I Timothy 6:10 (KJV) Says "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
Many people say that money is the root of all evil, but as the above verse of scripture tells us it is not money, but the love of money that is the root of all evil. This scripture uses the term root meaning source, and the love of money is the source of many types of evil. It is not the only source from which all evil comes, but it is a major one. There are those who have strayed in different ways from their faith while striving to increase their bank account. The above verse of scripture also tells us that some have coveted after money causing themselves much sorrow meaning some have sought money to the degree that they made it their goal in life, and in the end they were filled with sorrow.
For these people the line between what they need, and what they want becomes blurred. Need is a strong word, and one that is misused quite often. For example, if you have a three bedroom house and two children, but would like a fourth bedroom for a home office, that fourth bedroom is a want not a need. Friends, be careful not to spend so much time earning money that you abandon God, family, and friends in order to do so. It is necessary to work and provide for your family, but to spend so much time working that you abandon faith, family and friends due to your love for the almighty dollar is to head down a road that leads to sorrow. The truth is for those who fall into the trap of chasing money, there will never be a time when they feel they have earned enough of it to relax. The million dollar question is what is enough?
If you are doing your part to provide for your family then God will certainly do His. Luke 12:27-31 (KJV) Says "Consider the lilies how they grow they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." This scripture plainly tells us that if we put God first in our lives, then there is no need to worry that we will lack clothing, go hungry, or thirst to death because God knows what we need, and He will provide it.
Don't spend so much time working that you push God to the side, and declare that you have no control over having done so. Don't spend so much time working that your children grow up without you having spent any time with them. Don't spend so much time working you grow old, and have no friends because you neglected them for years. What good is a large bank account, when in the end you find yourself lacking all that truly matters?
I would like to encourage you to evaluate where you place money on your list of priorities. Is God first in your life? Do you spend enough time with Him? Do you spend enough time with your children? With your other family members? Do you make time for your friends? Are you headed down a path that leads to sorrow? I have spent time with quite a few people on their death bed, and I've watched as some drew their last breath. Not one of these people, let me reiterate here, Not One of them requested that I bring them their purse or their wallet, but there is one thing they all ask for, and that was their loved ones. Each one of them requested that they be surrounded by the people they loved. They wanted to see them one last time.
Do your part to provide for yourself and your family, put God first in your life. Spend time with your children, and make time for your family and friends. Do it while there is time. In the end you'll be glad you did. I have attended many funerals in my life, and I can promise you this not once have I seen a Brinks truck follow a hearse to the cemetery.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Bitterness
Hebrews 12:15 (KJV) Says "Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled,"
The above verse of scripture reminds us that bitterness has roots, and as we know roots grow deep and spread out. When a plant first bursts through the soil it appears tiny, but if the root system of that plant were exposed, the plant wouldn't seem tiny at all. The roots of bitterness are very similar to the roots of a plant in that they too spread out, are deep, and continue to grow. Bitterness eats away at every aspect of your life, and it will not cease until you get rid of it in its entirety. It has destroyed families, relationships, businesses, and the spiritual lives of many individuals.
Life is full of disappointments, and there will always be people who hurt and offend us. Jesus Says in Luke 17:1 (KJV) "It is impossible but that offenses will come:" He is telling us here that it is inevitable that we will be hurt, disappointed, and offended in this life. We do not, however, have to allow the offenses, disappointments, and pain to take root and spread bitterness into every aspect of our lives. We can instead opt to respond in a manner of forgiveness, and move forward maintaining our sense of joy and peace.
Most of us either know or have known someone who has allowed bitterness to consume them. If you ask them what's wrong they give you a stern one word response like "nothing," but by their demeanor you can see that something or someone in their life has caused them a great deal of emotional pain. They no longer find joy in anything, they become angry when certain topics are discussed, they always have something negative to say about whatever is being discussed, they refuse to smile, and laughter is out of the question. They become the grumpy old lady who lives in the house on the corner or the grumpy old man who wears a frown daily. Almost every neighborhood has individuals like this residing in their midst, and everyone knows who they are. The things they get snippy about are often small, and it is very obvious they are suffering from deep emotional pain.
People who live their lives in a constant state of agitation and anger stemming from a seed of bitterness couldn't possibly want to go around feeling that way. They have allowed bitterness to spread within their spirit to the degree that they see no way of conquering it. They have allowed the pain caused by disappointment, hurt or offense to consume them, and they have accepted a life of bitterness as their fate.
If you know you're bitter about something and it has taken over your life, decide today that you are no longer going to allow it to have control over you. If you need to forgive someone do so, and move on. Forgiving is healing for you. I urge you to go to God in prayer, and ask Him to help you move past whatever is causing the pain and bitterness in your life. God never intended for any of his children to live bitter lives. He wants us to have joy, happiness, divine peace and contentment, and that is not possible as long as we are harboring bitterness. Decide today that you are going to live the life of happiness that God desires for you to live. Get rid of the bitterness you're harboring roots and all. Knock down the wall you've built around your heart, and give love, trust, happiness, and life another chance. I encourage you to remember that God loves you, and that with Him all things are possible.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
The above verse of scripture reminds us that bitterness has roots, and as we know roots grow deep and spread out. When a plant first bursts through the soil it appears tiny, but if the root system of that plant were exposed, the plant wouldn't seem tiny at all. The roots of bitterness are very similar to the roots of a plant in that they too spread out, are deep, and continue to grow. Bitterness eats away at every aspect of your life, and it will not cease until you get rid of it in its entirety. It has destroyed families, relationships, businesses, and the spiritual lives of many individuals.
