Passionate Pursuit

"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." (1 Corinthians 2:9, NLT)

Gladiator. I love that movie. It is easily in my top 5 because it has so many biblical references. The honor and courage displayed in his character are phenomenal. I think it speaks to the heart of every man for bravery and every woman for the admiration of that bravery. 

But more than that, it's a great visual of how difficult leading the Christian life can be. Jesus didn't promise us that our lives would magically be easier when we picked up our crosses and followed him. At the end of this movie, I love that Maximus is walking toward his deceased family in his place of peace, his home. 

Anytime I face a difficult situation or something that seems impossible, this verse bubbles up from my heart and floats through my mind: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." 

Watching the news the other day, CNN was covering the crisis in Iraq and questioning what President Obama was going to do about it. I deeply desire that we had a truly God fearing President who would call for a national day of prayer for any who believed so that we, as a nation, would pray for the thousands of Christians being persecuted in Iraq. 

My daughter and I had just sat down for dinner and I said, "Let's pray." She immediately put her tiny hands in mine and bowed her head against my forehead. All I got out was, "Father God, please help those people. You demonstrated over and over in the Bible these amazing stories of angels crushing cities of those who opposed you and of Jesus healing those who are persecuting your children. I will not ask where you are, for I know you are with them, but Abba, those children..." and I just broke and cried. 

My daughter put her tiny hands on either side of my face and lifted my head to look at her. She said, "Mama..." and put one of her hands on my heart. I said, "Yes, Mama's heart hurts for our friends in Iraq." I got out a map and showed her who we were praying for. We put one of each of our hands on the map, and our other hands we held together. We finished the prayer for all of the children in Iraq, Christian or not, and for the leaders of ISIS to have a powerful experience with Jesus. 

As someone who knows heartbreak well, I won't sit here and say "it's okay," - I know its hard and its one of the most difficult things you will experience right now. But I will firmly tell you - do not stop praying - God is fighting for you.  And remember, you have people all over the world just like me who are thinking of you and keeping you close in our hearts, expecting God to bless you in some way each moment. Even if that blessing is just you developing your relationship with him. 

Loving Right Where We Are...

Ed Sheeran's "Thinking Out Loud"

Woah, woah, how am I going to relate a love song to a devotional? Easy. 

We found love right where we are...

I met with my Pastor recently for coffee to catch up and chat. After nearly two hours and sharing laughs, he said, "You've got a joy about you. You're filled with joy." And I realized, yeah. Yeah, I am! And you know something? It's not from another human being! I mean, I am definitely incredibly blessed to have a family and friends who pour their love into me daily, but....nah. I'm not sparkling because of them. I'm sparkling because of Him. 

I found love right where I am...with God. That sounds crazy, right? But bear with me! If you're married or seeing someone, wonderful! But if you're single, like me (especially us romantics), we smile sheepishly as we look out the window when we think about someone like Sheeran is describing in his song. And above all - his song made me look forward to whoever God is going to bring into my life. 

Even as the world is being destroyed all around us, let's focus on the good stuff today. 

Heavenly Father, thank you so much for your love. Thank you for pouring it into us. Thank you for the people you put in and take out of our lives for Your reasons alone. Help us to be a blessing to someone today. Help us to remind someone today (even one of your smallest or greatest creatures) that they are incredibly special and their life is full of purpose through our actions or words to them. Take Your broken people and unite us in your love. We love you Lord, You are our strength (Psalm 18:1). In Jesus' name, amen. 

Let's Dance!

Lee Brice's "I don't dance"

Why am I inviting you to listen to this song? And why is there a picture of a dirt road? 

Two reasons: the road is a reminder that our roads are usually long and hard, but there's some beautiful scenery along the way: in our family's love for us, in God's love for us, in our friend's laughter, in our cooking disasters, thriving gardens, our children, our creating, our adventuring, our daily interactions with every day people just like you and me. Take a moment and decide that you will be a blessing today to someone, anyone. Thank you God for working through us. Now, the song is up because I want you to remember that most of us are very similar to Moses. We don't want to do the things God is asking us to do. We want other people - other more qualified people to do the task. 

But guess what? When we invite Jesus into our hearts and ask the Holy Spirit to control our lives...this song turns into us singing to God: "Lord, I don't dance, but I'll do anything anywhere with you. You've got me in the palm of Your hand..."   Takes on a whole new meaning doesn't it?  

Lord, pleases help us to dance with you. We lay down our selfish hearts and desires and ask you to come into these places within us. Help us to speak words of wisdom and do acts of kindness. Help us to shine bright today. We love you so much. In Jesus' name, Amen. 

Long Day, Long Road

     Does anyone have some favorite #music that just moves you? I mean...every fiber in your whole being says, "yes!!" and you jump around playing air guitar or pretend to be a rock star? Just for a moment? 

