Amos 7; Amos 8; Amos 9; Psalm 104; Titus 2
Scripture:
Psalm 104: 34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him;
As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD.
Observation:
Psalm 104 is full of praise for God. It declares how mighty He is and the works that He does. He shouts praises to God. I love how the Psalmist points to our thinking and encourages us to think on things that please God. He reflects on his own life and declares that his joy is in the Lord.
Application:
Joy is so interesting. People find joy in shopping, food, traveling and socializing. There is nothing wrong with that, just that it is short lived and one has to go from one vacation or trip to another, or from one party to another, or from one restaurant to a new one. It never stops. We almost become junkies looking for the next fix of joy. The Psalmist point us to God. He points us to meditating on God, reflecting on God. As we do this we come to a place of peace, release, joy and wholeness. The truth is that only God can fill the empty void in our life. Each and every time I seek joy in other places it is short lived. There is only one that can truly fill me with peace, joy and love, and His name is Jesus. He is my Shepherd, and He ‘feeds’ me each day. The past few days have been crazy, lots of golf, food, fellowship and a wedding. All busy, busy, busy. I have felt like I have been on a rollercoaster. But this morning I am blessed. I am blessed to sit and read the word and line my heart up to Him. I am blessed to think on God and His wonderful ways. I am blessed to meditate on the fact that God has me in the palm of His hand, and no good thing will He with hold from me. I am blessed that He is my portion, my joy, my peace, my love and my God. I am blessed that I am His son and that I carry the name that is above all names, the name of Jesus.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this morning. Thank You for peace, love and joy. Thank You that You never leave me nor forsake me. You are always with me, even when I get busy and do not take notice of You. Father Your love is amazing, so unconditional. Father I thank You for forgiveness, grace and love this morning. I am blessed to just be refreshed by You this morning. I pray that this day I would see You in many unique and special ways. Father bless my wife. Refresh her and anoint her. I pray for peace, love, joy and strength to fill her. Keep her close to You and help me to be an example and leader to her. Bless our home and finances this day. I thank You for wisdom with finances and wisdom for choices that need to be made. I pray Your blessing on all my leaders and students this morning. Bring them closer to You. Bless Pastor Dick and Miss Carla this morning. Refresh them and shower them with favor. Thank You for placing them in our lives.
Father thank You for the favor that You have placed on Cindy and I, may we not forget it I pray in Your Son’s name, Amen
Quote for this Season
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
God Always Restores
Jonah 1; Jonah 2; Jonah 3; Jonah 4; 2 Timothy 2
Scripture:
Jonah 1: 17And the LORD appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the stomach of the fish three days and three nights.
Observation:
Jonah disobeyed God and God brought a storm to the ship to cause fear in the hearts of the crew. They knew God was mad and that someone had sinned. Jonah confesses his sin and asks to be thrown overboard. God sends a whale to save Jonah from drowning and he ends up in the whales belly. Jonah is all alone with no where to go and no person with him. He come to his senses and realizes his sin and situation. He repents and God restores him.
Application:
This morning once again I see the Fathers heart. God could have punished Jonah and let the storm kill them all. Jonah had sinned and it was punishable by death. Yet God sends a storm to reveal there is sin and to separate Jonah from the innocent crew. God first saves the crew and then sends a whale to save Jonah from drowning.
God loves to restore His people. I have seen in my life times here I have been like Jonah, disobedient, rebellious to the things of God, stubborn and simply refusing to forgive when He asks me too. God could have chosen to be done with me. He could have looked for a better vessel. But each and every time He extended grace. Each and every time He brought me to my knees and forgave me. He did not send a whale, He sent Jesus. Jesus saves me, Jesus restores me, Jesus takes me to save ground. Paula White said it in a special way, ‘failure is not falling down, it is refusing to get back up!” God needs to shape my character. He wants to make me into a better man of God. He wants my heart to be like His. God needs to smooth out the rough edges so that I can go to the Nineveh’s of this world and tell them about the love and grace of God that leads to repentance. I am honored to be a son of God. I am so blessed that my Father forgives and restores all those who look to Him.
Prayer:
Father You have shown me grace and forgiveness so many times. Lord Your love for me is so amazing. Your grace and forgiveness so precious. Jesus I am reminded of the price You paid for me. Thank You for shedding Your blood for me. Thank You for laying down your life for me. Father I want to please You with my life. I pray Holy Spirit that You would teach me to be more disciplined and focused on the things of the kingdom. Father I repent for laziness and for being a Martha. Thank You for reminding me to keep first things first. I can loose it all except You. I do not want to loose Your presence in my life. Father lead me today. Bless this day and bless my wife. I ask You to pour out Your favor on us so that we may do Your will. Bless all our students and protect them. May Your angels be all around them. Bless all our volunteers and leaders this morning, may they feel Your love for them. Father fill me with wisdom, peace, love and Your words today.
amen
Scripture:
Jonah 1: 17And the LORD appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the stomach of the fish three days and three nights.
Observation:
Jonah disobeyed God and God brought a storm to the ship to cause fear in the hearts of the crew. They knew God was mad and that someone had sinned. Jonah confesses his sin and asks to be thrown overboard. God sends a whale to save Jonah from drowning and he ends up in the whales belly. Jonah is all alone with no where to go and no person with him. He come to his senses and realizes his sin and situation. He repents and God restores him.
Application:
This morning once again I see the Fathers heart. God could have punished Jonah and let the storm kill them all. Jonah had sinned and it was punishable by death. Yet God sends a storm to reveal there is sin and to separate Jonah from the innocent crew. God first saves the crew and then sends a whale to save Jonah from drowning.
God loves to restore His people. I have seen in my life times here I have been like Jonah, disobedient, rebellious to the things of God, stubborn and simply refusing to forgive when He asks me too. God could have chosen to be done with me. He could have looked for a better vessel. But each and every time He extended grace. Each and every time He brought me to my knees and forgave me. He did not send a whale, He sent Jesus. Jesus saves me, Jesus restores me, Jesus takes me to save ground. Paula White said it in a special way, ‘failure is not falling down, it is refusing to get back up!” God needs to shape my character. He wants to make me into a better man of God. He wants my heart to be like His. God needs to smooth out the rough edges so that I can go to the Nineveh’s of this world and tell them about the love and grace of God that leads to repentance. I am honored to be a son of God. I am so blessed that my Father forgives and restores all those who look to Him.
Prayer:
Father You have shown me grace and forgiveness so many times. Lord Your love for me is so amazing. Your grace and forgiveness so precious. Jesus I am reminded of the price You paid for me. Thank You for shedding Your blood for me. Thank You for laying down your life for me. Father I want to please You with my life. I pray Holy Spirit that You would teach me to be more disciplined and focused on the things of the kingdom. Father I repent for laziness and for being a Martha. Thank You for reminding me to keep first things first. I can loose it all except You. I do not want to loose Your presence in my life. Father lead me today. Bless this day and bless my wife. I ask You to pour out Your favor on us so that we may do Your will. Bless all our students and protect them. May Your angels be all around them. Bless all our volunteers and leaders this morning, may they feel Your love for them. Father fill me with wisdom, peace, love and Your words today.
amen
Monday, June 25, 2007
Coming Revival
Joel 1; Joel 2; Joel 3; 2 Timothy 1
Scripture:
Joel 2: 28"It will come about after this
That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind;
And your sons and daughters will prophesy,
Your old men will dream dreams,
Your young men will see visions.
29"Even on the male and female servants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days.
Observation:
Joel prophesied of a time coming when their would be an outpouring of God’s spirit on the earth. We have seen this in Acts and the continuation of this with various revivals. I believe this passage is said in the terms of reoccurring revivals.
