Hebrews 6:12
...through faith and patience I
inherit the promises.
When speaking of the promises of God, you must realize that God has promised great blessings and unmerited favor for His children; you just have to step into what God has already provided. We can't always see what God is doing in our lives; we become aware that our circumstances have changed, and we get the answer to our prayer, but that does not mean that we understand how the Lord changes those people and circumstances. The phrase "the Lord works in mysterious ways" highlights our limited understanding of how things actually work in our universe.
One of the most strange and wonderful concepts that works perfectly is the concept of love. I am not talking about the world's definition of love, but God's perfect form of love, a selfless, self sacrificing love that does not focus upon itself, but upon the object of it's desire. It was this intense, passionate love that was expressed by Jesus Christ on the cross, who died for out sins, so that we may inherit the promises of salvation and fellowship with God forevermore.
'perception is nine-tenths of the law'
How we view the world and the people around us is key to how we perceive love and it's greatest expression. If you believe in love and its power, you will have a more positive viewpoint of the world and you will not be afraid to express that love to others. If you have doubts about love, you will tend to have a more negative viewpoint, and will be cautious about opening up to others. Expressing love makes your environment more peaceful, joyful, and brings contentment.
'sow a pattern, which creates character, and reap a destiny'
How does one inherit the promises of God through love? By practicing love.
First, you must make the decision that you believe in love and that you are willing to give love. More Love is produced by giving love to others; it is an act of courage and faith to express that love. When you make the decision to believe in God and His son, Jesus Christ, you will be blessed with love and fellowship forever in the Lord's presence; He will express His love to you by being your Father, your friend, and your comforter. He will guide you into a deeper understanding of yourself, the world, His love, and His character.
God is love, so everything that the Lord does is an expression of His love, whether He fills you with His Holy Spirit for guidance and comfort, or gives you a strong urge to read His word, when He fills you with joy when you worship Him in praise and prayer, when he conforms your heart and mind to the mind and character of Jesus Christ, when He allows you to go through a testing, an issue of life, and He gives you the strength to endure; God has everything, all circumstances, in His hand, His plans are always the best for your life. Everything that you will go through under His care will bring out the best in you; a faith not tested isn't real faith at all.
So, listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit when you are urged to do something outside of your comfort zone, and express your love for God, for yourself, and others by sharing whatever you have as an expression of that love, through comfort, care, word, and deed. We all have something unique to share with the world, because God is generous in giving to His children whatever they need to fulfill His plans for their lives. Ask the Lord what He would like you to do to express His love to others, and He will give you a great dream,
one that you would have never dreamed for yourself. Give Him the benefit of the doubt; He knows you better than anyone else, so He knows what you are capable of doing.
Thank you Lord, for your grace and mercy, and your love, expressed in the passion and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and for loving us so much that you will literally give us, your children, the whole world as a love gift from your own heart. I Love You, My Sweet Lord. There Is No One Like You!!!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
When Anxiety Strikes
by Charles Stanley
Intouch Ministries
If you needed a consultant, would you hire just anyone? Of course not. You’d want to be sure your advisor had experience to back up his or her suggestions. The apostle Paul was certainly qualified to teach on the value of contentment—he wrote on the subject while under confinement by Roman authorities.
In today’s passage, Paul says that prayer safeguards the believer’s heart from anxiety. Praying appropriately will result in protection, so we are wise to follow the pattern Jesus gave us. The Lord’s Prayer underscores adoration of the Father and de-emphasizes focusing on oneself (Matt. 6:9-13). God does desire to hear our concerns (Phil. 4:6). But if problems are all that keep us on our knees, then we have missed the main point of our relationship with Him.
Why does the Lord expect us to honor Him when what we really want is immediate help for our problems? Because where the mind dwells, the heart follows. Focusing on His greatness puts our needs in perspective and encourages us to rest easy. He is in charge and at work (Rom. 8:28).
Consider Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane (Matt. 26:36-46). Even as the Lord was crying out for relief, He nevertheless submitted to the Father’s greater will (Matt. 26:39). As a result, a supernatural peace fortified the Savior and enabled Him to face His executioners.
In today’s reading, Paul offered a radical peace plan: Praise the Lord while suffering persecution; thank Him when facing trials; pray about everything. Each prayer braces your heart against anxiety. That’s solid advice from a man who practiced what he preached.
Intouch Ministries Daily Devotions
Intouch Ministries
If you needed a consultant, would you hire just anyone? Of course not. You’d want to be sure your advisor had experience to back up his or her suggestions. The apostle Paul was certainly qualified to teach on the value of contentment—he wrote on the subject while under confinement by Roman authorities.
In today’s passage, Paul says that prayer safeguards the believer’s heart from anxiety. Praying appropriately will result in protection, so we are wise to follow the pattern Jesus gave us. The Lord’s Prayer underscores adoration of the Father and de-emphasizes focusing on oneself (Matt. 6:9-13). God does desire to hear our concerns (Phil. 4:6). But if problems are all that keep us on our knees, then we have missed the main point of our relationship with Him.
Why does the Lord expect us to honor Him when what we really want is immediate help for our problems? Because where the mind dwells, the heart follows. Focusing on His greatness puts our needs in perspective and encourages us to rest easy. He is in charge and at work (Rom. 8:28).
Consider Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane (Matt. 26:36-46). Even as the Lord was crying out for relief, He nevertheless submitted to the Father’s greater will (Matt. 26:39). As a result, a supernatural peace fortified the Savior and enabled Him to face His executioners.
In today’s reading, Paul offered a radical peace plan: Praise the Lord while suffering persecution; thank Him when facing trials; pray about everything. Each prayer braces your heart against anxiety. That’s solid advice from a man who practiced what he preached.
Intouch Ministries Daily Devotions
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
A Burden or a Bridge
By Charles Stanley
Intouch Ministries
What word would you use to describe adversity in your life? To most people, it is a heavy, inescapable burden that wears them down, saps their joy, and hinders them from truly living. Christians, however, have the opportunity to see adversity as a bridge leading to a glorious eternal future.
The determining factor in how we view hardship is our perspective. If we focus only on the negative aspects of our earthly life, we’ll be drawn into despair and desperation. But if we look at problems from an eternal standpoint, our thinking and attitudes will be transformed in the following ways:
1. Instead of letting difficulties wear us down, we won’t lose heart, because we know we’re being renewed from within. As we respond in submission to whatever God allows in our life and trust in His good purposes, our character is shaped into Christlikeness and our hope is restored.
2. The despair of feeling that our adversity is inescapable and never-ending will be replaced with strength to endure. Paul said he was afflicted, perplexed, persecuted, struck down, and constantly threatened with death, yet he called it all “light and momentary” compared to eternity (2 Cor. 4:8-11, 2 Cor. 4:17 NIV).
3. Rather than seeing adversity as a thief of all joy and a hindrance to a good life, we should look beyond the present to what the trial is producing for us in heaven— “an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Cor. 4:17).
Viewing troubles through an eternal lens is an act of faith, which pleases God. It increases our trust in Him, gives us greater passion for our heavenly inheritance, and strengthens us to victoriously cross the bridge of adversity.
Intouch Ministries Daily Devotions
Intouch Ministries
What word would you use to describe adversity in your life? To most people, it is a heavy, inescapable burden that wears them down, saps their joy, and hinders them from truly living. Christians, however, have the opportunity to see adversity as a bridge leading to a glorious eternal future.
The determining factor in how we view hardship is our perspective. If we focus only on the negative aspects of our earthly life, we’ll be drawn into despair and desperation. But if we look at problems from an eternal standpoint, our thinking and attitudes will be transformed in the following ways:
1. Instead of letting difficulties wear us down, we won’t lose heart, because we know we’re being renewed from within. As we respond in submission to whatever God allows in our life and trust in His good purposes, our character is shaped into Christlikeness and our hope is restored.
2. The despair of feeling that our adversity is inescapable and never-ending will be replaced with strength to endure. Paul said he was afflicted, perplexed, persecuted, struck down, and constantly threatened with death, yet he called it all “light and momentary” compared to eternity (2 Cor. 4:8-11, 2 Cor. 4:17 NIV).
3. Rather than seeing adversity as a thief of all joy and a hindrance to a good life, we should look beyond the present to what the trial is producing for us in heaven— “an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Cor. 4:17).
