Debt

Today’s Scripture

"Pay all your debts except the debt of love for others-- never finish paying that! For if you love them, you will be obeying all of God's laws, fulfilling all his requirements." (Romans 13:8 – TLB)


Today’s Word

You were created in God’s own image, you are His likeness, and as a believer [a bearer of God’s Love], you posses His very nature. God honors His Word and through you He displays His promise to all the world. When God sent His Son Jesus to pay a debt on your behalf, He honored His covenant to leave no debt unpaid, and through that payment-in-full you were set free and are no longer bound to anyone except God’s love.

Even God honored dept. Christians should, without exception, honor their word, even when paying their bills. The Word of God teaches us, “Where God leads, God provides.” Therefore, we are called to be “good-stewards” and “examples” as God’s ambassadors and representatives. We honor God when we act responsibly, because as a believer everything we do, we do to bring glory to His name.

Learn to live according to your means, not to stimulate your flesh or fantasy. Live to honor God, in all of your ways, and not compete with your neighbor, friends or co-workers. Live to give, especially, to those who have helped you along the way and make every effort to re-pay any debt that binds you, because God sent His Son to pay all of your debt, and freedom is yours, in every area of your life.

Remember: God has provided you with all that you will ever need to accomplish His will for your life. Debt is not God’s will for you, FREEDOM is.


A Prayer for Today

Lord, I never realized You’re even interested in my finances. Please show me how to live according to Your means, dependent on You in every area of my life. Help me to become a better Stewart of all that You have provided me with. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Romans 1:8-17, Romans 13:8-14, Proberbs 3:21-35.

Ironman-sized Faith

Today's Scripture

“So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it.” (Philippians 3:13-14)

Today's Word

One of our mission sisters, Sister Jessica, is an amazing triathlete, as is one of my buddies, Jerry Mandello. I and my family enjoy watching them compete in various events each year. As we watch, it is obvious that it requires more than skill to become an Ironman-caliber athlete – it takes dedication and determination. It takes a can-do attitude. It takes a willingness to shake off past failures and defeat and simply be determined to try again and again until you succeed. And that's exactly what it takes for you to be all that God created you to be – A Champion!

All of us have made mistakes in the past. Maybe your emotions have been injured or you have experienced a devastating setback in a relationship, your health, or career. Regardless of your past defeats, I have good news for you – you are not disqualified from competing in the race of life. God has great things in store for you and your best days are just ahead. You may have missed plan A for your life, but God has a Plan B, a Plan C, a Plan D – all the way to Plan Z. God promises to help you get across the finish line and onto the winner's platform.

Start each day afresh and anew in an attitude of faith. Forget what is behind you, what others say or what things look like and look forward to the promising future God has planned for you. When you do, you'll live your life refreshed and restored, and you'll experience the victory that God has for your life.
Go ahead – And unleash the power within you, you’ve got what it takes to be a real winner because you’ve been created by the Master Himself.

A Prayer for Today

God, I am going to put my past behind me and start today fresh. My mistakes, my regrets, my disappointments do not define me, You do. I am going to press toward the goal to win the prize. In Jesus' name, Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Luke 17:6, Romans 10:17, Hebrews 11:1, Psalm 119-125, Matthew 7:21-23, Mark 9:23.

Robin

Today’s Scripture

“I will make my people and their homes around my hill a blessing. And there shall be showers, showers of blessing, for I will not shut off the rains but send them in their seasons.” [Ezekiel 34:26 – TLB]

A Word for Today

Each year a miraculous event takes place right here on the Eastern Coast of the United States of America. The Robin appears. It is a sure sign that the season is about to change and Spring is rapidly approaching. This little fattened bird full of energy, life and song brings the “Good-News” that flowers are about to wake up from their long wintry sleep, and Cardinals with all their brilliance will proudly perch themselves upon blossomed trees and the beauty of a new day will be upon us. All that has slept and hibernated will be awakened by the bird’s song, and like a trumpet blast from heaven, that once thought dead and gone, will arise.