Application:
I believe we are about to see a fresh revival in this youth generation. We live in a time where the young generation is dead to the presence of God. Some look at this fear, I look at it as a time for God to reveal His power, glory and presence. I think back on the prophecy of Ezekiel to the dry bones. We live in a dry time and I believe we will see the bones coming together again. I pray it so, I pray that we will see a revival at Urgency and a mighty move of God, releasing students to the nations.
Prayer:
God as I meditate on this passage, my spirit jumps for joy. I believe we are going to see a revival in the youth. A revival at Urgency. I know it sees like a valley of dry bones, but I hear the sound of the a mighty wind stirring. I hear dry bones coming together. I believe God You are going to do something mighty. I pray that my heart would line up. Keep my heart pure and humble. Keep me close to You. I know the enemy is trying to sift me and draw me away from my first love. Lord thank You for grace and Your presence. I cannot live without You in my life. You are my source and my joy. Lord bless every leader under me, anoint them and refresh them. Bring a revival to them. Change us all in the name of Jesus. Bless my wife and thank You for the fresh anointing on her. Bless Pastor Dick and Carla. Bless our church, in Jesus name, Amen
Scripture:
Joel 2: 28"It will come about after this
That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind;
And your sons and daughters will prophesy,
Your old men will dream dreams,
Your young men will see visions.
29"Even on the male and female servants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days.
Observation:
Joel prophesied of a time coming when their would be an outpouring of God’s spirit on the earth. We have seen this in Acts and the continuation of this with various revivals. I believe this passage is said in the terms of reoccurring revivals.
Application:
I believe we are about to see a fresh revival in this youth generation. We live in a time where the young generation is dead to the presence of God. Some look at this fear, I look at it as a time for God to reveal His power, glory and presence. I think back on the prophecy of Ezekiel to the dry bones. We live in a dry time and I believe we will see the bones coming together again. I pray it so, I pray that we will see a revival at Urgency and a mighty move of God, releasing students to the nations.
Prayer:
God as I meditate on this passage, my spirit jumps for joy. I believe we are going to see a revival in the youth. A revival at Urgency. I know it sees like a valley of dry bones, but I hear the sound of the a mighty wind stirring. I hear dry bones coming together. I believe God You are going to do something mighty. I pray that my heart would line up. Keep my heart pure and humble. Keep me close to You. I know the enemy is trying to sift me and draw me away from my first love. Lord thank You for grace and Your presence. I cannot live without You in my life. You are my source and my joy. Lord bless every leader under me, anoint them and refresh them. Bring a revival to them. Change us all in the name of Jesus. Bless my wife and thank You for the fresh anointing on her. Bless Pastor Dick and Carla. Bless our church, in Jesus name, Amen
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Blessings
2 Kings 10; 2 Chronicles 22; 2 Chronicles 23; 1 Timothy 5
Scripture:
1 Timothy 5: 18For the Scripture says, "YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING," and "The laborer is worthy of his wages."
Observation:
Paul reminds us to cake of those who work full time in preaching the good news. They should not be burdened with the material needs.
Application:
God has been so good to Cindy and I. He placed us in a great church with a great Sr. Pastor who takes care of us. We just moved into our new apartment and it is beautiful. Yesterday I just thanked God for blessing us with such a nice place. More and more I am learning to trust and receive the blessings of God. I feel I limit God so much at blessing me because I have a poverty mentality. More and more I am learning that God wants to bless me and make me a blessing. Not that I would go on an ego trip, but rather that I would be free from material burdens so that I can preach the word and do the work of the ministry. I know God wants to bless me more and I must keep my heart pure, my conscience good and my faith sincere as Paul told Timothy previously. I have seen blessing go to peoples heads and they either become prideful or they get lazy. I do not want pride or lethargy to creep into my life. There is still so much to do and I do not want financial pressure to hold me down.
Prayer:
Father thank You for the blessings You are pouring out into my life. Thank You for our new apartment and the joy I see in my wife. Lord continue to teach me to keep my heart humble and my mind focused on You. I know that You are going to bless me more and make me a blessing to others. Teach me steward Your blessings wisely. Lord bless my wife and her team tonight. I pray for Chad that he would be blessed by tonight and that You would help him to be a apart of the team. Speak a word to him. Lord thank You for the favor on Cindy and I. I pray that it would increase and bless thousands. Father guide the transition, bless every leader in our youth ministries. Bless every youth pastor. I pray for Pastor Dick and Adam, bless them and refresh them. Bless Melissa and Carlos as they speak this week. Prepare their hearts and give them a fresh word.
Thank You for this new day, guide me, speak to me and use me.
amen
Scripture:
1 Timothy 5: 18For the Scripture says, "YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING," and "The laborer is worthy of his wages."
Observation:
Paul reminds us to cake of those who work full time in preaching the good news. They should not be burdened with the material needs.
Application:
God has been so good to Cindy and I. He placed us in a great church with a great Sr. Pastor who takes care of us. We just moved into our new apartment and it is beautiful. Yesterday I just thanked God for blessing us with such a nice place. More and more I am learning to trust and receive the blessings of God. I feel I limit God so much at blessing me because I have a poverty mentality. More and more I am learning that God wants to bless me and make me a blessing. Not that I would go on an ego trip, but rather that I would be free from material burdens so that I can preach the word and do the work of the ministry. I know God wants to bless me more and I must keep my heart pure, my conscience good and my faith sincere as Paul told Timothy previously. I have seen blessing go to peoples heads and they either become prideful or they get lazy. I do not want pride or lethargy to creep into my life. There is still so much to do and I do not want financial pressure to hold me down.
Prayer:
Father thank You for the blessings You are pouring out into my life. Thank You for our new apartment and the joy I see in my wife. Lord continue to teach me to keep my heart humble and my mind focused on You. I know that You are going to bless me more and make me a blessing to others. Teach me steward Your blessings wisely. Lord bless my wife and her team tonight. I pray for Chad that he would be blessed by tonight and that You would help him to be a apart of the team. Speak a word to him. Lord thank You for the favor on Cindy and I. I pray that it would increase and bless thousands. Father guide the transition, bless every leader in our youth ministries. Bless every youth pastor. I pray for Pastor Dick and Adam, bless them and refresh them. Bless Melissa and Carlos as they speak this week. Prepare their hearts and give them a fresh word.
Thank You for this new day, guide me, speak to me and use me.
amen
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
One True God
2 Kings 4; 2 Kings 5; Psalm 83; 1 Timothy 2
Scripture:
1 Timothy 2: 5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
Observation:
There passage is a reminder that there is only on God and our mediator, our intercessor is Jesus Christ.
Application:
This passage might seem so simple, yet so many struggle with it. God is All Powerful, All Knowing and All Present. This is the God I serve. Nothing is impossible for Him. He is more than able. Jesus is my mediator with God. He prayers for me and advocates for the blessings of God over my life when the devil tries to prosecute me. I am so blessed. I am so honored to have Jesus as my mediator. His blood has set me free and I can call the one true God my Abba Father, my God.
Prayer:
Father You are my Father! You are my God and I worship You this morning. I exalt You high above my self. I declare You as the Lord over my life. Thank You that You choose me, thank You that You adopt me and made me Your own. Father thank You for the blessings of being Your child. I thank You Jesus that You are my mediator and You intercede for me. I thank You that You what is best for me. I thank You again for the precious blood that You shed for me. Father thank You for this day, thank You for our new apartment, I pray a blessing over it. Pray protection and peace over it. I pray a blessing over that apartment and ask You to fill it with Your blessing. Father I pray for our pastor today, bless him and give him favor. Raise him up for the nations. Heal his body and refresh him. Bless his marriage and family. Father I pray for tonight, bless Pastor Todd. May it be a special night for him and the youth. Bless his wife too.
Father thank You for the honor for leading a wonderful team and ministry. Bless all my leaders and anoint them. Father bless Deandre this day and speak to him in mighty ways today.