Viewing troubles through an eternal lens is an act of faith, which pleases God. It increases our trust in Him, gives us greater passion for our heavenly inheritance, and strengthens us to victoriously cross the bridge of adversity.
Intouch Ministries Daily Devotions
Monday, November 7, 2016
Why Wont You Believe?
Are you like the 2 disciples walking on the road to Emmaus? Are you also slow to hear the word of God and believe?
Luke chapter 24:13-23
On the road to Emmaus
....As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him. He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?"
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him...."
"...In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning, but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”
He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
What do you believe the Lord will have to do to get you realize that He is real, that He loves you, and that He wants to claim you as His own?
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scripture to us?”
He has been calling for you from the moment you were born right up until now. He knows all the things you have had to endure in this life, and He has been there right with you, encouraging you and strengthening you. you were not aware why you felt better when that person betrayed you, or why you had the courage to fight when your enemies tried to destroy you, or why you chose to live and not die when your heart was broken. He has been whispering sweet words of love and encouragement into your heart, and you thought you survived because of your family, or your spouse, or your friends.
Surely, the Lord puts people into your life to help you and to encourage you, but He is the source of pure love in this universe. All good things, lovely and sweet, majestic and bold, tender and caring, comes from Him. When you hear that call from my God, do not ignore it, don't dismiss it as your imagination, answer Him and let Him into your heart.
Why didn't Jesus's disciples believe that He had risen from the dead? Why were they so blind?
Being human sometimes means being near sighted, not just physically but also spiritually. I was born with weak eyes, and so from a very early age, I wore glasses. I was not completely blind, I could still see images, and places, and people, but those images were always blurry. I would have to get really close to the tv to see the picture clearly, or bring a piece of paper close to my eyes to see the words written there, so I know what it means to see, yet not truly be able to see things clearly.
If you are not aware that you have a problem seeing things clearly, you will believe that everything in your life is just fine. You may also have a feeling in the back of your mind, in your heart that there should be 'something' more, you just don't know what the 'something' is.
In the bible, there are many instances where the people of God had doubts; they had trouble believing what was plainly told to them by the prophets or by God Himself. Even when God gave them proof of His existence in their circumstances and with His Word, they were slow to believe.
luke 23:32-43
...Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left...
...One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise...”
This was the most precious day in the life of Jesus Christ, for this was the reason why He was born, to sacrifice Himself for you and for me, so that we may be called Children of the Most High, and be forgiven for our sins...((song)"....For The Blood Of Jesus Restoreth My Soul...."). While Jesus laid on the cross, He accepted another precious child into His Kingdom. This person chose to believe in Him and give his heart to Him, a criminal, convicted justly for his crimes, and on his way to hell; but he had an encounter with The Lamb Of God, and this changed his whole perspective on life.
There were two criminals laying on their crosses next to Jesus, yet only one saw the truth. Why is that?
Both were dying and both were going to the same place when they breathed their last breath, but only one was willing to take that chance, to dare to believe in the One who was pierced. Now, you would think that when Jesus told one criminal He would be saved, that the other one would start to believe as well, or at least would ask Jesus what this whole salvation thing was all about, but He did not.
Unfortunately, that is how life is; one person knows within the deepest part of their being that there is a God, and they seek Him out, looking for the One that made them and desiring a relationship with Him; and another person does not care if there is a God, and would never seek Him out no matter what type of evidence or proof you lay before them. This is why the Lord already knows who will believe in Him and who will receive Him; He knows the contents of everyone's hearts and minds; there are no secrets in heaven because there is no need to hide who you truly are. That is where true peace and love can exist because no one has a secret agenda that will disrupt other people's lives or God's perfect peace and order.
If you had evidence of His existence, would you believe?
Jesus spent 3 years in His ministry, traveling all over Judea and Galilee, preaching the world of God to the lost sheep of Israel, doing miracles, healings, signs and wonders, proving the Word of God with His works, His deeds, and His testimonies, but most of the people of God rejected Him.
John 10:31-39
Again his Jewish opponents picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?”
“We are not stoning you for any good work,” they replied, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.”
Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are “gods”’? If he called them ‘gods,’ to whom the word of God came—and Scripture cannot be set aside—what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’?"
"Do not believe me unless I do the works of my Father. But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.” Again they tried to seize him, but he escaped their grasp.....
The truth is that there is evidence all around us that God exists; scientists know that the world, the universe, our very bodies were designed, and that our existence could not be by chance. They talk about other dimensions, and dark matter, and the "God" particle, so they are aware that something has been going on since the dawn of time, they are just unwilling to believe that their fate is in the hands of another, an all powerful God whose wisdom and power comes from pure love, grace, and mercy, and not from pride, prejudice, or obsessions. They want to believe they have the power to do anything that they want, and to remold this universe into their own image. Everything that we have, and who we are comes from God, and He has been gracious and merciful to us while we waste time indulging in our fantasies of self determination.
The bible speaks about how Moses led the Israelites from Egypt to the promised land, and how they had to live in the wilderness for 40 years because they rebelled against God, and did not truly believe in Him. They saw what God did for them; He ravaged Egypt for their sakes, walked them through the Red sea, and took care of all their needs while they wandered in the desert. They saw things that would shock and amaze us, but it wasn't enough to change their minds or give their hearts to God.
In Psalm 78:10-11, 40-42, 56-57, the psalmist mentions that Ephraim (meaning Israel at large)did not keep the covenant of God; they refused to walk in His law, and forgot His works and His wonders that He had shown them. . . . How often they provoked Him in the wilderness, and grieved Him in the desert! Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the influence of the Holy One of Israel on their lives. They did not remember His power. . . . Yet they tested and provoked the Most High God, and did not keep His testimonies, but turned back and acted unfaithfully.
It is always a pleasure to find evidence of the word of God in our daily lives and in the lives of others, when science and archaeology confirms what we have always known through our study of the bible, but these things will never convince the people in the world that are not looking for this evidence, and who believe they have no need for God in their lives. That doesn't mean that we should stop proclaiming the gospel to the world, for there will come a day when their faith in themselves will be shaken, and just possibly they will start to look for a solution to their problems, to the world's problems from outside of their own perspectives.
Why doesn't the world in general seek answers from the Lord?
They don't want to believe that the solution should come from the One who created the world in the first place, or they worship 'gods' that they believe have all the answers to their problems. Often pride prevents them from letting go of ideas they fostered in their own hearts, even while these same ideas are destroying them from the inside out. They can find no satisfaction with the lives that they have made for themselves and at the same time they will never allow themselves to be satisfied with the truth.
Luke 7:31-35
Jesus went on to say, “To what, then, can I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to each other:
“‘We played the pipe for you,
and you did not dance;
we sang a dirge,
and you did not cry.’
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is proved right by all her children.”
Finally, what will it take for you to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Many people believe God is cold and distant, that He does not care about us or the world's problems; some can not believe He could be concerned enough to intervene on our behalf, to save us from ourselves. They wonder, does He know what is going on in the world, does He have a plan for our salvation?
Luke 19:41-44
Jesus crying over Jerusalem
...As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.”
This is how God sees us, He is grieved by the problems in the world, He weeps for those who will not listen to Him, who will not come to be healed by His presence and His word; He has a solution for your problems; it is the Lord Jesus Christ. If you will come to Him and confess your sins and allow Him into your heart, you will be saved and He will protect you from the coming storm on the horizon; the people of this world will soon find out how fragile and precious life really is, when everything that they have worked for suddenly disappears or is destroyed, by war, neglect, pride, and greed.
If you wish to know the God of Heaven, He is waiting for you right now - repeat this prayer:
Prayer of Salvation
Lord,
I repent for trying to be master of my own life. I change my mind about who I want to be in charge of my life. I turn from my useless and unproductive thoughts that I am the center of my universe and choose to believe in the living God who created everything, including me (Acts 14:15). I have lived without a purpose but now I will live to hear and obey You, God (Jn. 5:19, 20,30).
I confess with my lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead. I believe that God so loved the world He sent His only Son Jesus to shed His blood to wash away the barrier of sin (Jn. 3:16)
I receive You, Jesus as MY Lord and Savior (Jn. 1:11,12).
