Self examination: lying to self

Inflated Ego

Read Psalm 69:1-5

O God, thou knows my foolish ways; and my sins are not hid from thee.  Psalm 69:5

 Good Morning!

We enjoy receiving recognition from others who commend us for our accomplishments, abilities, and expertise. Mentally, we celebrate by congratulating ourselves and exchanging high fives. Our thoughts are dominated by the ego, leaving little time for self-examination. We are full of pride, and self-love and never truly omitting to my sinful ways.

 

 I came across a story about an arrogant man who aimed to emphasize the significance of adhering to Christian values to a group of youths. Filled with pride, he inquired,  “Why do people call me a Christian?” After a prolonged silence, a young man responded, "Perhaps it's because they are not truly acquainted with who you are."

  Although criticism may not always be kind, taking the time to study what others say can help us uncover flaws in our character and testimony. Our self-image is singed by the truth that can burn like fire. Rephrased: Reconsider if you perceive yourself as generally correct and possess the "it factor". The commentary of God is stern, which declares that "Those who believe they possess knowledge, do not have the level of knowledge that they should," as mentioned in I Corinthians 8:2. We are so wrong. It is important to not only consider the critiques but also to allow the word of God to examine our hearts in order to identify any flaws and eliminate them.

  Look at yourself through the lens of God's word. Let the Holy Spirit examine your heart. It is humbly conceded that the person in question does not exist as per your belief, as the only goodness present within us is that of the Holy Spirit. Let us pray to explore our hearts every day, improve our nature, and allow the Holy Light of God to shine within us all. Let your true self shine through, free from any false pretenses or notions you may have of yourself.

 

A cup of COLD water… Get it yourself

READ: Matthew 10:34-42

…a cup of COLD water… Matthew 10:42

Jesus dividing families

Today’s scripture lesson speaks of several things – Jesus coming with a sword breaking up families, fathers against sons and mothers against daughters.  The Prince of Peace goes on to say (me paraphrasing) – whoever finds their life will lose it but if they lose for the sake of Jesus it will be found.  By welcoming a righteous person as a righteous person, and sacrificing to help others we will receive the rewards of prophets. But if anyone gives one of Jesus disciples a cup of COLD water truly that person will not lose their reward.

Digging for cold water

What’s the big deal about COLD water? To us it does not mean much because of its convenience.  It only takes a few seconds for us to walk to our refrigerator and get a bottle of ice COLD water.  Just envision during Jesus time, COLD water was a luxury more of a sacrifice. To get COLD water a person would have to walk for miles to the river, climb rugged terrain, or dig a well. The COLD water was deep. You would have to lower a bucket into the swift currents and struggle to pull it out.  Then the trek back home… COLD water was not found near the surface only tepid and nauseating warm water cooked by the sun.  So would you sacrifice your time and energy in Jesus name to get me a cup of COLD water?

Looking for convenience in God

Some people’s relationship with God is like COLD water today. They look for convenience by lounging at home streaming services on-line, watching on television, or listening to a pre-recorded sermons. If it is raining, too hot or cold stay at home. Where is the sacrifice?  Nothing wrong with either of these methods the problem is people are relying on someone to make it convenient by spoon feeding them the word.   Sacrifice the time to go get it for yourself and take the word to someone else while you at it.

Lukewarm words

I have heard from many of The Soul’s Remedy followers that they enjoy reading my devotions. Thank you, I appreciate it! My devotions are my way of bringing God's message to others as I see it. Yet in translation, my words lose some of its freshness; they are lukewarm in comparison to God’s cooling water.You may have noticed I now include scriptures to read with each devotional. The reason I preface devotions with God’s word, the Gospel is more important. If reading The Souls Remedy is a method to get people closer with God, I have done my part...

But I ask of you one thing - the next time you read a devotional bring your cup to the spring dip it and take a sip. Sacrifice a few extra minutes to pray, study, ask questions and enjoy God’s COLD revitalizing word before reading The Souls Remedy.