Life is full of disappointments, and there will always be people who hurt and offend us. Jesus Says in Luke 17:1 (KJV) "It is impossible but that offenses will come:" He is telling us here that it is inevitable that we will be hurt, disappointed, and offended in this life. We do not, however, have to allow the offenses, disappointments, and pain to take root and spread bitterness into every aspect of our lives. We can instead opt to respond in a manner of forgiveness, and move forward maintaining our sense of joy and peace.
Most of us either know or have known someone who has allowed bitterness to consume them. If you ask them what's wrong they give you a stern one word response like "nothing," but by their demeanor you can see that something or someone in their life has caused them a great deal of emotional pain. They no longer find joy in anything, they become angry when certain topics are discussed, they always have something negative to say about whatever is being discussed, they refuse to smile, and laughter is out of the question. They become the grumpy old lady who lives in the house on the corner or the grumpy old man who wears a frown daily. Almost every neighborhood has individuals like this residing in their midst, and everyone knows who they are. The things they get snippy about are often small, and it is very obvious they are suffering from deep emotional pain.
People who live their lives in a constant state of agitation and anger stemming from a seed of bitterness couldn't possibly want to go around feeling that way. They have allowed bitterness to spread within their spirit to the degree that they see no way of conquering it. They have allowed the pain caused by disappointment, hurt or offense to consume them, and they have accepted a life of bitterness as their fate.
If you know you're bitter about something and it has taken over your life, decide today that you are no longer going to allow it to have control over you. If you need to forgive someone do so, and move on. Forgiving is healing for you. I urge you to go to God in prayer, and ask Him to help you move past whatever is causing the pain and bitterness in your life. God never intended for any of his children to live bitter lives. He wants us to have joy, happiness, divine peace and contentment, and that is not possible as long as we are harboring bitterness. Decide today that you are going to live the life of happiness that God desires for you to live. Get rid of the bitterness you're harboring roots and all. Knock down the wall you've built around your heart, and give love, trust, happiness, and life another chance. I encourage you to remember that God loves you, and that with Him all things are possible.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Out Of Step
Galatians 6:1-2 (KJV) Says "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
In the above scripture Paul is advising that it is our responsibility to help fellow Christians who we see straying from their walk with Christ. If we are aware that a fellow believer is being overtaken by sin and straying from their Christian walk, we are to go to them in the spirit of meekness, meaning with a gentle approach, and assist in guiding them back to the Lord. It is our responsibility to encourage them with love, kindness and understanding with the hope they opt to repent and be restored. If we approach them with harsh criticism and judgment, that will serve only to push them further away. Paul also advises that as we approach them we are to consider ourselves, meaning we are only human, and we must be mindful that we are not tempted and overtaken by sin while attempting to encourage our brother or sister in Christ.
If you see someone falling away from the Lord, pray for them and approach them as soon as you notice. The earlier you approach them the better, because the further they stray from their walk with God, the more difficult it will be to get them to return. The earlier you approach them, the more willing they will probably be to listen to you, and the more open their heart will be to receive your encouragement. You may want to invite them to lunch, or to dinner, call them on the phone, or offer some other gesture that reminds them you are there for them, and that you care. We must be careful not to be overzealous in attempting to encourage them, however, because we certainly don't want to become annoying and increase any resistance they may have to hearing us.
Being only human it is in our nature to sin and we are all guilty of doing so. Romans 3:23 (KJV) Says "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." When we see a fellow Christian getting further and further out of step with the Lord, however, we need to pray for them and let them know we notice, we care, we are there for them, and that we love them, and we need to do it as soon as possible. Sin is like a wound in that, if treated early it can be healed with relative ease, but if left untreated becomes an infection that runs rampant continuing to spread, and destroying everything in it's wake. We must support, uplift, strengthen, and encourage one another with brotherly love; as we are all one in Christ Jesus.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above scripture Paul is advising that it is our responsibility to help fellow Christians who we see straying from their walk with Christ. If we are aware that a fellow believer is being overtaken by sin and straying from their Christian walk, we are to go to them in the spirit of meekness, meaning with a gentle approach, and assist in guiding them back to the Lord. It is our responsibility to encourage them with love, kindness and understanding with the hope they opt to repent and be restored. If we approach them with harsh criticism and judgment, that will serve only to push them further away. Paul also advises that as we approach them we are to consider ourselves, meaning we are only human, and we must be mindful that we are not tempted and overtaken by sin while attempting to encourage our brother or sister in Christ.
If you see someone falling away from the Lord, pray for them and approach them as soon as you notice. The earlier you approach them the better, because the further they stray from their walk with God, the more difficult it will be to get them to return. The earlier you approach them, the more willing they will probably be to listen to you, and the more open their heart will be to receive your encouragement. You may want to invite them to lunch, or to dinner, call them on the phone, or offer some other gesture that reminds them you are there for them, and that you care. We must be careful not to be overzealous in attempting to encourage them, however, because we certainly don't want to become annoying and increase any resistance they may have to hearing us.
