Ezekiel 5:5-7
5 "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: This is Jerusalem, which I have set in the center of the nations, with countries all around her. 6 Yet in her wickedness she has rebelled against my laws and decrees more than the nations and countries around her. She has rejected my laws and has not followed my decrees.
7 "Therefore this is what the Sovereign LORD says: You have been more unruly than the nations around you and have not followed my decrees or kept my laws. You have not even conformed to the standards of the nations around you.
Christians are held to a higher standard than those of the world. We have been given the laws of God, we know what He has for us, we have a relationship with the Lord, yet when we sin, we are worst than any non-Christian. They are lost, yet we know the law, yet choose to sin against Him.
Sometimes it feels so difficult to hold myself up to a higher standard, to God’s standard, and sometimes it feels unfair to be a Christian, because we know what is right and holy. But, the Lord is with us, we are Salvation, and we know God with an intimate relationship. He will give us strength. He will be our Rock. We should be joyful because we have the Lord on our side.
Father God, I thank you for this word that you gave. Though it is words of warnings, the outcome is a realization for your Love for us. I know that you are with me. I know that there is more than my own fears, but to trust in You and to live a life according to your ways. I thank you for all that we have been through together, and I know that you will not let up. I keep you as my strength. Use me in your ways I pray, in Jesus name.
Amen.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
When I Am Weak, You Are Strong
Psalm 143:4-6
4 So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed.
5 I remember the days of long ago;
I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.
6 I spread out my hands to you;
my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Sometimes we feel so drained. I feel drained at times. There are so many things going on in life that life gets tiring.
As we continue to live life, we will be mentally, physically, emotionally drained, but the Lord says to lean on Him. Take refuge in Him. He says to take up His strength and allow Him to fill our lives with His strength.
Lord, as I am weak, You are strong. Allow me to draw close to you when I need your strength. I want to be refreshed in your Spirit. Father, I pray that I always seek You. Give me strength when I have none. Give me life when I am dead. Thank you Lord, and I give you all the praise in Jesus name.
Amen.
4 So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed.
5 I remember the days of long ago;
I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.
6 I spread out my hands to you;
my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Sometimes we feel so drained. I feel drained at times. There are so many things going on in life that life gets tiring.
As we continue to live life, we will be mentally, physically, emotionally drained, but the Lord says to lean on Him. Take refuge in Him. He says to take up His strength and allow Him to fill our lives with His strength.
Lord, as I am weak, You are strong. Allow me to draw close to you when I need your strength. I want to be refreshed in your Spirit. Father, I pray that I always seek You. Give me strength when I have none. Give me life when I am dead. Thank you Lord, and I give you all the praise in Jesus name.
Amen.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
A Life That Reflects The Goodness of God
3 John 1:11
11Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
Our actions reflect our lifestyle, and our lifestyle is a reflection of our character. Character that reflects God's character is good.
We need to continually seek after that which is good. We need to continually seek after God's purpose for our lives.
Father God, I pray over your words that you may reveal your works through it. Allow it to reveal to my heart your purpose for my life. Show me and let me hear from you so that I may be changed for you. Lord, I pray that my character reflects your goodness. I thank you and I give you all the glory and praise in Jesus name.
Amen.
11Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
Our actions reflect our lifestyle, and our lifestyle is a reflection of our character. Character that reflects God's character is good.
We need to continually seek after that which is good. We need to continually seek after God's purpose for our lives.
Father God, I pray over your words that you may reveal your works through it. Allow it to reveal to my heart your purpose for my life. Show me and let me hear from you so that I may be changed for you. Lord, I pray that my character reflects your goodness. I thank you and I give you all the glory and praise in Jesus name.
Amen.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Lord Commands To Walk In Love
2 John 1:4-6
4It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. 5And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.
The author John speaks of Love and Obedience. These two things go hand in hand with one another. If you love, you obey.
We must love the Lord with all our hearts, and when we do that, we want to obey His commands. His command is to walk in love, and we should do that as Christians, to show love in our lives.
Father God, I thank you for your words. I pray that you anoint it in your Holy name. Allow my life to love and obey your words. To be direct by you to walk in love. Guide me in your Spirit I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
4It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. 5And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.
The author John speaks of Love and Obedience. These two things go hand in hand with one another. If you love, you obey.
We must love the Lord with all our hearts, and when we do that, we want to obey His commands. His command is to walk in love, and we should do that as Christians, to show love in our lives.
