Wednesday, February 28th, 2024

**A Devotional on Devotionals**

Psalms 19:14 - Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

(Psalm 19:14 KJV)

Devotionals come in all styles, long and wordy, sermon-like, feel good, etc. My goal in writing devotionals is to create a peaceful emergence into our day; a thoughtful meditation of our lives in this stunning creation and our thankfulness to God for all He does for us.

Also, a scripture to ponder and a short prayer to carry with us through the day.

Prayer for the day

We begin this day with our thoughts and meditations on you, Lord.

The Reign of the Lord's Anointed

2 Why do the nations rage[a]
    and the peoples plot in vain?
2 The kings of the earth set themselves,
    and the rulers take counsel together,
    against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying,
3 “Let us burst their bonds apart
    and cast away their cords from us.”

4 He who sits in the heavens laughs;
    the Lord holds them in derision.
5 Then he will speak to them in his wrath,
    and terrify them in his fury, saying,
6 “As for me, I have set my King
    on Zion, my holy hill.”

7 I will tell of the decree:
The Lord said to me, “You are my Son;
    today I have begotten you.
8 Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage,
    and the ends of the earth your possession.
9 You shall break[b] them with a rod of iron
    and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.”

10 Now therefore, O kings, be wise;
    be warned, O rulers of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear,
    and rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son,
    lest he be angry, and you perish in the way,
    for his wrath is quickly kindled.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

Prayer for the day

Lord, we pray that the leaders of this world will come to fear you.

January 24. 2024

The Day of the Lord

“…, pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV)

A continuation of the previous verse, “Rejoice always”, “pray continually” (“pray without ceasing” NKJV) does not mean being in the physical act of praying every waking minute, obviously; but rather being in a prayerful state of mind, having a heart and a spirit for prayer, living in such a way that nothing would inhibit our desire to pray at any given moment.

Aside from intense private meditation with God, we talk with Him throughout our day. Reading scripture is a powerful communion with Him that should be part of our daily routine.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, it is so comforting to be able to talk with you in prayer at any time.

January 23, 2024

The Day of the Lord

“Rejoice always,” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 ESV)

We cannot open our eyes without seeing something in which we can rejoice. Living in the light, we become more attuned to God every day. We do not have to make a conscious effort to be thankful and to rejoice in this life; rejoicing in everything becomes what and who we are as Christians.

We ‘stand amazed’ at what God has done and in that we rejoice.

During this day, think about all the things in your personal life in which you will rejoice.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, to You we rejoice in everything. You are everything.

January 21, 2024

A Psalm for Sunday

The Lord Is My Shepherd

23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Prayer for today

Lord, help me to live the words of this song with the same passion as they were written by David.

January 14, 2024

A Psalm for Sunday

The Joy of Forgiveness

A Psalm of David. A Contemplation.

32 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven,
Whose sin is covered.
2 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity,
And in whose spirit there is no deceit.

3 When I kept silent, my bones grew old
Through my groaning all the day long.
4 For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me;
My vitality was turned into the drought of summer. Selah

5 I acknowledged my sin to You,
And my iniquity I have not hidden.
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”
And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah

6 For this cause everyone who is godly shall pray to You
In a time when You may be found;
Surely in a flood of great waters
They shall not come near him.
7 You are my hiding place;
You shall preserve me from trouble;
You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah

8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will guide you with My eye.
9 Do not be like the horse or like the mule,
Which have no understanding,
Which must be harnessed with bit and bridle,
Else they will not come near you.

10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked;
But he who trusts in the Lord, mercy shall surround him.
11 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous;
And shout for joy, all you upright in heart!

January 5, 2024

Seeing Through Blindness

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:16 ESV)

As usual, my thoughts tend to revolve around music. Thinking about the great writers of Christian music the most prolific must be Fannie Crosby. Her biography should be read by every Christian. A writer of more than eight thousand hymns and gospel songs, she has touched the lives of many millions; and not just touched their lives but to their lives her words have become a permanent part of. I could never imagine having “Blessed Assurance” removed from who I am. Fannie Crosby was a precious gift from God, I truly believe.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, thank you for the many writers that instill Your word in song.

January 4, 2024

January 3, 2024

Kudzu

Our inheritance has been turned over to strangers,
our homes to foreigners.” (Lamentations 5:2 ESV)

When I was at the university, in a climate much different than the south, I made a comment to a professor about how kudzu (which can grow a foot per day) could completely engulf a house. His reply was, “what is kudzu?” Kudzu was brought to this country intentionally and people were paid to plant it; there were seventy million seedlings available. Kudzu blocks sunlight and its root system crowds out everything else.

We can learn much from the plight of kudzu. We are being overrun by foreigners from everywhere. The minds of our children are being attacked by things we could have never imagined not so long ago. The Bible tells us what can and will happen if we turn from God. It also tells us about the healing of our land that will take place if we seek Him (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Prayer is definite. What else can you do? What can I do? We need to be asking serious questions about what we can do to preserve the freedoms that we and coming generations have, including the freedom to worship our God openly.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, help us protect our inheritance from those that seek to take it.

December 28, 2023

Cure for Our Troubles

. . . preaching peace by Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all).
—Acts 10:36

Would it not be wonderful if we could find an absolute cure for the troubles of human nature? Suppose we could give a shot in the arm to the whole human race that would fill people with love instead of hate, with contentment instead of greed. Suppose, also, a cure could be found for the past mistakes, failures, and sins of mankind.

Suppose by some miracle all the past could be straightened out, all of life’s tangles could be unraveled, and the broken strings of life could be repaired. The most thrilling news in all the world is the fact that there is a cure! A medicine has been provided! The sin, confusion, and disillusionment of life can be replaced by righteousness, joy, contentment, and happiness. A peace can be imparted to the soul that is not dependent on outward circumstances.

A Prayer for Today

In complete dependence upon You, Lord Jesus, let me relay Your message of love and peace to the desperately needy souls I meet.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

December 26. 2023

Christmas Has Just Begun

“May all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him!” (Psalm 72:11 ESV)

Families pack their cars to head home, with an excess of new possessions, mountains of used wrapping paper and boxes overflowing our trashcans, leftovers for days; it is over, and we can relax. But it is not over.

The ongoing true story, beginning with the day we just celebrated, Jesus’ walk on this earth for about 33 years, and his death and resurrection will result in a life with Him that will never end for those that believe the story. No matter our circumstance or the state of the world, the Gospel will bring us peace.

“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14 ESV)

A Prayer for Today

Lord, I pray for peace in a world of mounting conflict and sin. Amen

December 25, 2023

Pretty Paper

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14 NIV)

Yesterday, I played for a prelude “Pretty Paper,” a song by Willie Nelson. *The true story is about Frankie Brierton, disabled from a spinal disorder and could only crawl, who sold wrapping paper and ribbons on the streets of Ft. Worth.

I play this song every Christmas to remind myself of what is beyond our cozy homes. A Christmas tree surrounded by the gifts we lovingly share with each other, our traditions and lots of good food. To be alone at Christmas is heartbreaking.

This day is about one thing; this day is about the coming of the Messiah.

We should lift our prayers today for those who may be alone for whatever reason. Everyone has their own story. But, we all have the same Lord.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, we pray that all will find comfort in knowing you, no matter their situation. Amen

*The Incredible, True Story Behind Willie Nelson’s “Pretty Paper” Was Inspired By A Disabled Street Vendor In Fort Worth (msn.com)

December 24, 2023

A Psalm for Sunday

Psalm 89 NKJV

89 I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever;
With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.
2 For I have said, “Mercy shall be built up forever;
Your faithfulness You shall establish in the very heavens.”

3 “I have made a covenant with My chosen,
I have sworn to My servant David:
4 ‘Your seed I will establish forever,
And build up your throne to all generations.’” Selah

52 Blessed be the Lord forevermore!
Amen and Amen.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, You are faithful and Your love endures forever. AMEN.

December 9, 2023

A Glass of Water

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13 ESV)

A friend posted a short story that I want to paraphrase. I cannot find who wrote it. A woman told the pastor she wanted to leave that church because certain people were on their cell phones and talking and gossiping during service. He had her walk around the church twice with a full glass of water and afterwords asked her about who was gossiping, talking etc. She had no idea, as her full attention was on the water.

Sound familiar? We have but one focus as we enter the assembly, and that is to worship God. It is not our concern what others are doing or not doing. *Jesus said, Follow Me.’ He did not say follow Christians. Do not let your relationship with God be determined by how others relate with God. Let it be determined by how focused YOU are on God."

A Prayer for Today

Help us to stay focused on You and avoid the wanderings of our minds.

*Direct quote from article

November 29, 2023

God’s Presence

And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”                                     (Exodus 33:14 ESV)

On a winding path adorned with lush plants of all kinds, and in various stages of their maturity, I linger to absorb the perfect beauty of what God has put before me. In the distance, the concert of the Carillonner begins. The melody is only a whisper and as I near my destination the bells ring out in all their captivating glory.

This magnificent tower, a stunning work of art rises hundreds of feet and glistens in the Florida sunlight. At the top is the Carillonner; her artistry in manipulating the bells produces music that fills the air and seems to come from the Heavens.

This garden, where my mother and I would visit so long ago, where her spirit is close is an oasis of peace. And the Holy Spirit in this sanctuary of God’s awesome creation fills me. We can talk to God anywhere, but special places exist for us that bring us closer, and into His presence; places where we can be quiet and meditate on the Spirit of God.

“Make of it the most beautiful spot on earth, where the bird and human can rest and find themselves”. Edward W. Bok

A Prayer for Today We come into your presence, and we seek Your will.

October 21, 2023

The Ant and the Tree

“On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” (Psalm 145:5 ESV)

Praise God for this perfect Autumn morning. The painted leaves of this season are something I never tire of looking at.

My mind has been on ants the past few days due to the many fire ant hills in our church yard. I was reminded of the ants I had seen in Belize and their relationship to the Acacia tree. The leaves of the Acacia tree are full of fats and sugars that provide food for the ants, that live in hollowed-out thorns. In return, the ants protect the tree from insects and animals with their vicious stinging. This unlikely pairing is a symbiotic or mutualistic relationship.

This is a fascinating example of the wonders of God’s perfect creation. This perfect creation, we call home for now abounds in wonders, and beauty that are ours to embrace and enjoy as God’s gift to us. Be thankful and meditate on this day.

Invite someone to church this Sunday.

Prayer for the day

Thank you, Lord for this life and for the wonderful place we live in.

October 20, 2023

Build With Care

“For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11 ESV)

I spend lots of time thinking about the old building at our church. Some may call it obsession; I prefer to call it driven. An incredible amount of work, in the past two plus years, has been done primarily by youth deficient guys. Blood, sweat and tears (literally) have been shed on this quest to restore Ebenezer Baptist Church, built in 1876 to a state that is close to original.

Hopefully, the spirit and the character of this building will remain, and it will serve not only as a fellowship hall but also as a reminder of the history and the legacy of Ebenezer.

Invite someone to church this Sunday.

Prayer for the day

May our buildings remain and continue to be useful in Your service.

October 19, 2023

Humility

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.,” (Philippians 2:3 ESV)

This morning, as I was reading the second chapter of Philippians, I was imagining Paul’s letter to the church at Love, Mississippi; what would that look like? It would look like his letter the Philippians. The scriptures are timeless, and we need only to insert ourselves and the story becomes the here and now.

Maybe humility has become even more of a challenge in a world of immediate gratification and so much of the media is geared at how important we are, what we deserve, what we can be. The individual is all-important. Vainglory abounds.

In striving to be like Christ comes humility and kindness We become like-minded. In examining intent and motive for all we do comes purity. There is no holiness in strife.

Prayer for the day

Our efforts are to be as Your example.

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October 18, 2023

Church in the Wildwood

“…to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,” (Ephesians 4:12 ESV)

What can I do today to help my local church?

Is our local fellowship here to help us or are we here to do everything we can to preserve and build our congregation to serve the needs of others and to spread the gospel in our community?

Am I in anticipation of our next worship service?

As we meditate and focus on God and set our minds on this day, think about the importance of all the little churches in the Wildwood and their impact on our civilization. The best way to get rid of weeds is to nourish and grow new grass to choke them out.

Prayer for the day

Lord, help us grow ever stronger in our work for the kingdom.

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October 17, 2023

Searching for Peace?

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee ...
—Isaiah 26:3

Are you searching for peace? Are you longing for it? You thought you would find it if you made a lot of money, but you didn’t find it. You thought you would find it in getting and accumulating a lot of knowledge, so you got all the degrees you could, but you didn’t find it, this peace.

You’ve searched the religions of the world, but you haven’t found it. There are a thousand ways you’ve turned, trying to find peace, but you haven’t found it. When you come to Christ by an act of faith, He gives you the Holy Spirit who produces the fruit of the Spirit and gives you the peace that passes all understanding.

Prayer for the day

Your presence fills my mind with peace, Lord, bringing into perspective all that I need—You, my heavenly Father.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

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September 11, 2023

Daily Devotional for Monday September 11, 2023

Never Forget

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5 NKJV)

As we tried to comprehend what we were seeing, and to organize our feelings and our thoughts, we were literally in shock of what was happening to our beautiful country, and what was happening to every American in this tragedy of biblical proportion. Emotions were rampant; from sadness to fear, to rage, to unbelief.

But on this day, we remember those 2977 souls that were lost at the hands of 19 terrorists.

We reflect on that day and for a little while we re-live it. In our own private way and with our own private tears we bring it to God, seeking His comfort.

Lord, on this solemn day, help us to be mindful always of the freedoms you have allowed our nation.

September 10, 2023

Daily Devotional for Sunday September 10th, 2023

A Psalm For Sunday

Psalm 37

He Will Not Forsake His Saints

Of David.

37 Fret not yourself because of evildoers;
be not envious of wrongdoers!
2 For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb.

3 Trust in the Lord, and do good;
dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.[b]
4 Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

5 Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him, and he will act.
6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday.

7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;
fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way,
over the man who carries out evil devices!

8 Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath!
Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.
9 For the evildoers shall be cut off,
but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.

10 In just a little while, the wicked will be no more;
though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there.
11 But the meek shall inherit the land
and delight themselves in abundant peace.

12 The wicked plots against the righteous
and gnashes his teeth at him,
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he sees that his day is coming.

14 The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows
    to bring down the poor and needy,
    to slay those whose way is upright;
15 their sword shall enter their own heart,
    and their bows shall be broken.

16 Better is the little that the righteous has
than the abundance of many wicked.
17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,
but the Lord upholds the righteous.

18 The Lord knows the days of the blameless,
and their heritage will remain forever;
19 they are not put to shame in evil times;
in the days of famine they have abundance.

20 But the wicked will perish;
the enemies of the Lord are like the glory of the pastures;
they vanish—like smoke they vanish away.

21 The wicked borrows but does not pay back,
but the righteous is generous and gives;
22 for those blessed by the Lord[c] shall inherit the land,
but those cursed by him shall be cut off.

23 The steps of a man are established by the Lord,
when he delights in his way;
24 though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
for the Lord upholds his hand.

25 I have been young, and now am old,
    yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
    or his children begging for bread.
26 He is ever lending generously,
    and his children become a blessing.

27 Turn away from evil and do good;
    so shall you dwell forever.
28 For the Lord loves justice;
    he will not forsake his saints.
They are preserved forever,
    but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.
29 The righteous shall inherit the land
    and dwell upon it forever.

30 The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom,
and his tongue speaks justice.
31 The law of his God is in his heart;
his steps do not slip.

32 The wicked watches for the righteous
and seeks to put him to death.
33 The Lord will not abandon him to his power
or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.

34 Wait for the Lord and keep his way,
and he will exalt you to inherit the land;
you will look on when the wicked are cut off.

35 I have seen a wicked, ruthless man,
spreading himself like a green laurel tree.[d]
36 But he passed away,[e] and behold, he was no more;
though I sought him, he could not be found.

37 Mark the blameless and behold the upright,
for there is a future for the man of peace.
38 But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed;
the future of the wicked shall be cut off.

39 The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord;
    he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
40 The Lord helps them and delivers them;
    he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
    because they take refuge in him.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

September 9, 2023

Daily Devotional for Saturday September 9th, 2023

Faith

“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?...” (James 2:14 ESV)

I am a firm believer in the power of prayer, especially the power of corporate prayer. Many of us, I am convinced, are the recipient of healing prayers. Prayers for healing and well-being are heartfelt and are with the belief they will actually work; faith that they will work. Fervent prayer can lead to what might be called or seen as a miracle. But with our faith in healing, work is also required. Treatments, listening to doctors, eating right, and whatever is needed are works we do in faithfulness. Praying to be cured of emphysema while smoking a cigarette might not work well.

In praying for specific needs in our church, there must be a diligent effort on our part to help God help us. We need to justify our existence in the community, and to ourselves with a clear purpose of what we want to be. We cannot be stagnant with the hope of someone fixing us.

Pray for our church. Pray for a clear vision of what we want to be. Pray for the strength to do God’s will in our fellowship.

Lord, help us to have the actions to accompany our prayers.

September 8, 2023

Daily Devotional for Friday September 8th, 2023

The Anchor Holds

“We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul,…” (Hebrews 6:19 ESV)

Much has been written about the sea; and so many memorable hymns about it. The formidable nature of the oceans, the unknown depths, the incredible and untamable power can be terrifyingly beautiful. What hope is there for a ship without an anchor when a storm rages? Not much. What hope for our souls then without an anchor? Even less. Our hope for everlasting peace is with an anchor, that is not weak and will hold until the storms subside. Our souls are the ships in this world that is akin to the turbulent, always unknowing vastness of the seas.

*“We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.”

Our faith is the anchor, the ship’s (our soul’s) destination is Heaven, and we know who the captain is. And by this faith comes salvation by grace.

Lord, in the ever-increasing storms we endure we pray for constant faith.

*Priscilla J. Owens 1882

September 7, 2023

Daily Devotional for Thursday September 7th, 2023

The Mystery of Heaven

“I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6)

What will heaven be like? Just as there is a mystery to hell, so there is a mystery to heaven. Yet I believe the Bible teaches that heaven is a literal place. Is it one of the stars? I don’t know, I can’t even speculate. The Bible doesn’t inform us. I believe that out there in space where there are one thousand million galaxies, each a hundred thousand light years or more in diameter, God can find some place to put us in heaven. I’m not worried about where it is. I know it will be where Jesus is. Christians don’t have to go around discouraged and despondent, with their shoulders bent. Think of it—the joy, the peace, the sense of forgiveness that He gives you, and then heaven, too.

Whatever I face, Lord, my heart rejoices in the knowledge of my ultimate destination—heaven—where I will live with You for eternity!

Charles Crider and Love CBC

September 6. 2023

Daily Devotional for Wednesday September 6th, 2023

Health

“Great are the works of the Lord,
studied by all who delight in them.” (Psalms 111:2)

That with modern medicine, doctors can look inside us, take pictures, and diagnose a problem with uncanny accuracy is nothing short of a miracle. The machines used are overwhelmingly large and very specific in what they do. I have a friend who is a physicist, and his job is to navigate radiation from a very big machine to a very small spot of cancer inside a human body. I can only imagine the stress level of always having to be accurate.

This one verse by David is about those who would dig deep into the works of God, even into the smallest of things. Much wisdom is to be found looking beyond the surface. In the discipline of medicine almost miraculous discoveries have been made. The world is much better for it. I, for one am grateful for those that have delighted in the great works of the Lord; that continually advance in the field of medicine.

Everywhere we look, there are the works of the Lord, to take delight in and to learn from. In His Word we can explore endlessly.

Lord, thank you for all this world is and for the wisdom we can take from it.

September 4, 2023

Daily Devotional for Monday September 4th, 2023

Labor Day

“I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live; 13 also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God's gift to man.” (Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 ESV)

A Time for Everything

3 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

2 a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.

This writing of King Solomon in Ecclesiastes says it all about Labor Day. And in 1965 ‘The Byrds’ set the first eight verses of chapter 3 to a beautiful melody allowing this wisdom to be heard by millions that may never have read it.

Lord, thank you for these words to live by.

September 3, 2023

Daily Devotional for Sunday September 3rd, 2023

A Psalm for Sunday

Psalm 36

Man’s Wickedness and God’s Perfections

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David the servant of the Lord.

1 An oracle within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked:
There is no fear of God before his eyes.
2 For he flatters himself in his own eyes,
When he finds out his iniquity and when he hates.
3 The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit;
He has ceased to be wise and to do good.
4 He devises wickedness on his bed;
He sets himself in a way that is not good;
He does not [a]abhor evil.

5 Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens;
Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
6 Your righteousness is like the [b]great mountains;
Your judgments are a great deep;
O Lord, You preserve man and beast.

7 How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God!
Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings.
8 They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house,
And You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures.
9 For with You is the fountain of life;
In Your light we see light.

10 Oh, continue Your lovingkindness to those who know You,
And Your righteousness to the upright in heart.
11 Let not the foot of pride come against me,
And let not the hand of the wicked drive me away.
12 There the workers of iniquity have fallen;
They have been cast down and are not able to rise.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

September 2, 2023

A New Day

“This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalms 118:24NKJV)

A stunning sunset brought a close to a good day and the tease of fall is in the air. And now, a new day.

Two nights ago, as the moon revealed itself over the hills of middle Tennessee, I thought about what a comfort are the things of God; that He brings us every day. I can imagine Jesus praying in the garden with this same moon watching over its maker. The stars we see are the very stars that Moses witnessed on his journey to the promised land of Canaan. And when it all started, Adam awoke to the same sun that we see at this very moment in time. How could any person question God’s being?

*“Yes, I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Ooh yeah”

Lord, thank you for such a wonderful world.

*1968 “What a Wonderful World” Louis Armstrong

Songwriters: George David Weiss, George Douglas. For non-commercial use only.

September 1, 2023

August 31, 2023

Devotional for Thursday August 31st, 2023

Gardens

For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and springs, that flow out of valleys and hills; a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey;

(Deuteronomy 8:7-8)

Gardens are some of the most peaceful places we could be. Whether it be a garden of our own making or enjoying another’s creation, they are special places to witness God’s handiwork. They can be a place of meditation, a place to be at peace with ourselves, and a place to be at peace with God. As we take in the collection of plants in the garden, it keeps our senses focused on the magnificence of life. Praise God for this gift.

The Bible speaks of gardens repeatedly. The ones we easily remember are the garden of Eden and the garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus went to pray. In the Songs of Solomon, we find beautiful poetic descriptions of gardens.

Gardens are a buffer to the chaos that surrounds us in these times. Keep the images of the beauty you witness in your memory, so they are always with you.

Lord, today help us be a little more aware of all your beautiful gifts that come from the ground. Thank you for your love and for being our God.

August 30, 2023

Daily Devotional for Wednesday August 30th, 2023

Ebenezer

Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called its name Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” (1 Samuel 7:12 NKJV)

We see familiar words all the time that we may or may not know the meaning of and we keep using them because they must have some significance, or we would not keep using them. What? Exegetical? That’s a fancy word coming out of the mouth of a country preacher.

Honestly, until this very morning, I hadn’t given much thought to the meaning of the word Ebenezer or where it came from. I just know there are lots of churches named Ebenezer. This is a Hebrew word meaning ‘Stone of help.’

The Israelites, having been defeated twice by the Philistines had the Ark of the covenant taken in the second battle. Before the next fight, Samuel cried out to the Lord for Israel. We find in verse ten that with a thunderous roar the Lord confused the Philistines so that they were defeated. And so, the stone place by Samuel was called Ebenezer. And now, when I see the word Ebenezer, I will know the important and powerful meaning behind it.

Lord, thank you for a beautiful day and thank you for such inspiring stories in Your word.

August 29, 2023

Daily Devotional for Tuesday August 29th, 2023

Stress Test

“Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:34 ESV)

When I read this verse and when I think of stress, I can’t help but imagine my wisteria. Its dizzying interconnected vines male it difficult to concentrate on a single branch. Unless it is pruned back, the vines rapidly continue to become more out of control. Our daily lives can easily become like this. There is so much to do that projecting into the future becomes an obsession. Where do we put God in all of this?

Our focus must be to keep God in the present. We have responsibilities to plan for the future and we remember the past but in our walk with God, the present is all we have. And He is the priority of all we do.

Lord, help us to be ever present in seeking You.

August 28. 2023

Daily Devotional for August 28th, 2023

Humility In Our Walk

“He has told you, O man, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,[b]
and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8 ESV)

Walking with God; a beautiful phrase that envisions a peaceful walk on the beach in communion with the Holy Spirit, the meditation of still water defining our thoughts or a vast meadow as we speak one on one with God. It is, these wonderful visions, but also should be everywhere and always. This is a journey where we are constantly improving our relationship with Him and trying to stay in sync. And in humility we must always remain.

What can we do today to improve our relationship with God? What can we do today to improve our relationship with another person?

Lord, today help us to see when are not showing humility to You or to another person.

August 27, 2023

Daily Devotional for Sunday August 27th, 2023

A psalm For Sunday

Psalm 35

Great Is the Lord

Of David.

35 Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me;
    fight against those who fight against me!
2 Take hold of shield and buckler
    and rise for my help!
3 Draw the spear and javelin[a]
    against my pursuers!
Say to my soul,
    “I am your salvation!”

4 Let them be put to shame and dishonor
    who seek after my life!
Let them be turned back and disappointed
    who devise evil against me!
5 Let them be like chaff before the wind,
    with the angel of the Lord driving them away!
6 Let their way be dark and slippery,
    with the angel of the Lord pursuing them!

7 For without cause they hid their net for me;
without cause they dug a pit for my life.[b]
8 Let destruction come upon him when he does not know it!
And let the net that he hid ensnare him;
let him fall into it—to his destruction!

9 Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord,
    exulting in his salvation.
10 All my bones shall say,
    “O Lord, who is like you,
delivering the poor
    from him who is too strong for him,
    the poor and needy from him who robs him?”

11 Malicious[c] witnesses rise up;
    they ask me of things that I do not know.
12 They repay me evil for good;
    my soul is bereft.[d]
13 But I, when they were sick—
    I wore sackcloth;
    I afflicted myself with fasting;
I prayed with head bowed[e] on my chest.
14     I went about as though I grieved for my friend or my brother;
as one who laments his mother,
    I bowed down in mourning.

15 But at my stumbling they rejoiced and gathered;
    they gathered together against me;
wretches whom I did not know
    tore at me without ceasing;
16 like profane mockers at a feast,[f]
    they gnash at me with their teeth.

17 How long, O Lord, will you look on?
    Rescue me from their destruction,
    my precious life from the lions!
18 I will thank you in the great congregation;
    in the mighty throng I will praise you.

19 Let not those rejoice over me
    who are wrongfully my foes,
and let not those wink the eye
    who hate me without cause.
20 For they do not speak peace,
    but against those who are quiet in the land
    they devise words of deceit.
21 They open wide their mouths against me;
    they say, “Aha, Aha!
    Our eyes have seen it!”

22 You have seen, O Lord; be not silent!
    O Lord, be not far from me!
23 Awake and rouse yourself for my vindication,
    for my cause, my God and my Lord!
24 Vindicate me, O Lord, my God,
    according to your righteousness,
    and let them not rejoice over me!
25 Let them not say in their hearts,
    “Aha, our heart's desire!”
Let them not say, “We have swallowed him up.”

26 Let them be put to shame and disappointed altogether
who rejoice at my calamity!
Let them be clothed with shame and dishonor
who magnify themselves against me!