I welcome You, Holy Spirit, into my life to rescue and empower me and to restore me to intimacy with my heavenly Father (Acts 2:38).
If you just confessed this prayer, you are saved! I welcome you into the family my (brother/sister) I pray for peace, joy, and happiness in your life as you allow the Lord to love you and bless you and give you assurance of everlasting life with Him forever and ever......PRAISE GOD!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Luke chapter 24:13-23
On the road to Emmaus
....As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him. He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?"
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him...."
"...In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning, but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”
He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
What do you believe the Lord will have to do to get you realize that He is real, that He loves you, and that He wants to claim you as His own?
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scripture to us?”
He has been calling for you from the moment you were born right up until now. He knows all the things you have had to endure in this life, and He has been there right with you, encouraging you and strengthening you. you were not aware why you felt better when that person betrayed you, or why you had the courage to fight when your enemies tried to destroy you, or why you chose to live and not die when your heart was broken. He has been whispering sweet words of love and encouragement into your heart, and you thought you survived because of your family, or your spouse, or your friends.
Surely, the Lord puts people into your life to help you and to encourage you, but He is the source of pure love in this universe. All good things, lovely and sweet, majestic and bold, tender and caring, comes from Him. When you hear that call from my God, do not ignore it, don't dismiss it as your imagination, answer Him and let Him into your heart.
Why didn't Jesus's disciples believe that He had risen from the dead? Why were they so blind?
Being human sometimes means being near sighted, not just physically but also spiritually. I was born with weak eyes, and so from a very early age, I wore glasses. I was not completely blind, I could still see images, and places, and people, but those images were always blurry. I would have to get really close to the tv to see the picture clearly, or bring a piece of paper close to my eyes to see the words written there, so I know what it means to see, yet not truly be able to see things clearly.
If you are not aware that you have a problem seeing things clearly, you will believe that everything in your life is just fine. You may also have a feeling in the back of your mind, in your heart that there should be 'something' more, you just don't know what the 'something' is.
In the bible, there are many instances where the people of God had doubts; they had trouble believing what was plainly told to them by the prophets or by God Himself. Even when God gave them proof of His existence in their circumstances and with His Word, they were slow to believe.
luke 23:32-43
...Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left...
...One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise...”
This was the most precious day in the life of Jesus Christ, for this was the reason why He was born, to sacrifice Himself for you and for me, so that we may be called Children of the Most High, and be forgiven for our sins...((song)"....For The Blood Of Jesus Restoreth My Soul...."). While Jesus laid on the cross, He accepted another precious child into His Kingdom. This person chose to believe in Him and give his heart to Him, a criminal, convicted justly for his crimes, and on his way to hell; but he had an encounter with The Lamb Of God, and this changed his whole perspective on life.
There were two criminals laying on their crosses next to Jesus, yet only one saw the truth. Why is that?
Both were dying and both were going to the same place when they breathed their last breath, but only one was willing to take that chance, to dare to believe in the One who was pierced. Now, you would think that when Jesus told one criminal He would be saved, that the other one would start to believe as well, or at least would ask Jesus what this whole salvation thing was all about, but He did not.
Unfortunately, that is how life is; one person knows within the deepest part of their being that there is a God, and they seek Him out, looking for the One that made them and desiring a relationship with Him; and another person does not care if there is a God, and would never seek Him out no matter what type of evidence or proof you lay before them. This is why the Lord already knows who will believe in Him and who will receive Him; He knows the contents of everyone's hearts and minds; there are no secrets in heaven because there is no need to hide who you truly are. That is where true peace and love can exist because no one has a secret agenda that will disrupt other people's lives or God's perfect peace and order.
If you had evidence of His existence, would you believe?
Jesus spent 3 years in His ministry, traveling all over Judea and Galilee, preaching the world of God to the lost sheep of Israel, doing miracles, healings, signs and wonders, proving the Word of God with His works, His deeds, and His testimonies, but most of the people of God rejected Him.
John 10:31-39
Again his Jewish opponents picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?”
“We are not stoning you for any good work,” they replied, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.”
Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are “gods”’? If he called them ‘gods,’ to whom the word of God came—and Scripture cannot be set aside—what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’?"
"Do not believe me unless I do the works of my Father. But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.” Again they tried to seize him, but he escaped their grasp.....
The truth is that there is evidence all around us that God exists; scientists know that the world, the universe, our very bodies were designed, and that our existence could not be by chance. They talk about other dimensions, and dark matter, and the "God" particle, so they are aware that something has been going on since the dawn of time, they are just unwilling to believe that their fate is in the hands of another, an all powerful God whose wisdom and power comes from pure love, grace, and mercy, and not from pride, prejudice, or obsessions. They want to believe they have the power to do anything that they want, and to remold this universe into their own image. Everything that we have, and who we are comes from God, and He has been gracious and merciful to us while we waste time indulging in our fantasies of self determination.
The bible speaks about how Moses led the Israelites from Egypt to the promised land, and how they had to live in the wilderness for 40 years because they rebelled against God, and did not truly believe in Him. They saw what God did for them; He ravaged Egypt for their sakes, walked them through the Red sea, and took care of all their needs while they wandered in the desert. They saw things that would shock and amaze us, but it wasn't enough to change their minds or give their hearts to God.
In Psalm 78:10-11, 40-42, 56-57, the psalmist mentions that Ephraim (meaning Israel at large)did not keep the covenant of God; they refused to walk in His law, and forgot His works and His wonders that He had shown them. . . . How often they provoked Him in the wilderness, and grieved Him in the desert! Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the influence of the Holy One of Israel on their lives. They did not remember His power. . . . Yet they tested and provoked the Most High God, and did not keep His testimonies, but turned back and acted unfaithfully.
It is always a pleasure to find evidence of the word of God in our daily lives and in the lives of others, when science and archaeology confirms what we have always known through our study of the bible, but these things will never convince the people in the world that are not looking for this evidence, and who believe they have no need for God in their lives. That doesn't mean that we should stop proclaiming the gospel to the world, for there will come a day when their faith in themselves will be shaken, and just possibly they will start to look for a solution to their problems, to the world's problems from outside of their own perspectives.
Why doesn't the world in general seek answers from the Lord?
They don't want to believe that the solution should come from the One who created the world in the first place, or they worship 'gods' that they believe have all the answers to their problems. Often pride prevents them from letting go of ideas they fostered in their own hearts, even while these same ideas are destroying them from the inside out. They can find no satisfaction with the lives that they have made for themselves and at the same time they will never allow themselves to be satisfied with the truth.
Luke 7:31-35
Jesus went on to say, “To what, then, can I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to each other:
“‘We played the pipe for you,
and you did not dance;
we sang a dirge,
and you did not cry.’
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is proved right by all her children.”
Finally, what will it take for you to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Many people believe God is cold and distant, that He does not care about us or the world's problems; some can not believe He could be concerned enough to intervene on our behalf, to save us from ourselves. They wonder, does He know what is going on in the world, does He have a plan for our salvation?
Luke 19:41-44
Jesus crying over Jerusalem
...As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.”
This is how God sees us, He is grieved by the problems in the world, He weeps for those who will not listen to Him, who will not come to be healed by His presence and His word; He has a solution for your problems; it is the Lord Jesus Christ. If you will come to Him and confess your sins and allow Him into your heart, you will be saved and He will protect you from the coming storm on the horizon; the people of this world will soon find out how fragile and precious life really is, when everything that they have worked for suddenly disappears or is destroyed, by war, neglect, pride, and greed.
If you wish to know the God of Heaven, He is waiting for you right now - repeat this prayer:
Prayer of Salvation
Lord,
I repent for trying to be master of my own life. I change my mind about who I want to be in charge of my life. I turn from my useless and unproductive thoughts that I am the center of my universe and choose to believe in the living God who created everything, including me (Acts 14:15). I have lived without a purpose but now I will live to hear and obey You, God (Jn. 5:19, 20,30).
I confess with my lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead. I believe that God so loved the world He sent His only Son Jesus to shed His blood to wash away the barrier of sin (Jn. 3:16)
I receive You, Jesus as MY Lord and Savior (Jn. 1:11,12).
I welcome You, Holy Spirit, into my life to rescue and empower me and to restore me to intimacy with my heavenly Father (Acts 2:38).