Father God, I thank you for your words. I pray that you anoint it in your Holy name. Allow my life to love and obey your words. To be direct by you to walk in love. Guide me in your Spirit I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Living Our Lives With God's Testimony
1 John 5:9-12
9We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. 10Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. 11And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
One's own personal testimony is powerful. We all have our own testimonies, but here it says that God's testimony is greater. All our testimony leads to God's testimony; for His Son, Christ Jesus has come and died for our sins. His testimony is at the core of our Salvation.
Testimonies are powerful and strengthens ourselves and others. Nick Vujicic's testimony about living a life without arms and legs is very powerful, but His ministry does not lean on his testimony alone, but on God's. For God's testimony is at at the center of our own. We must remember His testimony in our hearts, stable and secure in our life, as well as have our own testimony, in Christ who strengthens us.
Father God, I pray for your words to come. Let your testimony resound in my life. I pray for your understanding of just how much you loved me to be at the core of my heart and life. I pray for your testimony to be everlasting. I also pray for my own testimony, that I may let others know of your presence in my life. I pray for your wisdom and guidance. I thank you, Lord, and I pray that you may be gloried in Jesus name.
Amen.
9We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. 10Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. 11And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
One's own personal testimony is powerful. We all have our own testimonies, but here it says that God's testimony is greater. All our testimony leads to God's testimony; for His Son, Christ Jesus has come and died for our sins. His testimony is at the core of our Salvation.
Testimonies are powerful and strengthens ourselves and others. Nick Vujicic's testimony about living a life without arms and legs is very powerful, but His ministry does not lean on his testimony alone, but on God's. For God's testimony is at at the center of our own. We must remember His testimony in our hearts, stable and secure in our life, as well as have our own testimony, in Christ who strengthens us.
Father God, I pray for your words to come. Let your testimony resound in my life. I pray for your understanding of just how much you loved me to be at the core of my heart and life. I pray for your testimony to be everlasting. I also pray for my own testimony, that I may let others know of your presence in my life. I pray for your wisdom and guidance. I thank you, Lord, and I pray that you may be gloried in Jesus name.
Amen.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
The Law Shows Sin, The Lord Forgives Sin
Jeremiah 31:33-34
33 "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time," declares the LORD.
"I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34 No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more."
The Lord has given His people the law, but the law only tells us what sin is. His words, show us that sin separates us from God. What it doesn't show us is how to be forgiven for this sin, to be saved.
Christ Jesus was that answer. He was this new covenant which was being spoken about. The law shows us our sins, but the Lord is the one that forgives us of our sins. He is the one that gives Salvation.
Father God, I praise your name for a new covenant. I thank you for your Son, who died on the Cross, so that my sins may be forgiven through Him. I thank you for your love for your people. I am forever in Your debt, and I give my life to you. I deserve death, yet you gave me life, and life eternal. I thank you for all this, for all the blessings, and I give you all the glory in Jesus name.
Amen.
33 "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time," declares the LORD.
"I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34 No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more."
The Lord has given His people the law, but the law only tells us what sin is. His words, show us that sin separates us from God. What it doesn't show us is how to be forgiven for this sin, to be saved.
Christ Jesus was that answer. He was this new covenant which was being spoken about. The law shows us our sins, but the Lord is the one that forgives us of our sins. He is the one that gives Salvation.
Father God, I praise your name for a new covenant. I thank you for your Son, who died on the Cross, so that my sins may be forgiven through Him. I thank you for your love for your people. I am forever in Your debt, and I give my life to you. I deserve death, yet you gave me life, and life eternal. I thank you for all this, for all the blessings, and I give you all the glory in Jesus name.
Amen.
Friday, August 22, 2008
God's Plan For Us And Our Lives
Jeremiah 29:11-13
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
There are so many times people feel lost in their lives. We may not know how things are going to turn out, or what will become of our lives in five or ten years, but the Lord says here that He has plans for us. He has a purpose for our lives.
We must trust in the Lord. He knows the plans cast out for our lives. These plans are of hope and a future. Let us call upon the Lord, and seek His ways, and follow Him.
Father God, I thank you for your love for me. I know that you have great things planned for my life. Allow me to be used by you. I pray that I may have wisdom and strength to follow your ways, and to fulfill your purpose. I thank you for watching over my life, for blessing it so much, and having your anointing on me. I thank you and give you all the praise and honor in Jesus name.
Amen.
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
There are so many times people feel lost in their lives. We may not know how things are going to turn out, or what will become of our lives in five or ten years, but the Lord says here that He has plans for us. He has a purpose for our lives.
We must trust in the Lord. He knows the plans cast out for our lives. These plans are of hope and a future. Let us call upon the Lord, and seek His ways, and follow Him.
