Wednesday, November 30, 2005

ALL I REALLY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS FREEDOM

John 1:14
14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 8: 31-36 31To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

33They answered him, "We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?"

34Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

Living Word of God,
I stand in awe of You today: Jesus, Creator of the Universe, El Elyon who came down from the hallowed halls of heaven becoming fully human and yet absolutely holy to represent Your true image, the Immortal, Invisible, Almighty God.


In the beautiful box today is the blessed Belt of Truth! You sent Your Son to set me FREE!

Free from my sinful nature
Free from death’s grip
Free from Satan’s snare
Free from fear
Free from selfish desires
Free to be Your dearly beloved child
Free to live with You forever
Free to love and serve others
Free to bear the sweet fruit of my salvation
Free to be all that You intended me to be

The shackles of sin are gone and the Belt of Truth is on! I’m free to stand up and walk in holiness. I’m free to make right choices and spread the Gospel of Peace. I’m free to BELIEVE You! Hallelujah! I am FREE indeed!

Please dear Lord, teach me the truth and give me faith to BELIEVE so that I can walk in the freedom of the cross every day of my life. I am forever Yours because of Jesus, the One and Only Source of Truth! Amen.

Claim the gift of freedom this Christmas by removing the shackles of sin and putting on the beautiful Belt of Truth, the Word of God sent from heaven.

Tuesday, November 29, 2005

ALL I REALLY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS RIGHTEOUSNESS

Romans 5:17
The sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over us, but all who receive God's wonderful, gracious gift of righteousness will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. NLT

Matthew 1:19, 24
Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.

Holy Child,
You are the triumphant gift of righteousness given to me with love by my Father in Heaven. Sincerely sent when I was slick, slippery and slimy from sin, it was a surprise to receive such a splendid parcel. Naked, exposed and ashamed, I eagerly opened the box.

A soft smile curled from my lips when I saw the contents. There in the unadorned, wooden box, packed in straw was the most beautiful, elegant robe made by the most famous Designer of all time, You, Jesus. No amount of money could buy such a costly coat. Instantly, I tried it on to cover my shame. Admirably, it was just the right size! A perfect fit!

All I really want for Christmas is this beautiful robe of righteousness. Clothed and unashamed, I will stand up for what is right even when it’s painfully difficult. Wearing this gorgeous garment, bought with Your priceless blood, I will show Your glistening glory, gentleness and grace to the grumpy and grouchy. Zealously zipped with love, I will forgive my foes, as You have forgiven me. Even when the pain is excruciating, I will follow Your example and exercise self-control. You are the perfect example of righteousness and You are all I want this Christmas.

Please dear Lord, allow me to receive and open the unadorned box sent from heaven. By Your grace, I will take out the beautiful Designer Robe of Righteousness, Jesus, packed in straw, and bought with blood. Wearing it with humility, I will love and serve others for the honor and glory of Your righteous name. Amen.

The unadorned package has been sent to you. Don’t let it go unnoticed and unopened. Graciously receive the robe of righteousness and humbly wear it for the glory of the One who sincerely sent it.

Monday, November 28, 2005

ALL I REALLY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS PEACE

ALL I REALLY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS is the Prayer Pal theme this holiday season. It will focus on praising God for 20 very special gifts that only He can give. May the prayers of my heart resound in your heart at this special time of year.

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace
him whose mind is steadfast,
because he trusts in you.

John 14:27 Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

Jesus, My Redeemer, Sent from the heart of God,
Thank You for the precious, priceless, perfect gift of peace. It’s mine when I choose to walk hand-in-hand, day-by-day, minute-by-minute trusting You. This world gives me trouble, turmoil and tribulations, but You leave me with the pleasant present of peace to guard my heart and mind. I unwrap it by:

  • Receiving it from You, my heavenly Father, who lovingly adopted and accepted me into the royal family of God, bestowing me with bountiful blessings.
  • Trusting the power of the Holy Spirit, the endless ribbon that securely ties the package of peace to my heart and mind.
  • Believing the Truth of Your Word, sincerely written by a devoted Father to his beloved child as a beautiful gift card.
  • Accepting You, God’s own dear Son, sent directly to me from the heart of my Father to pay the ultimate price for it.

