Devotionals 34

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Apply The Benefits

2 Peter 1:5-8 (NLT)

"So make every effort to apply the benefits of these promises to your life. Then your faith will produce a life of moral excellence. A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better. Knowing God leads to self-control. Self-control leads to patient endurance, and patient endurance leads to godliness. Godliness leads to love for other Christians, and finally you will grow to have genuine love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more you will become productive and useful in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Sometimes we fail because we expect too much of ourselves too soon. Sometimes we fail because we don't expect anything of ourselves. Sometimes we discourage others because we expect too much of them too soon ..... or have given up ourselves because others have demanded perfection of us before we had reached a level of spiritual maturity. Verse 5 talks about applying the benefits of "these promises", so what are those benefits? Are you ready????? This is soooooo cool !!! He has (vs 3) "called us to receive His own glory and goodness!" He knows WE can't do it! But because of the Blood of Jesus, we have received the impartation of His glory and His goodness! It's not something we struggle to get; it's already been given ... we just need to start applying it, start putting it to use. Rem's good Appaloosa mare's colt had all the genetic ability in him to become the top notch cowhorse his mother was. As he grew and became more trusting and yielding to our guidance and commands, the more we could work cattle with him. The more experienced he became the more accomplished he became. It's all in us already.... now, it's just the yielding to Him and gaining experience. Enjoy the journey!

Lord, thank You that You are opening the Eyes of our Understanding more and more to all that You have provided for us and put in us! Lord, help us to hear You and yield to You. Thank You Lord that as we grow in You and apply Your promises, You keep building on those and giving us victory in our lives. Lord, we want to be "productive and useful"; thank You for making that possible and thank You for Your perfecting and maturing us with great Love! Help us to enjoy each level we obtain without becoming discouraged because we have so far to go yet. We refuse complacency because we don't want to miss one thing You have planned for us; and Lord we thank You that You will finish the good work You have begun in us!

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Once and Then

Hebrews 9:27,28 (NLT)

"And just as it is destined that each person dies only once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died only once as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again but not to deal with our sins again. This time He will bring salvation to all those who are eagerly waiting for Him."

One of the deceptions Satan brings, is the idea that if we fail in this lifetime, there will be another chance.....we can do it all over again. I've said before that Satan has a perverted imitation of everything God does. God says we must be "born again" (John 3:3) and Satan tries to turn that into a belief of reincarnation. It's not hard for demons to masquerade as "angels of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14) and reveal secrets of past generations in the hope that we will believe we had actually lived that life. To those who don't want to submit to God, it's a real comfort to believe there is another way (remember the serpent asking Eve "Did God REALLY say that?" Gen 3:1). But God's Word says we only die once...then comes the judgment. For those who have accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior though.... that is not fearful news. The Bible says (Phil 2:10) that one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus Christ is Lord. Some will do that in absolute horror ..... but we who believe will do so in awe and rejoicing!

Lord, for those who aren't sure, we ask that You reveal Yourself to them. Holy Spirit, open the eyes of our understanding so that we come to know fully The Truth. We ask for Discernment Lord, so that we are not persuaded by the deceptions of the one who hates our soul. Lord, we open ourselves up to You to deal with our sins. Wash us clean and renew our vision and passion for You! Thank You Lord for Your sacrifice ..... may we partake of the benefits of it in every area of our lives! Amen

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Power Within Us

Ephesians 3:20 (NLT)

"Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope."

What would happen ..... if..... we were to just allow God to do all in us and through us that He would like to? I know I'd sure like to find out ! A lot of things try to keep that from happening though. Partly it may just be us being very, very aware of how inadequate and unworthy we are; and partly it may be arrogance (we do tend to jump from ditch to ditch don't we?) and thinking we have the answers. I find myself seeking the Lord more and more though for the Wisdom, Insight, and ability to just let Him flow through me. When we seek this, it isn't us persuading God that we are good enough nor is it whining to Him until He gives in and Anoints us. He has already Anointed us.... He has already given us all we need for this to happen. We are putting ourselves in agreement with Him and not being persuaded by how things look or feel. This is saying to Him, "Lord I love You enough to trust You and I want You to be Glorified!" When we were training horses to "work" cattle, we never assigned the job of bringing in a rank cow to a young horse without the backup of a very good seasoned cowhorse. We didn't want the colt to get discouraged and quit working; so as we allowed the colt to gain experience, the "expert' horse was always there keeping the cow honest. God isn't expecting us to do all this wonderful stuff by ourselves...........HE is the One doing them ......... WE just have to be willing to let Him !

Lord, help each of us to be sensitive to Your leading. Help us to be willing participants and have full confidence in You ! Lord You have overcome the darkness and You have put in us everything needed to accomplish what You want through us. Lord help us to lay down anything that is hindering that flow ..... help us to get to that place where Your mighty Power is released in every area of our lives so that You are glorified! Help each of us to enjoy the process and the results! Thank You Lord!

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Cheap Immitations

2 Chronicles 33:6 (NLT)

"Manasseh even sacrificed his own sons in the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom. He practiced sorcery, divination, and witchcraft, and he consulted with mediums and psychics. He did much that was evil in the LORD's sight, arousing His anger."

