Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your request to God and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6
This summer my children are learning different verses in the Bible. I hand-picked these verses because they have been such a help in my life. When my daughter finished reading this verse a few days ago she asked me, "Mama does that really mean everything?" and I told her "Yes baby it does." When I first read this verse I had the same question. But as I have grown spiritually I truly take this verse in its truest sense. I pray about everything. From a close parking space to my marriage. I pray for my children and my friends. I pray that I can have a trip to Walmart without the lack of quality customer service upsetting me. I pray while riding in my car because I know of my tendency for road rage. I'll never forget when a former manager of mine rode in the car with me and she couldn't believe how upset I got while driving. (Just for your information...I have gotten better.)
Now my question to you is how do you interpret that verse. Do you use it to your advantage? My life is full of too many uncertainties so when I can be sure of something I want to use it to my advantage. What am I sure of? That God can handle any problem that I might have. That He is going to give me a peace that helps me to stop worrying so much. Just today I had a test and although I had studied, I just didn't feel sure. In fact, I had a minor anxiety attack. So I stopped and prayed. I prayed all the way to the school. I asked God to calm my nerves and to bring the things I had studied to my memory. And you know what, He did! Talk about being thankful....I almost started shouting in the class when I looked at the questions and realized I actually knew the answers.
Some of you may laugh at me and say why pray about such trivial things. I will give you the same response I gave my daughter. When you pray about the trivial things it becomes a habit. It becomes a part of your everyday routine. Don't you know that God never gets tired of hearing from you? He delights when his children come an talk to Him. So if you know that He wants to hear from you and that prayer changes things, why wouldn't you talk to God about everything? Just look at the benefits you receive...a peace that surpasses all understanding, insulation for you heart and mind to keep out those thoughts of negativity. If praying is all we have to do to receive all that (and let me remind you this is an extra benefit because we already have eternal life) then what's stopping you?
Dear Lord,
I'm coming to you today just to talk about some things that have been bothering me. (Go ahead and talk to Him about those things.) Today I am turning them over to you. I am also recommitting myself to going to you first about everything. I know you are the only one who can really do something about it. I thank you right now for everything you have already done in my life and I am also thanking you in advance for what you are going to do in the future. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
When We All Get To Heaven
When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be. When we all see Jesus, we will sing and shout the victory. So glad...I'm so glad. So glad...I'm so glad. So glad...I'm so glad everybody will be happy over there!
I must confess there are days when all I can think about is heaven. Sometimes the pressures of this world are so heavy and it seems like the walls are closing in that the mere thought of seeing my Savior's face brings me joy. I would like just to be able to get away from it all and take a vacation but that alternative isn't always possible. So I go to my happy place....a place of joy, peace, singing, praising, shouting! Have you ever had days like this? A day when you just need to escape the worries and cares of this world into a glimpse of heaven.
You know I truly believe the more you try to do right and live for God, the more Satan tries to come up against you. But don't let him distract you. Remember that we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 Although our enemies might look like us, it is the believer's job to keep our eye on the prize. We shouldn't get so wrapped up in the person who is causing us so much pain. And believe me when I tell you this is hard. The person could be on your job, in your church, a distant relative or even someone in your own home. We must remember that our enemy is Satan! Anything he can do to try and steal your joy or make you take your eyes off Christ, he will do it. But I say that when your vision is blurry, simply readjust your focus. I don't care what anybody says, you cannot think about God and stay in the same mindset. But for a glimpse of heaven and a face-to-face meeting with my Heavenly Father, my personal Savior, my joy in sorrow and my hope for tomorrow. Because I know He is looking down on me along with a great cloud of witnesses cheering me on, reminding me through the Holy Spirit that I've got the victory, I can go on another day. That's such good news! Not only will I get to see my Savior, but also my loved one who have went on before me. I won't have any worries or cares. I will know beyond a shadow of a doubt that it was all worth it. The day I accepted Jesus as my Lord and my Savior was the very best decision I ever made. What about you?