Being only human it is in our nature to sin and we are all guilty of doing so. Romans 3:23 (KJV) Says "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." When we see a fellow Christian getting further and further out of step with the Lord, however, we need to pray for them and let them know we notice, we care, we are there for them, and that we love them, and we need to do it as soon as possible. Sin is like a wound in that, if treated early it can be healed with relative ease, but if left untreated becomes an infection that runs rampant continuing to spread, and destroying everything in it's wake. We must support, uplift, strengthen, and encourage one another with brotherly love; as we are all one in Christ Jesus.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Angels Among Us
Hebrews 1:13-14 (KJV) Says "But to which of the angels said he at any time, sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" Hebrews 13:2 (KJV) Says "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
In the first verses of scripture listed above, the writer of Hebrews is explaining that Christ is superior to the angels, and that angels are ministering spirits sent forth to minister to those who are heirs of salvation. Then we are told in Hebrews 13:2 that it is possible for us to have encounters with angels, and be completely unaware of it. In Genesis Chapter 18 (KJV) three angels visit Abraham, and in Chapter 19 of Genesis (KJV) two angels visit Lot. Angels are mentioned numerous times in the Bible, and they are not always identified as angels by those they are sent forth to visit.
I have no doubt that angels exist, and that they come in contact with people; sometimes without being identified as angels. This has been evident in my life, and in the lives of some who opted to tell me about their experiences. Allow me to share a couple of those amazing stories with you.
One man who I know very well, was struggling with some rather large issues in his life and was headed down a path of self-destruction. He had been saved and baptized some years back, and had always believed strongly in the Lord. During his recent struggles, however, he had not turned to the Lord for help, and guidance. He found himself at a loss, and his spirit was deeply troubled. Then one day he was several feet away from a pay phone, when it began to ring. He stared at the phone, and knowing the call wouldn't be for him he opted to let it ring. It rang continuously, and when it became obvious that it wasn't going to stop ringing until someone answered it, he chose to pick up the receiver. He lifted the phone to his ear and said hello. The caller responded with a question. Do you know Jesus? The man wanted to make certain he heard the caller correctly, and so he said pardon me? The caller repeated the question. Do you know Jesus? The man answered yes and the caller fell silent. Seconds later the man heard nothing but a dial tone. Jesus was the answer to this man's problems, but he had been so troubled he had failed to see that help was only a prayer away. That man was reminded to turn to Jesus that day, and he did just that. Though all of his problems didn't vanish in an instant, he brought God and prayer back to the forefront of his life, and that has remained.Who was that caller with perfect timing, and a perfect one liner? The caller was a stranger, but was he an angel? I think so.
I was blessed, and honored to have a long friendship with a great man, Captain Sammie Davis, who has now gone home to be with the Lord. As a firefighter, he spent many years rescuing people, fighting fires, and saving lives. Needless to say he worked closely with death, and he saw many things that most of us will go through our entire lives without ever seeing. After he retired we had many opportunity's to have long chats, and he would share stories, telling me about some of the experiences he had while serving with the fire department. During one of our conversations he told me a story I'll never forget. He told me he was working an apartment fire one night, and it was no small fire. He and the other firemen were going up and down a flight of stairs carrying people out of their apartments, and some of the people were in pretty bad shape, suffering from smoke inhalation. He said he carried one woman down, and it was certain she wasn't going to make it. He told me that as he knelt down beside her he felt someone tap him on the shoulder. He looked up, and saw a woman in a beautiful white gown. He said the gown was so white it had a brightness about it. He said the woman in the gown knelt down beside him, and ask if she could pray with the woman he had just brought out of the fire. He told her sure, and so she took the woman's hand and said what he described as one of the sweetest prayers he had ever heard. He had bowed his head and closed his eyes as the woman was praying, and when he opened his eyes he found that the woman had disappeared as quickly as she had appeared. He was baffled because there had not been ample time for her to walk out of sight before he opened his eyes. He said he went around asking other people if they'd seen her, but no one had.This story touched my friends heart, and when he shared it with me, it touched mine. The woman he carried out of the fire passed away, and the woman who prayed for her... Well, did she come to share the final moments of this woman's life? To escort her home? She was a stranger, but was she an angel? I think so.
Those are just a couple of the experiences that have been shared with me over the years, and there have been many more. Each time I think about even one of these stories it touches my heart. Pay attention to the people you cross paths with, even if the meeting is brief. Make certain you don't miss a message intended for you, and sent by God via a stranger/angel. Don't fail to acknowledge the fact that you have witnessed something divine. What a powerful testimony it is to share our experiences with others.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the first verses of scripture listed above, the writer of Hebrews is explaining that Christ is superior to the angels, and that angels are ministering spirits sent forth to minister to those who are heirs of salvation. Then we are told in Hebrews 13:2 that it is possible for us to have encounters with angels, and be completely unaware of it. In Genesis Chapter 18 (KJV) three angels visit Abraham, and in Chapter 19 of Genesis (KJV) two angels visit Lot. Angels are mentioned numerous times in the Bible, and they are not always identified as angels by those they are sent forth to visit.
