Charlton Scullard

Leadership Lesson's from the Red Sea

2012-01-26T09:43:00.000-08:00

Exodus 14; Exodus 15; Exodus 16; Acts 2

Scripture:
Exodus 14:13 And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. 14 The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” 21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided.

Observation:
God did not bring Moses and the Israeli's this far only to have them killed by the Egyptians. God has a plan for them and they lost sight of His promises, His deliverance through the plagues and His provision. They lost hope in their leader and God told Moses to lift his rod. God had given a rod of authority to Moses. That rod was used in the plagues and now Moses stands by a red sea and he forgets what is in his hands. As a leader I must remember the following:
1. God has spoken promises in His word and over my life. I must keep these in front of me.
2. A Leader is only as good as his confidence in God and his ability to lead.
3. People will always grumble and a leader cannot be distracted by that.
4. A leader must use what is in their hands.

As a leader I must remember that God put me in a position of leadership. He called me, He appointed me and He anointed me. I must stay focus and speak to my red seas. Ps. John Bevere challenged our church to start speaking more to things in our lives, finances, sickness, marriage problems. He told us to speak the promises of God into these instead of praying about them. He challenge us to use the power in us. Moses looked at the Red Sea instead of speaking to it and lifting his rod. He had to turn to God instead of taking initiative. I must take more initiative and use the power inside of me.

Application:
Leader lead. Leaders stay true to the vision and don't allow distractions power. Leader us what is n their hands.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for calling me, appointing me and for anointing me. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and my heart for the things of the kingdom. Lord may Your wisdom, favor and anointing be on my life. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our family, our home, our finances and our futures. Refresh Cindy, fill her with wisdom, vision and clarity. I pray for today and ask You to watch over Terry and I, bless us with a great day of surf.
Amen.

Empowerment and Focus

2012-01-25T09:38:00.000-08:00

Exodus 12; Exodus 13; Psalm 21; Acts 1

Scripture:
Acts 1:7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Observation:
The disciples wondered if Jesus was going to restore the kingdom and deal with the world, but He instructed them to not be distracted with this and to focus on the task at hand, sharing the gospel to the nations as told in Matthew 28:18-19. He told them that they would empower by the Holy Spirit to do great things and given the ability and boldness to be witnesses to the world. As I reflect on this passage today a few things stand out for me.
1. I must watch out for distraction.
2. I am empowered for the mission of sharing Jesus to the world.
3. I must live like a witness of Jesus Christ.

Application:
Focus, Empowered and Lifestyle that glorifies and points others to Christ.

Prayer:
Thank You for saving my soul through the wonderful work of the cross. Thank you for the Holy Spirit inside of me. Thank You for the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit. Lord forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Fill me with compassion for those who do not know You. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our calling, our marriage, our finances, our health and our our future. Fill us with wisdom, favor and discernment. Fill Cindy with peace in this season. Thank You for all You are doing in our lives. I love You Lord, Amen.

Fake vs. Authentic

2012-01-23T10:48:00.000-08:00

Exodus 6; Exodus 7; Exodus 8; Luke 23

Scripture:
Exodus 7:11 But Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers; so the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments. 12 For every man threw down his rod, and they became serpents. But Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods. 13 And Pharaoh’s heart grew hard, and he did not heed them, as the LORD had said.

Observation:
The magicians came to show their power's and that their gods were equal to the god of Moses and Aaron. They too were able to turn their rods into serpents, but Aaron's serpent ate all the others. There truly are no man made gods that come close to the Lord God. As I reflect on this passage today I am reminded that their will be people that come in their own power's and ability. They will come with their wisdom, opinion but at the end of the day it is God's wisdom, presence, word and power that I need. God will never allow anyone to touch His glory. God can never be outdone. God is Supreme, He is Omnipotent, Omnipresent and Omniscient. As a leader and pastor I must use discernment to spot the fake or imitation for the real and godly. A wise leader always sees the difference.

Application:
Always look for the signature of God on any decision or person. Guard my heart from following imitations. Live in the present and presence of God.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for reminding me of the importance of walking with You daily. I pray for wisdom and discernment to know You will and Your way. Bless me today and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances, or health and our future. Fill us with wisdom and favor. May Your favor be upon us in all we do. Thank You for grace, it is Your power to do the impossible. I love You Lord and serve You alone. Amen.

Repentance that Produces Action

2012-01-19T12:01:00.000-08:00

Genesis 47; Genesis 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19

Scripture:
Luke 19:8 Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.”
9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Observation:
The story of Zacchaeus always intrigues me. Zacchaeus was a arrogant, prideful and selfish man. He has robbed so many people, yet an encounter with Jesus changed his whole life around. This encounter with Christ result in true repentance that produced a call to action. Zacchaeus returned with interest that which he had stolen from others. Jesus declared that salvation has come to Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus did not just hear the message, he lived it. As I reflect on this passage today I am reminded that true repentance always results in action steps. It is easy to say sorry but a different thing to take responsibility and make right. May my repentance be followed by an attitude of restoration and dedication to His will and to His ways.

Application:
Repentance produces godliness, fruitfulness and restoration.

Prayer:
Thank You for reminding me that repentance is not something to be taken lightly. I ask You to reveal any area in my life that is not pleasing to You. Thank you for Your grace and mercy that is new every morning. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our home, our finances, our health and our callings. All these come from You. Fill me with wisdom and favor today so that I may do all You have called me to do.
Amen.

God's Favor Is My Shield

2012-01-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

Genesis 42; Genesis 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17

Scripture:
Psalm 5:12 For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous;
With favor You will surround him as with a shield.

Observation:
The David seeks to walk in righteous and what the path the Lord has for him. He lifts up his prayers before the Lord daily. He looks to heaven. David declares that God will bless the righteous and He will shield them with favor. God's favor is on my life. No matter what comes my way, I can trust God to work it out for me. He is for me. He holds my life and future in His hands. I need to step in faith and trust His hand to move on my behalf. I claim the favor of God over my life today. I receive His blessing and power for my life.

Application:
God's favor is my shield. He will always turn things around for me.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for this reminder today. You are for me. Thank You for guiding me in this season and for providing for our needs. I pray for wisdom and discernment of Your will and plans for my life. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our home, our finances and our health. Watch over us and guide in Your steps. Thank You for always shielding us with favor. I pray for breakthrough, promotion and elevation for our life's. Lord I love You and live for You.
Amen.

God's Steps Don't Always Make Sense

2012-01-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

Genesis 39; Genesis 40; Genesis 41; Luke 16

Scripture:
Genesis 39:2 And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. 20And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison.

Observation:
Joseph went pit to Potiphar's house to the king's personal prison. God's favor was on him in all these season's, for Joseph served with excellence, faithfulness and reverence to the Lord. In the natural it looks like he is on a downward slope but in the spirit he is advancing and God is positioning Joseph for greatness. Sometime the road up might involve a few downhill slopes. Joseph never let his heart get in a mess even though in the natural things seemed to get worse and worse. He stayed the course and guarded his heart. Yesterday pastor Donna Crouch spoke on Proverbs 4:23 Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life. I am reminded today to trust God no matter how bad the natural season might look. God purpose is to advance me and bring increase into my life so that I may be a blessing to others. God is for me, His favor is upon me. I must resist the temptation to question, to operate in fear and to look to the left or the right. God has a future and a hope for me. I claim it and receive it today.

Application:
God is positioning me for blessing, breakthrough and influence. I must guard my heart from looking in at the natural and keep focus on His word, promises and presence.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for this word today. At times things do not always make sense and the pressure is on. You oh Lord are still in control. You plan is to bless me and make me a blessing. I ask You to forgive me for sometimes operating in fear instead of faith. For looking at the natural instead of the spiritual position You have placed me in. Sharpen me like Joseph. I pray that my eyes, ear, heart and mind would be fixed on You. Lord I ask You for wisdom and favor to lead and serve my pastor. Bless my wife, our home, our finances, our future, our callings and our our health. Thank You for all You are doing in our lives. I love You. Amen.

Humility.

2012-01-14T12:37:00.000-08:00

Genesis 34; Genesis 35; Genesis 36; Luke 14

Scripture:
Luke 14:10 “Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, ‘Friend, we have a better place for you!’ Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. 11 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Observation:
Jesus teaches on the power and importance of humility. Those who humble themselves will be honored. Every person has a need to be valued, respected and honored. The love and appreciation of others adds value to our lives. No one wants to go through life under appreciated and ignored. Yet some have taken appreciation to the other side where appreciation and praise has become their drug. They need consistent praise to feel good about themselves. This holds them back from God's best. In this season of my life humility is a daily choice. I am having fun serving, being an armor bearer to Ps. Mike and placing certain gifts on the shelf. God knows my heart and He has given me gifts. i can rest in the fact that at the right time God will allow those gifts to be used again. I need to sit in the seat of the servant and at the right time God will promote me. Humility is a lifestyle and it what Christ modeled to me.

Application:
God is good. He never forgets the humble but promises to exalt them in the right season. My future is in His Hands.

Prayer:
Thank You Lord for all You are doing in my life. I love and praise You for Your goodness and faithfulness to me. Bless my wife, our home, our finances and our health. I love and praise You for all You are doing in my life. Mold me and shape me to be Your servant. Bless this day. amen.

Focused Prayers

2012-01-11T09:23:00.000-08:00

Genesis 27; Genesis 28; Psalm 4; Luke 11

Scripture:
Luke 11:9 “And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

Observation:
Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray and then encourages them to keep on asking. He promises that when we pray God hears and if we are consistently praying His will, that He will answer and give us what we need. As I reflect on this promise today I am reminded of God's goodness and His love for me. God is faithful and just. He knows what I need and His ready to bless me and answer. Jesus says to seek, to ask and to knock. To me this morning the word focus sticks out. I need to be more focused in my prayer time. I need to knock on the right doors and seek in the right areas. I need to ask God for the right things. And He will answer, open and I will find.

Application:
Focus prayers always produce breakthroughs!

Prayer:
Lord thank You for the blood of Jesus that washes me clean and allows me to daily come before You in prayer. Thank You for opening Your ears to my prayers and for caring for me. I pray today for Your will to be done, for Your kingdom to come in my life. I pray for Your favor, wisdom and blessing to be on my life. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our house, our finances, our health and our dogs in San Jose. Refresh us and the whole team for Arise. Bless Ps. Mike and Lisa today. Bless our volunteers, our staff and our church. I pray for Josh and the companies and ask You for incredible breakthrough's that only You can do. May this be the best year ever! Bless my family in South Africa and watch over them. Amen.

Celebrate, Encourage, Recruit and Train

2012-01-10T10:21:00.000-08:00

Genesis 25; Genesis 26; Psalm 6; Luke 10

Scripture:
Luke 10:2And He said to them, The harvest indeed is abundant [there is much ripe grain], but the farmhands are few. Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.

Observation:
Jesus reminded the disciples that for the kingdom of God to advance the need for leaders would always be great. The world is ready for harvesting but the workers, the servants and leaders are too few. Today we still have the same problem. A huge world that is so easily accessible, but to few workers. The world is so small, with technology and transportation, we truly can reach the world for Jesus. But it will take a dedicated church, a hard working church full of servants, volunteers and leaders. I am reminded today that I must build leader, recruit servants and always call out the gifting and potential in others. Everybody can make a difference, it just starts with one.

Application:
I am reminded today to encourage and celebrate the leaders and volunteers we have in our church, to look for new leaders and servants and to raise them up. I must learn more to be an overseer and less of a doer. Doing is important but I am at a level in leadership where my job is to recruit and train.

Prayer:
Lord I pray today for Arise Conference and every volunteer. Bless our volunteers, refresh them, give them creativity and passion. Use me to encourage them and to be a catalyst among them. Bless Ps. Lisa and refresh her. Bless our guest speakers too. I pray for wisdom and favor today to make the right decisions. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finances, our home and our health. Bless our dogs and watch over them in San Jose. Bless our church and give us clarity for the next steps. I love You Lord and thank You for all You have done in my life. Amen.

Great Reward

2012-01-06T09:38:00.000-08:00

Genesis 15; Genesis 16; Genesis 17; Luke 6

Scripture:
Genesis 15:1 After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.”

Observation:
God makes a covenant with Abram and it comes from God's love for him. God speaks an incredible future over his life and all this again because of God's love for him. Abram received a great reward. I too have this reward in the Holy Spirit. I have been blessed with so much. God has given me a new name, I am now His child and all of heaven is mine. It is so easy to get distracted with life and miss out on heaven's blessing's and favor. I know God is calling me to walk by faith and not by sight. His favor is on my life. I need not fear or stress for God will bless me and make me a blessing.

Application:
God has given me so much and I need to grab hold of it and apply it more in my life. His power, favor, wisdom and anointing are all available to me.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for blessing me with an inheritance in the Holy Spirit. Lord forgive me for my sins and for living to often in my own ability and not Yours. Renew my heart and mind today and show me Your will and plans. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances, our health and futures. Bless Ps. Mike with the word this weekend. Amen.

Yes I am Willing

2012-01-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

Genesis 12; Genesis 13; Genesis 14; Luke 5

Scripture:
Luke 5:12 And it happened when He was in a certain city, that behold, a man who was full of leprosy saw Jesus; and he fell on his face and implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”
13 Then He put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Immediately the leprosy left him.

Observation:
Jesus must have been so blessed by the cry of this leper. The leper comes to Jesus for healing, he recognizes who Jesus is and steps out in faith. Jesus moved by compassion responds, "I am willing" and Jesus heals the leper. This is the kind of faith that God wants me to come to Him with. He wants me to step out in faith and ask. God is willing, and that is the good news for me today. He is willing to heal me! He is willing to restore me. He is wiling to bless me. He is willing to forgive me elevate me, promote me, prosper me, fill me with His wisdom, favor and most of all His presence. God is willing, the question is am I asking?

Application:
God is willing, I need to be asking!

Prayer:
Father thank You for this word today and the reminder that Your love for me is so amazing that I will never fully comprehend it. Thank You for this new day and for guiding me. I pray for wisdom and favor to be upon my life. Guide me in the steps You have ordained for me. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances, our callings, our health. You are the Source of all of these. Bless Ps. Mike as he works on this weekends message. Guide him in the word You have for the church. Bless Ps. Lisa with her message for next week. Fill her with confidence and wisdom. Thank You for these two, their leadership and friendship. Amen.

Unity and Effective Communication

2012-01-04T09:20:00.000-08:00

Genesis 9; Genesis 10; Genesis 11; Luke 4

Scripture:
Genesis 11:5 But the Lord came down to look at the city and the tower the people were building. 6 “Look!” he said. “The people are united, and they all speak the same language. After this, nothing they set out to do will be impossible for them!

Observation:
The tower of Babel was built out of rebellion towards God and God dealt with them by changing their communication and releasing different languages.

Application:
A few things stand out for me here. They were united and God said nothing is impossible for them. Unity is so powerful. When unity is centered around the principles and values of God, then nothing is impossible and God's blessing will come upon that group. Unity is so powerful. Unity is work team, unity in marriage, unity between our hearts and God. Isolation is the most dangerous place a man could ever be in. The second thing that stands out for me is the importance of communication. Their unity was a result of clear and focused communication. God disrupted this and even though the vision of building the tower was the same, the communication was not! Communication in any team is vital and must be guarded. As a leader I must always seek to understand what my team. co-workers and boss is saying. Communication is the first step to unity of vision. I must work on better communication and learn to be more effective and clear.

Prayer:
Father thank You for this powerful truth this morning. Help me to be a better communicator so that I might be a more effective leader for You. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Bless our callings and our futures. Refresh Cindy and anoint her. Bless our family and friends. Bless our pastor and his wife. Anoint Ps. Lisa with a fresh word for next week. Fill her with boldness and fire. I pray for today's meetings and ask for Your will to be done. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Righteousness, Closeness and Follow Through

2012-01-03T09:20:00.000-08:00

Genesis 6; Genesis 7; Genesis 8; Luke 3

Scripture:
Genesis 6:9 This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God

Observation:
As God looked over the earth He saw the wickedness of man. It is incredible to think He found only one righteous God fearing man. What incredible anarchy. Yet the righteousness of Noah promoted him. God choose him to be the future of the human race. He was called to an inedible task.

Application:
I am reminded again this morning that God looks for righteousness and those who walk close to Him. Righteous and a close walk with God are the keys to promotion and elevation. I believe this is the year for Cindy and I to breakout. God has been preparing us and yes we have mountains to overcome, but our mountains are mole hills to God. I believe that righteousness, character, godliness, integrity and the anointing will unlock huge doors for us. It's time for me to step into it. Noah had to step into his calling an build an ark. People must have mocked him, laughed at him, yet he had to obey and step into his calling. I don;t believe for one minute that when he shut the doors the spirit of revenge creep-ed in, for Noah seems like the kind of guy. Noah stuck the course, the fulfilled what God asked him to do. In my life I simply need to trust and obey. The left and the right will try to draw me off course, but the path ahead is simple.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for this new day. Thank You for the anointing You have put on my life. I pray for breakthrough in my life. Forgive me for my sins and wash me clean. Renew my heart and mind to You. Draw me deep into Your presence so that I may know Your heart and Your ways. Bless my wife, our finances, our home, our health and our callings. Fill us with peace, wisdom, favor and clarity. We love You. Amen.

Wisdom and Favor

2012-01-02T16:10:00.000-08:00

Genesis 3; Genesis 4; Genesis 5; Luke 2

Scripture:
Luke 2:52 Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.

Observation:
As I reflect on this passage today I am reminded of the importance of influence. Jesus grew in wisdom and favor. His reached increased as His wisdom and favor increased.

Application:
I am reminded today that my reach will increase as favor and wisdom increase in my life. God has called me to influence others. I must seek out wisdom and favor so that these may become a bridge to reaching others. Love still is the foundation and motivation of evangelism. I need a balance between love, wisdom and favor. In this need season of my life I want to become a better steward of all God has given me. My finances, my marriage, my position. I want to grow in wisdom when it comes to managing these. Proverbs reminds me that wisdom is seeking for me in the streets. Wisdom is crying out and all I need to do is listen and follow. God has given me the Holy Spirit and He will guide me into all truth.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for loving me. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to make the right decisions and to seek You before I make any decisions. Lord I pray for breakthrough in the area of my finances. Make a way for us to excel forward and see the dreams we have come to fruition. Forgive me for making foolish decisions. I pray for clarity, favor and breakthrough. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and continue to move us forward. Lord You are my Source and I seek You in all things.
Amen.

Trust & Do Good

2011-12-29T14:11:00.000-08:00

Psalm 37

Scripture:
Ps. 37:3 Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
4 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart’s desires.

Observation:
David reminds us this morning that trusting in God and doing good should be the motivation behind all we think and do. God is faithful and when we trust Him and honor His ways, He will bless us and provide for us. God's faithfulness shines on those who live for Him.

Application:
I know well that obedience is better than sacrifice. God is faithful and He promises to take care of those who call on His name and obey His ways. Doing good is not always easy, but it is worth it. Godliness is produces blessing and favor. Integrity opens doors anhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifd character sustains many relationships. In this season of my life I am simplifying. Getting back to the basics of trusting God, doing good, serving others and seeking humility. God has been so good to me and I am so grateful for all of His blessings on my life. I will live safely and prosper.

Prayer:
Lord forgive me for my sins and wash me clean. Renew a right spirit within me and fill me with Your joy and Your peace. Holy Spirit guide me in the steps the Father has ordained for me. Bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finances, our home and our health. All these come from You. I pray for Your favor to be upon Cindy and I.
Amen.

Worthy is the Lamb

2011-12-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

Revelation 5; Revelation 6; Revelation 7; Revelation 8; Revelation 9

Scripture:
Revelation 5:13 And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang:

“Blessing and honor and glory and power
belong to the one sitting on the throne
and to the Lamb forever and ever.”

