MERRY CHRISTMAS!

12-21-25-2009. . . .MERRY CHRISTMAS!

As we celebrate and commemorate the birth of our Savior and Lord, Jesus the Christ, Coretta and I thank you for following and supporting "Excerpts For Living." Your comments and words of encouragement continue to be a source of blessing and inspiration for us. We wish you and your family all God's choice blessings during the holidays. We pray that the joy of Jesus will fill your hearts to overflowing and that His love will forever embrace and keep you!

From our family to your family, have a Merry & Blessed Christmas!

Prayer: Father, thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus! I pray for every person that reads this blog. I pray that you will blessed them beyond measure and show them great and mighty things they have not even imagined! I declare health, prosperity, protection and provision in and over their lives as well as, their families and everyone they are connected to. Finally, may your peace that surpasses all understanding keep their hearts and minds through Christ Jesus! In the name of our blessed Lord Jesus I pray, Amen!

Num 6:24-26. . . .The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. KJV

NEED CHRISTMAS LIGHTS?

12-18-2009. . . .NEED CHRISTMAS LIGHTS?

"Need Christmas lights? Get Jesus! He's the Light of the World!"

Prayer: Lord, you are my light and my salvation! Wih you I will never walk in darkness. Amen!

John 8:122. . . . Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. KJV

SEASONALLY OR ETERNALLY!

12-16-2009. . . .SEASONALLY OR ETERNALLY!

Christmas trees can be enjoyed seasonally, but the Tree of Life will be enjoyed eternally!

Prayer: Lord, you are the source of my strength and you are the strength of my life both now and forever more. Amen!

Rev 2:77. . . .He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.

ONLY JESUS CAN!

12-15-2009. . . .ONLY JESUS CAN!

"Santa can't bring you Salvation. . . .Only Jesus Can!"

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the true gift of you Son. Through Him alone come salvation. May all the world receive your great gift. Amen!

Acts 4:122. . . . Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. KJV

CHRISTMAS LIVING!

12-14-2009. . . .CHRISTMAS LIVING!

"Christmas Living is the best kind of Christmas Giving."

Prayer: Father, thank you for giving your Son. Jesus, thank you for giving your life! May my live duplicate your example of sacrificial giving. Amen!

Acts 4:32. . . .All the believers were of one heart and mind, and no one felt that what he owned was his own; everyone was sharing.TLB

DIVINE PURPOSE WILL PREVAIL!

12-11-2009. . . .DIVINE PURPOSE WILL PREVAIL!

"Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men." (Matt 2:166 KJV) Divine purpose will always draw demonic opposition! The good news is, no matter what the enemy does to try to stop us, and no matter how many attempts he makes to try and kill us, all his efforts will fail! Divine purpose will prevail!

Prayer: Lord, thank you that your divine purpose concerning us will always prevail! Thy will be done. Amen!

Isa 54:17. . . .No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD. KJV

WISE MEN STILL SEEK HIM!

12-10-2009. . . .WISE MEN STILL SEEK HIM!

"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him." (Matt 2:1-2 KJV) If only all men were as wise as these. What are you seeking? Who are you seeking and who's sign are you following? More importantly, where will you end up by following them? My advise to you my friends is "Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon." (Isa 55:6-7 KJV) Wise men still seek Him!

Prayer: Father, thank you for the gift of your Son! May we forever lift Him up that He may drawn all men unto Him! Amen.

Isa 55:6-9. . . .Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call upon him now while he is near. Let men cast off their wicked deeds; let them banish from their minds the very thought of doing wrong! Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy upon them, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon! "This plan of mine is not what you would work out, neither are my thoughts the same as yours! For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than yours, and my thoughts than yours. TLB

NO ROOM IN THE INN!

12-9-2009. . . .NO ROOM IN THE INN!

"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7 KJV No room for them in the inn! Jesus the Christ....waiting to be born, but men say, 'No room in the inn'. Is your life so inundated and occupied to the degree that there is no room for Him? Are we busy this Christmas season filling our homes with gifts from the mall instead of filling our hearts with Him? Is there yet still, 'NO ROOM IN THE INN?