I have no doubt that angels exist, and that they come in contact with people; sometimes without being identified as angels. This has been evident in my life, and in the lives of some who opted to tell me about their experiences. Allow me to share a couple of those amazing stories with you.
One man who I know very well, was struggling with some rather large issues in his life and was headed down a path of self-destruction. He had been saved and baptized some years back, and had always believed strongly in the Lord. During his recent struggles, however, he had not turned to the Lord for help, and guidance. He found himself at a loss, and his spirit was deeply troubled. Then one day he was several feet away from a pay phone, when it began to ring. He stared at the phone, and knowing the call wouldn't be for him he opted to let it ring. It rang continuously, and when it became obvious that it wasn't going to stop ringing until someone answered it, he chose to pick up the receiver. He lifted the phone to his ear and said hello. The caller responded with a question. Do you know Jesus? The man wanted to make certain he heard the caller correctly, and so he said pardon me? The caller repeated the question. Do you know Jesus? The man answered yes and the caller fell silent. Seconds later the man heard nothing but a dial tone. Jesus was the answer to this man's problems, but he had been so troubled he had failed to see that help was only a prayer away. That man was reminded to turn to Jesus that day, and he did just that. Though all of his problems didn't vanish in an instant, he brought God and prayer back to the forefront of his life, and that has remained.Who was that caller with perfect timing, and a perfect one liner? The caller was a stranger, but was he an angel? I think so.
I was blessed, and honored to have a long friendship with a great man, Captain Sammie Davis, who has now gone home to be with the Lord. As a firefighter, he spent many years rescuing people, fighting fires, and saving lives. Needless to say he worked closely with death, and he saw many things that most of us will go through our entire lives without ever seeing. After he retired we had many opportunity's to have long chats, and he would share stories, telling me about some of the experiences he had while serving with the fire department. During one of our conversations he told me a story I'll never forget. He told me he was working an apartment fire one night, and it was no small fire. He and the other firemen were going up and down a flight of stairs carrying people out of their apartments, and some of the people were in pretty bad shape, suffering from smoke inhalation. He said he carried one woman down, and it was certain she wasn't going to make it. He told me that as he knelt down beside her he felt someone tap him on the shoulder. He looked up, and saw a woman in a beautiful white gown. He said the gown was so white it had a brightness about it. He said the woman in the gown knelt down beside him, and ask if she could pray with the woman he had just brought out of the fire. He told her sure, and so she took the woman's hand and said what he described as one of the sweetest prayers he had ever heard. He had bowed his head and closed his eyes as the woman was praying, and when he opened his eyes he found that the woman had disappeared as quickly as she had appeared. He was baffled because there had not been ample time for her to walk out of sight before he opened his eyes. He said he went around asking other people if they'd seen her, but no one had.This story touched my friends heart, and when he shared it with me, it touched mine. The woman he carried out of the fire passed away, and the woman who prayed for her... Well, did she come to share the final moments of this woman's life? To escort her home? She was a stranger, but was she an angel? I think so.
Those are just a couple of the experiences that have been shared with me over the years, and there have been many more. Each time I think about even one of these stories it touches my heart. Pay attention to the people you cross paths with, even if the meeting is brief. Make certain you don't miss a message intended for you, and sent by God via a stranger/angel. Don't fail to acknowledge the fact that you have witnessed something divine. What a powerful testimony it is to share our experiences with others.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Searching For Peace
Philippians 4:6-9 (KJV) Says "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you."
In the above scripture Paul tells us how to go about gaining true peace, which is something I've noticed more and more people seem to be lacking. Paul tells us to be careful for nothing, which means we are not to worry about anything. He instructs us to pray, give thanks, and allow God to handle the things we are worried about. In short, don't waste time worrying give it to God. Paul explains that once we learn to do that, as children of God, we will gain a divine peace from Him that is so great it surpasses understanding. Paul goes on to tell us what things to think on. We are to think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of a good report.
Paul gives us simple instructions on where to find divine peace, and how to obtain it. Many people go through their entire lives restless, unhappy, discontent, and lacking peace. The reason for this is they are searching for peace and contentment everywhere, but where it can actually be found. These people are never satisfied. They may purchase a home believing it will make them happy only to discover that it's not the right one so still discontent they buy another one yet they are still lacking peace so they sell it, and repeat the process over and over again. There are those who think they will find peace and contentment just as soon as they purchase the ideal vehicle. These people fall into the same vicious cycle of buying and selling as those who thought they'd be content with the right home. People go to extremes searching for peace and contentment. Some look for it in a relationship, and they go through one after another thinking they will find what they are looking for as soon as they find the right person. How about money? Some people live to work so they can save money thinking this will bring them peace and contentment, but it never does. They continue on in their pattern of living to work thinking they will feel at ease just as soon as they make enough money, but they can never make enough. How about a thrill seeking adventure? Maybe if you bungee jump, parachute, hand glide or participate in some other daring activity you will find the peace you are searching for. Maybe the right outfit, shoes, a manicure, pedicure, something has got to bring you peace. They may try vacation after vacation thinking that getting away for a bit will bring them the peace and contentment they long for. This never works of course because true peace is gained from God, and is given to you through your relationship with Him. It is not found at an island resort somewhere off the coast.