Observation:
Jesus is being worshiped here, for He is the Lamb that was slain for the sins of the world. He is worthy to open the scrolls for He paid the price no one else could pay.

Application:
This morning as I read this passage I can see the day the Lord prepares to come for His bride and millions are singing “Blessing and honor and glory and power
belong to the one sitting on the throne
and to the Lamb forever and ever.”
Some will try to hide in shame and fear, but millions will rejoice and worship. As I reflect on this today I feel a joy and worship in my heart. I love Jesus so much and I love His presence and spirit within me. God has done so many things in my life and all I can say is “Blessing and honor and glory and power
belong to the one sitting on the throne
and to the Lamb forever and ever.”
God You are Good all the time!

Prayer:
Thank You Father for all You have done for me. Thank You most of all for loving me and for making me Your own. I love You and I declare there is none like You. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Watch over us today and give us wisdom. Amen.

Alpha and Omega

2011-12-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

Revelation 1; Revelation 2; Revelation 3; Revelation 4

Scripture:
Revelations 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.”

Observation:
John declares the Authority of Christ and He reign. He is the Alpha and Omega, all things are under His reign. He is in control.

Application:
Jesus is Supreme and He reigns. There is none like Him. He is glorious and victorious. He is the beginning and the end. All things exist by His power and strength. My life is in His hands, my future is secure! My hope is Christ. I can trust Him. He has steps ordained for me. I am glad that my life is in His hands and He will direct me to His best.

Prayer:
Father thank You for being there for me. Thank You for guiding me and for giving me a hope and a future. I pray for wisdom today and understanding to know Your will and Your way. I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my finances. Elevate me and promote me in influence. Teach me Your ways. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our future. I love You Lord.
Amen.

Testify

2011-12-23T15:39:00.000-08:00

John 15; John 16; John 17; John 18

Scripture:
John 15: 26 “But I will send you the Advocate — the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me. 27 And you must also testify about me because you have been with me from the beginning of my ministry.

Observation:
Jesus spoke of the coming of the Holy Spirit and the how He would reveal the heart and nature of God to believers. He would also convict the world of sin and draw people to the truth and love of God. Jesus calls us to be a testimony to the world just like the Holy Spirit.

Application:
Who has called me to testify too? Who will cross my path today. Who needs a word of encouragement or hope. Who needs a prayer or a hug? As I reflect on this today I am reminded that it is so easy to get busy with ministry and to actual forget to minister. That's why Jesus never had an office, all His work was in the field. He met people where they were at. I must guard from getting stuck behind a desk or long meetings. I need to meet with people and encourage them.

Prayer:
Jesus I love you and thank You for the precious Holy Spirit in my life. I am so blessed to have the Holy Spirit in my life. Lord guide me today to those who need a word of encouragement or hope. Holy Spirit may I be sensitive to the needs of others and not distracted by my own needs. You know my needs and You will work things out for me. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Fill me with wisdom, discernment and clarity. Bless our services this weekend and may many come to know You as Lord. Bless my wife and watch over her.
Amen.

Holy Spirit Promise

2011-12-22T18:18:00.000-08:00

John 12; John 13; John 14

Scripture:
John 14:15 “If you love me, obey my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. 17 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.

Observation:
Jesus spoke of the promise of the Holy Spirit living in the lives of believers. The Holy Spirit would mentor us and fill us with power to do the impossible. The world does not look for him because they are blinded by the things of this world.

Application:
As i reflect on this passage today I am reminded that God has given me the best gift ever, the Holy Spirit. I am empowered to do great things and have direct access to the throne of God because of Jesus. Jesus truly is the reason for the season and more than that the reason and meaning of life. There is none like Him. I am reminded today to activate the gift inside of me. To walk and to live by faith and not by sight. This season has been busy and I feel a need to slow down and rest. I need time just sitting in the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is so good to be in this season, in a great church, in a great city with great people. I truly am blessed.

Prayer:
Lord I thank You for all You have done for me. I pray today for peace and wisdom. I pray for favor and blessing. I pray for miracle and breakthrough's. Bless my wife, our home and our finances, our friends, our family and our health. Thank You for always providing and for always making a way for us. Thank you for peace in this season. I rest in Your goodness and faithfulness. Amen.

Holy Spirit

2011-12-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

John 7; John 8

Scripture:
John 7:38 Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” 39 (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)

Observation:
Jesus spoke of the coming time where the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all believers. They would be filled with life, joy and the presence of God. No more disconnect, straight access to the Father.

Application:
Jesus was so excited about this one statement, it basically summoned up His whole cause. Death, Resurrection and Indwelling of the Holy Spirit. I am so glad Jesus paid the price for my sins and freedom. I live now in the joy of my salvation, but what really fills me with joy is the Holy Spirit in my life. I have the presence of God in me, it is a mystery to many, but a treasure to me. Where would I be without the Holy Spirit. It truly is a joy to my soul, a blessing, a fulfillment. I am reminded today to keep my heart and mind fixed on the leading of the Holy Spirit. I need His guidance, for His role is to reveal to me the will of the Father. Christmas is about the greatest gift ever, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. I am so thankful.

Prayer:
Thank You for the Holy Ghost. He is my Comforter, my Helper, on Him I can truly depend. Thank Holy Spirit for always being there for me. For helping me, teaching me and for always speaking to me. I pray today for wisdom, favor and clarity. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances, our future and our health. Bless Ps. Mike today and give him wisdom and discernment. Bless our church with weekend with Your presence and amazing services. Thank You for calling us to reach the people of this island. I love You Lord and ask Your will to be done in my life.
Amen.

Reach those who are stuck.

2011-12-19T12:46:00.000-08:00

John 5; John 6

Scripture:
John 5:7 “I can’t, sir,” the sick man said, “for I have no one to put me into the pool when the water bubbles up. Someone else always gets there ahead of me.”

Observation:
This man has waited for years to get his healing. No one was willing to help him and he had basically given up hope. He needed help, and Jesus was the one to step in and meet his need.

Application:
I am reminded today that there are so many people in this world that are alone, stuck and in need of a miracle. They just can't seem to get breakthrough in their life and they have basically given up. Jesus has called me to reach such people. They are all around me. I am called to go into the world and to reach the lost. The miracle of Jesus is inside of me and I must guard from keeping it to myself. The bible teaches me that the steps of the righteous are ordered by the Lord. He has a predetermined path for me and this path will dissect those who need a miracle. May I never be to busy or too distracted to miss a divine opportunity.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for all You are doing in my life. It is an honor to be a child of God, a pastor and a leader in the church. I pray for those this Christmas that are stuck. I pray that they would come to know You and that You would use Hope Chapel to bring about a change in their lives. Bless Ps. Mike and give him a powerful word of hope and love for this weekends service. Refresh him. I pray for every 3x3 card that was handed out and I ask You to draw people in. May we see people come like never before. Thank You for all You are doing, I love You. Bless my wife, the dogs, our finances, our home and our health. You are amazing Lord. Amen.

Exercising Spiritual All Muscles

2011-12-17T10:16:00.000-08:00

2 Peter 1; 2 Peter 2; 2 Peter 3; John 1

Scripture:
1 Peter 1:3 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.

Observation:
Peter reminds us that we live a different life now. Before accepting Christ into our lives we lived by the flesh and it's weaknesses. Now we live in the resurrection power of the cross. We have all of heaven available to us and we live with the power of God inside of us.

Application:
As I reflect on this passage I realize that there are still areas in my life where I rely more on my flesh than the power of God in me. God has amazing promises and blessings for me. I need to live in His freedom, promises and power. An athlete that only relies on certain gifts and strengthens and never works on his weakness will always be known for those one of two qualities that made him great. But an athlete that is an all rounder will be know as one that dominated his sport. I want to be a Christian that relies on God's power in all areas of my life. I want to be one that grows in areas that are weak. In my prayer life there are areas that need strengthening. In my teaching and preaching, there are areas that need strengthening. In my leadership there are areas that need strengthening. In my daily disciplines there are areas that need strengthening. Like an athlete that trains and works out every body part, so too I need to work on every part of my spirit man.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for reminding me that growth never stops. I will grow until I step into glory. I pray today for forgiveness of my sins and I ask You to wash me clean. Renew my heart and my mind. Fill me afresh with Your Spirit. I pray for godly discipline and focus. I pray today for wisdom and favor. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our callings. Bless these as You are the Source of all of them. I pray for a favor with my plane ticket and ask You to work all the details out. Bless Ps. Mike as he teaches tonight. Give him wisdom, favor and energy. Refresh him adn prepare him for the Christmas messages. Thank You for all You are doing in my life. You amaze me every day.
Amen.

Maturity

2011-12-13T14:32:00.001-08:00

Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6; Hebrews 7; Hebrews 8

Scripture:
Hebrews 5:12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others

Observation:
The writer of Hebrews calls the believers to maturity. He rebukes them for not being a place of mentoring others, rather they still need mentoring themselves. They ought to be more solid in their faith.

Application:
The goal of discipleship is to get new believers to a place where they can disciple other new believers. As I reflect on the church today to much is put on the pastor and the staff. There is almost an mentality that it is up to them to reach people for Jesus. As a pastor must model reaching others and making disciples, but I must always challenge the church to do the same. If the church I serve at is not maturing, then we are not truly making disciples. It is simple....The goal is make disciples of all nations! Each mature believer should be mentoring someone.

Prayer:
Lord thank You this word today. May i be about raising disciples and mentoring others. I ask You to bless me and to make me into a blessing. Bless my wife, our home, our finances and our health. Thank You for all You are doing in our lives.
Amen.

Grace and Redemption

2011-12-09T17:34:00.000-08:00

1 Timothy 5; 1 Timothy 6; Titus 1; Titus 2; Titus 3

Scripture:
Titus 3:4 But—“When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.”

Observation:
As I reflect on today's journal i am reminded of the incredible work of Jesus Christ. He has redeemed my life and declared me free. I now live in the confidence that God is for me and He holds my future in His hands.

Application:
It is so easy to get bogged down in life and miss out on the wonderful gift of new life that Jesus has give to me. I am filled with joy as I read these verses today. I am filled with peace, joy and hope. God knows my needs and He has a plan for my life. I might not have things all figured out, but I rest in the goodness of God. If God is for me then who can be against me.

Prayer:
Lord You are so amazing. You are so good to me and Your love is new each day. Fill me with wisdom and joy today. Make known to me Your plans and purpose. Cause me to walk in your ways! i love You Lord and live for You. It is an honor to be Your son. bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. You are our Source and our Provider. Thank You for all You did for me on the cross. Amen.

Pursuit of Obedience

2011-12-05T09:53:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 5; Ephesians 6; Psalm 119:1-80

Scripture:
Psalm 119: 56 This is how I spend my life:
obeying your commandments.
Heth
57 Lord, you are mine!
I promise to obey your words!
58 With all my heart I want your blessings.
Be merciful as you promised.
59 I pondered the direction of my life,
and I turned to follow your laws.

Observation:
The Psalmist reflects on the goodness of God and knows that these are activated when obedience, integrity and righteousness are being pursued in a person's life. Obedience is one of the greatest attributes a Christian can strive for.

Application:
This passage has been the cry of my heart for a few months now. I have seen the hand of the Lord moving mightily for me as a result of passionately pursuing His ways. I realize though that there are still many insecurities in my life that need changing. I have embraced the transformation work of the Holy Spirit in me and there is still more to be done. I used to pursue many other things in the kingdom of God, platforms, recognition of my gifts and talents but now those things are fading away as I realize the most important thing I could ever pursue is Christ and Him alone. I am starting to understand the passage where Christ restores Peter and tells him that he will need to let go and simply follow. Jesus never said Peter would not do great things as he got older but rather that he would learn to simply go with the flow and trust God. I sense a deeper peace coming into my life. Less restlessness and more contentment. I sense the Lord is breaking through deeper areas of my heart. I am learning what it means to let go and to simply trust God. It is not easy for my flesh seeks control, but the tension of obedience keeps me yielding. I know He is working something deep in me, I know I have not come close to the promises He has for me. He is at work in me and obedience is a must!

Prayer:
Father thank You for the season You have called me to walk in. It is not a comfortable season. I am learning to lead from the rear. I pray that I would walk in humility, character and integrity. You are calling me to obedience and a right heart. Forgive me for my sins and wash me clean. Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. The saying is true, "Do don't know you are a servant until you are treated like one!" Lord I pray today for wisdom and favor. I pray for breakthrough and elevation. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. Bless these and help us to always keep You first in them. I love You Lord and I live for You. Bless this day and refresh my soul. Amen.

Every Knee Will Bow.

2011-12-03T10:09:00.000-08:00

Romans 13; Romans 14; Romans 15; Romans 16

Scripture:
Romans 14:11 It is written:

“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bow before me;
every tongue will acknowledge God.’”

Observation:
Paul reminds us that every man and woman will stand before God and give an account. Every human being whether they believe in God or not will have to answer for their faith or lack there of in God.

Application:
This morning I read an article n Tim Teabow that kind of irritated me. The guy is the quarterback for the Denver Bronco's NFL team. He is not the best of players yet he keeps on winning. The commentators want him to fail though because he is too nice a guy and he keep giving glory to God and his team. He shows no pride or takes no glory. The article revealed how people are after to him because of his faith. I am excited about Tim Teabow and his commitment to live his life for God in a league that is plagued by so many horror stories of drugs, prostitutes, alcohol and abuse. Paul reminds me today that in the end everybody stands before God. My irritation needs to draw me to two things. !. Pray for Tim Teabow because the response towards him shows us that he is making a difference. 2. Pray for those who are attacking him that they might find Jesus. "Greater love has no man than he lay down his life for his friends!"

Prayer:
Lord I pray for Tim Teabow today and I ask You to bless him and to make him a blessing to the nations. Strengthen him and fill him with wisdom and discernment. I pray for favor on his life and that he would continued to be refreshed by Your Holy Spirit. I bind the negativity of the enemy and pray for more positive breakthrough's. I pray for those who are opposed to him and I ask You to touch their lives. May they come to know You and may their position of influence be used to honor You instead of slander. I pray today for my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. I ask You to bless us and make us into a blessing. May Your favor come upon us in all areas of our life. I love You Lord and pray that my life would shine for You.
Amen.

Justification and Peace

2011-12-01T10:01:00.000-08:00

Romans 5,6,7,8

Scripture:
Romans 5: 1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.

Observation:
Paul remind the church that they have bee justified through faith in God and we can now live in peace. All this has been made possible by Jesus. The Message, says, "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus.

Application:
This verse is so powerful and I am reminded this morning that I have been justified by Jesus and my sin no longer has power of my life. Paul challenges me this morning to exercise what God has done and the result will be peace and contentment in God. Since the fall of man, man has always sought after inner-peace and contentment. There is only one source for this and it is Jesus. Paul's challenge this morning reminds me that it has been done and I can live in it. I can live by faith and know that God is for me and that He all things worked out for me. God is so amazing. He knows my needs and He is so good to me because He loves me. God loves me and He wants His peace, security, blessing and power active in my life.

Prayer:
Lord You are so amazing. I thank You for Your peace, joy and love for me. Thank You for loving me and for choosing me. Thank You for always being there for me. I pray today for wisdom to lead, favor to do Your work and discernment to see You plan. Bless my wife and her travels. Bring her here safely. Bless her with a great flight. I pray for our marriage, our finances, our new season and our health. Bless these for You are the Source of all of these. I pray for my friend Josh and I ask You to bless him. Give him great rest and open new opportunities for him. Fill him with wisdom and discernment. Thank You for this new day. I love You Lord and live for You. Amen.

Love and Godliness

2011-11-28T11:07:00.000-08:00

Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3

Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 3:12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.

Observation:
Paul speaks of an increase of love for the church of Thessalonica. He encourages them to be blameless before the Lord and to walk in righteousness.

Application:
As I reflect on this passage this morning I am reminded that Godliness is a huge part to fruitfulness. So many people are searching for the meaning of life and for purpose and joy. Jesus has brought so much joy and contentment into my life and others need to see it. Godliness keep one from getting bogged down with weight of sin and bondage. Christ has set me free and each and every day I can live in His freedom. Paul also challenges me to love more. I still can grow more in my love for others. The compassion of Christ is something I need to strive more for. The world will know I am His disciple by the way I love others. I am so blessed this morning to reflect on the love and goodness of God. He is faithful, He is good and His love endures forever.

Prayer:
Father thank You for loving me and for calling me to be Your son. You have blessed me so much and each day I am remind of the call to live for You. I pray for godliness in my life. Holy Spirit reveal to me areas that need work or change. I pray today that You would bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and our future. All these come from You and i declare that You are the God of breakthrough. I pray for wisdom and favor for this week. Bless my teams and help us to navigate wisely through all the projects.
Amen.

Keeping First Things First.

2011-11-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

Matthew 20; Matthew 21; Matthew 22

Scripture:
Matthew 22: 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

Observation:
Jesus breaks it down to the main thing in Matthew 22: 37-39. He reminds us that the most important thing for a Christian to do is to love God and to love others. This must be at the center of our faith. If we don;t build our faith on these, we will always miss the mark and be frustrated in our walk.

Application:
I have seen so many people get caught up in religion and not relationship because they have not built there faith on the great commandment. I think this is the root to why Jesus will respond to some and say, "I never knew you!" Even though a person flows in all the spiritual gifts, if they have not loved God and others, they are just a clanging cymbal. As I reflect on my life today I am reminded to keep first things first. I can be a great pastor, speaker and a hard worker, but if my love for God and others is not my motivation, the result will end up as either frustration or insecurity. Loving God is easy, but loving others is sometimes not. People will either like me or they won't. Sometimes I will love others and get nothing back. That's why loving God is a huge key to loving others. God will give me the grace needed to love unconditionally. I am so blessed this morning when i reflect on the love God has for me. He has been so good to me. He loved me before I loved Him. He chose me before I chose Him. May my heart always be in check when it comes to loving God and loving others. May I always keep a guard on my heart and may I listen to the Holy Spirit when I step out of this key foundational truth.

Prayer:
Lord forgive me for not always loving others. Sometimes it is difficult when people hurt or misuse your love towards them. Guard my heart and may I always walk free and ready to love You and others. Teach me more to love like You. I thank You today that You are in control of my life and You hold my future in Your hand. I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our future, our finances and our callings. All these comes from You. I love You Lord and I thank You for loving me. Amen.

Forgivness and the Heart

2011-11-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

Matthew 17; Matthew 18; Matthew 19

Scripture:
Matthew 18: 21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”

22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

Observation:
Jesus teaches on forgiveness and He teaches it as an attitude of the heart and mind. He challenges us to go the extra mile when it comes to forgiving. Unforgiveness binds up the hearts of men and limits them from walking in their destiny.

Application:
Forgiveness is so powerful. It keeps the heart in check and it keeps us in a place of humility and sensitivity the Holy Spirit. There is an old saying, "Like water off a ducks back," so we must be when it comes to offense and unforgiveness. We cannot make room for it, we cannot let it take root or give any time to it. It is a distraction. I know this well as I am reminded of a time in my life when I was a young man where I let unforgiveness take root. For two years I sat with it and it ate at me everyday. It was so hard to go to church and to worship Jesus. I know God was calling me to forgive but I just could not let go. It was the most unfruitful time in my life. Once I finally made a decision to let go, blessings flowed immediately into my life. There was fruit in my ministry and relationships went to new levels. I must always guard my heart from offense. I must be willing to face it head on to forgive as many times as needed.

Prayer:
Jesus I am reminded this morning of the number of times You have forgiven me. You have always restored me and shown me grace. I love You Lord and thank You for reminding me that forgiveness is an attitude of the heart. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your ways. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our health, our finances, for all of these come from You. Thank You for my new season, may the fruit come in all areas. Amen.

