1 When the LORD restored his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream!
2 We were filled with laughter,and we sang for joy. And the other nations said,"What amazing things the LORD has done for them."
3 Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us!What joy!
Loving God, Glorious King, My Father-
I am rejoicing that You are not a God of sadness, but the Lord of joy. Thank You for the gift of laughter. I respectfully recognize that You are a holy, reverent, authoritative Judge. I also know, at the end of the day, You are a loving Father with a lighter side who comes home to play and amuse His children. You created us for Your pleasure. Along with the dark realities of sin, suffering and death, there is lighthearted laughter, and liveliness. Throughout Your Holy Book, there are celebrations and laughter. Feasts, parties, reunions, and weddings abound in Your Kingdom. There is always an occasion to celebrate!
It is an honor to celebrate each other’s victories over sin! It is our way of thanking You for the great things You have done. Our hearts dance and leap for joy when a lost sibling returns home. Love trickles from the water jug when You perform miracles before our very eyes. Your home is not always sober and solemn. It is often a delightful place of amusement, excitement, and enjoyment. As Your beloved children, we have the right to play, pray and laugh together! Being in Your family is a lot of fun. With so many brothers and sisters, there is never a dull moment. There is always someone hilarious around to lift our spirits and warm our hearts with laughter. Humor is the healing balm that covers hidden hurts and heartache.
God, please give me grace to adopt a lighter attitude and see the funny side of every day situations. With a light heart, I will be resilient when times are tough. Anger and anxiety will dissipate when I exert enthusiasm, excitement and energy. Use my sense of humor to be a living testimony to the joy of being in Your family. Infect the unbelievers I meet today with a contagious chuckle. When I laugh with them, our hearts will bond. They will want to join in the party when they see the fun we have together because of Jesus. Amen.
Imagine! Christians can have fun! Have a good belly laugh with someone today … it’s likely to be contagious!
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Monday, May 30, 2005
Deut 4: 7-8
7 What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the LORD our God is near us whenever we pray to him? 8 And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws
Lord Most High~
You are a mighty and awesome God, the great King above the nations. You are greatly exalted and most worthy of praise! Thank You for this great nation. Who are we that You should choose to shed Your grace on us? What other nation is so great to have their gods near to them the way You are near to us when we pray? Thank You for giving us the freedom to pray and openly seek Your face. Thank You for using our founding fathers to build this nation on Your laws. What other nation is so great as have such righteous laws? Yet, with the freedom we have to fellowship with You, we are a nation in captivity to our own prosperity. In our liberty, we have made light of Your greatness and become greedy. Forgive us Lord for our wicked ways. Have mercy on us, O God! May we look back at ancient history and remember Your promise to bless those who are obedient and punish those who disobey. You are true to Your Word. I pray that we would turn from our wicked ways so that You will continue to bless the USA.
Thank You for the heroes who have fought to keep America free so that we can worship You, our Holy God and Mighty Fortress. Lord, today, I lift up to You the men and women who love this nation enough to lay down their life for it. They are courageous and strong. Please protect our soldiers who are fighting for our freedom today. Please let Your face shine upon their families and pour out Your blessing on them. I pray that You would bring peace to the war-torn regions of the world, and deliver our soldiers safely home.
Today, I ask that as a nation, we would be still and know that You are God. You are exalted about the nations. You rule over all the earth. You are the Lord Almighty, and You are with us because of Jesus. Amen.
Today, take time to be still before God. Thank Him for the freedom you enjoy. Pray for protection for our soldiers.
Lord Most High~
You are a mighty and awesome God, the great King above the nations. You are greatly exalted and most worthy of praise! Thank You for this great nation. Who are we that You should choose to shed Your grace on us? What other nation is so great to have their gods near to them the way You are near to us when we pray? Thank You for giving us the freedom to pray and openly seek Your face. Thank You for using our founding fathers to build this nation on Your laws. What other nation is so great as have such righteous laws? Yet, with the freedom we have to fellowship with You, we are a nation in captivity to our own prosperity. In our liberty, we have made light of Your greatness and become greedy. Forgive us Lord for our wicked ways. Have mercy on us, O God! May we look back at ancient history and remember Your promise to bless those who are obedient and punish those who disobey. You are true to Your Word. I pray that we would turn from our wicked ways so that You will continue to bless the USA.
Thank You for the heroes who have fought to keep America free so that we can worship You, our Holy God and Mighty Fortress. Lord, today, I lift up to You the men and women who love this nation enough to lay down their life for it. They are courageous and strong. Please protect our soldiers who are fighting for our freedom today. Please let Your face shine upon their families and pour out Your blessing on them. I pray that You would bring peace to the war-torn regions of the world, and deliver our soldiers safely home.
Today, I ask that as a nation, we would be still and know that You are God. You are exalted about the nations. You rule over all the earth. You are the Lord Almighty, and You are with us because of Jesus. Amen.
Today, take time to be still before God. Thank Him for the freedom you enjoy. Pray for protection for our soldiers.
Friday, May 27, 2005
Psalm 138
1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.
3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.
4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth.
5 May they sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great.
6 Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.
8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.
Lord,
I humbly come before You with heartfelt praise and adoration. I have seen Your glorious splendor, Your beauty and majesty! My soul proclaims, "My God how great Thou art!"
Thank you for Your marvelous love and miraculous mercy! I am astonished that Dwayne came home from the hospital just two days after his life-threatening brain surgery! Only by Your amazing grace! I praise You, Jesus, for hearing the prayers of the multitudes! We have seen Your glory and will praise Your name forever! You are an awesome God!
I wonder at Your healing of a dying little boy. I cried with the mother as she surrendered her son to You. I thought of You surrendering Your son for me. While a mysterious disease devoured his body, threatened his life, and took his hands and feet, You heard the cries of the masses. You mercifully saved Him by Your incredible healing grace. Thank You for the technology that will make him new hands and feet so that he can stand in awe of You! Though this is not the dream any mother would wish for her son, You have fulfilled Your purpose for his life. I rejoice that the infection did not consume his heart, mind or smile. Thank You for restoring the twinkle to his eye and sanctifying him for Your glory! I exalt, God!
Your love and faithfulness are unfathomable. Thank You for sending Your Son to die for me. My only adequate response is to fall down and worship You in spirit and in truth with all my heart, mind, soul and strength. My lips will sing of Your love forever! I will tell of the great things You have done!
Though you are high and mighty, You tenderly stoop down to hear my humble heart when I call. Surrounded by trouble, You protect me with Your strong arm. Thank You for being my strength when I am weak. You are my remarkable Redeemer and splendid Savior. I will lift up Your holy name forever!
As an act of worship, I willingly surrender all of my hopes, ambitions, and dreams into Your hand. Fulfill Your purpose for me and be glorified! I am trusting that You will not abandon me. I believe that Your love endures forever because of Jesus! Amen
Prepare your heart for worship by thanking God for all the great things He has done. Thank Him for all the prayers He has heard and answered. Thank Him for his love, mercy, protection, strength, compassion, faithfulness, etc. He truly is an awesome God! He does not always answer the way we want Him to, but He does answer according to His purpose and plan for our lives.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.
3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.
4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth.
5 May they sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great.
6 Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.
8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.
Lord,
I humbly come before You with heartfelt praise and adoration. I have seen Your glorious splendor, Your beauty and majesty! My soul proclaims, "My God how great Thou art!"
Thank you for Your marvelous love and miraculous mercy! I am astonished that Dwayne came home from the hospital just two days after his life-threatening brain surgery! Only by Your amazing grace! I praise You, Jesus, for hearing the prayers of the multitudes! We have seen Your glory and will praise Your name forever! You are an awesome God!
I wonder at Your healing of a dying little boy. I cried with the mother as she surrendered her son to You. I thought of You surrendering Your son for me. While a mysterious disease devoured his body, threatened his life, and took his hands and feet, You heard the cries of the masses. You mercifully saved Him by Your incredible healing grace. Thank You for the technology that will make him new hands and feet so that he can stand in awe of You! Though this is not the dream any mother would wish for her son, You have fulfilled Your purpose for his life. I rejoice that the infection did not consume his heart, mind or smile. Thank You for restoring the twinkle to his eye and sanctifying him for Your glory! I exalt, God!