Today brings a new season in the life of every believer. There are signs all around that God is for you and not against you. Everywhere you look evidence is presented that you are in an incredible position to receive all that God intended for you. As you change any negative thoughts to God’s promise [the positive] for your life, removing any doubt, and observing all that God is presenting to you, you will be awakened to a new life, a new hope and a new direction. This new season of your life [resurrection] is about to birth new growth, new joy, a new song and new opportunities with incredible possibilities. The old enemy, called “Gloom and Doom” will try in anyway he can to convince and deceive you into thinking the season and storms of your past, a anemic marriage, challenging health issues, financial dilemmas, or tainted relationships with family and friends is never going to change. He will always try to use the weakest link around you to affect your mission and purpose, but don’t buy it, because God’s Word says otherwise, and you need to begin looking at all of the evidence of the new season. That which was once thought dead is about to arise, and the storms are beginning to melt, and blessings are sure to follow.

So, take a good look at all that God is doing, you’re about to bloom into a new season of your life and God is going to birth in you a new song for Spring. You have a lot to look forward to.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, as you breathe a new season into my life, help me to blossom into all that you created me to be. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Matthew 28:1-10, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:12-28, 1 Corinthians 15:35-58.

Yet To Discover

Today’s Scripture

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." [Matthew 11:28 – The Message]

Today’s Word

There is so much yet to be discovered in the rain forests of the world. Imagine the sounds and screeches of the wild, the odd looking insects, colorful parrots, and inquisitive monkeys never seen before. Plants that hold the cure for so many diseases, and life in all it’s fullness. Throughout the generations, still the rain forest has not been totally discovered.

So it is with the Kingdom of God, it’s not yet been totally discovered. No man has ever seen all that God has created for him. When Jesus said, “Come to me” he was inviting you into His Realm of life, real living, a life filled with discovery, beauty and healing.

Don’t let “man made religion” or “rituals” keep you from discovering all that God has created for you. Take the opportunity today to answer God’s gentle whisper and begin a new life of adventure in His Kingdom, and like the metamorphosis of the caterpillar transformed into a beautiful butterfly; you too will be transformed into all that God created you to be and you will fly, even beyond your wings.

Remember: “Everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory.” [Romans 11:34]

Have an incredible day!


A Prayer for Today

Lord, I can only say, thank you as You call me to enter into Your Kingdom. I am excited and look forward to discovering more and more of Your beauty and plans for my life each day. In Jesus name. Amen.

Doctor 90210

Today’s Scripture

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit them together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! It is amazing to think about. Your workmanship is marvelous-- and how well I know it. (Psalm 139:13-14 – TLB)


Today’s Word

Ever consider an extreme makeover? A little tuck here, a little nip there, some excess removed from this spot or some lengthening, shortening, lifting or increasing?

In a recent survey of children in grades 8 through 12, eighty-five percent of those polled were reportedly unhappy with the way they looked. Most of the male students polled wanted to be more “muscular” while the majority of the females wished they were “thinner”, “prettier” and more desirable. The study showed that many of the students were influenced by athletes, celebrities and models and often extreme measures were taken to change their looks, physiques and overall appearance. One of the biggest challenges to change the way they looked was competition. In the final analysis overwhelmingly students were clinically observed to have poor self-images.

God created you in His image. He made you exactly like you are for His pleasure. You are one of a kind, there is none other like you, nor was there ever intended to be. Changing the outside of a cup never changes the taste of what is in the cup. God does not call us to change our outside; He calls us to be transformed on the inside. Once that transformation begins to take place, miraculously everything else in your life begins to change.

Have you ever noticed a pregnant woman? There is nothing more beautiful than a person who is filled with life. You are that person, filled with the living Spirit of God [Love]. The day you asked Jesus to come into your life a miraculous change took place deep within, and its growing each day working itself to the outside. You’re different now, changing every day. You find yourself not speaking the same, not thinking quite the way you use to, you have experienced an extreme makeover and you are exactly what the doctor [Jesus] ordered. Don’t try to change what God has made perfect.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, when I look in the mirror help me to focus on all that You created in me. Help me to always remember that I am Your canvas, Your portrait and Your child. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Psalm 8:1-9, Luke 12:4-12, Romans 12:1-8, Genesis 1:1-31, Genesis 9:1-7, Mark 12:13-17.