Jesus my yoke.

2011-11-22T22:58:00.000-08:00

Matthew 11; Matthew 12; Matthew 13

Scripture:
Matthew 11:28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Observation:
Jesus speaks of rest and peace, these words must have seen so foreign to the Israeli's as they were so bound by the religion of the Pharisees. Their whole lifestyle was under the microscope of the Pharisees and so they lived under guilt and condemnation. Jesus speaks of a new way, peace and rest and a new yoke. The word yoke was well known to the Jews. They understood work and Jesus tells them that His work would bring joy and peace to their souls.

Application:
Jesus never promised that we would give our life's to Him and then never have to work or do anything. But He did promise that we would be fulfilled and live in peace and joy. He did promise rest and blessing. God has called me to be yoked with His plan and purpose for this world. I am called to build and advance His kingdom and what a joy that is. Seeing life's changed is still the greatest joy to me. I love seeing people find Jesus and then watching them transform from the inside out. I must though set boundaries that keep me under His yoke and in His will. The expectations of others mixed with my insecurity can to easily pull me off course and place me under a yoke that is not of Him. The minute I feel stressed, anxious, fearful and drained, is the minute I must stop and re-center my life. Jesus is my joy, and when the joy is gone, that means He is no longer at the center. I am enjoying the season I am. I am learning to keep Him at the center of all I am doing. I know there is none like Him and at the end of it all without Him I am nothing.

Prayer:
Jesus thank You for placing me under Your yoke. Thank You for calling me and for saving my life. Lord You are my joy and my portion. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my heart and my mind to Your will and to Your ways. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Watch over Cindy and the dogs and keep them safe. I ask You to fill me with wisdom and discernment to know the steps You have placed in front of me. Thank You for always being so close to me. I love You Lord.
Amen.

Servants and the Harvest.

2011-11-21T12:22:00.000-08:00

Matthew 8; Matthew 9; Matthew 10

Scripture:
Matthew 9:37 He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. 38 So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.”

Observation:
Jesus looked over the crowd and saw incredible need. The leaders of the day were more concerned with religion than compassion. Jesus instructs His disciples to pray for more workers, for He knew the work that lay ahead for the advancement of the kingdom and gospel of God.

Application:
Yesterday Ps. Mike spoke on the need for a 'Servolution'. He challenge the church to do something. In his words you cannot do everything but you can do something. The church needs more volunteers, in fact let me rephrase that, the kingdom of God needs more volunteers. The greatest thing we can give back to God is our life. This is done by serving. What I am doing to raise up more servants. Am I modelling serving in my lifestyle? Does my attitude represent that of a servant. I am reminded that a servant is one that does things with no expectation. You truly only know you are a servant when no one notices you! I think of the great servant Nelson Mandela today. He spent years in prison serving a cause, and not many knew about him. But there came a day where the world became his platform. To be a servant cost's. It is sacrificial and I see this in my Jesus. He gave it all for me. As my responsibility increases, may my serving increase too.

Prayer:
Lord I pray for our church today and ask You to send more servants and leaders. We need workers. Lord help me to shepherd well the leaders You have given me. May I be a faithful steward of those that are under my leadership. May I guard them from burn out and may I model to them a servants heart. I pray for wisdom today and favor to make the right decisions. I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. I love You Lord. Amen.

Reverence and Promises

2011-11-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 7; 2 Corinthians 8; 2 Corinthians 9; 2 Corinthians 10

Scripture:
2 Corinthians 7: 1 Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

Observation:
Paul reminds us that God has great promises for us and these promises come to those who walk uprightly. Paul reminds us that holiness comes out of a growing reverence for God. Solomon said the fear of the Lord is the beginning or starting point of true wisdom. Paul address purity of body and spirit, and reminds the church that this unlocks the promises of God. He is not getting into legalism, but more into a deep seated desire for holiness which stems from reverence for the Lord.

Application:
This morning I am reminded that holiness is so vital to my life. Paul states it so practically, "purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit". I love that! Everyday I am around things that would love to contaminate my spirit and body. Money, lust, food, materialism, are just a few to mention. I am in this world but not of it. God does not want me to relocate to some mountain and wait for His return or my time here on earth to run out. no, He wants me to shine in this world, to be different. The key to me this morning is found in the end of verse 1, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. It all starts and ends with the Lord. Reverence for Him at the center of any heart will filter out the good for the bad. I am reminded this morning of the words of Pd. Wayne Cordeiro, "Do everything for an Audience of One!" May I live today with a greater reverence for the Lord. May I please Him through my actions and meetings today.

Prayer:
Father thank You for the wonderful blessings and promises that You have for me. I love You and I am so amazed at all You are doing for me. I pray to day for a heart that grows more and more in reverence for You. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and heart. I pray that my motive will always be to please and honor You. I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. I love You Lord. I ask You to bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Bless Ps. Mike and his trip and bless his travels back. I pray for my team today and ask You to refresh them. Keep them healthy and may they steward their time wisely. Bless our church and tithes too. Amen.

Walking by Faith

2011-11-16T09:24:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 3; 2 Corinthians 4; 2 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 6

Scripture:
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Observation:
God's plan is to transform us from the old into the new man through the work of Jesus on the cross. Part of this transformation involves our sight. He wants us to look more through His eyes than the eyes of the world. The things of the kingdom of God are eternal and have incredible value. Paul challenges us to look for the eternal value in everything we do. If we don't we will chase what is temporary and the result of that is frustration.

Application:
Faith is greatly effected by sight. If I choose to look at something in the natural, the language of the situation and the opinion of others, then more than likely my faith will be limited to the circumstance and I will end up a 'wishing and a hoping' that things work out. But if I choose to look at a situation through the eyes of God and His word, then all things are possible and my faith is elevated to level not dictated to by circumstance and the opinions of others, but rather by the hand of the Almighty. God wants me to look at the things of life through the eyes of faith. I am called to walk by faith and not by sight. My vision and focus will greatly effect my faith. The devil will always challenge me in the area of faith. The way he does this is to try and get me to look at things in the natural instead of the spiritual. He tried this with Jesus in the desert after Jesus Baptism and fast. Jesus response was, "It is written." Jesus looked at every temptation through the word and eyes of the Spirit. May my eyes and heart be focused like a sniper on the truth and word of God.

Prayer:
Father thank You for Your word today. It is a lamp unto my feet. Thank You for the transformation process I am in. You are changing my heart and mind to be more like Christ. Jesus thank You for the power of the cross. I pray today that I would choose to look at things in the Spirit and not the flesh. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Bless my wife, our marriage, our health and our finances. Bless my wife and watch over her. Fill her with joy and peace today. Thank You for all You are doing in our lives. We love You. I pray for Ps. Mike in Australia today and I ask You to bless him. Refresh him. Bless our staff and church today. Amen.

'Connector '

2011-11-15T09:43:00.000-08:00

Job 41; Job 42; 2 Corinthians 1; 2 Corinthians 2

Scripture:
2 Corinthians 1: 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

2 Corinthians 2:14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?

Observation:
The experiences we go through in life are not just for us, but also for others who go through the same things. God wants us to be a bridge between Him and others. Though we go through trials and tribulation, God will lead us into victory, and we will be a sweet testimony to those searching for God and a stink to those who reject Him.

Application:
God's plan for my life is to be a connector or connection of Him to those who do not know Him. God has done so much in my life and I am to share it with others so that they might see the goodness of God and call out to Him. As a pastor it is important for me to always be sensitive to those around me. Jesus always knew who was in the crowd. I think of Zaccheus in a tree, the woman with the issue of blood in the crowd, blind Bartemeus trying to get his attention, the Samaritan woman who came alone to the well in the late morning. Jesus always knew who was in the crowd. I want to be more discerning to who is in the crowd. Sometimes a crowd can be a blessing and sometimes it can be a distraction. I need more focus to be sharp and my ears open to the Holy Spirit's leading. Business can be one of the biggest distractions in my life. Jesus was never to busy for those needing a miracle. May I always be in a place where miracles can interrupt my schedule.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for a wonderful nights rest. I feel so peaceful and energized this morning. Holy Spirit help me to run at a pace where things just don't pass me by, but where I can be more alert to the things You are doing in the life's that cross my daily path. Lord help me to discern distraction from Your will. Bless my wife today, our marriage, our health and our finances. Thank You for all You are doing for us. May we continue to grow and move in the purposes and plans You have for us. Thank You for this day, may I honor You in all I do.
Amen.

Live Wisely

2011-11-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

Job 35; Job 36; 1 Corinthians 7; 1 Corinthians 8

Scripture:
1 Corinthians 8: 9 Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.

Observation:
Paul presented a potential scenario to illustrate his concern. If a knowledgeable Christian eats in an idol's temple and one with a weak conscience (i.e., misinformed) sees him eating there, then the misinformed one will be emboldened to eat. He will think that the knowledgeable one believes that eating the idol's sacrifice offers a real benefit, and that idolatry is compatible with Christianity.Holman New Testament Commentary

Application:
As a leader I have a higher accountability to how I live. I might have knowledge and be free from the law, but I must always realize that people look up to me. I must be sensitive to those around me and always guard from miscommunication when it comes to lifestyle. I have seen some leaders live with a 'I don't care what people think mentality.' I don't want to be like this. I want to be sensitive and wise in the way I live. I want others to be drawn to Jesus through the way they live. I never want to be a stumbling block to anyone. This does not mean that I need to be legalistic or 'robotic' in any sense but more that I need wisdom and discernment to my environment and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer:
Lord I thank You for reminding me that there are always people around me that need You. I pray that my life would be a testimony of Jesus Christ. Help me to walk in wisdom and discernment. Holy Spirit teach me to be a more effective witness of Christ and guard my heart against legalism. I love You Lord and never want to be a stumbling block to anyone. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home and our finances. Thank You for opening the door for us to get a new apartment. You are so faithful!
Amen.

Paul's Call for Faithfulness

2011-11-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Job 34; 1 Corinthians 4; 1 Corinthians 5; 1 Corinthians 6 (

Scripture:
1 Corinthians 4:2 Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.

Observation:
Paul encourages the church of Corinth to respect the leaders that God has placed over them, but at the same time he reminds the leaders that their ministry needs ot be fruitful and they need to be faithful.

Application:
Paul breaks it down for the leader and calls them to faithfulness. Paul was always pushing integrity and character to his leaders. Faithfulness was a huge demand on his leaders. Paul knew that people would follow a leader that was faithful, one that never abused or misused his position. Today it is still the same. People are looking for character and integrity. no one wants to follow a leader that is not trustworthy or unfaithful. I am reminded this morning that faithfulness starts with God first and then others. It is easy to be faithful and full of integrity and character when your relationship with God is healthy. The Holy Spirit will keep me in check and convict me when I am out of line. That's why I need the Holy Spirit. I will only be as good a leader as my heart and mind are tuned into the Holy Spirit. May my ministry and leadership be soaked in the Holy Spirit.

Prayer:
Father thank You for reminding me this morning that character and integrity are the foundations of any great leader. I pray Holy Spirit that You would lead me and shape me to be a better leader. Convict me Holy Spirit when I miss the mark. I pray that people would see my heart and that my teams would always put You first. Bless me today and make me a blessing. Fill me with wisdom and favor. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Thank You for this day and guide me in Your steps. Amen.

The Comparison Game

2011-11-08T10:51:00.000-08:00

Job 33; 1 Corinthians 1; 1 Corinthians 2; 1 Corinthians 3

Scripture:
Job 33: 6 I am the same as you in God’s sight;
I too am a piece of clay

1 Corinthians 3:4 For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not mere human beings? 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light.18 Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.

Observation:
Job's friends try to humble him by challenging his view of righteousness and the season he is in. Job declares that his heart is pure before the Lord, but his friends feel the opposite. Their belief is that Job sinned and is paying the price for that sin. In Corinthians Paul challenges the wisdom of man and steers the believers away from the comparison game and church politics. He reminds them that true wisdom comes from a spirit and heart of humility and realization that wisdom comes from God and through following Jesus Christ.

Application:
This morning I see the negative effects of the comparison game. It is human nature to always compare. People compare things that really add no value to eternity. Things like cars, houses, jobs, title, bank accounts, school's their kids attend and social events they go too. There is nothing wrong with having nice things, but when those things consistently drive one to a lifestyle of comparison, then materialism and pride kick in. Job's friend was wrong to compare himself to Job. He had no clue as to what Job was really going through. He did not trust Job's explanation or reasoning. He made a judgement call on his belief system, he compared Job to himself. I must guard against comparing myself to others and listening to the comparison's people make of me. The only one I am called to compare myself and mold myself to is Christ. I think the highest compliment I could ever receive is when someone says that my life gives them a glimpse of Jesus. The comparison game is over many churches. They compare their growth, worship, outreach and pastor to others. We must guard against this. As a leader I must first guard myself from falling into this trap and then my team. The 'Comparison Game' is a distraction from what God has called us to do. May I be focused on what God is telling me and may my heart be obedient to His leading.

Prayer:
Father forgive me for comparing myself to others. I am unique and You made me that way. I thank You for the person You have made me to be. I am blessed to be Your child. I pray for favor today and wisdom to make the right choices. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finding a new home, our finances and our health. You are the Source of all we have. I pray for favor today in my meetings and wisdom to make the right choices. Give me wisdom to steward my day wisely. Bless my pastor, his wife, our staff and our church. I love You Lord.
Amen.

Where to find wisdom

2011-11-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

Job 28; Job 29; Galatians 1; Galatians 2

Scripture:
Job 28:20 Where then does wisdom come from?
Where does understanding dwell?
21 It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing,
concealed even from the birds in the sky.
28 And he said to the human race,
“The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom,
and to shun evil is understanding.”

Observation:
Job makes a prayer statement on the topic of wisdom. His friends are questioning his response to his circumstance as they believe Job must have sinned to bring this judgment upon his life. Job question's the source of wisdom and where it is found. Men look for wisdom in wealth, titles, relations but Job knows that true wisdom only comes from God. The beginning of wisdom is the fear / reverence of the Lord.

Application:
Job question is so deep and so powerful. Our human tendency is to turn to others for wisdom. We always run to others or turn to material things to give us wisdom and joy. In the midst of Job's toughest season, he consistently turns and trusts in God. Jod realizes that wisdom is found in God and it comes through a attitude of reverence for God. Job's perseverance and consistent faith in God's wisdom is a true testimony of a man who righteously followed God. In my life I desire to have this kind of consistency and faith. I know that truly God is the only source of wisdom. He is faithful and He will always work things out for me. I need not turn to the left nor the right for my help comes from God. He is faithful. God desires to pour His wisdom into my life and I desperately want it.

Prayer:
Lord fill me with Your wisdom today. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and my heart towards the things that please You. I love You Lord and declare that true wisdom is found in You and You alone. I pray today for favor, blessing and breakthrough. Bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I pray for an apartment today. Guide me and bless Cindy and I with a nice home. I thank You for Your hand to move for us in the midst of what seems impossible. I thank You that You are my source. Bless Cindy, our marriage, our health and our finances. Thank You for Ps. Mike, the staff and Hope Chapel. It truly is an honor to be on staff and a part of such a wonderful church. I love You Lord and I live for You. Amen.

Looking past the dictating environment.

2011-11-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

Mark 8

Scripture:
Mark 8:4 His disciples responded, "Whatbdo you expect us to do about it? Buy food out here in the desert?"

Observation:
Jesus was moved by compassion for the crowd? They had followed Him for days and they were hungry? They had been fed spiritually but now they were physically hungry. Jesus turns to His team for action, but their response is dictated by their environment.

Application:
The disciples had seen many miracles yet they were still bound by their natural environment. Their response should have been the same as Jesus mother at the wedding where the first miracle too place. Their response should have been, " Whatever you want us to do we will do. Here is some food." Instead their environment paralyzed their leadership ability to see the resources available. Today I am reminded that their will always seem to be a lack, but the miracle working power of God is always available. As a leader I must look beyond the natural limitations. I must train my eyes to look for the Holy Spirit and the resources available. As a well known preacher once said, "The miracle in in the house!"

Prayer:
Lord I thank You for today. I thank You for blessing me with my new job and church. I pray for wisdom to lead and favor with the team. I pray for compassion, humility and character to be rooted deep within my heart. I am so thankful, excited and joyous over all You have done for me. You are faithful! Bless my wife and the dogs, fill them with peace and joy today. I pray for blessing and favor in my marriage, finding a new apartment, our finances and our new season. Everything we have comes from You. Lord I pray today that You would teach me to see the Miracle that awaits in the desert places. Help me to be rules more by the Spirit then the natural environments I come across. I pray today for Your will to be done in my life. I love You Lord. amen.

Listening and Stewardship.

2011-10-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

Job 20; Mark 3; Mark 4

Scripture:
Mark 4:24 “Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more. 25 Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.”

Observation:
Jesus teaches on the principle of stewardship and faithfulness. What I find so interesting in this passage is that over and over Jesus reminds people to listen and to hear.

Application:
I am reminded today that I gave been given gifts and an anointing. I am to steward this wisely and to be faithful in what God has given me. If I desire to grow and receive more gifts I need to be faithful in what God has given me now. I am reminded today on the importance of listening and hearing to the Holy Spirit. Jesus reminds me today that the things of the kingdom are revealed to those whose hearts are open to the voice of the Holy Spirit. It is so easy to get so busy and to miss out on the leading of God. I need the leading of the Holy Spirit to be faithful in stewarding the gifts God has given me. A great godly leader is a man who is centered in his walk with God. As I start my new season at Hope Chapel it is important to remember that my leadership will only be as strong as my walk with the Lord. It all flows from the heart!

Prayer:
Lord I thank You for reminding me today that my leadership will only be as good as my listening skills Hearing from You is the key to successful leadership. Jesus You molded this to your disciples and to us. Lord help me to discern what is of You and what is not. I pray for wisdom and favor on my life. I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our new home and our finances. Lord You are the Source of all of these. Thank You for the new season we are walking into. May Your voice be loud in our life's. I love You Lord and I thank You for all You are doing for us.
Amen.

Job's Faith

2011-10-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

Job 16; Acts 21; Acts 22; Acts 23

Scripture:
Job 16:20 My intercessor is my friend
as my eyes pour out tears to God;
21 on behalf of a man he pleads with God
as one pleads for a friend.

Observation:
Job is tired and worn out, yet he stays the course of honoring and calling out to God in the midst of loneliness and utter destruction. Job has nothing left but his faith in God.

Application:
Life will throw season's at us. I just came out of a season of rest and patiently waiting for a door to open. Letting go and trusting God is not always easy. We through it around to often. I know I have said that many times in various messages, "God wants you to let go and trust Him." That is such a deep statement and something I had to walk in the past few months. Letting go is more like surrendering of your will, emotions and security in things that are not of God. Every time I read Job I am amazed at how faithful and secure he is in God. He lost everything. He lost his wife, kids, health and wealth. His friends turn on him. Yet he turns to God, cries out to Him. What a man of great faith. I read a cool sign on a friends wall, 'Faith is not believing God can, but it's knowing God will!' That to me sums up Job. God has taught me so much in the past few months and I am a better man for it.

Prayer:
Lord I love You. You are faithful. You deserve all the honor and the glory. Thank You for the past few months and what You taught me. I thank You for working deep inside my heart and for always being there for me. I pray that I would take what I learned and use it for Your glory. I ask You to bless me and to make me into a blessing. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Fill us with peace and joy today. I love You Lord and live to serve You. Amen.

Paul's Convictions

2011-10-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Job 15; Acts 19; Acts 20

Scripture:
Acts 20:24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Observation:
Paul knew the hardships he could faced for sharing the good news of Christ. These hardships failed to compete with the revelation he had of the 'Cause of Christ.' Paul refused to look back, he was sold out. He counted the cost and was more than willing to loose his life for Christ.

