Don't Force It

Let God show you the way - Then you'll never be lost.

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. 29 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. 30 Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (Matthew 11:28-30 – Msg)

Today’s Word

One of the many great things about God is that He never forces you to believe in Him. He will never make you feel guilty, bad or invalidated because of past mistakes or “man made” rules. God is always inviting, generous and loving but never forceful, He’s very patient. He calls you into friendship with Him and gives you His very best, and all the time never forcing it upon you. This week, why not give God your very best and trust Him unconditionally with your entire life, you’ll feel so close to Him and so much better after you do. Tell Him alone your inner-most secrets, fears, joys and plans, He’s eager to listen. Then, let God lead you to live the most gratifying and joy-filled life you can ever imagine, a life filled with promises from God Himself. And remember; when you have to force anything, maybe it wasn’t meant to be.

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, today is the day, no more procrastination, please come into my heart, be my Lord and my Savior, forgive my sins and give me a new life, a new beginning and a fresh start that will bring glory to Your Holy Name. Today is the day that I surrender my life to You and begin living the life You created me to live. In Jesus Name – Amen.

Get into Position

You have not because you ask not!

Today's Scripture

If a child asks his father for a loaf of bread, will he be given a stone instead? If he asks for fish, will he be given a poisonous snake? Of course not! And if you hardhearted, sinful men know how to give good gifts to your children, won't your Father in heaven even more certainly give good gifts to those who ask him for them? Matthew 7:9-11 - TLB


Today's Word

God wants you to have all that He has created and provided for you, it’s already within your reach, but you need to get yourself into position to receive it. When you pray or have a conversation with God, He wants you to be yourself, that’s the first position. Then, learn to open up to Him and speak with Him like He is a real person, because guess what? He is real! That’s the second position. Then, whatever your need (not your want), tell Him and then leave the giving to Him, not the taking to you. That’s the third position. You see, God wants you to trust Him with every area of your life, not just the parts you want, but every area. If you’re a parent, don’t you want your child to speak with you openly? If they should have a legitimate need, wouldn’t you want them to share that with you? You may think it wrong to ask God for something, but the only wrong is you’re thinking that God is not interested in every part of your life. When some people think of God they think of a suffering God, a faraway God and a non-understand God, and that’s why so many lack so much, because they really don’t know God the way He wants them to know Him. The Word of God reveals Him as loving, giving and ever present just for you. He is your Shield in time of battle, your Physician when wounded and your Provider when in need. God is all you will ever need to enter into forever, so no matter what your challenge, your hope or dream, let God in on it one-hundred percent, and watch how different the outcome is.
If you were sick, would you think it wrong to ask God to heal you, that maybe He is unable? If your family is dysfunctional, would you think it wrong to ask God to intervene, that He wasn’t qualified? If your business is declining, would you think it terrible to ask God to help because He wouldn’t understand? If your marriage is on the rocks, would you think God was unqualified or incapable to restore it? Of course not! Get into the right position and talk to God, you’ll be so glad you did. And don’t forget to thank Him as your blessings come one-by-one. Your position will determine the outcome.

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, I come to You and open my heart, share my dreams and ask Your intervention in my challenges. I lift my loved ones to You, my health to You, my finances to You and my every day to You, You are my God, my Provider and my Strong Tower and I long to be near to You in every area of my life. Thank You for being so patient with me, so inviting and so comforting. In Jesus Name – Amen.

Help is on the way!

In the time of need, sow a seed.

