God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill? – Numbers 23:19
“Everything is possible for him who believes.” – Mark 9:23
I can do everything through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13
I remember a few years ago when God revealed to me that I will one day preach the gospel. I laughed and ignored the promptings of the Holy Spirit. I felt I was not cut out for the life of a preacher. At the time, I have very little knowledge of scriptures or what they meant. Sure I had a burden for people hurting and in pain but that did not make me a preacher. I liked my life the way it was. But as years went by, many different circumstances occurred that forced me back to God. I lost people in my life that I had come to depend heavily on and I suddenly found myself on my own. I had no choice but to turn to God. There was nowhere else for me to run; nowhere to hide.
I still struggle with imagining myself as a preacher and thank God, I am not preaching at this point. I do not believe that I am ready emotionally, physically or mentally. Then God sent me to Numbers 23:19 and I became afraid. As I spent time with God, I suddenly realized that recent events in my life have been orchestrated to prepare me emotionally, physically and mentally. God does have a wonderful sense of humor. I am still unsure of why he would pick me. I never asked for this. I sometimes still struggle with some of the things I see God doing but I am quickly learning not to argue with the Lord. He created me and He knows what’s best for my life and I choose to trust him totally. I still have absolutely no idea how God is going to achieve the “preacher” angle but I know that all things are possible to him that believes.
I understand now that when God created me He put everything that is needed to fulfill his intention for my life inside of me. I do not need to go searching or hunting for anything. All I need to do is believe and trust. I have learned to take God at his Word. It will always be whatever God says that it will be. If God has spoken something to you concerning your life and where He wants to take you, I encourage you to take Him at His word. Whatever He has promised will surely come to pass.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
What Can Man Do To Us?
In my anguish I cried to the Lord, and he answered by setting me free. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I will look in triumph on my enemies. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes. – Psalm 118:5-9
God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, through its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake their surging. Selah. – Psalm 46:1-3
When enemies surround us on every side, we are to cry to the Lord. He is the only one that can truly rescue us and set us free. By enemies, I mean people; addictions, co-dependent relationships and any situation or circumstance that stops us from being that entire functioning being God has created us to be. A lot of different things can hold us hostage.
I have been held hostage in the past – principally in my own head. I was heavily dependent on people for the establishment of my self worth. If they were happy with me then I felt good about myself and who I was. If they are upset or unhappy, then I blame myself for their moods. Soon I found myself swinging from one extreme end of the spectrum in terms of my emotions, to the other extreme. I was constantly using their demeanor as radar for my success as a human being. In due time, I drove myself crazy. Truth be told, I could not see any existence apart from these folks. I really believed (in my head that is), that there was really no life if I was not a part of that unit. Crippling fear gripped me every time I pictured myself alone.
As you might have guessed, I am eventually alone – with God and things have never been better. I am no longer afraid of what man may do to me because God is in charge of my life now. He has given me victory after victory in multiple situations. He has done so much for me. Life is not without its struggles but I move on with God by my side. The old fearful me is gone for good and I face the world head on, ready to offer the gifts and talents that God has placed within me to be used for His Glory.
If you are intimidated by anyone or life in general today, my prayer is that you find strength in Almighty God. Take refuge and rest in Him. He will deliver you and give you all the courage and strength you need to take life on victoriously.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, through its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake their surging. Selah. – Psalm 46:1-3
When enemies surround us on every side, we are to cry to the Lord. He is the only one that can truly rescue us and set us free. By enemies, I mean people; addictions, co-dependent relationships and any situation or circumstance that stops us from being that entire functioning being God has created us to be. A lot of different things can hold us hostage.
I have been held hostage in the past – principally in my own head. I was heavily dependent on people for the establishment of my self worth. If they were happy with me then I felt good about myself and who I was. If they are upset or unhappy, then I blame myself for their moods. Soon I found myself swinging from one extreme end of the spectrum in terms of my emotions, to the other extreme. I was constantly using their demeanor as radar for my success as a human being. In due time, I drove myself crazy. Truth be told, I could not see any existence apart from these folks. I really believed (in my head that is), that there was really no life if I was not a part of that unit. Crippling fear gripped me every time I pictured myself alone.
As you might have guessed, I am eventually alone – with God and things have never been better. I am no longer afraid of what man may do to me because God is in charge of my life now. He has given me victory after victory in multiple situations. He has done so much for me. Life is not without its struggles but I move on with God by my side. The old fearful me is gone for good and I face the world head on, ready to offer the gifts and talents that God has placed within me to be used for His Glory.
If you are intimidated by anyone or life in general today, my prayer is that you find strength in Almighty God. Take refuge and rest in Him. He will deliver you and give you all the courage and strength you need to take life on victoriously.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
You Will Recover
“I will repay you for the years the locust have eaten – the great locust and the young locust and the other locusts and the locust swarm – my great army that I sent among you. You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be ashamed.” – Joel 2:25-26
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. – Colossians 3:2
It is important as believers that we turn away from sin and anything that may compromise our testimonies. Living in sin and professing to be a Christian is just downright hypocritical. If we are constantly allowing our egos to write checks that our bodies have no way of cashing, we lose integrity. We cannot talk out of both sides of our mouths. We cannot live one life in public and another one in private. We are called to be people of integrity and character.
When we get into trouble, we ought to step back and ask ourselves what went wrong. We ought to be honest enough with ourselves to admit when we are living in ways that are contrary to what we profess and take the necessary steps to change. It is plain stupid to leave in denial and blame everyone around us for our problems. More so, it is daft to keep doing the same things and expect different results every time.
God will often send His “army” into our lives to take all those false gods we have come to rely upon away from us. He does not do this because He enjoys seeing us suffer – far from it. He does it because He loves us dearly and He is trying to get our attention. If we turn away from our iniquities and repent, everything that we have lost will be restored in multiple folds. God will restore our lives such that we come back bigger and better than we were before. The law of sowing and reaping can only be interrupted by one thing – true repentance.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. – Colossians 3:2
It is important as believers that we turn away from sin and anything that may compromise our testimonies. Living in sin and professing to be a Christian is just downright hypocritical. If we are constantly allowing our egos to write checks that our bodies have no way of cashing, we lose integrity. We cannot talk out of both sides of our mouths. We cannot live one life in public and another one in private. We are called to be people of integrity and character.