Father God, I thank you for your love for me. I know that you have great things planned for my life. Allow me to be used by you. I pray that I may have wisdom and strength to follow your ways, and to fulfill your purpose. I thank you for watching over my life, for blessing it so much, and having your anointing on me. I thank you and give you all the praise and honor in Jesus name.
Amen.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Allowing God To Do A Work In Our Lives
Jeremiah 24:3-7
3 Then the LORD asked me, "What do you see, Jeremiah?"
"Figs," I answered. "The good ones are very good, but the poor ones are so bad they cannot be eaten."
4 Then the word of the LORD came to me: 5 "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Like these good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. 6 My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. 7 I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.
Sometimes it is hard to see and focus on the Lord in times of turmoil and hardship. The people of Israel were in that very situation when they were going through exile and taken to a land not of their own. But, the Lord allowed them to go through this hardship, yet still keeping watch over them, so that they may turn from wicked ways, and be built up to return their hearts to the Lord.
I know so many people who go through situations or times in their lives where they don't see God in their lives. It is sad to see this, yet I know God is still watching over them. I know that God allows things to happen, so that we may know that God is with us. We need to not lose hope, and not lose focus on the Lord, for He is with us.
Father God, I thank you for this word of encouragement. I pray for your Spirit to guide and lead me in your ways. I know that you are always with us, even through times of hardship, you are with us. Shape us and mold us, allow us to be changed by You. Let us keep our focus on your ways and your plans, that we may grow closer to you. I thank you again, and pray all these things in Your Holy and Mighty name.
Amen.
3 Then the LORD asked me, "What do you see, Jeremiah?"
"Figs," I answered. "The good ones are very good, but the poor ones are so bad they cannot be eaten."
4 Then the word of the LORD came to me: 5 "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Like these good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. 6 My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. 7 I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.
Sometimes it is hard to see and focus on the Lord in times of turmoil and hardship. The people of Israel were in that very situation when they were going through exile and taken to a land not of their own. But, the Lord allowed them to go through this hardship, yet still keeping watch over them, so that they may turn from wicked ways, and be built up to return their hearts to the Lord.
I know so many people who go through situations or times in their lives where they don't see God in their lives. It is sad to see this, yet I know God is still watching over them. I know that God allows things to happen, so that we may know that God is with us. We need to not lose hope, and not lose focus on the Lord, for He is with us.
Father God, I thank you for this word of encouragement. I pray for your Spirit to guide and lead me in your ways. I know that you are always with us, even through times of hardship, you are with us. Shape us and mold us, allow us to be changed by You. Let us keep our focus on your ways and your plans, that we may grow closer to you. I thank you again, and pray all these things in Your Holy and Mighty name.
Amen.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
We Deceive Ourselves When The Truth Is Not In Us
1 John 1:8-9
8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Sometimes it's hard to see our sins. We may not know what is going on in our lives. We may be oblivious to ourselves, and that is dangerous. The devil works in many ways, to trick us, and to deceive us. It is dangerous when we are not rooted in Christ when Satan attacks.
Life is a battle ground for spiritual warfare. There are so many things going on right now that I know the devil has a hand in. We live in a world full of sin and it is tough to live a life in the presence of sin, yet we are Christ Ambassadors, and we must declare our lives to be in God's hands.
Father God, I know that you are the God of this Universe. I know that you are with us, and that you are in control of all things. I pray against the attacks of the enemy. I pray for your covering. Let us have eyes to see what you see, of everything that is going on, the truth that is going on. let us not be deceived, but faithful to you in all situations. I thank you for your strength, and I pray this in your Holy and Mighty name.
Amen.
8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Sometimes it's hard to see our sins. We may not know what is going on in our lives. We may be oblivious to ourselves, and that is dangerous. The devil works in many ways, to trick us, and to deceive us. It is dangerous when we are not rooted in Christ when Satan attacks.
Life is a battle ground for spiritual warfare. There are so many things going on right now that I know the devil has a hand in. We live in a world full of sin and it is tough to live a life in the presence of sin, yet we are Christ Ambassadors, and we must declare our lives to be in God's hands.
Father God, I know that you are the God of this Universe. I know that you are with us, and that you are in control of all things. I pray against the attacks of the enemy. I pray for your covering. Let us have eyes to see what you see, of everything that is going on, the truth that is going on. let us not be deceived, but faithful to you in all situations. I thank you for your strength, and I pray this in your Holy and Mighty name.
Amen.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Reassurance Through Declaration
John 21:15-17
15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.