27 Let those who delight in my righteousness
    shout for joy and be glad
    and say evermore,
“Great is the Lord,
    who delights in the welfare of his servant!”
28 Then my tongue shall tell of your righteousness
    and of your praise all the day long.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

August 26, 2023

Daily Devotional for Saturday August 26th, 2023

Soli Deo Gloria

“Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, But to Your name give glory, Because of Your mercy, Because of Your truth.” (Psalm 115:1 NKJV)

Johann Sebastian Bach and Fredrick Handel were among the earliest and most prolific composers to add the phrase Soli Deo Gloria, SDG, to their music. How wonderful is Handel’s gift to the world, The Messiah.

This one phrase, Soli Deo Gloria, (to God alone be the glory) says it all about the meaning of life.

Lord, let us keep this ever present in all we do.

August 25, 2023

Daily Devotional for Friday August 25th, 2023

Solitude

“Cast your burden on the Lord,
and he will sustain you;
he will never permit
the righteous to be moved.” (Psalm 55:22 ESV)

Seeking solitude, I know can be a challenging task at times. Stress from everyday living can come from anywhere, especially television, where just watching the news is a self-inflicted shot of stress that can be avoided because it is the same every day. The causes of daily mental discomfort are unlimited and mostly avoidable.

Remember ‘Calgon, take me away’? My sister always says being at the piano causes her troubles to float away. Me, too. Playing the piano is immediate and perfect peace. But our true sustenance comes from the Lord. On His shoulders, we can place all our cares and burdens. David was in a place of extreme mental conflict when he was betrayed not by an enemy, but by a loved friend. But in God, he trusted with this burden.

What are things in your daily life you can do to lessen stress and what will you do to help yourself in dealing with it?

Lord, I pray that to You, the troubled will bring their burdens and find peace.

August 24, 2023

Daily Devotional for Thursday August 24th, 2023

Stir Things Up

“…not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:25 ESV)

It’s luau time. Calvary Baptist Church has graciously invited the ‘more mature’ members of our congregation to one of their monthly GEM fellowships. This month is a luau, sans buried pig, I’m sure. I have been to a few fellowships with them, and it has been rewarding each time. I have many friends at Calvary and always look forward to seeing them. Being at one of their fellowships is always inspiring and I think to myself, this is how a congregation of believers should be.

I look to our church and see that these are the kind of things we should be doing regularly. We should look at successful healthy churches to help mold ourselves into the church we want to be.

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,” (Hebrews 10:24 ESV)

What can we do at Love CBC to ‘stir’ things up?

Lord we pray for guidance and inspiration and energy at our church.

August 22, 2023

Service

“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.” (Proverbs 11:25 ESV))

I was taught by my mentor that if a person desired piano lessons but couldn’t afford them, that I should give them scholarship to lessons. Jackson Berkey is the kindest, most generous soul I have ever met. After having been accepted as a student and arriving for my first lesson, I was greeted by one of his staff and humbly informed that I would be blessed. Jackson is such a fine player and writer and his theme in life is this; the victory is only in Jesus.

As a student at the University, my funds were limited, and he let me work at his home to pay for my studies. His mansion is beautiful and overflowing with the spirit of all who have been fortunate enough to have studied and learned there, who were taught the purpose of the gifts we have and to use those in service to others.

In our church and our community, how can we use the gifts we have to help others? We cannot be stagnant in our fellowship.

Lord, we pray for the continued desire to be of service to others.

August 21, 2023

Enthusiasm

“16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)

When my good friend and brother. Gary walked through the door of the sanctuary yesterday, I knew it would be a special Sunday at Love CBC. And it was. We had quite a few visitors. We have new members. Brother James seemed especially fit. We missed Lila and Peggy and we pray for them.

We were blessed to welcome Dr. Edsel Bone and his wife Judy. Thank you for the message from Matthew 14:22-33, Experiencing God in the Storm.

The enthusiasm and momentum of our church is growing. Let’s keep it up and believe that God has a great work in store for Love CBC. We have to believe, we have to pray for God’s will in our church and in our lives and we must remain faithful always.

Lord, thank you for your continued blessings on our local church.

August 20, 2023

Daily Devotional for Sunday August 20th, 2023

A Psalm for Sunday

Psalm 34

The Happiness of Those Who Trust in God

A Psalm of David when he pretended madness before Abimelech, who drove him away, and he departed.

1I will bless the Lord at all times;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2My soul shall make its boast in the Lord;
The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
3Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
And let us exalt His name together.

4I sought the Lord, and He heard me,
And delivered me from all my fears.
5They looked to Him and were radiant,
And their faces were not ashamed.
6This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
7The [a]angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them.

8Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
9Oh, fear the Lord, you His saints!
There is no [b]want to those who fear Him.
10The young lions lack and suffer hunger;
But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.

11Come, you children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
12Who is the man who desires life,
And loves many days, that he may see good?
13Keep your tongue from evil,
And your lips from speaking deceit.
14Depart from evil and do good;
Seek peace and pursue it.

15The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their cry.
16The face of the Lord is against those who do evil,
To [c]cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.

17The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
18The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,
And saves such as [d]have a contrite spirit.

19Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
But the Lord delivers him out of them all.
20He guards all his bones;
Not one of them is broken.
21Evil shall slay the wicked,
And those who hate the righteous shall be [e]condemned.
22The Lord redeems the soul of His servants,
And none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

August 19, 223

Wisdom Loves Righteousness

“The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing;
But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich." (Proverbs 13:4 NKJV)

In the last few years, we have made much progress on the Ebenezer building. With one exception, most of the work has been done by men not of a young age. The men and women of the last couple of generations don’t scoff at work, but willingly and happily do it. Working is part of who and what we are. Remember your first job and your diligence in being good at it? We learned to have a work ethic. Now, compare this to driving through McDonalds or watching the news and seeing the looting and stealing. Where did this come from?

“A wise son heeds his father’s instruction,
But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.” (Proverbs 13:1 NKJV)

I know lots of young people with strong work ethics. I look at their parents and I know why.

What is the condition of your soul and of your spiritual life? The diligent soul is rich in all things temporal as is the spirit that works for all good things to attain a place of eternal peace. The lazy see only the end result but lack the desire to reach it.

Lord, we pray for a renaissance of a world that seeks You.

August 18, 2023

Where Is Your Treasure?

“Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven . . . “(Matthew 6:20)

Many young people are building their lives on the rock of materialism. I find across the country a deep economic discontent among people in every walk of life. People want more and more things. They forget that we are enjoying the highest standard of living the world has ever known. We still have poverty, and hundreds of agencies are trying to do something about it; but we are dissatisfied. We want more, more, more. But Jesus said, “You cannot serve God and money.” He said that a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things that he possesses. Adolf Berle, in his study of power, points out that riches often make people solitary and lonely and, of course, afraid. Many times a rich man knows loneliness and fear, because when he makes wealth his god, it leaves him empty. You see, without God life loses its zest and purpose and meaning.

Knowing You, my heavenly Father, brings richness to my life and soul.

August 7, 2023

The Mind of Christ

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
—2 Timothy 1:7

Many diseases of both body and mind are self-inflicted. For example, ulcers are often caused by worry and anxiety. Heart attacks are caused many times by overexertion. Unjustified worry, fear, prejudice, hatred, and envy can contribute to mental stress, which could lead to mental illness. So one way to have a healthy mind is to avoid those practices. But the Bible way to a healthy mind is this, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” If you have the mind of Christ, worry will be offset by trust, enmity by love, and fear by faith.

Fears sometimes seem as if they would overwhelm me, Lord Jesus, but then I remember Your gift of power, love, and a healthy mind. Thank You for the promise of healing and love, as I keep my mind on You, my beloved Lord.

By permission BGEA

August 6, 2023

A Psalm for Sunday

Psalm 32

Blessed Are the Forgiven

A Maskil[a] of David.

32 Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is covered.
2 Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity,
and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

3 For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was dried up[b] as by the heat of summer. Selah

5 I acknowledged my sin to you,
and I did not cover my iniquity;
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”
and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah

6 Therefore let everyone who is godly
    offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found;
surely in the rush of great waters,
    they shall not reach him.
7 You are a hiding place for me;
    you preserve me from trouble;
    you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah

8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
    I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
9 Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding,
    which must be curbed with bit and bridle,
    or it will not stay near you.

10 Many are the sorrows of the wicked,
but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord.
11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous,
and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!

Lord, we pray that our service today will be blessed and that our singing will be pleasing to You.

Charles Crider and Love CBC

July 31, 2023

Seeds

“The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.” (1 Corinthians 3:8 NIV)

Saturday, Ann and I went to the Farmer’s Market. I was particularly in search of a yellow watermelon. Despite the heat, the courthouse square was bustling with people eager to take home produce freshly harvested. For the farmers, these are the days where their labors are rewarded.

When I was about to cut this very heavy for its size melon, I thought about the seed that it came from, very tiny in comparison. Why does it grow? The farmer plants the seeds, he waters his crops, he removes the weeds, and he tends to his garden. But it is only of God that the seed will take root and grow. All the success of the farmer is from and to the Glory of God.

Someone told me once that you can tell a lot about a person by looking at their garden. This story is over-simplified. It is actually about the planting of the church in Corinth, which I encourage you to read. How does this relate to our local church?

Lord, today we pray for knowledge and strength in tending our garden, Your garden, and helping it grow and thrive in this community.

July 30, 2023

A Psalm For Sunday

Into Your Hand I Commit My Spirit

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.

31 In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
    let me never be put to shame;
    in your righteousness deliver me!
2 Incline your ear to me;
    rescue me speedily!
Be a rock of refuge for me,
    a strong fortress to save me!

3 For you are my rock and my fortress;
    and for your name's sake you lead me and guide me;
4 you take me out of the net they have hidden for me,
    for you are my refuge.
5 Into your hand I commit my spirit;
    you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.

6 I hate[a] those who pay regard to worthless idols,
    but I trust in the Lord.
7 I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love,
    because you have seen my affliction;
    you have known the distress of my soul,
8 and you have not delivered me into the hand of the enemy;
    you have set my feet in a broad place.

9 Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress;
    my eye is wasted from grief;
    my soul and my body also.
10 For my life is spent with sorrow,
    and my years with sighing;
my strength fails because of my iniquity,
    and my bones waste away.

11 Because of all my adversaries I have become a reproach,
    especially to my neighbors,
and an object of dread to my acquaintances;
    those who see me in the street flee from me.
12 I have been forgotten like one who is dead;
    I have become like a broken vessel.
13 For I hear the whispering of many—
    terror on every side!—
as they scheme together against me,
    as they plot to take my life.

14 But I trust in you, O Lord;
    I say, “You are my God.”
15 My times are in your hand;
    rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!
16 Make your face shine on your servant;
    save me in your steadfast love!
17 O Lord, let me not be put to shame,
    for I call upon you;
let the wicked be put to shame;
    let them go silently to Sheol.
18 Let the lying lips be mute,
    which speak insolently against the righteous
    in pride and contempt.

19 Oh, how abundant is your goodness,
    which you have stored up for those who fear you
and worked for those who take refuge in you,
    in the sight of the children of mankind!
20 In the cover of your presence you hide them
    from the plots of men;
you store them in your shelter
    from the strife of tongues.

21 Blessed be the Lord,
    for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me
    when I was in a besieged city.
22 I had said in my alarm,[b]
    “I am cut off from your sight.”
But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy
    when I cried to you for help.

23 Love the Lord, all you his saints!
    The Lord preserves the faithful
    but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride.
24 Be strong, and let your heart take courage,
    all you who wait for the Lord!

Lord, today we pray for strength and courage and ask you to bless our services this morning.

(Psalm 31 ESV)

July 29, 2023

July 28, 2023

July 27, 2023

Bringing Others to Church

24 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)

Alexander Graham Bell, in the same year Ebenezer Baptist Church was founded, filed a patent for something that would make inviting people to church a breeze. Now we carry the telephone in our pocket, as well as the internet and email. There is no excuse for us not inviting others to visit our church.

If we are creative in our efforts, and willing to do the work, we will attract new members. For any church to survive, it must have a supply of new members. That includes children born to current members, visitors who become members and members from people we invite. I do want to be clear that prayer is the most important thing we do but with prayer a certain amount of effort on our part is needed and required.

What do we want to accomplish in our local church? How do we keep our church healthy and never loose sight of the Truth? Are we committed to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and know that this is His church?

11” So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NIV)

Lord, today give us the wisdom to maintain our local church in a way that is of Your will, not ours.

July 26, 2023

“I just feel like something good is about to happen.” (Bill Gaither)

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8 ESV)

I love the Gaithers. They are always positive and happy and full of energy. Bill and Gloria are modern day Christian composers that we get to witness in our lifetime.

Shortly, we will be having a worship service of song followed by ‘dinner on the grounds.’ We will be seeing new faces and we will be seeing faces we haven’t seen in a while, and we will have a special guest. I am excited. I know this will be an exceptionally good day in the Lord. We should all be excited in the anticipation of this day.

As a congregation, as a church family, we have to decide and to create the church we want to be. Others should see in our church a place they want to be a part of. Everything we do says something about us. We need to be a church where Jesus is alive and well and working in us and in all that we do.

“I just feel like something good is about to happen
I just feel like something good is on its way
He has promised that He'd open all of heaven
And brother, it could happen any day.”

What can you do today for our church and for our community?

Lord, today help us all to be productive in our work for the Kingdom.

July 25, 2023

In times like these

What has been will be again,
what has been done will be done again;
there is nothing new under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIV))

When I was younger I had the privilege of hearing some powerful speakers; Art Linkletter, Zig Ziglar, Paul Harvey and others together at the same Positive Thinking Rally. Common sense and positivity were heavy in the air. I wanted to jump up and go do something great. It was a Colosseum full of electricity and excitement.

Of these great speakers and obvious fine examples of humanity, my favorite was Paul Harvey. He autographed a book for me. I had listened to him for years on the radio and now I was shaking his hand. Do you ever wonder how ‘celebrities’ might be if you meet them in person? Well, he was as down to earth as anyone you know in your hometown. I love reading his quotes and the one I want to share today is “In times like these, it helps to recall that there have always been times like these.”

You know, common sense makes so much common sense, and I don’t know what happened to it. King Solomon, in all his wisdom speaks of the world we live in today. It is important that we are prudent about believing what we see and hear these days. We are flooded with bad information and evil intent. That is why our Christian fellowship is so important.

Lord, today help us stay positive in our faith and seek out other believers.

July 24, 2023

“ He has made everything beautiful in its time….. take pleasure in all his toil—this is God's gift to man.” (Ecclesiastes 3: 11, 13)

Late at night

There is a vastness of trees behind our house that at night becomes a vale of secret darkness. In front is a large lake, a living world of its own, creatures above and below the water. And, when it is still, night birds’ songs emanate quietly. The owls call and await distant answers, their calls remind me of the jungle. The occasional fox yips, the deer sniff and bleat, and some sounds are anybody’s guess. And, with all this diversity of sound, the magic of fireflies is a delight for the eyes. This is God.

On a certain day of the year, every year as if by cue, as twilight approaches, a chorus begins, a chorus of chorus frogs. They join in one by one, by hundreds, by seemingly thousands, and they sing their songs, written and orchestrated by our great creator.

Just at your doorstep, in your garden, at a park, wherever you are is a source of relaxing peacefulness. And it is free. Do you take a moment during you day to thank God for his gifts to us?

My daily devotions are based on my experiences and my everyday observations and are prayerfully sought out. My aim is, if even in a small way to lend a little peace to your day and perhaps present a thought-provoking question to be considered.

Lord, today thank you for our journey on this earth which will lead to our greatest and eternal destination.

July 23, 2023

A Psalm for Sunday

The Blessedness of Answered Prayer

A Psalm. A Song at the dedication of the house of David.

30 I will extol You, O Lord, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my foes rejoice over me.
2 O Lord my God, I cried out to You,
And You healed me.
3 O Lord, You brought my soul up from the grave;
You have kept me alive, [a]that I should not go down to the pit.

4 Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His,
And give thanks at the remembrance of [b]His holy name.
5 For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for life;
Weeping may endure for a night,
But [c]joy comes in the morning.

6 Now in my prosperity I said,
“I shall never be [d]moved.”
7 Lord, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong;
You hid Your face, and I was troubled.

8 I cried out to You, O Lord;
And to the Lord I made supplication:
9 “What profit is there in my blood,
When I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You?
Will it declare Your truth?
10 Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on me;
Lord, be my helper!”

11 You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
You have put off [e]my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,
12 To the end that my [f]glory may sing praise to You and not be silent..
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.

Lord, thank You for the tools we have available to spread your word. We pray for Love CBC to become a positive impact in our community and beyond.

July 22, 2023

Scripture

16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [a]instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV)

In our devotional today, I want to ask for prayers for our congregation at Love CBC. As we search for direction and as we seek a pastor I pray that our motivation is founded in the scriptures. We must define the biblical force we want to be in this community.

I pray that God will put His hand on Love Community Baptist Church and create in us a great challenge, and a great work. Paul’s letter to Timothy speaks to us now. Be Strong. The perilous times continue.

What can we do today to help our church achieve our goals? Be positive and envision our church as you would like to see it.

Lord, today we pray for our church family to be diligent in our efforts to do Your will.

July 21, 2023

Peace, be still.

Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace,[a] be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. (Mark 4:39 NKJV)

A busy night we had. I sometimes get a little nervous during big storms, even to the point of self-inventory. How about you? The incredible power of nature leaves us feeling very vulnerable.

Now, in the early morning, safe from the storm, only distant rumbles remain against the quiet. Everything is so pretty and peaceful. The colors of the garden are deep and the air clean. What a perfect time to meditate on all of this and talk to God.

A morning rainbow would be a beautiful exclamation point.

Lord, today we are humbled by the power we see displayed on this earth. You are Majestic and we worship you.

July 20, 2023

Aways

“and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen” (Mathew 28:20 NKJV)

We have all had our share of pain, suffering and sadness, some more than others. We really can’t perfectly understand the degree of another’s pain. But there must be a way to endure it. As an example, the pain of loss, though not physical, can go so deep and hurt so bad that it seems unimaginable it could ever go away. Many times, it never goes away completely, but creeps back and haunts us like a dull ache.

But there is a remedy or an endurance. Prayer can bring us to a place of solitude and peace, and as Christians we can know the rewards that await us. “…for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32). There are many Bible verses to hold on to as a reminder that God is always with us. Today’s verse comes from the ‘Great Commission’.

Are we, in our local church and community, reaching out to the lost as we are commanded? There are many still suffering.

Lord, today thank you for the healing that comes from knowing you. Help us to share that healing whenever we can.

July 19, 2023

A Song of God’s Majesty and Love

A Praise of David.

“I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty,
And on Your wondrous works.”

Of the seventy-three Psalms attributed to David, this is the last; and is also the last of the Psalms using an acrostic pattern, (using first letters of lines or verses that form a word or an alphabet, in the case of the Psalms, the Hebrew alphabet). King David praises the Lord in an epic way in this Psalm. In essence this is a culmination of a lifetime dedicated to following and worshipping the God he loved so much. Wouldn’t it be wonderful that when we all see Jesus we could come face to face with David himself. Hallelujah!

In our verse today, David meditates on God’s creation and His majesty. Today we see the same mountains, the same sea, the same sky that David sat in awe of. We can meditate on God as we take in the never-ending beauty of where we are so graciously allowed to live.

Have you lately just sat and looked at and thought about one thing in your yard, a flower, a tree, whatever it be and let your spirit be at peace? We should thank God every day for these “wondrous works”.

Lord, today thank you for Your creation that we enjoy, as did David. Your gifts and Your love are amazing.

July 18, 2023

Daily Devotional for Tuesday July 18, 2023

Satisfaction of Soul

“And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house,” (Deuteronomy 26:11 KJV)

Often the Church has banged away negatively at evils without reminding us that God is tremendously interested in our finding a satisfying way of life here and now. We Christians have talked so much of the negative side of Christian experience that we have forgotten to emphasize the positive, joyous, thrilling, and victorious experience of daily fellowship with Christ. God declared that things will not satisfy. God satisfies! This is the secret of soul-satisfaction: Let your soul delight itself in fatness. Remove the obstructions, tear down the barriers, and let your soul find the fulfillment of its deepest longings in fellowship with God.

There are no words to describe my gratitude to You, my Lord and Savior, for Your loving kindness. Accept my praise and love.

July 17, 2023

Daily Devotional for Monday July 17, 2023

“My God Is Real”

“The LORD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation.” (Psalm 118:14 NKJV)

One of my students recently played for me a gospel song she was learning. I was unfamiliar with “My God Is Real: by Kenneth Morris. I at once wanted to play it, and Sunday I did. Our song service was old gospel songs, and we had a young guest preacher who said he grew up on the old songs. It was a very fun, enlightening, and worshipful service.

Why do we believe in God? Too many dispel this belief. In my life, I grew up in the church, a preacher’s kid. We believed in God, no questions asked. We learned to be respectful and reverent in church. We learned to fear God. As an adult I believe all that I was taught. All the scientific questions are for another day.

I need only look outside to know there is a God; to see the miracle of life all around; to see the seasons; to look inside myself. The writer of this song, when asked why he believed in God, with all the scientific evidence to the contrary replied:

1. “Something within spoke to me clearly one day and said, “Yes God is real, for He lives within your soul.” I was satisfied, for that is really the only test for any individual; thus, I sat down and wrote the words and music for this song, for I had at last found within myself the answer to this all-important question.”

Enough said.

Lord, thank you for being our God and for this beautiful world around us that proves your existence.

1. Kenneth Morris, Twelve Gospel Song “Hits” and Their Stories (Chicago: Martin & Morris Music Studio, n.d.), pp. 14–15.

July 16, 2023

A Psalm for Sunday

Praise to God in His Holiness and Majesty

A Psalm of David.

Give unto the Lord, O you mighty ones,
Give unto the Lord glory and strength.
Give unto the Lord the due to His name;
Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
The God of glory thunders;
The Lord is over many waters.
The voice of the Lord is powerful;
The voice of the Lord is full of majesty.

The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars,
Yes, the Lord splinters the cedars of Lebanon.
He makes them also skip like a calf,
Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild ox.
The voice of the Lord divides the flames of fire.

The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness;
The Lord shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh.
The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth,
And strips the forests bare;
And in His temple everyone says, “Glory!”

The Lord sat enthroned at the Flood,
And the Lord sits as King forever.
The Lord will give strength to His people;
The Lord will bless His people with peace.

Lord, You alone receive the Glory. We praise your Holiness and Majesty today and forever.

A Psalm for Sunday, week 29.

July 15, 2023

“Just a Little Talk with Jesus”

And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. (Luke 11:2 KJV)

Someone said yesterday that I should play “Just a Little Talk with Jesus” more often. It is on the list to sing this Sunday as part of a service with old gospel songs; they are always fun to sing.

I am always curious about how or why a hymn or gospel song came about. Some are of great tragedy in the life of the composer, as in “It is Well with My Soul”. Some are uplifting, and give us a burst of energy, like “When We All Get to Heaven”.

Rev. Cleavant Derricks wrote about 300 songs, one of the most popular being “Just a Little Talk with Jesus”. His compensation for this song was fifty song books from the publisher that he then sold for ten cents each. That was in 1937 and is still being printed and sold to this day.

We are especially touched by music and our favorite hymns can be embedded in us for a lifetime. Just turn them on in our head and listen. As we go through our day, even the most unbearable day, a good dose of gospel music can help bring us peace and a little closer to God.

“He filled my heart with love
He wrote my name above
Just a little talk with my Jesus
Gonna make it right.”

Lord, thank you for the many songwriters and hymnists that declare your Word.

July 14, 2023

Working on a building

“Go up to the mountains, bring wood and rebuild the temple, that I may be pleased with it and be glorified,” says the Lord. “(Haggai 1:8 NIV)

Earlier this week, Hardy, James and myself, three young men (compared to Noah) accomplished the task of installing two eight-foot doors on the front of the Ebenezer building. This included securing the doors to the jambs and threshold, made of 2x8 lumber and raising all of this to the opening. As you can imagine, this was very heavy. Today, we will install the transom and finish the siding. This milestone has been a long time coming. The building is coming into its original glory.

Some say this is a waste of resources and time and energy. Not to the people who call this church home. Not to the many still living that had relatives who were married in this old building. This building represents the founding of Ebenezer Baptist Church and those in Love, Mississippi with the vision and the determination to erect this temple as a place to worship their God.

Be a part of the restoration of Ebenezer Baptist Church if you can. There are plenty of small tasks to be done.

“I’m working on the building, it's the true foundation I'm liftin' up a blood-stained banner for the Lord. Oh, I never get tired working on the building I'm going to heaven to find reward”

Lord, today help us to stay busy doing what we need to do. Help us to find our way in this community through your church.

July 13, 2023

Butterflies are Free.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV)

Ann is an exceptional photographer and of the many things she shoots, her butterflies are one of my favorites. A special moment of these awesome creatures she captures and preserves. Their dazzling beauty, an example of God’s brilliant artwork; their floating dances, so peaceful, so calming are a treat for our eyes.

The first time I planted parsley, it became a nice, lush plant that would be a good provision in the kitchen. Well, the lush plant, seemingly overnight, became bare twigs. Unknowing at the time, as a result of the parsley being consumed, the responsible caterpillar would later transform into a stunning Black Swallowtail butterfly.

As incredible as this transformation is, even more so is the transformation of our old lives when we believe in and accept Jesus Christ. We become a new person with a new spirit; we become as the vision of the butterfly, a new and transformed creation of God.

“and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:23-24 NKJV)

Lord, today thank you for the inspiring beauty that surrounds us. Thank you for the transformation that we can all have if we just ask.

July 12, 2023

The Battle Belongs to the Lord

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put. on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the [a]wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11 NKJV)

At about 2:30 yesterday, I was at Campbell’s Clinic for physical therapy. Thankfully, I was at the Southaven branch. a different branch, a patient shoots and kills his doctor inside the clinic. How can this be? In I always walk in hoping only to get relief for my neck and with absolutely no thought of being harmed. This surgeon, dedicated to helping others is gone.

I refuse to believe that this has become normal in our society. I ponder what is going on around us and there is no rationality to the bizarre happenings in our country, and in the world. Did we let this happen? I think we, as humans had no power to stop it. The evil forces are many and grow rapidly. Can we reverse it? With prayer and action, we can try. We can start in our own community by doing things like voting, starting an outreach program and being a positive, Christian example to others. We must be always ready for the battle against Satan.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” (Ephesians 6:18 NIV)

Lord, today help us in our fight against evil in our own community and help us to remain at peace amid the midst of adversity.

July 11, 2023

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

(1 Corinthians 2:9 NKJV)

My mother’s voice.

I must have gotten my love of gadgets from my dad. I remember, of all things a tube tester for testing vacuum tubes. Care to take a gander at what a vacuum tube is? They were responsible for what you listened to and for what you watched. I loved testing tubes and watching the needle declare the verdict. One gadget he had was a reel-to-reel recorder from the 1950’s. A magically fascinating toy for a young boy at that time in history.

I still have that recorder (that doesn’t work) and I also have a box of reels that I have carried around most of my life as if they were treasures. They were. A couple of years ago a church member lent me his recorder. Listening to the recorder hours of family life, I heard my mother and father sing “Abide with Me”. For over sixty years, this had been hidden away. In tears, I listened to the sweet voice of my mother, and I longed to see her once more. In the warmth of this moment, I was overcome with her presence.

