We are weak, He Is Strong

Today's Scripture

"Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." (II Corinthians 2:14)

Today's Word

Have you ever noticed that Satan always chooses just the right time to attack you? When you haven't had enough rest, when you haven't been spending time daily with the Lord, when the demands on your time and energy seem overwhelming – that's when the enemy tries to pull the rug out from under you.

The good news is – even that rug is under God's feet. And God always has victory in mind! He will never allow Satan to discourage you without a plan for your ultimate success! We may not always choose to follow Christ to victory, but He is always leading the way!

God wants to give you the victory because He loves you, and because it will be a testimony to His goodness for all to see. Choose today to rise up and take authority over any area of your life that's keeping you in defeat. Be on the aggressive. Be on the offensive. Stay focused and determined, and God will take you places you've never dreamed of. Claim His promises of joy and abundance with confidence and rejoice in the triumph that God has in store for you today!

A Prayer for Today

God, open my eyes to the things in my life that are dragging me down. Help me always be on guard over my spiritual life. Help me to be alert and to stay focused on the plan that You have for me. In Jesus' name - Amen.

Good News Travels Fast

Today's Scripture
"When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things." (Mark 6:34)

Today's Word

Now Simon's mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever; and immediately they spoke to Jesus about her. And He came to her and raised her up, taking her by the hand, and the fever left her, and she waited on them. When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city had gathered at the door." (Mark 1:30-33)

Amazing things happen when we accept, learn and share the Word of God with others. People who were lost and hopeless are finding a new life and a life of purpose. People who were depressed and discouraged are receiving encouragement and renewed strength. Those who were sick and hurting are being healed in their bodies and their minds. And individuals who believed they were failures are discovering the champions that God made them to be, despite what others may or may not say, feel or understand.

As Jesus' disciples soon learned in Jerusalem, this kind of good news travels very fast. When God's hand is moving in a supernatural way, the whole community will soon be gathered at your door. It is true, even in your home church.

Each week, people from many different places make their way to our doors, TV program or Web-site, they're looking to hear some good news, because all week long they've been subject to hearing bad-news, what I call "gloom and doom".

In the name of Jesus, always remember to welcome anyone who comes seeking with the same kind of love and compassion that Jesus himself showed to the multitudes that followed Him, which don't forget, includes you and I. Ask God to use you this week, and be sure to thank Him as He ordains you to bless one of His much loved creations. And regarding that "gloom and doom" line, it's time you had that disconnected. Subscribe to the "Good-News".

A Prayer for Today

God, give me the opportunity to extend my hand in welcome and friendship to someone this week. There are so many who are seeking a place to belong where they will feel loved and accepted ... and I know the way. Help me to serve as Your ambassador in my church and in my world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

See Yourself as God Sees You!

Today's Scripture

"Be confident in this: He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it in you." (Philippians 1:6)

Today's Word

Do you have a vision of victory for your life? Do you know that God desires to do great and mighty things in your life? But in order to fulfill God's plan, you must first see yourself the way God sees you–growing and prosperous in every area.

Where you are in life today is a direct reflection of your past thoughts about yourself. You are not able to rise above your own self-image. But no matter what your current situation, you can change your self-image by meditating on God's Word and spending time with Him.

Begin today to see yourself the way God sees you. He sees you as an overcomer, more than a conqueror, and a champion in life. He sees you as the head, and not the tail. He sees you above, and not beneath. He sees you growing and excelling, and living a new life of victory!

As you begin to change your self image and see yourself living the life God has for you, you will experience His fulfillment, peace, and power.

A Prayer for Today

God, I was made in Your image and that means I am a conqueror and can do all things! Thank you for Your confidence in me. I am going to stay focused on Your loving plan for my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Door Is Open...Will You Come?

Today's Scripture

"A wide door has been open to me and with it are many adversaries." 1 Corinthians 16:9

Today's Word

God is always giving us opportunities to move forward in life. It is God's desire that you grow and reach your full potential. Anytime you take a step forward, the enemy will try to bring opposition and adversity against you. But God promises that through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way.