When we get into trouble, we ought to step back and ask ourselves what went wrong. We ought to be honest enough with ourselves to admit when we are living in ways that are contrary to what we profess and take the necessary steps to change. It is plain stupid to leave in denial and blame everyone around us for our problems. More so, it is daft to keep doing the same things and expect different results every time.
God will often send His “army” into our lives to take all those false gods we have come to rely upon away from us. He does not do this because He enjoys seeing us suffer – far from it. He does it because He loves us dearly and He is trying to get our attention. If we turn away from our iniquities and repent, everything that we have lost will be restored in multiple folds. God will restore our lives such that we come back bigger and better than we were before. The law of sowing and reaping can only be interrupted by one thing – true repentance.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Be Courageous
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. – Psalm 27:14
“Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11:28
I had the opportunity to talk to a friend who was going through a very difficult loss recently. Her pain was evident as she tried to speak in between sobs of grief. I really had no point of reference for her turmoil as her loss seemed great in comparison to anything that I have ever experienced in my adult life. By the time she called me, she had been crying for weeks. She had also quit her job because she had no desire to rise in the morning and take on the rest of her life. From her words, it was clear that she deemed life to be over.
Even though I am yet to lose anyone in my life as a grown woman, I lost a brother when I was very young. We had been very close as children because we were born three years apart. I still think about him today and wonder what life would be like if he had lived. But I guess that was not the plan of God. I quickly realized my friend had no idea how to carry on with life after the death of her loved one and I really couldn’t give her any tips from my wealth of experience but I felt I needed to tell her something – the only thing I know to do when the world around me seems to be caving in on me.
I told her to take heart and wait on the Lord. She told me she had been praying but has gotten no comfort. What do you do when it seems like God is silent? What do you when the comfort you need to take your next breath of air eludes you? I say you wait. God’s ways are not our methods so understand His timing can be difficult. But one thing is sure; He’s always right on time. I told her to reach deep into the recesses of her mind, body and soul and gather strength. God ever gives us more than we can truly bear. He may challenge us to strengthen and grow us but we never get anything that is too big for God to assist us with. I explained to my friend that even though she may not feel it now, difficult times will in time become treasures – treasures that develop our resolve and strength in the Spirit. We will find adversities to be an essential part of faith development. If we open up our hearts and our minds and be of great courage, we may end up being a true inspiration to others.
“Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11:28
I had the opportunity to talk to a friend who was going through a very difficult loss recently. Her pain was evident as she tried to speak in between sobs of grief. I really had no point of reference for her turmoil as her loss seemed great in comparison to anything that I have ever experienced in my adult life. By the time she called me, she had been crying for weeks. She had also quit her job because she had no desire to rise in the morning and take on the rest of her life. From her words, it was clear that she deemed life to be over.
Even though I am yet to lose anyone in my life as a grown woman, I lost a brother when I was very young. We had been very close as children because we were born three years apart. I still think about him today and wonder what life would be like if he had lived. But I guess that was not the plan of God. I quickly realized my friend had no idea how to carry on with life after the death of her loved one and I really couldn’t give her any tips from my wealth of experience but I felt I needed to tell her something – the only thing I know to do when the world around me seems to be caving in on me.
I told her to take heart and wait on the Lord. She told me she had been praying but has gotten no comfort. What do you do when it seems like God is silent? What do you when the comfort you need to take your next breath of air eludes you? I say you wait. God’s ways are not our methods so understand His timing can be difficult. But one thing is sure; He’s always right on time. I told her to reach deep into the recesses of her mind, body and soul and gather strength. God ever gives us more than we can truly bear. He may challenge us to strengthen and grow us but we never get anything that is too big for God to assist us with. I explained to my friend that even though she may not feel it now, difficult times will in time become treasures – treasures that develop our resolve and strength in the Spirit. We will find adversities to be an essential part of faith development. If we open up our hearts and our minds and be of great courage, we may end up being a true inspiration to others.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Don't Give Up
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” – Matthew 5:11-12
That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. – 2 Corinthians 12:10
As long your life begins to change based on your faith, you will acquire new enemies. People that you used to hang out with will no longer fit into your world. Just as birds of the same feather flock together, often folks with the same problems and issues will gravitate towards each other. They will lean on each other for support. The minute you begin to change because of the hand of God upon your life, you will be resisted. Your friends will be upset because you had the courage to develop the desire to change your life. You have suddenly decided to reject something that they have grown to accept.
Never give up on your faith and your desire to follow God because of fear that you will be alone. When people step out of your life and reject you for the sake of Christ, God steps in. Truth be told, we should rejoice when folks decide to leave us. If they were really meant to be around us for the long haul, they would have stayed. We must understand that when folks quit on us, they just were never meant to be part of the final victory.
Life is really all about perspectives. If you are feeling down and out over being rejected, begin to acknowledge that there could be worse problems to deal with. Trying desperately to get people to love and understand you is a wasted effort. Whether they see where you are coming from or not is not relevant at all. Seeking human affirmation is something we must pray to be delivered from because it is a waste of time and resources.
That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. – 2 Corinthians 12:10
As long your life begins to change based on your faith, you will acquire new enemies. People that you used to hang out with will no longer fit into your world. Just as birds of the same feather flock together, often folks with the same problems and issues will gravitate towards each other. They will lean on each other for support. The minute you begin to change because of the hand of God upon your life, you will be resisted. Your friends will be upset because you had the courage to develop the desire to change your life. You have suddenly decided to reject something that they have grown to accept.
Never give up on your faith and your desire to follow God because of fear that you will be alone. When people step out of your life and reject you for the sake of Christ, God steps in. Truth be told, we should rejoice when folks decide to leave us. If they were really meant to be around us for the long haul, they would have stayed. We must understand that when folks quit on us, they just were never meant to be part of the final victory.