Prayer: Father, thank you for the greatest gift of all, your Son, Jesus the Christ! May all creation make room and readily receive Him. Amen!

John 1:10-12. . . .He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: KJV

COMPLETE SUBMISSION!

12-8-2009. . . .COMPLETE SUBMISSION!

"Mary said, "I am the Lord's servant, and I am willing to do whatever he wants. May everything you said come true." And then the angel disappeared." (Luke 1:38 TLB) We may not understand everything that the Lord speaks to us or desires to do through us. In fact, some things may be virtually inconceivable to us. Nevertheless, as Mary responded, we too should respond in complete submission. 'I am your servant' therefore, whatever you say is what I will do!' In so doing, blessings come to us and through us!

Prayer: Lord let your awesome will be done in me and through me. I am your servant. Thy will be done. Amen!

Ps 138:8. . . .The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.KJV

EMMANUEL!

12-7-2009. . . .EMMANUEL!

"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matt 1:233 KJV) The awesome God of heaven; the Omnipotent and Omniscient God has come to be with us in the person of Jesus the Christ! Gospel artist Fred Hammond pinned it this way "What is man that thou are mindful of him - could an awesome God find common ground with him - Just to know that you desire to be with me - Fills my heart with so much joy!" Emmanuel. . . . . God is with us!

Prayer: Lord, I am overwhelmed that as awesome as you are, You desired to come and be with us. Thank you that your decision was based our worthiness. Amen!

Isa 9:6. . . . For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. KJV

CHARGE IT!

12-4-2-2009. . . .CHARGE IT!

"And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. (James 2:23 KJV) Abraham believed God and God charged his account(imputed unto him) with righteousness. When we believe God, He'll charge account as well. Not only with righteousness, but with favor, peace, joy and unlimited blessings! Believing God is like telling Him, 'Charge It'!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your favor and all your blessings. I will keep believing you. Amen!

Eph 1:17-197. . . . That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, KJV

A POWERFUL KEY

12-3-2009. . . .A POWERFUL KEY!

Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. (Mark 11:24 KJV) One should not deduct that whatever is desired no matter what it is, can be received. That's simply not true. Our desires must be in line with God's will. The key point here is that one 'Believes' in association with what one prays. Why pray if you don't believe what you say you will see? You have a powerful key. . . .Believe!

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you hear and answer our prayers. We believe you through faith and stand in expectation of receiving those things we desire. Amen!

Mark 11:22-24 24. . . .Listen to me! You can pray for anything, and if you believe, you have it; it's yours! TLB

BELIEVE AND BE SAVED!

12-1-2009. . . .BELIEVE AND BE SAVED!

How amazing it is that that anyone and everyone can be saved because God made the prerequisite so simple; BELIEVE! "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." (John 3:16 KJV) Not whoever does no wrong. . . .not whosoever goes to church every Sunday. . . .not whosoever has money and notoriety. . . .whosoever is perfect; but whosoever 'Believes'! Aren't you glad you are or were among the 'Whosoevers'? Today, Believe and be Saved!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for making the way to be saved so easy. By believing on your Son, Jesus we have eternal life! Lord save everybody!!!! Amen.

Mark 16:15-16. . . .Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. KJV

BELIEVE AND RECEIVE

12-1-2009. . . .BELIEVE AND RECEIVE!

God is our source and our recourse. He is the supplier of all our need according to His riches in glory. However, if one is to receive from Him, one must first believe in Him. "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (Heb 11:6 NIV) First believe in Him, and then receive from Him!

Prayer: Lord, I believe you and I believe in you! You reward all those who believe and seek you. Thank you for your faithfulness!

Heb 11:6. . . .You can never please God without faith, without depending on him. Anyone who wants to come to God must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely look for him. TLB

ONLY BELIEVE!

11-30-2009. . . .ONLY BELIEVE!