Will we see those we love that have gone before us? Will we see them as we remember them? I believe we will see them and be with them and be with Christ forever in a place of perfect peace.
‘Won’t it be wonderful There’.

“Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” (1 John 3:2 NKJV))

Lord, thank you for the promise of eternal life and to be with you forever.

July 10, 2023

“Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord,” (Ephesians 5:19 NKJV)

Our small church loves to sing. A good gauge to the spirit of a congregation is how they sing. When a singing is announced, the anticipation begins. Everyone secretly picks their hymns and chooses alternates just in case someone else picks theirs. I love the energy during a singing; it lasts from beginning to end. And you can’t wait to be called on to announce your hymn. It is also a challenge for me and for Brother Eric, not knowing what will be called.

I can’t help but wonder why someone picks a particular hymn. What caused that song to be a comfort in their lives? Singing hymns and spiritual songs is an important part of our lives as Christians. One of the greatest things about a hymn is that wherever you are, it can be there with you. Whatever is going on in our lives, there is a hymn for it. In the darkest times, they can be a source of healing, comfort and peace. In happy times, a source of added joy.

Lord, today we thank you for all the inspired music that has been written for your glory. It is truly a comfort to our soul.

July 9, 2023

Father, help us to never forget; by Your hand alone is the beauty and the glory of the sea and the sky and all that it beholds. Thank you, Lord, for our incredible, temporary home. Amen

He appointed the moon for seasons;
The sun knows its going down. (Psalm 104:19 NKJV)

I watched the moon while standing on the beach in Panama City, Florida. Just to behold such an awesome sight and to be quiet and listen to the ocean is a peaceful prayer.

This theatre of an endless sea meeting with the vastness of the heavens, illuminating the beach with the same moon that the author of this Psalm witnessed is captivating.

We walk in the glory of God’s magnificent creation, and yes, we believe that it is His creation.

July 8, 2023

“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the [a]oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the [b]dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (I Peter 4:10 NKJV)

“; and I have put wisdom in the hearts of all the gifted artisans, that they may make all that I have commanded you:” (Exodus 31:6 NKJV)

Story after story in the Old and New Testament describes the various talents God has given to us. God spoke to Moses the instructions for the building of the tabernacle. He put wisdom in the hearts of the gifted artisans. There is no question that talents are a gift from God and to His glory, they should be used.

As an educator and instructor in the art of playing piano and other instruments, I have seen in my life many bright and gifted students abandon their talents. It is indeed very sad. One in particular has much promise. I can see in her the nuances of things I can’t teach; they are of a spiritual gift. I can give encouragement but cannot force someone to use what they have been given. Hopefully one day she will understand. Too often the ‘talent of the remote control’ and the ‘talent of the mouse’ supersedes the ‘spiritual talents.’

We all have different gifts and to a varying degree of importance. The Apostle Paul explains to the church in Corinth the different spiritual gifts given Christians. 4 :There are [d]diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.”(1 Cor. 12:4) Our gifts are different, but are all used to the glory of God. The building of the tabernacle is a perfect example of individual talents being used for the same purpose.

How can we as a church body use our individual talents? How can we use our gifts in our community? In our personal lives, how can we use a spiritual gift to help another person?

Lord, today help us to use the gifts that you have given us to be of service to others and to glorify you. Soli Deo Gloria

July 1. 2023

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

(Galatians 5:13)

As the anniversary of our country’s independence nears, thoughts turn to what it means to be an American. I find it comforting that I can sit here, and not only write this devotional, but enjoy also the freedom to put it on a platform that anyone, anywhere can read. This proclamation of faith is guaranteed under our Bill of Rights, for which a heavy price was paid by the blood of the Patriots that came before us.

But, more than this, the greatest freedom given us is our salvation, offered freely for anyone to accept. Being free in this country does not mean that a person can’t be a slave. Slavery comes in many forms, exists in the mind, and is of our own making. The good news is that the bonds of slavery can be broken through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Spiritual freedom, American freedom; How much better could it be? What can we do today to exercise our freedoms and maybe bring a peaceful glimmer of hope to someone?.

Lord, thank you for your son, and for salvation that is freely offered. Thank you for this country and the freedom that is ours.

June 30, 2023

And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [a]This is the first commandment. 31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:30-31) NKJV

Just who is ‘our neighbor’, as used in the bible? The key word used in defining neighbor is ‘nearby’. This could be the family next door, or it could be anyone we encounter in our daily lives such as in The Good Samaritan Parable (Luke 10 :25-37).

When I began chemotherapy after being diagnosed with cancer, I had no idea the physical impact of being poisoned over and over would be so intense. My neighbors, one I had yet to meet, rallied to our aid and took care of the lawn for a season. We should watch out for and take care of our neighbors. We build strong bonds and trusts over the years.

As we are in contact with many people these days, there are many opportunities to be good neighbors. Treating others with respect, saying a kind word, a handshake are acts of kindness that should become routine. Reaching a high shelf for one that is not able is always rewarded by a smile or thank you. There are those in nursing homes, assisted living or even home-bound that could use a good neighbor. The heartbreak of loneliness is something that we as Christians should try to comfort whenever possible.

Lord, as we meet others today help us to be good neighbors where we can. We pray that if someone in need is put before us we will know how to help and be willing.

June 29, 2023

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:16)

“When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory;” “Just as I am without one plea…;” “O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God.” So many songs and hymns that reside in our hearts, they are a testament to who we are as Christians. The third chapter of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the church of Colossae is about how we should live. Our verse today speaks about the word of Christ dwelling (living) in us. The hymns we love are with us always, their Biblical messages truths of our Christians lives.

On Sunday morning from my vantage point as our church pianist, I can hear every voice singing. I can hear the joy. There are individual smiles when turning to that special hymn. Our church loves to sing. We will be having a singing this Sunday. This is always a special event, and everyone chooses their favorites in anticipation of that day. As we sing together, we become one in our purpose of worshiping our God.

Lord let us have a song in our heart today. And in your presence be.

June 28, 2023

“Therefore, take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”

(Acts 20:28 NKJV)

In our small country church, we find ourselves set to the task of searching for a new pastor. We have discovered through experience and by wise council that this needn’t be a hasty process. Nor should it be a daunting process. We have a special prayer time devoted to things of our church, especially praying for God’s will to be done in our efforts of finding a new pastor.

During this time, we are exposed to many diverse pastors who serve as pulpit supply. Some are still in the seminary, some retired and some with an historically intimate relationship with our church. They all desire our best interest. I believe they all pray for a Godly outcome to our endeavors.

First and always foremost in any thoughts or ideas we have or decisions we make, is to put Jesus first. It is his church, not ours.

Please be safe in this heat for the next few days and keep an eye out for each other.

Lord we pray today that a Shepard of your choosing will be revealed to lead our small church.

June 27,2023

Technology

Does the ax raise itself above the person who swings it,
or the saw boast against the one who uses it?
As if a rod were to wield the person who lifts it up,
or a club brandish the one who is not wood!

(Isaiah 19:15)

As I made my way downstairs in the half-lit morning, I opened my phone and turned on the lights across the room, thanks to Bluetooth lightbulbs. I love gadgets, always have. Our knowledge is advancing incredibly. When I was in college, knowledge doubled every 10 years. Now it is in a little over a year and approaching every 12 hours. And what will AI be like in the future?

Technology makes our lives richer. It makes our lives safer. It is a great time to be alive. Technology is not evil, only the ones who use it as evil.

As far as the Kingdom of God is concerned, one of the greatest achievements in technology was the printing press. Gutenberg’s version in the 15th century was the beginning of the Bible being able to be in the hands of any who wanted it. Today, we can have any or all versions of the Bible in the palm of our hand.

The ability to spread the gospel is limitless. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NKJV)

Lord help us to use our knowledge as a tool to bring others close to you.

June 26, 2023

Gardens

(Deuteronomy 8:7-8)

Gardens are a buffer to the chaos that surrounds us in these times. Keep the images of the beauty you witness in your memory, so they are always with you.

Lord, today help us be a little more aware of all your beautiful gifts that come from the ground. Thank you for your love and for being our God.

June 25, 2023

The Gift of Companionship

A righteous man regards the life of his animal,
But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

(Proverbs 12:10 NKJV)

We recently had to put our two dogs to sleep on the same day. One inherited from my wife’s dad. And one, a puppy. literally left on my doorstep. There are no feelings that I can utter that have not been felt by anyone that has gone through this gut-wrenching experience.

Our lives are made richer by the love of our pets. These creatures, I believe are a gift from God and fill the needs in the lives of so many. The comforting of loneliness is only one of the endless blessings these animals provide. God cares for his animals. We are obliged, as Christians to do the same (Psalm 104:27-28).

In these devotionals, I want to explore and share our unending blessing from our loving God, the greatest of which is his only son who died for us.

Lord, thank you for your wonderful gifts. Help us to accept them with humility and gratitude.

June 24, 2023

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Galatians 6:9-10 NKJV

I imagine we all grow weary at times, especially in this current climate of our civilization. I feel apprehensive to even turn on the news, knowing what awaits to be seen and heard. The news from nearby Memphis hits too close to our small but rapidly growing town. The crime from that city seeps in and we start to become anxiously nervous. It’s not right and it should not become normal.

Early in the morning, I find great peace in taking in the beauty of God’s work right here in my own yard. It is a quiet time to speak to God; It is a quiet time to listen to God.; It is a quiet time to filter out the troubling thoughts from yesterday.

Observe with all your senses this incredible gift called Earth that God has left with us.

What can we do today that is good? What can we do in our community to help people? What can we do to help Christ’s church grow? Are there opportunities in our own church family to reach out and offer help?

Lord, today help us clear our minds of yesterday’s troubles and to start this day being close to you and in your will.

September 9, 2022

Father, each day as I read the Bible You reveal to me more of the reality of Your love and wisdom. I delight in Your Word!

There is never any conflict between true science and our Christian faith. It is my own feeling that when all of the truth is known, it will be found that the Genesis story is a wonderfully accurate record of what took place when the world was created. This may be a telescoped record, giving only major points, but I believe it is scientifically accurate. To discard the Bible because we do not understand everything in it, or in the world, would be a foolish thing to do. Let me also suggest that teachers should confine themselves to those areas in which they are qualified. I have known unbelievers to attack the Christian faith through their teaching, even when they did not have the remotest idea of what true Christianity is. For instance, one does not send an art critic to write up a football game, or a sports writer to evaluate a painting. Ask God to give you the wisdom to keep things in their proper perspective, and—above all—faithfully read your Bible and pray every day. If you do, God will give you the faith and wisdom you need to meet any problem.

that you were enriched in everything by Him in all utterance and all knowledge,

(1 Corinthians 1:5 NKJV)

BGEA

Christmas Day, 2021

"Pretty Paper"

Lord, on this day that we celebrate the birth of your son, help us focus on just that as we go through the motions of our own Christmas rituals. Thank you for Jesus, Your beautiful gift to the world. Amen

There were many things I wanted write about today, and this was the recurring thought. There have been so many incredible pieces of music written about Christmas. The most important, in my mind is Handel’s “Messiah”. “O Holy Night”, “Mary, Did You Know”, “Silent Night”; this list goes on. Their message and music become a part of us.

One unsuspecting song of Christmas is Willie Nelson’s “pretty Paper”. The message in this song is of a forgotten man watching as other people are buying presents, watching as they are happy in their existence and watching as they are with friends in this Christmas season. No one notices him. Why is this?

I have a friend who said the best gift he could receive is a donation in his name to a local homeless mission. That is beyond selfless. At your home, listen to the remarks as presents are opened, especially from children. Is it all about what I get or what I give? We should all take a lesson from my friend. Not only for today but every day.

People are hurting and they need to know someone cares about them. They need to know that Jesus cares about them. Please reach out to someone in need.

God bless you today and always. Merry Christmas!

....for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is [a]Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11 NASB)

Christmas Eve, 2021

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Daily Devotional for Thursday, December 23, 2021

Lord, help us open our hearts to see the need of the suffering wherever it may be. Amen

As I was going about my very early morning routine of feeding my animals and making coffee, I started thing about the shoeboxes we sent all over the world. I thought about the gratitude of the children receiving those boxes. I try to imagine myself standing in line, waiting; and to imagine the anticipation of what might be in that one small box. What gratitude would I have for this gift?

Soon, we will sit around a tree with our families, in a warm house, and with great anticipation, we all open the multitude of pretty packages that are before us. What gratitude do I have for these gifts? I can’t help feeling that I should do more; that we all, who are so richly blessed in this country should do more.

“But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

(Luke 14:13-14 NIV)

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

I hunger today to know more of You, Lord.

All Christians believe in God, but many Christians have little time for God. They are too busy with everyday affairs to be taken up with Bible reading, prayer, and being thoughtful to their fellowmen. Many of them have lost the spirit of a zealous discipleship. If you ask them if they are Christians, they would probably answer, “I think so,” or, “I hope so.” They may go to church at Easter and Christmas and on other special occasions, but otherwise they have little time for God. They have crowded God out of their lives.

The Bible warns against neglect of your soul. It is possible to harden your heart and shrivel your soul, until you lose your appetite for the things of God. This hunger, then, that you should have is a desire to be always right with God. It is a consciousness that all searching for peace of heart, except in Him, is in vain.

“Blessed is the man who reveres God, but the man who doesn't care is headed for serious trouble.”
(Proverbs 28:14 TLB)

Monday, December 20, 2021

Father God, being Your child is a wonderful thing. Like Lina, our hearts are overwhelmed that You loved us enough to make us Your children. Help us to remember what a privilege it is to be a child of God.

Fourteen-year-old Lina lived in an orphanage for older children in Bogota, Colombia, until last year when she learned that a family wanted to adopt her. “I was so happy I cried,” Lina said. “And I thanked God. Because that’s what I really wanted— to have a family that understood me. They will be there in every moment. They will value me as their daughter. I always wanted a family who would love me.”

Adoption is one of the common metaphors used for salvation in the New Testament. Yesterday we described how God is our Father. That truth is also taught in today’s reading, which also includes some additional perspectives on being adopted into God’s family. First, there is a sense in which the moment we come to faith in Christ we are adopted as God’s son or daughter. But there is also a sense in which we look forward to the adoption being finalized when Christ returns. Both truths are included in this passage.

Paul declares that in salvation “the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship” (v. 15). But just a few verses later, Paul reminds us that we “groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies” (v. 23). There is an “already/not yet” aspect to this adoption. We can relate to God as Father now even as we wait to experience the full rights of our adoption in the future. We still have blessings to look forward to in Christ!

Paul also describes another relationship we have gained through our adoption. Not only is God our Father, but Jesus is our elder brother. Paul declares, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters” (v. 29).

>> While there is clearly a difference between Jesus and us, He is God, and we are not. Jesus is also called our brother. Because of our identity in Christ, we share in His sonship. This includes being made “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (v. 17).

Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.

(Hebrews 2:11 NIV)

Sunday, December 19, 2021

Lord, at your birth, we are filled with joy. May our hearts and lives overflow with unceasing praise! Amen.

“How Great Our Joy” is a traditional German carol that retells the story of Jesus’ birth from the perspective of the shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem.

The shepherds had a unique encounter with angels, who appeared in a burst of light to announce the birth of the Savior. And when the angels left, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened.”

In Bethlehem they found the baby Jesus, lying in a manger. And after spreading the word about the angels’ message and what had happened to them, the shepherds returned to their flocks, “glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen. . . .” This was after one encounter with Jesus.

How do we respond when we encounter the living Lord? Are our hearts filled with so much joy that we cannot help glorifying and praising God?

We celebrate the birth of our Savior and King on Christmas. We know that Jesus came to rescue us from sin and death. Are our hearts filled with joy like that of the shepherds when they encountered Jesus?

By the power of God, our lives can be transformed by coming to know Jesus as our Lord and Savior. And as we grow in our faith in Christ, may we continue to be filled with joy like the shepherds on that amazing night.

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

( Luke 2:20 NIV)

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Thank You, Lord, for Your gift of redemption, which does not fluctuate like my feelings.

A person is saved by trusting in the finished work of Christ on the cross, and not by bodily sensations and religious ecstasy. But you will say, “What about feeling? Is there no place in saving faith for feeling?” Certainly, there is room for feeling in saving faith. But we are not saved by it. Whatever feeling there may be is the result of saving faith, but feeling never saved a single soul. Love is feeling. Joy is feeling. Inward peace is feeling. Love for others is a feeling. Concern for the lost is a feeling. But these feelings are not conversion. The one experience that you can look for and expect is the experience of believing in Christ.

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

(John 3:3 NKJV)

Friday, December 17, 2021

I pray for Your love, Lord Jesus, to conquer hate or prejudice—whenever these ugly transgressions seep into my heart.

To hate, to discriminate against those who look different, who talk different, who have different national backgrounds, or who act differently from the dominant group, is a universal trait of human nature. I say that there is only one possible solution and that is a vital experience with Christ on the part of all races. In Christ the middle wall of partition is broken down, the Bible says. There is no Jew or Gentile, or black or white or yellow or red. We could be one great brotherhood in Christ. However, until we come to recognize Him as the Prince of Peace, and receive His love in our hearts, the racial tensions will increase.

Hatred stirs up conflict,
but love covers over all wrongs.

(Proverbs 10:12 NIV)

December 16, 2021

How tender is Your comfort, Lord. How loving Your chastening.

This question, “Why must the righteous suffer?” is as old as time. There is only one place that we can find an answer, and that is in the Bible. You do not need to study the Scriptures long to learn why sinners meet reverses and anguish. They are apart from God. Their sorrow is the result of their sins. But why do Christians suffer?

Scripture teaches that many Christians suffer so that they may fellowship with others who are in affliction. Only those who have known sorrow and suffering can have fellowship with those in affliction. The Word of God also teaches that Christians suffer in order that they might glorify God in their lives. The Bible further teaches that Christians suffer in order that God might teach them lessons in prayer. Also, Christians suffer in order that God might bring them to repentance.

And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.

(I Corinthians 1:7 NKJV)

December 15, 2021

Lord God, burden my heart to reach out to the young persons starting their adventure in life—and the old persons dreading the end of their journey. Let me tell them the message of Your saving love.

Lord Chesterton once said, “I believe in bedside repentance, but I do not want to depend upon it.” During a serious illness a person’s mind does not function normally. Getting right with God is something one should do in the bloom of health. However, as far as the Lord is concerned, “His ear is not heavy that He cannot hear, nor His arm shortened that He cannot save.” He loves us equally, in sickness or in health; while we are living, or while we are dying. In my experience, I have not known of too many people who found Christ on their deathbed. When we come to Christ in our youth, a life is saved. When we come in old age, a soul is salvaged and life eternal is assured; but the opportunity to live a life for Christ has been lost.

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers . . .
(1 Timothy 4:12)

December 14. 2021

Where do you turn in times of trouble? For believers, the first response should be to cry out to the Lord for help. That’s exactly what we see in today’s passage. When the psalmist was in despair, his soul yearned for God. He knew that even in raging adversity, he could count on the Lord’s unfailing love being poured out on him (Psalm 42:8). It was a truth that gave him hope and the ability to praise the Lord, even in the midst of his trouble.

This is a recurring theme in the psalms, many of which begin with images of despair and hopelessness but end with affirmations of God’s unfailing love. He’s often described as a rock, a stronghold, or a refuge in times of trouble.

When you are overwhelmed by difficulty and despair, turn to the psalms for encouragement and restoration of hope. In good times, we can easily grow distant from God, but adversity drives us to draw near Him with yearning—not just for deliverance but for intimacy with our loving Father. Then as we read about His love and faithfulness, we find hope and a sure foundation upon which to rest.

As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. 2. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?

(Psalm 42:1-2 KJV)

Read full chapter https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42&version=KJV

December 13. 2021

Almighty God, your magnanimous love is felt in my life, as I live each day through the grace of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

When parents welcome a newborn child into the world, they are the ones who declare what a blessing they have received. What never happens is this: The newborn opens his squinty eyes, looks at the parents, and says, “I’m so grateful to be born into your family!”

No one expects a newborn to do that—obviously not. And yet that is what happens—or should happen—the moment of our new birth into the family of God. Yes, God as our Father rejoices at our entrance into His family (Luke 15:10). But the apostle John speaks for all who enter God’s family when he writes, “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” It is as if John is reminding us of something we may fail to realize at the moment of our spiritual birth: God is our Father, and we are His children!

Nothing can compare to the experience of being born into the family of God. Pause and give thanks today for the blessing His love has bestowed on you.

The world takes its notions of God from the people who say that they belong to God’s family.
Alexander Maclaren

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!
(1 John 3:1 NKJV)

December 12, 2021

I love You, Jesus. How often I take for granted Your immeasurable act of love for me upon the cross. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You, that through Your supreme example I can reach out to my neighbor.

One of the growing psychological problems facing people today is loneliness. One of the greatest ministries that a person can have today is just being a good listener. Many people are longing not only to be loved but to have someone who will listen to them. When we love God with all our hearts, then we have the capacity to love our neighbor. The greatest need in the world today is not more science, not more social engineering, not more teaching, not more knowledge, not more power, not even more preaching—the greatest need we have today is for love. And the only way that love can be supplied is by a supernatural act of the Holy Spirit that transforms lives.

The love that God gives is not the ordinary love that we find in the world today. When we love our neighbors, it is not our loving with natural love, it is God loving through us. If you are willing to do this, God will give you His love.

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men . . .
(1 Thessalonians 3:12)

December 11, 2021

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.

Amen.

On a scorching hot day in July 1945, songwriter Robert Wells began jotting down phrases that made him think of being cool instead of hot: Jack Frost, Yuletide, Eskimos, and the like. Forty minutes later, he had expanded the phrases into the lyrics of “The Christmas Song,” also known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.”

The third verse concludes, “And so I’m offering this simple phrase to kids from one to ninety-two; Although it’s been said many times, many ways … ‘Merry Christmas to you.’” His offer of a Merry Christmas to people of all ages mirrors the offer of the Gospel. There is no restriction on race, age, class, or gender as to who can come to Christ. As the Holy Spirit said at the end of the book of Revelation, “Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.”

That invitation still stands. If you desire Jesus, He is yours. Make this Christmas your most joyful one by taking His water of life.

And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.
(Revelation 22:17 NKJV)

Dr. David Jeremiah

December 10, 2021

Jesus, you bring so much joy to our dry and weary hearts. May we “rejoice greatly and shout for joy” at your coming, now and forever. Amen.

Like the crocus, [the desert] will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
Isaiah 35:1-2

Growing up in the southwestern United States gave me a lot of opportunities to see the desert in bloom. A desert in full bloom is one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. Part of the reason it can be so breathtaking is that for most of the year the desert looks like a wasteland. It looks the way Isaiah describes it—as a “parched land”—until the cactus blossoms and bright, radiant colors abound across the landscape. This can bring so much joy to the people who live there.

Isaiah describes the desert as responding with gladness and joy. The picture Isaiah paints is one of hope for the hopeless in a dry land.

“Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” takes this picture and connects it to Isaiah’s prophecy of a shoot coming from the stump of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1). It ties the bloom of the crocus together with the “tender stem” that sprouted from the line of David, the son of Jesse. This imagery is then connected with the birth of Christ: “True God and yet true man, he came to save his people from earth’s dark night of sin.”

At the birth of Christ we see hope, joy, and gladness. Jesus brings us the water of life, redeeming us from sin and death and replacing our sorrow and sighing with renewed strength and everlasting joy.

Like the crocus, [the desert] will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
(Isaiah 35:1-2)

Bryan Kuyper

December 9, 2021

Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace. Helen Howarth Lemmel, “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus”

Most of the Walt Disney parks have an exclusive area known as Club 33, a VIP lounge modeled after the private areas of the 1967 World’s Fair. Walt Disney wanted an area where he could conduct business and entertain high-income guests. Club 33 locations are hidden in the various parks, and most tourists walk by them without knowing they’re there. It takes years to join the club. There’s a $33,000 initiation charge plus an annual $15,000 fee.

As for Walt Disney himself? He passed away six months before the club’s official opening, so he never experienced the luxury he designed.

All our lounges and luxuries and worldly trappings disappear from our view the moment we pass away, so it’s best to live as unattached to them as possible. On the other hand, the followers of Christ can look forward to Club Forever—our eternal inheritance in the new heavens, new earth, and New Jerusalem. We can’t afford the admission cost, but Jesus paid it for us.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
(1 John 2:15 NKJV)

Dr. David Jeremiah

December 8, 2021

My time spent in prayer with You, dear Lord, is the highlight of my day. To know You are waiting to have this communion humbles me. Yet You say I can come boldly—this I do now, knowing You hear me!

Praying is simply a two-way conversation between you and God. Thousands of people pray only when they are under great stress, or in danger, overcome by uncertainty. I have been in airplanes when an engine died; then people started praying. I have talked to soldiers who told me that they never prayed until they were in the midst of battle. There seems to be an instinct in man to pray in times of trouble. We know “there are no atheists in foxholes,” but the kind of Christianity that fails to reach into our everyday lives will never change the world. Develop the power of prayer. Man is more powerful when he is in prayer than when he is behind the most powerful guns. A nation is more powerful when it unites in earnest prayer to God than when its resources are channeled into defensive weapons. The answers to all our problems can be had through contact with almighty God.

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

(Hebrews 4:16 NIV)

December 6, 2021

Prayer for the day

All I have or am, Lord God, has been given to me by Your almighty hands. Forgive me when I tend to boast about my own accomplishments—for I am nothing without Your grace and love.

Let us face this fact: We came into the world with nothing, and we will leave it with nothing. Where do we get the notion that man’s idea of success and God’s are the same? You have written a book; you are a clever manager and promoter; you are a talented artist; you are independently rich; you have achieved fame and fortune. Without the gifts of intelligence, imagination, personality, and physical energy—which are all endowed by God—where would you be? Are we not born poor? Do we not die poor? And would we not be poor indeed without God’s infinite mercy and love?

We came out of nothing; and if we are anything, it is because God is everything. If He were to withhold His power for one brief instant from us, if He were to hold in check the breath of life for one moment, our physical existence would shrivel into nothingness, and our souls would be whisked away into an endless eternity. Those who are poor in spirit recognize their creatureliness and their sinfulness—but more, they are ready to confess their sins and renounce them.

But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

(I Corinthians 15:10 KJV)

December 5, 2021

God of power and mercy open our hearts in welcome. Remove the things that hinder us from receiving Christ with joy so that we may share his wisdom and become one with him when he comes in glory, for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Recommended Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:29-31

Carols That Count: “The Twelve Days of Christmas”

At the Roman Catholic Council of Tours in A.D. 567, it was decreed that the twelve days following Christmas Day—December 26 to January 6—were to be set aside as a “sacred and festive season.” This tradition continues in many Christian denominations today, often referred to as Christmastide.

A 1780 English Christmas carol celebrated the twelve days of Christmas in poetic form, enumerating gifts that a true love bestowed on his beloved on each of the twelve days. We sing that poem during the Christmas season today as “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” The gifts are well known: a partridge in a pear tree, turtle doves, French hens, calling birds, gold rings, geese, swans, milk maids, dancing ladies, leaping lords, pipers piping, and drummers. Quite a haul! Besides being good fun, the song reminds us how easy it is to focus on the material, rather than the spiritual dimensions of Christmas.

This Christmas, instead of counting presents, consider the blessings bestowed through the greatest gift of all, God’s Son.

