7/16/25

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Gathering With Purpose

[Luk 8:16-18 NKJV] 16 "No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts [it] under a bed, but sets [it] on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. 17 "For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor [anything] hidden that will not be known and come to light. 18 "Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him [more] will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him."

AMP

So be careful how you listen; for whoever has [a teachable heart], to him more [understanding] will be given; and whoever does not have [a longing for truth], even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.”

[Heb 10:24-25 AMP] 24 and let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds, 25 not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ's return] approaching.

Dealing With Delay

[Num 14:6-11, 24 NLT] 6 Two of the men who had explored the land, Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, tore their clothing. 7 They said to all the people of Israel, "The land we traveled through and explored is a wonderful land! 8 And if the LORD is pleased with us, he will bring us safely into that land and give it to us. It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey. 9 Do not rebel against the LORD, and don't be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the LORD is with us! Don't be afraid of them!" 10 But the whole community began to talk about stoning Joshua and Caleb. Then the glorious presence of the LORD appeared to all the Israelites at the Tabernacle. 11 And the LORD said to Moses, "How long will these people treat me with contempt? Will they never believe me, even after all the miraculous signs I have done among them? … 24 But my servant Caleb has a different attitude than the others have. He has remained loyal to me, so I will bring him into the land he explored. His descendants will possess their full share of that land.

Types of Delay

• Divine Delay
• Delay due to your own disobedience or mistakes
• Delay due to the actions of others

Never underestimate the power of a delay. Decide in your heart to take advantage of the delay believing in God's preserving power and ability to fulfill His promises.

[Jos 14:6-14 NLT] 6 A delegation from the tribe of Judah, led by Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, came to Joshua at Gilgal. Caleb said to Joshua, "Remember what the LORD said to Moses, the man of God, about you and me when we were at Kadesh-barnea. 7 I was forty years old when Moses, the servant of the LORD, sent me from Kadesh-barnea to explore the land of Canaan. I returned and gave an honest report, 8 but my brothers who went with me frightened the people from entering the Promised Land. For my part, I wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God. 9 So that day Moses solemnly promised me, 'The land of Canaan on which you were just walking will be your grant of land and that of your descendants forever, because you wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God.' 10 "Now, as you can see, the LORD has kept me alive and well as he promised for all these forty-five years since Moses made this promise--even while Israel wandered in the wilderness. Today I am eighty-five years old. 11 I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then. 12 So give me the hill country that the LORD promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there in great, walled towns. But if the LORD is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the LORD said." 13 So Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave Hebron to him as his portion of land. 14 Hebron still belongs to the descendants of Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite because he wholeheartedly followed the LORD, the God of Israel.

[Jos 21:43-45 NLT] 43 So the LORD gave to Israel all the land he had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. 44 And the LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had solemnly promised their ancestors. None of their enemies could stand against them, for the LORD helped them conquer all their enemies. 45 Not a single one of all the good promises the LORD had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true.

7/13/25

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1Co 12:1, 4-7 (NKJV)

Now concerning spiritual [gifts], brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: … 4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit [of all]:

activities – operations

John 4:13-14 (NLT)

Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.“

spring – fountain – well – it also carries the meaning of a source or supply.

Eph 4:11-16 (NKJV)

And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head–Christ– 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

Hebrews 10:23-25 (NLT) 23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Psalms 133:1-3 (NLT) 1 A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem. A psalm of David. How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 2 For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. 3 Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.

1 Corinthians 12:26-31 (NLT) 26 If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. 27 All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it. 28 Here are some of the parts God has appointed for the church: first are apostles, second are prophets, third are teachers, then those who do miracles, those who have the gift of healing, those who can help others, those who have the gift of leadership, those who speak in unknown languages. 29 Are we all apostles? Are we all prophets? Are we all teachers? Do we all have the power to do miracles? 30 Do we all have the gift of healing? Do we all have the ability to speak in unknown languages? Do we all have the ability to interpret unknown languages? Of course not! 31 So you should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts. But now let me show you a way of life that is best of all.

“Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread. So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover. Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NKJV‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/114/act.12.1-5.NKJV

7/9/25

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1Co 12:1, 4-7 (NKJV)

Now concerning spiritual [gifts], brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: … 4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit [of all]:

activities - operations

John 4:13-14 (NLT)

Jesus replied, "Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life."

spring - fountain - well - it also carries the meaning of a source or supply.

Eph 4:11-16 (NKJV)

And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

Phl 1:19 (NKJV)

For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

2 Pe 1:5 (NKJV)

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,

The Greek word for "add" here is the root word for supply in the previous two verses.

1 Co 12:18-20, 22-27 (NKJV)

But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. 19 And if they were all one member, where [would] the body [be]? 20 But now indeed [there are] many members, yet one body. … 22 No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. 23 And those [members] of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable [parts] have greater modesty, 24 but our presentable [parts] have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that [part] which lacks it, 25 that there should be no schism in the body, but [that] the members should have the same care for one another. 26 And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with [it]; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with [it]. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.

7/6/25

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Exo 17:1-7 (NLT)

At the LORD's command, the whole community of Israel left the wilderness of Sin and moved from place to place. Eventually they camped at Rephidim, but there was no water there for the people to drink. 2 So once more the people complained against Moses. "Give us water to drink!" they demanded. "Quiet!" Moses replied. "Why are you complaining against me? And why are you testing the LORD?" 3 But tormented by thirst, they continued to argue with Moses. "Why did you bring us out of Egypt? Are you trying to kill us, our children, and our livestock with thirst?" 4 Then Moses cried out to the LORD, "What should I do with these people? They are ready to stone me!" 5 The LORD said to Moses, "Walk out in front of the people. Take your staff, the one you used when you struck the water of the Nile, and call some of the elders of Israel to join you. 6 I will stand before you on the rock at Mount Sinai. Strike the rock, and water will come gushing out. Then the people will be able to drink." So Moses struck the rock as he was told, and water gushed out as the elders looked on. 7 Moses named the place Massah (which means "test") and Meribah (which means "arguing") because the people of Israel argued with Moses and tested the LORD by saying, "Is the LORD here with us or not?"

Psa 105:41 (NLT)

He split open a rock, and water gushed out to form a river through the dry wasteland.

The amount of water flowing in a river per day varies greatly, but a small river may discharge around 50 million gallons a day, while the Mississippi River discharges billions of gallons per day.

Isa 43:19 (NLT)

For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

Isa 41:18-20 (NLT)

I will open up rivers for them on the high plateaus. I will give them fountains of water in the valleys. I will fill the desert with pools of water. Rivers fed by springs will flow across the parched ground. 19 I will plant trees in the barren desert--cedar, acacia, myrtle, olive, cypress, fir, and pine. 20 I am doing this so all who see this miracle will understand what it means--that it is the LORD who has done this, the Holy One of Israel who created it.

The flowing of rivers change the landscape and bring life. Trees planted by rivers thrive and flourish. God wants rivers to flow from you. He wants you to bring life wherever you go. It is part of having influential faith. The rivers do not always flow automatically from you.

Jhn 4:4-30 (NLT)

He had to go through Samaria on the way. 5 Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob's well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. 7 Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, "Please give me a drink." 8 He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. 9 The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, "You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?" 10 Jesus replied, "If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water." 11 "But sir, you don't have a rope or a bucket," she said, "and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? 12 And besides, do you think you're greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?" 13 Jesus replied, "Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." 15 "Please, sir," the woman said, "give me this water! Then I'll never be thirsty again, and I won't have to come here to get water." 16 "Go and get your husband," Jesus told her. 17 "I don't have a husband," the woman replied. Jesus said, "You're right! You don't have a husband -- 18 for you have had five husbands, and you aren't even married to the man you're living with now. You certainly spoke the truth!" 19 "Sir," the woman said, "you must be a prophet. 20 So tell me, why is it that you Jews insist that Jerusalem is the only place of worship, while we Samaritans claim it is here at Mount Gerizim, where our ancestors worshiped?" 21 Jesus replied, "Believe me, dear woman, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem. 22 You Samaritans know very little about the one you worship, while we Jews know all about him, for salvation comes through the Jews. 23 But the time is coming--indeed it's here now--when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. 24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth." 25 The woman said, "I know the Messiah is coming--the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us." 26 Then Jesus told her, "I AM the Messiah!" 27 Just then his disciples came back. They were shocked to find him talking to a woman, but none of them had the nerve to ask, "What do you want with her?" or "Why are you talking to her?" 28 The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone, 29 "Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?" 30 So the people came streaming from the village to see him.

Jhn 7:37-39 NKJV)

On the last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 "He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." 39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet [given], because Jesus was not yet glorified.

The process of becoming a river is a process of continually coming to Jesus and drinking of the Spirit.

Psa 1:1-3 (NLT)

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

They are planted and become rooted due to their meditation. What is biblical mediation? It means to study, think, ponder, imagine, and say.

Psa 46:4 (NKJV)

[There is] a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy [place] of the tabernacle of the Most High.

Act 17:10-12 (NASB20)

The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 Now these people were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily [to see] whether these things were so. 12 Therefore, many of them believed, along with a significant number of prominent Greek women and men.

7/2/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

2 Pe 1:5-7 (NKJV)

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

knowledge - general intelligence, understanding, moral wisdom (such as seen in right living), the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this belief system, such as belongs to the more advanced

self-control (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, esp. his sensual appetites

Renner - pictures a person who is fully in command of his will, his urges, and his emotions. It is the idea of self-control and discipline. It is self restraint. 

perseverance - steadfastness, patience, cheerful and hopeful endurance, constancy, persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success,

"in the NT the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings"

godliness - piety toward God, reverence, respect

This is the Greek word used to translate the Hebrew word for "fear" in Proverbs 1:7.

brotherly kindness - the love that exists between siblings, in the NT, this word is used to communicate how believers are supposed to love each other like family.

2Pe 1:8-11 (NKJV)

For if these things are yours and abound, [you] will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

abound - these qualities should be in you and always increasing

Is your knowledge producing?

Jhn 15:8 (NLT)

When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

What happens when you are shortsighted?

What happens when you forget you were cleansed from your old sins?

sure - firm

stumble - fall

An entrance will be supplied or ministered to you.

6/29/25

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Daniel 1:1-2 (NLT)

During the third year of King Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah,^[a] King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. ² The Lord gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of Judah and permitted him to take some of the sacred objects from the Temple of God. So Nebuchadnezzar took them back to the land of Babylonia^[b] and placed them in the treasure-house of his god.

For a deep dive into the Book of Daniel, watch our Midweek Series later today.

Sacred objects - the vessels used in temple of the Lord. These were made of gold and silver. They were so valuable, Nebuchadnezzar put them in the treasury of his god.

Imagine this - the holy taken and placed among the unholy.

What does it mean to be holy? It means to be set a part. These objects and vessels were set apart for exclusive use in God's temple.

Daniel 1:3-7 (NLT)

Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah’s royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives. ⁴ “Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men,” he said. “Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon.^[c]” ⁵ The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service.

⁶ Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah. ⁷ The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names:

Daniel was called Belteshazzar.
Hananiah was called Shadrach.
Mishael was called Meshach.
Azariah was called Abednego.

I submit to you this - the objects weren't the only holy vessels taken from Jerusalem and placed among the unholy. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, Azariah were living holy vessels to the Lord!

They were only 15 years old when they were taken from Jerusalem to Babylon.

2Ti 2:19-23 (NKJV)

Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.

Notice, the choice of the type of vessel you are is not on God, it's on you.

Daniel 1:8-16

But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. ⁹ Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. ¹⁰ But he responded, “I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded.”

¹¹ Daniel spoke with the attendant who had been appointed by the chief of staff to look after Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. ¹² “Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water,” Daniel said. ¹³ “At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king’s food. Then make your decision in light of what you see.” ¹⁴ The attendant agreed to Daniel’s suggestion and tested them for ten days.

¹⁵ At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. ¹⁶ So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others.

Why didn't he eat the kings food? Outside of it being dedicated to false gods, it was food he couldn't eat and also food prepared in a way that was contrary to God's Word.

God gave Daniel favor. God's favor will cause policies and laws to be changed for your good.

God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams.

Daniel 1:18-21

¹⁸ When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. ¹⁹ The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service. ²⁰ Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom.

²¹ Daniel remained in the royal service until the first year of the reign of King Cyrus.^[d]

Daniel served over 70 years in Babylon. He outlasted emperors and empires.

Then Daniel returned an answer which was full of prudence and wisdom to Arioch the captain or executioner of the king’s guard, who had gone forth to slay the wise men of Babylon.

Daniel 2:15-28, 46 - 49 (AMPC)

¹⁵ He said to Arioch, the king’s captain, Why is the decree so urgent and hasty from the king? Then Arioch explained the matter to Daniel.

¹⁶ And Daniel went in and desired of the king that he would set a date and give him time, and he would show the king the interpretation.

¹⁷ Then Daniel went to his house and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions,

¹⁸ So that they would desire and request mercy of the God of heaven concerning this secret, that Daniel and his companions should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.

¹⁹ Then the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision of the night, and Daniel blessed the God of heaven.

²⁰ Daniel answered, Blessed be the name of God forever and ever! For wisdom and might are His!

²¹ He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding!

²² He reveals the deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with Him!

²³ I thank You and praise You, O God of my fathers, Who has given me wisdom and might and has made known to me now what we desired of You, for You have made known to us the solution to the king’s problem.

²⁴ Therefore Daniel went to Arioch, whom the king had appointed to destroy the wise men of Babylon; he went and said thus to him: Do not destroy the wise men of Babylon! Bring me in before the king, and I will show to the king the interpretation.

²⁵ Then Arioch brought in Daniel before the king in haste and said thus to him: I have found a man of the captives of Judah who will make known to the king the interpretation [of his dream].

²⁶ The king said to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, Are you able to make known to me the dream which I have seen and the interpretation of it?

²⁷ Daniel answered the king, The [mysterious] secret which the king has demanded neither the wise men, enchanters, magicians, nor astrologers can show the king,

²⁸ But there is a God in heaven Who reveals secrets, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what it is that shall be in the latter days (at the end of days). Your dream and the visions in your head upon your bed are these:

Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face and paid homage to Daniel [as a great prophet of the highest God] and ordered that an offering and incense should be offered up to him [in honor of his God].

⁴⁷ The king answered Daniel, Of a truth your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a Revealer of secret mysteries, seeing that you could reveal this secret mystery!

⁴⁸ Then the king made Daniel great and gave him many great gifts, and he made him to rule over the whole province of Babylon and to be chief governor over all the wise men of Babylon.

⁴⁹ And Daniel requested of the king and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego over the affairs of the province of Babylon. But Daniel remained in the gate of the king [at the king’s court].

Daniel 3:14-30

 Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the gold image which I have set up? ¹⁵ Now if you are ready at the time you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre, and psaltery, in symphony with all kinds of music, and you fall down and worship the image which I have made, good! But if you do not worship, you shall be cast immediately into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you from my hands?”

¹⁶ Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. ¹⁷ If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. ¹⁸ But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

¹⁹ Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the expression on his face changed toward Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. He spoke and commanded that they heat the furnace seven times more than it was usually heated. ²⁰ And he commanded certain mighty men of valor who were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, and cast them into the burning fiery furnace. ²¹ Then these men were bound in their coats, their trousers, their turbans, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. ²² Therefore, because the king’s command was ^[c]urgent, and the furnace exceedingly hot, the flame of the fire killed those men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. ²³ And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

²⁴ Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished; and he rose in haste and spoke, saying to his ^[d]counselors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?”

They answered and said to the king, “True, O king.”

²⁵ “Look!” he answered, “I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the^[e] Son of God.”

²⁶ Then Nebuchadnezzar went near the ^[f]mouth of the burning fiery furnace and spoke, saying, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come here.” Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego came from the midst of the fire. ²⁷ And the satraps, administrators, governors, and the king’s counselors gathered together, and they saw these men on whose bodies the fire had no power; the hair of their head was not singed nor were their garments affected, and the smell of fire was not on them.

²⁸ Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, who sent His Angel^[g] and delivered His servants who trusted in Him, and they have frustrated the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they should not serve nor worship any god except their own God! ²⁹ Therefore I make a decree that any people, nation, or language which speaks anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made an ash heap; because there is no other God who can deliver like this.”

³⁰ Then the king ^[h]promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego in the province of Babylon.

Daniel 6:1-28 (NLT)

^]Darius the Mede decided to divide the kingdom into 120 provinces, and he appointed a high officer to rule over each province. ² The king also chose Daniel and two others as administrators to supervise the high officers and protect the king’s interests. ³ Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers. Because of Daniel’s great ability, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire.

⁴ Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. ⁵ So they concluded, “Our only chance of finding grounds for accusing Daniel will be in connection with the rules of his religion.”

⁶ So the administrators and high officers went to the king and said, “Long live King Darius! ⁷ We are all in agreement—we administrators, officials, high officers, advisers, and governors—that the king should make a law that will be strictly enforced. Give orders that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human—except to you, Your Majesty—will be thrown into the den of lions. ⁸ And now, Your Majesty, issue and sign this law so it cannot be changed, an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked.” ⁹ So King Darius signed the law.

¹⁰ But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God. ¹¹ Then the officials went together to Daniel’s house and found him praying and asking for God’s help. ¹² So they went straight to the king and reminded him about his law. “Did you not sign a law that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human—except to you, Your Majesty—will be thrown into the den of lions?”

“Yes,” the king replied, “that decision stands; it is an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked.”

¹³ Then they told the king, “That man Daniel, one of the captives from Judah, is ignoring you and your law. He still prays to his God three times a day.”

¹⁴ Hearing this, the king was deeply troubled, and he tried to think of a way to save Daniel. He spent the rest of the day looking for a way to get Daniel out of this predicament.

¹⁵ In the evening the men went together to the king and said, “Your Majesty, you know that according to the law of the Medes and the Persians, no law that the king signs can be changed.”

¹⁶ So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to him, “May your God, whom you serve so faithfully, rescue you.”

¹⁷ A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den. The king sealed the stone with his own royal seal and the seals of his nobles, so that no one could rescue Daniel. ¹⁸ Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night fasting. He refused his usual entertainment and couldn’t sleep at all that night.

¹⁹ Very early the next morning, the king got up and hurried out to the lions’ den. ²⁰ When he got there, he called out in anguish, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from the lions?”

²¹ Daniel answered, “Long live the king! ²² My God sent his angel to shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight. And I have not wronged you, Your Majesty.”

²³ The king was overjoyed and ordered that Daniel be lifted from the den. Not a scratch was found on him, for he had trusted in his God.

²⁴ Then the king gave orders to arrest the men who had maliciously accused Daniel. He had them thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. The lions leaped on them and tore them apart before they even hit the floor of the den.

²⁵ Then King Darius sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world:

“Peace and prosperity to you!

²⁶ “I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel.

For he is the living God,
    and he will endure forever.
His kingdom will never be destroyed,
    and his rule will never end.
²⁷ He rescues and saves his people;
    he performs miraculous signs and wonders
    in the heavens and on earth.
He has rescued Daniel
    from the power of the lions.”

²⁸ So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian

Daniel 9:1-4, 21-23 (NLT)

It was the first year of the reign of Darius the Mede, the son of Ahasuerus, who became king of the Babylonians.^[a] 2 During the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, learned from reading the word of the Lord, as revealed to Jeremiah the prophet, that Jerusalem must lie desolate for seventy years.^[b] 3 So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and fasting. I also wore rough burlap and sprinkled myself with ashes.

⁴ I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed:

 As I was praying, Gabriel, whom I had seen in the earlier vision, came swiftly to me at the time of the evening sacrifice. ²² He explained to me, “Daniel, I have come here to give you insight and understanding. ²³ The moment you began praying, a command was given. And now I am here to tell you what it was, for you are very precious to God. Listen carefully so that you can understand the meaning of your vision.

Daniel prayed and God stirred the heart of the empreror.

Ezr 1:1-7 (NLT)

In the first year of King Cyrus of Persia, the LORD fulfilled the prophecy he had given through Jeremiah. He stirred the heart of Cyrus to put this proclamation in writing and to send it throughout his kingdom: 2 "This is what King Cyrus of Persia says: "The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth. He has appointed me to build him a Temple at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. 3 Any of you who are his people may go to Jerusalem in Judah to rebuild this Temple of the LORD, the God of Israel, who lives in Jerusalem. And may your God be with you! 4 Wherever this Jewish remnant is found, let their neighbors contribute toward their expenses by giving them silver and gold, supplies for the journey, and livestock, as well as a voluntary offering for the Temple of God in Jerusalem." 5 Then God stirred the hearts of the priests and Levites and the leaders of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin to go to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple of the LORD. 6 And all their neighbors assisted by giving them articles of silver and gold, supplies for the journey, and livestock. They gave them many valuable gifts in addition to all the voluntary offerings. 7 King Cyrus himself brought out the articles that King Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the LORD's Temple in Jerusalem and had placed in the temple of his own gods.

Daniel 10:1-14 (NLT)

In the third year of the reign of King Cyrus of Persia,^[a] Daniel (also known as Belteshazzar) had another vision. He understood that the vision concerned events certain to happen in the future—times of war and great hardship.

² When this vision came to me, I, Daniel, had been in mourning for three whole weeks. ³ All that time I had eaten no rich food. No meat or wine crossed my lips, and I used no fragrant lotions until those three weeks had passed.

⁴ On April 23,^[b] as I was standing on the bank of the great Tigris River, ⁵ I looked up and saw a man dressed in linen clothing, with a belt of pure gold around his waist. ⁶ His body looked like a precious gem. His face flashed like lightning, and his eyes flamed like torches. His arms and feet shone like polished bronze, and his voice roared like a vast multitude of people.

⁷ Only I, Daniel, saw this vision. The men with me saw nothing, but they were suddenly terrified and ran away to hide. ⁸ So I was left there all alone to see this amazing vision. My strength left me, my face grew deathly pale, and I felt very weak. ⁹ Then I heard the man speak, and when I heard the sound of his voice, I fainted and lay there with my face to the ground.

¹⁰ Just then a hand touched me and lifted me, still trembling, to my hands and knees. ¹¹ And the man said to me, “Daniel, you are very precious to God, so listen carefully to what I have to say to you. Stand up, for I have been sent to you.” When he said this to me, I stood up, still trembling.

¹² Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer. ¹³ But for twenty-one days the spirit prince^[c] of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels,^[d] came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia.^[e] 14 Now I am here to explain what will happen to your people in the future, for this vision concerns a time yet to come.”

Daniel persisted in prayer and angels were released that pushed back the powers of darkness.

Eph 6:10-12 (NKJV)

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual [hosts] of wickedness in the heavenly [places].

2Th 2:6-7 (NLT)

And you know what is holding him back, for he can be revealed only when his time comes. 7 For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way.

Luk 19:13 (KJV)

And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

6/25/25

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Mat 24:1-3 (NKJV)

Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. 2 And Jesus said to them, "Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not [one] stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down." 3 Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be? And what [will be] the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?"

The disciples asked Jesus three questions:

1. When will these things happen to the temple?
2. What will be the sign of Your coming?
3. What will be the sign of the end of the age?

Jesus answers all three questions in this chapter (as well as the parallel accounts in Luke 21 and Mark 13).

Mat 24:4-8 (NKJV)

And Jesus answered and said to them: "Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 "For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many. 6 "And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all [these things] must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 "All these [are] the beginning of sorrows.

Mat 24:6-8 (NLT)

And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don't panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won't follow immediately. 7 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. 8 But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come.

What are the first two things Jesus instructs us? Don't be deceived and don't panic.

What is the deception? To follow someone else other than Jesus.

What is the cause of panic? The wars and rumors of war.

Isaiah 33:6

Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, And the strength of salvation; The fear of the LORD is His treasure.

Remember, God's peace is your position not panic.

Jhn 14:27 (NKJV)

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

(AMPC)

Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]

nation - ethnicities - ethnic strife

sorrows - labor pains, birth pains

When a woman is in labor, the contractions can begin way in advance. But as the time for the baby to be born draws closer, the contractions increase in frequency and intensity.

The end is not yet/ won't follow immediately - the end of what? Time? No! The end of the age.

We are in the closing days of the Church age. Even if Jesus were to come back tonight, it still wouldn't be the end of time. You would still have the time of the tribulation and the 1000 year reign. Time is not close to being over. We are approaching an age change.

Mat 24:28 (NLT)

28 Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near.

Mat 24:28, 32-51 (NLT)

Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branches bud and its leaves begin to sprout, you know that summer is near. 33 In the same way, when you see all these things, you can know his return is very near, right at the door. 34 I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene until all these things take place. 35 Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear. 36 "However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. 37 "When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah's day. 38 In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. 39 People didn't realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. 40 "Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left. 42 "So you, too, must keep watch! For you don't know what day your Lord is coming. 43 Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. 44 You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. 45 "A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. 46 If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. 47 I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. 48 But what if the servant is evil and thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' 49 and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? 50 The master will return unannounced and unexpected, 51 and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Luk 19:13 (KJV)

And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

1 Thess 4:13-18 (NKJV)

But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen [b]asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who [c]sleep in Jesus.

15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are [d]asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.

6/22/25

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Gen 37:5-6 (NKJV)

Now Joseph had a dream, and he told [it] to his brothers; and they hated him even more. 6 So he said to them, "Please hear this dream which I have dreamed:

Psa 105:17-21 (NKJV)

He sent a man before them--Joseph--[who] was sold as a slave. 18 They hurt his feet with fetters, He was laid in irons. 19 Until the time that his word came to pass, The word of the LORD tested him. 20 The king sent and released him, The ruler of the people let him go free. 21 He made him lord of his house, And ruler of all his possessions,

sent - he was commissioned and empowered, similar to the word for apostles being sent in the Greek.

He was sent, but he was hurt

tested - refined

Gen 50:19-21 (MSG)

Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid. Do I act for God? Don’t you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good, as you see all around you right now—life for many people. Easy now, you have nothing to fear; I’ll take care of you and your children.” He reassured them, speaking with them heart-to-heart.

1Ti 1:18 (NKJV)

This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare,

Eph 3:20 (NKJV)

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,

Eph 3:20 (MSG)

God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

6/18/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

2 Peter 1:5-6 (NKJV) 5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

knowledge - general intelligence, understanding, moral wisdom (such as seen in right living), the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this belief system, such as belongs to the more advanced

self-control (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, esp. his sensual appetites

Renner - pictures a person who is fully in command of his will, his urges, and his emotions. It is the idea of self-control and discipline. It is self restraint. 

perseverance - steadfastness, patience, cheerful and hopeful endurance, constancy, persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success,

"in the NT the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings"

godliness - piety toward God, reverence, respect, reverential awe

This is the Greek word used to translate the Hebrew word for "fear" in Proverbs 1:7.

2Pe 1:7-11 (NKJV)

to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are yours and abound, [you] will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

brotherly kindness - the love that exists between siblings, in the NT, this word is used to communicate how believers are supposed to love each other like family.

Rom 12:10 (NKJV)

10 [Be] kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;

AMP

Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor;

1Th 4:9 (NKJV)

But concerning brotherly love you have no need that I should write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another;

1Th 4:9-10 (NLT)

But we don't need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.

2Th 1:3 (NLT)

Dear brothers and sisters, we can't help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing.

Phl 1:8-9 (NLT)

8 God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus. 9 I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.

1Co 13:4-7 (NLT)

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

6/15/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Matthew 6:25-33 (NKJV)

25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 “Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 “and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 “Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, [will He] not much more [clothe] you, O you of little faith? 31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 “For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

do not worry - do not be anxious, do not allow these thoughts to dominate your mind

James 1:2-8 (NKJV)

2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have [its] perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

James 1:13-17 (NKJV)

13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

comes down - like a thundershower

James 1:17 (RIV)

You need to know that everything given by God is always good, beneficial, and profitable. Make no mistake, this is what God always habitually and perpetually gives. Even more, everything bestowed on us by Him will never subtract from our lives, but whatever He gives adds to our lives. It advances us, completes us, matures us, and perfects us. This is what comes from heaven! And it comes pouring down from the Father, whose specialty is imparting life and who is known of light that dispels every hint of darkness. If you draw near to His side, you’ll find that with Him there is absolutely no inconsistency on the question of what He gives and what He never gives. You see, He’s not like a shadow on a sundial that’s constantly changing because the sun’s position is always moving around. Instead, on the question of what He gives and what He never gives, God’s position is so absolutely fixed that He never budges.

God gives gifts and rewards.

Matthew 6:1-18 (NLT)

1 “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. 2 When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do--blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. 3 But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. 4 Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. 5 “When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. 6 But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. 7 “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. 8 Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! 9 Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. 10 May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today the food we need, 12 and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. 13 And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. 14 “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. 15 But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. 16 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.

Psa 68:19 (NKJV)

Blessed [be] the Lord, [Who] daily loads us [with benefits], The God of our salvation! Selah

The Hebrew word paints the picture of a person who loads something somewhere and a person who removes a load. Our God does both for us if we let Him!

We cast our cares and burdens on Him and He loads us up with His benefits.

We have a habit of carrying and holding onto the wrong things. It's time to drop the weight and carry the benefits.

Psa 37:3-5 (NKJV)

Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring [it] to pass.

Commit - roll your burdens

Psa 55:22 (NLT)
Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.

6/11/25

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Next week, plan to join us for our Father's Day Cookout immediately following the Experience. We have lunch covered, so make sure you plan a wonderful dinner to celebrate the Dads in your life.

The Rhythm of Rest book and launch team package is now available for pre-order! Proceeds for sales will help build the next phase of Faith Park! Pre-order your copy today!

Catch Up On This Series Via Podcast & YouTube

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

2 Peter 1:5-6 (NKJV) 5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

knowledge - general intelligence, understanding, moral wisdom (such as seen in right living), the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this belief system, such as belongs to the more advanced

self-control (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, esp. his sensual appetites

Renner - pictures a person who is fully in command of his will, his urges, and his emotions. It is the idea of self-control and discipline. It is self restraint. 

perseverance - steadfastness, patience, cheerful and hopeful endurance, constancy, persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success,

"in the NT the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings"

godliness - piety toward God, reverence, respect

This is the Greek word used to translate the Hebrew word for "fear" in Proverbs 1:7.

Pro 1:7 (NKJV)

The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge, [But] fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Pro 2:1-6 (NKJV)

My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, 2 So that you incline your ear to wisdom, [And] apply your heart to understanding; 3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment, [And] lift up your voice for understanding, 4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as [for] hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth [come] knowledge and understanding;

Receive - take it, grab it, accept it

incline - hear and be attentive to

apply - stretch out, extend, and incline

Cry after & lift up your voice - pray

seek/desire - search

Understanding the fear of the Lord is a process and a lifestyle that brings wonderful benefits such as extended life (Proverbs 10:27) and protection for your children (Proverbs 14:26). It is a fountain of life (Proverbs 14:27), it will cause you to live a satisfying life (Proverbs 19:23), and bring riches to your life. (Proverbs 22:4)

Homework

With what we covered tonight, apply the lessons we covered in the last two Sundays with these discussion questions, takeaways, and practical applications:

"Cleaning Out The Closet Of Your Soul: Align Your Faith With God's Plan"

Key Takeaways:

1. Faith works for anyone who is willing to work it, regardless of circumstances.
2. Our prayers, goals, and vision should align with God's plan for our lives.
3. Unforgiveness, grudges, and wrong motives can hinder our faith and prayers.
4. We need to regularly inventory our souls and clean out the "closets."
5. Faith comes by hearing and meditating on God's Word.

Discussion Questions:

1. Pastor Butler used the analogy of cleaning out a closet. What "outfits" or mindsets in your spiritual closet might be outdated or no longer fit who you are in Christ?
2. The sermon emphasized aligning our prayers with God's will. How can we discern God's will for our lives? Share experiences where you felt your prayers were in line with God's plan.
3. How has unforgiveness or holding grudges affected your faith journey? What steps can we take to forgive and let go?
4. Pastor Kerrick mentioned that some people have more faith in government or other sources than in God. Where do you find yourself placing your trust most often? How can we cultivate greater trust in God?
5. Discuss the concept of being "double-minded" versus "single-minded" in faith. How does this apply to your life?
6. The sermon touched on examining our motives for what we want. Share an experience where you realized your motives for wanting something weren't aligned with God's purposes.

Practical Applications:

1. Write a prayer petition: Choose something you're believing God for and write out a specific prayer, including relevant scriptures. Commit to praying and thanking God for it daily.
2. Media fast: Identify any media sources (news, social media, etc.) that might be negatively impacting your faith. Commit to a 1-week fast from these sources, replacing that time with scripture reading or prayer.
3. Forgiveness exercise: Write down names of people you need to forgive. Pray for each person, asking God to help you release any grudges or unforgiveness.
4. Motive check: For your current goals or desires, write down honest answers to "What do I want?" and "Why do I want it?" Pray over these, asking God to reveal and purify your motives.
5. Word meditation: Choose a faith-building scripture from the sermon (or elsewhere). Commit to meditating on it daily for the next week, perhaps even memorizing it.
6. Accountability: Partner with someone in the group to check in weekly about your progress in "cleaning out the closet of your soul" and growing in faith.

"Who's on the Throne of Your Soul?"

Key Takeaways:

1. The throne of your soul represents what controls your mind, will, and emotions.
2. Unchecked desires can crowd out God's place in our lives, even if they're not inherently sinful.
3. Seeking God's kingdom first requires continual effort and realignment of our priorities.
4. Following God's plan may require "dying" to our own desires, but the rewards are greater than the cost.
5. God's calling and promises remain valid, even if we've made mistakes or gotten off track.

Discussion Questions:

1. Pastor Kerrick asks, "Who is sitting on the throne of your soul?" How would you answer this question for yourself right now?
2. The sermon mentions that sometimes it's not bad things, but "other things" that can crowd God out of first place in our lives. What are some examples of "other things" that might be competing for priority in your life?
3. How do you distinguish between your own desires and God's will for your life? Can you share an experience where you had to choose between the two?
4. Pastor Kerrick shares his personal story of choosing God's direction over several attractive job offers. Have you ever had to make a similar decision? What was that experience like?
5. What does it mean to you to "die daily" to your own desires, as mentioned in the sermon? How can we practically apply this concept?
6. The sermon emphasizes the importance of continually aiming at and striving after God's kingdom. What are some practical ways we can keep ourselves focused on God's plan day-to-day?
7. How do you respond to the idea that the rewards of following God's plan are always greater than the cost? Do you find this encouraging or challenging?

Practical Applications:

1. Daily Check-in: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what's occupying your thoughts and priorities. Ask yourself, "Is God on the throne of my soul today?"
2. Desire Inventory: Make a list of your current desires and ambitions. Pray over this list, asking God to reveal which align with His will and which may need to be "put to death."
3. Vision Board: Create a visual representation of God's calling and promises for your life. Use this as a reminder to keep aiming at His kingdom first.
4. Accountability Partnership: Partner with someone to regularly check in on how you're prioritizing God's will over your own desires.
5. Gratitude Journal: Start a journal where you record instances of God's faithfulness and the rewards of following His plan. This can serve as encouragement during challenging times.
6. Scripture Memorization: Choose key verses from the sermon (e.g., Matthew 6:33) to memorize and meditate on throughout the week.
7. Act of Surrender: Identify one area where you've been resistant to God's leading. Take a concrete step this week to surrender that area to Him.

6/8/25

Have you become a member of the Faith Family yet? If not join today by clicking this link!

Don't miss our Faith in the Morning newsletter! Sign up for free at this link!

Next week, plan to join us for our Father's Day Cookout immediately following the Experience. We have lunch covered, so make sure you plan a wonderful dinner to celebrate the Dads in your life.

The Rhythm of Rest book and launch team package is now available for pre-order! Proceeds for sales will help build the next phase of Faith Park! Pre-order your copy today!

Catch Up On This Series Via Podcast & YouTube

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

What is on the throne of your soul? Are you playing musical chairs with God? The Word of God must be first and final authority in your life.

Your soul is your mind, will, and control center of your emotions.

Jas 4:1-3 (NLT)

What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don't they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2 You want what you don't have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can't get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don't have what you want because you don't ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don't get it because your motives are all wrong--you want only what will give you pleasure.