Life is really all about perspectives. If you are feeling down and out over being rejected, begin to acknowledge that there could be worse problems to deal with. Trying desperately to get people to love and understand you is a wasted effort. Whether they see where you are coming from or not is not relevant at all. Seeking human affirmation is something we must pray to be delivered from because it is a waste of time and resources.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
God is Faithful; God is True
O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago. – Isaiah 25:1
God is at work every day. He is at work changing lives; individually; one person at a time. Even if one is skeptical about Christianity, imagine the number of people who gravitate towards a church on Sunday mornings. Are they all fools? Are they all being duped? There is no smoke with fire. God is real and He is the Only true living God. Christians invest their time in praising the name of the Lord because there are great blessings in doing so.
I am living proof that God is faithful, merciful and kind. He keeps the sun, the moon and the stars high up in the sky. And so long as day breaks, true Christians will continue stand and will always get up after defeat. God will continue to hold His children up. No matter how difficult things get in our lives, God is always standing right there with us. If there is a lesson to be learned, He will hold our hands as we learn it.
The plan that God has for each of His children is unique. He makes a plan before He backs out and creates His masterpiece – you and I.
God is at work every day. He is at work changing lives; individually; one person at a time. Even if one is skeptical about Christianity, imagine the number of people who gravitate towards a church on Sunday mornings. Are they all fools? Are they all being duped? There is no smoke with fire. God is real and He is the Only true living God. Christians invest their time in praising the name of the Lord because there are great blessings in doing so.
I am living proof that God is faithful, merciful and kind. He keeps the sun, the moon and the stars high up in the sky. And so long as day breaks, true Christians will continue stand and will always get up after defeat. God will continue to hold His children up. No matter how difficult things get in our lives, God is always standing right there with us. If there is a lesson to be learned, He will hold our hands as we learn it.
The plan that God has for each of His children is unique. He makes a plan before He backs out and creates His masterpiece – you and I.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Still Standing
We are pressed on every side by troubles but we are not crushed, and broken. We are perplexed, but we don’t give up and quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going. Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. – 2 Corinthians 4:8-10
In life we all face persecution – more so when we are believers. Our faith is sometimes a persecution magnet. You may face non-stop criticism because there are certain things you won’t do and certain places you won’t go. You could be labeled anti-social because of the choices you make regarding how you choose to spend your free time. People may even start to read meanings into every good deed you do. If you are too cheerful, they wonder why you are not as depressed as every one else is considering the current state of affairs in the world. They may even look upon you as being weak when you refuse to retaliate when you are disrespected. They wonder why you won’t gossip at on the job and engage in un-necessary small talk – the list is endless.
But being a Christian means setting an example – an example on how the Lord wants us to live our lives. You may not be blessed with all the earthly treasures imaginable but believers who apply themselves whilst walking the straight and narrow are always whole. They always find something to be grateful about; something to be thankful for. They may not be living in the lap of luxury; they may even appear as poor from a financial perspective but their lives are blessed. When I refer to Christians, I am not necessarily referring to those that think wretchedness is a part of the Gospel or those that are so stuck in tradition that they do not understand that even when the purpose is the same, the methodology will continue to evolve. It’s ok if Christians have a lot of money and it’s ok if they have just what they need – money is not the issue. It’s the state of the heart that really counts.
Even with all the people who can be against us as believers, there is so much to be thankful for. We have certain privileges that only our faith allows. We have unlimited access into the presence of God and someone who is always there to share our highs and lows. Personally, I look at life differently now. I have joy – I work hard; my life is tough but I have the peace of God in my heart. There is nothing quite like it. For once in my life, I am indeed whole. I never cease to thank God for his love for me. I'm making it - day by day and growing from strength to strength in the knowledge of Jesus Christ as I press my way towards his calling upon my life.
In life we all face persecution – more so when we are believers. Our faith is sometimes a persecution magnet. You may face non-stop criticism because there are certain things you won’t do and certain places you won’t go. You could be labeled anti-social because of the choices you make regarding how you choose to spend your free time. People may even start to read meanings into every good deed you do. If you are too cheerful, they wonder why you are not as depressed as every one else is considering the current state of affairs in the world. They may even look upon you as being weak when you refuse to retaliate when you are disrespected. They wonder why you won’t gossip at on the job and engage in un-necessary small talk – the list is endless.
But being a Christian means setting an example – an example on how the Lord wants us to live our lives. You may not be blessed with all the earthly treasures imaginable but believers who apply themselves whilst walking the straight and narrow are always whole. They always find something to be grateful about; something to be thankful for. They may not be living in the lap of luxury; they may even appear as poor from a financial perspective but their lives are blessed. When I refer to Christians, I am not necessarily referring to those that think wretchedness is a part of the Gospel or those that are so stuck in tradition that they do not understand that even when the purpose is the same, the methodology will continue to evolve. It’s ok if Christians have a lot of money and it’s ok if they have just what they need – money is not the issue. It’s the state of the heart that really counts.
Even with all the people who can be against us as believers, there is so much to be thankful for. We have certain privileges that only our faith allows. We have unlimited access into the presence of God and someone who is always there to share our highs and lows. Personally, I look at life differently now. I have joy – I work hard; my life is tough but I have the peace of God in my heart. There is nothing quite like it. For once in my life, I am indeed whole. I never cease to thank God for his love for me. I'm making it - day by day and growing from strength to strength in the knowledge of Jesus Christ as I press my way towards his calling upon my life.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Forgiveness
And forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us. – Matthew 6:12
If you live in this world, people will offend you. There was a time when I believed some people were designed just to upset me. If we are to be in relationship with others, we must accept the reality that we will be offended.
We all need the Gift of Forgiveness. Forgiveness is a gift from God – the ability to look at somebody who has done us wrong and say to them “I forgive you; and I release you – you have no need to carry any burdens over what you did to me” is truly a gift from God because not all of us can do it.
Forgiveness is very vital to us because it is for us. When you forgive, you heal yourself. The burden of holding people in un-forgiveness is lifted. We are free to move on with our lives.