And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.
(I John 2:17 NKJV)

December 4, 2021

Loving God, thank You for reminding me that who I am is based on whose I am—Yours, simply Yours.

s my friend reviewed the pictures I took of her, she pointed out the physical characteristics she saw as imperfections. I asked her to look closer. “I see a beautiful and beloved daughter of the Almighty King of Kings,” I said. “I see a compassionate lover of God and others, whose genuine kindness, generosity, and faithfulness have made a difference in so many lives.” When I noticed the tears brimming her eyes, I said, “I think you need a tiara!” Later that afternoon, we picked out the perfect crown for my friend so she would never forget her true identity.

When we come to know Jesus personally, He crowns us with love and calls us His children (1 John 3:1). He gives us the power to persevere in faith so that “we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming” (2:28). Though He accepts us as we are, His love purifies us and transforms us into His likeness (3:2–3). He helps us recognize our need for Him and repent as we rejoice in the power to turn away from sin (vv. 7–9). We can live in faithful obedience and love (v. 10), with His truth hidden in our hearts and His Spirit present in our lives.

My friend didn’t really need a tiara or any other trinket that day. But we both needed the reminder of our worth as God’s beloved children.

By: Xochitl Dixon

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of [a]God! Therefore the world does not know [b]us, because it did not know Him.

(I John 3:1 NKJV)

December 3, 2021

Your limitless love causes me to see the narrowness of mine, Lord Jesus. Fill me with Your loving Spirit.

What about love? How can you be certain you’re in love? I suggest these simple measures that you can apply to yourself. Is your love patient? Is it considerate? Can it wait until marriage for physical fulfillment? Experience says that true love’s patience is inexhaustible. True love does not assert itself, claim rights, or demand privileges. It always thinks first of the other person. The biblical phrase is it “is not self-seeking.” True love never thinks evil of the beloved. It is never suspicious, but always supportive and inspiring. True love bears all things. Nothing weakens or undermines it. It is a rock, an anchor, a foundation for all the years to come.

These simple tests are a mirror that millions have used. Physiologists, psychiatrists, and marriage counselors attest their validity. They were first recommended almost two thousand years ago by a man named Paul, in 1 Corinthians, chapter 13. That chapter provides the finest definition of love the world has received.

Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather so that ye may prophesy.

(I Corinthians 14:1 KJ)

December 2, 2021

Your Word, heavenly Father, brings me hope and redemption through Jesus Christ—thrusts through the despondencies of life and says You love me!

If you are a young man or young woman hooked on dissent or despair, ready to split, then lend me your attention. My answer concerns your dreams, and the element in your make-up called “faith.” All that God requires of anyone in taking his first step toward Him and toward total self-fulfillment is faith—faith in His Word, that teaches that God loves you and that you were alienated from Him by sin, that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you, that when you make a personal surrender to Him as Lord and Savior, He can transform you from the inside out.

Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?

(John 11:40 NKJV)

December 1, 2021

I pray, Lord, for the homes in this beloved country. Without Your love and wisdom guiding us, our society will crumble.

The broken home has become the number one social problem of America, and could ultimately lead to the destruction of our civilization. Since the basic unit of any society is the home, when the home begins to break, the society is on the way to disintegration. It is a threat to the American way of life. It does not make screaming headlines; but, like termites, it is eating away at the heart and core of the American structure.

It is high time that our so-called experts on marriage, the family, and the home turn to the Bible. We have read newspaper columns and listened to counselors on the radio; psychiatrists have had a land-office business. In it all, the One who performed the first marriage in the Garden of Eden and instituted the union between man and wife has been left out.

“There is sin in their homes, and they are polluted to the depths of their souls. But I will call upon the Lord to save me—and he will.”
(Psalm 55:15,16 TLB)

November 30, 2021

Lord, my soul wants to love and know You far more deeply. Forgive the times I have set my eyes on things that keep me from You.

W.C. Burns of India wrote, “Oh to have a martyr’s heart, if not a martyr’s crown.” Popularity and adulation are far more dangerous for the Christian than persecution. It is easy, when all goes smoothly, to lose our sense of balance and our perspective. The important thing is to walk with Christ, to live for Christ, and to have one consuming passion—to please Him. Then, whatever happens, we know that He has permitted it in order to teach us some priceless lesson and to perfect us for His service. He will enrich our circumstances, be they pleasant or disagreeable, by the fact of His presence with us.

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

(Philippians 3:10 NIV)

November 29, 2021

So many are without You, Lord! Use me to lead others from a destructive course to the one which will give them the satisfaction that only You can give.

Satan is at work in our world. The Bible is my authority. He exists and he has control over thousands of young people, whose hearts have never been captured by Jesus Christ. He has hundreds of agents writing pornographic literature and producing sex movies to pollute young minds. He has intellectuals in high positions teaching a hedonistic and permissive philosophy.

Daily I come in contact with mixed-up people who are caught in the anguish of their own unpreparedness, intellectuals who have been seduced by false science, and rich men who are held in the grip of insecurity. They have no commitment to any goal. They lack an anchor for their real selves. And I long to take every one of them by the hand and lead them into the presence of the One who said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

In [a]Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace.

(Ephesians 1:7) NASB)

November 28, 2021 First Sunday of Advent

Almighty God, You have given me real life through Jesus Christ. My soul praises You.

In God’s economy, you must go down into the valley of grief before you can scale the heights of spiritual glory. You must become tired and weary of living alone before you seek and find the fellowship of Christ. You must come to the end of “self” before you can begin to live. The happiest day of my life was when I realized that my own ability, my own goodness, and my own morality were insufficient in the sight of God. I am not exaggerating when I say that my mourning was turned to joy, and my sighing into singing. Happy are they that mourn for the inadequacy of self, for they shall be comforted with the sufficiency of God.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

John 10:10 KJV)

November 27, 2021

Lord, so often my thoughts make a wasteland of what You are wanting to plant there. This day let every one of them be captive to Your leading.

Thousands of people have made plans to escape from the realities of life. A new word has come into common usage the last few years. That word is “escapism.” The dictionary defines it as “a retreat from reality into an imaginary world.” The escape of imagination. Solomon spoke of the unregenerate heart as one which is inclined to excessive fantasy. The dream world Satan promotes always ends with disillusionment. Thousands of people live in an unreal dream world, while shirking their responsibilities toward their families and toward God. The Bible teaches that with Christ in your heart, you can face the realities of life. Even though they are hard, the grace of God will give you greater joy and pleasure than any dream world to which you try to escape.

casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

(II Corinthians 10:5 NKJV)

November 26, 2021

May I live so close to You, Jesus, that those around me will see Your joy.

Christians are to enjoy life and enjoy one another. When children see no joy in their home, no joy in your Christianity, they will not be attracted by it. When they see you excited about going to a ball game, or watching television, and then dragging around to do spiritual things, they will soon get the idea that Christianity does not mean much to you. Your attitude will rub off. My wife says that the best way to get a child to eat his food is to see his parents enjoying theirs. Our children will not be attracted to Christ if we make Him seem dull.

Now you are happy with the inexpressible joy that comes from heaven itself.
(I Peter 1:8 TLB)

November 25, 2021

You are the Christ, Lord Jesus, Son of the living God! In adoration I worship You—my Redeemer.

Ultimately, in one way or another, or at one time or another, we shall be faced with this question: What think ye of Christ? Whose Son is He? If Jesus Christ is not who He claimed to be, He is a deceiver, or an egomaniac. We must answer this question with both belief and action. We must not only believe something about Jesus, but we must do something about Him. We must accept Him, or reject Him.

Jesus made clear who He was, and why He came into the world. He asked His disciples, “Whom do men say that I, the Son of man, am?” They told Him of a variety of designations on the human level. Then Jesus turned to them and asked, “But whom say ye that I am?” Whereupon Peter replied with his historic affirmation, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:13-16).

This is the apex of faith. This is the pinnacle of belief. This is where the faith of each must rest if he hopes for salvation. Christ is inescapable! You, too, must decide, “What shall I do with Christ?”

…yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.

(I Corinthians 8:6 NIV)

November 24, 2021

You bring me such abundance, almighty God. As I think of Thanksgiving Day, may my heart be completely consecrated to Your Son, Jesus Christ, so that through Him my life will show my gratitude to You.

This year as we observe our season of thanksgiving, let us be grateful not only in word but also in deed. Let our gratitude find expression in a resolve to live a life more unselfish and more consecrated to Jesus Christ. When we sit around our tables laden with sumptuous delicacies, let us not forget that half the world will go to bed hungry. As we enjoy the comforts of our cozy homes, let us not forget that great numbers in other parts of the world have no homes to go to.

When we step into our sleek automobiles, let us not forget that most of the people in the world cannot afford even a bicycle. In the Lord’s Prayer as recorded in the sixth chapter of Matthew, we read, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Scripture teaches that the good things of this life are the gifts of God, and that He is the donor of all our blessings. Thanksgiving? Yes. Let us get on our knees humbly and thank God for the blessings He has given us, both material and spiritual. They have come from His hands.

Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.

(Psalm 118:1)

November 23, 2021

Lord God, I know that I am completely dependent upon You. Thank You for daily providing all that my body needs.

Do you think that God would have bothered to send His Son to the world, if man had been able to face life and eternity alone? Christ’s coming to the world proved that God was not happy with man’s unhappiness. He sent Him not only that we might have eternal life but that we might have life here and now, and that we might have it more abundantly—Life with a capital L!

Jesus’ teaching was unique and different. He took religion out of the theoretical category and placed it in the practical. He spoke with authority! He spoke with finality! He spoke as though He knew … and He did! His was not the soft empty conjecture of the philosopher, who professes to search for truth-but readily admits he has never found it. It was more the confident voice of the mathematician who gives his answers unhesitatingly, because the proof of the answers can be found within the problem.

Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.

(Romans14:6)

November 22. 2021

Lord Jesus, I know that apart from You I can do nothing of lasting value. Help me to come to the end of self and allow You to control the reins of my life.

It is the custom of many Christians to bow their heads in public places and give thanks for the food that has been placed before them. I have had scores of waiters and waitresses tell me that when we bowed our heads, it was the first time they had ever seen that happen in their restaurant.

Millions never pause to give a word of thanks to God for the food provided. Few homes have a moment of thanksgiving at the beginning of the meal or at any other time of the day. Even at Thanksgiving time only a minority will pause and give thanks to God.

Thanksgiving is recognition of a debt that cannot be paid. We express thanks, whether or not we are able otherwise to reimburse the giver. When thanksgiving is filled with true meaning and is not just the formality of a polite “thank you,” it is the recognition of dependence.

The Lord is close to those whose hearts are breaking; he rescues those who are humbly sorry for their sins.
(Psalm 34:18 TLB)

November 21, 2021

Teach me, Lord, as today I read Your Word, that the life You would have me live is one of joy and fulfillment.

“Is life worth living?” To scores of people life has ceased to be worth living. To all of you I have good news. God did not create you to be a defeated, discouraged, frustrated, wandering soul, seeking in vain for peace of heart and peace of mind. He has bigger plans for you. He has a larger orb and a greater life for you.

The answer to your problem, however great, is as near as your Bible, as simple as first-grade arithmetic, and as real as your heartbeat. Upon the authority of God’s Word, I tell you that Christ is the answer to every baffling perplexity which plagues mankind. In Him is found the cure for care, a balm for bereavement, a healing for our hurts, and a sufficiency for our insufficiency.

But these are written that you may believe[b] that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

(John 21:31 NIV)

November 20, 2021

Your light shines in the darkest place and gives me hope, Lord Jesus.

The world is stumbling in darkness from one crisis to another. The crises are getting worse and worse, and are coming closer and closer to home. Inflation, population explosion, hunger, dominate vast areas of the world. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. You follow me and give your life to me and I’ll take you out of the darkness of this world, out of this confusion, out of this mess that you’re in, and I’ll give you peace and joy. A light will burn in your heart and mind that you never had before. I will command the light to come on in your life.”

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

(John 1:9 ASV)

November 19, 2021

Younger eyes see my errant behavior, Lord. Help me to be the right example—one which will draw them to You.

In searching for ways to bridge the generation gap, there is no doubt that we, as parents, will have to practice what we preach, by striving more and more to bring our conduct into line with our code of beliefs.

No mother can demand that her daughter abstain from sleeping around when she herself is flirting and on occasion compromising her own moral conduct. No father, who wavers between heavy social drinking and occasional binges to the edge of alcoholism, and who can’t speak a pleasant word in the morning until he has had a cigarette, can yell incessantly at his son to get off marijuana, the route that often leads to hard drugs.

Consistency, constancy, and undeviating diligence to maintain Christian character are a must if the older generation is to command respect, or even a hearing, from the young.

Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself and those who hear thee.

(I Timothy 4:16 KJ21)

November 18, 2021

Cleanse my heart and make it the home of Your Spirit, Lord.

It is impossible to live pure lives until we have pure hearts. Many people today are trying to put the cart before the horse. They are teaching purity of motives, desires, and actions to old, deceitful hearts! No wonder we have ended up such moral failures, in spite of our vaunted knowledge and psychological approaches.

Pure motives, desires, and actions stem from pure hearts. Pure hearts will be Christlike. It is God’s desire that we be conformed to the image of His Son. If Christ lives within us and our bodies become the abode of the Holy Spirit, is it any wonder that we should be like Him?

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

(Philippians 2:5 NIV)

November 17, 2021

Take away the “front,” Father, that so often creeps into my life. I would live in such a way that young people will be drawn to You, too.

Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together. What our young people want to see in their elders is integrity, honesty, truthfulness, and faith. What they hate most of all is hypocrisy and phoniness. That is why it is important for us to go to church, to read the Bible, and to say grace at the table. Let them see us doing what we would like them to do.

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

(Philippians 4:9 NIV)

November 16, 2021

Long-sought-after security I found only in Your abiding love, my Savior, Jesus Christ.

On campus the quickest way to security is through the crowd. Precisely where students talk about being independent and on their own, you will find them practicing the most rigid conformity in dress, in speech, in moral attitudes, and in thinking. Sometimes they follow fashion at the expense of integrity. They dread to be alone. They do not want to stand out or be different. They want to conform.

After they graduate from college, many of these young people want nothing more than a good job with a big firm, and a home somewhere in suburbia. But they don’t find security then either. Only Jesus Christ can give you the security that you are looking for.

Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

(II Timothy 2:19 NKJV)

November 14, 2021

How easy it is to push You to one side, Lord, and superficially remember Your blessings. May we always keep You at the center of all that we do in our homes.

The basic unit of any society is the home. When the home begins to break, the society is on the way to disintegration. Thousands of homes are almost on the rocks. Many couples are fearful lest their home, too, will be broken some day. There is one great insurance policy that you can take out, in order to guarantee the unity and happiness of your home. It is simple: Make Christ the center of your home.

A home is like a solar system. The center, the great sun, holds the solar system together. If it were not for the sun, the solar system would fly to pieces. Unless the Son of God is put at the center of your home, it, too, may fly to pieces.

But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

(Joshua 24:15 NIV)

November 13, 2021

I need Your guidelines in my life, Lord. Loving You frees me from the bondage of my carnal appetite. Amen.

We all know there is no such thing as absolute freedom. We cannot drive down the street at 100 miles an hour. You can’t swing your fist at me, because your freedom stops at the end of my nose. We can say that we want freedom to publish pornography, to push harmful drugs, to have unrestricted sex, to lie, to cheat; but if we continue with that kind of permissive freedom, we shall destroy ourselves.

Man can remain free only so long as he has the moral power to restrain his appetites. Basically, our problem is heart trouble. Our hearts need to be changed … peace will never come until we have changed human nature, until people begin loving each other instead of hating each other.

Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.

(I Peter 2:11 ESV)

November 12, 2021

Let me never look for the easy way when You, Lord Jesus, gave everything for me. Amen.

You should not expect the easy way, for if you do you are certainly destined for disappointment. Any person who knows the Bible knows that the Christian life is likened to an athletic contest or to warfare, and neither one is easy. Jesus warned His followers to count carefully the cost, and that certainly does not speak of an easy way. But there is no good thing that comes without cost.

The Christian life is the most satisfying, but only when we actually go all out and all the way. It is the Christian who tries to compromise who finds life miserable, for he has all the problems, without the fellowship that comes through surrender. For every trial and test, Christ supplies an abundance of grace with which to bear it, and in our weakness we are made strong.

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]

(John 16:33 AMP)

November 11, 2021

November 10, 2021

Just as You have guided all who love You in the past, I know my life is being lovingly directed. My faith is small but, God, You are my strength. Amen.

The word “mystery” is used many times in Scripture. Some of the mysteries of the past have been fathomed by science. Others still bewilder mankind. This fact remains: All of the garnered wisdom of the ages is only a scratch on the surface of man’s search for the knowledge of the universe. For the most part, God retains His secrets, and man standing on his intellectual tiptoes can comprehend only a small fraction of the Lord’s doings.

This inability to comprehend fully the mysteries of God does not in any way curtail the Christian faith. On the contrary, it enhances our belief. We do not understand the intricate pattern of the stars in their courses, but we know that He who created them does, and that just as surely as He guides them, He is charting a safe course for us. A “mystery” in Scripture is a previously hidden truth now divinely revealed, but in which a supernatural element remains unknown despite the revelation.

That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

(I Corinthians 2:5 KJV)

November 9, 2021

Thank You, Father, for my conscience which checks me and guards my actions. Help me to be alert to its promptings, through Your Holy Spirit.

What is conscience? God has put within each one of us something that cries aloud against us, whenever we do that which we know to be wrong. Conscience is the detective that watches the direction of our steps and decries every conscious transgression. Conscience is a vigilant eye before which each imagination, thought, and act, is held up for either censure or approval.

I believe there is no greater argument for the existence of God in the world today than conscience. There is no greater proof of the existence of a moral law and Lawgiver in the universe than this little light of the soul. It is God’s voice to the inner man. Conscience is our wisest counselor and teacher, our most faithful and most patient friend.

Have a good conscience, that, whereas they speak evil of you as of evildoers, they who falsely accuse may be ashamed by your good manner of life in Christ.

(KJ21)

November 8, 2021

Almighty God, how glorious are my thoughts of You, for You are everywhere—loving and caring for the minutest details of our lives!

The world’s millions could come down to the beach and reach out their hands to be filled with sea water. They could each take as much as they wanted, as much as they needed—and still the ocean would remain unchanged. Its might and power would be the same, the life in its unfathomable depths would continue unaltered, although it had supplied the needs of every single person standing with outstretched hands along its shores.

So it is with God. He can be everywhere at once, heeding the prayers of all who call out in the name of Christ; performing the mighty miracles that keep the stars in their places, and the plants bursting up through the earth, and the fish swimming in the sea. There is no limit to God. There is no limit to His wisdom. There is no limit to His power. There is no limit to His love. There is no limit to His mercy.

The Lord your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.”

(Zephaniah 3:17 NKJV)

November 7, 2021

November 6, 2021

November 5, 2021

I trust You, Lord, to control my life. Knowing You will guide me in the right path gives me joy.

There is much in our nature that perplexes us. Many people are disturbed as they confront the troubling riddle of their own existence. They are bewildered by their proneness to sin and evil. They quake and tremble at the thought of their inability to cope with their own lives.

Christ can give you satisfying answers to such questions as “Who am I?” “Why was I born?” “What am I doing here?” “Where am I going?” All of the great questions of life can be measured when you come by faith to Jesus Christ and receive Him as your Lord. Let Him be your Pilot. He can take away the worry from your life.

He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he. (Proverbs 16:20 NKJV)

November 4, 2021

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October 21, 2021

Thank You, heavenly Father, for the protection of Your Word as I face everyday temptations.

How do we overcome the devil in everyday life? First, we need to recognize that the devil is a defeated foe. The Son of God came to undo the work of the devil. The crucifixion of Christ, which looked like a mighty victory for Satan, turned out to be a great triumph for God, because it was on the cross that Jesus took your sins and my sins. God laid our sins on Christ, so that when our Lord bowed His head and said, “It is finished,” He was referring to the plan of redemption and salvation. Then . . . we are to resist the devil. If we resist him, Scripture says, he will flee from us. Jesus overcame the devil not by argument but simply by quoting Scripture. That is why it is so important to learn and memorize Scripture passages.

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword . . .
—Hebrews 4:12

September 23, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are good. LORD guide us to desire you like we desire food. Direct us to seek you like we seek rest. Help us find your clear revelation daily and give us rest there. Father we savor your Mercy, your faithfulness is a healthy meat. Never let us forget who Jesus is, and have us place Him alone on the table of our Worship. Amen.

What is your favorite food? How did that food become your favorite? Most likely, one day you tried the food and discovered that it was good.

The same is true with getting to know God. To really get to know Him, you’ve got to try Him. Obviously, you can’t try God like you would try food, but you can get to know Him. You can pray, read your Bible, listen to teaching on YouTube, or a Podcast and find out for yourself that He’s good.

The closer you get to God the more you realize that you can trust Him. God isn’t up one day and down the next. He doesn’t have days when He likes you and days when He doesn’t. God is always the same. He’s faithful, and as you get to know Him, you begin to trust Him more.

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

(Psalm34:8)

July 6, 2021

Deep down I feel Your peace, Lord Jesus, and the storms of my life are abated. Amen.

The peace that Jesus came to bring was not the peace of appeasement, or the peace of compromise and conformity. It was a spiritual peace. The world doesn’t give peace, for it doesn’t have any peace to give. It fights for peace, it negotiates for peace, it maneuvers for peace, but there is no ultimate peace in the world. But Jesus gives peace to those who put their trust in Him. If you have received His peace, then you are in His camp. But if you have rejected it, then you are against Him. His peace is available to everyone who will receive it.

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you [a]will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

(John 16:33 NKJV)

July 5, 2021

How I pray that the world would live by Your law—which bears no discrimination but is perfect. Teach me as I read the Bible to follow Your commandments which are not impossible to obey because of Jesus Christ's love. Amen

The Bible is the constitution of Christianity. Just as the United States Constitution is not of any private interpretation, neither is the Bible of any private interpretation. Just as the Constitution includes all who live under its stated domain, without exception, so the Bible includes all who live under its stated domain, without exception. God’s laws for the spiritual world are found in the Bible. Whatever else there may be that tells us of God, it is more clearly told in the Bible. Nature in her laws tells us of God, but the message is not too clear. It tells us nothing of the love and grace of God. Conscience, in our inmost being, does tell us of God, but the message is fragmentary. The only place we can find a clear, unmistakable message is in the Word of God, which we call the Bible.

“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul;
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;”

(Psalm 19:7 NIV)

July 4, 2021

Thank You, God, for allowing me to live in the greatest, grandest, and most free land the world has ever known. Amen.

On this Independence Day we should be on our knees thanking God for all He has given us. The United States is a country in which everyone has an equal opportunity. Thank God for a country where there is no caste or class to keep a man from going to the top. If a man has a will to work and study, he can go ahead regardless of his background. In addition, thank God, He has given us freedom of religion. Whatever you may believe, no one can close your church because your religion does not coincide with his. A few people meeting in a small, out-of-the-way shack, worshiping God as they believe in Him, have the same right to religious freedom as the people who worship God in the great cathedrals on the avenues of our greatest cities.

"Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king."

(1 Peter 2:17 NKJV)

July 3, 2021

Almighty God, each day our nation and we, the people, face so many crises. May each one of us seek wisdom through Your Word, the Bible. Amen.

The men who framed our Constitution knew they were writing the basic document for a government of free men; they recognized that men could live as free and independent beings only if each one knew and understood the law. They were to know their rights, their privileges, and their limitations. They were to stand as equals before the court of law, and few judges could be unfair; for the judge, too, was bound by the same law and required to try each case accordingly. . . . As the Constitution is the highest law of the land, so the Bible is the highest law of God. For it is in the Bible that God sets forth His spiritual laws. It is in the Bible that God makes His enduring promises. It is in the Bible that God reveals the plan of redemption for the human race.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

(2 Timothy 3:16 NIV)

July 2, 2021

In a world needing Your love, let me not judge those who love You too. You have made us all so different, Father. Teach me, by Your loving Holy Spirit, compassion and true unity. Amen.

As I study the subject of “separation” in the Old and New Testaments, I discover that the weight of Scripture lies in the direction of fellowship rather than separation. What is the great overwhelming evidence that we have passed from death unto life? It is love! Jesus Christ clearly was speaking of visible unity, such as can be seen by the world. His motive for praying was that the world might believe and the world might know. He prayed for unity among believers. God, who wills man’s unity in Christ, is a God of variety. So often we want everyone to be the same—to think and speak and believe as we do. Many Scripture passages could be called to witness that love is the real key to Christian unity. In the spirit of true humility, compassion, consideration, and unselfishness, we are to approach our problems, our work, and even our differences.

12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants,[a] for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.

(John 15:12-15 ESV)

Soli Deo Gloria

July 1, 2021

Almighty God, I praise You for the authority of Your Word, which speaks to me of my redemption, life as it should be lived, peace and eternal life with You. Amen.

It is small wonder . . . the Bible has always been the world’s best-seller! No other book can touch its profound wisdom, its poetic beauty, or the accuracy of its history and prophecy. Its critics who claimed it to be filled with forgery, fiction, and unfulfilled promises are finding that the difficulties lie with themselves, and not the Bible. Greater and more careful scholarship has shown that apparent contradictions were caused by incorrect translations, rather than divine inconsistencies. It was man and not the Bible that needed correcting. And yet—in many homes and among so-called educated people—it has become fashionable to joke about the Bible and to regard it more as a dust-catcher than as the living Word of God. . . . Too many families have used the Bible as a safe storage place for old letters and pressed flowers, and have overlooked entirely the help and assurance that God intended this Book to give them.

"For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."

(Proverbs 2:6 NIV.)

June 30, 2021

There is inexpressible joy as I come to You in prayer, my heavenly Father. Amen.

Prayer is a two-way conversation; it is our talking to God, and His talking to us. As a Christian, you have a heavenly Father who hears and answers prayer. Jesus said, “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Every man or woman whose life has counted for the church and the Kingdom of God has been a person of prayer. You cannot afford to be too busy to pray. A prayerless Christian is a powerless Christian. Jesus Christ spent many hours in prayer. Sometimes He spent the night on a mountaintop in solitary communion with God the Father. If He felt that He had to pray, how much more do we need to pray!

"And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

(Matthew 21:22 NIV)

June 29, 2021

I look at my hands, Lord Jesus, and ask You to use them this day. Make me conscious of the needs of those who hurt. Amen.

During the war a church in Strasburg, Germany, was totally destroyed; but a statue of Christ which stood by the altar was almost unharmed. Only the hands of the statue were missing. When the church was rebuilt, a famous sculptor offered to make new hands; but, after considering the matter, the members decided to let it stand as it was—without hands. “For,” they said, “Christ has no hands but our hands to do His work on earth. If we don’t feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, entertain the stranger, visit the imprisoned, and clothe the naked, who will?” Christ is depending on us to do the very things which He did while upon earth. My friend, if the gospel we preach does not have a social application, if it will not work effectively in the work-a-day world, then it is not the Gospel of Christ.

"for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;"

(Matthew 25:35 NKJV)

June 28, 2021

Lord, whatever I have to face, through it let me learn more of Your love and compassion. Amen

Why do Christians suffer? Rest assured that there is a reason for Christian people being afflicted. One reason why God’s people suffer, according to the Bible, is that it is a disciplinary, chastening, and molding process. From the Scriptures we learn that the chastening of affliction is a step in the process of our full and complete development. Affliction can also be a means of refining and of purification. Many a life has come forth from the furnace of affliction more beautiful and more useful than before.