Your love and faithfulness are unfathomable. Thank You for sending Your Son to die for me. My only adequate response is to fall down and worship You in spirit and in truth with all my heart, mind, soul and strength. My lips will sing of Your love forever! I will tell of the great things You have done!
Though you are high and mighty, You tenderly stoop down to hear my humble heart when I call. Surrounded by trouble, You protect me with Your strong arm. Thank You for being my strength when I am weak. You are my remarkable Redeemer and splendid Savior. I will lift up Your holy name forever!
As an act of worship, I willingly surrender all of my hopes, ambitions, and dreams into Your hand. Fulfill Your purpose for me and be glorified! I am trusting that You will not abandon me. I believe that Your love endures forever because of Jesus! Amen
Prepare your heart for worship by thanking God for all the great things He has done. Thank Him for all the prayers He has heard and answered. Thank Him for his love, mercy, protection, strength, compassion, faithfulness, etc. He truly is an awesome God! He does not always answer the way we want Him to, but He does answer according to His purpose and plan for our lives.
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Matthew 14: 22-33
22Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24but the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly You are the Son of God."
Jesus,
Truly You are the Son of God. I bow down and worship You in the beauty of Your holiness. You have revealed Your glory to me during the storms of life. Waves of pain, fear, and suffering have buffeted me. The wind of sin and affliction has violently tossed me around and threatened to throw me into the wicked sea of unrighteousness. I was terrified. When suddenly You appeared and told me to, "Come." You gave me courage to lay aside my fear and step out of the boat. Thank You Jesus. By faith, I was able to exercise the power to walk on water with my eyes steadfastly fixed on You.
Then I realized the wind was still blowing and the storm had not dissipated. What was I doing walking on water? I looked away in sudden fear and began to drown in the pitiful sea. Forgive me Jesus for taking my eyes off You. I have doubted the power although I have experienced it before. You graciously reached out Your hand and rescued me despite my wavering faith. Thank You Jesus.
Lord, You know my difficult situations. You know the challenging circumstances I face and the sin to which I am most prone. You know my aching heart. You know my every need. Come to me Jesus! Rescue me! Increase my faith through the storms of life. When the wind is blowing and the waves are pounding in my heart give me more of Your power to focus on Jesus, the One and Only, author and perfector of my faith. It is through Your powerful name I pray. Amen.
Is a storm surrounding you? Do you feel the wind blowing and the waves slapping? Do you feel like you’re going to be swallowed by the sea? Cry out to Jesus and listen as he says, "Take courage. Do not be afraid. Come." Will you risk stepping out of the boat or remain in the boat gripped with fear? I encourage you to fix your eyes on Jesus and step out in faith. With your eyes fixed on him, he will give you the power to walk on water too.
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly You are the Son of God."
Jesus,
Truly You are the Son of God. I bow down and worship You in the beauty of Your holiness. You have revealed Your glory to me during the storms of life. Waves of pain, fear, and suffering have buffeted me. The wind of sin and affliction has violently tossed me around and threatened to throw me into the wicked sea of unrighteousness. I was terrified. When suddenly You appeared and told me to, "Come." You gave me courage to lay aside my fear and step out of the boat. Thank You Jesus. By faith, I was able to exercise the power to walk on water with my eyes steadfastly fixed on You.
Then I realized the wind was still blowing and the storm had not dissipated. What was I doing walking on water? I looked away in sudden fear and began to drown in the pitiful sea. Forgive me Jesus for taking my eyes off You. I have doubted the power although I have experienced it before. You graciously reached out Your hand and rescued me despite my wavering faith. Thank You Jesus.
Lord, You know my difficult situations. You know the challenging circumstances I face and the sin to which I am most prone. You know my aching heart. You know my every need. Come to me Jesus! Rescue me! Increase my faith through the storms of life. When the wind is blowing and the waves are pounding in my heart give me more of Your power to focus on Jesus, the One and Only, author and perfector of my faith. It is through Your powerful name I pray. Amen.
Is a storm surrounding you? Do you feel the wind blowing and the waves slapping? Do you feel like you’re going to be swallowed by the sea? Cry out to Jesus and listen as he says, "Take courage. Do not be afraid. Come." Will you risk stepping out of the boat or remain in the boat gripped with fear? I encourage you to fix your eyes on Jesus and step out in faith. With your eyes fixed on him, he will give you the power to walk on water too.
This Prayer Pal is lovingly dedicated to the Zook family.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Hebrews 12: 1-4
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that You will not grow weary and lose heart.
4In Your struggle against sin, You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding Your blood. NIV
Father in Heaven-
Thank You for Your amazing History book. I love reading it and learning about the wonderfully intriguing heroes of faith. They are a great cloud of witnesses that surround me: Abel, Enoch, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Rahab … I do not have time to list them all. They were tortured, faced jeers and flogging, were chained and put in prison. They were stoned and sawed in two, and put to death by the sword. They were persecuted and mistreated. And, they were applauded for their faith although none of them had received what they were promised in their lifetime on earth. Thank You for preserving ancient History so that I can look back and see that You are true to Your promises. You are believable and trustworthy.
Father, please give me strength in my suffering so that it will not hinder my relationship with You. I want to run the race for Christ with patience and endurance. Please give me a strong and healthy heart full of the Holy Spirit to overcome the things that zap my motivation and cause defeat. By Your grace when I am tired and weary from running, I will focus on Jesus and his suffering. I will steadfastly look at Him for strength and energy. What are my little trials compared to the agony he endured? Help me to see my afflictions as Divine discipline by You, my gracious and loving Father, for my spiritual growth.
Many have already made it through life enduring hardships and circumstances that are far more difficult than I am experiencing. Let me view these experiences as a training ground for maturity to develop my patience, perfect my faith, and make the final victory sweet. Lord, with the Holy Spirit in my heart, I will fix my eyes on Jesus today and run the race for the joy of my salvation for Your namesake. Amen.
What difficulties are you facing today? Is Jesus your focus or your circumstances? Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith.
4In Your struggle against sin, You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding Your blood. NIV
Father in Heaven-
Thank You for Your amazing History book. I love reading it and learning about the wonderfully intriguing heroes of faith. They are a great cloud of witnesses that surround me: Abel, Enoch, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Rahab … I do not have time to list them all. They were tortured, faced jeers and flogging, were chained and put in prison. They were stoned and sawed in two, and put to death by the sword. They were persecuted and mistreated. And, they were applauded for their faith although none of them had received what they were promised in their lifetime on earth. Thank You for preserving ancient History so that I can look back and see that You are true to Your promises. You are believable and trustworthy.
Father, please give me strength in my suffering so that it will not hinder my relationship with You. I want to run the race for Christ with patience and endurance. Please give me a strong and healthy heart full of the Holy Spirit to overcome the things that zap my motivation and cause defeat. By Your grace when I am tired and weary from running, I will focus on Jesus and his suffering. I will steadfastly look at Him for strength and energy. What are my little trials compared to the agony he endured? Help me to see my afflictions as Divine discipline by You, my gracious and loving Father, for my spiritual growth.
Many have already made it through life enduring hardships and circumstances that are far more difficult than I am experiencing. Let me view these experiences as a training ground for maturity to develop my patience, perfect my faith, and make the final victory sweet. Lord, with the Holy Spirit in my heart, I will fix my eyes on Jesus today and run the race for the joy of my salvation for Your namesake. Amen.
What difficulties are you facing today? Is Jesus your focus or your circumstances? Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith.
This Prayer Pal is lovingly dedicated to the Zook and Brames families.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Isaiah 40: 31
Those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
(With reflections from Ps 145)
Everlasting God~
You are an awesome God and most worthy of praise! Your greatness I cannot imagine! I will tell of Your mighty acts. Your works are wonderful. Your deeds are great. I have seen Your glorious majesty and am once again in awe of You. It is astonishing that Dwayne tolerated his surgery without complications and 80-85% of the tumor was removed! The doctor said, "the surgery couldn't have gone better." I praise You because You heard the prayers of the multitudes and were the hands of the doctor! Thank You! I have watched You miraculously restore dear little Sean's life, and I am simply overwhelmed by Your infinite power! You are faithful to all Your promises and You are loving to all You made. You hold us up when we fall and watch over those who love You. Thank you, Lord! I have seen Your glory.