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Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your cooling water the fresh word. May your Holy word flow fresh through each reader blessing them in the name of Jesus.  My lives be changed and souls saved today by the reading of your word.  This I pray in Jesus name. Amen.

Life: the greatest challenge of the future

Born on April 6, 1980, in Birmingham, Alabama, Diana Strickland had a gift of writing, speaking, and singing.  She wrote her first book in elementary and was often the poet to represent her class.  Her mother acknowledges that Diana was not a crying baby but she yelled.  

Her voice was very strong then and still is strong now.  Her mother moved her family out of the projects to give them a better and healthier life.  Diana Strickland no longer had her teachers to groom and support her so she became very fearful.  Her fears paralyzed her and she didn’t speak or write until she was a full grown woman serving GOD.

In 2004 Diana Strickland was married and moved to New Jersey.  When her marriage failed she cried out to Jesus in her bathtub.  She was tired of a string of mistakes and lies.  Her life was in circles like a roller coaster ride that was not enjoyable.  She threw up her hands and surrendered to Jesus.  She rededicated her life to JESUS and 

became a true Christian.  

God had worked with her and given her another opportunity.  She began to complete her first poetry book and created a ministry website called Believer To Believer.  Things were finally looking really hopeful for her.  She was committed and was taking her life’s choices seriously.  However with all the new love and growth Diana Strickland would have her faith tested with disappointments and heartbreak not far.

In 2007 Diana Strickland was terminated from both of her jobs.  Diana lost almost everything of value in her life except CHRIST JESUS.  She moved around two different homes before settling down in a shelter.  At this point Diana was homeless, living in a shelter, and struggling being poor.  But her faith never wavered although it was tested.  Diana began to write poems to her second book, LIFE, while going through this

 season.  In Diana’s latest book, LIFE, she "provides an honest spiritual analysis of a woman who learns that throughout her greatest challenges, her ever-increasing faith holds the key to a future of unbelievable promise!”

 Today Diana Strickland is a student at Abundant Life Bible Institute to obtain her Associates degree in Theology.  She is employed with two published poetry books and a ministry website.  She also ministers her poetry at different events.  Diana Strickland has her hands full but by the grace of God she will accomplish all that God has planned.

She proudly shares her testimony without looking down.

Diana Strickland

Email Address: authordianastrickland@aol.com

Website www.authordianastrickland.com

Youtube: www.youtube.com/dianastrickland

Facebook link https://www.facebook.com/authordiana

The Sanctuary - Dark secrets become truths

Change can be Terrifying

Change can be terrifying. When adversity disrupts euphoric lives people lose self-assurance, like author, Paulette Harper. A life once filled with bountiful blessings ended tragically with a “kiss of death” – divorce. From her misery came forth a book. But that was not her vision.

Prior to 2007 Ms. Harper’s life was glorious. Married to prominent Pastor for twenty-three years, her world centered around husband, children, and church. Without warning Paulette’s joy turned to pain and she found herself depressed, alone, and suicidal.

Anguish in life can cause relentless distress or it can force one to lean upon God’s promises.  “Divorce was a major transition in my life that brought about many changes; it began a new journey in my life. God took me somewhere which was unfamiliar.”

Out of pain comes great work

Over time Paulette found herself leaning upon God’s word and from the ruins rose a new birth, and a book. Paulette is a living example of my theory - we all have a story buried deep within that needs to be told.

Out of our darkest hour comes our greatest work. Since Paulette’s divorce she wrote her first memoir – That was Then this is now, followed by several books, manuals, and anthologies. Her latest book, The Sanctuary, has led her into a new genre – a Christian fiction novel.

The book - The Sanctuary 

The Sanctuary centers on the lives of Bishop Cedric Jones and his wife Lacy Jones.  This charismatic Pastor founded one of the fastest growing churches in San Francisco California.  Cedric is known for his preaching behind the pulpit but there is also a dark past – internal demons he struggles to conquer. Cedric attempts to embrace people of all backgrounds with an unconditional message of love and grace. It will ultimately put him to the test. How does he deal with Preaching and his past? 

