God's Faithfulness

10:15 p.m. RMT - May 18, 2006

Faithful Father,
Humbly, I come to the cross offering You a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving! My head is dizzy from today's ride. It was fun! It was thrilling! It was beyond expectations! I'm so glad I got on board and didn't turn back.

Thank You for guiding me to the right location at the Y. Registration was smooth. A friendly lady named Charlotte from TX was the woman You sent to comfort me. I quickly connected with another woman named Jennifer whom I sat with in the first general session. Bless her heart, she went to Starbucks and brought me back a latte!

A chaplain spoke. He was at Columbine ministering to the distressed. He was in NYC ministering to rescue workers after 9-1-1. I was compelled to ask for an appointment with him. Perhaps he can expand the PP to the sick and imprisoned ... maybe guide me to funding. God granted my request, I will meet with him on Friday at 2:00 p.m. RMT (4:00 EST).

Then, Bo Cassell spoke. He's a youth minister. His message was Proclaiming the Way, the Truth and the Life to the Next Generation. Can you believe - he used the amusement park analogy! Many people avoid the scary rides and opt for the snack bar. The thrill of the adventure is in the scary ride! Okay, God, I think that was a direct word from You to me!

At lunch I sat with a dear woman from CO. Her name is Linda Heil. Please bless her! She had an appointment with Bethany House. I wasn't given an appointment with them. I shared with her my Prayer Pal ministry. She was so touched and inspired that she gave me her appointment with Bethany House! This is huge! Any author seeking to be published would want to speak to Bethany House. However, she didn't have anything specific to talk to them about, and insisted that I take her meeting! I exalt You, O God for Your provision!

The meeting with Bethany House went ok. Jeanne Hedrick took my book proposal. She'll get back to me in 4 -6 weeks. No promises. Little hope. They receive hundreds of manuscripts. Editors gather in a room, and select the few their interested in publishing. But, I know You are in control God. You scheduled the appointment! So I will wait ... and if the answer is "no" that's ok!

I also had a 15 minute meeting with Joyce Hart, a literary agent. She agreed that I'm a very good writer and have an amazing minister. However, she has never been successful in selling a devotional to a publisher and hesitates to represent me. Before I was done speaking to her, she requested my book proposal, greeting card and brochure sample. Who knows, God? Only You.

Finally, I had a 30 minute critique with Linda Evans Shepherd, a published author and national speaker. She too was complimentary of my work ... so I'm naked before my readers. She wished she knew more about me as she read them ... wonder what I was experiencing and encouraged me to share what's going on in my life. She was impressed with my book proposal and suggested a few editoral changes, offering to endorse the PP. I appreciate her constructive criticism. She is a tremendous woman of faith!

Many people here, make my faith look so small ... please dear Lord, just give me the faith I need to believe you! This is Your story and all glory is Yours! Now, I better get to bed ... tomorrow's another long day!

When I got back to my cabin this evening, Donna told me that she just found out late this afternoon that she has breast cancer! Please dear Lord, touch her with Your healing grace and fill her heart and mind with Your peace.

I love You Lord, and thank You for all that You did for me today. Your loving daughter.

Boarding the Ride

May 18, 2006 – 6:30 a.m.
Today would have been my dad’s 70th birthday! For those of you who don’t know, I lost my beloved dad on June 25, 2005 after a five year battle with cancer. O how I miss him!

Today is the first day of the Colorado Christian Writer’s Conference. I got up early this morning and went outside in the cool mountain air, sat by the rushing river and poured my heart out to God on paper.


O Great God of Peace~
Humbly I come to You this morning admitting my weakness and worry. I’m so nervous! Finally, it’s my turn to get on the exhilarating, exciting ride! My stomach is in knots! Many would turn back at this point. Not me! I’m Your risk taker. I understand that I need to go out of my comfort zone to conquer my fears. How long can it last? A couple of minutes or hours? No big deal in the scheme of life. Soon it will be over. What’s the worst that can happen to me? It’s unlikely I’ll die or be injured. You’ve built in safety mechanisms to protect Your riders. So, by faith, I’m stepping in the car, buckling up, and ready to go! My adrenaline is pumping! Let’s just get it over with!! I admit that I’m a coward, so I’m just closing my eyes and hanging on tight. Oops! I better keep my eyes open or I might miss something!!

Please dear God, who knows my heart and mind, fill me with Your perfect peace and lead me in the way everlasting. I’ll overcome my anxious thoughts by remembering how far You’ve brought me, safely and prosperously. You didn’t bring me this far to let me fall and fail.

So, from the thrilling amusement park ride to the surprise birthday party … O God, You know I don’t like surprises. Just tell me who’s coming to the party and what’s inside the presents. I hate not knowing. That too, makes me want to throw up! Just as I did with my bridal shower, 21 years ago, and my baby shower, 16 years ago, I’ll go with a smile on my face. I know the fellowship will be fantastic and the gifts great.

I don’t know a soul at this conference. I have no idea where I’m going. Will You please show me the way and send me new friends to bless my heart? I’m trusting in Your most faithful name, going in Your power, and Your glory. Amen! Amen! Amen!

Philippians 4: 6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 139: 23-24 Search me O God and know my heart, test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.

Revelation 4: 11 You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory, and honor, and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.

You are worthy O Lord
to receive glory and honor and power
for you have created all things –
this beautiful rushing river in front of me
these majestic mountains surrounding me
every wonderful creature that lives in the woods and water ….
And by your will they were created and have their being. I praise You God from whom all blessings flow!
I join the angels, who are interceding for me, in praising You, Holy God to whom all praise is do! I stand in awe of You! Hallelujah, Amen.

God's Provision

I arrived safely and on time on Wednesday, May 17. The weather is beautiful. The clouds seem to touch the mountains. I can't distinguish where one begins and the other ends. I marvel at God's majesty!

The meeting with my client went well. Two of the women are daily PP readers. Funny, they know me because I share my heart with them daily. However, I don't know them! It's an amazing thing how God uses my words to connect with believers everywhere!

Praise God for Michele and her two precious daughters who took their time to drive me to Estes Park, show me the way to the meeting, took me to dinner ... And then to the cozy cabin where I'd stay for the duration of my visit. This dear little cabin reminds me of the ones I built with Lincoln Logs with my boys. It's the tiniest little thing that sits right on the very edge of the Big Thompson River. Snow is rapidly melting off the mountains, gushing down the river, and splashing on my deck. Ahh ... thank You God for Your provision!

Michele's mom and dad, Donna and Lloyd are my hosts. Because my cabin is isolated and there are no other guests at this time, they've given me a walkie talkie to communicate with them in the manager's cabin. I won't need it ... but again, God's provided me with a safety mechanism. Donna is a beautiful Christian woman who is compelled to pray for me ... another Godly provision.

Thank you for your faithful prayers!

Consecrating Myself - Preparing for the Impossible Mission

May 16, 2006 11:00 p.m. from my hotel room at BWI

Since I began sharing the prayers from my heart with you electronically about 18 months, I rarely write in a paper journal. Therefore, I didn’t bring one with me. As I sat here in my room all alone, praying, I decided to type my prayer to God and post it on my blog, as a journal and testimony to this adventure I’m on. This is not a Prayer Pal. Don’t feel compelled to read my ramblings … if you do, feel free to leave your encouraging comments, I will give them back to God as a beautiful bouquet of praise posies!

Faithful Father,
I come before you with praise and adoration. You are the One and Only, Almighty, Living God. I bow down and worship You in the beauty of holiness.

Thank You for opening the door for me to go to this writer’s conference in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. You are incredible! Thank You for my job that is flying me there. Thank you for my customer. I knew from the beginning that they were a blessing from you … from the day my heart connected with Susan’s I knew Your hand was on that account. Thank You, Jesus! Thank You for arranging my relationship with Michele who is providing my lodging. Thank You for providing the finances so that I can attend. Thank You for all the affirmation ….

