Transforming Tuesday: Thank You Lord For Blessing Me Anyhow

Has God ever done something for you even when you haven't deserved it? Has he ever blessed you when you've failed him? Has he ever made a way out of no way in your life? I'm sure he has because that is exactly who God is and what he does!!! He's the same God who died for your sins and the same God who has kept you.

Today's reading focused on Job and his entire life. Job, in my opinion, being one of the most humbled men in the bible has shown time and time again his faith in adversity. He has acknowledged God when things were going great and when they were bad he rarely ever questioned him; he trusts God completely. How many times do we only go before God when we need something? I find this ironic because I know many of us hate to feel used. For example when we only hear from certain friends whenever they need something. Doesn't that bother you? I know it bothers me! At the same time we do that to God. The only difference is, is that God continues to show mercy on us but we refuse to show that same mercy on our friends.

Job in Chapter 29 speaks about the blessings of God in his prime. When he was blessed financially and spiritually, people were very receptive to him. They listened when he spoke, they rose when he entered a room, and they respected his opinions. Job was on top of the world when everything was working out in his favor. He was like many of us where he was surrounded by loving family and friends and had a little bit of money. Job even felt as if he had his life planned out. Job was no different than you and I.

Job thought he was going to live a long life and that he would eventually die in his house. He planned his future. How many times have you planned for something to happen and God has taken you a whole different route than what you expected? I'm sure Job never thought he would lose his family and friends and be stricken with disease. I wouldn't even think any of the three for my life but that doesn't mean that it isn't what God has planned for me. Whether I agree with God's plans or not, I have to be mature enough in the spirit to accept his plans and trust that they are what's best for me.

I know numerous people who have had their lives planned out and they have ended up somewhere totally different. I know couples who have made vows to spend the rest of their lives together and end up divorced within years. I know individuals who have set up future events but unfortunately have passed. That's the thing, life is never predictable, but God being there is always predictable. Job states, "for the days when God watched over me, when his lamp shone on my head and by his light I walked through darkness! Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God’s intimate friendship blessed my house, when the Almighty was still with me and my children were around me" Job 29:2-5 (KJV). God has kept Job through his darkness and some way somehow has guided him.

One thing we must not forget in our walk with Christ is to acknowledge that God is always with us. The bible says he never leaves nor forsakes us. And because of that we must give him praise in spite of what is going on. Life is unpredictable and everything can always take a turn for the worst. I remember when my grandmother passed away and I just could not understand why God had to take her. As a person who does not know how to handle death well, I had a hard time talking to God. I remember growing so angry and distant from everything and everyone. I was truly depressed on the inside. This was a woman who was not related to me by blood, but who took me in as her own grandchild. She was the sweetest person I knew and would give you the shirt off of her back if you needed it. She always had a good word for you if you needed some encouragement and she would always pray for everyone. She was truly an angel and that is why I didn't know why God would just take her the way he did. It wasn't until a year later that I realized why he took her. He took her because her job here was done and he needed his angel back. 

I am a firm believer that we go through traumatic experiences to grow closer to God, seek God, and to humble ourselves before God. Some of our experiences are used to help guide others and often times while on this Earth we positively impact the lives of others. When bad things happen like death and illness, that doesn't stop God from using us the way he wants to use us. If we are like Job and are able to remember how faithful God is when things are good, then we should not second guess him when things are bad. God is not like us, meaning he doesn't give up. Quitting is a character trait that we as humans posses. Remember that God loves you so when things get tough...praise him in advance! Victory is closer than you think. And with God on your side, you cannot lose.

Challenge: Thank God for what he has done in your life. Thank God for what is he is doing in your life right now. Thank God in advance for what he is going to do in your life.

It's Never Too Late To Transform Your Tuesday!

Transforming Tuesday: Jamera

Merciful Monday: I've Got the Power!

A lot of times when I think about powerful people, I think of high-ranking politicians, wealthy businessmen, and popular celebrities. But did you know that each and every one of us is powerful? Act 1:8 says: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” It’s that simple, if you have the Holy Spirit within you, you have POWER.

