My God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:19
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. Matt. 7:7
If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. John 14:14
Did you ever have a difficult conversation or strained relationship with someone that left you wondering what you always say wrong or where you always mess up? Sometimes we may contribute to those difficult relationships but sometimes they are more about the other person and their issues than ourselves. I think sometimes my conversations with God are the same way - more about my issues and unbelief than about who He is. I pray not even mindful of who He is and His promises! He clearly promises to supply my needs - in fact He says I can ask Him anything! Go ahead and ask!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
A Perfect Friend
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Prov. 18:24
It seems like we are living in a "dog eat dog" world, with everyone looking out for his/her own interest - doesn't it? Seems hard to find someone to care, someone to think about your feelings, a friend, someone to listen, someone to give up some time for just you? It's easy to feel that way; everyone is so busy with living, trying to get by or get ahead.
We will get disappointed looking to humans to fulfill a need that only God can. God is the friend we are looking for - always ready to listen - He will never leave us - always there- always eager to hear from us - loves us more than we can imagine - wants good things to happen to us - loves our families too - never tires of hearing our repeated conversations - thinks we're perfect just how we are- Oh yes - He can actually help us when we tell Him our troubles!! That's truly a perfect friend! My friend would love to hear from you today too!
It seems like we are living in a "dog eat dog" world, with everyone looking out for his/her own interest - doesn't it? Seems hard to find someone to care, someone to think about your feelings, a friend, someone to listen, someone to give up some time for just you? It's easy to feel that way; everyone is so busy with living, trying to get by or get ahead.
We will get disappointed looking to humans to fulfill a need that only God can. God is the friend we are looking for - always ready to listen - He will never leave us - always there- always eager to hear from us - loves us more than we can imagine - wants good things to happen to us - loves our families too - never tires of hearing our repeated conversations - thinks we're perfect just how we are- Oh yes - He can actually help us when we tell Him our troubles!! That's truly a perfect friend! My friend would love to hear from you today too!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Guardian Angels
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psalms 91:11
I recently watched "The Owls of Ga' Hoole" for the second time. Even though it's really a kid's movie, I enjoyed the message. The little owls in trouble had faith that this land where the guardian owls lived existed - they just needed to listen to their "gizzards" to find it. The guardian owls would help them fight the bad owls and solve their problems. It's a nice story and not too far from reality.
The bible often talks of angels. I love the Psalms above because God specifically how angels play a role in our lives - He sends them to protect us! He tells them what to do in our best interest too. Not only will they protect us - but they will keep us IN ALL OUR WAYS! That gives me great comfort knowing my children have the protection of God's heavenly host wherever they are. Have a great day knowing you're surrounded by angels!
I recently watched "The Owls of Ga' Hoole" for the second time. Even though it's really a kid's movie, I enjoyed the message. The little owls in trouble had faith that this land where the guardian owls lived existed - they just needed to listen to their "gizzards" to find it. The guardian owls would help them fight the bad owls and solve their problems. It's a nice story and not too far from reality.
The bible often talks of angels. I love the Psalms above because God specifically how angels play a role in our lives - He sends them to protect us! He tells them what to do in our best interest too. Not only will they protect us - but they will keep us IN ALL OUR WAYS! That gives me great comfort knowing my children have the protection of God's heavenly host wherever they are. Have a great day knowing you're surrounded by angels!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Abundant Life
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10
I don't know how many times I've settled. I've thought that's good enough. I guess we all do that - at some point we decide things are good enough. Settling isn't a bad thing, really, or is it? I had been thinking about mediocracy and how many times I don't do something because I think that it is "good enough" the way it is - sometimes even my relationship with God. This verse came to mind and I realized that the settling way of thinking isn't what God wants for me - for you either! - God came so we can have an abundant life! What does having an abundant life mean to you? How will you change your thinking today?
Have a great day!
I don't know how many times I've settled. I've thought that's good enough. I guess we all do that - at some point we decide things are good enough. Settling isn't a bad thing, really, or is it? I had been thinking about mediocracy and how many times I don't do something because I think that it is "good enough" the way it is - sometimes even my relationship with God. This verse came to mind and I realized that the settling way of thinking isn't what God wants for me - for you either! - God came so we can have an abundant life! What does having an abundant life mean to you? How will you change your thinking today?