We must forgive:
1. Every Time
2. Everyone
3. Everything
Spend some time today to search your mind and see if you are holding a grudge against anyone. Ask God to help you in the name of his son Jesus Christ to release those people. Give the person(s) a call to let them know they are forgiven and watch your life improve as you do so.
God Bless You as your forgive those who trespass against you.
If you live in this world, people will offend you. There was a time when I believed some people were designed just to upset me. If we are to be in relationship with others, we must accept the reality that we will be offended.
We all need the Gift of Forgiveness. Forgiveness is a gift from God – the ability to look at somebody who has done us wrong and say to them “I forgive you; and I release you – you have no need to carry any burdens over what you did to me” is truly a gift from God because not all of us can do it.
Forgiveness is very vital to us because it is for us. When you forgive, you heal yourself. The burden of holding people in un-forgiveness is lifted. We are free to move on with our lives.
We must forgive:
1. Every Time
2. Everyone
3. Everything
Spend some time today to search your mind and see if you are holding a grudge against anyone. Ask God to help you in the name of his son Jesus Christ to release those people. Give the person(s) a call to let them know they are forgiven and watch your life improve as you do so.
God Bless You as your forgive those who trespass against you.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Six Steps to Self-Destruction
1. Disobedience – This shows up in our lives when we exhibit blatant disregard for the Word of God. We can never get to the right destination going to wrong way. We can’t do wrong to make things right. When we make a conscious decision to go against what God says that we should do in His Word, we open ourselves up to a world of hurt. God’s laws are not to make life difficult for us; they are meant to protect us from harm.
2. Arrogance – This start when we begin to feel that we are better than every one else. When people are dealing with tough times, we think we are too religious or spiritual for it to happen to us. We forget the hand of God upon our lives. We forget to be grateful. We keep complaining about what we have and everyone around us. We start to think that we got to the point we are at on our own laurels. The glory and grace of God is ignored and self promotion becomes the order of the day.
3. Rebellion – This is described in the Bible as a spirit of witchcraft. When we start to manipulate others to get our own way. We know what God wants us to do but we choose to do something else. We want God’s blessings but we want it our own way. We portray an appearance of being a follower of God in public but we live a despicable private life. We claim to believe but we find it impossible to obey.
4. Denial – This happens when our image is more important to us than our reality. We refuse to accept responsibility for our issues and we continuously blame every one else.
5. Refusing to Repent – We often know that we are wrong but we refuse to repent. Repentance is a gift from God. God gives us the “Spirit of Repentance” – the ability to change. As sad as it may sound, many are truly beyond conviction. We must learn to apologize when we are wrong. Even when our actions show that we are sorry for what we have done, our offender still needs to hear us say the two words “I’m Sorry”.
6. Egotism – It’s so easy to get carried away. We start to think people are attracted to us because we are great. We forget that it is the Light of God in us that draws them to us. We begin to believe our own press and we forget that we are what we are simply by the Grace and the Mercy of God.
It does not matter what others think or what they say. Looking for human affirmation is an exhausting and time consuming process. It makes no sense for us to continue to waste our energies responding to our critics and trying to set them straight; make them see things from our point of view. Truth is if they agree with us today, they may not tomorrow. It’s utterly pointless responding to issues that will never completely go away. Most of the things that have the ability to destroy us, we do to ourselves. All the things others do to us that we make such a big deal about really do not matter. If we can keep our mind focused on the Lord and our attitude and character in check, we will be fine.
2. Arrogance – This start when we begin to feel that we are better than every one else. When people are dealing with tough times, we think we are too religious or spiritual for it to happen to us. We forget the hand of God upon our lives. We forget to be grateful. We keep complaining about what we have and everyone around us. We start to think that we got to the point we are at on our own laurels. The glory and grace of God is ignored and self promotion becomes the order of the day.
3. Rebellion – This is described in the Bible as a spirit of witchcraft. When we start to manipulate others to get our own way. We know what God wants us to do but we choose to do something else. We want God’s blessings but we want it our own way. We portray an appearance of being a follower of God in public but we live a despicable private life. We claim to believe but we find it impossible to obey.
4. Denial – This happens when our image is more important to us than our reality. We refuse to accept responsibility for our issues and we continuously blame every one else.
5. Refusing to Repent – We often know that we are wrong but we refuse to repent. Repentance is a gift from God. God gives us the “Spirit of Repentance” – the ability to change. As sad as it may sound, many are truly beyond conviction. We must learn to apologize when we are wrong. Even when our actions show that we are sorry for what we have done, our offender still needs to hear us say the two words “I’m Sorry”.
6. Egotism – It’s so easy to get carried away. We start to think people are attracted to us because we are great. We forget that it is the Light of God in us that draws them to us. We begin to believe our own press and we forget that we are what we are simply by the Grace and the Mercy of God.
It does not matter what others think or what they say. Looking for human affirmation is an exhausting and time consuming process. It makes no sense for us to continue to waste our energies responding to our critics and trying to set them straight; make them see things from our point of view. Truth is if they agree with us today, they may not tomorrow. It’s utterly pointless responding to issues that will never completely go away. Most of the things that have the ability to destroy us, we do to ourselves. All the things others do to us that we make such a big deal about really do not matter. If we can keep our mind focused on the Lord and our attitude and character in check, we will be fine.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Healed and Delivered
If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me; if you utter worthy, not worthless, words, you will be my spokesman. – Jeremiah 15:19a
No matter what we have done or where we have been, God never turns His back on His children. He may not be pleased about some of the choices we make but He loves us unconditionally. The law of sowing and reaping is clear. We will reap whatever we sow and we cannot reap where we did not sow and have a successful harvest. The only thing that interrupts the cycle of sowing and reaping is true repentance. If we come to God in complete and honest repentance, He is merciful enough to forgive, heal and restore our souls. The consequences of our actions we cannot avoid but God will be by our side to turn all the wrong around for good and to His glory.
Change is not easy. It is uncomfortable and requires solid commitment. Most of us are comfortable in our sinful ways. Our flesh is in total agreement with our spirit. We feel no reason to change. The wrestling does not begin until we give our lives to God and our flesh begins to disagree with our spirit. The intense and continuous conflict between flesh and spirit makes change possible if we make a commitment to yield to the spirit and not to the flesh. As believers, God’s Spirit lives inside of us, He speaks to us and gives us directions – if choose to follow them.