Today, we read about some followers of Jesus who knew that they had power. Saul and Barnabas were on a mission to teach Governor Sergius Paulus about God. But they were confronted by Bar-Jesus aka Elymas, the sorcerer, as he attempted to dissuade the Governor from believing. As I imagine it, Bar-Jesus was the little devil in the Governor’s ear, planting seeds of doubt, while Saul and Barnabas were the little angels, urging him to believe.

Although confronted by a sorcerer that was allowing himself to be used by the Devil, Saul and Barnabas knew that their God was bigger. They knew that because of the Holy Spirit within them, they had POWER.

The passage reads:

 ⁹Saul, also known as Paul, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he looked the sorcerer in the eye. ¹⁰ Then he said, “You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? ¹¹ Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time.” Instantly mist and darkness came over the man’s eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. ¹² (Act 13:9-12)

Saul explicitly called out the sorcerer, and because of his belief and the power of God vested in him, everything he said happened. The man instantly went blind!

The part of the story that I found most important is in verse 13: “When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord.” Because Paul wasn't afraid to exert the power of God within him, the governor also became a believer. I've found that most of the time, people appreciate not only when we talk about God and say we are “Christians,” but when we walk in our Christianity. When we walk in the power of God and are not afraid to show it, our peers take notice. Don’t be afraid to LIVE OUT LOUD and walk unafraid in the POWER of GOD!

 Merciful Mondays: Jael

^“For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors.” Deuteronomy 4:31

Salvation Sunday: Prayer Changes Things

Prayer is the direct connection to God. When you pray, you're working on the relationship between you and God. Every time you pray, you build the communication level of God. When you're praying, it increases your faith. Also, there is another use of prayer.

Prayer is used for having requests made unto God. When you pray for a certain situation and there is faith behind it, something is going to change about your situation. Now, when you're praying, there is nothing wrong with bringing the requests to God multiple times. The verse that reminds me of this idea is located in James 5:16, which says "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The EFFECTUAL FERVENT PRAYER of a righteous man AVAILETH MUCH!"  

So, when you're praying, make sure to keep praying about it and believe that God will bring it to pass. In addition, God allowed there to be a body of Christ, so that we can pray one for another. To make sure that your prayers are answered, you can always get some prayer partners. Matthew 18:20 says that "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Deuteronomy 32:30 "How should one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, except their Rock had sold them, and the Lord had shut them up?". So, if the prayers of the righteous availeth much and two can put many more demons to flight than one person, then shouldn't you call on more people to pray with you on certain requests so that you have more force behind your prayers?

Now, in today's reading, Peter was put in jail for doing the will of God. Then, the people of God started praying and interceding on behalf of Peter. Through their prayers, God sent an angel to deliver Peter from jail. Therefore, as seen, prayers changed the situation and Peter was free from the chains that bound him.

I know that for myself there were many times that I prayed unto God and it worked out. I remember that one time on the bus, I lost my wallet. So, prayer was sent out on behalf of the situation and a couple weeks later it was all worked out. The result may not happen when you want it, but remember its always right on time. There are so many other times where I prayed and asked others to pray with me and God came through right on time.

This week I challenge you to pray about your problems and take them all to God. There's this old song that I love. "What a friend we have in Jesus. All our sins and griefs He'll bare. What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer. Oh what peace we often forfeit. Oh what needless pain we bear. All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer." Therefore, make sure to give your problems to God and reduce the amount of stress that you have.

Stay blessed and remember prayer changes things.

Salvation Sunday: Steven Gable

Saturday Sacrifice: I don't care who you are, where you're from, what you did, As long as you love me(God)

Acts 11:1-18

In this reading we see Peter is accused of eating with uncircumcised men or Gentiles. Basically, people who are not of Jewish heritage. In his defense, Peter explains to his fellow believers that he received a vision from God where God himself instructs Peter to do so.