Today Scripture

"Who but I have told you this would happen? Who else predicted this, making you admit that he was right? No one else! None other said one word! I was the first to tell Jerusalem, 'Look! Look! Help is on the way!' Not one of your idols told you this. Not one gave any answer when I asked. See, they are all foolish, worthless things; your idols are all as empty as the wind.” (Isa 41:26-29 TLB)

Today’s Word

Do you know someone who is challenged right now with physical, psychological or spiritual setbacks? We all have them from time-to-time, but there is a difference in the outcome of those whom trust, set themselves apart and expect God to move in their life, and not by ritual, icon or tradition. Take a moment today and reflect on all that God has taken you through in your life. Maybe a wicked divorce, health issues, the loss of someone you loved dearly or even the pain of invalidation from those you expected validation from. All of these and so much more are very real and can challenge the strongest of us, but there is one thing that sets the “True Believer” apart from the “Sunday Believer” and that is knowing deep within your heart-of-hearts that HELP IS ON THE WAY! When you encourage someone or need encouragement yourself always remember that God has not deserted you and He never will, He loves you beyond your comprehension. His Word declares there is nothing that can ever separate you from His love. Therefore, sing it, shout it, speak it and proclaim it in the valley, on the mountain, in the city and across the land, HELP IS ON THE WAY! Go ahead say it out loud right now, “HELP IS ON THE WAY!” Feels good doesn’t it? Now, don’t just believe, but expect God’s very best in your life today. Enjoy your life knowing the outcome of your challenges are going to bring glory to God no matter what.

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, how could I ever think You could forget my need? I know that it is You that wakes me in the morning and allows my heart to beat throughout the day. I put my entire life in Your hands resting assured that You have plans for me that are beyond my understanding right now. Thank you Father for birthing me to love You and those You bring my way. In Jesus Name – Amen.

New Beginnings

Start Believing for More

Today’s Scripture

“For I'm going to do a brand new thing. See, I have already begun! Don't you see it? I will make a road through the wilderness of the world for my people to go home, and create rivers for them in the desert!” (Isaiah 43:19:20 – TLB)

Today’s Word

It’s already the first full week of the New Year. New goals, new resolutions, new relationships and new opportunities are surely on the horizon, it’s an exciting time in your life and God wants you to experience the fullness of all He has in store for you. This is the first week out of the starting gate, so be sure to include God in everything you do. Seek His counsel through spending time each day in His Word and in prayer. Let Him know that you care and are grateful that He cares about all that’s going on in your life. Learn to just say, “Thank you Father!” and then expect blessings, unexplained in the natural, to come your way as He responds to your willingness to trust and obey Him.

Remember as you begin this new week, “If God is for you, then who can ever be against you?” (Romans 8:31)

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, here we are ready to continue the journey You have called me to. I’m ready and willing to do whatever I must to accomplish Your will in my life this week. Use me, teach me, help me to grow and mature, and allow others to experience Your unfailing love through me. In Jesus’ Name I pray – Amen.

Watta You Looking At?

Today's Scripture

'In the last days,' God said, 'I will pour out my Holy Spirit upon all mankind, and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men dream dreams. Acts 2:17 TLB

Today's Word

Some years ago I took a motorcycle safety course. I learned that a rider should always look at their destination, never look down or you will follow your eyes and fall, look ahead and the bike will follow your eyes. I learned that when you look down, chances are, you will go down.

Words have incredible power, power enough to change the direction of your life. You may have been told you don't have what it takes, or you're to old, not smart enough, not rich enough, not good looking enough, to fat, or to skinny. These negative words of invalidation are intended to pull you down, and they usually come from people who haven't gone very far in their own life. If you listen to negativity enough, you'll begin looking down at yourself thinking, "I can't". But God's Word says', "You Can!" If you will lift your faith up, set you eyes on the dream God has placed within you, you will begin to head in that direction.

See yourself happy, in business, married, out of debt, healthy, better than before and blessing others. Speak it, dream it, shout it and live it. Keep walking towards your God given destiny and do not let anyone at all cause you to look down. When someone tells you, "You can't", then you tell yourself, "I must!" and so you shall.

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, Wow!!! I want to tap into Your economy, the economy that pours promise and hope into my life. Open my eyes to see all that You have placed inside of me, dreams, visions and more. Help me to read and listen to Your Word and ignore the words of the "small-minded". In Jesus name I pray. Amen.


ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Genesis 50:22-26; Exodus 2:11-25; Mark 1:1-8; Philippians 4:10-20.

Dare To Live Your Dreams

Open Your Mind

Today's Scripture

"For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than yours, and my thoughts than yours." Isaiah 55:9 - TLB

Knock, Knock

Today's Word

When you open your mind you open yourself to possibilities of increase in your life. A closed mind is like shutting the door, you simply don't want anything else coming in.

Biblical increase pertains to your physical, psychological and spiritual life. You may need physical healing today or have unhealthy thoughts that need addressing or even find yourself in a spiritual battlefield, but when you open your mind to the possibilities of increase your life will begin to follow your thoughts. Go into the Concordance of your Bible, choose an area of your life where you find yourself challenged, like Worry, Depression, Marriage, Money, Sickness and begin to read the passages associated with each topic concerning your situation. Open your mind and allow God's Word to overshadow your challenge, disbelief and fear, and stand on that Word. Read it again and again, commit it to memory and slowly you will begin to see yourself walking out of your dilemma. As you begin to see yourself freed, little-by-little, you'll actually move in the direction of your thoughts, its called faith, believing in what you cannot see, but knowing it lies ahead.

When you open the door of your mind and become a "Possibility Thinker" you can expect a life filled with God's anointing of blessing and favor. So, change your thoughts from "gloom and doom" and become opened to "favor mindedness", it will make all the difference in your life right now.

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, lead me to Your Word, fill me with Your thoughts and revive my thinking with a fresh anointing. Keep my eyes fixed on Your promise and not on distractions that lie all around me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.


ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Proverbs 15:1-33; Mark 7:14-23; Romans 12:1-8; Philippians 4:2-9.

Dare To Live Your Dreams

You ain't seen nothing yet!

Today's Scripture

And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you. Philippians 1:6 AMP

You've got a lot to look forward to

Today's Word

Do you know if you're an artist, you haven't created your best painting yet? If you're a builder, you haven't built your best house yet. If you're a musician you haven't played your greatest song yet and if you're a business person, you haven't closed your biggest deal yet. No matter who you are, what you have, or what you have accomplished you have yet to achieve all that God intended you to achieve when He created you. Think bigger, think better and think more because God wants to demonstrate His blessing for others through you. You've got what it takes, you just need to learn how to tap into God's economy and reap one blessing after another. Begin today, by asking God to reveal His plan for you. Focus on your purpose, trust God no matter what anyone else says and reach for your dreams and watch God anoint your plan to bring Him all the glory in your advancement. I'm excited for you as you begin to mature and reach your intended potential.

Do you know if you're a painter, God may have you one day painting rainbows in heaven? An accountant? You may be keeping score in the heavenlies. If you're an athlete you may be scoring goals from one end of heaven to the other and if your a haircutter, you just might give the Lord a trim. Your best days are still ahead of you.

Tap into your dreams and start living them, there's a blessing waiting to unfold in and through you.

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, help me to open up to You and allow Your Spirit to flow in and through me, that I may increase others through the gifts, talents and promises you created and designed me for. How blessed I am Lord that You created me, Your instrument, Your touch to the world. In Jesus name I pray. Amen


ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Jeremiah 29:11; Isaiah 43:19; Ephesians 1:18-19; Matthew 9:17.

Dare To Live Your Dreams

Sing Your Song

Today's Scripture

Wake up, O harp and lyre! We will meet the dawn with song. Psalm 108:2

Today's Word

Each of us has a song inside of us just waiting to be sung. It was placed there by God Himself, and that song was not meant to be kept silent. Within you lay a melody that will bring joy to all who hear it; it will bring joy to the Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit. That's right, there's a song inside of you.