     #Matchbox20 is one of those bands for me. I can hear the saddest news or have the toughest days and Matchbox20 "Long Day" is just one of those songs that helps me to see everything so clearly. 

     Like this #international mess we're in: Hamas, Israel, Russia, Eastern Ukraine, Central America's aid to the U.S., the border patrol.... it's such a hot topic here. 

     My spirit just rages for justice every time the news displays the grief over the people in the #Netherlands and it hurts so much for the widows and orphans who are trying to settle here in the #United States. 

      Then....something hit me today, or rather....someone: 

Paul 

It occurred to me that whenever we feel like we're having a Long Day or we're on a Long Road, it is possible for today's Paul's to turn around. 

Let's pray: Lord Jesus...we are without words. The tragedy that is happening in today's world is astounding. Gaza is hurting so deeply and we ache for our brothers and sisters around the world, even those we don't know. Lord, it is only by your divine help that any of this will be resolved. Father, if it aligns with your will, please, we appeal to you, please Jesus stand in their road. Please stand in their long road of persecuting others and make yourself known to them. We are in desperate need for several transformations of "Paul" to happen to the rebel leaders and to our leaders in powerful positions. Please God, appear to us also, on our long days, that we might be well prepared for you and that we might shine brighter than the darkness in our world today. We love you and ask these things in Jesus' name. Amen. 

Something to Consider...

In all the recent events going on internationally and even here in the U.S., it's tempting to think, "What's the use in being good?" Or "Why do I work so hard only for bad things to continue to happen?"

Today is a reminder that is easy to forget, but powerful in deterring encouragement.

"Let your light shine before others so that your good deeds will glorify your Father in heaven," (Matthew 5:16).

We must actively look for the good in our world. For example, a friend of mine is serving in the Peace Corps in West Africa. He is building a library or his students and I was able to support a book drive to send to him. Think of all the children who will now get to have stories, learn a new language, translate them into French and open up their creativity.

The ladies of my church just celebrated someone's birthday - a strong, small woman who just turned 88. And then there is just the occasional smile and small talk with someone at the grocery store to check in on their day.

What good surrounds you today? More importantly, what small thing can you do today that will remind someone of God's goodness and provision?

"This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine..."

Thank you God for your love. Help us to share it with others today. We love you! In Jesus' name, amen.

"My peace I give to you..."

The day human beings use deceased fellow human beings to achieve an incredibly selfish purpose is the day that we all need to lay our hearts down in prayer and fast.

The rebels' actions in Ukraine scream loudly of Nazi and Hitler-like mentality while also using tactics  of the infamous Taliban.

All that we can ask is for God to pour out his love and peace upon the families who lost someone in this horrific tragedy, especially those with children. We can pray also for His justice to prevail (even if it doesn't look like we might think).

I invite you to fast with me on Tuesday, July 22 for these purposes: deliverance of the rebels from their wayward mindset, peace for the families, justice for this situation and harmony in international problem solving. We must keep believing in God's goodness and remember that He is close to us in heartbreak.

Amen.

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It's purpose is to encourage you in all seasons of life. Prayers and Devotionals are included in the end. Thanks for the support! 

I Choose to Live, Not Merely Exist

Watching the news this morning, coffee in hand, I felt such a pang of sorrow for our world. With the #MH17 flight tragedy, the border crossing disaster between the U.S. and Mexico, Ukraine and Russia, and the lost girls in Nigeria, I grieved for the loss of life and the grief so many families will be going through and continue to experience. 

Knowing that as soon as we pray in accordance with God's Word and will that we are heard, let's begin praying for these families. 

Lord, thank you for reminding us we are to look after orphans and widows in their distress (James 1:27) and that we will be comforted in our grief (Matthew 5:4). Thank you that you are greater than the world's circumstances and that we cannot imagine what You have in store for those of us who love you. Thank you that you have listened to our cry for help and are working in ways we cannot fathom (Psalm 27:5). Thank you that there is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3) and that your hand is upon all of us. Please open a way to provide for these orphaned children and widows of provision and healing. Please make your presence known among the leaders in the East, bringing peace to Hamas and Israel and Palestine. Please raise up a new leader who fears you, reveres you and trusts you; obedient to your direction who will bring peace to Ukraine and Russia. We pray also for the families of MH17, that their legacy of compassion and kindness would not be forgotten. We love you Lord, You are our strength. Amen. 

Hunger Satisfied



"If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday." (Isaiah 58:10, ESV)

 

 

     Recently, I've been preoccupied with the needs of those around me. Working in ministry affords me the budget to reach out to those in need - specifically those who are hungry, tired or in need of nourishment. Our church collects food each week for local food banks and a kitchen that serves the homeless. However, it got me thinking which resulted in two things: first, I became downtrodden at the realization of so many who are hungry, especially the children; second, I became encouraged by the verse of Isaiah 58:10 because if we could just remind each other of that purpose, think of the many people we could help. We would not only act as helpers to those people, but we could shine bright for Christ and show them that He is looking out for them and loves them.