⁵ “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. ⁶ I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds. ⁷ Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’⁸ “I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’⁹ “The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’ ¹⁰ This happened three times, and then it was all pulled up to heaven again.

Right after the vision, Peter is invited to come to a Gentile house. Now back in those day Jewish and Gentiles never mixed. I believe it was against the Jewish law (you can look it up if you like). Never the less, the Gentiles invited Peter because they too heard from the Lord.

¹¹ “Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying. ¹² The Spirit told me to have no hesitation about going with them. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s house. ¹³ He told us how he had seen an angel appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. ¹⁴ He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be saved.

So, just  to wrap up Peter goes to this house, and all that were there were filled with the Holy Ghost. Peter had an epiphany moment right then and there! It says then Peter “remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with^[a] water, but you will be baptized with^[b] the Holy Spirit.’ ¹⁷ So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”

No one can stand in God’s way. God loves everyone. He is not a respecter of persons. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you been or what you have done. God gives freely to those who believe in Him and seek Him diligently.

 

Remember in Hebrews 11:6 “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.”

 &

Romans 8:32 it says, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

So when Peter’s accusers “… heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”

Stay in God’s Peace, not in pieces=)

Saturday Sacrifice: Hannah

Friday Fellowship: Gods Way Leads to Victory in the End

 

        In which WAY are you headed in life? Is your outcome set? Uncertainty? These are questions the reading today answers. The book of Numbers chapter 21, we see the people of Israel are on a journey to their promise land.

They went a certain WAY, and ended up in a battle which they lost. Some of their people became prisoners.

They prayed unto God for help and he listened leading them to VICTORY IN THE END.

^3 “And the Lord hearkened to the voice of Israel, and delivered up the Canaanites; and they utterly destroyed them and their cities”

 

Next, the people of Israel were continuing on their WAY to the promise, but got discouraged. They were in a wilderness lacking food and water believing they were God forsaken. After, God reprimanded them for their complaining; God later in the journey led them to VICTORY IN THE END through a miracle by providing water.

⁵ And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.

¹⁴ Wherefore it is said in the book of the wars of the Lord, What he did in the Red sea, and in the brooks of Arnon,

¹⁶ And from thence they went to Beer: that is the well whereof the Lord spake unto Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water.

 

From there they sought to pass the WAY of King Sihon’s land, but he wouldn’t allow it and attacked them. They defeated this great king as the people of God learned in the wilderness from the miracle of God providing water that God would be with them and lead them to VICTORY IN THE END.

²³ And Sihon would not suffer Israel to pass through his border: but Sihon gathered all his people together, and went out against Israel into the wilderness: and he came to Jahaz, and fought against Israel.

²⁴ And Israel smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land from Arnon unto Jabbok, even unto the children of Ammon: for the border of the children of Ammon was strong.

 

After conquering these lands, they went up another WAY and met King Og with his army seeking to destroy them. God spoke to the people of Israel telling them to not fear because his way leads to VICTORY IN THE END.

³⁴ And the Lord said unto Moses, Fear him not: for I have delivered him into thy hand, and all his people, and his land; and thou shalt do to him as thou didst unto Sihon king of the Amorites, which dwelt at Heshbon.

³⁵ So they smote him, and his sons, and all his people, until there was none left him alive: and they possessed his land.

This chapter demonstrates when the people of God are going God’s WAY then he will lead you to VICTORY IN THE END. God’s people in verse one of the chapter are prisoners and by the last verse they are conquerors demonstrating the leading of VICTORY IN THE END. In all these ways there are adversities, uncertainties, fear and challenge yet in all these ways God led them to VICTORY IN THE END.

Whatever your journey is in life, if God is with you on your WAY in 2013 he will be with you on your WAY into 2016, 2019 and 2030. God’s WAY leads to VICTORY IN THE END.

Revelation 22:13

 ^“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.”

Proverbs 3:6

^“ In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

John 14:6

^”Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

 

Thirsty Thursdays: If God be for you who can be against you...