Each morning God awakes you because He longs to hear His favorite tune. He is the One who has written the lyrics. He has written the most beautiful words known to mankind, words like, "God loves you!", "You can do it!", "Don't worry about it!", "You're forgiven", "Let's try again", "I don't remember", "You didn't do anything wrong", "You're great!" and "I love you". You see, within you lay a song just waiting to be sung, and when you sing it, the whole world will listen. Go ahead, start singing your song and bring someone joy today.

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, I never knew I had a voice, but with You, I'm just beginning to realize that all things are possible. Thank you for the gift You have placed inside of me, I'll practice using it every day until I master my instrument. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

View archived messages from Pastor Marty

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Psalm 40:3; Psalm 96:1-4; Psalm 18:14; Isaiah 42:10.

Secret Desires

Today's Scripture

Be delighted with the Lord. Then he will give you all your heart's desires. Psalm 37:4

Today's Word

God knows the secret desires of your heart. He knows every hidden dream you have because He has placed them within you. He knows the things that you haven’t told anyone else. Maybe you thought they would never come to pass, or maybe you buried them because they didn’t happen on your timetable, but when God is ready, you are going to live your dreams my friend and fulfill your God-given purpose for being here.

Maybe, in the natural, you have every reason to give up on your dreams, but don’t, because God is not finished with you yet. Instead of being discouraged why not be encouraged today knowing and believing with all of your heart that God is still working behind the scenes! He still has a plan to bring those dreams to pass. Do what the verse says, and be delighted with the Lord today, because He is putting everything in order to see your desires surpass all understanding. That word delighted, actually means to make yourself soft and pliable. It paints the picture of God as the Potter and you as the clay.

Remember: Always remain teachable allowing God to mold and shape your character, allow Him to direct your plans and ideas. Keep an attitude of faith and expectancy and as you submit your ways to the Lord and open your heart to His leading, He promises that he will fulfill all of the secret desires that He has placed in your heart!

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, help me today to remain teachable and filled with expectancy knowing that when You are ready I will be used in a mighty way to fulfill all that You created me for. I thank You daily for reminding me that You are preparing me through various challenges and growth to fulfill Your purpose for my life as I mature and discover the desires You have placed in my heart to bring glory to Your Holy name. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

Don't Be A Quitter

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 people who are determined to take a stand no matter what may come and 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, that’s easy. But what kind of attitude do you have when times get a bit tough and things don't go exactly the way you planned? During those times of challenge do you remain faithful and keep pressing on with your testimony even though it seems you're making no progress?

Sometimes God allows trials to come into our life to test us, and the tests are not always little ones nor are they pleasant. These tests are to refine and purify our faith, that’s how we grow and begin to mature as believers. I want you to know that no matter how far the enemy has brought you down, regardless, of the severity of your troubles, your Heavenly Father promises in His Word to give you the strength you need to overcome whatever comes against you and to lift you up in victory, but it may not be your way or according to your time frame.

Remember – anyone can quit, but it’s never the finisher. Anyone can complain and it’s usually never the focused, and anyone can get down and discouraged but it’s never the determined, but God is looking for people who will persevere and be a good witness of His promise knowing that with Him they cannot fail.

Friend, be determined to prove yourself faithful to God no matter what may come, because He will never disappoint you. Stand strong, He will give you the strength you need to stand your ground, and fight the good fight of faith knowing deep down inside that God is for you, and when you do, you will begin to live a life of absolute abundance, and you will emerge the champion God made you to be.

A Prayer for Today

Dear 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, thank you for Your Word which always assures and reminds me You are with me constantly and that is all I need. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Valley Days

Today's Scripture

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2

A Word for Today

How do you remain faith-filled when everything seems to be going wrong? Trust is key in any relationship. When there is no trust you are hesitant to believe anything you are told and trust is lost generally when someone has either misled you or simply not followed through as promised.

In Psalm 23 David is quoted as saying, “Even when walking through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.” David obviously was going through something when he refers to “The Valley”, yet he appears determined to look to the positive and reassure himself “no weapon formed against me is going to prosper” or “greater is he who is in me; then he who is in the world.” Saint Paul wrote, “Faith comes by hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.”