Dear Lord,
I just want to thank you for saving me. Thank you for allowing me to know you and to know that this world is not my home, I am just passing through. I am on my way to a better place where there will be no tears, no pain, no worries, no stress. It gives me that bit of encouragement to run on and see what the end will be. I know that I am not worthy. I know that I am but a sinner saved by grace and because you loved me I will get to enjoy all the benefits of your Son. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
I must confess there are days when all I can think about is heaven. Sometimes the pressures of this world are so heavy and it seems like the walls are closing in that the mere thought of seeing my Savior's face brings me joy. I would like just to be able to get away from it all and take a vacation but that alternative isn't always possible. So I go to my happy place....a place of joy, peace, singing, praising, shouting! Have you ever had days like this? A day when you just need to escape the worries and cares of this world into a glimpse of heaven.
You know I truly believe the more you try to do right and live for God, the more Satan tries to come up against you. But don't let him distract you. Remember that we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 Although our enemies might look like us, it is the believer's job to keep our eye on the prize. We shouldn't get so wrapped up in the person who is causing us so much pain. And believe me when I tell you this is hard. The person could be on your job, in your church, a distant relative or even someone in your own home. We must remember that our enemy is Satan! Anything he can do to try and steal your joy or make you take your eyes off Christ, he will do it. But I say that when your vision is blurry, simply readjust your focus. I don't care what anybody says, you cannot think about God and stay in the same mindset. But for a glimpse of heaven and a face-to-face meeting with my Heavenly Father, my personal Savior, my joy in sorrow and my hope for tomorrow. Because I know He is looking down on me along with a great cloud of witnesses cheering me on, reminding me through the Holy Spirit that I've got the victory, I can go on another day. That's such good news! Not only will I get to see my Savior, but also my loved one who have went on before me. I won't have any worries or cares. I will know beyond a shadow of a doubt that it was all worth it. The day I accepted Jesus as my Lord and my Savior was the very best decision I ever made. What about you?
Dear Lord,
I just want to thank you for saving me. Thank you for allowing me to know you and to know that this world is not my home, I am just passing through. I am on my way to a better place where there will be no tears, no pain, no worries, no stress. It gives me that bit of encouragement to run on and see what the end will be. I know that I am not worthy. I know that I am but a sinner saved by grace and because you loved me I will get to enjoy all the benefits of your Son. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Conformed or Transformed?
I am always amazed at the things that we have decided to allow in the name of acceptance. We don't want to hurt anyone's feelings or we don't want to be on the unpopular side of a vote. What is that about? You see, I was raised old school and somewhat very traditional. And while I realize that it is 2010, the Word of the Lord will never be outdated. So the things that it says still hold true and is very applicable to this day and age. Yet and still today's Christian would much rather be popular and liked. This happens individually and collectively. Do you know how many churches today are open and filled to capacity, preaching half of the Word.. They only want to tell the people what is popular. 'You will receive blessings upon blessings'. Never mentioning anything about the rough times in life. And you know what happens, when that person encounters a storm, they have nothing to stand on. This type of preaching may be helpful on the surface but it is damaging in the end.
But is that what the Word says? I don't think so. We are told in Romans 12:2, 'Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect'. This means that it's alright to be on the unpopular side of a vote. Being a light for God in a dark place isn't about you anyway. The scripture says that 'if I be lifted up, I'll draw all men unto Me'. So it's not about you, it's about the God in you. And people need to see the difference God has made in your life. Whether on your job, shopping at the mall, eating in a restaurant or driving in your car, people need to see God. How else will they know that this Christian walk is worth it? That's like the people who practice this new age discipline with their children. Again, remember I'm old school. And the bible says...spare the rod, spoil the child. My parents spanked me and I'd like to think I turned out okay.