Challenges confronting Lacey compounded by manipulation from a controlling husband she finds herself seeking restoration and joy again. To gain peace is she willing to forsake what she believe called her to do or will she continue to follow her husband?

Readers will be able to relate with Cedric and Lacey. They display many characteristics present in the church today. Ms. Harper attempts to bring resolution not just for the characters but some readers who may be experiencing similar issues.

When reading this exciting novel, remember lessons can be learned and pains can be healed even from a fiction novel – The Sanctuary.

Author: Paulette Harper

The Sanctuary is available online at www.shop.pulsepub.net

Check out other books by the author - www.pauletteharper.com 

Trusted with little blessed with more

Read Luke 16: 19-31

Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. Luke 16: 10-11

Thankful spirit

What does monetary fortitude have to do with spiritual responsibilities?  If a person cannot manage his earthly finances and honor God how can He bless you with the desires of the heart?  Mail-room to CEO or shack to castle the progress doesn’t happen overnight. There has to be trust and a thankful spirit before you can gain more.

I believe I can fly

Many years ago I was a pretty good basketball player.  Deifying gravity allowed me to play above the rim and my unique jumping abilities impressed the coach. Opposed to working harder to prove myself worthy I believed my skills entitled me to start. For three years I complained thinking I deserved more. My senior year coach asked “How do you see yourself contributing to the team?”

I replied “as a starter.” 

Looking back over my life I only relied on my abilities never once making an effort to improve.  “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”  So, I quit the team…

Self entitlement

There are many frustrated Christians who believe just because they professed Jesus as Lord and quoted a few scriptures they are guaranteed all things will be granted in life.  In part, their belief is true. However, if there is not an attitude of gratitude for the little things why should God bless with more?

Spiritual wealth is far more valuable that earthly wealth.  If a person cannot show appreciation and a willingness to honor God with the little things – job, house, or money how could God bless with more?  If there is always a sense of entitlement – “I deserve more because _____ (you fill in the blank) this is displaying a lack of gratitude.

The flip side

Take for example the rich man in today’s scripture lesson. His wealth enabled him to assist the beggar but he chose not to. Yet in the afterlife he desired water.  One can assume the rich man expressed a sense of entitlement because of his earthly status. The question is if God blessed you with more what would you do with it?

People desire for something greater. Be it wealth, money, or job. Any of theses things can be a blessing or curse.  It is what you do with them which make the difference.

 Desires of the heart

 So I ask the question again – if God granted you your biggest desire would you hoard and lavish self or would you utilize a portion to bless others?

As you seek the desires of your heart consider how you will begin to think more of others than self.  “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” 

Life seem unfair even when I believe in God?

Read Psalms 73:1-17

…the world passes away and the lust thereof; but he that does the will of God lives for ever.  I John 2:17

Life is unfair

Why does life seem unfair? Why is it that those who hate or ignore God seem to prosper?

Society as well as Christians aspires to be like people of the world. They follow the rich and famous watching them on talk shows, reality TV, nightly news and the internet. Water cooler conversations are often heard of how life would be different – “if I had that much money I would not have a problem in the world.” Are would you?

Worldly people are blessed

It is suggested that worldly people have everything – house, car, job, even the perfect family? Admit it, the thought has crossed your mind – “why other people have it better than I do,” re-read Psalms 73:3-5.

Many Christians, just like the writer of this Psalms struggled with prosperity of the wicked. Why do arrogant and violent people boast of their fortunes and good health while believers struggle?

Questioning your faith

This is when Christians begin to question their faith. They feel cheated and even ask why should I try to live right?  These thoughts harden the hearts of most believers. As long as thoughts are measured by earthly standards - health, wealth, and power then life will appear unfair.

Seek God first

It was when the writer had a paradigm shift did change take place. His thoughts became spiritual rather than worldly (v.17).  A Christian and non-Christian’s perspective of life changes when they enter a relationship with God. A believer’s final destiny is far greater than the riches of this earth.

When a person truly encounters God in a personal way a new perspective of life is revealed. By Seek(ing) first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you Matt. 6:33.