Why do you want what you want?

Mar 4:19-20 (NKJV)

"and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 "But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept [it], and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred."

choke - crowd out

When you God speaks to you, are you following Him or your emotions, your contrary thoughts, or your desires for other things?

Rom 12:1-2 (NLT)

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2 Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

1Jo 5:14-15 (NKJV)

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Pray in the direction of the will of God for your life.

Cast goals and set your vision in the direction of the will of God for your life.

Set your imagination in the direction of the will of God for your life.

God's Word is His will. When we pray for anything, we need to make sure it is based in His Word and His will for our lives.

Gal 5:16, 24-25 (NLT)

16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. … 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.

Rom 8:12-15 (NLT)

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. 13 For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15 So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, "Abba, Father."

2Ki 4:8-37 (NLT)

One day Elisha went to the town of Shunem. A wealthy woman lived there, and she urged him to come to her home for a meal. After that, whenever he passed that way, he would stop there for something to eat. 9 She said to her husband, "I am sure this man who stops in from time to time is a holy man of God. 10 Let's build a small room for him on the roof and furnish it with a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp. Then he will have a place to stay whenever he comes by." 11 One day Elisha returned to Shunem, and he went up to this upper room to rest. 12 He said to his servant Gehazi, "Tell the woman from Shunem I want to speak to her." When she appeared, 13 Elisha said to Gehazi, "Tell her, 'We appreciate the kind concern you have shown us. What can we do for you? Can we put in a good word for you to the king or to the commander of the army?'" "No," she replied, "my family takes good care of me." 14 Later Elisha asked Gehazi, "What can we do for her?" Gehazi replied, "She doesn't have a son, and her husband is an old man." 15 "Call her back again," Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway, 16 "Next year at this time you will be holding a son in your arms!" "No, my lord!" she cried. "O man of God, don't deceive me and get my hopes up like that." 17 But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said. 18 One day when her child was older, he went out to help his father, who was working with the harvesters. 19 Suddenly he cried out, "My head hurts! My head hurts!" His father said to one of the servants, "Carry him home to his mother." 20 So the servant took him home, and his mother held him on her lap. But around noontime he died. 21 She carried him up and laid him on the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and left him there. 22 She sent a message to her husband: "Send one of the servants and a donkey so that I can hurry to the man of God and come right back." 23 "Why go today?" he asked. "It is neither a new moon festival nor a Sabbath." But she said, "It will be all right." 24 So she saddled the donkey and said to the servant, "Hurry! Don't slow down unless I tell you to." 25 As she approached the man of God at Mount Carmel, Elisha saw her in the distance. He said to Gehazi, "Look, the woman from Shunem is coming. 26 Run out to meet her and ask her, 'Is everything all right with you, your husband, and your child?'" "Yes," the woman told Gehazi, "everything is fine." 27 But when she came to the man of God at the mountain, she fell to the ground before him and caught hold of his feet. Gehazi began to push her away, but the man of God said, "Leave her alone. She is deeply troubled, but the LORD has not told me what it is." 28 Then she said, "Did I ask you for a son, my lord? And didn't I say, 'Don't deceive me and get my hopes up'?" 29 Then Elisha said to Gehazi, "Get ready to travel; take my staff and go! Don't talk to anyone along the way. Go quickly and lay the staff on the child's face." 30 But the boy's mother said, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I won't go home unless you go with me." So Elisha returned with her. 31 Gehazi hurried on ahead and laid the staff on the child's face, but nothing happened. There was no sign of life. He returned to meet Elisha and told him, "The child is still dead." 32 When Elisha arrived, the child was indeed dead, lying there on the prophet's bed. 33 He went in alone and shut the door behind him and prayed to the LORD. 34 Then he lay down on the child's body, placing his mouth on the child's mouth, his eyes on the child's eyes, and his hands on the child's hands. And as he stretched out on him, the child's body began to grow warm again! 35 Elisha got up, walked back and forth across the room once, and then stretched himself out again on the child. This time the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes! 36 Then Elisha summoned Gehazi. "Call the child's mother!" he said. And when she came in, Elisha said, "Here, take your son!" 37 She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.

The woman made room for God. When she made room, she set herself up for a future miracle. A desire she had set aside became hers because she made room. The room also sustained the miracle. Do you need to make room today?

Matthew 6:25-33 (AMPC)

Therefore I tell you, stop being ^[v]perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing?

²⁶ Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they?

²⁷ And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his stature or to the ^[w]span of his life?

²⁸ And why should you be anxious about clothes? Consider the lilies of the field and ^[x]learn thoroughly how they grow; they neither toil nor spin.

²⁹ Yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his ^[y]magnificence (excellence, dignity, and grace) was not arrayed like one of these.

³⁰ But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and green and tomorrow is tossed into the furnace, will He not much more surely clothe you, O you of little faith?

³¹ Therefore do not worry and be anxious, saying, What are we going to have to eat? or, What are we going to have to drink? or, What are we going to have to wear?

³² For the Gentiles (heathen) wish for and crave and diligently seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows well that you need them all.

³³ But seek (^[z]aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (^[aa]His way of doing and being right), and then all these things ^[ab]taken together will be given you besides.

We have to continue to strive and aim at keeping God and His Word first place in our soul and our life.

6/4/25

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Men, join us for Men of Faith Monday tomorrow night! Register to let us know you're coming!

The Rhythm of Rest book and launch team package is now available for pre-order! Proceeds for sales will help build the next phase of Faith Park! Pre-order your copy today!

Catch Up On This Series Via Podcast & YouTube

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

1Jo 5:14-15 (NKJV)

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Pray in the direction of the will of God for your life.

Cast goals and set your vision in the direction of the will of God for your life.

Set your imagination in the direction of the will of God for your life.

God's Word is His will. When we pray for anything, we need to make sure it is based in His Word and His will for our lives.

petition - request, what you ask for, what you require, petitions can also be written, another definition is a formal written request addressed to a sovereign superior for a particular right or grace.

Mark 11:24 (NKJV)

24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them].

Phl 4:6-7 (NKJV)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

The word for requests is the same word for petition.

Remember, prayer is not complete until you take time to listen. As you are writing your prayer of petition, take time to consult the Holy Spirit. Listen to what He says as you prepare your request.

Jhn 15:7 (NKJV)

"If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.

Write your prayer petition, pray your prayer petition, and post your prayer petition in a place where you can see. Every day, walk by it, put your hand on it and thank God that it is done and that it is yours.

PRAYER OF PETITION Examples

Father, in the Name of Jesus, I come before Your throne and present this Prayer of Petition made based on Your Word.

According to John 16:23 (AMPC), Jesus said, “I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that My Father will grant you whatever you ask in My Name.”

Jesus said in Mark 11:24 (AMPC), “...whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it].”

According to Matthew 18:18, I bind Satan and all his forces and render them helpless. They WILL NOT HINDER my request.

The EYES OF THE LORD are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry, and the LORD HEARS and delivers them.

Therefore, according to ______________________________ (write Scripture regarding what you are praying for) and the will of God for my life, I ask for _______________________________________. I receive it, I have it, I thank you for it Father, and I expect it to happen. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The following is an example of a petition for healing:

Be it known this day, ________, at ________(a.m./p.m.), that I receive healing from _______________in my body. No sickness or disease of any kind has a place in my body. So, Father, in the Name of Jesus, I come boldly to the throne of grace and present Your Word.

According to John 16:23, Jesus said You will grant whatever I ask in His Name. In Mark 11:24, You said whatever I ask in prayer, believing I will receive it, will be given to me.

I declare, according to Isaiah 53:5; Psalm 103:2-5; Psalm 91:9-10, 14-16; and 1 Peter 2:24; that Jesus took all my sickness and disease today, tomorrow and forever. I am healed by the blood of the Lamb, and I am protected from all plagues and sickness. I am redeemed from the curse of the law, which includes sickness and disease of any kind (Galatians 3:13).

I bind Satan and all his forces according to Matthew 18:18, and declare they will not hinder me from receiving this promise. I loose my ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:13-14) and charge them to go forth and cause ______________to come into my hands.

I believe in my heart and declare with my mouth that I AM HEALED. I thank You and praise You for healing me of ___________, and I thank You for making me whole.

I believe I receive today. I will not waver or doubt at Your promise, but will stand firm. I praise You and thank You that I am not waiting for this to manifest—I take it right now and hold it in my spiritual hands.

Signature _______________________________ Date________________

6/1/25

Have you become a member of the Faith Family yet? If not join today by clicking this link!

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Men, join us for Men of Faith Monday tomorrow night! Register to let us know you're coming!

The Rhythm of Rest book and launch team package is now available for pre-order! Proceeds for sales will help build the next phase of Faith Park! Pre-order your copy today!

Catch Up On This Series Via Podcast & YouTube

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

1Jo 5:14-15 (NKJV)

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Pray in the direction of the will of God for your life.

Cast goals and set your vision in the direction of the will of God for your life.

Set your imagination in the direction of the will of God for your life.

God's Word is His will. When we pray for anything, we need to make sure it is based in His Word and His will for our lives.

petition - request, what you ask for, what you require, petitions can also be written

Mar 11:20-25 (NKJV)

Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away." 22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them]. 25 "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.

Believe is the action word of faith.

Remember, faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.

Prayer is not what makes faith work. Faith is what makes prayer work. If we are going to pray in faith, we must know what God's Word says about what we are praying for.

Jas 1:5 (NLT)

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

Jas 1:6-8 (NKJV)

But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

Jas 4:1-3 (NLT)

What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don't they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2 You want what you don't have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can't get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don't have what you want because you don't ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don't get it because your motives are all wrong--you want only what will give you pleasure.

Mar 4:19-20 (NKJV)

"and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 "But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept [it], and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred."

5/21/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

2 Peter 1:5-6 (NKJV) 5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

knowledge - general intelligence, understanding, moral wisdom (such as seen in right living), the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this belief system, such as belongs to the more advanced

self-control (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, esp. his sensual appetites

Renner - pictures a person who is fully in command of his will, his urges, and his emotions. It is the idea of self-control and discipline. It is self restraint. 

perseverance - steadfastness, patience, cheerful and hopeful endurance, constancy, persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success,

"in the NT the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings"

Galatians 5:22-25 (NKJV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those [who are] Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Heb 6:10-12 (NKJV)

For God [is] not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, [in that] you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

MSG - Be like those who stay the course with committed faith and then get everything promised to them.

Jas 1:2-4 (NKJV)

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have [its] perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

Rom 5:1-5 (NKJV)

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only [that], but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

[Col 1:9-14 NKJV] 9 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him], being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed [us] into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.

5/18/25

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The Fragrance Of Faith

Matthew 17:19-21 (NKJV)

19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” 20 So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 “However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Psa 141:1-2 (NKJV)

A Psalm of David. LORD, I cry out to You; Make haste to me! Give ear to my voice when I cry out to You. 2 Let my prayer be set before You [as] incense, The lifting up of my hands [as] the evening sacrifice.

Rev 5:8 (NKJV)

8 Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.

1Th 5:16-18 (NKJV)

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Psalms 109:4 (NKJV) In return for my love they are my accusers, But I [give myself to] prayer.

Luk 18:1-8 (NKJV)

1 Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, 2 saying: "There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. 3 "Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, 'Get justice for me from my adversary.' 4 "And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I do not fear God nor regard man, 5 'yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.' " 6 Then the Lord said, "Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 "And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? 8 "I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?"

Rom 12:12 (NKJV)

12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;

Col 4:2 (NKJV)

2 Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;

1Pe 4:7 (NKJV)

7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

Ephesians 6:18 (AMPC)

Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

1Ti 2:1-3 (NKJV)

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,

Mat 21:13-14 (NKJV)

And He said to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you have made it a 'den of thieves.' " 14 Then [the] blind and [the] lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them.

2Co 2:14-15 (NKJV)

Now thanks [be] to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

5/14/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

2 Peter 1:5-6 (NKJV) 5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

knowledge - general intelligence, understanding, moral wisdom (such as seen in right living), the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this belief system, such as belongs to the more advanced

self-control (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, esp. his sensual appetites

Renner - pictures a person who is fully in command of his will, his urges, and his emotions. It is the idea of self-control and discipline. It is self restraint. 

Galatians 5:22-25 (NKJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those [who are] Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Romans 8:13 (NKJV)

13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

1 Corinthians 6:12 (NLT) You say, “I am allowed to do anything”--but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything.

1 Corinthians 6:12 (AMP) Everything is permissible for me, but not all things are beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be enslaved by anything [and brought under its power, allowing it to control me].

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT) 24 Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! 25 All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. 26 So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. 27 I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.

1 Corinthians 9:25 (AMP) Now every athlete who [goes into training and] competes in the games is disciplined and exercises self-control in all things. They do it to win a crown that withers, but we [do it to receive] an imperishable [crown that cannot wither].

1 Corinthians 9:27 (NKJV)

27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

In Titus 1, self-control is listed as a quality needed for leaders.

5/7/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

Rom 10:17 (NKJV)

So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Faith is your foundation.

2Pe 1:1-11 (NKJV)

Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that [pertain] to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption [that is] in the world through lust.

5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

knowledge - general intelligence, understanding, moral wisdom (such as seen in right living), the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this belief system, such as belongs to the more advanced

2Pe 1:2 (NKJV)

2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,

2Pe 3:18 (NKJV]

18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him [be] the glory both now and forever. Amen.

Eph 1:17-18 (NKJV)

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

Phl 1:9 (NKJV)

9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,

Pro 1:7 NKJV)

7 The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge, [But] fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Pro 9:10 (NKJV)

10 "The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One [is] understanding.

Pro 2:1-11 NKJV)

1 My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, 2 So that you incline your ear to wisdom, [And] apply your heart to understanding; 3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment, [And] lift up your voice for understanding, 4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as [for] hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth [come] knowledge and understanding; 7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; [He is] a shield to those who walk uprightly; 8 He guards the paths of justice, And preserves the way of His saints. 9 Then you will understand righteousness and justice, Equity [and] every good path. 10 When wisdom enters your heart, And knowledge is pleasant to your soul, 11 Discretion will preserve you; Understanding will keep you,

5/4/25

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faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

Rom 10:17 (NKJV)

So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Renner - The word for faith pictures a "divine spark" given by God that enables you to believe. In ancient times, this word referred to a guarantee or warranty of something that was sure. This word importantly depicts something moving forward, like a force that is propelled forward and is moving toward a goal.

Faith keeps moving forward until it reaches its goal. Faith is a force.

Fear is a force as well. What is the dominant force in your life? What are you feeding?

Ephesians 6:18 (AMPC)

Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

Mar 11:20-25 (NKJV)

Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away." 22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them]. 25 "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.

Mat 21:20-22 (NKJV)

And when the disciples saw [it], they marveled, saying, "How did the fig tree wither away so soon?" 21 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done. 22 "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."

1Jo 5:14-15 (NKJV)

14 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

The prayer of faith deals with the things of our lives. It concerns all of our needs - natural and spiritual. When we see the word, "ask" it refers to our desires and what we want.

You have to aim your faith in the direction of the plan of God for your life.

Faith works where the will of God is known. God's Word is His will.

Questions To Ask Yourself When Praying the Prayer of Faith

• What do you want?
• Where in the Scripture is this promised to you?

Remember, prayer is not done until you take time to listen. Even when praying the prayer of faith, pause and listen. There are times God will give you direction so that you can have what you just asked for.

Romans 4:17-22 (NKJV)

17 (as it is written, “I have made you a father of many nations”) in the presence of Him whom he believed--God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did; 18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, “So shall your descendants be.” 19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb. 20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. 22 And therefore “it was accounted to him for righteousness.”

consider - fill your mind with

What is weak in faith? Filling your mind with the circumstances.

What is strong in faith? Giving God praise, glory, & honor.

Mat 18:19-20 (NKJV)

"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. 20 "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them."

Again I tell you, if two of you on earth agree (harmonize together, make a symphony together) about whatever [anything and ^[a]everything] they may ask, it will come to pass and be done for them by My Father in heaven.

Lev 26:8 (NKJV)

Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight; your enemies shall fall by the sword before you.

4/30/25

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

Faith is your foundation.

Jde 1:20 (NKJV)

But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,

Praying in the Spirit, also known as speaking in tongues, in an utterance of mysteries. (Acts 2:4, 1 Cor 14:2)

An utterance of mysteries - a dignified and elevated discourse of divine hidden things which include the plans, purposes, and counsels of God.  This utterance of mysteries also includes an elevated and dignified giving thanks to God and magnifying God

2Pe 1:1-11 (NKJV)

Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that [pertain] to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption [that is] in the world through lust.

5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,

giving all diligence - devote yourself, make every effort

virtue - a virtuous course of thought, feeling, and action; moral goodness, moral excellence, moral vigor; valor, goodness, good character, integrity, purity

Remember, verse 3 says you are called to and by virtue.

2 Peter 1:5 (AMPC)

 For this very reason, ^[a]adding your diligence [to the divine promises], employ every effort in ^[b]exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in [exercising] virtue [develop] knowledge (intelligence),

6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are yours and abound, [you] will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Phl 4:8 (NKJV)

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things [are] noble, whatever things [are] just, whatever things [are] pure, whatever things [are] lovely, whatever things [are] of good report, if [there is] any virtue and if [there is] anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.

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4/25/25

Mar 16:9-14 (NKJV)

Now when [He] rose early on the first [day] of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. 11 And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe. 12 After that, He appeared in another form to two of them as they walked and went into the country. 13 And they went and told [it] to the rest, [but] they did not believe them either. 14 Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.

What is unbelief? It is simply a lack of faith or a decision not to believe.

The NLT referred to it as stubborn unbelief.

Mar 16:15-18 (NKJV)

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 "they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."

What is the key word in this passage? Believe.

Signs - that which person is distinguished from others and is known, it is something that transcends the normal course of nature, miracles and wonders by which God authenticates those sent by Him and how those sent by Him prove that the cause they advocate is God's.

Acts 1:8 says that the Holy Spirit and His baptism empowers us to be a witness. What does a witness do? This witness gives evidence and testimony

What are we to witness? That Jesus is alive.

Mar 11:20-24 (NKJV)

Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away." 22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them].

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, ^[a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1-2 (MSG)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

Rom 10:17 (NKJV)

So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Heb 2:1 (KJV)

Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let [them] slip.

slip - Grk - run out like a leaky substance, drift away

Rom 12:3 (NKJV)

For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.

Every believer has been given the measure of faith. What you do with it is up to.

Notice, faith can be measured and quantified.

Are you developing your faith?

Heb 6:10-12 (NLT)

10 For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do. 11 Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. 12 Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and endurance.

Mar 9:14-27 (NKJV)

And when He came to the disciples, He saw a great multitude around them, and scribes disputing with them. 15 Immediately, when they saw Him, all the people were greatly amazed, and running to [Him], greeted Him. 16 And He asked the scribes, "What are you discussing with them?" 17 Then one of the crowd answered and said, "Teacher, I brought You my son, who has a mute spirit. 18 "And wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth, and becomes rigid. So I spoke to Your disciples, that they should cast it out, but they could not." 19 He answered him and said, "O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him to Me." 20 Then they brought him to Him. And when he saw Him, immediately the spirit convulsed him, and he fell on the ground and wallowed, foaming at the mouth. 21 So He asked his father, "How long has this been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. 22 "And often he has thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us." 23 Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things [are] possible to him who believes." 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" 25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it: "Deaf and dumb spirit, I command you, come out of him and enter him no more!" 26 Then [the spirit] cried out, convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. And he became as one dead, so that many said, "He is dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose.

Mat 17:19-21 (NKJV)

Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" 20 So Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 "However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."

Why didn't it go out? Their unbelief.

Prayer and fasting - Did Jesus pray the demon out? No. However, He had a prayer life.

Faith as a mustard seed - a seed has to be sown. It has to be nurtured and cultivated.

As we will get into next week, faith is a force.

1Jo 5:4 (NKJV)

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.

4/23/25

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1Jo 5:4-5 (NKJV)

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. 5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

(MSG)

Every God-born person conquers the world’s ways. The conquering power that brings the world to its knees is our faith. The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.

1Jo 4:4 (NKJV)

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

You must develop faith to influence and shine the light of Jesus in the system you are called to operate in.

Spheres - religion, family, government, education, media, arts and entertainment, and business. 

What is your vision for the area or sphere you are called to? What is your vision for your neighborhood and community?

Faith begins where the will of God is known. What is His will for your area?

Psa 112:1-10 (NLT)

Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD and delight in obeying his commands. 2 Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. 3 They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will last forever. 4 Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. 5 Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly. 6 Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. 7 They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. 8 They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly. 9 They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor. 10 The wicked will see this and be infuriated. They will grind their teeth in anger; they will slink away, their hopes thwarted.

Pro 11:10-11 (AMP)

When it goes well for the righteous, the city rejoices, And when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. 11 By the blessing [of the influence] of the upright the city is exalted, But by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.

Jhn 17:15-20 (NKJV)

"I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. 16 "They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 "As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 "And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. 20 "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word;

Notice, God is keeping people sanctified or set apart by His Word.

Eph 6:10-16 (NKJV)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual [hosts] of wickedness in the heavenly [places]. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.

John 16:33 (AMPC)

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]

4/20/25

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Mar 16:9-14 (NKJV)

Now when [He] rose early on the first [day] of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. 11 And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe. 12 After that, He appeared in another form to two of them as they walked and went into the country. 13 And they went and told [it] to the rest, [but] they did not believe them either. 14 Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.

What is unbelief? It is simply a lack of faith or a decision not to believe.

The NLT referred to it as stubborn unbelief.

Mar 16:15-18 (NKJV)

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 "they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."

What is the key word in this passage? Believe.

Signs - that which person is distinguished from others and is known, it is something that transcends the normal course of nature, miracles and wonders by which God authenticates those sent by Him and how those sent by Him prove that the cause they advocate is God's.

Act 1:1-8 (NKJV)

The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 until the day in which He was taken up, after He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen, 3 to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. 4 And being assembled together with [them], He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, "which," [He said], "you have heard from Me; 5 "for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now." 6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, "Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7 And He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

What does a witness do? This witness gives evidence and testimony

What are they to witness to? That Jesus is alive.

Heb 2:4 (NASB20)

God also testifying with them, both by signs and wonders, and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will.

Notice, God testified with them!

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Rom 10:17 (NKJV)

So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

1Jo 5:4-5 (NKJV)

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. 5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

(MSG)

Every God-born person conquers the world’s ways. The conquering power that brings the world to its knees is our faith. The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.

You are born again. Your life is supposed to give evidence that Jesus is alive.

4/16/25

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Heb 4:14-16 (NKJV)

14 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] confession. 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. 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.

Heb 8:1-6 (NLT)

Here is the main point: We have a High Priest who sat down in the place of honor beside the throne of the majestic God in heaven. 2 There he ministers in the heavenly Tabernacle, the true place of worship that was built by the Lord and not by human hands. 3 And since every high priest is required to offer gifts and sacrifices, our High Priest must make an offering, too. 4 If he were here on earth, he would not even be a priest, since there already are priests who offer the gifts required by the law. 5 They serve in a system of worship that is only a copy, a shadow of the real one in heaven. For when Moses was getting ready to build the Tabernacle, God gave him this warning: "Be sure that you make everything according to the pattern I have shown you here on the mountain." 6 But now Jesus, our High Priest, has been given a ministry that is far superior to the old priesthood, for he is the one who mediates for us a far better covenant with God, based on better promises.

[Heb 9:1-26 NLT] 1 That first covenant between God and Israel had regulations for worship and a place of worship here on earth. 2 There were two rooms in that Tabernacle. In the first room were a lampstand, a table, and sacred loaves of bread on the table. This room was called the Holy Place. 3 Then there was a curtain, and behind the curtain was the second room called the Most Holy Place. 4 In that room were a gold incense altar and a wooden chest called the Ark of the Covenant, which was covered with gold on all sides. Inside the Ark were a gold jar containing manna, Aaron's staff that sprouted leaves, and the stone tablets of the covenant. 5 Above the Ark were the cherubim of divine glory, whose wings stretched out over the Ark's cover, the place of atonement. But we cannot explain these things in detail now. 6 When these things were all in place, the priests regularly entered the first room as they performed their religious duties. 7 But only the high priest ever entered the Most Holy Place, and only once a year. And he always offered blood for his own sins and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. 8 By these regulations the Holy Spirit revealed that the entrance to the Most Holy Place was not freely open as long as the Tabernacle and the system it represented were still in use. 9 This is an illustration pointing to the present time. For the gifts and sacrifices that the priests offer are not able to cleanse the consciences of the people who bring them. 10 For that old system deals only with food and drink and various cleansing ceremonies--physical regulations that were in effect only until a better system could be established. 11 So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. 12 With his own blood--not the blood of goats and calves--he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever. 13 Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a young cow could cleanse people's bodies from ceremonial impurity. 14 Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. 15 That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant. 16 Now when someone leaves a will, it is necessary to prove that the person who made it is dead. 17 The will goes into effect only after the person's death. While the person who made it is still alive, the will cannot be put into effect. 18 That is why even the first covenant was put into effect with the blood of an animal. 19 For after Moses had read each of God's commandments to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, and sprinkled both the book of God's law and all the people, using hyssop branches and scarlet wool. 20 Then he said, "This blood confirms the covenant God has made with you." 21 And in the same way, he sprinkled blood on the Tabernacle and on everything used for worship. 22 In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness. 23 That is why the Tabernacle and everything in it, which were copies of things in heaven, had to be purified by the blood of animals. But the real things in heaven had to be purified with far better sacrifices than the blood of animals. 24 For Christ did not enter into a holy place made with human hands, which was only a copy of the true one in heaven. He entered into heaven itself to appear now before God on our behalf. 25 And he did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again, like the high priest here on earth who enters the Most Holy Place year after year with the blood of an animal. 26 If that had been necessary, Christ would have had to die again and again, ever since the world began. But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.

Heb 10:1-10, 19-23 (NLT)

The old system under the law of Moses was only a shadow, a dim preview of the good things to come, not the good things themselves. The sacrifices under that system were repeated again and again, year after year, but they were never able to provide perfect cleansing for those who came to worship. 2 If they could have provided perfect cleansing, the sacrifices would have stopped, for the worshipers would have been purified once for all time, and their feelings of guilt would have disappeared. 3 But instead, those sacrifices actually reminded them of their sins year after year. 4 For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. 5 That is why, when Christ came into the world, he said to God, "You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings. But you have given me a body to offer. 6 You were not pleased with burnt offerings or other offerings for sin. 7 Then I said, 'Look, I have come to do your will, O God--as is written about me in the Scriptures.'" 8 First, Christ said, "You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings or burnt offerings or other offerings for sin, nor were you pleased with them" (though they are required by the law of Moses). 9 Then he said, "Look, I have come to do your will." He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect. 10 For God's will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. … 19 And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20 By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. 21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God's house, 22 let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.

[Phl 2:27 NKJV] 27 For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

[Jas 3:13-18 NKJV] 13 Who [is] wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct [that] his works [are done] in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but [is] earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking [exist], confusion and every evil thing [are] there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

4/13/25

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Eph 2:4-7 (NKJV)

But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in the heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in [His] kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

mercy - steadfast love, kindness, to be moved with and to show compassion, covenant love, God's determination to bless and help you, it is His hesed - which is the conduct required in the mutual relationship between allies. The obligations and rights acquired through a covenant are translated into corresponding actions through hesed. Hesed is an obligatory action because of a covenant relationship.

1. Believe in His mercy
2. Receive His mercy
3. Depend on His mercy
4. Pray from a place of His mercy
5. Show His mercy

Exo 34:6 (NLT)

The LORD passed in front of Moses, calling out, "Yahweh! The LORD! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

Psalm 52:8 (AMPC)

But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in and confidently rely on the loving-kindness and the mercy of God forever and ever.

Do you trust in the mercy of God? Do you confidently rely on the loving kindness and mercy of God?

Where is your faith today?

Mat 9:18-31 (NKJV)

While He spoke these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, "My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live." 19 So Jesus arose and followed him, and so [did] His disciples. 20 And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. 21 For she said to herself, "If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well." 22 But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, "Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well." And the woman was made well from that hour. 23 When Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, 24 He said to them, "Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping." And they ridiculed Him. 25 But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went out into all that land. 27 When Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out and saying, "Son of David, have mercy on us!" 28 And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to Him, "Yes, Lord." 29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith let it be to you." 30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, saying, "See [that] no one knows [it]." 31 But when they had departed, they spread the news about Him in all that country.

Where was the faith of the ruler? If Jesus would place His hand on his daughter, she would live.

Where was the faith of the woman with the issue of blood? If she could touch the hem of His garment, she would be made well (healed & whole).

Where was the faith in the two blind men? The mercy of God and the ability of Jesus.

Son of David is a Messianic title. Remember, Messiah means the Anointed One. It is the same as Christ. God's covenant with David was one known for its mercy.

Act 13:34 (NKJV)

"And that He raised Him from the dead, no more to return to corruption, He has spoken thus: 'I will give you the sure mercies of David.'

Mat 15:21-28 (NKJV)

Then Jesus went out from there and departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22 And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed." 23 But He answered her not a word. And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, "Send her away, for she cries out after us." 24 But He answered and said, "I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25 Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, "Lord, help me!" 26 But He answered and said, "It is not good to take the children's bread and throw [it] to the little dogs." 27 And she said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters' table." 28 Then Jesus answered and said to her, "O woman, great [is] your faith! Let it be to you as you desire." And her daughter was healed from that very hour.

Tyre and Sidon were two significant ancient Phoenician cities located in modern day Lebanon along the Mediterranean coast. This area was part of the Roman Empire, but not under the control of the Herods. This was not a Jewish area, but a Phonecian area.

The woman who came to Jesus was Syro-Phoenician. She was not a daughter of Abraham and did not have access to covenant hesed.

Lord - a title that implies reverence and honor, it means supreme in authority

dogs - puppies

Her faith reached into the future and grabbed her miracle.

Mar 10:46-52 (NKJV)

46 Now they came to Jericho. As He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great multitude, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the road begging. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" 48 Then many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" 49 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called. Then they called the blind man, saying to him, "Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you." 50 And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. 51 So Jesus answered and said to him, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man said to Him, "Rabboni, that I may receive my sight." 52 Then Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.

Bartimaeus - son of privilege

Where was his faith? In Messiah and His mercy.

Mar 11:1-10 (NKJV)

Now when they drew near Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, He sent two of His disciples; 2 and He said to them, "Go into the village opposite you; and as soon as you have entered it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has sat. Loose it and bring [it]. 3 "And if anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' say, 'The Lord has need of it,' and immediately he will send it here." 4 So they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door outside on the street, and they loosed it. 5 But some of those who stood there said to them, "What are you doing, loosing the colt?" 6 And they spoke to them just as Jesus had commanded. So they let them go. 7 Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their clothes on it, and He sat on it. 8 And many spread their clothes on the road, and others cut down leafy branches from the trees and spread [them] on the road. 9 Then those who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: "Hosanna! 'Blessed [is] He who comes in the name of the LORD!' 10 Blessed [is] the kingdom of our father David That comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!"

Mat 21:9 (NKJV)

Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: "Hosanna to the Son of David! 'Blessed [is] He who comes in the name of the LORD!' Hosanna in the highest!"

Jhn 12:16-18 (NKJV)

His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about Him and [that] they had done these things to Him. 17 Therefore the people, who were with Him when He called Lazarus out of his tomb and raised him from the dead, bore witness. 18 For this reason the people also met Him, because they heard that He had done this sign.

Psa 118:1-4, 23-29 (NKJV)

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for [He is] good! For His mercy [endures] forever. 2 Let Israel now say, "His mercy [endures] forever." 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, "His mercy [endures] forever." 4 Let those who fear the LORD now say, "His mercy [endures] forever." … 23 This was the LORD's doing; It [is] marvelous in our eyes. 24 This [is] the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed [is] he who comes in the name of the LORD! We have blessed you from the house of the LORD. 27 God [is] the LORD, And He has given us light; Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. 28 You [are] my God, and I will praise You; [You are] my God, I will exalt You. 29 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for [He is] good! For His mercy [endures] forever.

save now - Hosanna - it's a prayer, praise, and exclamation of adoration

Rom 15:8-13 (NLT)

Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. 9 He also came so that the Gentiles might give glory to God for his mercies to them. That is what the psalmist meant when he wrote: "For this, I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing praises to your name." 10 And in another place it is written, "Rejoice with his people, you Gentiles." 11 And yet again, "Praise the LORD, all you Gentiles. Praise him, all you people of the earth." 12 And in another place Isaiah said, "The heir to David's throne will come, and he will rule over the Gentiles. They will place their hope on him." 13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

1Pe 2:10 (NKJV)

who once [were] not a people but [are] now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

4/9/25

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Eph 2:4-7 (NKJV)

But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in the heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in [His] kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

Heb 4:14-16 (NKJV)

14 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] confession. 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. 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.

mercy - steadfast love, kindness, to be moved with and to show compassion, covenant love, God's determination to bless and help you, it is His hesed - which is the conduct required in the mutual relationship between allies. The obligations and rights acquired through a covenant are translated into corresponding actions through hesed. Hesed is an obligatory action because of a covenant relationship.

1. Believe in His mercy
2. Receive His mercy
3. Depend on His mercy
4. Pray from a place of His mercy
5. Show His mercy

2Co 1:3 (NKJV)

3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,

[Psa 145:8-9 NKJV] 8 The LORD [is] gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy. 9 The LORD [is] good to all, And His tender mercies [are] over all His works.

Psa 103:1-4 (NKJV)

[A Psalm] of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, [bless] His holy name! 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: 3 Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, 4 Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,

lovingkindness - hesed

tender mercies - compassion

Psa 103:8-18 (NKJV)

The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. 9 He will not always strive [with us], Nor will He keep [His anger] forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities. 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, [So] great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; 12 As far as the east is from the west, [So] far has He removed our transgressions from us. 13 As a father pities [his] children, [So] the LORD pities those who fear Him. 14 For He knows our frame; He remembers that we [are] dust. 15 [As for] man, his days [are] like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. 16 For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, And its place remembers it no more. 17 But the mercy of the LORD [is] from everlasting to everlasting On those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children's children, 18 To such as keep His covenant, And to those who remember His commandments to do them.

[Lev 16:11-16 NLT] 11 "Aaron will present his own bull as a sin offering to purify himself and his family, making them right with the LORD. After he has slaughtered the bull as a sin offering, 12 he will fill an incense burner with burning coals from the altar that stands before the LORD. Then he will take two handfuls of fragrant powdered incense and will carry the burner and the incense behind the inner curtain. 13 There in the LORD's presence he will put the incense on the burning coals so that a cloud of incense will rise over the Ark's cover--the place of atonement--that rests on the Ark of the Covenant. If he follows these instructions, he will not die. 14 Then he must take some of the blood of the bull, dip his finger in it, and sprinkle it on the east side of the atonement cover. He must sprinkle blood seven times with his finger in front of the atonement cover. 15 "Then Aaron must slaughter the first goat as a sin offering for the people and carry its blood behind the inner curtain. There he will sprinkle the goat's blood over the atonement cover and in front of it, just as he did with the bull's blood. 16 Through this process, he will purify the Most Holy Place, and he will do the same for the entire Tabernacle, because of the defiling sin and rebellion of the Israelites.

Num 7:89 (NKJV)

89 Now when Moses went into the tabernacle of meeting to speak with Him, he heard the voice of One speaking to him from above the mercy seat that [was] on the ark of the Testimony, from between the two cherubim; thus He spoke to him.

