Good Medicine

Today's Scripture

"A cheerful heart does good like medicine, but a broken spirit makes one sick." (Proverbs 17:22)

Today's Word

I once saw an artists rendering of Jesus laughing as hard as he could and it changed my whole perspective about faith and life. God has given you a great prescription for living a long, healthy, and happy life: Laughter! Laugh, and laugh a lot no matter what’s going on! The "medicine" of laughter is within every one of us, but you may need to start taking it. Recent studies have shown that laughter boosts the body's immune system, reduces stress, reduces the risk of heart attack, and even acts as a natural tranquilizer. Those are health benefits every one of us needs. That's why it's tragic to go through life with a stone face and an unhappy spirit. The enemy has convinced too many into thinking that they need to be somber and serious in order to be a Christian and frankly, that’s scary. But don't fall for that trick. God wants you to laugh and laugh a lot and learn to live and enjoy life! Then others just might say, “I want what you have.”

A Prayer for Today

Lord, thank You for a sense of humor and for the gift of laughter. Teach me how to enjoy this wonderful gift and share it with others as much as You see fit. In Jesus' name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Ecclesiastes 1:1-18, Matthew 5:1-12, 1 Timothy 6:3-10.

Your best days are coming!

Today's Scripture

"No man has ever seen, heard or even imagined the wonderful things God has in store for those who love the Lord." (I Corinthians 2:9)

Today's Word

No matter where you are in life right now, God has much more in store for you than you can ever imagine. That’s right, the Word of God teaches that He wants to increase you–He wants to give you more wisdom so you can make better decisions in every area of your life. He wants you to prosper so that you can be a blessing to others. Don't get stuck in that old rut where you just get up and go to work, come home, go to bed, and then do it all again. That's not all there is to life. God has new frontiers for you to explore and higher mountains to climb!In the Book of Proverbs it is written, "The path of the righteous gets brighter and brighter and brighter." If you're going to start experiencing these new victories, you must do your part and start thinking the way God thinks. Think big! Think expansive! Think increase! Start expecting the unexpected in your life, stop doubting God and watch what happens!

Remember: If you have faith, even as small as a mustard seed, you can say to the mountain move! And the mountain will get out of your way. For with God, nothing is impossible!
A Prayer for Today

God, You created the heavens and the earth and breathed life into the universe—Your plans for me are bigger than I can ever imagine! There is nothing I have yet accomplished that is as great as what you have in store for me. I believe there are greater things to come and I ask You to open my heart, give me an increase of faith, and prepare me for an incredible blessing that You are about to release in my life. I believe in You no matter what my circumstance, and no matter what anyone else may think or say. In Jesus' Name – Amen.

Can You Hear Me Now?

Today's Scripture

“My sheep recognize my voice. I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27 – The Message)


Today's Word

Like most of us, do you have a daily routine? Most of us tend to do the same things everyday without even thinking about them. Sometimes that is good. A lot of things just come naturally – brushing our teeth, taking a shower, putting on our clothes, walking the dog, reading the paper and sleeping on the same side of the bed. There are just some things that we like to do the same way we have always done them.

But in some cases what we have made "routine" have really become ruts! We can keep doing things "the same old way" and never take the time to stop and listen to God's voice. And if we don't listen, we will miss out on His best plan for us. I believe that the Lord has new and exciting directions for your life, directions that he wants to take you in beginning today. If He does, are you listening?

Maybe He's telling you it's time to cultivate better relationships. Perhaps He has a different career path or job opportunity for you. Maybe the Lord is just encouraging you to develop a positive attitude or healthier habits or break away from certain things that you really were not designed for like worry, doubt, discouragement, fear or even a spirit of superiority or inferiority.

Is God asking you to step out of your comfort zone? Are you willing to break your routine? Be bold and be willing to do something out of your usual routine that honors God in a greater way. When you take the initiative and move from your "safe zone" to your "faith zone," that is when God will move on your behalf and begin to do greater things in your life. He will bless you in uncommon ways and you will experience an extraordinary life filled with hope, purpose, and victory.

A Prayer for Today

God, it's time for me to be still and listen. As I spend time in prayer and in the Word, speak to me, O Lord. Tell me what I need to hear and give me the courage to make the desires and dreams of my heart come to pass. In Jesus' name, Amen.


ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Deuteronomy 5:1-33, 1 Kings 19:1-18, Mark 4:1-20, James 1:19-27.

Evidence of maturity

Today's Scripture

For wherever there is jealousy (envy) and contention (rivalry and selfish ambition), there will also be confusion (unrest, disharmony, rebellion) and all sorts of evil and vile practices. (James 3:16 – The Amplified)

Today's Word

Disharmony is a powerfully destructive force that the enemy uses to try to bring confusion and turmoil into each one of our lives at one time or another. Marriages are torn apart, businesses are destroyed, families are broken, and lifelong friends are divided by disharmony. 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 might make you want to be rude or angry toward your family and those around you.

I want to encourage you, as hard as it seems at times, and no matter what the enemy throws your way, to make peace a priority in your life. Don't give the enemy a foothold because that’s exactly what he is counting on, DIVISION of God’s people and separating you from those God has brought into your life for a reason. Make the choice to aggressively pursue peace. Make the decision to refuse to argue no matter what is said. Refuse to be sarcastic or disrespectful no matter how you are insulted. Decide that you are going to keep peace in your home and your life even if it means you have to swallow your pride. Sometimes you just have to release your "right to be right."

Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers." It takes a mature person to apologize even when you are not in the wrong – to walk away even when you really want to argue. You can be that person. You can be the one to create an atmosphere of peace and harmony in your family. And remember, God allows certain things to happen in our lives to mature us. No test [trials], no graduation [evidence of maturity] to the next level.

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! Remember: The battle belongs to the Lord.

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, help me not to be rude or impatient with my friends, family and co-workers today. Take away that feeling of wanting to lash out, defend myself and put someone in their place, even when they deserve it. Guard my heart because these are the people You love, deep down inside, so do I. I pray your blessings over every area of their life. Help make peace my priority today! In Jesus' name, Amen.

What you see is what you get

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 through you? But in order to fulfill God's plan for your life, 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 and the actions that followed those thoughts. You can’t rise above your own self-image. But no matter what your current situation is, you can change that image by meditating on God's Word, transforming your thoughts 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 life of absolute victory!

As you begin to change your thoughts and self-image seeing yourself living the life that God has for you, you will begin to experience more and more of His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. You will actually begin the process of healing in areas of your life that you did not even know you were wounded. God created you for more than you can see right now, but once your thoughts begin to change so will your vision. Remember: You were created to see through your eyes not with your eyes.

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.

Choose Your Relationships Wisely

Today's Scripture

“Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.” (Proverbs 13:20)

Today's Word

The quality of life is often determined by the quality of our relationships. Do you know that you can become just like the people you associate with without even realizing it? You may have heard it said, “Show me your friends, and I’ll tell you who you are”. For example, if your resistance is low and someone with a cold sneezes in your face, chances are you’re going to come down with a cold. When a glass of water is half-full it can be filled with anything. On the same token, if you constantly spend your time around lazy and undisciplined people, before long chances are you're going to be lazy and undisciplined yourself. If you spend your time around depressed people or those with fowl language or those who constantly gossip, watch out! But on the other hand, if you will continue to fill yourself with God’s Word on a daily basis and associate with people of purpose, then you're going to be successful in your own purpose. If you spend your time with people of vision, who are going places in life, you will be inspired to go further than you would on your own.

Take time to examine your friendships and those you associate with. Ask yourself, do I want to be like this person? Do I like their qualities? Do they inspire me to reach for new heights or do they pull me down? As you choose to be around wise people, you will become wise too, and walk in the abundant life God has for you! Remember: You were designed for purpose and success.

A Prayer for Today

God, I will choose my friends wisely. Open my eyes to the changes I need to make and give me the courage to distance myself from people that are dragging me down. Thank you for blessing me with wonderful Christian friends—may I be a blessing to them this day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Adjusted for Advancement

Today's Scripture

“Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up.” (1 Peter 5:8 Message)

Today's Word

God wants you to experience victory in every area of your life–physically, spiritually, emotionally, financially, and relationally. Living a well-balanced life is the key to real living!

Excess is the enemy's playground. He knows that if he can get you over into extremes in any area of your life, then he can keep you from experiencing God's best. When you get out of balance, you give the enemy a foothold in your life. But when you have your priorities in order, there's security, protection, and safety. When you are taking care of yourself, your family, and your relationship with God, you are going to be strong and healthy and the enemy won't have a chance!