You are the Creator of everything. Because You have unlimited power, You never grow tired or weary. You are always available to re-energize me and refresh my strength during the seemingly hopeless storms of suffering. Like an eagle, in the midst of the storm, I spread my wings of faith to embrace the wind. Placing my dependency on You and You alone, I experience quiet, "everyday" miracles.
Have you seen God's mighty acts? Read Psalms 145 as a prayer.
What storm are you facing? Are you soaring through it with Holy Spirit power?
This Prayer Pal is lovingly dedicated to the Zook and Brames families, and to my dad who is currently suffering a storm and enjoys watching eagles soar.
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
(With reflections from Ps 145)
Everlasting God~
You are an awesome God and most worthy of praise! Your greatness I cannot imagine! I will tell of Your mighty acts. Your works are wonderful. Your deeds are great. I have seen Your glorious majesty and am once again in awe of You. It is astonishing that Dwayne tolerated his surgery without complications and 80-85% of the tumor was removed! The doctor said, "the surgery couldn't have gone better." I praise You because You heard the prayers of the multitudes and were the hands of the doctor! Thank You! I have watched You miraculously restore dear little Sean's life, and I am simply overwhelmed by Your infinite power! You are faithful to all Your promises and You are loving to all You made. You hold us up when we fall and watch over those who love You. Thank you, Lord! I have seen Your glory.
You are the Creator of everything. Because You have unlimited power, You never grow tired or weary. You are always available to re-energize me and refresh my strength during the seemingly hopeless storms of suffering. Like an eagle, in the midst of the storm, I spread my wings of faith to embrace the wind. Placing my dependency on You and You alone, I experience quiet, "everyday" miracles.
- Your joy balances the pain
- Your power lifts the burden
- Your peace calms the worries
- Your all-sufficiency is more than enough
Soaring has become an adventure of discovering just how faithful You are when I am in the stratosphere over the storm. Soaring has become exhilarating! I am no longer content to stay inside where it is relatively safe and secure. I want to go outside and live by faith in the midst of the storm. Please use the storms of suffering in my life:
- To take me higher in my relationship with You
- To fall deeper in love with You
- To grow strong my faith in You
- To become more consistent in my walk with You
- To bear more fruit for You
Have you seen God's mighty acts? Read Psalms 145 as a prayer.
What storm are you facing? Are you soaring through it with Holy Spirit power?
This Prayer Pal is lovingly dedicated to the Zook and Brames families, and to my dad who is currently suffering a storm and enjoys watching eagles soar.
Monday, May 23, 2005
Luke 8: 40-56
I am dedicating this week’s Prayer Pals to Dwayne and Deb, Katelyn and Kyle. Dwayne is a young father and brother in the Christian family. He has a very aggressive brain tumor, called glioblastoma multiforme. Today between the hours of 9:30 and 1:00 EST, Dwayne will be undergoing his third critical brain surgery in less than a year. Jesus is his last hope. You may recall that I wrote this prayer for Dwayne in February. I am asking my readers worldwide to please read this PP and then pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for Dwayne, and anyone you know who is gravely ill.
The Scripture reference is Luke 8: 40-56. The full text is below. If Jesus could raise this little girl from the dead and heal the bleeding woman at the same time, He can heal Dwayne, and others … my dad, dear little Sean Brames, and all those you know who are suffering too. Let’s join together in carrying the sick to Jesus. By our persistence, prayers, and faith, He will heal them. (James 5:15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up.)
Dearest Lord Jesus,
All authority in heaven and earth has been given to You. You are seated at the right hand of God the Father, interceding for us according to Your will.
Because You are my Father and King, I boldly approach Your royal throne of grace with confidence on behalf of Dwayne. I KNOW You have the power to heal him. By faith, I am asking You to unleash Your authority and command the tumor in his brain to be gone. Please release Your unlimited power! His only hope is You. You alone are able. I believe! Please dear God stretch out Your hand and touch this man and let power go out from You to heal him for Your name sake.
I am believing and expecting miracles and wonders beyond those we've already seen so that the riches of Your grace may be known to an unbelieving world. Show us Your glory dear Lord. Have mercy and compassion on this family because of their deep love and faithfulness to You; because of Your deep love and faithfulness to them.
I rejoice that Your resource of power and mercy is infinite. It's always available to everyone. So, even as You touch Dwayne with Your healing power, please also heal others who reach out and touch Your robe along the way. Use Your power and authority to fuel our faith for Yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory forever! Amen.
Do you know someone who needs a miracle; someone who's last hope is Jesus? Pray in the power of Jesus. He has enough power to go around!
Luke 8: 40-56
40Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. 41Then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house 42because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying.
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years,but no one could heal her. 44She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
45"Who touched me?" Jesus asked.
When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against You."
46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me."
47Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
49While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said. "Don't bother the teacher any more."
50Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
51When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child's father and mother. 52Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. "Stop wailing," Jesus said. "She is not dead but asleep."
53They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and said, "My child, get up!" 55Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.
The Scripture reference is Luke 8: 40-56. The full text is below. If Jesus could raise this little girl from the dead and heal the bleeding woman at the same time, He can heal Dwayne, and others … my dad, dear little Sean Brames, and all those you know who are suffering too. Let’s join together in carrying the sick to Jesus. By our persistence, prayers, and faith, He will heal them. (James 5:15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up.)
Dearest Lord Jesus,
All authority in heaven and earth has been given to You. You are seated at the right hand of God the Father, interceding for us according to Your will.
Because You are my Father and King, I boldly approach Your royal throne of grace with confidence on behalf of Dwayne. I KNOW You have the power to heal him. By faith, I am asking You to unleash Your authority and command the tumor in his brain to be gone. Please release Your unlimited power! His only hope is You. You alone are able. I believe! Please dear God stretch out Your hand and touch this man and let power go out from You to heal him for Your name sake.
I am believing and expecting miracles and wonders beyond those we've already seen so that the riches of Your grace may be known to an unbelieving world. Show us Your glory dear Lord. Have mercy and compassion on this family because of their deep love and faithfulness to You; because of Your deep love and faithfulness to them.
I rejoice that Your resource of power and mercy is infinite. It's always available to everyone. So, even as You touch Dwayne with Your healing power, please also heal others who reach out and touch Your robe along the way. Use Your power and authority to fuel our faith for Yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory forever! Amen.
Do you know someone who needs a miracle; someone who's last hope is Jesus? Pray in the power of Jesus. He has enough power to go around!
Luke 8: 40-56
40Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. 41Then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house 42because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying.
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years,but no one could heal her. 44She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
45"Who touched me?" Jesus asked.
When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against You."
46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me."
47Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
49While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said. "Don't bother the teacher any more."
50Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
51When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child's father and mother. 52Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. "Stop wailing," Jesus said. "She is not dead but asleep."
53They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and said, "My child, get up!" 55Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Deut 12: 7
Celebrate everything that you and your families have accomplished under the blessing of GOD, your God. MSG
I could sing unending songs
Thank You God that we can celebrate Your great and amazing love! You have accomplished marvelous things as we’ve learned to live Better Together. We joyfully come to Your party with a new song in our heart; sweet praise on our lips; our hands lifting You high; our feet dancing to celebrate Your glorious wonderful blessings! We praise You Lord in the beauty of holiness! All glory, honor and praise are Yours forever and ever! Amen
Make a list of all the good things you have seen God do during the past six weeks in your life, in your family, and in your church. Celebrate His wonderful blessings!
I could sing unending songs
Of how You saved my soul
I could dance a thousand miles
Because of Your great love
My heart is bursting Lord
To tell of all You've done
Of how You changed my life
And wiped away the past
I want to shout it out
From every rooftop sing
For now I know that
God is for me not against me
Everybody's dancing now
'Cause we're so happy
Everybody's singing now
'Cause we're so happy
If only we could see
Your face See You smiling over us
Unseen angels celebrate
For the joy is in this place
(The Happy Song)
(The Happy Song)
Thank You God that we can celebrate Your great and amazing love! You have accomplished marvelous things as we’ve learned to live Better Together. We joyfully come to Your party with a new song in our heart; sweet praise on our lips; our hands lifting You high; our feet dancing to celebrate Your glorious wonderful blessings! We praise You Lord in the beauty of holiness! All glory, honor and praise are Yours forever and ever! Amen
Make a list of all the good things you have seen God do during the past six weeks in your life, in your family, and in your church. Celebrate His wonderful blessings!