Dear Lord, all I really want this Christmas is blessed quiet and holy peace to guard my heart and mind from the swirling storms of strife surrounding me. Supported by Your love, secured to the endless power source, I just want to trust Your promises, and enjoy the precious, priceless perfect gift of peace purchased specifically for me by You, Jesus, God’s own Son. Amen.

Unwrap the gift of peace: Receive it from the Father, trust in the ribbon of the Holy Spirit, believe the Words He’s written to You, and be thankful that Jesus paid the price for it.

Philippians 4:7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear Precious Prayer Pal-
Today and every day we have so many reasons to be thankful. I would encourage you to read, reflect, and respond to 1 Chronicles 16:7-36. In this praiseworthy psalm there are four elements of Thanksgiving: remembering what God has done, telling others about it, showing God’s glory to others, and offering gifts of time, talent and treasure. If you are truly thankful your life will show it![a]

Little did I think when I was writing the Prayer Pals for the past two weeks, that they were a sacrifice of thanksgiving. Today’s Prayer Pal is a summary of them, giving glory to God’s name. It will be the last Prayer Pal until Monday, November 28th. With a thankful, reflective heart, I encourage you to ponder two points each day for the next five days. You can read the original Prayer Pals in the archives of my blog.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Love,
Prayer Pal


1 Chronicles 16: 34-35
34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.
35 Cry out, "Save us, O God our Savior;
gather us and deliver us from the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name,
that we may glory in your praise."

Lord of Love,
I come to You with a thankful heart. You have been so good to me. Your love endures forever. With holy hands lifted heavenward, I offer a sacrifice of praise to Your holy name. You are …

  • Lord God Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth. I am in awe of Your fine fingers that set the moon and stars in place, and me a little lower than them to serve You here on earth. The works of Your hands overwhelm me. I marvel at Your creativity and my responsibility.
  • My Rock & My Refuge, You are a perfect, powerful and prominent pinnacle of unimpeded protection. I sing a soft song in the safety of Your shelter.
  • Glorious River of Life, there’s perfect peace in Your pristine presence. Thank You for gushing over me, cleansing me, quenching me, reviving me. Surrounded by a steady stream of Living Water is sensational!
  • Prince of Peace, You came in shining armor to rescue me. Breathing a blessing of peace on me, You pampered my precious feet, fixing them in the fountain of forgiveness. Now I can dance joyfully to a sweet sonnet with my Savior, the Lover of my Soul.
  • Adonai, You are my Magnificent Master! I will glory in serving You with wholehearted devotion and look forward to living happily ever after with You, in the rich kingdom of heaven.
  • Amazing Author, Wonderful Writer, and Super Storyteller, You have written my brilliant biography. With love on my lips, I will never tire of telling the wonderful story of my dramatic rescue and recovery!
  • King of Compassion, show me the harassed and helpless hordes crying for release. I will follow You and do the things I see You doing to bring glory and honor to Your name.
  • Truthful King, I offer my life as a living sacrifice, fully committed and surrendered to You and the work of Your kingdom. I want to accomplish great things for You, but first, need faith to believe in Your Almighty Name.
  • King of the Savior’s Smorgasbord, I celebrate the never-ending feast You offer. From the bountiful buffet, I can eat all I want and be satisfied. Redemption, riches, and relationships. Forgiveness, friends, and fellowship. Salvation, security, and sympathy. Healing, honor and a hero. Love, life and laughter.
  • High and Heavenly King, I sing a merry melody to You who loved me enough to seek me, choose me, redeem me, and make me holy! To Your name be the glory and power forever and ever!
This Thanksgiving I will worship You with all that is within me, for all that You have done for me. If I have not a crumb to eat, nor a single friend, I will sing and celebrate because I have You, and You are all I need! I praise You, Most High King of Heaven – My Loving Father! Amen!

