Let go and let God
John 15:7
7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.
God’s words are living forces, powerful forces that, if you allow them to take up residence in you, will produce holiness in your life.
Your choices can affect everyone you come in contact with, near and far, family, relatives, friends. You can make certain choices that can either damage or enrich the lives all around you. What may seem important to you may end up damaging you and others.
But God sees the whole picture . He knows what’s around the corner that you can’t see. So when you are walking in His choices things start working, all the pieces of the puzzle start coming together.
You can save yourself a lot of heartache just by spending some quality time in God’s presence and in His word. If you will let Him , He will help you with every choice you make. ( excerpts from Kenneth Copeland)
Deut30;19 I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;
Psalm 121
3 He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
8 The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in
From this time forth, and even forevermore.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
The law of sowing and reaping
The law of sowing and reaping
Give and it shall be given unto you;
Our first item regarding giving should not be that we are being generous.
Tithes and alms are not generous gifts, they are returning to God what is due Him. As I was reading a devotion this morning that had nothing whatsoever to do with tithing and offering, my mind began to ask questions. The scripture that I read was about Job, “Job42:10” “The Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends.”
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
The word promises “Blessings” when we are faithful in giving to the Lord.
I can remember very well when I paid tithes to “the church” I wasn’t faithful, I paid tithes when I had a surplus so I could pay without straining my budget. Then I learned what God said about tithing. [verse 10 above] I had to change my way of looking at tithing and giving; I began to praise God for the ability He had given me to earn so I could give; I began to rejoice when I gave, not to the church, but to God; that way I had a promise of being blessed. The church cannot promise you a return on your giving, but God can, and, does.
[1Cor9:11] 11 If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?
When God promised a return on your giving He didn’t say you would get back the same thing you gave; So, there are times when we don’t have money to give in offering as far as money, but you always have something you can give to bless someone. In the name of the Lord.
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
Colossians 3:22-24
Our attitude is the main thing;
God doesn’t promise to make you rich, but He does promise to supply “all” your needs according to “His” riches in glory. There is no shortage in God’s storehouse, and He loves to give. We have to get in the receiving position.
Give and it shall be given unto you;
Our first item regarding giving should not be that we are being generous.
Tithes and alms are not generous gifts, they are returning to God what is due Him. As I was reading a devotion this morning that had nothing whatsoever to do with tithing and offering, my mind began to ask questions. The scripture that I read was about Job, “Job42:10” “The Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends.”
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
The word promises “Blessings” when we are faithful in giving to the Lord.
I can remember very well when I paid tithes to “the church” I wasn’t faithful, I paid tithes when I had a surplus so I could pay without straining my budget. Then I learned what God said about tithing. [verse 10 above] I had to change my way of looking at tithing and giving; I began to praise God for the ability He had given me to earn so I could give; I began to rejoice when I gave, not to the church, but to God; that way I had a promise of being blessed. The church cannot promise you a return on your giving, but God can, and, does.
[1Cor9:11] 11 If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?
When God promised a return on your giving He didn’t say you would get back the same thing you gave; So, there are times when we don’t have money to give in offering as far as money, but you always have something you can give to bless someone. In the name of the Lord.
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
Colossians 3:22-24
Our attitude is the main thing;
God doesn’t promise to make you rich, but He does promise to supply “all” your needs according to “His” riches in glory. There is no shortage in God’s storehouse, and He loves to give. We have to get in the receiving position.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
We are a blessed generation
We are a Blessed Era, (generation)
Jn.10:23-24;
Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; (24) for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”
Eph. 2:12 Therefore, remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by what is called circumcision made in flesh by hands.
That at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenant of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.”
[verse 13] But now, in Christ Jesus, you who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
We have been wonderfully blessed; In this dispensation of time we have been born; “for such a time as this!!”
[Coll.. 1:27] To them (us) God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the Hope of glory.”
Gal. 4:4; “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His son, born of a woman, born under the law.”
Think about that, we are living in the fullness of the times that He spoke about!!
When Jesus, God’s only begotten son actually was born into our dispensation of time.!!!!
See yourself as God sees you;
Numbers 13:33; When Moses sent the ten spies to check out the promised land, 8 came back saying, “We saw GIANTS!! And we were like grasshoppers in in our own sight!!
How soon they forgot how God had done miracles and wonders in delivering them;
What made them think they were any different just because they “saw giants”?
It’s called low self esteem:
It’s how the enemy prevents you from winning.
It will cause you to doubt, and forget that you are the blessed.
Be careful, hard times can make you think you don’t deserve to be blessed.
Steep yourself in the word of God, get it down inside you what God says about you and see yourself as God does. Stay on guard so that satan can’t trip you up by showing you “Giants” and telling you that you are just and grass-hoppers. See yourself as God says you are, OVERCOMERS! Stay focused.
[con't. tomorrow]
Jn.10:23-24;
Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; (24) for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”
Eph. 2:12 Therefore, remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by what is called circumcision made in flesh by hands.
That at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenant of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.”
[verse 13] But now, in Christ Jesus, you who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
We have been wonderfully blessed; In this dispensation of time we have been born; “for such a time as this!!”
[Coll.. 1:27] To them (us) God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the Hope of glory.”
Gal. 4:4; “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His son, born of a woman, born under the law.”
Think about that, we are living in the fullness of the times that He spoke about!!
When Jesus, God’s only begotten son actually was born into our dispensation of time.!!!!
A poll was taken asking people how they felt about the coming election and our future as a nation? HOPELESS was the #1 answerHope comes from within, not without!
See yourself as God sees you;
Numbers 13:33; When Moses sent the ten spies to check out the promised land, 8 came back saying, “We saw GIANTS!! And we were like grasshoppers in in our own sight!!
How soon they forgot how God had done miracles and wonders in delivering them;
What made them think they were any different just because they “saw giants”?
It’s called low self esteem:
It’s how the enemy prevents you from winning.
It will cause you to doubt, and forget that you are the blessed.
Be careful, hard times can make you think you don’t deserve to be blessed.
Steep yourself in the word of God, get it down inside you what God says about you and see yourself as God does. Stay on guard so that satan can’t trip you up by showing you “Giants” and telling you that you are just and grass-hoppers. See yourself as God says you are, OVERCOMERS! Stay focused.
[con't. tomorrow]
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Hard Tests
Hard Tests
2tim;4
6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
What a testimony! I pray for this kind of testimony for myself.
2 Corinthians 11:22-33
22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I. 23 Are they ministers of Christ?—I speak as a fool—I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. 24 From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; 26 in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; 27 in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fasting often, in cold and nakedness— 28 besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to stumble, and I do not burn with indignation?