Father I pray for the transition of ministries and pray for protection and wisdom as you take us down the road. I rebuke the enemies plan to destroy what You are doing. Father keep all our hearts pure, righteous and sensitive to You.
amen
Scripture:
1 Timothy 2: 5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
Observation:
There passage is a reminder that there is only on God and our mediator, our intercessor is Jesus Christ.
Application:
This passage might seem so simple, yet so many struggle with it. God is All Powerful, All Knowing and All Present. This is the God I serve. Nothing is impossible for Him. He is more than able. Jesus is my mediator with God. He prayers for me and advocates for the blessings of God over my life when the devil tries to prosecute me. I am so blessed. I am so honored to have Jesus as my mediator. His blood has set me free and I can call the one true God my Abba Father, my God.
Prayer:
Father You are my Father! You are my God and I worship You this morning. I exalt You high above my self. I declare You as the Lord over my life. Thank You that You choose me, thank You that You adopt me and made me Your own. Father thank You for the blessings of being Your child. I thank You Jesus that You are my mediator and You intercede for me. I thank You that You what is best for me. I thank You again for the precious blood that You shed for me. Father thank You for this day, thank You for our new apartment, I pray a blessing over it. Pray protection and peace over it. I pray a blessing over that apartment and ask You to fill it with Your blessing. Father I pray for our pastor today, bless him and give him favor. Raise him up for the nations. Heal his body and refresh him. Bless his marriage and family. Father I pray for tonight, bless Pastor Todd. May it be a special night for him and the youth. Bless his wife too.
Father thank You for the honor for leading a wonderful team and ministry. Bless all my leaders and anoint them. Father bless Deandre this day and speak to him in mighty ways today.
Father I pray for the transition of ministries and pray for protection and wisdom as you take us down the road. I rebuke the enemies plan to destroy what You are doing. Father keep all our hearts pure, righteous and sensitive to You.
amen
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Three Things
2 Kings 1; 2 Kings 2; 2 Kings 3; Psalm 82; 1 Timothy 1
Scripture:
1 Timothy 1: 5 But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 6 For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion, 7 wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.
Observation:
Paul is writing to Timothy to encourage him to keep fighting the good fight. Timothy was seeing many Christians loose their faith. This discouraged him. Timothy was a young leader and Paul encourages him to keep a pure heart, good conscience and a sincere faith.
Application:
I heard Pastor teach this passage to his mentor group. He reminded them that every mature leader should seek these three qualities:
1. A pure heart
2. A good conscience
3. A sincere faith.
A pure heart is a heart that is consistently examined by the Holy Spirit. It is a heart that is teachable and loves correction. It is a heart like that of David that says Lord search me and know me, reveal nay wickedness in me. It is a heart that genuinely loves others. I believe a lot of leaders struggle to love others with the love of Christ because there are hidden motives rooted deep inside their heart. Motives always try and steal the glory of God a d rob one from truly reaching your destiny.
Secondly Paul speaks of a good conscience. This has all to do with the mind and thought life. A good conscience is comes through being transformed by the renewing of the mind. It comes through spending time in the word of God and understanding the truth’s and blessing s of God. I love how Paul starts with the heart, then moves to the mind and lastly to sincerity of faith. Sincerity of faith simply means faith without ‘wax’ in the Hebrew. It means a faith that is open, vulnerable, pure and real. I have learnt that ones faith truly matures in the secret place. Faith comes from hearing the Word, the voice of God. (Romans 10:17). I know in my life the greatest times of growth came through solitude and reflection. Times where the Holy Spirit mentored and corrected me. Today I am reminded by Paul to keep these three in perspective. To measure my faith by them. It all starts with the heart, a pure heart. That was the starting point for David. His heart was pure / genuine before God, and God loved him. May my heart be like that, may my mind and thought life be good, may my faith be without wax.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. Lord it all starts with the heart. I pray that my heart would be focused on You. I pray that my heart would remain teachable and open to your leading Holy Spirit. Lord remove selfish motives, pride and arrogance from within me. As Kim prophesied this weekend, I give you the key to my heart, I give you my treasure. Lord renew my mind. I pray that my mind would be filled with Your word and promises. It is so easy to dwell on the negative and meditate on fear. I pray that I would meditate on You. Lord thank You for the season of removing wax in my life. You have brought new levels of freedom to me. I am blessed by Your presence, I am blessed by Your love and peace. Father I pray for wisdom for this day. Help me to lead well. Guide my heart, mind and faith. May I bring glory and honor to You and You alone. Bless my wife and refresh her. Anoint her today and speak mighty words into her life. Thank You for the blessing she is to me.
Amen
Scripture:
1 Timothy 1: 5 But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 6 For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion, 7 wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.
Observation:
Paul is writing to Timothy to encourage him to keep fighting the good fight. Timothy was seeing many Christians loose their faith. This discouraged him. Timothy was a young leader and Paul encourages him to keep a pure heart, good conscience and a sincere faith.
Application:
I heard Pastor teach this passage to his mentor group. He reminded them that every mature leader should seek these three qualities:
1. A pure heart
2. A good conscience
3. A sincere faith.
A pure heart is a heart that is consistently examined by the Holy Spirit. It is a heart that is teachable and loves correction. It is a heart like that of David that says Lord search me and know me, reveal nay wickedness in me. It is a heart that genuinely loves others. I believe a lot of leaders struggle to love others with the love of Christ because there are hidden motives rooted deep inside their heart. Motives always try and steal the glory of God a d rob one from truly reaching your destiny.
Secondly Paul speaks of a good conscience. This has all to do with the mind and thought life. A good conscience is comes through being transformed by the renewing of the mind. It comes through spending time in the word of God and understanding the truth’s and blessing s of God. I love how Paul starts with the heart, then moves to the mind and lastly to sincerity of faith. Sincerity of faith simply means faith without ‘wax’ in the Hebrew. It means a faith that is open, vulnerable, pure and real. I have learnt that ones faith truly matures in the secret place. Faith comes from hearing the Word, the voice of God. (Romans 10:17). I know in my life the greatest times of growth came through solitude and reflection. Times where the Holy Spirit mentored and corrected me. Today I am reminded by Paul to keep these three in perspective. To measure my faith by them. It all starts with the heart, a pure heart. That was the starting point for David. His heart was pure / genuine before God, and God loved him. May my heart be like that, may my mind and thought life be good, may my faith be without wax.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. Lord it all starts with the heart. I pray that my heart would be focused on You. I pray that my heart would remain teachable and open to your leading Holy Spirit. Lord remove selfish motives, pride and arrogance from within me. As Kim prophesied this weekend, I give you the key to my heart, I give you my treasure. Lord renew my mind. I pray that my mind would be filled with Your word and promises. It is so easy to dwell on the negative and meditate on fear. I pray that I would meditate on You. Lord thank You for the season of removing wax in my life. You have brought new levels of freedom to me. I am blessed by Your presence, I am blessed by Your love and peace. Father I pray for wisdom for this day. Help me to lead well. Guide my heart, mind and faith. May I bring glory and honor to You and You alone. Bless my wife and refresh her. Anoint her today and speak mighty words into her life. Thank You for the blessing she is to me.
Amen
Monday, June 18, 2007
Words and Attitude
Colossians 4
Scripture:
Colossians 4:5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.
Observation:
Paul reminds us to conduct ourselves in a way that points outsiders to God. We are to watch our speech and make sure that it contains grave and love. Ones words and attitudes reveals ones heart.
Application:
It is so easy to get wrapped up in your daily affairs and forget that people are watching you. The other day a guy flipped me off because I was slow in taking off from a red light. I was reaching for my cell phone and did not notice the light change. Instead of just forgetting about it and assuming the guys had a bad day, some anger rose up in me and I felt like going after him. Lucky for me wisdom stepped in and I backed off from doing something stupid. He noticed I was not happy and sped of quickly. I thought to myself that guy must think bad of me and it is all because of the way I handled the situation. Suddenly guilt cam over me and I start to wonder how uncomfortable it would be if he saw me at church. Jesus said they will know you are mine by your fruit. To be honest that day the fruit was rotten. I had to go home and repent and pray for that man. Yeah he was wrong to flip me off, but I was wrong to get mad. Jesus said turn the other cheek. I should have done that. Paul reminds me to be sensitive to outsiders and to watch my conduct.