God is the only one who gives us the grace and the strength to truly change. His Spirit is the Only Power that can transform us from the inside out. Only walking with God on a daily basis can give us the healing and deliverance we need to live a victorious life.
No matter what we have done or where we have been, God never turns His back on His children. He may not be pleased about some of the choices we make but He loves us unconditionally. The law of sowing and reaping is clear. We will reap whatever we sow and we cannot reap where we did not sow and have a successful harvest. The only thing that interrupts the cycle of sowing and reaping is true repentance. If we come to God in complete and honest repentance, He is merciful enough to forgive, heal and restore our souls. The consequences of our actions we cannot avoid but God will be by our side to turn all the wrong around for good and to His glory.
Change is not easy. It is uncomfortable and requires solid commitment. Most of us are comfortable in our sinful ways. Our flesh is in total agreement with our spirit. We feel no reason to change. The wrestling does not begin until we give our lives to God and our flesh begins to disagree with our spirit. The intense and continuous conflict between flesh and spirit makes change possible if we make a commitment to yield to the spirit and not to the flesh. As believers, God’s Spirit lives inside of us, He speaks to us and gives us directions – if choose to follow them.
God is the only one who gives us the grace and the strength to truly change. His Spirit is the Only Power that can transform us from the inside out. Only walking with God on a daily basis can give us the healing and deliverance we need to live a victorious life.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Hidden Power of Praising God
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are kind of worshippers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshippers must worship in spirit and in truth. – John 4:23-24
We all worship something – our wealth, our jobs or our relationships with others. But our God is a very jealous God. He does not want us to put anything above Him. He must be first place in our lives. There is a special reason why this is the case. We were created in the image of God and the more we worship Him, the more we become like Him. It is only when we worship God in spirit and in truth do we truly become all that He created us to be.
I have learnt that praising God has its benefits. Praising God is not a right; it’s a privilege. It has a powerful impact on our lives when we learn to worship the Lord in the way that we ought to. In order to truly worship God, it is crucial that we know the kind of God we have. When we really understand who God is, praising him will always be our topmost priority. Nothing and no-one will be able to interfere with our praise.
What are some of the benefits of praising the Lord? God’s power is revealed in our lives when we praise Him. We get to know Him more and His character begins to rub off on us. God’s praises changes us from the inside out. It transforms our lives in a supernatural way. Singing the praises of God allows us to take the focus off of ourselves and onto God. We are able to look beyond our problems and look to God. Our issues suddenly become very small as we begin to see what a great God we serve.
We all worship something – our wealth, our jobs or our relationships with others. But our God is a very jealous God. He does not want us to put anything above Him. He must be first place in our lives. There is a special reason why this is the case. We were created in the image of God and the more we worship Him, the more we become like Him. It is only when we worship God in spirit and in truth do we truly become all that He created us to be.
I have learnt that praising God has its benefits. Praising God is not a right; it’s a privilege. It has a powerful impact on our lives when we learn to worship the Lord in the way that we ought to. In order to truly worship God, it is crucial that we know the kind of God we have. When we really understand who God is, praising him will always be our topmost priority. Nothing and no-one will be able to interfere with our praise.
What are some of the benefits of praising the Lord? God’s power is revealed in our lives when we praise Him. We get to know Him more and His character begins to rub off on us. God’s praises changes us from the inside out. It transforms our lives in a supernatural way. Singing the praises of God allows us to take the focus off of ourselves and onto God. We are able to look beyond our problems and look to God. Our issues suddenly become very small as we begin to see what a great God we serve.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Eat to Live or Live to Eat?
Why spend money on what is not bread, and labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. – Isaiah 55:2
Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Whether we like it or not, we are what we eat. When we focus on eating colossal amounts of food to fill our stomachs rather than feeding on the Word of God, our weight gets out of control. Food can be a serious addiction and God does not like any kind addiction except an addiction to His Word and His presence in our lives. If we are hurt, depressed or feel pain, we are never to turn to food, alcohol, drugs or sex; we are to turn to Almighty God.
Food in of itself is not bad, God created all manner of food for us to enjoy but we are to use food as fuel for our bodies and not as comfort for our souls. God is the Only One that comforts us; food cannot pacify us. When we decide to eat, we must consider the benefits of what we are eating. Does it do honor to the body or are we simply giving into cravings? If we understand that our body is the temple of the Lord, it should inspire us to treat our body properly.
We must make an effort to eat right and exercise. Our diet should comprise mainly of complex carbohydrates and lean protein. Exercise is a must for anyone concerned about keeping their body healthy – a minimum of thirty minutes a day is a must. Keep an ample supply of healthy fruits in your refrigerator so if you need to snack, you can do it in a healthy manner.
Do all you can to keep your body healthy - especially if you have a vision for your life. If you intend to be alive to see your dreams and goals come to reality, you must maintain your health.
Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Whether we like it or not, we are what we eat. When we focus on eating colossal amounts of food to fill our stomachs rather than feeding on the Word of God, our weight gets out of control. Food can be a serious addiction and God does not like any kind addiction except an addiction to His Word and His presence in our lives. If we are hurt, depressed or feel pain, we are never to turn to food, alcohol, drugs or sex; we are to turn to Almighty God.
Food in of itself is not bad, God created all manner of food for us to enjoy but we are to use food as fuel for our bodies and not as comfort for our souls. God is the Only One that comforts us; food cannot pacify us. When we decide to eat, we must consider the benefits of what we are eating. Does it do honor to the body or are we simply giving into cravings? If we understand that our body is the temple of the Lord, it should inspire us to treat our body properly.
We must make an effort to eat right and exercise. Our diet should comprise mainly of complex carbohydrates and lean protein. Exercise is a must for anyone concerned about keeping their body healthy – a minimum of thirty minutes a day is a must. Keep an ample supply of healthy fruits in your refrigerator so if you need to snack, you can do it in a healthy manner.