• My husband’s support, even though he’s nervous about me traveling alone. Before leaving tonight he lugged my big suitcase to the car, loaded it in, gave me a great big juicy kiss and told me how much he loved me! Thank You for providing a husband who loves and adores me! It’s not easy to love a crazy woman like me who loves and pursues You so passionately!
• The love offering from the widow who only occasionally receives the PP, when I take the time to print hard copy for her! God, we need a printer to help me take care of her!
• The dear, sweet, kind lady who is so excited about what You have planned for me that she’s wants to take care of my family while I’m away by bringing them homemade chicken pot pie!
• The beautiful blessings you sent me all the way from Australia!
• Melissa, my dearly beloved sister whom I’ve never met, yet is compelled to pray for me! She even has her praise team and pastors praying! And, can You believe she sacrificed her lunch hour to pray for me today? That blows me away! I just stand in awe of You!

With my mouth hanging open, jaw dropped, I’m speechless, mesmerized by what You’re doing. In awe of You, I consecrate myself completely to Your service. Lord, I’m devoted to You with all my heart!

Take my life and let it be consecrated Lord to thee.
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 will and make it thine, it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is thine own, it shall be thy royal throne,
It shall be thy royal throne.

Lord, I lay myself on the altar, offering all that is within me to all of You. I have no idea where You’re taking me, except to the beautiful Rocky Mountains and into Your presence. Beyond that, I have no idea what to expect! I’m excitedly, anticipating a few surprises to thrill my already overflowing heart! My heart and mind are open to You. And, if PP is nothing more than it is today that’s okay. It’s already fulfilling the great commission to take the gospel into all the world. Daily it’s read in Australia, Africa and Russia! I praise You, Father in Heaven, for using an ordinary girl like me to deliver the Good News from the King into the world. I praise You for the countless other countries who stumble onto my blog. May those viewers be compelled to stop, read, believe and receive You. Use me O God to take the gospel wherever in the world You want it to go. And, thank You for allowing me to be a witness to what a relationship with You can and do in the life a believer, while teaching others to obey You. You’re simply amazing! No wonder I’m in awe of You!

God, I also know that in part the PP is fulfilling Matthew 25. I praise You that it is read in the prison. I desperately want to minister in hospitals and homeless shelters too. I want it to be available to the dear widow who doesn’t have access to the internet, and to orphans. Lord, if it pleases You, will You please grant my request for a publisher/producer?

God, all glory I is Yours. This is not my story, but Your story. I’m just entering into what you’re doing through me – pursuing You. I’m trusting You to send me down the right path. I can’t go it alone. I need You to lead and guide me. This is something only You can do. No matter how hard I try, my best effort is futile. I have no idea what I’m doing! Please put together the plan, and by faith, I’ll follow You. Thank You for opening the door. Graciously, confidently, I’ll walk through and stand in the wide open space of Your glory and grace, praising Your holy name. To You be the glory!

I love You Lord, and am thrilled to be on this marvelous mission with You!! Please bless and protect me as I go in Your Most High and Holy Name. Amen.

Believing God

Hebrews 11: 1, 6
1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 6And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Great God in Heaven~
You are the One and Only True and Living God~
You are King of kings, Lord of lords, God of gods~
There is none like You. Ruler of heaven and earth, all authority submits to You. You’re the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Just as You empowered, prospered, and protected Noah, Abraham, and Moses, You will empower, prosper, and protect me. Just as You directed and led Joshua, Gideon and David, You will direct and lead me. By studying Your Ancient Words, and paying attention in the classroom of my heart, I’ve learned that You’re always trustworthy and faithful. Though I haven’t seen You with my physical eyes, I’ve seen You with the eyes of my heart. I’m absolutely sure You are who You say You are, and will do what You say You will do. I’m certain You have a special plan for my life that involves something bigger than I can imagine; something only You can do.

Please dear Lord, give me faith to trust You to lead and guide me through tough times and rough terrain to the promised land of prosperity. Based on history, I’ll confidently expect a breathtaking surprise around frightening bends and unfamiliar borders. Earnestly, I’ll follow You up the steep peaks of pressure and down the slippery slopes of uncertainty. Please take away my anxiety and fear so that I can enjoy the exhilarating, exciting escapade that leads to rich rewards. With all my heart I want to please You by passionately pursuing You wherever You go. Please bless me today because I believe in the power of Your name. Amen.

How do you know that God exists? What one adjustment will you make in your life to pursue Him today? He promises to reward those who earnestly seek Him.

There will be no more Prayer Pals until later this month, but I encourage You to seek God with all your heart and try your own hand at writing Him a love letter. You can always read from the Prayer Pal archives at www.dailyprayerpal.blogspot.com. Please pray for me this week as I attend a writer's conference proposing the Prayer Pal be published as devotional gift books, greeting cards, gift sets, and brochures for hospitals, homeless shelters, and prisons.

Distinguishing God's People

Matthew 25:31-40
Jesus told this story about the kingdom of heaven:
31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Jesus, Ruler of all nations,
I eagerly anticipate the day when You come in splendor and majesty. Seated on the magnificent heavenly throne glowing with glory, people from every nation, tribe and tongue will gather in awe of You. The rich will stand with the poor, the strong with the weak, and the godly with the ungodly. Quickly, You’ll distinguish those who belong to Your royal family from those who don’t. At that moment, all other distinctions will disintegrate and we’ll be eternally divided.

I excitedly look forward to the great blessing that awaits me when You call me to come forward. Happily, I’ll receive my long awaited rich inheritance, the Kingdom of Heaven, provided by You, my loving Father. Purchased with Your priceless blood, this precious place has been prepared for me years ago by Your Spirit. It’s an incredible gift, You’ll present to those You recognize as Your children.

Please dear Lord, show me someone who is famished today, physically, emotionally, or spiritually. In Your name, I’ll feed their body, mind and soul. Lead me to someone wandering in the desert, withered, weary, and weak. I’ll lead them to Your fresh spring of Living Water where they can wash and drink until they’re satisfied. Open my eyes to see a stranger and I’ll reach out in friendship inviting them into the center of my activities. If I see someone in my circle of influence who needs clothed today, physically or spiritually, mercifully, I’ll give them the shirt off my back, and offer them Your rich robe of righteousness. All around me people are sick and suffering. Lovingly, I’ll stop to soothe their sore souls. Many are imprisoned because of their addictions and transgressions, forgotten and failed by a society who finds them demented, destructive and deceitful.

Admittedly, I find these people unattractive, unappealing, and unapproachable. Please dear Lord, fill me with more of Your amazing love. Humbly, I’ll lay aside my intolerance, indifference and insecurities to fulfill Your mission of mercy. Willingly, I’ll comfort the faint, raise the fallen, and point the forgotten to You, the One and Only Way to eternal life and everlasting happiness. I hope and pray that You’ll recognize me on judgment day by the way I treat the least, the last and the lost in Your name. Amen.

Are your eyes open to faint, fallen, and forgotten people? They are everywhere. Jesus clearly calls us to be missionaries of mercy. Who will you serve today in His name?

Angels Watching Over Me

Psalm 91:9-16
9 If you make the Most High your dwelling—
even the LORD, who is my refuge-
10 then no harm will befall you,
no disaster will come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways;
12 they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra;
you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him
and show him my salvation."

Lord, Most High,
El Elyon,
Almighty God, You are my Savior, King of my heart and Lord of my life! Thank You for making my heart Your home. You’re my safe haven. I come in, shut the door, and rest in Your peaceful presence. From heaven on high, You order a battalion of angels to watch over me wherever I go. If I climb the highest, most majestic mountain, You are there. If I sink deep within the sea of sadness, You are there. In the darkness of distress and discouragement, You are there. In the light of love and laughter, even then, You are there. Thank You for the angels that surround the shelter of my heart, Your home.

Because I believe You love me and live in me, I’m claiming Your precious promises. I trust You to:

• Rescue me from sin and suffering
• Make me strong and mighty
• Answer me when I call You
• Be with me in times of trouble
• Deliver me from temptation
• Honor me with the prosperity of Your presence
• Satisfy me with a full life
• Give me everlasting life and happiness
  

I know that problems will pursue me and danger will distract me, but with You living in my heart, I’ll survive. Together, with the angels watching over me, we’ll trample the trouble and proclaim, "Our God reigns!" Please dear Lord, make my heart Your home today and send those beautiful, powerful angels to protect me as I come and go in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Imagine! If you are a child of God and have invited Him to live in your heart, He has sent His beautiful, powerful angels to protect you! Claim and believe His precious promises. Live in the fullness of His blessing. No matter your circumstances, He’s there, watching over You. Praise Him!

