2 Samuel 3; 1 Chronicles 12; Matthew 15
Scripture:
Matthew 15: 8 ‘ These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And[e]honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
Matthew 15: 16 So Jesus said, “Are you also still without understanding? 17 Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? 18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man.
Observation:
Jesus reminds us that it is what comes out of our heart that God judges. God is more concerned about the heart than the religious practices of man. Now that does not give us permission to eat, drink, do whatever we want, because of your heart is right then you will use discernment as to what you will put in your body.
Application:
As I look at this passage this morning I am reminded that it is all about my heart and my relationship with Jesus. When I start to look at the outside things of my life, my status, my image, my success, all these are good, but if they take me away from guarding my heart, then I am in a dangerous place. As a leader realize the important of surrendering my heart to God each day. It is so easy to get offended and disappointed in people. It is so easy to get your heart in a mess. To minister from a broken heart is not easy, to minister from a sinful heart is not easy, that;s why above all else I must allow the Holy Spirit to check my heart. He will reveal the things that do not please the Father, He will reveal the state of my heart and call me to humility. As Pastor Wayne, a mentor of mine says, “in leadership, you will only go as far as your heart will take you.” How true.
Prayer:
Father I pray today that my heart would be completely surrendered to Your will. I pray today that I would live worthy of the calling You have given me. Forgive me for pride and the longing for mans approval. I thank You that all I do is for You. Father give me wisdom today to serve Your people, discernment to know Your will, and favor to do things above my ability. Father bless my wife this day. Thank You for her. Refresh her by Your Holy Spirit and draw her closer to You. I pray for pastor Jimmy today and ask You to bless his travels and to refresh him. Give him a powerful word for our church. I pray for the marriages of our church and ask You to bless them. I ask You to bless my team and refresh them. Be with Nate and refresh him, bless Mel on her trip to Greece and thank You for refreshing Carlos in Hawaii. I pray for favor and finances for Cindy and I to take a break. I know in Your timing it will work out. Please be with me tonight as I teach Bible College. I pray for Your words to flow through me.
Amen
Quote for this Season
Monday, April 28, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Choosing Words Wisely
1 Samuel 27; Psalm 141; 1 Chronicles 9; Matthew 10
Scripture:
Psalm 141: 3 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;
Keep watch over the door of my lips.
Matthew 10: 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.
Observation:
Both passages talk about words that come out of our mouth. In Psalms the author prays that God would put a guard over his mouth so that he does not speak anything that does not please the Lord. In Matthew Jesus encourages us to trust the Holy Spirit and know that He will give us the words when we need them.
Application:
As I reflect on these passages I am reminded to guard my words and to choose them wisely. It is so easy to hurt, tear down and offend someone with mis-choosing words. A leaders greatest asset is his words. He can speak vision, direction and life into dead areas by choosing the right words. Jesus reminds me that I must not be afraid of men, God will give me the right words. I have seen this many times in my life where God has come through for me and given me His words to speak. I am reminded to this day to wait on the Holy Spirit to give me the words I need. I want to be known as a man that speak the words of God, encourages 24/7 and one who speak with wisdom.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today and the reminder that words are powerful. I pray today that You would put a guard over my mouth and help me to choose my words wisely. Thank You for giving me wisdom with words. I pray today for this weeks meetings and ask You to bless them. Prepare the hearts of those who come this week. I pray for every friend that is invited and ask that they be drawn to this place. Father thank You for all You are doing in my life. I pray for a greater sensitivity and obedience to Your will.
Amen
Scripture:
Psalm 141: 3 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;
Keep watch over the door of my lips.
Matthew 10: 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.
Observation:
Both passages talk about words that come out of our mouth. In Psalms the author prays that God would put a guard over his mouth so that he does not speak anything that does not please the Lord. In Matthew Jesus encourages us to trust the Holy Spirit and know that He will give us the words when we need them.
Application:
As I reflect on these passages I am reminded to guard my words and to choose them wisely. It is so easy to hurt, tear down and offend someone with mis-choosing words. A leaders greatest asset is his words. He can speak vision, direction and life into dead areas by choosing the right words. Jesus reminds me that I must not be afraid of men, God will give me the right words. I have seen this many times in my life where God has come through for me and given me His words to speak. I am reminded to this day to wait on the Holy Spirit to give me the words I need. I want to be known as a man that speak the words of God, encourages 24/7 and one who speak with wisdom.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today and the reminder that words are powerful. I pray today that You would put a guard over my mouth and help me to choose my words wisely. Thank You for giving me wisdom with words. I pray today for this weeks meetings and ask You to bless them. Prepare the hearts of those who come this week. I pray for every friend that is invited and ask that they be drawn to this place. Father thank You for all You are doing in my life. I pray for a greater sensitivity and obedience to Your will.
Amen
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Speaking with Gentle Words
1 Samuel 25; 1 Samuel 26; Psalm 63; Matthew 9
Scripture:
1 Samuel 25:32 Then David said to Abigail: “Blessed is the LORD God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me! 33 And blessed is your advice and blessed are you, because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed and from avenging myself with my own hand.
Observation:
Abigail set up to protect her husband from David. She knew that David would have killed him and that was not the right thing to do. Her wisdom not only saved her life, but stopped David from committing a sin. Abigail’s husband was an evil man and he treated her badly. He worshipped other gods and was greedy. David spares his life and allows him to live. The next day Abigail’s husbands heart stops and ten days later he dies. God worked it all out for Abigail. She ends up marrying David and living a blessed life. God saw her heart and reward her. She was willing to stand in the presence of the future king, a feared man and speak boldly.