30 If I must boast, I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity. 31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying. 32 In Damascus the governor, under Aretas the king, was guarding the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desiring to arrest me; 33 but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and escaped from his hands.
There are very few people who are called to the suffering that the Apostle Paul was. God never asks more of us than we can handle with His help.
Sometimes when we face tough times we think that we are the only one who has ever had to go through anything that hard; the devil will try to tell you that no one ever has gone through anything like it, but that’s another one of his lies.
1 Peter 5:9
Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
1 Peter 5:8-10 (in Context) 1 Peter 5 (Whole Chapter)
He promised this; (1Cor10:13) 13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
When you are facing tests don’t make the mistake of withdrawing and turning away from the word, the word is where you will find comfort in time of need. The promises we have for these times are the very thing that will help us overcome.
Other members of the body (church) will help you in times of trials, so stay close to the body, don’t pull yourself away when you really need them most. People who you know to be word people are the ones we need during these times, someone who will remind you of what the word says
2tim;4
6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
What a testimony! I pray for this kind of testimony for myself.
2 Corinthians 11:22-33
22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I. 23 Are they ministers of Christ?—I speak as a fool—I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. 24 From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; 26 in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; 27 in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fasting often, in cold and nakedness— 28 besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to stumble, and I do not burn with indignation?
30 If I must boast, I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity. 31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying. 32 In Damascus the governor, under Aretas the king, was guarding the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desiring to arrest me; 33 but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and escaped from his hands.
There are very few people who are called to the suffering that the Apostle Paul was. God never asks more of us than we can handle with His help.
Sometimes when we face tough times we think that we are the only one who has ever had to go through anything that hard; the devil will try to tell you that no one ever has gone through anything like it, but that’s another one of his lies.
1 Peter 5:9
Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
1 Peter 5:8-10 (in Context) 1 Peter 5 (Whole Chapter)
He promised this; (1Cor10:13) 13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
When you are facing tests don’t make the mistake of withdrawing and turning away from the word, the word is where you will find comfort in time of need. The promises we have for these times are the very thing that will help us overcome.
Other members of the body (church) will help you in times of trials, so stay close to the body, don’t pull yourself away when you really need them most. People who you know to be word people are the ones we need during these times, someone who will remind you of what the word says
Friday, November 20, 2009
Circumstances can't stop the blessing
Your circumstances can’t stop the blessing
Gal3:29; “if ye be Christ’s then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
What a word this is!! Have you ever read the promises that God made to Abraham?
Gal.3:25 ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’
If you will read all the 3rd chapter of Galations you will see that the seed that God talks about is Jesus Christ. We inherit the blessings of Abraham, through accepting Christ.
Gen 26:1-5,12, the scripture tells us that there was a severe famine in the land and Isaac (son of Abraham) was trying to decide what to do, when God spoke to him and told him to stay right where he was and He would be blessed. The scripture tells us that Isaac stayed right where the famine was.
In verse 12, it tells us that he sowed seed that year, (during the famine) and reaped a hundred fold harvest. That’s what I call being blessed by God!
In Genesis 41, we read about Joseph;
Joseph had been lied on and thrown into prison, in the dungeon, it looked like there was no hope.
But God was at work in Joseph’s life. The word tells us that the King had a dream and no one could interpret it, then one of his servants remembered Joseph in prison and how he could interpret dreams, so he told the King and in verses 14, 15, tells us the King sent for Joseph. And, in verses 39, 40, the king made Joseph ruler of all Egypt, no one was higher but the king himself. [All this in one day!]
What a change, and this all happened because he was an offspring of Abraham!
Well, so are we! Let’s start believing God for blessings; not just financial, (that comes with the blessings) but with our kids and their kids. When we follow the Lord the best we know how, the blessing will follow us and overtake us,
Deuteronomy 28:2
And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God:
………Read Genesis 12:1-3, some of the blessings God promised Abram (Abraham)
I want to share something with you that happened this morning;
I was sharing the things I have written here with Rhonda and she turned toward me and told me that the other day, the place where she works was discussing the financial state of the company here in Crossville, and they could not figure out why their finances were better this year than they had previously been in other years, when other businesses were floundering!!
We just looked at each other, we both know that she prays for the company to prosper. And besides that,"She works there!"
Gal3:29; “if ye be Christ’s then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
What a word this is!! Have you ever read the promises that God made to Abraham?
Gal.3:25 ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’
If you will read all the 3rd chapter of Galations you will see that the seed that God talks about is Jesus Christ. We inherit the blessings of Abraham, through accepting Christ.
Gen 26:1-5,12, the scripture tells us that there was a severe famine in the land and Isaac (son of Abraham) was trying to decide what to do, when God spoke to him and told him to stay right where he was and He would be blessed. The scripture tells us that Isaac stayed right where the famine was.
In verse 12, it tells us that he sowed seed that year, (during the famine) and reaped a hundred fold harvest. That’s what I call being blessed by God!
In Genesis 41, we read about Joseph;
Joseph had been lied on and thrown into prison, in the dungeon, it looked like there was no hope.
But God was at work in Joseph’s life. The word tells us that the King had a dream and no one could interpret it, then one of his servants remembered Joseph in prison and how he could interpret dreams, so he told the King and in verses 14, 15, tells us the King sent for Joseph. And, in verses 39, 40, the king made Joseph ruler of all Egypt, no one was higher but the king himself. [All this in one day!]
What a change, and this all happened because he was an offspring of Abraham!
Well, so are we! Let’s start believing God for blessings; not just financial, (that comes with the blessings) but with our kids and their kids. When we follow the Lord the best we know how, the blessing will follow us and overtake us,
Deuteronomy 28:2
And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God:
………Read Genesis 12:1-3, some of the blessings God promised Abram (Abraham)
I want to share something with you that happened this morning;
I was sharing the things I have written here with Rhonda and she turned toward me and told me that the other day, the place where she works was discussing the financial state of the company here in Crossville, and they could not figure out why their finances were better this year than they had previously been in other years, when other businesses were floundering!!
We just looked at each other, we both know that she prays for the company to prosper. And besides that,"She works there!"
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Sisters {we need them}
I imagine just about everyone has seen or read this as it was passed in emails; however it is something I believe that is worth saving and reading over as time goes by.
Thanks for being my "sister."
A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As
they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of
adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance
upon her daughter.
'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll
be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you
love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.'
'Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women... your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other
women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.'
What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married?
Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely
my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'
But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each
year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really
knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman,
Sisters are the mainstays of her life. After more than 50 years of living in this world,
here is what I've learned:
THIS SAYS IT ALL:
Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT.........
Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are
between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.
When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life
will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on
your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.
Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.
Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers,
Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and ex tended family, all bless our life!
The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called
womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.
Every day, we need each other still. Pass this on.