It is common place for people to look for peace and contentment in worldly things, but not one person has found it in a material possession. It is not possible. How many celebraties have we seen that are restless, lonely, unsatisified, discontent, and lacking peace even though they have enough money to have any material thing in the world. Many people with unlimited access to whatever they desire have literally died searching for peace and contentment because they never looked to God for it.
Do you feel unsettled? Are you constantly buying something new in order to feel content or at peace? Do you have to be moving around, going on vacation after vacation because you are on a quest for peace that you just know will be found in that next home or on that next island? Are you a thrill seeker that just knows you'll find peace and contentment as soon as you participate in the right daring adventure? Have you had several failed relationships because you thought you'd find peace and contentment in them only to discover you didn't? Have you had multiple jobs, and you're still searching for the one that you feel content and at peace with? Are you living to work knowing you'll be content, and have peace just as soon as you earn and save the amount of money it takes to have those things?
If you are searching for peace in your life, look in the correct place. Divine peace comes only from God, and you can have it in your life. God loves you, and He wants you to have it. Peace and contentment will never be found in worldly possessions, and you can save yourself a great deal of time, trouble, and money by recognizing that. I urge you to stop searching through the things of the world, and go to God in prayer, cast all your cares upon Him, ask Him to fill your heart with His divine peace, ask Him to lead, guide, and direct your steps, surrender your life to Him, and as Paul advises think only on good things. If you will do these things, you will develop a divine peace and contentment like you have never before known. I know this to be a fact. First, because the Word of God tells me so, and second because I have experienced it firsthand.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above scripture Paul tells us how to go about gaining true peace, which is something I've noticed more and more people seem to be lacking. Paul tells us to be careful for nothing, which means we are not to worry about anything. He instructs us to pray, give thanks, and allow God to handle the things we are worried about. In short, don't waste time worrying give it to God. Paul explains that once we learn to do that, as children of God, we will gain a divine peace from Him that is so great it surpasses understanding. Paul goes on to tell us what things to think on. We are to think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of a good report.
Paul gives us simple instructions on where to find divine peace, and how to obtain it. Many people go through their entire lives restless, unhappy, discontent, and lacking peace. The reason for this is they are searching for peace and contentment everywhere, but where it can actually be found. These people are never satisfied. They may purchase a home believing it will make them happy only to discover that it's not the right one so still discontent they buy another one yet they are still lacking peace so they sell it, and repeat the process over and over again. There are those who think they will find peace and contentment just as soon as they purchase the ideal vehicle. These people fall into the same vicious cycle of buying and selling as those who thought they'd be content with the right home. People go to extremes searching for peace and contentment. Some look for it in a relationship, and they go through one after another thinking they will find what they are looking for as soon as they find the right person. How about money? Some people live to work so they can save money thinking this will bring them peace and contentment, but it never does. They continue on in their pattern of living to work thinking they will feel at ease just as soon as they make enough money, but they can never make enough. How about a thrill seeking adventure? Maybe if you bungee jump, parachute, hand glide or participate in some other daring activity you will find the peace you are searching for. Maybe the right outfit, shoes, a manicure, pedicure, something has got to bring you peace. They may try vacation after vacation thinking that getting away for a bit will bring them the peace and contentment they long for. This never works of course because true peace is gained from God, and is given to you through your relationship with Him. It is not found at an island resort somewhere off the coast.
It is common place for people to look for peace and contentment in worldly things, but not one person has found it in a material possession. It is not possible. How many celebraties have we seen that are restless, lonely, unsatisified, discontent, and lacking peace even though they have enough money to have any material thing in the world. Many people with unlimited access to whatever they desire have literally died searching for peace and contentment because they never looked to God for it.
Do you feel unsettled? Are you constantly buying something new in order to feel content or at peace? Do you have to be moving around, going on vacation after vacation because you are on a quest for peace that you just know will be found in that next home or on that next island? Are you a thrill seeker that just knows you'll find peace and contentment as soon as you participate in the right daring adventure? Have you had several failed relationships because you thought you'd find peace and contentment in them only to discover you didn't? Have you had multiple jobs, and you're still searching for the one that you feel content and at peace with? Are you living to work knowing you'll be content, and have peace just as soon as you earn and save the amount of money it takes to have those things?
If you are searching for peace in your life, look in the correct place. Divine peace comes only from God, and you can have it in your life. God loves you, and He wants you to have it. Peace and contentment will never be found in worldly possessions, and you can save yourself a great deal of time, trouble, and money by recognizing that. I urge you to stop searching through the things of the world, and go to God in prayer, cast all your cares upon Him, ask Him to fill your heart with His divine peace, ask Him to lead, guide, and direct your steps, surrender your life to Him, and as Paul advises think only on good things. If you will do these things, you will develop a divine peace and contentment like you have never before known. I know this to be a fact. First, because the Word of God tells me so, and second because I have experienced it firsthand.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Broken
II Chronicles 7:14 (KJV) Says "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
Are you feeling broken, as if the pieces of your life are scattered everywhere and you don't have any idea where to begin putting them back together? There are many people feeling that way these days, and many who have felt that way in the past. When we find ourselves in this state of emotion, it is overwhelming, but the good news is it doesn't have to be.