We were born into a world of sin. It comes natural for us. In order for us to change we must be saved. Our minds must be renewed. This can only be done through the blood of Jesus. As we read the Bible and learn from the Master, he transforms us. And what a wonderful change it is. This change doesn't make you better than anyone. Many Christians use this as an opportunity to judge or look down on people. But if they are reading the Word and studying the heart of Christ they would know that doesn't fall into the will of God. God's will is that everyone be saved, even though he realizes that this will not be the case. You see we are told to hate the sin but love the sinner. Your love and inclusion may be the one thing that finally brings that sinner to his knees. So take a moment and take a good look in the mirror. I'm not asking you to think back over your entire life. I just want you to take a look at yesterday and answer the question if you are conforming or being transformed. I don't want to know what you say verbally but I am asking about the life you live daily. My prayer for you is that when people come in contact with you they see the God in you.
Dear Lord,
It is so easy to get wrapped up in trying to keep the peace, not be a trouble maker, just going with the flow. But I know how much you have changed my life and I want to share you with everyone that I come in contact with. Help me, dear Lord, to be more of an example of you. I want people to see the God in me everywhere I go. I know that you have changed my life. I know that I am who I am today because of you. Thank you for your transforming power. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
But is that what the Word says? I don't think so. We are told in Romans 12:2, 'Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect'. This means that it's alright to be on the unpopular side of a vote. Being a light for God in a dark place isn't about you anyway. The scripture says that 'if I be lifted up, I'll draw all men unto Me'. So it's not about you, it's about the God in you. And people need to see the difference God has made in your life. Whether on your job, shopping at the mall, eating in a restaurant or driving in your car, people need to see God. How else will they know that this Christian walk is worth it? That's like the people who practice this new age discipline with their children. Again, remember I'm old school. And the bible says...spare the rod, spoil the child. My parents spanked me and I'd like to think I turned out okay.
We were born into a world of sin. It comes natural for us. In order for us to change we must be saved. Our minds must be renewed. This can only be done through the blood of Jesus. As we read the Bible and learn from the Master, he transforms us. And what a wonderful change it is. This change doesn't make you better than anyone. Many Christians use this as an opportunity to judge or look down on people. But if they are reading the Word and studying the heart of Christ they would know that doesn't fall into the will of God. God's will is that everyone be saved, even though he realizes that this will not be the case. You see we are told to hate the sin but love the sinner. Your love and inclusion may be the one thing that finally brings that sinner to his knees. So take a moment and take a good look in the mirror. I'm not asking you to think back over your entire life. I just want you to take a look at yesterday and answer the question if you are conforming or being transformed. I don't want to know what you say verbally but I am asking about the life you live daily. My prayer for you is that when people come in contact with you they see the God in you.
Dear Lord,
It is so easy to get wrapped up in trying to keep the peace, not be a trouble maker, just going with the flow. But I know how much you have changed my life and I want to share you with everyone that I come in contact with. Help me, dear Lord, to be more of an example of you. I want people to see the God in me everywhere I go. I know that you have changed my life. I know that I am who I am today because of you. Thank you for your transforming power. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Let It Rain
It has been raining now for almost twenty-four hours. Sometimes it has been a slow, steady rain and other times it has been a heavy rain mixed with thunder and lightening. To tell you the truth, I am not that fond of rain. If I had my choice of rain or a clear sun shiny day, I would choose the sun hands down. But as I sat and read listening to the rain my daughter reminded me that "it has to rain mommie for things to grow". Out of the mouths of babes...
We all know what rain is but let me give you the scientific breakdown of where rain comes from. Rain is nothing but liquid precipitation. Rain requires the presence of a thick layer of the atmosphere to have temperatures above the melting point of water near and above the Earth's surface. On Earth, it is the condensation of atmospheric water vapor into drops of water heavy enough to fall, often making it to the surface. All plants need at least some water to survive. That means rain is important to agriculture. A regular rain pattern is usually vital to healthy plants. Too much or too little rainfall can be harmful. Too little rain causes a drought and a drought can kill crops and increase erosion, while overly wet weather can cause harmful fungus growth. Bottom line...rain is necessary.
As you are reading this I know you are thinking,'Thanks Ramona for that science lesson about rain'. You are very welcome. But that's not what I wanted to leave you with. I want to talk about the benefits that rain has in your life. You know I am all about thinking about things from a positive perspective. I work to see the God in every thing. So just think about it.