I encourage you to examine your heart and life today and every day. Ask the Lord to show you if there are areas where you may be a little out of balance and need some adjustments. Ask Him to help you make the right adjustments, according to His specifications, so that you are able to be effective in every area of your life and live the life you were created and designed to live. As you work towards balance, you will walk in the abundant life that God has prepared for you and you will notice a big difference!

A Prayer for Today

God, reveal to me the areas in my life that are out of balance. I may be spending too much time and energy on my job, a relationship, a leisure activity, or everyday distractions. Whatever it is that is preventing me from experiencing victory, help me to prioritize and live a more balanced life. In Jesus' name – Amen.

Get Rid of Those Bad 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 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 your life will be on God's path to victory.

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 the champion in you!

A Prayer for Today

God, turn my thoughts to You today. When a negative thought takes root, give me the strength to rip it out and instead focus on the blessings in my life. Thank you for Your promises and the perfect peace I can expect when I follow Your way. In Jesus' name – Amen.

Confessing the blessing

Today's Scripture

"In due season, you shall reap if you faint not." (Galatians 6:9)

Today's Word

God has a due season in store for you! The Bible doesn't say you might reap, it says "you shall reap"–if you don't give up. In order to reach your due season or harvest of blessing, you must continue to believe God's Word and confess His promises everyday.

You are the only one who knows what God has placed in your heart, and the evidence of that is what comes out of your mouth. It's as if you are in a courtroom and the enemy is your accuser but the Holy Spirit is your Advocate. Your testimony will prove that you are standing strong on God's Word!

A Prayer for Today

God, this is the time for me to stand strong in my faith. Whatever the circumstance, I will confess your power and mercy all the days of my life. You have a plan for me. Give me the patience to wait with a cheerful heart for my "season of blessing." In Jesus' name – Amen.

You’ve got it!

Today’s Scripture

“…Under his direction, the whole body is fitted together perfectly, and each part in its own special way helps the other parts, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” Ephesians 4:15

Today’s Word

Did you know that when God designed you He made you special giving you unique gifts, abilities and talents which are intended to be used in the body of Christ? You may not know what those special gifts, abilities and talents are right now, or how you can use them, especially in church, but God designed all of us to work together as His Body. 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. And all of us certainly need love.

There are many opportunities to use your gifts each and every day, with your family, in the work place, the community and most important 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, start a hospitality ministry and welcome new members into the church. Even if you're not sure where to be involved, God will help you find your place and He will use you to reach others with His love. That’s what you were designed to do. You were made by God and for God and you came with an eternal mission with meaning… Love.

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.

Rise to a new level

Today's Scripture

"My determined purpose is to know Him and the power flowing out from His resurrection." (Philippians 3:10)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

Do you know that God has so many great things in store for you? But you will never rise to a new level of victory without some kind of opposition trying to pull you away from your blessing, and that's why you must stay focused and committed to what God is calling you to do, no matter what the world says around you. A recent study showed that the average American sixty-five year old has watched TV over 1000 hours per year, which equals 9.5 years of their life wasted in front of the "boob tube" receiving the worlds propaganda, fantasy, influence and far to often affecting the viewer physically, psychologically, financially and most important spiritually. Along the same lines, the study showed that the average American aged at sixty-five who attends church once per week would have been influenced with the Word of God only four months of his sixty-five years on earth. Wow! You decide where most influence is coming from.... You're right! The world and the worlds media.

If you want to rise to a new level in your life and begin to prosper in all that you do, regardless, of the opposition, you must continually stay in fellowship with your Heavenly Father through prayer, worship, the study of His Word, and fellowship with other believers. It's all essential for your continued growth and your ability to distinguish all that God has in store for you to live the life that He alone created and designed you to live. You have a lot to look forward to.

I encourage you today to rise up and take authority over any area in your life that's keeping you in defeat. Be on the aggressive. Be on the offensive. If you'll stay focused and determined, God will take you places that you've never dreamed of and you'll live that overcoming life of victory that rightfully belongs to you.

A Prayer for Today

God, it is with a renewed focus that I pray to You today. I am determined to grow in my faith and to experience Your love on a personal level so I can lead the life of victory that I was born to lead. In Jesus' name – Amen.