One thing Satan is not.... that is "original". He perversely imitates all that The True Living God does and has made. God gives us "drunk" in the Spirit ..... Satan gives us drunk in the bar; God gives a Holy Ghost "high" .... Satan gives Crack Cocaine; God gives us "Words of Knowledge" ... Satan gives us psychics; God gives us "Prophecy" .... Satan gives us tarot cards; God gives us love for one another .... Satan tries to turn it into lust. That is just a sample, but I think you get my drift. Manasseh was taken prisoner, a ring was put through his nose, and he was bound in chains. That is exactly what Satan's fake enticements do. They seem so real; so authentically powerful ......... and many have a lot of the truth in them. Satan doesn't care if we have a lot of the truth....as long as it draws us away from The True God and the freedom He offers. In chains and "deep distress" though, Manasseh cried out to God (vs 12) because he "finally realized that the LORD alone is God!" ................. and God restored him! Yahu !!

Lord, we ask in the Name of Jesus that You reveal anything in our lives that is not from You. Help us to not be enticed into deception. Lord we don't want to settle for imitations. We want The Truth and the real thing. Lord give us discernment and Wisdom; deliver us from anything that would put a "ring through our nose" and lead us into bondage. For You and You only are "The Way, The Truth, and The Life!" Amen!

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Honor His Message

2 Thessalonians 3:1-3 (NLT)

"Finally, dear brothers and sisters, I ask you to pray for us. Pray first that the Lord's message will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes, just as when it came to you. Pray, too, that we will be saved from wicked and evil people, for not everyone believes in the Lord. But the Lord is faithful; He will make you strong and guard you from the evil one."

Jesus was and is Who He said He was. That is a fact. The odds of one person fulfilling the over 100 prophecies necessary to be the Messiah.....are astronomical. Jesus fulfilled every one. His message? "Once you were dead because of sin; but I have come to bring you Life abundantly & eternally (John 3:16; Eph 2:1). My desire for you is to be filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal 5:22). Through Me you can come boldly into the Throne room (Heb 4:16) and no longer be outsiders (Eph 2:19)." Is that the coolest message or what??!!!! And yet the "evil one" has deceived people into honoring everything but that message. So now ... let me give you a "clip and save" prayer:

LORD, I stand in agreement with You that the message of Christ [The Anointed One and His Anointing] will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes. LORD, save us from wicked and evil people. Thank You LORD that You are faithful and You make Your people strong and guard us from the evil one. Amen (so be it).

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Enriched

I Cor 1:5 (KJV)

"That in everything ye are enriched by Him, in all utterance, & in all knowledge;"

To enrich, means: to make rich or richer; to make fuller, more meaningful or more rewarding; to add nutrients to something; to add to the beauty or character (adorn). The Lord made us and put so much potential in us. The human body alone is an amazing piece of "equipment" and research continues to find more and more awesome discoveries about it. And, when you add to that the capability of thought process and imagination ..... well, what can I say??? The words "amazing", "wow", "awesome" are just inadequate expressions. As wonderful as He has made us though... there is just something grand that happens when God [Father, Son and Holy Spirit} are added to the equation. Some, seem reluctant to become totally committed to Christ because of fear; a fear that they will have to give up something, and life just won't be as fun. But "in Him" we are enriched ... made fuller, more meaningful and rewarding; nourished and adorned. In comparison to what He adds to our life, it would be like trading a sway-backed, spavined horse for the very best World Champion !

Lord, we invite You into every area of our lives. May our speech be nourishing and meaningful. May our knowledge have a fullness of understanding that is beyond mere human ability. Lord we know You do this because You love us, and have good plans for us, and because You desire to flow through us to enrich others. Help us Lord to have a humble confidence; knowing that You are the One adding all good things to our lives. Thank You Lord for Your enrichment!

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Key To Answered Prayer

Hebrews 5:7 (NLT)

"While Jesus was here on earth, He offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the One Who could deliver Him out of death. And God heard His prayers because of His reverence for God."

At any time here on earth, Jesus could have said "Enough is enough !" and taken up what He had voluntarily put down; the fact that He was all God. But for us, He chose to operate as "all man" and face everything within the limitations of mankind. It sure didn't seem to slow Him down much did it? The key to the miracles He performed; to his endurance; to His Wisdom; to His Power? His "reverence for God". Reverence is a "profound, adoring awed respect that that submits or yields to another's wish." Because Jesus sought the Fathers desire and acted upon that leading; because Jesus was respectful and courteous of the Father and Holy Spirit .... every prayer was heard and answered. Don't we wish we could say we were always that way? *sigh* We can choose to move in that direction though and every time we do and continue doing so..... we are led to "higher ground". Our society has lost a lot as we've become more "me" centered and disrespectful.... and the resulting destruction can't be blamed on God. But there is good news !!! He is still calling us into that place of destiny He created for our lives; and He will equip us and lead us as we allow Him ! If there was ever One Who deserved our reverence ..... it is God. Bowing to Him will never steal anything from us....it will only give Victory!

Lord, for the times in my life that I have not showed You respect .... I ask forgiveness. Lord, help me to put You in the proper place in my life and to have the proper attitude. Lord help us to realize just how much revering You adds to our lives. Some times we even put "good works" ahead of You.... Lord forgive us. You know our weaknesses though and the temptations we face and yet You say "Come ... I still have good plans for you!" Lord, we ask for Discernment and Wisdom .... and a humble heart. Help us each to know you more and more and more .... because in doing so, we will come to have that awesome respect for You ....... and we will also see just how good Your plans are! Thank You Lord!