No More Gloom and Doom

Today’s Scripture

My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long. (Psalm 35:28 - NIV)

Today’s Word

Planting apple seeds will never grow bananas. When you have negative thoughts chances are you’ll not have positive outcomes.

When you say, “I’ll never have money” you probably will not. When you say, “I’m never going to get out of debt, find a spouse, get healed, own a home, grow old, have a good family, finish school, or go to heaven”, chances are you are going to get exactly what you have declared. Sometimes we put curses on ourselves and others and do not even realize it. Words are important, because they express the true feelings of the heart and reveal the direction in which you are headed.

God’s Word [The Bible] declares blessings over your entire life and shows you how to do the same. When you begin to speak His promises rather than your enemies’ lies and curses you’re proclaiming the favor that your Creator intended for you when He spoke you into existence for His purpose. You are more than a conqueror, created in the image of your Designer. You have been given dominion [managerial authority and power] over everything upon the earth, it is yours to discover, take care of and share with others.

Your purpose is to know and proclaim that you are blessed of God. Then bless others with your bestowment. You were not designed to refute, curse or rebuke God’s creations, which includes yourself, as well as others. You are blessed! So, proclaim it by living a positive confession rather than a negative concession.

A Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for always reminding me that I am the apple of Your eye. Teach me to proclaim Your promises over myself, my family and others. Help me to grow in every area of my life so that I may bring You all of the honor. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Genesis 1: 28-30, Psalm 19:1-14, Proverbs 13:1-6, Matthew 12:33-37, Colossians 4:2-6.

Overcoming any 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 constantly blessing you with opportunities to move you forward in life. You were created for much more than you can ever realize at this point of your journey. It is God's desire as you continue to mature that you attain His plan of fullness for your life. Have you ever noticed that each time you take a step forward, the enemy will undoubtedly try to bring opposition and adversity against you and usually it is in the most subtle ways? Don’t ever fall for his tricks and develop a doubtful mind or become discouraged, because God has promised through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way, no matter what it may be. Physically, psychologically or spiritually.

When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and don’t be afraid. Keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying in your own personal way, not like anyone else. Keep reading the Word, it will assure, inspire, encourage and motivate you in ways you’ll never know until you try it. Keep going to a church where you are loved, needed and wanted, one that teaches the uncompromised Word of God. Be sure to continue your walk in love and forgiveness, and above all else, 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 there really is a champion in you!

A Prayer for Today

Lord, I believe that I can achieve all that You have planned for my life and I will not give in to any opposition that comes my way, for with You I can do all that You have intended for me to do. Thank you for loving me so much and never giving up on me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Seeds of Faith

Today’s Scripture

But remember this-- if you give little, you will get little. A farmer who plants just a few seeds will get only a small crop, but if he plants much, he will reap much. (2 Corinthians 9:6 – TLB)

Today’s Word

Each year my family yields a harvest of luscious tomatoes which are grown in our back yard garden. The seeds planted at the beginning of each season are taken from the previous year’s crop; they have been dried, protected and readied for just the right time. When planting season comes the seeds are generously planted in “good” soil. With proper watering, weeding and pruning we can expect and receive our yield of much more than we had ever placed in the ground.

You may be believing God for a miracle in your life right now, but in order to yield the harvest you are expecting, you are going to have to plant your seed. When God created you He gave you a measure of faith, each of us has it, but not everyone knows or chooses to release it. You may need healing, a financial increase, a renewed marriage or help with a challenged child or family member. You may need growth in your relationship with God and others, but in order to realize your blessing you are going to have to release “seeds of faith”. When you pray believing God whole-heartedly for an increase to fulfill His purpose in your life, He releases your blessing based upon how much you have planted. Little faith yields little results. Little love yields little return. Little forgiveness yields little restoration. Little understanding yields misunderstanding. Uncontrollable temper yields no friends, no family. Your harvest is going to depend on what you have planted.

Today begins a new season; it’s time to plant your “seeds of faith”. Then water that faith with God’s promise [His Word] and pull the weeds of doubt out whenever they should appear. Continue to trust God and watch as a plentiful harvest abounds. This is your season.


A Prayer for Today

Lord, today I am going to release my “seeds of faith” believing that You will give me the increase I need to fulfill all that You created me for. In Jesus name. Amen.