Have you ever felt like you were fighting an uphill battle? Or encountered a situation in which you felt overwhelmed or outmatched? What were some of your thoughts or feelings? Were you afraid, nervous, did you just try to avoid it altogether? As a believer we do not need to be afraid or feel outmatched or inadequate. There is no task to great, no situation too much for us to handle with God on our side.  Joshua chapter 10 gives an example of how no matter what your circumstance or what you may be facing; with God all things are possible.

Word about Joshua and his recent conquest got around and when Adoni-Zedek (King of Jerusalem) heard, he was afraid and plotted along with 4 other kings to attack Gibeon (a neighboring city to where Joshua was and also allies). “4. Come up unto me and help me, that we may smite Gibeon; for it hath made peace with Joshua and with the children of Israel”.  So all five kings gathered their armies and went to attack. As if one army wasn’t enough trouble, they combined 5 to wage war. When the people of Gibeon heard about the pending attack naturally they were frightened and immediately asked Joshua for help and to come save them. They felt as if there was no way they could defeat 5 armies.

Joshua being a man of God, a strong believer who understood what God has done for him, the situations God has seen him through and knew that God would never leave him, brought along his army to help out. “8 And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand; there shall not a man of them stand before thee….42 And all these kings and their land did Joshua take at one time, because the Lord God of Israel fought for Israel”.

Although he faced not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, but 5 armies at once, Joshua had no fear for God was with him.  Although you may face a situation in which you feel is insurmountable do not be afraid for God is with you. God parted the red sea for the Israelites to flee Egypt, with God David slayed Goliath, God caused the Jordan to stop flowing so the Israelites could pass on dry ground. Time and time again God provided for his people, he made a way out of no way. Nothing is impossible with Christ Jesus who strengthens us. The word impossible itself says “Im Possible”. "...If God be for us, who can be against us." Romans 8:31. "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest" Joshua 1:9. Be strong and courageous, confident in the ability God has given you and the knowledge that he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Whatever it is you may be facing whether it be sin, addiction, depression, financial difficulty, family issues, health issues, issues at work or school or some other situation, do not feel dismayed, God is with you and will uplift you with his righteous right hand. You are more than ABLE, you are more than ADEQUATE, you are more than a CONQUEROR, you can OVERCOME IT ALL, you are BLESSED and HIGHLY FAVORED. 

Stay Thirsty My Friends

Thirsty Thursdays: Ron

Warrior Wednesdays: Consequences of Disobedience

Have you ever suffered due to another person's disobedience? As a child I can remember times when I would get in trouble because of something a young child did. As the oldest person in the room I was held responsible for the actions of the younger children. Therefore, if they did something wrong I was punished along with that child. At times I thought this was unfair because it was not my fault, however I was still held accountable. Similarly, in Joshua 7 we learn of a man named Achan whose disobbedience caused the entire nation to suffer.

Achan, disobeyed God by taking the spoils from Jericho when God had commanded that the people take nothing from that battle. Achan took clothing, silver, and gold. His disobedience to God resulted in the death of many innocent people.  

Like many people who do wrong Achan began covering his sin. He disobeyed God by taking the possessions from Jericho, he hid them, and then he lied about it. When you sin beware of making the situation worse by deceit the best route is to confess your sin and turn away from it before it becomes too late. 

Achan, selfishly disobeyed God, however his sole disobedience resulted in the death of numerous innocent men. Many times we sin out of our own selfishness however  our sin may affect others. If you are tempted to sin think about how your sin may affect other people.

God called for Achan's entire family to be destroyed. The people of Isreal stoned Achan's entire family. Today we may not stone those in our communities who sin but we should take the situation serious as God does. When we have sin in our lives it is best for us to destroy the catalyst of our sin. For example, if you have a group of friends who cause you to go against God's will and to sin you should get a new group of friends. Remember the bible states  "...let us lay aside every weight, and sin which doth so easily beset us..."Hebrews 12:1 

Stay Blessed and Continue Warring for Christ!