Application:
Every great leader will sometime or other have to go against the orders of a leader higher up than them. You will have to challenge the status quo and bring clarity into a situation. I have had many opportunities where this has happened. Sometimes I did it correctly with, my heart was right, my attitude correct and I said things with humility, respect and gentle words. There have been other times though where I said things in a judgemental, angry, vengeful spirit, and the result was damage and lose of relationship. The secret to dealing with leaders above is seen in the actions of Abigail. She came in humility and respect. She asked permission to speak and then spoke clearly. At the end of it all she walked away trusting God to work it all out. God is ultimately in control. He will work it out, I must trust Him. In every situation life throws me, I must search the wisdom of God and wait for His answer.
Prayer:
Father thank You for reminding me that You are in control and You will work it all out for me. I am blessed to know that I do not have to proof anything, You will take care of everything. I am so blessed that I can trust You and that Your way is perfect.
I pray today for favor and clarity. I pray today for refreshing and wisdom. I pray today for energy and passion to get the job done. I pray for this weeks meetings and ask for breakthroughs. I pray this week for a fresh anointing and blessings. I pray this week that You would speak wisdom into my life. I pray today for financial blessings and miracles. I pray today for my wife and ask You to favor her and bless her. I pray today for my family and ask You to meet every need and pour out blessings on all of them. I pray today for my team and ask You to bless them. I pray today for urgency and ask You to bless and raise urgency up.
I thank You today that all things come from You, because there is none like You.
Amen
Scripture:
1 Samuel 25:32 Then David said to Abigail: “Blessed is the LORD God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me! 33 And blessed is your advice and blessed are you, because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed and from avenging myself with my own hand.
Observation:
Abigail set up to protect her husband from David. She knew that David would have killed him and that was not the right thing to do. Her wisdom not only saved her life, but stopped David from committing a sin. Abigail’s husband was an evil man and he treated her badly. He worshipped other gods and was greedy. David spares his life and allows him to live. The next day Abigail’s husbands heart stops and ten days later he dies. God worked it all out for Abigail. She ends up marrying David and living a blessed life. God saw her heart and reward her. She was willing to stand in the presence of the future king, a feared man and speak boldly.
Application:
Every great leader will sometime or other have to go against the orders of a leader higher up than them. You will have to challenge the status quo and bring clarity into a situation. I have had many opportunities where this has happened. Sometimes I did it correctly with, my heart was right, my attitude correct and I said things with humility, respect and gentle words. There have been other times though where I said things in a judgemental, angry, vengeful spirit, and the result was damage and lose of relationship. The secret to dealing with leaders above is seen in the actions of Abigail. She came in humility and respect. She asked permission to speak and then spoke clearly. At the end of it all she walked away trusting God to work it all out. God is ultimately in control. He will work it out, I must trust Him. In every situation life throws me, I must search the wisdom of God and wait for His answer.
Prayer:
Father thank You for reminding me that You are in control and You will work it all out for me. I am blessed to know that I do not have to proof anything, You will take care of everything. I am so blessed that I can trust You and that Your way is perfect.
I pray today for favor and clarity. I pray today for refreshing and wisdom. I pray today for energy and passion to get the job done. I pray for this weeks meetings and ask for breakthroughs. I pray this week for a fresh anointing and blessings. I pray this week that You would speak wisdom into my life. I pray today for financial blessings and miracles. I pray today for my wife and ask You to favor her and bless her. I pray today for my family and ask You to meet every need and pour out blessings on all of them. I pray today for my team and ask You to bless them. I pray today for urgency and ask You to bless and raise urgency up.
I thank You today that all things come from You, because there is none like You.
Amen
Monday, April 21, 2008
Keep My God Time First
Scripture:
1 Samuel 24; Psalm 57; Psalm 58; 1 Chronicles 8; Matthew 8
Psalm 57: 2 I will cry out to God Most High,
To God who performs all things for me.
Observation:
David knew that the Lord was His source. Everything he needed would come from the Lord. David was a wise man, a good looking man, a king, a warrior and a great leader. It could have been so easy for him to look or rely on his natural talent, but he always humbled himself and kept the Lord first in his life.
Application:
It is so easy to rely on your natural talents and forget the leading and presence of the Lord. I must guard my heart from becoming desensitized to the presence of the Lord. I must always keep the Lord first and never forget that all I need is in His hands and He too knows what is next for me. Business is my biggest enemy and it keeps me from spending quality time with the Lord. I know that I need more time in my prayer life, study time and quiet time. I must guard my time of just sitting and listening to the Lord. The next few weeks are going to be so busy for me, and it will be easy to get frustrated and make bad decisions. My time with the Lord is a rock in my life and I must always make sure that I guard it.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word. I pray that You would help me in this season of my life. I have so much going on and it is so easy to get distracted and miss out on what is important. I pray that I would become more balanced and keep my rocks in check. I thank You today for forgiveness and mercy and I pray that week will be one of incredible fruit and productivity. Help me to stay focused on what is important and help the team to function well. Bless every student that calls urgency home. Protect them, speak to them and help them to make wise choices. I pray for all the meetings this week and ask You to touch many lives.
Bless my wife and I pray for a special week for her.
Amen
1 Samuel 24; Psalm 57; Psalm 58; 1 Chronicles 8; Matthew 8
Psalm 57: 2 I will cry out to God Most High,
To God who performs all things for me.