I want to encourage you TODAY to use what God has given you, His Word, when you find yourself in “The Valley”. And remember, the great news about Psalm 23 is David never said he stayed in the valley; it says he was “walking through the valley”. So friend, when things seem to be going wrong keep moving, put your trust in God, and you’ll soon be beyond those moments of challenge.

Remember: God said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5.

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, Your Word is a “Lamp-Light” to my feet, it lights my path. How well I know that Your goodness and mercy have been with me from the beginning of time. I thank You by trusting Your every Word and I put all of my hope in You and You alone. Thank you for always bringing me through the “Valley Days”. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Think, Before You Speak

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.

Remember: No more gloom and doom.

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.

A New Attitude

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

If you're like most of us you have had some pretty unfair things happen to you during the course of your life? Every one of us has experienced disappointments, setbacks, heartache, and some sort of hurt at one time or another. The unfortunate thing is that far too many of us have chosen to continue living negative, bitter and resentful lives all because we continue to hold on to the pain of yesterday. Counseling, anger, pity, resentment, medication, inebriation, depression and blaming others is not going to change anything, but your decision of what you're going to do with the pain of your past can be the key to changing everything, and unlock the door to your unlimited future.

The "Good News" today is God wants to heal you completely from the pain of your past and get you far beyond yesterday. He wants you to begin living your life to its full potential, just as He designed and created you to. Although the past may have been a horrible experience and may have even left some battle scares, it doesn't mean that your future has to be limited, ruined or robbed anymore. What matters most, is what you do with the pain of your past.

Remember, God is faithful. He is able and He is willing to take whatever it is that has burdened you all this time and turn that negative into a positive. God can turn everything in your life around, no matter what it is, and He can use it for good in the world. He can right all the wrongs that have happened to you and pay you back in great abundance for all of the hurt, pain and suffering that you have experienced. Your future can begin right now, but it's all going to depend on what you do with your past. Are you going to continue to carry it or let it go? Do yourself a favor and take whatever it is that has been weighing you down for so long and give it to God. Simply say, "God, take this hurt, this pain and this anger and show me how to live my life in peace", then get out of God's way and watch your life begin to change one day and one step at a time. Learn to expect healing, refuse to listen to "gloom and doom" and stop badgering God and let hope fill your heart as you receive His favor. Release all of your anger, guilt, and condemnation and forgive those who have wronged you. Stop carrying around the baggage of yesterday and make a fresh start today. When you do that, God will give you a new beginning.

So begin each new day declaring, "With God all things are possible, and I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and everything I put my hand to today is going prosper." These are not just idle words or motivational sayings; they are God Words, they are His promises for your new life.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, with You I know that all things are possible. Today, 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 that I may have to You and I am going to let go of the past and start fresh today and begin living the life you created me to live. In Jesus' name, Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Genesis 50:22-26, Exodus 2:11-25, Mark 1:1-8, Philippians 4:10-20, Genesis 47:28-31, 1 Samuel 1:21-23, John 13:31-38.

When Life Just Doesn't Make Sense

Today's Scripture

After Job prayed for his friends, the Lord made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before. . . . The Lord blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first. Job 42:10, 12

Today's Word

In the Bible, there is a story about a man named Job, he was truly a good man who loved God and had a heart to do what was right. Yet in a few weeks' time, he lost his business, his flocks and herds, his entire family, and his health. Things could not get any worse for Job, and I'm sure if Job was anything like most of us, he was tempted to be bitter. He could have said, "God, it's just not fair anymore. I don't understand why all this stuff is happening to me." His own wife even told him, "Job, just curse God and die."

But no, Job knew that God is a God of restoration. He knew God could turn any situation around no matter how bad it seemed. And his attitude was, Even if I have to die, I'm going to die trusting God. I'm going to die believing for the best. And, when it was all said and done, God not only turned Job's calamity around, He brought Job out with twice that which he had before.