Thanks for being my "sister."
A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As
they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of
adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance
upon her daughter.
'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll
be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you
love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.'
'Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women... your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other
women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.'
What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married?
Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely
my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'
But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each
year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really
knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman,
Sisters are the mainstays of her life. After more than 50 years of living in this world,
here is what I've learned:
THIS SAYS IT ALL:
Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT.........
Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are
between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.
When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life
will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on
your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.
Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.
Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers,
Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and ex tended family, all bless our life!
The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called
womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.
Every day, we need each other still. Pass this on.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Unconditional Love
Scripture: Matthew 22:39
”Love your neighbor as yourself” NLT
The story is told of a store owner who was tacking a sign above his door that read "Puppies for Sale." The signs have a way of attracting children. Soon a little boy appeared at the sign and asked, "How much are you gonna sell those puppies for?" The store owner replied, "Anywhere from $30-$50." The little boy reached into his pocket and pulled out some change. “I have $2.37, can I look at them?” The Store owner smiled and whistled. Out of the kennel came his dog named Lady, running down the aisle of his store followed by five little puppies. One puppy was lagging considerably behind.
Immediately the little boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy. He asked, "What's wrong with that little dog?" The man explained that when the puppy was born the vet said that this puppy had a bad hip socket and would limp for the rest of his life.
The little boy got really excited and said "That's the puppy I want to buy!" The man replied, "No, you don't want to buy that little dog. If you really want him, I'll give him to you." The little boy got upset and looked straight into the man's eyes and said, "I don't want you to give him to me. He is worth every bit as much as the other dogs and I'll pay the full price. In fact, I will give you $2.37 now and 50 cents every month until I have him paid for."
The man countered, "You really don't want to buy this puppy son. He is never gonna be able to run, jump and play like the other puppies." The little boy reached down and rolled up his pant leg to reveal a badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked up at the man and said, "Well, I don't run so well myself and the puppy will need someone who understands."
The man was now biting his bottom lip. Tears welled up in his eyes, he smiled and said, "Son, I hope and pray that each and every one of these puppies will have an owner such as you."
In life, it doesn't matter WHO you are, but whether someone appreciates
you for WHAT you are and accepts you and loves you unconditionally.
Prayer: Father help me to love others unconditionally as you love me. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
This story was in the devotional from Cyber Ministries, I thought it was so good I wanted to pass it on.
Have a blessed day and remember, Jesus loves us with an everlasting love, no strings attached.
God bless; sister Billie
”Love your neighbor as yourself” NLT
The story is told of a store owner who was tacking a sign above his door that read "Puppies for Sale." The signs have a way of attracting children. Soon a little boy appeared at the sign and asked, "How much are you gonna sell those puppies for?" The store owner replied, "Anywhere from $30-$50." The little boy reached into his pocket and pulled out some change. “I have $2.37, can I look at them?” The Store owner smiled and whistled. Out of the kennel came his dog named Lady, running down the aisle of his store followed by five little puppies. One puppy was lagging considerably behind.
Immediately the little boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy. He asked, "What's wrong with that little dog?" The man explained that when the puppy was born the vet said that this puppy had a bad hip socket and would limp for the rest of his life.
The little boy got really excited and said "That's the puppy I want to buy!" The man replied, "No, you don't want to buy that little dog. If you really want him, I'll give him to you." The little boy got upset and looked straight into the man's eyes and said, "I don't want you to give him to me. He is worth every bit as much as the other dogs and I'll pay the full price. In fact, I will give you $2.37 now and 50 cents every month until I have him paid for."
The man countered, "You really don't want to buy this puppy son. He is never gonna be able to run, jump and play like the other puppies." The little boy reached down and rolled up his pant leg to reveal a badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked up at the man and said, "Well, I don't run so well myself and the puppy will need someone who understands."
The man was now biting his bottom lip. Tears welled up in his eyes, he smiled and said, "Son, I hope and pray that each and every one of these puppies will have an owner such as you."
In life, it doesn't matter WHO you are, but whether someone appreciates
you for WHAT you are and accepts you and loves you unconditionally.
Prayer: Father help me to love others unconditionally as you love me. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
This story was in the devotional from Cyber Ministries, I thought it was so good I wanted to pass it on.
Have a blessed day and remember, Jesus loves us with an everlasting love, no strings attached.
God bless; sister Billie
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
The law of sowing and reaping
The law of sowing and reaping
Give and it shall be given unto you;
Our first item regarding giving should not be that we are being generous.
Tithes and alms are not generous gifts, they are returning to God what is due Him. As I was reading a devotion this morning that had nothing whatsoever to do with tithing and offering, my mind began to ask questions. The scripture that I read was about Job, “Job42:10” “The Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends.”
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
The word promises “Blessings” when we are faithful in giving to the Lord.
I can remember very well when I paid tithes to “the church” I wasn’t faithful, I paid tithes when I had a surplus so I could pay without straining my budget. Then I learned what God said about tithing. [verse 10 above] I had to change my way of looking at tithing and giving; I began to praise God for the ability He had given me to earn so I could give; I began to rejoice when I gave, not to the church, but to God; that way I had a promise of being blessed. The church cannot promise you a return on your giving, but God can, and, does.
[1Cor9:11] 11 If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?
When God promised a return on your giving He didn’t say you would get back the same thing you gave; So, there are times when we don’t have money to give in offering as far as money, but you always have something you can give to bless someone. In the name of the Lord.
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
Colossians 3:22-24
Our attitude is the main thing;
God doesn’t promise to make you rich, but He does promise to supply “all” your needs according to “His” riches in glory. There is no shortage in God’s storehouse, and He loves to give. We have to get in the receiving position.
Develop an attitude of blessing God; when we obey Him this puts us in a favorable possition so God can bless us.
It is a Spiritual law, give, and it shall be given unto you. This applies to everything not just money.
God bless, Sister Billie
Give and it shall be given unto you;
Our first item regarding giving should not be that we are being generous.
Tithes and alms are not generous gifts, they are returning to God what is due Him. As I was reading a devotion this morning that had nothing whatsoever to do with tithing and offering, my mind began to ask questions. The scripture that I read was about Job, “Job42:10” “The Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends.”
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
The word promises “Blessings” when we are faithful in giving to the Lord.
I can remember very well when I paid tithes to “the church” I wasn’t faithful, I paid tithes when I had a surplus so I could pay without straining my budget. Then I learned what God said about tithing. [verse 10 above] I had to change my way of looking at tithing and giving; I began to praise God for the ability He had given me to earn so I could give; I began to rejoice when I gave, not to the church, but to God; that way I had a promise of being blessed. The church cannot promise you a return on your giving, but God can, and, does.