In this passage, Jesus was asking Simon Peter if he loves Him. This was not for Jesus, but to benefit Simon Peter, in reassuring him from his denial of Jesus. Sometimes, saying things aloud and declaring things speaks truth into one's life.
Many times, we have doubts in our minds, and we sway from our decisions and our direction. Just like what Simon Peter did, we need reassurance in our lives, we need reassurance that the Lord is with us. We need to declare this in the name of Jesus, that God is in control, that we may have joy through knowing that He is with us.
Father God, I want to thank you for watching and blessing me with so much. I know that you are there, you are guiding me in all things. I declare that you are my God, and that you are in control of my life. Let me give it to you, and not of my own flesh, but of your will. I thank you Lord. Give me strength to do your will. Give me wisdom to follow you. Be with me I pray, in Jesus name.
Amen.
15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.
In this passage, Jesus was asking Simon Peter if he loves Him. This was not for Jesus, but to benefit Simon Peter, in reassuring him from his denial of Jesus. Sometimes, saying things aloud and declaring things speaks truth into one's life.
Many times, we have doubts in our minds, and we sway from our decisions and our direction. Just like what Simon Peter did, we need reassurance in our lives, we need reassurance that the Lord is with us. We need to declare this in the name of Jesus, that God is in control, that we may have joy through knowing that He is with us.
Father God, I want to thank you for watching and blessing me with so much. I know that you are there, you are guiding me in all things. I declare that you are my God, and that you are in control of my life. Let me give it to you, and not of my own flesh, but of your will. I thank you Lord. Give me strength to do your will. Give me wisdom to follow you. Be with me I pray, in Jesus name.
Amen.
Monday, August 18, 2008
My Father, My God
John 20:16-18
16Jesus said to her, "Mary."
She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
17Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
18Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.
The Jews believed it would be blasphemy to say that God is your Father, because it would say that you are on equal to God. Here, Jesus declares to us that God is our Father, our Heavenly Father, and that we are all sons and daughters of Him.
We are all God's children. He loves us so much that He is willing to die for us. As Jesus declares, He is our Father, He is our God.
Father God, I thank you for the opportunity to declare you as my God, as my heavenly Father. I thank you that we are able to have such a close relationship. No other religions have such a connection like we do, for you are a personal God at the same time as being a Great and Mighty God. I pray for your Holy Spirit to continue to show me and grow me in living a life for you. I pray all these things in Your Holy name.
Amen.
16Jesus said to her, "Mary."
She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
17Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
18Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.
The Jews believed it would be blasphemy to say that God is your Father, because it would say that you are on equal to God. Here, Jesus declares to us that God is our Father, our Heavenly Father, and that we are all sons and daughters of Him.
We are all God's children. He loves us so much that He is willing to die for us. As Jesus declares, He is our Father, He is our God.
Father God, I thank you for the opportunity to declare you as my God, as my heavenly Father. I thank you that we are able to have such a close relationship. No other religions have such a connection like we do, for you are a personal God at the same time as being a Great and Mighty God. I pray for your Holy Spirit to continue to show me and grow me in living a life for you. I pray all these things in Your Holy name.
Amen.
Friday, August 15, 2008
The Stubbornness Of An Evil Heart
Jeremiah 18:11-12
11 "Now therefore say to the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, 'This is what the LORD says: Look! I am preparing a disaster for you and devising a plan against you. So turn from your evil ways, each one of you, and reform your ways and your actions.' 12 But they will reply, 'It's no use. We will continue with our own plans; each of us will follow the stubbornness of his evil heart.' "
A stubborn heart will lead to a path that of destruction. When God wants to move in our lives, or wants to show us His will for us, if our hearts are stubborn and we do not allow God to do a work in us, it will lead to sin and death.
We need to allow God to be like the potters hand, as read in Chapter 18 of Jeremiah. We need to allow God to shape our hearts and our lives in the plans that He has for us. Sometimes He needs to break us so that we can be humble before Him.
Father God, I pray that you have grace on your acts, and do not judge us with anger. Let us not be stubborn against you and allow to be moved by your Spirit. I pray for your hand upon my hearts, and those of your people, to be able to listen to your Words and to yield to you in your ways. I thank you for your Spirit for guidance, and I pray for your continual blessing in Jesus name.
Amen.
11 "Now therefore say to the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, 'This is what the LORD says: Look! I am preparing a disaster for you and devising a plan against you. So turn from your evil ways, each one of you, and reform your ways and your actions.' 12 But they will reply, 'It's no use. We will continue with our own plans; each of us will follow the stubbornness of his evil heart.' "
A stubborn heart will lead to a path that of destruction. When God wants to move in our lives, or wants to show us His will for us, if our hearts are stubborn and we do not allow God to do a work in us, it will lead to sin and death.