When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying. Keep reading and speaking the Word. Keep going to church. Keep walking in love and forgiveness, and keep your heart tender. When the enemy sees that you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you will move forward to new levels of victory! Stay focused and full of joy no matter what comes against you. As you do, you will overcome opposition and discover the your new life and the champion in you!

A Prayer for Today

God, I know it is Your will that I grow strong in my faith. I want to reach my full potential. Help me to push through the doors of opportunity that You open for me—no matter what holds me back. Thank you for challenging me to live a life of victory! In Jesus' name – Amen.

God is bigger than your pain

Today's Scripture

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)

Today's Word

Have you ever had anything unfair happen to you? I certainly have and I think that everyone has experienced disappointments, setbacks, heartache, or hurts at one time or another. Unfortunately, many people continue to live negative, bitter, resentful lives because they are still holding on to the pain of yesterday.The good news is we serve a really big God. He is bigger than your past, bigger than your disappointments, bigger than your problems. No matter what kind of mistakes you have made, God can turn them all around and use them for good. He can right all the wrong things that have happened to you and pay you back in abundance for all the hurt you've experienced. It doesn't matter what you have been through in the past. Your future can start today. Let hope fill your heart and receive God's mercy. Release all of your anger, guilt, and condemnation. Forgive those who have wronged you, stop carrying around the baggage of yesterday and make a fresh start today. When you do, God will give you a new beginning. Begin each day declaring, "with God all things are possible," "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and "everything I put my hand to today will prosper." These are not idle words or motivational sayings; it's the Word of God, His promises for your new life.

A Prayer for Today

God, with You all things are possible. I am ready to forget the past and start believing Your promises for my future. I am going to release any bitterness, hurt or resentment to You. I am going to let go of the past and start fresh today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Make peace a priority

Today's Scripture

"Where there is strife, there is confusion and every kind of evil." (James 3:16)

Today's Word

Strife is a powerfully destructive force that the enemy uses to try to bring confusion and turmoil into our lives. Marriages are torn apart, businesses are destroyed, and lifelong friends are divided by strife. Satan will make sure that you have plenty of opportunity each day to get upset with those whom you care about the most. Things often happen on a daily basis that can aggravate you and make you want to be rude or angry toward your family and those around you, and it happens to all of us, pastors, community leaders, parents, business owners, employees, students, teachers, professionals, tradesmen and children.

I encourage you, as did Jesus Himself, to make peace a priority in your life. Don't give the enemy a foothold. If you will do your part and honor God by being a maker and maintainer of peace, God will honor you. He will fight your battles for you. He will pour out His blessings in your life and you will live the overcoming life of victory that He has in store just for you.

A Prayer for Today

God, I choose to pursue peace. I refuse to argue, to be sarcastic or disrespectful. I am going to keep peace in my home and my life, even if it means I have to swallow my pride. As a peacemaker, I realize that sometimes I have to release my "right to be right." In Jesus' Name – Amen.

Stand up to Opposition!

Today's Scripture

"A wide door has been open to me and with it are many adversaries." (I Corinthians 16:9)

Today's Word

God is always giving us opportunities to move forward in life. It is God's desire that you grow and reach your full potential. I have found that anytime you take a step forward, the enemy will try to bring opposition and adversity against you. But God also promises that through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way.

When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying. Keep reading the Word. Keep going to church. Keep walking in love and forgiveness, and keep your heart tender. When the enemy sees that you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you will move forward to new levels of victory! Stay focused and full of joy no matter what may come against you. As you do, you will overcome opposition and discover the new life and the champion God has placed in you!

A Prayer for Today

God, when I step out in faith I want to stand strong against opposition. I will put on the full armor of faith so that I will be prepared for whatever comes my way. You are always by my side. In Jesus' name, Amen.