Belief is the first step in faith. Nothing will happen if we don't believe it can, but when we believe, we open up and access a whole realm of unlimited possibilities. "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." (Mark 9:23 KJV) Today, remove all the restraints and cast out all your fears and anything that hinders you from accessing the realm of unlimited possibilities. Only Believe!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the ability to believe. With this ability I access you realm of unlimited possibilities for my life. Amen!

Isa 7:9b. . . .If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established. KJV

COMMITTED TO THANKS!

11-27-2009. . . .COMMITTED TO THANKS!

It spite of the difficulties, troubles and trials that life brings our way, God always brings us through with joy. Weeping endures but joy emerges! As a result, thanks and praise will continually be in our mouths! "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever." (Ps 30:11-12 KJV)

Prayer: Lord, I will forever give you thanks a praise because you are awesome! You turn all my life's sorrows into joy! Thank You! Amen.

Ps 75:1. . . .Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare. KJV

11-26-2009. . . .IT'S A GOOD THING!

"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:" (Ps 92:1 KJV) Not just once a year on a special day we call 'Thanksgiving', but every day of every week of every month of every year! It's not only a good thing. . . .Its the best thing!

Prayer: Lord, Thank you! AAAAAAAAAmen.

Ps 140:13. . . .Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence. KJV

DON'T KEEP IT TO YOURSELF!

11-25-2009. . . .DON'T KEEP IT TO YOURSELF!

"Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people." (1 Chron 16:8 KJV) It is important that we always give thanks to God! It is equally important that we share with others the great things He has done. In so doing, others are drawn into awareness of Him and many shall be converted and believe!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for all things. As I call upon you I also call upon others to know you and praise you for your great and might acts. Amen!

Ps 18:49. . . .Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name.KJV

THANKS-THE WILL OF GOD!

11-23-2009. . . .THANKS-THE WILL OF GOD!

Giving thanks to God in everything is God's will concerning us. "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thess 5:188 KJV) Admittedly however, we may find ourselves in circumstances and situations where we may not readily feel thankful to be in. In fact, we'd prefer not even having to deal with them. Nevertheless, the knowledge that God is working in every situation and circumstance for our good, is cause enough to connect with His will concerning us and simply give thanks. Don't fight it, flow with it and give thanks!

Prayer: Lord, in everything I give you thanks for it is your will concerning me. Help me in the difficult times to remember this quickly so as to not struggle against your will. Amen!

Ps 30:11-12. . . . You turned my wailing into dancing;you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent.O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever. (NIV)

DON'T REJECT IT, EMBRACE IT!

11-20-2009. . . .DON'T REJECT IT, EMBRACE IT!

Many are called but few are chosen. We have been called and chosen for 'Holiness!' "For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. (1 Thess 4:7-8 NIV) Don't reject it, (Holiness) but with joy, embrace it!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for calling us unto holiness. With great joy I embrace it and walk proudly in it. Amen!

Luke 1:70-75. . . .As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. KJV

GO FOR THE GUSTO!

11-19-2009. . . .GO FOR THE GUSTO!

We may be somewhat reluctant to admit it, but when we were in the world and of the world (sinners) we gave it our all. We went proverbially, for the 'gusto'. In like manner, having been saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Ghost; having been called from death unto life we should go for the full gusto of Holiness! "For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life." (Rom 6:20-22 KJV) Go for the gusto!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for giving us everything that pertains unto life and to godliness! With this blessing we go for the full gusto of holiness with the end result of eternal life with you! Amen.

Rom 6:20-23. . . . In those days when you were slaves of sin you didn't bother much with goodness. And what was the result? Evidently not good, since you are ashamed now even to think about those things you used to do, for all of them end in eternal doom. But now you are free from the power of sin and are slaves of God, and his benefits to you include holiness and everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. TLB

KEEP UP THE IMAGE!

11-18-2009. . . .KEEP UP THE IMAGE!

