are to truly have a relationship with God, include Him and acknowledge His presence even in the good times.
Be grateful.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
7 Steps to Building God Confidence in Children: Step 2
Step 2: Accept Your Children for Who They Are: God Does
One of the greatest needs our children have is that of acceptance. Believe me, the world is full of instruction on how to achieve it. But the ways of the world are not the ways of God. God's way is not about conforming, it's about being transformed. The only way this transformation can happen is by studying His word and letting it renew our minds.
Our children need to know that they were fearfully and wonderfully made in God's own image, as such, when they see themselves as God sees them, they will develop a healthy sense of self worth.
They will better understand that the only one from whom they need acceptance is God.
As a parent, don't try to mold them into what you want them to be. Instead help them to look for and become what God wants them to be. Understand that we are just steward to whom God has entrusted these little souls. When they don’t meet your expectations, remember it’s not your expectations they must meet. Our job is to nurture them and guide them into the acceptance of Christ and His plan for their lives.
One of the greatest needs our children have is that of acceptance. Believe me, the world is full of instruction on how to achieve it. But the ways of the world are not the ways of God. God's way is not about conforming, it's about being transformed. The only way this transformation can happen is by studying His word and letting it renew our minds.
Our children need to know that they were fearfully and wonderfully made in God's own image, as such, when they see themselves as God sees them, they will develop a healthy sense of self worth.
They will better understand that the only one from whom they need acceptance is God.
As a parent, don't try to mold them into what you want them to be. Instead help them to look for and become what God wants them to be. Understand that we are just steward to whom God has entrusted these little souls. When they don’t meet your expectations, remember it’s not your expectations they must meet. Our job is to nurture them and guide them into the acceptance of Christ and His plan for their lives.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Disobedience to God's Instruction
The only time God may take His hands off you is when you are not worthy of your calling. Saul was not worthy of God's calling because he ignored God's commande adn changed the rules.
2 Thess 1:11 reads:...we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of His calling, and that by His power He may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by yoru faith. NIV
IF we disobey God's directions, He reserves the right to remove us as the one to fulfill His plans.
When God looks at your life are you close to being removed because you have been disobedient? Or are you like David who is a person after God's own heart.
2 Thess 1:11 reads:...we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of His calling, and that by His power He may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by yoru faith. NIV
IF we disobey God's directions, He reserves the right to remove us as the one to fulfill His plans.
When God looks at your life are you close to being removed because you have been disobedient? Or are you like David who is a person after God's own heart.
Friday, January 29, 2010
7 Lessons for L.I.F.E.: Living in Favor and Expectancy
Scripture tells us that Christ came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. The Word also says that women are worth more than rubies, yet, many women live their lives as though they’re worthless.
It’s time for the people of God to stand on the promises He’s given by living a life that’s full of favor and expectancy. There are five lessons you can follow to reach the abundant life that God has purposed for you.
Lesson 1:"Be Yourself"
Many of us spend most of our lives conforming to what society says we should be. Yet, even the Bible says we should not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. (Romans 12:2). Remember, Jesus wasn't put to death for going along with the program!
Being yourself, what God has called you to be, is essential to walking in your destiny. Being who and what God has called you to be is as natural as breathing. Yet, many of you are fearful, lacking confidence in the Word of God and what it promises for you. Therefore, you yield to social pressure and use it as an excuse for not being yourself. Denying who you are according to God's design, will cause you to live a life of frustration and discord. Suppressing who you are in hopes that "man" will reward you will leave you coming up short every time. Instead, you should be listening to what God has to say about you while living a life that is pleasing to Him.
The steps of a good man are ordered by God. Where is He leading you? Will you follow?
Living according to God's plans for your life will not always be popular. In fact, some people, even your family, may disapprove. The bottom line is our thoughts are not His thoughts and our plans are not His plans; therefore, it is not ours to question His will but to follow it. Not being who God called you to be will lead to unrest.