It's Time For an Attitude Adjustment

Today's Scripture

"Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God." (Philippians 4:6)

Today's Word
Many people ask me, "Why am I not receiving the best from God? My employer is nasty, my house is falling apart, and my husband/wife just doesn't treat me right. It doesn't seem like my prayers are ever heard, let alone answered!"

When people speak to me about such issues, I usually encourage them to look at what they just said. Perhaps the answer lies in your attitude.

Have you ever considered that maybe the Lord is waiting for you to be thankful for what you have before He will bless you with more?

The Word instructs us to pray with thanksgiving in every circumstance. Develop an "attitude of gratitude" and see what God will begin to do. He will take you places you've never dreamed of and you'll live the abundant new life that He has in store for you.

A Prayer for Today
Thank you, God, for the blessings you have given me. I can sit here and think of so many ways you have enriched my life. Always give me an "attitude of gratitude." In Jesus' name – Amen.

Invest in Yourself

Today's Scripture

"...they have made me a keeper of vineyards, but my own vineyard I have not kept." Song of Solomon 1:6

Today's Word

Living a balanced life brings peace, joy, and health to every area of your life. When you are out of balance in your life, you open a door to the enemy. If you're always on the go, constantly working, and never take time for yourself, you will end up stressed out and overwhelmed, and you won't be able to enjoy life the way that God intended.
Solomon was good at taking care of everyone else–his family, his friends, his work. He made sure everyone else was happy, but in doing that, he neglected to take care of himself. Are you living like that today? Do you spend all your time on other people, but not any on yourself? Eventually you will burn out and you won't be able to reach out to others. Decide today to begin investing in yourself. Take time to relax and rejuvenate yourself. When you are refreshed emotionally, physically, and spiritually, you are able to give to others more effectively. As you bring balance to your life, you will begin to enjoy life to the fullest.

A Prayer for Today

God, my plate is full. I spend much of my time running, serving, doing. Remind me that it is OK to slow down and enjoy a quiet moment with You. Refresh my spirit and help me to live a balanced life with You at the top of my To-Do list. In Jesus' name – Amen.

Get your Hopes Up!

Today's Scripture

"But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope." Galatians 5:5

Today's Word

What are you expecting in life–good things? Bad things? Big things? Little things? Anything at all? God wants you to get your hopes up! The Bible says, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for." One definition of hope is confident expectancy. Did you know you can't even have faith if you don't first have hope?
Your expectations set the limits for your life. If you never expect anything good, you're never going to receive anything good. If you don't expect things to get better, then nothing will get better. God promises to meet you at your level of expectancy. That's why Jesus said in Matthew 9:29: "According to your faith be it done unto you." One translation simply says: "Have what your faith expects."
Make the decision to expect the favor of God in your life! Start expecting to overcome every challenge you face! Start expecting God to meet all of your needs! Live every day of your life filled with anticipation that God is going to bless you exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond your wildest dreams!

A Prayer for Today

God, I want to grow in my faith this year. I believe that You want the best for me. Help me learn to expect to be blessed and to face challenges with the confidence that You will see me through. In Jesus' name – Amen.

Seeds of greatness

Today's Scripture

"Do not cast away your confidence for it will be richly rewarded." (Hebrews 10:35)

Today's Word

God is constantly trying to plant new seeds of victory inside of you! He's trying to increase you and enlarge your vision. He wants to take you to new levels of victory. But in order for this to happen, the seed has to take root in your heart. Before you're ever going to be successful, you've got to see yourself being successful. Before your dreams come to pass, you've got to look through your eyes of faith and see them come to pass.
The enemy doesn't want you to grow and increase, or fulfill your destiny, so he immediately tries to distract your heart and uproot the seed God planted. In order to defeat the enemy in your life, you have to stay focused on God, His Word–and the dream He's promised to you! Constantly meditate on His promises, and thank the Lord for His faithfulness no matter what the circumstances look like. Before long, you'll begin to see the dreams God placed in your heart come to pass.