Have a great day!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
All Things Are Possible
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. Mark 9:23
I thought I was going to write about prayer today but I came across this verse and completely forgot everything else on my mind. Jesus is talking to a father of a child in this verse - the child's father replies to Jesus very honestly that he believes but he needs some help with his unbelief.
Think about it....IF you can just believe.....all things are possible. Having a little trouble believing? You won't be the first - He can help you too. Whatever you need to do today - remember ALL things are possible IF you believe. Go have a great day!
I thought I was going to write about prayer today but I came across this verse and completely forgot everything else on my mind. Jesus is talking to a father of a child in this verse - the child's father replies to Jesus very honestly that he believes but he needs some help with his unbelief.
Think about it....IF you can just believe.....all things are possible. Having a little trouble believing? You won't be the first - He can help you too. Whatever you need to do today - remember ALL things are possible IF you believe. Go have a great day!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Call Home for Help
In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Ephesians 3:12
Whatever you are being called to do today remember you have direct access to God and you can go with boldness and confidence. When my kids need help with their cars they call their father - I'm no help with that at all, other than to lend a listening ear - but they have direct access to their dad with their cell phones so they call him and he can help fix things. We can do the same with our heavenly father when we have problems and worries.Who better to help us than the one who made heaven and earth? He's not too busy for your smallest request - in fact, He's patiently waiting to hear from you. Remember pray home for help today - I know you're going to have a great day!
We have to be braver than we think we can be, because God is constantly call us to be more than we are. Madeleine L. Engle
Whatever you are being called to do today remember you have direct access to God and you can go with boldness and confidence. When my kids need help with their cars they call their father - I'm no help with that at all, other than to lend a listening ear - but they have direct access to their dad with their cell phones so they call him and he can help fix things. We can do the same with our heavenly father when we have problems and worries.Who better to help us than the one who made heaven and earth? He's not too busy for your smallest request - in fact, He's patiently waiting to hear from you. Remember pray home for help today - I know you're going to have a great day!
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Perfect Rest
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Jesus is extending an invitation to anyone who needs rest. He's talking to the weary, tired, worried, burdened, suffering, saddened, worn, grieving, and over-worked. Do you fall into any of those categories? Are you tired of working things out for yourself?
Let's look at what is NOT in this verse.....
When you do all you can do - Come to Me.
When you worry all you can - Come to Me.
The people who have it all together - Come to Me.
I will only listen to the people who are perfect so they can- Come to Me.
When you have something big - Come to Me.
You get the idea - I hope you find true rest today. CC
Jesus is extending an invitation to anyone who needs rest. He's talking to the weary, tired, worried, burdened, suffering, saddened, worn, grieving, and over-worked. Do you fall into any of those categories? Are you tired of working things out for yourself?
Let's look at what is NOT in this verse.....
When you do all you can do - Come to Me.
When you worry all you can - Come to Me.
The people who have it all together - Come to Me.
I will only listen to the people who are perfect so they can- Come to Me.
When you have something big - Come to Me.
You get the idea - I hope you find true rest today. CC
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Perfect Peace
Thou wilt keep in him perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3
It seems peace is hard to come by these days. We think there are so many things to think about, worry about and do. I find myself having so much on my mind that I forget things and feel distracted most of the time. This verse simply tells us how to have perfect peace - keep focused on God... I'm not keeping my mind focused on the the right thing - the right person - I'm not thinking enough about God and trusting Him to take care of things.
I hope you'll find perfect peace today keeping your mind on God.
It seems peace is hard to come by these days. We think there are so many things to think about, worry about and do. I find myself having so much on my mind that I forget things and feel distracted most of the time. This verse simply tells us how to have perfect peace - keep focused on God... I'm not keeping my mind focused on the the right thing - the right person - I'm not thinking enough about God and trusting Him to take care of things.
I hope you'll find perfect peace today keeping your mind on God.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Bible Study - Authenticity
A Simple Truth:
Purpose begins with understanding who God created you to be.
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For God's gifts and his call are irrevocable. Romans 11:29
I don't know that I have ever really paused and thoroughly considered what this verse means. I hope you will stop and allow this verse to soak in for you too. God has given you gifts and a calling on your life - that he will never take away - they are irrevocable! He will never change his mind about the gift He's given you or the call on your life just because you messed up or didn't do something good enough.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
All Things Good
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
I heard a very good sermon about this verse Sunday.It's a verse that most of us are familiar with and one that I know is true. God has used curcumstances in my life when it seemed like everything was going wrong -for good. Whatever seemingly hopeless situation you're going through - He's doing the same for you. Never forget how much he loves you and has a great plan for you - for your good. Have a great day!