Recognize that people's perceptions of you matter far less than what God has to say about you. Be "you" consistently. This will allow you to be honest and open with others as well as yourself. Be open to change if you are not aligned with God's Word understanding that not being in His perfect will can draw you further from Him. You want to be everything that He has called you to be.
Don't allow your faults to overwhelm you, but don't ignore them either. Keep in mind no one is perfect, so self improvement, in alignment with God's teachings, will help you walk in God's destiny.
Being yourself begins with understanding and accepting yourself for who and what you are. Concurrently, you must yield yourself to God's power and will for your life understanding that He can make perfect all things about you when you abide in Him and He abides in you.
You were fearfully and wonderfully made in God's own image. Therefore, He who has begun a good work in you is able to complete it. Don't rely on your own understanding, rely on Him.
Believe in who God has called you to be.
It’s time for the people of God to stand on the promises He’s given by living a life that’s full of favor and expectancy. There are five lessons you can follow to reach the abundant life that God has purposed for you.
Lesson 1:"Be Yourself"
Many of us spend most of our lives conforming to what society says we should be. Yet, even the Bible says we should not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. (Romans 12:2). Remember, Jesus wasn't put to death for going along with the program!
Being yourself, what God has called you to be, is essential to walking in your destiny. Being who and what God has called you to be is as natural as breathing. Yet, many of you are fearful, lacking confidence in the Word of God and what it promises for you. Therefore, you yield to social pressure and use it as an excuse for not being yourself. Denying who you are according to God's design, will cause you to live a life of frustration and discord. Suppressing who you are in hopes that "man" will reward you will leave you coming up short every time. Instead, you should be listening to what God has to say about you while living a life that is pleasing to Him.
The steps of a good man are ordered by God. Where is He leading you? Will you follow?
Living according to God's plans for your life will not always be popular. In fact, some people, even your family, may disapprove. The bottom line is our thoughts are not His thoughts and our plans are not His plans; therefore, it is not ours to question His will but to follow it. Not being who God called you to be will lead to unrest.
Recognize that people's perceptions of you matter far less than what God has to say about you. Be "you" consistently. This will allow you to be honest and open with others as well as yourself. Be open to change if you are not aligned with God's Word understanding that not being in His perfect will can draw you further from Him. You want to be everything that He has called you to be.
Don't allow your faults to overwhelm you, but don't ignore them either. Keep in mind no one is perfect, so self improvement, in alignment with God's teachings, will help you walk in God's destiny.
Being yourself begins with understanding and accepting yourself for who and what you are. Concurrently, you must yield yourself to God's power and will for your life understanding that He can make perfect all things about you when you abide in Him and He abides in you.
You were fearfully and wonderfully made in God's own image. Therefore, He who has begun a good work in you is able to complete it. Don't rely on your own understanding, rely on Him.
Believe in who God has called you to be.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
God Watches to Make Sure His will is Fulfilled
JEr 1:11-12 tells us: The word of the Lord came to me: "What do you see, Jeremiah?"
"I see the branch of an almond tree," I replied.
The Lord said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled." NIV
Can you imagine God watching your life to see if you are doing what He asked you to do? When God looks at your life, does He see what He has spoken into your life being fulfilled or are you working a different agenda based on your own timing and convenience? Are you fulfilling a false vision or one of your own making?
"I see the branch of an almond tree," I replied.
The Lord said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled." NIV
Can you imagine God watching your life to see if you are doing what He asked you to do? When God looks at your life, does He see what He has spoken into your life being fulfilled or are you working a different agenda based on your own timing and convenience? Are you fulfilling a false vision or one of your own making?
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Pay Attention
Hebrews 2
1 So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 2 For the message God delivered through angels has always stood firm, and every violation of the law and every act of disobedience was punished. 3 So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak? 4 And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose.
As believers we must be careful to pay attention to the truth we've heard so we won't drift away into false teachings. This involves focusing our minds, bodies, and spirits on the Word of God. This focus means not only hearing but obeying. We must listen carefully and be ready to carry out God's instructions for our lives.