Prayer:
Father I remember how ashamed I felt after that incident. It was a reminder to me how easy I can turn people off you. Lord I pray that next time I would handle the situation better and be light instead. Father I pray for that man again, bless him and meet him wherever he is at in life. Send people to him. Father I pray that my attitude and words would always honor You and point others to You. Father I pray for Your model in my life. Shape my character to be more like You. I pray for our youth ministry today and ask You to bless it. Raise it up for the nations. Bless me friend Deandre and continue to minister to him. Bless my wife and refresh her. Use her mightily for Your kingdom. Anoint her afresh and place Your favor on her life. Bless us as we move into our new apartment. Thank You for blessing us with it.
Bless my family in South Africa. Protect them and draw them closer to You.
Amen
Scripture:
Colossians 4:5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.
Observation:
Paul reminds us to conduct ourselves in a way that points outsiders to God. We are to watch our speech and make sure that it contains grave and love. Ones words and attitudes reveals ones heart.
Application:
It is so easy to get wrapped up in your daily affairs and forget that people are watching you. The other day a guy flipped me off because I was slow in taking off from a red light. I was reaching for my cell phone and did not notice the light change. Instead of just forgetting about it and assuming the guys had a bad day, some anger rose up in me and I felt like going after him. Lucky for me wisdom stepped in and I backed off from doing something stupid. He noticed I was not happy and sped of quickly. I thought to myself that guy must think bad of me and it is all because of the way I handled the situation. Suddenly guilt cam over me and I start to wonder how uncomfortable it would be if he saw me at church. Jesus said they will know you are mine by your fruit. To be honest that day the fruit was rotten. I had to go home and repent and pray for that man. Yeah he was wrong to flip me off, but I was wrong to get mad. Jesus said turn the other cheek. I should have done that. Paul reminds me to be sensitive to outsiders and to watch my conduct.
Prayer:
Father I remember how ashamed I felt after that incident. It was a reminder to me how easy I can turn people off you. Lord I pray that next time I would handle the situation better and be light instead. Father I pray for that man again, bless him and meet him wherever he is at in life. Send people to him. Father I pray that my attitude and words would always honor You and point others to You. Father I pray for Your model in my life. Shape my character to be more like You. I pray for our youth ministry today and ask You to bless it. Raise it up for the nations. Bless me friend Deandre and continue to minister to him. Bless my wife and refresh her. Use her mightily for Your kingdom. Anoint her afresh and place Your favor on her life. Bless us as we move into our new apartment. Thank You for blessing us with it.
Bless my family in South Africa. Protect them and draw them closer to You.
Amen
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Christ the Root
1 Kings 17; 1 Kings 18; 1 Kings 19; Colossians 2
Scripture:
Colossians 2: 6 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.
Observation:
Paul is reminding the Colossians to never forget their roots, their relationship with Jesus. Off that they are to build themselves in their faith. Christ is the foundation and our lifestyles and faith are built of Him.
Application:
More and more I am learning the need to do all things out of my relationship with Jesus Christ. To lead out of Him, to love out of Him, to serve out of Him to dream out of Him. He is my foundation, my rock, my cornerstone. It all starts from Him and flows from Him. I am blessed as I think on this. He truly desires to carry my burdens and shepherd me each day. In life is so easy to look to yourself and base your life on your circumstances. I choose to base my life on Christ and allow Him to mold me. I want what He has for me. I desire to be the man He sees me as. I desire to be a blessing to others and the reality is the only way that will happen is if I am living out of Him.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. It is a reminder that it all starts with You. My relationship and sensitivity to Your presence is the start of it all. Father thank You for working in me. Thank You that You are always with me and walk with me. Help me to lead out of You each and everyday. Help me to not get caught up in things that hold me back. Father fill me with wisdom to lead, love to show compassion and peace to be strong in times of confusion. Bless this day and all those close to me.
amen
Scripture:
Colossians 2: 6 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.
Observation:
Paul is reminding the Colossians to never forget their roots, their relationship with Jesus. Off that they are to build themselves in their faith. Christ is the foundation and our lifestyles and faith are built of Him.
Application:
More and more I am learning the need to do all things out of my relationship with Jesus Christ. To lead out of Him, to love out of Him, to serve out of Him to dream out of Him. He is my foundation, my rock, my cornerstone. It all starts from Him and flows from Him. I am blessed as I think on this. He truly desires to carry my burdens and shepherd me each day. In life is so easy to look to yourself and base your life on your circumstances. I choose to base my life on Christ and allow Him to mold me. I want what He has for me. I desire to be the man He sees me as. I desire to be a blessing to others and the reality is the only way that will happen is if I am living out of Him.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. It is a reminder that it all starts with You. My relationship and sensitivity to Your presence is the start of it all. Father thank You for working in me. Thank You that You are always with me and walk with me. Help me to lead out of You each and everyday. Help me to not get caught up in things that hold me back. Father fill me with wisdom to lead, love to show compassion and peace to be strong in times of confusion. Bless this day and all those close to me.
amen
Friday, June 15, 2007
His presence first
1 Kings 16; 2 Chronicles 15; 2 Chronicles 16; Colossians 1
Scripture:
Colossians 1: 9 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.
Observation:
Paul prays for the Colossians to be filled wit the Holy Spirit so that they may have knowledge and wisdom which will result in them living a life that pleases and brings glory to God.
Application:
What stands out for me today is that Paul prays that they would be filled first and then live out of that. Being filled simply means a continuing flow of God’s presence in your life. I see a lot of Christians experience god’s presence through worship, a message, prayer time, on a missions trip or camp. They encounter the presence of God and there is a new sensitivity to the presence of God. It is so easy for them to then live a life that pleases God. Discerning between sin and righteous living is easy, as the Holy Spirit’s conviction is loud and clear. The problem occurs when they stop encountering the presence of God, when the flow stops, the encounter stops. In a sense they start to ‘dry up’; their sensitivity to God’s presence decreased and suddenly the line between sin and righteous diminishes. We have all been there. I know when sin starts to creep into my life it is largely in part to my lack of being in the presence of God. Paul encourages me this morning to continually come into the presence of my God. To be in His word, to send time listen to worship and talk to God. As I come into His presence He will fill me. He will bring understanding, knowledge and revelation. Then living out God’s will, will become much clearer and easier because I will do it by His leading.
Prayer:
Father thank You that in Your presence is fullness of joy. I thank You that each time I come into Your presence I am refreshed and filled with You love, peace, power, joy and strength. Father help me to keep first things first. In this season I pray for wisdom and understanding. I pray for Your voice and presence in my life. I ask You to lead me so that I can lead Your lambs and sheep. Father thank You for the calling on my life. It is an honor and joy to serve You. Remove the things that hold me back from You. Give me a clean and pure heart. Father thank You that as I decrease, You increase. Bless my wife this day. Refresh her and fill her with Your presence. Help us to lead out of our relationship with You. Amen
Scripture:
Colossians 1: 9 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.
Observation:
Paul prays for the Colossians to be filled wit the Holy Spirit so that they may have knowledge and wisdom which will result in them living a life that pleases and brings glory to God.