Observation:
David knew that the Lord was His source. Everything he needed would come from the Lord. David was a wise man, a good looking man, a king, a warrior and a great leader. It could have been so easy for him to look or rely on his natural talent, but he always humbled himself and kept the Lord first in his life.
Application:
It is so easy to rely on your natural talents and forget the leading and presence of the Lord. I must guard my heart from becoming desensitized to the presence of the Lord. I must always keep the Lord first and never forget that all I need is in His hands and He too knows what is next for me. Business is my biggest enemy and it keeps me from spending quality time with the Lord. I know that I need more time in my prayer life, study time and quiet time. I must guard my time of just sitting and listening to the Lord. The next few weeks are going to be so busy for me, and it will be easy to get frustrated and make bad decisions. My time with the Lord is a rock in my life and I must always make sure that I guard it.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word. I pray that You would help me in this season of my life. I have so much going on and it is so easy to get distracted and miss out on what is important. I pray that I would become more balanced and keep my rocks in check. I thank You today for forgiveness and mercy and I pray that week will be one of incredible fruit and productivity. Help me to stay focused on what is important and help the team to function well. Bless every student that calls urgency home. Protect them, speak to them and help them to make wise choices. I pray for all the meetings this week and ask You to touch many lives.
Bless my wife and I pray for a special week for her.
Amen
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Simple But Powerful Message
1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4
Scripture:
Matthew 4: 17 From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Observation:
Jesus message was very clear, “repent”, turn away from sin. Jesus came to set us free from sin, to show us a way to the Father, so that we could become children of God. The kingdom of God is here and we the children of God are called to manifest His light and love to the nations.
Application:
I am reminded this morning that the message is simple, “repent and turn to God, He has so much in store for you!” It is so easy to make the gospel confusing and difficult. I must always remember that focus is repentance and salvation. Fancy messages that do not call people to a change are just empty words. As I think on this passage this morning I reminded that my life is to reflect the kingdom of God. As scripture declares I am in this world, not of it. I must always remember my attitudes, actions, character and words should point people to God. I must keep my opinions and judgments in check, Jesus calls me to decrease and so that He can increase.
Prayer:
Father thank You for the reminder to keep it simple. It is so easy to complicate life and Christianity. Help me to shine and share Your light in a manner that draws people to You. I pray that my life would be a light to others. Father thank You for the incredible favor last night. I pray for every person that responded and ask You to touch their lives this day. Fill them with faith and hope. May their lives never be the same. I pray for tonight’s meeting and ask that You would bless it. I pray for favor in this new venture and ask that You would give me wisdom and Your words. I pray for all those considering to come and pray that they would make it. Lord show me the leaders and speak a call to their hearts. Be with pastor Dick and Adam today and refresh them. I pray for the finances or our church and ask You to do a miracle for us. Thank You for all You are doing at urgency. Thank You for the lives that are changing and for this weekends meetings. Bless every meeting I pray. Thank You for this new day, bless my wife and team today.
Amen
Scripture:
Matthew 4: 17 From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Observation:
Jesus message was very clear, “repent”, turn away from sin. Jesus came to set us free from sin, to show us a way to the Father, so that we could become children of God. The kingdom of God is here and we the children of God are called to manifest His light and love to the nations.
Application:
I am reminded this morning that the message is simple, “repent and turn to God, He has so much in store for you!” It is so easy to make the gospel confusing and difficult. I must always remember that focus is repentance and salvation. Fancy messages that do not call people to a change are just empty words. As I think on this passage this morning I reminded that my life is to reflect the kingdom of God. As scripture declares I am in this world, not of it. I must always remember my attitudes, actions, character and words should point people to God. I must keep my opinions and judgments in check, Jesus calls me to decrease and so that He can increase.
Prayer:
Father thank You for the reminder to keep it simple. It is so easy to complicate life and Christianity. Help me to shine and share Your light in a manner that draws people to You. I pray that my life would be a light to others. Father thank You for the incredible favor last night. I pray for every person that responded and ask You to touch their lives this day. Fill them with faith and hope. May their lives never be the same. I pray for tonight’s meeting and ask that You would bless it. I pray for favor in this new venture and ask that You would give me wisdom and Your words. I pray for all those considering to come and pray that they would make it. Lord show me the leaders and speak a call to their hearts. Be with pastor Dick and Adam today and refresh them. I pray for the finances or our church and ask You to do a miracle for us. Thank You for all You are doing at urgency. Thank You for the lives that are changing and for this weekends meetings. Bless every meeting I pray. Thank You for this new day, bless my wife and team today.
Amen
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
David, a man of faith
1 Samuel 17; Psalm 9; Matthew 2
Scripture:
1 Samuel 17: 33 And Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.” 34 But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep his father’s sheep, and when a lion or a bear came and took a lamb out of the flock, 35 I went out after it and struck it, and delivered the lamb from its mouth; and when it arose against me, I caught it by its beard, and struck and killed it. 36 Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.” 37 Moreover David said, “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”
Observation:
Most people would have looked at David as a young arrogant, immature and rebellious young teenager. David though was a young man full of faith and favor of the Lord. He killed a lion and a bear to protect that which was valuable to him, and now he would do the same. He would protect the name of the Lord. No man would defile the most precious treasure in David’s life, the Lord God Almighty. David knew the ord would give him the victory.