If you are currently feeling as if your life is out of control, don't accept this as your plight and start decorating for the big pity party you plan to have. Feeling sorry for yourself will only make matters worse. The above scripture tells you exactly how to get your life back on track. First we must humble ourselves and go to God in prayer, turning away from the things we have been guilty of doing, knowing that they don't coincide with righteous living, and are not the will of our Father. If we simply go to Him in prayer, ask forgiveness for our sins, and confess our regrets, then He will hear us, and He will forgive us instantly, and assist us in getting our lives back together.
After we turn to God in prayer and are forgiven, it is important that we not dwell on our past mistakes, but rather that we move forward and learn from them. Ask yourself what part you played in landing where you're at. Are you having financial difficulty because you wasted money? Have you been unkind to someone who has been nothing but kind to you? When things were going great for you did you fail to praise, and thank God for it? Recognize the actions you took that contributed to you being in the situation that you're in. If you've been spending money you don't have on things you don't need? If so, stop it. If you have mistreated someone who has been nothing but kind to you, then acknowledge it, and apologize to them. If you have failed to thank and praise God when things were going great in your life, tell Him you realize it, and ask Him to forgive you. Do whatever you can do to rectify the mistakes you've made, and God will do the rest.
I know from experience what it's like to make a mess of your life, and wind up with your ducks all over the pond. I'm still gathering up a few of mine. None of us will ever be perfect, and God understands that, but we must make a sincere effort to live our lives in a manner that reflects who we are in Christ. We need to make choices and decisions that are wise and responsible, not those that are spur of the moment and filled with reckless abandon.We can't go around living unrighteous lives, making bad choices then blame and question God when things wind up in disarray. Sometimes it takes a broken state to force people to take an honest look at themselves, their actions, where they've wound up, and what landed them there. It takes a broken state for some to pause, reflect, and re-evaluate their lives. It is only by taking an honest look at our self and our situation that we will see clearly the changes we must make in order to get back on track.
It is imperative that we are willing to recognize, acknowledge, and take responsibility for our faults, and our actions. It is impossible for us to work on improving the areas of our life that need improving, if we are unwilling to admit that we have faults, and problem areas. If you're feeling broken, go to God in prayer, ask forgiveness, and He will hear you and forgive you. Do what you can to improve your situation through apologizing to others, changing your financial habits, or whatever it is you can do that will improve your particular situation, and God will certainly do His part.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Are you feeling broken, as if the pieces of your life are scattered everywhere and you don't have any idea where to begin putting them back together? There are many people feeling that way these days, and many who have felt that way in the past. When we find ourselves in this state of emotion, it is overwhelming, but the good news is it doesn't have to be.
If you are currently feeling as if your life is out of control, don't accept this as your plight and start decorating for the big pity party you plan to have. Feeling sorry for yourself will only make matters worse. The above scripture tells you exactly how to get your life back on track. First we must humble ourselves and go to God in prayer, turning away from the things we have been guilty of doing, knowing that they don't coincide with righteous living, and are not the will of our Father. If we simply go to Him in prayer, ask forgiveness for our sins, and confess our regrets, then He will hear us, and He will forgive us instantly, and assist us in getting our lives back together.
After we turn to God in prayer and are forgiven, it is important that we not dwell on our past mistakes, but rather that we move forward and learn from them. Ask yourself what part you played in landing where you're at. Are you having financial difficulty because you wasted money? Have you been unkind to someone who has been nothing but kind to you? When things were going great for you did you fail to praise, and thank God for it? Recognize the actions you took that contributed to you being in the situation that you're in. If you've been spending money you don't have on things you don't need? If so, stop it. If you have mistreated someone who has been nothing but kind to you, then acknowledge it, and apologize to them. If you have failed to thank and praise God when things were going great in your life, tell Him you realize it, and ask Him to forgive you. Do whatever you can do to rectify the mistakes you've made, and God will do the rest.
I know from experience what it's like to make a mess of your life, and wind up with your ducks all over the pond. I'm still gathering up a few of mine. None of us will ever be perfect, and God understands that, but we must make a sincere effort to live our lives in a manner that reflects who we are in Christ. We need to make choices and decisions that are wise and responsible, not those that are spur of the moment and filled with reckless abandon.We can't go around living unrighteous lives, making bad choices then blame and question God when things wind up in disarray. Sometimes it takes a broken state to force people to take an honest look at themselves, their actions, where they've wound up, and what landed them there. It takes a broken state for some to pause, reflect, and re-evaluate their lives. It is only by taking an honest look at our self and our situation that we will see clearly the changes we must make in order to get back on track.
It is imperative that we are willing to recognize, acknowledge, and take responsibility for our faults, and our actions. It is impossible for us to work on improving the areas of our life that need improving, if we are unwilling to admit that we have faults, and problem areas. If you're feeling broken, go to God in prayer, ask forgiveness, and He will hear you and forgive you. Do what you can to improve your situation through apologizing to others, changing your financial habits, or whatever it is you can do that will improve your particular situation, and God will certainly do His part.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Family Tradition
II Timothy 1:5 (KJV) Says "When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also."