Application:
Paul was fearless. He was bold but most of all he was sold out for Christ. He counted the cost and he was all in. Sometimes I question my life and the ease I have of sharing the gospel compared to Paul. I know God has called me and placed me where He sees fit, but sometimes I wonder if I am to comfortable. Paul lived a sacrificial life. He gave everything to the Lord. I might never be in a prison cell for Christ, I might never be beaten or chased out of a city, but I can live everyday with a deeper conviction and passion for God. I can go about serving others and pointing them to God. I can give more to things that change lives. God has called me to run my own race, and my heart determines how well I am running that race. I am reminded today that everyday is a new day. You don't get yesterday back. So with that in mind may i run well today. May I bring honor and glory to God in how I live today.

Prayer:
Father thank You for calling me to my race. It is unique. You formed me in my mothers womb. You know me. You gifted and molded me by Your Holy Spirit. I pray for a deeper conviction and compassion for the lost and hurting of this world. May I serve them with compassion, resources and most of all with the good news of Jesus Christ. I pray for favor today and wisdom to make the right decisions. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. Bless these for You are our Source. I pray for all the moving plans to go smooth. Watch over us as we move and protect us. Bless Ps. Mike today and bring home safely. Refresh and favor him on his trip back. Amen.

Job's Faith in God's Value of him

2011-10-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Job 13; Job 14; Acts 17; Acts 18

Scripture:
Job 14: 15 You shall call, and I will answer You;
You shall desire the work of Your hands.

Observation:
After a period in the grave, Job believed, God would call him back to life, and he would answer him. God would long for the creature his hands had made to be restored to life. Job was confident he would be restored even if he died. He believed that God would not forsake him completely.Holman Old Testament Commentary

Application:
Job believed that he meant something special to God and that if the grave was the route, then he was ready to take it. Job believed he was fearfully and wonderfully made by the Lord. I see so many people struggle with their 'God Identity.' People miss out so much on the blessings of God because they feel unworthy of the grace and love of God. God promises to love us and lavish us with His grace and blessing. We are heirs to so much yet we live so short of God's best. I am a son of God. I have been adopted into the family of God. I can dream big. The problem so much is that in the time of trials and tribulation we give up to easily. We loose sight of vision and the promises of God and default into a place of rejection and disappointment. God is good, all the time. God is faithful all the time. He loves me and it is not based on my performance as a Christian or my spirituality. God loves me for me. He wants me to be real with Him, transparent and He wants me to love and trust Him. Job knew this. In the midst of his tribulation, loss, friends turning on him, he still knew in his core that God would work it out. Job's faith is incredible! May my faith grow to be like this!

Prayer:
Father thank You for always loving me. Even when I have rebelled against you and turned away, You still loved me and were ready to restore me. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and heart to Your will and to Your ways. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Fill me with wisdom and may your favor be upon me. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Thank You for all You have done for us and for all You are about to do. We love You Lord and live to serve You. Amen.

Job's Confidence in God

2011-10-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

Job 11; Job 12; Acts 15; Acts 16

Scripture:
Job 12:10 In whose hand is the life of every living thing,
And the breath of all mankind?
13 “With Him are wisdom and strength,
He has counsel and understanding.

Observation:
Job reminds his friends that God is in control. His friends question him on what he has done to get into this position. Their compression is that Job disobeyed the Lord and the result is punishment. Job knows his heart is pure before the Lord and he cannot explain why this happening, but he knows that God is in control and He will work it out.

Application:
As I reflect on this passage I am reminded that God is in control of my life. Life's seasons come and go. There are times of incredible blessing and times of strife and fear. God is in control no matter what season. As I reflect on my life today I have seen this to be true. God closes doors to open new ones. The character of man is at the center of God's focus. Season's produce character, integrity and faith. Job declares in Job 23:10 "But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold." This has been a key verse for me the last few months. I have stood in a time where doors where closed and God just wanted to work on me. Now that He has opened a door it is an exciting time. I see the faithfulness in new season but I also see the faithfulness during my sabbatical. God is faithful in time of blessing and times of faithfulness. God is good all the time. Someone once said don't just seek the hand of God, seek His face. That for me sums up the past few months.

Prayer:
Father You have been so good to me. You have blessed me with my hearts desire and opened an incredible door for me. I praise You for Your faithfulness. I praise You for the season You took me through. You sifted my heart and removed for me fear and insecurity. I am a better leader and man because of what I went through. I praise and thank You for Your faithfulness during the past 8 months. I pray today for my wife, our marriage, our home, our new home, our finances and our health. I ask You to bless these as You are our Source. I thank You today that You hand is guiding us. Be with Ps. Mike in Thailand and anoint him for all he is doing. Bless his trip. Thank You for wisdom on managing this process and next week. May all that needs to be done happen in a smooth way. I love You Lord and I thank You for making me Yours.
Amen.

Light to the World

2011-10-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

Job 9; Job 10; Acts 13; Acts 14

Scripture:
Acts 13:47 For so the Lord has commanded us:
‘ I have set you as a light to the Gentiles,
That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

Observation:
Paul is speaking to the Jews on the message of Christ and how god called them to reach the Gentiles with this good news God's compassion for the Gentiles was displayed on the cross. This news did not please the Jewish leaders.

Application:
God has called me to be a light unto the world. He has called me to be a servant to nations. My life is not my own for it has been bought by a precious price. God is good. He is faithful and He rewards those who shine brightly before the world. I pray today that the compassion of Christ would burn inside of me like never before. I want to reach the 'unreachable', the hurting, the broken and desperate, the abused and the lonely. I want to reach those who have failed and want to give up. May the message of God spread! It still is the best News Ever!

Prayer:
Father I pray for open doors, divine opportunities and favor to share Your word throughout the nations. I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. I pray today for my friend Josh and I ask You to favor him like never before. Thank you for all you are doing in him and Michelle. Bless them. I pray for Ps. Mike, Ps. Fernando, Ps. Mark, Hope Chapel team and I ask You to bless them. I pray for my family today and ask You to bless them and to open doors for them. Lord I bring You prosper those who seek You. Prosper us and teach us to steward wisely the gifts You have given us. May we be a light to the world. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and our move to Hawaii. Bless these as You are our Source. Thank You for all You are doing. I love You Lord! Amen.

Pride and Humility

2011-10-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

Job 6; Job 7; Job 8; Acts 12

Scripture:
Acts 12:21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them. 22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” 23 Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died.
24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.

Observation:
God will not allow anyone to steal His glory. Herod was given a position of leadership by God and misused his position. Pride became his fall. The bible warns that pride is a lust and that man must discipline the desire in his heart for glory.

Application:
Pride is one of the greatest temptations in the bible. The devil knows man's desire for recognition, praise and glory. We all desire to be loved, but pride is not the route needed. God will not allow us to take His glory. He created men to worship and adore Him, and Him alone. Our need for recognition, affirmation and acceptance should stem from out relationship with God. Humility is the opposite of pride. I am reminded this morning of the incredible humility Christ displayed on the cross for me. He gave His life for my sins and His humility resulted in praise and glory. God will give us honor and praise, but it comes through the road of humility. Humility always guards the heart. Humility receives praise in a healthy manner. May my heart strive to bring honor and glory to the Lord. May the cry of my heart be to please Him. May humility be the consistent motive of my heart as I reflect on all the Lord did for me.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus You humbled Yourself on the cross for me. You paid the price of my sins. I am Yours Lord. I live for You and I thank You today for loving me and for calling me to be Your own. Lord I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. I pray for wisdom in this season. Guide our footsteps and help us to know Your will and Your ways. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless Ps. Mike on his trip to Thailand and watch over him. May Your favor open huge doors for him. Bless Ps. Lisa and the kids as he is away. Thank You for all You are doing for us. I love you Lord and live to serve You. Amen.

God's Power in me

2011-10-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

Job 5; Psalm 108; Acts 10; Acts 11

Scripture:
Psalm 108:13 Through God we will do valiantly,
For it is He who shall tread down our enemies

Observation:
David remembers that His strength is the Lord. It is through the power and working of the Lord that the enemy is taken down.

Application:
I am reminded today that it is so easy for me to defect to relying on my own abilities instead of waiting on the Lord for my breakthrough. God is my Source and my Victory. In His strength all things are possible. In His Power I can do great things, things beyond my abilities and gifting. I am reminded today that God is all I need. God has made a way for me. His power, favor and wisdom are freely available to me. I do not serve a distant God. I serve a living God, a personal God who cares about me. I rest in God today, for He is my portion and my peace. I may not have all things figured out, but I know that He does.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for reminding me that there will be enemies and opposition, but You have defeated these. I rest in You today and thank You for the many blessings that You have planned for me. I pray today for favor and breakthrough over my life. I pray for wisdom in my transition. I pray for open doors and new opportunities. I pray today for the plans of the enemy to be pushed back. I pray for our upcoming move and for all the details to be worked out. Give us favor in this season. Bless my wife and strengthen her. Bless our health, our marriage, our finances and help us to find a new home soon. Thank You for blessing us with Hope Chapel. Bless Ps. Mike, Ps. Lisa, Ps. Mark and the whole team. Thank You for knitting us together. Amen.

Jesus my Cornerstone

2011-10-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Nehemiah 13; Malachi 1; Malachi 2; Acts 4

Scripture:
Acts 4:11 This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.'12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Observation:
Peter reminds the religious leaders that the man they killed, Jesus, became the cornerstone / foundation of this church movement. There was no other religious method of salvation. Only Jesus could save.

Application:
I am reminded today that Jesus needs to be at the center or core of everything I do. The strongest part of a building is it's foundation. In my life, marriage, ministry and friendships, the glue that holds it all together is Jesus Christ. His Name is powerful! His Name is life! He ultimately is all I need. I am glad today to say that He is my center. As I take note of my life I can see how my sabbatical season has refreshed me in all areas of my life. I never want to be one that builds on another foundation. It is so easy. I have seen men build their marriage on their wealth or looks. I have seen men build their life on their success or title. These men might have been the king of their world for a season, but in an instant like a house of cards crashing down, their life's hit rock bottom. With Christ as my cornerstone I will make through any storm or trial. I am so blessed today to think He choose me. He holds my world in His hands!

Prayer:
Lord thank You for the promises of Your word. Thank You for holding me in this season of my life and for the always guiding me though life. I thank You for blessing me and for making me a blessing to the nations. I love You Lord and I live for You. I pray for favor on all my meetings today and I pray for wisdom and discernment. Bless Cindy today, our marriage, our finances and our health. Bless Gigi and Jesse too. I pray for open heavens over our life's and I thank You for all You are doing. I love You Lord and live for You. Amen.

Nehemiah's Focus and Discernment

2011-10-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

Nehemiah 5; Nehemiah 6; Psalm 146; Luke 24

Scripture:
Nehemiah 6:12 Then I perceived that God had not sent him at all, but that he pronounced this prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 For this reason he was hired, that I should be afraid and act that way and sin, so that they might have cause for an evil report, that they might reproach me.

Psalm 146: 5 Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
Whose hope is in the LORD his God,

Observation:
Nehemiah was a focused leader. He knew what God has called him to do and he refused to allow distraction to derail him. Tobiah and Sanballat tried to distract him by drawing him out of the city and away from his project. Nehemiah was a hands on leader and he knew he could not waste time away from the people. Sanballat and Tobiah hired Shemaiah, a man in Nehemiah's camp to influence Nehemiah with fear and false prophecy. Nehemiah discerns this is a trap and a distraction and calls Shemaiah out.

Application:
Leadership is never easy. There are high's and lows. People get behind for either the right or wrong reason. They can either be a friend and armor bearer or a secret enemy waiting for your downfall. Shemaiah tried to get close to Nehemiah in order to get Nehemiah to disobey God. Nehemiah was faithful in prayer and his heart was focused on God. He sees through the trap and calls it out. As a leader I need to walk in discernment. People will either love me or hate me. That's life. Sometimes we forget that hurt people hurt people. Sometimes intentionally, but mostly unintentionally. As a leader my first priority is to guard my prayer life. I can never be to busy to pray. Prayer lines my heart and spirit with God. Nehemiah's prayer life kept him focused and guarded. Nehemiah dwelt with problems in a godly manner. He never got personal because he new people were watching him and he could not afford to waste time with politics and distractions. Fear could not be allowed on his watch. As a leader I must always remember that in life there will be problems, but how I deal and navigate through them will determine my leadership edge or influence in the future. May my leadership focus and discernment grow like Nehemiah's.

Prayer:
Lord You are my hope and my future. My goal as a leader is to hear from You and walk those commandments out. I pray for a greater discernment in my life. I know this comes through a great prayer life. I pray for wisdom and discernment to know Your will in this season. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. I pray that my heart would always lead and that my heart would reflect You. May others see You in me. I pray for favor in this season and for the right door to open. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Bless these as You are our Source. I want to thank You Lord for all You are doing for us. Thank You for new season's and new adventures. I love You Lord and live for You. Bless this day.
Amen.

Divine Timing & Placing

2011-10-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Nehemiah 3; Nehemiah 4; Luke 23

Scripture:
Luke 23:26 Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.

Observation:
Simon was on a personal journey with his family. He comes across the crowd on their way to witness the crucifixion of Jesus. Jesus being weak from all the beatings, lack of sleep and food could no longer carry the cross. Simon carries it the last leg for Him. I don't know if Simon fully understood the honor bestowed on him. He got to carry the cross of the King of Kings, the Lord of Lord.

Application:
This verse reminds me that opportunities will come my way where I get to serve the mission of Christ. God will place me in divine situations where I appear at the right place at the right time. I love the story in the bible where Philip is ministering to the Eunuch, and after baptizing him in water, God takes Philip up and he appears in Azotus. Sounds just like Star Trek. God need Philip to minister to this guy and then God needed him in another area. The quick way to do this was to transport him there. Radical stuff! As I reflect on Simon carry the cross it stirs my heart to serve my King with greater passion. I prayer today is that I would walk more and more into divine God ordained opportunities to share the love and message of God. Maybe my prayer should rather be for a greater sensitivity to God's leading. I wonder how many opportunities I miss of being a blessing to others because I am so focused on me? Praise God that He is bigger than my mistakes and He always works things out, so no need to feel guilty. I want to serve God every day and it starts with my serving Him daily, out of that will come a greater sensitivity to His divine plan for my life.

Prayer:
Lord I thank You for the cross today. You paid the full price of my sin's and my failures. Through the cross their is hope, restoration, destiny and abundant life for me. Jesus You did it all for me. You are my King and I live to serve You. Forgive me for being selfish and for missing out on divine opportunities to share Your love and truth. I pray for a greater sensitivity and discernment to know Your will and Your way. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our health and our finances. I place all these before You again and declare that You are my source. Thank You for peace today, I declare You are in control. Thank You for molding me and drawing me so close to You in this season. Thank You for opening doors for me. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Unity and Faith

2011-10-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

Nehemiah 1; Nehemiah 2; Psalm 133; Luke 22

Scripture:
Psalm 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
For brethren to dwell together in unity!

Luke 22:35 And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?”
So they said, “Nothing.”

Observation:
Unity is so powerful. When the church is united God will do amazing things. A house divided will not stand. Jesus reminds His disciples to stay focused and live by faith. Jesus knew the time had come for Him to go to the cross and He reminds His disciples to continue living by faith.

Application:
As a leader I must guard the unity of the faith. I must firstly make sure I am walking in unity and then encourage others to walk and live in unity. God blesses unity. A church that is united will doing incredible things for God. I am also reminded today to not get distracted by needs. I will always have needs and God promises to take carer of me. I must remain faithful and focused. God knows my needs before I am even aware of them. God is good.

Prayer:
God thank You for the blessing of unity. I pray that my life would be in unity with Your will for me, that I would be in unity with my wife, my friends and the church. Guard me from stepping into selfish motives and disobedience. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I thank You today that You know my needs and You already have a plan. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our fiances and our health. I declare that You are the Source of all I need. I pray for favor this week as I seek You will and plan for the next season of my life. Guide Cindy and I. Thank You that You know the desires of my heart. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Letting Go!

2011-10-08T09:24:00.000-07:00

Ezra 9; Ezra 10; Psalm 131; Luke 21

Scripture:
Psalm 131:1 LORD, my heart is not haughty,
Nor my eyes lofty.
Neither do I concern myself with great matters,
Nor with things too profound for me.

2 Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul,
Like a weaned child with his mother;
Like a weaned child is my soul within me.

Luke 21:34 “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.

Observation:
These passages remind me of the importance of keeping my heart free of things that are not of God. The Psalmist speaks of keeping his eyes pure, his mind clear and his heart focused on God. In Luke we hear the words of Jesus clearly instructing us to not be weighed down with the things of this world.

Application:
It is so easy to get distracted by the things and cares of this world. From relational conflicts, failure, financial lack, sickness to life moving by to quickly. I feel like I am in the best season of my life. Things are not all figured out. Still many questions and many needs, but I feel centered in God. I feel like my faith is grounded in Him. How did I get here? Simple, I let go and turned to Him. It is so easy to carry stuff. My wife always reminds me that the only thing stress effects is your sleep and your mood. Stress does not change any situation. But when you can let go and give it to God, there is a peace that surpasses all understanding that fills you heart. My faith today is that God has it figured out. I simply need to rest in Him, do my part and keep my heart free. Jesus said in this world you will face tribulation, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world. To me that is the key to life - Jesus is in control! I am so glad today that Jesus is my Lord, my King, my Protector, my Provider, my Friend.

Prayer:
Lord I can see the road You have taken me on. It has been a tough road but a life changing road. Thank You for peace and for strength. I love You Lord and I declare You hold my future in Your hand. Lord help me to navigate the concern's of life with wisdom, discernment and strong boundaries. I ask You to forgive me of my sins and to wash me clean. I pray for favor today and open doors. Lead Cindy and I in these coming days and weeks to clearly see You plan for us. I ask You to bless us and make us a blessing to the nations. I pray for blessing on my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Thank You for promising to always take care of us. You truly are amazing. Thank You for choosing me and for making me Your own. I love You and live for You.
Amen.

Jesus defuses a situation

2011-10-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

Ezra 7; Ezra 8; Luke 20

Scripture:
Luke 20:1 Now it happened on one of those days, as He taught the people in the temple and preached the gospel, that the chief priests and the scribes, together with the elders, confronted Him 2 and spoke to Him, saying, “Tell us, by what authority are You doing these things? Or who is he who gave You this authority?”

Observation:
Jesus saw the insecurities of the religious leaders and He was not going to get into a debate with them. He responds with a question that defuses the situation and causes them to walk away.

Application:
Instead of reacting and making them look stupid in front of the people, Jesus responds. He models wisdom, respect for their position (seeing he was younger than them), and He defuses the situation. It is so sad today when I see young leaders react instead of respond. Ego's so easily get in the way and insecurities rise up. I am reminded today that I will have fans and friends, but I also will have critics and enemies. That's life. God wants me to respond and not react. The target for Jesus was not really the religious people but the crowd watching this event. He did not want to stir them up or create a rebellion. He did not want the devil to gain any glory from this event. As a leader I must always remember that people are watching me. Those are the ones that matter. People will have their view and opinions and almost 90% of the time they will not change for their view often shapes their identity and value. A great leader is fully aware of the crowd and the potential damage an awkward situation like this one could cause. Think before you speak, for you can never take words back - that is my thought for the day. Scripture reminds me that death and life are in the power of the tongue. I believe people left the temple with thoughts of life and hope for the manner in which Jesus defused the situation. They knew the watchdog mentality of the religious leaders, but here they saw the peace and joy of Christ.