If you just confessed this prayer, you are saved! I welcome you into the family my (brother/sister) I pray for peace, joy, and happiness in your life as you allow the Lord to love you and bless you and give you assurance of everlasting life with Him forever and ever......PRAISE GOD!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Sunday, November 6, 2016
Overcoming The Spirit Of Self Condemnation
Job 9:20
"Though I am righteous, my mouth will condemn me; Though I am guiltless, He will declare me guilty."
Fear is the gateway to oppression. We all have fears, fears about our lives, fears about our deaths, fears about loneliness and rejection, fears about how we live, how we will take care of ourselves, where we live, what we eat, where are next meal is, how we are perceived by others, and whether or not we will succeed in life. If you are a citizen of the Kingdom of God, you are a overcomer, and you have the victory in Jesus Christ; you are a success story.
philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When you find yourself in a bind, focus on God's love and His providence; He has already supplied everything you need in Jesus Christ, and if Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, He has already given you a source of power, comfort, guidance, and love, which is the Holy Spirit, who will help you fight the good fight, and He will strengthen your resolve to keep on fighting, even when all of your circumstances seem hopeless and impossible.
I just woke up from a dream, and the purpose of the dream was to intimidate me and to foster fear in my heart. I was at some type of event, and they were serving food to the guests. Many of my relatives were there, and there were people who were familiar with me, so I had some protection. But when I got on the buffet line, every time I got to where the food was, there seemed to be no food. I saw many others leaving with food, and I couldn't tell where they got their food; no matter where I went on that buffet line, I could not get the food I was looking for.
I was able to see the desserts, and I even got something to drink, but SOMEONE or SOMETHING was preventing me from getting what I wanted. I even heard over the loud speaker, that a competition was going on, to see who could outlast the other, how long could these two people go without eating from the banquet, and I could have sworn that MY NAME was mentioned as one of the contestants. At that point, I started to rebel and caused a scene, so that I kicked down a couple of the displays; not long after that I woke up and I began praising God, and started declaring His promises over my life:
"I am the righteousness of God in Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:21)
"Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4)
"I am the head and not the tail" (Deuteronomy 28:13)
"As jesus is in heaven, so am i in the world "(1 John 4:17)
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me" (philippians 4:13)
I began to curse the evil spirit that I know sent that dream to me and requested that it be sent back into the abyss where it came from. I declared that everything that My Father promised me will come to pass, and that I deserved these things, not because I am perfect or special, but because I love the Lord, and I believe in Him, I trust in Him, and He has not disappointed me. I am not rich, I don't live in a mansion (not yet), I don't have lots of money in the bank, and I am not admired by the world, But Everything The Richest Man In The World Has Right Now, God Has Declared Has Been Set Aside For Me, and so much more that I can even imagine or believe, that is what His children will receive in His future kingdom, and He will supply all of my needs to overflowing right now, as long as I live.
Ephesians 3:20
"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,...."
Do not condemn yourselves because you are not 'perfect', that is perfect in the eyes of the world. The world's vision is dark and full of evil desires and intents, so their definition of perfection is way off the golden path of love and righteousness. They cannot love you or appreciate you the way Jesus can; He has always loved you, and if you are one of His children, no one can take you out of His hand, and no one can deny you what is yours if He has promised it to you.
Take care to live in His presence, love and adore Him, Obey His word and His plans for your life, and you will never suffer from lack of love, peace, and joy. He will be there with you in the dark times, for the Word of God says that there will be darker times, but this is a time for the people of God to celebrate, and to praise Jesus Christ, for his overwhelming love and compassion for us, His little ones He has redeemed with His Blood.
So, don't condemn yourself, because God loves you just the way you are; you are not perfect, but He does not require that any of us be perfect; He requires our belief in Jesus Christ. He wants your love and your cooperation, and He will handle the big challenges in your life. He will conform your heart and mind to the heart and mind of Jesus Christ, and He will protect you from the world and from the evil one, satan. Don't let your circumstances prevent you from believing in His love; do not reject His guidance in your life.
I Can Do All Things Through Christ, Who Strengthens Me....God has declared that I am His prophet, someone to encourage others with His word in the end times, and that I will be a wife and a mother to one son; He has encouraged me with His love, and nurtured me tenderly, because He knows the lack of love and support I have had in the past, and because He believes in nurturing and comforting His children in their development, not condemning them. Children who are loved and nurtured will believe that have self worth, and will be strengthened by the fact that someone loves them unconditionally. Give your heart to him, and He will never leave you or forsake you; you will never be alone again.
Now, if you are not a born again believer yet, let me encourage you to become a citizen of the Kingdom of God - Repeat This Prayer:
Prayer of Salvation
Lord,
I repent for trying to be master of my own life. I change my mind about who I want to be in charge of my life. I turn from my useless and unproductive thoughts that I am the center of my universe and choose to believe in the living God who created everything, including me (Acts 14:15). I have lived without a purpose but now I will live to hear and obey You, God (Jn. 5:19, 20,30).
I confess with my lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead. I believe that God so loved the world He sent His only Son Jesus to shed His blood to wash away the barrier of sin (Jn. 3:16)
I receive You, Jesus as MY Lord and Savior (Jn. 1:11,12).
I welcome You, Holy Spirit, into my life to rescue and empower me and to restore me to intimacy with my heavenly Father (Acts 2:38).
If you just confessed this prayer, you are saved! I welcome you into the family my (brother/sister) I pray for peace, joy, and happiness in your life as you allow the Lord to love you and bless you and give you assurance of everlasting life with Him forever and ever......PRAISE GOD!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Thank You Jesus For The Victory!!!
"Though I am righteous, my mouth will condemn me; Though I am guiltless, He will declare me guilty."
Fear is the gateway to oppression. We all have fears, fears about our lives, fears about our deaths, fears about loneliness and rejection, fears about how we live, how we will take care of ourselves, where we live, what we eat, where are next meal is, how we are perceived by others, and whether or not we will succeed in life. If you are a citizen of the Kingdom of God, you are a overcomer, and you have the victory in Jesus Christ; you are a success story.
philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When you find yourself in a bind, focus on God's love and His providence; He has already supplied everything you need in Jesus Christ, and if Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, He has already given you a source of power, comfort, guidance, and love, which is the Holy Spirit, who will help you fight the good fight, and He will strengthen your resolve to keep on fighting, even when all of your circumstances seem hopeless and impossible.
I just woke up from a dream, and the purpose of the dream was to intimidate me and to foster fear in my heart. I was at some type of event, and they were serving food to the guests. Many of my relatives were there, and there were people who were familiar with me, so I had some protection. But when I got on the buffet line, every time I got to where the food was, there seemed to be no food. I saw many others leaving with food, and I couldn't tell where they got their food; no matter where I went on that buffet line, I could not get the food I was looking for.
I was able to see the desserts, and I even got something to drink, but SOMEONE or SOMETHING was preventing me from getting what I wanted. I even heard over the loud speaker, that a competition was going on, to see who could outlast the other, how long could these two people go without eating from the banquet, and I could have sworn that MY NAME was mentioned as one of the contestants. At that point, I started to rebel and caused a scene, so that I kicked down a couple of the displays; not long after that I woke up and I began praising God, and started declaring His promises over my life:
"I am the righteousness of God in Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:21)
"Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4)
"I am the head and not the tail" (Deuteronomy 28:13)
"As jesus is in heaven, so am i in the world "(1 John 4:17)
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me" (philippians 4:13)
I began to curse the evil spirit that I know sent that dream to me and requested that it be sent back into the abyss where it came from. I declared that everything that My Father promised me will come to pass, and that I deserved these things, not because I am perfect or special, but because I love the Lord, and I believe in Him, I trust in Him, and He has not disappointed me. I am not rich, I don't live in a mansion (not yet), I don't have lots of money in the bank, and I am not admired by the world, But Everything The Richest Man In The World Has Right Now, God Has Declared Has Been Set Aside For Me, and so much more that I can even imagine or believe, that is what His children will receive in His future kingdom, and He will supply all of my needs to overflowing right now, as long as I live.
Ephesians 3:20
"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,...."
Do not condemn yourselves because you are not 'perfect', that is perfect in the eyes of the world. The world's vision is dark and full of evil desires and intents, so their definition of perfection is way off the golden path of love and righteousness. They cannot love you or appreciate you the way Jesus can; He has always loved you, and if you are one of His children, no one can take you out of His hand, and no one can deny you what is yours if He has promised it to you.