Application:
David loved the Lord, he would worship on his harp and write music for the Lord. His calling came out of his relationship with God. Israel was so afraid of Goliath, and God presented David with an opportunity to win great favor in the eyes of the people. This is the first time David would emerge as a leader for the nation. David seemed arrogant to his brothers, but this was not arrogance, this was righteous anger. He could not believe Goliath would insult the most precious treasure in his life, the Lord. David knew the Lord would protect him and give him the victory, and it would not be with a sword. David used what was n his hands, a sling shot. Sometimes people will look at my passion for God and the vision He has called me too, and they will criticize me or even judge me. I have heard them call me arrogant before, or immature, but as I look at my life now and where the Lord has brought me, I stand amazed and blessed by His favor and grace. I know that the battle is His, it is not about my ability, but all about His presence and blessing. I still have big dreams inside of me, dreams of nations. I know that now is the season of slowing down and waiting on the Lord. It is a season of mentoring and raising up future leaders. It is a season of laying foundations that will produce an incredible work for Jesus. Today I am blessed as I reflect on the all the places the Lord has taken me to and all the wonderful people I have gotten to meet. I think of Australia, Newark, Arkansas, Kansas City, Arizona, Hawaii, Ukraine, France, England, and many more places. I remember the first time God told me He called me to the nations. I was so excited, just like David. People thought I was arrogant, but I knew what God had said. Today I am still so excited. I believe there is still so much to do. And my answer to the Lord is the same as when I was 13, “Yes Lord I will go.”
Prayer:
Father thank You once again for this word today and the reminder that You are in control. I thank You for all the incredible places You have taken me to, to share Your word and love. I am so honored to be Your servant Lord. I pray today for wisdom for the next season. I pray for the doors to open. There is still so much to do. I am willing to do whatever. Lord I ask for favor and direction. I pray for urgency today and ask You to do an incredible work. Father I pray for missionaries to be birthed at of this ministry, future youth pastors, business leaders, athletes that live for You. I pray for the team and ask You to anoint us afresh. Help us to lead and minister to Your people. This week I pray for a fresh touch for my own life. I ask You to give me Your words for every message this week. Fill me with Your love, fire and words. Use me Lord for Your glory. I pray that I would decrease and You would increase. I pray for incredible doors to open. I claim the nations today in the Name of Jesus. Father bless my wife and fill her with Your love and peace.
Amen.
Scripture:
1 Samuel 17: 33 And Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.” 34 But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep his father’s sheep, and when a lion or a bear came and took a lamb out of the flock, 35 I went out after it and struck it, and delivered the lamb from its mouth; and when it arose against me, I caught it by its beard, and struck and killed it. 36 Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.” 37 Moreover David said, “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”
Observation:
Most people would have looked at David as a young arrogant, immature and rebellious young teenager. David though was a young man full of faith and favor of the Lord. He killed a lion and a bear to protect that which was valuable to him, and now he would do the same. He would protect the name of the Lord. No man would defile the most precious treasure in David’s life, the Lord God Almighty. David knew the ord would give him the victory.
Application:
David loved the Lord, he would worship on his harp and write music for the Lord. His calling came out of his relationship with God. Israel was so afraid of Goliath, and God presented David with an opportunity to win great favor in the eyes of the people. This is the first time David would emerge as a leader for the nation. David seemed arrogant to his brothers, but this was not arrogance, this was righteous anger. He could not believe Goliath would insult the most precious treasure in his life, the Lord. David knew the Lord would protect him and give him the victory, and it would not be with a sword. David used what was n his hands, a sling shot. Sometimes people will look at my passion for God and the vision He has called me too, and they will criticize me or even judge me. I have heard them call me arrogant before, or immature, but as I look at my life now and where the Lord has brought me, I stand amazed and blessed by His favor and grace. I know that the battle is His, it is not about my ability, but all about His presence and blessing. I still have big dreams inside of me, dreams of nations. I know that now is the season of slowing down and waiting on the Lord. It is a season of mentoring and raising up future leaders. It is a season of laying foundations that will produce an incredible work for Jesus. Today I am blessed as I reflect on the all the places the Lord has taken me to and all the wonderful people I have gotten to meet. I think of Australia, Newark, Arkansas, Kansas City, Arizona, Hawaii, Ukraine, France, England, and many more places. I remember the first time God told me He called me to the nations. I was so excited, just like David. People thought I was arrogant, but I knew what God had said. Today I am still so excited. I believe there is still so much to do. And my answer to the Lord is the same as when I was 13, “Yes Lord I will go.”
Prayer:
Father thank You once again for this word today and the reminder that You are in control. I thank You for all the incredible places You have taken me to, to share Your word and love. I am so honored to be Your servant Lord. I pray today for wisdom for the next season. I pray for the doors to open. There is still so much to do. I am willing to do whatever. Lord I ask for favor and direction. I pray for urgency today and ask You to do an incredible work. Father I pray for missionaries to be birthed at of this ministry, future youth pastors, business leaders, athletes that live for You. I pray for the team and ask You to anoint us afresh. Help us to lead and minister to Your people. This week I pray for a fresh touch for my own life. I ask You to give me Your words for every message this week. Fill me with Your love, fire and words. Use me Lord for Your glory. I pray that I would decrease and You would increase. I pray for incredible doors to open. I claim the nations today in the Name of Jesus. Father bless my wife and fill her with Your love and peace.
Amen.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Lead with a right spirit
1 Samuel 15; 1 Samuel 16; 1 Chronicles 5; Matthew 1
Scripture:
1 Samuel 16: 23 And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.
Observation:
Saul is going to be replaced by David as king, for God choose it to be so. Saul is fearful and distressed and he knows he has failed the Lord. Fear and anger grips his heart and instead of finishing well, he leads out of his anger and makes bad decisions. David plays the harp, his old worship songs, and this calms king Saul spirit.