Thursday, May 19, 2005
1 Chronicles 29: 6-9, 17
6 Then the leaders … 7gave toward the work on the temple of God five thousand talents and ten thousand darics of gold, ten thousand talents of silver, eighteen thousand talents of bronze and a hundred thousand talents of iron. 8 Any who had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the temple of the LORD ... 9 The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD…
David said, "17All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you."
Who are we that we should be able to give you anything? Everything comes from You, and we give only what comes from Your hand. You have given us all this abundance to build our church into a beautiful temple, full of ministers for Your Holy Name.
One stone does not make this ornate, palatial structure, or even a single wall. We are all living stones – valuable gems, precious treasures, each uniquely shaped for the sanctuary You will build. As we are intricately interconnected our efforts are multiplied and a holy and sacred palace will rise from the foundation of Jesus Christ. It all comes from Your hands and belongs to You.
Lord, may we freely, joyfully, wholeheartedly offer our private treasures to help build a glorious place to worship a consecrated and holy King. May every willing and skilled person go to work because every skill is needed. The job is enormous. We are young and inexperienced but You will not fail or forsake us until the temple is complete.
When people enter this holy place they will see Jesus as each of us ministers in our own unique way. They will see Him as we worship and serve You, our Father, with our whole hearts. We will be the bridges connecting people to You as we serve You and love others.
O Lord, keep this desire in our hearts forever, and make us loyal to You. Give Your children wholehearted devotion to keep Your commands and do everything to build a magnificently extravagant structure fit for a King, where people will want to come to praise You, and bow down before their Lord and King. Amen.
I would encourage you to read 1 Chronicles 28 & 29. I wonder what the church would be like if people responded the same way? What would happen if we ALL acknowledged God? What would be the result if EVERYONE served him with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind? What would it be like if we desired to serve Him above all else? Envision the outcome if we came together, as strong living stones, to do the work we’ve been called to do? Imagine the temple we could build for our Holy God, if every believer in the church gave with heartfelt devotion all of their time, talent, and treasure to building for God’s Kingdom!
Your ministry is the spiritual sacrifice – the only living sacrifice acceptable to God. Offer yourself with wholehearted devotion, and a willing mind, and together we will build an ornate temple where people will meet the Living God and his precious Son, Jesus. If he can use young and inexperienced Solomon, he can use you and me!
David said, "17All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you."
I praise You, O Lord
God my everlasting Father
Yours, O Lord is the greatness and power
and the glory and majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is Yours.
Yours, O Lord is the kingdom;
You are high and lifted up.
Riches and glory come from You;
You are the ruler of everything.
In Your hands are strength and power to build up.
Now O God, we give You thanks
and praise your glorious name.
God my everlasting Father
Yours, O Lord is the greatness and power
and the glory and majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is Yours.
Yours, O Lord is the kingdom;
You are high and lifted up.
Riches and glory come from You;
You are the ruler of everything.
In Your hands are strength and power to build up.
Now O God, we give You thanks
and praise your glorious name.
Who are we that we should be able to give you anything? Everything comes from You, and we give only what comes from Your hand. You have given us all this abundance to build our church into a beautiful temple, full of ministers for Your Holy Name.
One stone does not make this ornate, palatial structure, or even a single wall. We are all living stones – valuable gems, precious treasures, each uniquely shaped for the sanctuary You will build. As we are intricately interconnected our efforts are multiplied and a holy and sacred palace will rise from the foundation of Jesus Christ. It all comes from Your hands and belongs to You.
Lord, may we freely, joyfully, wholeheartedly offer our private treasures to help build a glorious place to worship a consecrated and holy King. May every willing and skilled person go to work because every skill is needed. The job is enormous. We are young and inexperienced but You will not fail or forsake us until the temple is complete.
When people enter this holy place they will see Jesus as each of us ministers in our own unique way. They will see Him as we worship and serve You, our Father, with our whole hearts. We will be the bridges connecting people to You as we serve You and love others.
O Lord, keep this desire in our hearts forever, and make us loyal to You. Give Your children wholehearted devotion to keep Your commands and do everything to build a magnificently extravagant structure fit for a King, where people will want to come to praise You, and bow down before their Lord and King. Amen.
I would encourage you to read 1 Chronicles 28 & 29. I wonder what the church would be like if people responded the same way? What would happen if we ALL acknowledged God? What would be the result if EVERYONE served him with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind? What would it be like if we desired to serve Him above all else? Envision the outcome if we came together, as strong living stones, to do the work we’ve been called to do? Imagine the temple we could build for our Holy God, if every believer in the church gave with heartfelt devotion all of their time, talent, and treasure to building for God’s Kingdom!
Your ministry is the spiritual sacrifice – the only living sacrifice acceptable to God. Offer yourself with wholehearted devotion, and a willing mind, and together we will build an ornate temple where people will meet the Living God and his precious Son, Jesus. If he can use young and inexperienced Solomon, he can use you and me!
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Acts 1:14
They all joined together constantly in prayer.
Today’s PP is my testimony to the power of prayer.
Father God-
Thank You for showing me that prayer does make a difference. I am so thankful for the dedicated prayer team that covers my ministry, family, and me. When I am honest before them about my weaknesses and temptations – and You know that’s often – they boldly approach the throne of grace with confidence on my behalf. You faithfully listen and answer them.
As a result of their prayers my writing ministry has been launched and expanded worldwide. Six months ago I could have never imagined that anyone would want to read my love letters to You. Because of the prayers of a few faithful friends, You are using this ministry to bless people from the USA to Africa to Russia and beyond! I praise You God!
Because of their prayers, the love in my home has been stretched and strengthened. Admitting my selfishness, they carried me to You. Through the power of their heartfelt prayers, I have been able to set aside my own agenda and interests in order to meet the needs of those who love me most. You revived, renewed, and restored my marriage when they asked You to teach me to love my husband biblically and be a model to the women to whom I minister. Seeing the changes in behavior and attitudes is remarkable. I praise You Father for hearing their prayers!
They have prayed me through times of sickness and suffering. You answered by filling my heart with peace that surpasses all human understanding. They prayed me around boulders obstructing my path. You answered by removing them. When I take off the mask of pride and am authentic before them, they lift me up to You. You’ve heard their prayers and my heart has been forever changed. Thank you, God.
God, I am so thankful for these loyal friends who love me enough to pray for my ministry, my family and me daily. Let my testimony of the power of prayer be an encouragement to anyone who is reading this Prayer Pal. May each and everyone find a few faithful friends who will love and pray for them constantly. In addition, may lives be forever changed because of the power of prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
A few months ago, I was seeking a mentor for my writing ministry. She would not meet with me until I had a prayer team of 5 – 10 people who agreed to pray for my ministry, my family, and me daily or weekly. Her advice was the best spiritual wisdom anyone has ever given me. Being open before them was one of the hardest things I ever had to do, but has been the most rewarding. I would encourage everyone reading this, to find a prayer team of 5 – 10 people with whom you can be open and honest on a regular basis. You will never be the same again!
Today’s PP is my testimony to the power of prayer.
Father God-
Thank You for showing me that prayer does make a difference. I am so thankful for the dedicated prayer team that covers my ministry, family, and me. When I am honest before them about my weaknesses and temptations – and You know that’s often – they boldly approach the throne of grace with confidence on my behalf. You faithfully listen and answer them.
As a result of their prayers my writing ministry has been launched and expanded worldwide. Six months ago I could have never imagined that anyone would want to read my love letters to You. Because of the prayers of a few faithful friends, You are using this ministry to bless people from the USA to Africa to Russia and beyond! I praise You God!