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Don't Take The Bait

James 1:14-16 (NLT)

"Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires. These evil desires lead to evil actions, and evil actions lead to death. So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters."

Well, there goes the excuse "The devil made me do it." ! There is a reason the Lord urges us to be cleansed, renewed, and to continually draw close to Him. He knows what is in us....and He knows the struggles between our flesh and our God breathed spirit. It has always amazed me when people lead destructive lifestyles and then blame God when bad things happen to them. But that is part of our "flesh" too.....not wanting to take responsibility for our actions and choices. Any hunter or fisherman will tell you that a lure is an artificial bait to catch game or fish. I say "artificial" because although it seems very desirable to the animal or fish ...... taking that bait doesn't produce the result it promises. Temptation comes ... we're human...we live in a very imperfect world; but the Lord knows our weaknesses and offers His Grace to resist and turn away from the trap. Ask Him to help you... He will !!! And don't stand there staring at the bait....turn from it...head to the safety of praise and choosing a better way!

Lord, help each of us to recognize deceptive desires and give us the strength and endurance and Wisdom to turn and go a better direction. Lord we know You will never force us to turn away from evil desires [anything that keeps us from our higher calling and destiny]; but we also know You will even help us to make the choice to WANT to turn away. Your Grace [Your great favor that brings Your empowering Presence] is sufficient for us! Thank You Lord for helping us to avoid the bait of destruction and walk in freedom!

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In Proportion

Psalm 90:15 (NLT)

"Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good."

When I think of how God has changed my life and the restoration He has done in me.....words become totally inadequate. Rejected, with wounded emotions and very few friends, I was so miserable with myself I could hardly stand me. At age thirteen though, I had made the decision to be Baptized because (as only a 13 yr old could) I thought it was stupid that someone wouldn't believe Jesus was the Lord. Even though I didn't have a clue about being a real Christian, and became so back-slidden at one point that I was in danger of rejecting Christ; God knew I would turn back to Him. But it was only after I asked the Holy Spirit to fill me when I was 30 yrs old ... that I started understanding the scriptures and that personal relationship and becoming Christ centered. The closer I draw to Him though, ... the more Restoration comes into my life. He hasn't just restored what I might have had though;.... He has, and continues to restore above and beyond ! He just takes my breath away sometimes!

Lord, for each person reading this that has had "misery and evil years".... I ask that You Bless them! Lord, help them to realize how much You want to replace the old wounds, destruction, fears, and losses with Your Love, Your Life, and Your Victory ! Wash away their tears [whether on their faces or only in their hearts] and replace them with Joy that sparkles as diamonds. Help each of us draw close to You daily; and experience Your Restoration! For Your Glory Lord!

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Rescue and Protection

Psalm 91:14 (NLT)

"The LORD says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in My Name."

Sometimes it doesn't always look or feel like we are being rescued or protected. When those times come, it's always good to do that heart and reality check: "Have I been loving the Lord and trusting Him..... or have I just been giving lip service?" Hey, I've been there.... out in the hail storm, wondering why God wasn't giving me protection and victory. I finally got smacked on the head hard enough that I looked around and said "Wait a minute... His shelter is over there; what in the world am I doing over HERE, out from under His umbrella?" We can't live the life of destruction (whether it's the obvious things or just the more subtle things like unforgiveness, pride) and then blame God when destructive things come into our lives. But even then, He isn't waiting to punish us .... He's longing to have us come into the shelter of His Love and Power .... but it's us who has to change directions...not Him. If we do that heart check though; and can say "I am loving Him and trusting Him.", and still find we are in need of rescuing and protection [and who doesn't have those times], then DON'T MOVE !! EXCEPT ....... to raise your hands and your voice and proclaim "God will take care of me!". Let the Father, Son and Holy Spirit do a good work in your situation. Let them send out Their angels and Anointing on your behalf ! Don't give up... the LORD is on your side!

Lord, we do love You. Search our hearts though, to see if there is any area in our lives that we haven't fully given to You. Lord, show us how to trust Your Love for us; we want to know You more. Holy Spirit help us to let go of anything in our lives that is hindering our walk with You. Thank You Lord for the assurance that You have never and will never forget us or harm us. Lord, we love You .... increase that Love in us! Thank You Lord!

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Discouraged, Take Heart

Psalm 34:1- 3 (NLT)

"I will praise the LORD at all times. I will constantly speak His praises. I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; let us exalt His Name together."

Praise; exalt; boast ... all these words speak of honoring and lifting up to a place of high regard. Discouragement comes in many forms; some subtle and fleeting, some intense, deep and with the promise of no relief. Fear, depression, loneliness, anger, bitterness .....choose whatever negative word tends to overtake you .... they are all the same and they can all be overcome in the same way. Why do you think the enemy fights so hard to keep you from fellowshipping or reading God's Word or focusing on the Savior, Holy Spirit and Father? It's because he knows that there is no way we can start praising the LORD...speaking His promises over us...telling our heart and mind how awesome God is and how able and willing He is to help us.... and those negative emotions not be damaged and defeated! It's a choice though. In 3 verses the words "I will" and "let us" are used 3 times each. There is power in praising, exalting and boasting in the LORD by yourself and with others. Need to receive or give encouragement? Tell your heart and mind...and someone else...how great and wonderful God is..........and KEEP doing it ! Defeat the attacks of the enemy and give God the Glory!