You can listen to some encouraging messages here:
http://www.wbcpb.com/media.php?pageID=5
I heard a very good sermon about this verse Sunday.It's a verse that most of us are familiar with and one that I know is true. God has used curcumstances in my life when it seemed like everything was going wrong -for good. Whatever seemingly hopeless situation you're going through - He's doing the same for you. Never forget how much he loves you and has a great plan for you - for your good. Have a great day!
You can listen to some encouraging messages here:
http://www.wbcpb.com/media.php?pageID=5
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Help from Above
Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 124:8
If you live in my area you've probably spent most of last week talking, wondering, waiting and worrying about the weather. The weather played quite a role as our lives nearly came to a stop and we waited - wondering what would happen next. I am not sure why God is sending this weather but I know He is able to help those facing terrible loss through this.
I've been particularly touched by some of the news reports I've seen. I saw an older couple whose home was flooded in the background and their dripping wet furniture was being loaded in trucks. They spoke of living there for years and this was the first flood. I was so touched with how the woman had to be devastated by the loss, but spoke with certainty that they would be okay - everything is going to be alright. I knew she had to know her help was coming from above. I hope have the peace that comes from knowing your help comes from above when the storms of life come your way too!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Bible Study II - Purpose II
Purpose II
________________________________________________________
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well. Psalms 139:14
Nothing about us is an accident. He created us perfectly - just the way He intended. I know I've had my share of doubts about a few of his design plans for myself - there's certainly a few things I would like to change sometimes. But I know that it's true - you and I are fearfully and wonderfully made and I should be thankful- we are God's perfect design created for a unique purpose!
Just what is your purpose? How will you know what your unique purpose is?
I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Psalm 32:8
And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left. Isaiah 30:21
And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left. Isaiah 30:21
Are you listening for instructions so you can fulfill your unique purpose? Keep listening! You'll hear them!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
He is Alive!
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead
I Peter I:3
Easter is my favorite holiday. I know that Christmas is probably the most popular but I have always loved everything about Easter. It is a wonderful reminder of God's great love and sacrifice for us. It is a reminder for me too that I have a "living hope" --- I can and should live my daily life victoriously because He is ALIVE! What does this day mean to you?
I Peter I:3
Easter is my favorite holiday. I know that Christmas is probably the most popular but I have always loved everything about Easter. It is a wonderful reminder of God's great love and sacrifice for us. It is a reminder for me too that I have a "living hope" --- I can and should live my daily life victoriously because He is ALIVE! What does this day mean to you?
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Bible Study II - Purpose I
Purpose
God created you to fulfill a unique purpose.
______________________________________________________
The Lord will fullfill his purpose for me. Psalm 138:8
From a spiritual standpoint, pursuing our purpose means to discover our God-intended reason for being and to design our lives accordingly (Couchman).
Some people seem sure of their purpose in life. They seem to certain of God's leading and their unique abilities to fulfill that purpose. Do you believe you have a unique purpose in life? Why or Why not?
Let's discuss more about our unique purpose tomorrow... don't forget to post. I'd love to hear your thoughts about God's purpose in your life.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Bible Study I - Part II
Significance - Part II
When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers,
The moon and the stars, which You have ordained,
What is man that You are mindful of him,
And the son of man that You visit him?
For You have made him a little lower than the angels,
And You have crowned him with glory and honor.
Psalm 8:3-5
Yesterday we read verses that described God's great active love for us. King David pointed out man's importance to God in the verses above. I hope that you make that personal - because You are important and significant to God!
How do you think understanding your significance to God can help you?
How do you think understanding your significance to God can help you?
Monday, April 18, 2011
Bible Study I - Significance Part I
Significance*
You are deeply significant because God created you.
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us. - I John 3:1
Do you really believe you are significant? It's hard to grasp how much God loves us but we can begin by studying scriptures. The following scriptures describe his love for us.
Lamentations 3:22:23
Romans 8:35-39
Ephesians 3:16-19
What He Did For Love
God not only says he loves us; he demonstrates that love through His actions.