The Temple

Today's Scripture

‘If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him; for God's temple is sacred, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:17 - NIV)

Today's Word

You're Built To Last

Before a structure is designed the architect will ask the principals, “What the purpose is and what will it be used for?” Once the architect understands the purpose and intended use (i.e. school, hospital, offices, grocery store, prison, railroad station, church, etc.) a design, based on the principals need, will be birthed.

You were created, designed and birthed by God Himself to be His temple. It is in you that goodness flows and is manifested from the spiritual to the physical realm [from the inside out]. When you asked Jesus to come into your heart [life], He answered your prayer and actually moved into your temple [body] as He designed it for His habitation. It is in you that God lives and breaths. It is in you that God reaches for others and invites them into His [world] Kingdom. You were designed with a very specific purpose, to house the “Spirit” of God.

As a grocery store was neither designed nor intended to be a hospital or school, neither were you designed for anything other than your intended purpose. You were not designed for abuse, to worry, to hate, for sickness, stress, resentment, addiction nor jealousy. But you were designed to be a vessel of God’s love to all the world.

This week you are going to be given an opportunity to use that vessel to bless another, go ahead and let them know exactly where God lives. In you!

A Prayer for Today

Lord, as I realize more and more each day that You live in me, I know that some old tenants [habits and rituals] need to be moved out of me. Please help me to remove those areas of my life that are not meant to live in Your Temple and strengthen me as I become Your permanent residence. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: 1 Kings 6:1, Psalm 84:4, Isaiah 56:7, Acts 17:24,

Heart to Heart

Today's Scripture

"Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be." (Luke 12:34 - TLB)

Today's Word

A thought. What if you had God’s heart, what would you do with it? The fact is you do have His heart. It was given to you the day you asked Him to come into yours and you didn’t even know it. A transplant took place. He took your old life and gave you a brand new one.

God poured all of His love into you and you became His treasure to your spouse, to your children, your parents, your community, your co-workers, your friends and neighbors. It is in you that God lives and poured His goodness, and He did this for His purpose and for His pleasure. You are an expression of God’s love to all of the world, no matter what anyone says, you are a blessing and your life has a profound meaning. It is in you that others will find God’s love for them.

Today, you will have an opportunity, like none before, to bless someone with the greatest gift they could ever receive. Be as generous to others as God Himself has been to you; share what He has given you, His heart. Be a “great-giver” of compassion, understanding, forgiveness and patience and watch what happens. You will find the treasure you have been looking for all of these years. It’s in you.

Remember: You have what it takes!

A Prayer for Today

Lord, You have given me everything, You’ve given me your very nature. Show me how to use that nature, how to love, forgive, be more compassionate and understanding, show me how to demonstrate your loving kindness to those around me and I will follow Your lead. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Genesis 14:14-16, Luke 12:33, John 13:35, Acts 2:44, 1 Cor 4:5, Gal 6:1-3, Leviticus 19:9-10, Ruth 2:2.

Investments

Today's Scripture

"Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you-- guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." (2 Timothy 1:14 – NIV)

Today's Word

Have you invested in something or someone you believe in lately? Long before you ever stepped foot on this earth God made an investment, His workmanship, His creation and His design, and He deposited it in you. He knew exactly what you would be used for and what you would achieve in your life.

You may be a wonderful father, a nurturing mother or friend. You may have a gift for working with the sick and elderly or have the voice of an angel. You may be an entertainer or athlete bringing happy moments to others, a giver of your time, talent or money. Whatever your gift is, it is a deposit of God’s grace into your life.

Imagine. God deposited Himself into you so that you would invest your gift in others. That’s an investment that keeps on giving and cannot lose.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, It is so awesome knowing that You created Your gift to the world in me. I am ready to discover that gift and bless others with it. Help me to be all that You created me to be. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:Deuteronomy 33:1-29, Judges 14:1-20, Matthew 2:1-12, Luke 19:11-27

Making Winners

Today's Scripture

“If you profit from constructive criticism, you will be elected to the wise men's hall of fame. But to reject criticism is to harm yourself and your own best interests.” (Proverbs 15:31 -TLB)

Today's Word

Do you know that correcting your swing can change the whole game?