[1Cor9:11] 11 If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?
When God promised a return on your giving He didn’t say you would get back the same thing you gave; So, there are times when we don’t have money to give in offering as far as money, but you always have something you can give to bless someone. In the name of the Lord.
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
Colossians 3:22-24
Our attitude is the main thing;
God doesn’t promise to make you rich, but He does promise to supply “all” your needs according to “His” riches in glory. There is no shortage in God’s storehouse, and He loves to give. We have to get in the receiving position.
Develop an attitude of blessing God; when we obey Him this puts us in a favorable possition so God can bless us.
It is a Spiritual law, give, and it shall be given unto you. This applies to everything not just money.
God bless, Sister Billie
Monday, November 9, 2009
God has a plan
Stick to the plan
Today God is saying to you, “Stick to the plan!” nothing takes God by surprise. He is a master planner. Joseph discovered that when your family turns against you, your friends let you down and you finish up in trouble, God still has a plan. Looking back Joseph could say, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Gen.50: 20) When your situation seem too hard to handle and downright impossible to explain, remind yourself God said, “I know the plans I have for you.”
Some of us are not sure God has made up his mind about us, so we keep trying to earn His favor. Give it up! Receive the truth that God, for Christ’s sake has decided to bless you. And when God decides, temporary situations or actions of others don’t change His decision. There’s nothing the enemy devises against you that God hasn’t already made “a way of escape”. For Paul writes, :God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above what you are able; but will with the temptation make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1cor10:13) In times of testing you learn how faithful God is. He knows what you can handle. He will “make a way” so you can come through this season stronger, and ready for what is next. So, stick to the plan, it’s only a matter of time before God reveals the solution.
20 But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive (Gen 50:20)
When things are overwhelming you, remember that, God has a plan and, stick to it.(Jer. 29:11)
The lesson we learn from Joseph is one of the greatest ones we will ever learn!
Today God is saying to you, “Stick to the plan!” nothing takes God by surprise. He is a master planner. Joseph discovered that when your family turns against you, your friends let you down and you finish up in trouble, God still has a plan. Looking back Joseph could say, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Gen.50: 20) When your situation seem too hard to handle and downright impossible to explain, remind yourself God said, “I know the plans I have for you.”
Some of us are not sure God has made up his mind about us, so we keep trying to earn His favor. Give it up! Receive the truth that God, for Christ’s sake has decided to bless you. And when God decides, temporary situations or actions of others don’t change His decision. There’s nothing the enemy devises against you that God hasn’t already made “a way of escape”. For Paul writes, :God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above what you are able; but will with the temptation make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1cor10:13) In times of testing you learn how faithful God is. He knows what you can handle. He will “make a way” so you can come through this season stronger, and ready for what is next. So, stick to the plan, it’s only a matter of time before God reveals the solution.
20 But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive (Gen 50:20)
When things are overwhelming you, remember that, God has a plan and, stick to it.(Jer. 29:11)
The lesson we learn from Joseph is one of the greatest ones we will ever learn!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Sanctuary of His presence
Sanctuary of His presence
Psalm 27
A Psalm of David.
4 One thing I have desired of the LORD,
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the LORD
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the LORD,
And to inquire in His temple.
5 For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.
What was David talking about when he said, “There’s just one thing I seek and that is to dwell in the house of the Lord?”
Surely he wasn’t talking about the temple or tabernacle (building)?; He couldn’t just go there and stay! He had responsibilities that took him far away from the actual building.
David knew Where to find God;
Acts 7:48“However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says
Psalm 91:9
Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you. [read all of Ps. 91]
I am sure David was talking about the presence of the Lord, in the sanctuary of His presence.
God is just as near as your heart is. He chooses to dwell inside believers.
When David had a fear or need of any kind he always found a place and began to worship the Lord.
His hope and his trust were centered in the Lord.
No wonder God called him a man after God’s own heart. God knew David well because David spent time with Him. When things were going good he praised and worshipped God; and, when things were not going good he did the same thing! Wow, I want to be able to live like that.
Psalm 91:1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
This is my desire, the secret place of the Most High; Safety in the storm not from the storm.
Psalm 27
A Psalm of David.
4 One thing I have desired of the LORD,
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the LORD
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the LORD,
And to inquire in His temple.
5 For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.
What was David talking about when he said, “There’s just one thing I seek and that is to dwell in the house of the Lord?”
Surely he wasn’t talking about the temple or tabernacle (building)?; He couldn’t just go there and stay! He had responsibilities that took him far away from the actual building.
David knew Where to find God;
Acts 7:48“However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says
Psalm 91:9
Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you. [read all of Ps. 91]
I am sure David was talking about the presence of the Lord, in the sanctuary of His presence.
God is just as near as your heart is. He chooses to dwell inside believers.
When David had a fear or need of any kind he always found a place and began to worship the Lord.
His hope and his trust were centered in the Lord.
No wonder God called him a man after God’s own heart. God knew David well because David spent time with Him. When things were going good he praised and worshipped God; and, when things were not going good he did the same thing! Wow, I want to be able to live like that.
Psalm 91:1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
This is my desire, the secret place of the Most High; Safety in the storm not from the storm.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Facing Temptation
Facing Temptation
Heb.4:15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.
What does it mean when it says, “yet without sin?”
As I was reading this the thought came to me; when Jesus was tempted, how did He face that temptation? If it was “without sin” then I want to know how!
As I remembered what I knew about Jesus’ temptations I remembered the temptation on the mount that is recorded, (Mt.4:1-11)
Each time satan came at Him with a temptation, Jesus answered it with “ words” He didn’t start complaining because He was being tempted; He didn’t start speaking defeat either. He didn’t talk about how hard the temptation was and how weak He was.
No, He began telling that temptation what was written in the word! If that was good for Him then, it's good for us.
When a temptation, trial of affliction comes upon us we need to practice talking positive to it. Tell the temptation what the Word of God says about it and you.
2Tim.1:7, says God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound (sane,clear) mind.
Lk.10:19, Behold, I give you authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. Amen
Heb.4:15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.
What does it mean when it says, “yet without sin?”
As I was reading this the thought came to me; when Jesus was tempted, how did He face that temptation? If it was “without sin” then I want to know how!
As I remembered what I knew about Jesus’ temptations I remembered the temptation on the mount that is recorded, (Mt.4:1-11)
Each time satan came at Him with a temptation, Jesus answered it with “ words” He didn’t start complaining because He was being tempted; He didn’t start speaking defeat either. He didn’t talk about how hard the temptation was and how weak He was.
No, He began telling that temptation what was written in the word! If that was good for Him then, it's good for us.
When a temptation, trial of affliction comes upon us we need to practice talking positive to it. Tell the temptation what the Word of God says about it and you.