Enjoy Life

Today's Scripture

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

Do you know the Word of God tells us over and over again that God wants us to live satisfied lives? He went so far as to send His Son, Jesus to earth that we might have and enjoy the life He shaped and designed us to have, and have it to the full-until it overflows!!! A major key to enjoying life is that we simply live to give. True happiness and true fulfillment comes when we give our lives, our gifts and our talents so that others may be blessed and have life more abundantly.

God has a specific plan for every one of our lives. His plan involves reaching out and touching other people. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 3:13 that "we should exhort one another daily." So make the decision that you're going to be a giver and encourage somebody every single day!

A Prayer for Today

God, I confess that I sometimes focus only on my own needs and wants. Please help me to be a "giver" by putting others first. I want to live according to your plan, so remind me to lift up the people I encounter today with my prayers, actions, and words. In Jesus' name - Amen.

Created for a Home

Today's Scripture

"God is building a home. He's using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building." (Ephesians 2:22 - The Message)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

The Bible says in Psalm 133:1 that God is pleased to see, "brothers come together in harmony" or in another version it says, "unity." Imagine, when you come to church and fellowship with other believers, it brings joy to the heart of our Heavenly Father, and it strengthens you as well, and that's something every one of us need... strength.

It's so important to be part of a church "home", a place where you can be nurtured, grow, mature, participate in worship, fellowship, events, small groups, and serve in outreach opportunities, after all, you were saved to serve, remember? Do you know who benefits most from their involvement in a church? You!

So, wherever God leads you to "dwell," you will discover your new beginning and God's purpose for your life. If you are not a member of a "Bible Believing and Teaching Church" and would like to locate one in your area, please drop us a note and we will be happy to assist you in every way we can to find one. Remember: In the Kingdom of God, their are no "orphans" or "homeless" only brothers and sisters.

A Prayer for Today

God, I pray for the church today. Without a place for believers to belong, we would grow weak in our faith. Thank you for giving me so many opportunities to unite in communion and fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ. In Jesus' name - Amen.

Don't Buy The Lie

Today's Scripture

"So don't be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time." Matthew 6:34 (TLB)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

Worry gives Satan the opportunity to move in on your life, just like worship gives God the opportunity to move in your life. Worrying means playing the enemy's lies, over and over again in your mind and there is no room for that in your life. God is not a liar, as Satan or "non-believers" would have you think. He has promised in Isaiah 26:3 that He will keep us in perfect peace when we keep our minds stayed or "focused" on Him. So, when the opportunity to worry comes, don't buy the lie, use that situation as a reminder to worship the Lord and thank Him for all the good He has done and will continue to do in your life. Fill your thoughts with Gods promises and not Satan's lies and remember where God has brought you from. Cast "ALL" of your cares on the Lord, and rest assured (knowing) that He alone is able to deliver you from "ANY" situation, because He loves you so very much.

A Prayer for Today

God, I am tired from worrying. Please help me to stop the soundtrack of needless worry that plays over and over again in my head. I want to place my fears and concerns in Your hands and live in peace knowing that You will fulfill all of Your precious promises to me. In Jesus' name - Amen.

Uniquely Designed

Today's Scripture

"I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself." (I Corinthians 4:3)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

You are uniquely designed and anointed to be the person God has called you to be! The enemy may try to pull you down and make you think you have to conform to the opinions of others, but if you will learn to be secure in who God made you to be, you can resist those outside demands and pressures that try to mold you into what others want you to be, and that you're not. Don't rely on the opinions and approval of others. Don't let them steal your uniqueness and all of the creativity God has poured into you. God has made each of us with a different purpose. As you continue to grow in your relationship with the Lord, through prayer, worship, and fellowship, you will begin to gain all the confidence you will ever need, and the Lord will free you from the opinions of man, and allow you to begin to live the life He designed you for! Remember: You are who you are because God wanted you to be exactly what He made you to be... YOU! ~ For His glory.

A Prayer for Today

God, I want to live for your approval alone. I need to feel your strength when I feel tempted to change who I am to conform to this world. Please help me to remember that You love me just the way I am! In Jesus' name - Amen.

Shhh.....