Heaven on earth

God is the true source of life and joy. Submit self to God, develop a relationship and study his word, it can bring clarity to life’s issues.  When thoughts shift to seeking God first from earthly possessions he will rightfully bless his children. By delighting yourself in the Lord he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). And once that bond is forged yes heaven can also be found on earth too.

Let us pray:  Dear heavenly Father the wayward behavior of the world has clouded my mind. I question the success and prosperity of the ungodly. Lord, forgive me of my selfish thoughts. Father, help me to learn to put ALL my trust in you and my eyes on you and not the world. Help me develop a relationship with you, keep my thoughts on you and lean not upon my own understanding.  Your word said if I delight myself in you that you will give the desires of my heart. I thank you Lord for your Grace and Mercy. I praise and worship your Holy name! These things I pray in your son Jesus the Christ name. Amen.

Michael Patterson… Good Samaritan dies after rescuing stranger

Michael Patterson - The Good Samaritan

Read: John 3:16-19

The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in will never die.  John 11:26

WWJD

What would you do if a stranger was in need? Would you sacrifice yourself and help? Would you think twice before diving into a creek to rescue a drowning person or would you be a noisy bystander?  

The Good Samaritan

June 8, 2013 was a sunny day filled with laughter, fun, and food. Michael Patterson and his son were enjoying the park when he noticed a young child struggling in a near by creek.  Without given it a second thought Michael Patterson dove in and rescued four year old Javaeh Jones and within seconds their lives would change forever.

The parable of the Good Samaritan is a powerful illustration of how a stranger took time to help an injured man who had been beaten. During our life journey we may never encounter situations as dramatic as the beaten traveler or a drowning child as did Michael Patterson but if a person was in need would you sacrifice yourself or just walk away?

Michael Patterson’s will to help came with a price. After diving into a creek, he broke his neck, back, and was paralyzed from his chest down.  His complications got worse. Despite his injuries Mr. Patterson’s mother said she knows her son would do it again because that is the type person he was.  God so loved the world that he gave his only son.  Jesus came to earth in human form.  He was crucified, died, buried and rose from the dead for the sins of man.

Mixed emotions

Earlier this week Mr. Patterson succumbed to his injuries.  When I heard the news the first thought that came to mind was “Michael Patterson paid the ultimate price – died for someone else so that they could live.” I am sure there were mixed emotions from both families – a father and husband is now dead. A mother asking what if you were not in the creek this man would be still alive. Are you willing to die for someone? "I will die for you..."

But there is a lesson to be learned. Romans 8: 12-13 we have an obligation if we live by the flesh we will die by it. But if we live by the spirit we will put away misdeeds and live.  I believe in my heart the noble actions of Mr. Patterson is an example of putting way selfish needs and thinking of others.  Though he died in the flesh surely he will live in eternity with Christ.

A family in need

There is a need for us to help Michael Patterson’s family.  At the time of his injury he had just started a new job and did not have any medical insurance.  To compound matters the family now faces burial expenses on top of medical bills.  The following link is how you can assist the family

Let us pray

Father God in heaven thank you for Michael Patterson and his will to sacrifice his life for someone else.  Lord though we will never understand why this man suffered and died I ask Lord that his death not be in vain.  My Christians and non-Christians alike learn from his sacrificing that this man loved a stranger as if they were his own.  Lord Bless his family may your spirit comfort them during this time of need provide for them everything that is needed. keep them covered with your grace and mercy now and forever more.  Father may I learn to have a spirit of helping and sacrificing just as Michael Patterson.  These things I pray in your son Jesus Christ name. Amen.

The power of the tongue… a positive attitude

Death and life of the tongue

Read: Genesis 37:1-11

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Proverbs 18:21

Death and Life of the tongue

How important is a positive attitude? What are the affects of a negative attitude? These questions are raised daily by millions.  Overtime negativity can out weigh positivity. Adverse thoughts tend to lead people in blaming God for their situation Today I want to focus on three key steps that can help motivate, invigorate, and stimulate the greatness within that God gave us all.