Pressure has built up in your life to the point that you are about to burst. The natural progression is for some rain to fall. It's hot and there is a spiritual drought in your life....Isaiah 55:10-11, 'For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth. It shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
We grow tired and are in need of a little refreshment. God sends the rain. Psalms 68:9, 'Thou, O, God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.
In need of a blessing...Leviticus 26:4 'Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit'.
Need proof of your firm foundation...Matthew 7:25, 'And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
Shall I go any further? You see, when you believe that God's hand is at work in every aspect of your life you can see the value in the rain. Whether it is a cloudburst, a peaceful, steady rain or a thunderstorm. Rain serves a positive purpose in your life. What is that purpose? Rain provides the nutrients necessary for you to continue to grow and more importantly the rain usually comes right before harvest time!
Dear Lord,
I have often heard myself singing the childhood nursery rhyme, rain, rain go away come again another day. But the more I grow in my relationship with you, I have started to see the positive side in everything that comes into my life. So today I want to thank you for the rain. I know that rain is necessary for me to grow but today I want to thank you because the rain comes right before harvest time. Thank you Lord for the rain. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
We all know what rain is but let me give you the scientific breakdown of where rain comes from. Rain is nothing but liquid precipitation. Rain requires the presence of a thick layer of the atmosphere to have temperatures above the melting point of water near and above the Earth's surface. On Earth, it is the condensation of atmospheric water vapor into drops of water heavy enough to fall, often making it to the surface. All plants need at least some water to survive. That means rain is important to agriculture. A regular rain pattern is usually vital to healthy plants. Too much or too little rainfall can be harmful. Too little rain causes a drought and a drought can kill crops and increase erosion, while overly wet weather can cause harmful fungus growth. Bottom line...rain is necessary.
As you are reading this I know you are thinking,'Thanks Ramona for that science lesson about rain'. You are very welcome. But that's not what I wanted to leave you with. I want to talk about the benefits that rain has in your life. You know I am all about thinking about things from a positive perspective. I work to see the God in every thing. So just think about it.
Pressure has built up in your life to the point that you are about to burst. The natural progression is for some rain to fall. It's hot and there is a spiritual drought in your life....Isaiah 55:10-11, 'For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth. It shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
We grow tired and are in need of a little refreshment. God sends the rain. Psalms 68:9, 'Thou, O, God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.
In need of a blessing...Leviticus 26:4 'Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit'.
Need proof of your firm foundation...Matthew 7:25, 'And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
Shall I go any further? You see, when you believe that God's hand is at work in every aspect of your life you can see the value in the rain. Whether it is a cloudburst, a peaceful, steady rain or a thunderstorm. Rain serves a positive purpose in your life. What is that purpose? Rain provides the nutrients necessary for you to continue to grow and more importantly the rain usually comes right before harvest time!
Dear Lord,
I have often heard myself singing the childhood nursery rhyme, rain, rain go away come again another day. But the more I grow in my relationship with you, I have started to see the positive side in everything that comes into my life. So today I want to thank you for the rain. I know that rain is necessary for me to grow but today I want to thank you because the rain comes right before harvest time. Thank you Lord for the rain. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Heaven Sent
What do you think of when you hear the words 'heaven sent'? My guess would be that you think of something positive...your spouse, your children, a job, an unexpected check in the mail. You could easily describe any of these things with the words 'heaven sent'. Today I want to talk to you about a different kind of heaven sent. This kind is not often thought of in a positive light but more often in a negative light. The 'heaven sent' that I am talking about is the storms of life.
One of the best examples I can think of to explain this is the story of Job. Do you recall the conversation that God had with Satan? Satan had been going back and forth across the earth, watching everything that was going on. The Lord asked him if he had noticed His servant Job? Take a moment and read Job 1:6-12. In the story you see that God removed his hand from Job so that Satan could test him. This certainly doesn't sound like something you would want the Lord to do. Yet the Lord removed His barriers of protection and allowed it.