Do all you can to keep your body healthy - especially if you have a vision for your life. If you intend to be alive to see your dreams and goals come to reality, you must maintain your health.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Educate Yourself
My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of God. I also will ignore your children. – Hosea 4:6
It is important as believers that we educate ourselves on the Word of God. It is crucial that we continue to grow and develop in things of the Spirit. True learning requires action and dedication. We must put our hearts and minds on the Word of God in order to truly gain the hidden nuggets of knowledge buried within them. I tend to put myself in the place of the characters as I study the Bible. I ask myself questions as to what I will do and what I would feel if I were in the same position that they were in.
It is always important to pray before studying God’s word. He is the Only One, through the Holy Spirit, that can reveal the truth of the scriptures to us. He gives us, through scriptures, exactly what we need when we need it. One verse of scripture can be interpreted by the Holy Spirit in many ways to many different people; God deals with us in a personal way and on an individual level. To help improve and imbibe knowledge, it helps to share what you know and are learning with others. Start a small group; discuss with people and encourage them to ask you questions. Who knows? You may learn new perspectives on some of the things you already know and as such, expand your knowledge.
To be a true scholar of the Bible, one must develop good studying habits. Start small and don’t be discouraged. I have learnt that the only thing that gets me through difficult times is the Word of God that I have learnt. His word brings me peace when everything around me is going haywire.
It is important as believers that we educate ourselves on the Word of God. It is crucial that we continue to grow and develop in things of the Spirit. True learning requires action and dedication. We must put our hearts and minds on the Word of God in order to truly gain the hidden nuggets of knowledge buried within them. I tend to put myself in the place of the characters as I study the Bible. I ask myself questions as to what I will do and what I would feel if I were in the same position that they were in.
It is always important to pray before studying God’s word. He is the Only One, through the Holy Spirit, that can reveal the truth of the scriptures to us. He gives us, through scriptures, exactly what we need when we need it. One verse of scripture can be interpreted by the Holy Spirit in many ways to many different people; God deals with us in a personal way and on an individual level. To help improve and imbibe knowledge, it helps to share what you know and are learning with others. Start a small group; discuss with people and encourage them to ask you questions. Who knows? You may learn new perspectives on some of the things you already know and as such, expand your knowledge.
To be a true scholar of the Bible, one must develop good studying habits. Start small and don’t be discouraged. I have learnt that the only thing that gets me through difficult times is the Word of God that I have learnt. His word brings me peace when everything around me is going haywire.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
A Calm Spirit
”The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26
The Stock Market is in the toilet, house prices are dropping like crazy, companies are laying their employees off in large numbers and some are shutting their places of business for good. Morale is low and people are stressed out. Marriages are collapsing under the financial strain and some are taking extreme measures and resorting to suicide. It is very evident that things are not going well in the world right now. How do we remain calm when the world around us is erupting in chaos?
God wants us to place our faith in Him and Him alone. We are not created to trust in what the world has to offer but what the Kingdom of God has for its citizens. If we place our heart and confidence in the right place, there will be no real disappointment in our lives. If we rely on God as the only true anchor of our lives, we will be secure regardless of what is happening around us.
Only the Lord can give us true calmness of the spirit through His Holy Spirit. There is no other way to achieve it. If we try to get it from the world around us, we will lose it in the world in the same manner. Trust that the Lord has His eyes on you and your situation. Regardless of what life is throwing at you right now, never give up on your goals and your vision. The Bible encourages us to write down our vision and make it plain and clear so that even in the midst of turbulence, our goal is never far away from our sight and our minds.
The Stock Market is in the toilet, house prices are dropping like crazy, companies are laying their employees off in large numbers and some are shutting their places of business for good. Morale is low and people are stressed out. Marriages are collapsing under the financial strain and some are taking extreme measures and resorting to suicide. It is very evident that things are not going well in the world right now. How do we remain calm when the world around us is erupting in chaos?
God wants us to place our faith in Him and Him alone. We are not created to trust in what the world has to offer but what the Kingdom of God has for its citizens. If we place our heart and confidence in the right place, there will be no real disappointment in our lives. If we rely on God as the only true anchor of our lives, we will be secure regardless of what is happening around us.
Only the Lord can give us true calmness of the spirit through His Holy Spirit. There is no other way to achieve it. If we try to get it from the world around us, we will lose it in the world in the same manner. Trust that the Lord has His eyes on you and your situation. Regardless of what life is throwing at you right now, never give up on your goals and your vision. The Bible encourages us to write down our vision and make it plain and clear so that even in the midst of turbulence, our goal is never far away from our sight and our minds.
Friday, October 17, 2008
God Uses Our Adversity
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. – James 1:2-4
God uses adversity to build character in us. We are creatures of purpose and not accidents. Regardless of how we gained entry into this world, God has a purpose for our lives. Similarly, He has a purpose for every difficult circumstance we endure. If there would be no purpose to it, God would never let it come our way. Even the enemy needs God’s permission to attack us. No-one can touch us unless God allows them to do so. All our trails and problems are planned, purposed and above all permitted.
We are to count it all joy when we face various temptations and trials in our lives as God uses times of adversity to show the world His glory. God uses adversity to deposit treasures inside of us to stretch and grow us. Nothing will make you grow up quicker than adversity. Adversity will very quickly bring you to the end of yourself to total reliance on God. I never would have known the breadth of what I could have achieved if I did not go through my fiery trials. I never would have realized my purpose nor what is truly important. It very quickly became a situation of “once I was blind but now I see”! The horrible circumstances I endured allowed me to understand where my loyalties and true love should really lie. Now I am stronger in the Spirit, smarter and filled with more wisdom in the things of God. I am no longer the jelly-back Christian I used to be – easily intimidated and timid. My adversities built my faith and made me bold about what I believe and in whom I trust.
Difficult times are not meant to remain stumbling blocks; we are called to use them as building blocks. We are called to utilize “down” times as opportunity to refocus our energy. Regardless of what you have lost in difficult times, God will never allow you to go through anything that He couldn’t bring you out of. He would never allow you to lose anything that you cannot regain multiple folds. When God closes a door, it’s because he has a better door ahead for you. God will always give us beauty for our ashes. The main question is - are we willing to trust God and believe that He knows what’s best for us?