We need to allow God to be like the potters hand, as read in Chapter 18 of Jeremiah. We need to allow God to shape our hearts and our lives in the plans that He has for us. Sometimes He needs to break us so that we can be humble before Him.
Father God, I pray that you have grace on your acts, and do not judge us with anger. Let us not be stubborn against you and allow to be moved by your Spirit. I pray for your hand upon my hearts, and those of your people, to be able to listen to your Words and to yield to you in your ways. I thank you for your Spirit for guidance, and I pray for your continual blessing in Jesus name.
Amen.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Because They Have Not Known The Father
John 16:1-4
1"All this I have told you so that you will not go astray. 2They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. 3They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. 4I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you. I did not tell you this at first because I was with you.
So many wars and so many deaths are a result of religion. People fight against each other, and some do so in the name of their God. Some of these people think they are doing a service to God. Here, it states that their intentions are false, and that they do not know the Father.
So many people are confused about God's words. Many religions are extremist in their views and go so far as to go against that which the Lord says. We must continue to pray for these people, and allow God to show them His will and open their eyes.
Father God, I thank you for your word. I pray for your anointing to fall upon your people, and for those who are blinded by what they see. Open their eyes that they know who You are, and that they may know your will for their lives. Let them see that You have loved each and everyone of us, and to turn from their wicked ways. Again, do a work in their lives. I thank you and I give you all the glory in this prayer. In Jesus name.
Amen.
1"All this I have told you so that you will not go astray. 2They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. 3They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. 4I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you. I did not tell you this at first because I was with you.
So many wars and so many deaths are a result of religion. People fight against each other, and some do so in the name of their God. Some of these people think they are doing a service to God. Here, it states that their intentions are false, and that they do not know the Father.
So many people are confused about God's words. Many religions are extremist in their views and go so far as to go against that which the Lord says. We must continue to pray for these people, and allow God to show them His will and open their eyes.
Father God, I thank you for your word. I pray for your anointing to fall upon your people, and for those who are blinded by what they see. Open their eyes that they know who You are, and that they may know your will for their lives. Let them see that You have loved each and everyone of us, and to turn from their wicked ways. Again, do a work in their lives. I thank you and I give you all the glory in this prayer. In Jesus name.
Amen.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
They Are Prophesying To You False Visions
Jeremiah 14:13-15
13 But I said, "Ah, Sovereign LORD, the prophets keep telling them, 'You will not see the sword or suffer famine. Indeed, I will give you lasting peace in this place.' "
14 Then the LORD said to me, "The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds. 15 Therefore, this is what the LORD says about the prophets who are prophesying in my name: I did not send them, yet they are saying, 'No sword or famine will touch this land.' Those same prophets will perish by sword and famine.
Here, Jeremiah has to deal with false prophets who are saying things that the Lord did not say. These are most likely prophets of other gods who are distorting God's message in the area.
We must all watch out for people who are not in line with God's purpose. There are many teachings in the world about things that are not according to God's words. We must be cautious, but also prepared in our stance with the Lord.
Father God, I pray for your Spirit to distinguish your words and those that are not according to your will and purpose. I pray for you hand upon me and the Church, that you protect us against teachings that are from you. Let your Spirit guide us in your ways, and the path that you want to lead. I thank you for this, and glorify your Holy and Might name.
Amen.
13 But I said, "Ah, Sovereign LORD, the prophets keep telling them, 'You will not see the sword or suffer famine. Indeed, I will give you lasting peace in this place.' "
14 Then the LORD said to me, "The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds. 15 Therefore, this is what the LORD says about the prophets who are prophesying in my name: I did not send them, yet they are saying, 'No sword or famine will touch this land.' Those same prophets will perish by sword and famine.
Here, Jeremiah has to deal with false prophets who are saying things that the Lord did not say. These are most likely prophets of other gods who are distorting God's message in the area.
We must all watch out for people who are not in line with God's purpose. There are many teachings in the world about things that are not according to God's words. We must be cautious, but also prepared in our stance with the Lord.
Father God, I pray for your Spirit to distinguish your words and those that are not according to your will and purpose. I pray for you hand upon me and the Church, that you protect us against teachings that are from you. Let your Spirit guide us in your ways, and the path that you want to lead. I thank you for this, and glorify your Holy and Might name.
Amen.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Correct Me, Lord, And Direct My Steps
Jeremiah 10:23-24
23 I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own;
it is not for man to direct his steps.
24 Correct me, LORD, but only with justice—
not in your anger,
lest you reduce me to nothing.