Because of their prayers, the love in my home has been stretched and strengthened. Admitting my selfishness, they carried me to You. Through the power of their heartfelt prayers, I have been able to set aside my own agenda and interests in order to meet the needs of those who love me most. You revived, renewed, and restored my marriage when they asked You to teach me to love my husband biblically and be a model to the women to whom I minister. Seeing the changes in behavior and attitudes is remarkable. I praise You Father for hearing their prayers!
They have prayed me through times of sickness and suffering. You answered by filling my heart with peace that surpasses all human understanding. They prayed me around boulders obstructing my path. You answered by removing them. When I take off the mask of pride and am authentic before them, they lift me up to You. You’ve heard their prayers and my heart has been forever changed. Thank you, God.
God, I am so thankful for these loyal friends who love me enough to pray for my ministry, my family and me daily. Let my testimony of the power of prayer be an encouragement to anyone who is reading this Prayer Pal. May each and everyone find a few faithful friends who will love and pray for them constantly. In addition, may lives be forever changed because of the power of prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
A few months ago, I was seeking a mentor for my writing ministry. She would not meet with me until I had a prayer team of 5 – 10 people who agreed to pray for my ministry, my family, and me daily or weekly. Her advice was the best spiritual wisdom anyone has ever given me. Being open before them was one of the hardest things I ever had to do, but has been the most rewarding. I would encourage everyone reading this, to find a prayer team of 5 – 10 people with whom you can be open and honest on a regular basis. You will never be the same again!
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Psalm 95: 6-7
6 Come, let us worship and bow down.
Let us kneel before the LORD our maker,
7 for he is our God. We are the people he watches over,
the sheep under his care. Oh, that you would listen to his voice today!
Most High and Mighty God-
Thank You for inviting me to come just as I am to worship. I am not worthy to climb the majestic pinnacle into Your presence. I cannot stand on this holy ground! Prepare my heart to enter into the beauty of Your holiness by purifying it. Clear my mind so that I can worship You with wholehearted devotion. Through Your precious Son, I will glorify You with thanksgiving in my heart. I desire only to see Your face, bow down before You, and anoint Your feet with the sweet aroma of joyful praise.
With my hands, I will praise You. With my lips I will lift You up. With my feet I will serve You. With my tongue I will sing of Your great love. I will give to You my life in worship. Please receive my humble sacrifice of praise because I love and adore You, my great God and King. Amen.
What can you do to prepare yourself for corporate worship this weekend?
Let us kneel before the LORD our maker,
7 for he is our God. We are the people he watches over,
the sheep under his care. Oh, that you would listen to his voice today!
Most High and Mighty God-
Thank You for inviting me to come just as I am to worship. I am not worthy to climb the majestic pinnacle into Your presence. I cannot stand on this holy ground! Prepare my heart to enter into the beauty of Your holiness by purifying it. Clear my mind so that I can worship You with wholehearted devotion. Through Your precious Son, I will glorify You with thanksgiving in my heart. I desire only to see Your face, bow down before You, and anoint Your feet with the sweet aroma of joyful praise.
With my hands, I will praise You. With my lips I will lift You up. With my feet I will serve You. With my tongue I will sing of Your great love. I will give to You my life in worship. Please receive my humble sacrifice of praise because I love and adore You, my great God and King. Amen.
What can you do to prepare yourself for corporate worship this weekend?
Monday, May 16, 2005
Exodus 20: 8-11
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. NIV
Isa 58: 13-14
13"Keep the Sabbath day holy. Don't pursue your own interests on that day, but enjoy the Sabbath and speak of it with delight as the LORD's holy day. Honor the LORD in everything you do, and don't follow your own desires or talk idly. If you do this, 14the LORD will be your delight. I will give you great honor and give you your full share of the inheritance I promised to Jacob, your ancestor. I, the LORD, have spoken!" NLT
Holy & Awesome God-
Your statutes are wonderful and I long to obey them. I am thankful that You command me to be still, rest, and worship You, my Maker, one day a week. You are the awe-inspiring Creator of everything. Your good work was finished in six days, and on the seventh day You rested. The problem is my work never seems be finished. I keep going and going and going, until all of my energy is spent and there’s nothing left for You. If You, the unlimited source of energy and power, needed a day to rest, how much more do I need such a day?
I love You, Lord. Turn to me and have mercy on me, as You always do to those who love Your name. Direct my footsteps according to Your Word. Please give me more Holy Spirit power and more love and respect for Jesus so that I will not break the law You set for my own good. With more grace, my weary soul will delight in a day of rest. You know I need it! As I honor and worship You, the One and Only Living God, revive my heart. Re-energize my spirit. Renew my strength. Then I will find joy in the beauty of Your presence.
Thank You for unfolding Your Words to my heart. It sheds light and gives understanding to Your simple command. Redeem me, O God, so that I will obey and Your face will shine upon me for Your name sake. Amen.
Remember God’s command and obey. It’s not optional.
Isa 58: 13-14
13"Keep the Sabbath day holy. Don't pursue your own interests on that day, but enjoy the Sabbath and speak of it with delight as the LORD's holy day. Honor the LORD in everything you do, and don't follow your own desires or talk idly. If you do this, 14the LORD will be your delight. I will give you great honor and give you your full share of the inheritance I promised to Jacob, your ancestor. I, the LORD, have spoken!" NLT
Holy & Awesome God-
Your statutes are wonderful and I long to obey them. I am thankful that You command me to be still, rest, and worship You, my Maker, one day a week. You are the awe-inspiring Creator of everything. Your good work was finished in six days, and on the seventh day You rested. The problem is my work never seems be finished. I keep going and going and going, until all of my energy is spent and there’s nothing left for You. If You, the unlimited source of energy and power, needed a day to rest, how much more do I need such a day?
I love You, Lord. Turn to me and have mercy on me, as You always do to those who love Your name. Direct my footsteps according to Your Word. Please give me more Holy Spirit power and more love and respect for Jesus so that I will not break the law You set for my own good. With more grace, my weary soul will delight in a day of rest. You know I need it! As I honor and worship You, the One and Only Living God, revive my heart. Re-energize my spirit. Renew my strength. Then I will find joy in the beauty of Your presence.
Thank You for unfolding Your Words to my heart. It sheds light and gives understanding to Your simple command. Redeem me, O God, so that I will obey and Your face will shine upon me for Your name sake. Amen.
Remember God’s command and obey. It’s not optional.
Friday, May 13, 2005
Romans 12: 1-2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing, and perfect will.
Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my voice, and let me sing always, only, for my King.
Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from Thee.
Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect, and use every power as Thou shalt choose.
Take my will, and make it Thine; it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own; it shall be Thy royal throne.
Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee.
Holy God, You are so good! All that I have and all that I am is because of you. Therefore, I offer myself back to you completely, as a pure and pleasing love offering. Lord, set me apart and let others see You in me. As I spend time with my unsaved friends this week, the cry of my heart is "Lord, give me all in this place!" Make me a perfectly delightful blessing to everyone I come in contact with. I am all yours. Use me Father as you will … ever, only, all for thee! In the powerful name of Jesus my Lord. Amen.
Take My Heart and Let It Be, Francis R. Havergal
As I meditated on this Scripture, the words of Take My Heart and Let It Be kept running through my mind. The lyrics became the prayer of my heart and I surrendered every part of my body to God as an act of worship. You may want to do the same.
From the Havergal Manuscripts: I went for a little visit of five days (to Areley House). There were ten persons in the house, some unconverted and long prayed for, some converted, but not rejoicing Christians. He gave me the prayer, "Lord, give me all in this house!" And He just did. Before I left the house every one had got a blessing. The last night of my visit after I had retired, the governess asked me to go to the two daughters. They were crying; then and there both of them trusted and rejoiced; it was nearly midnight. I was too happy to sleep, and passed most of the night in praise and renewal of my own consecration; and these little couplets formed themselves, and chimed in my heart one after another till they finished with "Ever, Only, ALL for Thee!" (www.cyberhymnal.org)
Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee.
Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from Thee.
Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect, and use every power as Thou shalt choose.
Take my will, and make it Thine; it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own; it shall be Thy royal throne.
Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee.