[a]Life Application Study Bible

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

Romans 10:15

15And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
Isaiah 52:7
How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
Your Majesty,
I want to ascend the Most High and Holy Mountain into your pristine presence. I want to worship You on the perfect pinnacle of peace. My feet are sore and swollen from sojourning through sickness, suffering and sin. I don’t have strength to climb. If I have found favor with You, may I please have an appointment at Your Beauty Bar? I’m in dire need of a powerful pedicure!

Please pamper my precious feet! Prepare me to scale the steep slope. Soak my stinging feet in the fountain of forgiveness flowing with pure water from the wound in Your side. Scrub away all the dead sin cells. Use the buffer of Your blood to buff away the brutal bunions, burrs and blisters of bitterness. Cut away the calluses, corns and cracks that clog my cold heart. File away the filthy foot odor from the discomforting fungus of unforgiveness.

Massage my aching feet with the sweet fragrant oil of the Holy Spirit. Stimulate them until they are soft and smooth. With a silky new layer of skin, alleviated of ailments, and improved circulation, my feet will be strong enough to safely and steadily climb to the pinnacle of Your presence.

From the Most High and Holy Mountain, I will joyfully dance. I will shout the good news about how You found me and fixed my feet in the fountain of forgiveness. I will sing praise to the Prince of Peace who pampered my feet. My glad greeting will lead others to the fountain of forgiveness where they too will experience extravagant, exfoliating grace. With new heavenly souls, together, we will thankfully, joyfully celebrate our healing.

Please dear Lord, bless my beautiful feet. Shape them for service and set them on a perfect path pleasing to You, the Prince of Peace and Pamperer of my precious feet. Amen.

Make an appointment at the Beauty Bar for a Perfect Pedicure. Let the Prince of Peace pamper your feet so that you will be ready to climb into His presence. What good news has He given you to state publicly?

Monday, November 21, 2005

Matthew 5:10-12

Jesus said, "10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven."

Glorious Lord~
My Master~
Adonai~
Thank You for the promise of bountiful blessing when I choose to do what is right to follow You.

  • The kingdom of heaven is mine!
  • Great is my reward in heaven!
  • Not now, but later ... eternally, forever!

I admit that I am fearful of harassment, criticism, and rejection. It frightens me to be tested, ridiculed and mocked. It scares me to be scorned, criticized, and misunderstood. I’m afraid of being spat upon and beaten. FEAR is the obstacle that hinders me from making right choices and sharing my faith.


I want to live a life pleasing to You. I desire the rich, abundant treasure You promise in heaven. It’s mine to keep forever! Breathe fresh power on me. I want to serve You, my Master, with wholehearted devotion. I want to diligently work the fields, plant the seeds, water the crop, weed the thorns, and reap the harvest for You. I want to conscientiously serve You even when the scorching summer sun is searing my soul, and the wicked winter winds are wildly whistling, "worry". I want to have the heart and resilience of beautiful Queen Esther who in the midst of her difficult circumstances said, "If I perish, I perish." (a)

I know how the story ends! If I thoroughly do my job, I will receive a fortune beyond my imagination when I arrive at my destination in the kingdom of heaven. People may think they’ve killed me, but when You call my name and I arise to claim my priceless prize, they will watch in bewildered wonder. Please give me a resilient Spirit so that I can focus on the end of the story and the riches of Your glory. Amen.

Claim the two promises: the kingdom of heaven, and a great reward. They are yours when you set aside your fears and labor for the Lord.

(a) Esther 4:16

Friday, November 18, 2005

Daniel 1: 3-4, 17, 19

3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring in some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility- 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.

17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.

19 The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service.

Most High King of Heaven,
You have chosen and adopted me into Your royal family. Because You have made me righteous, I have no defects. All of my deformities were made perfect at the foot of the cross. The ashes of my sin were made into beauty. You have lavished me with wisdom and understanding to know the mysteries of Your good, pleasing and perfect will. I am qualified to serve You, my high and heavenly King.

This world is not my home. My home is in heaven. Like Daniel, I am a foreigner in an unfamiliar place. The language I speak is uncommon here. The literature I’m familiar with is unavailable. I must learn the language of my new community and adapt to their lifestyle.