God is Holy and we were made in His image and after His likeness. While sin as a result of disobedience perverted our image, Jesus the Christ through His obedience, restored it! God would never ask us to be something we could not be. "But be holy now in everything you do, just as the Lord is holy, who invited you to be his child. He himself has said, "You must be holy, for I am holy." (1 Peter 1:14-16 15 TLB) We therefore, must do all we can do to keep up the image!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for creating us in your own image and after your likeness. He us Lord to keep up the image! Amen.

Lev 11:455. . . . For I am the Lord who brought you out of the land of Egypt to be your God. You must therefore be holy, for I am holy."TLB

HOLINESS WITHOUT!

11-17-2009. . . .HOLINESS WITHOUT!

Those who live a lifestyle of ‘Holiness’ are peacemakers and not peace breakers! They without fail, pursue it daily knowing that ultimately, it will lead them into the very presence of the Lord! “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:” (Heb 12:14 KJV)

Prayer: Lord, I desire to see you therefore, my lifestyle is one of holiness! With great anticipation, I look forward to living eternally in your presence. Amen!

Ps 93:5. . . .Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever. KJV

WALK THE WALK!

11-16-2009. . . .WALK THE WALK!

Holiness: dedicated, devoted, set apart for worship! That’s who we are and what we are called to be in a crooked and perverse generation. It is not a pretense, but a distinction that sets us (believers) apart from the world. “Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. (2 Cor 7:1 NIV) Let us not just talk the talk, but walk the walk!

Prayer: Lord, you are Holy and have called us unto holiness. Not as a pretense, but as a lifestyle. Help us to ensure our lives reflect your call. Amen!

2 Cor 7:1. . . . Having such great promises as these, dear friends, let us turn away from everything wrong, whether of body or spirit, and purify ourselves, living in the wholesome fear of God, giving ourselves to him alone. TLB

WISDOM'S WAY!

11-13-2009. . . . WISDOM’S WAY!

In need of a good plan for your life? Try Wisdom’s Way! “How can men be wise? The only way to begin is by reverence for God. For growth in wisdom comes from obeying his laws. Praise his name forever. (Ps 111:10 TLB) Wisdom’s way is a guaranteed way of growth and success that will continually bring praise to God!

Prayer: Lord, let your name be praised forever. Through wisdom’s way my growth is assured. Amen!

Prov 2:6-8. . . . For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints. KJV

DON'T BE FOOLED!

11-12-2009. . . .DON’T BE FOOLED!

There is Wisdom that comes from above and then there is wisdom that comes not from above, "but is earthly, sensual, devilish. (James 3:15) Don’t be fool! Discern and know the difference. “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure and full of quiet gentleness. Then it is peace-loving and courteous. It allows discussion and is willing to yield to others; it is full of mercy and good deeds. It is wholehearted and straightforward and sincere.” ( James 3:17 TLB)

Prayer: Lord, through discernment we distinguish between the wisdom of this world and the wisdom that come from you! Clearly your wisdom is superior and desirable to me. Thank you. Amen!

James 3:13-16. . . . If you are wise, live a life of steady goodness so that only good deeds will pour forth. And if you don't brag about them, then you will be truly wise! 14 And by all means don't brag about being wise and good if you are bitter and jealous and selfish; that is the worst sort of lie. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, inspired by the devil. For wherever there is jealousy or selfish ambition, there will be disorder and every other kind of evil. TLB

AVAILABLE LIBERALLY!

11-10-2009. . . .AVAILABLE LIBERALLY!

We may be without and go without many things; not included among them however, is WISDOM! In fact, there is no excuse for anyone to be without it because it is available to us liberally. We need only go to God who is the source and ask for it. He will not criticise, but will supply "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." (James 1:55 NKJV)

Prayer: Lord, thank you for always making wisdom available to me! Keep the tap forever open that I may be filled continually with it. Amen!

Prov 2:6-10. . . .For the Lord grants wisdom! His every word is a treasure of knowledge and understanding. He grants good sense to the godly-his saints. He is their shield, protecting them and guarding their pathway. He shows how to distinguish right from wrong, how to find the right decision every time. For wisdom and truth will enter the very center of your being, filling your life with joy. TLB

THE PRINCIPAL THING!