Over the years I've discovered two kinds of faith - a delivering faith and a sustaining faith. Delivering faith is when God instantly turns your situation around. When that happens, it's great. But it takes a greater faith and a deeper walk with God to have sustaining faith. Sustaining faith is what gets you through those dark nights of the soul when, like Job, you don't know where to go or what to do. . . but because of your faith in God, you do. Faith tells you the best it yet to come.

If you want to find strength through adversity remember, God has a divine purpose for every challenge that comes into our lives. Trials test our character and help shape our faith.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, thank You for always being there to see me through my trials, for loving me and sustaining me even when life just doesn't seem fair. In Jesus name. Amen.



ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
2 Corinthians 4:18, Job 42, Job 23:10, 1 Peter 4:12, Galatians 6:9, Isaiah 55:8-9, Philippians 4:11, Psalm 31:14-15.

Be What You Were Made To Be

Today's Scripture

But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day. Proverbs 4:18

Today's Word

God loves to use ordinary people just like you and me, faults and all, to do extraordinary things. My question to you is: Are you allowing your weaknesses and insecurities to keep you from being your best? Are you letting feelings of inadequacy keep you from believing God for bigger things? God wants to use you in spite of your weaknesses. Don't focus on your weaknesses; focus on your God.

You may not feel capable in your own strength, but that's okay. The apostle Paul said, "When I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Cor. 12:10). God's Word states that He always causes us to triumph. He expects us to live victoriously. He is not pleased when we mope around with a "poor me" attitude. When you do that, you're allowing your self-image to be shaped by nonbiblical concepts that are contrary to God's opinions of you. This sort of poor self-image will keep you from exercising your God-given gifts and authority, and it will rob you from experiencing the abundant life your heavenly Father wants you to have.

You can change the image you have of yourself. Start by agreeing with God. Remember, God sees you as strong and courageous, as a man or woman of great honor and valor. He sees you as being more than a conqueror. Start seeing yourself as God sees you. Quit making excuses and start stepping out in faith, doing what God has called you to do.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, Your gift of a new life has empowered me to live victoriously. Your Word refreshes and anoints me like cold water on a blistering day, and Your promise to uphold me is as birth given to a nation. I have all that I need because of You and I can be all that You say I can be because You made me. With the hope of Your Word I know and believe in my heart that I can conquer anything that comes my way. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
2 Corinthians 2:14, Judges 6:12, 2 Corinthians 12:9

Don't Limit God

Today's Scripture

"No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us." Philippians 3:13-14 TLB

Today's Word

Do you know that God has incredible plans for your life? Throughout the Bible we can see God's passion to fulfill His vision through His creations, and you are one of those creations my friend. If God ever showed you His plan for your entire life right now it would boggle your mind, you'd not be able to take it all in, because it's just too great for you to comprehend all at once. And that's exactly why it's unfolding little-by-little.

So, it's time to quit limiting God. Remember: God is your source for everything, and His creativity and resources are virtually unlimited! God may give you an idea or a vision for a new business venture, an invention, a book, song, or even a ministry which will help others live their dreams and fulfill their purpose. One idea from God can change the course of your entire life forever. God is not limited by what you have or don't have. God can do anything, if you will simply stop limiting Him by the way that you think.

Maybe your family background includes a long line of challenges such as divorce, betrayal, poverty, abandonment, physical or mental illness, depression, addiction, or an array of other problems. You need to say, "Enough is enough. I'm going to break out of this cycle and change my expectations for my life. I'm going to start believing God for bigger and better things right now."

When God puts a dream in your heart, when He brings opportunities across your path, learn to step out boldly in faith, expect the best, trust God's timing and begin to move forward with confidence, knowing that you are well able to do what God wants you to do. God wants to do a new thing in your life. But you've got to do your part and get outside that little box you've grown accustomed to. Start thinking big today and expect opportunities to come your way!