[Heb 9:1-24 NLT] 1 That first covenant between God and Israel had regulations for worship and a place of worship here on earth. 2 There were two rooms in that Tabernacle. In the first room were a lampstand, a table, and sacred loaves of bread on the table. This room was called the Holy Place. 3 Then there was a curtain, and behind the curtain was the second room called the Most Holy Place. 4 In that room were a gold incense altar and a wooden chest called the Ark of the Covenant, which was covered with gold on all sides. Inside the Ark were a gold jar containing manna, Aaron's staff that sprouted leaves, and the stone tablets of the covenant. 5 Above the Ark were the cherubim of divine glory, whose wings stretched out over the Ark's cover, the place of atonement. But we cannot explain these things in detail now. 6 When these things were all in place, the priests regularly entered the first room as they performed their religious duties. 7 But only the high priest ever entered the Most Holy Place, and only once a year. And he always offered blood for his own sins and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. 8 By these regulations the Holy Spirit revealed that the entrance to the Most Holy Place was not freely open as long as the Tabernacle and the system it represented were still in use. 9 This is an illustration pointing to the present time. For the gifts and sacrifices that the priests offer are not able to cleanse the consciences of the people who bring them. 10 For that old system deals only with food and drink and various cleansing ceremonies--physical regulations that were in effect only until a better system could be established. 11 So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. 12 With his own blood--not the blood of goats and calves--he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever. 13 Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a young cow could cleanse people's bodies from ceremonial impurity. 14 Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. 15 That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant. 16 Now when someone leaves a will, it is necessary to prove that the person who made it is dead. 17 The will goes into effect only after the person's death. While the person who made it is still alive, the will cannot be put into effect. 18 That is why even the first covenant was put into effect with the blood of an animal. 19 For after Moses had read each of God's commandments to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, and sprinkled both the book of God's law and all the people, using hyssop branches and scarlet wool. 20 Then he said, "This blood confirms the covenant God has made with you." 21 And in the same way, he sprinkled blood on the Tabernacle and on everything used for worship. 22 In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness. 23 That is why the Tabernacle and everything in it, which were copies of things in heaven, had to be purified by the blood of animals. But the real things in heaven had to be purified with far better sacrifices than the blood of animals. 24 For Christ did not enter into a holy place made with human hands, which was only a copy of the true one in heaven. He entered into heaven itself to appear now before God on our behalf.

4/6/25

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Deuteronomy 30:9 (ESV)

The LORD your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all the work of your hand, in the fruit of your womb and in the fruit of your cattle and in the fruit of your ground. For the LORD will again take delight in prospering you, as he took delight in your fathers,

Lam 3:21-25 (NKJV)

This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. 22 [Through] the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. 23 [They are] new every morning; Great [is] Your faithfulness. 24 "The LORD [is] my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I hope in Him!" 25 The LORD [is] good to those who wait for Him, To the soul [who] seeks Him.

Jer 29:10-11 (AMPC)

¹⁰ For thus says the Lord, When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you and keep My good promise to you, causing you to return to this place.

¹¹ For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you

Jer 33:9-11 (NKJV)

'Then it shall be to Me a name of joy, a praise, and an honor before all nations of the earth, who shall hear all the good that I do to them; they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and all the prosperity that I provide for it.' 10 "Thus says the LORD: 'Again there shall be heard in this place--of which you say, "It [is] desolate, without man and without beast"--in the cities of Judah, in the streets of Jerusalem that are desolate, without man and without inhabitant and without beast, 11 'the voice of joy and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride, the voice of those who will say: "Praise the LORD of hosts, For the LORD [is] good, For His mercy [endures] forever"--[and] of those [who will] bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the LORD. For I will cause the captives of the land to return as at the first,' says the LORD.

Psa 136:1 (NKJV)

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for [He is] good! For His mercy [endures] forever.

• We must be the people who are known for declaring His goodness.

Luk 15:1-21, 23-32 (NKJV)

1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, "This Man receives sinners and eats with them." 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5 "And when he has found [it], he lays [it] on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 "And when he comes home, he calls together [his] friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' 7 "I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. 8 "Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds [it]? 9 "And when she has found [it], she calls [her] friends and neighbors together, saying, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!' 10 "Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." 11 Then He said: "A certain man had two sons. 12 "And the younger of them said to [his] father, 'Father, give me the portion of goods that falls [to me].' So he divided to them [his] livelihood. 13 "And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. 14 "But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. 15 "Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 "And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him [anything]. 17 "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 'I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, 19 "and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants." ' 20 "And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 "And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.' … 23 'And bring the fatted calf here and kill [it], and let us eat and be merry; 24 'for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' And they began to be merry. 25 "Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 "So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 "And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.' 28 "But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. 29 "So he answered and said to [his] father, 'Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. 30 'But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.' 31 "And he said to him, 'Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. 32 'It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.' "

Rom 15:9 (NKJV)

and that the Gentiles might glorify God for [His] mercy, as it is written: "For this reason I will confess to You among the Gentiles, And sing to Your name."

Tit 3:4-5 (NKJV)

But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,

Eph 2:4-13 (NKJV)

But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in the heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in [His] kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; [it is] the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. 11 Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh--who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands-- 12 that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Heb 4:14-16 (NKJV)

14 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] confession. 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. 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.

Mat 5:7 (NKJV)

Blessed [are] the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.

Jas 2:13 (NKJV)

For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

Heb 9:5, 11-15 (NKJV)

5 and above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. … 11 But Christ came [as] High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. 12 Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, 14 how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.

mercy - steadfast love, kindness, to be moved with and to show compassion, covenant love, God's determination to bless and help you, it is His hesed - which is the conduct required in the mutual relationship between allies. The obligations and rights acquired through a covenant are translated into corresponding actions through hesed. Hesed is an obligatory action because of a covenant relationship.

1. Believe in His mercy
2. Receive His mercy
3. Depend on His mercy
4. Pray from a place of His mercy
5. Show His mercy

4/2/25

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Jer 29:10-11 (AMPC)

¹⁰ For thus says the Lord, When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you and keep My good promise to you, causing you to return to this place.

¹¹ For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.

Isaiah 46:10,11 (NKJV)

10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: 11 Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken [it], I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed [it], I will also do it.

Isaiah 55:8-12 (NKJV)

8 For my thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] whereto I sent it. 12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands.

Psalms 25:4 TPT

Direct me, YAHWEH, throughout my journey so I can experience your plans for my life. Reveal the life-paths that are pleasing to you.

Psa 25:4, 8-10, 12-14 (NKJV)

4 Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. … 8 Good and upright [is] the LORD; Therefore He teaches sinners in the way. 9 The humble He guides in justice, And the humble He teaches His way. 10 All the paths of the LORD [are] mercy and truth, To such as keep His covenant and His testimonies. … 12 Who [is] the man that fears the LORD? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. 13 He himself shall dwell in prosperity, And his descendants shall inherit the earth. 14 The secret of the LORD [is] with those who fear Him, And He will show them His covenant.

When we are referring to ways and paths, we are referring to the path God has for us and the way we are to journey along that the path.

and he will shew them his covenant - and his covenant to make them know it

Ephesians 2:10 AMPC

For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

To get the best out of life, you must stay on the path God has for you until you get to the throne of God. - Dr. Billye Brim

Proverbs 20:5 KJV

Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; But a man of understanding will draw it out.

counsel - advice, purpose, plan

draw - to let down a bucket (from drawing out water of a well) and lift the water back up

The plan is within you, but you must draw it out.

Psa 119:105 (NKJV)

NUN. Your word [is] a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.

1 Corinthians 14:2-4 (KJV)

For he that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth [him]; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men [to] edification, and exhortation, and comfort. He that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

mystery - 

hidden thing, secret, mystery, generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals, a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding, a hidden purpose or counsel. The secret counsels of God in dealing with the righteous.

When adding the definition of utterance from Acts 2, we called praying in tongues an utterance of mysteries.

An utterance of mysteries - a dignified and elevated discourse of divine hidden things which include the plans, purposes, and counsels of God.  This utterance of mysteries also includes an elevated and dignified giving thanks to God and magnifying God.

edify - to build, to improve, to promote spiritual growth, 

Psa 139:13-18 (NKJV)

For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And [that] my soul knows very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, [And] skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When [as yet there were] none of them. 17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! 18 [If] I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You.

Psalm 139:16 (NLT) You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.

3/30/25

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Thirve - to flourish, prosper, advance, make steady progress, to grow and develop vigorously, to blossom, to succeed

Psalms 92:12-15 (NKJV)

“The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord Shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing, To declare that the Lord is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.”

Psalms 92:12-15 (NLT)

12 But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. 13 For they are transplanted to the LORD’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. 14 Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. 15 They will declare, “The LORD is just! He is my rock! There is no evil in him!”

Psalms 1:1-3 (NKJV)

“Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.”

Jeremiah 17:5-8 (NLT)

This is what the LORD says: “Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the LORD. 6 They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, with no hope for the future. They will live in the barren wilderness, in an uninhabited salty land. 7 “But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. 8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.

Ephesians 3:17 (NLT)

Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

• rooted in God’s love

Colossians 2:7 (NLT)

7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

• Rooted in Him - knowing who you are in Christ

Colossians 1:18-23 (NLT)

18 Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So he is first in everything. 19 For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, 20 and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. 21 This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. 22 Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. 23 But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God’s servant to proclaim it.

Mark 4:16-17 (NLT)

The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. 17 But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word.

• rooted in God’s Word

Numbers 14:7-9 (NKJV)

and they spoke to all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying: “The land we passed through to spy out [is] an exceedingly good land. 8 “If the LORD delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, ‘a land which flows with milk and honey.’ 9 “Only do not rebel against the LORD, nor fear the people of the land, for they [are] our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the LORD [is] with us. Do not fear them.”

delight - to have great pleasure; take pleasure, to have great enjoyment, to feel a high degree of happiness or satisfaction, essentially being very happy or satisfied about something

Numbers 14:24 (NKJV)

“But My servant Caleb, because he has a different spirit in him and has followed Me fully, I will bring into the land where he went, and his descendants shall inherit it.

Numbers 13:30 (NKJV)

30 And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.

Joshua 14:6-12 (NLT)

6 A delegation from the tribe of Judah, led by Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, came to Joshua at Gilgal. Caleb said to Joshua, “Remember what the LORD said to Moses, the man of God, about you and me when we were at Kadesh-barnea. 7 I was forty years old when Moses, the servant of the LORD, sent me from Kadesh-barnea to explore the land of Canaan. I returned and gave an honest report, 8 but my brothers who went with me frightened the people from entering the Promised Land. For my part, I wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God. 9 So that day Moses solemnly promised me, ‘The land of Canaan on which you were just walking will be your grant of land and that of your descendants forever, because you wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God.’ 10 “Now, as you can see, the LORD has kept me alive and well as he promised for all these forty-five years since Moses made this promise--even while Israel wandered in the wilderness. Today I am eighty-five years old. 11 I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then. 12 So give me the hill country that the LORD promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there in great, walled towns. But if the LORD is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the LORD said.”

2 Corinthians 4:13 (NKJV)

And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak,

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

But without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him,] for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

What delights God? Your faith.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NLT)

For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”

Deuteronomy 28:47 (NKJV)

Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything,

Deuteronomy 30:9 (ESV)

The LORD your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all the work of your hand, in the fruit of your womb and in the fruit of your cattle and in the fruit of your ground. For the LORD will again take delight in prospering you, as he took delight in your fathers,

Psa 37:3-6 (AMP)

Trust [rely on and have confidence] in the LORD and do good; Dwell in the land and feed [securely] on His faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself in the LORD, And He will give you the desires and petitions of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD; Trust in Him also and He will do it. 6 He will make your righteousness [your pursuit of right standing with God] like the light, And your judgment like [the shining of] the noonday [sun].

1Pe 1:8 (AMP)

Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not even see Him now, you believe and trust in Him and you greatly rejoice and delight with inexpressible and glorious joy,

Psa 100:2 (AMP)

Serve the LORD with gladness and delight; Come before His presence with joyful singing.

Isa 12:3 (NKJV)

Therefore with joy you will draw water From the wells of salvation.

3/23/25

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North Mableton Farmers Market - Grand Opening - May 7th, 4pm-7pm

Thirve - to flourish, prosper, advance, make steady progress, to grow and develop vigorously, to blossom, to succeed

What does it look like for you to thrive in every area of your life? You have to have a vision of thriving. Until a plant bears fruit, you need a picture to help you identify that plant and its potential. When you vision and thriving is in seed stage, you have to keep a vision and picture before you. When your vision and thriving is more mature, you need a vision and picture to help you until its a fruit bearing season.

Today, I want to help you develop a vision and mental picture of you thriving and enjoying total life prosperity.

Proverbs 29:18 (NASB20)

Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is one who keeps the Law.

Vision is the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination & wisdom. 

Vision is an expression of your hope that is fulfilled and realized by faith and action. 

Vision is self investment in your future. Vision produces self-control, discipline, and restraint.

Vision is meant to be expanded, enhanced, and refined.

You have to have a vision for your increase and prosperity because if you do not, you will fall for the lie that nothing is happening and nothing is changing.

Psalm 1:1-3 (AMPC)

¹ Blessed (happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather.

² But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night.

³ And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].

When you vision and thriving is in seed stage, you have to keep a vision and picture before you. When your vision and thriving is more mature, you need a vision and picture to help you until its a fruit bearing season.

Jos 1:3-9 (AMP)

"I have given you every place on which the sole of your foot treads, just as I promised to Moses. 4 "From the wilderness [of Arabia in the south] and this Lebanon [in the north], even as far as the great river, the river Euphrates [in the east], all the land of the Hittites (Canaan), and as far as the Great [Mediterranean] Sea toward the west shall be your territory. 5 "No man will [be able to] stand before you [to oppose you] as long as you live. Just as I was [present] with Moses, so will I be with you; I will not fail you or abandon you. 6 "Be strong and confident and courageous, for you will give this people as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers (ancestors) to give them. 7 "Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do [everything] in accordance with the entire law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may prosper and be successful wherever you go. 8 "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall read [and meditate on] it day and night, so that you may be careful to do [everything] in accordance with all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will be successful. 9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

The Law contained the map of the promises of God that belonged to Joshua and his people.

If we want to be successful and prosper in this life, we must meditate on God's Word and His vision for our lives.

Remember, meditate means to study, ponder, say, and imagine.

Jer 17:7-8 (AMPC)

 [Most] blessed is the man who believes in, trusts in, and relies on the Lord, and whose hope and confidence the Lord is.

⁸ For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters that spreads out its roots by the river; and it shall not see and fear when heat comes; but its leaf shall be green. It shall not be anxious and full of care in the year of drought, nor shall it cease yielding fruit.

Psa 92:12-15 (AMP)

The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful]; They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable]. 13 Planted in the house of the LORD, They will flourish in the courts of our God. 14 [Growing in grace] they will still thrive and bear fruit and prosper in old age; They will flourish and be vital and fresh [rich in trust and love and contentment]; 15 [They are living memorials] to declare that the LORD is upright and faithful [to His promises]; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

John 7:37-39 (NKJV)

 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. ³⁸ He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” ³⁹ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those ^[g]believing in Him would receive; for the ^[h]Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

1Co 12:7 (NKJV)

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit [of all]:

manifestation - expression, exhibition, display, demonstration, giving of a gift

profit of all - we all get better together

Without the moving of the Spirit, we are missing out on getting better together.

Heb 10:24-25 (NLT)

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

3/16/25

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Proverbs 29:18 (NASB20)

Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is one who keeps the Law.

Vision is the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination & wisdom. 

Vision is an expression of your hope that is fulfilled and realized by faith and action. 

Vision is self investment in your future. Vision produces self-control, discipline, and restraint.

Vision is meant to be expanded, enhanced, and refined.

Proverbs 4:18-19 (NKJV)

“But the path of the just is like the shining sun, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; They do not know what makes them stumble.”

Proverbs 4:18-19 (MSG)

“The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker— travelers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces.”

John 10:10 (AMPC)

The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it ^[a]overflows).

Haggai 2:5-9

 ⁵ ‘According to the word that I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt, so My Spirit remains among you; do not fear!’

⁶ “For thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Once more (it is a little while) I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; ⁷ and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the ^[c]Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this ^[d]temple with glory,’ says the Lord of hosts. ⁸ ‘The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,’ says the Lord of hosts. ⁹ ‘The glory of this latter ^[e]temple shall be greater than the former,’ says the Lord of hosts. ‘And in this place I will give peace,’ says the Lord of hosts.”

God always wants to do things in an increasing fashion. He always wants your future to be greater than your past. The best is always yet to come.

Your life is continually supposed to get better, and better, and better.

Dig another hole in the valley.

2nd Kings 3:14-20 (NKJV)

And Elisha said, “As the Lord of hosts lives, before whom I stand, surely were it not that I regard the presence of Jehoshaphat king of Judah, I would not look at you, nor see you. ¹⁵ But now bring me a musician.”

Then it happened, when the musician played, that the hand of the Lord came upon him. ¹⁶ And he said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Make this valley full of ^[b]ditches.’ ¹⁷ For thus says the Lord: ‘You shall not see wind, nor shall you see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, so that you, your cattle, and your animals may drink.’ ¹⁸ And this is a simple matter in the sight of the Lord; He will also deliver the Moabites into your hand. ¹⁹ Also you shall attack every fortified city and every choice city, and shall cut down every good tree, and stop up every spring of water, and ruin every good piece of land with stones.”

²⁰ Now it happened in the morning, when the grain offering was offered, that suddenly water came by way of Edom, and the land was filled with water.

Romans 8:1-2 (NKJV)

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who^[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. ² For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death

1 John 3:18-22 (NKJV)

¹⁸ My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. ¹⁹ And by this we ^[d]know that we are of the truth, and shall ^[e]assure our hearts before Him. ²⁰ For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. ²¹ Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. ²² And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 

2nd Cor 5:21 (NKJV)

²¹ For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Romans 4:25 (AMPC)

Who was betrayed and put to death because of our misdeeds and was raised to secure our justification (our acquittal), [making our account balance and absolving us from all guilt before God].

Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV)

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ² looking unto Jesus, the ^[a]author and ^[b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Romans 10:10-12 (AMPC)

 For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation.

¹¹ The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him [who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him] will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed.

¹² [No one] for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek. The same Lord is Lord over all [of us] and He generously bestows His riches upon all who call upon Him [in faith].

Isaiah 54:1-4

“Sing, O barren,
You who have not borne!
Break forth into singing, and cry aloud,
You who have not labored with child!
For more are the children of the desolate
Than the children of the married woman,” says the Lord.
² “Enlarge the place of your tent,
And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings;
Do not spare;
Lengthen your cords,
And strengthen your stakes.
³ For you shall expand to the right and to the left,
And your descendants will inherit the nations,
And make the desolate cities inhabited.

⁴ “Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed;
Neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame;
For you will forget the shame of your youth,
And will not remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore.

Guilt and shame are things from your past that are presently trying to rob you of your future.

3/9/25

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Vision Sunday

Faith Christian Center - A Center For The Community

Make Jesus famous by being a blessing to neighborhoods and nations.

The Vision

Ignite an awakening that impacts Georgia and influences the world through the power of the love of Jesus.

The Mission

Create an environment where anyone can experience the love of God, understand His word and become a part of a family who radically impacts our communities and the world.

By diligently and consistently completing the mission, we can accomplish the vision.

Proverbs 29:18 (NASB20)

Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is one who keeps the Law.

Vision is the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination & wisdom. 

Vision is an expression of your hope that is fulfilled and realized by faith and action. 

Vision is self investment in your future. Vision produces self-control, discipline, and restraint.

Habakkuk 2:1-4 (NKJV)

1 I will stand my watch And set myself on the rampart, And watch to see what He will say to me, And what I will answer when I am corrected. 2 Then the LORD answered me and said: “Write the vision And make [it] plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. 4 “Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith.

Investigate and inquire about opportunities that are connected to your vision.

Investigate the invitation until it infills your imagination.

A Vision For Connection & Community

1 Timothy 1:18 (NKJV)

This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare,

Dr. Billye Brim. 

March 2,2025. 

Ah Kerrick, you please the Lord. He's PLEASED with you. Because YOU YIELD TO HIM. YOU YIELD TO THE SPIRIT. YOU KNOW THE WORD BUT YOU’RE NOT DRY WORD. YOU HAVE WELL WATERED WORD. WORD THAT SPRINGS FORTH. SPRINGS OUT OF THE WORD. And those springs are for, hallelujah, yes there for the business community. They're for the community. They're for the lost. But they're for God. They're springs for God. They come from God and He wants growing on either side of that river coming out of you. Those trees of life that are for healing. And whereas there has been a degree of healing in your ministry that is really quite prominent, and that is real powerful. The power is coming up. And people are going to fly across a room. Fly across a room. Knock down the catchers. Knock down the catchers. And in this place, in this church, before the face of this people, they will see men made whole. Where there was no arm, there will be an arm. Where there was no eye, there will be an eye. And the blind will see and the deaf will hear. And the timing is very near. But it depends upon the, it comes from the union of the body here. So church walk in love. Walk in union. Walk in authority and watch God make you one of the houses that God occupies for the world to see. It will be the best advertising you ever had to the glory of God the Father. And it’s not far away, but it does depend on you. Hallelujah. Don't be satisfied with anything less than the best. And less than the full power of God. Hallelujah. Glory to God. Bless the Lord. 

Psalms 133:1-3 (NKJV)

1 A Song of Ascents. Of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant [it is] For brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 [It is] like the precious oil upon the head, Running down on the beard, The beard of Aaron, Running down on the edge of his garments. 3 [It is ]like the dew of Hermon, Descending upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing-- Life forevermore.

Ephesians 4:1-4 (NLT)

1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. 2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. 3 Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. 4 For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future.

Ephesians 4:15-16 (NLT)

15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.

Growth Track

1. Become a member of the Faith Family: 2 weeks You Matter Class
2. Get Involved by Serving on Team Faith
3. Grow your faith by attending FBI- Year 1, 2, 3

Year 3 - Coming This Fall

Faith Park

Phase One begins within a few weeks

33,000 square feet of fresh sod

New plantings of trees, flowers, and bushes

Phase 2 - the fountain & gathering area will begin at a later date.  Thank you to those who gave and are still giving to the effort!

The speed of vision is generosity.  Not only people being generous in their giving to the church, but generous in their daily lives. When you are generous with your time, talent, and treasure in helping someone else fulfill their God given vision, help will be released for your God-given vision. 

Sowing seed of time, talent, and treasure is an act of hope. All seed has to do with the future.

Philippians 1:3-5 (NLT)

3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. 4 Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, 5 for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now.

I Thessalonians 2:17-18 NKJV

“But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire. Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us.”

Do not allow hindrances to cause you to give up on your vision. Don't give up, pivot. Don't waste a challenge, learn and overcome. When you have a set back, prepare to bounce back into your comeback.

Future Plans For Fayetteville

Other Ongoing Initiatives

Media, YouTube, & Social media 

Spring Cleaning Day

Center of Community - Faith Christian Center

North Mableton Farmers Market - Launch Date: may 7th, 2025

Mal 3:10-12 (NKJV)

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 That [there will] not [be room] enough [to receive it]. 11 "And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field," Says the LORD of hosts; 12 "And all nations will call you blessed, For you will be a delightful land," Says the LORD of hosts.

Deu 28:1-13 (NKJV)

"Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. 2 "And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God: 3 "Blessed [shall] you [be] in the city, and blessed [shall] you [be] in the country. 4 "Blessed [shall be] the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks. 5 "Blessed [shall be] your basket and your kneading bowl. 6 "Blessed [shall] you [be] when you come in, and blessed [shall] you [be] when you go out. 7 "The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before your face; they shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways. 8 "The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you. 9 "The LORD will establish you as a holy people to Himself, just as He has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the LORD your God and walk in His ways. 10 "Then all peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you. 11 "And the LORD will grant you plenty of goods, in the fruit of your body, in the increase of your livestock, and in the produce of your ground, in the land of which the LORD swore to your fathers to give you. 12 "The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow. 13 "And the LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe [them].

3/5/25

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Championship Year Confession & Affirmation

I will thrive in 2025!

My faith is alive in 2025.

My faith is activated.

My faith is working and producing results.

My capacity for greater faith is enlarging.

My faith is getting stronger every day.

My faith is growing exceedingly.

I have CHAMPIONSHIP FAITH!

We are an unstoppable and invincible championship team!

We are breaking records and exceeding goals!

This is our Championship Year!

This is your 2025 vision and goals check-in and check-up! How is it going pursuing your goals? Are you making progress? Have you achieved any? Are you getting closer? Do you need to make adjustments? Have you given up? Have you forgotten your goals?

Eph 1:15-23 (NKJV)

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what [is] the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated [Him] at His right hand in the heavenly [places], 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. 22 And He put all [things] under His feet, and gave Him [to be] head over all [things] to the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

hope - positive expectation

calling - invitation

God has a positive expectation of you.

Have you accepted His invitation? Have you extended His invitation to anyone?

He has invited you to a wonderful life filled with purpose. He has invited you to fulfill His purpose for you.

Investigate the invitation until it infills your imagination.

Col 1:9-12 (NKJV)

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him], being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.

Pray over your spiritual vision. Ask God concerning His vision for your life and the area where you live.

Hab 2:2-4 (NKJV)

Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision And make [it] plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. 4 "Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith.

Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what [is] that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Renew your mind to the will of God for your life. Renew your mind to God's vision for your life. You have to become vision minded.

You cannot effectively pursue God's vision for your life with a disorganized mindset.

James 1:5-8 (NKJV)

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

You have to single-mindedly pursue God's vision for your life. You are called. Go after the call!

Vision is self investment in your future. Vision produces self-control, discipline, and restraint.

Pro 29:18 (AMP)

Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God].

Where are you dreaming and believing small? Where can you enlarge your thinking and vision?

Phl 3:14 (NKJV)

I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

press - apply maximum sustainable effort

Where do you need to adjust your strategy?

Investigate and inquire about opportunities that are connected to your vision.

Eph 5:15-17 (NLT)

So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

2/19/25

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Luk 24:49 (NLT)

"And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven."

Luk 24:49 (AMP)

"Listen carefully: I am sending the Promise of My Father [the Holy Spirit] upon you; but you are to remain in the city [of Jerusalem] until you are clothed (fully equipped) with power from on high."

Eph 4:8-16 (NKJV)

Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men." 9 (Now this, "He ascended"--what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) 11 And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

You have a supply and your supply matters!

You have a part and your part matters!

[Luk 4:14-21 NKJV]

Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. 15 And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. 16 So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the LORD [is] upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to [the] poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to [the] captives And recovery of sight to [the] blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; 19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD." 20 Then He closed the book, and gave [it] back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing."

[Zec 4:6-10 NKJV]

So he answered and said to me: "This [is] the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' Says the LORD of hosts. 7 'Who [are] you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel [you shall become] a plain! And he shall bring forth the capstone With shouts of "Grace, grace to it!" ' " 8 Moreover the word of the LORD came to me, saying: 9 "The hands of Zerubbabel Have laid the foundation of this temple; His hands shall also finish [it]. Then you will know That the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you. 10 For who has despised the day of small things? For these seven rejoice to see The plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. They are the eyes of the LORD, Which scan to and fro throughout the whole earth."

[Psa 92:10 NKJV]

But my horn You have exalted like a wild ox; I have been anointed with fresh oil.

2/16/25

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Luk 24:49 (NLT)

"And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven."

Luk 24:49 (AMP)

"Listen carefully: I am sending the Promise of My Father [the Holy Spirit] upon you; but you are to remain in the city [of Jerusalem] until you are clothed (fully equipped) with power from on high."

Eph 4:8-16 (NKJV)

Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men." 9 (Now this, "He ascended"--what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) 11 And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

You have a supply and your supply matters!

You have a part and your part matters!

Eph 4:16 (AMPC)

¹⁶ For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love.

Phl 1:19 (NKJV)

For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

Rom 5:5 (NKJV)

Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

You have a supply from the Spirit and love from God in your heart.

Mat 22:36-40 (NKJV)

"Teacher, which [is] the great commandment in the law?" 37 Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 "This is [the] first and great commandment. 39 "And [the] second [is] like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 "On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."

Jhn 13:34 (NKJV)

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

Jhn 15:9, 12 (NKJV)

"As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. … 12 "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

Prayer To Pray

My heavenly Father, the almighty God, love Himself, loves me. He loves me as much as He loves Jesus. He has poured out His love into my heart by the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of love, whom He has given to me. That love saturates every cell of my being to the extent that people can sense the love of God just by being in my presence. Today, I choose to be a conduit of the great love of God. I will love others the same way Jesus loves me. I love my family the way Jesus loves me. I love my co-workers as Jesus loves me. I love the brethren as Jesus loves me. I love my fellow humans as Jesus loves me. The love of God is overflowing within me. This love fuels my faith, and my faith grows exceedingly. This love flushes out all fear, because fear has torment. I believe God loves me, and I will love others the same way He loves me."

Eph 4:32 (NKJV)

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

Eph 5:1-2 (NKJV)

Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

Eph 5:15-21 (NLT)

So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18 Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, 19 singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Being filled with the Spirit is not a divine luxury, but a divine command.

A Spirit Filled life is a life filled with love.

Act 2:4 (NLT)

And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

Act 4:8, 31 (NLT)

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers and elders of our people, … 31 After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness.

Act 9:17 (NLT)

So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."

Act 13:9, 52 (NLT)

Saul, also known as Paul, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he looked the sorcerer in the eye. … 52 And the believers were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

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2/12/25

Luk 24:49 (NLT)

"And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven."

Luk 24:49 (AMP)

"Listen carefully: I am sending the Promise of My Father [the Holy Spirit] upon you; but you are to remain in the city [of Jerusalem] until you are clothed (fully equipped) with power from on high."

[Jhn 16:13-15 NKJV] 13 "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own [authority], but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 "He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare [it] to you. 15 "All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare [it] to you.

[Rom 8:14-16 NKJV] 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

[Act 27:9-10 NKJV] 9 Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, 10 saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives."

2/9/25

Spirit Filled Living In The Age Of A.I. (Part 3): Our Championship Year

When you watch the Super Bowl, the NBA Finals, the World Series, you are watching champions who have mastered the fundamentals of their sport.

An NFL team has 53 players on its active roster, plus a practice squad of up to 16 players. NFL teams employ hundreds of people, including players, coaches, and support staff. NFL teams have multiple coaching positions, including a head coach and 15 or more assistant coaches.

Every player on the 53-man roster receives a personalized Super Bowl ring featuring their name and jersey number. Coaches, executives, and other team employees also receive rings.

Each year, anywhere from 300 to 900 rings are produced, depending on the size of the organization and how many the owners decide to give away.

Five Things You Need To Make This Your Championship Year!

Eph 4:11-16 (NLT)

and one God and Father, who is over all and in all and living through all. … 11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.

1. Get Coached

The ministry gifts that Jesus gave are responsible for coaching you, training you, and helping you walk out the plays God has has for you.

Eph 5:15-18 (NLT)

So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18 Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit,

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2. Get Your Head Back In The Game

• You are part of a team!
• You are not in this by yourself.

3. Get The Play & Run The Play

4. Check Your Playlist

Eph 5:19-20 (NLT)

singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Make sure you are not meditating on the playlist of division

5. Grow & Develop Your Faith

2Th 1:3 (NASB20)

We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers [and sisters,] as is [only] fitting, because your faith is increasing abundantly, and the love of each and every one of you toward one another grows [ever] greater.

Rom 10:17 (NKJV)

So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Championship Year Confession & Affirmation

I will thrive in 2025!

My faith is alive in 2025.

My faith is activated.

My faith is working and producing results.

My capacity for greater faith is enlarging.

My faith is getting stronger every day.

My faith is growing exceedingly.

I have CHAMPIONSHIP FAITH!

We are an unstoppable and invincible championship team!

We are breaking records and exceeding goals!

This is our Championship Year!

2/5/25

Spirit Filled Living In The Age Of A.I. (Part 2)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a set of technologies that allow computers to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. AI uses algorithms, data, and computational power to simulate human intelligence. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is technology that enables computers and machines to simulate human learning, comprehension, problem solving, decision making, creativity and autonomy.

AI is not new. The concept of AI as we know it goes back to the 1950s.

Old and classic movies like The Terminator, Matrix, I,Robot, Blade Runner, Short Circuit and more all showcased AI.

Google search is an example of AI.

[Pro 15:14 NKJV]

The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

[Pro 18:15 NKJV]

The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

[Pro 19:2 NKJV]

Also it is not good [for] a soul [to be] without knowledge, And he sins who hastens with [his] feet.

[Pro 24:4-5 NKJV]

By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. 5 A wise man [is] strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength;

[Pro 2:6 NKJV]

For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth [come] knowledge and understanding;

[Pro 4:7 NKJV]

Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [Therefore] get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.

[Isa 11:1-4 NKJV]

There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots. 2 The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. 3 His delight [is] in the fear of the LORD, And He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, Nor decide by the hearing of His ears; 4 But with righteousness He shall judge the poor, And decide with equity for the meek of the earth; He shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked.

[Eph 1:16-21 NKJV]

do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what [is] the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated [Him] at His right hand in the heavenly [places], 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

2/2/25

Spirit Filled Living In The Age Of A.I.

What does it mean to be Spirit Filled?

Jhn 20:19-22 (NLT)

That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! "Peace be with you," he said. 20 As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! 21 Again he said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you." 22 Then he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.

Luk 24:49 (NLT)

"And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven."

Luk 24:49 (AMP)

"Listen carefully: I am sending the Promise of My Father [the Holy Spirit] upon you; but you are to remain in the city [of Jerusalem] until you are clothed (fully equipped) with power from on high."

Act 1:1-8 (NLT)

In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit. 3 During the forty days after his crucifixion, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God. 4 Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, "Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. 5 John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." 6 So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?" 7 He replied, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Act 2:1-21 (NLT)

On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. 2 Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. 3 Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. 5 At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. 6 When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. 7 They were completely amazed. "How can this be?" they exclaimed. "These people are all from Galilee, 8 and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! 9 Here we are--Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, 10 Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!" 12 They stood there amazed and perplexed. "What can this mean?" they asked each other. 13 But others in the crowd ridiculed them, saying, "They're just drunk, that's all!" 14 Then Peter stepped forward with the eleven other apostles and shouted to the crowd, "Listen carefully, all of you, fellow Jews and residents of Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this. 15 These people are not drunk, as some of you are assuming. Nine o'clock in the morning is much too early for that. 16 No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel: 17 'In the last days,' God says, 'I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. 18 In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants--men and women alike--and they will prophesy. 19 And I will cause wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below--blood and fire and clouds of smoke. 20 The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives. 21 But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.'

What is the initial evidence of being filled with the Spirit? Speaking in other tongues.

When you are filled with the Spirit, the Holy Spirit comes upon you and fills your spirit.

Notice, people misunderstood the moving of the Spirit. They thought the 120 were drunk. Now, people would not think you are drunk if you spoke in a foreign language.

Why did they think they were drunk? They were staggering around and acting like people who were drunk. There are ways the Spirit moves today that seem strange to the modern, western mind.

2 Ch 5:13-14 (KJV)

It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers [were] as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up [their] voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, [saying], For [he is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever: that [then] the house was filled with a cloud, [even] the house of the LORD; 14 So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God.

Matthew 28:1-4 (NLT)

Early on Sunday morning,^[a] as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb.

² Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, 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.

John 18:4-6 (AMPC)

Then Jesus, knowing all that was about to befall Him, went out to them and said, Whom are you seeking? [Whom do you want?]

⁵ They answered Him, Jesus the Nazarene. Jesus said to them, I am He. Judas, who was betraying Him, was also standing with them.

⁶ When Jesus said to them, I am He, they went backwards (drew back, lurched backward) and fell to the ground.

1Co 1:4-9 (NKJV)

I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus, 5 that you were enriched in everything by Him in all utterance and all knowledge, 6 even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you, 7 so that you come short in no gift, eagerly waiting for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 8 who will also confirm you to the end, [that you may be] blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God [is] faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

1Co 12:1-11 (NKJV)

Now concerning spiritual [gifts], brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: 2 You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. 4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit [of all]: 8 for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another [different] kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

ignorant - uninformed

spirituals - notice gifts is italicized. It includes the gifts of the Spirit, but much more. It includes His ministries, activities, and manifestation.

manifestation - expression, exhibition, display, demonstration, giving of a gift

profit of all - we all get better together

Without the moving of the Spirit, we are missing out on getting better together.