11-10-2009. . . . THE PRINCIPAL THING!

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get Under-standing." (Prov 4:7 KJV) The acquisition of ‘WISDOM’ is to be a continuing priority in our lives; in fact, scripture says it is the principal thing! What benefit have we in gaining wealth, fame or positions of notoriety without the wisdom to sustain them. Keep the main thing the main thing. Get Wisdom!

Prayer: Lord, wisdom comes from you. We have not because we ask not. Give us wisdom daily in liberal doses! Amen!

Eccl 7:11-12. . . .Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it. KJV

THE WISE LISTEN AND HEED!

11-9-2009. . . . THE WISE LISTEN AND HEED!

"These are the proverbs of King Solomon of Israel, David's son: He wrote them to teach his people how to live-how to act in every circumstance, for he wanted them to be understanding, just and fair in everything they did. "I want to make the simpleminded wise!" he said. "I want to warn young men about some problems they will face. I want those already wise to become the wiser and become leaders by exploring the depths of meaning in these nuggets of truth." (Prov 1:1-5 TLB) When the wise speak. . . .the wise listen and heed!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the Proverbs of Soloman! May the wisdom therein be applied daily to benefit both me and the world. Amen!

Prov 1:5-6. . . .A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. KJV

WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND!

11-6-2009. . . .WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND!

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isa 26:3KJV) Free from worry, free from cares; free from troubles and free from stress. A yielded mind is a peaceful mind. What’s on your mind?

Prayer: Lord, I trust in you and my mind is kept in perfect peace. Amen!

Num 6:24-26. . . .The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. KJV

INSIDE - OUTSIDE!

11-5-2009. . . .INSIDE - OUTSIDE!

“I have told you all this so that you will have peace of heart and mind. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows; but cheer up, for I have overcome the world." ( John 16:33 TLB) Outside of us situations and circumstances are constantly changing. We can expect trials and turmoil. In fact, if it ain’t one thing it will certainly be another. On the inside however, there is God’s Peace giving us the calming assurance that all is well and all will be well! Peace on the inside makes bearable the vicissitudes on the outside!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for anticipating our need for peace in an ever changing world filled with turmoil and unrest. Your Peace secures me inside while I trust you to control the outside. Amen!

Rom 5:3-5. . . .We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us-they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady. Then, when that happens, we are able to hold our heads high no matter what happens and know that all is well, for we know how dearly God loves us, and we feel this warm love everywhere within us because God has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. TLB

IN PURSUIT OF PEACE!

11-4-2009. . . .IN PURSUIT OF PEACE!

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has a 'Ten Most Wanted' list. While they seek to apprehend all on the list, a great deal of time, attention and resources are focused on the capture of the #1 or most wanted person! They will pursue him until he is apprehended. What's at the top of your most wanted list that you are focused on and pursuing? It should be P E A C E! All our time and attention should be focused on it until without fail, it is apprehended. "Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." (Ps. 34:14 NIV)

Prayer: Lord, I desire your peace! I seek and pursue it as it does me! Thank you for you Peace. Amen.

2 Thess 3:16. . . .Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. KJV

THE SETTLING ARMS OF PEACE!

11-3-2009. . . .THE SETTLING ARMS OF PEACE!

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don't forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:5-7 6 TLB) It is easy to become anxious and uneasy about the unknown and things that are beyond our control. However, if we remind ourselves that God is in control and He has everything under control, we will be able to release our hearts and minds into the settling arms of God's Peace. It's far more satisfying than our need to understand.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for giving me your peace to keep me free from worry, calm and steady in unsettling moments. I rest in it's embrace. Amen!

Isa 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. KJV

A PARTING GIFT!

11-2-2009. . . .A PARTING GIFT!