Today's Scripture

You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Psalm 139:15 (The Message)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

"Shhh, Listen, what do you hear?" Not long ago while in my study preparing for a Purpose Driven Life Group meeting entitled, "What's Your Purpose?" I sensed a gentle whisper in my inner being inspire me to "Shhh, Listen, what do you hear?" As I sat back silently in my big old leather chair I could hear sounds that I have never noticed before. Listen to that click, click, click of the fan in the lobby, I thought, I never noticed that before. Then the sound of a plane above, and the faint sound of a car passing by my office. Then, I heard the sound of a carpenters skill saw, and it faded. Noticeably, and from a distance, I heard the sound of the carpenters saw again, and once more it faded. As though it were meant for me to absolutely hear the carpenters saw again, the sound caught my attention. Then, suddenly the gentle whisper of my inner being asked, "What is that man's business?" And I thought, "Building houses?" Again, that inner voice prompted me by asking, "What did that man wake up for this morning?" I thought, "To build homes?" Then I sensed, "What's your business [your life], and what is your purpose for waking up [living] every morning?" And I responded by writing it out on a tablet, "Building lives, encouraging and motivating people to be all that God created them to be, using the Word of God as the Foundation." Instantly, all of life came into perspective. Rest, it was for my purpose. Sleep, relaxation, timeout, all for my purpose. Study, inner peace, growth, maturity, patience, opportunities, prosperity, good health, relationships, family, friends, church, the Bible, communication, education, community, etc., etc,. It all came into its place and each fell into perspective... IT'S NOT ABOUT ME, it's what God created me for. To take broken, shattered lives and one-by-one encourage and motivate them with the Word of God to be all that He created and designed them to be. Wow, did my life and purpose take on a whole new meaning...... I realized through that gentle whisper [The Holy Spirit], that's my purpose for being on this planet, for waking up each and every day. I've been saved to serve. And when this phase of life is passed, I'll be called yet into another, back where I began, Home, with my Creator. So, I have a purpose for living, serving my Creator and His Creations, and a purpose for dying, being re-united with my Creator. Shhh, Listen, what do you hear???


A Prayer for Today

God, It is so awesome, beyond human expression to know we are Your workmanship. Please guard and guide each of us into our own unique purpose and empower us to always be led by your Spirit. Help me to go to bed each night knowing tomorrow You will awaken me once more to serve Your purpose for my life here on earth. In Jesus name, Amen.

So, How's Business?

Today's Scripture

"Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet. Then stick to the path. Don't get sidetracked." Proverbs 4:25-26


Today's Word From Pastor Marty McGrail

A few years ago a dear friend of mine spent some incredibly valuable time at the home of Peter Drucker. Peter Drucker is known as the father of American management, revered by some of the most powerful and successful business people in the world and quoted in almost every noted business school that one can find. At the time Peter was in his 90's. The conversation they had that afternoon was so profound and so simple that it changed my friends direction and life forever. The conversation was about having purpose, having a clear purpose. "It's like what I tell business people all the time...", Peter said, ...there are only two questions in business: One, What is my business? Two, How's business?" Those are the two questions every owner, every manager, every CEO has to constantly ask. What is our business? Likewise, as a person you can ask, "What is the purpose of my life? And, How's it going? Am I moving toward it?" Knowing your purpose simplifies your decision-making, it keeps you focused, and gives you a reason for getting out of bed each morning without just going through the same old same old and simply existing from day to day until the end finally comes.

God created and designed you for much more than mere existence, He created you to get out of bed each morning and have a relationship with Him and to make a difference in this world, one person, one situation at a time, and you can do it no matter who you are and no matter what situation you may find yourself in. You don't have to start an organization, join a club or reinvent the wheel, simply see a need and ask God, "What do You want me to do here?" And then listen to what He tells your heart and then put that inspiration into action and help change this world one person, one situation at a time. You have been designed by God with a gift and a talent no matter how old you are, no matter how educated or non-educated, no matter what your race or financial situation may be and no matter what your position in life is, you're here for a reason and you're no mistake. God has invested in you certain talents and abilities. He put those in you. Desires and interests and abilities. One day God is going to ask for a return on that. God expects a return on those investments. He didn't just give you your talents, your abilities, your mind just to waste on yourself. He didn't give you the freedom you have, the opportunities you have, the abilities, the giftedness, the special things that you can do just to live a selfish little life. He wants you to discover the champion [His Spirit] in you and then use what He has given you for the purpose of blessing Him and others. This new year discover your purpose and put God's plan into action and watch what happens. Remember: You're no accident.