" In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his ancestors. 13 And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God."

(2 Chronicles 33:12-13 NIV)

June 27, 2021

Almighty God, knowing I am Your child is all the assurance I need.

Edward Dahlberg, the writer, observed, “At 19, I was a stranger to myself. At 40, I asked, ‘Who am I?’ At 50, I concluded I would never know.” This unexplored personal wilderness is the home of millions of people. Ninety-two percent of all Canadian university students, according to June Callwood, the Toronto sociologist, don’t really know who they are. The Bible says that man is an immortal soul. When God made man in the first place, He created him and “breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7). One’s soul is the essence, the core, the eternal and real person. And he will be restless until he opens his life to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

"What a glorious Lord! He who daily bears our burdens also gives us our salvation."

(Psalm 68:19 TLB)

June 26, 2021

Direct all my energy, Father, so that I may be a blessing to others.

A harnessed horse contributes much more to life than a wild donkey. Energy out of control is dangerous; energy under control is powerful. God does not discipline us to subdue us, but to condition us for a life of usefulness and blessedness. In His wisdom He knows that an uncontrolled life is an unhappy life, so He puts reins on our wayward souls that they may be directed into the “paths of righteousness.” That is what God seeks to do with us; to tame us, to bring us under proper control, to redirect our energies. He does in the spiritual realm what science does in the physical realm. Science takes a Niagara River with its violent turbulence and transforms it into electrical energy to illuminate a million homes and to turn the productive wheels of industry.

"But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His."

(Romans 8:9 NKJV)

JUNE 25, 2021

Father, I would be a faithful steward of all You have given to me. Make me constantly aware of Your leading so I may wisely spend any money with which I have been entrusted.

It is not wrong for men to possess riches. But the Bible warns that money cannot buy happiness! Money cannot buy true pleasure. Money cannot buy peace of heart. And money certainly cannot buy entrance into the Kingdom of God. Often money is a hindrance to these things. Money takes our minds off God. Riches, when used selfishly rather than for the glory of God, tend to corrupt in our hands. Money cannot be a substitute for God. If God has given you more wealth than your neighbors, dedicate it to Christ. Realize that you are only a steward of that which God has given you and some day you will have to give an account of every penny you have spent. The Internal Revenue Service wants a record of how you spend your money, but that is nothing compared to the books God is keeping.

"And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food [a]in due season?"

(Luke 12:42 NKJV)

June 24, 2021

Forgive us, Lord, for associating gentleness with weakness. May we as Christians take the lead in being gentle toward everyone. Amen.

Gentleness is probably the least-talked-about fruit of the Spirit. And even though it is often overlooked, it is one of the most important character traits of people who live by the Spirit. In the Bible, gentleness is also called meekness, and it is a prominent virtue in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Jesus teaches us, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5).

Our world today does not value gentleness. Instead we are loud, boisterous, rowdy, showy, obnoxious, and pushy. One commentator described our culture in North America as “restless, rootless, and ruthless.” Gentleness is the opposite of these. Gentle folks are not restless but calm and composed, not rootless but stable, not ruthless but respectful. Biblical synonyms for the word gentle include humble, meek, considerate, courteous, respectful, and noble.

We tend to categorize gentle people as wimps. But gentleness is actually the result of bringing great strength under control. In a biblical sense, the strongest people are those who dare to be gentle. And the best example to guide us is Jesus.

Jesus calls out, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). To be gentle or meek is to be God-molded, Christ-shaped, and Holy Spirit-directed. Ask the Spirit for an extra measure of gentleness today.

“to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”

(Titus 3:2 NKJV)

June 23, 2021

Merciful Lord, may my life be filled with Your outflowing love for others.

You can put a public school and university in the middle of every block of every city in America—but you will never keep America from rotting morally by mere intellectual education. Education cannot be properly called education which neglects the most important parts of man’s nature. Partial education throughout the world is far worse than none at all if we educate the mind but not the soul. To think of civilizing men without converting them to Christ is about as wise as to think about transforming wolves into lambs merely by washing them and putting on them a fleece of wool. “Happy are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy.” The mercy the world needs is the grace, love, and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is His transforming and regenerating power that the world needs more than anything else.

"God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it."

(John 3:17 (TLB))

June 22, 2021

Loving Lord Jesus, I would honor You this day and evermore—in adoration I worship You, my Savior and my Lord. Amen.

H.G. Wells wrote, “Christ is the most unique person of history. No man can write a history of the human race without giving first and foremost place to the penniless teacher of Nazareth.” Rabbi Stephen Wise said concerning Jesus, “You will find that He is divinely human. It is no mean joy to us of the house of Israel to recognize, to honor and to cherish among our brethren, Jesus the Jew, who has influenced the world more than any other man.” This person called Jesus lived on earth for only 33 years. He never traveled more than 100 miles from His home. Yet Charles Lamb was right in saying, “If all the illustrious men of history were gathered together and Shakespeare should enter their presence, they would rise to do him honor; but if Jesus Christ should come in, they would fall down and worship Him.”

"Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing."

(Revelations 5:12 KJV)

June 21, 2021

There is sorrow in my soul when I remember how I fail You, loving Lord. Forgive my frailties. Amen

There is a certain amount of sorrow involved in repentance that we don’t see much of today. That word means moaning and even groaning. I don’t mean that we have to have a great emotional experience, but I do believe that we need some tears of repentance. We need to be sorry for our sins, and to say, “Oh, God, I have sinned against You, and I’m sorry.” I am not an emotional person. I don’t know why, but I don’t cry easily. But of the few times I have cried in my life, some of them have been over sin that I committed many years ago.

The night I came to Christ, I didn’t have any tears. But later I went home and I looked out my window at the North Carolina sky and I cried over my sins. I said, “Oh, God, forgive me.” And the most wonderful peace swept over my soul. From that moment on, I’ve known that my sins were forgiven.

Now change your mind and attitude to God and turn to him so he can cleanse away your sins and send you wonderful times of refreshment from the presence of the Lord.

(Acts 3:19 TLB)

June 20, 2021

You call us, Lord, to honor parents not for what they have done but for who they are, even if they are not easy to love. Help us do that well, for your, their, and our sake. Amen.

It might come as a surprise to many of us that this commandment is not age-specific. It's a commandment not just for the young but for children of all ages. God asks that parents be worthy of honor in the way they relate to their children. And God commands that children obey and show respect for their parents in line with doing what is right. This means both are to act appropriately at each stage of their lives together.

This commandment came to a society without the support systems that many of us are used to. Adult children were totally responsible to look after aging parents. God reminds us that as long as we have parents, we are to honor them, seeing that their living is respectable and they are well cared for. It's not just a matter of doing what our parents tell us to do when we are young. It's a matter of showing life-long honor to the parents who gave us life, raised us, and launched us on life's journey.

The apostle Paul calls this "the first commandment with a promise." God indicates that when we honor the parents with whom we are in relationship, he will honor us. Some parents are easier to honor than others. But respecting those whom the Lord has chosen to place over us opens a door to blessing. By honoring our parents and others whom God places in authority over us, we honor our Father in heaven.

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you."

(Exodus 20:12 NKJV)

June 19, 2021

Lord Jesus, when You come again, how many hearts will rejoice. Until then, with expectant anticipation I eagerly wait for that glorious day! Amen and Amen.

Have you ever been separated from someone you love? A boyfriend or girlfriend whom you have not seen in three or four months? Wait until you see each other! My wife and I have said goodbyes to each other; but when we met again, it was a honeymoon all over again. And that is what it will be like on that glorious day when Jesus Christ comes. We will be caught up in the air to meet Him, and it will be like two lovers coming together. What hope we have!

"If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God."

(Colossians 3:1 KJV)

June 18, 2021

Thank You, loving heavenly Father, for the promise that when we mourn You will comfort us. I have felt the healing of Your consolation in the past and know You will never fail me. Amen.

The Bible teaches unmistakably that we can triumph over bereavement. The Psalmist said, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Self-pity can bring no enduring comfort. The fact is, it will only add to your misery. And unremitting grief will give you little consolation in itself, for grief begets grief. Sorrow, or mourning, when it is borne in a Christian way, contains a built-in comfort. “Happy are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted.” There is comfort in mourning, because we know that Christ is with us. He has said, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Suffering is endurable if we do not have to bear it alone; and the more compassionate the Presence, the less acute the pain.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

2 Cor. 1:3-4 NIV

June 17, 2021

Loving Lord Jesus, it was only when I surrendered everything to You that I knew the ultimate joy and peace that had always escaped me.

Faith has legs . . . I heard about a man some years ago who was rolling a wheelbarrow back and forth on a tightrope across Niagara River. Thousands of people were shouting him on. He put a 200-pound sack of dirt in the wheelbarrow and rolled it over, and then he rolled it back. He turned to the crowd and asked, “How many of you believe that I can roll a man across?” Everybody shouted! One man in the front row was very excited in his professed belief. The man pointed to this excited professor and said, “You’re next!” You couldn’t see that man for dust! He didn’t actually believe it. He thought he believed it—but he was not willing to get in the wheelbarrow. Just so with Christ. Many people say they believe in Him, they say they follow Him. But they never have stepped into the wheelbarrow. They actually never have committed and surrendered themselves wholly, 100 percent to Christ.

"But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked."

Isaiah 57:20-21

June 16, 2021

Some, who doubt that the Bible is the true Word of God, doubt it because they are unwilling to ascribe to God anything they cannot themselves achieve. If you have any uncertainty about the inspiration of the Bible, go back and look at it again. Look at it in the light of a person who has been staring at a mud puddle all his life, and who is confronted for the first time by a view of the ocean!

Perhaps you are only now catching your first glimpse of God’s unlimited power. Perhaps you are only now beginning to understand Him for what He actually is. For if God is the Spirit that Jesus declares Him to be, there is no problem of providence, there is no problem of His sovereignty in the affairs of men, there is no problem of His inspiration of the men who wrote the Bible. Everything fits into place, once you understand who and what God really is.

Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law.

(Psalm 119:18 NIV)

June 15, 2021

Take away my procrastinating nature—how easy it is for me to waste time. I want to be able to leave a legacy of time spent for You, Lord, because that is eternal.

We are stewards of our time. God has given each one of us a little “chunk of eternity” called time. These golden moments of opportunity are doled out to us for our benefit and for God’s glory. If we use them wisely, they are woven by God’s omnipotent hand into the fabric of eternity. Henry Thoreau cautioned, “You cannot kill time without injuring eternity.” “He who has no vision of eternity,” said Carlyle, “has no hold on time.” “Only one life, ’twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last” is the sentiment of every man who desires to be a good steward of his time. We are entrusted with a small portion of the capital of time. If we invest it wisely, it will pay dividends throughout eternity.

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

(Ephesians 5:15-16 NKJV)

June 14, 2021

Lord Jesus, with so many still rejecting You, take away everything within me that would stop another receiving You as Savior and Lord.

The Apostle Paul once asked, “Who art thou, Lord?” That is a question each of us has to face. If Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, knowing He was not, then He was a deceiver, the greatest liar the world has ever known. If He thought He was God and didn’t know the difference, then He was a mental case. But if He was who He claimed to be, then He is rightfully the Lord of our lives. What keeps us from acknowledging this Christ, if He is what the Bible tells us He is?

Each of us has to face the question that Pilate asked, “What shall I do then with Jesus which is called the Christ?” Pilate washed his hands and said he would have nothing to do with Jesus, but God does not let us off that way. We must say “yes” or “no.” We can make fun of Jesus, we can reject Him, we can neglect Him—or we can receive Him.

“‘At that time, declares the Lord, the bones of the kings and officials of Judah, the bones of the priests and prophets, and the bones of the people of Jerusalem will be removed from their graves. 2 They will be exposed to the sun and the moon and all the stars of the heavens, which they have loved and served and which they have followed and consulted and worshiped. They will not be gathered up or buried, but will be like dung lying on the ground. 3 Wherever I banish them, all the survivors of this evil nation will prefer death to life, declares the Lord Almighty.’

(Jeremiah 8:9 NIV)

June 13, 2021

Make my heart completely devoid of self so that it can be filled with Your Spirit, Lord. Amen.

Walter Knight tells the story about a little boy who had recently received Christ. “Daddy, how can I believe in the Holy Spirit when I have never seen Him?” asked Jim. “I’ll show you how,” said his father, who was an electrician. Later Jim went with his father to the power plant where he was shown the generators. “This is where the power comes from to heat our stove and to give us light. We cannot see the power, but it is in that machine and in the power lines,” said the father. “I believe in electricity,” said Jim. “Of course you do,” said his father, “but you don’t believe in it because you see it. You believe in it because you see what it can do. Likewise, you can believe in the Holy Spirit because you can see what He does in people’s lives when they are surrendered to Christ and possess His power.”

For the Scripture says to the Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth.”

(Romans 9:17 NKJV)

June 12, 2021

In everything I do, Your will must be uppermost in my life, Lord. I, as Your child, trust You to lead me.

To know the will of God is the highest of all wisdom. Living in the center of God’s will rules out all falseness of religion and puts the stamp of true sincerity upon our service to God. You can be miserable with much, if you are out of His will; but you can have peace in your heart with little, if you are in the will of God. You can be wretched with wealth and fame, out of His will; but you can have joy in obscurity, if you are in the will of God. You can have agony in good health, out of His will; but you can be happy in the midst of suffering, if you are in God’s will. You can be miserable and defeated in the midst of acclaim, if you are out of His will; but you can be calm and at peace in the midst of persecution, as long as you are in the will of God. The Bible reveals that God has a plan for every life, and that if we live in constant fellowship with Him, He will direct and lead us in the fulfillment of this plan.

Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

(Psalm 37:5 KJV)

June 11, 2021

How magnificent, almighty Father, that I, dependently, can rely on You to take the burden of my heart! Amen.

As God’s children, we are His dependents. The Bible says, “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Dependent children spend little time worrying about meals, clothing, and shelter. They assume, and they have a right to, that all will be provided by their parents. Because God is responsible for our welfare, we are told to cast all our care upon Him, for He careth for us.

Because we are dependent upon God, Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled.” God says, “I’ll take care of the burden—don’t give it a thought—leave it to me.” Dependent children are not backward about asking for favors. They would not be normal if they did not boldly make their needs known. God is keenly aware that we are dependent upon Him for life’s necessities. It was for that reason that He said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

(1 John 3:1 NIV)

June 10, 2021

Your love encompasses me, Lord Jesus, wherever I may be. There are so many who need the healing of Your love in their lives. Fill me to overflowing with “agapé” love for them.

Notice God’s love. The Bible teaches that God is love. You and I were sinners. We were aliens from God. We were enemies of God. We had rebelled against God. We deserved hell, but in spite of the fact that we resisted God, we rebelled against God, we sinned against God, we were enemies of God—the Bible says God loved us anyway with an everlasting love so that He was willing to give His Son to die on the cross for our sins. There is not a person who has the ability to love that way unless he comes to Christ. You don’t have the power to love.

In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.

(I John 4:9 NKJV)

June 9, 2021

May I always have the gladness that David had, as each Sunday I prepare to worship You in Your house, heavenly Father.

A lot of people get what I call “Sunday-itis” on Sunday mornings. Do you know what Sunday-itis is? It attacks the victim shortly before breakfast on Sunday morning. It is accompanied by a feeling of weakness and lethargy. Sometimes the victim has a slight headache which is aggravated by the ringing of the church bells in the community. But the disease is of short duration, usually disappearing about noon, when the victim is able to eat a full dinner and play golf in the afternoon. But the symptoms usually appear again about 7:30 Sunday evening, and then disappear until the next Sunday morning.

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.

(Psalm 122:1 KKJV)

June 8, 2021

I realize how spineless and pampered my Christian walk is. Give me Your courage, Lord Jesus, to follow You more devotedly.

A great problem in America is that we have an anemic and watered-down Christianity that has produced an anemic, watered-down, and spineless Christian who is not willing to stand up and be counted on every issue. We must have a virile, dynamic, aggressive Christian who lives Christ seven days a week, who is ready to die, if necessary, for his faith. We need Christians who are ethical, honest, gracious, bold, strong, and devoted followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

It is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being in Christ's family and being called by
his wonderful name!
—1 Peter 4:16 (TLB)

June 7, 2021

Your cross, dear Savior, brings me to my knees in humble gratitude. Thank You, for forgiving all the past and giving me strength to live each day in Your power. Amen

The word “reconcile” means literally “bring into a changed relationship.” It means to bring together two parties who should have been together all along. The Bible speaks of the human race as enemies of God. You may say that you are no “enemy” of God, but according to Scripture we are either passive or active enemies of God, apart from Christ. Reconciliation means “brought back into full relationship and fellowship with God.” This is what Christ accomplished on the cross. What a thrilling thought!

For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.

(Romans 5:12 NKJV)

June 6, 2021

All the gifts You have given us are to be enjoyed, within the structure of Your commandments, heavenly Father. Keep me always conscious of Your teachings.

It takes no poll for those of us who have communicated with young people to know the devastation that permissive sexual activity generally causes. It becomes a cancer in the bodies and minds and characters of those who indulge, almost without exception. And there are other victims, such innocent bystanders as parents, grandparents, old family friends, teachers, and advisers, all much more concerned than you can understand. They want only the best for you. Anything less than a happy marital voyage gives them pain. The wisdom of their years says that premarital relations are always a mistake.

The Bible teaches that God created sex. He made “male and female.” Then it says, “God saw every thing that He had made, and behold, it was very good.” This included the natural sexual attraction between the man and woman He had created. Therefore, sex is not sin! It is God’s gift to the human race. It is for procreation; for enjoyment within the bonds of matrimony; for the fulfillment of married love.

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,

Philippians 2:12

June 5, 2021

Let my heart learn to sing when everything around me seems so dark. Give me Your grace to praise You, Lord Jesus.

All the masterpieces of art contain both light and shadow. A happy life is one filled not only with sunshine, but one which uses both light and shadow to produce beauty. The greatest musicians, as a rule, are those who know how to bring song out of sadness. Fanny Crosby, her spirit aglow with faith in Christ, saw more with her sightless eyes than most of us do with normal vision. She has given us some of the great gospel songs which cheer our hearts and lives. In a rat-infested jail in Philippi, Paul and Silas sang their song of praise at midnight to the accompaniment of the jailer’s whip. But their patience in suffering and persecution led to the heathen warden’s conviction.

But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
2 Timothy 4:5 (TLB)

June 4, 2021

Forgive me, Father—so often I question, when I should be trusting You, like Noah.

One day God spoke to Noah about the wickedness of the human race. The actions of men and women grieved Him to the heart. God said that He intended to send a flood that would destroy mankind, and He told Noah to build an ark to save his household and the animals. The Bible says that Noah believed God. Now Noah had never seen a flood. He had never seen a 40-day rain. He had no weather map, no satellite photograph or meteorologist to tell him that a big storm was coming. All he had to go on was the Word of God. But when the flood came, Noah was spared and saved with his family, and the rest of the generation was swept away. Noah was saved because he put his trust in God. The days of Noah are returning to earth, and a catastrophe as great as the flood awaits those who refuse to enter into the ark of salvation, which is Jesus Christ.

Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did.

(Genesis 6:22 NKJV)

June 3, 2021

Father, help us to never forget; by Your hand alone is the beauty and the glory of the sea and the sky and all that it beholds. Thank you, Lord, for our incredible, temporary home. Amen

This photo I shot from the beach in Panama City, Florida. Just to behold such an awesome sight and to be quiet and listen to the ocean is a peaceful prayer.

This theatre of an endless sea meeting with the vastness of the heavens, illuminating the beach with the same moon that the author of this Psalm witnessed is captivating.

We walk in the glory of God’s magnificent creation, and yes, we believe that it is His creation.

June 2, 2021

Help me not to count the cost of serving You, Lord Jesus, but let me be completely yielded to Your leading.

When Bill Borden, son of the wealthy Bordens, went out to China as a missionary, many of his friends thought he was foolish to “waste his life,” as they put it, trying to convert a few heathens to Christianity. But Bill loved Christ and he loved men! He hadn’t been out there very long before he contracted an oriental disease and died. At his bedside they found a note that he had written while he was dying. It read, “No reserve, no retreat, and no regrets.” Bill had found more happiness in his few years of sacrificial service than most people find in a lifetime.

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

(Galatians 5:25 NKJV)

June 1, 2021

Reading Your Word, my heavenly Father, makes me realize that the world and all its heartaches are so transitory. Inspire me to reach others with Your message of hope.

What are you placing your hope in for the future? Your country’s government, educational system, some plan or organization? My hope is in a Person, the Lord Jesus Christ, who sits at the right hand of God. I have hope and know that I’m going to heaven. And, right here and now in this present life, I have God’s presence to help me.

Suppose we had no Bible. Suppose there were no cross, no salvation, no empty tomb. Suppose we had nothing to hang on except, “Do your best, try to patch it up, do what you can.” Oh, but we have a hope. There is a plan of redemption, a plan for the future. The New Testament is an exciting Book to read, it is so full of hope and expectancy. And God is interested in you!

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil,

(Hebrews 6:19 NKJV)

May 31, 2021

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the change that came deep within me when I received You.

The world says that all we need to do is be decent, respectable, and reasonable. True, that is all one needs to do to be a member of the Great Society, but to be a member of the Kingdom of God, there must be an inner change. A Communist in Hyde Park, London, pointed to a tramp and said, “Communism will put a new suit on that man.” A Christian standing nearby said, “Yes, but Christ will put a new man in that suit!”

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
(2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV)

May 30, 2021

Even though my salvation was obtained only through the costliest sacrifice ever made, You freely gave it to me. Lord, I praise You for this gift so lovingly given.

Salvation is free! God puts no price tag on the Gift of gifts—it’s free! Preachers are not salesmen, for they have nothing to sell. They are bearers of Good News—the good tidings that “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3). Money can’t buy it. Man’s righteousness can’t earn it. Social prestige can’t help you acquire it. Morality can’t purchase it. It is, as Isaiah said, “without money and without price.”

God is not a bargaining God. You cannot barter with Him. You must do business with Him on His own terms. He holds in His omnipotent hand the priceless, precious, eternal gift of salvation, and He bids you to take it without money and without price. The best things in life are free, are they not? The air we breathe is not sold by the cubic foot. The water which flows crystal clear from the mountain stream is free for the taking. Love is free, faith is free, hope is free.

being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,

(Romans 3:24 NKJV)

May 29, 2021

Lord, I have progressed far too slowly in my pilgrim walk with You. Might I be drawn closer to the light of Your love and grace.

When I was seven years old, my father bought me my first bicycle. I had never ridden one. Patiently, my family and friends tried to teach me the art of cycling. I soon found out there was one thing I must do if I was to stay on the bicycle—keep moving forward. If I ceased to go forward, I would fall and hurt myself. So it is in the Christian life. We can never live this life on the highest plane unless we are continually growing and moving forward. You should be closer to God today in heart, soul, and body, than at any other time so far in your life.

for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’

(Acts 17:28 NKJV)

May 28, 2021

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above . . .
James 1:17

God, in His mercy and goodness, has endowed every man with certain gifts, talents, and capabilities. These are not to be used selfishly for our own profit, but for the glory of God and for the building of His kingdom. Our personalities, our intelligence, and our capabilities are gifts from His own bountiful hand. If we divert their use for our own profit, we become guilty of selfishness.

It is good business for an employee or junior partner in the firm to work for the profit and interest and glory of the owner. When the owner profits, all members of the firm profit. So, as stewards of our talents, we should invest them for the glory, praise, and honor of God. If God is glorified, we as His partners will be blessed. Our voices, our service, and our abilities are to be employed, primarily, for the glory of God.

Prayer for the day

Everything I have, You have given me, Father. Now give me wisdom to use these gifts completely in Your will.

May 27, 2021

Father God we praise you that Jesus came to save us from sins we had already committed, were committing, and were going to commit. His Atonement was perfect and effective, nothing to add. Our condemnation came because of our rebellion in knowledge. We know right from wrong, good from evil, and we choose to be our own god. Forgive us LORD as you are good and righteous. Amen.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

(John 3:17 NIV)

May 26, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have forgiven us of our sins against you. Even when we killed your Son, who came to save us from your judgment and wrath, you forgave. Father I have not forgiven others as you have commanded me to...I repent and ask for your Mercy. Guide us into your perfect Will that glorifies you when we walk like Jesus. Amen.

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

(Matthew 6:14 KJV)

May 25, 2021

Father God we praise you for the gift of your Holy Spirit that guides us home in these last days. Whether it be the last days of time for all, or the appointed time for us, we are being led by the Spirit to walk in the Way. The Spirit gives us unction to walk the path assigned to us, which is marked out with trials, temptations and doubts. These are for training. It is also marked out with ordained meetings, projected assignments and edifying happenings that you have made possible. We are to be in the moment, every moment, not sleeping or slumbering, but awake and aware because, "the time is near". Help us live by your Spirit. Amen.

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

(Galations 5:25 NKJV)

May 24, 2021

Father God we praise you for the peace that Jesus brought to us. It came from heaven to dwell with us, and now this peace is in us by the Holy Spirit. Now we have this Great Commission of being sent. Sent to be proclaimers, witnesses, servants of the Most High God and the hope that is in us. Give us power in boldness, power in words, power in spirit and protect us from the evil one. Your Name will be proclaimed in heaven and on the earth as LORD! Amen.

Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

(John 20:21 NIV)

May 23, 2021

Father God we praise you and thank you for the forgiveness of our sins once we admit to them. It is your Law that we have broken in our rebellion. It is now our Law, the mirror that shows your Holiness and our sinfulness. We believe that your Holy Spirit dwells in us to guide us into Holy living, stop us from committing sins, encouraging us to Worship. This is your call to us, repent and believe. Amen.

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

(Acts 2:38 NIV)

May 22, 2021

Father God we praise you because you tell us the Truth of the sharpness, the deceitfulness, the lies...the healing, the sweetness, edifying, many different characteristics of the tongue. "Woe is me...I am a man of unclean lips." We must be aware of the power of our words, and use them according to your good and holy purposes. Forgive me LORD that I misuse this gift that you blessed me with...the gift of communication with others. Help me guard my tongue and use it only for your glory. Amen.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
And those who love it will eat its fruit.

(Proverbs 18:21 NKJV)

May 21, 2021

Father God we praise you that it is you who drew us, called us, appointed us to be children of The Most High God. I am certain that all my glories come from you and belong to you. We wait in great expectations for the finishing Day, that Jesus is glorified in His Work in us. Glory! Amen.

being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;

(Philippians 1:6 NKJV)

May 20, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy. LORD we thank you that you have become our delight by revealing your character to us. In receiving your Mercy we understand your Grace. Something we deserve, Justice, we are not given. Something we don't deserve, Grace, is poured out immeasurably to us! Forgive me Father when I neglect to reflect the Mercy shown to me, as I sin against you when I don't do this command. Make me holy and blameless in your sight by your transformation of my heart. Amen.

Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

(Psalm 37:4 NIV)

May 19, 2021

Father God we praise you, we will tell of all the wonderful things you have done. With all our heart LORD, we love you, we desire you, we seek you, we honor you because you are worthy. Forgive us when we forget the wonders of your hands, the mighty power that saves the most vile, the Mercy that goes beyond all Grace that you share with us. Marvelous, matchless, loving Father, we thank you for Jesus. He is awesome in Salvation, amazing as Redeemer, and Trustworthy as Friend. Amen.