Holy God, You are so good! All that I have and all that I am is because of you. Therefore, I offer myself back to you completely, as a pure and pleasing love offering. Lord, set me apart and let others see You in me. As I spend time with my unsaved friends this week, the cry of my heart is "Lord, give me all in this place!" Make me a perfectly delightful blessing to everyone I come in contact with. I am all yours. Use me Father as you will … ever, only, all for thee! In the powerful name of Jesus my Lord. Amen.
Take My Heart and Let It Be, Francis R. Havergal
As I meditated on this Scripture, the words of Take My Heart and Let It Be kept running through my mind. The lyrics became the prayer of my heart and I surrendered every part of my body to God as an act of worship. You may want to do the same.
From the Havergal Manuscripts: I went for a little visit of five days (to Areley House). There were ten persons in the house, some unconverted and long prayed for, some converted, but not rejoicing Christians. He gave me the prayer, "Lord, give me all in this house!" And He just did. Before I left the house every one had got a blessing. The last night of my visit after I had retired, the governess asked me to go to the two daughters. They were crying; then and there both of them trusted and rejoiced; it was nearly midnight. I was too happy to sleep, and passed most of the night in praise and renewal of my own consecration; and these little couplets formed themselves, and chimed in my heart one after another till they finished with "Ever, Only, ALL for Thee!" (www.cyberhymnal.org)
Thursday, May 12, 2005
John 13: 4-5, 12-17
4He got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
12When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13"You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."
Jesus,
You are the model servant. You are the perfect Son of God, Teacher and Lord. You reign in power with full authority over heaven and earth. Yet you left your heavenly kingdom and became human to identify with me. You voluntarily laid aside your own rights and privileges out of love for your Father. Thank you for stooping down to wash filthy, smelly feet in order to teach me how to humbly serve you. If you can take on the menial task of washing stinky, muddy feet then who am I to stand around, watch, and wait for someone else to do the dirty work? Humble my heart today. Fill me with a willing spirit and give me power to get up and go do whatever needs done for your glory. Make me a servant, humble and meek. Lord, let me lift up those who are weak, and, may the prayer of my heart always be "make me a servant today."
Who can you stoop down and serve today?
12When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13"You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."
Jesus,
You are the model servant. You are the perfect Son of God, Teacher and Lord. You reign in power with full authority over heaven and earth. Yet you left your heavenly kingdom and became human to identify with me. You voluntarily laid aside your own rights and privileges out of love for your Father. Thank you for stooping down to wash filthy, smelly feet in order to teach me how to humbly serve you. If you can take on the menial task of washing stinky, muddy feet then who am I to stand around, watch, and wait for someone else to do the dirty work? Humble my heart today. Fill me with a willing spirit and give me power to get up and go do whatever needs done for your glory. Make me a servant, humble and meek. Lord, let me lift up those who are weak, and, may the prayer of my heart always be "make me a servant today."
Give me power to …
- Concentrate on the work you’ve called me to do and not what others are doing
- Base my identity in Christ and not seek the approval of man
- Think like a servant and not a master
- See my ministry to others as an opportunity and not an obligation
Who can you stoop down and serve today?
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Matthew 6: 19-21
Jesus commanded: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Jesus, You are my most valuable Treasure. You are more precious than silver; more costly than gold; more beautiful than diamonds. Nothing I desire compares to You. I rejoice in the richness of my salvation!
Forgive me God for making my pleasures treasures. Forgive me for all things I’ve accumulated that have absolutely no eternal value. Thank you for providing exceedingly, abundantly more than I need. Forgive me for confusing wants with needs. All I need is food and clothes and shelter. You’ve provided so much more! You’ve provided me with a warm and cozy home full of earthly treasures that have no lasting value. You’ve provided me with an overabundance of food as evidenced by my physique. You’ve provided me an extravagant wardrobe that I wash, wear and waste. Forgive me God for overindulging when others are: just looking for a simple roof over their head to protect them; begging for a mere morsel to eat; and wearing my worn out wardrobe.
Lord, I pray that your love would touch my wallet. Help me to love and value people more than possessions. I want to love your work more than money and freely share what I have with others. Make me rich in deeds. Please Lord, make me a cheerful giver of my time, talent, and treasure. Lord, my heart and all that I have belong to You. Please use my assets for your glory. Show me who I can share my wealth with today.
O God, I beg one favor from you; give me neither poverty nor riches. Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, "Who is the LORD?" And if I am too poor, I may steal and insult Your holy name. (Prov. 30: 8-9) I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
How can you use your time, talent and treasure to serve God by serving others?
Jesus, You are my most valuable Treasure. You are more precious than silver; more costly than gold; more beautiful than diamonds. Nothing I desire compares to You. I rejoice in the richness of my salvation!
Forgive me God for making my pleasures treasures. Forgive me for all things I’ve accumulated that have absolutely no eternal value. Thank you for providing exceedingly, abundantly more than I need. Forgive me for confusing wants with needs. All I need is food and clothes and shelter. You’ve provided so much more! You’ve provided me with a warm and cozy home full of earthly treasures that have no lasting value. You’ve provided me with an overabundance of food as evidenced by my physique. You’ve provided me an extravagant wardrobe that I wash, wear and waste. Forgive me God for overindulging when others are: just looking for a simple roof over their head to protect them; begging for a mere morsel to eat; and wearing my worn out wardrobe.
Lord, I pray that your love would touch my wallet. Help me to love and value people more than possessions. I want to love your work more than money and freely share what I have with others. Make me rich in deeds. Please Lord, make me a cheerful giver of my time, talent, and treasure. Lord, my heart and all that I have belong to You. Please use my assets for your glory. Show me who I can share my wealth with today.
O God, I beg one favor from you; give me neither poverty nor riches. Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, "Who is the LORD?" And if I am too poor, I may steal and insult Your holy name. (Prov. 30: 8-9) I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
How can you use your time, talent and treasure to serve God by serving others?
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Luke 5: 17-26
17One day as Jesus was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law, who had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem, were sitting there. And the power of the Lord was present for him to heal the sick. 18Some men came carrying a paralytic on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. 19When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. 20When Jesus saw their faith, he said, "Friend, your sins are forgiven."
24He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." 25Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. 26Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today." NIV
Sweet Jesus-
I love the lessons you teach me when I take time to sit at Your feet. I have heard this story repeatedly, but today it has fresh meaning. Thank You for the friends who had the compassion and strength to carry me to You when I was too weak to walk. They persisted until I met You face to face. Now, I will be that friend to someone else. Many in my family are carrying heavy burdens of a terrible tragedy, a crushing circumstance, a devastating diagnosis. Crippled by crisis, they need carried to You. I will put my faith into action, lift them up, and bring them to You.
When others are too brokenhearted to speak, I will be their voice. I will carry them to a place of refuge where they can pour out their hearts in the safety of Your presence. With complete assurance of Your sovereignty, we will trust You together.
When others are too grief-stricken to stand, I will be transport them to the Steadfast Pillar of strength. There they will lean on You. By Your mighty hand, You will uphold them. I will be the friend who sticks closer than a brother.
When others are lame with loss, I will gently lead them to streams of Living Water where they can immerse their thoughts into things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. You will wash over them, and refresh them with encouragement through me.
When others are blinded by tears, I will show them to You. By my faith, You will restore their sight. Crying will turn to joy when, together; we experience your touch of greatness. We will be in awe of You because of the remarkable things You have done in us and through us, as we carry each other’s burdens in Jesus Name. Amen.
Do you know someone who needs help? Humbly and gently carry that person to Jesus.
24He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." 25Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. 26Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today." NIV
Sweet Jesus-
I love the lessons you teach me when I take time to sit at Your feet. I have heard this story repeatedly, but today it has fresh meaning. Thank You for the friends who had the compassion and strength to carry me to You when I was too weak to walk. They persisted until I met You face to face. Now, I will be that friend to someone else. Many in my family are carrying heavy burdens of a terrible tragedy, a crushing circumstance, a devastating diagnosis. Crippled by crisis, they need carried to You. I will put my faith into action, lift them up, and bring them to You.
When others are too brokenhearted to speak, I will be their voice. I will carry them to a place of refuge where they can pour out their hearts in the safety of Your presence. With complete assurance of Your sovereignty, we will trust You together.