I’m reminded of the childhood lullaby, Angels Watching Over Me:

All night, all day, angels watching over me, my Lord.

All night, all day, angels watching over me.
Sun is a-setting in the West; angels watching over me, my Lord.

Sleep my child, take your rest; angels watching over me.
All night, all day, angels watching over me, my Lord.

All night, all day, angels watching over me.

Copyright and Author unknown

Experiencing Exuberant Power

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 holiness because You have revealed Your glory to me during the storms of my soul. Gigantic waves of sin and suffering buffet me. Howling gusts of doubt and distress threaten to disturb my peace. My distorted night vision is terrifying. Fear of the unknown and unseen cripples me.

Through the dismal darkness of a restless night, I long to hear Your voice calling me to "Come." I want boldness and courage to be like Peter. While the other eleven sat in the boat paralyzed by panic, Peter recognized Your voice and took a giant leap forward. With my eyes fixed on You, I too will step out of my comfort zone to accomplish the impossible. Please give me faith to focus on You, forgetting the fierce waves and ferocious wind. Forgive me for all the times I’ve fearfully stayed in the boat and missed divine endeavors. I’m sorry for the times I was skeptical of Your power, presence and provision. Even in my faithlessness, please graciously reach out and save me!

Lord, I just want to know Your voice, and obey Your call. In difficult situations and challenging circumstances, please keep Your mighty hand on me. Gazing on the glow of Your face, I’ll confidently walk by faith and experience the exuberance of Your power. Those who sit worried and watching will wonder at what they’ve witnessed. Mesmerized by the miracle, they, too, will believe that You truly are the Son of God. Together, we’ll bow down and worship You for the great things You have done in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Do you hear the Voice in the night calling you to "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.

Peace Beneath the Surface

Matthew 8:23-27
23Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. 24Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. 25The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!"

26He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.

27The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"

Jesus,
Thank You for opening my eyes to see the wonderful things in Your Word. By them You preserve my life. In them I find confidence, comfort and courage.

Often I find myself in the same boat as the disciples – caught without warning in a dangerous situation. In the ferocious storms of the soul, I lose power and am in the dark. Colossal waves of worry crash over me. Mighty moaning winds of fear and doubt violently toss me about threatening to throw me into the wicked sea of unrighteousness. Hopeless, helpless and paralyzed, I cry out to You, "Lord, help me! I’m drowning!"

When the raging storms of life overtake me, often I respond as though You’re asleep and unaware of the terror in the night. Forgive me for failing to recognize Your presence, protection and power. I’m nothing but a coward with a faint heart and crippled faith. How many blessings do I miss because of my fear in the storm?

Beneath the raging tempest of even the perfect storm are still waters deep within the sea. When gale winds scream like demons in the dark, please give me faith to stop what I’m doing, let go of the troubling thoughts, and plunge into Your Word. Then, the rampant storm will subside and there will be peace beneath the surface, in the hollow of my heart. Deep within the sea of my soul, I’ll find confidence, comfort and courage to wait through the fearsome fury and dreaded darkness. With One voice You’ll preserve my life, irrevocably changing me because of my extreme encounter with the One who calms the seas and quiets hearts in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Is a storm surrounding you? Are the mighty moaning winds of fear and doubt violently tossing you about threatening to throw you into the sea of unrighteousness? Ask Him for faith to believe in His presence, protection and power. Then plunge into His Word, and discover the peace beneath the surface, in the hollow of Your heart.

Separating Fact From Fiction

Romans 16:17-20
17I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
20The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

O Wise and Knowledgeable God,
You are exalted in power and perfect in knowledge. There is no teacher like You. At the Living Word Academy held in the classroom of my heart, I begin to understand the mysteries of Your Will. I learn to differentiate between right and wrong, good and bad, fact and fiction. With the Holy Spirit as my teacher, and the Holy Bible as my textbook, I learn that You are altogether authentic, totally truthful, and really reliable.

Lord, I just need more knowledge of Your Holy Bible so that I can apply the Truth to all situations and circumstances in the laboratory of life. Proud people will try to disturb my peace by planting poisonous seeds in the soil of my soul. Subtly, they’ll distort the facts by telling cleverly invented stories. Cunningly, they’ll deflate one point while inflating another. Devious professionals will convincingly entrance me with demonic illusions. They’ll deceptively water down Your Word with smooth talk and flattery. If I feed the seeds they plant, division and dissension will sprout.

Your Word clearly and concisely counsels me to avoid them! By Your grace I will joyfully obey. If I pay attention in class and diligently study Your Word, it will leap to life preventing the seeds of deceit from sprouting in my soul. Please dear Lord, be gracious to me. Teach me good judgment to distinguish between truth and lies. With my heart set on You, the problems and pressures that are pounding me will soon be replaced with perfect peace. God of grace be with me today, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Do you know God’s Word well enough to separate fact from fiction? I encourage you to spend time in the classroom of your heart, learning all you can about the Truth, so that no one will disturb your peace of heart and mind.

This concludes my Romans Ramblings. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

Make a Friend, Be a Friend

Romans 16:1-23 Paul’s Personal Greetings.
I’m not going to print the list of Paul’s family, friends and co-workers. I encourage you to look at it. You may have overlooked it as a long list of unfamiliar, unimportant names. Upon close examination, I realized that Paul was summing up the legacies of his friends, one sentence at a time. God revealed to me through Paul’s list of family, friends, and co-workers the qualities I should look for in a friend, as well as, the kind of friend I should be.

Rabboni! My Great Teacher! You are incomparably wise. To my surprise, even in Paul’s warm personal greetings there’s an incredible unexpected lesson. From the commendations to his family, friends, and co-workers, I learn the quality and deeds I should look for in my own friendships.

• Those who wholeheartedly serve the sick, poor, and lonely
• Those who are willing to risk their lives for others
• Those who open their homes to Christian fellowship and service
• New believers and attendees at my church
• Inexhaustible hard workers
• Outstanding leaders, willing to go to jail for spreading the Gospel
• Those who serve along side of me in ministry
• Those who have suffered and past the test of faith
• Those who nurture like a mother
• Those who are obedient to You
• Those whose homes radiate friendship, fellowship and love, welcoming strangers
• Humble helpers who can keep me organized
• Public officials
  

Please dear Lord, help me to make godly friends who will encourage me to grow stronger in faith. Help me to be a godly friend whose legacy of love and dedication will be long remembered. May I be known as someone with an open heart, open door, and open hand, commended for the praise of Your glory. Amen.

Someday people will sum you up in one sentence. What will that sentence be?

Blanket of Peace

Romans 15:33
The God of peace be with you all. Amen.

God of Peace~
I’m in awe of Your power packed letter to the Romans. Even in these eight little words there are two important instructions. First, when I have nothing left to say, I can carry my friends and family to You in prayer, covering them with the warm comfort of peace. Please dear Lord, fill my family and friends with Your precious peace today.

Second, You are the God of Peace who will be with me on life’s complicated journey. Trusting You, I won’t have to worry about the threats and terror that lie ahead in unknown territory. Believing You’re in control of all things, I’ll confidently and courageously tell You my concerns and qualms. Then, Your peace, which is beyond my wildest imagination, will be present to protect my heart and mind along the way. Putting into practice all the lessons I’ve learned in the classroom of my heart, will give me power to persist through peril until I reach the Promised Land. Please dear Lord, fill me with Your priceless peace today, always and forever. Amen.

Who do you need to pray a comfort of peace over? Carry your friends and loved ones to the God of peace right now.

Trust the God of peace to be with you always!

Disruptions, Delays and Detours

Romans 15: 25, 30
25Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the saints there. 30I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.

Jesus,
Just as You knew what was waiting for You in Jerusalem: betrayal, rejection, suffering and ultimately death yet set Your face resolutely on the challenge and conquered it, so did Paul. Despite the possibility of peril, he persisted. Setting aside his ambitious dream of taking the Good News to Spain, he opted for the potentially difficult and dangerous detour to Jerusalem. Courageously, he accepted the unsafe assignment, urging his friends and family to pray for him. Covered in prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit, he conquered his fear of the hateful, hostile Sadducees. Humbly, he went anticipating antagonism. Serving His Master was more important than his personal safety and comfort. Willingly, he risked his life to fulfill Your mission in Jerusalem.