You’ve brought me to these strange surroundings to spread the Good News that Your majestic kingdom is available to everyone who believes. I can only do that by earning the trust and respect of those who reside here. Give me the desire to be like Daniel. I need to go beyond the pleasant walls and protection of Your palace and immerse myself in their corrupt community. Clinging to my faith, trusting in Your power that is in me, I will infiltrate people with the truth about Your kingdom in their own language. When I clearly communicate with them, I will build bridges for them to come to You.

Please dear Lord, give me a heart to follow You beyond my perceived limitations. Give me extraordinary wisdom and knowledge to fluently learn a foreign language. Use me to connect Your kingdom in the community where I am wandering for the praise of Your glorious name. Amen.

Ask God to give you the wisdom, knowledge and courage of Daniel to boldly live out your life in your neighborhood. Find a non-church related group and begin interacting with them.

Thursday, November 17, 2005

John 20:19-22

19On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!"

20After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

21Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." 22And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."

Prince of Peace,
It’s comforting to know that no door can shut out Your presence. There is no lock strong enough to keep You out! Blessed assurance! I cherish the moment when You came, stood in the living room of my heart and spoke a blessing of peace to me.

What a joy it was to see Your mighty nail-pierced hand and feel the warmth of Your amazing love. It’s the hand that was hammered to the cross to blot out my blemishes, erase my errors and fix my flaws. It’s the hand that forever changed me and gave me new life. There is precious peace in Your pardon.

I rejoice at the sight of the spear-torn flesh in Your side. From it spewed the innocent blood that made me holy, pure, and blameless in Your sight. A fountain of water flowed from Your wound to heal me of mine. Because of Your torn flesh, nothing can separate me from You – no grief, no fault, no fear. There is peace in Your presence.

Finally, You breathed on me and filled me with Your Spirit. You empowered me to go persuade people to drop their differences and pursue friendship with You. I am required to confidently and courageously tell the life-changing story of my extreme encounter with my crucified Lord. There is peace in Your power.

Please dear Lord, come stand in the living room of my heart today. Breathe a fresh blessing of peace on me. Renew the Holy Spirit power within me and remind me of my mandatory mission. Then, I will go speak a blessing of peace to others for the praise of Your glorious kingdom. Amen.

Have you seen the nail-pierced hand and spear-torn flesh of Jesus? If so, go tell others the difference it made in Your life. It’s not optional.

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

Choice & Consequences - Prayer for the Borden & Ludwig Families

Dear Prayer Pal-
My heart is heavy this week for our Christian family. I live only a few miles from Lititz, PA where our brother, David Ludwig is suspected of murdering his girlfriend’s parents, Michael and Cathryn Borden, on Sunday morning. While I do not know either family, my heart grieves for all the shattered lives. With two teenage boys, it could be my family – but by the grace of God …I am acutely aware that none of us are immune! No matter how hard we try, our children can still make wrong choices with costly consequences.

Tonight at 7:00 there will be a prayer gathering for those affected by the weekend’s tragedy. I would encourage you to set aside that time to pray for these distraught families in your home. Both families profess to be Christians. Kara Beth was just baptized as a believer in October. The kids were homeschooled and loved by their parents and church families. Still, something went terribly, tragically wrong! The five precious Borden children, three still dependent on their parents, are suddenly orphans. The Ludwig’s must deal with the loss of their son and brother, and the consequences of his sin. 14-year old Kara Beth Borden faces the consequences of her own sin – minimally disrespect, dishonor, and disobedience resulting in the death of her parents.

Let this be a wake up call for our kids! Parents, I plead with you to take advantage of this opportunity to talk to your children about choices and consequences. Whether your kids are home-schooled, Christian-schooled, or public-schooled, they are not untouchable! It could be a matter of life or death - yours, theirs, or someone else's.

Isaiah 53:6
We all, like sheep, have gone astray,
each of us has turned to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.

Prince of Peace,
I boldly come to the throne of grace with a heavy grief-filled heart for the hurting families of David Ludwig and Kara Beth Borden, two teens who made terrible choices resulting in tragic consequences. In their reckless rebellion they desecrated Your Most Holy Name. Merciful Father, forgive them!