 

     

Unseen Faithfulness & Provision

"And Elisha prayed, "O LORD, open his eyes so he may see." Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha."

-2 Kings 6:17 (NIV)-

Before we start today, let's worship. Give your heart, mind and spirit a six minute break. Close your eyes and listen to this song. I'm already praying for your heart to be opened and for your spirit to be renewed.

Lately, I've had the greatest blessings. I have been able to listen to my closest friend's hearts and worries. And here's what I've learned from their courageous examples of opening up about their weaknesses and their struggles:

The less we hide, the less the enemy has to work with.

The more we truly confess our struggles and hurts to each other, the more room Jesus has to move in for healing and restoration; the more power the Holy Spirit is given to renew us and defeat lies we so easily accept in our minds; the more opportunity God is given to prove His faithfulness.

It's amazing.

This is also something else to keep in mind:

Your seemingly cold, icy, isolated mountain(s) you're attempting to tackle? They only seem that way because the enemy so desires to convince you that you are alone, that you are left out in the cold, and that nobody can relate to you.

Guess what? FALSE! Hugely false.

You are a son or daughter of the King who fights for you moment-to-moment. You are a child of God's own family. Your brother and LORD defeated the enemy and has already prepared a place for you when you're called Home. You are dearly loved in such a powerful way. AND, you have brothers and sisters right here who would love to pray for you and help you in any way they can.

We're Family.

And God's family doesn't back down to challenges; we encourage, we provide, we listen, we inspire, we love, we act, we teach, we heal, and most of all, we turn each other right back to God so the enemy doesn't stand a chance.

In fact, I'm praying right now that as you are reading this post, you are being filled with the Holy Spirit's power which is mighty in pulling down strongholds; that you are being reminded powerfully of just how much God loves you; that you feel Jesus with you in these moments.

When Elisha prayed that his servant's eyes be opened and his servant was able to see the horses and chariots ready for battle, I bet his servant was first, shocked and second, assured. Are you in need of some assurance today?

Let us act as Elisha for each other today:

Heavenly Father, we praise you and thank you that you are able to accomplish infinitely more than we could ever ask or imagine. We pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ (name them) that they would experience just a tiny dose of vision that You blessed Elisha's servant with. Sometimes, we need to be reminded of how hard You are fighting for us and just how incredible You are.

Father, we are grateful and joyful to admit our weaknesses to each other because You promise us as Your Son, Jesus, promises us that Your strength is made perfect through our weaknesses. Therefore, we boast all the more gladly about our weaknesses:________ today. Thank you that you will strengthen us in these ways today.

We also confess and are grateful for our brokenness. If we were not broken, You would have no room to transform us into the people You created us to be way back before You placed us in our mother's wombs. We are in awe that You accomplished such an amazing micracle, and we humbly submit our desires to You. Shape us how you want. Transform our minds in Christ Jesus. Heal our hearts and renew our spirits. We need You.

Jesus, thank you for being with us even as we go about our day-to-day routines, jobs, schooling - whatever it is that we are doing, we thank you that you are there with us. We pray for each other all over the world that we would encourage each other to remember how faithful You have been to us Father.

Jesus, we invite you in with a feast of thankfulness and gratitude. We are thankful today for:____________. We are grateful that:__________. We praise you because You are the only One who __________. We love you. Use us to fulfil your mission.

Father, in Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Let's end together: Hillsong's "From the Inside Out"

Praying for you!

Pray Without Ceasing...

"One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us how to pray..."

-Luke 11:1 (NIV)-

Jesus taught the disciples The Lord's Prayer:

Our Father, who art in Heaven,

hallowed by thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done

on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread

and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

Lead us not into tempation, but deliver us from evil,

For thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory forever.

Amen.

We also see Jesus' physical example. Sometimes he prayed all throughout the night. Other times, he rose early and prayed before the beginning of the day's responsibilities and opportunities. Still others, he prayed both privately and publicly. No matter what, Jesus prayed, trusted and thanked God for hearing him and continued his ministry.

Today, let's focus on Jesus' example of prayer. Let us pray today for each other around the world. Remember, yes, God will use your prayer even for people you have never met. Yes, your brothers and sisters need you to pray for them. Yes, you are heard and Yes, you are vitally important to this mission.

Let's pray together today for:

Orphans

Widows

The Persecuted Church

Marriages

Children in schools

Families

The Hurting and the Oppressed

Prisoners

Intercession for acts of violence both in the United States and Internationally

Provision for those starving or dealing with famine

Health

Please read this list and pray for at least one of these groups of people. For me, personally, I have a special place for the orphans, prisoners and those who are dealing with HIV/AIDS. Remember to pray for those who help at these places and for the people dealing with each one of these sufferings individually. And when you pray, pray with conviction and belief.