All tough times are temporary. The Great psalmist, David said – “Though I walk through the shadow of death”. That means that valleys are temporary situations. No one stays in a pothole forever. Even Christ fell as He carried His Cross and He had to be helped. If your cross of life is making you stumble and fall, persevere, God will be by your side. You will get back up again.
God uses adversity to build character in us. We are creatures of purpose and not accidents. Regardless of how we gained entry into this world, God has a purpose for our lives. Similarly, He has a purpose for every difficult circumstance we endure. If there would be no purpose to it, God would never let it come our way. Even the enemy needs God’s permission to attack us. No-one can touch us unless God allows them to do so. All our trails and problems are planned, purposed and above all permitted.
We are to count it all joy when we face various temptations and trials in our lives as God uses times of adversity to show the world His glory. God uses adversity to deposit treasures inside of us to stretch and grow us. Nothing will make you grow up quicker than adversity. Adversity will very quickly bring you to the end of yourself to total reliance on God. I never would have known the breadth of what I could have achieved if I did not go through my fiery trials. I never would have realized my purpose nor what is truly important. It very quickly became a situation of “once I was blind but now I see”! The horrible circumstances I endured allowed me to understand where my loyalties and true love should really lie. Now I am stronger in the Spirit, smarter and filled with more wisdom in the things of God. I am no longer the jelly-back Christian I used to be – easily intimidated and timid. My adversities built my faith and made me bold about what I believe and in whom I trust.
Difficult times are not meant to remain stumbling blocks; we are called to use them as building blocks. We are called to utilize “down” times as opportunity to refocus our energy. Regardless of what you have lost in difficult times, God will never allow you to go through anything that He couldn’t bring you out of. He would never allow you to lose anything that you cannot regain multiple folds. When God closes a door, it’s because he has a better door ahead for you. God will always give us beauty for our ashes. The main question is - are we willing to trust God and believe that He knows what’s best for us?
All tough times are temporary. The Great psalmist, David said – “Though I walk through the shadow of death”. That means that valleys are temporary situations. No one stays in a pothole forever. Even Christ fell as He carried His Cross and He had to be helped. If your cross of life is making you stumble and fall, persevere, God will be by your side. You will get back up again.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
What Are You Like Behind Closed Doors?
May integrity and uprightness protect me because my hope is in you. – Psalm 25:21
Character is something that as believers we should all care about. Our character is really all we have. In the world we live in today, it is ok to live a double life. The world accepts both a private and public character. It is acceptable to live one life behind closed doors and another in public. Living a fragmented life is a nightmare; it is contrary to what character is all about. Our character is based on integrity and our integrity is based on wholeness. How can one achieve wholeness with multiple personalities? The truth is – it’s impossible. Having multiple personalities means having a fragmented life. Having a fragmented life means wholeness is out the windows and without wholeness, there is really no integrity and consequently no character.
If we harbor godlessness in one area of our lives and try to be godly in other areas, it is only a question of time before our ungodliness seeps into our attempts at being godly. To achieve the kind of character that’s pleasing to God, we must be the same in private and in public. We must be whole to be a person of integrity. And to have character, we must have integrity.
Character is something that as believers we should all care about. Our character is really all we have. In the world we live in today, it is ok to live a double life. The world accepts both a private and public character. It is acceptable to live one life behind closed doors and another in public. Living a fragmented life is a nightmare; it is contrary to what character is all about. Our character is based on integrity and our integrity is based on wholeness. How can one achieve wholeness with multiple personalities? The truth is – it’s impossible. Having multiple personalities means having a fragmented life. Having a fragmented life means wholeness is out the windows and without wholeness, there is really no integrity and consequently no character.
If we harbor godlessness in one area of our lives and try to be godly in other areas, it is only a question of time before our ungodliness seeps into our attempts at being godly. To achieve the kind of character that’s pleasing to God, we must be the same in private and in public. We must be whole to be a person of integrity. And to have character, we must have integrity.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
He Hears Us
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. – 1 Peter 3:12
When we pray, God hears us. Even when we cannot hear his voice or feel his presence, he hears us. We should never stop sharing the smallest details of our lives with God. He is interested in us and every intricate aspect our lives. We are not telling God anything He doesn’t already know but He loves to hear from us – it’s a way of connection; of assured intimacy.
I don’t know about you but I want to connect to a powerful God. I want to maintain a connection with a God who loves and cares about me. Without being in a constant state of prayer, we can’t get close to God. Prayer isn’t just a position we take for a time; it’s a way of life. When we pray, we must take time to listen to God as well. He wants to communicate with us just as much as we want to communicate with Him. Even when we see no results, we should persist in prayer with great perseverance and a spirit of expectancy because God always hears us when we call.
When we pray, God hears us. Even when we cannot hear his voice or feel his presence, he hears us. We should never stop sharing the smallest details of our lives with God. He is interested in us and every intricate aspect our lives. We are not telling God anything He doesn’t already know but He loves to hear from us – it’s a way of connection; of assured intimacy.
I don’t know about you but I want to connect to a powerful God. I want to maintain a connection with a God who loves and cares about me. Without being in a constant state of prayer, we can’t get close to God. Prayer isn’t just a position we take for a time; it’s a way of life. When we pray, we must take time to listen to God as well. He wants to communicate with us just as much as we want to communicate with Him. Even when we see no results, we should persist in prayer with great perseverance and a spirit of expectancy because God always hears us when we call.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Godless Chatter
Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. – 2 Timothy 2:16
I must confess I used to be involved in a lot of godless chatter. I continually wasted my time and God-given life talking about all the things that didn’t matter; responding to issues that will never go away. I spent worthwhile time talking to all the wrong people about things I should have been discussing with the Lord. I learnt my lesson the hard way. My business was all out in the street and believe me it was not pretty!