Application:
Every leader will go through seasons of fear and anger. Every leader will go through times of doubt and frustration. The question I always have to ask myself in these times is, “How will I lead? What damage have I done?” When a leader makes it all about themselves then their leadership influence is in the most dangerous place. The leaders around them withdraw, they don’t tell the truth or hide for fear of rebuking. In times where I feel distressed or angry, praise and worship always lifts me up. Praise and worship ushers in the presence of God and I feel peaceful and my faith is refreshed. There have been times where I have done damage because of my fear, insecurity or anger. I have wounded team players and some of them have received my apologies and some have walked away to serve another leader. Leadership is hard, it is all about influence and relationship. It is all about humility and love. I pray that I would lead well and find a safe place to vent and get my heart right when I am not at my best.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today and the reminder of all the good things You are doing for me. I thank You for choosing me as a leader and for molding me into the leader You have called me to be. At times I feel there is so much You have to do in me, there is so many rough areas in my life. I pray today for a refreshing of my spirit. I pray for peace and joy to flood my soul. I pray today for Your Holy Spirit to lead me and teach me. I pray for wisdom to lead and make the right decisions. I know that You are with me, I know You have a plan for my life. I ask You now to bless this day. Ask You to bless my wife and to refresh her this day. Bless every urgency leader and refresh them. Thank You for every volunteer and student leader. I pray for this week and ask You to give me the strength to serve Your people. Bless my pastors this week and speak fresh vision to them.
Amen
Scripture:
1 Samuel 16: 23 And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.
Observation:
Saul is going to be replaced by David as king, for God choose it to be so. Saul is fearful and distressed and he knows he has failed the Lord. Fear and anger grips his heart and instead of finishing well, he leads out of his anger and makes bad decisions. David plays the harp, his old worship songs, and this calms king Saul spirit.
Application:
Every leader will go through seasons of fear and anger. Every leader will go through times of doubt and frustration. The question I always have to ask myself in these times is, “How will I lead? What damage have I done?” When a leader makes it all about themselves then their leadership influence is in the most dangerous place. The leaders around them withdraw, they don’t tell the truth or hide for fear of rebuking. In times where I feel distressed or angry, praise and worship always lifts me up. Praise and worship ushers in the presence of God and I feel peaceful and my faith is refreshed. There have been times where I have done damage because of my fear, insecurity or anger. I have wounded team players and some of them have received my apologies and some have walked away to serve another leader. Leadership is hard, it is all about influence and relationship. It is all about humility and love. I pray that I would lead well and find a safe place to vent and get my heart right when I am not at my best.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today and the reminder of all the good things You are doing for me. I thank You for choosing me as a leader and for molding me into the leader You have called me to be. At times I feel there is so much You have to do in me, there is so many rough areas in my life. I pray today for a refreshing of my spirit. I pray for peace and joy to flood my soul. I pray today for Your Holy Spirit to lead me and teach me. I pray for wisdom to lead and make the right decisions. I know that You are with me, I know You have a plan for my life. I ask You now to bless this day. Ask You to bless my wife and to refresh her this day. Bless every urgency leader and refresh them. Thank You for every volunteer and student leader. I pray for this week and ask You to give me the strength to serve Your people. Bless my pastors this week and speak fresh vision to them.
Amen
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Keeping God First
1 Samuel 8; 1 Samuel 9; 1 Samuel 10; 2 Corinthians 10
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 10: 17 But “he who glories, let him glory in the LORD.” 18 For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
Observation:
Paul reminds us that all we do is for the glory of the Lord, it should never be about us. Every man wants to be noticed, we want to be loved, but when we give the glory to the Lord first, then He will lift us up before me and give us incredible favor.
Application:
As I read this passage, I am reminded of the words on one of my mentors, Pastor Wayne Corderio. He always reminds leaders to do all for an Audience of One, God. Pride comes in when one takes glory and this will start an incredible downfall. I must guard against taking any glory for myself. I must give all the glory to the Lord. I must keep Him first. When God can trust us with His glory, then we will see incredible favor and success. I want to build His kingdom, I want to make history, but first I must guard my heart and make sure that it can handle that kind of favor. I must stay close to the Lord and keep the Holy Spirit as my guide and conviction. He will warn me and sift my heart. As I look at the recent weeks I can see that business has crept into my life and my quality time with the Lord has suffered. I must guard my time with the Lord, it is the most precious part of my day. I need His presence and word in my life.
Prayer:
Father forgive me for being so busy and for not taking the time to rest and be with You. I pray that I would slow down and rely more on You to lead my day. Father thank You for forgiveness and mercy. I pray for a refreshing of my spirit and heart. I pray for a fresh touch of the Holy Spirit in my life. I pray for wisdom, discernment and guidance to lead in this season. The next few months are super busy and I want them to be successful, so please lead me Lord. Father I pray for tomorrow’s FAQ series and ask You to bless it. I pray for visitors to be touched and impacted. I pray for lives to be touched and for urgency to go to a new level. Bless every leader and refresh them. I pray for the Young Adults ministry and ask You to bless this new venture. Bless my wife and refresh her too. Prepare her for this week end and bless her team. I lift all these before You and ask Your anointing and favor on them.
amen
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 10: 17 But “he who glories, let him glory in the LORD.” 18 For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
Observation:
Paul reminds us that all we do is for the glory of the Lord, it should never be about us. Every man wants to be noticed, we want to be loved, but when we give the glory to the Lord first, then He will lift us up before me and give us incredible favor.