Lord, You are !!! You are wonderful and the destroyer of discouragement ! Holy Spirit fill me daily with praise and the Wisdom to speak it...declare it...until it becomes such a part of me that I automatically refuse anything else. Then Lord....increase it ! Thank You Lord for the ability to choose who I will serve; Lord I choose You and I will NOT serve discouragement ! You are so good LORD ! You are so good !

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Not Disappointed

Prov 23:17,18 (NLT)

"Don't envy sinners, but always continue to fear the LORD. For surely you have a future ahead of you; your hope will not be disappointed."

Sometimes you can look at surface things and get pretty tempted to be discouraged. It seems that those who dishonor God often have the most (or so the enemy would like you to believe) while you are struggling. Fear (a profound reverence and awe) of the LORD helps us to look deeper and stay on track. God knows something that we are not aware of in every situation in our lives. He knows the parts that are simply attacks of the enemy and He knows the parts that He is developing for the Good Plan in our life. An awesome awareness of Who He is and His ability, helps us to understand that because His Word says His plans for us are for good; if we keep seeking and following His will, doing what we know to be right, then He will take care of us. Don't set down in discouragement ...... lift your arms up in victory and praise, knowing that He is for you and your future is in His loving care !

Lord, help me to not judge my circumstances by looking at others; but help me to keep my eyes focused on You. Open the eyes of my heart to the awe and wonder of Your Glory and Power. Lord help me to have merciful compassion on those in sin, whether I can see the destruction in their lives or not. Lord, help me not to be slowed down by looking to the right or left or behind me ..... for my hope is in You and I can rejoice ! When discouragement or doubt confronts me, Lord may reverence and awe of You rise up in my heart and speak to my mind. Lord, the sinners are in Your hands....and I am in Your hands. May we all be drawn closer and closer and closer to You and be filled with Hope that will never disappoint! For Your Glory Lord!

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Fire

Proverbs 17:3 (NLT)

"Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the hearts."

When silver or gold has the heat turned up on it so it becomes hot liquid; all the impurities come to the surface so it can be removed.....but the silver and gold is not destroyed, only made more valuable. But do you know that some of the definitions of "fire" (hey, you know I got it from Webster's!.ha) are: 1) Burning passion: ardor. 2) To give life or spirit to: inspire. Yes, the attacks come; but God doesn't do nasty things to people who love Him (John 10:10); He's not bringing potential destruction against us to purify us (Jesus purifies us). But...in the attack if we will turn to Him; listen to Him; obey Him....He will give us that Holy Fire; the burning passion and ardor of Him to inspire us and bring His Life and His Spirit into every situation we face. This is the testing of the heart.......when we are attacked, do we let Holy Fire rise up within us......or do we allow doubt and fear and selfishness to stay in our hearts? Silver and gold stand the test of fire; Passion and Ardor make the heart stand against the destroyer!

Lord, I want to have that kind of heart...the heart that is passionate after You; the heart that adores You; the heart that cries out Your goodness and Your Word in every situation. Lord, I know this isn't something I can get on my own...but I know it is something You are offering and You will help develop in my life. Thank You Lord; thank You, thank You, thank You ! May Your Love flow through me; may passion for You not tolerate any speck in my heart that is not of You. Lord, thank You for continuing to do a good work in my life! May You be Glorified !

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Meditate Destruction or Life

Ps 48:9 (NLT)

"O God, we meditate on Your unfailing love as we worship in Your Temple."

We've talked several times about how we are the Temple of God. So, what are we bringing into His Temple? The Word says to meditate on His unfailing love and boy if we can just grab a hold of that Truth and not let go ... our lives are going to be so much more peaceful and joyful...no matter what is going on around us. But let's face it ... percentage wise... how much do we consider and contemplate His love versus mulling over our problems; fears; anger; resentment and other useless imaginations? Oh ouch ! The attack comes and we can mull it over and under and around until that is all that is churning within us. Then we wonder why fear or anger or bitterness or worry just seems to grow ! But by His Spirit and His Authority, we can take control of our thought life and choose to meditate (consider and contemplate) on His Love .... on His Promises ... on His good plans for us; and as we do, Worship takes a foothold and Joy starts sweeping out the debris so Peace can dwell there. The enemy will push and push and push to keep us dwelling on his whispers but God gives us free will ................ and the ability ...........to choose who we listen to and what we dwell on.

Lord, You deserve every one of our thoughts. Help us Lord to refuse the lies of the enemy and choose to meditate on Your Truths and Your Love. Lord help us to take every thought captive and turn them into meditations on Your Love ! May we Worship in this Temple; proclaiming Your goodness and Your victory in every situation. How can we think on Your Love ... and not feel it welling up inside us???? Lord, You are so good .... You are so wonderful...and Your plans for me are for good and not for evil. You make a way where there seems to be no way and we proclaim with our thoughts and our mouths....that You are LORD !!

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Slave or Free?

Galatians 4: 30,31 (NLT)

"But what do the Scriptures say about that? 'Get rid of the slave and her son, for the son of the slave woman will not share the family inheritance with the free woman's son.' So dear friends, we are not children of the slave woman, obligated to the law, We are children of the free woman, acceptable to God because of our faith."