Life is like a crystal ball. If it’s not handled tenderly, gracefully, and carefully it may drop and shatter into a million fragmented pieces. This week two teens played with the ball and broke it. They’ve shattered not only their lives, but the lives of their families. Gently, meticulously and painstakingly pick up each devastated piece and masterfully restore their lustrous allure. Please turn their tragic loss into triumphant victory. a

We all, like sheep, have gone astray, just like David and Kara Beth. Everyone reading this Prayer Pal at one time or another has made the choice to go his or her own way, disappointing, disobeying, and disrespecting You, our loving Father. We have intentionally made unwise and ungodly choices. b Each of us was, at one time, Your enemy. c And, anyone who has ever spoken angry, hateful words has killed. d

Graciously, You have made a way for our broken balls to be brought back through Your bruised, battered, broken body on the old rugged cross. We deserve the death penalty for our own hateful hearts, but You kindly took our punishment and died in our place so that we can truly live. That’s amazing love!


At the foot of the cross please pick up the fragile lives of Your children, shattered by tragedy. Comfort their crushed spirits with a crimson blanket of peace. Heal their hurts with the precious, priceless blood from Your wounds. Restore to them the pleasant prosperity of Your presence.

Hear my voice and be merciful to Your beloved children. Do not hide Your face from them. David and Kara Beth need Your healing grace as much as their loved ones. Please don’t turn away in anger. They are just kids who made foolish choices. The consequences will haunt them forever. Desperate and distraught, these families need You, their Prince of Peace, to come to their rescue. I am confident they will see Your goodness in the midst of their mess. Though they walk through trouble, reach out and touch them. Make Your face to shine on them and restore to them the joy of Your salvation.

God Most High, I know You have a plan to prosper and not to harm Your dearly beloved children. Your plan is bigger than I can understand. Please give these children a hope and a bright future in Your glorious and majestic kingdom. To You who saved me when I was Your enemy, be the glory and honor forever. Amen.


What has the Father asked you to do? Love a difficult person? Forgive a past hurt? Seek forgiveness? Go, share the Good News? In light of this situation, and His Holy Word, I would encourage you to obey the Father in order to avoid the consequences of disobedience, disappointment, and disrespect.

a. Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
b. Romans 5:6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
c. Romans 5:10 When we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son.
d.Matthew 5:21-22"You're familiar with the command to the ancients, "Do not murder.' 22I'm telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother "idiot!' and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell "stupid!' at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill." MSG

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

John 14:12-18 & Matthew 9:35-36

Jesus said, "12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing."

Matthew 9:35-36
35Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Jesus, You are the King of Compassion!
If I follow You, I can easily see what You have doing. The problem is I’m prone to wandering! I’m distracted by my own agenda. With my mind focused on finishing MY mission, I’m oblivious to the swarm surrounding me. Forgive me for my lack of compassion! Open my eyes to the lost souls entangled in the rush of life. Give me a sensitive spirit to stop and set them free. You’re not asking me to sell church. You’re asking me to:

  • Teach them by the example of my peaceful lifestyle what it means to know the Shepherd and be sheltered in the safety of His arms.
  • Preach the God News by telling them the story of how You rescued me from Satan’s snare and brought me to the safety of the sheepfold.
  • Nurse their wounds caused by the disease of despair and sickness of sin.

Please give me a heart like Yours to teach, preach, and heal. Please fill me with fresh faith and Holy Spirit power to notice the harassed and helpless hordes crying for release. I will follow You and do the things I see You doing to bring glory and honor to Your name. Amen.

Ask God to put the name of one lost sheep on your heart and in your mind today. Begin to pray specifically for their release.

Monday, November 14, 2005

John 14:12-18

Jesus said, "12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

15"If you love me, you will obey what I command. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. 18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you."

Truthful King~
I can hardly believe my ears! You promise that I will do even greater things than You did! That’s an overwhelming oath. I will go places Your feet never went. I will claim new territory for Your kingdom, captivating people for You. I will witness unbelievable miracles. How can that be? I am merely human. You are God and You are everywhere!