2Tim.1:7, says God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound (sane,clear) mind.
Lk.10:19, Behold, I give you authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. Amen
Friday, October 30, 2009
Offensive battles
This is from a devotional that I receive -Christian “Cyber” Ministries 10-30-09
and I consider it good enough to share with my friends on face book, Billie (Ellis) King
Scripture: Ephesians 1:19
”I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him” NLT
World War II was a time that tested the resolve of many throughout the world. England was faced with extinction after France and all of Continental Europe crumbled before Germany. Day after day and night after night Germany hammered away at England.
The British did all they could to withstand the assault. Winston Churchill met during those dark hours with all his top advisors and gave them a directive. He told his military leaders to never talk about defense in their strategy meetings. Only talk about offense and take the offensive!
From that time on attitudes changed! No longer was England on the defensive but they started planning strategy for attack. They were not going to take it any longer and it was time to turn the tide and bring the fight back against the Germans. The Brits began planning attacks, preparing for the next assault and stood confident where they were.
This scenario of defense sounds like every day in the kingdom for many Christians. We think it is noble and good to just take a beating from the demons of hell.
Churchill was right in the 1940's when he said to go on the offensive and the same principle applies more than 60 years later as a Christian. Plan your attack. Prepare for what is coming and know where you stand.
Take thirty minutes some day and read the book of Ephesians. The battle is all there and Paul details how to take the offensive as a Christian. When things get tough as you stand your ground you'll be glad you took the time to read and apply Ephesians.
Prayer: Father thank you for giving me offensive power over the enemy. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
This is from a devotional that I receive -Christian “Cyber” Ministries 10-30-09
and I consider it good enough to share with my friends on face book, Billie (Ellis) King
Scripture: Ephesians 1:19
”I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him” NLT
World War II was a time that tested the resolve of many throughout the world. England was faced with extinction after France and all of Continental Europe crumbled before Germany. Day after day and night after night Germany hammered away at England.
The British did all they could to withstand the assault. Winston Churchill met during those dark hours with all his top advisors and gave them a directive. He told his military leaders to never talk about defense in their strategy meetings. Only talk about offense and take the offensive!
From that time on attitudes changed! No longer was England on the defensive but they started planning strategy for attack. They were not going to take it any longer and it was time to turn the tide and bring the fight back against the Germans. The Brits began planning attacks, preparing for the next assault and stood confident where they were.
This scenario of defense sounds like every day in the kingdom for many Christians. We think it is noble and good to just take a beating from the demons of hell.
Churchill was right in the 1940's when he said to go on the offensive and the same principle applies more than 60 years later as a Christian. Plan your attack. Prepare for what is coming and know where you stand.
Take thirty minutes some day and read the book of Ephesians. The battle is all there and Paul details how to take the offensive as a Christian. When things get tough as you stand your ground you'll be glad you took the time to read and apply Ephesians.
Prayer: Father thank you for giving me offensive power over the enemy. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Boast in the Lord
Boast in the Lord
2 Corinthians 10:17-18
17 But “he who glories, let him glory in the LORD
18 For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
All through the Bible we are taught not to lift ourselves up; not to think of our self more highly than we ought to think. Pride is something that will keep us separated from God.
Isaiah 54:14
14 In righteousness you shall be established;
You shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear;
And from terror, for it shall not come near you.
2cor.5:21
21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
Christ Our Cornerstone
Eph2:19-22
19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
God has established us in righteousness and nothing or no one can move us.
He even promised us that we don’t have to take up for ourselves; He says; “Vengence is mine, saith the Lord, I will repay.
We do not have to fight for rights, He fights the battles for us.
James 4:9-11; Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will lift you up.
Luke 14:7-11 (New King James Version)
Take the Lowly Place
lk 14:7-11; So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: 8 “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; 9 and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. 11 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
This is the true rest of God:
2 Corinthians 10:17-18
17 But “he who glories, let him glory in the LORD
18 For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
All through the Bible we are taught not to lift ourselves up; not to think of our self more highly than we ought to think. Pride is something that will keep us separated from God.
Isaiah 54:14
14 In righteousness you shall be established;
You shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear;
And from terror, for it shall not come near you.
2cor.5:21
21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
Christ Our Cornerstone
Eph2:19-22
19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
God has established us in righteousness and nothing or no one can move us.
He even promised us that we don’t have to take up for ourselves; He says; “Vengence is mine, saith the Lord, I will repay.
We do not have to fight for rights, He fights the battles for us.
James 4:9-11; Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will lift you up.
Luke 14:7-11 (New King James Version)
Take the Lowly Place
lk 14:7-11; So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: 8 “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; 9 and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. 11 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
This is the true rest of God:
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
2cor.5:20-2cor. 6:2 “We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God…..
We then as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the Grace of God in vain;
For a while now God has been teaching me about what Grace, His grace means in our life. And also how that we cannot do one thing to earn anything in this life from God.
Sometimes it is scary and other times it is so relaxing and worry free. In today’s scripture the Apostle Paul is preaching and teaching about being brought back to God by the “on behalf of Christ” It will be nothing we do that brings us to God but rather, what Christ has already done.” It’s that way in all our life and we learn that little by little; “We can do nothing of ourselves.” to earn something from God.
In chapter 6 He says “now is the acceptable time” so it’s also all done on His timeline and not ours.
When we can learn these truths and facts of our life we can rest in God’s grace and let Him.
If we can truly learn to live by these principles we will be at peace in every situation; As the Apostle Paul said in Php.4:11, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” [to let what I have and where I am, be enough]
Our first lesson needs to be, “Let go and let God” Doesn’t that sound soothing….?
and easy,..? Well it's one of the hardest things I ever tried to do; We are so used to doing it ourself, I mean, that's what we were taught..
I even heard that it was in the Bible, "God only helps them who help themselves."
But God says that He will protect them who have no one to protect them. (2) That he will supply all our needs..etc. (3) Be a husband to the widows; sounds like He only helps those who {"can't"} help themselves!! It's called Trust, we give our life to Him, and He takes care of everything concerning us.
Sounds good to me!
We then as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the Grace of God in vain;
For a while now God has been teaching me about what Grace, His grace means in our life. And also how that we cannot do one thing to earn anything in this life from God.
Sometimes it is scary and other times it is so relaxing and worry free. In today’s scripture the Apostle Paul is preaching and teaching about being brought back to God by the “on behalf of Christ” It will be nothing we do that brings us to God but rather, what Christ has already done.” It’s that way in all our life and we learn that little by little; “We can do nothing of ourselves.” to earn something from God.
In chapter 6 He says “now is the acceptable time” so it’s also all done on His timeline and not ours.