We have all fallen short of God's standards. We all deserve to be separated from Him in Heaven. Here, Jeremiah is praying to God to not be angry with His people, because they were a wicked people.
We are a wicked people today, and God is angry that His people are lost to this world, but we are blessed to have Jesus as Our savior to this world, that we may believe in Him and have eternal life in heaven with God.
Father God, you are a just and fair God. We deserve death, yet you give us life. We have committed adultery against you so many times, yet your grace and mercy on us shows how much you love us. I want to thank you for all that you have done, how you have loved us so much. Let me live in your Spirit as you lead me. I give you all that I am. Forgive me of my sins that I may live according to your will. Let me not be for myself, but for You. I thank you again and pray this in Your Holy name.
Amen.
23 I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own;
it is not for man to direct his steps.
24 Correct me, LORD, but only with justice—
not in your anger,
lest you reduce me to nothing.
We have all fallen short of God's standards. We all deserve to be separated from Him in Heaven. Here, Jeremiah is praying to God to not be angry with His people, because they were a wicked people.
We are a wicked people today, and God is angry that His people are lost to this world, but we are blessed to have Jesus as Our savior to this world, that we may believe in Him and have eternal life in heaven with God.
Father God, you are a just and fair God. We deserve death, yet you give us life. We have committed adultery against you so many times, yet your grace and mercy on us shows how much you love us. I want to thank you for all that you have done, how you have loved us so much. Let me live in your Spirit as you lead me. I give you all that I am. Forgive me of my sins that I may live according to your will. Let me not be for myself, but for You. I thank you again and pray this in Your Holy name.
Amen.
Monday, August 11, 2008
God's Purpose To Move Forward
Jeremiah 7:22-26
22 For when I brought your forefathers out of Egypt and spoke to them, I did not just give them commands about burnt offerings and sacrifices, 23 but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you. 24 But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward. 25 From the time your forefathers left Egypt until now, day after day, again and again I sent you my servants the prophets. 26 But they did not listen to me or pay attention. They were stiff-necked and did more evil than their forefathers.'
What I got from this passage is how God wants us to move forward, not backwards. God shows His people the way that they should live, how to walk in their lives, how to go about their ways, but the Lord said that they didn't follow these things, and how they did not listen, instead, they were going backwards, not forward.
Sometimes I think we are going backwards in the way that I live my life. Sometimes I feel that the things that I do are not bringing myself closer to God, or it is not bringing the church closer to where He wants it to be. We need to take a step back and see the things that are being done, and follow the way of the Lord, in all that He is, and let Him show us how to change our lives for the purpose that He has for us.
Father God, I want to thank you for what you are doing, and the blessings that you have blessed me with. I see all these things in my life, the people, my health, my family, my opportunities that you have blessed me with. I pray for your wisdom, and your anointing in my life. Let me go forward and not backwards in your will for me. I pray for clarity in your purpose for my life. Lead me and guide me in all that I do. I want your hand upon my life and be with me I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
22 For when I brought your forefathers out of Egypt and spoke to them, I did not just give them commands about burnt offerings and sacrifices, 23 but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you. 24 But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward. 25 From the time your forefathers left Egypt until now, day after day, again and again I sent you my servants the prophets. 26 But they did not listen to me or pay attention. They were stiff-necked and did more evil than their forefathers.'
What I got from this passage is how God wants us to move forward, not backwards. God shows His people the way that they should live, how to walk in their lives, how to go about their ways, but the Lord said that they didn't follow these things, and how they did not listen, instead, they were going backwards, not forward.
Sometimes I think we are going backwards in the way that I live my life. Sometimes I feel that the things that I do are not bringing myself closer to God, or it is not bringing the church closer to where He wants it to be. We need to take a step back and see the things that are being done, and follow the way of the Lord, in all that He is, and let Him show us how to change our lives for the purpose that He has for us.
Father God, I want to thank you for what you are doing, and the blessings that you have blessed me with. I see all these things in my life, the people, my health, my family, my opportunities that you have blessed me with. I pray for your wisdom, and your anointing in my life. Let me go forward and not backwards in your will for me. I pray for clarity in your purpose for my life. Lead me and guide me in all that I do. I want your hand upon my life and be with me I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
The Fear Of The Lord
Jeremiah 5:22
22 Should you not fear me?" declares the LORD.
"Should you not tremble in my presence?
I made the sand a boundary for the sea,
an everlasting barrier it cannot cross.
The waves may roll, but they cannot prevail;
they may roar, but they cannot cross it.