Application:
What stands out for me today is that Paul prays that they would be filled first and then live out of that. Being filled simply means a continuing flow of God’s presence in your life. I see a lot of Christians experience god’s presence through worship, a message, prayer time, on a missions trip or camp. They encounter the presence of God and there is a new sensitivity to the presence of God. It is so easy for them to then live a life that pleases God. Discerning between sin and righteous living is easy, as the Holy Spirit’s conviction is loud and clear. The problem occurs when they stop encountering the presence of God, when the flow stops, the encounter stops. In a sense they start to ‘dry up’; their sensitivity to God’s presence decreased and suddenly the line between sin and righteous diminishes. We have all been there. I know when sin starts to creep into my life it is largely in part to my lack of being in the presence of God. Paul encourages me this morning to continually come into the presence of my God. To be in His word, to send time listen to worship and talk to God. As I come into His presence He will fill me. He will bring understanding, knowledge and revelation. Then living out God’s will, will become much clearer and easier because I will do it by His leading.
Prayer:
Father thank You that in Your presence is fullness of joy. I thank You that each time I come into Your presence I am refreshed and filled with You love, peace, power, joy and strength. Father help me to keep first things first. In this season I pray for wisdom and understanding. I pray for Your voice and presence in my life. I ask You to lead me so that I can lead Your lambs and sheep. Father thank You for the calling on my life. It is an honor and joy to serve You. Remove the things that hold me back from You. Give me a clean and pure heart. Father thank You that as I decrease, You increase. Bless my wife this day. Refresh her and fill her with Your presence. Help us to lead out of our relationship with You. Amen
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Living for the King
1 Kings 13; 1 Kings 14; 2 Chronicles 12; Philippians 3
Scripture:
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3: 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;
Observation:
Theses two verses speak to me of the new life God has called me to. I am a citizen of heaven, a new creation and I have a new future and responsibility to the king, King Jesus. The past is buried, and I am to move past it and not ponder on it like the Israelites did when they left Egypt. I am to run forward, to embrace all God has for me.
Application:
Today is my American citizenship ceremony. After living in America for 7 years I finally become a citizen of this nation. I am no longer a legal alien or permanent resident, in three hours I will be an American. All the benefits of this nation are mine and I take up a responsibility to protect this nation. What a blessing and joy for Cindy and I. I am so honored to become an American citizen. I am a citizen of heaven too. I have all the benefits of heaven and a new responsibility too. I am to tell the world of King Jesus. I am to declare the goodness, love and mercy of God. I am to point others to Him and invite them to the Kings presence. Paul instructs us to forget the things of the past, to move forward, to embrace our citizenship to heaven. As I think on this I realize that I fall short so often the things God has for me. I miss out so much on all the benefits because I am to focused on my limitations or to distracted to call on the authority of the King. Today is a reminder to me that I have a responsibility to point others to heaven to King Jesus. The King wants to increase His kingdom and I am called to be His messenger.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this wonderful day. It is a day of great blessing and favor for us. You have led us on a journey that is coming to a close. I firstly want to thank and praise You for every door You opened. I remember the fears I used to live in about coming to this nation and doing your work. The obstacles and yet You have led me. I am honored to become a citizen of America. I am blessed to serve this nation. Father I am more blessed to serve You. I am honored to be a citizen of heaven and to represent the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Father thank You for welcoming me into Your kingdom. Teach me to steward Your kingdom wisely and faithfully. Teach me to lead well. Holy Spirit reveal to me the desires and plans of the King. I want to be a faithful servant of the King. Father I call on all the blessings and benefits of the King. I ask for wisdom, vision, discernement, authority, confidence, righteousness and favor. Father with Your favor all things are possible. Father bless every student in our ministry, bless every youth leader this day. Anoint them and fill them with vision and purpose. I pray for every empty seat that You would fill it. Bless tonight and give me Your Word. I pray for favor and a love in the room. I pray for clear understanding. I ask You to bless Deandre in Redding. Minister deep truth and revelation into his heart. Blessing and make him a blessing to the nations. Bless Jen and fill her with peace and joy. Father thank You for my wife. She has been faithful and a rock in my life. I ask You to give her the desires of her heart. Continue to speak prophetically to her. Raise her up for Your glory. Thank You for the healing in her life. She is a trophy in Your Kingdom. Father thank You for all You are doing in my life. I thank You for setting me free from my past, for making me a new man. I bless Your Holy Name and pray that this day I would be honor to Your name.
Amen
Scripture:
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3: 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;
Observation:
Theses two verses speak to me of the new life God has called me to. I am a citizen of heaven, a new creation and I have a new future and responsibility to the king, King Jesus. The past is buried, and I am to move past it and not ponder on it like the Israelites did when they left Egypt. I am to run forward, to embrace all God has for me.
Application:
Today is my American citizenship ceremony. After living in America for 7 years I finally become a citizen of this nation. I am no longer a legal alien or permanent resident, in three hours I will be an American. All the benefits of this nation are mine and I take up a responsibility to protect this nation. What a blessing and joy for Cindy and I. I am so honored to become an American citizen. I am a citizen of heaven too. I have all the benefits of heaven and a new responsibility too. I am to tell the world of King Jesus. I am to declare the goodness, love and mercy of God. I am to point others to Him and invite them to the Kings presence. Paul instructs us to forget the things of the past, to move forward, to embrace our citizenship to heaven. As I think on this I realize that I fall short so often the things God has for me. I miss out so much on all the benefits because I am to focused on my limitations or to distracted to call on the authority of the King. Today is a reminder to me that I have a responsibility to point others to heaven to King Jesus. The King wants to increase His kingdom and I am called to be His messenger.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this wonderful day. It is a day of great blessing and favor for us. You have led us on a journey that is coming to a close. I firstly want to thank and praise You for every door You opened. I remember the fears I used to live in about coming to this nation and doing your work. The obstacles and yet You have led me. I am honored to become a citizen of America. I am blessed to serve this nation. Father I am more blessed to serve You. I am honored to be a citizen of heaven and to represent the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Father thank You for welcoming me into Your kingdom. Teach me to steward Your kingdom wisely and faithfully. Teach me to lead well. Holy Spirit reveal to me the desires and plans of the King. I want to be a faithful servant of the King. Father I call on all the blessings and benefits of the King. I ask for wisdom, vision, discernement, authority, confidence, righteousness and favor. Father with Your favor all things are possible. Father bless every student in our ministry, bless every youth leader this day. Anoint them and fill them with vision and purpose. I pray for every empty seat that You would fill it. Bless tonight and give me Your Word. I pray for favor and a love in the room. I pray for clear understanding. I ask You to bless Deandre in Redding. Minister deep truth and revelation into his heart. Blessing and make him a blessing to the nations. Bless Jen and fill her with peace and joy. Father thank You for my wife. She has been faithful and a rock in my life. I ask You to give her the desires of her heart. Continue to speak prophetically to her. Raise her up for Your glory. Thank You for the healing in her life. She is a trophy in Your Kingdom. Father thank You for all You are doing in my life. I thank You for setting me free from my past, for making me a new man. I bless Your Holy Name and pray that this day I would be honor to Your name.
Amen
Monday, June 11, 2007
Heart Matters
Song of Solomon 5; Song of Solomon 6; Song of Solomon 7; Song of Solomon 8; Philippians 1
Scripture:
Philippians 1: 6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
Observation:
Paul reminds us that each one of us are in a process of having our hearts shaped and molded and that this shaping will continue until the day Jesus Christ returns. I have not even come close to the finished product, there is still a lot for God to do in shaping my character.
Application:
Once again I am reminded this morning that character is what God is looking for. God is more concerned with the state of my heart than all the trophies I collect. God can only use me as far as what my character and heart will take me. God cannot use me when my heart becomes all about me, when pride come in the door or sin captures my heart. On Saturday night I went to see Joel Osteen preach. I realized that there was nothing flashy about him. He is simply a man that loves Jesus and keeps his character in check. He is the same off stage and on stage and the truth is that God can use a man like that. He is not standing in the way of God, no he is simply available for whatever God wants to do. I walked away saying that could be me. This morning I realize that there is so much more for God to do in shaping my character. There is so much fear, insecurities and pride. I am blessed to know that each and every day He is healing me and raising me up. Each and everyday I am taking a step closer to the destiny He has for me. I am blessed today because He believes in me! He created me and though the best for me. His plans are higher than mine and I want His plans for my life. I am so blessed to be a work in motion for the King.