When we can learn these truths and facts of our life we can rest in God’s grace and let Him.
If we can truly learn to live by these principles we will be at peace in every situation; As the Apostle Paul said in Php.4:11, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” [to let what I have and where I am, be enough]
Our first lesson needs to be, “Let go and let God” Doesn’t that sound soothing….?
and easy,..? Well it's one of the hardest things I ever tried to do; We are so used to doing it ourself, I mean, that's what we were taught..
I even heard that it was in the Bible, "God only helps them who help themselves."
But God says that He will protect them who have no one to protect them. (2) That he will supply all our needs..etc. (3) Be a husband to the widows; sounds like He only helps those who {"can't"} help themselves!! It's called Trust, we give our life to Him, and He takes care of everything concerning us.
Sounds good to me!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Never Fail
.2 Cor. 4:7; “We have this treasure in earthern vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not us.”
I want to share some thoughts that came to me as I meditated on this verse this morning;
When I look at the Apostle Paul and some of his comments I realize he had a handle on this: When he said, “When “I” am weak “He” is my strength.” He knew that the strength that lay within him was not his own, but God’s.
My first thought was WOW!!! With this kind of power and strength right inside us why would we ever cringe when a problem comes our way?
This scripture brings to my memory other scripture, like, “Greater is He that is in me than he who is in the world.” (1Jn.4:4) “No weapon that is formed against us will prosper.”(Is.54:17) “ “ I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and, nothing shall by any means hurt you.”(Lk.10:19) “Who can separate us from the love of Christ,? Shall tribulation or trouble of any kind or people of any kind?
No! nothing can separate us and nothing can overcome us because He is “inside” us.
I mean, how can we lose?? The greatest power that ever was or ever will be lives in us! There is no one or no-thing that can win over us. The devil is a blow hard, but just remember, he is a liar and the father of lies.
God did all this for us so we could always live victorious even when we are down; My thought here is, Hallelujah!
Sure we will have tribulations here on earth, but the power doesn’t stop when a trial comes, if we will stand on His power it will be bigger than the problem.
Billie
.2 Cor. 4:7; “We have this treasure in earthern vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not us.”
I want to share some thoughts that came to me as I meditated on this verse this morning;
When I look at the Apostle Paul and some of his comments I realize he had a handle on this: When he said, “When “I” am weak “He” is my strength.” He knew that the strength that lay within him was not his own, but God’s.
My first thought was WOW!!! With this kind of power and strength right inside us why would we ever cringe when a problem comes our way?
This scripture brings to my memory other scripture, like, “Greater is He that is in me than he who is in the world.” (1Jn.4:4) “No weapon that is formed against us will prosper.”(Is.54:17) “ “ I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and, nothing shall by any means hurt you.”(Lk.10:19) “Who can separate us from the love of Christ,? Shall tribulation or trouble of any kind or people of any kind?
No! nothing can separate us and nothing can overcome us because He is “inside” us.
I mean, how can we lose?? The greatest power that ever was or ever will be lives in us! There is no one or no-thing that can win over us. The devil is a blow hard, but just remember, he is a liar and the father of lies.
God did all this for us so we could always live victorious even when we are down; My thought here is, Hallelujah!
Sure we will have tribulations here on earth, but the power doesn’t stop when a trial comes, if we will stand on His power it will be bigger than the problem.
Billie
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Whatever It Takes
Lk13:1-9, Then Jesus told a story. "A man had a fig tree," he said. "It had been planted in his vineyard. When he went to look for fruit on it, he didn't find any. 7 So he went to the man who took care of the vineyard. He said, 'For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree. But I haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?'
8 " 'Sir,' the man replied, 'leave it alone for one more year. I'll dig around it and feed it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.' "
Most of us who have, (or have had) children want to see them become something productive, even if it means taking something away from them or threatening them with punishment if they don’t work toward that goal. When God made us He made us, “in His likeness”, and He wants us, as His children, to be productive and prosperous in this life.
I believe that the reason that God called David, “A man after God’s own heart” was because David, deep down inside wanted to please God at all costs. David was quick to repent and return to God when he did wrong. Today’s scripture shows us that God ‘s threats toward us are because He wants us to be the very best.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
New King James Version
God says and does things because He, (like us) wants the very best for us.
Sometimes, we wonder why does God allow something to happen in our life? Look down deep inside and you may find the answer.
I know about this because in the last five years I have had to walk that road and learn some very hard lessons. The end result has been, “God knows what’s best for us and will do whatever it takes to get us there.”
Proverbs 3:12
12 For whom the LORD loves He corrects,
Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
Lk13:1-9, Then Jesus told a story. "A man had a fig tree," he said. "It had been planted in his vineyard. When he went to look for fruit on it, he didn't find any. 7 So he went to the man who took care of the vineyard. He said, 'For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree. But I haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?'
8 " 'Sir,' the man replied, 'leave it alone for one more year. I'll dig around it and feed it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.' "
Most of us who have, (or have had) children want to see them become something productive, even if it means taking something away from them or threatening them with punishment if they don’t work toward that goal. When God made us He made us, “in His likeness”, and He wants us, as His children, to be productive and prosperous in this life.
I believe that the reason that God called David, “A man after God’s own heart” was because David, deep down inside wanted to please God at all costs. David was quick to repent and return to God when he did wrong. Today’s scripture shows us that God ‘s threats toward us are because He wants us to be the very best.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
New King James Version
God says and does things because He, (like us) wants the very best for us.
Sometimes, we wonder why does God allow something to happen in our life? Look down deep inside and you may find the answer.
I know about this because in the last five years I have had to walk that road and learn some very hard lessons. The end result has been, “God knows what’s best for us and will do whatever it takes to get us there.”
Proverbs 3:12
12 For whom the LORD loves He corrects,
Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Come boldly to the throne
Hebrews 4:16-18 (New King James Version)
New King James Version (NKJV)
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
In the church devotional is this scripture which has spoken a truth to me;
“Come boldly, (with confidence, fearlessly) to the throne of grace, [so that we ] may obtain grace in time of need..”
I had never stopped to think that lack of confidence when we come to God could actually hinder our prayers, and stop us from receiving our answer.
Then I asked myself, “ what could give me the confidence that I might lack when I come to God asking?
The answer came to me immediately, “Christ in us is our confidence!”
We actually have it made in this way, we don’t have to work at this stuff we just have to “BELIEVE IT!
Sooo, step up to the throne any time with confidence knowing that you will be welcomed because God doesn’t see just you but His Son too. According to the word, we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption
Thank God we don't have to work at this or earn it, The way has already been prepared by our Lord.