In the above scripture, Paul is reminding Timothy that he knows firsthand that he comes from a family of steadfast, and unwavering faith. Paul tells him that he saw it in his grandmother first, then his mother, and he knows that Timothy possesses it as well. Paul is writing this letter to encourage Timothy, and he does so partly by reminding him of his strong faith, which has been evident in his family for generations.
Often times parents fail to realize the impact that they have not only on their children's lives, but their grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and so forth. Parents and the family traditions they implement within their homes have an impact on their children, and the many generations that follow. That impact is powerful.
Let me give you an example of one of the many ways parents pass down faith based family traditions to multiple generations, and the impact it can have. My Mom's parents always said grace before each meal, and they passed that tradition down to their five children. When their five children married, and moved into homes of their own there were then six families saying grace before each meal. When their children had children the tradition was passed on to them. This meant, when my grandparents, grandchildren, of which there are a total of fifteen, moved into their own homes, grace was being said before each meal in twenty-one homes, and the importance of this faith based family tradition continues to be instilled in generation after generation within our family.
Biblical bedtime stories, and saying our prayers with Mom before going to sleep each night are also faith based family traditions which took place in our home.I have seen these traditions forwarded to generation after generation within our family as well. It is amazing the lives that one set of parents can touch, and the impact they have in so many areas, but most fail to realize it.
What a great opportunity parents, and grandparents have to impact multiple generations in such a powerful way. Each faith based family tradition you pass on to your children, and grandchildren continues on with every generation that follows.
I would like to encourage you today to take the time to consider the power you have as a parent, or grandparent to impact so many lives in so many positive and powerful ways. Each faith based family tradition that you implement is a seed of faith planted in the hearts of the children in your family, and in the hearts of those to come in future generations. You are setting an excellent Christian example for your children to not only follow, but to pass down to their children, and grandchildren, who will then set a great Christian example for their children, and grandchildren, and so on and so forth to infinite generations. I am old enough now to have seen this working through four generations of my family, and it is wonderful.
What faith based family traditions are you implementing in your home? What are you teaching your children and grandchildren that they will want to implement in the lives of their own children and grandchildren someday? What kind of example are you setting? Take the time to consider the positive impact you can have, and the important role you as a parent and grandparent play not only in the lives of your children and grandchildren, but in the lives of the generations that follow. When you stop and think about it, you'll see what an amazing opportunity you have to make a great impact on an infinite number of lives.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above scripture, Paul is reminding Timothy that he knows firsthand that he comes from a family of steadfast, and unwavering faith. Paul tells him that he saw it in his grandmother first, then his mother, and he knows that Timothy possesses it as well. Paul is writing this letter to encourage Timothy, and he does so partly by reminding him of his strong faith, which has been evident in his family for generations.
Often times parents fail to realize the impact that they have not only on their children's lives, but their grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and so forth. Parents and the family traditions they implement within their homes have an impact on their children, and the many generations that follow. That impact is powerful.
Let me give you an example of one of the many ways parents pass down faith based family traditions to multiple generations, and the impact it can have. My Mom's parents always said grace before each meal, and they passed that tradition down to their five children. When their five children married, and moved into homes of their own there were then six families saying grace before each meal. When their children had children the tradition was passed on to them. This meant, when my grandparents, grandchildren, of which there are a total of fifteen, moved into their own homes, grace was being said before each meal in twenty-one homes, and the importance of this faith based family tradition continues to be instilled in generation after generation within our family.
Biblical bedtime stories, and saying our prayers with Mom before going to sleep each night are also faith based family traditions which took place in our home.I have seen these traditions forwarded to generation after generation within our family as well. It is amazing the lives that one set of parents can touch, and the impact they have in so many areas, but most fail to realize it.
What a great opportunity parents, and grandparents have to impact multiple generations in such a powerful way. Each faith based family tradition you pass on to your children, and grandchildren continues on with every generation that follows.
I would like to encourage you today to take the time to consider the power you have as a parent, or grandparent to impact so many lives in so many positive and powerful ways. Each faith based family tradition that you implement is a seed of faith planted in the hearts of the children in your family, and in the hearts of those to come in future generations. You are setting an excellent Christian example for your children to not only follow, but to pass down to their children, and grandchildren, who will then set a great Christian example for their children, and grandchildren, and so on and so forth to infinite generations. I am old enough now to have seen this working through four generations of my family, and it is wonderful.
What faith based family traditions are you implementing in your home? What are you teaching your children and grandchildren that they will want to implement in the lives of their own children and grandchildren someday? What kind of example are you setting? Take the time to consider the positive impact you can have, and the important role you as a parent and grandparent play not only in the lives of your children and grandchildren, but in the lives of the generations that follow. When you stop and think about it, you'll see what an amazing opportunity you have to make a great impact on an infinite number of lives.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
The Spirit of Fear
II Timothy 1:7 (KJV) Says "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."