I’m thankful that You lay out the plan for me:

  • Believe what I say is true
  • Ask in my name
  • Obey
Working in Your power, with the Counselor, Comforter, and Helper living in my heart, I will have the strength to captivate my community, country, and world.

First, I must claim Your promise that I will do what You’ve been doing by saving lost souls. Then I must believe You when You say whatever I ask for in Your name You will do. And, finally, I need to believe that the Holy Spirit power lives in me, will never leave me, and will enable me to carry out the plan.

This sounds like a simple strategy. My Spirit is willing, but my flesh is weak. Please dear Lord, give me more faith to believe and claim Your precious promises. I want nothing more than to be fully committed to You and the work of Your kingdom. I want to accomplish great things for You, but first I need faith to believe in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Are you willing to follow God’s 3-step plan to bring lost and lonely people to His kingdom? Do you believe God? Do you love him enough to obey?

Friday, November 11, 2005

Romans 1:16-17

I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed.

Jesus, You are an Amazing Author, Wonderful Writer, and Super Storyteller. You have written the brilliant biography of my life. It’s a fantastic novel of drama, power, romance, and intrigue – all the stuff of best-selling books. I love to tell my story of Your extravagant love!
You found me in my pathetic condition and called me by name to come forward. I was crippled and bent over from humiliation, shame, and rejection. I could not stand up straight for many years. My back ached horribly. I was dirty and smelly because I could not clean myself properly. I was helpless! In Your gracious, compassionate, rich love You focused on me, and fixed me. You mysteriously cured and restored me. You washed me with Living Water and purified me.

The story doesn’t end there. It turns from a dramatic rescue, to a beautiful romance. After, You found me and fixed me, we fell passionately in love. A faithful lover, You’re true to all Your promises. You uphold me when I fall down. You lift me up when I’m weak. You supply my needs and satisfy the desires of my heart. You’re the lover of my soul. I’m deeply and eternally devoted to You. Because of Your incredible love for me I will live happily ever after in Your glorious kingdom!

I will proudly tell of the dramatic, life-changing power available to everyone who believes You. The intriguing story of my remarkable rescue and miracle makeover will lead others to Your everlasting kingdom for a touch of greatness. Please show me someone who needs to hear a marvelous love story today, and I will share mine with them for the praise of Your glory! Amen.

Spend some time today reflecting on your dramatic love story, and then share it someone who needs to hear about the extravagant love of Jesus.

Reflect on the words to the hymn I Love to Tell the Story.

Thursday, November 10, 2005

John 4:34

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work."

Sovereign King of the Smorgasbord-
Forgive me for craving the wrong things! I think more about nourishing my body than my soul. Please fill me with so much of Jesus that I will desire nothing more. There is an endless line of hungry people right behind me if only I’d open my eyes and notice!


People are starving for something more! I have been indulging in the never-ending feast of Bread and Water without consideration of the destitute and diseased following me. They will perish without proper nourishment.

Empower me to do Your will and share the Bread of Life, Living Water, my Sweet Jesus, with the hordes of hungry and throngs of thirsty begging for something better. Let me serve them passionately, persistently, and pleasantly, making it my personal business. It’s hard work but the wages and benefits are eternal. No other employer offers an eternal life insurance policy. No other business in town offers forgiveness, redemption, and healing. No other place serves all-you-can-eat love and compassion. Only at the Savior’s Smorgasbord will people eat and be satisfied.

The hours are limited, closing time is near. I must urgently accomplish the mandatory mission to feed the multitudes by giving them Jesus. Open my eyes to see discouraged, dissatisfied, and disgusted individuals:

  • Ravished for redemption, riches and relationships
  • Famished for forgiveness, friends and fellowship
  • Starved for salvation, security and sympathy
  • Hungry for healing, honor, and a hero
  • Longing for love, life and laughter

I will immediately bring them to Your Smorgasbord where they can gorge themselves with grace and be satisfied with the name of Jesus. Amen.


There’s a starving society surrounding you! You’ve been given a mission – to do the will of Jesus, feed them. Will you obey?