This scripture is referring to Ishmael (man's manipulation) and Isaac (God's Promise/God's plan) and the difference between living by the law or the Spirit of God. But as I read that, it really hit me that it also refers to the bondage of our flesh and the freedom of our spirit now that we are in Christ. Our flesh..our thoughts, emotions.. is the result of generations of beliefs, attitudes and environmental influences. How we respond to something in the flesh depends on what "triggers" have been set up in our lives. Old wounds, rejections, manipulations .... all those things are active in our "old man" ways of thinking and responding. But through Christ and through the infilling of the Holy Spirit we are no longer slaves to those things..........we really can be FREE !!!!!!! By choosing to respond to what the Word of God says about us....rather than how our fleshly thoughts and emotions want to respond...we continue to gain victory and walk in the freedom God has provided ! The scripture says "Get rid of the slave and her son"..... in other words it is saying "Get rid of the old bondages and their consequences." When the flesh rises up...take a deep Holy Ghost breath and declare "I don't care what I feel like...I don't care what I see....I choose to believe the Word of God in this situation!" Run into that freedom!! Don't be dragged back down "Flesh....resistance is futile; I am a free child of God and not subject to you!"

Lord, help each of us to slam the door on the old ways of thinking and responding. Holy Spirit fill us daily and lead us...mature us....strengthen us...develop our Christ nature! Thank You Lord that You have set me free !

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Changed Thinking

Roman's 12:2 (NLT)

"Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect His will really is."

Boy, sometimes I do it right .... and I sure love those times. I hate office politics.... I hate the backbiting and gossip... I hate the unfairness; and the old me would like to rise up sometimes and just wreck havoc ! The old me would also like to rise up sometimes and think the worst of people; the old me would like to rise up and say "Forget this junk...I'm outta here !" But the Lord really has done some amazing changes in me over the years (wish I could say it hadn't taken near as long as it has! ) and now, more often than not, I find myself taking a step back from whatever attack is going on and saying "Lord, I know You love these people and have put me here to be a Light..... Lord help me to do that." I wish I could tell you I do that every time *sigh*....but I can't. But He has changed...and is continuing to change...my way of thinking and my focus. He's getting me there ! And every time I do it His way instead of the world's way....man it feels good !!!! And things just work so much better ! Which makes me ask myself "Marla...why in the WORLD don't you choose His way every time...and quickly?!!!" But I am a work in progress...and so are you...and I think all heaven rejoices every time we take a step forward with the Lord. May we all truly come to know how "good and pleasing and perfect His will really is"!

Lord, thank You for helping me to "grow up". Thank You Lord for helping me to see situations and people in a new way. Thank You Lord for helping me to hear You more clearly and sense Your leading. Lord, thank You for not holding my failures against me....and also for not allowing me to fail comfortably. Thank You Lord for changing the way I think....may Your Word rise up in me and overcome every lie of the enemy ... and every useless plan of my flesh. May You be glorified Lord in my thoughts and in my actions! Thank You Lord!

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Only The Truth

Ezekiel 8: 16-18 (NLT)

"Then He brought me into the inner courtyard of the LORD'S Temple. At the entrance, between the foyer and the bronze altar, about twenty-five men were standing with their backs to the LORD's Temple. They were facing eastward, worshiping the sun! "Have you seen this, son of man?" He asked. "Is it nothing to the people of Judah that they commit these terrible sins, leading the whole nation into violence, thumbing their noses at Me and rousing my fury against them? Therefore, I will deal with them in fury. I will neither pity nor spare them. And though they scream for mercy, I will not listen."

Boy, how would you like to hear the Lord say that about you? The Lord is a jealous God though of who or what we worship. He knows how much destruction comes when we get off the Path and start looking to other things/people/gods, rather than Him. And He knows how we can be a stumbling block for others. That's why it is so important to know what the Word of God says and be willing to give up ANYTHING that doesn't line up with that. It's good sometimes (actually often) to just do a heart check and see what there is in our lives that we would be reluctant to give up (whether a physical thing or a belief) if we were to suddenly see that it led to worshipping something other than the True Living God? We get in real danger sometimes of letting doctrine or tradition block us from just seeking The Truth. God made the sun, the moon, the stars, the animals...... so many wonderful things....and they all tell something about Him........but they were never meant to be worshipped. Never settle for a lesser thing when You can be in the Presence of the Great Creator! Are we willing to lay out everything we believe, and check it according to God's Word? He's not trying to destroy us or take away our fun....He trying to give us the greatest freedom there ever was ........... and the Joy of not being in bondage to anything false.

Lord, I do..... I lay out everything I have...everything I believe...and I ask You by the Word and the Holy Spirit to strengthen the areas of Truth in my life.....and reveal the areas of deception. Lord, I don't want to miss You in anyway .... and I sure don't want to lead others astray or be a stumbling block. Lord, fine tune us so we are led fully by You and only in Truth. Lord, You said You are perfecting us ..... so Lord, help me to lay all down to the examination of Truth. May You be Glorified!

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His Temple

I Kings 8:28,29 (NLT)

"Listen to my prayer and my request, O LORD my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that Your servant is making to You today. May You watch over this Temple both day and night, this place where You have said You would put Your Name. May You always hear the prayers I make toward this place."