"I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart ! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." (John 14:27 TLB) What a wonderful and thoughtful parting gift....PEACE! Wonderful because, in the mist of life's storms there is nothing more valuable. Thoughtful because, Jesus gave us many things, but as a gift, He gave us His Peace! The very thing that sustained Him during His own agony, He gives to us to sustain us during our agonies. PEACE! What a wonderful and thoughtful parting gift!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the gift of your peace! I need never be troubled or afraid because it! Amen.

Isa 26:122 Lord, grant us peace; for all we have and are has come from you. TLB

IT WILL HAPPEN!

10-30-2009. . . .IT WILL HAPPEN!

"So is my word that goes out from my mouth:It will not return to me empty,but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. (Isa 55:11 NIV) God's word once spoken, proceeds from eternity to it's predestined purpose in time! Because the word is so quick and powerful (Heb 4:12) occasionally, it arrives in advance of time's readiness to receive it! It however, cannot return to God empty; it therefore, prevails (hovers over) until time (and us) is ready to receive it's manifestation! If He spoke it, stay encouraged! IT WILL HAPPEN!

Prayer: Lord, we live not by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from you mouth. May your proceeding and prevailing word always find manifestation in my life. Amen!

Jer 1:12b. . . . I will hasten my word to perform it. KJV

How's your Hearing!

10-29-2009. . . .HOW'S YOUR HEARING!

How's your hearing? To answer that question one need only check the level of their faith! Little faith is a result of little or not much WORD! In scripture, the correlation is clear. "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Rom 10:17 KJV) The 'Word' then can be viewed as a spiritual 'hearing aid' of sorts! Therefore, increased intake of the Word equals increased hearing resulting in increased faith! Check up complete.

Prayer: Lord, I love your word for by it I hear and my faith is increased. May your word always be my daily bread! Amen.

Job 23:11-12. . . .My feet have closely followed his steps; I have kept to his way without turning aside. 12 I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. (NIV)

A Simple Choice!

10-28-2009. . . .A Simple Choice!

"Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the command-ment shall be rewarded." (Prov 13:13 KJV) Destruction or reward. . . . .Trouble or success! To despise the word is to know it and not do it! Who in their right mind chooses certain destruction? C'mon now! It's a simple choice, right?

Prayer:Lord, thank you for your word! By it shall we live and by it comes our success. Strengthen us to never deviate. Amen!

James 1:22-25. . . .And remember, it is a message to obey, not just to listen to. So don't fool yourselves. For if a person just listens and doesn't obey, he is like a man looking at his face in a mirror; as soon as he walks away, he can't see himself anymore or remember what he looks like. But if anyone keeps looking steadily into God's law for free men, he will not only remember it but he will do what it says, and God will greatly bless him in everything he does. TLB

Halt...Who Goes There!

10-27-2009. . . .Halt...Who Goes There!

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." (Ps 119:11 KJV) Soldiers in the military occasionally have to pull guard duty. If any person approaches the soldier's post, he or she gives the command, "Halt. . . .who goes there?" If the right response is not given, the person is denied access and if necessary, repelled with all due force. God's word hidden (stored up) in our hearts acts as a soldier on guard duty to repel the forces of evil that come to tempt us to sin against God. It calls are conscience to high alert and commands, "Halt. . . .who goes there?" Sin then is repelled with all due force!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the keeping power of your word. Amen!

Ps 119:11-16. . . . I have thought much about your words and stored them in my heart so that they would hold me back from sin. Blessed Lord, teach me your rules. I have recited your laws and rejoiced in them more than in riches. I will meditate upon them and give them my full respect. I will delight in them and not forget them. TLB

IT'S ESSENTIAL!

10-26-2009. . . .IT'S ESSENTIAL!

As headlights are essential to an automobile, so the word of God is essential to and in the life of believers! During the daytime the illuminated headlights of an automobile enables others to see it coming and during the nighttime, they enable drivers to see where they are going! God's word illuminated in the lives of believers, enables others to see Christ through us, while at the same time, making clear the path of believers as they continue walking with Christ! "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Ps 119:105 KJV)

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your word that illuminates my life and directs my path. Amen!