Prayer:
Father thank You for loving me and for holding me close. Thank You for reminding me that responding is better than reacting. Holy Spirit I ask You to keep my heart and mind in check. Help me to think before I speak and to always remember that people are watching. May my ego be humbled and my passion to reveal Christ in my life. Lord I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way. I pray for clarity in this season. I pray for favor and blessing. Thank You that You know my needs and You already have plans prepared for me. I thank You that You know the desires of my heart, and so I can rest in the truth that no good thing do You withhold from those that walk uprightly. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I declare You the Source of all of these. Thank You for always taking care of us. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Zacchaeus's of this world.

2011-10-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

Esther 9; Esther 10; Luke 19

Scripture:
Luke 19:3 And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short stature.

Observation:
Zacchaeus was a rich and powerful man. He collected taxes for the Romans and oppressed his own people. Zacchaeus heard about Jesus and how crowds where following him. He wanted to check Jesus out and get into His circles. Zacchaeus was limited by his physical presence and had to climb a tree to see Jesus.

Application:
There are so many people in the world that are limited in experiencing Jesus. Either sin, hurt, failure, lack of knowledge has stopped them from experiencing God's love for them. They need help and they need an invitation. I am challenged today to look for the Zacchaeus's in this world. They are all around me and waiting for me to reach out to them. Ps. Eddy Morales from Nicaragua spoke the other day at a leaders meeting I went to. He challenges us with the question God asked Moses, "What's in your hand?" God has gifted me, equipped me and filled me with His spirit to be a light to this world. My my eyes and ears be open to the Zacchaeus's of this world. May I be more sensitive and discerning in seeing the hurts in others. May it be less about me and more about them.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for reminding me that there are so many people in this world that are stuck. Help me to be a better witness to the hurting and the lost of this world. Fill my heart with compassion today for the Zacchaeus's of this world. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Remove fear and insecurity from my heart. Thank You today for holding my future in Your hands. I love You Lord and live fro You.
Amen.

Persistent Prayer and Faith

2011-10-05T08:16:00.000-07:00

Esther 3; Esther 4; Esther 5; Esther 6; Esther 7; Esther 8; Luke 18

Scripture:
Luke 18:6 Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? 8 I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

40 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be brought to Him. And when he had come near, He asked him, 41 saying, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

Observation:
Jesus teaches on a persistent and constant prayer life. He reminds us of the compassion of the our Father. God is wants us to grow in faith and this often happens through being persistent or as the old revivalist's used to say "breakthrough comes through press through." The second verse I choose is a verse that is always so interesting to me. Jesus asks the blind man a great question. The question could almost come across as an insult, of course the blind guy wanted his sight. Yet Jesus was wanting to see this man's faith.

Application:
Today I am reminded and challenged to pray by faith daily. My prayers are so important to God. The scriptures teach that His ears are open to the prayers of the righteous. He is waiting to hear from me. Hebrews 11:6 teaches me that my faith pleases Him and He will reward it. The older we get the less we seem to turn to God. I know for some reason the older we get the more prideful we become. That's why Jesus tells us to come to Hi like kids. I remember when I was a kid and a teen, I cried out to God for everything. I am so glad that my God cares. He loves me and He is always ready to hear my heart. God promises to bless me and make me a blessing. He is good and His love endures forever. May my prayers blesses Him today.

Prayer:
Father You are amazing. You are good all the time. You are faithful and Your love endures forever. No good thing will You withhold from them that walk uprightly. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way. I pray today for favor to be on my life. I pray today for clarity to know Your will and Your way. May I encourage others today. May I be a light of Your love to them. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I pray for the right door to open for Cindy and I. I thank You today that You know our hearts. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Perfect God

2011-10-03T11:47:00.000-07:00

Ezra 5; Ezra 6; Psalm 138; Luke 16

Scripture:
Psalm 138: 6 Though the LORD is on high,
Yet He regards the lowly;
But the proud He knows from afar.
8 The LORD will perfect that which concerns me;
Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever;
Do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Observation:
God loves the humble, those who acknowledge their need of Him. God resist's the proud for they stand in the way of His glory. God knows my future and as I humble myself before Him, He will perfect that which concerns me.

Application:
I am so grateful that God has my future already figured out. Sometimes it feels like I need to figure things out on my own. The truth is that God knows all things, He is Omniscient, and He is waiting for me to humble myself and recognize that His hand is guiding me. My confidence is God. He knows what the next steps for my life are. I am excited as doors are opening, and now wisdom and discernment are needed. God will answer and He will reveal His will. God is faithful and I praise Him for the opportunities that are before me. May His wisdom and peace be upon me.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for all You are doing in my life. I pray for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way. I pray for favor and peace in this season. I thank You for the opportunities that are before Cindy and I. Reveal Your will for us and give us confirmation. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Bless these as You are our Source. I love You Lord. Amen.

Stewarding Salvation

2011-09-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

Zechariah 7; Zechariah 8; Zechariah 9; Luke 13

Scripture:
Luke 13:18 Then He said, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and put in his garden; and it grew and became a large tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches.”

Observation:
Jesus takes something so small like a mustard seed and states if planted and nurtured it will grow into a tree that gives life and shelter to others.

Application:
The tiny seed placed in the right soil and given the right climate emerges into the sky as a mighty tree.Once someone receives salvation they have received the miracle of life and they in turn can go out and give life to others. It is so crucial though that discipleship is a part of their journey. As a Christian I have the life giving power and truth of God in my heart. I have hope for those oppressed and hurting in this world. As a pastor I have a an important calling and mandate to disciple others and equip them to reach others. I must always keep these two in balance. Equip others abut also reach others. May my life be a huge tree of hope to others.

Prayer:
Father thank You for the miracle of salvation. Thank You Jesus for all You have done for me. Thank You for choosing me to be a pastor. I pray today for wisdom to steward my salvation wisely. May I touch lives by my lifestyle and may I become a 'tree of hope' to the world. I pray for wisdom to equip and help others too. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to others. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Lord You are the Source of all of these. I pray for our upcoming trip and ask for wisdom and counsel. Guide us and fill us with clarity. May Your favor be on us. I pray for rest this weekend too. Refresh us by Your Spirit. Thank You that it is not by might, nor by power but by Your Spirit. Amen.

Not By Might Nor By Power...

2011-09-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

Zechariah 4; Zechariah 5; Zechariah 6; Luke 12

Scripture:
Zechariah 4:6 So he answered and said to me:

“ This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel:

‘ Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’
Says the LORD of hosts.

Observation:
Zechariah was informed that the vision was a message from the Lord in symbolic form. Zerubbabel was specifically named because as the governor, he was responsible for taking the lead in the work of rebuilding. The angel now interpreted the abundance of oil described earlier as symbolic of the Spirit's power. The task of finishing the temple would be completed, "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty. This is truly one of the great verses in the Bible. Human beings are frail and weak, but God has all power, and nothing is impossible for him - Holman Old Testament Commentary

Application:
This has to be one of my favorite verses in the bible. I love how Holman Commentary puts it, "Human beings are frail and weak, but God has all power, and nothing is impossible for him." Sometimes I forget that it is not by my power but by His. When i do things in my power often it results in frustration and the need to take steps backwards. I believe that maturity in ministry comes from the realization that God will work things out and that all that is required is simple obedience. David was obedient and through God's strength he defeated Goliath with one stone. Daniel was obedient and God shut the lions mouth and promoted him to a great place of leadership. Elijah was obedient and through God's power defeated 450 false prophets of Baal. The more dependent on God I am the more I will accomplish. Nothing is impossible for God when I get 'me' out of the way.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for the plans and purposes You have called me too. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your ways. Forgive me for the times where I step out from relying and seeking You and do things on my own. I pray for Your favor and power to be on my life. I know that nothing is impossible for You. I pray that my heart would always be humble and that I would learn to be a better steward of all You have given me. I pray today for open doors and new breakthrough's. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I thank You Lord for all the things You are doing for us. Thank You for guiding us in this season and for leading us to Your best. I love You Lord and live to serve You. Amen.

Your Kingdom Come

2011-09-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Zechariah 1; Zechariah 2; Zechariah 3; Luke 11

Scripture:
Luke 11:2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say:

Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.

Observation:
The disciples saw the fruit and lifestyle of prayer in Jesus. They saw the miracles and the power in Jesus. Jesus always pointed them to the Father as the Source of His power. The disciples desired this power and knew that prayer was a key that unlocked heaven. They ask Jesus to teach them to pray, and He gave them what we call the Lord's prayer. The first part of the Lord's prayer is so deep and it always stands out to me.

Application:
The first part of the Lord's prayer Jesus teaches us about surrendering daily to God's will versus our own. Each and everyday our flesh will want to take us its own ways. Jesus teaches us to pray for the will of God in our lives. He teaches us to put the will of God before our own and to really take note if our will is lining up with His. Jesus reminds me this morning that God has a plan for me. He has steps planned out for me in heaven and I am to pray daily that these steps manifest themselves clearly so that I can walk in them. These verses also teach me that I am dependent on God for my destiny. I need Him daily and a spirit of obedience and submission is crucial. Brother Lawrence in his book practicing the presence of God, would kick of the day in prayer by surrendering his day and will to God. He would end the evening repenting to God for anything that he knew did not match up to the will of God. Daily he would kick off and end the day with these prayers. I am challenged today to elevate my prayer life, but not in the amount of time, but rather in the kind of prayer. I feel today that my prayer life needs to be more about His will and His steps than my list. May God's will for my life come today, may His kingdom come in my life.

Prayer:
Jesus thank You for reminding me today that prayer is about emptying myself out before You so that You can fill me with Your presence and plans. Forgive me today for my sins and wash me clean. Renew my heart and my mind. Make me more like You today and help me to walk in the steps You have ordained for me today. I pray for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way for my life. I pray for Your favor to go before me. i pray for an open heaven over my life. I ask You to bless me and to make me into a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I love You Lord and I thank You for the power of prayer.
Amen.

Unless the Lord Builds...

2011-09-26T09:45:00.000-07:00

Ezra 4; Psalm 113; Psalm 127; Luke 9

Scripture:
Psalm 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
They labor in vain who build it;
Unless the LORD guards the city,
The watchman stays awake in vain.

Observation:
Solomon was charged with the building of the temple. David had helped in the fundraising and commissioned his son to build the temple that he could not. Solomon knew that the temple had to be built by the Lord or else it would not carry the Lord's favor and blessing.

Application:
We live in a time of life coaches, managers and strategist's. With this in mind it is crucial for pastor's and leader of the church to remember these of Solomon. "Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain." All our ideas can be fresh, powerful and creative, but if God is not at the center of all our thinking, then we will labor in vain. There are many great church buildings today that stand empty. I have had the privilege of traveling the world and seeing them. The reason they are empty is because there is no presence or reverence for God. As a leader I am reminded today that in whatever ministry God plants me in, I must build that ministry under the guidance of God. God must be at the center and everything must point to Him. Pride and arrogance have no place in building a life changing ministry. May my heart always keep God at the center and may my leadership stem from my submission to my great Shepherd - Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord I pray today for wisdom to lead and build like Solomon. I pray that my heart would resist the temptation to think that I have arrived in any manner. Lord work in me and mold me to be the leader You have called me to be. I pray that I would never loose sight of Your presence in my life and leadership. I pray today for favor and blessing. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I pray for open doors and nations. Give me wisdom and discernment in this season to know Your will and Your way. Lord thank You for holding my future in Your hands and for ordaining my steps. May I walk them out today.
Amen.

Growing through Storms

2011-09-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Ezra 2; Ezra 3; Luke 8

Scripture:
Luke 8:24 And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!”
Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. 25 But He said to them, “Where is your faith?”
And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”

Observation:
The disciples were so fearful that they lost sight of their future and began to see death. Rebukes them for their lack of faith. The disciples faith was being shaped by circumstances instead of the words of Jesus. Jesus told them they would be fishers of men. He did not bring them this far only to have them die in a storm.

Application:
It is human tendency that when we get ourselves in crisis situations that we always seem to think it is the end. We loose sight of the things God has spoken to us and instead of responding we react in fear an defeat. I must admit I probably would have reacted the same way. Jesus was in the boat and their reaction turned into responding when they called on Jesus. I am reminded today that my hope is and always will be Jesus. He promised to never leave me nor forsake me. He promised to carry me and be my shield and protector. He wants my faith to mature though. He wants me to rebuke storms and to step out in His power. Less reaction and more responding by faith. Storms will come and go, that's life, but Christ and His power never change. No matter how big the storm, no matter how life threatening, no matter how small my life boat, the result will always turn out good for me, for my bible teaches me that nothing can stop His power in my life. I can rest in Him today, He will lead me through. "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith." 1 John 5:4

Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for always being with me. Thank You that You never leave me and You never forsake me. You are my anchor, my shield and my protector. I thank You for the many storms that You have gotten me through. I thank You today that You hold my world in Your hands. I thank You for teaching me to live by faith. I pray that my faith would mature more and more each day and that I would learn to rely more on You and less on myself. Lord I pray for favor today and for open doors. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I pray for an obedient heart and a surrendered spirit. Thank You for Your promises over my life. I pray for breakthrough and new promotions. I pray for wisdom to lead and discernment to know Your will and Your ways. Thank You for the new season that is upon me. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I love You Lord and live to serve You.
Amen.

Promises for the righteous

2011-09-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

Ezra 1; Psalm 84; Psalm 85; Luke 7

Scripture:
Psalm 84: 11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
The LORD will give grace and glory;
No good thing will He withhold
From those who walk uprightly.

Observation:
God promises to be a protector and life giver to those who follow Him. He promises to bless those who walk uprightly. Those who seek righteousness and godliness above self.

Application:
I am reminded this morning that God knows my needs. I desires and wait patiently for God to open a door for me. I have been faithful in this season to do what is in front of me. I know that my righteousness comes from Him and what He did for me on the cross. My faith today is that God knows my needs and He has something special and unique planned for me. Jer 29:11 reminds me that God has plans and purposes for my life. He has plans to prosper and give me a future and a hope. God only has the best in store for me. The journey has been long and required loads of patience, but in the end it will all be worth it. I thank God today for all the things He has done for me and all the new adventures that are to come.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for reminding me that blessing is coming my way. You bless those who walk uprightly. You bless those who trust You. Lord I come before You today and ask You to guide my steps. Fill me with wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way. I pray today that I would walk in Your favor and blessing. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. I pray for open heavens and open doors. Thank You that You are in control. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Jesus models Servanthood.

2011-09-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

Daniel 11; Daniel 12; Luke 6

Scripture:
Luke 6:17 And He came down with them and stood on a level place with a crowd of His disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear Him and be healed of their diseases, 18 as well as those who were tormented with unclean spirits. And they were healed.

Observation:
I have read this passage so many times, but what stands out for me though is the verse where it says, "He came down with them and stood on a level place with a crowd." Jesus came to stand a level ground with them. He met people where they were at and He was approachable.

Application:
Jesus met people where they were at. The religious leaders judged people and were only willing to accept those who took on their views and behaviors. Jesus did not let the sin and mistakes of people cause a barrier between Him and them. He stepped into their world and met them where they were at. He pulled them at out the situation and He turned their life's around. The church is called to do the same. We are called to meet people where they are at in life. We are to love them the way they are and to love them to they are totally restored. People don't care how much we know until they know how much we care. As a pastor I am called to go into the highways and byways of people's life's. I am called to dive into the messiness of others life's with compassion and grace. I am to meet people where they are at and to point them to Jesus. Jesus molded this first. He asks me to follow Him and to minister as He did. May people see me as approachable, as genuine and may they never see me on a pedestal.

Prayer:
Jesus thank You for modelling to me the true heart of a servant. Lord remove from me any selfish motives or ideas when it comes to ministering to others. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. I pray that I would always meet people where they are at and that Your love and compassion would be ever present in me. I pray today for Your favor to go before me and for Your hand to guide me. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I ask You to bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Thank You for ordering my steps and for holding me close in this season. I pray for wisdom and discernment to fill my life. Thank You for providing for us and for calling us to serve You. Thank You Jesus for all You have done for me. I love You Lord. Amen.

The power of Jesus words.

2011-09-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

Daniel 9; Daniel 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5

Scripture:
Luke 5:5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.”

Observation:
The disciples respected the command of Jesus and obeyed His words. In the natural everything told them this would not work. Fish were caught during the night not during the day. Besides they had fished all night and caught nothing. Jesus honors their obedience and faith. They catch so much fish that they need more boats to help them.

Application:
Two things stand out for me today. First, trust and obey the word of the Lord. His word works and it never fails. Second, step out in faith an rely on His power not my own. These fishermen toiled all night in their own strength. The percentage of catching fish in the night was way higher than the day time. Jesus took the smallest odds to teach them that He operates on a supernatural level. This morning I am encouraged that my God can take the smallest of odds, the impossible of situations, and turn them around for me. My God is not limited by the circumstances of man. All He needs is a willing obedient heart that will step in faith. I am reminded this morning that, "My God shall supply my needs according to His riches in Glory." God is faithful all the time. I believe God has seen my heart and He will turn my situation around. He is faithful and where is none He can speak a world and create an abundance.

Prayer:
Father thank You for reminding me this morning that all You are seeking from me is an obedient and faithful heart. Lord I thank You for speaking a word into my life today and for the turn around that is coming Cindy and my way. I pray for clarity and discernment to know Your ways. I pray for wisdom today to make the right decisions. I pray for favor to go before me and to open the door to the nations. I pray for blessings and prosperity to come my way to that I can be a steward to those in need. I ask You to bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. You are our Source and our Provider. I pray for open heavens and open doors. I thank You that no good thing will You withhold from them that walk uprightly. I love You Lord and live for You. Amen.

Tempation and the Holy Spirit

2011-09-21T10:44:00.000-07:00

Daniel 7; Daniel 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4

Scripture:
Luke 4:1 Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into[a] the wilderness, 2 being tempted for forty days by the devil.

Observation:
Jesus full of the Holy Spirit and led by the Spirit enters a season where He is tempted by the devil. It is interesting to know the the Holy Spirit led Him there not the devil. The devil cannot tempt us with the leading of the Holy Spirit. The devil tempted the Lord is three areas, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life.

Application:
The same areas apply to our life's today. We are tested in the lust of flesh, the lust of eyes and the pride of life. From food, sex, money, material things, to titles and positions. Some call it a rat race, some call it chasing a dream, but the question is in the end what does it all add up to. The devil will always try and distract us with these temptations. There is nothing new under the sun with him. Jesus overcame these temptations with the word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. I have the word and I have the Holy Spirit. Therefore, I can get through any temptation thrown my way. I am fully equipped. As I reflect on this passage today I am reminded that obedience and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit is vital to my faith and destiny. The Holy Spirit knows the plans God has for my life. He knows what lays ahead and He knows what I need to move forward. I need His guidance daily in my life.

Prayer:
Father thank You for the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit guide me in the steps the Father has ordained for me. I pray for wisdom, discernment and guidance today. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Holy Spirit fill my life with Your presence. I need You Holy Spirit. I pray today for favor on my life, my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. You are my Source and my Provider. I thank You today for taking care of all my needs. I pray for open heavens and open doors over Cindy and I. I love You Lord and I serve You today. Amen.

Reputation / Character & Integrity

2011-09-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

Daniel 5; Daniel 6; Psalm 130; Luke 3

Scripture:
Daniel 5:14 I have heard of you, that the Spirit of God is in you, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in you.

Daniel 6:4 So the governors and satraps sought to find some charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him.

Daniel 6:16 So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of lions. But the king spoke, saying to Daniel, “Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you.” 18 Now the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting; and no musicians were brought before him. Also his sleep went from him.