God is so powerful. He is the creator of this earth, and His power is greatly to be praised.
We need to fear the Lord, because He is not another person, but God. He has set the sands of the sea to stop the raging waves from pouring onto the land. He is the God of the Earth.
Father God, I know your awesomeness and your power in all these things. I know that you have created the earth in all that you are, so loving, yet so powerful. Let your glory shine in all things. I praise your name because of what you are, you are my God. And, I lift you up in fear, because of who you are. I thank you and praise your Holy name. In Jesus name.
Amen.
22 Should you not fear me?" declares the LORD.
"Should you not tremble in my presence?
I made the sand a boundary for the sea,
an everlasting barrier it cannot cross.
The waves may roll, but they cannot prevail;
they may roar, but they cannot cross it.
God is so powerful. He is the creator of this earth, and His power is greatly to be praised.
We need to fear the Lord, because He is not another person, but God. He has set the sands of the sea to stop the raging waves from pouring onto the land. He is the God of the Earth.
Father God, I know your awesomeness and your power in all these things. I know that you have created the earth in all that you are, so loving, yet so powerful. Let your glory shine in all things. I praise your name because of what you are, you are my God. And, I lift you up in fear, because of who you are. I thank you and praise your Holy name. In Jesus name.
Amen.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
If You Believe, You Will See God's Glory
John 11:25-27
25Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
27"Yes, Lord," she told him, "I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world."
John 11:38-40
38Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39"Take away the stone," he said.
"But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days."
40Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
Sometimes it's tough to put all of your trust in the Lord. As humans, we find ourselves taking back what we say in action, yet we really mean it at the time. Here Martha tells Jesus that she trusts in him, yet when it comes time to rolling away the stone, she has still has doubts.
It's tough to follow up on faith when times are tough, but with the Holy Spirit, we are able to trust in the Lord and follow Him in all that we do. We need to trust that the Lord is in control.
Father God, I thank you that you are a God that loves. I thank you for your Spirit guiding me in all things. I pray for myself, that I be able to follow you in all that I do, with no doubts that you are in control. I pray for your anointing and your Spirit go fill my life. Use me to change your people. I pray all these things in Your Holy name.
Amen.
25Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
27"Yes, Lord," she told him, "I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world."
John 11:38-40
38Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39"Take away the stone," he said.
"But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days."
40Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
Sometimes it's tough to put all of your trust in the Lord. As humans, we find ourselves taking back what we say in action, yet we really mean it at the time. Here Martha tells Jesus that she trusts in him, yet when it comes time to rolling away the stone, she has still has doubts.
It's tough to follow up on faith when times are tough, but with the Holy Spirit, we are able to trust in the Lord and follow Him in all that we do. We need to trust that the Lord is in control.
Father God, I thank you that you are a God that loves. I thank you for your Spirit guiding me in all things. I pray for myself, that I be able to follow you in all that I do, with no doubts that you are in control. I pray for your anointing and your Spirit go fill my life. Use me to change your people. I pray all these things in Your Holy name.
Amen.
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Seek The Lord And All That He Is
Zephaniah 2:3
3 Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land,
you who do what he commands.
Seek righteousness, seek humility;
perhaps you will be sheltered
on the day of the LORD's anger.
The Lord is good. He wants to shelter us from the sins of the world. There are so many things wrong with the earth, that God want to get rid of it, and have us under His wing.
We must not put our trust in the things of this world, but seek that which is good. We must seek the righteousness, and holiness and, and all that is of the Lord. All things will past, but the Lord's love for us will not.
Father God, I thank you for your Love. I crave you and all that you are. I want to seek you wholeheartedly and put my trust in You. I pray against the things of this world, and that I focus on you. Be with me today I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
3 Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land,
you who do what he commands.
Seek righteousness, seek humility;
perhaps you will be sheltered
on the day of the LORD's anger.
The Lord is good. He wants to shelter us from the sins of the world. There are so many things wrong with the earth, that God want to get rid of it, and have us under His wing.
We must not put our trust in the things of this world, but seek that which is good. We must seek the righteousness, and holiness and, and all that is of the Lord. All things will past, but the Lord's love for us will not.
Father God, I thank you for your Love. I crave you and all that you are. I want to seek you wholeheartedly and put my trust in You. I pray against the things of this world, and that I focus on you. Be with me today I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Any Time Is Not God's Plan
John 7:3-7
3Jesus' brothers said to him, "You ought to leave here and go to
Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. 4No one who
wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing
these things, show yourself to the world." 5For even his own brothers
did not believe in him. 6Therefore Jesus told them, "The right time
for me has not yet come; for you any time is right. 7The world cannot
hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil.