Warrior Wednesday: Brittney

Transforming Tuesdays: God Rewards The Good & Faithful Servant

Have you ever done a good deed? Often times these are things that we don't even want to do but do anyway. That's called sacrifice! It's such a good trait to have. What about the things that you do because you are expecting something good in return? We all do it, but it's not right. We should do things out of the goodness of our hearts and if we are blessed by it, then so be it and if not, then oh well life goes on.

Today's reading focused on faithful servants. This is a place where we should ALL strive to be! Why? Because God rewards faithful servants. Today on my way home from class I was thinking about all of the tragedies that have been happening today and I immediately became frustrated. What happened to the value in life??? What happened to people doing good because that's the way they were brought up? The high disregard for life often makes me drop to my knees in my morning prayer sessions and honestly this goes beyond the recent Boston bombings...everything seems to be getting worse. However, through it all God continues to show his face the only problem is, that people only seek him when things are out of control. What if we seek God when things are great? This way, when things get bad (because they will), we'll be comforted to know that God was there all of the time. 

God rewards good deeds and we all like rewards. What rewards do you constantly encounter?

• If you study, you get a good grade
• If you perform great at work, you get a bonus
• If you do your chores, you get money
• If you're a humanitarian and volunteer in your community, you can receive a reward

The list can go on. Rewards are always an incentive to do well, and we know that the idea of receiving something in the end is not always a bad thing. The issue comes when people begin to grow frustrated at the speed of the reward. We're so used to a microwave society that we expect expect expect expect, yet we don't even gift half as much as we expect. That doesn't even make sense, because if you're supposed to get out what you put in, then I guess you're not getting a lot. But that's when God comes in!!!

What happens when you're rewarded while serving God's kingdom??? Everybody knows that when God comes into the picture, everything is sooooo much better. Even when it's bad it's better that's how amazing he is. Here are a few testimonies that I know of from friends when they put God first:

• If you study and pray, you'll be accepted into the top university of your choice, no matter your financial situation or academic situation.
• If you pray before work and go above and beyond, you get a promotion. Someone I know who is fresh out of college landed her dream job and after less than six months working there, she received not one, but two promotions.
• If you do your chores and read your Bible before bed, you'll receive a full scholarship to the school of your choice that will allow you to further your education.
• If you volunteer in your community and bring people to God, you're name can become on the next ticket ballot for mayor of your city.

I don't think people really understand how imperative it is to have God at the foundation of your life. With him, all things are made new and on top of that, his blessings have NO limit. I can't even begin to count my blessings because I am too afraid that I might miss some. I know that I am in perfect health, I am not wealthy but I don't want for anything, and I have perfect peace. Also, I know that no matter how rocky the road of life gets, I'll remain blessed.

In Acts, Tabitha was a woman who believed in God and always did things for people. She was a lady with a kind heart and unfortunately she passed away. However, before her burial she was brought back to life by Peter. Acts 9:39-41. Then there was Rahab who was a prostitute whose life was spared during the fall of Jericho because she hid spies. Joshua 6:22-23. Then there was Job who kept his hope alive because he feared God. He knew that God wouldn't let anything happen to him.

Don't let anyone get in the way of doing what you were called to do. God rewards his servants and one thing you would hate to do is miss out on a reward bestowed by God. I remember when I was a little girl my mom would always tell me, "Be careful what you do today and how you speak to people. You never know, you might encounter an angel. Always be ready to present yourself to the world." As a little girl I always thought she was doing the most lol. Now that I'm older her words are golden. There are times when we are tested. You never know how much you can impact the life of someone by simply extending a hand....try it!