Observation:
Daniel's reputation had traveled as far as the courts of the king. The king was impressed by Daniel's interpretation and promoted him to third in rule. Daniel's integrity and character made way for him. Daniel was known as a man who feared and lived for God. The wise men set him and the king up through the degree that no men were to pray to any god but the king. Daniel had no way out, for he knew his commitment was to pray 3 times a day to God. The king loved Daniel and once he realized the set up his heart was torn. He was distressed, he even fasted for Daniel and stayed up all night praying for Daniel. The king was the first one to the lion's den in the morning. He was so happy Daniel's god spared his life. Daniel was a fear with great reverence for God. He as a righteous man and a man of incredible faithfulness, integrity and character.

Application:
Proverbs 18:16 A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men. This verse is so true of Daniel. He lived 100% for God and his character and integrity made room for him before the king. Today I am reminded that my gift will make room for me. My reputation is a reflection of my heart. What do people say of me? What do I show to others? How do I treat them? Daniel was 100% sold out for Jesus and the king took notice. I want my character and integrity to honor the Lord and draw them to Him. This season has been one of character adjustments, focus and motive. It is so easy as a Christian and a pastor to forget that live is more than this simple globe I live on. My life is more about eternity than this vapor on earth. This season has been one of humility, faith, course correction and humility. I am so glad I walked this road as tough as it has been. God is faithful. He has realigned me to His purposes and His ways. I look forward to my new season.

Prayer:
Lord I love You. I thank You for loving me and for walking with me in this season. Thank You for my course adjustment. Thank You for being patient with me and for loving me. Lord I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way. I love You Lord and I live for You. Thank You for Your anointing that sits on my life. Thank You for the new season of ministry and for all You are about to do. Lord I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Open doors for us so that we may touch lives for You. I pray today that my reputation would bring honor to You. I pray today that You would reveal to me areas where my character and integrity needs to grow. Mold me into the man You have called me to be. I love You Father. Amen.

Relational Leadership

2011-09-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 47; Ezekiel 48; Luke 2

Scripture:
Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Observation:
At a young age Jesus spent time in the temple. He asked questions and wanted to her the hearts of men. Verse 52 reveals that He grew in wisdom, stature and in favor with God and men. Jesus leadership and influence grew through relationships. Throughout the New Testament we see that Jesus leadership style was relational.

Application:
What make a leader great is his followers. A relational leader makes a strong leader, for he has the hearts of his team. As I reflect on this passage today I am reminded to balance task with relationship. There will always be projects, but the glue that gets a team through it is vision and relationships. The old saying is true, "People don't care how much you know until they know hoe much you care." I want people to know my heart, my passion, my dreams and my fears. I want to do life with my next team. The greatest challenge to building strong relationships is time. There will always never seem like enough time, and that is why time management and boundaries are vital to my leadership. I must discern what is important from what needs to go on the back burner. I am grateful today for all the Lord, my mentors and my critics have taught me. I am a better leader today because of the lesson's they and my consequences have taught me. I pray that my leadership will be mark like Christ's, that I too may be know as a man that grew with wisdom and stature, and favor with God and men.

Prayer:
Lord You have taught me so much through the years. I still have so much more to learn on leadership. I pray today for favor and wisdom. I pray today for integrity and character to grow in my heart. I desire to lead like Christ and to fulfill all You have called me to do. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and my heart. Thank You today that You know my needs and You already have a provision waiting for me. I pray today for open doors over Cindy and I. I pray for new opportunities and breakthrough's. I pray for a cause and a team. I pray for new relationship's and new friendships. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. Bless these and pour out Your favor on them. I pray today for wisdom beyond my years and a heart that is filled with the compassion of Christ. Thank You for bringing me this far and thank You for new adventures. I love You Lord and I live for You. Amen.

The Presence of God

2011-09-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 42; Ezekiel 43; Ezekiel 44; Revelation 22

Scripture:
Eze 43:4 And the glory of the LORD came into the temple by way of the gate which faces toward the east. 5 The Spirit lifted me up and brought me into the inner court; and behold, the glory of the LORD filled the temple.

Observation:
God presence was returning to the Temple. The designation of this holy place as the actual place where God would dwell among his people is repeated in Ezekiel 43:9. It emphasizes that the temple was the special place of God's presence among his people.

Application:
This past Wednesday I had coffee with a great pastor, Ps Mike Kai. What impressed me so much about Ps. Mike was his sensitivity to the presence of God. Over and over he credited the successes of his church and ministry to the presence of the Lord. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of church life and forget the presence of the Lord. From church services, events, outreaches to new programs, one can clearly see how easy it is to miss the presence of God. Ps. Wayne always teaches do everything for an Audience of One. May my life, leadership, relationships and ministry be marked by a greater love for the presence of God.

Prayer:
Father thank You for Your presence in my life. Forgive me for taking Your presence for granted and for too often running ahead of You. I thank You for Your grace and mercy today. I love You Lord and thank You for Your presence and word in my life today. I pray for Your favor and blessing on my life today. I pray for open doors today. Lead me and I will follow. Amen.

God's Blessing

2011-09-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 40; Ezekiel 41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21

Scripture:
Psalm 128:1 Blessed is every one who fears the LORD,
Who walks in His ways.

2 When you eat the labor of your hands,
You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.
3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine
In the very heart of your house,
Your children like olive plants
All around your table.
4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed
Who fears the LORD.

Observation:
This Psalm reveals the plan God has for those who fear Him and walk in His ways. He blesses their work, their homes, their kids and the finances. God desires to bless us and it comes through walking in His ways.

Application:
As I read this passage today I am reminded of the goodness of God. God has been so good to me and He has always come through for me. In this season He has plans to prosper and bless me. God's blessing is over my life, my wife, our home, our finances and our health. I cannot imagine not having His blessing over my life. God truly is everything a man needs. I am excited to see what doors open for me. I am excited because my God is excited about me. His dreams and ways are higher than mine. I believe God has seen my faith and He promises to reward me according to it. God truly is good all the time.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for loving me, for blessing me and for holding my future in Your hands. You know all things and nothing is impossible for You. I thank You for providing for me and for taking care of my needs. I pray for favor on my life. I pray for elevation, promotion and multiplication. Thank You for seeing Cindy and my heart in this season. I pray for clarity and breakthrough. I love You Lord and thank You for all You have done for me.
Amen.

Speaking Life to Dry Bones

2011-09-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 36; Ezekiel 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19

Scripture:
Ezekiel 37:4 Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! 5 Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live. 6 I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the LORD.”’”

Observation:
This is a well known passage of scripture and I have taught it many times. God looks into what man sees as dead and He speaks life. God speaks through a man to dry bones and they come to life. This prophetic picture is a picture of what God wanted to do to Israel, He wanted to speak life into their 'dead bones.' God still desires to do the same today.

Application:
God desires to speak life into valleys filled with dry bones. All around me are people that are dead spiritually. They are so far from God and have no idea that God loves them and has a plan for their lives. God calls Ezekiel here to speak His word to the dry bones. As a pastor I am called to the same. I am to speak life into valleys filled with dry bones. As I reflect on this passage today I am challenged to become more sensitive to the 'dry bones' around me. I have always challenged myself to live for others and to put them before myself. As I enter a new season of ministry this will be the key to my calling. Identity the dry bones, speak life into them and then empower them to speak life into other dry bones. Relational ministry is probably the word for me today. God has anointed me to speak life into others. The book of Proverbs declares that there is death and life in the power of tongue. May my tongue speak life and blessing to all those I come across.

Prayer:
Jesus thank You for speaking life into my dry bones. Thank You for Warren and the youth camp where I gave my life to you as a teenager. Thank You for Allan, Sean, Richard and Gary who spoke so much life into me. Lord I pray today that I would one that always speak life into others. I pray today for a ministry that resurrects dry bones. I pray for my next season of ministry that it would be marked by Your life giving power. Thank You for loving me and for holding me in this season. I thank You that You know my needs and You already have a plan for me. I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances, our health and our callings. Guide us in the steps You have ordained for us. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and way for my life. Thank You for all the wonderful people You have placed in my life. I pray You bless them today. I love You Lord and thank You for saving me and making me Your own.
Amen.

Shepherd and shepherds

2011-09-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 33; Ezekiel 34; Ezekiel 35; Revelation 18

Scripture:
Ezekiel 34:10 Thus says the Lord GOD: “Behold, I am against the shepherds, and I will require My flock at their hand; I will cause them to cease feeding the sheep, and the shepherds shall feed themselves no more; for I will deliver My flock from their mouths, that they may no longer be food for them.”

Ezekiel 34:25 “I will make a covenant of peace with them, and cause wild beasts to cease from the land; and they will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods. 26 I will make them and the places all around My hill a blessing; and I will cause showers to come down in their season; there shall be showers of blessing. 27 Then the trees of the field shall yield their fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase. They shall be safe in their land; and they shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bands of their yoke and delivered them from the hand of those who enslaved them. 30 Thus they shall know that I, the LORD their God, am with them, and they, the house of Israel, are My people,” says the Lord GOD.’”
31 “You are My flock, the flock of My pasture; you are men, and I am your God,” says the Lord GOD.

Observation:
God rebukes the shepherds for not taking care of the people. The shepherds/leaders were more concerned about themselves than the people. They lived in comfort while the people suffered and lived in oppression. God promised to be their Shepherd. He promised to step in and turn things around. To filter out the bad shepherds and to bring them to a place of blessing and abundance. God saw the hearts of the people and He answered their cry.

Application:
I am reminded today that as a pastor my heart must always be for the people. God has chosen me to be His voice and guidance to people. It is an honor but it comes with great responsibility. Just as quick as God placed me in leadership, so quickly can He remove me from that position. I never want to be in a place where God lifts His hand off my life because of my bad leadership. In this passage I am also reminded that it is the hurting and needy that need a shepherd. Do the hurting and oppressed have my attention? Am I training and raising up other leaders to become more sensitive in reaching the hurting and oppressed. I desire to be a better leader, a better shepherd and it all starts with guarding my heart and keeping it focused on Christ. With a heart focused on Christ I will always be sensitive to the needs of others. Christ is the gauge of how my heart is doing in loving others. As a grow in leadership and wisdom may I also grow in heart and love for others.

Prayer:
Father thank You for this reminder today. Sometimes it is so easy to get wrapped up in the things going on in my life that I forget the needs of others. I pray today for my leadership and calling and I ask You to grow my heart. May my leadership be known more for heart and love versus preaching and teaching. Jesus thank You for being my Shepherd. For loving me so much that You sacrificed Your life for me. You truly are the Greatest Shepherd ever. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your ways for my life. I thank You today for breakthrough and blessing. Thank You for leading me to a place of blessing. You know my needs and You have a plan for me. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and I ask You to bless these. I pray for Your favor on our lives. Thank You that You promise to bless us and make us a blessing to the nations. I love You Lord and I live for You. Amen.

Living with Conviction

2011-09-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Daniel 3; Daniel 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17

Scripture:
Daniel 3:16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17 If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18 But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

Observation:
This is one of my favorite stories in the bible. These men stood up to a king, his leaders and all the people. I love how they declare, "we have no need to answer you in this matter." Their minds were already made up before the sun even rose that morning. God bless them for their faithfulness.

Application:
This story always reminds me that faithfulness blesses God and opens the door for miracles. As a pastor my job is to live with this kind of conviction and obedience and to teach other to do the same. I am to live like this and model it to others. The world needs to see people of incredible compassion but at the same time they need to see people of incredible conviction. In this season God has been teaching me to trust Him and to live with conviction. I believe God is faithful and He will reward me for the steps I have taken over the past few years. "If God is for me, then who can be against me." This verse rings in my heart today. God is for me and that is all that matters. God will bless me and turn my season into blessing. I am excited today and declare like these guys, I have no need to answer in this matter, God is in control and things will work out.

Prayer:
Lord mold me into a man of strong conviction. I want to be a man of incredible compassion and strong conviction. Forgive me today of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and heart towards the things of Your kingdom. Search my heart and reveal to me anything that does not please You. I thank You today for the steps You have ordained for me and I pray for wisdom to walk in these steps. Lord may Your favor and blessing rest on me and it go before me. I pray for open doors and breakthrough's. Bless my wife today, our marriage, our our finances and our health. Fill Cindy with peace today and give her the desires of her heart. I thank You today for all You are doing for me behind the scenes. I love You Lord and I know that You are for me. Thank You for making me Your son. I live for You. Amen.

God Forever

2011-09-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 42; Jeremiah 43; Jeremiah 44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13

Scripture:
Psalm 48: 12 Walk about Zion,
And go all around her.
Count her towers;
13 Mark well her bulwarks;
Consider her palaces;
That you may tell it to the generation following.
14 For this is God,
Our God forever and ever;
He will be our guide
Even to death.

Observation:
The psalmist concluded by calling on God's people to consider the lasting security of Jerusalem. They should walk about Zion in order to inspect her towers, ramparts, and citadels. Only then would they discover that her true greatness did not consist of rock or mortar. It was not in what human eyes could see, but in God who was for ever and ever. This unseen defender would be their guide when Jerusalem was under attack.Holman Old Testament Commentary

Application:
What makes a great life? Many would argue achievements, some would argue wealth and being comfortable, some would argue kids and grand-kids, but the psalmist defines it as a life who has lived for God. True greatness in life comes from honoring and following God. God is forever and ever. Life on earth but a vapor. Humans tend to live more the life here on earth than the life that is to come. We plan for retirement but forget about the eternal. I want my life to be simply about God. In this season He has been stripping away things that really don't matter in my life. Dreams that really are not important. I am learning that in the midst of the chaos and distractions of life, true North is simply obeying and yielding to God each and every day. The palmist reminded Israel that their strength was not the walls of Zion but the faithfulness of God. God is faithful. He is my strength and my fortress. He is my Prover and my Guide. He is in control and He promised to never leave me nor forsake me. I rest in Him today, knowing that His plans are there to prosper me and to give me a hope and a future.

Prayer:
Lord I come before You today and I thank You for taking care of me. You are faithful and You have always taken care of Cindy and me. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know our will and Your ways. I pray today for Your favor on my life. I ask You to make a way for Cindy and I. I declare that You are in control and You know our every need. Lord bless me and make a blessing to the nations. I pray for the right door to open for Cindy and I. Give me patience to wait on You and strength to stand. Thank You that You know the desires of our hearts and You declare that Your ways and dreams for us are higher than we can ever imagine. Bless my wife today, fill her with creativity, passion and energy. Bless our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. We declare that You are the center of all of these. I love You Lord and thank You for choosing me. I live to serve You. Amen.

Overcomers

2011-09-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40; Jeremiah 41; Revelation 12

Scripture:
Revelations 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

Observation:
Those overcomers had to overcome the pressures of a hostile world. The supernatural enemy that lies behind all the tribulations of the world is now unmasked as Satan. He was defeated in the heavens by mighty angelic warfare. Yet on earth Christians have been overcoming him day by day, year by year, century by century. The heavenly voice names their two weapons.
First, they have the blood of the Lamb. They have a certain salvation, a sure redemption, secured by the Lamb's death. .
Second, they have the word of their testimony. This is the language of the witness stand. In the face of pressure to turn away from faith in Christ, they did not give in. Such perseverance not only reveals the genuineness of their faith, it completely overcomes the devil. (Holman Commentary)

Application:
This verse is a great reminder to me of how to overcome the enemy and his kingdom. Firstly I have the blood of Jesus over my life. I am a child of God and my life has been washed in the blood of the Lamb. The enemy can see this over my life and he knows he cannot touch me. Secondly I have faith. I can stand in faith that God will deliver me and cause me to come out in victory. God has given me His word and so I can grow in faith, for according to Romans 10:17, "Faith comes by hearing, hearing by the word of God." In this season of my life I can stand in faith and victory through the blood of the Lamb. He that begun a work in me will complete it. I don't need to look back, I can look forward to the promises of God. I am excited for this month for I feel great breakthrough is coming my way. I am excited for I have stood faithful in the midst of trials and testing. God has refined my heart and I feel like I am stronger and more equipped than ever before.

Prayer:
Lord I come to You today and thank You for the precious blood of Jesus. It is through You Jesus that I am redeemed and delivered. I pray today for breakthrough and blessing. I thank You that You know my need and You have a plan for me. I pray for favor today and open doors. Speak new vision into my heart. I pray for You to open doors that seem impossible. Bless my wife today, refresh her and fill her with creativity today as she song writes. i pray for our marriage, our home, our finances and our callings and I ask You to touch and bless these. You are our Source, our Provider and Our God. We trust in You and look to You for our next season. Thank You that the enemy is defeated and I need not look back. Thank You for miracles and blessings today. I love You Lord.
Amen.

Job's view on Trials

2011-09-05T11:04:00.000-07:00

Job 23

Scripture:
Job 23:10 But He knows the way that I take;
When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.

Observation:
Job went through an incredible testing. He lost everything. He lost his wife, family, wealth, influence and even his best friends turned on him. I am yet to read of a man who went through so much tribulation. God allowed Job to go through this and Job's response is incredible. He obeys God and keeps his faith in Him. He knows that God is still in control and that things will work out for the best. God honors Jobs faith and rewards him in the end.

Application:
This past few months have been a great blessing and a great test as well. I have been resting, studying and reflecting on life and God. I feel so refreshed and ready for the next season of full time ministry. At the same time it has been frustrating as I love being busy and working. At times I have questioned what God is up to? God has been teaching me to trust Him and to simply obey. This season has been about making me like gold in every area of my life. In my marriage, my health, my faith, my disciplines and boundaries. God has been aligning these to His will and I know it is all preparation for the next season. God loves me and He needed to strengthen me for what lies ahead. I am excited at the place I am at. I am excited for the door that is about to open and I believe God is about to bless me in amazing ways. He that begun a work in me will complete it.

Prayer:
Father thank You for refining my life during this season. Lord You have worked to the core of me and I thank You for taking things out of me that are not of You. Lord fill me with wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your ways. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I pray for favor and for an open door. I pray for a door to open in the next few weeks. I pay for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Lord bless these as we declare that You are the source and center of all of them. I pray for breakthrough and miracles in our lives. You know our needs and I thank You for taking care of them. We look to You for all our needs. I declare today that You are good all the time. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

Wisdom Starts With Reverence for God

2011-09-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 20; Ezekiel 21; Psalm 111; Revelation 8

Scripture:
Psalm 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
A good understanding have all those who do His commandments.
His praise endures forever.

Observation:
I have heard one of my mentors, Ps. Wayne Cordeiro, teach this verse over and over. Reverence for God and putting Him first is the beginning of wisdom. For all things were created by Him for Him. A wise man is one who honors and puts God first in everything. This is the beginning of true wisdom. Man's wisdom cannot compare or come close to understanding the fullness of God. It is so humorous to me when man tries to place God in a box.

Application:
I love studying and gaining wisdom, but at the end of it if God is not the center of my life, all the wisdom of this world will mean nothing. There is a wisdom that cannot be explained, it is called faith. Faith is that wisdom that simply trust's God without any understanding, just a total 'knowing that God is in control.' In my season I am living by faith. I need God to open a door for me and I know He is working something special out for me. I know He is about to do something unique, I cannot see it and in the natural it is stressful, but my life is not driven by what I see but rather by what I know. I know God is faithful. I know God always gives me the best. I know God rewards faithfulness. I know God always comes through. I know God wants to bless me and make me a blessing. I know He is in control even though in the natural things seem dicey. My faith today is in God, Jehova Jireh. I believe He is about to bless me. He is faithful and I can walk in faith that He that begun a work in me will complete it. I choose today to trust God, to walk in His ways and to praise Him for all He is doing in my life.