In this scripture, King Solomon was referring to the temple the Lord had him build...a physical building. He couldn't understand (in the previous verses) how a building could hold such a Mighty God ...when "the highest heavens can not contain You." But this temple was only a symbol of what was to come. II Corinthians 6:16 says we (who have received Jesus as our Lord and Savior and have received the Holy Spirit) are the "temple of the living God". It's in our body; in our thought life;in our actions; that we make the sacrifices -- giving our very best in exchange for something greater. When we become aware of Who lives in us then we start realizing how much God wants to be part of everything in our lives..............and how willing He is to watch over every part of our lives. When our prayers are centered on His will (not focused on our fleshly wants) then He is going to hear those prayers and protect them. His will for us.............is for good.

Lord, help me to treat my spirit, soul and body as Your living temple. Help us to let You prepare and cleanse; restore and Anoint. Help us to trust that You have the very best plans and the very best way for us! And Lord, help us to be so sensitive and obedient to You that the world sees You dwelling in us! For Your Glory Lord!

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Patient Endurence

James 1:12 (NLT)

"God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him."

God does not do evil things to us; the enemy is the one who brings destruction. But the Lord will allow us to be tested and refined. In a way though when the enemy brings on attacks, our response makes a big determination of the outcome. Draw close to the Lord and see something good come from the awful things the enemy has planned for us. Funny thing though, we can usually come through those real bad times closer to the Lord because we realize there is no other place to run. But in the day to day living ..... *sigh*.... that is often where we really need to learn to "patiently endure". If you have problems dealing with a certain type of co-worker and decide to get a different job.... you will prob'ly find the same kind of co-worker there....or even more of them ! If you find certain conflicts rising up with people in your church...and decide to go to a different church.... you will prob'ly find the same kind of conflicts at the new place.... or even worse. There is just certain things in us the Lord knows we need to turn over to Him to help us to "grow up". The rewards for enduring patiently are great (in heaven..and here on earth) ! If you find yourself keeping hitting the same wall, ask the Holy Spirit if there is something in YOU that needs to be changed and ask Him to help you make that change. He is there to help you have victory.... not waiting to find some awful thing in you so He can beat up on you. Let Him help build a gate in that wall and He will put a crown on your head not only later..but in THIS life !

Lord, in every situation I am facing, help me to trust You that Your plans for me are for good and not evil. Help me Lord to overcome those things in my life that were never meant to be a part of me. Help me to take time to seek Your advice...and to hear it. Lord, help me to always remember that there is always something greater .... help me to see more of the big picture. Lord prepare my heart and my life to wear the crowns You desire for me! Thank You Lord !

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Saved Completely

Hebrews 7:24,25 (NLT)

"But Jesus remains a priest forever; His priesthood will never end. Therefore He is able, once and forever, to save completely everyone who comes to God through Him. He lives forever to plead with God on their behalf."

Man couldn't do it; the law sure couldn't do it, so God Himself made the pure sacrifice that made a way for us to be totally right with God. My husband and I own our home and we both have full say over who or what comes into our home. Because we love and respect each other, we don't allow anything/anyone in that would make the other uncomfortable. But because my husband trusts my judgment and I have a lot of "pull" with him ....... if ANYONE showed up at our door and they had a note from me in their hand saying "Rem, would you give this person a good meal and make them feel at home please? Love Marla" Rem would invite them in and do just that. Well, the Holy Spirit leads people to Jesus so the Holy Spirit isn't there trying to keep you our of the Kingdom; the Father sent Jesus to us so He isn't trying to keep us out of the Kingdom; and Jesus holds the "note" that not only lets us in.......but gives us all of His privileges! But it's not just for "some day!"; Jesus is pleading for us and to us....enter NOW ! Grab hold of what Jesus has made available now for us; allow Him to reveal these wonderful privileges to you. Allow Him to show you what being "saved completely" means. Don't miss one thing the Lord has for you!

Lord, You bought my freedom; You bought my restoration; You bought the right for me to grow in You and have final victory in all things..........no matter what is going on around me. Lord, help me to partake of all that the shed Blood of Christ has made available for me; for Your glory Lord!

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Disagreements

Philippians 4:2,3 (NLT)

"And now I want to plead with those two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And I ask you, my true teammate, to help these women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. And they worked with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are written in the Book of Life."

Did you notice; Paul never said why the women were at odds? He never indicated who was right or who started the disagreement. All he did was ask them to settle it...and reminded them WHY they needed to settle it "...because you belong to the Lord..". We are Christians; we love the Lord; we are working on His behave and that of others..... and we still get into conflicts with each other. The enemy loves it !!!!! He even helps keep it going; because he wants to keep you sidetracked and out of his hair ! But if we can look at the bigger picture...put things into perspective; remember who our real enemy is; grow up a bit and not focus on "my right" so much ........ then the Lord won't have to "deal" with us and He can (and will) send others to encourage and help us as we need. What disagreement do we have with anyone...that is worth missing what the Lord has for us?

Lord, help us to have an awareness of what is at stake. Help us to overcome our flesh and to follow Your Spirit in all situations and in all relationships. Lord help us to lay down any conflicts we are having with others; help us to just "bag it up" and hand it to You, knowing that You will work something good in our lives and bring something wonderful out of a situation the enemy meant for destruction. Bind us together Lord with hearts of love so we don't stop or hinder what You are doing in our lives or that of others. Thank You Lord for not giving up on us. Lord, help us to not give up on each other.