A Prayer for Today

God, a champion lives within me. Give me the focus and the courage to live the life I was destined to live. I want to recommit myself to reading Your Word daily and staying in fellowship with You so that I can grow the seed of greatness you planted in my heart. In Jesus' name – Amen.

What's your God-given gift?

Today's Scripture

"...the whole body, closely joined and firmly knit together... when each part is working properly, grows to full maturity, building itself up in love." (Ephesians 4:16)

Today's Word

Did you know that God has given you unique gifts and abilities to be used in the body of Christ? You may not know what those gifts are, or how you can use them in your local church, but God designed us to work together. And, when we work together, the Bible tells us that it causes us to grow to full maturity and we are built up in love.
There are many opportunities to use your gifts in your place of worship. Can you share a smile? Be an usher. Do you have a heart for children? Join the children's ministry. If you love to entertain, join a hospitality team. Even if you're not sure where to be involved, God will help you find your place.

A Prayer for Today

God, please help me to identify my unique spiritual gifts and to use them to the best of my abilities. I know that when I serve the church, with the gifts I was born to use, I will experience joy and fulfillment like never before. In Jesus' name – Amen.

Re-think negative thoughts

Today's Scripture

"The Lord will keep you in perfect peace if you keep your mind stayed on Him." (Isaiah 26:3)

Today's Word

Your thoughts determine your destiny. You can't make a decision or take a step without first thinking about it, and it changes the course of your life. That's why it's so important to keep your thoughts on God's Word and seek His plan and promises for your life. You can't think negative thoughts and expect a positive outcome. Proverbs 23:7 says "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." If you constantly dwell on God's Word that says, "You are an overcomer," and "You can do all things through Christ," then soon, you will become what the scripture says, and you will be on your way to fulfilling your destiny.
Then next time the enemy brings negative thoughts to you, use it as an opportunity to give praise to the Lord! God is faithful to His Word and He will always be faithful to you. As you continue to seek Him, He will complete the work He's begun in your life. As you keep your thoughts on God, you will discover your new life and the champion in you!

A Prayer for Today

God, I will see myself as You see me—as an overcomer with a new life and a champion! I will squash negative thoughts with prayer, scripture, and songs of praise. Thank you for faithfulness and perfect peace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Move toward God's will

Today's Scripture

"I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father." (John 14:12)

Today's Word

God is always providing opportunities for you to advance in life. It's His desire that you constantly learn and grow. Have you ever been afraid to step out and take an opportunity set before you because you aren't sure it's the right thing to do? Has your life become stagnant and mediocre because you're afraid to try new things? In order to experience the abundant life God has in store for you, you have to begin moving forward and exploring the open doors in your path.
The enemy will try anything to keep you living in mediocrity. He knows that once you start moving forward, God will be able to lead you in His perfect will. Sometimes you may come to some closed doors before you find the open doors, but as you keep moving, you'll be one step closer to fulfilling God's plan of victory for your life. Once you make the decision to step out, you'll learn to follow the Lord's leading and God will open supernatural opportunities before you!
Keep your heart humble before the Lord, seek after Him every day, and be willing to make adjustments in your life. As you do, you'll begin to discover stronger confidence in your ability to follow the Lord, and you will begin living the life of victory that He has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today

God, there are opportunities for growth right before me and I want to seize them and take action! Shake me from the spiritual rut I'm in and give me a nudge toward the doors you want me to open. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Take a leap of faith

Today's Scripture

"Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone that comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6)

Today's Word

God is always giving us opportunities to grow and move forward in this life. But in order to experience God's best, you must be bold and willingly step out in faith to do what God says to do!
Do you have a "play-it-safe" mentality? Are you avoiding risks because you're afraid you might fail? Or, do you think that what your dreaming about might be too difficult? The Bible says that faith pleases God. It brings pleasure to the heart of God when He knows that you trust Him enough to step out and obey Him. You may not always know what will happen, and you may not always feel qualified. But the Bible says in Joshua 1:8: "Don't be afraid. Be strong, be bold, be very courageous for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." God promises He will always be with you – and with God on your side, you are more than a conqueror!
The next time you know God is bringing an opportunity across your path, step out of your comfort zone! Step out in faith, knowing that God has His best in store for you. He desires to bring you success. Be willing to take some risks – knowing that Almighty God is right there by your side!