Prayer:
Father thank You for holding my life in Your hands. You promise to never leave me nor forsake me. You know my desires and my needs. I lift up my situation before You and I thank You for Your provision. Lord bless me today and make me a blessing to the nations. Remember Your covenant to me this day and find joy in bringing breakthrough to my life. I pray today for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Bless these Lord and be the center of all of these. I pray for wisdom to make the right decisions in this season. Bring clarity in this season so we can prepare our hearts and minds for what You have panned for us. Thank You for all You have done for us and for all You are about to do for us. I love You Lord.
Amen.

Looking Forward

2011-09-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7

Scripture:
Ez 18:1 The word of the LORD came to me again, saying, 2 “What do you mean when you use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying:
‘ The fathers have eaten sour grapes,
And the children’s teeth are set on edge’?

3 “As I live,” says the Lord GOD, “you shall no longer use this proverb in Israel.
4 “ Behold, all souls are Mine;
The soul of the father
As well as the soul of the son is Mine;
The soul who sins shall die.

Observation:
The opening paragraph of Ezekiel 18 introduces the subject of the entire chapter—individual accountability. The subject is summarized in the quotation of a popular proverb: The fathers eat sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge. The popularity of this quotation indicated that the defeated Jerusalemites had succumbed to a fatalistic view that blamed their ancestors for their present troubles. God announced that the popular proverb would no longer be quoted in Israel because it was false. The truth is that a person does not inherit liability for sin from his parents; he is accountable for his own sin: the soul who sins is the one who will die. While the actions of parents may have consequences for their children, each person is individually responsible for his or her own deeds.

Application:
Israel did not want to take responsibility for their situation, they rather sought to blame and live in defeat. God would not allow them to live with this mentality. God declares that He is alive and in control. All that was required of Israel was faith and repentance for their future to be realigned to God's will. In my life there have been times where I have been tempted to look back and blame others for my situation. I have learned though through the years that God is in control of my life whether things are good or whether things are bad. He knows where He is taking me and what He has called me to do. In this season of uncertainty one things remains immovable, God is in control of my life and His plans for me are unshakable. I am reminded this morning to keep believing, to keep obeying and to keep my eye on Him. God is in control even in the midst of the storm. He is faithful and He rewards faithfulness. God will reward me for my faithfulness.

Prayer:
God thank You for reminding me to look forward. The past is there to equip and teach me, but it does not determine my future, You do. I come before You today with my needs and I lift them up before You. Thank You for opening a door for me and for providing for Cindy and I. I pray for my next church and pray for the pastor, the leaders, the staff and church. Lord use me as You see fit, for Your will for my life is what I desire. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. Bless these Lord. I pray for financial breakthrough and provision. Thank You for opening the windows of heaven over us. I pray for Your wisdom, favor and discernment over my life. May Your hand move mightily for Cindy and I. Thank You for a new season. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

God's salvation power

2011-09-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6

Scripture:
Psalm 70: 4 Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You;
And let those who love Your salvation say continually,
“Let God be magnified!”

Observation:
I love this verse, it reminds me of the power of salvation and the inheritance we receive. God is to be magnified for all He has done for mankind. His grace, mercy and love for man is indescribable. God is Amazing!

Application:
The word salvation is so powerful. It comes from the word 'soeteria', which means salvation, deliverance, protection, provision and rescue. The word is a present tense word, thus salvation is not a one time process but a continue process. God does not just save us from hell upon our confession of faith, He promises to save us over and over again from evil, strive, famine and tribulation. God's salvation power is active for me everyday. 'Those who call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.' I can call on His power everyday to deliver me, protect me and provide for me. God knows my needs and as I magnify Him, He will lift me up. God is faithful, and in my season of waiting for a door to open, I can rest in the truth that He knows when and which door to open. God has the best in store for me. He is good and His love endures forever.

Prayer:
God thank You for Your salvation power that is always available to me. I pray today for provision and an open door. You know my need and my desires and I so I thank You by faith for blessing me and for making me a blessing to the nations. Lord I pray today for peace and patience. I know I am close to the next season unfolding and now is the time to trust and wait on You for clear direction. I pray for my wife, our home, our finances and our health. Bless these and watch over them for us. You are our Source, our Provider. I pray for favor, wisdom, discernment and compassion. Bless my wife today with her project and fill her with songs and creativity. Thank You for my wife and the incredible gift she is to me. I pray for the dreams and desires we have and I lift these before You. I thank You for breakthrough for both of us.
Amen.

Jesus - King of Kings

2011-08-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 12; Ezekiel 13; Ezekiel 14; Revelation 5

Scripture:
Revelation 5:13 And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying:

“ Blessing and honor and glory and power
Be to Him who sits on the throne,
And to the Lamb, forever and ever!”

Observation:
The time will come where every knee will bow and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Every living thing will bow and worship Him.

Application:
There is none like Jesus. He is the King of King, the Lord of Lords. It is sad to see that so many Christians forget that our lives have been bought by a precious price, the life of Christ. He gave it all so that we could be adopted into the family of God. Jesus still is the center of the gospel and the center of the Christian life. It is sad when I see how the church culture has forgotten the central message of Christ. We are more excited about the men of God than the 'Man of God - Jesus'. I am reminded today that Christ is the center of my life. Everything I do I do for Him. My life is no longer my own. I have been bought by a price that no man could ever pay. I have a King and I am to live for Him daily. I want my life to bring honor and glory to the Lamb Who sits on the throne. I want my life to bring others into the kingdom. I want what Christ did for me to count in my life. There is no greater honor a man can receive than one day standing before Jesus and hearing, "Well done good and faithful servant." That's what I want my life to be all about.

Prayer:
Jesus You are my King. I love You and live to serve You. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and heart towards the things of God. I am so thankful for all You have done for me and for giving me new life through the cross. I pray today that my life will bring greater honor to You. May my life count for the kingdom of heaven. I pray today for wisdom and discernment, favor and blessing. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I pray for open doors and clarity on the steps that I need to take. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health and I ask You to touch all of these. Thank You for always taking care of us. Fill me with peace and hope today. I rest in You. Amen.

The Heart of Man

2011-08-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 8; Ezekiel 9; Ezekiel 10; Ezekiel 11

Scripture:
Ezekiel 11:19 Then I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh, and give them a heart of flesh, 20 that they may walk in My statutes and keep My judgments and do them; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God.

Observation:
God speaks of restoring Israel and He speaks of giving them a new heart. This new heart is a new love for Him and for His commandments.

Application:
When God speaks of change, He speaks of the heart. Everything in a man's life stems from his heart. His heart dictates his motives, his devotions, his attitudes and his responses. God is interested in my heart. He wants my heart for then He has every part of me. The world will compete for my heart. It will try and distract or steal my devotion. Israel allowed their heart to get hard like stone towards God. They had lost their devotion and worship. They forgot their first love. God declares that He will change them, He will do a heart surgery. I love how God steps in. Even when I make mistakes and blow it in life, God always promises to restore me and to show me grace. There is none like Him. He is faithful, He is good all the time. I am blessed to know that God is so gracious and kind to me. When my heart strays, the Holy Spirit draws me back to the heart of worship. God is good, He is faithful. "Lord, my heart is Yours!"

Prayer:
Father thank You for changing my heart at age 13 when I made a decision to follow You. You have watched over me and blessed me. I pray today for my heart and ask You to reveal areas where I need to change. Lord bless me and make me a blessing. Guide me in Your ways. I pray for open doors today and ask You to work a miracle for Cindy. Thank You for the word we heard that in a blink of an eye You will turn things around. I pray for that in our life. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. I pray for finances and an open heaven. Guide our steps and cause us to walk in Your ways. Thank You for new seasons that are upon us. I love You Lord and I thank You for all You are doing for us.
Amen.

Simple Things First

2011-08-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 4; Ezekiel 5; Ezekiel 6; Ezekiel 7; Revelation 3

Scripture:
Revelations 3:8 “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.

Observation:
The congregation of Philadelphia was small. Its members had little strength to oppose the forces of evil. They were under persecution by the Jews, yet they remained faithful and the Lord compliments them for their faithfulness.

Application:
Faithfulness brings honor. God complimented the church of Philadelphia for its faithfulness under extreme persecution. The believers were committed and stood in faith. This morning I am reminded that faithfulness, obedience and commitment please my Lord. These too often are overlooked or 'under-preached'. We love to preach messages on changing the world for Jesus, but forget to teach the importance of a disciplined Christian lifestyle. Maybe obedience, faithfulness and commitment is not as glamorous, but to the Lord it grabbed His attention and praise. This small simple church caught the eye of God. I am reminded this morning that pleasing God is not complicated. It is the everyday faithfulness, obedience and commitment that brings great honor to Him. I pray that my life manifest's these traits. May the motivation of my heart be these three, faithfulness, obedience and commitment.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for loving me and for always being so gracious to me. I thank You for the reminder today that it is the simple things that count. Lord I desire that my life be a blessing to You. You have done so much for me and continue to bless me daily. Lord I pray for wisdom and favor today. I need Your favor on my life. I pray for open doors today. You know the plans and future You have for me and I pray that I would walk in obedience, faithfulness ans commitment. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our health and our finances. Thank You today for all You are doing in my life. I love You Lord and I live for You.
Amen

God my Source and Provider.

2011-08-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 52; Revelation 1; Psalm 143; Psalm 144

Scripture:
Psalm 143:8 Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning,
For in You do I trust;
Cause me to know the way in which I should walk,
For I lift up my soul to You.

Psalm 144:13 That our barns may be full,
Supplying all kinds of produce;
That our sheep may bring forth thousands
And ten thousands in our fields;
14 That our oxen may be well laden;
That there be no breaking in or going out;
That there be no outcry in our streets.
15 Happy are the people who are in such a state;
Happy are the people whose God is the LORD

Observation:
In both these Psalms we see the author declare that God has the final say. He is their source, their provider, He is Jehovah Jireh. The author prays for breakthrough and blessing, prosperity and peace. He acknowledges God as Creator and knows no man can come close to Him.

Application:
This morning my prayer is the same. "God You are my Source, You are my Provider, I praise Your Holy Name." As I reflect and look back this morning on the provision of God in my life, I stand amazed and humbled. God has been so good to me. He has been so faithful. He has always delivered me and taken care of me. I know this day that is working out a new opportunity for me and it is going to be incredible. I am excited at my future for His ways are higher than mine. My steps have been predetermined by God. Abundance and provision is coming. I need for fear for God is on my side. "Happy are those whose God is the Lord."

Prayer:
Father thank You for yesterdays call with Ps. Mitch. I pray for him and for wisdom to make the right choice. Lord bless that church and staff. Refresh them and expand their territory. I pray for my life and calling today. I pray for the right door to open and I rest in You. You know where You want me to be. I thank You today for favor and breakthrough. You are my Source, my Provider and my Shepherd. You watch over me and lead me to green pastures. I thank You for hand that is over me and I ask You to fill me with wisdom and discernment. Lord bless my wife, our marriage, our home and our finances. I pray for Cindy and ask You to bless her project. I pray for my resume that is out there at for favor on it. Bless my family and friends today, watch over them and cause them to prosper in all they do. I love You Lord and I thank You for always taking care of me.
Amen.

Inside Out Living = Prosperity.

2011-08-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 50; Jeremiah 51; 3 John 1

Scripture:
3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

Observation:
John's prayer is for the health of our souls determines the health and success of our lives.

Application:
Jesus spoke a lot about life flowing from the inside out. John's prayer is for us to live inside out. So many people today live outside in. Their wealth, status, title, house and material assets determine joy of their life. Jesus teaches that true wealth comes from the inside. A peace, joy, hope and faith found only in God will bring true wealth to a man's life. Men chase after so many things. Most of the time these things define them. I have learned in this season that the thing I am to chase after is Christ. There is no other true man like Him. If I desire to be a man of influence, prosperity, joy, success and security, then I need Christ to transform me from the inside out. Once again I am so thankful for this season and for its many lesson's. I feel so peaceful and content. I am excited at what the future holds, for God is for me, who can be against me.

Prayer:
Father thank You for bringing me to this place of peace and strength. Sometimes I do not understand the path's You call me to walk on, but I know that in the end it will be a huge blessing. Today I can see that I am a better man because of this journey. I feel so free and happy. Lord I thank You for all You are doing in my life. I pray for wisdom for the next season and for discernment of Your will for my life. I pray today for my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. Bless these and prosper them. I pray for our callings and future, may Your favor be on these. I pray for all those on the East Coast preparing for this hurricane. Lord watch over them and protect them. Fill them with peace, hope and strength. I pray for our nation today and ask You to give our leaders wisdom to make the right decision. Draw them to their knees like our forefathers. May they find strength in You. I thank You for today and ask You to help me achieve all my goals.
Amen.

Loving Others

2011-08-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 37; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Psalm 79; 2 John 1

Scripture:
2 John 1:5 And now I plead with you, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment to you, but that which we have had from the beginning: that we love one another. 6 This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.

Observation:
Loving God and loving others is the new commandment Christ gave us. It was we are called to do. To love unconditionally as Christ loved us. By this will men know that we are His disciples, by our love for one another.

Application:
Last night I had so much fun hanging out with some old friends. I had not seen them in a long time. Cindy and I stopped by to pick up some things and we ended up visiting for hours. The thing that connected us was the love of Christ. Love truly is the ingredient that connects the family of God. Sometimes I think we ask the wrong question. By this I mean we ask, "Who should I preach to today," instead of, "Who can I love today." Love is one of the greatest ways to preach. This is what Jesus was so good at doing. He loved which opened the door for sharing the word of God. I want to be a pastor that loves first then preaches. I want love to be the motive behind all I do. Last night was a great reminded that messages come and go, but love remains forever. May I love like Christ today. May my words be gracious, kind, encouraging and full of hope.

Prayer:
Lord thank You for my friends. Thank You for last night and the fun we had. I thank You for all the people You have brought into my life. Your love truly connects us to strangers and makes us family. Lord I pray that I would always put love first in my life, my relationships and my ministry. Love is what the world seeks. Love prepares the way for the gospel. I pray today for forgiveness of my sins and I ask You to wash me clean and to renew my mind and heart. I pray for wisdom today and discernment to know Your will and Your way. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I pray for Your favor to be on my life and to open the right doors for me. I pray for my job situation and ask You to open a door for me. Bless my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and our callings. Thank You for all Your promises Today and for always watching over us. I love You Lord and I live for You.
Amen.

Love the Greatest Attribute of a Leader

2011-08-22T23:16:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 28; Jeremiah 29; Jeremiah 30; 1 John 3

Scripture:
1 John 3:16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Observation:
John reminds us that Christ modeled to us a love so great it cost Him His life. We are to do the same to love with a willingness to sacrifice. This is how the world will know that we are from God, by our love.

Application:
As I read this passage I am reminded that as a pastor and leader, love is the greatest thing I can give. I want to be known as a pastor that loved, cared for and was genuine. I want the love of God to be at the center of my leadership. Love is so powerful. Love covers a multitude of sins, it gives hope to the hopeless, it draws sinners to God, it brings in healing. I want my leadership to motivated and consumed by the love of God. May my heart be righteous and my love pure. Reveal to me Holy Spirit any unforgiveness or area where I hold back love.

Prayer:
Father thank You for loving me. Jesus thank You for loving me. Holy Spirit thank You for loving me. Lord fill me with Your love and teach me to love like You do. Forgive me for my sins and for judging others. Renew my mind and my heart. I thank You for holding me in the palm of Your hand and for all the incredible promises You have for me. Lord I ask You to bless me and to make me a blessing to the nations. Cover me with Your favor and ordain my steps. Thank You today for opening doors and for taking care of my needs. I pray today for Your blessing on my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and our calling. Bless these. I pray for my job situation and I ask You to guide me to the right church. Thank You for giving me wisdom to make the right choices.
I love You Lord and I bless Your Holy Name.
Amen.

God my Source, my Hope and my Future

2011-08-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 27; Psalm 118; 1 John 2

Scripture:
Psalm 118:5 I called on the LORD in distress;
The LORD answered me and set me in a broad place.
6 The LORD is on my side;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?

Observation:
God hears the cries of our heart and He desires to set us in a place of blessing and peace. God wants to be our confidence, our hope and our future. Our faith pleases Him and moves His favor over us.

Application:
As I reflect on these passages today I am filled with joy. God is my Source. He is my Confidence. He is my Hope and my Future. He knows what He is doing with my life and He knows where He is taking me. God has great plans for my life. This season of my life has been all about faith, peace and trust in God. I have learned to find peace in the midst of the storms. God has been faithful and He has always come through for me. I have enjoyed the past few weeks and teaching again has been fun. I am excited at what lays ahead in the coming weeks. I believe God is going to open new doors and bring clarity to future steps. I am so excited and I feel ready. God is so good. I am blessed!

Prayer:
Lord You have been so good to me. Even in the times where I felt disappointed and questioned You, You were patient and merciful to me. You have done so much in my life, my heart and my spirit. I feel a new peace and joy. It all comes out of You and I thank You for maturing and working in me. Lord I lift my needs to You and I thank You that You know them. I thank You for Your favor on my life. I thank You for Your promises today and I pray for wisdom in this season. I pray for discernment and wisdom to make the right decision. Lord bless my wife, our marriage, our finances, our home and our health. Lord thank You for being my Source, my Hope and my Future. I love You Lord and I live for You. Amen.

The Blessings of Faith

2011-08-18T10:25:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 26; Jeremiah 35; Jeremiah 36; John 20

Scripture:
John 20:29 Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Observation:
Thomas doubted that is was Jesus and once Jesus revealed His the scars of His wounds Thomas believed. Thomas was blessed because He saw the scars, but Jesus says that there is a greater blessing for those who believe without seeing.

Application:
I am reminded this morning of one of my favorite verses in the bible, Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."
God rewards faith, He rewards those who turn to Him with their whole life. He rewards those who come to Him and declare that He holds their future in His hands, those who believe that He will make a way and that He will be their Source and Provider. God rewards faith, its blesses Him and activates His power. Faith is hoping, believing and resting in the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. I know God is going to bless me for standing strong in this season. It has not been easy but I have stood by faith, believing that He has an incredible plan for my future. I know He is about to do a new thing in my life. I am excited and I give all the honor to Him. God is good all the time.

Prayer:
Father thank You for all You have done and for all You are doing in this season of my life. You truly are Abba Father. Lord I pray today for breakthrough and blessing. I pray for favor and wisdom. I pray for vision and clarity. I pray for Your will to be done in my life and in Cindy's life. I pray for new opportunities and new harvest's. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and our future. I ask You to bless these. Lord I thank You that You reward faithfulness and I ask You to reward every seed of faith that I have sown. I love You Lord and I live to serve You. Bless this day and may I live it for You.
Amen.

God Supreme Authority

2011-08-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 23; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 25; John 19

Scripture:
John 19:11 Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above.

Observation:
Jesus responds to Pilates statement with a powerful truth. Everything that was taking place was ordained by God the Father. Man's authority had no true power in this situation.

Application:
The same can be said of my life today. Jesus is my Lord and Savior and He watches over me. The enemy can do nothing in my life unless He allows it. Even temptations and trials, which God uses to strengthen and mature me, can only happen if He allows it. When the devil wanted to test Job, he had to get permission from God. This fills me with such joy today to know that my life is in His hands. God watches over me and He is guiding my life. Jesus still had to submit to the will of His Father, and I too have to submit in obedience to God's will for my life. When I sin, turn my back on God or miss His mark, His grace is there to restore me when I repent. God's power is supreme and I rest in the powerful truth today that I am walking in the steps He has ordained for me. He is working things out for me, and He knows exactly what is around the corner for my life. I rest in my God today and I am excited to see what door He opens for me. God is good!