Paul was in prison in Rome, when he wrote this second letter to Timothy. In the above scripture Paul is urging Timothy not to be afraid, but rather to stay strong in his faith. He urges him to remember that he has the gift of God's grace, and being ordained by God, he is able to accomplish whatever God wills him to accomplish. He further reminds him that God has given him the gift of love, and of a sound mind, meaning a disciplined mind. Paul reminds Timothy that the gifts God gave him were all good, and that the spirit of fear was not one of those gifts.
God instructs us numerous times in scripture not to be afraid. He tells us to fear not that He is with us, yet most of us continue to do battle with the spirit of fear. God has a will and a plan for all of our lives. He has given each of us the gifts necessary to carry out that plan, but many people fail to do so because they allow the spirit of fear to prevent them from stepping out in faith, and fulfilling the call He has on their life. For years, I was one of those people. I knew from an early age that I had a call on my life to spread the good news of Christ and to tell others about His precious gift of salvation. I have a great love for God and for reading and studying His word. I have read and studied the Bible for about 45 years now, and although I love God and the gospel tremendously, I allowed fear to prevent me from answering His call. I listened to the negative thoughts Satan ran through my mind, like who would listen to you, you're not worthy, and so on and so forth. After years of God tugging on my heart strings I decided to step out in faith and answer His call, and I now feel I am right where He wants me to be, doing exactly what He wants me to do. I have a divine peace and contentment like I have never before known. I have people in my life who encourage me, and that is wonderful I appreciate them a great deal, but I am aware that there are those who don't agree with what I'm doing. I don't allow the people who disagree with my calling, the ones who simply don't like me, or those who attempt to discourage me to effect me in the least, and I mean that with all due respect. I walk in love, but when my journey here on earth is done I won't be answering to people, I'll be answering to God, and it is my hope that He will be able to say to me well done my good and faithful servant.
Every one has a dream for their life, and things they enjoy doing. Everyone is gifted, and we are told that in God's word. God never intended for us to be miserable, but rather that we enjoy our lives here on earth. The things you enjoy doing and the areas you are gifted in and are passionate about more than likely coincide with with one another and the plan God has for your life. He equips us with the gifts we need in order for Him to accomplish all He desires to accomplish by working through us. For example, He is not going to call you to encourage and witness to others through singing gospel music if you can't sing. If He calls you to encourage and witness to others through the singing of gospel music, then He will certainly give you the gift of a beautiful voice in order to do just that. Have faith and trust in God.
Are you ignoring the call God has on your life? Are you wasting the gifts God has given you? Are you lacking peace and contentment in your life? Are you listening to people instead of God? Are you walking in the spirit of fear? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, remember Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) which says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Paul was in prison in Rome, when he wrote this second letter to Timothy. In the above scripture Paul is urging Timothy not to be afraid, but rather to stay strong in his faith. He urges him to remember that he has the gift of God's grace, and being ordained by God, he is able to accomplish whatever God wills him to accomplish. He further reminds him that God has given him the gift of love, and of a sound mind, meaning a disciplined mind. Paul reminds Timothy that the gifts God gave him were all good, and that the spirit of fear was not one of those gifts.
God instructs us numerous times in scripture not to be afraid. He tells us to fear not that He is with us, yet most of us continue to do battle with the spirit of fear. God has a will and a plan for all of our lives. He has given each of us the gifts necessary to carry out that plan, but many people fail to do so because they allow the spirit of fear to prevent them from stepping out in faith, and fulfilling the call He has on their life. For years, I was one of those people. I knew from an early age that I had a call on my life to spread the good news of Christ and to tell others about His precious gift of salvation. I have a great love for God and for reading and studying His word. I have read and studied the Bible for about 45 years now, and although I love God and the gospel tremendously, I allowed fear to prevent me from answering His call. I listened to the negative thoughts Satan ran through my mind, like who would listen to you, you're not worthy, and so on and so forth. After years of God tugging on my heart strings I decided to step out in faith and answer His call, and I now feel I am right where He wants me to be, doing exactly what He wants me to do. I have a divine peace and contentment like I have never before known. I have people in my life who encourage me, and that is wonderful I appreciate them a great deal, but I am aware that there are those who don't agree with what I'm doing. I don't allow the people who disagree with my calling, the ones who simply don't like me, or those who attempt to discourage me to effect me in the least, and I mean that with all due respect. I walk in love, but when my journey here on earth is done I won't be answering to people, I'll be answering to God, and it is my hope that He will be able to say to me well done my good and faithful servant.
Every one has a dream for their life, and things they enjoy doing. Everyone is gifted, and we are told that in God's word. God never intended for us to be miserable, but rather that we enjoy our lives here on earth. The things you enjoy doing and the areas you are gifted in and are passionate about more than likely coincide with with one another and the plan God has for your life. He equips us with the gifts we need in order for Him to accomplish all He desires to accomplish by working through us. For example, He is not going to call you to encourage and witness to others through singing gospel music if you can't sing. If He calls you to encourage and witness to others through the singing of gospel music, then He will certainly give you the gift of a beautiful voice in order to do just that. Have faith and trust in God.
Are you ignoring the call God has on your life? Are you wasting the gifts God has given you? Are you lacking peace and contentment in your life? Are you listening to people instead of God? Are you walking in the spirit of fear? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, remember Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) which says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
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