Wednesday, November 09, 2005

1 Peter 2:9-10

9But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Isaiah 62:12
They will be called the Holy People,
the Redeemed of the LORD;
and you will be called Sought After,
the City No Longer Deserted


High and Heavenly King,
Hearing Your Holy Word thrills my heart! It stirs my soul to hear you say:

  • I am chosen
  • I am royal
  • I am holy
  • I belong to You
  • I am redeemed
  • I am sought after
  • I am no longer abandoned

I praise You my Savior for finding me in the dark dungeon of despair. My Knight in Shining Armor, You rescued me and brought me out into the luminous light.
  • I was saturated in sin when You sought me.
  • I was chagrin with the crimson stain of shame when you chose me.
  • In my ripped rags, you made me royal.
  • My heart was hard and heavy when you made me holy.
  • Deep in debt, You redeemed me, purchasing me with the precious blood of Your Son.
  • I am jubilant that a broken, unbecoming being like me, would be belong to You!
I can’t keep quiet about my conversion! Your incredible mercy changed me. As a member of Your royal family, I am assigned to reign on earth to serve You. I must tell the inspiring story of my salvation and capture the curiosity of seeking souls. People all around me are in the same dark dungeon of despair that once detained me. They’ll die in there if I don’t rescue them for You. This is a mandatory mission! Urgently, I must go so that they will not perish in the poisonous pit of sin. Timing is running out. Please dear Lord, give me the stamina I need to accomplish Your great commission.


To You who loved me enough to seek me, chose me, redeem me, and make me holy – be the glory and power forever and ever. Amen.

Claim your God-given identity and go in the power of the Holy Spirit on the mandatory mission to save souls!

Monday, November 07, 2005

Psalm 62:5-8

5I wait quietly before God,
for my hope is in him.
6He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will not be shaken.
7My salvation and my honor come from God alone.
He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me.
8O my people, trust in him at all times.
Pour out your heart to him,
for God is our refuge. NLT

A Mighty Fortress is My God! A Bulwark never failing! I peacefully wait in the presence of Your upright, unmovable, unshakable shelter. In the safety of Your infinite protection, I calmly, quietly, patiently sit until the scary storms to pass.

The temptation to abandon Your safe refuge can sneak up on me as a luring whisper of doubt in my despair. In my grief I will firmly grab Your almighty grip of grace. Prayerfully, I’ll pour out my heart to You. I will hear Your vibrant voice pronounce, "I am here. Take courage. Do not be afraid." In the clutch of compassion, at Your command, I will trust You. My hope is in You, the One and Only, Bulwark never failing. Amen.

Are you waiting in the never failing Bulwark of Almighty God for a scary storm to pass?

Friday, November 04, 2005

Psalm 31:7-10, 14


7 I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction
and knew the anguish of my soul.
8 You have not handed me over to the enemy
but have set my feet in a spacious place.
9 Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress;
my eyes grow weak with sorrow,
my soul and my body with grief.
10 My life is consumed by anguish
and my years by groaning;
my strength fails because of my affliction,
and my bones grow weak.
14 But I trust in you, O LORD;
I say, "You are my God."


Jesus, What a fantastic friend You are! You share all my sins and sorrows. You’ve seen the trouble and temptation that terrorizes me. Scooping me up in Your strong arms, You surround my sad soul with Your love. You kindly carry me and set my feet on solid, spacious soil.

My head was a spring of water and my eyes a fountain of tears. Weak and weary from the weight of worry, my body and soul were withering away. I was dying from distress and despair. Sadness was smothering me. Misery and mourning drained my might. I was severely wounded and wasting away when You found me! Just like a faithful friend, You focused on me!
Compassionately, You conversed with me. Patiently and persistently, You persuaded me to persevere. Tenderly, You touched me, wiping every tear from my eyes.
Precious Savior, You are my God and my Friend! I am overjoyed because of Your everlasting love. Jesus, what a fantastic friend You are! I praise and adore You! I’ll love You ever more! Amen.
What a privilege it is to carry everything to God in prayer! What’s weighing you down today? Take it to the Lord in prayer.
I encourage you to find a hymnal and reflect on the lyrics to What a Friend We Have In Jesus.