I remember the first time I read this story. I sat there wondering why would God allow such a thing. I heard the story as a child and then again as I got older. I didn't quite understand God's sovereignty or the purpose of storms. But now I have lived a little and been through some things and have a better understanding of what took place. Therefore the simples answer to the question would be that just as Satan was watching Job so was God. Go back and read verse 5. The verse ends by saying, 'this was Job's regular practice'. You see God knew that Job had made a regular practice of being prayed up. This verse spoke of his prayers for his children, but I would almost bet that was not the only thing his prayers included. The point I am trying to get across is that he had spent regular time with God. God knew he could handle it. Now Job didn't have any idea this was coming. His life was going pretty well. Boy was he in for a shocker!
I have a question for you. Why do we as believers continue to be so shocked by the storms of life? When will we finally accept them as being a part of our Christian journey? Maybe some of you do see them as a part of your Christian journey, yet you continue to moan and groan and whine every time a new storm comes in your life. When God has a hand on your life, he knows every thing about you. He knows how strong you are...most of the time stronger than you think. I know they don't feel good. As a matter of fact, that's an understatement. They down right hurt. But they always serve a purpose. That purpose is to make you better. Earlier I listed a few things that you might think of as 'heaven sent'. I am sure you probably have your own lists of things. Today I want to challenge you to add a new item to your list - storms. You see, storms are heaven sent because when God removes His barriers of protection, just give Him some time, because He will surely restore the joy of your salvation to prepare you for your heavenly reward. I love what Chuck Swindoll says, "Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% of how you react to it." I wonder what would happen if our reaction to the storms of life changed to 'Praise'. Instead of complaining to God about what is going on, we lifted our voices in praise, thanking Him for His heavenly gift.
Dear Lord,
I most definitely have not had the best response when storms have entered my life, especially when I am trying to do what is right. It's not easy to go through difficult times. Help me to recognize your hand on my life during the storm. I want to change my perspective from complaining to praising. This will be a complete attitude shift for me but I know that I can do it with your help. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
One of the best examples I can think of to explain this is the story of Job. Do you recall the conversation that God had with Satan? Satan had been going back and forth across the earth, watching everything that was going on. The Lord asked him if he had noticed His servant Job? Take a moment and read Job 1:6-12. In the story you see that God removed his hand from Job so that Satan could test him. This certainly doesn't sound like something you would want the Lord to do. Yet the Lord removed His barriers of protection and allowed it.
I remember the first time I read this story. I sat there wondering why would God allow such a thing. I heard the story as a child and then again as I got older. I didn't quite understand God's sovereignty or the purpose of storms. But now I have lived a little and been through some things and have a better understanding of what took place. Therefore the simples answer to the question would be that just as Satan was watching Job so was God. Go back and read verse 5. The verse ends by saying, 'this was Job's regular practice'. You see God knew that Job had made a regular practice of being prayed up. This verse spoke of his prayers for his children, but I would almost bet that was not the only thing his prayers included. The point I am trying to get across is that he had spent regular time with God. God knew he could handle it. Now Job didn't have any idea this was coming. His life was going pretty well. Boy was he in for a shocker!
I have a question for you. Why do we as believers continue to be so shocked by the storms of life? When will we finally accept them as being a part of our Christian journey? Maybe some of you do see them as a part of your Christian journey, yet you continue to moan and groan and whine every time a new storm comes in your life. When God has a hand on your life, he knows every thing about you. He knows how strong you are...most of the time stronger than you think. I know they don't feel good. As a matter of fact, that's an understatement. They down right hurt. But they always serve a purpose. That purpose is to make you better. Earlier I listed a few things that you might think of as 'heaven sent'. I am sure you probably have your own lists of things. Today I want to challenge you to add a new item to your list - storms. You see, storms are heaven sent because when God removes His barriers of protection, just give Him some time, because He will surely restore the joy of your salvation to prepare you for your heavenly reward. I love what Chuck Swindoll says, "Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% of how you react to it." I wonder what would happen if our reaction to the storms of life changed to 'Praise'. Instead of complaining to God about what is going on, we lifted our voices in praise, thanking Him for His heavenly gift.