Likewise, there are times that You ask me to lay aside my hopes and plans to follow You. Forgive me for grumbling and complaining about disruptions, delays and detours. I’m sorry for all the excuses I make to avoid difficulty, distress and even death to self. Give me courage to gratefully say, "Yes, Lord" to every challenging task I’m assigned. Give me humility to ask for prayer. Covered in the warm prayers of others, I’ll be able to endure rejection, humiliation and execution to self. Fulfilling the mandatory mission for my Master will be more important to me than my personal comfort and protection. Willingly, I’ll risk my life to serve You.

O Lord, please fill me with more Holy Spirit power to be selfless and courageous like Paul. As I trust You, please keep Your mighty hand on me. Strengthen and empower me. Deliver me from evil and temptation along the way. I long to live in the fullness of Your blessing and will go where You send me in the name of Jesus. Amen.

What difficult assignment has the Master asked you to do? Are you making excuses to avoid it? If so, ask God to fill you with Holy Spirit power to be selfless and courageous like Paul.

God has given me a big assignment – to write the Prayer Pal daily as my witness to the world of what a relationship with Him can be and do in the life of a believer. He’s sending me on a mission to a Christian Writer’s Conference from May 18 – 20. Major publishers like Focus on the Family, Bethany House, and Harvest House will have representatives there, along with several literary agents.

While I don’t think this is a dangerous mission, it is way beyond my comfort zone. I humbly request your prayers as I prepare for this potentially huge leap forward for the Prayer Pal ministry. I will be proposing that they print the PP as devotional gift books, greeting cards, and brochures for prisons and hospitals. Pray that I will BELIEVE God has a plan bigger than I can imagine, that I will trust Him to set up the appropriate appointments, and that I will go with confidence that He will fulfill His great commission through me.

Love Generously

Romans 15: 26-27a
26For you see, the believers in Greece have eagerly taken up an offering for the Christians in Jerusalem, who are going through such hard times. 27They were very glad to do this. NLT

Generous God,
The Blessed and Only Ruler.
O how I love and adore You because of Your incredible provision. Freely, You’ve given me much more than I need. I yearn to be happy with what I have. I need to escape from the advertising induced need for every gizmo and gadget. To survive in a materialistic culture, please teach me the difference between wants and needs. I long to be satisfied living a simple life with less stuff. Make me rich in faith, hope and love.

Filled with a spirit of contentment, I won’t arrogantly chase after meaningless trinkets and trophies. I won’t depend on a fortune for fulfillment. Rather, I’ll put my hope in You. Focused on my incredible heavenly inheritance, willingly I’ll deprive myself of worldly pleasures and treasures to be wealthy in good deeds. Like the Greeks, I’ll eagerly share my blessings with others. I’ll freely and cheerfully, share my time with sick, sad strangers. It will be a pleasure to serve weak, weary, worn out people going through hard times. Gladly, I’ll donate dollars to feed and dress the destitute.

Please fill my heart with more of Your generous love today. Let me overflow with generosity to needy Christians in my neighborhood, nation and world. Then, I’ll be abundantly blessed and eternally satisfied. All that I have and all that I am belong to You, my King who lavishes me with everlasting love forever, and ever. Amen.

Ask God to give you a spirit of contentment and the desire to contribute to needy Christians in your neighborhood, nation and world.

Invitation for a Miracle Makeover

Romans 15: 15b-18
15For I am, by God's grace, 16a special messenger from Christ Jesus to you Gentiles. I bring you the Good News and offer you up as a fragrant sacrifice to God so that you might be pure and pleasing to him by the Holy Spirit. 17So it is right for me to be enthusiastic about all Christ Jesus has done through me in my service to God. 18I dare not boast of anything else. I have brought the Gentiles to God by my message and by the way I lived before them. NLT

Gracious God-
I still rejoice and marvel at the fact that You love, chose, and adopted me despite my indecent life, impure motives, and improper attitudes. You accepted me as Your beloved child just as I was broken and useless. After adopting me, You turned me into a beautiful masterpiece in Your heavenly workshop. Now I’m fixed and useful to do good things for You.

By Your grace, use me as a special messenger to reach out to unhealthy, unnoticed, unbelievers. The new eyes You’ve given me will look past their sin and see the person You created them to be. The new ears You’ve given me will hear their cry for relief from the painful problems that plague them. With my strong new voice I’ll boldly and enthusiastically invite them to join in my activities. Full of Your love and compassion, I won’t worry about my reputation when I touch them with Your sweet, fragrant healing balm. My beautiful new feet will lead them to Your wonderful workshop where You’ll transform them into a unique work of art too.

Father, forgive me for making this life a popularity contest. It is not about ME. It’s all about YOU. Please dear Lord, show me who needs a miracle makeover today and I’ll obediently reach out to them in the spirit of friendship because of Jesus. Not to me O Lord, not to me, but to Your Name be the glory because of Your unfailing love and faithfulness. Amen.

Invite an unhealthy, unnoticed, unbeliever into the core of your life today. Be courteous and kind to them. Commit to spend frequent time with them. Allow the Master to touch them through you.

By God’s grace, I’ll make myself a fragrant sacrifice to __________________________ (name of person you’ll reach out to) so that I might be pure and pleasing to my Gracious God and King.

Romans Reminders to Remember

Romans 15:15
15I have been bold enough to emphasize some of these points, knowing that all you need is this reminder from me.

Divine Teacher,
Thank You for preserving Paul’s bold reminders to the Romans for me. Please write them on my heart so that I’ll remember:

• I’m called to be a witness for You (1:5)
• Godless living deserves the penalty of death (1:32)
• Godless judging isn’t tolerated (2:3)
• Godless religion is hypocritical (2:28-29)
• There is not a single good person in the world – including me! (3:9-18, 23)
• Because of You, I’m made righteous, just as though I’ve never sinned (3:22-23)
• I need unwavering faith to believe that You’ll do what You say You’ll do (4:20-22)
• You died for me while I was Your hateful, hostile enemy (5:6, 8, 10)
• Forgiveness is a gracious gift from You(5:15)
• I’m alive and free from sin, but will always struggle with it (6:7-8; 7:15, 18, 21)
• I’m Your precious child, required to share in your suffering (8:16, 17)
• Your Spirit prays for me when I can’t find the words (8:26)
• In ALL things You work for the good of those who love You (8:28)
• Because of Your power in me, I can triumph over tragedy (8:37)
• Nothing can separate me from Your love (8:39)
• You are sovereign (9:15)
• Everyone who calls on Your name will be saved (10:13)
• Apart from You I'm dead, lifeless and useless (11:15-16)
• To give myself completely to You as an act of worship (12:1)
• To nourish my mind with the sweetness of Your Word (12:2)
• To love my brothers and sisters in Your family despite our differences (12:9)
• To respect the authority of the world because You established it (13:1)
• To stop passing judgment! You and You alone are the only fair Judge (14:10-13)
• To speak words that build up rather than tear down (14:19)
• To be tolerant people who have an opinion different from mine (15:1)
  

Practicing these principles daily, I’ll retain them and live a holy lifestyle worthy of Your child. My attitudes and actions will lead others to Your kingdom of joy, peace and righteousness where they too, can live forever and worship Your holy name! In my life Lord be glorified! To You, the only wise God be the glory forever and ever through Jesus Christ, my Lord! Amen.


Thank you for walking through Romans with me. I hope the prayers of my heart will help you remember who you are and how to behave in the family of God. What one lesson will you remember?

Worship the King

Psalm 95:1-7
1 Come, let us sing to the LORD!
Let us give a joyous shout to the rock of our salvation!
2 Let us come before him with thanksgiving.
Let us sing him psalms of praise.
3 For the LORD is a great God,
the great King above all gods.
4 He owns the depths of the earth,
and even the mightiest mountains are his.
5 The sea belongs to him, for he made it.
His hands formed the dry land, too.
6 Come, let us worship and bow down.
Let us kneel before the LORD our maker,
7 for he is our God. NLT

Lord, You are a great and awesome God! You are King of kings! Maker of mighty mountains and surging seas! Owner of the depths of the earth and lofty skies! You rule and reign from heaven on high!