Prayer:
Jesus I thank You for the cross this morning and for all You did for me. I thank You for the forgiveness of my sins and for washing me clean. I thank You for making me a child of God. I thank You Father today for the powerful truth that You are holding my life in the palm of Your hand. I need not fear anything for You are with me. I pray today for favor, for peace and for Your blessing to rest on my life, my wife, our marriage, our health and our finances. I pray today for wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your way. Thank You for the new season that is coming my way. I pray for clarity for the next steps we are to take. I wait on You Lord for I know all things come from You. Thank You for all You are doing for me and Cindy. I love You Lord and live for You.
Amen.

The Blessing of Righteousness

2011-08-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18

Scripture:
Psalm 112: 5 A good man deals graciously and lends;
He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely he will never be shaken;
The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings;
His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
8 His heart is established;
He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.

Observation:
God honors righteous men and takes great delight in them. He favors them and blesses them. They stand strong in their faith, for they know God is in control and He watches over them. Their hearts are at established in the truth that all things work out for God is in control.

Application:
I desire to be the kind of man spoken about in Psalm 112. I want my life to be pleasing to the Lord. I want His favor and blessing on my life, for with it i can accomplish all He has called me to do. In this season God has been establishing my heart. I feel a new peace, faith and stability in my faith. I know God is for me and He is working every detail of my life out. It is good to rest in the Lord. I am carrying His yoke and burdens. Each day I give my concerns and burdens to Him. He always fills me with peace. I feel so fulfilled today, and the only reason for this fulfillment is the presence of God. His presence truly is all I need.

Prayer:
Lord there are so many things I can pray about, so many needs, burdens and stresses. You know all these and I give them to You today. I thank You for Your peace and perfect plan for my life. I thank You that I am exactly where You want me to be. I pray today for favor and blessing. I pray today for wisdom and discernment. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Renew my mind and heart to Your will and to Your ways. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our finances, our health and our future. Come be the center of all of these. I pray for my resume today and all the churches that it is at. Reveal the right place, the place You want me to be at. I pray for the church where You are sending me, the pastor, the staff and leaders and I ask You to bless them today. Fill them with vision, passion and most of all Your presence. Thank You for a new day with new opportunities. I love You Lord. Amen.

God the Almighty

2011-08-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 18; Jeremiah 19; Jeremiah 20; Psalm 93; John 17

Scripture:
Psalm 93: 1 The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty;
The LORD is clothed,
He has girded Himself with strength.
Surely the world is established, so that it cannot be moved.
2 Your throne is established from of old;
You are from everlasting.

Observation:
The psalmist reminds me this morning that God is Supreme. God is Almighty. God is Omnipotent, Omniscient and Omnipresent. He holds the world in His hands and nothing can be shaken without His consent. God's throne cannot be moved. This is my God and I am His.

Application:
It is so easy to get wrapped up in our daily lives and all the stress that comes with it. Yet what seems so huge to us is so little in comparison to the Almighty. God is in control of my life. He reminds me through Jer 29 that He has a future and a hope for me. Plans to prosper me and keep me in good health. God promises to bring me into a spacious place of abundance in the book of Proverbs. Sometimes all it takes is stopping and declaring how big our God is. He holds my life in His hands. His angels watch over me. His plans for good for me, and He will not let me be tested beyond what I can withstand. God is strengthening me, He is shaping me like clay into the vessel He has chosen me to be. I praise God today for there is none like Him. "Father there is none like You! You reign Supreme! You are my fortress, my strong tower, my refuge, my hiding place. You are my Abba Father and You love me."

Prayer:
Father thank You for reminding me that You are in control. You have it all figured out. Your plans are to prosper me and to make me a blessing to the nations. I stand before You today humbled at Your goodness and love for me. Lord I am so blessed to have You in my life. I am so filled with joy at the thought of spending eternity with You. You are good all the time. I ask You today for wisdom, discernment, favor and vision. I pray for my wife, our home, our health, our finances and our future. Bless these and open the window of heaven over them. I pray for our travels today and ask You to watch over us. Thank You for holding my world in Your hands. Amen.

Real Fruit

2011-08-13T07:58:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 13; Jeremiah 14; Jeremiah 15; John 15

Scripture:
John 15:4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

Observation:
Jesus reminds us that we have been saved and placed into to the family of God by His power. We cannot produce fruit without His power and compassion in us. Our fruitfulness will be a reflection of our relationship with Him. If we do not bear fruit then we don't truly understand the precious gift that has been given to us.

Application:
Now days fake fruit look so real. But once you get close to it, touch it, feel it's weight, you immediately notice that it is not the real thing. Fake fruit is only good for show. It has no real benefits. Real fruit, a juicy mango, a sweet crisp apple, well that's another story. God wants my life to be fruitful. He wants my life to be a blessing to others. He wants my life to attract others to His love and life changing power. Jesus reminds me that I need Him in order to be fruitful. The reason is simple. Without Jesus n my life and without a consistent walk with Him, I remain selfish and prideful. I live for myself and do whatever I want. I forget the precious treasure I have in Christ and the mandate I have to share Him with the world. I need His love flowing in my life so that I may be transformed into His likeness. God's love for me humbles me and fills me with compassion for the hurting and lost of this world. I am so glad to be grafted into Jesus Christ. May His love fill every area of my life.

Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for grafting me into the family of God. Thank You for all the love, power, peace and hope that flows from above into my life. I pray today that I would have the wisdom, compassion, gifts and obedience to be fruitful in this world. Forgive my pride and selfishness. Wash me clean of my sins and renew my mind. I pray for Your favor on my life today and I ask You to fill me with vision and purpose. I pray for my wife, our marriage, our home, our callings, our finances and health. I ask You to bless these. I thank You for holding my future in Your hand. Guide me in the steps You have ordained for me. Thank You Father for loving me and for choosing me. Amen.

Jesus the Ultimate Servant

2011-08-11T08:34:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 7; Jeremiah 8; Jeremiah 9; John 13

Scripture:
John 13:7 Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.”
8 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”
Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”

Observation:
Jesus molded servant hood to the His disciples. The washing of hands and feet was something the house servant or slave did. It was not something that someone of Jesus status would do.

Application:
I am reminded this morning of how awesome Jesus is in my life. He served me through the cross, granting me the eternal gift of salvation. He lowered Himself to the status of a criminal, but He was still an innocent man. I should have been on that cross. I should died for my sins, but He stepped in and took my place. He was willing to humble Himself and serve me. Now, He calls me to do the same. He calls me to serve others. Serving others is the way the great commandment works. Jesus said go into all the world and serve others. Tech them, tell them but serve them. The world will know that He is God because of the way we love and serve others. May I never forget the incredible price paid for my salvation and may the compassion of God transfer my heart into that of Christ so that i may serve like He.

Prayer:
Thank You Jesus this morning for loving me. Thank You for calling me to be Your own. I love You. I live for You. I bless You. I pray for a greater servants heart. Fill me with Your love and compassion so that I may serve with pure love. Remove from me any motives that are not of You. Search my heart and know me. I pray for forgiveness of my sins and wash You to wash me clean. Wash my mind, my heart and my mouth. May I speak of Your high praises today. Bless my wife, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Watch over us today and help us to walk in the steps You have ordained for us today. I love You Lord.
Amen.

God Holds My Future In His Hands

2011-08-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 1; Jeremiah 2; John 10

Scripture:
Jeremiah 1:4 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying:
5 “ Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;
Before you were born I sanctified you;
I ordained you a prophet to the nations.”

John 10:10 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.

John 10:28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30 I and My Father are one.”

Observation:
All these passages remind me that God is Omnipotent. He is all-powerful. He is in control and He watches over the word His has spoken over people. God is faithful and He will take care if us. He is the great Shepherd, He is the Protector and Provider. God is faithful.

Application:
Before I was born God spoke a word over my life. He called me to be a pastor to the nations. He ordained me and anointed me. He filled me with gifts and compassion to be a light to the hurting and oppressed. I am encouraged today for God holds my future in His hand. He has called me and anointed me and He will plant me where He needs me. God will provide and take care of all my needs. I need not stress or worry but simply focus on what He has me to do today. This season has become one of great peace and patience. I know a door will open soon and I am the healthiest I have ever been. God has blessed me with rest, reflection and meditation. The Holy Spirit has taught me so much about life, relationships, boundaries, discipline, saying no and rhythm. I feel a new joy in my life, a new peace and sense of purpose. I am relying more on Him and less on myself. I am grateful today for God has been a Rock, Fortress, a Tower and a Refuge. He has been so good to me. He truly holds my life in His hands.

Prayer:
Lord thank You. Thank You for the peace I feel today. Thank You for loving me and for allowing me to go through this season. I pray today for Your favor on my life, my wife, our marriage, our finances and our health. I pray for a door to open today for Cindy and I. I pray for peace for Cindy today. You know our desire to settle and to know the next place. Thank You for the security today that You are working it out. You know the desires of our heart, so I lay these at Your feet and thank You for Your best. Bless my wife today and her project. Help her to complete the last stages. I pray for all my friends today, You know the ones and I ask You to bless them and work in their lives. May Your Spirit move upon them in mighty ways. Thank You for today. Fill me with wisdom and discernment to know Your will and Your ways. I love You Lord and I thank You for loving me first. Your truly are amazing!
Amen.

Miracle Working God

2011-08-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

Zephaniah 1; Zephaniah 2; Zephaniah 3; John 9

Scripture:
John 9:2 And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”
3 Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him.

Observation:
The disciples wanted to know why this man was born blind. They wanted to know if it was due to the sins of his parents or was it a result of his sins. Jesus points them to the power of God and the opportunity for this man to be a vessel for the glory of God.

Application:
To often we look for the answers or reason's for life's situations or circumstances instead of looking to God for a miracle. We try to justify why we are going through storms and tribulations instead of declaring the power and goodness of God. So instead of stepping in faith and walking in peace we deflect to stress and a desire to know why we are in a place of strive. When bad things happen we immediately assume we messed up with God and the result therefore is that He is punishing us or lifting His hand off our lives. That is performance based Christianity. Jesus does not answer the disciples question with a performance based answer. Instead He points them to the power and glory of Abba Father. God sent Jesus to heal this man. In my life God is in control. He is directing my steps. Even when I am in the midst of a storm, God is still holding me. Jesus promised to never leave or forsake me. He is faithful. He wants me to keep looking forward when things are rough in life and know that He will turn it into a miracle and honor for God. God has been teaching me to look for His hand and power instead of answer's or reason's. I am glad today that the Lord is my rock and my fortress. I am so blessed to be walking in His peace and joy. God has been so good to me and He continues to fill me with hope, vision and patience.

Prayer:
Father thank You for loving me and for being my God. You are faithful and I know You are holding my life in Your hands. Lord I may not understand my season but I know You have great things planned for my life. I ask You today to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. I love You Lord and I thank You for being patient with me in this season and for always showing me grace. I pray for my wife today, our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. Lord I lay these before You and ask You to be the center of them. I pray for my calling today and ask You to open a door for me. You know the desires of my heart and I pray for favor. I am so excited at the new season that is coming and I am grateful for what You have done in the past few months. I love You Lord and thank You for the miracles that You are going to do for us. You are a miracle working God. Amen.

God sees!

2011-08-03T09:31:00.000-07:00

Nahum 1; Nahum 2; Nahum 3; John 5

Scripture:
John5:6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?”
7 The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.”
8 Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” 9 And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.

Observation:
Jesus picked this man out of the crowd for He knew this man's situation and heart. This man had no one to help him, no family member, no friend, no servant. He was alone even though a crowd was all around him. He was forgotten and left behind. He watched others get their healing over and over again, yet he did not give up. He could have left, he could have given up. Maybe it was his faith that impressed Jesus.

Application:
God's timing is perfect. He sees when we stand alone and cry out. He sees our situation and honor's our faith. I am reminded of Hebrews 11:6, "without faith it is impossible to please God, for those who come must believe that He is, and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. As I reflect on my life today I know God knows my needs and He is going to reward Cindy and I for being faithful in this season. We have walked with others during their trials and we have always put our needs last. I believe God is about to bless us with our dreams and more than that because He has seen. The word Cindy got from the Lord the other day is so true for this season, "I have not forgotten." I am grateful today for the Lord and for all He has done for us. God is good all the time.

Prayer:
Lord You never forget. You see my needs and my situation. You have called me and appointed me. I thank You today for reminding me that I am not alone. You are the One holding me in this season. You will make a way. You will provide provision. I thank You today for joy, peace and love. I pray for wisdom today to make the right decision's and to give wise counsel. Lord I ask You to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Lord I pray for Your favor to be on me and for Your Spirit to go before me. Bless my wife today. Heal her body and may Your angels encamp around her. I pray for a miracle for her today. Bless our marriage, our home, our finances and our health. May we walk in Your blessing and favor today. I pray for my new church today, my new pastor and staff and ask You to bless them. Plant me where I will be a blessing. I love You Lord.
Amen.

Fulfillment

2011-08-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4

Scripture:
John 4:13 Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

Observation:
The 'Thirst of Life.' Everyday people seek a better life, a more fulfilled life and a peaceful life. Jesus meets a woman at the well who has been shut out by her community. She meet Jesus at the well and He calls her out. She acknowledges her circumstance and Jesus speaks grace, mercy and love into her life.

Application:
Everyday people chase after a better life. Some call it the American Dream. Jesus calls this the 'Thirst of life.' He declares that He and He alone can fulfill it. There will always be things call my attention but only One can fulfill my life, Jesus! Only One can fill me with peace. Only One can fill me with joy. Only One can give me a true future and hope, Jesus. I remember the day He met me at my well of sorrow and shame. I remember the day I took my first drink of God's love and forgiveness. I remember that day well and the fulfillment that flooded my soul. There truly is none like God. I am so blessed and grateful today for His love and how He pursued my life.

Prayer:
Lord there is none like You. Thank You for choosing me and for forgiving me of my sins. Thank You for making me Yours and for filling my life each day with Your presence, joy, love, peace and strength. I love You Lord and declare that there is none like You. Lord bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Bless my wife today, our marriage, our home, our finances and our future. I pray today for open doors and favor. Guide my steps and help to walk out the steps You have for me today. Fill me with wisdom and discernment to know Your ways. I love You Lord. Amen.

God my Rock and Expectation

2011-08-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 65; Isaiah 66; Psalm 62; John 3

Scripture:
Psalm 62:5 My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him.
6 He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved.
7 In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God.

Observation:
What a great Psalm to read this morning. The psalmist reminds me this morning that God is my Rock, my Defense, My Refuge, He will not be moved. God desires man to place all of his trust in Him. He does not want us to place hope in other things. He alone is God.

Application:
"My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him." I love this verse. It speaks of my life today. I have been through a season of rest, stretching, reflection, relocation, brokenness and refocusing. It has been a great season and I feel like God has prepared my heart for new things. I now sit silently, waiting for God to open a new door for me. I know it is coming and my expectation is that He is going to bless me beyond what I can imagine. I remember the prophecy I heard two months back at Dream Center LA, "In the blink of an eye God will turn your situation around. He will place you on the road called Wonderful." I am excited for this. I am ready. I know God is going to do amazing things and I am so thankful.

Prayer:
Father thank You for loving me. Thank You for calling me. Thank You for anointing me. Thank You for Your favor today. Thank You for Your goodness and mercy. Thank You for Your strength and power. Thank You that my destiny and future are orchestrated by You. I love You Lord and wait on You. Thank You for meeting my every need. Thank You for blessing my wife, our home, our futures, our finances and our health. I pray today for open doors and an open heaven. I love You Lord and pray for Your will in my life today.
Amen.

'Law of Buy-In'

2011-07-31T10:36:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 63; Isaiah 64; Psalm 107; John 2

Scripture:
John 2:11 What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.

Observation:
Jesus performs His first miracle and the disciples immediately bought into His leadership. They followed Him everywhere and committed their hearts to Him. John Maxwell calls this the Law of Buy-In.

Observation:
John Maxwell teaches on the 'Law of Buy-In'. People by into a leader first before they buy into his vision. A leader of character and integrity will have the hearts of his followers. Vision is not always set it stone, it evolves and needs to be flexible. Core believes will always be there to guard the motive and value of vision, but still vision will go through changes. If a leader has the heart of his people they will be flexible and adjust to changes in the vision because they trust and know the heart of their leader. I feel to many leaders spend so much time on trying to prove their leadership gift instead of trying to reveal their heart. Now there is nothing wrong with studying and growing your gift. All that is great is you practice "Leading Heart First", as Pastor Wayne Cordeiro puts it. A leader's heart will determine the commitment of his people. A leaders heart will determine how far he can stretch his people in faith. A leaders heart will determine the culture of his church. God has allowed me to rest for a few months and I know a new door is going to open. This morning I am reminded that when that door opens, I must lead heart first and watch out for the performance trap. People will be evaluating my leadership from the minute I arrive. My goal must be winning leaders over with love. Yes I must try to understand the vision, the structure, the strategy, the needs, but most of all I must listen to the hearts of the people. Without people you cannot reach a vision, have a strategy and build a church. I hear the caution today Lord. Jesus had many followers. News spread of Him throughout the country. People loved Him because He was different from the religious leader. They were all about task, He was all about heart.

Prayer:
Father thank You for this great word today. Thank You for reminding me that in Your kingdom You desire Your leaders to lead heart first. I pray today for my leadership gift and for my heart. Help me to balance the two so that I would be effective in reaching and serving Your people. I thank You today for the season of rest and reflection that I have been through. I thank You for meeting my needs and for watching over us. I know You are working for me and You will reveal things at the right time. I pray today for a door to open for Cindy and I. I pray for a great pastor to serve under and that we would be a blessing to him and his staff. You know the desires of my heart and I thank You today for guiding me steps and the process. I pray for Cindy to day, our marriage, our home, our finances, our health, our family and our calling. Lord bless these and place Your favor on them. You are my Source Lord and I thank You that You are Faithful. I pray today for wisdom and discernment. Fill me with truth and revelation. Fill my heart with compassion and love for the people of this world. May I serve as You served me. I love You Lord and wait on You. Amen.

Building on God's Word

2011-07-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 60; Isaiah 61; Isaiah 62; John 1

Scripture:
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Observation:
The Word of God was with Him in the beginning. The Word created and in the Word is the light and life for mankind. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. This Word is Jesus Christ.

Application:
The Word of God is active and living declares Hebrew 4:12. Jesus reminds us to built our lives on His word and if we do, we will stand strong during the storms of life. I have always believed in the power of God's Word. I have always believed the Holy Spirit watches over the word of God, ready to execute and make things line up to the Word of God. God the Father declares that His word will not return void. It will accomplish that which it was sent for. Jesus also teaches that the Word of God is like seed been sown by a sower. Some falls on good ground and others not. The ground represents the heart of man. This morning I declare that both my feet are planted on the word of God. My heart is ready to receive and believe His Word. My mind is ready to act on His Word. I believe God has spoken His Word over my life and even though things seem a little crazy right now, God's Word will come to pass. God's Word is working behind the scenes and I know He is about to bless me in huge ways. As Cindy said the other day, "God has not forgotten!" God's Word will come to pass in my life. I must guard my heart, declare His Word and Truth over my life and continue to walk by faith. I am blessed today that my trust and hope is in the Lord and in His Word. May God's Word reign in my life!

Prayer:
Lord I thank You this morning for Your Word in my life. I thank You today for the Life Journal and how it has shaped my heart and mind. Lord I pray for Your Word over my life and thank You that You have not forgotten. Your Word tells me that You want to bless me and make me a blessing to the nations. Lord I thank You for Your favor on my life. I pray for open doors for Cindy and I. Lord i pray for a job today, the right job and ask You to guide me there. I pray for breakthrough and next level's. I think on the words prophesied over my life and I pray for those things to manifest. I pray for the right church, right pastor, right team. Plant me where You need me Lord. I thank You today for choosing me and for holding me in this season. Thank You for always taking care of me and that You never fail. I love You Lord and praise You for all You are doing for us. You truly are a Great God. Amen.