A Prayer for Today

God, I'm realizing You have made me like no other. Use me everyday to bring honor and glory to Your name, make Your business my business, Your focus my focus and Your desires my desires. Help me to see Your purpose for my life each and every day. In Jesus name. Amen.

CHANGE YOUR THINKING

Today's Scripture

"Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." Matthew 9:17

Today's Word From Pastor Marty McGrail

When Jesus wanted to encourage His followers to enlarge their visions, He reminded them, "You can't put new wine into old wineskins." What He was saying is that you cannot have a larger life with a restricted attitude. You may have assumed that you've reached your limits in life, that you will never be more successful or do something meaningful or enjoy the good things in life that you've seen others enjoy. It's sad to say, but if that is your mind-set you are exactly right. . . unless you are willing to change your thinking and start believing for something bigger.

Romans 12:2 says, "...be transformed by the renewing of your mind." You don't have to be bound by barriers, especially those of the past or those which others have used to discouraged you. You don't have to be bound by fear, age or your profession or occupation, you don't have to be bound by your health, weight or education, your financial standing or race, denomination, marital status or gender, their is "NOTHING" that can bind you except the way you think. Start making room today and increase your vision believing all that God has in store for you, and make the decision that their is simply no room in your life for those old negative thoughts. Once you change your pattern of thinking from the old to the new you'll begin to conceive the favor of God in your heart and the seed of faith which He has placed there will begin to grow and your thoughts will immediately begin to transform your life one thought, one action, one re-action at a time and you will be transformed by the renewing of your mind. The key is to believe, so let the seeds God has placed in your life take root so they can grow and expect God's favor to help you break out of the ruts and rise to new heights. And remember: With God, ALL things are possible. Get beyond the past barriers and expect God to do exciting things through your life this new year.

A Prayer for Today

God, I thank you for all that you have created me for, I know that my life has a purpose which is beyond my imagination right now, but I believe with Your help I will be all that you created me to be. Today, I surrender my old negative thoughts and habits to you and believe You are at work in me right now, renewing my thoughts to Your thoughts my ways to Your ways and in Jesus name I pray that I will be all that Your created me to be. Amen

Get Ready for The Blessing

Today's Scripture

"The Lord will grant you abundant prosperity...." (Deuteronomy 28:1)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

God has a lot in store for you and your future! So much that His Word promises all of your needs will be supplied–there is a promise of joy, happiness, and of absolute victory over every area of your life. But in order to experience all the great things that God has for you, there are some conditions that need to be met in the natural. God has already done His part to make provision for your blessings. You must do your part to obey the Word of God and aggressively pursue the abundant life that has been set aside and ordained for you.
This new year, get yourself stirred up to pursue wholeheartedly the dreams God has placed in your heart. Don't settle for a life of mediocrity! Get the Word of God in your heart and begin to walk in the life of abundance and belief in all that God has promised for your life. God's purpose is to provide all your needs according to His riches, and your purpose is to receive his promise according to your faith, for His name sake. This can be your best year yet-go for it and watch what happens!

A Prayer for Today

God, There is no better time to come to You with a renewed spirit and a resolve to be Your disciple on earth. I am excited about the possibilities the new year brings and ask Your blessings for a victorious, abundant life! In Jesus' Name – Amen.

That Special Place

Today's Scripture

"Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)

Today's Word from Pastor Marty McGrail

God's special place for you is not always where you are most content. A good example of this is found in 1 Kings 17:3, where God told the prophet Elijah, "Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan. You will drink from the brook, and I have ordered the ravens to feed you there." Elijah obeyed God and went, and the ravens fed him. If Elijah had decided not to obey God and do things his own way instead, he would not have been in a place to receive God's blessings. You are blessed when you are fully convinced that God wants to meet all of your needs, and you decide to obey Him. So, get deeper this year into Gods Word by reading the Bible, and allow His Spirit to led you exactly where He wants you in every area of your life, then you will know Gods special place for you and your New Year will be filled with blessing heaped upon blessing. And remember: His love can led you everywhere.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, I want to thank You for giving me a place where I can be fulfilled and blessed as I serve You. Give me the wisdom and patience to know where to go to find this special place of Your blessing. In Jesus' name. Amen.