Here are few verses to describe what he has done and is still doing to express his everlasting love for us:
Exodus 15:13
Psalm 94:18
Hosea 14:4
Can you think of more verses like these to share? What does it mean to you that God demonstrates His love in these ways?
Coming Next...Significance Part II
*Bible Study designed from Judith Couchman's book Designing A Woman's Life.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Ending Lines
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
II Corinthians 4:8, 9
If you just look at the first parts of this verse it may describe what some went through or what some felt this week:
We are troubled...
We are perplexed....
We are persecuted...
We are cast down...
But there's more to this verse - because the first parts are not the end - that's not where we are to dwell - or where are thoughts are to stay. Those are just the temporary parts of the story - the parts that tell us God understands what we're going through ... not the ending lines. The second parts are the best... these are the ending lines for Christians:
We are not distressed...
We are not in despair...
We are not forsaken
We are not destroyed!!!
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
II Corinthians 4:8, 9
If you just look at the first parts of this verse it may describe what some went through or what some felt this week:
We are troubled...
We are perplexed....
We are persecuted...
We are cast down...
But there's more to this verse - because the first parts are not the end - that's not where we are to dwell - or where are thoughts are to stay. Those are just the temporary parts of the story - the parts that tell us God understands what we're going through ... not the ending lines. The second parts are the best... these are the ending lines for Christians:
We are not distressed...
We are not in despair...
We are not forsaken
We are not destroyed!!!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A Love Worth Giving
The Lord did not choose you and lavish his love on you because you were larger or greater than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations! It was simply because the Lord loves you. Deut. 7:7-8 NLT
God loves you simply because he has chosen to do so.
He loves you when you don't feel lovely.
He loves you when no one else loves you. Others may abandon you,
divorce you, and ignore you, but God will always love you. Always. No matter what.
--A Love Worth Giving by Max Lucado
God loves you simply because he has chosen to do so.
He loves you when you don't feel lovely.
He loves you when no one else loves you. Others may abandon you,
divorce you, and ignore you, but God will always love you. Always. No matter what.
--A Love Worth Giving by Max Lucado
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Worry
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Col. 3:15
I don't know if you needed this verse or not today - but I know I did. I had several things on my mind I felt l needed to worry about - as if I could work them out better than God. Amazing how I feel I have to torture myself with worries before I finally take them to the one who could actually help - and was right there waiting to hear about them! Do you do that too?
Another thing I get out of this verse is that when I am focused on being thankful - my worries and aggravations really diminish. Being thankful changes everything about our attitude doesn't it?
I don't know if you needed this verse or not today - but I know I did. I had several things on my mind I felt l needed to worry about - as if I could work them out better than God. Amazing how I feel I have to torture myself with worries before I finally take them to the one who could actually help - and was right there waiting to hear about them! Do you do that too?
Another thing I get out of this verse is that when I am focused on being thankful - my worries and aggravations really diminish. Being thankful changes everything about our attitude doesn't it?
Monday, April 11, 2011
God Can Do It!
I can do all things through Christ which strengthenth me. Phil. 4:13
Phil. 4:13 has been my "go to" verse for years. Whenever I need a boost of strength and confidence I know I can get through it because of Him. I know we are all facing something different but I know we are all facing something. Whatever your something is you can do it -and get through it because God can! What is your favorite "go to" verse?
Phil. 4:13 has been my "go to" verse for years. Whenever I need a boost of strength and confidence I know I can get through it because of Him. I know we are all facing something different but I know we are all facing something. Whatever your something is you can do it -and get through it because God can! What is your favorite "go to" verse?
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Future Thoughts
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
I have learned with age and experience that I can never assume to know what someone else is thinking - what their motives are and what they're thinking. In fact, it's probably best to never let my mind stray in those negative directions and just assume everyone is on my side - even when I may be pretty sure they're not.
I love this verse because He makes it very clear to us - He's thinking about us - and He's thinking wonderful things about us!!... He's thinking about how we can have peace and joy and a wonderful future! Isn't it comforting to know He's thinking good things about you right now? No doubt about it!
I have learned with age and experience that I can never assume to know what someone else is thinking - what their motives are and what they're thinking. In fact, it's probably best to never let my mind stray in those negative directions and just assume everyone is on my side - even when I may be pretty sure they're not.