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.

(Psalms 9:1 NIV)

May 18, 2021

Father God we praise you that you watch over us and listen to our prayers. LORD help us to ask prayers in your Will and seek your face daily. Not our will, but your Will be done in our lives to show us righteous for your glory. Protect us, strengthen us, guide us by your Spirit. Amen.

For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous
and his ears are attentive to their prayer,
but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

(I Peter 3:12 NIV)

May 17, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are Good and trustworthy. You are our refuge in all things at all times. Forgive us when we become prideful and do not seek your help. We will suffer the consequences because we need to be "redirected" to your Sovereign Mercy that provides for us. Thank you Father, that you never leave us. Amen.

The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

(Nahum 1:7 KJV)

May 17, 2021

Father God we praise you that we are able to consider earthly riches worthless, compared to the eternal riches we have gained through Jesus. We who become poor in wants, are rich in Grace. We have gained a new spirit that is thankful for forgiveness when considering our wretchedness in your Holy sight. We have become reflective of our spiritual state, rather than boastful. We want to be rich in relationship to your instead of poor in the nothingness of this place, which is fading away. We have lost everything of this world gladly, for the blessed hope with Christ in heaven. Amen.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

(Mathew 5:3 NKJV)

May 16, 2021

Father God we praise you that we are full heirs to the promised Kingdom Jesus has prepared. It is his Love that purchased us, it is his Love that keeps us. We will trust in Him alone and not in ourselves or what we think is good. We do not consider the things of this world to be a problem since it is temporary. Pain, suffering, hard times or hunger are as fleeting as the hours as we constantly pass from this place to glory. Thank you Lord. Amen.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

(Romans 8:35 NKJV)

May 14, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy. You supply all our needs, not all our wants. How can we complain knowing what you have given to us in Jesus? This gives us comfort and cause to rejoice so that we may glorify you in our hearts, our actions, our thoughts and intentions. We will thank you with praise on our lips as we tell of your infinite greatness to save the lost, bind up the broken hearted and give hope to the hopeless. Amen.

Though the fig tree may not blossom,
Nor fruit be on the vines;
Though the labor of the olive may fail,
And the fields yield no food;
Though the flock may be cut off from the fold,
And there be no herd in the stalls—
18 Yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
I will joy in the God of my salvation.

(Habakkuk 3:17-18 NKJV)

May 13, 2021

Father God we praise you because we have your peace that goes beyond our understanding. It's a peace of knowing...knowing Jesus, knowing Truth, knowing Salvation, knowing Mercy, knowing Grace. All of these add up to assurance of hope. "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." Because of this Truth, we are not afraid of the things we DO see...wars, rumors of wars, famine, death, unrest...Jesus told us ahead of time so that we would know. Thank you for Jesus' peace. Amen.

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

(John 14:27 NKJV)

May 12, 2021

Father God we praise you because your goodness is what we bring out from our heart. It is your goodness that gets stored there so that of anything we do or say you may be glorified. It is a battle, a war between our old nature and our new nature. But we will overcome because you have made us overcomers. We dwell on what is good and righteous, to choose how we should act, according to your good purpose and Will. "What's down in the well comes up in the bucket." If Christ is in us, we will reflect his light. Light and darkness cannot be in the same heart at the same time. Help us to choose your Truth to live by. Amen.

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil [a]treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

(Luke 6:45 NKJV)

May 11, 2021

Father God we praise you because your Laws are the perfect reflection of your Majestic, Awesome, Loving, Holy character. If we will accept it in love, it would not be burdensome. If we will embrace it in knowledge, it would not be unkind. Your Laws and Statutes are for the rebellious to come into relationship with you and for understanding you, while understanding us...detestable, vile, haters, idolaters, fornicators, drunkards, homosexuals, molesters, just to name a few. Thank you Lord for forgiving us of these, our sins. LORD make us useful for your purposes and for your glory. Amen.

The law of the Lord is perfect, [a]converting the soul;
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;

(Psalms 19:7 NKJV)

May 10, 2021

Father God we praise you because you did not neglect or forget us in our greatest need...the need of a Savior. LORD you have given us all the example we need to know what you want of us through your Manifested Son in his life among us. He sinned not, though tempted as we are. He served others, although he should have been served. He forgave those who cursed and crucified him as he died FOR them. God forgive me when I sin against you, for it is you who I sin against because you are Creator God. Guide me into the likeness and life of Jesus for his glory, never for mine. Remind me. Amen.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased

(Hebrews 13:16 NIV)

May 9, 2021

Father God we praise you because we are made in your Image to love first and foremost. If we love you, we will obey your commands. If we love you, we will place others before ourselves. If we love you, we will not try to harm others in words or deeds. If we love you, we will love like Jesus loves. In your Image means in all your attributes, all your intentions, we seek and become your Will. Forgive us, as we are not conforming to be Christlike, which will cause us to love one another. Love covers a multitude of sins. Guide us into your perfect and wonderful light, which is your Truth. Amen.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

(Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV)

May 8, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are the Way in which we all should go. Your ways are the Truth and the Light. Even when, like sheep, we stray from your good pasture, you are never far from us. Help us to seek you while you may be found, learned from and Worshipped. This is the Promise we have in Jesus, all who turn from sin and follow Him will be saved. Salvation in Jesus is the only sure thing anyone can have in this world. Amen.

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

(Proverbs 22:6 KJV)

May 7, 2021

Father God we praise you because your Name is exalted, mighty, awesome and everlasting. We look to the Name, YAWEH, and are relieved in its comfort and strength. We confess our sins to a loving and forgiving Father who knows us, and cares for us in spite of our frailties. Holy, Holy, Holy is the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. God, our God, you will be praised forever. Amen.

The name of the Lord is a fortified tower;
the righteous run to it and are safe.

(Proverbs 18:10 NIV)

May 6, 2021

Father God we praise you that you encourage us to call on you in prayer at all times and in all occasions. We are grateful that you want us to be cleansed from our sins and that confession does that, as well as shows our growth and maturity. Help us to run to you in assurance of Grace. Guide us into spiritual prayer devotion that affirms your Mercy and righteous Wrath to come. Thank you for this right to approach your Throne as heirs and beloved children. Amen.

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

(Colossians 4:2 NIV)

May 5, 2021

Father God we praise you for the condition of calling on the Name of the Lord, that you have enlightened us to our need, you have drawn us to yourself, and you have supplied restitution. We disobeyed, you set the mark for reconciliation, moral perfection. The lie of the devil and of our own sin nature is...we are good. Yet you have revealed "there are none good, not one". LORD guide us into complete submission that desires to serve you. That is Salvation. Amen.

For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

(Romans 10:13 NKJV)

May 4, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are Faithful and just to forgive our sins when we confess them to you. Thank you for giving us a new heart that recognizes and admits our own sin so that we can be in right relationship with you. You will not be in the presence of sin because you are Holy, Holy, Holy. We severe our ties to fellowship when we do not admit and ask you to cleanse us from our sins. Thank you for the power of Jesus's blood that washes us white as snow. We glory in it's atoning Grace. Amen.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

( John 1:9 NIV)

May 3, 2021

Father God we praise you for Jesus Christ who is our Mediator, Advocate, Great High Priest, and stands in our defense against all accusations. He has atoned for our sins by his Holy Righteous Sacrifice. Once for all, once for all time, for those who "will" believe. Yet for all to refuse there is still wrath to come, by their own choice. God requires payment for indignant rebellion and Jesus became our payment in full. Praise His holy name. Amen.

For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus,

(1Timothy 2:5 NKJV)

May 2, 2021

Father God we praise you for our new birth, our living hope, by the resurrection from the dead of our Savior Jesus Christ. This is great Mercy that you have displayed by making this plan of redemption; the sinless life, the unmerited love, the atoning blood sacrifice, and the victorious resurrection from the dead. We "have" this hope IN us, and we persevere by your power which guides and directs us toward perfection. Amen.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

(1 Peter 1:3 NKJV

May 1, 2021

Father God we praise you that through Jesus we have victory over death. It was his purpose to save all his people...yet not all will submit to his Authority and be saved, to their own demise. We are disgraced by our sinful self serving wills, but through your Grace we are renewed and justified for your glory. You have supplied remedy to our error by speaking through your Mighty voice which commands respect, reliance, and renown. Amen.

He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.

(Isaiah 25: 8 KJV)

April 30, 2021

Father God we praise you for Jesus who volunteered to take our sin punishment. His punishment brought us peace where there was no peace. His piercing was meant for us, his scourging was meant for us, his mocking was meant for us, his beating was meant for us...we deserve it for all time in eternity...he took it ALL at one time in our place. Glory! We are healed. Amen.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

(Isaiah 53:5 KJV)

April 29, 2021

Father God we praise you that Jesus stood in our place of eternal judgment, the righteous, sinless, perfect atoning sacrificial Lamb. You approved it, you arranged it, I don't understand it, but I believe it and trust in it. By faith, in Christ alone I am becoming useful. Forgive me when I "kick against the goads" of your directions. Keep prodding me to perfection in Jesus, for your glory. Then, by your keeping me I will be righteous. Amen.

God made him who had no sin to be sin[a] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

(Corinthians 5:21 NIV)

April 28, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are fair in your judgments. You LORD are Sovereign to protect, assure and guide us in our distresses against those who would do us harm. Satan's time is near, along with all who deny you as God. Forgive us when we don't trust you as our provider and protector. We proclaim you as our Omnipotent Father who watches over our earthly lives, in as much as you have already provided for our everlasting existence with you in heaven. Amen.

“The day of the Lord is near
for all nations.
As you have done, it will be done to you;
your deeds will return upon your own head.

(Obadiah 1:15 NIV)

April 27, 2021

Father God we praise you because you look for lost sheep, of which we were. Because of Jesus, we have been restored to the flock of your pasture. This is where we belong, in the Forever Family. Forgive us for frequently going astray, turning to our desires, our wills, our rebellion. Knowing we are at fault, you laid once for all time, our sins on Jesus and you don't bring them back up. Guide us back to fellowship in your Mercy. Amen.

We all, like sheep, have gone astray,
each of us has turned to our own way;
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.

(Isaiah 53:6 NIV)

April 26, 2021

Father God we praise you that Jesus humbled himself so that we could be raised up. It is his example that glorifies him. It is his heart for us that makes him precious to us. "Love divine, all loves excelling, joy of heaven to earth come down..." Father forgive me when I am not seeking, desiring to be like Jesus, to serve others. Guide me into his loving kindness for your honor and his glory. Amen.

just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

(Matthew 20:28 MIV)

April 25, 2021

Father God we praise you because Salvation is of You, from You and through You alone. We are given Grace, Mercy and the Faith to accept these gifts in forgiveness. It's not a blind Faith, but an enlightened one. It is Salvation in Christ alone, for His glory, from the Work he finished in suffering, dying and being raised from death in victory. We will praise Him forever. We will extol His wonderful acts, waving palm branches and proclaiming "worthy is the Lamb to be worshipped". We will Worship You today with mighty voices of confident affection, appreciation and affirmation. Amen.

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice:

“Salvation belongs to our God,
who sits on the throne,
and to the Lamb.”

(Revelations 7:9-10 NIV)

April 24, 2021

Father God we praise you that you reveal yourself to us in your creation's beauty, splendor and Majesty. Help us look past man made idols and activities to be able to serve you in Spirit and in Truth. This world will pass away. But your Being, Word and Plans will never be stopped. GLORY! Amen.

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

(John 2:15 KJV)

April 23, 2021

Father God we praise you that your love for us was shown and shared by Jesus. Forgive us when we do not mirror that example...when we are self involved more than Spirit minded for showing Christian love to all for His glory. To this we were called, to this we are made, to this we ask for empowerment. You are our God, who is the embodiment of love, we are your chosen ones for service to others in sharing Jesus to them as our simple act of obedience. Amen.

Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

(Romans 13:10 NIV)

April 22, 2021

Father God we praise, honor and give reverence to you because you ARE Majestic, Holy, Creator, LORD of all, over all, and in all. You are to be exalted above all thoughts, all interests, all desires, all intentions. Forgive us, that we do not honor and esteem you as LORD. You have made yourself available, reachable, discernable, yet we ignore you to our shame. Father guide us into sanctified service which is our reasonable duty and assignment. Make us like Jesus in every way. Amen.

The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

(Psalm 24:1 KJV)

April 21, 2021

Father God we praise you that Jesus considered us more important than himself. If he had not, our wages, death, would be paid without Mercy. Instead, Jesus's work saves us from our sin debt to Holy God. He died that we may live with a new heart for others and without selfishness. Forgive me Lord, when I set myself above others. Guide us into your perfect compassion, with love for others. Amen.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,

(Philippians 2:3 NIV)

April 20, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are all we need, we lack nothing, I shall not want. You are Provider of all things, needs, wants, desires, hopes, happiness, joy...what else is there! You restore my soul when I sin, wander, stray, doubt, so that I can be useful as holy and not defiled by sin. It is you that gives me rest when I'm weary in both body and spirit. Father forgive me for I have sinned. Thank you for shepherding me back into your flock by forgiving me. I know that I can count on your faithfulness. LORD make me faithful as Jesus is faithful. Amen.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

(Psalm 23:1 KJV)

April 19, 2021

Father God we praise you with our hearts, our desires, our intentions, because that is what you deserve and what you demand. Forgive us when we bring "lip service" rather than actual service which glorifies you. Make us your hands and feet for the task at hand..."go ye". We have your Promise, we know your Salvation, now we are to go tell what Jesus has done and is doing, He never stops "keeping us". Guide us to Worship today in serving as Jesus does. Amen.

For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

(Hosea 6:6 21KJ)

April 18, 2021

Father God we praise you for the gracious speech and uplifting words that come from you. They are sweet, "For God so loved the world, that he sent his only begotten Son". These words give us energy in our hearts and taste for our souls. Thank you for the love that drips like honey from your very Words by your revelation for our use, for our guidance and for our acceptance. These Words are the Words that we should use with each other, for your glory. Forgive me when I misuse these glorious Words, and forget that I am accountable for every idle word. Amen.

Pleasant words are as a honeycomb: sweet to the soul and health to the bones.

(Proverbs 16:24 KJ21)

April 17, 2021

Father God we praise you for the faith we have in Christ. We have been called by your Mercy to this promise of Eternal Life, thank you. Forgive me for not realizing the impact, the immense sacrifice, the Grace of Jesus to humble himself to me! LORD give me just a little of that commitment, I couldn't handle a lot, I wouldn't accept a lot, "woe is me I am undone." Except Jesus forgives, I would be ruined and headed for hell. Father this was and still is, my confession, Jesus Saves. Knowing this I need you every hour to run the race set out before me. We are being cheered on by the many witnesses already in glory. We cannot fail, because we trust in you, and you will not abandon us. Amen.

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

( Timothy 6:12 NKJV)

April 16, 2021

Father God we praise you as our God. You are my God, there is no other like you. You deserve, and I will give, exaltation to your Holy and Mighty Name. Forgive me when I don't place you at the pinnacle of my thoughts and my desire. LORD you have done wonderful things and blessed me in them, from long ago they have become reality. Father protect my thoughts, my attitude, my intentions so that I can glorify Jesus. Strengthen us in this day of turmoil to be faithful as you are Faithful. Amen.

O Lord, You are my God.
I will exalt You,
I will praise Your name,
For You have done wonderful things;
Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.

(Isaiah 25:1 NKJV)

April 15, 2021

Father God we praise you because your commands are not burdensome, but are able to be embraced if we love you. We have been given the option to choose death or life, and we have chosen life in your Son. Forgive our rebellious nature, but guide us into your wonderful glory, set apart and useful. Father you have revealed Truth, you have drawn us near, you have provided Salvation, now we will follow you. Amen.

Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach.

(Deuteronomy 30:11 NIV)

April 14, 2021

Father God we praise because you became our servant and Savior as an example and an answer. We needed to know the attributes of a perfect servant, you showed us what they were. We needed to know there was hope in a hopeless situation, you came as the only answer. Forgive us when we are self serving, self righteous and self centered. Guide us to edify others as Jesus did, while proclaiming Truth. Amen.

The greatest among you will be your servant.

(Matthew 23:11 NIV)

April 13, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy. You reveal yourself in everything...there is nothing, that doesn't shout your Majesty. Forgive me when I don't pause and consider how great you are, your Grace, Mercy, Justice, Righteousness, Blessings, etc., etc. There are not enough words to describe your Awesomeness, yet I neglect in meditating on them. God, my God, thank you for Jesus. Thank you for the Comforter. Thank you for your forgiveness of my sins. Amen.

Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!

(Psalm 46:10 NKJV)

April 12, 2021

Father God we praise you because we know that trials of this world produce trust and reliance on you, and strength for the calling we have. Guide us by your mighty right hand into the faith that is unto Salvation, that makes us worthy for the name Christian. Thank you for your faithfulness to give us joy in these trials of all kinds and in bearing us up to pass each test so that Jesus is glorified. Forgive me for neglecting my test "studies", prayer, Bible study, meditation, which will give perseverance. Protect us from the evil one today as we seek to earnestly do your Will. Amen.

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

(James 1:2-3 NKJV)

April 11, 2021

Father God we praise you for your Word which is for your glorification and our sanctification. It is Truth revealed so that all can come to understand and know your Holiness, your Being, your Manifested righteousness, and your Love. Father make me your servant in holiness as you have instructed me to be. Forgive my stubborn will that kicks against the goads of your Truth. Guide me to submit with honor toward Jesus' commands. Then I will be like him, and justified by this Justifier. Amen.

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

(2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV)

April 10, 2021

Father God we praise you for keeping us safe from evil as we seek to do your Will. Trusting in you is our mainstay, our ever present help in times of trouble. If we lose hope it is on us, because we will have taken you for granted by looking to others for our portion of faith. Forgive our unfaithfulness. Guide us by your mighty outstretched right hand. Amen.

The fear of man brings a snare,
But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be [a]safe.

(Proverbs 29:25 NKJV)

April 9, 2021

Father God we praise you because Love came out of heaven manifested like us, yet did not sin. Jesus came to seek us when we rejected him. Jesus came to save us when we hated him. No greater love has ever or will ever be displayed than that Day on that Cross. Thank you for this great Savior. Thank you for love that gives us faith and hope. Forgive me for not loving like I should, your example showed me. Protect us today from the evil one and guide us to obedience and away from our old nature. Amen.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

( Corinthians 13:13 NIV)

April 8, 2021

Father God we praise you for the gift of service displayed by your Son as our example to serve others and glorify you. We are to look past the dirt and get to cleaning the feet of the hurting, the misaligned, the wandering, the lost. Service, service, service, results in being holy as you are Holy. All the other gifts will fall into place as we become sanctified for your Work of sharing the Gospel. Amen.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

(1 Peter 4:10 NIV)

April 7, 2021

Father God we praise you that you provide us Grace filled words, if we will just use them, they are there to edify. Lord forgive me when I don't season my words with the salt of Jesus via the unction of the Holy Spirit. Let my conversation always point to the Cross, as the time is near, for time to be no more. Glorify your Name in my speech. Glorify your Son in my thoughts. Glorify your Holy Spirit in my actions. Protect me from the evil one. Amen.

Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

(Colossians 4:6 NKJV)

April 6, 2021

Father God we praise you that we know "to revere" Jesus the Christ. The very reason we can revere him is why we have the Hope that is in us, life everlasting. We have come from death and into life. No long do we fear the grave, because it will only hold our body and not our soul. Father forgive me that I have not made Jesus complete LORD over my life. I will do that, with your help, and make Him preeminent over all things of my life. Glory to His name as I tell the old, old story, of Jesus and His love to a lost and dying world. Amen.

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

(Peter 2:15 NIV)

April 5, 2021

Father God we praise you that we are no longer under the curse of sin, death, and the grave. Because we are in Christ Jesus we are in a position of being justified by His righteousness. Our future location has changed into glory from the place reserved for rebellious God haters...hell. No longer do we bear our sin debt, Jesus did that for us. Strengthen us today to follow Jesus and His Ways. Amen

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

(Romans 8:12 NIV)

Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021

Father God we praise you that Jesus came. He came for us, then to us each one, so that we could know you. Faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Faith is given, life is rewarded. Thank you Jesus. Help me make you my LORD daily. Amen.

He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

(Mathew 28:6 NKJV)

April 3, 2021

Father God we praise you that you allowed this thing to happen. This atrocity made by the creation against the saving Creator was the ultimate rebellion...yet Jesus came anyway. LORD give us eyes to see you and feet that follow. Your Way is now our Way, and to share this Great News is our reasonable duty and honor. Blessed be the Name of our LORD. Amen.

14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

(John 3:14-15 NKJV)

April 2, 2021

Father God we praise you because your Son willingly suffered for our sins, took our scourging, our flogging, accepted the cup of our wrath, yet while sinless. Jesus died for me, the just for the unjust. What can I say except glory to His Name! Thank you Lord for the ransom He paid, "It is finished." Amen.

Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

And they divided His garments and cast lots.

(Luke 23:34 NKJV)

April 1, 2021

Father God we praise you that you humbled yourself for our sake and for your glory. You descended to the depths that we live in to bring us to heaven with you. You submitted to the Will of your Father and our Father. LORD, forgive us of and turn us from our sinful pride, that affects our new life in Christ and our witness to the Good News. We seek to do your Will, like Jesus, to his glory, for the Salvation of many more. Glory to the Son of man. Amen.

rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature[a] of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!

(Luke 2:7-8 NIV)

March 31, 2021

Father God we praise you that Christ was willing, and that it pleased you to have him atone for our sins. We can't understand it, but we who are now covered by the precious blood, glory in it. Fully human yet fully God so that he would be like us and could be subjected to the temptation of sin, but never sinned because he is also Holy, Holy, Holy God eternal. He is our perfect obedient, servant example for this life and the next. Guide us into perfect submission to your Will Lord. Amen.

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

(Luke 22:42 NIV)

March 30, 2021

Father God we praise you in this great immeasurable Truth...we were sinners, yet Christ still died for us to pay the debt he did not owe, for sins He never committed. Thank you Lord that you love us THAT much. You placed your Son, Jesus, on the Cross...you allowed man to mock him...you allowed him to be flogged mercilessly...you allowed him to bleed Holy Blood as a propitiation and covering for my sins. Praises to your Holy Name, LORD! Guide me from worthless pastures that I wander toward. Use your staff and correct my way to keep me in your Will. Set me apart to seek you alone and honor Jesus. Amen.

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

(Romans 5:8 NIV)

March 29, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have revealed this truth and given us access to you through your Son. Thank you for Jesus. Thank you that he considered us worthy of his sacrificial Atonement. Now, make us acceptable by the blood, to do your Will and not ours. We affirm Jesus is the ONLY WAY, the ONLY TRUTH, and the ONLY LIFE by which we can be saved, redeemed and restored to life everlasting. Amen.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

(John 14:6 NKJV)

March 28, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have provided us with a Redeemer, who is Christ the LORD. He came to us while we "were yet sinners ". He will come again soon as the conquering King in power, and glory, and judgment. We give him honor now and forever because his Name is above all names. Hosanna to our King! Amen.

They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting,

“Hosanna!”

“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”

“Blessed is the king of Israel!”

(John 12:13 NIV)

March 27, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have allowed us " to see Jesus coming". Now we can BEHOLD HIM, in spirit and truth, as the Savior who removes sin, who saves from the wrath to come...He is our All in All. We see clearly, the difference in good and evil, right and wrong, mercy and judgment. We choose life, to be with you and the SON, and to behold His Glory forever. Amen.

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

(John 1:29 NIV)

March 26, 2021

Father God we praise you that you guide us into complete Trust in You. To Trust You is to know you, believe in you, live for you, and die for you. Our confidence in You is applied by the precious Blood of Jesus. We affirm that we have been bought with a price, therefore we are no longer our own, but we are the Redeemed, the called, the washed. We will be bold in sharing the Good News to the glory of the One who saves us. Amen.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is in him.

(Jeremiah 17:7 NIV)

March 25, 2021

Father God we praise you and affirm that you are God, Holy, Holy, Holy is your complete being. We will submit to your Sovereign Nature that called us out of darkness and into Light. We realize we are sinners, but we submit and rely on your Power to forgive, your Compassion to save as we confess and ARE washed white. Now the devil has no hold on us. He is a fallen creation that loves evil rather than good. We resist evil and Satan by your direction and guarantee of Victory in Jesus. Amen.

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

(James 4:7 NIV)

March 24, 2021

Father God we praise you because You are our One thing that we want, seek, love, honor. You alone are my hearts desire. In your house is where I long to be, to behold You, your Majesty, your Beauty, your Loveliness. I can only imagine...but soon and very soon I will see you fully, Glorified, manifested to me. Then we will Worship you unhindered by sin, a warring spirit, or worldly influences. Then we will Worship in Spirit and in Truth. Amen.

One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple.

(Psalm 27:4 KJV)

March 23. 2021

Father God we praise you that you offered Jesus as a refuge in our time of need, even in our rebellion. Thank you for Jesus's blood that is our shield and mighty fortress, THE COVER over our sin. Thank you for the horn of strength that is Grace...used against the evil one, sin, doubt, fear, false teaching. Help me improve in my Worship of you and know that You are my stronghold in all things. Amen.

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

(Psalm 18:2 KJV)

March 22, 2021

Father God we praise you because we belong to you by your Mercy and Grace. You drew us, you are keeping us, you are growing us, all for your glory. We have great joy that you can use us in our frailties by and through the Holy Spirit's leading. We confirm and affirm this Truth, because we know we are not good, only God is good. Even so, He that lives in us is greater than he that used to reside in our being...our old self, our old nature. We are under new management, praise your Holy Name! Amen and Amen.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

( John 4:4 NIV)

March 21. 2021

Father God we praise you because we have Joy, Relationship, and the Promise Everlasting in Jesus. Forgive us for losing heart, looking at the world instead of looking to you. You LORD, are all we need. This we affirm and believe.

We will Worship you today as our reasonable duty, in spirit and in truth. Glory to God our Everlasting LORD and King. Amen.

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

(! Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV)

March 20, 2021

Father God we praise you for performing a masterful Work in us for your glory. We are new in Christ Jesus to do the good things planned long ago. Forgive us for shirking our reasonable duty, serving God, serving others. Guide us. Give us zeal for your Work. Help us renew our hope in you to give that hope to others. Amen.

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

(Ephesians 2:10 NIV)

March 19, 2021

Father God we praise you because you forgive faithfully, completely, to us as we confess faithfully and completely. Lord forgive me when I hold on to a hurt. Give me your heart that loves even when hated by others. Guide me to be perfect as you are perfect, in my will, with compassion. Thank you for forgiveness that never reminds, remembers or accuses once forgiven. Amen.

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

(Ephesians 4:32 NIV)

March 18, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have not only washed our feet, but you have washed our hearts clean too. You are now our LORD and Savior and we will do as you did...serve in love unconditionally. Forgive me LORD when I do not take the time to serve when you supply the opportunity. Help me to be intentional in obeying your commands. Help me to love as you love. Thank you Father for loving me when I hated you...even so, you still sent Jesus. Glory. Amen.

If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.

(John 13:14 NKJV)

March 17, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have chosen us to go tell everyone of the hope we have, who the hope is and what it means to have The Hope. He is Risen...He is Risen Indeed! Embolden us with your Word. Guide us by your Hand. We are to share "as we go". At the fuel pump, in the grocery store, in the restaurant, at work...we share Life in life. Amen.