Take care to live in His presence, love and adore Him, Obey His word and His plans for your life, and you will never suffer from lack of love, peace, and joy. He will be there with you in the dark times, for the Word of God says that there will be darker times, but this is a time for the people of God to celebrate, and to praise Jesus Christ, for his overwhelming love and compassion for us, His little ones He has redeemed with His Blood.
So, don't condemn yourself, because God loves you just the way you are; you are not perfect, but He does not require that any of us be perfect; He requires our belief in Jesus Christ. He wants your love and your cooperation, and He will handle the big challenges in your life. He will conform your heart and mind to the heart and mind of Jesus Christ, and He will protect you from the world and from the evil one, satan. Don't let your circumstances prevent you from believing in His love; do not reject His guidance in your life.
I Can Do All Things Through Christ, Who Strengthens Me....God has declared that I am His prophet, someone to encourage others with His word in the end times, and that I will be a wife and a mother to one son; He has encouraged me with His love, and nurtured me tenderly, because He knows the lack of love and support I have had in the past, and because He believes in nurturing and comforting His children in their development, not condemning them. Children who are loved and nurtured will believe that have self worth, and will be strengthened by the fact that someone loves them unconditionally. Give your heart to him, and He will never leave you or forsake you; you will never be alone again.
Now, if you are not a born again believer yet, let me encourage you to become a citizen of the Kingdom of God - Repeat This Prayer:
Prayer of Salvation
Lord,
I repent for trying to be master of my own life. I change my mind about who I want to be in charge of my life. I turn from my useless and unproductive thoughts that I am the center of my universe and choose to believe in the living God who created everything, including me (Acts 14:15). I have lived without a purpose but now I will live to hear and obey You, God (Jn. 5:19, 20,30).
I confess with my lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead. I believe that God so loved the world He sent His only Son Jesus to shed His blood to wash away the barrier of sin (Jn. 3:16)
I receive You, Jesus as MY Lord and Savior (Jn. 1:11,12).
I welcome You, Holy Spirit, into my life to rescue and empower me and to restore me to intimacy with my heavenly Father (Acts 2:38).
If you just confessed this prayer, you are saved! I welcome you into the family my (brother/sister) I pray for peace, joy, and happiness in your life as you allow the Lord to love you and bless you and give you assurance of everlasting life with Him forever and ever......PRAISE GOD!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Thank You Jesus For The Victory!!!
Saturday, November 5, 2016
The Blood Of Jesus #2
by Greg Robbins
1 Peter 1:2
"Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied."
What a salvation message! Only a specified group of saved people are God's elect. And how does he identify this privileged group of people? By the foreknowledge of God the Father. He knows the end from the beginning. Before the world was ever formed or man created, God already knew every single one of his elect. It will be proven out on judgement day that each one of them exercised their free choice in the matter of salvation.
There must be sanctification of the Spirit. God's Spirit is the Holy Spirit. If someone is still bound by habitual sin then they have not yet been sanctified by the Holy Spirit. He said, Unto obedience, so those who are not obedient to God's commandments have not yet been sanctified either. And the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus. Without the blood of Jesus none of us would stand a chance. Only the blood of Jesus can wash us white as snow.
1 Peter 1:18-20
"Forasmuch as you know that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your Fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you."
No silver, no gold, can wash away your sins. No human effort can do it either. Only the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot, only he can wash away your sins. Jesus was foreordained from BEFORE the foundation of the world. Before God ever created the world, he already knew every little detail about human history, and he had already decided to send Jesus to shed his blood to forgive your sins, if you are part of his elect. If you aren't sure about being his elect, then call out to Father God in the name of Jesus for forgiveness and mercy. If you do it from your heart, then you too will receive his forgiveness and his mercy. The blood of Jesus will wash away your sins.
1 John 1:7-9
"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Walking in the light represents being in unbroken fellowship with God the Father, with Jesus, and with Holy Spirit. When we sin and especially live in habitual unrepented sin, we walk in darkness. Notice that only in the light is the blood of Jesus Christ his Son that cleanses from all sin. If a person habitually lives in sin, then there is no cleansing of that sin until true repentance happens. This is where the big preachers of cheap grace make their mistake. They claim that all our sins past, present, and future are already forgiven us. So no matter how we live, or what we do, we still get to go to heaven. But I'm sorry. That is not true. If a person does not repent of their sin and walks in darkness, they have not been washed in the blood of Jesus. There are many famous preachers that teach this false doctrine. There are many others as well, that treat the precious blood of Jesus as an unholy thing, by cheapening it.
A Christian WANTS to live a holy life, to love Jesus with all their heart, and to please him by obeying his commands. That is the nature of a Christian. If someone is lacking these desires, then they need to see if they truly are Christians or not. Remember that Judas Iscariot was a faithful disciple of Jesus for over three years. Yet it turned out that he was a devil. So deception is something we need to take seriously. Nothing is sadder than a person believing themselves to be saved, only to find out later that they are not, when it's too late. This was the case with the five foolish virgins. ( Matthew 25:1-13 ).
Treat the blood of Jesus as the holy thing that it is. It is not to be toyed with. We are not to play at being a Christian. This is all a very serious matter. Treat holy things with utmost care and respect. God is still the same God who struck Ananias and Sapphira dead before the Apostle Peter for telling a lie. ( Acts 5:1-11 ). And God is still the same God who struck King Herod dead in public for letting the people glorify him, and not giving God the glory. ( Acts 12:20-23 ). Although God may not be doing public executions among us right now, there is coming a day of judgement which is far worse. So treat the blood of Jesus as a holy thing and handle this subject with the fear of God.
https://whatjesustaught.wordpress.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
1 Peter 1:2
"Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied."
What a salvation message! Only a specified group of saved people are God's elect. And how does he identify this privileged group of people? By the foreknowledge of God the Father. He knows the end from the beginning. Before the world was ever formed or man created, God already knew every single one of his elect. It will be proven out on judgement day that each one of them exercised their free choice in the matter of salvation.
There must be sanctification of the Spirit. God's Spirit is the Holy Spirit. If someone is still bound by habitual sin then they have not yet been sanctified by the Holy Spirit. He said, Unto obedience, so those who are not obedient to God's commandments have not yet been sanctified either. And the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus. Without the blood of Jesus none of us would stand a chance. Only the blood of Jesus can wash us white as snow.
1 Peter 1:18-20
"Forasmuch as you know that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your Fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you."
No silver, no gold, can wash away your sins. No human effort can do it either. Only the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot, only he can wash away your sins. Jesus was foreordained from BEFORE the foundation of the world. Before God ever created the world, he already knew every little detail about human history, and he had already decided to send Jesus to shed his blood to forgive your sins, if you are part of his elect. If you aren't sure about being his elect, then call out to Father God in the name of Jesus for forgiveness and mercy. If you do it from your heart, then you too will receive his forgiveness and his mercy. The blood of Jesus will wash away your sins.
1 John 1:7-9
"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Walking in the light represents being in unbroken fellowship with God the Father, with Jesus, and with Holy Spirit. When we sin and especially live in habitual unrepented sin, we walk in darkness. Notice that only in the light is the blood of Jesus Christ his Son that cleanses from all sin. If a person habitually lives in sin, then there is no cleansing of that sin until true repentance happens. This is where the big preachers of cheap grace make their mistake. They claim that all our sins past, present, and future are already forgiven us. So no matter how we live, or what we do, we still get to go to heaven. But I'm sorry. That is not true. If a person does not repent of their sin and walks in darkness, they have not been washed in the blood of Jesus. There are many famous preachers that teach this false doctrine. There are many others as well, that treat the precious blood of Jesus as an unholy thing, by cheapening it.
A Christian WANTS to live a holy life, to love Jesus with all their heart, and to please him by obeying his commands. That is the nature of a Christian. If someone is lacking these desires, then they need to see if they truly are Christians or not. Remember that Judas Iscariot was a faithful disciple of Jesus for over three years. Yet it turned out that he was a devil. So deception is something we need to take seriously. Nothing is sadder than a person believing themselves to be saved, only to find out later that they are not, when it's too late. This was the case with the five foolish virgins. ( Matthew 25:1-13 ).