Dear Lord,
I most definitely have not had the best response when storms have entered my life, especially when I am trying to do what is right. It's not easy to go through difficult times. Help me to recognize your hand on my life during the storm. I want to change my perspective from complaining to praising. This will be a complete attitude shift for me but I know that I can do it with your help. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
Friday, June 11, 2010
A Touch From The Master
All I need is a touch from you. No one else can do the things you do. Take the wrong in my life and make it right. All I need is a touch from you.
These words are the lyrics to a popular gospel song out right now sang by Brian Courtney Wilson. I was driving in my car and listening to this song and I got to thinking about what the lyrics meant. These words are a true testimony of faith. He is essentially saying that just one touch from the Master and everything will be alright.
Remember the woman who had the issue of blood. If you are unfamiliar with the story it can be found at Mark 5: 25-34. This woman had a bleeding condition that lasted for twelve long years. Yet when she heard about a man named Jesus, her thought process changed. She had hope. She thought to herself, finally someone who I know can do something about this condition. She had been to all the specialists. She had tried all the home remedies. She had exhausted all of her financial resources. A person under normal circumstances would have given up. They would have just decided that I will just live with the condition and wait until I die.
(Just a footnote - someone reading this today has already decided to put the nail in the coffin. You have given up on the situation. You have decided that there is no hope. My question to you today is have you heard about that man named Jesus? Did you ever stop to think that your lack of faith is tying God's hands?)
I can imagine her sitting there one day thinking about everything she had heard. All the miracles he had already performed. I can hear her saying to herself, Wow! Who is this man named Jesus? I haven't met Him yet but He sounds like someone special. And the more she sat there and thought about Him she came to the conclusion that He could do the same thing for her. What faith! She had probably already noticed that there was never a time when He did not have a crowd around him. So she thought to herself what if I just get close enough to touch the hem of His garment. I know He can heal me! I have no doubt! And make her way through the crowd is exactly what she did. You see her preparation followed by persistence led her to the physician who provided her with a premium benefit - not only the healing of her condition but all of her suffering. That's persistence paid at a premium! That's just how my God works!
My question to you today is what does your faith meter read? Unlike the woman with the issue of blood, you have actually seen God show up time and time again in your life, yet there are times that you still doubt Him. You see, she believed based on what He had done for others. You, instead, want to hold on to control. You want Him to show up and fix it your way and in your time. When will you finally get to the point that you say that all you need is a touch from the Lord. He has a proven track record. There is nothing too big or too small. He can do it! All you have to do is have faith! Whatever it is that you are holding on to, I urge you today to give it to Him. Watch Him work it out! You might even receive a premium. Just like the woman with the issue of blood, I have went to God believing Him for one thing and He takes care of something else. He takes care of the very thing that was at the root of the problem.
Dear Lord,
I believe. I believe that you can take care of the situation that is going on in my life right now. I know that there is nothing too big or too small that you cannot handle. Today I am turning it all over to you and having the faith that you will take care of it. At the moment that I start to doubt help me to remember the woman with the issue of blood or better yet the last time you showed up in my life. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
These words are the lyrics to a popular gospel song out right now sang by Brian Courtney Wilson. I was driving in my car and listening to this song and I got to thinking about what the lyrics meant. These words are a true testimony of faith. He is essentially saying that just one touch from the Master and everything will be alright.
Remember the woman who had the issue of blood. If you are unfamiliar with the story it can be found at Mark 5: 25-34. This woman had a bleeding condition that lasted for twelve long years. Yet when she heard about a man named Jesus, her thought process changed. She had hope. She thought to herself, finally someone who I know can do something about this condition. She had been to all the specialists. She had tried all the home remedies. She had exhausted all of her financial resources. A person under normal circumstances would have given up. They would have just decided that I will just live with the condition and wait until I die.