1Co 14:14-18 (NKJV)

For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is [the conclusion] then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. 16 Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say "Amen" at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say? 17 For you indeed give thanks well, but the other is not edified. 18 I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all;

Jde 1:20 (NKJV)

But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,

build - rise higher and higher, expand

Eph 5:17-20 (NLT)

Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18 Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, 19 singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1/26/25

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on Wednesday, January 29th.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

Mat 12:35 (NKJV)

"A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

3 Jo 1:2 (NKJV)

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers

We need to prosper from the inside out.

Proverbs 15:13-15 (NKJV)

A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance,
But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge,
But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil,
But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.

Proverbs 15:15 (AMPC)

All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].

Proverbs 4:23 (NLT)

Guard your heart above all else,
for it determines the course of your life.

Eph 1:17-18 (NKJV)

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

riches - abundance

2Co 4:7 (NKJV)

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

Don't allow preference to cause you to miss out on a rich deposit.

Mark your calendar for Dr. Billye Brim - March 1st - March 2nd and Bro. Roberts Liardon - Wednesday, April 16th.

Pro 3:31 (NKJV)

Do not envy the oppressor, And choose none of his ways;

Pro 14:30 (NKJV)

A sound heart [is] life to the body, But envy [is] rottenness to the bones.

Pro 23:17 (NKJV)

Do not let your heart envy sinners, But [be zealous] for the fear of the LORD all the day;

Phl 1:15 (NKJV)

Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill:

envy - bitter jealousy

Jas 3:14-16 (NLT)

But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don't cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. 16 For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.

Heb 12:14-15 (NKJV)

Pursue peace with all [people], and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: 15 looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;

Deu 28:47 (NKJV)

"Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything,

Neh 8:10 (NKJV)

Then he said to them, "Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for [this] day [is] holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

Phl 4:4 NKJV)

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

Rom 14:17 (NKJV)

for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Psa 67:1-7 (NKJV)

To the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. God be merciful to us and bless us, [And] cause His face to shine upon us, Selah 2 That Your way may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations. 3 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 4 Oh, let the nations be glad and sing for joy! For You shall judge the people righteously, And govern the nations on earth. Selah 5 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 6 [Then] the earth shall yield her increase; God, our own God, shall bless us. 7 God shall bless us, And all the ends of the earth shall fear Him.

1/19/25

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on the following Wednesdays: January 22nd & 29th.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

New To Faith? Get Connected To The Faith Family & Attend Our Team Faith Orientation Lunch on February 2nd!

Mat 12:35 (NKJV)

"A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

3 Jo 1:2 (NKJV)

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers

We need to prosper from the inside out.

Proverbs 15:13-15 (NKJV)

A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance,
But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

¹⁴ The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge,
But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

¹⁵ All the days of the afflicted are evil,
But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.

Proverbs 15:15 (AMPC)

All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].

foreboding - fearful apprehension, a feeling that something bad will happen

despair - complete loss of hope. It's evil hope, a constant expectation that something bad will happen

All worry is fear based.

Fear is like temptation. It is not a sin to be tempted. It is not a sin to be afraid. Like temptation always presents a choice, fear always presents a choice. When you are afraid, you have a choice.

Fear is like anger. To be angry is not a sin, to stay in anger will lead you to sin. Staying in fear will lead you to sin.

Fear will lead you to make decisions that outlast the sensation of fright. If you are continually making those decisions, fear forms your habits which form your lifestyle. You may no longer be afraid, but fear has become your operating system and you are making choices rooted in fear.

Fear enslaves. The master fear of all fear is the fear of death. The fear of death holds the chain on the fear that is trying to enslave you.

Hebrews 2:14-15 (NKJV)

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

Joshua 1:9 NKJV

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

afraid - panic

Matthew 24:6 NLT

And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately.

Panic - sudden uncontrollable fear or anxiety, often causing wildly unthinking behavior, to suddenly feel so worried or frightened that you cannot think or behave calmly or reasonably, a sudden overwhelming fear, with or without cause, that produces hysterical or irrational behavior,

Panic will lead you, weaken you, rob you of joy, rest, and wise decision making

Rom 8:14-16 (NKJV)

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

Rom 5:5 (NKJV)

Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

1Jo 4:18-19 (NKJV)

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us.

1 John 4:18 (AMPC)

There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love [a]turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear [b]brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love’s complete perfection].

Rom 8:26-28 (NKJV)

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit [is], because He makes intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. 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.

Pray in the Spirit not from a place of panic, pray from a place knowing that you are loved! The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Love. You are partnering with the Spirit of Love allowing Him to pray through you the perfect will of God Who is Love.

1/12/25

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on the following Wednesdays: January 15th, 22nd, & 29th.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

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Psalm 1:1-3 (AMPC)

 Blessed (happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather.

² But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night.

³ And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].

Psalm 119:11

AMP - Your word I have treasured and stored in my heart, That I may not sin against You.

MSG -  I’ve banked your promises in the vault of my heart so I won’t sin myself bankrupt.

Luke 6:45 (NKJV)

"A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Luke 8:15 (NKJV)

"But the ones [that] fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep [it] and bear fruit with patience.

3 Jo 1:2 (NKJV)

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

We need to have a noble heart and a prosperous soul if we want to thrive in 2025.

Pro 4:23 (NASB20)

Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it [flow] the springs of life.

NLT - Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

NIV - Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

1/5/25

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on the following Wednesdays: January 15th, 22nd, & 29th.

New To Faith? Get Connected To The Faith Family & Attend Our Team Faith Orientation Lunch on January 5th!

Special Midweek Experience with Tim Storey - January 8th! We will be praying over your 2025 goals at the end of the Experience. Write them down and bring them to church so we can pray over your list of goals.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on the following Wednesdays: January 15th, 22nd, & 29th.

New To Faith? Get Connected To The Faith Family & Attend Our Team Faith Orientation Lunch on January 5th!

Special Midweek Experience with Tim Storey - January 8th! We will be praying over your 2025 goals at the end of the Experience. Write them down and bring them to church so we can pray over your list of goals.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

30 Days Of Prayer Focus For The Week:

1. Pray for the hearts of the Faith Family to be refreshed, overflowing with hope, and good ground for God's Word
2. Pray for our Mayor and local leaders to have soft hearts that yield to the plan of God, to be granted Godly wisdom, and to be protected
3. Pray for the President, the incoming President, and the upcoming transition of power

2025 is our year to thrive.

thrive - to flourish, prosper, advance, make steady progress, to grow and develop vigorously, to blossom, to succeed

Today, I want to share with you an important key that is vital to you living refreshed and thriving in 2025.

Proverbs 15:13-15 (NKJV)

A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance,
But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

¹⁴ The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge,
But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

¹⁵ All the days of the afflicted are evil,
But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.

Proverbs 15:15 (AMPC)

All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].

Proverbs 15:15 (NLT)

For the despondent, every day brings trouble;
 for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.

feast - a large meal, typically one in celebration of something, a plentiful supply of something enjoyable, especially for the mind or senses

A feast paints the picture of plenty, abundance, joy, and celebration.

merry - cheerful, lively, full of joy, happiness, and excitement

What is the condition of your heart? Is it merry?

A merry heart causes you to have a positive outlook on life.

A merry heart causes you to feast in life regardless of circumstances.

Proverbs 17:22

A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.

Proverbs 4:23 (AMPC)

Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

Luke 6:45 (AMPC)

The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks.

Psalm 119:11

Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.

hidden - stored

The Word of God must have first place and final authority in your life.

Proverbs 3:5-10

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

⁷ Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord and depart from evil.
⁸ It will be health to your flesh,
And strength to your bones.

⁹ Honor the Lord with your possessions,
And with the firstfruits of all your increase;
¹⁰ So your barns will be filled with plenty,
And your vats will overflow with new wine.

John 10:10 (AMPC)

The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

John 4:14 (NKJV)

 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

Romans 14:14 (NKJV)

for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

1 Peter 1:8 AMPC

Without having seen Him, you love Him; though you do not [even] now see Him, you believe in Him and exult and thrill with inexpressible and glorious (triumphant, heavenly) joy.

Luke 8:15 (NLT)

And the seeds that fell on the good soil represent honest, good-hearted people who hear God’s word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest.

12/31/24

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on the following Wednesdays: January 15th, 22nd, & 29th.

New To Faith? Get Connected To The Faith Family & Attend Our Team Faith Orientation Lunch on January 5th!

Special Midweek Experience with Tim Storey - January 8th! We will be praying over your 2025 goals at the end of the Experience. Write them down and bring them to church so we can pray over your list of goals.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

Romans 10:17 (NKJV) So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Faith works where the will of God is known. 

We need to be specific with our faith, and not general. 

“There’s a move of refreshing coming to the Body of Christ that will strengthen us to stand in this hour and move forward with great power”

Refresh – give new strength or energy to; reinvigorate, to renew, to revive

“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before,”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Acts 3:19-20 – times of refreshing come from the presence of the Lord

 – AMPC – that times of refreshing (of recovering from the effects of heat, of reviving with fresh air) may come from the presence of the Lord;”, 

– MSG – God would out showers of blessing to refresh you, 

-TPT- times of refreshing will stream from the Lord’s presence 

refreshing – like a cool wind on a hot day

Revival – 

an improvement in the condition or strength of something, a comeback

• an instance of something becoming popular, active, or important again: cross-country skiing is enjoying a revival.
• a new production of an old play or similar work.
• a reawakening of religious fervor, especially by means of a series of evangelistic meetings
• a restoration to bodily or mental vigor, to life or consciousness, or to sporting success:

To revive – restore to life or consciousness:

• regain life, consciousness, or strength:
• give new strength or energy to:
• restore interest in or the popularity of:
• improve the position or condition of:

“For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭8‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬-‭30‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”

‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Acts 9:31 (NKJV) Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

12/29/24

New Year's Eve Experience - 10PM

Enroll in the Faith Bible Institute! Join us for our FBI Preview on the following Wednesdays: January 15th, 22nd, & 29th.

New To Faith? Get Connected To The Faith Family & Attend Our Team Faith Orientation Lunch on January 5th!

Special Midweek Experience with Tim Storey - January 8th! We will be praying over your 2025 goals at the end of the Experience. Write them down and bring them to church so we can pray over your list of goals.

Faith In The Morning Weekday Devotional Newsletter

Luk 2:21-40 (NKJV)

And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. 22 Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present [Him] to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD"), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, "A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." 25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name [was] Simeon, and this man [was] just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: 29 "Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation 31 Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, 32 A light to [bring] revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel." 33 And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, "Behold, this [Child] is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against 35 "(yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." 36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman [was] a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served [God] with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. 39 So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their [own] city, Nazareth. 40 And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.

Jhn 10:10 (NKJV)

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have [it] more abundantly.

John 10:10 (AMPC)

The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it ^[a]overflows).

thief - pickpocket - Satan steals through distraction

1 Jo 5:12 (NKJV)

He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

Jhn 4:13-14 (NLT)

Jesus replied, "Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life."

You have the life of God on the inside of you. You need to acknowledge it.

Luk 10:38-42 (NLT)

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." 41 But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her."

Mat 14:22-32 (NKJV)

Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. 23 And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. 24 But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. 25 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out for fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." 28 And Peter answered Him and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." 29 So He said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw that the wind [was] boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" 31 And immediately Jesus stretched out [His] hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.

The wind and waves are irrelevant. They are distractions.

Phl 3:13-14 (NLT)

No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Heb 12:1-2 (NLT)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne.

12/22/24

Preparing For 2025: Jesus Gives Gifts & Rewards

Eph 2:8-10 (NKJV)

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; [it is] the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Jas 1:17 (NKJV)

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

Matthew 7:11 tells us that if we know how to give good gifts, how much more does God know how to give good gifts?

God has wonderful gifts for you in 2025! Stay in a place of faith so you can receive them.

Eph 4:8, 11 (NKJV)

Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men." … 11 And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,

He gave us gifts, but we have to make sure we are present to receive from the gifts.

Mat 6:5-6 (NLT)

"When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. 6 But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.

30 Days Of Prayer begins January 5th!

1Co 9:24 (NLT)

Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!

Phl 3:13-14 (NLT)

No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Live in a way that you will be rewarded. There are rewards on earth and rewards in heaven. The Church in revelation 3 received rewards because of what they were doing on earth. Let's be the people who receive all the gifts God has for us and all the rewards possible.

Let's finish the year strong, set goals for 2025, believe for miracles, and be locked in for every Sunday experience and our 30 days of prayer.

12/18/24

Col 1:9-10 (NKJV)

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him], being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Ephesians 1:15-18

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

[Psa 119:130 NKJV] 130 The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.

[Pro 29:18 NASB20] 18 Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is one who keeps the Law.

[Hab 2:2-4 NKJV] 2 Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision And make [it] plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. 4 "Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith.

[Hab 2:2-3 NLT] 2 Then the LORD said to me, "Write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others. 3 This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed.

[Psa 37:3-5 NKJV] 3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring [it] to pass.

[Jas 1:5-8 NKJV] 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

12/15/24

Preparing For 2025: Additional Assignments Await

Rev 1:10-20 (NKJV)

I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet, 11 saying, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last," and, "What you see, write in a book and send [it] to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea." 12 Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and in the midst of the seven lampstands [One] like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. 14 His head and hair [were] white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; 15 His feet [were] like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; 16 He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance [was] like the sun shining in its strength. 17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. 18 "I [am] He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. 19 "Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. 20 "The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.

clothed - conferred- this garment had been conferred upon Him

garment - this word means the garment of the High Priest

gold band - pure gold and placed in the highest place which showcases his authority, splendor, wealth, and might

Heb 3:1 (NKJV)

Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus,

Heb 4:14-16 (NLT)

So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

Heb 5:5-6 (NLT)
That is why Christ did not honor himself by assuming he could become High Priest. No, he was chosen by God, who said to him, "You are my Son. Today I have become your Father." 6 And in another passage God said to him, "You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek."

Heb 7:24-26 (NLT)

But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf. 26 He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven.

Rev 10:8-11 (NLT)

Then the voice from heaven spoke to me again: "Go and take the open scroll from the hand of the angel who is standing on the sea and on the land." 9 So I went to the angel and told him to give me the small scroll. "Yes, take it and eat it," he said. "It will be sweet as honey in your mouth, but it will turn sour in your stomach!" 10 So I took the small scroll from the hand of the angel, and I ate it! It was sweet in my mouth, but when I swallowed it, it turned sour in my stomach. 11 Then I was told, "You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages, and kings."

Again - think about it!!!

Additional assignments await you in 2025.

Luk 2:1-20 (NLT)

At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. 4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7 She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. 8 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior--yes, the Messiah, the Lord--has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12 And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others--the armies of heaven--praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." 15 When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." 16 They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. 17 After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. 18 All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished, 19 but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. 20 The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.

These weren't "random" shepherds. These were shepherds who were under rabbinical instruction to care for the sacrificial lambs that were offered in the temple.

The cloths that Jesus was wrapped in was what they would wrap the legs of new born lambs in.

The assignment matched the shepherds who became the first evangelists. They weren't random - they were chosen and prepared.

Mat 2:9-11 (NLT)

After this interview the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! 11 They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

opened - a grand, magnificent opening

The gifts given always represented the the level of the king who would be receiving them.

Gold - His kingship

Frankincense - His priesthood

Myrrh - His sacrificial death

Col 1:9-14 (NKJV)

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him], being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed [us] into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.

Preparing For 2025: The Lord Has Established You

2Sa 5:9-12 (KJV)

So David dwelt in the fort, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from Millo and inward. 10 And David went on, and grew great, and the LORD God of hosts [was] with him. 11 And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and they built David an house. 12 And David perceived that the LORD had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake.

established - to be set up, to be fixed, to be firmly established, to be secure, to be enduring

David perceived and realized that the Lord had established him. Have you had that realization yet?

After a season of re-arranging and re-positioning, you have to know the Lord has placed you where you are for a reason.

He is establishing you. However, you must realize it.

The Scripture says that David grew stronger and stronger because the Lord God of Hosts was with him.

He was growing stronger but did not realize that the Lord had established him. He also realized why the Lord had blessed his kingdom.

2Th 3:1-3 (NKJV)

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run [swiftly] and be glorified, just as [it is] with you, 2 and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard [you] from the evil one.

2Th 3:3 (AMP)

But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you [setting you on a firm foundation] and will protect and guard you from the evil one.

When you know that you are established, you think different.

Rom 12:2 (NKJV)

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what [is] that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Renew your mind to the vision God has for your life. Become vision minded.

Renew your mind and see yourself as established.

Build a godly stronghold/mentality in your mind concerning your call and where God has placed you.

Grow a vision for rapidly increasing influence.

1 Co 15:57-58 (NKJV)

But thanks [be] to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Psa 55:22 (NKJV)

Cast your burden on the LORD, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

Psa 55:22 (AMP) 22 Cast your burden on the LORD [release it] and He will sustain and uphold you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken (slip, fall, fail).

Psa 112:6-8 (NASB20)

For he will never be shaken; The righteous will be remembered forever. 7 He will not fear bad news; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 8 His heart is firm, he will not fear, But will look [with satisfaction] on his enemies.

Psa 89:20-24 (NKJV)

I have found My servant David; With My holy oil I have anointed him, 21 With whom My hand shall be established; Also My arm shall strengthen him. 22 The enemy shall not outwit him, Nor the son of wickedness afflict him. 23 I will beat down his foes before his face, And plague those who hate him. 24 "But My faithfulness and My mercy [shall be] with him, And in My name his horn shall be exalted.

12/8/24

Preparing For 2025: You Are Called To Influence (Part 2)

Daniel 1:8, 17-21

8 But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. 17 God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams. 18 When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. 19 The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service. 20 Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom. 21 Daniel remained in the royal service until the first year of the reign of King Cyrus.

Holiness will protect you, your progress, and your profits. Whatever you compromise to keep you will eventually lose. Whatever you bow down to on the way up the mountain will rule you when you get to the top.

Rev 1:10-20 (NKJV)

I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet, 11 saying, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last," and, "What you see, write in a book and send [it] to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea." 12 Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and in the midst of the seven lampstands [One] like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. 14 His head and hair [were] white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; 15 His feet [were] like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; 16 He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance [was] like the sun shining in its strength. 17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. 18 "I [am] He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. 19 "Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. 20 "The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.

Rev. 2:1 (NKJV)

"To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, 'These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands:

Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Prov 4:18 (MSG)

The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker— travelers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces.

Dan 3:13-30 (NKJV)

Then Nebuchadnezzar, in rage and fury, gave the command to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. So they brought these men before the king. 14 Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying to them, "[Is it] true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, [that] you do not serve my gods or worship the gold image which I have set up? 15 "Now if you are ready at the time you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre, [and] psaltery, in symphony with all kinds of music, and you fall down and worship the image which I have made, [good]! But if you do not worship, you shall be cast immediately into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. And who [is] the god who will deliver you from my hands?" 16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17 "If that [is the case], our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver [us] from your hand, O king. 18 "But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up." 19 Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the expression on his face changed toward Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. He spoke and commanded that they heat the furnace seven times more than it was usually heated. 20 And he commanded certain mighty men of valor who [were] in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, [and] cast [them] into the burning fiery furnace. 21 Then these men were bound in their coats, their trousers, their turbans, and their [other] garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. 22 Therefore, because the king's command was urgent, and the furnace exceedingly hot, the flame of the fire killed those men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. 23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. 24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished; and he rose in haste [and] spoke, saying to his counselors, "Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?" They answered and said to the king, "True, O king." 25 "Look!" he answered, "I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God." 26 Then Nebuchadnezzar went near the mouth of the burning fiery furnace [and] spoke, saying, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come [here]." Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego came from the midst of the fire. 27 And the satraps, administrators, governors, and the king's counselors gathered together, and they saw these men on whose bodies the fire had no power; the hair of their head was not singed nor were their garments affected, and the smell of fire was not on them. 28 Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, who sent His Angel and delivered His servants who trusted in Him, and they have frustrated the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they should not serve nor worship any god except their own God! 29 "Therefore I make a decree that any people, nation, or language which speaks anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made an ash heap; because there is no other God who can deliver like this." 30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego in the province of Babylon.

Gen 18:1-14 (NLT)

The LORD appeared again to Abraham near the oak grove belonging to Mamre. One day Abraham was sitting at the entrance to his tent during the hottest part of the day. 2 He looked up and noticed three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran to meet them and welcomed them, bowing low to the ground. 3 "My lord," he said, "if it pleases you, stop here for a while. 4 Rest in the shade of this tree while water is brought to wash your feet. 5 And since you've honored your servant with this visit, let me prepare some food to refresh you before you continue on your journey." "All right," they said. "Do as you have said." 6 So Abraham ran back to the tent and said to Sarah, "Hurry! Get three large measures of your best flour, knead it into dough, and bake some bread." 7 Then Abraham ran out to the herd and chose a tender calf and gave it to his servant, who quickly prepared it. 8 When the food was ready, Abraham took some yogurt and milk and the roasted meat, and he served it to the men. As they ate, Abraham waited on them in the shade of the trees. 9 "Where is Sarah, your wife?" the visitors asked. "She's inside the tent," Abraham replied. 10 Then one of them said, "I will return to you about this time next year, and your wife, Sarah, will have a son!" Sarah was listening to this conversation from the tent. 11 Abraham and Sarah were both very old by this time, and Sarah was long past the age of having children. 12 So she laughed silently to herself and said, "How could a worn-out woman like me enjoy such pleasure, especially when my master--my husband--is also so old?" 13 Then the LORD said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh? Why did she say, 'Can an old woman like me have a baby?' 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son."

12/4/24

Preparing For 2025: You Are Called To Influence

Dan 1:1-21 (NLT)

During the third year of King Jehoiakim's reign in Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 The Lord gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of Judah and permitted him to take some of the sacred objects from the Temple of God. So Nebuchadnezzar took them back to the land of Babylonia and placed them in the treasure-house of his god. 3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah's royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives. 4 "Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men," he said. "Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon." 5 The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service. 6 Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah. 7 The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names: Daniel was called Belteshazzar. Hananiah was called Shadrach. Mishael was called Meshach. Azariah was called Abednego. 8 But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. 9 Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. 10 But he responded, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded." 11 Daniel spoke with the attendant who had been appointed by the chief of staff to look after Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. 12 "Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water," Daniel said. 13 "At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king's food. Then make your decision in light of what you see." 14 The attendant agreed to Daniel's suggestion and tested them for ten days. 15 At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. 16 So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others. 17 God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams. 18 When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. 19 The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service. 20 Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom. 21 Daniel remained in the royal service until the first year of the reign of King Cyrus.

[Psa 112:1-10 NLT]

Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD and delight in obeying his commands. 2 Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. 3 They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will last forever. 4 Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. 5 Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly. 6 Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. 7 They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. 8 They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly. 9 They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor. 10 The wicked will see this and be infuriated. They will grind their teeth in anger; they will slink away, their hopes thwarted.

Pro 11:10-11 (AMP)

When it goes well for the righteous, the city rejoices, And when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. 11 By the blessing [of the influence] of the upright the city is exalted, But by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.

Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Prov 4:18 (MAG)

The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker— travelers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces.

11/20/24

Ephesians 1:15-18

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

hope - positive expectation

calling - invitation

God has a positive expectation of you.

Have you accepted His invitation? Have you extended His invitation to anyone?

He has invited you to a wonderful life filled with purpose. He has invited you to fulfill His purpose for you.

Investigate the invitation until it infills your imagination.

Eph 5:15-17 (NKJV)

See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord [is].

Col 1:9-10 (NKJV)

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him], being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Psa 25:4, 12, 14 (NKJV)

Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. … 12 Who [is] the man that fears the LORD? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. … 14 The secret of the LORD [is] with those who fear Him, And He will show them His covenant.

1Jo 5:14-15 (NKJV)

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

11/17/24

The Field Of Dreams

Ephesians 1:15-18

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

hope - positive expectation

calling - invitation

God has a positive expectation of you.

Have you accepted His invitation? Have you extended His invitation to anyone?

He has invited you to a wonderful life filled with purpose. He has invited you to fulfill His purpose for you.

Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what [is] that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Renew your mind to the will of God for your life. Renew your mind to God's vision for your life. You have to become vision minded.

You cannot effectively pursue God's vision for your life with a disorganized mindset.

James 1:5-8 (NKJV)

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

You have to single-mindedly pursue God's vision for your life. You are called. Go after the call!

Psalm 65:11 (NLT)

You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.

Psalm 1:1-3 (NLT)

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

Proverbs 28:19 (NASB2020)

One who works his land will have plenty of food, But one who follows empty [pursuits] will have plenty of poverty.

Eph 2:10 (AMPC)

For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), ^[a]recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

Deu 28:8, 12 (NKJV)

"The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you. … 12 "The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.

2Co 9:6, 8-11 (NKJV)

But this [I say]: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. … 8 And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may have an abundance for every good work. 9 As it is written: "He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever." 10 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have [sown] and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while [you are] enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God.

Most of the seed you sow, you have gathered through work. Whether it is sowing your time using your skills or sowing finances, that seed was produced or hone through your work.

If it is through your work that you gather seed, then through working your land you will gather your harvest.

You sow, you say, you work, you gather.

11/13/24

[Rom 1:5-6 NKJV] 5 Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, 6 among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;

[Rom 1:5-6 NASB20] 5 through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about [the] obedience of faith among all the Gentiles in behalf of His name, 6 among whom you also are [the] called of Jesus Christ;

[Rom 16:25-27 NASB20] 25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, 26 but now has been disclosed, and through the Scriptures of the prophets, in accordance with the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, [leading] to obedience of faith; 27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.

[Act 6:7 NASB20] 7 The word of God kept spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

faith - belief with the predominant idea of trust or confidence, the conviction of truth, persuasion and assurance

"Obedience to the faith is the act of living out one's faith through belief and action. It involves following Christ's teachings, cooperating with God's grace, and obeying His commandments."

[Rom 10:16-17 NKJV] 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "LORD, who has believed our report?" 17 So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

[Jas 2:20-26 AMP] 20 But are you willing to recognize, you foolish [spiritually shallow] person, that faith without [good] works is useless? 21 Was our father Abraham not [shown to be] justified by works [of obedience which expressed his faith] when he offered Isaac his son on the altar [as a sacrifice to God]? 22 You see that [his] faith was working together with his works, and as a result of the works, his faith was completed [reaching its maturity when he expressed his faith through obedience]. 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "ABRAHAM BELIEVED GOD, AND THIS [faith] WAS CREDITED TO HIM [by God] AS RIGHTEOUSNESS and AS CONFORMITY TO HIS WILL," and he was called the friend of God. 24 You see that a man (believer) is justified by works and not by faith alone [that is, by acts of obedience a born-again believer reveals his faith]. 25 In the same way, was Rahab the prostitute not justified by works too, when she received the [Hebrew] spies as guests and protected them, and sent them away [to escape] by a different route? 26 For just as the [human] body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works [of obedience] is also dead.

[2Co 4:13 NKJV] 13 And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," we also believe and therefore speak,

[2Th 1:11 NLT] 11 So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.

[Act 26:19 NKJV] 19 "Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision,

11/3/24

Navigating Your New Season

8 Days Of Prayer & Fasting Prayer Topics

1. For you to know and understand God’s plan for you in 2025
2. For an outpouring of the Spirit and a great door of utterance for The Imagine Conference
3. For peaceful elections, transitions into the office,  and for those elected to yield to plan of God for their area
4. For revelation of your part in the Year Of Light Giving Sunday Offering
5. Listen & then pray 

Isaiah 11:2-3 (NKJV)

The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. 3 His delight [is] in the fear of the LORD, And He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, Nor decide by the hearing of His ears;

CEB - The Lord’s spirit will rest upon him, a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of planning and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.

MSG - The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over him, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, The Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God. 

Passion - The Spirit of Wise Strategy or the Spirit of Guidance

counsel - advice, purpose. This word was also used in other Scriptures to describe advice given to the king during times of war and peace. This word was also used for steering and guiding a ship.

Jhn 16:13 (NLT)

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.

Jas 3:2-12 (NLT)

Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. 3 We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. 4 And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. 5 In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 6 And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. 7 People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. 9 Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. 10 And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! 11 Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? 12 Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can't draw fresh water from a salty spring.

If you want to turn it in your life, you have to turn it in your mouth first.

Pro 18:20-21 (NKJV)

A man's stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; [From] the produce of his lips he shall be filled. 21 Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

Heb 6:13-20 (NLT)

For example, there was God's promise to Abraham. Since there was no one greater to swear by, God took an oath in his own name, saying: 14 "I will certainly bless you, and I will multiply your descendants beyond number." 15 Then Abraham waited patiently, and he received what God had promised. 16 Now when people take an oath, they call on someone greater than themselves to hold them to it. And without any question that oath is binding. 17 God also bound himself with an oath, so that those who received the promise could be perfectly sure that he would never change his mind. 18 So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. 19 This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary. 20 Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.

Rom 15:13 (NLT)

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Rom 15:4-5 (NLT)

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be fulfilled. 5 May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.

Heb 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

1Co 13:7 (NLT)

Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

Gal 6:6-10 (NLT)

Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them. 7 Don't be misled--you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. 8 Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. 9 So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. 10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith.

Every apple has a seed. Every harvest has a seed.

Sometimes harvest is an opportunity.

Eph 5:15-17 (NLT)

So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

10/30/24

Preparing For The Days Ahead

8 Days Of Prayer & Fasting Prayer Topics

1. For you to know and understand God’s plan for you in 2025
2. For an outpouring of the Spirit and a great door of utterance for The Imagine Conference
3. For peaceful elections, transitions into the office,  and for those elected to yield to plan of God for their area
4. For revelation of your part in the Year Of Light Giving Sunday Offering
5. Listen & then pray 

1st John 5:14-15 (NKJV)

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. ¹⁵ And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Are you praying with confidence?

Isaiah 11:2-3 (NKJV)

The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. 3 His delight [is] in the fear of the LORD, And He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, Nor decide by the hearing of His ears;

CEB - The Lord’s spirit will rest upon him, a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of planning and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.

MSG - The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over him, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, The Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God. 

counsel - advice, purpose. This word was also used in other Scriptures to describe advice given to the king during times of war and peace.

John 14:26 (AMPC)

But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you.

John 16:13 (NKJV)

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.

Guide - the one who shows you which way to go

1Co 2:9-10, 13 (NKJV)

But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 10 But God has revealed [them] to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. … 13 These things we also speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

Pro 20:5 (NKJV)

Counsel in the heart of man [is like] deep water, But a man of understanding will draw it out.

1Co 14:2 (NKJV)

For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands [him]; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.

Col 4:3 (KJV) 3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

Zec 10:1 (NKJV)

Ask the LORD for rain In the time of the latter rain. The LORD will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, Grass in the field for everyone.

1Ti 2:1-4 (NKJV)

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Eph 1:17-18 (NKJV)

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

Col 1:9-10 (NKJV)

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him], being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

John 10:27 (NKJV)

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.

10/25/24 - Impact Church Weekend

Access my new, FREE devotional - Peace: Your Shelter In The Storm

Need an advent devotional for Christmas time? Check out Jesus, Son of Rahab

I believe God wants to refresh you tonight.

You’ve been re-arranged and re-positioned for greater influence in 2025. 

You’ll find that in 2025, gifting, abilities, dreams, and more that were once dormant have come alive again. 

Romans 10:17 (NKJV) So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Faith works where the will of God is known. 

We need to be specific with our faith, and not general. 

“There’s a move of refreshing coming to the Body of Christ that will strengthen us to stand in this hour and move forward with great power”

Refresh - give new strength or energy to; reinvigorate, to renew, to revive

“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before,”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/114/act.3.19-20.NKJV

Acts 3:19-20 - times of refreshing come from the presence of the Lord

 - AMPC - that times of refreshing (of recovering from the effects of heat, of reviving with fresh air) may come from the presence of the Lord;”, 

- MSG - God would out showers of blessing to refresh you, 

-TPT- times of refreshing will stream from the Lord’s presence 

refreshing - like a cool wind on a hot day

Revival - 

an improvement in the condition or strength of something, a comeback

• an instance of something becoming popular, active, or important again: cross-country skiing is enjoying a revival.
• a new production of an old play or similar work.
• a reawakening of religious fervor, especially by means of a series of evangelistic meetings
• a restoration to bodily or mental vigor, to life or consciousness, or to sporting success:

To revive - restore to life or consciousness:

• regain life, consciousness, or strength:
• give new strength or energy to:
• restore interest in or the popularity of:
• improve the position or condition of:

1 Timothy 1:18 (NKJV) This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare,

Hebrews 4:2 (NKJV) For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard [it.]

1 Timothy 4:14-15 (NKJV) 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Meditate - to revolve in the mind, imagine 

“That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Matthew 5:6 (NKJV) Blessed [are] those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.

Isaiah 44:3 (KJV)

For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:

Psalm 107:9 (NKJV)

9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

Psalm 31:19 (KJV)

[Oh] how great [is] thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; [which] thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!

Exodus 33:18-19 (NKJV) 18 And he said, “Please, show me Your glory.” 19 Then He said, “I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”

10/20/24

We're going into a new season. Some of you have been re-arranged (seemingly suddenly). You've been complaining about the re-arranging and the discomfort to the change of your schedule. What you don't realize is that God is behind the re-arranging. He is repositioning you for great influence and so that you will thrive in 2025. A sign of this word is that you will see even more re-arranging over the next three months.

Listen to First Wednesday's message on this subject.

Gen 17:1-8 (NLT)

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am El-Shaddai--'God Almighty.' Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life. 2 I will make a covenant with you, by which I will guarantee to give you countless descendants." 3 At this, Abram fell face down on the ground. Then God said to him, 4 "This is my covenant with you: I will make you the father of a multitude of nations! 5 What's more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram. Instead, you will be called Abraham, for you will be the father of many nations. 6 I will make you extremely fruitful. Your descendants will become many nations, and kings will be among them! 7 "I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. 8 And I will give the entire land of Canaan, where you now live as a foreigner, to you and your descendants. It will be their possession forever, and I will be their God."

This was about 24 years after God first spoke to Abram to leave Ur. He messed up. He did things his way. Genesis 17 is his second chance. With his second chance, God presented Himself to him as El Shaddai.

- I am God all-sufficient; from hdv shadah, to shed, to pour out.  I am that God who pours out blessings, who gives them richly, abundantly, continually. 

- John Wesley - I am God All-sufficient.  The God with whom we have to do, is self-sufficient; he hath every thing, and he needs not any thing.  And he is enough to us, if we be in covenant with him; we have all in him, and we have enough in him; enough to satisfy our most enlarged desires; enough to supply the defect of every thing else, and to secure us happiness for our immortal souls. 

ALL-SUFFI'CIENT, a. Sufficient to every thing; infinitely able.  

This name depicts God literally as Who is Sufficient in granting mercies and Who has sufficient power to give whatever is necessary.  

The tittle Shadday really indicates the fullness and riches of God's grace, and would remind the Hebrew reader that from God comes every good and perfect gift -- that He is never weary of pouring forth His mercies on His people, and that He is more ready to give then they are to receive.  Bountiful expresses the sense most exactly.  El sets forth the might of God and the tittle Shadday points to the inexhaustible stores of His bounty

Act 7:20-34 (NLT)

"At that time Moses was born--a beautiful child in God's eyes. His parents cared for him at home for three months. 21 When they had to abandon him, Pharaoh's daughter adopted him and raised him as her own son. 22 Moses was taught all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and he was powerful in both speech and action. 23 "One day when Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his relatives, the people of Israel. 24 He saw an Egyptian mistreating an Israelite. So Moses came to the man's defense and avenged him, killing the Egyptian. 25 Moses assumed his fellow Israelites would realize that God had sent him to rescue them, but they didn't. 26 "The next day he visited them again and saw two men of Israel fighting. He tried to be a peacemaker. 'Men,' he said, 'you are brothers. Why are you fighting each other?' 27 "But the man in the wrong pushed Moses aside. 'Who made you a ruler and judge over us?' he asked. 28 'Are you going to kill me as you killed that Egyptian yesterday?' 29 When Moses heard that, he fled the country and lived as a foreigner in the land of Midian. There his two sons were born. 30 "Forty years later, in the desert near Mount Sinai, an angel appeared to Moses in the flame of a burning bush. 31 When Moses saw it, he was amazed at the sight. As he went to take a closer look, the voice of the LORD called out to him, 32 'I am the God of your ancestors--the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.' Moses shook with terror and did not dare to look. 33 "Then the LORD said to him, 'Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground. 34 I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groans and have come down to rescue them. Now go, for I am sending you back to Egypt.'