I know for me, last Thursday I wasn't having the greatest morning. I was very grumpy because I've been stressing lately, however that did not stop God from using me and taking me out of element (so I thought). I remember two of my friends were having interviews for an amazing program and they wanted prayer that they would get it. I remember coming upstairs to wish them good luck before the interview and they were like let's pray. In the back of my mind I'm like that's a great idea!!!...as long as I'm not the one praying out loud lol. Unfortunately after arguing for about 2 minutes as to why I wasn't going to be the one praying, I was unanimously selected and I had to lead the prayer. I was so nervous because these were friends who've never been to church with me although they know my love for God. Nevertheless, I led the prayer right there in the library of the school...I didn't mumble, I didn't speak under my breath, I spoke loud enough for people to know who I was praying to, what I was praying for, and why. I felt liberated!!! I submitted (as Jael said yesterday) and allowed God to use me. No one knew what the moment did for me, but I felt like it added the fuel to my fire within. That was another thing that I had conquered. Now I don't know what my reward will be for allowing God to use me, but I don't care. The greatest reward at that moment was the fearlessness that transpired during that moment.

Today's challenge: Do something you wouldn't normally do today. Allow God to use you!!! This can be through the form of a smile, a hug, listening to someone's problems, paying someone's food at dinner, or calling an old friend who has been on your mind. When you work for God, it doesn't take too much out of you before you realize that everything that he asks of you is doable.

It's never too late to TRANSFORM YOUR TUESDAY!!!

TRANSFORMING TUESDAYS: JAMERA

Merciful Monday: Keep Calm and Submit to God

²¹“Submit to God, and you will have peace;
    then things will go well for you.
²² Listen to his instructions,
    and store them in your heart.
²³ If you return to the Almighty, you will be restored—
    so clean up your life.
²⁴ If you give up your lust for money
    and throw your precious gold into the river,
²⁵ the Almighty himself will be your treasure.
    He will be your precious silver! (Job 22:21-25)

A lot of times, when we hear the word “submit” it is often used in derogatory terms. Although it is impossible to live life without every submitting to someone or something, the word seems to have a negative connotation. Submission is most often associated with slavery and surrender. The true definition of the word, however, is “to yield oneself to the authority or will of another” (Merriam-Webster).

The Bible talks a lot about submitting to authority figures such as spiritual leaders, parents, teachers, etc. But Job 22 tells that most of all, we need to submit to God.

I believe that submission is the principal crux of Christianity. Nearly every Bible lesson illustrates this point. When Moses was told to go to Pharaoh and command him to let the Israelites go, he had to submit to God in order to free the people. When Joseph was told that Mary was pregnant, he had to submit to God in order to father the greatest man that walked the earth. And when Saul went blind, he had to submit to God in order to be healed. I can go on and on with stories, but the point is that submission is the first step to recovery! By submitting, we openly admit to God that we need his help because we can’t do __________ (insert whatever problem you are facing) all alone.

Ok you may be asking: “What are the benefits of submitting??” Job 22:21 says that these things will happen when you submit to God:

• You will find peace
• Things will go well for you
• You will be restored
• The Almighty himself will be your treasure

Doesn't that sound so comforting? I know that I struggle with all of these things sometimes, but most of all with finding peace. I always say that I am easily annoyed (God is working on me though!). I let things get to me and I focus on small details, but it is so awesome to know that when I submit to God and let him handle things for me instead of trying to work them out on my own, he will give me HIS peace which passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

“Do not be stubborn, as they were, but submit yourselves to the Lord. Come to his Temple, which he has set apart as holy forever. Worship the Lord your God so that his fierce anger will turn away from you” (2 Chronicles 30:8).

Today’s Challenge: When problems arise for you today (no matter how big or how small), remember to worship the Lord and submit yourself to him. He will lead and guide you; he will help you find peace.

Merciful Mondays: Jael

^“For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors.” Deuteronomy 4:31

Salvation Sunday: Be Strong and of Good Courage

Is there a circumstance that fear is hindering your progress? Is there a decision that you have to make but you don't know what to do? Are you praying unto God and asking God but there is some doubt creeping in? Today's reading deals with the concept of being strong in the Lord!!