(Just a footnote - someone reading this today has already decided to put the nail in the coffin. You have given up on the situation. You have decided that there is no hope. My question to you today is have you heard about that man named Jesus? Did you ever stop to think that your lack of faith is tying God's hands?)
I can imagine her sitting there one day thinking about everything she had heard. All the miracles he had already performed. I can hear her saying to herself, Wow! Who is this man named Jesus? I haven't met Him yet but He sounds like someone special. And the more she sat there and thought about Him she came to the conclusion that He could do the same thing for her. What faith! She had probably already noticed that there was never a time when He did not have a crowd around him. So she thought to herself what if I just get close enough to touch the hem of His garment. I know He can heal me! I have no doubt! And make her way through the crowd is exactly what she did. You see her preparation followed by persistence led her to the physician who provided her with a premium benefit - not only the healing of her condition but all of her suffering. That's persistence paid at a premium! That's just how my God works!
My question to you today is what does your faith meter read? Unlike the woman with the issue of blood, you have actually seen God show up time and time again in your life, yet there are times that you still doubt Him. You see, she believed based on what He had done for others. You, instead, want to hold on to control. You want Him to show up and fix it your way and in your time. When will you finally get to the point that you say that all you need is a touch from the Lord. He has a proven track record. There is nothing too big or too small. He can do it! All you have to do is have faith! Whatever it is that you are holding on to, I urge you today to give it to Him. Watch Him work it out! You might even receive a premium. Just like the woman with the issue of blood, I have went to God believing Him for one thing and He takes care of something else. He takes care of the very thing that was at the root of the problem.
Dear Lord,
I believe. I believe that you can take care of the situation that is going on in my life right now. I know that there is nothing too big or too small that you cannot handle. Today I am turning it all over to you and having the faith that you will take care of it. At the moment that I start to doubt help me to remember the woman with the issue of blood or better yet the last time you showed up in my life. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The Proper Response!
Have you ever just been so overwhelmed at the goodness of the Lord? A day where you just looked around you and everywhere you looked was a reminder of how good God has been to you. Today was a day like that for me. A day when I realized that, in spite of me, God still loves me just the same and keeps on making a way for me.
So what is the proper response when you think of how good God has been to you? Praise!!! Pure, unadulterated praise. Time where we thank God just for being God. Time when we thank Him for bringing us this far. Saints of God there are times when I think about how good God has been to me and I just have to shout out Hallelujah! And this feeling hits me at the weirdest times. Believe it or not, it's not when everything seems to be going good. It's at those times when things are a little hectic. Everything is not flowing the way I think it should. My carefully designed plan of action is falling apart at the seams. It is times when my bills are larger than my bank account. That probably sounds strange to you. But it actually makes sense.
You see, whenever I start to get a little afraid or stressed or worried, what better time to reflect on the goodness of the Lord! I can take a moment to rewind the video of my life and count how many times God has made a way out of no way. I think about how things really could be worse than they are, BUT GOD!
I turn to the Word and read verses like Psalms 18: 2-3 which says: The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worth to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.
Psalms 34: 1-4 which says: I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt his name together. I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me, freeing me from all my fears.
Psalms 91:1 which says: Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Psalms 94: 17-19 which says: Unless the Lord had helped me, I would soon have died. I cried out, "I'm slipping!" and your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
I could go on and on but hopefully you get my point. I like the way they used to do it in the old testament when God showed up and showed out. They built a memorial to remember each and every time God showed up. I haven't built a memorial but I do have reminders all around me. I am sure you do to. There is no need to be discouraged. There is no need to worry, doubt or fear. You have the Lord on your side and having Him is better than winning the lottery. It is better than having a six-figure job. My God owns the cattle on a thousand hills! It is better than having the number to the best doctor. My God is a physician who has never lost a case! It is better than having a lawyer in the family. My God is a lawyer in a courtroom. The wealth of a Christian has yet to be determined because we often times do not tap into our greatest resource. Instead we choose to be self-sufficient, relying on earthly things that will fade away. I am here to tell you I would much rather have Jesus!