In reverent awe, I come just as I am, humble, meek, and poor, to worship You in the splendor of Your sovereignty. I’m not worthy to climb into Your presence. I can’t stand on this holy ground without purifying my mind and soul. With a clean heart and clear conscience, I’ll enter the beauty of Your holiness to adore You with deep devotion.

Because Your precious Son bought me with His priceless blood, I’ll come before You with thanksgiving exalting You above the heavens. Seeing Your radiant face, I’ll kneel before Your throne and anoint Your feet with the sweet aroma of joyful praise.

With my hands, I’ll extol You. With my lips, I’ll lift You up. With my feet, I’ll serve You. With my tongue, I’ll sing of Your unfailing love and faithfulness. Gladly, I’ll devote my life to You in worship. Please receive my humble sacrifice of praise because I love and adore You above all, my holy God and glorious King. Alleluia. Amen.

Prepare your heart for corporate worship by focusing on God’s reverence. Then, go in awe of Him and be blessed!

Words of Wisdom

Romans 15:1-7
1We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." 4For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

7Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

God of Hope,
Your Words are wonderful! They’re more precious than silver, more brilliant than diamonds. Thank You for preserving Ancient History to teach me. In the classroom of my heart I gain knowledge, wisdom and discernment. I develop insight to help me differentiate between right and wrong. Reading and studying Your Great History book, is the wisest thing I could ever do. It prepares me for the biggest test of my life – loving and accepting others.

Fully aware of the facts, I’ll know that my selfish pride and prejudice leads to dissension, disagreement, and disconnect. Following Your perfect example, I’ll offer my body as a living sacrifice. Just as You gave up Your rights to glory and power, I’ll give up my rights to accolades and control. Because You left Your lofty, holy and pure position in heaven and came to earth to bear my sin and shame, I’ll leave my hoity-toity pedestal of prominence to bear with the faults and failures of others. Since You graciously removed the barrier of sin that separates me from You, I’ll voluntarily take down the walls of intolerance that divide me from others. United, we’ll glorify You with one heart and one mouth by accepting one another.

Familiarity with the past will help me better understand the future. Primed with faith, I’ll have endurance, encouragement, and confidence to keep an optimistic outlook of loving unity throughout each day. As I diligently read and study my Bible, Your Ancient History book, please fill me with joy and peace. I trust that the Hope of Heaven will spill from my heart by the power of the Spirit that is within me. May my attitudes and actions bring praise to our glorious family name forever and ever! Amen.

The lessons we learn from God’s Word are tremendous! If we seriously take the time to study and practice our lessons, we’ll fulfill our call to be holy. We’ll be people of peace and joy. A delight to be around!

What lesson is God teaching you in the classroom of your heart? Are you practicing it? Are you ready for the biggest test of your life – to love and accept others unconditionally?

Living Together Harmoniously

Romans 14:19
19Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.

How lovely is Your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty. As a member of Your royal family, I’m a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven where rules still abound. I praise You, Father, because I belong in Your royal household with every other Christian from every nation, tribe and tongue. Whether we realize it or not, our lives are interwoven, interconnected and interdependent. You expect us to love and respect each other as Jesus does.

We come here from many different lands, with our unusual dialects, and habitual traditions. Our commitment to unity and loyalty, despite our diversity, will prove that we love You. We are richly blessed to be here as Your chosen children. Each of us has been uniquely created to be a vessel of grace. In the splendor of Your majesty, clothe us with compassion, gentleness and tolerance to love despite our differences. Create in our hearts a desire to listen, support and encourage each other. Anoint our tongues with grace to generously build each other up. Don’t let any unwholesome, hurtful words come out of our mouths. In Your home Lord, may we honor You with peace and harmony.

Bickering, squabbling, arguing, and quarreling over insignificant issues causes division and dissensions. It disrespects Your authority and grieves Your loving heart. Please dear Lord, just give me more of Jesus. Full of Him, I’ll lay aside my selfish attitudes and actions in order to keep peace in our family. In doing so, our family name will be kept holy, righteous and pure. In my life Lord, be glorified today. Amen.

Have you ever stopped to think about how many different cultures are in the family of God? We come from different generations speaking different languages. But, our Father clearly commands us to make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. We must tolerate and accept each other! It’s not an option!

What can you do today to prevent division and dissension in your church? Ask God to anoint your tongue with grace to speak words that build up rather than tear down. As children of the Carpenter, our Daddy teaches us precisely how to build His Temple. Will you listen and follow His instruction?

Stumbling Blocks

Romans 14: 13
13Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.

Luke 17:1-3
1Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. 2It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. 3So watch yourselves."

O Lord My God,
Have mercy on me! Increase my faith and change me from the inside out! Search my heart and reveal my weaknesses so that I can be on guard against sin. Because we live in a fallen world surrounded by all sorts of evil and temptation we’re bound to stumble and fall. Sometimes I’ll set-up the obstacle, other times I’ll trip over it.

O righteous God who searches hearts and minds, search me and point out any offensive way in me. Shine Your light on my heart and reveal my weaknesses and vulnerabilities so that I’ll notice the obstructions in front of me. With eyes wide open, I’ll avoid the dangerous pitfalls that I’m most likely to plunge into.

Where I’m strong give me grace to be sensitive to my surroundings so that I won’t hinder others. Show me the weaknesses and susceptibility of my family and friends. Aware of the difficulties that cause them problems, I’ll practice love, patience and self-restraint. With my eyes fixed on You, I’ll cautiously look out for the best interest of others. Woe to me if I cause someone to fall! I’d be better off dead!

Please cover me with humility, kindness and love to stand firm in all situations. You and You alone are the Only Righteous Judge. I need to stop condemning and glorify our family name. Amen.

Your faith is strong in an area if you can survive contact with sinners without being shaped into their image. It is weak in an area if you must avoid an activity in order to protect yourself from falling. Whenever in doubt, ask yourself: "Can I do it without sinning? Will my attitudes and actions influence others for the good?"

Identify your strengths and weaknesses. One thing I will do today is ____________________ (action) in order to prevent ______________________ (name of a person) from stumbling.

One thing I will do today is stop nagging in order to prevent my child from stumbling. (My constant badgering annoys him and causes dissension in our family.)

Disputable Matters

Romans 14:1, 3, 10, 12, 17-18
1Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters … 3for God has accepted him.

10You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. 12So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.

17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.

Father in Heaven~
Thank You for cultural diversity. Some cultures believe eating meat is immoral. Other cultures require women to cover their heads. Certain cultures permit and promote alcohol and gambling. Specific cultures forbid any and all activities on the Sabbath. Particular cultures celebrate holy days that others don’t recognize. Some cultures perform rites and rituals that I don’t understand. Other cultures celebrate communion and baptism differently. Certain cultures believe there is an appropriate dress code for church. Some cultures like to worship You with traditional music while others like to worship with dancing, guitars and cymbals. Even theology varies within society. Who am I to determine who is right or wrong, strong or weak?

Forgive me, Lord, for being brutally opinionated! You accept everyone and command me to do the same. Every one of us will stand before Your throne and give an account to You. You will judge each of us according to what we’ve done. That means You will judge my intolerance and criticism of people who are different from me.

Help me dear Lord, to love my brothers and sisters in this hugely diverse family. You’ve adopted us from various and vast backgrounds. We bring with us a variety of human traditions. Your kingdom is not about rituals and religion. It’s about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Open my mind to love and accept those who think, perform and act different from me. Exercising self-control when I treat others with loving tolerance, I’ll please You and glorify Your holy name. In my life Lord be glorified. Amen.

Have you ever stopped to think about all the disputable matters that we allow to affect our worship? God just wants us to get along! Our principle should be: in essentials: unity; in non-essentials: tolerance, in everything: love. Identify one issue in the church that irritates you. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with love to tolerate and accept the situation. Set aside your selfishness for the sake of Jesus! After all He did for you, it’s the least you can do for Him.

Mandatory Mission

Matthew 28: 16-20
16Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Lord of the Universe,
I ascend the Most High and Holy Mountain to the Pinnacle of Your Presence. Bowing down in awe of Your majesty, I worship and adore You in the beauty of holiness. You are the One and Only True and Living God. Raised from the dead, You are Ruler of heaven and earth! All authority belongs to You! Your power is vast and victorious.. I never want to doubt that "My God Reigns!"