Remember the story of the faith of the Roman officer? Jesus told him, "What you have believed has come true."

Believe that God will provide for each of these groups of people, and He will. Doubt is our worst enemy. Conquer it with faith and rememberance of who our God is and his character. Secure that faith with thankfulness and press forward in intercessory prayer. We need each other's encouragement and will to cover each other powerfully in prayer through the Holy Spirit.

Let's start together:

"Heavenly Father, we thank you that we are able to pray as One Body and be heard by you. We thank you that we are able to pray for those whom we don't even know personally, but will be given provision by you in ways we can't fathom. Thank you for saving our brothers and sisters around the world. Today, we bring forth concern for _____ and ask that you would bring favor upon them. We pray in power by your Holy Spirit within us that you would bless ____ and nourish _____. Help them to remember who You are and what you are capable of doing. Thank you for sending laborers into _____'s lives to share the Good News. Thank you for protecting ____ this day. No evil shall come near nor any accident take over ____'s day today. We plead the blood of Jesus over ____ and their families this day. Thank you for hearing us. We love you and ask that you use us in whatever ways we can be of service to you to help _____. In Jesus' name, Amen."

A Certain Kind of Courage

"At once they left their nets and followed him. Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him."

-Matthew 4:20-22-

What have you given up completely? Have you risked your livelihood to do something you believed to be better? Have you given up your family to follow a hope? What have you sacrificed that seemed impossible to do without?

This is probably the most amazing part about this particular passage. Jesus called these men and notice what they left immediately: their nets and boat (livelihood) and their father (family). Could you do that?

Whether that answer is "yes," "no," or "I'm not sure...," take this hope: when Jesus calls you away from something or someone that seems imposible to relinquish, it's only because he has an incredible future planned for you and you are the only one who can fulfill this particular mission.

And here's the other catch: it's not just about the down-and-out crowd either. Jesus calls anyone. You could be quite successful in life and be thankful each day for the blessings given to you. That might present an even bigger challenge for you. Take heart and remember that God gives us every single thing we need, and it was from Him in the first place that you were afforded your comfortable and successful lifestyle.

So how will you know if it's God calling you toward a particular mission? How do you know your not justifying a particular personal desire?

God's Holy Spirit is alluring and inviting. He is never pushy, condemning or spiteful. God will never use shame, embarassment, humiliation, or haunt you of past memories you'd rather forget. He will never lead or ask you to break any of his laws. If you think you're being called to a particular mission, but something doesn't sit right, check your spirit. Ask the Holy Spirit of Truth to reveal to you what is wrong. Ask to align your thoughts and mind with God's thoughts so you may begin praying within his will. Better still, ask someone you know who walks closely & intimately with Jesus to pray in intercession for you during this time. Confusion is never from God so reject it immediately in Jesus' name. If you're still having a hard time with discernment, leave it alone for a little while. Jesus will make it clear and obvious when He needs you and your particular gifts and talents somewhere. He will speak to you how you specifically hear best from him.

And remember, it takes courage to walk away from the things he's asking you to walk away from. It is perfectly okay to be nervous, anxious or scared. But also remember this: God will always lead you into a promised land, even if you have to climb a few mountains first to get there. Fulfiling God's mission is always well worth leaving that which seems impossible.

James and John must have sensed this. Notice the passage: they were preparing the nets when Jesus called them. And what was their reaction? When did they leave the preparation of what seemed important to them? Did they discuss the pros and cons first? Did they ask their father for permission? No. They left immediately.

When God calls you, meditate upon what James and John learned: Jesus will guide you, the Holy Spirit will equip you and God will pour his favor and love upon you. You can do it!

Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for your Word. We especially thank you for the Gospels so we are able to follow Jesus' example. When we are scared or nervous to drop our "nets," and immediately follow you, Jesus, remind us of this passage. Remind us also of all that you have in store for us. Give us glimpses of a greater future of which we are honored and blessed to be apart. Thank you that we can speak to you and you give us discernment. Thank you that you will always speak to us in a way that makes specific sense to each of us. Thank you that we can follow you with hope and trust. We love you so much. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Announcement!

"She is clothed with strength and dignity..."

-Proverbs 31:25 (NIV)-

I have a very special announcement to make...

I gave birth to my daughter two weeks ago! Due to this wonderful gift, the blog will be updated weekly rather than daily. Continue to check back in!

I encourage you to encourage someone else today and each day by demonstrating the love of Christ. Let's be the Body he designed us to be!