You see, every time the devil tries to creep in and steal my joy I stop Him. I think about the goodness of Jesus and all He has done for me. Immediately my thoughts change from the negative to the positive. I can't think about God and remain the same. He has changing power. He can change your circumstances but even better He can change your heart, your mind. He can give you a peace that surpasses all understanding. The next time you are tempted to feel sorry about your situation, hit rewind. Take a moment and reflect on all that God has done for you. Remember I Corinthians 2:9 which says, No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him! And then give God his proper response....a voice of PRAISE!!!!!
Dear Lord,
I just want to take some time out right now and say thank you. Thank you, first and foremost, just for being who you are. Thank you for everything that you have done for me. Thank you for your grace. Thank you for your mercy. As I look back on my life, I see your hand in every aspect of my life. The good, the bad and the ugly. And I still say thank you, because through it all I'm okay. Lord, help me to remember your goodness whenever I start to feel discouraged, whenever I start to doubt or I am afraid. Help me to know that you are right there with me directing my paths. I just want to give you all the glory you deserve. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
So what is the proper response when you think of how good God has been to you? Praise!!! Pure, unadulterated praise. Time where we thank God just for being God. Time when we thank Him for bringing us this far. Saints of God there are times when I think about how good God has been to me and I just have to shout out Hallelujah! And this feeling hits me at the weirdest times. Believe it or not, it's not when everything seems to be going good. It's at those times when things are a little hectic. Everything is not flowing the way I think it should. My carefully designed plan of action is falling apart at the seams. It is times when my bills are larger than my bank account. That probably sounds strange to you. But it actually makes sense.
You see, whenever I start to get a little afraid or stressed or worried, what better time to reflect on the goodness of the Lord! I can take a moment to rewind the video of my life and count how many times God has made a way out of no way. I think about how things really could be worse than they are, BUT GOD!
I turn to the Word and read verses like Psalms 18: 2-3 which says: The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worth to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.
Psalms 34: 1-4 which says: I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt his name together. I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me, freeing me from all my fears.
Psalms 91:1 which says: Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Psalms 94: 17-19 which says: Unless the Lord had helped me, I would soon have died. I cried out, "I'm slipping!" and your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
I could go on and on but hopefully you get my point. I like the way they used to do it in the old testament when God showed up and showed out. They built a memorial to remember each and every time God showed up. I haven't built a memorial but I do have reminders all around me. I am sure you do to. There is no need to be discouraged. There is no need to worry, doubt or fear. You have the Lord on your side and having Him is better than winning the lottery. It is better than having a six-figure job. My God owns the cattle on a thousand hills! It is better than having the number to the best doctor. My God is a physician who has never lost a case! It is better than having a lawyer in the family. My God is a lawyer in a courtroom. The wealth of a Christian has yet to be determined because we often times do not tap into our greatest resource. Instead we choose to be self-sufficient, relying on earthly things that will fade away. I am here to tell you I would much rather have Jesus!
You see, every time the devil tries to creep in and steal my joy I stop Him. I think about the goodness of Jesus and all He has done for me. Immediately my thoughts change from the negative to the positive. I can't think about God and remain the same. He has changing power. He can change your circumstances but even better He can change your heart, your mind. He can give you a peace that surpasses all understanding. The next time you are tempted to feel sorry about your situation, hit rewind. Take a moment and reflect on all that God has done for you. Remember I Corinthians 2:9 which says, No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him! And then give God his proper response....a voice of PRAISE!!!!!
Dear Lord,
I just want to take some time out right now and say thank you. Thank you, first and foremost, just for being who you are. Thank you for everything that you have done for me. Thank you for your grace. Thank you for your mercy. As I look back on my life, I see your hand in every aspect of my life. The good, the bad and the ugly. And I still say thank you, because through it all I'm okay. Lord, help me to remember your goodness whenever I start to feel discouraged, whenever I start to doubt or I am afraid. Help me to know that you are right there with me directing my paths. I just want to give you all the glory you deserve. In Jesus' Wonderful Name Amen.
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