A Prayer for Today

God, I have nothing to fear with You by my side. There are risks I should take and doors I need to open and I will trust in You as I meet these challenges. Today, I will be bold in my faith! In Jesus' name, Amen.

Through the eyes of faith

Today's Scripture

"Do not cast away your confidence for it will be richly rewarded." (Hebrews 10:35)

Today's Word

God is constantly trying to plant new seeds of victory inside of you! He's trying to increase you and enlarge your vision. He wants to take you to new levels of victory. But in order for this to happen, the seed has to take root in your heart. Before you're ever going to be successful, you've got to see yourself being successful. Before your dreams come to pass, you've got to look through your eyes of faith and see them come to pass.
The enemy doesn't want you to grow and increase, or fulfill your destiny, so he immediately tries to distract your heart and uproot the seed God planted. In order to defeat the enemy in your life, you have to stay focused on God, His Word–and the dream He's promised to you! Constantly meditate on His promises, and thank the Lord for His faithfulness no matter what the circumstances look like. Before long, you'll begin to see the dreams God placed in your heart come to pass.

A Prayer for Today

God, You see me as a victor and a champion. I will remember this and keep my eyes stayed on You as I go about my day. What I achieve on my own is nothing compared to the plans You have in store for my life. I am confident in Your love and in Your vision. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Plan to do God's Will

Today's Scripture

"Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you." Proverbs 4:25

Today's Word

In order to fulfill your destiny, you have to know your purpose. You need a plan and then you must work that plan. You should wake up each day knowing where you're headed, which direction you're taking, and what you are going to accomplish–and then stick with it! Don't allow the distractions and busyness of life get you off course. Ask yourself, "Is what I'm doing moving me towards my God-given destiny? Am I staying focused? Is this my purpose in life, or am I just wasting my time being busy."
Proverbs 4:25 says keep your eyes fixed straight ahead. Don't look to the left and don't look to the right. Don't be distracted and spend your time and energy on things that are not helping you fulfill your destiny.
If you need direction for your life today, ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to order your time and arrange your schedule to accomplish the Lord's will. Remember, God's plans are blessed and as you walk in His plan for your life, you will experience His abundant blessing on everything you set your hand to!

A Prayer for Today

God, help me focus on your purpose for my life. I want to have a plan everyday to live out your will for my life. Help me to order my days to fulfill my God-given purpose. Bless my steps, God! In Jesus' name – Amen.

God's soldiers persevere

Today's Scripture

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles." (Psalm 34:17)

Today's Word

God is looking for a few good men and women who are determined to take a stand. I believe you have what it takes to be a champion for Jesus Christ!
Anyone can be obedient, keep a good attitude, and stay full of joy when things are going well. But what kind of attitude do you have when times get tough and things don't go your way? Will you stay faithful and keep pressing on even when it seems you're making no progress?
Sometimes God allows trials in our life to test us, to refine and purify our faith. No matter how far the enemy has brought you down, regardless of the severity of your troubles, your Heavenly Father promises to give you the strength you need to overcome them and arise victorious.
Remember – anyone can quit. Anyone can complain. Anyone can get down and discouraged, but God is looking for people who will persevere. Be determined to prove yourself faithful to God, He will never disappoint you. Stand strong and fight the good fight of faith. When you do you live a life of abundance and you will be a champion in life.

A Prayer for Today

God, when I joined Your army of Christian soldiers I knew it would not always be easy. Quitting is not an option for me. When I become discouraged, I will remember that You are always there to hear my cries and You will lead me to victory in the end. In Jesus' name, Amen.