In Joshua, the theme or phrase that is seen repeatedly is be strong and of good courage. Joshua is told by God to stay strong in God. Basically, Joshua is to keep trusting in God. Joshua is being commanded by God to move forward and take the land that is promised unto them. And God keeps saying to trust in Him an stay strong. Keep the faith because He is with Him. Many times God gives a word or a promise for us to pursue. Many times fear or an obstacle steps in our pathway. Unfortunately, we allow that situation to stop us from moving. We don't realize who we serve. We limit Gods power by not allowing Him to move us to where we need to go. We don't allow God to work miracles and open doors on our behalf. Is there a job or something God has promised you that something is blocking your vision? Did God promise you that job or opportunity? So, why are you letting some situation stop you from receiving what God has given and promised you? Where is your faith? Why are you not calling on God? Be of good courage and be strong in the Lord.

Joshua sends two spies to check out the city of Jericho. Now, this city was blocking their view of their destination. Instead of Joshua allowing it to stop them, he sent two spies into the city. Because Joshua trusted in God, the two spies met a harlot who helped them escape safely and asked for her family to be saved. She heard what miracles had been performed and stepped out in faith. In this process, doors opened for both parties. For Joshua, the two spies got away safely thanks to the lady. And to the lady, she received the opportunity to be saved at the end of the destruction of Jericho. When you trust God and act upon his will, you never know what doors will open up and you never know what He has in store for your life. Just gotta stay strong and trust God!!

Now, in Acts, the apostles were being persecuted for preaching the gospel. But, they were doing it because God called them to do it. God  assigned them to preach the good news to the world. These apostles went around the world and were scattered. However, they trusted God for Him to make ways. In the process of their obedience, God led people to them that were hungry for God. As Christians, God is going to lead us to people that are hungry for God. As his children, we have an obligation to help those in need of hearing the word. Luckily, we don't receive persecutions like the apostles do. We are not crucified or poisoned or stoned. The worst we get now is attitudes or being made fun of. As Christians, we need to remember to trust God and let Him lead us.

For those that are waiting on God for direction, just trust God. Sometimes God just wants his people to just wait on God. Have you ever prayed fervently and tried different options to get the answer from God? When you do all that you can, stand on the promises of God. Keep trusting God and just stand on Him. Donnie McClurkin sang it best!!! After you've done all you can, you just stand!!!

Recently, I was pulled from a program that dealt with my future. It devastated me and shame came all over me. I didn't know what to do with myself. I prayed unto God and just asked for direction. I kept asking for his perfect will to be done. And I kept praying. I asked others to pray with me. Eventually, I got to the point where I stopped stressing and gave the shame that I had to God and let Him lead my life. Honestly, once I fully trusted God and just stood on Gods word, I received peace and understanding. I encourage you that if a stumbling block gets in your way of your purpose or promise, be strong and let God have His way.

Stay blessed and be strong!!!

"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. "
Joshua 1:8-9

Salvation Sundays: Steven Gable

GUEST BLOGGER APRIL: A TRUE Relationship with God- Praise Him through the good and the bad

We Need the LORD:

We are all human. And most things, we cannot do through just human strength; we need God’s help, his guidance and direction, his strength, and his salvation. We as followers of Christ must seek him and praise him as much as we can.

How many of us have such crazy faith that no matter what comes your way, you PRAISE and TRUST God 100% throughout the day in each situation? During trials and tough situations, we struggle with doubt, with faith, and we even question the works of God. But just always remember: HEAVENLY FATHER KNOWS BEST!!! And he wants nothing but the best for you. Pursue a strong and true relationship with God.

*James 1:2-4- Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

A special relationship

Many only call on the name of Jesus, or pray, or finally turn to God only when we feel that we need him; when we feel helpless. A special relationship requires time, sacrifice, commitment, and communication. For example, say you had a friend, a family member or even a significant other. They say they appreciate you, they care about you, they love you, BUT the thing is, your friend, or family member barely stays in contact with you. The ONLY time when they bother to call you or come to see you is when they NEED something from you, like money, advice, property, food, or shelter. Personally, I believe that I would be deeply offended because it doesn’t seem like a true relationship. I wonder how God feels, when I don’t take time out to talk to him during my good times, and only pray or bother to seek Him when I need his strength during hard times.