Application:
As I read this passage, I am reminded of the words on one of my mentors, Pastor Wayne Corderio. He always reminds leaders to do all for an Audience of One, God. Pride comes in when one takes glory and this will start an incredible downfall. I must guard against taking any glory for myself. I must give all the glory to the Lord. I must keep Him first. When God can trust us with His glory, then we will see incredible favor and success. I want to build His kingdom, I want to make history, but first I must guard my heart and make sure that it can handle that kind of favor. I must stay close to the Lord and keep the Holy Spirit as my guide and conviction. He will warn me and sift my heart. As I look at the recent weeks I can see that business has crept into my life and my quality time with the Lord has suffered. I must guard my time with the Lord, it is the most precious part of my day. I need His presence and word in my life.
Prayer:
Father forgive me for being so busy and for not taking the time to rest and be with You. I pray that I would slow down and rely more on You to lead my day. Father thank You for forgiveness and mercy. I pray for a refreshing of my spirit and heart. I pray for a fresh touch of the Holy Spirit in my life. I pray for wisdom, discernment and guidance to lead in this season. The next few months are super busy and I want them to be successful, so please lead me Lord. Father I pray for tomorrow’s FAQ series and ask You to bless it. I pray for visitors to be touched and impacted. I pray for lives to be touched and for urgency to go to a new level. Bless every leader and refresh them. I pray for the Young Adults ministry and ask You to bless this new venture. Bless my wife and refresh her too. Prepare her for this week end and bless her team. I lift all these before You and ask Your anointing and favor on them.
amen
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
God is Great
1 Samuel 3; 1 Samuel 4; 1 Samuel 5; Psalm 77; 2 Corinthians 8
Scripture:
Psalm 77: 13 Your way, O God, is in the sanctuary;
Who is so great a God as our God?
14 You are the God who does wonders;
You have declared Your strength among the peoples.
Observation:
There is none like God in all the world. He is Great and Greatly to be praised. He desires to show His greatness in His people, those who live for Him, whose who have given their hearts to serving Him.
Application:
God wants His greatness to be flowing into our life’s. He desires to shine His blessings on His children and to make known His goodness. I love Him and want His greatness and goodness to be a part of my life. I want the whole world to see how awesome it is to have God in your life. I want to be a mirror of God’s goodness. I know that I must steward His goodness well an not develop an attitude or become prideful. God loves humility and gentleness. I must always remember that with God it is not the talent but the heart and character of a man that concerns Him. May my heart and character please Him.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word and for all the blessings You have placed in my life. I am honored to be Your child and to have You in my life. I am so blessed that Your goodness and greatness fills my life. I pray that my heart and character would always point others to You. I pray that I would always put You first and not myself. Forgive me for my sins and attitudes, forgive me for the times where I do my own thing and live for myself. I pray today that I would honor You and live for Your will before my own. Father bless this day and lead me Holy Spirit. Give me wisdom today and discernment. I pray for the favor of God to be on me. Bless my wife, the urgency team and my Pastors. Be with my friend Josh and give him wisdom today, speak vision and clarity into his heart.
Thank You for this beautiful day, may I take time to enjoy it.
Amen
Scripture:
Psalm 77: 13 Your way, O God, is in the sanctuary;
Who is so great a God as our God?
14 You are the God who does wonders;
You have declared Your strength among the peoples.
Observation:
There is none like God in all the world. He is Great and Greatly to be praised. He desires to show His greatness in His people, those who live for Him, whose who have given their hearts to serving Him.
Application:
God wants His greatness to be flowing into our life’s. He desires to shine His blessings on His children and to make known His goodness. I love Him and want His greatness and goodness to be a part of my life. I want the whole world to see how awesome it is to have God in your life. I want to be a mirror of God’s goodness. I know that I must steward His goodness well an not develop an attitude or become prideful. God loves humility and gentleness. I must always remember that with God it is not the talent but the heart and character of a man that concerns Him. May my heart and character please Him.
Prayer:
Father thank You for this word and for all the blessings You have placed in my life. I am honored to be Your child and to have You in my life. I am so blessed that Your goodness and greatness fills my life. I pray that my heart and character would always point others to You. I pray that I would always put You first and not myself. Forgive me for my sins and attitudes, forgive me for the times where I do my own thing and live for myself. I pray today that I would honor You and live for Your will before my own. Father bless this day and lead me Holy Spirit. Give me wisdom today and discernment. I pray for the favor of God to be on me. Bless my wife, the urgency team and my Pastors. Be with my friend Josh and give him wisdom today, speak vision and clarity into his heart.
Thank You for this beautiful day, may I take time to enjoy it.
Amen
Friday, April 4, 2008
Living by the Spirit
Judges 19; Judges 20; Judges 21; 2 Corinthians 4
Scriptures:
2 Corinthians 4: 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Observation:
Paul reminds us that the kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom and we are to look at what the this kingdom has to say before we look at the natural world. God is spirit and the laws of the spirit kingdom rule over the laws of the natural kingdom. Paul changes us to change the way we look at things, to look and value the things that are eternal.