Prayer:
Father God thank You that You are molding me and working in and through me. Thank you for the dreams You have for me. Thank You for the plans and purposes You have for me. I am blessed as I think on all the things that You still want to do through me. Lord work in me. Remove the things that hold me back from my future. Remove the insecurities and fears. I thank You this morning that all things are possible to them who believe. I stand on Your word this morning that You are going to bring a revival to our youth. Bless each youth pastor and worker this morning. Thank You for the dream inside of them and me. Unite us by Your Holy Spirit. Lord bring a Revival to the Youth of Jubilee. Make us a blessing to our city, nation and the world. Thank You Jesus that it is not by might nor power, but by Your Spirit.
Bless my wife today, refresh her and thank You for placing her in front of great leaders. Bless Pastor Dick this day, refresh him and Carla and bless there trip. Amen
Scripture:
Philippians 1: 6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
Observation:
Paul reminds us that each one of us are in a process of having our hearts shaped and molded and that this shaping will continue until the day Jesus Christ returns. I have not even come close to the finished product, there is still a lot for God to do in shaping my character.
Application:
Once again I am reminded this morning that character is what God is looking for. God is more concerned with the state of my heart than all the trophies I collect. God can only use me as far as what my character and heart will take me. God cannot use me when my heart becomes all about me, when pride come in the door or sin captures my heart. On Saturday night I went to see Joel Osteen preach. I realized that there was nothing flashy about him. He is simply a man that loves Jesus and keeps his character in check. He is the same off stage and on stage and the truth is that God can use a man like that. He is not standing in the way of God, no he is simply available for whatever God wants to do. I walked away saying that could be me. This morning I realize that there is so much more for God to do in shaping my character. There is so much fear, insecurities and pride. I am blessed to know that each and every day He is healing me and raising me up. Each and everyday I am taking a step closer to the destiny He has for me. I am blessed today because He believes in me! He created me and though the best for me. His plans are higher than mine and I want His plans for my life. I am so blessed to be a work in motion for the King.
Prayer:
Father God thank You that You are molding me and working in and through me. Thank you for the dreams You have for me. Thank You for the plans and purposes You have for me. I am blessed as I think on all the things that You still want to do through me. Lord work in me. Remove the things that hold me back from my future. Remove the insecurities and fears. I thank You this morning that all things are possible to them who believe. I stand on Your word this morning that You are going to bring a revival to our youth. Bless each youth pastor and worker this morning. Thank You for the dream inside of them and me. Unite us by Your Holy Spirit. Lord bring a Revival to the Youth of Jubilee. Make us a blessing to our city, nation and the world. Thank You Jesus that it is not by might nor power, but by Your Spirit.
Bless my wife today, refresh her and thank You for placing her in front of great leaders. Bless Pastor Dick this day, refresh him and Carla and bless there trip. Amen
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Imitating the King
Ecclesiastes 10; Ecclesiastes 11; Ecclesiastes 12; Psalm 94;
Ephesians 5
Scripture:
Ephesians 5: 1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
Observation:
Paul challenge the Ephesians to take on and pursue the nature of Jesus Christ. They were to become a reflection of Jesus to those around them. This would happen as they started to live out their faith and Paul calls them to walk in love and service. This would be a sweet aroma to God.
Application:
Myles Munroe challenged me and the men at the men’s retreat to become kingdom men. Kingdom men are men that represent the king. They reflect the nature and heart of the king. I am a kingdom man, I represent the heart and vision of the king here on earth. Paul brings this imitating God onto a practical level. He says ‘walk in love’ and he calls us to give ourselves to serving others. I have seen that this is the best way to represent Jesus. Serving others reveals the love and heart of Jesus. People truly do not care how much you know until they know how much you care! I am learning that in this season of my life the greatest gift I have is the ability to love others around me. I pray that I would continue to love and serve others, and may it be a sweet aroma to my Lord, Savior and King. I want nothing more than to represent King Jesus well.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word. M greatest desire is for people to see You in me. I want people to taste and see that the Lord is go through the way I love and serve them. Thank You again for the calling on my life. I am honored and blessed that You would choose a person like me. Continue to mold and shape me into the man of God You desire for me to be. Bless my wife this day. Refresh her and thank You for touching her heart last night. Bless our home and finances and make us a blessing to others. I pray this all in the name of my King, King Jesus.
Amen
Ephesians 5
Scripture:
Ephesians 5: 1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
Observation:
Paul challenge the Ephesians to take on and pursue the nature of Jesus Christ. They were to become a reflection of Jesus to those around them. This would happen as they started to live out their faith and Paul calls them to walk in love and service. This would be a sweet aroma to God.
Application:
Myles Munroe challenged me and the men at the men’s retreat to become kingdom men. Kingdom men are men that represent the king. They reflect the nature and heart of the king. I am a kingdom man, I represent the heart and vision of the king here on earth. Paul brings this imitating God onto a practical level. He says ‘walk in love’ and he calls us to give ourselves to serving others. I have seen that this is the best way to represent Jesus. Serving others reveals the love and heart of Jesus. People truly do not care how much you know until they know how much you care! I am learning that in this season of my life the greatest gift I have is the ability to love others around me. I pray that I would continue to love and serve others, and may it be a sweet aroma to my Lord, Savior and King. I want nothing more than to represent King Jesus well.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word. M greatest desire is for people to see You in me. I want people to taste and see that the Lord is go through the way I love and serve them. Thank You again for the calling on my life. I am honored and blessed that You would choose a person like me. Continue to mold and shape me into the man of God You desire for me to be. Bless my wife this day. Refresh her and thank You for touching her heart last night. Bless our home and finances and make us a blessing to others. I pray this all in the name of my King, King Jesus.
Amen
Friday, June 8, 2007
Godly Character
Ecclesiastes 7; Ecclesiastes 8; Ecclesiastes 9; Ephesians 4
Scripture:
Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Observation:
Paul reminds us to walk in a way that honors God. He describes this with attitudes of the heart: humility, gentleness, patience, tolerance, love and unity.
Application:
It is so easy in life to get focused on doing and miss out becoming a person of character. Our leadership team studied character yesterday and it was a great reminder that character is critical to being effective as a leader. So often we focus on task and getting the job done. I pray that at the end of my ministry years that my on stage and off stage would be exactly the same. May people see me now as a man of God on and off stage. May my lifestyle radiant humility, grace, compassion, love, gentleness and peace. May others see my King in me.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. It is a reminder that my lifestyle is more critical than my ministry. Help me to grow into a man of character. I pray that my life would honor You and give You glory. Father I thank You for the season of my life. I thank You for all You are doing in and through me. I pray that I would not take You and Your blessings for granted. Father bless my wife. Refresh her and touch her. Bless her at tonights meeting and speak a powerful word to us. Thank You again for placing us in Jubilee. Bless Pastor Dick and heal his body. Bless Carla and continue to refresh and bless her.
Amen
Scripture:
Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Observation:
Paul reminds us to walk in a way that honors God. He describes this with attitudes of the heart: humility, gentleness, patience, tolerance, love and unity.
Application:
It is so easy in life to get focused on doing and miss out becoming a person of character. Our leadership team studied character yesterday and it was a great reminder that character is critical to being effective as a leader. So often we focus on task and getting the job done. I pray that at the end of my ministry years that my on stage and off stage would be exactly the same. May people see me now as a man of God on and off stage. May my lifestyle radiant humility, grace, compassion, love, gentleness and peace. May others see my King in me.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. It is a reminder that my lifestyle is more critical than my ministry. Help me to grow into a man of character. I pray that my life would honor You and give You glory. Father I thank You for the season of my life. I thank You for all You are doing in and through me. I pray that I would not take You and Your blessings for granted. Father bless my wife. Refresh her and touch her. Bless her at tonights meeting and speak a powerful word to us. Thank You again for placing us in Jubilee. Bless Pastor Dick and heal his body. Bless Carla and continue to refresh and bless her.