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Torked

Acts 7: 54-58 (NLT)

"The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen's accusation, and they shook their fists in rage. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily upward into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God's right hand. And he told them, "Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God's right hand!" Then they put their hands over their ears, and drowning out his voice with their shouts, they rushed at him. They dragged him out of the city and began to stone him."

Often people teach that as Stephan was being stoned he saw the heavens open and saw the throne room; but that isn't the way it happened. Stephen had just given the Jewish leaders a history lesson of their people.... including the fact that they had killed the One who they had claimed to be looking for all this time. Mad???? I should say they were; some translations say they ground their teeth at Stephen; they were torked !! But then.... The Holy Spirit opened the eyes of Stephen's heart...and he saw HIM !!! Jesus!!! At the Right hand of The Father !!! Can you imagine the Glory that must have shown on his face as he told them what he saw??? That's when they let rage take full control and drug him away and stoned him. How DARE this lowly man (after all he was ONLY a servant ... the disciples had chose him as one to help meet the needs of the people), how dare he put a guilt trip on them??? Who did he think he was?? Didn't he know who THEY were??? But Stephan had seen the greater vision (and maybe he continued to behold the throne room... maybe) and the Holy Spirit allowed him to ask forgiveness for them all ...... as he stepped into the throne room with the Savior he loved.

Lord, help us to not give in to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Lord help us to be filled with Your Spirit...to hear You clearly and to just 'know that we know' when we have been commissioned by you to speak or to 'go'. Help us to realize it's not our ability or our inability....it's You Lord...all that You are. Help us to see beyond what is before us in this realm; open the eyes of our hearts. And Lord, open the eyes of peoples understanding; prepare their hearts to receive the wonders You have for them ! Lord, we choose Your Glory over our fear........help us to keep our eyes on the Throne Room..........and the One Who stands there!

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Sacred Food

Leviticus 22: 10,11 (NLT)

"No one outside a priest's family may ever eat the sacred offerings even if the person lives in a priest's home or is one of his hired servants. However, if the priest buys slaves with his own money, they may eat of his food. And if his slaves have children, they also may share his food.

Sacred offerings; things set apart just for God and the priest's who represented Him. The very best beef; the very best mutton....whatever it was...it was the very best to the One Who deserved the very best. It was also untouchable by those who didn't have the right "credentials". But Yahu we have the credentials now !! Jesus is called our High Priest (Heb 17:2) and He bought us out of captivity at the great price of His own blood (The Priest bought us with His Own "money")! Jesus told the disciples He had food they didn't even have a clue about (John 4:32). But now .........but NOW..... oh my... now WE can partake of that "food" too because He has made the way for us to do so. There is Insight; Wisdom; Knowledge; Strength; Life; Living Water.........and so much more for us to "eat" of . And the Holy Spirit is saying "Come into the Holy of Holies; come and eat of the sacred things; come and let Me feed you! Come, don't hold back but come and eat of the food that is available to Jesus ! Let Me reveal the banquet table to you ............ come and be nourished so your spiritual children will be fed too ! Come; it's available !! It's available!! It's available!!"

Lord, we don't understand the depth of what You are offering us, but we want to partake. Lord, open the eyes of our hearts (those spiritual eyes); help us to hook into that Power to sustain us that Jesus experienced ! Lord help us to experience this and understand it as we need. Lord, we need to be nourished and to nourish others...and this comes ONLY through You ! Be glorified Lord !

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Confess and Be Blessed

Ps 66: 18-20 (NLT)

"If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, my Lord would not have listened. But God did listen! He paid attention to my prayer. Praise God, Who did not ignore my prayer and did not withdraw His unfailing love from me."

Here's the scenario: Parent gets a call from the teacher; their child once again didn't hand in their school work. The parent knows they had asked the child the night before if they had school work to do. Now that parent knows that the child lied when they said there was none to do. It's Friday and the parent had planned to take the child to that movie that is playing uptown... the one the child has really, really wanted to see. Child comes home; parent asks "How was school? Everything go ok with the teachers today?" Now at that moment...before the child answers.... what do you think that parent is hoping? Assuming this is a good parent and not some psycho....I'll just about guarantee that the parent is hoping the child will have had their conscious bothering them enough that they (maybe with even tears) will confess they did something wrong and really feels badly about it. I'll also say the parent very, very likely wants this to happen for the good of the child's "growth" and so they can set down; make a plan to make it right....and the parent can still Bless the child and the punishment doesn't have to be near as harsh as if the child doesn't take responsibility. I think that is a bit how God is... He already knows every sin we commit ... whether in action or in our hearts (thoughts).... but He wants so much for us to take responsibility and have a desire to change. He's not waiting to beat us... He wants to help us ! Help us be free of this bondage.... help us to be strengthened and matured... help us to get relief..............and He wants to be able to Bless us ! Don't be afraid to take an honest look at the sins you may hold in your heart; God is pulling for you and He wants to help...He REALLY does !

Lord, forgive me for trying to hide anything from you...and for trying even to hide things from myself. Lord, reveal to me anything that I need to confess and be free of. Lord, we want Your cleansing and restoration...........and we want to run into the arms of our Father Who is so proud of our desire to do what is right. Help us Lord to not have hardened hearts .. help us not to miss one Blessing ! Thank You Lord !

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Fruit of Praise

Hebrew 13:15 (KJ)

"By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His Name."