Some years ago I traveled to a professional baseball training camp. While there I was privileged to see Reggie Jackson warming up in a batters cage. Behind a chain link fence stood a coach, and I was amazed to hear him telling Reggie [an all time homerun hitter] to lift his elbow and step forward with his swing. Each time the batter listened to the instruction of the coach he would hit the ball well over the center field fence. This coach was being used to help [correct] one of the world’s greatest athletes become even better. As a result, Reggie went on that year to break an all time record.

Correction [rebuke] should always be done to help someone you care for, someone you want the best for and someone you believe in. Correction should never be done for your sake, but rather for the other person’s sake, lovingly and gently ministering to them the same way God has gently ministered to you all of these years. God never yells, He never threatens, and He is never haughty. God does not swear and He is patient, never giving up. When God corrects you, you feel loved, encouraged, inspired and motivated to do what you were created and designed for, and as you begin to follow through, the right way, you know that you are in “the zone” because the results are astonishing and it feels so much better. You know its right. Never forget, God always wants the best for you no matter what, because He knows you are a winner.

Remember, treat others like the winners they can become, not for the way they stand today and watch them become homerun hitters.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, thank you for Your gentle love and Your encouraging Words. I am so grateful for Your rebuke and for reminding me that You made me for so much more. I am looking forward to becoming all that You made me to be. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Galatians 2:11-21, 1 Corinthians 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 1:4-9, Hebrews 12:1-12.

Mangia!

Today's Scripture

Then he ate and was strengthened. He stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days and went at once to the synagogue to tell everyone there the Good News about Jesus-- that he is indeed the Son of God! (Acts 9:19-20-TLB)

Today's Word

Remember the last upset stomach you had? Chances are you ate something that just did not agree with your system. It happens. Some of us have Lactose Intolerance, Wheat Allergies, Enzyme Challenges, etc. Many of us cannot tolerate certain foods anymore, like spaghetti sauce, ice cream, spicy food, milk and, so forth. Some doctors admit that our digestive system changes as we grow older and you may be one of those. You just can’t digest what you were once able to.

When a person asks Jesus to come into their heart [life] it’s not a “Religious” thing, it’s a very personal thing. He answers everyone who sincerely calls upon him and fills each with all of his attributes. As you continue to grow older and more mature in your faith, like food, you may not be able to tolerate everything as you did before, something inside has changed; you’re simply not the same anymore. Certain habits, conversations, rituals, weaknesses, thoughts and opinions no longer appeal to you. Your system of life has changed and you have developed a new life, a new purpose, a new mission and a new appetite for something other than food which causes you terrible upset.

So, mangia! Eat of the food that was sent to you from heaven [Jesus’ Word], share that “Good Food” with all who are hungry around you, and watch them become strengthened just as you have.

Remember: You have been given the very best, share Him with someone.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, thank you for changing me little-by-little each day, feeding me with all I need to live a purposed and full life. Each day I look forward to learning and growing from You, and not being dragged down by those things which are designed to hurt You, others and myself. Thank you for Jesus and in His name I pray. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:John 4:32, John 4:34, Matthew 4:4, Deuteronomy 7:1-26, Colossians 1:15- 29, Hebrews 6:1-20, Hebrews 13:1-25, Matthew 26:17- 30, 1 Corinthians 11:17-34.

Travel Light

Today's Scripture

“Give your burdens to the Lord. He will carry them. He will not permit the godly to slip or fall.” (Psalm 55:22-TLB)


Today's Word

The worst part of a journey can be carrying all the heavy luggage. Usually in the end we find out we didn’t even need it all. Take a moment today and ask yourself, “Do I really need to carry all of this?” It may be the weight of not forgiving someone you need to forgive, being more patient with yourself and others, the pain of the past, fear, anxiety, relational pressure, work, unnecessary spending, health issues, other people’s problems, concern for the future, etc. Whatever it may be, you don’t have to carry it. Jesus had the antidote for excessive weight. He said, “Are you tired of it all, then come to me and I’ll carry it for you.” You were not designed to carry excessive weight, nor the burden of matters that cannot add a single moment to your life, so learn to “lighten-up”, and live your life freer.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, take this weight from me that I may walk freer, for I know you want me to enjoy the journey you have designed me for. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Exodus 1:1-14, Psalm 145:1-21, Matthew 11:25-30 - (Message).