A Prayer for Today

Lord, help me to change my thoughts and to prepare myself to receive blessings that are going to bring glory to Your Kingdom. I know, without a doubt that my life is about to change forever and I am trusting my everyday to You and You alone. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Proverbs 15:1-33, Mark 7:14-23, Romans 12:1-8, Philippians 4:2-9.

What Are You Thinking?

Today's Scripture

"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5 NKJV

Today's Word

Most of us have learned that life is not always going to be fare or easy. From time to time we all get knocked down from one circumstance or another and as a result we can occasionally end up discouraged, but we do not have to remain there. We can choose our thoughts. There is no one that can make us think a certain way. If you're not happy, no one can force you to be unhappy. If you're negative and have a bad attitude, no one can coerce you into being sarcastic or sullen. You're the one that decides what you're going to entertain in your mind, not anybody else.

Just because the enemy plants a negative, discouraging thought in your mind doesn't mean that you have to nurture and help it grow. But if you do, remember, that thought is probably going to affect your emotions, your attitudes, and eventually most of your actions. You'll be much more prone to discouragement and depression, and if you continue pondering that negative thought, it will sap the energy and strength right out of you and leave you weakened in areas of your life that you never even dreamed possible.

We must begin the process of learning to take responsibility for our minds and our actions. As long as we continue making excuses and blaming our family, our environment, past relationships, our circumstances, finances, blaming God, Satan, anyone, or anything, we will never be truly free and emotionally healthy to grow and live the life God designed us to live. Most of us have never been taught that we have been blessed with the ability to control our own destinies by the way we think.

Chances are it's not your circumstances that get you down; your thoughts about your circumstances get you down. Do you know that it's possible to be in one of the biggest battles of your life and still be filled with joy and peace and victory? If you will take the first step and simply learn how to choose the right thoughts your life is going to take an incredible change for the better.

Choose to believe that God is greater than any of your problems, trust Him to sort it all out, learn to be patient, get around positive people, feed yourself with God's Word every day, exercise your faith and watch what happens. You're going to be amazed at just how powerful your thoughts can be in transforming the outcome of your circumstances.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, help me to meditate on pleasing thoughts, to fill my mind with Your promises and help me recall all of the victories I have had because of Your plan for my journey. I place my life in Your hands and trust the outcome to You and You alone. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
2 Chronicles 20:15, Isaiah 26:3, Philippians 4:8-9.

Dreams

Today's Scripture

"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances" [Philippians 4:11]


Today's Word

In the Old Testament [1 Samuel 17] there is a story of a young man named David who had a very big dream for his life. David had a desire to make a difference, but as a young man he spent many years as a shepherd, caring for his father's sheep. I can only imagine the times, like you and I, that David was tempted to think that God had forgotten all about him. He must have thought, God, what in the heck am I doing here? There's no future in this place. When are You going to change this situation? But David, unlike most of us, understood God's timing. He knew that if he would be faithful in obscurity that God would promote him at the right time. He knew that God would bring his dreams to pass in due season.

As the story goes on, God brought David out of those fields one day; he defeated the giant Goliath, and eventually God made him the king of Israel.

If you are like most people, you may have a big dream in your heart also - a dream to have a better marriage, to own your own business or meet the right person. Maybe your dream is to help hurting people or to reconcile an old relationship - but like David, you may not see any human way that your dream can happen.

I have good new for you today! God isn't limited by your understanding or by natural, human ways of doing things. If you will learn to trust God and keep a good attitude, staying faithful right where you are and not getting in a hurry and trying to force things to happen, God will promote you at the right time, in your due season. He will bring your dreams to pass. Friend, learn to Rest in Him and then watch your dreams come true!

A Prayer for Today

Lord, as each day passes I am learning to trust You more and more. I've really never known before that I have someone to remind me of Your great love and plans for me, thank You for Your Holy Spirit, for He is teaching me each and every day just how much You love me and think of me even when I'm sleeping. Today, I put my trust in You in every area of my life. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Psalm 31:14-15, Exodus 2:11-25, Psalm 74:1-23, Luke 3:21-23, Romans 5:1-11, 2 Peter 3:1-8.