A friend gave me a copy of The Game of Life and How to Play It.  It was the most thought provoking book about the game of life I've read.  It was not because the author had any new revelations or some supernatural way of dealing with life, the book, written by Florence Scovel Shinn, in 1925 spoke on facts that most of us already know. It was bible based with common sense affirmations and a reminder that there is power in the words we speak – positive or negative.  There is power in the tongue.

        "Whatever man feels deeply or images clearly, it is impressed upon the subconscious mind and carried out in the minutest detail.” 

Keep they heart [or imagination] with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life Proverbs 4:23.  Be careful of what you say! Having a positive attitude can help a person deal with pitfalls. Or deal with a life time of misery. Death or life is in the power of the tongue – which one do you choose?

Joseph’s dream

We all have dreams. In our youth we dream of meeting that special someone, accomplishing are goals or becoming successful (whatever that means). As with most, there are setbacks.  If you read this week’s scriptures we learn that Joseph had a dream though at the time his dreams did not make sense.  Because of his visionary thoughts and dreams his brothers did not want them to come into fruition. To make sure, they got rid of Joseph (Genesis 37:12-36).  Despite Joseph’s life changing encounter never did he waiver from dreaming.  Even after being sold into slavery by his brothers, casted into prison, and promised to be set free he never lost hope or vision.  For many, when life throws a curve ball and it appears you struck out, negativity evades the thought process. During the trials and tribulations that is the time to reaffirm faith and speak positive into negative situations.

Positive thinking 101

Life is no fairy tale. You cannot control the past but you can manage your thoughts and how you respond to it – regardless your age. “How important is a positive attitude?” What a man thinks or verbalizes, sooner or later come to life?  At some point we all will face setbacks and pit falls. The words that come from our mouth lay the foundation of our future.  If you speak negative you will reap negative results - I don’t have any money”, “Why is my life so terrible”  “I don’t like my job.”   Even if you speak positive and prepare for failure you will get the situation that was prepared for – failure.

Everyone can develop positive thinking. To get you started on the right path, there are 72 positive thinking verses in the bible. By renewing your spirit with uplifting affirmations [scriptures] one will find it becomes medicine for the heart. Here are three positive thinking steps which can lead you to a happier way of living:

When negativity strikes: the more you try to control or not think of something the more you think of it. Find a song, word, or affirmation to speak daily – biblical and secular. I know there is nothing to defeat God; therefore, there is nothing to defeat me. – Florence Scovel Shinn.

Being positive help your body heal: Researchers say mental attitudes have an affect on our health life. Speaking negative can make you sick! A cheerful heart is good medicine Proverbs 17:22

Positive people are fun to be around: No one likes to be around negative people they zap energy. It can even affect you getting a job. Find people to encourage you or encourage yourself even if it hurts

What is holding you back? Why is your soul down trodden? Get a positive attitude. Speak it daily. God’s word can lift a down spirit.  Look unto the heavens and find the strength, speak words of affirmation and watch your life change before your eyes!

Let us pray:

Dear heavenly father I understand that there is power in the tongue.  Help me to recognize when I am speaking negative and also learn how to speak positive into my life.  I am reminded that I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me. So there is no way I can fail if I walk in faith and speak positive in my life – even when it appears to be bad.  Thank you for your healing words, grace and mercy. Amen.

PRAYER REQUEST:

People are experiencing hardship, distress, doubt, and worry. To combat the perils of life The Souls Remedy offer comfort through prayer. Your life concerns are important to us. Click the link to be added to The Souls Remedy Prayer List 

The most hated creation of God...Fathers

World's Greatest Dad

Read: Proverbs 23:10-26

Honor thy father…. Exodus 20:12

Loving or Hating Dad

Love or hate your father, God tells us to reverence, obey and honor our parents. This is notated in both the Old and New Testament (see Eph. 6:1-3). Despite your feelings about dear old dad how do you show your love toward him – by word, action, deed, or nothing at all?