It's tough to think before you act. There is a place and time for everything, and here, Jesus knows that there is a place and time to do miracles. The brothers here urge Jesus to dive into the situation, yet Jesus, full of wisdom, knows that the time is not yet.
Sometimes, I don't pray enough, spend time enough, or consult God enough before I go ahead and do something. I act according to my own will. I need to follow the will of the Lord, according to His plan and His time.
Father God, I know that you have plans for everything that I do. Let me follow your plan and what is according to Your will. I pray that I be attentive to your spirit and have your wisdom in all that I do. I thank you again for this, and I give you all the glory and honor and praise in Jesus name.
Amen.
3Jesus' brothers said to him, "You ought to leave here and go to
Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. 4No one who
wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing
these things, show yourself to the world." 5For even his own brothers
did not believe in him. 6Therefore Jesus told them, "The right time
for me has not yet come; for you any time is right. 7The world cannot
hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil.
It's tough to think before you act. There is a place and time for everything, and here, Jesus knows that there is a place and time to do miracles. The brothers here urge Jesus to dive into the situation, yet Jesus, full of wisdom, knows that the time is not yet.
Sometimes, I don't pray enough, spend time enough, or consult God enough before I go ahead and do something. I act according to my own will. I need to follow the will of the Lord, according to His plan and His time.
Father God, I know that you have plans for everything that I do. Let me follow your plan and what is according to Your will. I pray that I be attentive to your spirit and have your wisdom in all that I do. I thank you again for this, and I give you all the glory and honor and praise in Jesus name.
Amen.
Monday, August 04, 2008
Do You Want To Leave?
John 6:65-68
65He went on to say, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him."
66From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.
67"You do not want to leave too, do you?" Jesus asked the Twelve.
68Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God."
Living for God is a tough life. It is not easy, and there will be persecution, there will be times of trouble, yet, Jesus tells us here that we must come and follow Him. Some turned away and no longer followed Him, yet He still challenges us to continue to follow Him.
Those of his disciples left and no longer followed Him. It may have been because they thought he would be the next king, or it was too hard, yet, we must continue to serve the Lord. God is with us through these times and urges us to follow Him.
Father God, I thank you for this encouraging word. Sometimes it gets tough to serve you. It does get tiresome and seems "too hard," but you still encourage us to follow you and walk in your ways. Lord, give me strength to continue to follow you and in all your ways. Holy Spirit be with me and guide me. I thank you for all these things. Continue to be with me I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
65He went on to say, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him."
66From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.
67"You do not want to leave too, do you?" Jesus asked the Twelve.
68Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God."
Living for God is a tough life. It is not easy, and there will be persecution, there will be times of trouble, yet, Jesus tells us here that we must come and follow Him. Some turned away and no longer followed Him, yet He still challenges us to continue to follow Him.
Those of his disciples left and no longer followed Him. It may have been because they thought he would be the next king, or it was too hard, yet, we must continue to serve the Lord. God is with us through these times and urges us to follow Him.
Father God, I thank you for this encouraging word. Sometimes it gets tough to serve you. It does get tiresome and seems "too hard," but you still encourage us to follow you and walk in your ways. Lord, give me strength to continue to follow you and in all your ways. Holy Spirit be with me and guide me. I thank you for all these things. Continue to be with me I pray in Jesus name.
Amen.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
To Dwell In God
John 5:38-40
38nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. 39You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, 40yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
He is always speaking to us and about our life. He is speaking into our life. Sometimes we get all caught up with doing things that we don't come to know Him. We don't know God as God.
I need to focus on the Lord. I need to spend time in His Holy Spirit. I need to know the Lord in a deep way, in Spirit and Truth.
Father God, I pray for your words to speak into my life. Let me spend the time to know you, to really know you. I pray that I may come to you for life. I thank you for your love for me that you bridged the gap of sin to have a relationship with me. Lord, thank you for your ways, and let me keep my focus on you. I pray all these things in Your Holy name.
Amen.
38nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. 39You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, 40yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
He is always speaking to us and about our life. He is speaking into our life. Sometimes we get all caught up with doing things that we don't come to know Him. We don't know God as God.
I need to focus on the Lord. I need to spend time in His Holy Spirit. I need to know the Lord in a deep way, in Spirit and Truth.
Father God, I pray for your words to speak into my life. Let me spend the time to know you, to really know you. I pray that I may come to you for life. I thank you for your love for me that you bridged the gap of sin to have a relationship with me. Lord, thank you for your ways, and let me keep my focus on you. I pray all these things in Your Holy name.
Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)