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.

(Mark 16:15 NKJV)

March 16, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have given us strength by your Spirit to be overcomers of all things that attack us your church. These tests come so that we may be found faithful, and that the old man will be purged from our being. Thank you for standing by us. Thank you for giving us hope eternal that comes by the reality of Jesus's resurrection. We believe, so then we persevere, to receive the crowns that we will throw at Jesus's feet. We affirm He is due honor, glory, praise and desire. Amen.

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

(James 1:12 NKJV)

March 15, 2021

Father God we praise you that your righteousness has made us holy. This is the Way we now walk, blameless because of Jesus Christ. His goodness has been passed on to us by imputation, by revelation, by sanctification. Father forgive me in my sin that I choose to let it have a place on ground that I promised to you. This is my fault, not yours. You have given me the rules to follow, the desire to be Christlike, and the knowledge to recognize sin as it sits on my doorstep. You are Faithful to forgive, now that I admit and turn from my sin, not to return to it by and with your Holy Spirit direction and guidance. Amen.

Righteousness guards the person of integrity,
but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

(Proverbs 13:6 NIV)

March 14, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy. Lord you are our Comforter, our Rock, our Redeemer. We thank you for the blessings of the call, the affirming Holy Spirit. We rejoice in Christ our Savior who did the work we could not do. Father give us the right heart of Worship today so that we glorify you. Amen.

As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”

(Isaiah 66:13 KJV)

March 13, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have given us new words to speak, words of life, and new meditations for our hearts, meditations that seek you. You alone are my hearts desire and I long to Worship You. You alone are my strength, my shield, to you alone does my spirit yield. Thank you Lord for saving me. I will profess to men that you are Wonderful, Mighty, Awesome, Redeeming, Holy, Holy, Holy. Amen.

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

(Psalm 19:14 KJV)

March 12, 2021

Father God we praise you because you offer rest in your Promise, assurance in your Mercy, and confidence in your Grace. I proclaim your Name so that all who hear will know there is a God who is alone God, there is no other. Give me a heart of trust, a heart that desires you my LORD and my GOD. I need you, humbly I seek your face in the safety of intimate knowledge. Amen.

For he who avenges blood remembers;
he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted.

(Psalm 9:12 NIV)

March 11, 2021

Father God we praise you that you ask us to "do the work of an evangelist", it's for your glory. Because of what you have done for us we want to do it with all our heart, with the realization that many will fall to Satan's plan. But Jesus has overcome, he has Risen Indeed, He sits at your right hand Father, he has gained and given us the reward of Promise, Mercy and Grace. Now is the time to Worship Him with obedience, before it's too late. We will work for our LORD with all our hearts, by his power and with his authority. Amen.

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for[a] you serve the Lord Christ.

(Colossians 4:23-24 NKJV)

March 10, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are willing to bear with us, prune us, purge us until we become useful, pliable faithful. Lord help me see those things in me that you have "cut off" so that I don't try to keep the dead branches as a part of your living work. Lord help me ask...for your careful but sometimes painful pruning. Lord help me know what should go out of my life, so that what you feed me with, Your Truth, will not be diluted. Father God feed me the things that make me fruitful. Fill me up Lord until I want no more. For your glory I ask humbly...Amen.

Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.

(John 15:2 NKJV)

March 9, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have given us your Holy Spirit to teach us all things about yourself in Truth. We have a real revelation of a real God, nothing is made up, but everything we need to know to believe on you, you have made known. Things we do not yet understand will be made known as we grow, as we mature, as we become more Christlike. This is your intention and our hope. Amen.

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

(John 14:26 KJV)

March 8, 2021

Father God we praise you because your Word has saved us. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, showing us an awesome, caring God. The Holy Inspired Word is the light we need for living in this world, as we prepare for the next. It guides us in the walk, it instructs us how to walk, it shows us good vs evil, right vs wrong, left vs right, life vs death. Your Word commands us to choose life and blessings, be holy as you are holy, do good...and live. We glorify your Name. Amen.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

(Psalm 119:105 KJV)

March 7, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have made us able to love without conditions being in Christ and like Christ. He loved those who hated him, which we must also do. He loved those who persecuted him, which we must also do. Lord forgive me when I don't love deeply, the very ones Jesus died for. Help me be more like Jesus and then glorify him be my actions. Father help me to be less self centered. Then I can serve out of love, just like Jesus. Amen.

And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”

(1 Peter 4:8 NKJV)

March 6, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have shown us the way to true repentance. This is the way to Godly honor, to know we are sinners, then to Trust Jesus and thereby acknowledge the finished Work that he did on the Cross. To have Godly sorrow that leads to Salvation is to regret my sin and the suffering Christ had to endure. Help me to walk in the Way today. Amen.

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

(2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV)

March 5, 2021

Father God we praise you for your Truth revealed for our saving Grace. Our part is to believe in You Who sent your Son and believe the message he brings. Lord we thank you for convicting Truth that keeps us, reminds us, prompts us, to have a repentant heart. Thank that you have saved us from our sins, brought us into your family and given us Eternal life. Amen.

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.

(John 5:24 NKJV)

March 4, 2021

Father God we praise you because of your Holiness that your Holy Spirit imputes to us. We can only be holy if we are at peace with you, which Jesus said he left his peace with us, and at peace with others. Therefore, we are commanded to "make every effort" to do this. It's not suggested, it's commanded. This attitude is also required before we can see the Lord...see with our eyes and with our spirit. It means we must "become" like Jesus. Guide us Father, into compliance, seeking your Will to glorify your Son. Amen.

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:

(Hebrews 5:14 NKJV)

March 3, 2021

Father God we praise you because you give to us, knowing how little we will give back to you. Jesus came to give without receiving what was due him, honor, praise, glory. He came to serve when he should have been served. Yet, Jesus gave it all...all to Him I owe. Forgive me that my heart is rebellious to be like his heart. Teach me to have a generous nature, loving to others, kind to all, not expecting them to return what I give. But you have taught, "do unto others, as I would have them do unto me". Then I will have blessings returned my way, so much that it's pouring out of my pockets, out of my lap. This is to honor Jesus who is worthy. Amen.

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

(Luke 6:38 KJV)

March 2, 2021

Father God we praise you for your Holy Spirit living in us that gives us ability to love like you love, be holy as you are Holy, know your good and righteous laws with discernment to want to follow them out of obedience. This is what we seek. To know you more in Christlike love. To honor the Name as Lord. To extol Jesus as King above all kings. Then, we will overflow in his fullness which is the hope of our Salvation. Amen.

9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,

(Philippians 1:0-10 NIV)

March 1, 2021

February 28, 2021

Father God we praise you that your Word never changes, it's not hard to understand, it's not burdensome, and it's always True. Forgive me for not doing what your Word tells me to do, in the way I am supposed to do your Will. I am not to choose the way to interpret your Word. I am to follow your Word as it is written. Then, I will become fully mature, pliable, ready for you to use me for your glory and not mine. Amen

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.

(James 1:22-24 NIV)

February 27, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have made yourself known to us through fear which is the best attention getter. Lord we fear you out of Holy respect, awesome wonder, our lack of intellect, and the knowledge we have learned from you. To have wisdom is to seek to please you from the knowledge that you afford us. Thank you that you shine your face on us out of immeasurable Mercy even in our rebellion toward your laws, statutes and requirements. To know your Law and then follow it by our heart is Worship. Amen.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

(Proverbs 9:10 KJV)

February 26, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are Faithful, worthy, steadfast to watch over us. We like sheep, go astray, forget who we belong to, look for other pastures. Forgive us Lord. Protect us from the evil one as he is the most crafty of all creatures. We need to remember that. We need to rely totally on you for direction, and guidance to our daily portion which is you. Thank you that you care for us in our ignorance. You never leave us, you never forsake us, you supply everything we need, every hour we need it. Amen.

But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.

( Thessalonians 3:3 NKJV)

February 25, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have purposed us to fellowship together to be edifying, uplifting, inspiring and good examples of your righteousness to each other. We need to be strengthened to stand against the wiles of the devil in which he misleads others intending to influence us in trying to make us stumble. We must be aware of Satan's use of wolves in brotherly sheep's clothing. And to do this we must know and practice your Truth in actions by using your Words on our tongue in declaration and proclamation to others. Then we can know where they stand and either correct them and save a Brother or Sister, or leave them...you will provide the discernment. Amen.

17 As iron sharpens iron,
So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.

18 Whoever keeps the fig tree will eat its fruit;
So he who waits on his master will be honored.

19 As in water face reflects face,
So a man’s heart reveals the man.

(Proverbs 27:17-19 NKJV)

February 24, 2021

Father God we praise you and affirm with all creation that you are Sovereign, worthy and deserving of honor. Even if we don't extol your virtues to all mankind, the rocks shout it out loud. We see you everyday in everything, everywhere. To deny you is declaring the mind of a fool deserving of judgment and wrath. Protect us from false proclamation and lead us to understand and know you and your Majesty. Amen.

The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

(Psalm 19:1 NIV)

February 23, 2021

Father God we praise you that you are always righteous and just, there is no vindictive malice in your character, no flaws. We want to be like you, in your image holy and good. Purge my heart from worldly inclinations. Make me white as snow. Hold me upright when I stoop over to enjoy worldly pleasure for a season and thereby dishonor your Trust. It is heart service you want rather than lip service. Forgive my unbelief that does not fully commit to your Way. Amen.

To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

(Proverbs 21:3 KJV)

February 22, 2021

Father God we praise you that you made a new way to be in fellowship with you through the Son. You have shown this Way to us, you have drawn us into this Way, you have made this Way available to all who would believe and repent. We believe, Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life...but we also believe He is the "only Way" to forgiveness of sins and the life everlasting. He has made the Way in this life, a former wasteland, now watered by His streams of Mercy. Hallelujah, Amen.

Behold, I am doing a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness
and rivers in the desert.

(Isaiah 43:19 ESV)

February 21, 2021

Father God we praise you because you give the desire to have righteousness in doing your Will. We have passed from death into life because of the goodness of Jesus passed on to the sinful creature by the Atonement of the Cross. We now see His holiness, goodness, righteousness as great gain so that it has become our quest to he like Him. Lord fill us with mercy for others, compassion for the lost, and direction by the Spirit to achieve your Eternal plan. Amen.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.

(Matthew 5:6 NKJV)

February 20. 2021

Father God we praise you because you have made us to be with you, to fellowship, to Worship, to Adore, and honor You. It's in the valleys of this lifetime that we can trust in your rod to correct us, as well as trust in your staff to direct us. The same rod and staff will draw us near even in times of fear, anxiety and worry, knowing they are there for my good...they give comfort in the Unchanging God, YAHWEH. Amen.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

(Psalm 23:4 NKJV)

February 19, 2021

Father God we praise you that we are in your Image. Because of Christ in us, we can choose to be humble, gentle, patient, kind and loving. Lord guide us to bear one another in our fellowship, not judging from hard hearts but out of new reborn hearts. It's when we "want" to live like this, that we are like Jesus. Serving others with mercy is our obedient obligation through the guidance of the Counselor. May we give glory to you Father, in our actions through the indwelling Spirit. Amen.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

(Ephesians 4:2 NIV)

February 18, 2021

“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.

Isaiah 55:1

Father God we praise you that you have offered the free gift of Salvation to all who will answer your call, COME. Come to the waters all who are thirsty, and buy with money you don't have, but God supplies. You supply all our needs without cost, thank you. This is your offer, this is our need, because we have no good in us, no works worthy to repay with. Therefore, we come, knowing and trusting. Amen.

“Ho! Everyone who thirsts,
Come to the waters;
And you who have no money,
Come, buy and eat.
Yes, come, buy wine and milk
Without money and without price.
2 Why do you [a]spend money for what is not bread,
And your wages for what does not satisfy?
Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good,
And let your soul delight itself in abundance.

(Isaiah 55:1-2 NKJV)

February 17, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have shown us how to deny ourselves. You Lord were the example of a suffering servant taking up the cause of spreading the Good News daily. You were prosecuted, we will be persecuted. In following your lead, we die to self and live for you, thereby saving lives by the Holy Spirit and saving ourselves to your glory. Give us discernment to be able to be your disciples. Guide us to be your hands and feet. Amen.

23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.

(Luke 9:23-24 KJV)

February 16. 2021

Father God we praise you because you are looking for us to be still...you are turning to us even when we are turning away. You hear us when we "come to our senses" and cry out to you. It is you and not us who is willing to reconcile. After we wallow in the mud and mire of sin and rebellion you hear, you answer. You wash us with Truth, you cleanse us with forgiveness, you purify us with your Word. Wash me and I will be white as snow. Lord it is your steadfast love that holds me on solid ground and the permanent Promise keeps me steady to honor and obey your commands. Amen.

I waited patiently for the Lord;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

(Psalm 40:1-2 NIV)

February 15. 2021

Father God we praise, honor and exalt your Holy Name because you are worthy. The whole world will glorify your Name. The whole world will sing your praise. The whole world will bend the knee and bow their heads at the Name of Jesus. The heavens declare your glory, and so will all creation. There is no fear, no anxious thoughts, no hopelessness in the mighty saving Name of Jesus. Amen.

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets,
the name of the Lord is to be praised.

(Psalm 113:3 NIV)

February 14. 2021

Father God we praise you that love covers a multitude of sins. It is love that left heaven to go to the cruel Cross. It is love that allowed the creation to mock, spit on, and scourge an All Powerful Creator. Father teach us to love like you. Teach us to put others above ourselves just like you. LORD guide us into the perfect heart of Mercy and compassion that will give us the reflection of your glory. Amen.

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

(Romans 12:10 NIV)

February 13, 2021

Father God we praise you that we can have relationships with each other that show we are all in Christ's family. It is with renewed minds that we are able to walk together, for one purpose, for one glory, toward one goal...Eternity with Jesus. This is where the family of God will reside justified. Amen.

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

(Philippians 2:5-11 KJ21)

February 12, 2021

Father God we praise you that our strength is renewed because of the hope that you give. Lord we thank you that we are able to walk through this wretched world in confidence for a life everlasting with Jesus. Father you lift us up on wings of faith, you help us run the race without growing weary, you guide us to walk daily in the Word so that we will not become faint due to the hopelessness we see. Where do I go but to the LORD? You are my Rock and my Salvation. Amen.

but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.

(Isaiah 40:31 KJ21)

February 11, 2021

Father God we glory in you that we are able to come directly to you in fellowship, Worship, admitting our sins, prayer and supplication, and praise. It's because Jesus made the way past the veil to give us assurance of forgiveness that we can come saying, Abba, Father, and we then have your full attention! Amazing love beyond measure is ours only through and because of Jesus. Lord tune our hearts into your Will so that we do not ask amiss in our prayers. Amen.

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.

(1 John 5:14 ESV)

February 10, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are our Great Shepherd who wounds us so that we can heal in your image. The injury we receive is always bound up with loving kindness and careful compassion in order that we may return to service whole. Father forgive us for the sins we commit in rebellion again. Open ours eyes to Jesus's suffering for sin so that we are committed to our Covenant and turn from the world. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

For He bruises, but He binds up;
He wounds, but His hands make whole.

(Job 5:18 NKJV)

February 9, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have given us the mind of Christ to be faithful in the little things and trustworthy with the big things too. Lord we know there is the flip side of this mindset, the old nature dwells there. Lead us out of any temptation we will face in your power and for your glory. We want to be your ambassadors which is the little thing you have directed us to be, so that we can be leaders to someone searching for your Truth, the big thing. Amen.

He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.
(Luke 16:10 NKJV)

February 8, 2021

Father God we praise you that your Word is alive in us, to us and appointed for us. It's available for use in guiding us, comforting us, inspiring us and aligning us with a useful sanctified spirit. Father the Word is for conviction of sins, forgive me for not seeing that, but denying the revelation of its Truth to admit and ask for your mercies. LORD your Word is for living day-to-day in assurance of your Gift of Salvation. Lead me to it, direct me by it, glorify me in your service with it. Amen.

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

(Hebrews 4:12 ESV)

February 7, 2021

Father God we praise you because your Grace is all sufficient and your power is evident in our weakness. If I boast, let me boast in you to show the power of your greatness and your mercy which is the power to save. Thank you Lord, for your drawing me to yourself when I was lost, dead and wandering. Your Righteousness rests on me now, therefore I will not fear or loose hope. Amen.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

(Corinthians 12:9 NIV)

February 6, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are our God. I don't fear because You are with me, You strengthen me, You help me, You uphold me in my weakness and lack of faith by Your Righteous Right Hand. "My faith looks up to Thee, though Lamb of Calvary". In you we have affirmed our faith, affirmed our hope, affirmed our calling to give glory to you alone. Because of You, we don't fear man or this brief life that will result in death. But because of Jesus, we are no longer ignorant, but we know, we know, yes we know...we have Eternal Life! Oh Glory, You Reign. Amen.

Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’

(Isaiah 41:10 NKJV)

February 5, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy of honor and glory. To think of how Great You are, how compassionate, how loving, how forgiving, how caring reminds me of the unmerited blessing that has been given to me through incredible, immense sacrifice and pain on the Cross at Calvary. Forgive me that I don't think of these things constantly as a reminder of the great debt paid, that which I no longer owe. This is true Grace. Thank you LORD. Amen.

4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.

(Deuteronomy 6:4-6 NIV)

February 4, 2021

Father God we praise you because you offer the only True Savior as the sacrifice for my sins. There is none other, no different name, no different process, no different sacrifice, no different forgiveness by which we MUST BE SAVED. We MUST be saved by the NAME of JESUS, or there is WRATH to come, punishment to face and eternity to suffer. We MUST be truly repentant and turn from sinning against Holy God. We MUST obey Jesus's commands and affirm His Sovereign Authority as LORD of our lives. Then, Salvation is ours says the LORD. Amen.

Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

(Acts 4:12 NKJV)

February 3, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have trusted us to carry out your Will to spread the Good News and make new disciples for Jesus Christ. It is for a baptism of newness of life and belief that Christ came, lived a sinless life, suffered on the Cross and died for my sins, was raised in Power on the 3rd day just as He promised, and is sitting enthroned in Glory at the right hand of the Father. This we affirm by Holy Spirit revelation and proclaim to a lost and dying world to the glory of the Son. He is Risen indeed! Amen.

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

(Matthew 28:10 ESV)

February 2, 2021

Father God we praise you because you sent Jesus to author and finish our faith. We have died to self and been raised in newness for His Life. It is IN Christ Jesus that we exist and have our being. It is the faith in the Son that causes me to bend the knee and bow the head, to honor His sacrifice and to recognize him as LORD. Honor and glory are ascribed to him because Salvation is His Name. Amen.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

(Galatians 2:20 NIV)

February 1, 2021

Father God we praise you that we bear the name Christian. It is ours because you chose us even in our sin. This was to show your greatness, your Mercy, your Grace, your Compassion and your Love toward the helpless creature. To suffer as a Christian is to honor Jesus for his finished Work on the Cross. He considered dying for me on the Cross a worthy act. How then can I not die daily on a cross to myself, which is my normal act of Worship. I will, by the Holy Spirit, die to my old self, be raised to newness of life in Christ Jesus, and thereby glorify Him daily. So help me God. Amen.

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

(1 Peter 4:16 KJV)

January 31, 2021

Father God we praise you because you care about our lives, our daily routines, our long term dreams. I commit to seek your Will so that I can glorify you with my life. I humble myself in thankfulness for the sacrifice that Jesus made in carrying my cross of sin. Help me to walk the way Jesus walked, in love for you and others. I submit my heart to you today for real Worship. I submit my eyes to see others as you do. I submit my hands to do good and not evil. I submit my feet to walk in service to anyone that I meet. Guide me to your perfect Will for your deserved Glory. Amen.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
and he will establish your plans.

(Proverbs 16:3 NIV)

January 30, 2021

Father God we praise you that you quench our thirst in your Truth. It is available to all without cost to any. It is the need we have, spiritual thirst, that you supply through the Holy Spirit. We thank you that Jesus is the Living Water and the Bread of Life. If we partake of these holy elements, we will live. Amen.

“Come, everyone who thirsts,
come to the waters;
and he who has no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without price.

(Isaiah 55:1 ESV)

January 29, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have made us in your image, to fellowship with you and to your glory. It is our inmost "being" that is your image...my thoughts, my contemplations, my meditations. Knowing my rebellion you made me anyway, thank you. Knowing your Salvation you made me in spite of my rebellious nature, Knowing I would answer your drawing me back to yourself. Thank you. Guide me and keep me close to your side. Keep me from my sinful self and protect me from the evil one. Oh the "wonder" of it all, I cannot take it in. Glory to you LORD. Amen.

For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.

(Psalm 139:13-14 NKJV)

January 28, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are Creator God, maker of heaven and earth, and everything in it, seen and unseen. You give life to dust, and call it man. You give light to darkness and call it good. You given Salvation to the rebel and call it Grace. You forgive my sins without judgment...that is Mercy! Oh glory, how Great Thou Art! LORD God Almighty is Your Name. Amen.

Who is he, this King of glory?
The Lord Almighty—
he is the King of glory.

(Psalm 24:10 NIV)

January 27, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy. You show Mercy to me even when I am unkind, mean spirited, and un-Christian in my attitude and actions...Father forgive me. Lord Bless me with a Christlike spirit today that will bring honor and glory to you, so that my witness will be effective. Guard me from the evil one. Prune away my old self, in-graft your Holy Spirit. Make me an encouraging spirit to lift those I meet, to your glory. Amen.

The Beatitudes

5 And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the [a]earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called sons of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

(Matthew 5:1-10 NKJV)

January 26, 2021

Seek the Lord while he may be found;
call on him while he is near.
7 Let the wicked forsake their ways
and the unrighteous their thoughts.
Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them,
and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

(2 Corinthians 4:18 NKJV)

January 25, 2021

Father God we praise you that you are available, near, and ready to hear the repentant heart. Lord we seek your Mercy and need your Grace. Our sins abound in keeping us from true, complete Worship. Guide us to holiness and spiritual growth that gives us the change of heart required to be in proper fellowship with you. Amen.

Seek the Lord while he may be found;
call on him while he is near.
Let the wicked forsake their ways
and the unrighteous their thoughts.
Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them,
and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

(Isaiah 55:6-7 NIV)

January 24, 2021

Father God we praise you and thank you that we can rely on you to carry each burden we bring to you. Forgive us when we try to "work it out" on our own and therein not trusting you. That's when we are overwhelmed by a burden. When we let pride become rebellion we are sinning against you. Instruct us, guide us, to remember that you care about all our troubles great and small and it is good to come to you with each one. Reliance on you shows a strong Faith, and builds on our relationship. Sustainer, Reliable, Maintainer, Holy God is the One we trust in love. Amen.

Cast your cares on the Lord
and he will sustain you;
he will never let
the righteous be shaken.

But you, God, will bring down the wicked
into the pit of decay;
the bloodthirsty and deceitful
will not live out half their days.

But as for me, I trust in you.

(Psalm 55:22 NIV)

January 23, 2021

Father God we praise you for every new day that revives our hope in you. We pray for Holy Spirit guidance in the plans you have in place for us. Help us not to be timid, frightened, hopeless like the world. But give us boldness for your Will, your Word and your Ways. We look forward to the rewards you have given us today and will give to us on "That Day" through the finished Work of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

11 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. 12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

(Jeremiah 29:11-13 NKJV)

January 22. 2021

Father God we praise you because you have made us to shine and share your Good News that Jesus Christ is Risen Indeed! You have called us to be your messengers, your chosen method. Make us the building that houses hope. Make us the sign post that points the way. Use us, equip us, inspire us by your Holy Spirit and the Word so that your change in us is evident and desired to be had by others. Amen.

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

(Matthew 5:14-16 NKJV)

January 21, 2021

Father God we praise you because you showed us that you love us with actions that led to the ultimate sacrifice on the Cross. Thank you for loving us that much. Because we needed redemption, you had to suffer the scorn, open ridicule of men and complete wrath of God for our sins. Forgive us when we are not grateful by loving others as you have instructed us to do. It is to your shame when we do not follow and obey your commands. Forgive us for shaming your precious Name and injuring your integrity by a hard heart. Melt me, mold me, use me, fill me with your Spirit to the glory of our Father. Amen.

“He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

(John 3:18 NKJV)

January 20, 2021

Father God we praise you that we can come to you about anything and everything at all times. We thank you that you are waiting to hear from us like a good, good Father. We lift up each other right now for forgiveness, mercy, and Holy Spirit direction to seek your Will and glorify you. Provide us with alert minds that know the time is near so that we will tell others of the wrath to come, and the Grace offered. Amen.

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

(Ephesians 6:18 KJV)

January 19, 2021

Father God we praise you because you have called us to be faithful and to Abide in you, just as you Abide in us. The whole purpose of realizing our call is to consistently work in the fields as they are ripe. We are not weary in the Work because we have not been faithful to show up for Work. Forgive us from this sin. Guide us this day to react with love for someone you will place in our path and share the Good News of what Jesus has done and what the Holy Spirit will do to the glory of the Father. This is the chief purpose of man. Amen.

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

(Galatians 6:9 NKJV)

January 18, 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worthy of praise, honor and glory. You have set in place the way for us to be at peace with you. When we become your children we are to obey you, and you have commanded us to be peacemakers. In doing this, we show we love you and that we acknowledge your laws, decrees and statutes as good. Forgive me Lord when I do not control my feelings. Forgive me when I allow Satan to have a foothold. You give me power by your Spirit to overcome all temptations. I thank you for forgiveness of these sins. Help me to be at peace with mankind no matter what carnal conflicts arise in this world, help me keep my eyes only on you. Amen.

Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.

(Matthew 5:8 NIV)

January 17, 2021, Sanctity of Human Life Sunday

Father God we praise you because you are the giver, Sovereign, Master and author of life and death. It is yours to give and to take away since you alone Created it. You Lord have given us life that is an awareness in being Created, being thought about, being loved, being individuals, being with purpose for your glory. Forgive us that we, your people, have allowed life to be minimized to a business, a humanist personal choice and thereby sinning against you. Guide us to stop the taking of infant life, the shedding of innocent blood. We acknowledge your Authority as giver and sustainer of human life. Amen.

“The Lord brings death and makes alive;
he brings down to the grave and raises up.

(1 Samuel 2:6 NIV)

January 16. 2021

Father God we praise you because you are worth seeking, you are not hidden, you are like gold to be found. Lord how can I seek you, except that it is with all my heart. Then, you will help me to find you...you reveal the deep, wondrous things about yourself. Thank you for giving me the right to earnestly know you. You Father, are my all in everything and I praise you that Jesus has shown me, given me a heart like his that wants to be with you, to please you, to support your Will...to your glory. Amen.

And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

(Jerimiah 29:13 NKJV)

January 15, 2021

Father God we praise you that you guide our steps as we live our lives in the counsel of the Spirit. It is by this perfect directing that we live and have our being. As we go through life today, make us mindful of your calling, your purpose, your Promise and our example Jesus. He sought to please you and do your Will, and by the Spirit's help we will do that too. Father protect us from the evil one. Amen.

In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps.