Father's Day is 6th 

Thinking of dad is typically an after thought or a last minute rush to the store. Of celebrated holidays, Father’s Day is ranked 6^th on the biggest holidays for spending list. I guess that is why thoughtless gifts of mugs, ties, socks underwear, and “world’s greatest dad” T-shirts top the gift list.

Dad may not be the most fashionable, or his appearance the most appealing. His face my show signs of worry or a stare lost in space. His words may be stern yet he listens and comforts you when in pain. For years he hustles around to get things together never once has he complained?

Fathers are unique

Fathers are unique creatures that God created and are often misunderstood. These men give their all to smooth the way for a small child. He is called upon in times of distress taking up the slack with a generous spirit. There are times humility shines bright.

Father's imperfect qualities 

Fathers have values – be it right or wrong they stand by them. Some have fallen short or did not meet your expectations. But to receive the full blessings of God we, as His children, have to heed the words of Solomon – my son do not forget my teaching, keep my commands in your heart for they will prolong your life Proverbs 3:1.

These imperfect qualities make dad loved and respected and sometimes hated. Regardless as to how you feel about your dad remember him on Father’s Day. Call, send a card or stop by to say hello. Because without Dad there is no you!

Let us pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for all earthly fathers, dads, and pops.  For without their union with mothers there will be no me!  I thank you for the fathers those who are doing their part and for those still trying to get it.  Lord Bless each man give them the wisdom, knowledge and power to overcome short comings, doubt, fear, and disbelief.  Help me to encourage and uplift them so they can be all the man you want them to be in the name of Jesus.  Amen.

PRAYER REQUEST:

People are experiencing hardship, distress, doubt, and worry. To combat the perils of life The Souls Remedy offer comfort through prayer. Your life concerns are important to us. Click the link to be added to The Souls Remedy Prayer List 

Empty jars of faith

Jars of faith

Read: 2 Kings 4:1-7

Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you Luke 6:38

A prophetic word in disaster

Envision facing a situation that is certain to have an adverse outcome.  You down to your last two hundred dollars, home lost in foreclosure, or church destroyed in a tornado. You receive a prophetic word from your pastor, or woman of God telling you to “collect jars.” Would you do it?

Spring of 2010 New Morning Baptist church, in Tallulah, Louisiana was destroyed by tornado. All spirits were crushed and no one believed the church could rise again. Except for Ms. Connie Harris and her one jar of faith, she believed the church could be rebuilt.

Believe God word in a crisis

When facing life’s crisis are you bold enough to do the unthinkable – believe in God’s word?

Elisha told the widow to do something far-fetched – “go ask your neighbors for empty jars and don’t ask for just a few.” What makes this story extraordinary is this woman’s faith to believe in Elisha and not question the assignment.

The widow filled jars with olive oil. The Bible does not say how many jars she gathered but what if she had a half hearted approach. Oppose to collecting 100 jars she got 50, 25, 10 or just one. If there was any doubt or little faith her blessings would have been cut short. The oil flowed until the jars ran out. The widow had enough oil to payoff her creditors and more than enough to live on for the rest of her life. From God’s word Elisha turned the widow’s small something into immeasurable blessings.  

Empty Jars of faith

Ms. Connie Harris faced life’s devastation with an empty jar. She set out to collect money to rebuild New Morning Baptist Church – she had the faith like the widow. God will provide a solution in tragic situations. But we often question his word. “How is this going to work” why am I doing this oppose to something else?” The lack of faith edges God out. Blessings are often missed because people question and cannot see extraordinary outcome through carnal eyes.  

What are your empty jars? What is God calling you to do despite the fact you don’t have the resources. Is God calling you to start a business, teach, preach, or help others? Whatever the calling get the jars and do it in the name of Jesus even when it don’t make sense.  God will provide a way to fill them just as he did for the widow.

Bountiful blessings

On October 7, 2012, Pastor Eddie Fountain preached his first sermon in a new sanctuary which was built out of empty jars of faith. Today, the jar Ms. Connie Harris used to collect money rest next to the pulpit as a reminder of what can happen when a person walk in faith. The congregation donates the money each time the jar is filled to a needy family. God’s blessings are endless.