“God is a NECESSITY in our lives, NOT an option.

He must be our FIRST priority, NOT the last resort.”

Here is a song that expresses this type of relationship:

This song says “You say that you love me, and cant live without me. Then why do you call me only when you need me? Don’t wait until midnight!” Basically, the song is encouraging us NOT to wait until hard times to talk to God or to call on the name of the Lord. Strengthen your relationship with Jesus by learning more about him, taking more time to talk to him, and praising him more- through the sunshine, and through the storms. He wants ALL of us, not just a portion.

*Jeremiah 29:13: You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.

During rain or sunshine, call on the name of the Lord!

PRAISE AND SEEK HIM THROUGH EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE

Giving credit where credit is due:

When something works out for us, happens just the way we want it to, sometimes we get so wrapped up in ourselves that we forget to praise the One who brought it to pass! As Steven said a few weeks ago: “GIVE HONOR TO GOD, AND REMEMBER WHAT GOD HAS BROUGHT YOU FROM.” After all that he has done for each of us, HE DESERVES all of our praise.

Here is my testimony:

            I was a young teenager when I was diagnosed with a serious autoimmune disorder that affected nearly every part of my body. I was so sick down to my bones that I was no longer able to even walk. It changed my entire life, and made me see everything through a different perspective.

As long as I can remember, I got sick so many times every year- at least once each month. I experienced migraines, fatigue, damage to my kidneys/muscles/bones, memory loss, weight loss AND weight gain, heartburn, and even arthritis. I was put on medication for treatment, and had to take nearly 4 months of physical therapy to regain proper use of my legs. Because of this disorder, it was even easier for me to get sick, and my body struggled to fight every type of fever, virus, infection, cold and flu without a proper working immune system.

I ended up missing a lot of school, a lot of work, and had to spend several days at a time bedridden, because I was in such bad condition. When I was diagnosed, I knew I wouldn’t be able to get through it without God. So I praised Him, I prayed asking for guidance and comfort to get through my tough time.

My doctors, and my physical therapist have told me that since it is chronic and incurable, I would have to live with this illness for the rest of my life. But GOD had a different plan for me. It has been several years without any symptoms of this illness present in my body. It is now April 2013, which makes it an entire year and two months that I have not gotten sick at all. For me, THAT’S A RECORD! It’s been over a year that I have not missed one day of school, and have not had to call out from work because of illness! This past season, people everywhere around me were coming down with the flu, had sinus infections, and the common cold. I’m standing there in the midst of them with nothing but strength, health and GRATEFULNESS in my body.

NO illness, NO medication and NO boundaries. Thank You Jesus! By HIS stripes I have been healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

For the past several months now, God has revealed to me just how GOOD each day has been!!!! Another day that he has blessed all of us with!  Even if I had to shed a few tears, even if I received unpleasant news, no matter the circumstance, I still consider each day a good day. Why??? BECAUSE I REMEMBER WHERE GOD HAS BROUGHT ME FROM, AND WHAT HE’S BROUGHT ME THROUGH. And for that, God deserves all my praise. He saved my life, so my life belongs to Him!

THIS is why I got to praise God all the time under every circumstance.

THIS is why I must put Him at the center of my life, and continuously pray, and seek His face.

*1 Thessalonians 5:17-18: 17- Pray without ceasing, 18- give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Prayer: Dear God. Forgive me for the times I gave credit to myself instead of giving credit to You. Through the good and the bad, I will praise you. During rain or shine I will thank you. Help me to keep you as the first priority in my life. Thank you Jesus for all that you have done, and all that you are getting ready to do. Amen.

*Psalm 146:2 (ESV) I will praise the Lord as long as I live;
 I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

Stay close to Jesus!! Be blessed, not stressed.

If he brought you to it, he will bring you through it.

GUEST BLOGGER FOR APRIL: GRACE