LET GO AND GO WITH THE FLOW

Today's Scripture

“You've all been to the stadium and seen the athlete’s race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You're after one that's gold eternally. I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 - The Message)

Today's Word

While in training, some runners place weights around their ankles making it harder to run at their full potential. Football players may harness themselves and drag heavy weights to increase their strength, but both use the weighted resistance to build themselves up for the main event. On the day the athlete has trained for they release the weight they have toted for so long and freely move with the flow of immense power. Instantly, the athlete is lightened for the mission. You may find yourself tied to a weight that’s been holding you down for some time. It may not be a sand bag tied to your ankle or a tire tied to your back; you may be carrying the pain of a broken relationship, or the pain of your past, a health issue or financial worry, an addiction or a challenge with a family member, co-worker, employer or neighbor. You may even have an issue with your own self-image. The “Good-News” is you were created for more than training; you were created for victory, what the Bible calls the “unforced rhythms of grace”. You were created to flow and not be bound to anything. Today is the day you were trained for all of your life; it’s the day of the main event – Life! It’s time to let go of those weights that have been slowing you down and learn to live freely and lightly, for this is the day you are living for, not yesterday and not tomorrow, but TODAY. That is your mission.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, I give you all of the weight that has been holding me back from receiving the victory. Thank you for getting me through to the finish line. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Matthew 11:28 (Msg.), Genesis 25:19-34, Genesis 39:1-23, Matthew 14:1-12, Mark 14:32-42.

Don't Block The Flow!

Today's Scripture

“Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting and profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31- The Message)

Today's Word

Did you know that unforgiveness, bitterness, and resentment block the flow of God's blessing in your life? Holding on to the hurts of your past can poison your present and future. But when you let go of these emotional wounds, the power and blessing of God’s healing goes into affect and you actually begin to open the door to the life of victory that the Lord has planned for you. When you think about it, what an incredible trade, pain given up for blessings! When that old enemy tries to use the events of your past just as he did to your parents and grandparents and ancestors before you, don’t buy the lie, because it is only going to influence your present actions and responses and weaken you. What the enemy tries to do is paralyze you with fear and shame; he will always attack you at your weakest point. But when you choose to forgive yourself and those who have wronged you and release your past to your Heavenly Father's loving care, as hard as it may seem, you can actually begin to walk in freedom no matter what anyone else says or thinks. God’s Word is all that matters, and it will last long after opinions have been forgotten and disappear. You can trade your sorrow for His joy. You can trade your shame for His peace, love, and victory! God doesn’t see you from your past, He doesn’t see you from where you are; He sees you for all He made you to be. He created you for much more than anyone around you can ever imagine. You were made for blessings. Isn't it reassuring that you are not defined by your past? You are defined by God's Word and His plan for your life. God sees you as an overcomer! A champion! A mighty life-force! God sees you blessed and prosperous in all your ways! So today, believe in what God has done in you and what He plans to do through you, and live your life filled with the promise of your Designer and Creator, the One we call our Heavenly Father.

A Prayer for Today

God, I am trading my sorrows in today. I refuse to live in the past any longer! I forgive my trespassers and will hand you my ashes and accept the beauty You offer instead. I will live the life of joy that You intended for me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Matthew 8:5-13, John 4:1- 26, Judges 3:1-6, Deuteronomy 1:19-36, Matthew 27:45-56.

Your Part

Today's Scripture

“For the land of the people of God lies empty and broken after your attacks, but the Lord will restore their honor and power again!” (Nahum 2:2 - TLB)

Today's Word

God wants you to have all He created you for. He has promised to restore all the things that the enemy has stolen. However, just because God gives us this great promise, doesn't mean it will automatically come to pass. We've got to do our part, and develop a mentality of restoration through the renewing of our mind. In short, we have to change the way we think, from doubting to believing, every Word of God. We must expect things to change in our favor. We must be strong-willed and determined, and do everything we can to recover what the enemy has stolen from us, and we must develop an “attitude of gratitude” and graduate from gloom and doom to a life of expectancy and celebration. Remember, the obstacles we face are simply opportunities for advancement, like stones on a pond. If you'll do your part to have a restoration mentality, God will take every obstacle that comes into your life and turn them into stepping-stones that will take you to a place of higher honor and greater blessing. Remember: What the devil means for bad; God means for good!