What we know of Moses was all connected to Moses' second chance.

Exo 3:13-17 (NLT)

But Moses protested, "If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, 'The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,' they will ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what should I tell them?" 14 God replied to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you." 15 God also said to Moses, "Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, the God of your ancestors--the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob--has sent me to you. This is my eternal name, my name to remember for all generations. 16 "Now go and call together all the elders of Israel. Tell them, 'The LORD, the God of your ancestors--the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob--has appeared to me. He told me, "I have been watching closely, and I see how the Egyptians are treating you. 17 I have promised to rescue you from your oppression in Egypt. I will lead you to a land flowing with milk and honey--the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live."'

In his second chance, God presented Himself to Moses as The Great I am - Yahweh/ Jehovah.

Yahweh/ Jehovah - The Self-Existent One

Jon 3:1-3 (NLT)

Then the LORD spoke to Jonah a second time: 2 "Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh, and deliver the message I have given you." 3 This time Jonah obeyed the LORD's command and went to Nineveh, a city so large that it took three days to see it all.

He is the God of the Second Chance! This new season for a lot of you is a second chance. He has a second chance for you!

There are some of you who have been hesitant is fully obeying God in this new season, because you are wondering how you are going to do all that God has for you to do. Today, I want to proclaim to you that He is the God of The And and the God of the Also.

Num 11:21, 23 (NLT)

But Moses responded to the LORD, "There are 600,000 foot soldiers here with me, and yet you say, 'I will give them meat for a whole month!' … 23 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Has my arm lost its power? Now you will see whether or not my word comes true!"

Gen 18:10-14 (NLT)

Then one of them said, "I will return to you about this time next year, and your wife, Sarah, will have a son!" Sarah was listening to this conversation from the tent. 11 Abraham and Sarah were both very old by this time, and Sarah was long past the age of having children. 12 So she laughed silently to herself and said, "How could a worn-out woman like me enjoy such pleasure, especially when my master--my husband--is also so old?" 13 Then the LORD said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh? Why did she say, 'Can an old woman like me have a baby?' 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son."

Isa 59:1 (NLT)

Listen! The LORD's arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call.

Luk 1:35-38 (NLT)

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. 36 What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. 37 For nothing is impossible with God." 38 Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her.

Positioned For A New Season

10/6/24

We're going into a new season. Some of you have been re-arranged (seemingly suddenly). You've been complaining about the re-arranging and the discomfort to the change of your schedule. What you don't realize is that God is behind the re-arranging. He is repositioning you for great influence and so that you will thrive in 2025. A sign of this word is that you will see even more re-arranging over the next three months.

Listen to last Wednesday's message on this subject. Building on Wednesday, we must embrace our new season.

Psalm 1:1-6 (NLT)

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. 4 But not the wicked! They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. 5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment. Sinners will have no place among the godly. 6 For the LORD watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

What is Biblical meditation? To read, study, think on, to imagine, and to say. They meditate from a place of joy and enjoyment of God's Word.

Through meditation they become rooted. You must meditate on what God says to you.

Luke 6:46-49 (AMP)

"Why do you call Me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not practice what I tell you? 47 "Everyone who comes to Me and listens to My words and obeys them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 he is like a [far-sighted, practical, and sensible] man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and yet could not shake it, because it had been securely built and founded on the rock. 49 "But the one who has [merely] heard and has not practiced [what I say], is like a [foolish] man who built a house on the ground without any foundation, and the torrent burst against it; and it immediately collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great."

Meditation leads to being rooted, which leads to bearing fruit.

Gen 1:28 (NKJV)

Then God blessed them, and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."

The Blessing is not a feeling. It's power. It is the power to prosper, advance, flourish, succeed, and become strong.

Jhn 15:8 (NLT)

When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

Psa 1:3 (NLT)

They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

Jos 1:7-9 (NLT)

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

prosper - make progress, do well, succeed, thrive, flourish

Psa 92:12-14 (NKJV) The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. 13 Those who are planted in the house of the LORD Shall flourish in the courts of our God. 14 They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing,

Mal 3:10-12 (NLT)

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 12 "Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.

You live under an open heaven.

Deu 28:8, 11-13 (NLT)

"The LORD will guarantee a blessing on everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. The LORD your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. … 11 "The LORD will give you prosperity in the land he swore to your ancestors to give you, blessing you with many children, numerous livestock, and abundant crops. 12 The LORD will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens and will bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them. 13 If you listen to these commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today, and if you carefully obey them, the LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always be on top and never at the bottom.

Psalm 1:6 (NLT)

For the LORD watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

Don't miss Pastor Kerrick's daily devotionals this week!

Embracing Your New Season

10/6/24

We're going into a new season. Some of you have been re-arranged (seemingly suddenly). You've been complaining about the re-arranging and the discomfort to the change of your schedule. What you don't realize is that God is behind the re-arranging. He is repositioning you for great influence and so that you will thrive in 2025. A sign of this word is that you will see even more re-arranging over the next three months.

Listen to Wednesday's message on this subject. Building on Wednesday, we must embrace our new season.

Pro 3:5-10 (NKJV)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil. 8 It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones. 9 Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; 10 So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.

Acknowledge - How aware are you of Him and spiritual things?

Honor - this word is connected to being weighty.

The Word of God must take first place and final authority in our lives. We must give weight and honor to God, His Words, and His ways.

Firstfruits - the first and the best

Giving and generosity is a matter of honor to the Lord. Honoring Him brings a response that flows from His honor.

1 Sa 2:30 (NASB20)

"Therefore the LORD God of Israel declares, 'I did indeed say that your house and the house of your father was to walk before Me forever'; but now the LORD declares, 'Far be it from Me--for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me will be insignificant.

Mal 1:6-7 (NLT)

The LORD of Heaven's Armies says to the priests: "A son honors his father, and a servant respects his master. If I am your father and master, where are the honor and respect I deserve? You have shown contempt for my name! "But you ask, 'How have we ever shown contempt for your name?' 7 "You have shown contempt by offering defiled sacrifices on my altar. "Then you ask, 'How have we defiled the sacrifices?' "You defile them by saying the altar of the LORD deserves no respect.

Mal 3:10-12 (NLT)

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 12 "Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.

Hag 1:2-7 (NKJV)

"Thus speaks the LORD of hosts, saying: 'This people says, "The time has not come, the time that the LORD's house should be built." ' " 3 Then the word of the LORD came by Haggai the prophet, saying, 4 "[Is it] time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple [to lie] in ruins?" 5 Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: "Consider your ways! 6 "You have sown much, and bring in little; You eat, but do not have enough; You drink, but you are not filled with drink; You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm; And he who earns wages, Earns wages [to put] into a bag with holes." 7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: "Consider your ways!

Ezr 5:1-2 (NLT)

At that time the prophets Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem. They prophesied in the name of the God of Israel who was over them. 2 Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jehozadak responded by starting again to rebuild the Temple of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them and helped them.

Ezr 6:14 (NKJV)

So the elders of the Jews built, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they built and finished [it], according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the command of Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia.

1Ch 16:27 (KJV)

Glory and honour [are] in his presence; strength and gladness [are] in his place.

Psa 8:5 (AMP)

Yet You have made him a little lower than God, And You have crowned him with glory and honor.

Num 27:18-20 (AMP)

The LORD said to Moses, "Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him; 19 and have him stand before Eleazar the priest and before the whole congregation, and give him a commission in their sight. 20 "You shall put some of your authority and honor on him, so that all the congregation of the Israelites will obey him.

Where did Moses receive his honor from?

2Pe 1:17 (NKJV)

For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

Jhn 5:44 (NKJV)

"How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that [comes] from the only God?

There is an honor that comes from God that we must position ourselves to receive. We have to choose to abide and not complain. We have to make His Word first place and final authority in our lives. We have to choose peace. We have to become more aware of Him and acknowledge Him in all our ways. That's how we embrace this new season and prepare to thrive in 2025.

Don't miss Pastor Kerrick's daily devotionals this week!

10/2/24

Psa 91:1 (NKJV)

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

(AMPC)

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand].

(NLT)

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

Exo 13:21-22 (NLT)

The LORD went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night. 22 And the LORD did not remove the pillar of cloud or pillar of fire from its place in front of the people.

Exo 15:22-24 (NLT)

Then Moses led the people of Israel away from the Red Sea, and they moved out into the desert of Shur. They traveled in this desert for three days without finding any water. 23 When they came to the oasis of Marah, the water was too bitter to drink. So they called the place Marah (which means "bitter"). 24 Then the people complained and turned against Moses. "What are we going to drink?" they demanded.

complain - to come to a stop

What's interesting about this word, is that it is the same word use for abide in Psalm 91.

Are you abiding or are you complaining?

Some of you are complaining about things being re-arranged, but God is positioning you so that you can thrive in 2025.

Psa 91:2 (NKJV)

I will say of the LORD, "[He is] my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust."

You must say...

Where is your trust? What are you leaning on?

Questions To Consider:

What has seemingly and suddenly been re-arranged in your life?

Where can you stop complaining and start abiding?

What unsteady places have you placed your trust?

Col 3:15 (AMP)

Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always].

Maximizing Your New Season

Gen 1:10-12, 28-29 (NLT)

God called the dry ground "land" and the waters "seas." And God saw that it was good. 11 Then God said, "Let the land sprout with vegetation--every sort of seed-bearing plant, and trees that grow seed-bearing fruit. These seeds will then produce the kinds of plants and trees from which they came." And that is what happened. 12 The land produced vegetation--all sorts of seed-bearing plants, and trees with seed-bearing fruit. Their seeds produced plants and trees of the same kind. And God saw that it was good. … 28 Then God blessed them and said, "Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground." 29 Then God said, "Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food.

Words produced the first seeds. Words caused the first seeds to grow.

Gen 8:22 (NKJV)

"While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease."

This whole world, our entire life, revolves around seedtime and harvest.

What are you saying about your sowing? When you sow, you say. "The 100fold return is working for me all the time. I expect maximum results."

Mal 3:10-12 (NKJV)

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 That [there will] not [be room] enough [to receive it]. 11 "And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field," Says the LORD of hosts; 12 "And all nations will call you blessed, For you will be a delightful land," Says the LORD of hosts.

What you sow is meant to grow.

The Blessing is not a feeling. It's power. It is the power to prosper, advance, flourish, succeed, and become strong.

We do not tithe after the levitical law, we tithe under the priesthood of Jesus - our Melchizedek.

The Blessing is designed to increase the works of your hands and increase the seeds you sow.

The tithe is a connection point to the Blessing and brings protection promises.

2 Co 9:6-11 (NLT)

Remember this--a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 9 As the Scriptures say, "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever." 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.

Ecc 11:4-6 (NKJV)

He who observes the wind will not sow, And he who regards the clouds will not reap. 5 As you do not know what [is] the way of the wind, [Or] how the bones [grow] in the womb of her who is with child, So you do not know the works of God who makes everything. 6 In the morning sow your seed, And in the evening do not withhold your hand; For you do not know which will prosper, Either this or that, Or whether both alike [will be] good.

Mar 4:14-20 (NKJV)

"The sower sows the word. 15 "And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 "These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 "and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble. 18 "Now these are the ones sown among thorns; [they are] the ones who hear the word, 19 "and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 "But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept [it], and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred."

The Word is seed.

Gal 5:16-23 (NLT)

So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. 19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

These are all seeds.

impurity - uncleanness - lewd or unclean thoughts that eventually produce lewd or unclean actions,

lustful pleasures - lasciviousness - excessive consumption of food, wild and undisciplined living that is especially marked by unbridled sex

sorcery - witchcraft - drug use, especially mind-altering frugs

dissension - seditions - someone who rebels and steps away from someone to whom they should have been loyal, rebellious and defiant

divisions - heresies - elitism and the exclusion of others

drunkenness- Greek word is methe

Gal 6:6-10 (NKJV)

Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Gal 6:6-10 (NLT)

Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them. 7 Don't be misled--you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. 8 Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. 9 So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. 10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith.

deceived - to be led astray, to wander off course, to be affected by someone's outside influence and led in a wrong direction

Living In A New Season

9/22/24

Gen 1:28-29 (NKJV)

Then God blessed them, and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth." 29 And God said, "See, I have given you every herb [that] yields seed which [is] on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food.

Gen 12:1-3 (NKJV)

Now the LORD had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, From your family And from your father's house, To a land that I will show you. 2 I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

Gal 3:13-14 (NKJV)

Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Mal 3:10-12 (NKJV)

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 That [there will] not [be room] enough [to receive it]. 11 "And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field," Says the LORD of hosts; 12 "And all nations will call you blessed, For you will be a delightful land," Says the LORD of hosts.

Jhn 15:1-8 (NKJV)

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 "Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every [branch] that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 "You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 "I am the vine, you [are] the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 "If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw [them] into the fire, and they are burned. 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. 8 "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

Psa 1:1-3 (NLT)

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

1.Bring Seed
2.Check Your Roots

Col 2:6-7 (NLT)

And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Eph 3:17 (NLT)

Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong.

3.Dress Appropriately
4.Sing A New Song

9/18/24

Genesis 12:1-3 (NKJV) 1 Now the LORD had said to Abram: “Get out of your country, From your family And from your father’s house, To a land that I will show you. 2 I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

Galatians 3:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree”), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Deuteronomy 8:11-18 (NKJV) 11 “Beware that you do not forget the LORD your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgments, and His statutes which I command you today, 12 “lest--[when] you have eaten and are full, and have built beautiful houses and dwell [in them;] 13 “and [when] your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and your gold are multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied; 14 “when your heart is lifted up, and you forget the LORD your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; 15 “who led you through that great and terrible wilderness, [in which were] fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty land where there was no water; who brought water for you out of the flinty rock; 16 “who fed you in the wilderness with manna, which your fathers did not know, that He might humble you and that He might test you, to do you good in the end-- 17 “then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ 18 “And you shall remember the LORD your God, for [it is] He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as [it is] this day.

Deuteronomy 28:1-14 (NKJV) 1 “Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. 2 “And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God: 3 “Blessed [shall] you [be] in the city, and blessed [shall] you [be] in the country. 4 “Blessed [shall be] the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks. 5 “Blessed [shall be] your basket and your kneading bowl. 6 “Blessed [shall] you [be] when you come in, and blessed [shall] you [be] when you go out. 7 “The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before your face; they shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways. 8 “The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you. 9 “The LORD will establish you as a holy people to Himself, just as He has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the LORD your God and walk in His ways. 10 “Then all peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you. 11 “And the LORD will grant you plenty of goods, in the fruit of your body, in the increase of your livestock, and in the produce of your ground, in the land of which the LORD swore to your fathers to give you. 12 “The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow. 13 “And the LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe [them.] 14 “So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, [to] the right or the left, to go after other gods to serve them.

Gen 26:1-6, 12-14 (NKJV)

There was a famine in the land, besides the first famine that was in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went to Abimelech king of the Philistines, in Gerar. 2 Then the LORD appeared to him and said: "Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land of which I shall tell you. 3 "Dwell in this land, and I will be with you and bless you; for to you and your descendants I give all these lands, and I will perform the oath which I swore to Abraham your father. 4 "And I will make your descendants multiply as the stars of heaven; I will give to your descendants all these lands; and in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed; 5 "because Abraham obeyed My voice and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws." 6 So Isaac dwelt in Gerar. … 12 Then Isaac sowed in that land, and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; and the LORD blessed him. 13 The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous; 14 for he had possessions of flocks and possessions of herds and a great number of servants. So the Philistines envied him.

Psa 65:11 (NKJV)

You crown the year with Your goodness, And Your paths drip [with] abundance.

Psa 65:11 (NLT)

You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.

Psa 85:12 (NLT)

Yes, the LORD pours down his blessings. Our land will yield its bountiful harvest.

Psa 67:5-7 (KJV)

Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. 6 [Then] shall the earth yield her increase; [and] God, [even] our own God, shall bless us. 7 God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.

Make Room - 9/15/24

2Ki 4:8-37 (NLT)

One day Elisha went to the town of Shunem. A wealthy woman lived there, and she urged him to come to her home for a meal. After that, whenever he passed that way, he would stop there for something to eat. 9 She said to her husband, "I am sure this man who stops in from time to time is a holy man of God. 10 Let's build a small room for him on the roof and furnish it with a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp. Then he will have a place to stay whenever he comes by." 11 One day Elisha returned to Shunem, and he went up to this upper room to rest. 12 He said to his servant Gehazi, "Tell the woman from Shunem I want to speak to her." When she appeared, 13 Elisha said to Gehazi, "Tell her, 'We appreciate the kind concern you have shown us. What can we do for you? Can we put in a good word for you to the king or to the commander of the army?'" "No," she replied, "my family takes good care of me." 14 Later Elisha asked Gehazi, "What can we do for her?" Gehazi replied, "She doesn't have a son, and her husband is an old man." 15 "Call her back again," Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway, 16 "Next year at this time you will be holding a son in your arms!" "No, my lord!" she cried. "O man of God, don't deceive me and get my hopes up like that." 17 But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said. 18 One day when her child was older, he went out to help his father, who was working with the harvesters. 19 Suddenly he cried out, "My head hurts! My head hurts!" His father said to one of the servants, "Carry him home to his mother." 20 So the servant took him home, and his mother held him on her lap. But around noontime he died. 21 She carried him up and laid him on the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and left him there. 22 She sent a message to her husband: "Send one of the servants and a donkey so that I can hurry to the man of God and come right back." 23 "Why go today?" he asked. "It is neither a new moon festival nor a Sabbath." But she said, "It will be all right." 24 So she saddled the donkey and said to the servant, "Hurry! Don't slow down unless I tell you to." 25 As she approached the man of God at Mount Carmel, Elisha saw her in the distance. He said to Gehazi, "Look, the woman from Shunem is coming. 26 Run out to meet her and ask her, 'Is everything all right with you, your husband, and your child?'" "Yes," the woman told Gehazi, "everything is fine." 27 But when she came to the man of God at the mountain, she fell to the ground before him and caught hold of his feet. Gehazi began to push her away, but the man of God said, "Leave her alone. She is deeply troubled, but the LORD has not told me what it is." 28 Then she said, "Did I ask you for a son, my lord? And didn't I say, 'Don't deceive me and get my hopes up'?" 29 Then Elisha said to Gehazi, "Get ready to travel; take my staff and go! Don't talk to anyone along the way. Go quickly and lay the staff on the child's face." 30 But the boy's mother said, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I won't go home unless you go with me." So Elisha returned with her. 31 Gehazi hurried on ahead and laid the staff on the child's face, but nothing happened. There was no sign of life. He returned to meet Elisha and told him, "The child is still dead." 32 When Elisha arrived, the child was indeed dead, lying there on the prophet's bed. 33 He went in alone and shut the door behind him and prayed to the LORD. 34 Then he lay down on the child's body, placing his mouth on the child's mouth, his eyes on the child's eyes, and his hands on the child's hands. And as he stretched out on him, the child's body began to grow warm again! 35 Elisha got up, walked back and forth across the room once, and then stretched himself out again on the child. This time the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes! 36 Then Elisha summoned Gehazi. "Call the child's mother!" he said. And when she came in, Elisha said, "Here, take your son!" 37 She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.

2Ki 8:1-6 (NLT)

Elisha had told the woman whose son he had brought back to life, "Take your family and move to some other place, for the LORD has called for a famine on Israel that will last for seven years." 2 So the woman did as the man of God instructed. She took her family and settled in the land of the Philistines for seven years. 3 After the famine ended she returned from the land of the Philistines, and she went to see the king about getting back her house and land. 4 As she came in, the king was talking with Gehazi, the servant of the man of God. The king had just said, "Tell me some stories about the great things Elisha has done." 5 And Gehazi was telling the king about the time Elisha had brought a boy back to life. At that very moment, the mother of the boy walked in to make her appeal to the king about her house and land. "Look, my lord the king!" Gehazi exclaimed. "Here is the woman now, and this is her son--the very one Elisha brought back to life!" 6 "Is this true?" the king asked her. And she told him the story. So he directed one of his officials to see that everything she had lost was restored to her, including the value of any crops that had been harvested during her absence.

When you make room for God, you are making room for what He has in store for you.

When you make room for God, you are deciding what belongs to Him.

Mal 3:8-12 (NLT)

"Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me! "But you ask, 'What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?' "You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me. 9 You are under a curse, for your whole nation has been cheating me. 10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 12 "Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.

Did you notice it said all the tithes? thee are different tithes in the Old Testament. Which one are you as a New Testament believer called to offer?

Gen 14:17-20 (NLT)

After Abram returned from his victory over Kedorlaomer and all his allies, the king of Sodom went out to meet him in the valley of Shaveh (that is, the King's Valley). 18 And Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High, brought Abram some bread and wine. 19 Melchizedek blessed Abram with this blessing: "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. 20 And blessed be God Most High, who has defeated your enemies for you." Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all the goods he had recovered.

Heb 6:20 (NLT)

Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.

Pro 3:5-10 (NLT)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. 7 Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil. 8 Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones. 9 Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. 10 Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.

Heb 13:15-16 (NKJV)

Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of [our] lips, giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Psa 141:2 (NLT)

Accept my prayer as incense offered to you, and my upraised hands as an evening offering.

Genesis 1:28 (NKJV) Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”

Genesis 3:17 (NLT) And to the man he said, “Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, the ground is cursed because of you. All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it.

Genesis 9:1 (NKJV) So God blessed Noah and his sons, and said to them: “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth.

Genesis 12:1-3 (NKJV) 1 Now the LORD had said to Abram: “Get out of your country, From your family And from your father’s house, To a land that I will show you. 2 I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

Galatians 3:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree”), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Deuteronomy 8:11-18 (NKJV) 11 “Beware that you do not forget the LORD your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgments, and His statutes which I command you today, 12 “lest--[when] you have eaten and are full, and have built beautiful houses and dwell [in them;] 13 “and [when] your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and your gold are multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied; 14 “when your heart is lifted up, and you forget the LORD your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; 15 “who led you through that great and terrible wilderness, [in which were] fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty land where there was no water; who brought water for you out of the flinty rock; 16 “who fed you in the wilderness with manna, which your fathers did not know, that He might humble you and that He might test you, to do you good in the end-- 17 “then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ 18 “And you shall remember the LORD your God, for [it is] He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as [it is] this day.

Deuteronomy 28:1-14 (NKJV) 1 “Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. 2 “And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God: 3 “Blessed [shall] you [be] in the city, and blessed [shall] you [be] in the country. 4 “Blessed [shall be] the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks. 5 “Blessed [shall be] your basket and your kneading bowl. 6 “Blessed [shall] you [be] when you come in, and blessed [shall] you [be] when you go out. 7 “The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before your face; they shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways. 8 “The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you. 9 “The LORD will establish you as a holy people to Himself, just as He has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the LORD your God and walk in His ways. 10 “Then all peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you. 11 “And the LORD will grant you plenty of goods, in the fruit of your body, in the increase of your livestock, and in the produce of your ground, in the land of which the LORD swore to your fathers to give you. 12 “The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow. 13 “And the LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe [them.] 14 “So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, [to] the right or the left, to go after other gods to serve them.

9/8/24

1 Co 11:23-27 (NKJV)

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me." 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death till He comes.

What night was it? Passover.

In Passover, there were four cups involved in the seder meal and they reflect what Jesus has done for us.

Exo 6:6-7 (NKJV)

"Therefore say to the children of Israel: 'I [am] the LORD; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7 'I will take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I [am] the LORD your God who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

• Cup of Sanctification: "I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians"
• Cup of Deliverance: "I will rescue you from their bondage"
• Cup of Redemption: "I will redeem you with an outstretched arm"
• Cup of Praise: "I will take you as My people"

The Cup was the Cup of Praise: "I will take you as My people" from the seder meal. It was also referred to the cup of Blessing in 1st Corinthians 10.

You are the people of El Shaddai. You are a blessed people. When you partake of the cup, you need to remind yourselves of the promises and benefits of your covenant.

Luk 22:20 (NKJV)

Likewise He also [took] the cup after supper, saying, "This cup [is] the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.

Luk 22:20 (NLT)

After supper he took another cup of wine and said, "This cup is the new covenant between God and his people--an agreement confirmed with my blood, which is poured out as a sacrifice for you.

In the Old Testament, the drink offering accompanied certain sacrifices.

Phl 2:12-18 (NKJV)

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for [His] good pleasure. 14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. 17 Yes, and if I am being poured out [as a drink offering] on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.

What is in your cup? What are you pouring out?

Mar 2:22 (NKJV)

"And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine bursts the wineskins, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins."

Act 2:13 (NKJV)

Others mocking said, "They are full of new wine."

Eph 5:15-21 (NKJV)

See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord [is]. 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.

It's time to run the bases.

1 - Get Involved - (join church, start serving, start giving)

2 - Get Connected (Join a community)

3 - Grow with us (Go to FBI, participate in additional growing opportunities)

Home - Impact & Influence the world

Once a player scores, they have to get ready to do it again.

1 - Stay Involved (keep serving, continue to give)

2 - Stay Connected - (do life with your community)

3 - Keep Growing - (keep taking advantage of opportunities to grow)

Home - Increase in impact and influence

Help your Faith Family run the bases by asking them these questions:

1 - How are you involved?

2 - How are you connected?

3 - How are you growing?

Home - How are you impacting and influencing the community?

8/28/24

Being blessed is not a feeling. It is your identity and your fact of life.

Gal 3:8-9 NKJV)

And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, [saying], "In you all the nations shall be blessed." 9 So then those who [are] of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.

Gen 12:1-3 (NKJV)

Now the LORD had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, From your family And from your father's house, To a land that I will show you. 2 I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

Gen 10:1, 32 (NKJV)

Now this [is] the genealogy of the sons of Noah: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. And sons were born to them after the flood. … 32 These [were] the families of the sons of Noah, according to their generations, in their nations; and from these the nations were divided on the earth after the flood.

Gen 9:25-27 (NKJV)

Then he said: "Cursed [be] Canaan; A servant of servants He shall be to his brethren." 26 And he said: "Blessed [be] the LORD, The God of Shem, And may Canaan be his servant. 27 May God enlarge Japheth, And may he dwell in the tents of Shem; And may Canaan be his servant."

• God didn't curse anyone in Genesis 9.
• Ham was never cursed at all.
• Noah cursed Canaan, not God.
• The will of God is that all families and all nations be blessed.

Act 10:34-35 (NASB20)

Opening his mouth, Peter said: "I most certainly understand [now] that God is not one to show partiality, 35 but in every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him.

Gal 3:13-14 (NKJV)

Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Gen 24:1 (NKJV)]

Now Abraham was old, well advanced in age; and the LORD had blessed Abraham in all things.

Gen 24:1 (NLT)

Abraham was now a very old man, and the LORD had blessed him in every way.

8/25/24

1 Co 11:23 (NKJV)

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took bread;

What night was it? Passover.

In Passover, there were four cups involved in the seder meal and they reflect what Jesus has done for us.

Exo 6:6-7 (NKJV)

"Therefore say to the children of Israel: 'I [am] the LORD; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7 'I will take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I [am] the LORD your God who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

• Cup of Sanctification: "I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians"
• Cup of Deliverance: "I will rescue you from their bondage"
• Cup of Redemption: "I will redeem you with an outstretched arm"
• Cup of Praise: "I will take you as My people"

The Cup was the Cup of Praise: "I will take you as My people" from the seder meal. It was also referred to the cup of Blessing in 1st Corinthians 10.

You are the people of El Shaddai. You are a blessed people. When you partake of the cup, you need to remind yourselves of the promises and benefits of your covenant.

The Almighty God - El Shaddai

The Patriarchs knew God intimately as El Shaddai.  They had heard His other names, but the one they knew Him by the best, the character they knew the best was El Shaddai.

- I am God all-sufficient; from hdv shadah, to shed, to pour out.  I am that God who pours out blessings, who gives them richly, abundantly, continually. 

- John Wesley - I am God All-sufficient.  The God with whom we have to do, is self-sufficient; he hath every thing, and he needs not any thing.  And he is enough to us, if we be in covenant with him; we have all in him, and we have enough in him; enough to satisfy our most enlarged desires; enough to supply the defect of every thing else, and to secure us happiness for our immortal souls. 

ALL-SUFFI'CIENT, a. Sufficient to every thing; infinitely able.  

This name depicts God literally as Who is Sufficient in granting mercies and Who has sufficient power to give whatever is necessary.  

The tittle Shadday really indicates the fullness and riches of God's grace, and would remind the Hebrew reader that from God comes every good and perfect gift -- that He is never weary of pouring forth His mercies on His people, and that He is more ready to give then they are to receive.  Bountiful expresses the sense most exactly.  El sets forth the might of God and the tittle Shadday points to the inexhaustible stores of His bounty

Deu 7:12-15 (NKJV)

"Then it shall come to pass, because you listen to these judgments, and keep and do them, that the LORD your God will keep with you the covenant and the mercy which He swore to your fathers. 13 "And He will love you and bless you and multiply you; He will also bless the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your land, your grain and your new wine and your oil, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flock, in the land of which He swore to your fathers to give you. 14 "You shall be blessed above all peoples; there shall not be a male or female barren among you or among your livestock. 15 "And the LORD will take away from you all sickness, and will afflict you with none of the terrible diseases of Egypt which you have known, but will lay [them] on all those who hate you.

Deu 8:18 (NKJV)

"And you shall remember the LORD your God, for [it is] He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as [it is] this day.

As we partake of the Cup of Blessing, the Cup of Praise, we are reminded that we are people of El Shaddai. We are the people of God. This has to impact our thinking, our identity, and our decision making.

It's my body, I can do what I want, is only a half truth. It's your body, but you belong to God.

1Co 6:18-20 (NKJV)

Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. 19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit [who is] in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

What was the price? The shed blood of Jesus.

1. You belong to God

Gal 3:13-14 (NKJV)

Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

redeem - to pay the price to recover from the power of another, to ransom

You are not an old sinner. You have been washed in the Blood. You are not cursed. You are blessed with the blessing of Abraham.

Psa 107:2 (NKJV)

Let the redeemed of the LORD say [so], Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy,

2. You are redeemed

Your perceived identity can hinder your faith and keep you from experiencing the life God has for you.

Temptations and attacks also bring a limited belief. Overcome the temptation and attack and reject the limiting belief.

Heb 12:1 (NKJV)

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares [us], and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

Never identify with your struggle.

Never identify with what God has redeemed you from or what is against His plan for your life.

Gal 4:4-7 (NKJV)

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, "Abba, Father!" 7 Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

3. You are an heir

1 Co 3:21-23 (NKJV)

Therefore let no one boast in men. For all things are yours: 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come--all are yours. 23 And you [are] Christ's, and Christ [is] God's.

Rom 4:13 (NKJV)

For the promise that he would be the heir of the world [was] not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

"I will take you as My people"

• Notice, this is a group statement. When we read 1st Corinthians 10 and 11, we are reminded of how we we partake of the bread and the cup, we are part of the Body of Christ. We are reminded of our union with Christ and are union with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
• Remember these three things for this local body:
  • Get Involved
  • Get Connected
  • Grow With Us

8/21/24

(as it is written, "I have made you a father of many nations") in the presence of Him whom he believed--God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did; 18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, "So shall your descendants be." 19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb. 20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. 22 And therefore "it was accounted to him for righteousness."

consider - fill your mind

Abraham did not allow the contradictions in his body or life to define his belief. Instead of filling his mind with the contradiction, he filled his mind with his covenant. He filled his mind and became fully convinced.

You need to fill your mind and become fully convinced of your covenant. Your covenant contains promises and benefits.

Gen 17:1-3 (NKJV)

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, "I [am] Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless. 2 "And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly." 3 Then Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him, saying:

The Almighty God - El Shaddai

The Patriarchs knew God intimately as El Shaddai.  They had heard His other names, but the one they knew Him by the best, the character they knew the best was El Shaddai.

- I am God all-sufficient; from hdv shadah, to shed, to pour out.  I am that God who pours out blessings, who gives them richly, abundantly, continually. 

- John Wesley - I am God All-sufficient.  The God with whom we have to do, is self-sufficient; he hath every thing, and he needs not any thing.  And he is enough to us, if we be in covenant with him; we have all in him, and we have enough in him; enough to satisfy our most enlarged desires; enough to supply the defect of every thing else, and to secure us happiness for our immortal souls. 

• having all power to do all good

- John 15:7 - you shall ask what you will and it shall be done unto you - Dad Hagin - shall was the strongest, but the scholar says the Greek implies - If I don't have it I'll make it for you. Why? He's El Shaddai.

ALL-SUFFI'CIENT, a. Sufficient to every thing; infinitely able.  

This name depicts God literally as Who is Sufficient in granting mercies and Who has sufficient power to give whatever is necessary.  

The tittle Shadday really indicates the fullness and riches of God's grace, and would remind the Hebrew reader that from God comes every good and perfect gift -- that He is never weary of pouring forth His mercies on His people, and that He is more ready to give then they are to receive.  Bountiful expresses the sense most exactly.  El sets forth the might of God and the tittle Shadday points to the inexhaustible stores of His bounty

1 Cor 11:23-25 (NKJV)

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me.

The Cup was the Cup of Praise: "I will take you as My people" from the seder meal. It was also referred to the cup of Blessing in 1st Corinthians 10.

You are the people of El Shaddai. You are a blessed people. When you partake of the cup, you need to remind yourselves of the promises and benefits of your covenant.

2Pe 1:2-4 (NKJV)

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that [pertain] to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption [that is] in the world through lust.

Heb 8:6 (NKJV)

But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises.

Deu 7:12-15 (NKJV)

"Then it shall come to pass, because you listen to these judgments, and keep and do them, that the LORD your God will keep with you the covenant and the mercy which He swore to your fathers. 13 "And He will love you and bless you and multiply you; He will also bless the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your land, your grain and your new wine and your oil, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flock, in the land of which He swore to your fathers to give you. 14 "You shall be blessed above all peoples; there shall not be a male or female barren among you or among your livestock. 15 "And the LORD will take away from you all sickness, and will afflict you with none of the terrible diseases of Egypt which you have known, but will lay [them] on all those who hate you.

Deu 8:18 (NKJV)

"And you shall remember the LORD your God, for [it is] He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as [it is] this day.

8/18/24

Rom 4:17-22 (NKJV)

(as it is written, "I have made you a father of many nations") in the presence of Him whom he believed--God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did; 18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, "So shall your descendants be." 19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb. 20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. 22 And therefore "it was accounted to him for righteousness."

consider - fill your mind

Abraham did not allow the contradictions in his body or life to define his belief. Instead of filling his mind with the contradiction, he filled his mind with his covenant. He filled his mind and became fully convinced. You need to fill your mind and become fully convinced of your covenant.

1 Co 11:23 (NKJV)

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took bread;

What night was it? Passover.

In Passover, there were four cups involved in the seder meal and they reflect what Jesus has done for us.

Exo 6:6-7 (NKJV)

"Therefore say to the children of Israel: 'I [am] the LORD; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7 'I will take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I [am] the LORD your God who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

• Cup of Sanctification: "I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians"
• Cup of Deliverance: "I will rescue you from their bondage"
• Cup of Redemption: "I will redeem you with an outstretched arm"
• Cup of Praise: "I will take you as My people"

Col 1:13-14 (NKJV)

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed [us] into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.

Gal 3:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

The first three cups were drunk during the meal. The last cup was drunk after the meal.