Praying for each of you daily,

Abby 

Psalm 118:19-21

Yesterday, I put a poll out on Facebook asking a few people to post one reason they were thankful. Here are some of the responses:

"Just one? The sun is up, the people I love are safe and healthy, the fall temps are finally here, I made it through my first fall run without "eating it", and on and on and on!"
-Marsha, Texas

"Just ONE?!? I'm thankful for waking up and having a job to go to, for a husband who made my breakfast, and for a support network who means the world to me.... All were provided by God. So, I'm most thankful for Him. :)"
-Lisa, Washington

"I'm thankful to wake up and have another day to see my daughters grow up. Im thankful to hear "Good Morning Mommy" from my Princesses."
-Carralyce, Florida

"I am thankful for my healthy baby boy Issak."
-Ryan, Washington

"Thankful for God's unfailing love and His patience with me. For my family, Andrew, job, Whiskers, church family and wonderful friends! I'm very blessed!"
-Nicolette, Florida

"thankful for the Word of God, which keeps me from slipping daily. thankful for the Lord keeps me rooted in Him; I cannot be shaken!!!!"
-Sarah, California

"I am thankful for my family, friends, animals, creatures, the land, everything God has provided for us. I am thankful the most for God's faithfulness and the opportunity to awaken every single day so far."
-Abby, Florida

Today's encouragement to ponder:

Open for me the gates of the righteous;
    I will enter and give thanks to the Lord.
 This is the gate of the Lord
    through which the righteous may enter.
 I will give you thanks, for you answered me;
    you have become my salvation.
-Psalm 118:19-21 (NIV)

       Abraham was declared righteous by God because of his faith. He believed everything God said and gave thanks each time God blessed him. Doesn't this sound a lot like verses 19-21 in Psalm 118?
      And don't the answers above when asked about thankfulness sound a lot like recognition of what God has blessed and given these people with? Each time we remember our God, and praise him by giving thanks to His works alone, we are able to enter the gate of the righteous.
     Which gate do you desire to enter? A gate that leads to doubt and complacency and despair? Of course not!
      Let's enter the gate of the righteous by keeping our minds fixed on the right things:
    
      "...whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
       -Phillipians 4:8 (ESV)-

Challenge: Come up with your own list today of an example of each one of these things.

"Heavenly Father, we come before you this day thanking you that we all simply woke up! Thank you for this new day. Help us to align our thoughts and fix our thoughts on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent and worthy of praise. We cannot do this alone. We will only succeed in this by the power of Your Holy Spirit working within us and by Christ transforming and renewing our thoughts. Thank you for reminding us what we are thankful for. Help us to always desire to enter the gate of righteousness and lead us in the way everlasting. In Jesus' name, we pray on behalf for our brothers and sisters around the world, knowing that the power of prayer is rightfully ours, by Jesus's authority within us. Thank you for this marvelous gift and miracle. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Faithful Thanks

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

       Today, we're going to do something a little different. I'm opening up the commenting section to post your reasons for being thankful.

      Why is it so important to give thanks in all cirumstances? Because look at the role of positive thinking. If we're broke, be thankful that we have a God who provides. If we're sad, thank Him that we even have the ability to feel sad. And then give thanks that He has promised that you won't be sad forever. If we just can't seem to get it together for whatever reason, give thanks for being given so much responsibility.

    Fact:  The more we remain faithful, the more thanks

              we give.

              The more thanks we give, the more we praise  

              God.

              The more we praise God, the more we realize

              what we have and rejoice in our blessings and

              contentment.

              The more we are content, the less room

              worry, anxiety, or any other form of negativity

              has to sneak its way into our thought life and 

              hearts.

             

     Fact: Thankfulness + Praise = Building of our faith

     What are you thankful for? What praise do you have to share?             

     Let's see if we can post at least 10 reasons why we're thankful to God from personal experience or have a praise to share and from at least three different countries.

     Tomorrow's post will be based on our responses and directed toward Psalm 118:19-21. Here we go!

**Click on "no comments" or "1 comment" or whatever the number of comments it is currently up to in order to post a comment.

Youth and Elderly Alike: "Send us!"

      Today's service was led by our youth ministry; both high school and college students. As I listened to five of them teach a different lesson about speech, life, love, faith and purity, I became marveled at the spiritual walk.

     Some of us stay in the infancy stage for quite some time. But to mature, we must read the Bible each day, worship God in awe, and be willing to be transformed by His Holy Spirit as He sees fit, not us. Creatures of habit, we are often comfortable with what makes us feel good. Most of us do not like the refining fire or being on the Potter's wheel. However, the youth today showed me (and hopefully everyone else in that 8 a.m. chapel service!) that we must not become complacent in our walk.

    If these youngsters are up to the challenge (and one that is incredibly hard facing today's society and culture), why shouldn't we be - those of us who are a little or a lot older? Why should we sit back in our chairs, comfortably "remembering" the times these youth face today? That shouldn't be our mission at all! We need to be just as fiesty as the youth, and watch our conduct in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.

     Just this past Wednesday, I met with the women from my small group. We are studying Maxie Dunn's "Intercessory Prayer" workbook. These ladies are phenomenal. Most of them have had incredible life experience, and guess what? They still need encouragement from other Believers to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus, trust in God and submission to his Holy Spirit.