Become What You Believe

Today's Scripture

But He said, "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." [Luke 18:27 NKJV]

Today's Word

In the New Testament, there is a fascinating account of two blind men who heard that Jesus was passing by, and faith began to rise in their hearts. They must have thought, We don't have to stay like this. There's hope for a better future. So they began to cry out, "Have mercy on us, Son of David!" [Matthew 9:27].

When Jesus heard their cries, He posed an intriguing question, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" Jesus wanted to know whether they had genuine faith. The blind men answered, "Yes, Lord; we believe." The Bible says, "Then He touched their eyes, saying, According to your faith and trust and reliance [on the power invested in Me] be it done to you; and their eyes were opened".

Notice, it was their faith that brought them the healing. The Message says, "[Jesus] touched their eyes and said, 'Become what you believe.'" What a power statement! Become what you believe! What are you believing? Are you believing to go higher in life, to rise above your obstacles, to lighten up by giving God your heavy burdens, to live in health, abundance, healing, and victory? You will become what you believe.

You don't have to figure out how God is going to solve your problems or bring it to pass. That's His responsibility. Your job is to believe. What you believe has a much greater impact on your life than what anybody else believes.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, Your Word is like a lamplight to my feet, a breath of fresh air for my soul, refreshing water on a hot day that quenches my thirst. Forever, shall I dwell in Your House surrounded by Your glory and rejoicing in Your mercy for You alone are the One that I place my trust, hope and faith. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Genesis 16:1-16, Exodus 14:1-31, Matthew 3:1-17, 1 Corinthians 4:1-21, Matthew 14:22-33, Mark 9:14-29, Romans 14:1-23, Luke 17:1-10, Romans 5:1-11, Hebrews 10:19-39, Hebrews 11:1-40, Genesis 12:2.

The Mind of A Winner

Today's Scripture

"If God is for us, who can be against us?" [Romans 8:31]

Today's Word

Ten of the twelve Hebrew spies sent by Moses into Canaan to check out the opposition came back to Moses and said, "It is a land that is flowing with milk and honey, but there are some giants in the land and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers. They're too strong. We'll never be able to defeat them" [Numbers 13]. Compared to the giants, the mental image they had of themselves was as small, helpless little grasshoppers. The battle was lost before it ever began, they had already been defeated.

On the other hand there was Joshua and a guy named Caleb who had a totally different report for Moses. "We saw the land also, and we are well able to posses the land. Yes, there are some giants there, but our God is much bigger then they are. Because of Him, we are well able. Let's go in at once and posses the land." Faced with the same giants, these two believed God and refused to see themselves as little old grasshoppers. Instead, they saw themselves as God's men, led and empowered by God Himself, they knew they couldn't fail if they maintained their purpose and was about God's business in living their life as it was intended. They just lived; and left the rest to God.

What an incredible truth! You and I are "more then able" people, but sometimes we forget our potential. Not because we are so powerful, wealthy, smart, educated or "connected", but because our God is so powerful. Friend, God already has enough "grasshoppers." He wants you to be an "I can" person, someone who is willing, ready, and "well able" to do what He commands. You must learn how to cast down those negative thoughts that we all have had and begin to see yourself as God sees you and created you. You must reprogram your mind with God's Word [get into it]; and change that negative, defeated self-image, and start seeing yourself as a winner.

Remember: You were created to possess the land; not be possessed by the land.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, with You on my side I know I can do all things, You have given me all that I need to posses the land and conquer the enemy help me never to forget that as I bring You glory in the way I think and live my purpose. In Jesus name. Amen.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE RELATING TO TODAY'S TOPIC:
Exodus 1:15-22, Luke 23:50-56, Acts 4:23-31, Deuteronomy 33:26-29, John 16:17-33.