A Prayer for Today

God, help me develop an attitude of hopeful expectancy and deliver me from a doubtful spirit. I know that You only want the best for me and that sometimes means learning to be strong even through the difficult times. Regardless of my circumstances, please remind me to be patient and to wait for you to reveal the perfect plan you have for my life. I want to have a "restoration mentality!" In Jesus' name - Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: Psalm 126:1-6, Matthew 8:1- 4, Ephesians 4:1-16.

Hu - Man

Today's Scripture

“For you are God's temple, the home of the living God, and God has said of you, "I will live in them and walk among them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people." (2 Corinthians 6:16 - TLB)

Today's Word

Do you know that you are the Temple of the living God? That’s right, within you is all that God created. You were designed and made to bring His glory [love] to all the earth, to every one you meet, to everything you put your hand to. Within you is the power to create, the power to love and the power to forgive and the power to heal. You have the power to carry life and the power to be resurrected. Within you lives the Spirit of God, you are His dwelling place and you were created to be more than just a “human”. God’s Word says you are a chosen people, it’s not “human”, it’s “hu man!” If you are on this earth you were chosen, chosen to be in relationship with your Creator/Designer and with others. You were chosen to bring His love, special abilities and talents, uniqueness and creativity to all the world. And when it’s time to leave this world, you have been chosen to overcome death and to walk with God forever. Wow! You see, there is so much more to look forward to than yesterday. You have today, and only God knows – tomorrow. So, learn to accept your calling and live freely and lightly, creating new relationships, forgiving, forgetting, giving a healing smile, a gentle touch, or a prayer of passion. Learn to be a giver of all that God continues to pour into you. You are a fountain created to flow all of Jesus.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, to think You created me for so much more than I could have ever dreamed. Thank you for Your written Word, which refreshes me each day, Your spoken Word in Jesus Christ who shows me how to live my purpose, and Your living Word in The Holy Spirit, which guides me. What can I ever say, except, I surrender all. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC: 2 Corinthians 5:11-21, Exodus 7:1-14.

Quizzes

Today's Scripture

“Oh, put God to the test and see how kind he is! See for yourself the way his mercies shower down on all who trust in him. If you belong to the Lord, reverence him; for everyone who does this has everything he needs.” (Psalm 34:8-9 - TLB)

Today's Word

Remember those “pop-quizzes” in school? You would expect a test at the end of the week and have plenty of time to prepare for it, or exams at the end of the quarter, but not on Tuesday, that wasn’t the norm and you never knew when they would come. Unexpectedly, you would go to class and there the teacher stood and said, “Today we are going to have a little “quiz””, and you’re like - “What? I’m not prepared for this!”

Each day you may be faced with the little “pop-quizzes” of life, things that happen that you just do not expect, someone that irritates you and you loose your temper, you hit your thumb with a hammer and say a curse, give someone a hand gesture that just cut you off in traffic, or a conversation that you wish you never had. All of these are little “pop-quizzes” of life, and almost always presented when we least expect them.

These little “quizzes” are designed to help you grow and prepare you for the real test, to help you see where you have fallen short. The next time you are quizzed and your score is not very impressive, don’t worry, and don’t feel bad, you haven’t failed, you just need to prepare more.

Remember: God is on your side and has created you for more. Keep moving and never give up, and you will pass the ultimate test of believing that through Jesus Christ you can do all things.

A Prayer for Today

God, help me to be more sensitive to Your Holy Spirit which You have placed within me. Help me to grow and mature more, so that I will not be pulled down by these little “quizzes” of life. Thank you for Your love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and for teaching me self- control. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Genesis 12:10-20, Genesis 22:1-18, 2 Chronicles 32:24-33, Psalm 11:1-7.

God Shows Up Where He is Praised

Today's Scripture

O Lord, I will praise you with all my heart and tell everyone about the marvelous things you do. (Psalm 9:1 - TLB)

Today's Word

Remember, when you prayed and asked God to help you through something? He did. Now its time to give Him back the praise by thanking Him with all of your heart. That’s what He wants - your praise.