     Write this verse down and stick it on your mirror or in your wallet:

      "Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing, you will save both yourself and your hearers" (1 Timothy 4:16, ESV).

      Why is this so important? Allow me to share one more verse with you that is amazingly important, but little studied. When we keep a close watch on ourselves, we are disciplining and training ourselves to be self-aware of how and what we: say, do, think, feel, and act. How can the motives of our hearts be kept pure if we don't check in with ourselves and ask, "Why am I thinking this way? Why am I doing things this way? Why did I just say that?"
       We must also keep a close watch on the teaching because if we are to make an impact, we better be doing it wisely, and humbly, walking close to God. We certainly can't teach one thing and then act another. We'd be in the Pharisees camp if we tried, and then, who would come to know Christ? Not many.

       Consider these verses and let God speak to you this day through them:

       "If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰ For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved...
(Romans 10:9-10)

       "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? ¹⁵ And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (Romans 10:14-15).

       These are stunning points.

      Truly, I encourage you to wrestle with these:

      1) How can they (other believers struggling with their faith, unbelievers, and those who have never heard about Jesus to begin with) call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they call on one of whom they have not heard?

       This is why intercessory prayer is so vitally important today and every day.
       Does God hear our prayers? Yes.
       Will we always see the fruit of our prayers? No.
       Can we believe that God will use our prayers to help someone we have never met? Yes.
       Should we believe that God is able to bring the Good News to people we have never met globally? Yes! 

       Pray today that at least ONE person be given the knowledge and message of Jesus Christ by a fellow believer today. Pray that this one person will be given ears to hear and a convicted heart.

     2) How can someone hear if they do not have someone preaching to them? And how will they preach if they are not sent?

     This is why missionary work is so important. Even if you are not called to the international mission field, pray for these people anyway. Pray for the people they are about to impact.
      Pray for ordinary people, just like you and me, to be given a desire to study the Word, keep a close watch on ourselves and the teaching, and act as missionaries in our own communities.
      We must be on alert all the time, just like our youth. In fact, if we could even team up with our youth to instill wisdom in their approach, and be renewed by their passion, what an impact we could make!
      As always, just as I share in hospitality and recipes for the animals, serve with Love.

Let's pray together today:

"Heavenly Father, we thank you for the reminder and message of being a youth serving you. We, who are older, especially thank you for the reminder on how to keep a close watch on ourselves and our conduct. Thank you for reminding us about the international mission field, and those who impact it every day. We pray for you to equip our missionaries who serve internationally, sacrificing comfort and safety every day so that one more may be given new life in Christ. We pray for each other in our own communities, that you might send us to teach others about You. We praise you for the many works you have done and are continuing to do through us. Purify us in our minds, speech and actions so that we may glorify You in all we do and say. Thank you for this new day. We love you, praise you and thank you for your faithfulness each and every day. In Jesus' name. Amen."

New Recipes!

NEW Autumn-Inspired Recipes!

Check out the "Pumpkin & Peanut Butter with Cinnamon" dog treats underneath the Animal Friends page. Scroll down until you come to the third recipe. I share a personal story about my own dogs and what inspired me to bake these treats for them.

Under the Hospitality page toward the bottom, you'll find a new recipe for us humans. It's a chewy, soft cookie recipe that includes Pumpkin, Cinnamon and Nutmeg. Delicious and perfect to serve with a glass of milk!

Revival of Yom Kippur

Why is this post called "Revival of Yom Kippur?" Because part of Yom Kippur is fasting and fervently praying for 25 hours. Lessons learned in this message today will spur us on in following a very wise tradition. For right now, we are going to start today off right: with some joyful praise.

Pray with me: "Good morning God! Good morning Holy Spirit! Good morning Jesus! Thank you for this new day. Help me to feel your joy within me this morning as I praise you."

Click on this link to listen to Etta James' "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot."  Now that we have a smile on our faces, and a surprising dose of joy given to us, read on.

Revival of God's Holy Spirit within us is vital in today's world, cultures and societies. We are in danger of slipping into laziness, thinking someone else will pray for this or that cause; that someone else will take care of what needs to be done; that someone else's organization will cover that issue. But that is not what being Christian is all about.

What does this mean? This means we are to recognize that we "did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father" (Romans 8:15, NIV). And that, "We are not given a spirit of fear but of love and power and self-control" (2 Timothy 1:7, ESV).

And who is our Abba, our Father? Do you remember the Fierce Grace lesson? That's our Abba - he never stops fighting for us or loving us. He is faithful. He is almighty. He can and will accomplish more things than we can think possible.

So, how do we stop our current ruts and get into God's plan for salvation? The tradition of Yom Kippur is a great place to start and from which to learn.