Treat the blood of Jesus as the holy thing that it is. It is not to be toyed with. We are not to play at being a Christian. This is all a very serious matter. Treat holy things with utmost care and respect. God is still the same God who struck Ananias and Sapphira dead before the Apostle Peter for telling a lie. ( Acts 5:1-11 ). And God is still the same God who struck King Herod dead in public for letting the people glorify him, and not giving God the glory. ( Acts 12:20-23 ). Although God may not be doing public executions among us right now, there is coming a day of judgement which is far worse. So treat the blood of Jesus as a holy thing and handle this subject with the fear of God.
https://whatjesustaught.wordpress.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Friday, November 4, 2016
In Your Image
by louis gander
You made me in Your image Lord,
but I broke through the mold.
I thought my way was better so
I didn't do as told.
I lived in curiosity
when I was just a child.
I grew up wanting everything,
was selfish and was wild.
I lived in all my foolishness
and put myself in bubble.
And when I drew my idols in -
it got me into trouble.
One rainy day my bubble burst
and so I sat depressed.
Drenching wet I swallowed pride
that should have been addressed.
If I could start all over Lord,
I'd listen and obey.
And that way I would not be in
the fix I am today.
You'd make me in Your image Lord.
I wouldn't break the mold.
I'd know your way was better and
I'd do as I was told.
2016 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - Since age 50, Louis Gander has been writing poetry, including "story poetry". You can read more at ganderpoems.org Please leave a quick comment if you enjoy one of my poems. Thank you!
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
You made me in Your image Lord,
but I broke through the mold.
I thought my way was better so
I didn't do as told.
I lived in curiosity
when I was just a child.
I grew up wanting everything,
was selfish and was wild.
I lived in all my foolishness
and put myself in bubble.
And when I drew my idols in -
it got me into trouble.
One rainy day my bubble burst
and so I sat depressed.
Drenching wet I swallowed pride
that should have been addressed.
If I could start all over Lord,
I'd listen and obey.
And that way I would not be in
the fix I am today.
You'd make me in Your image Lord.
I wouldn't break the mold.
I'd know your way was better and
I'd do as I was told.
2016 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - Since age 50, Louis Gander has been writing poetry, including "story poetry". You can read more at ganderpoems.org Please leave a quick comment if you enjoy one of my poems. Thank you!
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Pray From Victory
Mark 11:24
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Prayer is a necessary resource of the believer, it is the main way we express ourselves to God; 'Fret not about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.'(philippians 4:6) God encourages us in the bible to come to Him in prayer, expressing our needs, our requests for help and revelation, to open our hearts to Him and worship Him through song and praise.
Prayer opens up the dialogue between you and the Father; when you speak your concerns to Him, He listens to you, and answers your petitions. He has many ways of answering prayer, so He won't always answer in the same way, however there are three type of answers that are received: YES, NO, and WAIT. He may approve of your request, and the circumstances in your life changes as He moves on your behalf; your circumstances don't change and He lets you know He does not approve of your request, usually by speaking to your heart, or He may use a situation or a person in your life to relay that message. You may get the answer you were not expecting, which is, NOT YET, and He will encourage you to be patient and wait.
Sometimes, you may experience a situation where you have prayed about a situation and have received no answer. You are sure that you have done everything right to receive it; you worshiped, you prayed, you read the bible, you prayed with other prayer warriors, but nothing seems to work. That's when you have to decide to keep on praying until you receive your answer.
I don't know how long it will take to receive that answer, because everyone's situation is different, and what the Lord does with one person is not the same for the next person, but I do know that if you give up, you will never receive an answer. When you feel that you have done everything to get His attention, and you still haven't received an answer, that is when you need to increase your praise and worship time. You need to start praying from the stance of Victory.
Declare the word of God on that situation, believe when you declare it that it will manifest, because you have authority through the word of God.
Joshua 1:7-8
I am strong and very courageous. I am careful to obey all the instructions... I do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. This is why I am successful in everything I do. I study this Book of Instruction continually. I meditate on it day and night...Only then will I prosper and succeed in all I do.
Romans 10:17
...my faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. [When I hear myself speaking God’s Word my faith grows and I become a God pleaser].
That is why it is so essential to read and study the word of God on a daily basis, that is how the word soaks into your heart and mind, so when circumstances arise, the word will also rise from your heart into your mind, and you will have the faith to declare that word over your situation. Memorize key scriptures, the ones that apply to your situation, and speak them out loud to yourself and declare it over your problem. Keep praising Him, and thanking Him in advance for the victory, and you will receive your answer. When you receive your answer, show your gratitude to Him, because whatever it is, it will be the right solution. You may feel prompted to keep on praying until your answer manifests.
Mark 11:23-24
(If I would)...say to this mountain, ‘you must immediately be removed and you must immediately be cast into the sea,’ and would not doubt in my heart but would believe that what I am saying is happening, it will be to me. I must continally pray for everything, then for whatever I am asking, I believe that I have taken it, and it will be there for me.
So, don't be discouraged if you haven't found a job yet, or you haven't received your healing, or the person you are praying about hasn't changed, or your circumstances seem hopeless; God has heard you, but He may be doing some things in the background to bring about your victory, or He is trying to change not just your circumstances, but you as well, so let Him change whatever needs to be done in your life.
Give Him the praise continually, and show your love and appreciation for His love, grace, and mercy in your life, and He will respond. When He does, it is your obligation to receive it and obey whatever He tells you to do. Keep On Praying Children Of God, And The Lord Of Hosts Will Deliver You In Due Time!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Prayer is a necessary resource of the believer, it is the main way we express ourselves to God; 'Fret not about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.'(philippians 4:6) God encourages us in the bible to come to Him in prayer, expressing our needs, our requests for help and revelation, to open our hearts to Him and worship Him through song and praise.
Prayer opens up the dialogue between you and the Father; when you speak your concerns to Him, He listens to you, and answers your petitions. He has many ways of answering prayer, so He won't always answer in the same way, however there are three type of answers that are received: YES, NO, and WAIT. He may approve of your request, and the circumstances in your life changes as He moves on your behalf; your circumstances don't change and He lets you know He does not approve of your request, usually by speaking to your heart, or He may use a situation or a person in your life to relay that message. You may get the answer you were not expecting, which is, NOT YET, and He will encourage you to be patient and wait.
Sometimes, you may experience a situation where you have prayed about a situation and have received no answer. You are sure that you have done everything right to receive it; you worshiped, you prayed, you read the bible, you prayed with other prayer warriors, but nothing seems to work. That's when you have to decide to keep on praying until you receive your answer.
I don't know how long it will take to receive that answer, because everyone's situation is different, and what the Lord does with one person is not the same for the next person, but I do know that if you give up, you will never receive an answer. When you feel that you have done everything to get His attention, and you still haven't received an answer, that is when you need to increase your praise and worship time. You need to start praying from the stance of Victory.
Declare the word of God on that situation, believe when you declare it that it will manifest, because you have authority through the word of God.
Joshua 1:7-8
I am strong and very courageous. I am careful to obey all the instructions... I do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. This is why I am successful in everything I do. I study this Book of Instruction continually. I meditate on it day and night...Only then will I prosper and succeed in all I do.
Romans 10:17
...my faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. [When I hear myself speaking God’s Word my faith grows and I become a God pleaser].
That is why it is so essential to read and study the word of God on a daily basis, that is how the word soaks into your heart and mind, so when circumstances arise, the word will also rise from your heart into your mind, and you will have the faith to declare that word over your situation. Memorize key scriptures, the ones that apply to your situation, and speak them out loud to yourself and declare it over your problem. Keep praising Him, and thanking Him in advance for the victory, and you will receive your answer. When you receive your answer, show your gratitude to Him, because whatever it is, it will be the right solution. You may feel prompted to keep on praying until your answer manifests.
Mark 11:23-24
(If I would)...say to this mountain, ‘you must immediately be removed and you must immediately be cast into the sea,’ and would not doubt in my heart but would believe that what I am saying is happening, it will be to me. I must continally pray for everything, then for whatever I am asking, I believe that I have taken it, and it will be there for me.