When others are too grief-stricken to stand, I will be transport them to the Steadfast Pillar of strength. There they will lean on You. By Your mighty hand, You will uphold them. I will be the friend who sticks closer than a brother.
When others are lame with loss, I will gently lead them to streams of Living Water where they can immerse their thoughts into things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. You will wash over them, and refresh them with encouragement through me.
When others are blinded by tears, I will show them to You. By my faith, You will restore their sight. Crying will turn to joy when, together; we experience your touch of greatness. We will be in awe of You because of the remarkable things You have done in us and through us, as we carry each other’s burdens in Jesus Name. Amen.
Do you know someone who needs help? Humbly and gently carry that person to Jesus.
Monday, May 09, 2005
Gal. 5: 1-14
1It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
2Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you …. 4You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. 6For in Christ Jesus …the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
7You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? 8That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you … The one who is throwing you into confusion will pay the penalty, whoever he may be…
13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Lord God,
O how I love Your Word! It falls like fresh dew on my heart each day. You know exactly what to say and when to say it! Today, I joyfully claim my freedom in Christ Jesus. I will stand firm and not be burdened ever again by a yoke of slavery. Gone are the Old Testament laws. Praise God! I am FREE! If I remain tied to them, I am alienated from You and have fallen away from Your amazing grace. It is by faith that I have been made righteous. I am no longer held in captivity because my hope is in You, Lord. Because I BELIEVE in Your love and saving grace, I will express gracious, abundant love to others.
I know I’m running the good race because I am following You obediently. You define the course and set the pace. I will keep running and not look back. I will not be distracted. I will pay attention to You. Help me to see those who cut in front of me. They try to keep me from obeying the truth. Do not let them throw me into confusion. I have been called to be FREE! I will go, run and serve others every day of my life, with all of my heart, for the reward You promise.
You have reminded me again today that in love You have blessed, chosen and adopted me. I am eternally Yours. You love and accept me just as I am. I am redeemed and forgiven, holy and blameless in Your sight. You have given me knowledge and wisdom. You have tattooed my heart with the Holy Spirit. You guarantee my priceless, pure, and permanent inheritance. I am Your precious possession. I am BELIEVING You because You spoke the Truth to me today...and the Truth has set me free! Amen.
Claim your promised freedom today! Then, go, run, and serve someone with love.
2Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you …. 4You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. 6For in Christ Jesus …the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
7You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? 8That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you … The one who is throwing you into confusion will pay the penalty, whoever he may be…
13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Lord God,
O how I love Your Word! It falls like fresh dew on my heart each day. You know exactly what to say and when to say it! Today, I joyfully claim my freedom in Christ Jesus. I will stand firm and not be burdened ever again by a yoke of slavery. Gone are the Old Testament laws. Praise God! I am FREE! If I remain tied to them, I am alienated from You and have fallen away from Your amazing grace. It is by faith that I have been made righteous. I am no longer held in captivity because my hope is in You, Lord. Because I BELIEVE in Your love and saving grace, I will express gracious, abundant love to others.
I know I’m running the good race because I am following You obediently. You define the course and set the pace. I will keep running and not look back. I will not be distracted. I will pay attention to You. Help me to see those who cut in front of me. They try to keep me from obeying the truth. Do not let them throw me into confusion. I have been called to be FREE! I will go, run and serve others every day of my life, with all of my heart, for the reward You promise.
You have reminded me again today that in love You have blessed, chosen and adopted me. I am eternally Yours. You love and accept me just as I am. I am redeemed and forgiven, holy and blameless in Your sight. You have given me knowledge and wisdom. You have tattooed my heart with the Holy Spirit. You guarantee my priceless, pure, and permanent inheritance. I am Your precious possession. I am BELIEVING You because You spoke the Truth to me today...and the Truth has set me free! Amen.
Claim your promised freedom today! Then, go, run, and serve someone with love.
Friday, May 06, 2005
2 Chronicles 6 & 7 - Solomon's Revival
Today's Prayer Pal is based on Solomon's revival and dedication of the temple in 2 Chron. 6 & 7. I would encourage you to read it, reflect on it, and respond to it accordingly. You will be blessed.
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land. NLT
James 5:16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results.
Precious Lord,
There is no God like You in heaven or on earth - You keep Your covenant of love with Your servants who pursue You with all their heart. Thank You God for building a magnificent temple in my heart for Your Name and placing Your sacred laws in the Most Holy Place. God, I rejoice that You will dwell in my heart forever! Thank You God for Your saving grace and amazing love!
I am in awe of the beautiful temple we could build for You if we would humble ourselves, acknowledge, and serve You with wholehearted devotion and willing minds. Father, as we spend time in Your presence this week, let Your glory fill the sanctuary of ours heart and our church. Breathe new life into all believers. When we have been defeated and are at the end of ourselves because of sin, may we turn back and confess that You are God, pray and make supplication before You. Hear our prayers from heaven O Lord, and heal us. Forgive our sins and bring us back to the Promised Land. Teach us the right way to live. Restore to us the promised inheritance. God, hear our prayers and pleas when we come to You with our affliction and pain, with outstretched hands like a small wounded child who runs to his father. Pick us up. Hold us. Hush us. Forgive us.
God hear the prayers of foreigners, especially those who are not yet followers so that they too may know Your name, fear You, and become living stones in the holy temple. Please dear Lord, change hearts. Set captives free. Send down fire from heaven to consume us with a Holy Spirit flame. Send a Pentecost-type revival and fill the church - the living temple with Your glory. God, You are good and Your love endures forever! I am forever praising You in the name of Jesus! Amen.
If God is speaking to you about a hidden area of your life that needs to be confessed, what are you going to do about it?
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land. NLT
James 5:16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results.
Precious Lord,
There is no God like You in heaven or on earth - You keep Your covenant of love with Your servants who pursue You with all their heart. Thank You God for building a magnificent temple in my heart for Your Name and placing Your sacred laws in the Most Holy Place. God, I rejoice that You will dwell in my heart forever! Thank You God for Your saving grace and amazing love!
I am in awe of the beautiful temple we could build for You if we would humble ourselves, acknowledge, and serve You with wholehearted devotion and willing minds. Father, as we spend time in Your presence this week, let Your glory fill the sanctuary of ours heart and our church. Breathe new life into all believers. When we have been defeated and are at the end of ourselves because of sin, may we turn back and confess that You are God, pray and make supplication before You. Hear our prayers from heaven O Lord, and heal us. Forgive our sins and bring us back to the Promised Land. Teach us the right way to live. Restore to us the promised inheritance. God, hear our prayers and pleas when we come to You with our affliction and pain, with outstretched hands like a small wounded child who runs to his father. Pick us up. Hold us. Hush us. Forgive us.
God hear the prayers of foreigners, especially those who are not yet followers so that they too may know Your name, fear You, and become living stones in the holy temple. Please dear Lord, change hearts. Set captives free. Send down fire from heaven to consume us with a Holy Spirit flame. Send a Pentecost-type revival and fill the church - the living temple with Your glory. God, You are good and Your love endures forever! I am forever praising You in the name of Jesus! Amen.
If God is speaking to you about a hidden area of your life that needs to be confessed, what are you going to do about it?
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Eph 5:
1Follow God's example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him...
8For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! 9For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. 10Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. 11Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, rebuke and expose them...
15So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. 16Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. 17Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. 19Then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21And further, you will submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Lord,
I am in awe of You and Your lavishing love. The way You woo, nurture, and care for me is astonishing! You draw me close to You with Your words which have been written as a love letter to me. You always do what is best for me, Your beloved child. By Your grace, I will be an imitator of You and live a life of love. Teach me dear Lord
8For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! 9For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. 10Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. 11Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, rebuke and expose them...