Just think of the possibilities if all Christians everywhere around the world took even ONE hour to fast and fervently pray for a cause, a person, a leadership council, deliverance of a city, protection over its people, revival of the Holy Spirit? Just like the call to prayer for our brothers and sisters in refugee camps this week, we need to be praying and fasting for revival of God's Holy Spirit in all Christians everywhere.

I wish I could pour out to you how phenomenally important this is. I feel a lot like Paul during this post: knowing in my spirit this extremely Good News to pass on and yet, not being able to convey how supremely vital it is to everyone. I can only hope that just as Jesus said, "He who has ears, let him hear" (Mark 4:9, ESV) and by faith, you will receive Revelation 2:11's reminder: "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."

Trials, tribulations, mockeries, even death is in our wake. Don't be surprised when you come up against something or multiple somethings that try to knock you down and take you out. Pray that the Holy Spirit will make you aware of any pitfalls, traps or tricks. In Jesus' name, resist them and turn to Jesus only.

Pray with me now: "In Jesus' name, I am given a spirit of power, and of love, and of self-control. I do not submit to fear. I overcome all pitfalls, traps or tricks set before me. My foot will not strike any stone. In Jesus' name I turn to Him for every attempt made against me. I am given eyes to see, ears to hear and discernment to understand. In Jesus' name, I ask the Holy Spirit to intervene for me and protect me. Amen."

And guess what? It doesn't just start internationally or even with a community-based mindset intention. It starts right where you're sitting. It starts with you.

It branches out to our family: wives, husbands, children, aunts, uncles, grandparents; all those whom you come into contact with. Then to the community: neighbors, leadership councils, strangers. Then to our cities and the shaping of our cultures. When we travel - are we living in this truth that we are within the Sonship and that we extend God's love to everyone we come across? Beware of keeping a small-pond mentality.

Start your day with the prayer above. I can personally attest to its power. About two weeks after praying this, I became aware of old arguments or things that would have usually upset me. In that same moment of beginning to feel upset, I would say out loud, "In Jesus' name I reject this trap and pitfall trying to tempt me. I do not give way to temptation. God, you have promised me a way out and Jesus, you are my way out. Holy Spirit, please intervene for me right now." The Presence of God has never been so close to me as it is now. I am enjoying clarity, peace and astounding amounts of love.

Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Don't ever forget that. Allow the Holy Spirit to clean house and help him out by refusing to give way to anything that is against God's will for you. Ask for help in this in Jesus' name. Purity doesn't mean just physically; Purity of speech, purity of thought, purity of motive, purity of actions, purity of heart, etc.

If you can, look at your body in a mirror. As much as your body that you can see, put the roof on top of your head. Put windows at your eyes. Put a gate at your mouth. Put a door over your heart. Imagine your arms and legs as the land around your house. Make your core the dwelling place where everyone gathers.

Even if you attempt to burn a candle for some light within the dwelling place, it can be snuffed out.

What is more powerful than God? Nothing. Make your dwelling place His home. Allow Him to do as He will to transform you in mind, emotions and character.

Here is today's challenge: Pick one day this week to fast for 24 hours and pray fervently for revial of the Holy Spirit within all Christians everywhere.

When you feel out-numbered or overwhelmed, let this encourage you: "Then Elisha prayed and said, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha" (2 Kings 6:17, ESV) and "The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands of thousands" (Psalm 68:17).

We are never alone. Ever. Reject that little pitfall right now. If you feel alone, remember that it is impossible because you have God's Holy Spirit living within you. If you need to physically feel Jesus' presence, ask. Keep asking.

I pray for all of you who come across or daily read this: "Heavenly Father, I pray in righteousness on behalf of all who read this post. I know that it is not up to me on who receives this message, but in Truth Father, You alone are the giver of such message. God, I pray in intercession for those who need to hear this from you, read and understand this from you. I ask that as whoever is reading this prayer right now that Your Presence begin to blossom within them and around them. My LORD, you have appeared to me as heat and a raging hot feeling within me until I sweat. My hands often become hot and you give me knowledge. I have also been so overcome by your love that refreshing and renewing tears flow steadily and freely from me. Thank you for releasing us today.
     Abba, I come to you boldly but humbly, having confidence in Your work and Your word. You promise to stand ground in front of us, to protect us. I pray in intercession for those who desparately need you to be their shield and refuge right now. I ask Holy Spirit, that you would lead them and teach them how to choose Jesus immediately and ask for you to intervene. I ask that you give each person a verse from your Word to focus on today. LORD, you know our needs before we know our own. Help us to seek your Kingdom first, so that we always put You first and our priorities are straight.
     Recognition of your Holy Spirit helps us to understand that there are few of us left who earnestly and fervently pray for You to overcome. LORD, we have so many people hurting today. We have children in countries who do not eat, who do not have medical care, who have become orphans by circumstances. We have corrupt leaders who do nothing but seek after their own personal gain and have forgotten you. We have countries who put wealth and status above you. Even our own land here, Father, has forgotten its roots. We have children crying out to you, wondering if you really exist. We have widows and elders and the sick and dying among us wondering how much longer they will suffer. Your creatures are facing famine and sickness. Your creation, O God, is suffering by our selfishness and greed. We pray as intercession for these things and ask that you forgive us. Oh LORD! Please use us as your vehicles. It doesn't stop in our homes or our own communities.
    