New King James Version (NKJV)
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
In the church devotional is this scripture which has spoken a truth to me;
“Come boldly, (with confidence, fearlessly) to the throne of grace, [so that we ] may obtain grace in time of need..”
I had never stopped to think that lack of confidence when we come to God could actually hinder our prayers, and stop us from receiving our answer.
Then I asked myself, “ what could give me the confidence that I might lack when I come to God asking?
The answer came to me immediately, “Christ in us is our confidence!”
We actually have it made in this way, we don’t have to work at this stuff we just have to “BELIEVE IT!
Sooo, step up to the throne any time with confidence knowing that you will be welcomed because God doesn’t see just you but His Son too. According to the word, we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption
Thank God we don't have to work at this or earn it, The way has already been prepared by our Lord.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Get Ready-Get Ready-Get Ready
Lk12:39 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 40 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Since Jesus’ return will astonish everyone, we might suppose there is no way to really prepare for it.
The best way to get ready for Jesus’ return is to let Him make His home in your heart.
If we regularly go to Jesus when everything is light and lovely, we will automatically go to Him when it’s dark and we can’t see our path. Always keep an open pathway to Him.
Ready; “prepared” the word ready here denotes, prepared. To be prepared is to be in readiness, looking forward to.
In Bible times when a man and woman became betrothed (engaged) there was no set time for the marriage; The man began immediately getting the bridal chamber ready, [usually this was in the grooms, fathers home] so he could come for his bride. His father was the one who decided when it was “ready” it was then and only then that the groom started the journey to pick up his bride.
When he was seen coming someone called out, Behold, the bridegroom is coming!
The bride who was prepared would arise if it was in the middle of the night or middle of the day, trim her lamp and get the clothes that she had prepared for the marriage.
For a booklet of this information, send $2.00 plus postage (up to $6,
add $1; $6-$16 add $2) to Return to God, P.O. Box 159, Carnation, WA
98014-0159; (206)333-4177; email: glenna@halcyon.com.
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Jesus said no one knows the time that He will come, only the Father knows the time.(Mt.24:36)
We are to stay busy getting ready as we wait for the coming which is imminent.
Since Jesus’ return will astonish everyone, we might suppose there is no way to really prepare for it.
The best way to get ready for Jesus’ return is to let Him make His home in your heart.
If we regularly go to Jesus when everything is light and lovely, we will automatically go to Him when it’s dark and we can’t see our path. Always keep an open pathway to Him.
Ready; “prepared” the word ready here denotes, prepared. To be prepared is to be in readiness, looking forward to.
In Bible times when a man and woman became betrothed (engaged) there was no set time for the marriage; The man began immediately getting the bridal chamber ready, [usually this was in the grooms, fathers home] so he could come for his bride. His father was the one who decided when it was “ready” it was then and only then that the groom started the journey to pick up his bride.
When he was seen coming someone called out, Behold, the bridegroom is coming!
The bride who was prepared would arise if it was in the middle of the night or middle of the day, trim her lamp and get the clothes that she had prepared for the marriage.
For a booklet of this information, send $2.00 plus postage (up to $6,
add $1; $6-$16 add $2) to Return to God, P.O. Box 159, Carnation, WA
98014-0159; (206)333-4177; email: glenna@halcyon.com.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Jesus said no one knows the time that He will come, only the Father knows the time.(Mt.24:36)
We are to stay busy getting ready as we wait for the coming which is imminent.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
God can use anything for good
Gen 41:51 Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh:[a] “For God has made me forget all my toil and all my father’s house.”
52 And the name of the second he called Ephraim:[a] “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.”
This scripture was in one of my devotions, and as I read it God began to speak to me about the way we handle difficulties when we are faced with them.
Anyone who has been a Christian for any length of time knows what I am talking about.
Joseph's life is such a good teacher; He was thirty years old when he became governor of Egypt. He was seventeen when he was sold into slavery. Thirteen years he was tempted, slandered and imprisoned, still he kept his commitment to God and, his character never changed.
What a testimony! He didn't let trials and hurts change him.he used them for stepping stones not stumbling blocks. Your aim must always be to please God regardless. What he named his sons shows how he looked at trials.
He told his brothers, "You meant it for harm, but God meant it for good; God is the one who sent me down to Egypt to preserve my family." His life was dedicated to God at an early age therefore he considered no matter what came, God was in control.
I consider his life worthy of being a measuring stick for my life, how about you?
God bless
52 And the name of the second he called Ephraim:[a] “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.”
This scripture was in one of my devotions, and as I read it God began to speak to me about the way we handle difficulties when we are faced with them.
Anyone who has been a Christian for any length of time knows what I am talking about.
Joseph's life is such a good teacher; He was thirty years old when he became governor of Egypt. He was seventeen when he was sold into slavery. Thirteen years he was tempted, slandered and imprisoned, still he kept his commitment to God and, his character never changed.
What a testimony! He didn't let trials and hurts change him.he used them for stepping stones not stumbling blocks. Your aim must always be to please God regardless. What he named his sons shows how he looked at trials.
He told his brothers, "You meant it for harm, but God meant it for good; God is the one who sent me down to Egypt to preserve my family." His life was dedicated to God at an early age therefore he considered no matter what came, God was in control.
I consider his life worthy of being a measuring stick for my life, how about you?
God bless
Friday, October 16, 2009
I CAN’T DO IT ON MY OWN
One of the greatest truths I have ever learned and am learning is, I CAN’T DO THIS BY MYSELF!!
How many of us, and how many times have we got caught up in trying and trying only to find out when we run out of steam that, WE CAN’T DO THIS ON OUR OWN??
It’s one of the hardest lessons to learn, yet one of the greatest!
That’s because it applies to nearly every part of our lives.
We just love to DO it ourselves, because then WE can take the credit for it!!
God talks about “THE REST OF GOD” and hardly any of us have any idea what HIS rest is that He says we can enter. [Heb. 4:1-11]
It’s when we began to learn to trust in Him instead of ourselves; to learn that He knows best and is only waiting for us to turn it over to Him that’s when we can enter His rest:
There are some things that God can’t do and one of them is, “going against our will”; however He can allow things to come to us that will “change our will”
Isn’t that great?? He loves us enough to wait for our mind to change so He can help us!! I don’t think I have that kind of patience;
{I pulled this out of a devotional I get daily by Purpose Driven}
by Jon Walker Devotional for Wed. Feb. 6,2008 Purpose driven life
“Hi! I got your note saying you didn’t think you could do what God is telling you to do.
You may be surprised to hear me say this, but I agree! If God called you to do it, then you shouldn’t be able to do it without him. In fact, if you could do it without him, then it’s really not a God-thing.