I love this verse because He makes it very clear to us - He's thinking about us - and He's thinking wonderful things about us!!... He's thinking about how we can have peace and joy and a wonderful future! Isn't it comforting to know He's thinking good things about you right now? No doubt about it!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Thinking About Home
I'm sitting in a very nice motel room thinking about home. I have all of the comforts I could possibly want, a huge bed, big fluffy pillows and great food - but it's not home. I feel out of place here. It's a familiar place -I stay here often and the people I know here are great but I don't belong here. I miss my family - I miss my home. I am reminded that it's supposed to be like that for us as Christians, isn't it?.... Not quite fitting in with the world - feeling out of place. Do you feel that way often enough in your Christian walk? What are you thinking about home?
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Fearful Life
I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all of my fears. Psalm 34:4
What time I am afraid I will trust in thee. Psalm 56:3
Fear of failure. Fear of change. Fear of loss. Fear of pain. Fear of the unknown. Fear of stepping out to be who we are meant to be. I remember reading once that fear was the absence of faith. Sometimes I need reminders of that. Of course, God knew I would - and I must not be alone in my fears because there are many verses to remind us of God's presence, faithfulness and willingness to help us through whatever fears we are facing. I am so thankful for God's patience in helping us face our fears in this life. Does satan ever use fear to attack your faith? What verses strengthen you?
What time I am afraid I will trust in thee. Psalm 56:3
Fear of failure. Fear of change. Fear of loss. Fear of pain. Fear of the unknown. Fear of stepping out to be who we are meant to be. I remember reading once that fear was the absence of faith. Sometimes I need reminders of that. Of course, God knew I would - and I must not be alone in my fears because there are many verses to remind us of God's presence, faithfulness and willingness to help us through whatever fears we are facing. I am so thankful for God's patience in helping us face our fears in this life. Does satan ever use fear to attack your faith? What verses strengthen you?
Monday, April 4, 2011
Thought Life
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Phil. 4:8
I don't know about you, but this verse is where I struggle - keeping my thoughts in check. I could easily get caught up in a state of panic and anxiety over the simplest worry if I am not careful. I know God doesn't want that for me and it all starts with my controlling my thoughts and trusting Him.
I feel like because I have a personality that tends to analyze and internalize, I really have to work at keeping my thoughts from running rampant so it is helpful for me to read a lot of good uplifting books and materials. I find that there are many resources out there to help keep me encouraged throughout my day, including listening to good music. I subscribe to email listservs and have some favorite websites to check. How are you keeping your thoughts pure and lovely today? I would love to read about it.
I don't know about you, but this verse is where I struggle - keeping my thoughts in check. I could easily get caught up in a state of panic and anxiety over the simplest worry if I am not careful. I know God doesn't want that for me and it all starts with my controlling my thoughts and trusting Him.
I feel like because I have a personality that tends to analyze and internalize, I really have to work at keeping my thoughts from running rampant so it is helpful for me to read a lot of good uplifting books and materials. I find that there are many resources out there to help keep me encouraged throughout my day, including listening to good music. I subscribe to email listservs and have some favorite websites to check. How are you keeping your thoughts pure and lovely today? I would love to read about it.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Be of Good Cheer!
Acts 23:11
I don't know if you are like me when you are sitting in church listening to a sermon but sometimes I carry home with me the seemingly oddest little tidbits. I know in my heart they are messages from God so I try to be careful not to forget them. Today I am sharing this with you because it's just too good not to and I am sure my preacher won't mind. He said that God's favorite words were "Be of good cheer" and he went on to tell of the numerous times he spoke those words! He spoke those words to ordinary peole like me and you because He wants us to be happy. He cares about you and that means He cares if you're worried, fearful, sad, angry, depressed!
I hope knowing you can give all of your cares and worries to Him fills you with GOOD CHEER!
I don't know if you are like me when you are sitting in church listening to a sermon but sometimes I carry home with me the seemingly oddest little tidbits. I know in my heart they are messages from God so I try to be careful not to forget them. Today I am sharing this with you because it's just too good not to and I am sure my preacher won't mind. He said that God's favorite words were "Be of good cheer" and he went on to tell of the numerous times he spoke those words! He spoke those words to ordinary peole like me and you because He wants us to be happy. He cares about you and that means He cares if you're worried, fearful, sad, angry, depressed!
I hope knowing you can give all of your cares and worries to Him fills you with GOOD CHEER!
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