Father, hear our bold prayer today:
        You only overcome. Use each and every single one of us who are willing to listen and obey what You are calling us to do. Remind us that fear is not apart of who we are, but Your power, Your love and Your self-control. Please Jesus, please help us to help those who are hurting; please use us Holy Spirit to minister to those who need you desperately. Give us the right words to say, the right actions to do so they do not forget who You are. Just like the child in the picture above, let us spread your Good News with joyful hearts and may those we encounter be so filled with your joy that they laugh truly; perhaps for the first time in a long time.
     We will follow paths of righteousness for Your name's sake. In Jesus' name we pray these things unto you, knowing full well You hear us and will answer us in your perfect timing. Amen.
     
     Father, I ask that these things be done according to Your Will, that only divinely appointed relationships will enter each person's life; that each person learns how to align their will with Yours and pray in accordance to it.
      Jesus, thank you for giving me a heart for prayer ministry, for hospitality, for the children and for those who bear grief and pain. May your words be my words, your love my love, and may those who read this post, pass it along to someone else. You are greater in us than he who is in the world, and we ask that you to remind us of that this day. Light us up!
      Jehovah, in your Son's, Jesus, name we pray this day. Amen."

Amazing Grace Tells Us to "Only Believe"

"But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she will be well.”

-Luke 8:50 (ESV)-

Have you ever noticed in Luke chapter 8, Jesus' main message is about how belief is connected to true healing? Listen to the gorgeous-sounding version of "Amazing Grace" by Soweto Gospel Choir.

Do you have a story like this to share?

T'was grace that taught my heart to fear

And grace my fear relieved

How precious did that grace appear?

The hour I first believed.

All of the people he healed in Luke 8 were healed by Jesus in one way or another. The first example is when the man fell at Jesus' feet. Jesus cast out 'Legion' and the evil spirits who lived in this poor man went into pigs, then went off the cliff. The man was at Jesus' feet, completely healed and in his "right" mind. Can you imagine how "precious" that moment of grace from Jesus must have been to that man?

Next, the woman who believed she only had to touch Jesus' robe was healed by her faith. After being shunned and scorned for 12 years, I'm sure she felt like a "wretch" and must have regarded Jesus as amazing grace.

The final example is when the man comes out of his house and tells someone to tell Jesus that he no longer needs to come to the house because his daughter died. When Jesus went anyway, the people in the house laughed at him. Think about the sound of this man's daughter's voice. How sweet the sound of Jesus' amazing grace that he extended to this family.

This passage is so important for two reasons:

1) Jesus is unhurried. He didn't rush through the crowd and he didn't tell the woman who had been sick for 12 years he was too busy to minister to her. He tells her how and why she was made well.

2) We are commanded to not fear, only believe.

No fear.

Only believe.

A sermon once said that the Bible uses some version of 'do not fear' some 365 times throughout. Each day, we should remind ourselves that God is telling us to have no fear, but that we should only do what? Believe.

What should we believe in? Jesus' ability, power and authority to heal us from whatever infirmity or suffering we're going through. This is an astounding thought.

We once were lost and blind. But friends, we aren't anymore. Why do we keep believing a lie? Just because your healing or those who you are interceeding for doesn't happen in your time, doesn't mean Jesus isn't on His Way.

God is unhurried. He cares about each and every single one of his children. He ministers to each and every one of you. Keep praying. Keep believing.

This isn't only a humbling message, this message should bring you great joy. Etta James' "Oh Happy Day"  should bring a smile to your face. Clap along. Tap your feet. Close your eyes. Let yourself be a kid again and dance around. It is a happy day certainly when we truly believe.

"Heavenly Father, thank you for this day. Thank you for this revelation and truth in your Word. Thank you that you are unhurried and take care of each one of us. We praise you as an audience of One that you love us so deeply. It is Jesus' amazing grace that was able to set those people free in Luke 8, and it is his amazing grace that still sets people free today in his name. Thank you Jesus for setting us free, so that we might worship, giving thanks to the Father. Thank you especially for teaching us to not fear, but to only believe. When we struggle with that, Holy Spirit, please shake us awake and remind us in our minds, emotions and characters that we are believing a lie; that God is healing us in an amazing way, even when we don't see it immediately. Keep us steadfast in prayer, especially for each other and for those we don't even know around the world. We love you so much. In Jesus' name we pray together, Amen."