1 So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 2 For the message God delivered through angels has always stood firm, and every violation of the law and every act of disobedience was punished. 3 So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak? 4 And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose.
As believers we must be careful to pay attention to the truth we've heard so we won't drift away into false teachings. This involves focusing our minds, bodies, and spirits on the Word of God. This focus means not only hearing but obeying. We must listen carefully and be ready to carry out God's instructions for our lives.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Thankful is as thankful does
2 Corinthians 9:11-13 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ.
During this time of year we all find ourselves reflecting on the things in our lives for which we are thankful; life, health, strength, family. Yet in my mind being thankful is something that should be reflected outwardly as well as inwardly.
Each of us has been blessed to be a blessing. So, it's important for us to display our thankfulness by generously giving of ourselves to others. Our actions as well as our words should tell God how thankful we are. Afterall, one of His greatest commandments is that "we love our neighbors as ourselves."
How do we love our neighbor? By finding ways to give generously to them as God has given to you so that He may be glorified. This thanksgiving don't just give lip service to your thankfulness add some action as well.
Eternal Father we give thanks to you for you are good and your mercy endures forever. As we observe Thanksgiving, we thank you for establishing your will on earth as it is in heaven. Thank you for enriching us in every way so we can always be generous.
Father it is your will for us to give thanks to you always and in all things. As we observe Thanksgiving help us to look daily for ways to show you our appreciation for the favor you have shown us. Remind us we are blessed to be a blessing and help us find ways to bless others so that they will in turn thank You. Help us to meet the needs of others so they will joyfully express their thanks to You and as a result of our ministry they will glorify You.
Forgive us for always wanting more and not counting our blessings. Remind us of those we need to forgive.
Thank you that your lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Blessings and honor and glory be unto forever, Amen.
During this time of year we all find ourselves reflecting on the things in our lives for which we are thankful; life, health, strength, family. Yet in my mind being thankful is something that should be reflected outwardly as well as inwardly.
Each of us has been blessed to be a blessing. So, it's important for us to display our thankfulness by generously giving of ourselves to others. Our actions as well as our words should tell God how thankful we are. Afterall, one of His greatest commandments is that "we love our neighbors as ourselves."
How do we love our neighbor? By finding ways to give generously to them as God has given to you so that He may be glorified. This thanksgiving don't just give lip service to your thankfulness add some action as well.
Eternal Father we give thanks to you for you are good and your mercy endures forever. As we observe Thanksgiving, we thank you for establishing your will on earth as it is in heaven. Thank you for enriching us in every way so we can always be generous.
Father it is your will for us to give thanks to you always and in all things. As we observe Thanksgiving help us to look daily for ways to show you our appreciation for the favor you have shown us. Remind us we are blessed to be a blessing and help us find ways to bless others so that they will in turn thank You. Help us to meet the needs of others so they will joyfully express their thanks to You and as a result of our ministry they will glorify You.
Forgive us for always wanting more and not counting our blessings. Remind us of those we need to forgive.
Thank you that your lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Blessings and honor and glory be unto forever, Amen.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Will the Church Be the Church!
"People put on the horse and ride it so high, they make you feel like you can't get over there," Harvey said of Christian folks in the Church who parade around with their facade each Sunday morning. "That's what I wish was different."
This was such a jolting commentary on the state of the church today. I felt compelled to post it here. Steve Harvey is very honest about the mistakes he's made in his lifetime, but he is also put off by the "holier than thou" judgmental attitudes of some Christians.
It is a sad sad day when people feel they can't go to the church to seek help because the "church folk" look down on them. And we all know it to be true. When the young lady steps through the door in a dress that probably would be more appropriate for the club, the typical response from most "church folk" is to turn their noses up and begin whispering amongst themselves about the inappropriateness of her attire. Rarely, if ever, do you see someone approaching her with open arms bringing her into the fold making her feel comfortable enough to even receive a word from God that would help to lovingly steer her into the right direction.