Thursday, November 03, 2005

Psalm 126

1 When the LORD restored his exiles to Jerusalem,
it was like a dream!

2We were filled with laughter,
and we sang for joy.
And the other nations said,
"What amazing things the LORD has done for them."

3Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us!
What joy!

4Restore our fortunes, LORD,
as streams renew the desert.

5Those who plant in tears
will harvest with shouts of joy.

6They weep as they go to plant their seed,
but they sing as they return with the harvest. NLT

How Great You are O Sovereign King! There is none like You! There is no God but You! I have heard You with my own ears.

Lord, overwhelming sorrow tries to take me away from You. Battered and bruised by the battle with death, a fountain of tears flow from my eyes. Wounded and worn out, I weep, lamenting my loss. Gripped by grief, I’m a miserable mess. In anguish I cry out to You: "Here I am. Rescue me! Restore my fortune! Swing wide open the heavenly gates! Bring me back to Your pleasant palace."

You answer me and restore me to the prosperity of Your presence. You tell me to sow the seed of Your Word in the ground around my grief. You promise a huge harvest!

Obediently, I will plant kernels of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and discipline in the soil surrounding my sadness. I will water them with the steady stream of tears that flow down my soft face. And, then I will patiently wait through the season of sorrow for the promised heavenly harvest. When I joyfully return with baskets full of bountiful blessings I will share a foretaste of glory divine with those around me. They will see that You have done amazing things for me! Together, we will laugh and celebrate my yield of sweet succulent spiritual fruit. I believe that You will turn my hard situation into an enormous reward for the praise of Your glory! Amen.

What has taken you away from your Sovereign King? It could be sin, addiction, false teaching, idolatry, ministering to someone needy, a new job, busyness, or love to name a few. Identify the thing that holds you captive and break free! Plant the seed of His Word in the soil of your situation, water it with your tears and patiently endure while it grows. Then reap the bountiful blessed harvest and celebrate the amazing things the Lord has done!

Wednesday, November 02, 2005

Isaiah 66:12


For this is what the LORD says:
"I will extend peace to her like a river"

Glorious River, Teeming with Eternal Life,
There’s perfect peace in Your pristine presence. You are a steady stream of Living Water that gaily flows down from above and into my heart. You meander through the dark valleys and deserts of my life. Sometimes You’re a rushing torrent, other times a quiet trickle.

My heart dances when the precious flow of Your priceless blood gushes over me, cleansing me, quenching me, reviving me. O how long I long to linger on this river shore, climb on the rocks and bask in the bright Son where despair cannot drown me, fear cannot flood me, and worry cannot wallop me. When I’m slipping, I cry out to You. Your unfailing love supports me. When doubt fills my mind, the Your warm comfort covers me with hope and cheer. On the high and heavenly rock of Jesus Christ, the Son shines graciously filling my heart with promised perfect peace and rest.
Glorious River of Peace, flow in me and through me today! Shower me with endless love and spray me with the joy of Jesus so that I will glisten for Your glorious name! Amen.


Go to the Glorious River of Peace and let it flow over you today!

Tuesday, November 01, 2005

Psalm 61:1-4

1 Hear my cry, O God;
listen to my prayer.
2 From the ends of the earth I call to you,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 For you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the foe.
4 I long to dwell in your tent forever
and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.

Mighty God, You are My Rock and My Refuge,
I praise You for majestic mountains. In the breathtaking beauty of nature, I see pillars of glory and feel the extraordinary glow of Your existence. You are a perfect, powerful, and prominent pinnacle of unimpeded protection. I want to climb the spectacular summit and secrete in Your sanctuary forever where:


Calamities cannot crush me
Death cannot devour me
Sadness cannot suffocate me
Pain cannot press me
Anxiety cannot attack me

Thank You for making the Rock accessible to me through Jesus Christ. My heart is weak. I am depending on You to be my strength and my shield. With Your help, Almighty God, I will climb Your pristine peak and find persistent protection. Peacefully, I’ll rest in the safety of Your presence because You alone are my Rock and my Salvation. Amen.

A mighty fortress is our God! Run to Him for protection!