Amen
Thursday, June 7, 2007
All Through Him
Ecclesiastes 4; Ecclesiastes 5; Ecclesiastes 6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3
Scripture:
Psalm 18: 29For by You I can run upon a troop;
And by my God I can leap over a wall.
30As for God, His way is blameless;
The word of the LORD is tried;
He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.
Observation:
David declares God to be the highest authority and power in the universe. He reminds us that through the power, protection and strength of God we can do great things. In times of storms or trials, God is faithful, He is a shield and tower to those in need.
Application:
This morning I am reminded again of the scripture Bill Hybles spoke of, “not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord.” David was a worshipper and he knew the Spirit of the Lord. He knew the presence of God. He knew that if God was on His side nothing could stand in his way. David ran through troops, he defeated giants and kingdoms. He knew that all this was done through the Spirit of God. One day even when the odds were for him and the battle seemed so easy, he would not go to war until the prophet had prayed over and blessed them. He always waited on God, for he knew that it was through God that the battle would be won. This morning I am reminded to lead out of my relationship with Him. I must stay close to Him, I must listen to Him, I must seek Him. God promises to be with me and give me the keys to the kingdom. I pray that my leadership come from following the Great Shepherd each and every day.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word. Thank You that You are faithful. Thank You that You are my shield, my rock and my fortress. Thank You that I need not fear what men say about me. Thank You that through obedience and a heart set on You I will always lead well. Lord give me the heart of a shepherd. Teach me to feed the sheep. I pray for wisdom, discernment and favor. Father lead me. I pray for Urgency this morning. Father Your will be done. Father raise it up to bless the nations. I pray for the leadership team. Father anoint each one and raise them up to be mighty men and women of God. Father bless each student this day. Fill them with peace and faith You are in control. Bless every volunteer, help them through this transition. Bless Pastor Todd. Give him his hearts desire. Move mightily for him. This day I ask You to bless my wife. Refresh her and thank You for the inspiration she is to me in worship. Amen
Scripture:
Psalm 18: 29For by You I can run upon a troop;
And by my God I can leap over a wall.
30As for God, His way is blameless;
The word of the LORD is tried;
He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.
Observation:
David declares God to be the highest authority and power in the universe. He reminds us that through the power, protection and strength of God we can do great things. In times of storms or trials, God is faithful, He is a shield and tower to those in need.
Application:
This morning I am reminded again of the scripture Bill Hybles spoke of, “not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord.” David was a worshipper and he knew the Spirit of the Lord. He knew the presence of God. He knew that if God was on His side nothing could stand in his way. David ran through troops, he defeated giants and kingdoms. He knew that all this was done through the Spirit of God. One day even when the odds were for him and the battle seemed so easy, he would not go to war until the prophet had prayed over and blessed them. He always waited on God, for he knew that it was through God that the battle would be won. This morning I am reminded to lead out of my relationship with Him. I must stay close to Him, I must listen to Him, I must seek Him. God promises to be with me and give me the keys to the kingdom. I pray that my leadership come from following the Great Shepherd each and every day.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word. Thank You that You are faithful. Thank You that You are my shield, my rock and my fortress. Thank You that I need not fear what men say about me. Thank You that through obedience and a heart set on You I will always lead well. Lord give me the heart of a shepherd. Teach me to feed the sheep. I pray for wisdom, discernment and favor. Father lead me. I pray for Urgency this morning. Father Your will be done. Father raise it up to bless the nations. I pray for the leadership team. Father anoint each one and raise them up to be mighty men and women of God. Father bless each student this day. Fill them with peace and faith You are in control. Bless every volunteer, help them through this transition. Bless Pastor Todd. Give him his hearts desire. Move mightily for him. This day I ask You to bless my wife. Refresh her and thank You for the inspiration she is to me in worship. Amen
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Wisdom, Unity and Focus
Proverbs 30; Proverbs 31; Psalm 33; Ephesians 1
Scripture:
Proverbs 30: 25 The ants are not a strong people,
But they prepare their food in the summer;
Proverbs 30: 27 The locusts have no king,
Yet all of them go out in ranks;
Observation:
These two verses speak of wisdom and focus. The ants know that preparation for winter is necessary for survival. The locusts are so focused an united even without a leader. Unity is powerful.
Application:
As I reflect on the verse of the ants I ask myself the question, “What principles are needed for me to make it in the long run?” Paul says we are to run the race with the mindset of finishing well. The spiritual race we are in is not always easy. There will be times of energy bursts and times of cramps and dehydration. More and more I am appreciating the Life Journal. As I look back on my life it has brought me closer to God and giving me a clearer understanding on God’s will for my life. I am entering a new season, it will be a season of stretching, giving and lots of hours. I must prepare for this. I must guard my heart, keep it soft and open to the fresh touch of God. I must plan and schedule times of solitude, reflection and prayer. I must put the rocks in my life in place. As we enter this new season I pray that we would become as focused as the locusts. I pray that unity, focus and passion will rise up in this team. I pray that our love for one another would increase. I pray that God would lead us and make us one with each other and Him. A house divided cannot stand, but a team united will see the blessings of God.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. Help me to guard my time and to be as wise as the ants. May I never forget that my first ministry is to You. Holy Spirit lead me, convict me when I need to rest or find solitude. Teach me how to run the race before me with endurance. I desire to run this race and honor Jesus by the manner in which I run it. Father I pray today that You would bring a spirit of Unity amongst this team. Bring a passion and focus to our hearts. Father unless You build this house, this ministry, we labor in vein. Lord build this ministry, show us how to do our parts. Father I thank You for each person on this team. Lord bring out the best in us. Lord I thank You for all You are doing and give You all the glory and honor. Bless Your Holy Name forever and ever.
amen
Scripture:
Proverbs 30: 25 The ants are not a strong people,
But they prepare their food in the summer;
Proverbs 30: 27 The locusts have no king,
Yet all of them go out in ranks;
Observation:
These two verses speak of wisdom and focus. The ants know that preparation for winter is necessary for survival. The locusts are so focused an united even without a leader. Unity is powerful.
Application:
As I reflect on the verse of the ants I ask myself the question, “What principles are needed for me to make it in the long run?” Paul says we are to run the race with the mindset of finishing well. The spiritual race we are in is not always easy. There will be times of energy bursts and times of cramps and dehydration. More and more I am appreciating the Life Journal. As I look back on my life it has brought me closer to God and giving me a clearer understanding on God’s will for my life. I am entering a new season, it will be a season of stretching, giving and lots of hours. I must prepare for this. I must guard my heart, keep it soft and open to the fresh touch of God. I must plan and schedule times of solitude, reflection and prayer. I must put the rocks in my life in place. As we enter this new season I pray that we would become as focused as the locusts. I pray that unity, focus and passion will rise up in this team. I pray that our love for one another would increase. I pray that God would lead us and make us one with each other and Him. A house divided cannot stand, but a team united will see the blessings of God.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. Help me to guard my time and to be as wise as the ants. May I never forget that my first ministry is to You. Holy Spirit lead me, convict me when I need to rest or find solitude. Teach me how to run the race before me with endurance. I desire to run this race and honor Jesus by the manner in which I run it. Father I pray today that You would bring a spirit of Unity amongst this team. Bring a passion and focus to our hearts. Father unless You build this house, this ministry, we labor in vein. Lord build this ministry, show us how to do our parts. Father I thank You for each person on this team. Lord bring out the best in us. Lord I thank You for all You are doing and give You all the glory and honor. Bless Your Holy Name forever and ever.
amen
Monday, June 4, 2007
Keeping a Soft Heart
Proverbs 28; Proverbs 29; Psalm 60; Romans 16
Scripture:
Proverbs 28: 14 Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD,
but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
Romans 16: 17 I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
Observation:
Both these passages speak to me about a person’s heart. God desires for us to keep our soft and obedient to His will and ways. Proverbs 28:14 says blessed is the man, blessings come to those who keep a pure heart. The same is said in the parable of the sower. The seed fell on good ground and produced a harvest. A good heart, a god focused and sensitive heart will produce blessings.