Ps 119:101. . . .I have kept my feet from every evil path so that I might obey your word. (NIV)

IT GOES WITH THE TERRITORY!

10-23-2009. . . .IT GOES WITH THE TERRITORY!

"This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe." (1 Tim 4:9-10 KJV) As we labour (work) for the sake of the Gospel, it is true that we will sometimes suffer and be subject to reproach. (ridicule - criticism -opposition) It goes with the territory! Nevertheless, we continue to trust in the one who is the 'Savior of all men', but more importantly, the Savior of we that be believe!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for salvation! Because I believe, I have an everlasting assurance that cannot be changed or revoked. Amen!

2 Sam 22:31-33. . . .As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God? God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. KJV

NEEDS & WANTS SATISFIED THROUGH TRUST!

10-22-2009. . . .NEEDS AND WANTS SATISFIED THROUGH TRUST!

The expectation of 'evildoers & workers of iniquity' is a certain abrupt end! Conversely, the expectation of all who trust in the Lord is a blessed assurance of continual stability and sustenance! "Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." (Ps 37:3-5 KJV) In other words, as a result of our trusting the Lord, we can expect God to meet our needs and satisfy our wants!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for supplying my needs and satisfying my wants! None but an awesome God can do on this wise! All praise to you always! Amen!

Ps 62:8. . . .Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. KJV

BENEFITS OF TRUSTING GOD!

10-21-2009. . . . Benefits of trusting God!

(Song) Jesus be a fence all around me everyday. . . .Jesus I want you to protect me as I travel along the way. . .I know you can, Yes Lord. . . .I know you will, Yes Lord. . . . You’ll fight my battles, Yes Lord. . . . if I keep still, (Trust) Yes Lord. . . .Lord be a fence all around me everyday! “I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the LORD." (Jer 39:18 NIV) Safety and protection are among the many benefits that come from trusting in God. He not only, ‘has our back’ so to speak, but our front and sides as well. We are literally ‘hedged’ in and God Himself is the hedge!

Prayer: Oh Lord my God, You are my security and protection. Therefore, I shall not live in fear. I lean upon your everlasting arms. Amen!

Nah 1:7-8. . . . The Lord is good. When trouble comes, he is the place to go! And he knows everyone who trusts in him! TLB

IN WHOM OR WHAT DO YOU TRUST!

10-20-2009. . . .IN WHOM OR WHAT DO YOU TRUST!

In whom or in what do you really trust? Perhaps it is your money or job. . . . maybe your family and friends. . . .perhaps your gifts and talents? While the afore mentioned may provide some degree of stability and security, none of them are 'self sustaining or completely failsafe!' God alone is! Put your trust in Him today! "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Ps 20:7 (NIV)

Prayer: Lord, you are completely trustworthy and you will never fail! My trust is in you alone. Amen!

Ps 2:12b. . . .Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. KJV

LET'S DO OUR PART!

10-19-2009. . . .LET'S DO OUR PART!

"If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don't ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success. " (Prov 3:4-6 TLB) T R U S T! Complete reliance and confidence in God! He has proven to us over and over again that He will not fail! He is doing His part, so without fear or doubt, lets do ours!

Prayer: Lord, thank you that I can have complete and total confidence and reliance in you. Throughout my entire life you've never changed. Thank you for another day of trusting you! Amen.

Prov 3:5-6. . . .Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.KJV

IT WILL ALL COME OUT IN THE WASH!

10-16-2009. . . .IT WILL ALL COME OUT IN THE WASH!

“If we say that we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he can be depended on to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. [And it is perfectly proper for God to do this for us because Christ died to wash away our sins.] If we claim we have not sinned, we are lying and calling God a liar, for he says we have sinned.” ( 1 John 1:8-10 TLB) Un-confessed sin is a tool the enemy will use against us in an effort to hinder or prevent us from moving forward into our next place of destiny. In spite of all efforts to conceal it, the stain of sin shows through. Instead of trying to hide it God says, ‘confess it!' (repent: say about what He says about) He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. In other words, ‘It will all come out in the wash!’