Application:
God has adopted me and called me His own. I am a child of God and He has given me His authority and the Holy Spirit as an inheritance. As I think on this I feel that I live such a limited lifestyle. I feel as if I don’t live enough by the incredible supernatural power that has been given to me. I am learning to speak more by faith and call things that be not as though they were. I feel like there is a new season coming in my life where faith is going to increase and the Holy Spirit will bring about the impossible. I feel like an incredible breakthrough is coming. I must train myself to see, think and wait for a word from heaven. To live more by the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer:
Thank You Father for this word today. I pray Holy Spirit that You would lead me more and tech me to live more by the Spirit of God than the natural limitations of this world. I pray that my faith would increase. I pray that my attitudes and words would be ones that move the natural and cause situations to line up with the will of God. Jesus said if you have faith you could speak to mountains and they would move. I pray for that kind of faith, faith that moves mountains of sickness, financial mountains, mountains of addiction, depression and suicide. I pray that when I speak or teach or pray that the power of heaven would bring revelation, hope and light into dark places. Father I pray for urgency tonight and pray for this next series. I ask You to anoint it and to bless it. I pray that You would bring clarity and truth into the lives of our young people. Father I pray that You would go before us and makes us sensitive to Your will. Be with the team and give us wisdom. I pray for my friend Carlos this morning and ask You to fill him with wisdom, faith and vision for the next season of Jr. High. Give him leadership beyond his years. I pray your favor and blessing on him. I thank You for all You are doing and ask that You continue to keep us close to You.
Amen
Scriptures:
2 Corinthians 4: 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Observation:
Paul reminds us that the kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom and we are to look at what the this kingdom has to say before we look at the natural world. God is spirit and the laws of the spirit kingdom rule over the laws of the natural kingdom. Paul changes us to change the way we look at things, to look and value the things that are eternal.
Application:
God has adopted me and called me His own. I am a child of God and He has given me His authority and the Holy Spirit as an inheritance. As I think on this I feel that I live such a limited lifestyle. I feel as if I don’t live enough by the incredible supernatural power that has been given to me. I am learning to speak more by faith and call things that be not as though they were. I feel like there is a new season coming in my life where faith is going to increase and the Holy Spirit will bring about the impossible. I feel like an incredible breakthrough is coming. I must train myself to see, think and wait for a word from heaven. To live more by the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer:
Thank You Father for this word today. I pray Holy Spirit that You would lead me more and tech me to live more by the Spirit of God than the natural limitations of this world. I pray that my faith would increase. I pray that my attitudes and words would be ones that move the natural and cause situations to line up with the will of God. Jesus said if you have faith you could speak to mountains and they would move. I pray for that kind of faith, faith that moves mountains of sickness, financial mountains, mountains of addiction, depression and suicide. I pray that when I speak or teach or pray that the power of heaven would bring revelation, hope and light into dark places. Father I pray for urgency tonight and pray for this next series. I ask You to anoint it and to bless it. I pray that You would bring clarity and truth into the lives of our young people. Father I pray that You would go before us and makes us sensitive to Your will. Be with the team and give us wisdom. I pray for my friend Carlos this morning and ask You to fill him with wisdom, faith and vision for the next season of Jr. High. Give him leadership beyond his years. I pray your favor and blessing on him. I thank You for all You are doing and ask that You continue to keep us close to You.
Amen
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Smelling Good for God
Judges 13; Judges 14; Judges 15; Judges 16; 2 Corinthians 2
Scripture:
Judges 13: 5 For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. And no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.”
2 Corinthians 2: 14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.
Observation:
These passages are so powerful. Samson was called to do the work of the Lord. He was separated, different. His uncut hair was a testimony to others that he was ‘separated’ for the Lord. In Corinthians I am reminded that all Christians are a sweet aroma to the Lord and to the world. We bring the revelation and light of Jesus to this world.
Application:
Sampson was born separated for the Lord. I believe this is a picture of all those who are ‘born again’. When we give our lives to Jesus, we are different, a sweet new aroma. We are His and the world no longer has a claim to us. We are marked and the world cannot take away what Jesus has done for us. Like Sampson the world wants to know our secret, but through the power of the Holy Spirit we will stand strong, united and called to bring the revelation of Jesus Christ to the world. I am honored to be ‘separated and called’ for the Lord. I am excited to be a light to the world. I know God is doing something unique and powerful in my life. I see His blessing all around me and at times stop and stand amazed at the favor of God. I know that it all because of His love and grace for me. Nothing I have done is worthy of this blessing. I receive it and stand amazed at the grace and love of Jesus Christ. May my love for Christ and the lost be transparent to the world each and every day.
Prayer:
Father, I thank You for the joy and passion I feel in You. I thank You for the incredible favor You gave me yesterday and pray that we will see a mighty move of God in the lives of the students of San Jose. I pray for the upcoming FAQ series and ask You to anoint it and bless it. I pray for many students to come and be touched by this series. I ask You to diffuse the enemies lies and confusions. I pray for all out students and ask You to encourage them to invite their friends. I pray for our team this morning and ask You to bless them and anoint them. Refresh us and give us wisdom to reach the next generation. I pray for my wife and outcry this morning and ask You to touch all of their lives this morning. Anoint them, put a new song in their mouth. Bless them and open big doors for them. I pray for my pastors this day and ask You to give them wisdom and joy this morning. Encourage and strengthen them. Thank You for where You are leading our church. I pray that You will do an incredible work at Jubilee.
Father I ask for wisdom today, favor and discernment. May I clearly see Your will and walk in it today.
amen
Scripture:
Judges 13: 5 For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. And no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.”
2 Corinthians 2: 14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.
Observation:
These passages are so powerful. Samson was called to do the work of the Lord. He was separated, different. His uncut hair was a testimony to others that he was ‘separated’ for the Lord. In Corinthians I am reminded that all Christians are a sweet aroma to the Lord and to the world. We bring the revelation and light of Jesus to this world.