I know you’re feeling others could do it better, but what we think doesn’t really matter, does it? God’s mind on the matter – what he thinks – that’s the reality, the Gospel truth we live by. (Colossians 3:3)”
The fact is, God didn’t call other people to this task. He called you!
And he called you in spite of your weaknesses, doubts, and insecurities. In truth, your weaknesses are no surprise to God. You may try to hide them from others, but you can’t hide them from God. He created you; he created you with weaknesses (do you think he made a mistake with you?); he created you with weaknesses in order to keep you on your knees before him.
With you on your knees, dependent upon God, you are able to do all things through him who strengthens you. (Philippians 4:13-14)
Besides, if you’re like me, without these weaknesses to push you back to God, you’ll just get prideful. Wasn’t it our big brother Paul who said, “Now I take limitations in stride …. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.” (2 Corinthians 12:10 MSG)
This is why God won’t allow you to use your weaknesses as an excuse for avoiding your mission or ignoring your purpose. Like the preachers say, “Where God guides, he provides.” If God is calling you to a monumental task, then he’ll equip you to complete the task –and that equipping includes the Holy Spirit working from inside you.
Be confident in this, “he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6 NIV)
What does this mean?
God’s strength flows into your weaknesses – Where you are weak, you become God-strong. “My strength comes into its own in your weakness ….” (2 Cor. 12:9 MSG)
· God’s strength is your focus – Don’t think about how incapable you are for the task. See how immensely capable God is to work through you. As the Veggie Tales character Junior Asparagus sings, “God is bigger than the bogeyman.” He’s bigger than anything you face, no matter how overwhelming it may appear to you. “It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness … and so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.” (2 Cor. 12:9-10 MSG)
· God created you to do good works – “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10 NIV)
God bless, Sister Billie
One of the greatest truths I have ever learned and am learning is, I CAN’T DO THIS BY MYSELF!!
How many of us, and how many times have we got caught up in trying and trying only to find out when we run out of steam that, WE CAN’T DO THIS ON OUR OWN??
It’s one of the hardest lessons to learn, yet one of the greatest!
That’s because it applies to nearly every part of our lives.
We just love to DO it ourselves, because then WE can take the credit for it!!
God talks about “THE REST OF GOD” and hardly any of us have any idea what HIS rest is that He says we can enter. [Heb. 4:1-11]
It’s when we began to learn to trust in Him instead of ourselves; to learn that He knows best and is only waiting for us to turn it over to Him that’s when we can enter His rest:
There are some things that God can’t do and one of them is, “going against our will”; however He can allow things to come to us that will “change our will”
Isn’t that great?? He loves us enough to wait for our mind to change so He can help us!! I don’t think I have that kind of patience;
{I pulled this out of a devotional I get daily by Purpose Driven}
by Jon Walker Devotional for Wed. Feb. 6,2008 Purpose driven life
“Hi! I got your note saying you didn’t think you could do what God is telling you to do.
You may be surprised to hear me say this, but I agree! If God called you to do it, then you shouldn’t be able to do it without him. In fact, if you could do it without him, then it’s really not a God-thing.
I know you’re feeling others could do it better, but what we think doesn’t really matter, does it? God’s mind on the matter – what he thinks – that’s the reality, the Gospel truth we live by. (Colossians 3:3)”
The fact is, God didn’t call other people to this task. He called you!
And he called you in spite of your weaknesses, doubts, and insecurities. In truth, your weaknesses are no surprise to God. You may try to hide them from others, but you can’t hide them from God. He created you; he created you with weaknesses (do you think he made a mistake with you?); he created you with weaknesses in order to keep you on your knees before him.
With you on your knees, dependent upon God, you are able to do all things through him who strengthens you. (Philippians 4:13-14)
Besides, if you’re like me, without these weaknesses to push you back to God, you’ll just get prideful. Wasn’t it our big brother Paul who said, “Now I take limitations in stride …. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.” (2 Corinthians 12:10 MSG)
This is why God won’t allow you to use your weaknesses as an excuse for avoiding your mission or ignoring your purpose. Like the preachers say, “Where God guides, he provides.” If God is calling you to a monumental task, then he’ll equip you to complete the task –and that equipping includes the Holy Spirit working from inside you.
Be confident in this, “he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6 NIV)
What does this mean?
God’s strength flows into your weaknesses – Where you are weak, you become God-strong. “My strength comes into its own in your weakness ….” (2 Cor. 12:9 MSG)
· God’s strength is your focus – Don’t think about how incapable you are for the task. See how immensely capable God is to work through you. As the Veggie Tales character Junior Asparagus sings, “God is bigger than the bogeyman.” He’s bigger than anything you face, no matter how overwhelming it may appear to you. “It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness … and so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.” (2 Cor. 12:9-10 MSG)
· God created you to do good works – “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10 NIV)
God bless, Sister Billie
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Examples of Christ; by Billie
1 Peter 2
1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
This scripture reading was in a devotional I was reading this morning and the thought that God gave me was that we are stones of “God’s” building and we represent Christ. When one of these stones gives others a bad impression it causes them to look at the whole building as bad. No wonder some people say I don’t want anything to do with the church! They think the whole church is like that one stone. It is so important that we, as living stones be a good example; the first verse here says, “laying aside ALL malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy and all evil speaking ; When we start to do or say something we should first of all, think, how will this look on the body of Christ. {John 13:35} (New International Version)
(35) By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
{Prayer} Father I pray that we as your body will live and talk a good example of the body of Christ, in Jesus name, Amen
1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
This scripture reading was in a devotional I was reading this morning and the thought that God gave me was that we are stones of “God’s” building and we represent Christ. When one of these stones gives others a bad impression it causes them to look at the whole building as bad. No wonder some people say I don’t want anything to do with the church! They think the whole church is like that one stone. It is so important that we, as living stones be a good example; the first verse here says, “laying aside ALL malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy and all evil speaking ; When we start to do or say something we should first of all, think, how will this look on the body of Christ. {John 13:35} (New International Version)
(35) By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
{Prayer} Father I pray that we as your body will live and talk a good example of the body of Christ, in Jesus name, Amen
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
being a good steward
In Matthew 25:14-30 Jesus tells the parable of the talents and likens it to the Kingdom of God; In the parable the owner leaves everything he owns to his servants and requires them to continue with the job he started. He only required them to do according to their ability. It's interesting to note that the only one who didn't do his job was the one that least was required of him? Why? He said "he was afraid" Why do you think he was afraid? He was only asked to do a little bit! Fear is no excuse for not doing, God will not accept that as a reason. I believe that every worry and problem and anxiety in our life is based on fear; the Bible says perfect love,(Gods love) will cast out fear, so none of us (christians)have that as an excuse. Remember God has promised to be with us in "every" trouble. Just believe that and trust Him.
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