So, don't be discouraged if you haven't found a job yet, or you haven't received your healing, or the person you are praying about hasn't changed, or your circumstances seem hopeless; God has heard you, but He may be doing some things in the background to bring about your victory, or He is trying to change not just your circumstances, but you as well, so let Him change whatever needs to be done in your life.
Give Him the praise continually, and show your love and appreciation for His love, grace, and mercy in your life, and He will respond. When He does, it is your obligation to receive it and obey whatever He tells you to do. Keep On Praying Children Of God, And The Lord Of Hosts Will Deliver You In Due Time!
May the Lord keep you and Bless you this day....AMEN
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
3 Effects of Prayer On Forgiveness
by Tai Ikomi
Pray for your enemies? Who prays for their enemies? Only those who have forgiven them can do that! Praying is a great gauge of our forgiveness or the lack thereof. Praying for those who have offended us can be a great litmus test on three levels.
1. Praying for our offender implies that we have truly forgiven
First, if we have truly forgiven, then we would have no problem praying for the one we have forgiven. Actually being capable of asking God to bless them in all sincerity is a great indication that we no longer feel anger or malice towards them. Jesus said to pray for those who abuse us; it is only possible to obey this request through forgiveness.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; (Matthew 5:44)
Jesus is preaching forgiveness right here. If we do not think twice about praying for an offender, then we have most likely forgiven them.
2. Reluctance to pray for our offender shows we have not truly forgiven
On the other hand, if we cannot or refuse to pray for our offender, then we know we have not forgiven them. Our refusal or inability to pray shows we still hold something against them. We are not yet appeased, as it were. Realizing this is a good thing, for it allows us to realize that we still must forgive them. Deciding that we are reluctant to pray for an offender is a form of diagnosis that evidences our forgiveness was shallow.
Stephen, the first martyr of the church, was not reluctant to pray for his murderers because he did not hold their transgressions against them.
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep (Acts 7:60).
Our Lord Jesus Christ was not reluctant to pray for those who were crucifying Him.
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots (Luke 23:34).
Reluctance and refusal to pray for our offenders is the hallmark of an unforgiving heart. When we realize we haven't forgiven an offender, we go back to the drawing table, as it were, and we persist in our decision to forgive them. We ask God, our loving guide, to help us forgive, and then we go on to the next step.
3. Praying for our offender softens our heart towards forgiveness
Thirdly, the act of prayer that determines the level of our forgiveness is equally effective in enabling us to forgive. In praying for our offenders, a beautiful transformation begins to take place within us: our hearts begin to soften. While we may not mean the prayer in the beginning, we still expose our mind, our will, and our emotions to God, allowing him to better carry out His work.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou [art] the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day (Psalms 25:5).
The man who forgave his wife
I once counseled a man whose wife took his children from him without leaving a sign as to where they would be. He was so hurt. He loved his children dearly and now he could not find them. I told him to pray for her. At first, he could not do it. He said he felt hypocritical, because he did not mean the words that came out of his mouth. I told him not to stop; he should continue praying even if he did not mean it. He followed my advice and began praying for her again.
One day, he called me he was on top of the world. He was so happy. He said he was healed. It was as if praying for his wife who had taken their children from him was the miracle drug he had always needed. No counseling could have achieved this. No medication could have ever been so effective. But forgiveness was up to the task!
Before our Father in Heaven who commanded us to forgive, we pour out our pain, our anger, and our hurts. Yes, we may writhe in pain from the consequences of our offender's actions. As we pray, our emotions cry out, and we become even more aware of them. They may go into convulsions, so to speak. We do not want to pray for this person who has hurt us so much. But we must continue. We are fighting on the grounds of a battlefield. At the end of the warfare is victory. We would never want to go back to unforgiveness after we have tasted victory that can be found in forgiveness.
In conclusion, carrying out the commandment of the Lord by praying for those who hate us, or have offended us, or have hurt us on various levels has proved to be most useful. The God of grace is always there to strengthen us in all areas.
Dr. Tai Ikomi is an author of over 30 books .and a conference speaker. She conducts seminars on the Names of God and forgiveness after forgiving the drunk man who killed her entire family. She is the founder of Forgiveness Discipleship.
Dr. Tai Ikomi
tai.ikomi@yahoo.com www.privatetimewithGod.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Pray for your enemies? Who prays for their enemies? Only those who have forgiven them can do that! Praying is a great gauge of our forgiveness or the lack thereof. Praying for those who have offended us can be a great litmus test on three levels.
1. Praying for our offender implies that we have truly forgiven
First, if we have truly forgiven, then we would have no problem praying for the one we have forgiven. Actually being capable of asking God to bless them in all sincerity is a great indication that we no longer feel anger or malice towards them. Jesus said to pray for those who abuse us; it is only possible to obey this request through forgiveness.
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; (Matthew 5:44)
Jesus is preaching forgiveness right here. If we do not think twice about praying for an offender, then we have most likely forgiven them.
2. Reluctance to pray for our offender shows we have not truly forgiven
On the other hand, if we cannot or refuse to pray for our offender, then we know we have not forgiven them. Our refusal or inability to pray shows we still hold something against them. We are not yet appeased, as it were. Realizing this is a good thing, for it allows us to realize that we still must forgive them. Deciding that we are reluctant to pray for an offender is a form of diagnosis that evidences our forgiveness was shallow.
Stephen, the first martyr of the church, was not reluctant to pray for his murderers because he did not hold their transgressions against them.
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep (Acts 7:60).
Our Lord Jesus Christ was not reluctant to pray for those who were crucifying Him.
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots (Luke 23:34).
Reluctance and refusal to pray for our offenders is the hallmark of an unforgiving heart. When we realize we haven't forgiven an offender, we go back to the drawing table, as it were, and we persist in our decision to forgive them. We ask God, our loving guide, to help us forgive, and then we go on to the next step.
3. Praying for our offender softens our heart towards forgiveness
Thirdly, the act of prayer that determines the level of our forgiveness is equally effective in enabling us to forgive. In praying for our offenders, a beautiful transformation begins to take place within us: our hearts begin to soften. While we may not mean the prayer in the beginning, we still expose our mind, our will, and our emotions to God, allowing him to better carry out His work.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou [art] the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day (Psalms 25:5).
The man who forgave his wife
I once counseled a man whose wife took his children from him without leaving a sign as to where they would be. He was so hurt. He loved his children dearly and now he could not find them. I told him to pray for her. At first, he could not do it. He said he felt hypocritical, because he did not mean the words that came out of his mouth. I told him not to stop; he should continue praying even if he did not mean it. He followed my advice and began praying for her again.
One day, he called me he was on top of the world. He was so happy. He said he was healed. It was as if praying for his wife who had taken their children from him was the miracle drug he had always needed. No counseling could have achieved this. No medication could have ever been so effective. But forgiveness was up to the task!
Before our Father in Heaven who commanded us to forgive, we pour out our pain, our anger, and our hurts. Yes, we may writhe in pain from the consequences of our offender's actions. As we pray, our emotions cry out, and we become even more aware of them. They may go into convulsions, so to speak. We do not want to pray for this person who has hurt us so much. But we must continue. We are fighting on the grounds of a battlefield. At the end of the warfare is victory. We would never want to go back to unforgiveness after we have tasted victory that can be found in forgiveness.
In conclusion, carrying out the commandment of the Lord by praying for those who hate us, or have offended us, or have hurt us on various levels has proved to be most useful. The God of grace is always there to strengthen us in all areas.
Dr. Tai Ikomi is an author of over 30 books .and a conference speaker. She conducts seminars on the Names of God and forgiveness after forgiving the drunk man who killed her entire family. She is the founder of Forgiveness Discipleship.
Dr. Tai Ikomi
tai.ikomi@yahoo.com www.privatetimewithGod.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Forgiveness Stops Us From Becoming Negative
by Tai Ikomi
Forgiving our offenders blesses many areas of our lives, rewarding us in rich dividends. When we refuse to forgive, repercussions await us in places we least expect them. For example, the benefit of forgiveness extends to our attitude and consequently our social life.
FORGIVENESS STOPS US FROM BEING IN A BAD MOOD
When we are offended, we become angry, hurt, and insolent. The anger we feel, although it may be delayed, is in essence being unforgiving, and it may lead to a bad mood where we choose to remain for quite some time.
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:9).