1 Cor 11:23-25 (NKJV)

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me.

1Co 10:16-18 (NKJV)

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 17 For we, [though] many, are one bread [and] one body; for we all partake of that one bread. 18 Observe Israel after the flesh: Are not those who eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?

Notice, the fourth cup is called the cup of blessing.

As we partake of the bread, we are also reminded we are partakers of His sacrifice and reminded of our unity with Him and our family in Christ.

1Co 11:17-22 (NKJV)

Now in giving these instructions I do not praise [you], since you come together not for the better but for the worse. 18 For first of all, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it. 19 For there must also be factions among you, that those who are approved may be recognized among you. 20 Therefore when you come together in one place, it is not to eat the Lord's Supper. 21 For in eating, each one takes his own supper ahead of [others]; and one is hungry and another is drunk. 22 What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise [you].

Jude 1:12 - Feasts of Charity - feasts expressing and fostering mutual love which used to be held by Christians before the celebration of the Lord's supper, and at which the poorer Christians mingled with the wealthier and partook in common with the rest of food provided at the expense of the wealthy

1Co 11:25-34 (NKJV)

25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me." 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death till He comes. 27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks [this] cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. 30 For this reason many [are] weak and sick among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. 33 Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 34 But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.

Communion is a covenant meal where we are reminded of our covenant with God and the benefits we enjoy in Christ.

Heb 8:6 (NKJV)

But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises.

The challenge: Take communion every day until the next communion Sunday.

8/11/24

Luk 4:16-18 (NKJV)

So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the LORD [is] upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to [the] poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to [the] captives And recovery of sight to [the] blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed;

Heal - to cure, to heal, to make whole, release from the destructive effects of brokenness

Brokenhearted - crushed, shattered, broken into shivers

Set at liberty - release from bondage and imprisonment

Bruised/Oppressed - broken by calamity, shattered

Psalm 147:3 (NKJV) 

He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds.

Psalm 34:17-19 (NKJV) 

[The righteous] cry out, and the LORD hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles. 18 The LORD [is] near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. 19 Many [are] the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all.

Contrite - broken down, crushed, destroyed, brought down to the dust

Psa 112:1 (NKJV)

This psalm is a Hebrew acrostic poem; after the introductory note of praise, each line begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

Praise the LORD! Blessed [is] the man [who] fears the LORD, [Who] delights greatly in His commandments.

Vrs 1 (AMP)

Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!) Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who fears the Lord [with awe-inspired reverence and worships Him with obedience], Who delights greatly in His commandments

Psa 100:2 (NKJV)

Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.

Deu 28:47 (NKJV)

"Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything,

gladness - joy, amusement, especially as expressed in laughter, the great delight experienced in their festivals

Psa 30:1-6 (NKJV)

A Psalm. A Song at the dedication of the house of David. I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, And have not let my foes rejoice over me. 2 O LORD my God, I cried out to You, And You healed me. 3 O LORD, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. 4 Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. 5 For His anger [is but for] a moment, His favor [is for] life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy [comes] in the morning. 6 Now in my prosperity I said, "I shall never be moved."

Psalm 112:2-8 (NKJV)

His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches [will be] in his house, And his righteousness endures forever. 4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; [He is] gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. 5 A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion. 6 Surely he will never be shaken; The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance. 7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 8 His heart [is] established; He will not be afraid, Until he sees [his desire] upon his enemies.

shaken - to be greatly shaken, moved, overthrown, to cause to fall or drop

steadfast - fixed, established, secure, restored

established - leaning against, braced against, resting upon

Psalm 37:3-5 (AMPC)

 Trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) in the Lord and do good; so shall you dwell in the land and feed surely on His faithfulness, and truly you shall be fed.

⁴Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires and secret petitions of your heart.

⁵Commit your way to the Lord [roll and repose each care of your load on Him]; trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) also in Him and He will bring it to pass.

Trust Him and sow the "I don't know whys." Sow the traumatic and heartbreaking past and believe for a future that's worth dreaming about.

Breath by breath, step by step, day by day, choose to trust and choose joy. Don't isolate during this process. Get involved and stay connected. As you do this, the Lord is healing your heart and helping you establish your heart.

Psalm 108:1 (ESV)

My heart is steadfast, O God!
I will sing and make melody with all my being

Confession For The Heart

The anointing makes and keeps my heart whole because Jesus is anointed to heal the
broken-hearted. My heart is strong and a source of healing because rivers of life and
power flow from it. I trust in the Lord with all my heart and I do not lean to my own
understanding. I apply my heart to knowledge and understanding. I have an
understanding heart. I have the heart of the wise and my heart is sound.

My heart is fixed trusting in the Lord and I will not be afraid of evil tidings. My heart is
established, I will not be afraid. I have a merry heart no matter the circumstances I face.
I refuse to let my heart be troubled. The Lord strengthens my heart. My heart sustains
me in times of adversity. My heart rejoices in the salvation and the deliverance of my
God.

My heart desires and hungers for the Word of God. I hide the Word in my heart so I will
not sin against God. I honor God with my mouth and my heart is near to Him. My heart
is good ground. I guard my heart and I watch what I allow in. I keep it free from
distractions and cares of this world, deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things.
When the Word is sown in my heart it always produces.

My heart is soft to the voice and the leading of the Lord. I know His voice and the voice
of a stranger I will not follow. I do not harden my heart through unbelief and
disobedience. I am quick to believe. I am quick to obey. I am quick to forgive. I am quick
to repent. Bitterness and fear have no place in my heart. I refuse to hold on to
bitterness. I forgive everyone of everything. I refuse to fear. I believe God loves me as
much as He loves Jesus. That love grows and is perfected in my heart and life for the
Spirit of Love, the Spirit of God, has filled my heart with His love. That love drives out all
fear. I refuse to fear because God loves me.

I love the Lord my God with all my heart and all that I have and He loves me with all that
He is and all that He has. I am confident in His love. My heart is secure in His love. My
heart is free from all worry and fear. Today, I refuse to carry a care, worry about
anything, or be afraid of anything because Jesus cares for me and He always takes
care of me in grand style.

8/4/24

Psa 92:1-15 (NKJV)

A Psalm. A Song for the Sabbath day.

[It is] good to give thanks to the LORD, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; 2 To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night, 3 On an instrument of ten strings, On the lute, And on the harp, With harmonious sound. 4 For You, LORD, have made me glad through Your work; I will triumph in the works of Your hands. 5 O LORD, how great are Your works! Your thoughts are very deep. 6 A senseless man does not know, Nor does a fool understand this. 7 When the wicked spring up like grass, And when all the workers of iniquity flourish, [It is] that they may be destroyed forever. 8 But You, LORD, [are] on high forevermore. 9 For behold, Your enemies, O LORD, For behold, Your enemies shall perish; All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. 10 But my horn You have exalted like a wild ox; I have been anointed with fresh oil. 11 My eye also has seen [my desire] on my enemies; My ears hear [my desire] on the wicked Who rise up against me. 12 The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. 13 Those who are planted in the house of the LORD Shall flourish in the courts of our God. 14 They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing, 15 To declare that the LORD is upright; [He is] my rock, and [there is] no unrighteousness in Him.

There is fresh oil for you today. The anointing oil would be applied, smeared, and poured on people to consecrate them for the office God had called them to. There is an anointing for your assignment.

The anointing is not only for church.

The anointing is for your every day life.

Psa 23:5 (NKJV)

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.

Anointing someone's head with oil was a common custom in ancient times as a sign of hospitality and respect, especially for honored dinner guests. The oil was often perfumed with herbs and spices to refresh and soothe travelers after a hot or dusty walk.

Anointing oil has also been used for practical purposes, such as: Repelling insects from sheep and treating wounds

Isa 10:27 (NKJV)

It shall come to pass in that day [That] his burden will be taken away from your shoulder, And his yoke from your neck, And the yoke will be destroyed because of the anointing oil.

Act 10:36-38 (NKJV)

"The word which [God] sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ--He is Lord of all-- 37 "that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.

doing good - to be philanthropic - seeking to promote the general welfare (health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group) of others especially by donating money to good causes, generous, benevolent

Luke 4:14-21 (NKJV)

Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. 15 And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. 16 So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the LORD [is] upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to [the] poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to [the] captives And recovery of sight to [the] blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; 19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD." 20 Then He closed the book, and gave [it] back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing."

Jesus consistently acknowledged the anointing on His life. You should too.

Psa 133:1-3 (NLT)

A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem. A psalm of David.

How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 2 For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. 3 Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.

The anointing flows from the top to every part. There is an anointing on this church. How I pray over Team Faith, "Let us operate as one person under the anointing of God."

You to become a regular partaker of the anointing on this church, you have to partner with this church.

Phl 1:3-7, 19 (KJV)

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ: 7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. … 19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

Rom 15:30 (NKJV)

Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayers to God for me,

Phl 4:15-19 (NLT)

As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. 16 Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. 17 I don't say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness. 18 At the moment I have all I need--and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

Eph 4:11-16 (NKJV)

And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

In the NFL, they have a draft day where teams select their newest players. At Faith, we are a family and a team. You've been selected and there is a place for you!

How to partner with the anointing on this house:

1. Pray for this church
2. Serve in this church
3. Financially support this church
4. Stay connected with this church (do not allow the enemy to seperate you)

How to benefit from the anointing on this church:

1. During the week, acknowledge the anointing by saying things like, "The same anointing that flows at Faith flows in my life today. I am anointed and I am a partner and partaker of the anointing on Faith Christian Center."
2. Build your faith and confidence in the anointing on your life and the anointing you are partnered with
3. Expect the anointing to increase in your life

Join Team Faith today: https://faith.plus/membership

7/28/24

#ThoughtsAndPrayers

Phl 4:6-8 (NLT)

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

peace - wholeness, peace, quietness, rest, set at one again, security, safety, prosperity, health and soundness of body, intense happiness

In this short passage, Paul gives a two part strategy so that we can experience peace in our soul and peace in our life:

1. Every time we are tempted to worry, pray
2. Establish your mindset

What mindset are you building and establishing?

Fix/Think- to reckon inward, count up or weigh the reasons, to deliberate, dwell on

Questions to ask yourself as you build your mindset:

1. Is this thought true?
2. Is this thought honorable (deserving of respect or high regard)?
3. Is this thought righteous (does it line up to God's ways of being right)?
4. Is this a pure and clean way to think?
5. Are these thoughts lovely, acceptable, pleasing and friendly?
6. Is thought a good report and reputable? (Does it line up to the report of the Lord?)
7. Are these thoughts virtuous, filled with moral excellence, and commendable?

We have to check our thoughts and replace our thoughts. You cannot fight thoughts with thoughts. You must fight thoughts with words. You're going to have to get into the habit of responding to negative thoughts with the promises and instructions of God's Word.

1 John 5:13-15 (NLT)

I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life. 14 And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. 15 And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.

confident/ confidence - boldness, outspokenness, cheerful courage. One definition is free and fearless confidence.

Where does the confidence come from? The fact that we know and believe God hears us when we pray.

How do we pray what pleases Him? When we pray His Word.

Confidence does not come from praying our emotions. Confidence does not come from praying what we see on the news. This confidence comes from a Spirit-led, Word established prayer life.

If we don't establish our mindset, we won't say or pray what we should.

7/21/24

Aiming For Rest

rhythm - a strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound.

Psalm 127:2 (NLT)

It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long life beliefs with short life habits.

Our rest, like our tithe, is a declaration of our faith.

Matthew 12:8 (AMP)

"For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

Under the New Covenant, we don't have a commanded day of Sabbath, we have a Lord of Sabbath. It's in our coming to Him we learn how to receive rest from Him.

There is a rhythm of rest for you. The Lord of Sabbath has a flow for you. Don't go against the flow.

There is rest for your body. There is rest for your soul (mind, will emotions) and your spirit. You need rest in all of these areas.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30 (AMPC)

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]

29 Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.

30 For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good—not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne.

We get into trouble when we make holy things common. We miss out on the life God has for us when we do not invite the holy into our common. For you to live in the rhythm of rest, you have to invite the holy into your common.

Invite the holy into your common through acknowledging, inquiring, and meditation.

Pro 3:5-6 (NKJV)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

acknowledge - recognize, know

1Sa 23:4 (NKJV)

Then David inquired of the LORD once again. And the LORD answered him and said, "Arise, go down to Keilah. For I will deliver the Philistines into your hand."

inquire - ask for information, seek,

Joshua 1:8 (NKJV)

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

meditate - to think upon, to say

Psa 23:1-2 (NKJV)

A Psalm of David. The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.

Eze 34:15 (NKJV)

"I will feed My flock, and I will make them lie down," says the Lord GOD.

Eze 34:15 (NLT)

I myself will tend my sheep and give them a place to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign LORD.

The Lord of the Sabbath doesn't just give you a place to lie down, but He causes you to rest. This is a phrase similar to what we saw in Matthew 11 and is used in how shepherds lead their sheep.

Sheep rest under certain conditions. The presence of the Shepherd helps the sheep to rest. Keeping the Shepherd in eye sight helps the sheep to rest. Aim for rest this week. Acknowledge, inquire, and meditate.

7/17/24

The Rhythm Rest Is A Higher Way Of Living

Draft Sunday

Announcement: Order your jersey this week to have it by Draft Sunday. 

rhythm - a strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound.

Psalm 127:2 (NLT)

It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long life beliefs with short life habits.

Our rest, like our tithe, is a declaration of our faith.

Matthew 12:8 (AMP)

"For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

Isaiah 55:1-13 (NKJV) 1 “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; And you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk Without money and without price. 2 Why do you spend money for [what is] not bread, And your wages for [what] does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat [what is] good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance. 3 Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you-- The sure mercies of David. 4 Indeed I have given him [as] a witness to the people, A leader and commander for the people. 5 Surely you shall call a nation you do not know, And nations [who] do not know you shall run to you, Because of the LORD your God, And the Holy One of Israel; For He has glorified you.” 6 Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the LORD, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. 8 “For My thoughts [are] not your thoughts, Nor [are] your ways My ways,” says the LORD. 9 “For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. 10 “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, 11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper [in the thing] for which I sent it. 12 “For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace; The mountains and the hills Shall break forth into singing before you, And all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands. 13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress tree, And instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; And it shall be to the LORD for a name, For an everlasting sign [that] shall not be cut off.”

Psalms 25:4 (NKJV) Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths.

Psalms 25:12-14 (NKJV) 12 Who [is] the man that fears the LORD? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. 13 He himself shall dwell in prosperity, And his descendants shall inherit the earth. 14 The secret of the LORD [is] with those who fear Him, And He will show them His covenant.

Psalms 103:7 (NKJV) He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel.

Psalms 77:12 (NKJV) I will also meditate on all Your work, And talk of Your deeds.

Psa 119:15 (NLT) I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways.

7/14/24

The Rhythm Of Rest

rhythm - a strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound.

Psalm 127:2 (NLT)

It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long life beliefs with short life habits.

Our rest, like our tithe, is a declaration of our faith.

Matthew 12:8 (AMP)

"For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30 (AMPC)

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]

29 Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and [e]recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.

30 For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good—not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne.

Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

Psalm 46:10 (NASB)

“Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

stop striving - be still, let go and relax

Psalm 3:1-5 (AMPC)

Lord, how they are increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me. Many are saying of me, There is no help for him in God. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory, and the lifter of my head. With my voice I cry to the Lord, and He hears and answers me out of His holy hill. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! I lay down and slept; I wakened again, for the Lord sustains me.

Pausing and resting sets you up to reflect and perceive.

2Sa 5:12 (KJV)

And David perceived that the LORD had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake.

Act 27:10 (KJV)

And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.

Take what you perceive to prayer.

6/30/24

Proverbs 18:16 (NKJV)

A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.

Gift - a bountiful, liberal or generous person,

Makes room for- enlarges

Proverbs 18:16 (AMP)

A man’s gift [given in love or courtesy] makes room for him And brings him before great men.

Proverbs 18:16 (NIV)

A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

Say this daily: My gift is making room for me. My gift is enlarging my territory. My gift is expanding my influence.

How are you using your gift? Are you using your gift and giving in love or courtesy? Or are you using your gift and giving with a scarcity mindset?

Scarcity mindset - A scarcity mindset is a pattern of thinking that focuses on what you don't have and the belief that you won't ever get what you want, even if you have access to basic needs. It can stem from life-changing events, such as losing a job, divorce, or credit card debt. People with a scarcity mindset may fear that there aren't enough resources, such as money, time, or opportunities. This mindset can make it difficult to move forward and can hinder your ability to thrive.

Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ (‭AMPC‬‬)

“He who cultivates his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless people and pursuits will have poverty enough. A faithful man shall abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich [at any cost] shall not go unpunished. [Prov. 13:11; 20:21; 23:4; I Tim. 6:9.]”

We work our land with our gifts. Your gift is meant to enhance your life, your family, your church, your community, and your career.

Your gift is an expression of God being good to you and is a way that God wants to be good through you.

Proverbs 11:25-27 (NKJV)

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself. The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing [will be] on the head of him who sells [it.] He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks [evil.]

You can't stop watering or using your gift because you did not see immediate results. Watering and cultivating takes time.

Rom 12:6-8 (NLT)

In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

In order to carry out our God-given purpose, He has given each one of us various giftings. We all can and should operate in the Romans 12 gifting at a basic and maturing level. We should all be competent in these areas. We're always improving. However, we should hone our skills, develop, and focus on our primary Romans 12 giftings.

Romans 12 Gift/ Grace Gift/ Motivation Gifts: a supernatural ability that God gave you for your own fulfillment & for changing the world. It is easy for you, your motivated toward it, passionate about it, see things through the lens of it, you love it & are energized by it. Your gifts are backed with supernatural power.

Exhortation (Encouragement) - The gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability to encourage and comfort others.

Giving - The gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to produce wealth and to give liberally
for the purpose of advancing the Kingdom of God on earth. It's also the ability to motivate people to give.

Service - ministering, giving aid, hospitality, the fulfilling of a ministry office, those who prepare and present food, those who meet needs through charity

Those with this gifting are usually the first to volunteer and can anticipate needs before they occur. They are alert to detect needs and enjoy in meeting short term goals.

Mercy - to help one afflicted or seeking aid, to help those who in a poor, unfortunate, or afflicted state, to be compassionate towards, to show kindness, caring for others

(Note: The Scripture says to use this gift with cheerfulness!)

Leadership ability - in addition to leading, this gift covers those who are gifted in organization, administration, and giving aid in these areas.

1 Peter 4:10-11 (AMPC)

As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God’s many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the ^[f]extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].

Whoever speaks, [let him do it as one who utters] oracles of God; whoever renders service, [let him do it] as with the strength which God furnishes ^[g]abundantly, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever (through endless ages). Amen (so be it).

Your gifts are backed by supernatural power.

Matthew 5:16 (NLT)

In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Your good deeds are more than just charitable acts of service. Your good deeds are also you working your land and fulfilling your call. Your life and work gives off light. Your gifts are a way that God wants to be good to the world through you.

2 Corinthians 9:6-9 (AMPC) 

[Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [^[a]that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.

Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He ^[b]takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].

And God is able to make all grace (every favor and ^[c]earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need ^[d]be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].

As it is written, He [the benevolent person] scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever!

Your gifts are how you work your land and how you reap your harvest. Your giving connects you to the blessing and creates opportunities for you to harvest. This is another way that your gift is an expression of God being good to you and a way that God wants to be good through you.

6/26/24

Psa 127:2 (NKJV)

[It is] vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; [For] so He gives His beloved sleep.

sorrow - painful toil

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long term beliefs with short life habits.

Questions

How do you rest? When will your time of rest be? How will you guard that time of rest?

Heb 4:11 (KJV)

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

Psalm 23:1-2 (AMPC)

The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.

2 He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.

Psalm 23:2 (NLT)
He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.

Psalm 46:10 (NASB)

“Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

stop striving - be still, let go and relax

[Jos 21:43-45 NKJV] 43 So the LORD gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took possession of it and dwelt in it. 44 The LORD gave them rest all around, according to all that He had sworn to their fathers. And not a man of all their enemies stood against them; the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hand. 45 Not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass.

Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth! (AMPC)

Question: Are you missing direction from the Spirit of God because you refuse to rest? Rest is a place where revelation will flow. Be still AND know.

6/23/24

Proverbs 18:16 (NKJV)

A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.

Gift - a bountiful, liberal or generous person,

Makes room for- enlarges

Proverbs 18:16 (AMP)

A man’s gift [given in love or courtesy] makes room for him And brings him before great men.

Proverbs 18:16 (NIV)

A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

Say this daily: My gift is making room for me. My gift is enlarging my territory. My gift is expanding my influence.

How are you using your gift? Are you using your gift and giving in love or courtesy? Or are you using your gift and giving with a scarcity mindset?

Scarcity mindset - A scarcity mindset is a pattern of thinking that focuses on what you don't have and the belief that you won't ever get what you want, even if you have access to basic needs. It can stem from life-changing events, such as losing a job, divorce, or credit card debt. People with a scarcity mindset may fear that there aren't enough resources, such as money, time, or opportunities. This mindset can make it difficult to move forward and can hinder your ability to thrive.

Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ (‭AMPC‬‬)

“He who cultivates his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless people and pursuits will have poverty enough. A faithful man shall abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich [at any cost] shall not go unpunished. [Prov. 13:11; 20:21; 23:4; I Tim. 6:9.]”

We work our land with our gifts. Your gift is meant to enhance your life, your family, your church, your community, and your career.

Proverbs 11:25-27 (NKJV)

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself. The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing [will be] on the head of him who sells [it.] He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks [evil.]

Romans 12:5-8 (AMPC)

So we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another]. 6 Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy] according to the proportion of his faith; 7 [He whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who teaches, to his teaching; 8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness.

In order to carry out our God-given purpose, He has given each one of us various giftings. We all can and should operate in the Romans 12 gifting at a basic and maturing level. We should all be competent in these areas. We're always improving. However, we should hone our skills, develop, and focus on our primary Romans 12 giftings.

Romans 12 Gift/ Grace Gift/ Motivation Gifts: a supernatural ability that God gave you for your own fulfillment & for changing the world. It is easy for you, your motivated toward it, passionate about it, see things through the lens of it, you love it & are energized by it.

Exhortation (Encouragement) - The gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability to encourage and comfort others.

Giving - The gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to produce wealth and to give liberally
for the purpose of advancing the Kingdom of God on earth. It's also the ability to motivate people to give.

Service - ministering, giving aid, hospitality, the fulfilling of a ministry office, those who prepare and present food, those who meet needs through charity

Those with this gifting are usually the first to volunteer and can anticipate needs before they occur. They are alert to detect needs and enjoy in meeting short term goals.

Mercy - to help one afflicted or seeking aid, to help those who in a poor, unfortunate, or afflicted state, to be compassionate towards, to show kindness, caring for others

(Note: The Scripture says to use this gift with cheerfulness!)

Mat 5:7 (NKJV)

Blessed [are] the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.

Luke 6:36-38 (NKJV)

"Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. 37 "Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."

Gal 6:7-10 (NLT)

Don't be misled--you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. 8 Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. 9 So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. 10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith.

If you are sowing help, aid, and mercy, you will receive help, aid, and mercy.

Luke 10:25-42 (NLT)

One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: "Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 Jesus replied, "What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?" 27 The man answered, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" 28 "Right!" Jesus told him. "Do this and you will live!" 29 The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 Jesus replied with a story: "A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. 31 "By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. 32 A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side. 33 "Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. 35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, 'Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I'll pay you the next time I'm here.' 36 "Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?" Jesus asked. 37 The man replied, "The one who showed him mercy." Then Jesus said, "Yes, now go and do the same." 38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." 41 But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her."

Psa 118:7 (AMP)

The LORD is on my side, He is among those who help me; Therefore I will look [in triumph] on those who hate me.

1 Pe 4:10-11 (NLT)

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 11 Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

6/19/24

Psa 127:2 (NKJV)

[It is] vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; [For] so He gives His beloved sleep.

sorrow - painful toil

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long term beliefs with short life habits.

Questions

How do you rest? When will your time of rest be? How will you guard that time of rest?

Heb 4:11 (KJV)

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

Psalm 23:1-2 (AMPC)

The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.

2 He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.

Psalm 23:2 (NLT)
He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.

Psalm 46:10 (NASB)

“Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

stop striving - be still, let go and relax

Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth! (AMPC)

Question: Are you missing direction from the Spirit of God because you refuse to rest? Rest is a place where revelation will flow. Be still AND know.

6/12/24

Psa 127:2 (NKJV)

[It is] vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; [For] so He gives His beloved sleep.

sorrow - painful toil

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long term beliefs with short life habits.

Questions

How do you rest? When will your time of rest be? How will you guard that time of rest?

Heb 4:11 (KJV)

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

Psalm 23:1-3 (AMPIC)

The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.

2 He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.

3 He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness [uprightness and right standing with Him—not for my earning it, but] for His name’s sake.

Psa 29:11 (NKJV)

The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace.

Ephesians 5:16 (AMP)

making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.

6/9/24

Proverbs 18:16 (NKJV)

A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.

Gift - a bountiful, liberal or generous person,

Makes room for- enlarges

Proverbs 18:16 (AMP)

A man’s gift [given in love or courtesy] makes room for him And brings him before great men.

Proverbs 18:16 (NIV)

A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

Say this daily: My gift is making room for me. My gift is enlarging my territory. My gift is expanding my influence.

How are you using your gift? Are you using your gift and giving in love or courtesy? Or are you using your gift and giving with a scarcity mindset?

Scarcity mindset - A scarcity mindset is a pattern of thinking that focuses on what you don't have and the belief that you won't ever get what you want, even if you have access to basic needs. It can stem from life-changing events, such as losing a job, divorce, or credit card debt. People with a scarcity mindset may fear that there aren't enough resources, such as money, time, or opportunities. This mindset can make it difficult to move forward and can hinder your ability to thrive.

Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ (‭AMPC‬‬)

“He who cultivates his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless people and pursuits will have poverty enough. A faithful man shall abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich [at any cost] shall not go unpunished. [Prov. 13:11; 20:21; 23:4; I Tim. 6:9.]”

We work our land with our gifts. Your gift is meant to enhance your life, your family, your church, your community, and your career.

Proverbs 11:25-27 (NKJV)

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself. The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing [will be] on the head of him who sells [it.] He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks [evil.]

Gal 6:6-10 (NKJV)

Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Rom 12:3-8 (NKJV)

3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, [let us use them]: if prophecy, [let us prophesy] in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry, [let us use it] in [our] ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Romans 12:5-8 (AMPC)

So we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another]. 6 Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy] according to the proportion of his faith; 7 [He whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who teaches, to his teaching; 8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness.

In order to carry out our God-given purpose, He has given each one of us various giftings. We all can and should operate in the Romans 12 gifting at a basic and maturing level. We're always improving. However, we should hone our skills, develop, and focus on our primary Romans 12 giftings.

Romans 12 Gift/ Grace Gift/ Motivation Gifts: a supernatural ability that God gave you for your own fulfillment & for changing the world. It is easy for you, your motivated toward it, passionate about it, see things through the lens of it, you love it & are energized by it.

Exhortation (Encouragement) - The gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability to encourage and comfort others.

Giving - The gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to produce wealth and to give liberally
for the purpose of advancing the Kingdom of God on earth. It's also the ability to motivate people to give.

Act 4:31-37 (NKJV)

And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. 32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid [them] at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. 36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold [it], and brought the money and laid [it] at the apostles' feet.

Act 9:26-28 (NKJV)

And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought [him] to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out.

Act 11:19-26 (NKJV)

Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord. 22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

6/5/24

Psa 127:2 (NKJV)

[It is] vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; [For] so He gives His beloved sleep.

sorrow - painful toil

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long term beliefs with short life habits.

Questions

How do you rest? When will your time of rest be? How will you guard that time of rest?

Heb 4:11 (KJV)

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

Matthew 11:28-30 (AMPC)

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]

29 Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and [e]recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.

30 For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good—not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne.

Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

Phl 4:6-9 (NKJV)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things [are] noble, whatever things [are] just, whatever things [are] pure, whatever things [are] lovely, whatever things [are] of good report, if [there is] any virtue and if [there is] anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

Are unchecked thoughts stealing your rest?

Mat 14:24-33 (NKJV)

But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. 25 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out for fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." 28 And Peter answered Him and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." 29 So He said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw that the wind [was] boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" 31 And immediately Jesus stretched out [His] hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, "Truly You are the Son of God."

Are distractions stealing your rest?

---

6/2/24

Proverbs 18:16 (NKJV)

A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.

Gift - a bountiful, liberal or generous person,

Makes room for- enlarges

Proverbs 18:16 (AMP)

A man’s gift [given in love or courtesy] makes room for him And brings him before great men.

Proverbs 18:16 (NIV)

A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

Say this daily: My gift is making room for me. My gift is enlarging my territory. My gift is expanding my influence.

How are you using your gift? Are you using your gift and giving in love or courtesy? Or are you using your gift and giving with a scarcity mindset?

Scarcity mindset - A scarcity mindset is a pattern of thinking that focuses on what you don't have and the belief that you won't ever get what you want, even if you have access to basic needs. It can stem from life-changing events, such as losing a job, divorce, or credit card debt. People with a scarcity mindset may fear that there aren't enough resources, such as money, time, or opportunities. This mindset can make it difficult to move forward and can hinder your ability to thrive.

Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ (‭AMPC‬‬)

“He who cultivates his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless people and pursuits will have poverty enough. A faithful man shall abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich [at any cost] shall not go unpunished. [Prov. 13:11; 20:21; 23:4; I Tim. 6:9.]”

We work our land with our gifts.

Proverbs 11:25-27 (NKJV)

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself. The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing [will be] on the head of him who sells [it.] He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks [evil.]

Luke 6:38 (NKJV)

"Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."

What measure are you using? Are you measuring from a loving and abundant mindset? Or are you measuring from a scarcity mindset?

Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭13‬-‭16‬ ‭(MSG‬‬)

““Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”

Gal 5:22-23 (NKJV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Rom 12:3-8 (NKJV)

3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, [let us use them]: if prophecy, [let us prophesy] in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry, [let us use it] in [our] ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Romans 12:5-8 (AMPC)

So we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another]. 6 Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy] according to the proportion of his faith; 7 [He whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who teaches, to his teaching; 8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness.

In order to carry out our God-given purpose, He has given each one of us various giftings.

Romans 12 Gift/ Grace Gift: a supernatural ability that God gave you for your own fulfillment & for changing the world. It is easy for you, your motivated toward it, passionate about it, see things through the lens of it, you love it & are energized by it.

Exhortation (Encouragement) - The gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability to encourage others.

Giving - The gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to produce wealth and to give liberally
for the purpose of advancing the Kingdom of God on earth.

Leadership -The gift of leadership is the divine strength or ability to influence people at their level while directing and focusing them on the big picture, vision, or idea.

Mercy - The gift of mercy is the divine strength or ability to feel empathy and to care for those
who are hurting in any way.

Preaching (prophecy) - The gift of Preaching is the divine ability to declare or teach the scriptures to others

Service - The gift of serving is the divine strength or ability to do small or great tasks in working
for the overall good of the body of Christ.

Teaching - The gift of teaching is the divine strength or ability to study and learn primarily to bring understanding and growth to others.

---

5/29/24

Exo 31:16-17 (NKJV)

Therefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations [as] a perpetual covenant. 'It [is] a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for [in] six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.' "

Ezekiel 20:12 (NLT)

And I gave them my Sabbath days of rest as a sign between them and me. It was to remind them that I am the LORD, who had set them apart to be holy.

Gen 2:1-9, 15 (NKJV)

Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. 2 And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made. 4 This [is] the history of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5 before any plant of the field was in the earth and before any herb of the field had grown. For the LORD God had not caused it to rain on the earth, and [there was] no man to till the ground; 6 but a mist went up from the earth and watered the whole face of the ground. 7 And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. 8 The LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden, and there He put the man whom He had formed. 9 And out of the ground the LORD God made every tree grow that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life [was] also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. … 15 Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.

Psa 127:2 (NKJV)

[It is] vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; [For] so He gives His beloved sleep.

sorrow - painful toil

Pro 10:22 (NKJV)

The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

If you do not regularly take time to rest and refresh, you have crossed over into toil.

A lack of faith will cause you to toil when you should be resting.

A lack of a plan, discipline, vision, and self-control will cause you to toil when you should be resting and enjoying the fruit of your labor.

We cannot have long term beliefs with short life habits.

Questions

How do you rest? When will your time of rest be? How will you guard that time of rest?

Heb 4:11 (KJV)

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

5/26/24

Deuteronomy 5:14 - 15 (NLT)

but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the LORD your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your oxen and donkeys and other livestock, and any foreigners living among you. All your male and female servants must rest as you do. Remember that you were once slaves in Egypt, but the LORD your God brought you out with his strong hand and powerful arm. That is why the LORD your God has commanded you to rest on the Sabbath day.

Exo 31:16-17 (NKJV)

Therefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations [as] a perpetual covenant. 'It [is] a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for [in] six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.' "

Ezekiel 20:12 (NLT)

And I gave them my Sabbath days of rest as a sign between them and me. It was to remind them that I am the LORD, who had set them apart to be holy.

Lev 25:1-7 (NLT)

While Moses was on Mount Sinai, the LORD said to him, 2 "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. When you have entered the land I am giving you, the land itself must observe a Sabbath rest before the LORD every seventh year. 3 For six years you may plant your fields and prune your vineyards and harvest your crops, 4 but during the seventh year the land must have a Sabbath year of complete rest. It is the LORD's Sabbath. Do not plant your fields or prune your vineyards during that year. 5 And don't store away the crops that grow on their own or gather the grapes from your unpruned vines. The land must have a year of complete rest. 6 But you may eat whatever the land produces on its own during its Sabbath. This applies to you, your male and female servants, your hired workers, and the temporary residents who live with you. 7 Your livestock and the wild animals in your land will also be allowed to eat what the land produces.

Lev 25:18-22 (NLT)

If you want to live securely in the land, follow my decrees and obey my regulations. 19 Then the land will yield large crops, and you will eat your fill and live securely in it. 20 But you might ask, 'What will we eat during the seventh year, since we are not allowed to plant or harvest crops that year?' 21 Be assured that I will send my blessing for you in the sixth year, so the land will produce a crop large enough for three years. 22 When you plant your fields in the eighth year, you will still be eating from the large crop of the sixth year. In fact, you will still be eating from that large crop when the new crop is harvested in the ninth year.

2 Chronicles 36:21 (NLT)

So the message of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah was fulfilled. The land finally enjoyed its Sabbath rest, lying desolate until the seventy years were fulfilled, just as the prophet had said.

Mat 12:1-13 (NLT) At about that time Jesus was walking through some grainfields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, so they began breaking off some heads of grain and eating them. 2 But some Pharisees saw them do it and protested, "Look, your disciples are breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath." 3 Jesus said to them, "Haven't you read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 4 He went into the house of God, and he and his companions broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. 5 And haven't you read in the law of Moses that the priests on duty in the Temple may work on the Sabbath? 6 I tell you, there is one here who is even greater than the Temple! 7 But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.' 8 For the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!" 9 Then Jesus went over to their synagogue, 10 where he noticed a man with a deformed hand. The Pharisees asked Jesus, "Does the law permit a person to work by healing on the Sabbath?" (They were hoping he would say yes, so they could bring charges against him.) 11 And he answered, "If you had a sheep that fell into a well on the Sabbath, wouldn't you work to pull it out? Of course you would. 12 And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Yes, the law permits a person to do good on the Sabbath." 13 Then he said to the man, "Hold out your hand." So the man held out his hand, and it was restored, just like the other one!

Mark 2:27 (NLT)

Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.

Rom 14:4-6 (NLT)

Who are you to condemn someone else's servants? Their own master will judge whether they stand or fall. And with the Lord's help, they will stand and receive his approval. 5 In the same way, some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is acceptable. 6 Those who worship the Lord on a special day do it to honor him. Those who eat any kind of food do so to honor the Lord, since they give thanks to God before eating. And those who refuse to eat certain foods also want to please the Lord and give thanks to God.