Application:
I have been through many seasons in my life where my heart has been wounded through people. Those season’s were the worst times of my life. I felt like I was dying spiritual and connecting with God’s presence was so difficult. Many of these times I felt so alone. I would cry out to God and feel like He was miles away. But each time that I would return to God through repentance and forgiving those who hurt me, I would immediately sense the presence of God. I have learnt that a hardened heart truly robs you of God’s presence and blessings.
Paul warns us to be on the look out for those who cause dissension by tearing down and sowing division. He declares that they are not about God’s will. These seek recognition, approval or affirmation so heal their own brokenness. There will always be people that do not like me. It is impossible to please all of mankind. I must guard my heart from being polluted or hurt by the words of others. I must stay obedient to that which God has called me to. If my heart gets in a mess, then I cannot lead and feed the lambs and sheep. David asked the Lord to search his heart, I too must do this. Leadership truly starts and ends with the heart.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. I pray that I would keep a pure and obedient heart. Holy Spirit correct me when my heart starts to harden. Father I do not want to loose Your presence in my life. A hardened heart is a dry heart. Please fill my heart with Your love, peace patience and passions. Father search my heart and reveal to me daily the things that do not please You. Father thank You for this time away and for bringing us here. Bless this team, anoint them and use them for Your glory. I thank You that it is not by might nor power but by Your Holy Spirit that revival will come. Bless this day. Bless my wife and fill her heart with Your presence.
Amen
Scripture:
Proverbs 28: 14 Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD,
but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
Romans 16: 17 I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
Observation:
Both these passages speak to me about a person’s heart. God desires for us to keep our soft and obedient to His will and ways. Proverbs 28:14 says blessed is the man, blessings come to those who keep a pure heart. The same is said in the parable of the sower. The seed fell on good ground and produced a harvest. A good heart, a god focused and sensitive heart will produce blessings.
Application:
I have been through many seasons in my life where my heart has been wounded through people. Those season’s were the worst times of my life. I felt like I was dying spiritual and connecting with God’s presence was so difficult. Many of these times I felt so alone. I would cry out to God and feel like He was miles away. But each time that I would return to God through repentance and forgiving those who hurt me, I would immediately sense the presence of God. I have learnt that a hardened heart truly robs you of God’s presence and blessings.
Paul warns us to be on the look out for those who cause dissension by tearing down and sowing division. He declares that they are not about God’s will. These seek recognition, approval or affirmation so heal their own brokenness. There will always be people that do not like me. It is impossible to please all of mankind. I must guard my heart from being polluted or hurt by the words of others. I must stay obedient to that which God has called me to. If my heart gets in a mess, then I cannot lead and feed the lambs and sheep. David asked the Lord to search his heart, I too must do this. Leadership truly starts and ends with the heart.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today. I pray that I would keep a pure and obedient heart. Holy Spirit correct me when my heart starts to harden. Father I do not want to loose Your presence in my life. A hardened heart is a dry heart. Please fill my heart with Your love, peace patience and passions. Father search my heart and reveal to me daily the things that do not please You. Father thank You for this time away and for bringing us here. Bless this team, anoint them and use them for Your glory. I thank You that it is not by might nor power but by Your Holy Spirit that revival will come. Bless this day. Bless my wife and fill her heart with Your presence.
Amen
Friday, June 1, 2007
All about the Heart
Proverbs 19; Proverbs 20; Proverbs 21; Romans 13
Scripture:
Proverbs 21: 2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes,
But the LORD weighs the hearts.
Romans 13: 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Observation:
Both these passages speak to me about the heart. The heart of a man is so critical to God. If God can capture the heart of a man, He will capture the life of that man.
Application:
More and more I am learning that to be a good leader and man of god it is so critical to focus on the state of my heart. I must lead heart first as Pastor Wayne says. Heart is where it all starts and must end. People really do not care how much I know until they know how much I care! I must allow the Holy Spirit to weigh my heart consistently. I must like David allow Him to search my heart and know me. Simply put I must allow God to reveal to me the state of my heart so that I can repent, change and align to Him.
Myles Munroe spoke a lot last night about manhood and the need to come back to Genesis 2:15, where God put Adam in Eden and told him to cultivate and work the garden. He taught us that manhood is all about 1. Worship 2. Cultivating 3. Work 4. Teaching 5. Protecting 6. Providing. Most this all comes back to the heart. A true man has a heart fixed on God. His heart is sincere. Makes me think of Paul instruction to his men tee on the need to have a sincere heart. Sineycere means without wax, no hiding of cracks but rather dealing with them… This all comes back to the heart.
I am blessed because God has my heart. I ca truly say this and know that it is by His grace not my works that I am righteous.
Prayer:
Thanks God for blessing me with grace, mercy and forgiveness. Thank You for accepting me and calling me Your own son. I pray that my heart would always seek to please You. I love You and desire to be a leader that always leads heart first. Father convict me when I do not lead that way. Father thank You for the plans You have foe me. I am not sure how, but know that the how is with You and the flexibility and openness to molding lies with me. Keep molding and refining me. I am Yours and it is an honor. Lead me Lord, mold me and fill me with Your love. Bless my wife this day. Thank You for her. Thank You for teaching me to lead her and cultivate her. Thank You for the respect and appreciation I get from her. She is a blessing and I ask You to pour out favor on her. Protect her in this season with Your hedge on protection. Amen
Scripture:
Proverbs 21: 2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes,
But the LORD weighs the hearts.
Romans 13: 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Observation:
Both these passages speak to me about the heart. The heart of a man is so critical to God. If God can capture the heart of a man, He will capture the life of that man.
Application:
More and more I am learning that to be a good leader and man of god it is so critical to focus on the state of my heart. I must lead heart first as Pastor Wayne says. Heart is where it all starts and must end. People really do not care how much I know until they know how much I care! I must allow the Holy Spirit to weigh my heart consistently. I must like David allow Him to search my heart and know me. Simply put I must allow God to reveal to me the state of my heart so that I can repent, change and align to Him.
Myles Munroe spoke a lot last night about manhood and the need to come back to Genesis 2:15, where God put Adam in Eden and told him to cultivate and work the garden. He taught us that manhood is all about 1. Worship 2. Cultivating 3. Work 4. Teaching 5. Protecting 6. Providing. Most this all comes back to the heart. A true man has a heart fixed on God. His heart is sincere. Makes me think of Paul instruction to his men tee on the need to have a sincere heart. Sineycere means without wax, no hiding of cracks but rather dealing with them… This all comes back to the heart.
I am blessed because God has my heart. I ca truly say this and know that it is by His grace not my works that I am righteous.
Prayer:
Thanks God for blessing me with grace, mercy and forgiveness. Thank You for accepting me and calling me Your own son. I pray that my heart would always seek to please You. I love You and desire to be a leader that always leads heart first. Father convict me when I do not lead that way. Father thank You for the plans You have foe me. I am not sure how, but know that the how is with You and the flexibility and openness to molding lies with me. Keep molding and refining me. I am Yours and it is an honor. Lead me Lord, mold me and fill me with Your love. Bless my wife this day. Thank You for her. Thank You for teaching me to lead her and cultivate her. Thank You for the respect and appreciation I get from her. She is a blessing and I ask You to pour out favor on her. Protect her in this season with Your hedge on protection. Amen
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