Perhaps our spouse upset us in the morning before we left for work. Unless we deal with it, the situation puts us in an angry mood. People at work become our targets to pour out our frustration on: everyone gets on our nerves. It takes only a little to upset us. The negative mood has made us into what ordinarily we are not.
Saul's mood was negative because of his anger and unforgiving attitude toward David. He was angry with David, but his bad mood extended to Jonathan, his son. Saul lambasted Jonathan for allying with David his enemy, a false accusation. However, it did not stop there; his anger extended to his mother, who was probably Saul's queen. He insulted her as well.
Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of the perverse rebellious [woman], do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the confusion of thy mother's nakedness? (1 Samuel 20:30)
When Jonathan challenged his father for wanting to kill David, he replied to him by throwing a javelin at him.
And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David (1 Samuel 20:33).
His anger had blinded him. His negative mood led him to risk the life of his own son and heir. When anger is fueled by continued unforgiveness, there is no telling what could happen.
THE BAD MOOD MAY BECOME PERMANENT
If we constantly allow this negative mood to fester in our lives, it may soon become a habit. This habit forms into a character trait, which then leads to a fully-grown root of bitterness. It is no longer confined to an occasional mood swing; it has practically become a daily fixture of our lives. In other words, the constant negative mood swings have degenerated into complete and constant bitterness.
This bitterness will affect how we treat those around us. Most of the time, we are short tempered with them because of the permanent patches of pain inside of us. We are hurting inside. Our attitude has turned us into negative individuals, making us impossible to live with. Sometimes, we ask ourselves "Why am I so angry, even with innocent people?" or "Why am I so short tempered?" or even "Why am I pessimistic about life or suspicious of people?"
The answer is simple: hurting people makes us this way. We have been damaged; we can only give what we have.
Being unforgiving in daily living is at the root of many problems in our relationships at work, with our family, and even in the church. A bad mood will affect our actions. It will affect our role as a husband or a wife when we lash out at our spouse. We do not see eye to eye with our spouse because we are angry all the time. This bad mood has blinded us to the point that we are unable to identify with our spouse's point of view. Our emotions are all mangled. The constant refusal to forgive has led to a root of bitterness. The root is a foundation on which the tree grows, and when we are rooted in bitterness, it will reflect in our words, our actions, and indeed our thoughts.
The Bible warns against nursing root of bitterness, which will affect every branch of our lives.
"Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled" (Hebrews 12:15).
FORGIVENESS TAKES US OUT OF THE BAD MOOD
Forgiveness, on the other hand, has a way of helping us maintain a positive, happy mood. After forgiving our spouse, we release the offense, the anger, and the pain, and we avoid entering into a bad mood. We do not lash out at our spouse or at people around us because we are no longer on edge; it is because we are at peace. No wonder joy and peace are named among the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22).
In conclusion, when we forgive the one who hurt us yesterday, we are free to face tomorrow without any baggage. Forgiveness shields us from negative mood swings and worse ? a permanent root of bitterness. When the hurt is deep, and we release our offender of their offense, this shows our trust in God to impart His peace and balm to our wounded emotions.
For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones (Isaiah 57:15).
FORGIVENESS PRAYER
Father God, I pray that you give me the grace to forgive quickly and avoid becoming trapped in a bad mood. May I not allow an unforgiving spirit to change my personality or to burden others with my pain and frustration. When I have done so, I ask that you forgive me. Thank you Lord for helping me.
FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSIONS
1. How do you feel when you have not forgiven someone?
2. How does it feel when someone has not forgiven you?
3. What are some of the consequences you experience because of having a bad mood?
4. What is the most important lesson you've learned in this chapter??
Dr. Tai Ikomi is an author of over 30 books .and a conference speaker. She conducts seminars on the Names of God and forgiveness after forgiving the drunk man who killed her entire family. She is the founder of Forgiveness Discipleship.
Dr. Tai Ikomi
tai.ikomi@yahoo.com
www.privatetimewithGod.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Forgiving our offenders blesses many areas of our lives, rewarding us in rich dividends. When we refuse to forgive, repercussions await us in places we least expect them. For example, the benefit of forgiveness extends to our attitude and consequently our social life.
FORGIVENESS STOPS US FROM BEING IN A BAD MOOD
When we are offended, we become angry, hurt, and insolent. The anger we feel, although it may be delayed, is in essence being unforgiving, and it may lead to a bad mood where we choose to remain for quite some time.
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:9).
Perhaps our spouse upset us in the morning before we left for work. Unless we deal with it, the situation puts us in an angry mood. People at work become our targets to pour out our frustration on: everyone gets on our nerves. It takes only a little to upset us. The negative mood has made us into what ordinarily we are not.
Saul's mood was negative because of his anger and unforgiving attitude toward David. He was angry with David, but his bad mood extended to Jonathan, his son. Saul lambasted Jonathan for allying with David his enemy, a false accusation. However, it did not stop there; his anger extended to his mother, who was probably Saul's queen. He insulted her as well.
Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of the perverse rebellious [woman], do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the confusion of thy mother's nakedness? (1 Samuel 20:30)
When Jonathan challenged his father for wanting to kill David, he replied to him by throwing a javelin at him.
And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David (1 Samuel 20:33).
His anger had blinded him. His negative mood led him to risk the life of his own son and heir. When anger is fueled by continued unforgiveness, there is no telling what could happen.
THE BAD MOOD MAY BECOME PERMANENT
If we constantly allow this negative mood to fester in our lives, it may soon become a habit. This habit forms into a character trait, which then leads to a fully-grown root of bitterness. It is no longer confined to an occasional mood swing; it has practically become a daily fixture of our lives. In other words, the constant negative mood swings have degenerated into complete and constant bitterness.
This bitterness will affect how we treat those around us. Most of the time, we are short tempered with them because of the permanent patches of pain inside of us. We are hurting inside. Our attitude has turned us into negative individuals, making us impossible to live with. Sometimes, we ask ourselves "Why am I so angry, even with innocent people?" or "Why am I so short tempered?" or even "Why am I pessimistic about life or suspicious of people?"
The answer is simple: hurting people makes us this way. We have been damaged; we can only give what we have.
Being unforgiving in daily living is at the root of many problems in our relationships at work, with our family, and even in the church. A bad mood will affect our actions. It will affect our role as a husband or a wife when we lash out at our spouse. We do not see eye to eye with our spouse because we are angry all the time. This bad mood has blinded us to the point that we are unable to identify with our spouse's point of view. Our emotions are all mangled. The constant refusal to forgive has led to a root of bitterness. The root is a foundation on which the tree grows, and when we are rooted in bitterness, it will reflect in our words, our actions, and indeed our thoughts.
The Bible warns against nursing root of bitterness, which will affect every branch of our lives.
"Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled" (Hebrews 12:15).
FORGIVENESS TAKES US OUT OF THE BAD MOOD
Forgiveness, on the other hand, has a way of helping us maintain a positive, happy mood. After forgiving our spouse, we release the offense, the anger, and the pain, and we avoid entering into a bad mood. We do not lash out at our spouse or at people around us because we are no longer on edge; it is because we are at peace. No wonder joy and peace are named among the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22).
In conclusion, when we forgive the one who hurt us yesterday, we are free to face tomorrow without any baggage. Forgiveness shields us from negative mood swings and worse ? a permanent root of bitterness. When the hurt is deep, and we release our offender of their offense, this shows our trust in God to impart His peace and balm to our wounded emotions.
For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones (Isaiah 57:15).
FORGIVENESS PRAYER
Father God, I pray that you give me the grace to forgive quickly and avoid becoming trapped in a bad mood. May I not allow an unforgiving spirit to change my personality or to burden others with my pain and frustration. When I have done so, I ask that you forgive me. Thank you Lord for helping me.
FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSIONS
1. How do you feel when you have not forgiven someone?
2. How does it feel when someone has not forgiven you?
3. What are some of the consequences you experience because of having a bad mood?
4. What is the most important lesson you've learned in this chapter??
Dr. Tai Ikomi is an author of over 30 books .and a conference speaker. She conducts seminars on the Names of God and forgiveness after forgiving the drunk man who killed her entire family. She is the founder of Forgiveness Discipleship.
Dr. Tai Ikomi
tai.ikomi@yahoo.com
www.privatetimewithGod.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
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