Application:
Sampson was born separated for the Lord. I believe this is a picture of all those who are ‘born again’. When we give our lives to Jesus, we are different, a sweet new aroma. We are His and the world no longer has a claim to us. We are marked and the world cannot take away what Jesus has done for us. Like Sampson the world wants to know our secret, but through the power of the Holy Spirit we will stand strong, united and called to bring the revelation of Jesus Christ to the world. I am honored to be ‘separated and called’ for the Lord. I am excited to be a light to the world. I know God is doing something unique and powerful in my life. I see His blessing all around me and at times stop and stand amazed at the favor of God. I know that it all because of His love and grace for me. Nothing I have done is worthy of this blessing. I receive it and stand amazed at the grace and love of Jesus Christ. May my love for Christ and the lost be transparent to the world each and every day.
Prayer:
Father, I thank You for the joy and passion I feel in You. I thank You for the incredible favor You gave me yesterday and pray that we will see a mighty move of God in the lives of the students of San Jose. I pray for the upcoming FAQ series and ask You to anoint it and bless it. I pray for many students to come and be touched by this series. I ask You to diffuse the enemies lies and confusions. I pray for all out students and ask You to encourage them to invite their friends. I pray for our team this morning and ask You to bless them and anoint them. Refresh us and give us wisdom to reach the next generation. I pray for my wife and outcry this morning and ask You to touch all of their lives this morning. Anoint them, put a new song in their mouth. Bless them and open big doors for them. I pray for my pastors this day and ask You to give them wisdom and joy this morning. Encourage and strengthen them. Thank You for where You are leading our church. I pray that You will do an incredible work at Jubilee.
Father I ask for wisdom today, favor and discernment. May I clearly see Your will and walk in it today.
amen
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
God my Salvation
Judges 11; Judges 12; Psalm 50; 2 Corinthians 1
Scripture:
Psalm 50: 23 Whoever offers praise glorifies Me;
And to him who orders his conduct aright
I will show the salvation of God.”
Observation:
In this passage God declares that He will deliver those who praise Him, place their faith in Him and walk in righteousness. God is for those who lace their faith completely in Him. He is rock and strong tower to them. He will vindicate them and deliver them. He will favor them.
Application:
This passage is so true for today. Today I need the favor of the Lord for a specific meeting. I know it would be so easy to rely on my wisdom and gifts, but I want to trust God. I want to see a huge breakthrough and know that this will take the presence of the Lord. I need Him to give me the words, I need His peace and wisdom to fill my heart. I pray that today will be a day of incredible favor and clarity. I pray today that the plans of the enemy will be diffused and a release of the old will happen. I pray today that a shift will happen in the spirit. I am glad for where I am today with my Lord, I know that I am exactly where He wants me to be. I cannot see ahead, but know that He is pleased with me. I understand the prophecy of Kerry Southby now. Even in the midst of this trial there is a greater working going on. God is stripping my need for mans approval. I seek to please Him. I seek to do His will. I am tied of being chained by mans opinions. I believe a new anointing is coming, a new boldness, a new faith.
Prayer:
Father I thank You for taking me to a new level. I can sense it. I pray for a new anointing today, a new wisdom, a new faith. I know that You are pleased and that is all that matters. You are my audience and my life is in Your hands. What can man do to me. I am free, free to be the man You called me to be. I pray now that my heart, attitude and behaviors would bring You honor. I thank You that You are in control. Lead me Father. Thank You for incredible favor today. Thank You that every deception, every false mindset will be removed. I pray for my team, what a great team Lord, bless them and give them wisdom and words today. I pray that we would be so united and passionate about the things You are doing. I pray that our hearts will be seen. Bless every leader at urgency today, bless every students. Thank You for all You are doing and about to do.
amen
Scripture:
Psalm 50: 23 Whoever offers praise glorifies Me;
And to him who orders his conduct aright
I will show the salvation of God.”
Observation:
In this passage God declares that He will deliver those who praise Him, place their faith in Him and walk in righteousness. God is for those who lace their faith completely in Him. He is rock and strong tower to them. He will vindicate them and deliver them. He will favor them.
Application:
This passage is so true for today. Today I need the favor of the Lord for a specific meeting. I know it would be so easy to rely on my wisdom and gifts, but I want to trust God. I want to see a huge breakthrough and know that this will take the presence of the Lord. I need Him to give me the words, I need His peace and wisdom to fill my heart. I pray that today will be a day of incredible favor and clarity. I pray today that the plans of the enemy will be diffused and a release of the old will happen. I pray today that a shift will happen in the spirit. I am glad for where I am today with my Lord, I know that I am exactly where He wants me to be. I cannot see ahead, but know that He is pleased with me. I understand the prophecy of Kerry Southby now. Even in the midst of this trial there is a greater working going on. God is stripping my need for mans approval. I seek to please Him. I seek to do His will. I am tied of being chained by mans opinions. I believe a new anointing is coming, a new boldness, a new faith.
Prayer:
Father I thank You for taking me to a new level. I can sense it. I pray for a new anointing today, a new wisdom, a new faith. I know that You are pleased and that is all that matters. You are my audience and my life is in Your hands. What can man do to me. I am free, free to be the man You called me to be. I pray now that my heart, attitude and behaviors would bring You honor. I thank You that You are in control. Lead me Father. Thank You for incredible favor today. Thank You that every deception, every false mindset will be removed. I pray for my team, what a great team Lord, bless them and give them wisdom and words today. I pray that we would be so united and passionate about the things You are doing. I pray that our hearts will be seen. Bless every leader at urgency today, bless every students. Thank You for all You are doing and about to do.
amen
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