You are the King supremely seated on the throne of my heart. I submit my whole life to Your final costly command. Clearly, Your parting Words commission me to GO to every community in every country telling people of every culture to repent and believe in You for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Proclaiming the Good News, I’ll persuade people everywhere to pursue You. Practicing extravagant love, I’ll teach them by example to obey You.

Please fill me with Holy Spirit power to GO with brave boldness. Open my eyes to see all the sick, sad souls surrounding me. Open my ears to hear the sound of people marching to hell. Give me a sensitive spirit to stop and share the Only Way to eternal life. It’s not optional. It’s a mandatory mission from the One I call King, Lord and Master. To disobey would be disrespectful insubordination!

I claim the powerful promise that accompanies this great commission. You pledge to be with me all the days of my life. You will never ever leave me! Since I can’t fathom the thought of anyone spending eternity with Satan, I’ll courageously and confidently conquer my fears and GO as You command. One day every tongue will confess You are God, one day every knee will bow to the glory of Your Most High and Holy Name. I exalt You, O Lord, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth! Alleluia! Amen.

Do you believe the One who rules the universe? Do you acknowledge Him as your King, Lord, and Master? If so, you’ve been given a mandatory mission to spread the Good News: Our God Reigns! It’s as easy as ABC.

A = Admit you are a sinner
B = Believe Jesus died for your sins
C = Commit your life to Him

I Have Seen The Lord

John 21: 1- 7, 12
1Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way: 2Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3"I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

4Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.

5He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.

6He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"

12None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.

Jesus, You are the Lord, the great I AM, who is always with me. On bright days, Your presence warms my heart. On deep, dark days filled with discouragement and disappointment You are just as present. On days of despair when all hope is gone and the net of my heart is empty, my vision is distorted by tear soaked eyes. I can’t recognize You standing right in front of me. I can’t hear Your voice. Are You there?

Please open my eyes to see while others just stand still staring. Open my mind to perceive while others parade around pondering. Many will watch, but I want to see, hear, and believe. Give me crystal clear vision to recognize You! I long to know You more dearly so that I can see You more clearly. When You affectionately call me I want to know Your voice. I need to hear You say, "Friend, haven’t you any hope?" Then I need faith to follow Your simple command to toss the empty net of my heart into the sea of blessings. You will fill it beyond my wildest imagination and exceed my immediate need! I’ll jubilantly shout, "It is the Lord!" and others will notice You because of my faith.

Please dear Lord, take my desperate dilemma and turn it into innumerous blessings for Your glorious name. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear, and faith to believe. Amen.

What is your hopeless situation? Do you see the Lord standing in front of you? He’s there if you look beyond the tears. He’s calling, "Friend, haven’t you any hope?" Tell him today that you want to know Him more dearly so that you can clearly see Him, hear Him, and believe Him when your heart is empty.

A Blessing of Peace

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 with in 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 name. 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.

He Walks With Me and Talks With Me

Luke 24: 13-32
13That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. 14They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. 15In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. 16But they were not able to recognize who he was.

17He asked, "What's this you're discussing so intently as you walk along?" They just stood there, long-faced, like they had lost their best friend. 18Then one of them, his name was Cleopas, said, "Are you the only one in Jerusalem who hasn't heard what's happened during the last few days?"

19He said, "What has happened?" They said, "The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene. He was a man of God, a prophet, dynamic in work and word, blessed by both God and all the people. 20Then our high priests and leaders betrayed him, got him sentenced to death, and crucified him. 21And we had our hopes up that he was the One, the One about to deliver Israel. And it is now the third day since it happened. 22But now some of our women have completely confused us. Early this morning they were at the tomb 23and couldn't find his body. They came back with the story that they had seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. 24Some of our friends went off to the tomb to check and found it empty just as the women said, but they didn't see Jesus."

25Then he said to them, "So thick-headed! So slow-hearted! Why can't you simply believe all that the prophets said? 26Don't you see that these things had to happen, that the Messiah had to suffer and only then enter into his glory?" 27Then he started at the beginning, with the Books of Moses, and went on through all the Prophets, pointing out everything in the Scriptures that referred to him.

28They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on 29but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. 30And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. 31At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.

32Back and forth they talked. "Didn't we feel on fire as he conversed with us on the road, as he opened up the Scriptures for us?"MSG

Jesus-
O how wonderful you are! You walk with me and talk with me every day. How often do I fail to recognize You in my circumstances? Heartbroken and feeling abandoned tears flow down my face as I discuss my situation with friends. I must look ridiculous when I am wallowing in self-pity while You are right beside me! Open the eyes of my heart Lord, so that I can vividly see You in my midst.

Please dear Lord, when I am down in the dumps and crying the blues give me Your lantern and compass. Give me Your map. Help me to find the way to the sacred mountain, to Your presence. There, I will enter the place of worship and SEE my exuberant and magnificent God right in the middle of my hopeless situation! I will gaze into Your eyes and praise Your holy name. You will turn my frown into a smile.

Every day You talk to me like a friend through prayer and Bible study. You set my heart on fire. There’s nothing more thrilling than Your voice. It stirs up warmth in the hollow of my heart. Help me to BELIEVE You when You speak to me. Help me to live in absolute expectancy, trusting You to do what You say You will do. Lord, You have captivated my heart! Please ignite others with the flame of this Holy Spirit wild fire burning within me. I want more than the blessing of my daily bread! I want ALL of YOU, JESUS! Amen.

Do you see Jesus in the middle of your hopeless situation? He's there walking with you. Why don't you talk to Him? He lives!

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart. (Copyright 1933 by Homer Rodehaver)

The Empty Tomb

Matthew 28:1-8
1 Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to see the tomb. 2 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, because an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and rolled aside the stone and sat on it. 3 His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. 4 The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.

5 Then the angel spoke to the women. "Don’t be afraid!" he said. "I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He isn’t here! He has been raised from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. 7 And now, go quickly and tell his disciples he has been raised from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember, I have told you."

8 The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to find the disciples to give them the angel’s message. 9 And as they went, Jesus met them. "Greetings!" he said. And they ran to him, held his feet, and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Don’t be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there." NLT

God of Hope,
My Living Lord,
I feel the fear and joy of the women who were at the tomb that glorious Sunday morning when You arose from the grave giving them the generous gift of the resurrection – eternal life.
After Saturday mourning, these faithful followers awoke earlier than usual. The rays of the sun were just beginning to illuminate the new week when they somberly and silently went to sit by the sepulcher. O how I wonder what I miss when I don’t seek You early in the morning! Undoubtedly, these women didn’t expect the excitement that was about to unfold!

In the shadow of sorrow and sadness, the earth suddenly shook ferociously. A brilliant array of brightness bolted like lightening through the dark morning sky, jolting them from their feet. An angel, dressed in a glistening garment surrounded by the radiance of Your glory swiftly moved the huge stone aside and sat on it. He calmed their fears and proclaimed the Good News! You most certainly were alive.

The empty tomb guarantees it.
The angel assures it.
The women witnessed it.

As You promised, all my sins were buried in that tomb with You. My old way of life was gone forever, forgiven and forgotten in a cold, dark, empty grave. As You arose, so did I to a bountiful, beautiful new life. Hallelujah!

Fill me dear Lord with the same reverent fear and exuberant joy You gave these dear women. Exploding with excitement, I will go tell the Good News to all those around me! "Jesus is alive! A miracle has happened before my eyes. I have seen His shining glory, heard His gentle voice, and will never be the same again. Come and see!"

Holy Spirit, open the ears of those near me to hear this Good News. May someone receive the generous gift of life today because they have seen You resurrected in me. Glory to God in the highest. Amen.

O how I wonder what we miss when we don’t seek to worship Him early in the morning. Undoubtedly, we miss many exciting encounters with the Lord! I challenge you to get up early tomorrow morning, while it’s still dark outside, and go to the grave. Seek Him! There you’ll find an empty tomb and abundant new life! Go quickly! Worship Him!

Good Friday, Endless Saturday, Easter Sunday

When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him. Luke 23:33

When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching. Luke 33:48-49

Then Joseph took Jesus’ body down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.