The Bible says, “I will thank the Lord at all times. My mouth will always praise him.” (Psalm 34:1 GWT). Instead of giving the enemy praise by speaking negative, why not speak positive praising God for all He has, is and will continue to do for you, regardless, of your circumstance.

If you kept helping someone day in and day out and they didn’t thank you, but rather gave praise to the one hurting them over and over again [the enemy], would you be in a hurry to come back and help them again? When we speak in the negative, “I’ll never get healed”, or “My husband/wife will never change”, or “I’ll never get out of debt!”, or “I’ll never get a good job”, or “I’ll never meet anyone good”, etc., that’s giving praise to the enemy and forgetting all that God has done and is doing in your life right now. The enemy has a mission and wants you to fail, he wants you to doubt God, and he wants you to think there is no God.

Remember God’s promise. “For I know the plans I have for you, plans for good and not for evil” (Jeremiah 29:11). God has taken you through so much. From the time the earth was formed and He spoke you into existence, and you were carried from generation to generation for thousands of year’s right up to your father and into your mother. He has cared and provided for you, all because of His plan for your life. Wow! God has brought you through so much, and even now He has not forgotten you, that’s how much He loves you and has shown that He alone will never fail you. God has been faithful to you throughout the generations, and by the promise of His Word will complete His work in and through you, until He sees it to completion. So, stop doubting and start shouting praises to His Name, because He alone is worthy of your praise!

The psalmist declared, “Praise God from sunrise to sunset” (Psalm 113:3 – LB).

A Prayer for Today

God, there are times that I get so caught up in my daily routines that I forget to give you the praise You alone deserve. Help me to always honor You by putting you first in everything I say and do, and help me to stop speaking in the negative which gives you no praise at all. Thank you for your patience and for loving me so much that you have even prepared eternity for me. In Jesus name, Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Psalm 9:1-20, Psalm 146:1- 10, Psalm 103:1-22, Ephesians 2:1-10, Hebrews 13:1- 25.

To Do or Not To Do?

Today's Scripture

But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. (Galatians 5:22 – The Message)

Today's Word

Living Gods way is a choice. You can choose to be angry or joyful, resentful or forgiving, compassionate or cold, generous or selfish, an example or of questionable character. It all comes down to a choice, “Do I go this way, or do I go that way?”

The Bible tells a story of one of Jesus’ ancestors, a very good looking young man named Joseph, the son of Jacob, whom after being sold into slavery by his brothers eventually found favor with a man named Potiphar, who was an officer of the Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. After forming a trusting relationship with Joseph, Potiphar had entrusted incredible administrative authority to the young man and highly favored him with all that he owned and was responsible for. One day while Potiphar was away his wife began making eyes at Joseph and suggested that he come and sleep with her. The Bible says that Joseph refused telling her, “Look, my master trusts me with everything in the entire household; he himself has no more authority here than I have! He has held back nothing from me except you yourself because you are his wife. How can I do such a wicked thing as this? It would be a great sin against God.” But she kept on with here suggestions day after day, even though he refused to listen, and kept out of her way as much as possible. Then one day as he was in the house going about his work, as it happened, no one else was around at the time she came and grabbed him by the sleeve demanding, "Sleep with me!" He tore himself away, but as he did, his jacket slipped off and she was left holding it as he fled from the house. This decision of Josephs cost him dearly as Potiphar’s wife lied and said that Joseph tried to rape her. Eventually, after years of additional suffering and the agony of a false conviction, the truth was known and God, after being honored by Joseph’s decision, honored Joseph by finding favor over him again and raised him up to an even greater position which was over every man in the kingdom except the Pharaoh himself.

Choices are not always easy, and tests can come your way every day, but when you honor all that God has done for you by considering Him first, then making your decision, God will honor you with His favor.

Remember: It’s your choice, God’s way or the other way.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, help me in all of my ways to acknowledge you and to make the right choices in living the way you created me to. In Jesus name. Amen

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Genesis 37, John 5:16-30, Proverbs 1:1-19, Proverbs 13:1-6, Matthew 9:9-13