Go, gather and place your jars where God has directed. Begin filling them in faith and watch God turn small blessings into bountiful provisions.  With faith the size of a mustard seed, believe just as Ms. Connie Harris and God will open the windows of heaven and pour out endless blessings.

Let us pray

Most gracious Father your love, grace, and blessings are endless. I will continue to praise, honor, and bless your holy name. Anoint my head with your Holy oil and may my cup overflow with your blessings. With all you give my I bless others. Allow others to see the goodness they possess and believe there is nothing to hard for you! This I pray in Jesus name. Amen.

PRAYER REQUEST:

People are experiencing hardship, distress, doubt, and worry. To combat the perils of life The Souls Remedy offer comfort through prayer. Your life concerns are important to us. Click the link to be added to The Souls Remedy Prayer List 

Encourage yourself even when it hurts

Encourage yourself even when it hurts

Read 1 Samuel 30: 1-7

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 43:5

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11


A fear filled life

Life can hit us like a ton of bricks. The sudden impact of life on life's terms can shift our focus from good to all that is bad  which opens the doors of our spirit to all sorts of negativity and self-doubt.When those times come, and they will, what can we do to encourage our spirits even when it hurts? 

David's discouragements 

David had a dilemma. His troops wanted to stone him. David had decided to take his troops into battle 1 Samuel 29. By doing so he left home based unprotected.  As read in 1 Samuel 30, David’s camp was destroyed by fire, their wives, children, and elderly captured 1 Samuel 30:2.

Through out David’s life he was tangled up with situations that could cause depression, pain, and sorrow.  

1. When his friend and mentor Saul wanted to kill him
2. The lost of his first child with Bathsheba
3. Finding his family captured

When faced with unforeseen mishaps David mourned and even wept but he also found strength in his God.  

The power of encouragement

Everyone needs encouragement from time to time. Often family, friends, and co-workers speak words of empowerment which can get a person revved up.  But what happens when no one is around? How does a person encourage and jump-start self?

Life has thrown a curve ball and no matter how hard you try to speak victory into your life the tears keep flowing. Decisions didn't turn out as planned. The once dream job turned out to be a living hell – unfair treatment by supervisor, no possible promotion, no pay increase, and no one is hiring. When prayers appear to go unanswered doubt and frustration begins to manifest. How does a person encourage self when pain won’t go away?

Encourage yourself

There have been days of discouragement in my life where I found myself filled with the Monday Blues.  It was my past encounters with God which became the fuel of self encouragement.  When that feeling of despair hit me like a brick wall I got up and shook out the cobwebs. Once composed the transformation began.

Pray – ask God to pull you from this pit

Praise – find a song to sing unto his name

Gratitude – count the blessings one by one

The past – think of where God had brought you from

Creative ways to encourage

Here are a few more creative tips from Jacob Cass – Just Creative – 

Idea #71 - Finding inspiration in what other people have done and what has succeeded (or failed) is a great way to get your feet off the ground again.

Idea #72 - Take a moment to do something that makes you happy; that brings you joy; that you love; that centers you

Idea #73 – ‘Get in the zone‘. Give full attention to whatever you are doing: eating, washing dishes, etc.

As you begin these steps of positive process one cannot help but to encourage self and be overwhelmed with joy!

The enemy hates dancing

Remember the enemy creates barriers he wants to see you downtrodden. Take on a spirit like David and celebrate. Become undignified and humiliate yourself before the Lord and Dance like David Danced. Find ways to encourage and recapture the joy in your life again!

Let us pray: Heavenly Father your children hurt. Their pain is unbearable. Their days seem colder and darker. There is nothing to hard for you Lord give them strength to climb out of the pits of despair. Give them a song to sing and vision to recount the blessings you bestowed.  Father in your name I claim victory in the lives of your children who are suffering.  This I pray in your son Jesus Christ name. Amen.