I've taught about praise often; as a form of warfare, release, healing, encouragement, power; but the more the Lord teaches me about this... the more convinced I am that there is far more about this then I can begin to understand. The good news is...I don't HAVE to understand it completely to operate in it. It's the strangest feeling to have such an excitement in my spirit when I think about praise and it's results... and not really understand it all. But I do know that 'sacrifice' isn't "giving up something"... it is giving our very best in return for something even better ! I also know (thanks to Webster's Dictionary..ha) that fruit is 1a: a product of plant growth (as grain, vegetables, or cotton) <the fruits of the field> b. the usually edible reproductive body of a seed plant. To me this means that the 'fruit of our lips' is a result of growth (something the Holy Spirit has nurtured in us) and is meant to be given as a seed and also nourishment. When we praise, there is an increase ... so let praise well up inside you and let it out !!! Praise for what God HAS done in your life .. Praise for what God IS doing (even if you don't see it) .. and Praise for what God WILL BE doing ! Then continue in Praise and watch awesome things happen all around you !

Lord, Anoint me to Praise; help me to just let it flow out of me. Lord, I don't understand it but I know You will do something mighty with it on my behave and that of others. And Lord, I know that You are so very, very worthy of all Praise ! Lord, we don't go by what we see or hear .. but what we know about You.. that Your plans for us are for good and not evil and You are an awesome, awesome God !

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Spiritual Gifts

I Corinthians 12; 4-7 (NLT)

"Now there are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service in the church, but it is the same Lord we are serving. There are different ways God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work through all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church."

Sometimes we really limit God ............. we think about spiritual gifts and think about prophecy; visions; healing; praying in the Spirit; or preaching (all wonderful gifts...don't get me wrong). But God has given each one of us spiritual gifts........ cleaning the house can be a gift; having people over for coffee and friendship; fixing a car; taking care of animals; drawing a picture; putting together a website; singing; praying; changing a babies diaper....they can all be gifts. If you are honest with yourself and don't get into some unholy false modesty, you will admit...there is just some things that you do...that you know you are really good at. Those things are gifts from God. He's put them in you for a reason; not just so you can get prestige (although that may come) or to feel "better" than someone else....but because they are a part of His big plan....His purpose and desire for all people.... and He wants you to be a part of it. Whatever that gift is; however grand or simple; if you will give that to the Lord and dedicate it to Him.... He will do something wonderful with it ! Don't waste the gifts He gave you by denying them or misdirecting them .......... give them to the One Who gave them to you..........and He will use them to bring in His Kingdom and help people. The gifts He gave you are very, very important.........so very needed !

Lord, help us each to recognize the gifts You have put in us. May we glorify You with them and flow (operate) in our gifts in such a way that You can take them and Bless others. In doing so; Lord we know we will be Blessed too. Help us to realize it isn't that grandness of the gift.....it's the grandness of the giftgiver !

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A Safe Place

Ps 31: 7,8 (NLT)

"I am overcome with joy because of Your unfailing love, for You have seen my troubles, and You care about the anguish of my soul. You have not handed me over to my enemy but have set me in a safe place."

The Lord has given you a goal; a project; a vision; whatever it is, you have come to the place of saying "Yes, this really is the Lord telling me to do this." Things seem to be coming together and it is just fun ! Then things seem to start falling apart .... people get upset with you; it doesn't seem like others are grasping the vision God has given you; the finances are stressed; sickness comes in .... the enemy is unrelenting and discouragement is knocking at the door. Don't be surprised; that's the enemy of your soul just doing his job (and he's very good at it) but it doesn't change anything. God is bigger than whatever situation you are facing. I used to have a horse named Shorty who stood over 17 hands (for you non-horsemen...that means he was TALL) and weighed well over 1200 lbs. He had speed, endurance and cow savvy. I was on him when a rank ol' cow charged him, hitting him square in the chest ............. the cow staggered back a bit..........while shorty (who I never felt even budge) looked down at her like "Cow...what IS your problem???" When I was on Shorty, I was setting in a safe place. God is more powerful........and He sees your anguish.....He sees your troubles and He will NOT let your enemies win over you. Keep going! God will take care of the situation, and you. Keep going !

Lord, You know more about every situation I am facing then I could possibly know. Lord, You have set me on a path and given me my marching orders............that means You knew what was ahead of me and You have given me everything I need to accomplish what You have called me to do. Thank You Lord for dealing with my enemies and putting me in a safe place ! Discouragement may be knocking on my door..............but Jesus is going to answer it ! Yahu !!! (God is able)

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Generosity

Prov 11:25 (NLT)

"The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed."

When people aren't generous; whether it's with money, time or kindness; I've noticed that usually there seems to be some kind of fear there. Either fear that they will be hurt (protecting old wounds) or fear that they will lose something that will never be replaced or a fear that they will give and give and give and not be appreciated or will be taken advantage of. But God will never take advantage of you. If you are generous to get approval from people ..... it will prob'ly never happen...or at very most will be a pretty shallow, fleeting feeling. But if you are generous for the Lord; then HE sees...........and He keeps the records.........and He rewards.

Lord, I want a generous heart ! Help me to have discernment and Wisdom in my giving. Show me areas and opportunities where I can refresh others. Lord for those reading this who have given and given and given and haven't really seen the benefits.... open the Eyes of their understanding and reveal to them how proud You are of them....and how You have seen each gift; each kindness. Lord manifest that refreshing in their lives and show us each how to increase in Your generosity! For the Glory of Jesus !