Gal 4:9-10 (NLT )

So now that you know God (or should I say, now that God knows you), why do you want to go back again and become slaves once more to the weak and useless spiritual principles of this world? You are trying to earn favor with God by observing certain days or months or seasons or years.

Col 2:16-17 (NLT) So don't let anyone condemn you for what you eat or drink, or for not celebrating certain holy days or new moon ceremonies or Sabbaths. For these rules are only shadows of the reality yet to come. And Christ himself is that reality

Heb 3:19 (NLT)

So we see that because of their unbelief they were not able to enter his rest.

Heb 4:1-9, 11-16 (NKJV)

Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard [it]. 3 For we who have believed do enter that rest, as He has said: "So I swore in My wrath, 'They shall not enter My rest,' " although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. 4 For He has spoken in a certain place of the seventh [day] in this way: "And God rested on the seventh day from all His works"; 5 and again in this [place]: "They shall not enter My rest." 6 Since therefore it remains that some [must] enter it, and those to whom it was first preached did not enter because of disobedience, 7 again He designates a certain day, saying in David, "Today," after such a long time, as it has been said: "Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts." 8 For if Joshua had given them rest, then He would not afterward have spoken of another day. 9 There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. … 11 Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. 12 For the word of God [is] living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things [are] naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we [must give] account. 14 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] confession. 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. 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.

Psalm 127:2 (NLT)

It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30 (AMPC)

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]

29 Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and [e]recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.

30 For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good—not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne.

Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

5/19/24

2Ti 1:9 (NKJV)

who has saved us and called [us] with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,

Rom 11:29 (NKJV)

For the gifts and the calling of God [are] irrevocable.

Gen 13:14-17 (NKJV)

And the LORD said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: "Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are--northward, southward, eastward, and westward; 15 "for all the land which you see I give to you and your descendants forever. 16 "And I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth; so that if a man could number the dust of the earth, [then] your descendants also could be numbered. 17 "Arise, walk in the land through its length and its width, for I give it to you."

If you cannot see it, you will settle.

Vision is self investment in your future. Vision produces self-control, discipline, and restraint.

Pro 29:18 (AMP)

Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God].

Eph 1:17-21 (NKJV)

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what [is] the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated [Him] at His right hand in the heavenly [places], 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

Rom 8:26-28 (NKJV)

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit [is], because He makes intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. 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.

helps - take hold together with and against

weaknesses - limitations

love God - because you love Him, you do what He has called you to do

purpose - setting forth of a thing, putting in view, shewbread, a purpose

The loaves were a symbolic acknowledgment that God was the resource for Israel’s life and nourishment and also served as Israel’s act of thanksgiving to God. The arrangement of the bread on a table in two rows of six (Leviticus 24) was an important aspect of the presentation because some verses in the Bible literally speak of “the bread of the arrangement” (1 Chronicles 9:32, 23:29; Nehemiah 10:33). - Britannica

This bread consisted of twelve loaves made of the finest flour. They were flat and thin, and were placed in two rows of six each on a table in the holy place before the Lord. They were renewed every Sabbath ( Leviticus 24:5-9 ), and those that were removed to give place to the new ones were to be eaten by the priests only in the holy place (see 1 Samuel 21:3-6 ; Compare Matthew 12:3 Matthew 12:4 ).

"The number of the loaves represented the twelve tribes of Israel, and also the entire spiritual Israel... the placing of them on the table symbolized the entire consecration of Israel to the Lord, and their acceptance of God as their God."

What has God placed in front of you to do? Are you working your land?

Pro 12:11 (NIV)

Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

Pro 22:29 (NIV)

Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.

Deu 28:8, 12 (NKJV)

8 "The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you. … 12 "The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.

Eph 4:16 (NLT)

He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.

2nd Corinthians 9:6-8 (AMPC)

[Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [^[a]that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.

⁷ Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He ^[b]takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].

⁸ And God is able to make all grace (every favor and ^[c]earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need ^[d]be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].

1Co 2:9-13 (NKJV)

But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 10 But God has revealed [them] to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. 13 These things we also speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

Act 2:1-22 (NKJV)

When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and [one] sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, "Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 "And how [is it that] we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? 9 "Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 "Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 "Cretans and Arabs--we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God." 12 So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "Whatever could this mean?" 13 Others mocking said, "They are full of new wine." 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them, "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and heed my words. 15 "For these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is [only] the third hour of the day. 16 "But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 'And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. 18 And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in heaven above And signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, And the moon into blood, Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the LORD. 21 And it shall come to pass [That] whoever calls on the name of the LORD Shall be saved.'

1Co 14:2-4 (NKJV)

For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands [him]; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. 3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

5/5/24

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Rom 11:29 (NKJV)

For the gifts and the calling of God [are] irrevocable.

Do You Know What's In You?

• The fruit of the Spirit
• Gifts and giftings /Abilities and anointings
• 1 Corinthians 12 Gifts, Operations, and Administrations
• Romans 12 Gifts
• Impartations
• Plans
• A measure of faith
• The glory of God

The 1st Corinthians 12 Gifts operate as the Spirit wills. The Romans 12 gifts operate as you will.

Rom 12:3-8 (NKJV)

3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, [let us use them]: if prophecy, [let us prophesy] in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry, [let us use it] in [our] ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Romans 12:5-8 (AMPC)

So we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another]. 6 Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy] according to the proportion of his faith; 7 [He whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who teaches, to his teaching; 8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness.

In order to carry out our God-given purpose, He has given each one of us various giftings.

Romans 12 Gift/ Grace Gift: a supernatural ability that God gave you for your own fulfillment & for changing the world. It is easy for you, your motivated toward it, passionate about it, see things through the lens of it, you love it & are energized by it.

Exhortation (Encouragement) - The gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability to encourage others.

Giving - The gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to produce wealth and to give liberally
for the purpose of advancing the Kingdom of God on earth.

Leadership -The gift of leadership is the divine strength or ability to influence people at their level while directing and focusing them on the big picture, vision, or idea.

Mercy - The gift of mercy is the divine strength or ability to feel empathy and to care for those
who are hurting in any way.

Preaching (prophecy) - The gift of Preaching is the divine ability to declare or teach the scriptures to others

Service - The gift of serving is the divine strength or ability to do small or great tasks in working
for the overall good of the body of Christ.

Teaching - The gift of teaching is the divine strength or ability to study and learn primarily to bring understanding and growth to others.

Pro 12:11 (NIV)

Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

Pro 22:29 (NKJV)

Do you see a man [who] excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown [men].

Pro 22:29 (NIV)

Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.

How are you working your land with the gifts God has given you?

How can you become more skillful in your gift?

Gifts Test: https://www2.fccga.com/faith-experience/grace-gift

God Has Breakthrough For You 5/5/24

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[2Ti 1:9 NKJV] 9 who has saved us and called [us] with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,

[Rom 11:29 NKJV] 29 For the gifts and the calling of God [are] irrevocable.

Do You Know What's In You?

• The fruit of the Spirit
• Gifts and giftings /Abilities and anointings
• 1 Corinthians 12 Gifts, Operations, and Administrations
• Romans 12 Gifts
• Impartations
• Plans
• A measure of faith
• The glory of God

You are called. You have gifts and treasures on the inside of you. With all of that, if you were the kingdom of darkness, wouldn't you resist you?

[Rom 8:26-28 NKJV] 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit [is], because He makes intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. 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.

helps - take hold together with and against

weaknesses - limitations

love God - because you love Him, you do what He has called you to do

purpose - setting forth of a thing, putting in view, shewbread, a purpose

[2Sa 5:17-25 NKJV] 17 Now when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. And David heard [of it] and went down to the stronghold. 18 The Philistines also went and deployed themselves in the Valley of Rephaim. 19 So David inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?" And the LORD said to David, "Go up, for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into your hand." 20 So David went to Baal Perazim, and David defeated them there; and he said, "The LORD has broken through my enemies before me, like a breakthrough of water." Therefore he called the name of that place Baal Perazim. 21 And they left their images there, and David and his men carried them away. 22 Then the Philistines went up once again and deployed themselves in the Valley of Rephaim. 23 Therefore David inquired of the LORD, and He said, "You shall not go up; circle around behind them, and come upon them in front of the mulberry trees. 24 "And it shall be, when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly. For then the LORD will go out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines." 25 And David did so, as the LORD commanded him; and he drove back the Philistines from Geba as far as Gezer.

Baal Perezim - Lord of The Breakthrough, Master of Breakthroughs, the Lord Who Bursts Through

Inquire - to ask

Notice, David inquired the first time and the second time.

[Isa 28:21 NKJV] 21 For the LORD will rise up as [at] Mount Perazim, He will be angry as in the Valley of Gibeon--That He may do His work, His awesome work, And bring to pass His act, His unusual act.

[Mic 2:13 NASB20] 13 "The one who breaks through goes up before them; They break through, pass through the gate, and go out by it. So their king passes on before them, And the LORD at their head."

[Mic 2:13 NLT] 13 Your leader will break out and lead you out of exile, out through the gates of the enemy cities, back to your own land. Your king will lead you; the LORD himself will guide you."

[Jhn 16:13 NKJV] 13 "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own [authority], but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.

[Pro 3:6 NKJV] 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

[Pro 3:6 NLT] 6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

[Pro 3:5-6 AMP] 5 Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. 6 In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].

[Phl 3:14 NKJV] 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

[Mat 16:18 NKJV] 18 "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.

You Are Called By God - 4/28/24

[Isa 14:27 NKJV] 27 For the LORD of hosts has purposed, And who will annul [it]? His hand [is] stretched out, And who will turn it back?"

[2Ti 1:9 NKJV] 9 who has saved us and called [us] with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,

[Eph 1:17-18 NKJV] 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

[Rom 8:26-28 NKJV] 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit [is], because He makes intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. 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.

helps - take hold together with and against

weaknesses - limitations

love God - because you love Him, you do what He has called you to do

purpose - setting forth of a thing, putting in view, shewbread, a purpose

The loaves were a symbolic acknowledgment that God was the resource for Israel’s life and nourishment and also served as Israel’s act of thanksgiving to God. The arrangement of the bread on a table in two rows of six (Leviticus 24) was an important aspect of the presentation because some verses in the Bible literally speak of “the bread of the arrangement” (1 Chronicles 9:32, 23:29; Nehemiah 10:33). - Britannica

This bread consisted of twelve loaves made of the finest flour. They were flat and thin, and were placed in two rows of six each on a table in the holy place before the Lord. They were renewed every Sabbath ( Leviticus 24:5-9 ), and those that were removed to give place to the new ones were to be eaten by the priests only in the holy place (see 1 Samuel 21:3-6 ; Compare Matthew 12:3 Matthew 12:4 ).

"The number of the loaves represented the twelve tribes of Israel, and also the entire spiritual Israel... the placing of them on the table symbolized the entire consecration of Israel to the Lord, and their acceptance of God as their God."

What has God placed in front of you to do? Are you working your land?

[Rom 11:29 NKJV] 29 For the gifts and the calling of God [are] irrevocable.

[Act 9:26-28 NKJV] 26 And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought [him] to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out.

X Marks The Spot: Do You Really Know What's In You 4/21/24

[2Co 4:6-7 NLT] 6 For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.

[Eph 1:17-18 NKJV] 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

Do you really know what's in you?

[Eph 3:16 NKJV] 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man,

[Pro 20:5 KJV] 5 Counsel in the heart of man [is like] deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

[Mat 12:35 NKJV] 35 "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

[Psa 119:11 NLT] 11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

[Rom 10:17 NKJV] 17 So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

[2Ti 1:5-6 NKJV] 5 when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also. 6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

[1Ti 4:14-15 NKJV] 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Do you really know what's in you?

The fruit of the Spirit

Gifts and giftings /Abilities and anointings

1 Corinthians 12 Gifts, Operations, and Administrations

Romans 12 Gifts

Impartations

Plans

A measure of faith

(Ephesians 2:10 AMPC) 10 For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), ^[d]recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

God has a plan and you are part of His plan. You are a piece of His puzzle.

[2Ti 1:9 NKJV] 9 who has saved us and called [us] with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,

You are part of God's purpose and plan for this time.

[Isa 14:27 NKJV] 27 For the LORD of hosts has purposed, And who will annul [it]? His hand [is] stretched out, And who will turn it back?"

[Eph 4:16 NKJV] 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

[Phl 1:19 NKJV] 19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

You have a supply!

One of the Old Testament names of God is that He is El Shaddai. He is the Almighty God Who Has The Supply. He is the All Sufficient One Who Has All Power To Do All Good and He does it all the time!

He put His supply in you!

Treasures and supplies in your life are unlocked through prayer, through obedience, through giving, through being in the right place, and being in different environments that you are directed to go to by the Spirit.

[Rom 8:28 NKJV] 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.

X Marks The Spot: There's More Available Than You Know

[1Co 2:1-7 NLT] 1 When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn't use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God's secret plan. 2 For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. 3 I came to you in weakness--timid and trembling. 4 And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. 5 I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God. 6 Yet when I am among mature believers, I do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. 7 No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God--his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began.

[Rom 11:33 NKJV] 33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable [are] His judgments and His ways past finding out!

[Eph 3:8 NLT] 8 Though I am the least deserving of all God's people, he graciously gave me the privilege of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ.

[Pro 25:2 NLT] 2 It is God's privilege to conceal things and the king's privilege to discover them.

It's not hidden from you, but for you!

[1Co 2:7-13 NLT] 7 No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God--his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. 8 But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. 9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." 10 But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. 11 No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. 12 And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. 13 When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit's words to explain spiritual truths.

[Mat 13:33-35 NLT] 33 Jesus also used this illustration: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough." 34 Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables. 35 This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: "I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world."

[Mat 13:44-46 NLT] 44 "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field. 45 "Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. 46 When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!

How valuable is the hidden treasure to you?

[2Co 4:6-7 NLT] 6 For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.

[Eph 1:17-18 NKJV] 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

[Eph 3:16 NKJV] 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man,

[Pro 20:5 KJV] 5 Counsel in the heart of man [is like] deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

[Mat 12:35 NKJV] 35 "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

[Psa 119:11 NLT] 11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

[Rom 10:17 NKJV] 17 So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

[2Ti 1:5-6 NKJV] 5 when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also. 6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

[1Ti 4:14-15 NKJV] 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

[1Co 14:2 KJV] 2 For he that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth [him]; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

---

Finding X: The Foundation Of Your Identity

[1Co 15:1-9 NLT] 1 Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. 2 It is this Good News that saves you if you continue to believe the message I told you--unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place. 3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him. 9 For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I'm not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God's church.

[1Co 15:10 NKJV] 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God [which was] with me.

[1Co 15:10 NLT] 10 But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me--and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace.

Paul tied his identity to the grace of God.  He tied his identity to the power of God.  He tied his identity to the favor of God.  His identity was in Christ.

When I find my X, I can find my Why

Your perceived identity directs your actions. 

Faith flows with an accurate and secure identity

What is informing your identity?  The essence, foundation, and core of your identity must be who you are in Christ.

Is your perceived identity getting in the way of your miracle?

Humility is yielding to what God says about you.

Accepting an identity that is opposite of what God says is a form of pride.

[Phl 3:12-14 NLT] 12 I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13 No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

You are not who you used to be.

[Eph 2:1-10 NLT] 1 Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. 2 You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil--the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. 3 All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God's anger, just like everyone else. 4 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!) 6 For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. 7 So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus. 8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 10 For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

You’ve been recreated in Christ.  Do not let the world define who you are.  They are not qualified to make that declaration.

[Col 2:6-8 NLT] 6 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. 8 Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.

Your identity must be rooted in Who Christ is and you must build your life on that truth.

I know Who He is so I know who I am

Because I know WHO HE is, I know who I am and I know what’s available to me.

No More Shame: Drawing An X Over Shame

Hebrews 12:1-3 NLT
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.[a] Because of the joy[b] awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people;[c] then you won’t become weary and give up.

Shame - a painful feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong or foolish behavior.

[1Co 15:3-4 NKJV] 3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,

[Rom 4:25 NKJV] 25 who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.

When you were justified, you were declared not guilty.

[Isa 61:7 NKJV] 7 Instead of your shame [you shall have] double [honor], And [instead of] confusion they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double; Everlasting joy shall be theirs.

[Rom 8:1-2 NLT] 1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.

What John The Baptist And Judas Had In Common

[Jhn 1:6-8, 29-36 NASB20] 6 A man came, [one] sent from God, [and] his name was John. 7 He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the Light, but [he came] to testify about the Light. … 29 The next day he saw Jesus coming to him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 "This is He in behalf of whom I said, 'After me is coming a Man who has proved to be my superior, because He existed before me.' 31 "And I did not recognize Him, but so that He would be revealed to Israel, I came baptizing in water." 32 And John testified, saying, "I have seen the Spirit descending as a dove out of heaven, and He remained upon Him. 33 "And I did not recognize Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, 'He upon whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining upon Him, this is the One who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.' 34 "And I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God." 35 Again the next day John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and he looked at Jesus as He walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"

(Mat 11:7-19 NASB20) 7 As these [disciples of John] were going [away,] Jesus began speaking to the crowds about John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 "But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft [clothing?] Those who wear soft [clothing] are in kings' palaces! 9 "But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and [one who is] more than a prophet. 10 "This is the one about whom it is written: 'BEHOLD, I AM SENDING MY MESSENGER AHEAD OF YOU, WHO WILL PREPARE YOUR WAY BEFORE YOU.' 11 "Truly I say to you, among those born of women there has not arisen [anyone] greater than John the Baptist! Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 "And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has been treated violently, and violent men take it by force. 13 "For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. 14 "And if you are willing to accept [it, John] himself is Elijah who was to come. 15 "The one who has ears to hear, let him hear. 16 "But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces, who call out to the other [children,] 17 and say, 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a song of mourning, and you did not mourn.' 18 "For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon!' 19 "The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Behold, a gluttonous man and a heavy drinker, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' And [yet] wisdom is vindicated by her deeds."

• John the Baptist was called. He was anointed. He was the fulfillment of prophecy. He was anointed with same anointing that Elijah had. He was the greatest prophet under the Old Covenant.
• What led Jesus to share this discourse about John?

(Mat 11:1-6 NASB20) 1 When Jesus had finished giving instructions to His twelve disciples, He went on from there to teach and preach in their cities. 2 Now [while] in prison, John heard about the works of Christ, and he sent [word] by his disciples, 3 and said to Him, "Are You the Coming One, or are we to look for someone else?" 4 Jesus answered and said to them, "Go and report to John what you hear and see: 5 [those who are] BLIND RECEIVE SIGHT and [those who] limp walk, [those] with leprosy are cleansed and [those who are] deaf hear, [the] dead are raised, and [the] POOR HAVE THE GOSPEL PREACHED TO THEM. 6 "And blessed is any person who does not take offense at Me."

Notice what Jesus said in verse six - blessed is here who is not offended at me. Other translations say offended at me.

[Mar 3:13-19 NKJV] 13 And He went up on the mountain and called to [Him] those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. 14 Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, 15 and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons: 16 Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; 17 James the [son] of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, "Sons of Thunder"; 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the [son] of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananite; 19 and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. And they went into a house.

Judas was called, anointed, and authorized. He preached, healed the sick, and cast out devils just like the rest of the Apostles.

[Mat 26:6-13 NKJV] 6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured [it] on His head as He sat [at the table]. 8 But when His disciples saw [it], they were indignant, saying, "Why this waste? 9 "For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to [the] poor." 10 But when Jesus was aware of [it], He said to them, "Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 "For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. 12 "For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did [it] for My burial. 13 "Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her."

[Jhn 12:1-8 NKJV] 1 Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. 2 There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. 4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's [son], who would betray Him, said, 5 "Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. 7 But Jesus said, "Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. 8 "For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always."

[Mat 26:14-16 NKJV] 14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, "What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?" And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.

[Jhn 13:1-2 NASB20] 1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, Jesus, knowing that His hour had come that He would depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end. 2 And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, [the son] of Simon, to betray Him,

300 denarii was equivalent to about a year's salary. 30 pieces of silver was roughly 1/3 of a year's salary.

[Mat 27:3-5 NKJV] 3 Then Judas, His betrayer, seeing that He had been condemned, was remorseful and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4 saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." And they said, "What [is that] to us? You see [to it]!" 5 Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself.

[Act 1:17-18 NASB20] 17 "For he was counted among us and received his share in this ministry." 18 (Now this man acquired a field with the price of his wickedness, and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out.

X (Part 1) - The X-Factor

X - Factor

1. a noteworthy special talent or quality.
   
   
2. a variable in a given situation that could have the most significant impact on the outcome."

[Mar 10:46-52 NKJV] Now they came to Jericho. As He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great multitude, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the road begging. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" 48 Then many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" 49 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called. Then they called the blind man, saying to him, "Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you." 50 And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. 51 So Jesus answered and said to him, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man said to Him, "Rabboni, that I may receive my sight." 52 Then Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.

Jesus said to Bartimaeus, his faith made him well. Faith is an X-factor in your life.

Because I know WHO HE is, I know who I am and I know what's available to me.

Son of David - Messianic title. (Isaiah 9:6-7, Isaiah 11:1, Jer. 23:5-6). There were Sure Mercies promised in covenant to David.

Sure mercies - unfailing love, steadfast love

Mercy is covenant love. It is God's desire to bless you and fulfill His covenant. Bartimaeus had heard about Jesus. He believed He was the Son of David and had mercy to give to Him. Because He had mercy to give to Him, He asked for it.

Before Bartimaeus received His miracle, He changed His identity.

Your perceived identity directs your actions. 

The garment identified Bartimaeus as an official beggar. He threw away the identity because He knew Jesus had mercy for him. Is your perceived identity getting in the way of your miracle?

[Jas 4:1-7 NKJV] 1 Where do wars and fights [come] from among you? Do [they] not [come] from your [desires for] pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend [it] on your pleasures. 4 Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, "The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously"? 6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." 7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Humility is yielding to what God says about you. Accepting an identity that is opposite of what God says is a form of pride.

A wrong identity will cause you to ask amiss and will stifle your faith.

What negative identity are your nursing in your life? What negative story to do you keep telling yourself and others? This baggage and mask will limit the X-factor in your life. Your faith flows when your identity is secure.

[Mar 11:1-11 NKJV] 1 Now when they drew near Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, He sent two of His disciples; 2 and He said to them, "Go into the village opposite you; and as soon as you have entered it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has sat. Loose it and bring [it]. 3 "And if anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' say, 'The Lord has need of it,' and immediately he will send it here." 4 So they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door outside on the street, and they loosed it. 5 But some of those who stood there said to them, "What are you doing, loosing the colt?" 6 And they spoke to them just as Jesus had commanded. So they let them go. 7 Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their clothes on it, and He sat on it. 8 And many spread their clothes on the road, and others cut down leafy branches from the trees and spread [them] on the road. 9 Then those who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: "Hosanna! 'Blessed [is] He who comes in the name of the LORD!' 10 Blessed [is] the kingdom of our father David That comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" 11 And Jesus went into Jerusalem and into the temple. So when He had looked around at all things, as the hour was already late, He went out to Bethany with the twelve.

[Psa 118:1, 23-26 NKJV] 1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for [He is] good! For His mercy [endures] forever. … 23 This was the LORD's doing; It [is] marvelous in our eyes. 24 This [is] the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed [is] he who comes in the name of the LORD! We have blessed you from the house of the LORD.

Psalm 118 is the psalm that the crowds were shouting and quoting that day. They were singing Hosanna to the Son of David. As they sang this, they saw themselves as recipients of salvation, prosperity, and mercy.

[Mar 11:12-14, 20-24 NKJV] 12 Now the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, He was hungry. 13 And seeing from afar a fig tree having leaves, He went to see if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 In response Jesus said to it, "Let no one eat fruit from you ever again." And His disciples heard [it]. … 20 Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away." 22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them].

Have faith - take faith, possess faith, hold faith

Two Things You Need To Pray For This Week (February 18th, 2024)

Col 4:2-5 (NKJV)

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; 3 meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, 4 that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward those [who are] outside, redeeming the time.

Col 4:3-5 (NLT)

Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. 4 Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. 5 Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.

Eph 5:15-17 (NLT)

So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

Open Door - An opportunity

The opportunity of a lifetime must be seized during the lifetime of the opportunity. - Leonard Ravenhill

1Co 16:9 (AMP) 9 because a wide door for effective service has opened to me [in Ephesus, a very promising opportunity], and there are many adversaries.

Num 13:26-33 (NKJV)

Now they departed and came back to Moses and Aaron and all the congregation of the children of Israel in the Wilderness of Paran, at Kadesh; they brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. 27 Then they told him, and said: "We went to the land where you sent us. It truly flows with milk and honey, and this [is] its fruit. 28 "Nevertheless the people who dwell in the land [are] strong; the cities [are] fortified [and] very large; moreover we saw the descendants of Anak there. 29 "The Amalekites dwell in the land of the South; the Hittites, the Jebusites, and the Amorites dwell in the mountains; and the Canaanites dwell by the sea and along the banks of the Jordan." 30 Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, "Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it." 31 But the men who had gone up with him said, "We are not able to go up against the people, for they [are] stronger than we." 32 And they gave the children of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, "The land through which we have gone as spies [is] a land that devours its inhabitants, and all the people whom we saw in it [are] men of [great] stature. 33 "There we saw the giants (the descendants of Anak came from the giants); and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight."

Rev 3:7-8 (NKJV)

"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, 'These things says He who is holy, He who is true, "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens": 8 "I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.

Act 2:46-47 (NKJV)

So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

Exo 3:21 (NKJV) "And I will give this people favor in the sight of the Egyptians; and it shall be, when you go, that you shall not go empty-handed.

Exo 11:3 (NKJV) And the LORD gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses [was] very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants and in the sight of the people.

Exo 12:36 (NKJV) And the LORD had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they granted them [what they requested]. Thus they plundered the Egyptians.

Psa 5:12 (NKJV) For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favor You will surround him as [with] a shield.

Proverbs 3:3-4 (AMP) 3 Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 So find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man.

Are You Standing In Front Of A Red Sea? Get Moving! (February 11th, 2024)

Exo 14:13-16 (NLT)

But Moses told the people, "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. 14 The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm." 15 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! 16 Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground.

Exo 3:19-22 (NKJV)

"But I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, no, not even by a mighty hand. 20 "So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My wonders which I will do in its midst; and after that he will let you go. 21 "And I will give this people favor in the sight of the Egyptians; and it shall be, when you go, that you shall not go empty-handed. 22 "But every woman shall ask of her neighbor, namely, of her who dwells near her house, articles of silver, articles of gold, and clothing; and you shall put [them] on your sons and on your daughters. So you shall plunder the Egyptians."

Exo 4:1-2 (NLT)

But Moses protested again, "What if they won't believe me or listen to me? What if they say, 'The LORD never appeared to you'?" 2 Then the LORD asked him, "What is that in your hand?" "A shepherd's staff," Moses replied.

Exo 4:17, 20 (NLT) 

And take your shepherd's staff with you, and use it to perform the miraculous signs I have shown you." … 20 So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and headed back to the land of Egypt. In his hand he carried the staff of God.

The staff represented the anointing. It was the sign and the signet of the anointing of God upon the man of God. What are you doing with the anointing that God has placed upon your life?

Jdg 6:11-14 (NKJV)

Now the Angel of the LORD came and sat under the terebinth tree which [was] in Ophrah, which [belonged] to Joash the Abiezrite, while his son Gideon threshed wheat in the winepress, in order to hide [it] from the Midianites. 12 And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him, and said to him, "The LORD [is] with you, you mighty man of valor!" 13 Gideon said to Him, "O my lord, if the LORD is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where [are] all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, 'Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt?' But now the LORD has forsaken us and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites." 14 Then the LORD turned to him and said, "Go in this might of yours, and you shall save Israel from the hand of the Midianites. Have I not sent you?"

miracles - wonders

When Gideon asked, "Where are His miraculous wonders?" What was the response of God? "You, go!" What does this mean? As you go, you will see them.

When God sends, He anoints.

Jhn 6:5-13 (NKJV)

Then Jesus lifted up [His] eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?" 6 But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do. 7 Philip answered Him, "Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may have a little." 8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to Him, 9 "There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?" 10 Then Jesus said, "Make the people sit down." Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. 11 And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed [them] to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, "Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost." 13 Therefore they gathered [them] up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten.

Act 2:1-4 (NKJV)

When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and [one] sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

1. They heard something different
2. They saw something different
3. They were filled
4. They began to speak different

Authentic & In Awe (February 4th, 2024)

Ephesians 5:8-12 (AMPC)

For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light].

9 For the fruit (the effect, the product) of the Light or [c]the Spirit [consists] in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart, and trueness of life.

10 And try to learn [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him].

11 Take no part in and have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds and enterprises of darkness, but instead [let your lives be so in contrast as to] [d]expose and reprove and convict them.

12 For it is a shame even to speak of or mention the things that [such people] practice in secret.

You are not who you used to be. You are light. You are chosen. You are a miracle! You are a sign! Believe and raise your standard. 

Job 9:10 (NKJV)

He does great things past finding out, Yes, wonders without number.

Psalm 77:14 (NLT)
You are the God of great wonders! You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations.

(MSG)
O God! Your way is holy! No god is great like God! You’re the God who makes things happen; you showed everyone what you can do— You pulled your people out of the worst kind of trouble, rescued the children of Jacob and Joseph.

God wants to do miracles, signs, and wonders in your life.

signs - a sign, prodigy, portent, i.e. an unusual occurrence, transcending the common course of nature - of miracles and wonders by which God authenticates the men sent by him, or by which men prove that the cause they are pleading is God's

wonders - marvels, what is extraordinary, wonderful things and works, what distinguishes and separates, what is too high and too difficult and beyond a person's ability to be done

Gen 18:14 (NASB20)

"Is anything too difficult for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, at this time next year, and Sarah will have a son."

too difficult - too wonderful

Gen 18:14 (NASB20)

"Is anything too difficult for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, at this time next year, and Sarah will have a son."

Num 11:23 (NASB20)

Then the LORD said to Moses, "Is the LORD'S power too little? Now you shall see whether My word will come true for you or not."

Zec 8:6 (NLT)

"This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: All this may seem impossible to you now, a small remnant of God's people. But is it impossible for me? says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.

Job 42:2 (NASB20)

"I know that You can [do] all things,And that no plan is impossible for You.

Jer 32:17 (NASB20)

'Oh, Lord GOD! Behold, You Yourself have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You,

Dan 11:32 (NKJV)

"Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out [great exploits].

Peace (Wednesday, January 31st, 2024)

Eph 6:10-15 (NKJV)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual [hosts] of wickedness in the heavenly [places]. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

Ephesians 6:15 (AMP)

and having strapped on YOUR FEET THE GOSPEL OF PEACE IN PREPARATION [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news].

The Roman soldier wore shoes that had nails on the bottom so that they could stay planted no matter the terrain they stood on. The peace of God enables you to stay stable in unstable times.

What is the gospel of peace? The good news is that we have peace with God and the peace of God.

peace - shalom - safety, security, tranquility, welfare, health and soundness of body, prosperity, rest, wholeness. It implies nothing missing and nothing broken, but wholeness in every area of your life.

peace - eirene - by implication, prosperity:—one, peace, quietness, rest, set at one again. security, safety, prosperity, intense happiness, "(because peace and harmony make and keep things safe and prosperous (Strong's)

1 Co 15:58 (NKJV)

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Luk 6:48-49 (NKJV)

"He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. 49 "But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great."

shake - agitate, to cause to totter, wave, rock, topple, disturb, move, overthrow

Mar 4:35-41 (NKJV)

On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, "Let us cross over to the other side." 36 Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. 38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" 39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, "Why are you so fearful? How [is it] that you have no faith?" 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, "Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!"

To live in peace, you must use your authority. 

Pro 18:10 (NKJV)

The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.

Phl 4:6-9 (NKJV)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things [are] noble, whatever things [are] just, whatever things [are] pure, whatever things [are] lovely, whatever things [are] of good report, if [there is] any virtue and if [there is] anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

Rom 16:20 (NKJV)

And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.

You Are A Sign: What Does Your Sign Say? (Sunday, January 28th, 2024)

Ephesians 5:8-12 (AMPC)

For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light].

9 For the fruit (the effect, the product) of the Light or [c]the Spirit [consists] in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart, and trueness of life.

10 And try to learn [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him].

11 Take no part in and have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds and enterprises of darkness, but instead [let your lives be so in contrast as to] [d]expose and reprove and convict them.

12 For it is a shame even to speak of or mention the things that [such people] practice in secret.

You are not who you used to be. You are light. You are chosen. You are a miracle! Live like it.

Job 9:10 (NKJV)

He does great things past finding out, Yes, wonders without number.

Psalm 77:14 (NLT)
You are the God of great wonders! You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations.

(MSG)
O God! Your way is holy! No god is great like God! You’re the God who makes things happen; you showed everyone what you can do— You pulled your people out of the worst kind of trouble, rescued the children of Jacob and Joseph.

Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Psalm 31:19-20 (NLT)

How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world. 20 You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in your presence, far from accusing tongues.

fear - reverential awe

protection - also translated as those who trust in You

goodness - God’s goodness is His prosperity, good things, property, supply, and provision. It is good in the widest sense of the word and good to the farthest extreme.

Jer 33:9 (NLT)

Then this city will bring me joy, glory, and honor before all the nations of the earth! The people of the world will see all the good I do for my people, and they will tremble with awe at the peace and prosperity I provide for them.

Act 2:22 (NLT)

"People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know.

Heb 2:4 (NLT)

And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose.

John 2:23-3:2 (NKJV)

Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did. 24 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all [men], 25 and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man. There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him."

signs - a sign, prodigy, portent, i.e. an unusual occurrence, transcending the common course of nature - of miracles and wonders by which God authenticates the men sent by him, or by which men prove that the cause they are pleading is God's

You are a sign and God desires to do signs in your life. You are sign, what does your sign say?

Mark 16:14-20 (NKJV)

Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen. 15 And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 "they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." 19 So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with [them] and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.

1. Believe - What Do You Believe?

Isaiah 59:19 (AMPC)

So [as the result of the Messiah’s intervention] they shall [reverently] fear the name of the Lord from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him and put him to flight [for He will come like a rushing stream which the breath of the Lord drives].

standard - An ensign of war; a staff with a flag or colors

2. Raise Your Sign - Raise Your Standard

Mat 4:12-16 (NKJV)

Now when Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, He departed to Galilee. 13 And leaving Nazareth, He came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali, 14 that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: 15 "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, [By] the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles: 16 The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, And upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned."

---

Peace (Wednesday, January 24th, 2024)

• Peace comes from preparation

(Luk 6:46-49 NKJV) 46 "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do the things which I say? 47 "Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 "He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. 49 "But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great."

1. Come to Jesus

[Heb 11:6 NKJV] 6 But without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

When you come to God, you must believe He is your answer and that He will reward you.

rewarder - one who pays wages and gives recompense

[Isa 55:3 NLT] 3 "Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David.

Come to God with wide open ears. Come ready and expecting to hear. Don't come with your mind made up. Come ready to hear His wisdom and instruction.

2. Hear what Jesus has to say - actually listen

3. Just Do It!

[Jas 1:22-25 NKJV] 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues [in it], and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.

(Luk 6:47-49 NKJV) "Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 "He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. 49 "But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great."

shake - agitate, to cause to totter, wave, rock, topple, disturb, move, overthrow

[Act 27:9-26 NKJV] 9 Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, 10 saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives." 11 Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul. 12 And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, [and] winter [there]. 13 When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained [their] desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete. 14 But not long after, a tempestuous head wind arose, called Euroclydon. 15 So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let [her] drive. 16 And running under [the shelter of] an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. 17 When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis [Sands], they struck sail and so were driven. 18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next [day] they lightened the ship. 19 On the third [day] we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands. 20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on [us], all hope that we would be saved was finally given up. 21 But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, "Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss. 22 "And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 "For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 "saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.' 25 "Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me. 26 "However, we must run aground on a certain island."