PRAYER REQUEST:

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Memorial Day… A time to remember the real casualties of war

God and Country

Read: 2 Samuel 1:1-27

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in the spirit Psalm 34:18

A time to love and a time to hate, a time for war, and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:8



In the line of duty

The Current war of conflict with Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries has sacrificed the lives of many. In our hearts we share the pain of young men and women who paid the ultimate price for America with their life. It is hard to fathom the pain of a mother, wife or child whose loved one has perished in the line of duty. Over the years memories become a temporary relief easing the pain but it never really go away.

Despite the many battles David encountered he experienced first-hand the pains of death caused by war when his friend, brother, and supporter Jonathan was killed. 2 Samuel translates his pain and mourning of Jonathan and even his adversary Saul.


The real casualties of war

In honor of Memorial Day I want to share my thoughts of ways to pay homage to soldiers – retired, currently serving, and those who killed in the line of duty. Each year we call the names of each individual but in the shadow of turmoil stands another group of casualties of war who are often forgotten - parents, spouses, and children of fallen soldiers.

Death is inevitable. Its sting can be painful and more devastating when it does not make sense. Since the beginning of time War has been a mechanism to secure and protect land. No matter your opinion of war we have to remember the victims. When is daddy coming home? Where is mommy? A mother’s heart is broken her love is scorned.

This weekend as we prepare to pull out grills, barbeque, fellowship with friends and family remember this is not a happy celebration but a memorial to reflect and pay homage to veterans of war.


A moment silence

As you enjoy the freedoms of being an American remember at 3pm, on Memorial Day, in an act of national unity for one minute stop and pray thanking God for the continuous protection of The United States of America, also cover the soldiers and their families as they wait on their return home or quietly mourn but most important pray for peace and the healing of this land.


Pray on Memorial Day

On this Memorial Day and in honor of the men and women of our Armed Forces I salute you for your service. If you know of any person who has lost a loved one in war take a minute to call or email. Express your love; give them a shoulder to grieve and an ear to bend.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

Let us pray: Father God Thank you for your love, mercy and protection. This Memorial Day bless every military soldier as they protect the shores of America. Bless, cover and comfort their families while they patiently await their return home.  Bring peace to this land and around the world. Help our leaders seek your guidance and may they find a true solution to end war. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
 

You can’t fight with God

Your arms are too short to box with God

Read: Genesis 32

So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. Then the man said let me go for it is day break. But Jacob replied I will not let you go unless you bless me. Genesis 32:24, 26

Fighting with God

Jacob’s fight with God, as recorded in Genesis 32, was the tipping point in his life. Jacob deceitfully took advantage of his brother by taking his birthright, blessing, and even attempted to hold Esau back at birth Genesis 25:26. Jacob stole what was rightfully Esau’s - Genesis 27.

What’s in a name?

The name Jacob is a pun on the Hebrew word grasp – to take. So throughout Jacob’s life we read how he schemed and skillfully took things to “create” his future. But now he has reached the end of his abilities and God is seeking to take control of his life based on his adverse activities.  “The man” Jacob fights with all night was a supernatural being – God. Though Jacob stole from Esau the fight was not with his brother but with God. In the end God changed Jacob’s name to Israel which means “he struggles with God.”

Overcome inabilities

you can't fight with God

When I look back over my life, the images unveil my Jacob like tendencies of struggling with God. The mind combats with how sin, inabilities, and short comings made me unworthy for God to use. God continued to tug and pull the spirit hoping to get my attention. This is where the fight begins. I come to realize God does not look for brilliant or eloquent people. God seeks broken vessels like me, people who have judged themselves and reached their wits end, rock bottom, or the dead end.

Release your strongholds

It is obvious God could have taken Jacob’s life but instead he touched him in the strongest part of the human anatomy – the tendon near the hip – crippling Jacob. Jacob surrendered and asked to be blessed Genesis 32:25-28.

You are struggling with your past – jobs, family, marriage, or life. Let go and let God touch your strongholds. The things that are holding you back will become the deliverance and testimony that God will empower you to overcome and become a blessing to others.