Prayer: Lord thank you for your precious blood that cleanses us for all sin and unrighteousness . Keep us ever covered by the blood. Amen.

1 John 1:5-8. . . .This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. KJV

HOW DO YOU SPELL RELIEF!

10-15-2009. . . .HOW DO YOU SPELL RELIEF!

“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.” ( NKJV Isa 55:7) Should we ever find ourselves in a place of separation from God because of sin, God’s way out for us is simple: REPENT! Turn from our sin and turn back to God. He promises to show us mercy and not just simply pardon, but ‘abundantly pardon’ us! The burden of condemnation is a heavy load to continue to carry! How do you spell relief? R E P E N T!

Prayer: Thank you for your overwhelming love towards us. Even when we slip up and mess up, you yet offer us a way out through repentance. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Amen!

Jer 33:8-9. . . .And I will cleanse away all their sins against me and pardon them. 9 Then this city will be an honor to me, and it will give me joy and be a source of praise and glory to me before all the nations of the earth! The people of the world will see the good I do for my people and will tremble with awe! TLB

COME ONE COME ALL!

10-14-2009. . . .COME ONE COME ALL!

No matter who you are or what you've done, God wants YOU! Just like you are. . . .just how you are. . . .and just where you are, He will accept you, forgive, and save you! It's a promise. "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9 KJV) Though millions have come, there's still room for one...YOU! Come one....Come All!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for saving me. Thank you for making it possible for everyone to come to repentance and that no one should be lost. May the world accept your invitation today. Amen!

John 10:9-10. . . .I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. KJV

DON'T MISJUDGE HIS KINDNESS!

10-13-2009. . . .Don’t Misjudge His Kindness!

All of us can remember a time when we should have received a well deserved punishment for something, but instead, we were shown kindness! Its not that we got away with something, we were being led to something, ‘Repentance’. “…Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?” (Rom 2:4-5 NKJV) God leads us by His goodness through or mistakes and misjudgments to the place where we realize our mistakes and misjudgments and repent! Don’t misjudge His kindness!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your goodness that leads us to true repentance. Help us always recognize and never misjudge your kindness. Amen!

2 Peter 3:9. . . .The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. NIV

REPENT AND RESPOND!

10-12-09. . . . REPENT AND RESPOND!

". . .The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. (Mark 1:16 KJV) The announcement that ‘The Kingdom of God’ had arrived was the emphasis of Jesus’ inaugural sermon. It carried with it two simple requirements: ‘Repent and Respond’ by believing the good news! The message yet holds true and the requirements unchanged. Repent: not simply being Godly sorry, but ‘turn from’ the old sinful ways and ‘turn to’ the new way of the Kingdom. Today, if you have not received Jesus as your Savior and Lord, I urge you to Repent and Respond!

Prayer: Lord, for every person that does not know you, I ask that you reach out to them and save them. Use those of us that do know you to be witnesses of the Good News and spread it everywhere. Amen!

Rom 1:16-17. . . .For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is God's powerful method of bringing all who believe it to heaven. This message was preached first to the Jews alone, but now everyone is invited to come to God in this same way. This Good News tells us that God makes us ready for heaven-makes us right in God's sight-when we put our faith and trust in Christ to save us. TLB

PASS IT ON!

10/9/2009. . . .PASS IT ON!

“Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” (2 Tim 2:1-2 KJV) What valuable experiences and lessons in grace have you gained through the years that has contributed to you standing strong in the place wherein God has called or placed you? Your experiences and the lessons in grace, coupled with God’s unadulterated word make for a powerfully potent seed to plant in the fertile ground of the lives of those who look to you as an example! So, 'Pass it on' and watch it bring forth fruit.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the strength and experience I’ve gain by and through grace. Help me now to impart the same to others who will in turn, share it with others also. Amen!

John 15:16. . . .Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. KJV