(Proverbs 16:9 NIV)

January 14, 2021

Father God we praise you that you give us assurance in Christ that helps us pass through the deep waters of this life, and carries us to the shores of heaven. We can rest in knowing the things in this world are passing away and do not concern us. We are to be concerned with Worship of our King on a continuous basis, keeping Him as the focus of life so we are not dragged down. We need not understand everything, we just need to trust in the faith we have, and request more faith that will come freely from our Good Father. Amen.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4:7 NIV)

January 13. 2021

Father God we praise you because we are righteous in your sight by Jesus's finished Work on the Cross. Lord we are blessed when we are persecuted because of the Name of Jesus. It affirms that we are in your Will when others hate us. Can we really say, "glorious is thy Name oh Lord"? We can, only because we know and love Jesus. Help us to stand on your Truth today and by it be blessed. Amen.

Blessed are they that are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.

(Matthew 5:10 KJ21)

January 12, 2021

Father God we praise you that you are a generous giver of good gifts to any who sincerely want them. You don't find fault in our need, but graciously support us in our seeking to serve you with the best of intentions. Lord give us the wisdom of Solomon, to want the wisdom that honors you and serves others to the end means of giving out the Good News to all who will hear, of Jesus Christ raised from the dead with the victory of Salvation. This is our prayer. Amen.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

(Janes 1:5 NIV)

January 11. 2021

Father God we praise you that we are now marked by your love. It's a love beyond our understanding but one that we embrace by the Holy Spirit's teaching. We are not told to "like" each other...but we are "commanded" to love each other, if we are in the faith and Trust Jesus to lead us. I am no longer my own, I have been bought with a price. I will follow Jesus. Amen.

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.’

(John 13:35 NIV)

January 10, 2021

Father God we praise you that your Holy Spirit spurs us on and encourages us to love one another and do good for your glory. Thank you for being faithful in fellowship with us. Make us aware that our normal duty of fellowship is to meet together and Worship you as the church, the body of believers. We need this corporate Worship to strengthen and protect us from many temptations and the evil one. We give you glory and honor your Name. Amen.

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

(Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV)

January 9, 2021

Father God we praise you for unconditional love, forever friendship and compassionate mercy. Lord you are the help we need at all times but especially right now. Draw us to seek your guidance and assurance, not relying on man or the world. We are in distress and great troubles in our country and our spirits. Enlighten us more and more to the Truth of being your called ones for "a time such as this". In the end, you get the glory you deserve and we are saved. Amen.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

(Psalm 46:1 KJV)

January 8, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have revealed yourself to us in the hearing of our souls. We affirm your greatness, we proclaim your Salvation, we acknowledge your Sovereignty. Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty, we will extol honor due your Name by praising you all day long. Thank you for forgiveness in my sins committed and in my sins omitted, the things I do and the things I don't do, in knowing right from wrong I willingly commit sins against you. Woe is me...but Jesus! Strengthen me. Amen and Amen.

Therefore You are great, O Lord God. For there is none like You, nor is there any God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears.

(2 Samuel 7:22 NKJV)

January 7, 2021

Father God we praise you because all things are yours, they come from you to be used for your glory. You love a cheerful giver and you reward them with more. You ask our attitude to be like that of the widow who gave all she had...our attitude of trust in you. Guide us to give freely and not withhold unduly. This is also in gifts and service, love and compassion, mercy and forgiveness. Forgive us as we have not trusted you in all things. Amen.

One person gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

(Proverbs 11:24 NIV)

January 6. 2021

Father God we praise you that you came to us, lived like us, showed us your diety, in Grace and Truth. We do not deny Who you are, God Incarnate, God the Father, God the Holy Spirit, Creator God, Savior God, Merciful God, Redeemer God, God Who hears me...LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, Maker of all things. May we give you honor that you deserve by living like Jesus lived. Amen.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

(John 1:14 NKJV)

January 5, 2021

Father God we praise you that we can have a new heart and a renewed spirit by your directions and your leading. This Lord we ask today, for you know our inmost and hidden thoughts, thoughts we shouldn't think take away...thoughts we should think multiply. Guard my heart, guide my heart for your service and your glory. Amen.

"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."

(Psalm 51:10 KJV)

January 4, 2021

Father God we praise you that you supply our more important spiritual food in addition to our physical needs. We need to consider the importance of this spiritual food above physical food. By it we are protected from temptation, stumbling, weakness and stagnation. Guide us to seek your face in your Word so that we may be equipped for every good work, your work and our calling. Amen.

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ ”

(Matthew 4:4 NKJV)

January 3. 2021

Father God we praise you that you grafted us into Yourself and that we can rely on your supplication to our only need, spiritual food. Lord feed us today, the food that causes us to really hunger for more of You. It is IN you that we thrive, we grow, we witness, the great and mighty things that sustain us to bear much fruit for your glory. Apart from you we can do nothing, we will not do anything, we would be worthless rather than worthy. Bless us as you already have and guide us as you always do. Amen.

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

(John 15:5 NIV)

January 2, 2021

Father God we praise you that we can be strong and very courageous because you go before us and you follow us. This is so that we are not overwhelmed or overtaken by the things of this world. Strengthen us to keep our focus on you and your Word. Then we can be used by you to Worship the Son, be led by the Spirit and honor the Father. This is our prayer, this is our fervent request. Amen.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

(Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV)

New Years Day, 2021

Father God we praise you that you have made us new, you have given us new life, new direction, new hope, and a steadfast Promise. We are now IN Christ for his glory to do your Will as He did your Will. Help us grow in boldness and seek your good pleasure to tell of your Greatness, Mercy and Salvation. You are our God. We will proclaim your Name to the nations, all people great and small. This, we Resolve to do. Amen.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

(2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV)

December 31, 2020, New Years Eve

Father God we praise you that your Promise is new every morning. It's not different, it's reviving, revealing, replenishing for me to see afresh the hope that you give. The morning gives me affirmation of your Neverending love, it reminds me that I can trust in you. You are not obscure, hidden, or vague, your Word tells me your Truth, your Spirit tells me "walk this Way". You Lord are my LORD, remind me all day, every minute. Amen.

Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.

(Psalm 143:8 NIV)

December 30, 2020

Father God we praise you because when we were your enemies, you loved us and went to the cross. You set the mark to pray for those who persecute us by praying for your murderers. How many times should I forgive my enemy...7 times 70, or always forgive others, so that my Father in heaven will hear me when I ask forgiveness. Lord give me your Spirit with power today. Help me to glorify you. Help me to grow in grace to be a light. Amen.

But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,

(Matthew 5:44 NKJV)

December 29, 2020

Father God we thank you for your love that is patient, kind, not boastful, not proud, not dishonoring of others, or even self seeking. But you do deserve the Glory you demand and it will be yours. Your love is perfect love that seeks us, the ones who even crucified your Son. You honored us with His presence among us. You allowed him to be the humble servant before and to the hateful creation. Lord forgive me that I don't exhibit this example of your love at all times as I should. If I love you I will obey your commands. Help me be like Jesus. Amen.

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up;

5 doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6 rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7 beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

(1 Corinthians 13:4-7 KJ21)

December 28, 2020

Father God we praise you that if we earnestly seek you, you are not far away, you can be found. You answer my call, my individual voice is heard by you, amazing! And if you hear me, then I am assured that you will deliver me from my troubles. I thank you Lord that you can be found and are always available to me, your child. You sought me and you bought me with your redeeming blood. Glory! Amen.

I sought the Lord, and He heard me,
And delivered me from all my fears.

(Psalm 34:4 NKJV)

December 27, 2020

Father God we praise you that you supply everything we need to stand in and against any troubles in this world. We know and affirm your power as Sovereign. We know and affirm your Word as the only Truth. We know and affirm the completed Work of Jesus that saves us unto That Day. Because of this, your revelation to us, we will not fear or be timid. But we will speak confidently proclaiming with zeal the Hope that we have so that others will be saved. Glorify yourself in us is our prayer. Amen.

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the [a]wiles of the devil.

(Ephesians 6:11 NKJV)

December 26, 2020

Father God we praise you that we can be strong and courageous because you give us the power to overcome the world. You have shown us the way to Truth, and it is good. We are commanded to seek your help because you want to give us help in all times and all situations. You are our Rock and Redeemer in you is our hope. Thank you Lord for making us whole again to honor you and for your glory. Amen.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

(Joshua 1:9 NIV)

Christmas day, 2020

Notice this picture and what it really shows...the open tomb with burial rags and no body. At least this is what I see...This is the reality of Christ's birth, born that men may not die, born to give them second birth, born to point us to Creator God and His Mercy.

Father God we praise you for the spotless Lamb that takes away the sins of the world. There is no greater love than this, that a friend would lay down his life for another. This is what Jesus did, this is what we celebrate in thankful gratitude. Amen.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

(Isaiah 9:6 KJV)

December 24, 2020

Father God we praise you that you have revealed this Son to us, in Truth, so that once "seeing" Him we too kneel down and Worship Him. This virgin birth miracle is our belief because it came through you the Omniscient, Omnipotent, Omnipresent God. We bow down and Worship you LORD. We bow down and proclaim your Sovereignty. We bow down and Praise you alone. Amen.

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

(Matthew 2:11 NIV)

December 23, 2020

Father God we praise you and give you glory that you deserve for giving us Jesus's Saving Grace. We thank you and affirm that your peace rests on us, not for anything we have done, but because of all that He has done and will do to cleanse us from our sins and to be used to glorify him. We have peace because Hope came when there was no hope. Love showed up when we hated. Joy comes in the morning to renew my mind and spirit to seek Your face to strengthen me. Glory to God in the highest! Amen.

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

(Luke 2:14 NKJV)

December 22, 2020

Father God we praise you that you became like us, to be with us, to show us your love. We are in awe of the glory you have revealed so far, and continue to seek your face to know you better. It is grace and truth we need to be able to glorify you. You will give it to us if we are earnestly asking in faith. Father fill us up till we want no more, making us usable. Amen.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

(John 1:14 NIV)

December 21, 2020

Father God we praise you and thank you for sending Jesus. I thank him for being willing to come even in my rebellion and hate against him. I was at enmity against you and you loved me enough to "make a way". That Way was Jesus. I affirm the Truth and proclaim the Name as LORD above all names in heaven and on the earth. Thank you for making us a people for your service and worship. Amen.

And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.

(Matthew 1:21 NKJV)

December 20. 2020, Fourth Sunday in Advent

Father God we praise you for your revelation of your Gift to all mankind. We have the sign. We know the Truth. He was prophesied about, and He came...that, we proclaim, as explained by the Scriptures and testified by the Holy Spirit. The Lord himself has come to us in our need, and we honor Him. You are, God with us. Amen.

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel

(Isaiah 7:14 NKJV)

December 19, 2020

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

(Isaiah 7:14 NIV)

December 19, 2020

Father God we praise you because we can rejoice in your Love, Mercy and Grace. Not only "can" we be Joyful, but we "will" be Joyful. It's the choice that you give us to make, that will affirm our beliefs, our trust and our covenant with you. You are our Covenantal God. You made the Covenant. You keep the Covenant. You represent the Covenant. We have joy unspeakable. In this we rejoice. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, it's now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, Amen.

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

(Philippians 4:4 NKJV)

December 18, 2020

Father God we praise you that you are our Salvation, strength and defense. In You Lord is our trust and you are who we rely on because you are Faithful and True. Father we are no longer afraid of death, mankind, pestilence, famine or physical ailments because you have defeated the death sentence for us. You give life and you give it abundantly without limitation. Thank you. Amen.

Behold, God is my salvation,
I will trust and not be afraid;
‘For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song;
He also has become my salvation.

(Isaiah 12:2 NKJV)

December 17, 2020

Father God we praise you for Joyful thanks that comes from affirming prayer which acknowledges Jesus's finished Work of Salvation. So that in all circumstances we know in who we believe, and am persuaded that He is able, to keep us unto That Day. It is God's Will that we seek him in prayer...it is God's Will that we rejoice in all circumstances...it is God's Will that we thank him for our certainty in Christ Jesus...therefore we will be obedient and glorify him by doing these things today and always. Amen.

Rejoice evermore.

Pray without ceasing.

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV)

December 16, 2020

Father God we thank you that you have forgiven us of the righteous grievances that you had against us. We were your enemies...you have made us heirs. We hated you...you have extended an everlasting love onto us. Now Lord, we are your disciples if we forgive as you forgave us. Guide us and protect us from our old ways so that we glorify you with our new nature. Then, they will know we are Christians by our love. Amen.

forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.

(Colossians 3:13 ASV)

December 15, 2020

Father God we praise you for your good deeds that we can emulate by the indwelling Spirit. It is not anything good that we would do, but it is your Goodness inside of us coming out to show Salvation's miraculous power over evil. Everything we do, all that we are, anything we think, is what we now love because it glorifies you. There is nothing more that we want than to see You, High and lifted up. You are my God, my Father, my Savior and Redeemer...in you alone is my trust. Amen.

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

(Matthew 5:16 NIV)

December 14, 2020

Father God we praise you that in your Greatness you take notice of us in our weakness, our nothingness, our meaninglessness. Because you have loved us enough to send Jesus to reconcile for us, our enmity toward you, we now have worth. Forgive me for not acknowledging your Sovereignty and Authority over all things, and especially in Merciful Salvation. Thank you that you first loved me...sought me...bought me...and have brought me into your forever family. I see the work of your hands, and I am most amazed at you Work of Grace. Hallelujah, Amen.

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?

(Psalms 8:3.4 NKJV)

December 13, 2020, The third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete)

Father God we praise you that your Light of Life Jesus has shined on us to show us the Truth of needed repentance. We thank you that we are your people, grafted into your Promise by His Work in life, followed by His power on the Throne. That power grants us sonship to life everlasting with You. It is in this that we have Joy. Amen.

The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned.

(Isaiah 9:2 NIV)

December 12, 2020

Father God we praise you that we are ready for Jesus's second coming. It is by your power that we are ready. We should be more fervent in our work that you called us to...forgive us. Guide us to share the Good News so that others can be ready and your Son glorified. Amen.

Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

(Luke 12:40 NKJV)

December 11, 2020

Father God we praise you that you still speak to us by your Word, taught by the Holy Spirit. You are the Light that came down from heaven, and we affirm that Truth. There is no lie in you. Only good emanates from you so that man is proved a liar. Keep us in your Light so that we can serve you in holiness. Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty. Amen.

Again therefore Jesus spake unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.

(John 8:12 ASV)

December 10, 2020

Father God we praise you for showing us how to care for and carry each other's burdens. You showed us how to be a servant to all, by love through sacrifice. Forgive me as I have not loved my brothers and sisters as you told me to. I have not allowed your Will to be preeminent over mine. Help me fulfill your law to love my brother as myself, yet more than myself so that I can be Christlike. Amen.

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

(Galatians 6:2 NKJV)

December 9. 2020

Father God we praise you that out of our hopeless estate you supplied joy. We thank you that you trust us to share your Good News...how are we doing? Shamefully we are not faithful to your command and commission. Forgive us, but make us willing to sow seeds of Salvation in tears, which means we know exactly where lost people go in death, hell. Give us compassion to speak Truth so that others can share your joy. Amen.

hose who sow in tears
Shall reap in joy.

(Psalm 126:5 NKJV)

December 8, 2020

*Note: I really appreciate this translation, the Word is very clear for us here.

Father God we praise you "in" the confident hope we have through the Holy Spirit's indwelling direction on our lives. We must be patient and, "be still, and wait on the Lord", in all times. But especially during times of great troubles, testing and doubt. Your direction to us is, to pray without ceasing. The reason for that is to take us away from self reliance and point our confidence to you, our relief. We thank you for forgiveness that we try to "do it" and "fix it" without you, for it is a sin and rebellion to do so. Thank you that you will never leave us or forsake us. Amen.

Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.

(Romans 12:12 NLT)

December 7, 2020

Father God we praise you for your Word, the Scripture that gives us hope and encouragement. Guide us to be faithful to use it, seek it's Truth, meditate on it, affirm it with words, express it in witness and thereby build our faith. Father teach us and strengthen us to follow your laws, decrees and statutes for our maturing and your glory. We look forward to THE DAY when our faith becomes sight and we behold Jesus! Amen.

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

(Romans 15:4 NIV)

December, 6, 2020, The second Sunday of Advent

Father God we praise you that you have already come bringing forgiveness for my sins. Lord we love you because you have gone to prepare a place for us where we will be with you forever. Father we trust that you are coming again soon. You are not tarrying, but will come at the time you have already set. There are no unknowns in your plans. Therefore, we are to do the work while it is still day, assured that we are saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ. Thank you for loving us...Amen.

“Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.”
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”

(Mark 1:2-4 NKJV)

December 5, 2020

Father God we praise you for Salvation, simple and free. We are great sinners...you are a great Savior. We receive your blessing of Grace, through Faith that makes us your children! We believe we are now, forever, your children. "Therefore, there is now no more condemnation for us who are in Christ Jesus", as we are and now stand to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God

(John 1:12 NIV)

December 4. 2020

Father God we praise you that we are your people who you love unconditionally and forever. Thank you for your kindness to seek us in our rebellion. Thank you for your Mercy that drew us, showing us our sin deserving death, but offering us life in Jesus. To you be glory, honor, love and praise. Amen

The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, “Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

(Jeremiah 31:3 KJ21)

December 3, 2020

Father God we praise and honor you for being with us at all times, protecting and directing us. We will look to you alone for strength, truth, joy, hope and peace. When the deep trials rise, we will place our feet on the Rock Jesus. When the fire of temptation comes, we will walk through them in your Truth. You are with us until the rivers all run dry, until all the embers go out, your faithfulness lasts forever. Amen.

When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.

(Isaiah 43:2 NIV)

December 2, 2020

Father God we praise you and thank you for Grace that "has saved" us, Mercy that "keeps us saved" and your Mighty Right Hand that assures us "we ARE saved". Faith is the victory that overcomes the world, so that in it you receive glory and we do not. We believe you have saved us because of the great love that we are learning to exhibit. It has been done by you, for your glory and through the Holy Spirit so that we can't boast and we are not left alone. We thank you for the free gift, but know it is a "pearl of great cost", to the One who paid the price. Amen.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.

(Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV)

December 1, 2020

Father God we praise you for our treasure in heaven. We think of things when we think of treasure. But our real treasure is Jesus...he is waiting for us in heaven to award us lasting peace, rest, joy and tranquility only found in His love. Our treasures we have here are to be used to show our affection for your glory and to be shown faithful in support of Worship and spreading the Good News. Guide us to give what is yours and in your Will. Then we will be rich. Amen.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

(Mathew 6:21 NKJV)

November 30, 2020

Father God we praise you that you have restored us and brought us out of the former ways we walked. We love your ways now and can see the folly of loving sin. We love goodness, your Goodness, and that will be our walk forever more by your Spirit. Strengthen us today. Guide us into righteousness for your glory. Amen.

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves

(Colossians 1:13 NIV)

November 29. 2020, First Sunday of Advent

Father God we praise and worship you because you are our Lord God and Creator God. You are worthy of honor and glory and praise on bended knee with head bowed and hands raised to receive your blessings. We can come to you anytime, and we are invited to seek you always. Thank you Lord for making us aware of Mercy. Thank you Father for giving us Grace. Thank you Sovereign Maker for giving me forgiveness of my sins...they are sins, not to be called failings or shortcomings so that I can feel better, but they are my sins. You are Faithful, I am grateful. Amen.

Come, let us bow down in worship,
let us kneel before the Lord our Maker

(Psalm 95:6 NIV)

November 28, 2020

Father God we praise you because you have blessed us. You keep us by your mighty hand. You smile on us and are gracious in Mercy to us. You seek us and you glorify us with your peace. How can we not be thankful and humble to then obey your commands and decrees? Forgive me as I have not completely honored you with real Worship by following you in holiness. Forgive me as I have not truly loved my neighbor. LORD forgive me the sinner. Guide me into your courts with praise and joy and singing. Glory to your Name. Amen.

The Lord bless you
and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you
and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you
and give you peace.

(Numbers 6:24-26 NKJV)

November 27, 2020

Father God we praise you that you have given us a heart like yours. You will give us the opportunity to tell of this great love we have through the Son by the Holy Spirit. We will do good because we ARE saved, not because there is inherently any good thing about us...good comes from you then through us for your glory. Keep us as one body...one heart, one mind, one soul. That as the body, we will love each other as you have loved us. Amen.

So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith.

(Galatians 6:10 ASV)

Thanksgiving day, 20230

Father God we will enter your gates with thanksgiving and your courts with praise because you are worthy. You LORD are good all the time, your love endures forever by your mighty hand of forgiveness. We can consider how great Thou art by your revelation to us and your Merciful drawing of us to yourself. Glory to your Name. Amen.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100:4-5 NIV)

November 25, 2020

Father God we praise you because of your wonderful deeds of love, life, redemption for sinners, unmerited favor, marvelous Grace and unending Mercy. You are the Most High God and worthy of Worship and honor and glory. We give thanks that You have chosen us, called us and appointed us to tell of these great things. "I will be glad and rejoice" in the hope that you have given in Jesus Christ. Forgive me my sins, although many, I know each one just as you do. Therefore, I ask for, and am assured in knowing, I am forgiven of each one. Glory! Amen.

I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart;
I will tell of all Your marvelous works.

I will be glad and rejoice in You;
I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High. (Psalm 9:1-2 NKJV)

November 24, 2020

Father God we praise you because you are in charge and over all things, seen and unseen. We trust in the hope we already have through the work of Jesus Christ on the Cross and the assurance of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Heal us from all doubts. Strengthen us through the reading of your Word. Forgive us each, of our sins. Then we can be glad in that "you" have done this. Amen.

Anxiety weighs down the heart,
but a kind word cheers it up. (Proverbs 12:25 NIV)

November 23, 2020

Father God we thank you that you have loved us while we were unlovable and your enemies. We praise you for the example of agape love that you exhibited on the Cross. This then is how we should love others, as you loved us. Forgive us Lord, when we do not practice this "command" and forgive as we have been forgiven. Strengthen us by your Holy Spirit to be your children, worthy to be called Christian. Amen.

We love Him because He first loved us. (John 4:19 NKJV)

November 22, 2020

Father God we praise you because you are good and you give everlasting love. Father forgive us when we forget this simple, but wonderful truth. If we would but affirm it often we would not succumb to life's hateful, godless lies. Lord we give honor and glory, praise and thanks to you because of unmerited Grace, Mercy and forgiveness. Help us Worship you today and everyday with pure hearts. Amen.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his love endures forever. (Psalm 107:1 NIV)

November 21, 2020

Father God we praise you that all is well now, because of Jesus. Whether good health or bad, strengthen us to follow your Will, listen to your voice and seek your face. Amen.

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, just as you are progressing spiritually. (3 John 1:2 NIV)

November 20, 2020

Father God we praise you because you are all we need, you are All in All. Save us from the love of money and show us the love of Jesus as riches to seek and share. Then we will be like Him. All the worthless dross of life will fall away from our attention and holiness will become our way to walk. We thank you for and affirm your faithfulness to never leave us or forsake us. This is our hope, life everlasting with you. Amen.

Be ye free from the love of money; content with such things as ye have: for himself hath said, will in no wise fail thee, neither will I in any wise forsake thee (Hebrews 13:5 ASV)

November 19, 2020

Father God we praise you for your Holy Word which gives faith and enlightens understanding. It shows us our sin and your holiness. We now live by this faith that is beyond our understanding. It grants us assurance in your promise of Jesus as Savior and Lord. So simple, yet so profound, many miss the blessings of your Word because they ignore it. Guide us to seek you in the reading and the hearing of this Word for our sanctification and to your glory. Amen.

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17 KJV)

November 18, 2020

Father God we praise you for life everlasting in the Son, Jesus Christ. What must I do to be saved...repent and believe. Father we thank you that we no longer fear death. Because of the resurrection and the power that raised Jesus from the dead, we will live again though we die. So, I repent in faith. I affirm my belief. I proclaim the Good News...He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed! Amen.

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26 NKJV)

November 17, 2020

Father God we praise you for the glory you share with us that will never fade, wither or fall. It is your Will that we enjoy this glory now. Lord we pray for forgiveness in not affirming your Majesty, Sovereignty and glory. In affirming these attributes we will put away doubts and anxiety so that our walk is confident and peaceful. Lord we need your power to overcome the attacks of the devil. This power is your Glory. We thank you for loving us and seeking us to be with you always. Amen.

24 For, “All people are like grass,
and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;
the grass withers and the flowers fall,
25 but the word of the Lord endures forever.” And this is the word that was preached to you. (I Peter 1:24-25 NIV)

November 16, 2020

Father God we praise you because You are the answer for blessings to all situations. You are to be sought in times of trouble, grief or despair, in prayer. You are to be exalted with songs of praise in times of joy, peace and prosperity and rest. It is with great joy and affirmation that we use prayer for help, knowing that you will hear. A voice of praise cures the ailing heart, because it's focus is God. Lord we are happy in knowing that our Savior is high and lifted up, coming again on the clouds to reclaim us, soon and very soon. Amen.

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. (James 5:13 NIV)

November 15, 2020

Father God we praise you that we are grafted into your chosen family as complete heirs, not step heirs, but full Blood heirs. Father forgive me when I forget to Abide in you and wander. Guide my "wanter" to want you more so that I can enjoy your gift of Mercy right now, today, all the time. Make me a fruit producing vine that loves to share your Good News. Bless me by drawing me close today. Help me see your face clearly. Help me remain. Amen.

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine, no more can ye, unless ye abide in Me (John 15:4 KJ21)

November14, 2020

Father God we praise your Holy Name because you are worthy. Father we ask in reverence and humbleness, forgiveness for our individual sins. This is where being humble in your presence begins, with a contrite heart, truly sorry for my disobedience. Thank you Lord for your mighty hand that redeemed me instead of destroying me in righteous wrath. In your Mercy you have uplifted me to be useful, set apart for your glory. Amen.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time (I Peter 5:6KJV)

November 13, 2020

When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?(Isaiah 8:19 NIV)

Father God we praise you because you are not dead, but the Living God. The God who gives life, the God who Created life, the God who shares life, you are my God. I don't need stars to tell me my future, your Word does that. I don't need luck in any way to keep me safe, your Holy Spirit keeps me safe. Therefore, I trust in you as my refuge, my rock and my fortress. I inquire of you in all things, not signs in nature or a spiritualist. Amen.

November 11, 2020

Father God we praise you because you have caused us and called us to gather in your Name for your purpose. You are always with us in Spirit and even multiplied in exaltation when we come together as one body. We gather to seek closeness, wisdom and insight from you to know you better. In that way, we are encouraged to admit our sins to you, to see and experience your great Mercy. By our gathering, we affirm belief in your promise and are strengthened by each other. You are forever praised! Amen.

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them (Mathew 18:20 NIV).

November 10, 2020

Father God we praise you because You give hope in the assurance of life everlasting. This is the prize we run for, to see Jesus, Worship Jesus, honor, praise, exalt and love Jesus forever. We thank you for ironclad, unwavering faith which the Helper, the Holy Spirit supplies. Not of ourselves, "so that no one can boast". Father the faith we have also allows us to ask and be forgiven of our sins, as we admit them, each one. Father strengthen us to be faithful, merciful and loving to everyone we meet, and thereby honor Jesus. Amen.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1 NKJV)

November 11, 2020

Jesus said, "if you hold to my truths, you are really my disciples."...in the preceeding verse.

Father God we praise you that your Truth has set us free and your Spirit guides us to hold to them. Forgive my weakness in not keeping in line with what I profess and what I know to be true. You are God, there is no other. This is the Truth Jesus revealed to all his disciples, and it is what we believe. Help me be the disciple that you have called me to be...Holy, blameless, above reproach. Then I will be truly free in your Will. Amen.

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free (John 8:32 NIV).