There are entire storms you can avoid if you follow the leadings in your spirit. 

You Are A Miracle (Sunday, January 21st, 2024)

Ephesians 5:8-12 (AMPC)

For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light].

9 For the fruit (the effect, the product) of the Light or [c]the Spirit [consists] in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart, and trueness of life.

10 And try to learn [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him].

11 Take no part in and have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds and enterprises of darkness, but instead [let your lives be so in contrast as to] [d]expose and reprove and convict them.

12 For it is a shame even to speak of or mention the things that [such people] practice in secret.

You are not who you used to be. You are light. Live like it.

Proverbs 4:18 AMPC

But the path of the [uncompromisingly] just and righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines more and more (brighter and clearer) until [it reaches its full strength and glory in] the perfect day [to be prepared].

Don't compromise. Whatever you compromise to keep you will eventually lose. Whatever you bow down to on the way up the mountain will rule you when you get to the top.

Ephesians‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬-‭6‬ ‭AMPC

“Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy (consecrated and set apart for Him) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love. For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will [because it pleased Him and was His kind intent]– [So that we might be] to the praise and the commendation of His glorious grace (favor and mercy), which He so freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.”
‭‭‬‬

Ephesians‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.”
‭‭

Gal 3:1-5 NKJV

1 O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed among you as crucified? 2 This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have you suffered so many things in vain--if indeed [it was] in vain? 5 Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, [does He do it] by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Psa 77:14 NKJV

14 You [are] the God who does wonders; You have declared Your strength among the peoples.

Psa 136:1-4 NKJV

1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for [He is] good! For His mercy [endures] forever. 2 Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His mercy [endures] forever. 3 Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy [endures] forever: 4 To Him who alone does great wonders, For His mercy [endures] forever;

Job 9:10 NKJV 10

He does great things past finding out, Yes, wonders without number.

Rom 8:11-16 NKJV

11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors--not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

It's Your Time To Shine (Sunday, January 14th, 2024)

(Psa 119:105 NKJV) 105 Your word [is] a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.

[Psa 119:130 NKJV] 130 The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.

entrance - unfolding, teaching

(2Co 4:3-9 NKJV) 3 But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, 4 whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. 5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake. 6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 8 [We are] hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed--

(Eph 5:1-7 NLT) 1 Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. 3 Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. 4 Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes--these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. 5 You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. 7 Don't participate in the things these people do. .

anger - wrath - there is a future day when the wrath of God will be revealed from Heaven. Romans 5:9 says that we believers have been saved from that wrath. However, we have to understand that our current actions have consequences. There are laws at work in the earth. 

(Rom 8:1-2 NKJV) 1 [There is] therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.

The law of seed time and harvest still works. The law of sin and death still works. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus still works.

(Gal 6:7-10 NKJV) 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

(Pro 22:8 NKJV) 8 He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow, And the rod of his anger will fail.

(Gal 6:7-10 NLT) 7 Don't be misled--you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. 8 Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. 9 So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. 10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith.

(Eph 5:8-10 NLT) 8 For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! 9 For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. 10 Carefully determine what pleases the Lord

We have to take the light of the Word and the light of the Spirit within our hearts and apply that light to our actions, habits, attitudes, mentalities, beliefs, and choices. With this light, we are able to determine what pleases God and what doesn't.

You were once darkness, you are now light. Let's look at the darkness of Ephesus.

(2Co 3:16-18 NKJV) 16 Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Make sure you take your Grace Gift test the first time or again, so that you are ready for where we are going in our new series.

(Act 19:1-20 NLT) 1 While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul traveled through the interior regions until he reached Ephesus, on the coast, where he found several believers. 2 "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" he asked them. "No," they replied, "we haven't even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." 3 "Then what baptism did you experience?" he asked. And they replied, "The baptism of John." 4 Paul said, "John's baptism called for repentance from sin. But John himself told the people to believe in the one who would come later, meaning Jesus." 5 As soon as they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 Then when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in other tongues and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all. 8 Then Paul went to the synagogue and preached boldly for the next three months, arguing persuasively about the Kingdom of God. 9 But some became stubborn, rejecting his message and publicly speaking against the Way. So Paul left the synagogue and took the believers with him. Then he held daily discussions at the lecture hall of Tyrannus. 10 This went on for the next two years, so that people throughout the province of Asia--both Jews and Greeks--heard the word of the Lord. 11 God gave Paul the power to perform unusual miracles. 12 When handkerchiefs or aprons that had merely touched his skin were placed on sick people, they were healed of their diseases, and evil spirits were expelled. 13 A group of Jews was traveling from town to town casting out evil spirits. They tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus in their incantation, saying, "I command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, to come out!" 14 Seven sons of Sceva, a leading priest, were doing this. 15 But one time when they tried it, the evil spirit replied, "I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?" 16 Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them, and attacked them with such violence that they fled from the house, naked and battered. 17 The story of what happened spread quickly all through Ephesus, to Jews and Greeks alike. A solemn fear descended on the city, and the name of the Lord Jesus was greatly honored. 18 Many who became believers confessed their sinful practices. 19 A number of them who had been practicing sorcery brought their incantation books and burned them at a public bonfire. The value of the books was several million dollars. 20 So the message about the Lord spread widely and had a powerful effect.

If God can bring the Ephesians to a life of light, He can do so for you!

Peace In The Storm (Wednesday, January 7th, 2023)

[Psa 29:11 NKJV] 11 The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace.

peace - shalom - safety, security, tranquility, welfare, health and soundness of body, prosperity, rest, wholeness. It implies nothing missing and nothing broken, but wholeness in every area of your life.

[Isa 53:5 NKJV] 5 But He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [He was] bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace [was] upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.

chastisement - punishment

(Isa 54:13-14 NKJV) 13 All your children [shall be] taught by the LORD, And great [shall be] the peace of your children. 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.

(Jhn 14:27 NKJV) 27 "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

peace - eirene - by implication, prosperity:—one, peace, quietness, rest, set at one again. security, safety, prosperity, intense happiness, "(because peace and harmony make and keep things safe and prosperous (Strong's)"

(Rom 15:13 NKJV) 13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

(2Th 3:16 NKJV) 16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord [be] with you all.

(2Pe 1:2 NKJV) 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,

[Psa 119:165 NKJV] 165 Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.

[Pro 3:1-2 NKJV] 1 My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; 2 For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you.

[Pro 3:13-17 NKJV] 13 Happy [is] the man [who] finds wisdom, And the man [who] gains understanding; 14 For her proceeds [are] better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold. 15 She [is] more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. 16 Length of days [is] in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor. 17 Her ways [are] ways of pleasantness, And all her paths [are] peace.

[Isa 48:18 NKJV] 18 Oh, that you had heeded My commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.

[Rom 8:6 NKJV] 6 For to be carnally minded [is] death, but to be spiritually minded [is] life and peace.

[Isa 26:3 NKJV] 3 You will keep [him] in perfect peace, [Whose] mind [is] stayed [on You], Because he trusts in You.

[Phl 4:6-7 NKJV] 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

[Col 3:15 NKJV] 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

[Isa 55:12 NKJV] 12 "For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace; The mountains and the hills Shall break forth into singing before you, And all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands.

(Mat 7:24-29 NKJV) 24 "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 "and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 "But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 "and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall." 28 And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, 29 for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

(Luk 6:46-49 NKJV) 46 "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do the things which I say? 47 "Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 "He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. 49 "But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great."

Light Will Rise (Sunday, January 7th, 2023)

(Isa 60:1-3 KJV) 1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. 2 For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. 3 And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

Light will rise in 2024.

(Mat 5:14-16 NKJV) 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 "Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all [who are] in the house. 16 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

There is a unique way that God wants to shine through you. As you discover your giftings and allow God to use them, the light He has called you to shine will shine even greater. (Make sure you take the gifts test attached to the link at the bottom of the notes.)

[Pro 4:18-19 NKJV] 18 But the path of the just [is] like the shining sun, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. 19 The way of the wicked [is] like darkness; They do not know what makes them stumble.

MSG - The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker— travelers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces.

[Eph 5:8-14 NASB20] 8 for you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light [consists] in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 as you try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Do not participate in the useless deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14 For this reason it says,"Awake, sleeper,And arise from the dead,And Christ will shine on you."

God has called you to shine brighter in 2024. Each of these ways enable you to shine brighter.

1. God will lead you through His Word.

(Psa 119:105 NKJV) 105 Your word [is] a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.

(Psa 119:11 NKJV) 11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.

hidden - store up, treasure

(2Pe 1:19 NLT) 19 Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place--until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts.

2. God will lead you through your spirit

(Psa 18:28-29 NKJV) 28 For You will light my lamp; The LORD my God will enlighten my darkness. 29 For by You I can run against a troop, By my God I can leap over a wall.

(Pro 20:27 NKJV) 27 The spirit of a man [is] the lamp of the LORD, Searching all the inner depths of his heart.

(Rom 8:14-16 NKJV) 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

bears witness - gives evidence

(Col 3:15-16 NKJV) 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

You have to keep depositing the Word. You are what you eat.

Three main ways of leading in your spirit: the inward witness, the voice of your spirit, and the voice of the Holy Ghost

[Rev 1:10-20 NKJV] 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet, 11 saying, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last," and, "What you see, write in a book and send [it] to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea." 12 Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and in the midst of the seven lampstands [One] like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. 14 His head and hair [were] white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; 15 His feet [were] like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; 16 He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance [was] like the sun shining in its strength. 17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. 18 "I [am] He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. 19 "Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. 20 "The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.

3. Gather on purpose

As we gather together, the light increases. Jesus refers to the pastors as stars and the congregations as lampstands. Each give off light. Together, we shine brighter.

Make sure you take your Grace Gift test the first time or again, so that you are ready for where we are going in our new series.

Open Doors & Opportunities (Wednesday, January 3rd, 2023)

[Eph 5:8-17 NKJV] 8 For you were once darkness, but now [you are] light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose [them]. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. 14 Therefore He says: "Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light." 15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord [is].

Redeem - to buy up, to buy up for one's self, for one's use,

[Eph 5:15-17 NLT] 15 So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

AMP - verse 17 - making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.

[Col 4:2-6 NKJV] 2 Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; 3 meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, 4 that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward those [who are] outside, redeeming the time. 6 [Let] your speech always [be] with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

Moving Forward (Sunday Night, December 31st, 2023)

(Isa 60:1-3 KJV) 1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. 2 For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. 3 And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

Light will rise in 2024.

(Gen 35:19-21 NIV) 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). 20 Over her tomb Jacob set up a pillar, and to this day that pillar marks Rachel's tomb. 21 Israel moved on again and pitched his tent beyond Migdal Eder.

Jacob made a pillar, Israel moved on. It's time to move on.

(Heb 12:1-2 NKJV) 1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares [us], and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of [our] faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

What weights do you need to leave in 2023?

(Mar 10:46-52 NKJV) 46 Now they came to Jericho. As He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great multitude, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the road begging. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" 48 Then many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" 49 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called. Then they called the blind man, saying to him, "Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you." 50 And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. 51 So Jesus answered and said to him, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man said to Him, "Rabboni, that I may receive my sight." 52 Then Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.

The garment represented his official designation as a blind beggar. What garments do you need to leave in 2023?

(Phl 3:12-14 NKJV) 12 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

[Psa 92:10 KJV] 10 But my horn shalt thou exalt like [the horn of] an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil.

Escape The Trap (Sunday Morning, December 31st, 2023)

(Gen 14:18-24 NKJV) Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he [was] the priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said: "Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; And blessed be God Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand." And he gave him a tithe of all. Now the king of Sodom said to Abram, "Give me the persons, and take the goods for yourself." But Abram said to the king of Sodom, "I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, the Possessor of heaven and earth, "that I [will take] nothing, from a thread to a sandal strap, and that I will not take anything that [is] yours, lest you should say, 'I have made Abram rich'-- "except only what the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion."

Success comes as you give God and His Word first place and final authority in your life. You give God and His Word first place in your life by starting your day in prayer, with His Word, by starting your week in church, and by your tithe. Making God first place and allowing His Word to be first place will get you out of the trap.

Before Abram went into a seemingly impossible battle, He made a vow, or a promise, to God. After his victory, he presented his tithe.

(Gen 28:10-22 NKJV) Now Jacob went out from Beersheba and went toward Haran. So he came to a certain place and stayed there all night, because the sun had set. And he took one of the stones of that place and put it at his head, and he lay down in that place to sleep. Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder [was] set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. And behold, the LORD stood above it and said: "I [am] the LORD God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and your descendants. "Also your descendants shall be as the dust of the earth; you shall spread abroad to the west and the east, to the north and the south; and in you and in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed. "Behold, I [am] with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you." Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know [it]." And he was afraid and said, "How awesome [is] this place! This [is] none other than the house of God, and this [is] the gate of heaven!" Then Jacob rose early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put at his head, set it up as a pillar, and poured oil on top of it. And he called the name of that place Bethel; but the name of that city had been Luz previously. Then Jacob made a vow, saying, "If God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I am going, and give me bread to eat and clothing to put on, "so that I come back to my father's house in peace, then the LORD shall be my God. "And this stone which I have set as a pillar shall be God's house, and of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You."

When Jacob fled Esau, he made a vow and God took notice.

(Gen 31:1-13 NKJV) Now [Jacob] heard the words of Laban's sons, saying, "Jacob has taken away all that was our father's, and from what was our father's he has acquired all this wealth." And Jacob saw the countenance of Laban, and indeed it [was] not [favorable] toward him as before. Then the LORD said to Jacob, "Return to the land of your fathers and to your family, and I will be with you." So Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah to the field, to his flock, and said to them, "I see your father's countenance, that it [is] not [favorable] toward me as before; but the God of my father has been with me. "And you know that with all my might I have served your father. "Yet your father has deceived me and changed my wages ten times, but God did not allow him to hurt me. "If he said thus: 'The speckled shall be your wages,' then all the flocks bore speckled. And if he said thus: 'The streaked shall be your wages,' then all the flocks bore streaked. "So God has taken away the livestock of your father and given [them] to me. "And it happened, at the time when the flocks conceived, that I lifted my eyes and saw in a dream, and behold, the rams which leaped upon the flocks [were] streaked, speckled, and gray-spotted. "Then the Angel of God spoke to me in a dream, saying, 'Jacob.' And I said, 'Here I am.' "And He said, 'Lift your eyes now and see, all the rams which leap on the flocks [are] streaked, speckled, and gray-spotted; for I have seen all that Laban is doing to you. 'I [am] the God of Bethel, where you anointed the pillar [and] where you made a vow to Me. Now arise, get out of this land, and return to the land of your family.' "

(Gen 32:27-30 NKJV) So He said to him, "What [is] your name?" He said, "Jacob." And He said, "Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed." Then Jacob asked, saying, "Tell [me] Your name, I pray." And He said, "Why [is] it [that] you ask about My name?" And He blessed him there. So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: "For I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved."

God changed Jacob's name from trickster to prince. As you go into your future, you have to leave the nature of the trap behind and embrace your God-given identity. You escape the trap by changing the way you see yourself and changing how you talk about yourself. 

Some people have trapped themselves by the words of their mouth and I want to help you get out of the trap you created.

(Pro 20:25 NKJV) [It is] a snare for a man to devote rashly [something as] holy, And afterward to reconsider [his] vows.

(Deu 23:21-23 NKJV) "When you make a vow to the LORD your God, you shall not delay to pay it; for the LORD your God will surely require it of you, and it would be sin to you. "But if you abstain from vowing, it shall not be sin to you. "That which has gone from your lips you shall keep and perform, for you voluntarily vowed to the LORD your God what you have promised with your mouth.

(Ecc 5:1-6 NKJV) Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; and draw near to hear rather than to give the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they do evil. Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God [is] in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore let your words be few. For a dream comes through much activity, And a fool's voice [is known] by [his] many words. When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For [He has] no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed-- Better not to vow than to vow and not pay. Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin, nor say before the messenger [of God] that it [was] an error. Why should God be angry at your excuse and destroy the work of your hands?

destroy - to take as a pledge

When you make a vow and do not pay it, you put your success at jeopardy and also open the door for the Enemy to work in your life. Many people are trapped, held back, and suffering setbacks because of unfulfilled vows. We are so flippant with our words that we often don't realize we are making vows.

(Mat 5:33-37 NLT) "You have also heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the LORD.' But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, 'By heaven!' because heaven is God's throne. And do not say, 'By the earth!' because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, 'By Jerusalem!' for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. Do not even say, 'By my head!' for you can't turn one hair white or black. Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one.

What vows are Jesus talking about here? Specifically from this passage, we see that people are making vows to other people and swearing by different things to drive home their point. Why is anything else from the evil one? Because Satan tries to trip you up and trap you by the words of your mouth.

(Jas 5:12 NLT) But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.

(Jas 3:2-6 NLT) Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.

(Pro 18:20-21 NKJV) A man's stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; [From] the produce of his lips he shall be filled. Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

(Pro 18:21 NLT) The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

(Mat 12:33-37 NKJV) "Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by [its] fruit. "Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

idle words - words that do not produce good effects

(Luk 6:37-38 NKJV) "Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."

Another trap created by our words is by unrighteously judging others. Whatever unrighteous judgment and judgment without mercy we issue, we open the same to be applied to us. This applies to gossipping as well.

(Psa 141:3 NKJV) Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.

(Mar 11:22-24 NKJV) So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them].

If your faith won't move your mouth, it won't move your mountain. Another problem with rash vows and promises you don't intend to keep, you don't have confidence in your own words. WIthout having confidence in the words you speak, you will sabotage your faith when you speak God's Word and when you make your requests in prayer.

Our words are vitally important to the success of our lives.

(Jos 1:8 NKJV) "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."

Make sure you take your Grace Gift test the first time or again, so that you are ready for our new series.

PTL New Year's Eve Broadcast (Sunday, December 31st, 2023)

(Eph 5:8-14 NKJV) For you were once darkness, but now [you are] light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose [them]. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says: "Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light."

2024 is a year of light. There are coming uncomfortable exposures to the church of the Lord Jesus Christ and to the United States of America.

My advice to you is examine yourself. Get yourself right and prepared so that the uncomfortable exposures or the day of visitation does not hit your house in a negative sense. But for all those who examine themselves and make a decision to walk in the light as He is in the light, it will be a year of promotion and exaltation.

This year 2024 will serve like a year of the door. It will open to you things that you were always supposed to walk into. In an accelerated way. It will be for you a positive year of the door if you do what He tells you to do. But for those who refuse and choose to walk in the ways of the flesh and walk in fear and doubt and follow the ways of the world, it will be a year of the door as well. But a door of where Hell will manifest in their lives in unprecedented ways. Where spirits of fear and panic and dread will drive them and lead them. Where men’s hearts will fail them for fear because what they see coming on the earth. But all who choose to walk in the light, who walk by faith, who walk in love, who follow the Spirit, and forgive everyone of everything, it will be a year of a door that opens to you things you’ve been believing for. And takes you to higher heights, higher places, and promotions that you never even thought were possible.

“There are things I have prepared for you,” says the Lord. “Things that you have been dreaming about. Things you never even thought to ask for. Things that I’ve prepared that you didn’t even know that were available. But if you do what I’m telling you to do, and you get yourself ready the way I told you to get ready, you’ll walk into it and you’ll get there and you’ll be so amazed. And you’ll be so grateful that you spent that time in prayer. To examine yourself and prepare yourself for 2024. The year of the door. The year of light. For all those who walk by faith and not by sight, it will be a wonderful year full of the majesty of God. Full of the manifestation of the glory of God.”

Do you hear what the Spirit of God is telling you? Do you hear what He’s telling you to do to get ready? There are things that are popping up right now to get you distracted so that you don’t walk into it. Don’t be distracted. What God said will come to pass even if it doesn’t look like the way you thought. You pray for something and it shows up but it just doesn’t look like you that it would. That’s okay. Because what God said will come to pass. And if God gives you something that looks different but it’s better, why complain? Trust Him. The days we’re walking into, God needs you to be in place.

(Mat 5:14-16 NKJV) "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. "Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all [who are] in the house. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Ask Yourself These Questions Before 2023 Ends (Wednesday, December 27th, 2023)

(2Co 13:5 NKJV) Examine yourselves [as to] whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?--unless indeed you are disqualified.

(Hag 1:5-7 NKJV) Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: "Consider your ways! "You have sown much, and bring in little; You eat, but do not have enough; You drink, but you are not filled with drink; You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm; And he who earns wages, Earns wages [to put] into a bag with holes." Thus says the LORD of hosts: "Consider your ways!

(1Co 11:28 NLT) That is why you should examine yourself before eating the bread and drinking the cup.

(Gal 6:4-5 NLT) Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct.

1. What do you want to accomplish in 2024? Why?
2. Where are you struggling to trust God?
3. What are you afraid of? Where is fear making the decisions in your life?
4. Where are you settling?
5. Where have you given up in your life?
6. Who have you not forgiven?
7. What hurt or trauma have you not addressed?
8. Where haven't you fully yielded to God?
9. What are some habits and mentalities you need to leave in 2023?
10. Are there unfulfilled vows in your life?
11. What good things are you expecting to happen in your life in 2024?
12. Where are you dreaming and believing small? Where can you enlarge your thinking and vision?

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life: Do You Know What Belongs To You? (Sunday, December 24th, 2023)

(Luke 19:41-42 KJV) And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.

Citizens of Heavenly Jerusalem, do you know what belongs to your peace? Jesus, the Prince of Peace, came to give you peace with God, the peace of God, and for you to experience peace as your reality.

shalom - welfare, health, prosperity, peace, completeness, wholeness, safety

In both the Old and New Testament, God is called the God of Peace. He is Jehovah Shalom. His desire is that you experience the fullness of His peace.

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

MSG - A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.

NKJV - The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

NLT - The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

(Philippians 1:6 NASB) For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus.

(Heb 13:20-21 NKJV) Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] glory forever and ever. Amen.

(Psa 138:8 NKJV) The LORD will perfect [that which] concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, [endures] forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life (December 20th, 2023)

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

MSG - A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.

NKJV - The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

NLT - The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

(Heb 1:13-14 KJV) But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

Ministering - they serve, they meet needs, they do good

(Psa 103:20-21 KJV) Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the LORD, all [ye] his hosts; [ye] ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

(Psa 35:27 NKJV) Let them shout for joy and be glad, Who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, "Let the LORD be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."

prosperity - shalom - welfare, health, prosperity, peace, completeness, wholeness, safety

(Psa 91:1-12 NKJV) He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "[He is] my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler [And] from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth [shall be your] shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, [Nor] of the arrow [that] flies by day, [Nor] of the pestilence [that] walks in darkness, [Nor] of the destruction [that] lays waste at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; [But] it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look, And see the reward of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD, [who is] my refuge, [Even] the Most High, your dwelling place, No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In [their] hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

(Psa 34:7 NKJV) The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, And delivers them.

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life (December 17th, 2023)

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

MSG - A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.

NKJV - The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

NLT - The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life (December 13th, 2023)

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

John 4:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

John 7:37-39 (NKJV) 37 On the last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” 39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet [given,] because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Proverbs 4:23 (NKJV) Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it [spring] the issues of life.

Matthew 12:35 (NKJV) “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

Jhn 3:15-17 KJV] 15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life: A New Way To Live (December 10th, 2023)

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

[Act 5:19-20 KJV] 19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, 20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.

[Rom 5:14-21 NKJV] 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come. 15 But the free gift [is] not like the offense. For if by the one man's offense many died, much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many. 16 And the gift [is] not like [that which came] through the one who sinned. For the judgment [which came] from one [offense resulted] in condemnation, but the free gift [which came] from many offenses [resulted] in justification. 17 For if by the one man's offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore, as through one man's offense [judgment came] to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man's righteous act [the free gift came] to all men, resulting in justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man's obedience many will be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, 21 so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

[Rom 6:1-4 NKJV] 1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

There is a new way to live. However, have we settled for only a morally modified way of living? Are we letting eternal life have its full expression in our live?

[Jhn 4:13-14 NKJV] 13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 "but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."

[Gal 6:7-10 KJV] 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

God dealt with Abraham by promise. Abraham believed and he received.

[Rom 4:16-22 NKJV] 16 Therefore [it is] of faith that [it might be] according to grace, so that the promise might be sure to all the seed, not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all 17 (as it is written, "I have made you a father of many nations") in the presence of Him whom he believed--God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did; 18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, "So shall your descendants be." 19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb. 20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. 22 And therefore "it was accounted to him for righteousness."

[Gen 24:1 NLT] 1 Abraham was now a very old man, and the LORD had blessed him in every way.

[Gen 24:1 NKJV] 1 Now Abraham was old, well advanced in age; and the LORD had blessed Abraham in all things.

[Gal 3:9, 13-14, 29 NKJV] 9 So then those who [are] of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. … 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. … 29 And if you [are] Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

[Eph 1:3 NKJV] 3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly [places] in Christ,

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life: Grab Eternal Life (December 6th, 2023)

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

[Jhn 20:30-31 NLT] 30 The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. 31 But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name.

God Wants You To Have A Wonderful Life (Part 1) (December 3rd, 2023)

(John 10:10 AMPC) The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

[Jhn 1:1-5 KJV] 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

[Jhn 3:15-17 KJV] 15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

[Jhn 3:36 KJV] 36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

[1Jo 5:11-13 NKJV] 11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may [continue to] believe in the name of the Son of God.

If you believe in Jesus, you have eternal life now. Eternal life is more than a quantity of life, but a quality of life. It is the life of God. Life as God has it.

Romans 6:23 (NKJV)
For the wages of sin [is] death, but the gift of God [is] eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This life is a gift.

John 4:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things [are] noble, whatever things [are] just, whatever things [are] pure, whatever things [are] lovely, whatever things [are] of good report, if [there is] any virtue and if [there is] anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.

Think- to reckon inward, count up or weigh the reasons, to deliberate

1 Timothy 4:12-15 (NKJV) 12 Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Meditate - think, imagine, ponder

The Ephesians 3:20 Life (Sunday, November 19th, 2023)

[Eph 3:20-21 NKJV] 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

(AMPC) Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]—To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

power - miraculous ability, miraculous force

works - to be operative, to be efficient

[2Co 4:6-7 NKJV] 6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

[Eph 1:16-19 NKJV] 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what [is] the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power

riches - abundance

[Col 1:27 NKJV] 27 To them 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.

[Jhn 15:1-12 NKJV] 1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 "Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every [branch] that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 "You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 "I am the vine, you [are] the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 "If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw [them] into the fire, and they are burned. 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. 8 "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. 9 "As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. 11 "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and [that] your joy may be full. 12 "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

abide - remain, stay connected, dwell

purge - clean

takes away - lifts up and pairs with a fruitful vine

1. Keep Deposting the Word In Your Heart
2. Practice the Presence of God
3. Acknowledge What He Has Placed On The Inside Of You
4. Do What He Tells You To Do

Persistent Faith (Joseph Z Broadcast, November 13th, 2023)

"Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, 2 saying: "There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. 3 "Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, 'Get justice for me from my adversary.' 4 "And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I do not fear God nor regard man, 5 'yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.' " 6 Then the Lord said, "Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 "And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? 8 "I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?"  (Luke 18:1-8 NKJV)

And will not [our just] God defend and protect and avenge His elect (His chosen ones), who cry to Him day and night? Will He defer them and delay help on their behalf? I tell you, He will defend and protect and avenge them speedily. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find [persistence in] faith on the earth?  (Luke 18:7-8 AMPC)

Persistent Faith is the faith that Jesus is looking for in His Believers who live during the End Times.  Persistent Faith always brings the power of God into manifestation. It is your job to supply the faith and it is God's job to supply the power.  God will always meet your faith with His power.

Let's define terms!

Faith - belief, confidence, conviction of the truth, belief with the predominate idea of trust

Where does faith come from?

"So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."  (Romans 10:17 NKJV)

When you hear the Word, you must make a decision to believe the Word.

"Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 "And it happened, as he sowed, [that] some [seed] fell by the wayside; and the birds of the air came and devoured it. 5 "Some fell on stony ground, where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. 6 "But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had no root it withered away. 7 "And some [seed] fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. 8 "But other [seed] fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred." 9 And He said to them, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" ... 14 "The sower sows the word. 15 "And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 "These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 "and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble. 18 "Now these are the ones sown among thorns; [they are] the ones who hear the word, 19 "and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 "But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept [it], and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred."  (Mark 4:3-9, 14-20 NKJV)

You must hear the Word, make a decision to believe the Word, then you must receive the Word.  When you receive the Word, you grab hold of it and decide not to let it go. 

Satan has five tactics:

1. Affliction - pressure brought circumstances

2. Persecution - pressure brought by people

3. Cares of this world - anxiety, worry

4. Deceitfulness of riches - lies and deception about money and wealth

5. Desires/Lust of other things - inordinate strong desires for other things

For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard [it]. (Hebrews 4:2 NKJV)

If your faith won't move your mouth, it won't move your mountain.  Your tongue is how you mix your faith with the Word you heard.

This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare (1st TImothy 1:18 NKJV)

You must take the prophetic word you hear and put it in your mouth.  It has to become what you pray and what you say.  This is how you get the benefits of what was spoken over your life.  The prophetic word you hear must become your prayer assignment.

Persistent faith must be fueled.

For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. (Galatians 5:6 KJV)

You must believe that God loves you and you must make a decision to walk in love.

"I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me." (John 17:23 NKJV)

God loves you as much as He loves Jesus.

Persistent faith must be charged.

[But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, (Jude 1:20 NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1 NKJV)

Persistent faith must be paired with hope.  Faith is the raw materials; hope is the blue print.

We are faith people; we are hope people. 

Hope is positive expectation. 

[I would have lost heart], unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. 14 Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD! (Psalm 27:13-14 NKJV)

goodness - prosperity, good things, property, supply, provision, good in the widest sense of the word, good to the farthest extreme

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13 NKJV)

that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:12 NKJV)

God has a wonderful plan for your life!  Read through Jesus, Son of Rahab during this Christmas Season to get a jump start on the new year. God did not cancel you.  Jesus, Son of Rahab: A Restorative Devotional For The Cancelled & Disqualified will help you go into the future God has for your life!

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How To Effectively Pray For People (November 12th, 2023)

When praying for family and loved ones, there is usually a lot of emotions involved.  Either because of your love and care for them, your past with them, your familiarity, or other reasons.  Although emotions are good in their proper place, we must make sure that our emotions are not the foundations of our prayers.  We should not pray our emotions.  We should pray the will of God.

(1Jo 5:14-15 NKJV) 14 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

(Jas 4:1-4 NLT) 1 What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don't they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2 You want what you don't have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can't get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don't have what you want because you don't ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don't get it because your motives are all wrong--you want only what will give you pleasure. 4 You adulterers! Don't you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God.

pleasure - lust - This is the same word for lust that Jesus uses in Luke 8 to share one of Satan's tools to destroy the production of the Word in your heart.  This Greek word for lust/ pleasure is always used to represents evil desires of the flesh.

Three Questions To Ask Yourself

First Question You Have To Ask Yourself: Are you praying your will or His Will?

If you are praying your emotions and your will, unless your emotions and will are lined up with God's plan, you will not see tremendous change.  Confidence in prayer comes from praying His Word which is His Will.

Second Question You Have To Ask Yourself: Are you praying from a place of offense?

If you are praying from a place of offense, the foundation of your prayer will be emotional and rooted in unforgiveness. We must pray from the place of the Word, a healed heart, and honest heart.

(Jas 3:16 KJV) 16 For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work.

(Psa 42:1-11 NLT) 1 For the choir director: A psalm of the descendants of Korah. As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. 2 I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him? 3 Day and night I have only tears for food, while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, "Where is this God of yours?" 4 My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be: I walked among the crowds of worshipers, leading a great procession to the house of God, singing for joy and giving thanks amid the sound of a great celebration! 5 Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again--my Savior and 6 my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember you--even from distant Mount Hermon, the source of the Jordan, from the land of Mount Mizar. 7 I hear the tumult of the raging seas as your waves and surging tides sweep over me. 8 But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life. 9 "O God my rock," I cry, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I wander around in grief, oppressed by my enemies?" 10 Their taunts break my bones. They scoff, "Where is this God of yours?" 11 Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again--my Savior and my God!

Pour out your feelings and emotions before God. Be honest. Have emotions, don't let your emotions have you. As your pour out emotions, choose God's Word and choose faith, hope, and love. Forgive everyone of everything.

Third Question To Ask Yourself: Have You Limited Your Prayers By Time?

Just because you haven't seen the change in the person you are praying for, don't lose heart. Roll over the care and anxiety concerning them on Jesus.

1. Take Your Place in Prayer

(Eph 1:20-23 NKJV) 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated [Him] at His right hand in the heavenly [places], 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. 22 And He put all [things] under His feet, and gave Him [to be] head over all [things] to the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

(Eph 2:4-6 NKJV) 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in the heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus,

2. Use Your Authority & Plead The Blood

(Col 1:13-14 NKJV) 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed [us] into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.

[Mat 16:18-19 NKJV] 18 "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. 19 "And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."

3. Pray The Word Over Them

Fourth Question To Ask Yourself: Are Your Words Contradicting Your Prayers?

(Mat 9:37-38 NKJV) 37 Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest truly [is] plentiful, but the laborers [are] few. 38 "Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest."

4. Pray For The Right People To Speak Into Their Lives

Fifth Question To Ask Yourself: Are You Praying For Their Influencers? Those that have their ear? Or Praying for godly individuals to be able to speak into their lives? Are you praying for the wrong influencers to be removed from their life?

Sixth Question To Ask Yourself: Is there a seed you are supposed to sow?

There are times God will have you pray for others, help others, or do something for someone else and that seed will unlock the supernatural results you have been praying for.

Seventh Question To Ask Yourself: Are You Fully Covering The Person and Situation In Prayer?

(Rom 8:26-28 NKJV) 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit [is], because He makes intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. 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.

(1Co 14:2 NKJV) 2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands [him]; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.

helps - to lay hold along with, to strive to obtain with others, help in obtaining, to take hold with another

Infirmities - lack of strength, weaknesses, limitations

uttered - not expressed in intelligible words

Through praying in the Spirit, allowing the Holy Spirit to connect the things within God to the things with in you, allowing Him to take hold of your limitations and weaknesses, will bring His power on the scene that will cause everything in your life to work as co-workers for GOOD.

Good - that which is good, that which is beneficial, that which is pleasant, agreeable, joyful, advantageous

mystery - hidden thing, secret, mystery, generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals, a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding, a hidden purpose or counsel. The secret counsels of God in dealing with the righteous.

When adding the definition of utterance from Acts 2, praying in tongues is an utterance of mysteries.

An utterance of mysteries - a dignified and elevated discourse of divine hidden things which include the plans, purposes, and counsels of God. This utterance of mysteries also includes an elevated and dignified giving thanks to God and magnifying God.

Spend time praying in the Spirit for your loved ones.

Always remember to pray for those in authority and influence!

(1Ti 2:1-4 NKJV) 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

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How To Get Your Prayers Answered (November 5th, 2023)

(1Jo 5:14-15 NKJV) Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Confidence - free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage, boldness, assurance, freedom in speech

Petitions - request

1. God's Word is His Will. You need to make sure your request is in line with His Word.

(Mar 11:22-26 NKJV) So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them]. "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. "But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses."

Ask - Desire -  What do you want?

2. Figure out what you want.

3. Believe God's Word concerning the request.

4. Don't allow your mouth to contradict what you prayed for

5. Forgive everybody of everything.

6. Unforgiveness will shut down your faith.

(Jas 4:1-4 NKJV) Where do wars and fights [come] from among you? Do [they] not [come] from your [desires for] pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend [it] on your pleasures. Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.

pleasure - lust - This is the same word for lust that Jesus uses in Luke 8 to share one of Satan's tools to destroy the production of the Word in your heart.  This Greek word for lust/ pleasure is always used to represents evil desires of the flesh.

7. Check your motives. Make sure your request isn't motivated by lust.