A few years ago there was a big push for What would Jesus Do. As the church we need to do what Jesus would do. Afterall, He was not hung on the cross for following the status quo. He was the savior for the least, the last, and the lost. As a matter ofr fact, He was very critical of the "holy rollers of His day,Saducees and Pharisees, who knew the law but rejected the law giver.
Jesus was all about relationships- His with us and ours with one another. He sought out the least of us and brought us into His loving presence. As believers we need to look deep into our hearts and search our motives. It's not about the clothes we wear, the cars we drive, or the amount of money we can place in the basket. Our country is going to hell in a handbasket because "believers" are afraid to go into the highways and biways and tell the people what thus saith the Lord. We need to get off our holy roller pedestals and seek to complete the great commission of making disciples whenever and where ever we can. The Steve Harveys of the world should not feel as though the church is the last place they can go to be healed, delivered, and set free. Stop looking at the clothes they wear, the way they talk, and the things they do and look into their hurting hearts and show them the love of Jesus. What would Jesus do. God bless
This was such a jolting commentary on the state of the church today. I felt compelled to post it here. Steve Harvey is very honest about the mistakes he's made in his lifetime, but he is also put off by the "holier than thou" judgmental attitudes of some Christians.
It is a sad sad day when people feel they can't go to the church to seek help because the "church folk" look down on them. And we all know it to be true. When the young lady steps through the door in a dress that probably would be more appropriate for the club, the typical response from most "church folk" is to turn their noses up and begin whispering amongst themselves about the inappropriateness of her attire. Rarely, if ever, do you see someone approaching her with open arms bringing her into the fold making her feel comfortable enough to even receive a word from God that would help to lovingly steer her into the right direction.
A few years ago there was a big push for What would Jesus Do. As the church we need to do what Jesus would do. Afterall, He was not hung on the cross for following the status quo. He was the savior for the least, the last, and the lost. As a matter ofr fact, He was very critical of the "holy rollers of His day,Saducees and Pharisees, who knew the law but rejected the law giver.
Jesus was all about relationships- His with us and ours with one another. He sought out the least of us and brought us into His loving presence. As believers we need to look deep into our hearts and search our motives. It's not about the clothes we wear, the cars we drive, or the amount of money we can place in the basket. Our country is going to hell in a handbasket because "believers" are afraid to go into the highways and biways and tell the people what thus saith the Lord. We need to get off our holy roller pedestals and seek to complete the great commission of making disciples whenever and where ever we can. The Steve Harveys of the world should not feel as though the church is the last place they can go to be healed, delivered, and set free. Stop looking at the clothes they wear, the way they talk, and the things they do and look into their hurting hearts and show them the love of Jesus. What would Jesus do. God bless
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Plans for a Future
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
It feels so good to be encouraged by someone you look up to, someone who roots you on, someone who believes you can complete the task before you. Well God is in your corner doing just that, rooting for you. He knows the future and His plans for us are good and full of hope. As long as He provides the agenda and is with us as we fulfill His mission, we an have hope that knows no bounds. This doesn't mean that we will never be touched by pain, sickness, poor relationships, job loss, divorce, domestic violence, cancer, or other trials, but it does mean we can rest assured God will see us through to a glorious conclusion.
Feel free to post comments of instances God has brought you through your trials.
It feels so good to be encouraged by someone you look up to, someone who roots you on, someone who believes you can complete the task before you. Well God is in your corner doing just that, rooting for you. He knows the future and His plans for us are good and full of hope. As long as He provides the agenda and is with us as we fulfill His mission, we an have hope that knows no bounds. This doesn't mean that we will never be touched by pain, sickness, poor relationships, job loss, divorce, domestic violence, cancer, or other trials, but it does mean we can rest assured God will see us through to a glorious conclusion.
Feel free to post comments of instances God has brought you through your trials.
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