15So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. 16Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. 17Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. 19Then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21And further, you will submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Lord,
I am in awe of You and Your lavishing love. The way You woo, nurture, and care for me is astonishing! You draw me close to You with Your words which have been written as a love letter to me. You always do what is best for me, Your beloved child. By Your grace, I will be an imitator of You and live a life of love. Teach me dear Lord
- To have a thankful heart
- To live as a child of light by reflecting goodness, righteousness, and truth
- What pleases You
- To expose my own deeds of darkness
- To be wise
- To make the most of every opportunity
- To understand Your will
- To be filled with the Spirit
- To speak uplifting words of encouragement and praise
- To always have a joyful song in my heart
- To submit to You first, and then in the same way to others in the church
- To love and respect the Christian family
O Lord, I long to please You and live in the light of Your amazing love. Change my heart O God. Teach me to be like Jesus by giving up myself because of love. Out of respect for Your Son, I will find the strength to put others first. In doing so, I will find that it truly is more blessed to give than to receive. Thank You for loving me with everlasting love and drawing me to You with cords of kindness. To You be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Make a list of five specific ways you show preference to your family or small group.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Hebrews 3:13
You must warn each other every day, as long as it is called "today," so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.
2 Cor. 11: 3, 4, 13-15 Paul says: 3"I fear that somehow you will be led away from your pure and simple devotion to Christ, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent. 4You seem to believe whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach about a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed … 13These people are false apostles. They have fooled you by disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14But I am not surprised! Even Satan can disguise himself as an angel of light. 15So it is no wonder his servants can also do it by pretending to be godly ministers."
Father-
You are teaching me how important it is to listen to Your instruction and know Your Word. Lord, how can I warn others so that they will not be deceived by sin, if I don’t know the truth myself? I urgently need to grow in knowledge of Truth because ignorance can make me vulnerable to deception. From this day forward, I will be an honest seeker and true biblical student by studying the holy Scriptures. Fill me with knowledge and wisdom so that my devotion will remain pure and sincere. Protect me from smooth-talkers who have a message that sounds good and makes sense. Hearts are full of deceit. I need to be on guard, always verifying the truth by searching the Bible. Your Word alone will be my authoritative guide.
There are so many distractions around me demanding my time and attention. They threaten to side track my faith. Just as Eve lost her focus in the Garden of Eden by the sly and slippery serpent, things cleverly disguised as attractive, good and moral can fool me too. Satan and his servants are so tricky. Hide the Truth in my heart so that I will not believe their schemes. In order to warn others, I must know the Truth. Make my words Your words because Jesus said, "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. You will have to give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word you have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words, you will be condemned." Please just fill me with more knowledge today so that I can speak the Truth in love for Your namesake. Amen.
What are you doing to ensure you know and speak the truth?
2 Cor. 11: 3, 4, 13-15 Paul says: 3"I fear that somehow you will be led away from your pure and simple devotion to Christ, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent. 4You seem to believe whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach about a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed … 13These people are false apostles. They have fooled you by disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14But I am not surprised! Even Satan can disguise himself as an angel of light. 15So it is no wonder his servants can also do it by pretending to be godly ministers."
Father-
You are teaching me how important it is to listen to Your instruction and know Your Word. Lord, how can I warn others so that they will not be deceived by sin, if I don’t know the truth myself? I urgently need to grow in knowledge of Truth because ignorance can make me vulnerable to deception. From this day forward, I will be an honest seeker and true biblical student by studying the holy Scriptures. Fill me with knowledge and wisdom so that my devotion will remain pure and sincere. Protect me from smooth-talkers who have a message that sounds good and makes sense. Hearts are full of deceit. I need to be on guard, always verifying the truth by searching the Bible. Your Word alone will be my authoritative guide.
There are so many distractions around me demanding my time and attention. They threaten to side track my faith. Just as Eve lost her focus in the Garden of Eden by the sly and slippery serpent, things cleverly disguised as attractive, good and moral can fool me too. Satan and his servants are so tricky. Hide the Truth in my heart so that I will not believe their schemes. In order to warn others, I must know the Truth. Make my words Your words because Jesus said, "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. You will have to give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word you have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words, you will be condemned." Please just fill me with more knowledge today so that I can speak the Truth in love for Your namesake. Amen.
What are you doing to ensure you know and speak the truth?
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Luke 13: 10-13
10One Sabbath day as Jesus was teaching in a synagogue, 11he saw a woman who had been crippled by an evil spirit. She had been bent double for eighteen years and was unable to stand up straight. 12When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, "Woman, you are healed of your sickness!" 13Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised and thanked God!
Holy & Awesome God-
I praise You with all my heart. Great are Your works. Glorious and majestic are Your deeds. Thank You for causing Your wonders to be remembered forever.
I am living in a world where people are beat up and put down. They are paralyzed by problems; crippled by conflict; blind to beauty; deaf by distraction; disabled by disappointment; incapacitated by inconsistency; sick with sin; and suffering from selfishness.
Open my eyes to the heart-wrenching needs of the people I pass by every day. I will immediately stop what I am doing and focus on them. Use me to touch and heal them with kindness and encouragement. By Your grace and compassion, I will genuinely show people how much they matter. I will show them how much you love them and tell them how incredibly valuable they are to You. Since my words may be the only positive thing they hear in a day, please make them gracious and uplifting.
By Your love and power, I will be the healing hands of Jesus to the hopeless and helpless, weak and weary, troubled and terrified. I will be a holy encourager for Your glorious kingdom so that Your name will be magnified above the earth. Eternal praise belongs to You, always and forever because of Jesus. Amen
Find someone who needs encouraged today. Focus on them. Fix them with an inspiring word.
Holy & Awesome God-
I praise You with all my heart. Great are Your works. Glorious and majestic are Your deeds. Thank You for causing Your wonders to be remembered forever.
I am living in a world where people are beat up and put down. They are paralyzed by problems; crippled by conflict; blind to beauty; deaf by distraction; disabled by disappointment; incapacitated by inconsistency; sick with sin; and suffering from selfishness.
Open my eyes to the heart-wrenching needs of the people I pass by every day. I will immediately stop what I am doing and focus on them. Use me to touch and heal them with kindness and encouragement. By Your grace and compassion, I will genuinely show people how much they matter. I will show them how much you love them and tell them how incredibly valuable they are to You. Since my words may be the only positive thing they hear in a day, please make them gracious and uplifting.
By Your love and power, I will be the healing hands of Jesus to the hopeless and helpless, weak and weary, troubled and terrified. I will be a holy encourager for Your glorious kingdom so that Your name will be magnified above the earth. Eternal praise belongs to You, always and forever because of Jesus. Amen
Find someone who needs encouraged today. Focus on them. Fix them with an inspiring word.
Monday, May 02, 2005
Phil 3:17
Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.
Col 3: 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom
Holy & Righteous God,
You are King of my Heart. Your name is glorious. Your way is righteousness.Your love is tenderness. I bow before Your majesty.
O how I long to understand and obey the laws of Your magnificent kingdom. Do not let me stray from Your commands. I want to please and honor You. In the laboratory of love, teach me Your ways. I will listen and accept Your instruction. It is my life line.
With Your Words, in all their richness, alive in my heart, I will live wisely and be worthy of respect. Love and patience will show my strong faith. Kindness and humility will make me a godly example to others.
Please send godly people into my life so that I can see Your principles in practice and apply them to my own life. Observing others living like Jesus will teach me to grow in Christ-likeness. Listening when they tell about Your work in their life will inspire me to persevere with my difficult assignments. As I study Your Word and watch others, I will become a living Bible persuading and motivating others to become more like Jesus for His glory, honor and fame. Amen.
Who will you look up to as a model for spiritual growth? Who are you willing to be an example to?
Col 3: 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom
Holy & Righteous God,
You are King of my Heart. Your name is glorious. Your way is righteousness.Your love is tenderness. I bow before Your majesty.
O how I long to understand and obey the laws of Your magnificent kingdom. Do not let me stray from Your commands. I want to please and honor You. In the laboratory of love, teach me Your ways. I will listen and accept Your instruction. It is my life line.
With Your Words, in all their richness, alive in my heart, I will live wisely and be worthy of respect. Love and patience will show my strong faith. Kindness and humility will make me a godly example to others.
Please send godly people into my life so that I can see Your principles in practice and apply them to my own life. Observing others living like Jesus will teach me to grow in Christ-likeness. Listening when they tell about Your work in their life will inspire me to persevere with my difficult assignments. As I study Your Word and watch others, I will become a living Bible persuading and motivating others to become more like Jesus for His glory, honor and fame. Amen.
Who will you look up to as a model for spiritual growth? Who are you willing to be an example to?
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