The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment. Luke 33:53-56

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!" Luke 24:1-6

Jesus, Risen Savior, Glorious Lord~
The invitation to follow You is not one for fun in the Son. Not every day will be a bright, cheerful ticker tape parade. In fact, if we accept the invitation, we should anticipate a dark, difficult march through the valley of death. Our acquaintances may abandon us in our affliction, but those who truly love us will linger and watch until the tragedy is terminated. Lord, You know that Good Fridays are excruciatingly painful! Please give us strength to tolerate them.

After Friday comes endless Saturday mourning. Something’s gone or someone’s missing. The very thing or person that once filled the hollow of our heart has vanished. We’re left alone and empty, wondering when the wait will end. Sadness and sorrow seize our soul. Please dear Lord, give us faith to face Saturday, and grace to remain at the grave through our grief.

If we stick around through our dreadfully dark Fridays and seemingly eternal Saturdays, we’ll see brilliant sensational Sundays! We will rejoice when You turn our trial into triumph! It will be a blessing when You wipe the warm tears from our blurry eyes. As our vision clears we will see something bright drawing near, something different than we’ve ever seen before. We will see You our Risen Savior and Glorious Lord! Hallelujah! Amen.

Between yesterday’s tragedy and tomorrow’s triumph will you leave God or linger at the grave until He’s glorified?

Your Good Friday could be disease or death, affliction or addiction, divorce or separation, heartache or hardship, disaster or destruction. Whatever your misfortune, look forward with hope to Easter Sunday when your mourning will turn to joy

Simon of Cyrene

Matthew 27:32-35
32 As they were on the way, they came across a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, and they forced him to carry Jesus’ cross. 33 Then they went out to a place called Golgotha (which means Skull Hill). 34 The soldiers gave him wine mixed with bitter gall, but when he had tasted it, he refused to drink it. 35 After they had nailed him to the cross. NLT

Jesus, Son of God,
Thank You for the wonderful image You’ve given me through Simon of Cyrene. An unimportant, ordinary man, he happened to stop at a dramatic scene, and was pressed into service by the tap of the Roman’s soldier’s broad sword. Little did he know when he stopped to watch the drama unfold, that he’d be forced to participate in an unwanted, unplanned, and unglamorous assignment that would radically reshape the remainder of his life. Undoubtedly, he had no idea that the command he’d been given to carry Your cross would be one of the greatest honors ever given to a human being. Certainly, he didn’t expect a divine encounter when he left home that morning. Pressed into service, he had no choice but to lay aside his plans and obey.

Lord, if you tap me on the shoulder with the Sword of Your Word and compel me to carry a burden for You, I want to be like Simon of Cyrene. He wasn’t chosen because he was pious, strong or faithful. He was chosen simply because he was in the right place at the right time. He may have grudging obliged. However, seeing his blessing I’ll willingly pick up any burden You hand me and carry it no matter the cost. A job that looks insignificant and inconsequential could turn out to be an incredibly important, life altering incident, and a divine encounter with You.

All around me are broken, traumatized, exhausted people who have stumbled and can’t get up. The weight of their cross is more than they can bear. Helping a scorned person carry his or her humiliation will likely hinder my plans and dreams. It will certainly require sacrifice. It may be degrading and out of my comfort zone. At the same time, it may be the most honorable, significant assignment I ever receive. Please dear Lord, press me into service today. I will obey to honor and glorify Your name. Amen.

Whose cross can you carry today? Open the eyes of your heart and look around. There are hurting people every where. Stop whatever you’re doing. Pick up their cross and walk in the name of Jesus. Just as Christ walked with Simon, He’ll walk with you. That irritating interruption, may be one of the greatest honors you’ll ever receive.

Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

Healed By His Wounds

1 Peter 2: 21-24
21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
22"He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth."

23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.

Jesus, My Redeemer,
Thank You for revealing the truth of my sin and my despicable, depraved condition that led You to the cross. Because You suffered for me, I’m called to suffer for You. It’s the debt of love, Paul refers to in Romans 13:8. Clothed in Your love and filled with Your power when others:

• Strip and offend me, exposing my shame, I won’t retaliate
• Twist the truth and prick my mind with thorns, I won’t be deceived
• Mock and make fun of me for my faith, I’ll stand firm and steadfast
• Spew filth from their mouth that insults me, I won’t spit back
• Beat and hurt me, I won’t seek revenge
  

Instead, I’ll follow Your example and trust You, the One and Only Fair Judge who rules over all authority in heaven and earth. Like You, I want to love my neighbor and pray for those who hate me.

Thank You for personally carrying the wounds of my sins and the filth of my spit on Your body to the cross so that I could die to sin and live for what is right. For that reason, I humbly bow at the foot of the cross today, allowing the Living Water from the wound in Your side to purify the sewer deep within me, and the blood from Your wounds to drip down and cover every mistake I’ve ever made and ever will make. By Your wounds I am healed and by Your grace, I’m able to follow Your example, exercising self-control on my own journey to the cross for the glory of Your name. Amen.

The death was for us. He can heal us – even the most broken of us. He can meticulously pick up all the shattered pieces of our lives and put them back together. He can change us – even the worst of us. He can open the gates of heaven and give us a glimpse of eternity so that, by faith, we’ll walk steadfastly toward whatever lies ahead. And, He will. He will if we humble ourselves at the foot of the cross. Have you? Have you turned to the One who can heal and restore you?

Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

The Depravity of Man

Matthew 27:27-31
27Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. 30They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.

Dear Jesus,
These verses send chills down my spine and bring tears to my eyes. How could they do this to You, my tender, gentle and kind Friend? You’ve never done anything wrong! Sadly, the atrocious behavior I see in the Roman soldiers, is true of me too. Running deep within my soul is a cesspool seeping with foulness, ugliness and self-righteous.

I strip You by committing sins that embarrass others, exposing their shame. Judging, gossiping, and insulting others strips both You and them of dignity. Full of pride, I can’t admit my mistakes and failures. Lying and blaming someone else is disgraceful. Cynicism and sarcasm is humiliating.

Sins that prick my mind are the thorns the pierced Your sacred brow. Worry, unbelief, and anxiety stab You. Movies, music, television and magazines used for my entertainment jab You. Greed, envy, and bitterness poke You. The truth can be so easily twisted into a crown of prickly thorns.

I mock You when I’m hypocritical and deceitful. Failing to spend time with You praying and reading my Bible is a form of scoffing. Taking Your name in vain is a means of jeering. All the pleasures and treasures I worship more than You are a type of sneering.

Spit is the filth that spews from my heart out of my mouth. The hateful, profane words I speak to others, I spit on You. You are splattered with the disgusting saliva of my arrogance, complaining and ungratefulness.

Sin that hurts others beats You. Lifting my hand in anger, I’ve not only struck the offender, but also You. Lusting or flirting with someone other my spouse is not only a blow to him/her but also a blow to You. You’re beaten by my critical spirit and unforgiving heart. You’re battered by my emotional, physical and spiritual adultery.

Lord, I’m sorry for standing with the Roman soldiers who scorned You, derided You, and ridiculed You. I can’t believe I was there subjecting You to the cruelest degradation. There is a beast within me capable of the meanest, roughest words and actions. Thank You for personally carrying the wounds of my sins and the filth of my spit on Your sacred body all the way to the cross.

I can’t bear to think of the pain I’ve caused You and still do. Please forgive me and tame the beast within me by Your almighty power. Amen.

All of us are capable of the cruelest, meanest acts. Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40) Today I’m choosing to reflect on the ugliness of my natural state, so that I can truly appreciate God’s immeasurable love on Easter Sunday.

Journey To The Cross

Luke 9: 51As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.

Jesus,
Name above all names, beautiful Savior, glorious Lord. I am awe of You and Your journey to greatness. I am deeply humbled and terribly convicted. You knew what was waiting for you in Jerusalem: betrayal, rejection, suffering and ultimately death on the cross; yet you set your face resolutely on the challenge and conquered it. Despite the anticipation and expectation of excruciating pain and suffering you humbly moved forward steadfastly, with determination to become obedient to death to bring many children to glory.

Forgive me for avoiding the difficult journey. Forgive me for all the detours I take in order to avoid betrayal, rejection, suffering and even death to self. Help me dear Lord, to choose the highway of humility. The voyage is excruciatingly painful but the destination is sweet. The journey is long – life long. I grow tired and weary from exerting my own energy. By Your grace and power, I will deny myself daily and take up my cross and follow you with steadfast determination to reach the goal for which you have called me. Let this mind be in me that was also in Christ Jesus ... that mind which focused on the glorious final destination in the New Jerusalem. Amen.

Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

The Depth of Love

Ephesians 3:14-19
14For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

I kneel before You Father astonished by the rich gifts You’ve lavished on me: the family name, the family image and the family fortune. Being chosen and adopted into Your family is the highest honor and greatest privilege I’ll ever receive. Nothing else will ever come close.
Today I’m claiming the priceless family promise of power to change the way I think and perceive myself. You don’t see me the way I see myself: unattractive, unworthy, and unlovable. You see me as Your beloved child. Please give me faith to believe and power to grasp:

The width of Your love: wide enough to reach the whole wide world, while also touching the homosexual, the prostitute, the adulterer, the murderer, the addict, the abuser, the abused, the obsessed, the rich, the poor and much wider than I can imagine.

The length of Your love: long enough to cover my entire life, longer than my rebellion, hatefulness, apathy, arrogance, ignorance, and much longer than I can visualize.

The depth of Your love: deep enough to feel my severely broken heart that no one else understands, deeper than my insecurities and fears, and still deeper than I could ever dream.

The height of Your love: high enough to stretch from heaven to earth to show me the way to all Your hidden treasures and higher than my simple mind can possibly understand.

Father, if I could comprehend and claim Your limitless love, then I’d look to You and You alone for love. I’d stop seeking approval from my parents, spouse, children, and friends. I wouldn’t fill my life with trinkets and treasures. I’d no longer crave the desires and lifestyle that once held me captive. I’d long for You and You alone.

Dear Lord, please fill me to overflowing with the inexhaustible love of Jesus today. With all my heart, I want to receive and accept the infinite love You bestow on Your children for the glory of Your name forever and ever. Amen.

Have you received and accepted God’s lavish gift of love, promised to His children? He’s not waiting for you to be perfect. It’s yours to claim today, just as you are. If you don’t feel worthy of accepting it, please pray and ask Him to give you the power to accept it. It’s a life changing gift.

The Debt of Love

Romans 13:8-14
8Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

11And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

Lord of Love,
The only way I can begin to pay You back for Your infinite love is to love others. In love You came down from heaven to bless, choose, adopt, accept, redeem, and forgive me while I was unattractive, unworthy, and unlovable. The least I can do is obey You.

• I won’t let myself starve; therefore, I need to feed the hungry.
• I make sure that I’m properly clothed before leaving the house; therefore, I’m expected to dress the destitute.
• I put a warm and cozy roof over my head; therefore, I’m required to find shelter for the homeless.
• I don’t want to be cheated or deceived; therefore, it’s necessary for me to be honest and fair to others.
• I despise being stabbed with hateful, hurtful words; therefore, I can’t kill the spirits of others with my own unkind works.
• I’d be angry if someone tried to interfere with my marriage; therefore, I’m obligated to stay out of someone else’s marriage.
• I don’t want anyone to covet my possessions; therefore, I can’t be jealous when someone has something bigger or better than me.

The only way I can properly respond to Your immeasurable, inexhaustible love is to behave decently as a Christian child by fully obeying Your law of love. Please dear Lord, clothe me with power and love to make a difference where it matters today because tomorrow may be too late. Open my eyes to see someone who needs love today and I will obey no matter the cost because I appreciate the high price of the love You lavished on me. To You who rules on the throne on my heart forever and ever be the glory. Amen.

In light of God’s incredible gift of love given to you, what will you do today to obey His command to love your neighbor as yourself? Admit your own selfishness. Repent and reach out in love to someone in a difficult situation. Do it today because tomorrow may be too late.

Today I will reach out in love by _________________________________ as a token of appreciation for the high price Jesus paid for my pardon. I will do it today because tomorrow may be too late.

Authority Established by God

Romans 13:1
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

Most High Ruler~
All power and authority has been established by You: honest and corrupt, good and evil, democratic and autocratic, right and wrong. All authority in heaven and earth belongs to You. Looking back at ancient History, I can see how You work through wicked regimes:

• If You hadn’t established the evil government of Pharaoh, then you couldn’t have shown Your strength to part the Red Sea and deliver the Israelites from his wicked rule.

• If You hadn’t set-up the corrupt government of Pontius Pilate, You couldn’t have fulfilled Your plan to save the world through the death of Your dear Son.

Jesus clearly teaches that we should expect to be arrested, hunted down, and thrown in jail because we carry Your family name. On the witness stand, rather than worrying, we should trust Your promise to give us words and wisdom that will reduce our accusers to stammers and stutters.[a]

Again, all we have to do is look back at History and learn from the apostles who submitted to hateful leaders. When Peter and John were taken captive for showing kindness, they didn’t rebel or revolt. Instead, filled with the Holy Spirit, they testified to the Truth, proclaiming the name of Jesus. The authorities were left speechless and perplexed. The apostles chose to obey God’s authority at all costs. They were tormented and tortured, but didn’t vacillate in their testimony about repentance and forgiveness.[b]

Lord, You are the Most High and Sovereign King, the Only Righteous Ruler. When I’m faced by unjust authority, fill me with the Holy Spirit to stand up in power, submit to their rule, and trust You to defend me with words and wisdom. With You enthroned on my heart, I have no reason to fear man. Please give me more faith to believe that You will stand with me through trials, torment and torture. Please give me more power to testify to the Truth, proclaiming the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.

Jesus promises that things are going to get a lot worse before they get better. What can you do today to prepare to submit to the authorities during your trials, torment and torture of tomorrow?


[a] Luke 21:12-15
[b] Acts 4:1-22, 5:17-42

Think Lovely Thoughts

Philippians 4:4-8
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Lord of Love,
Thank You for Your truth, righteousness and purity. You are beautiful beyond description. Gazing on Your majesty, I rejoice at Your radiance and splendor. As I present my requests to You today with a thankful heart please replace my anxiety with perfect peace. Guard my heart and mind with lovely thoughts of You and who I am in You: You are the only Truth. You are a noble King who has chosen and adopted me to live in Your glorious kingdom eternally! You are blameless and have given me extravagant gifts including an elegant robe of righteousness to cover my sin and shame. You are pure and have given me free, unlimited access to Your beauty bar where my life is made lovely and admirable in the light of Your glory and grace.

Please dear Lord, draw my face up to Yours today. Let me gaze upon Your loveliness and be filled with Your perfect peace. Amen.

List as many beautiful characteristics of God as you can think of. Carry the list with you this week, praising Him all the day long as you mediate on it. Your anxiety will turn to peace as you fix your eyes on the majesty of the Most High King, Jesus.

Christian Family Rules

Romans 12:9-16
9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Father in Heaven~
Thank You for clearly posting the Christian Family Rules:

1. Unconditionally love your brothers and sisters even when they’re unlovable, undeserving, and unresponsive
2. Don’t feed your mind evil thoughts; instead fill it with things that are good, righteousness, and pure.
3. Lay aside selfishness; delight in treating each other with respect and common courtesy.
4. Never give up!
5. Serve me enthusiastically.
6. Persevere under pressure.
7. Let your hope of heaven make you glad.
8. Never stop praying.
9. Take care of each other.
10. Welcome strangers into your home.
11. Ask me to bless everyone who mistreats you.
12. Be happy when others are happy.
13. Be sad when others are sad.
14. Be friendly with everyone.
15. Don’t be proud.
16. Be willing to do menial tasks.
17. Be willing to interact with people who are different from you.
18. Don’t be a know it all.
    

Father, only by Your grace can I stand before You as Your beloved child, adopted, redeemed, and forgiven. Because I love and respect You with all of my heart, I will do my best to obey the rules of Your house. Please fill me with more of Your love, grace and power. Show me who I can love in Your name today. Amen.

At my home there are rules posted on the refrigerator door. We expect our children to obey them. It’s not always easy. Likewise, God has posted rules for us to obey.

Which of these rules do you have a hard time obeying? Ask God to fill you with more of His power to overcome your selfish desires. Then, look for an opportunity to enthusiastically serve someone in a difficult situation.

Today I will lay aside my selfish desires and love ______________________________ in the name of Jesus. (fill in the name of someone whom you will show God’s love.)