But thank God for His Word and the wisdom therein. I soon learnt that as a believer, godless chatter is to be very much avoided. Not only does the act ridicule you and make a mockery of your ministry, it destroys the very lives of the people you are called to love and protect. Godless chatter is like gangrene; it spreads like wildfire. As you continue to indulge in it; you jeopardize your relationship with God as you slowly get desensitized to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
If you are a true believer in Jesus Christ, avoid godless chatter at all cost. Focus on talking about things that serve to glorify the name of the Lord.
I must confess I used to be involved in a lot of godless chatter. I continually wasted my time and God-given life talking about all the things that didn’t matter; responding to issues that will never go away. I spent worthwhile time talking to all the wrong people about things I should have been discussing with the Lord. I learnt my lesson the hard way. My business was all out in the street and believe me it was not pretty!
But thank God for His Word and the wisdom therein. I soon learnt that as a believer, godless chatter is to be very much avoided. Not only does the act ridicule you and make a mockery of your ministry, it destroys the very lives of the people you are called to love and protect. Godless chatter is like gangrene; it spreads like wildfire. As you continue to indulge in it; you jeopardize your relationship with God as you slowly get desensitized to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
If you are a true believer in Jesus Christ, avoid godless chatter at all cost. Focus on talking about things that serve to glorify the name of the Lord.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Declare His Worth
Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place. Ascribe to the Lord, O families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength, ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. – 1 Chronicles 16:23-29
God is indeed worthy to be praised. When we spend time worshipping God, we make a declaration of his worth. In the same process, our spirits are lifted out the darkness that trouble and despair can bring. Anytime we feel pressured, we must take it as an opportunity to praise the Lord. There’s something powerful about singing God’s praises; it opens up the windows of heaven. When our heart longs after the Lord, we spend time praising His name. He is also glorified in heaven and here on earth. As we praise, we are taking into great account everything God has done for us and all that He will do. We are acknowledging who God is and who He was. We are publicly proclaiming His greatness and His power.
God is indeed worthy to be praised. When we spend time worshipping God, we make a declaration of his worth. In the same process, our spirits are lifted out the darkness that trouble and despair can bring. Anytime we feel pressured, we must take it as an opportunity to praise the Lord. There’s something powerful about singing God’s praises; it opens up the windows of heaven. When our heart longs after the Lord, we spend time praising His name. He is also glorified in heaven and here on earth. As we praise, we are taking into great account everything God has done for us and all that He will do. We are acknowledging who God is and who He was. We are publicly proclaiming His greatness and His power.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
What Are You Praying For?
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask in prayer. – Matthew 21:22
We very often misquote this piece of scripture and use it to ask for all sorts of stuff. We ask God for a new house when the one we live in is just fine. We seek fine cars, clothes, jewelry and all sorts of material things. We get all we can, can all we get and sit comfortable on the tightly shut lid. We continue to strive at work and in our prayers to accumulate more and more wealth; all in a desperate attempt to fill a void that only the presence of Jesus Christ can fill.
As believers, we ought to understand the true meaning of the above scripture. We were created in the image of God and to promote His glory. Everything that we pray for should be to demonstrate His glory. Once we understand that our primary purpose on this earth is to serve God, it helps to properly structure our prayers. We are more knowledgeable about the will of God when we pray the right way. God is able to direct our footsteps with the aid of the Holy Spirit when we are so troubled that we have no idea what we ought to pray for.
I am learning to pray right. Through prayer, I have no doubts as to my reason for living – all I want to do is live for the Lord. I anticipate that my career should be changing in the next couple of years to demonstrate my dedication to God. Even though there is some anxiety about the transition process, I am glad about it. My prayers are all directed to how God can use me and utilize my life for his glory.
We very often misquote this piece of scripture and use it to ask for all sorts of stuff. We ask God for a new house when the one we live in is just fine. We seek fine cars, clothes, jewelry and all sorts of material things. We get all we can, can all we get and sit comfortable on the tightly shut lid. We continue to strive at work and in our prayers to accumulate more and more wealth; all in a desperate attempt to fill a void that only the presence of Jesus Christ can fill.
As believers, we ought to understand the true meaning of the above scripture. We were created in the image of God and to promote His glory. Everything that we pray for should be to demonstrate His glory. Once we understand that our primary purpose on this earth is to serve God, it helps to properly structure our prayers. We are more knowledgeable about the will of God when we pray the right way. God is able to direct our footsteps with the aid of the Holy Spirit when we are so troubled that we have no idea what we ought to pray for.
I am learning to pray right. Through prayer, I have no doubts as to my reason for living – all I want to do is live for the Lord. I anticipate that my career should be changing in the next couple of years to demonstrate my dedication to God. Even though there is some anxiety about the transition process, I am glad about it. My prayers are all directed to how God can use me and utilize my life for his glory.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
The Beautiful Nature of God
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired and weary and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. – Isaiah 40:28-29
I know the enemy of our souls will often attack and question our faith. When difficult times arise, he throws the thought in our minds that maybe the God we so much believe in does not exist. He tells us to stop praying and wasting our time because God does not even hear us. But God does exist and He cares about all mankind. He loves us so much He created the world and everything in it for us to enjoy. If we take a close look at the world we live in, we would immediately see the beauty and magnificence of it all. Only a very powerful God like Jehovah could have created the world we live in.
When we give our lives to Christ, we begin the wonderful journey of getting to know the wonderful and beautiful nature of God. How does God reveal Himself to His children? He does this with the help of the Holy Spirit and His Holy Word. The more we study the scriptures, the more God is revealed to each and every one of us on a personal and individual level. As he sees us through the various vicissitudes of life, we get to meet him personally so we do not have to prove his existence to anyone because we know who He is to us.
God is all-knowing. He is merciful and giving. He is a God of great grace and mercy. He values each of us because He created us and knows the treasures He has placed inside of us. He is an everlasting God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever more. He is always there for us and He gives us strength when we get weary. He is a God we can trust.
I know the enemy of our souls will often attack and question our faith. When difficult times arise, he throws the thought in our minds that maybe the God we so much believe in does not exist. He tells us to stop praying and wasting our time because God does not even hear us. But God does exist and He cares about all mankind. He loves us so much He created the world and everything in it for us to enjoy. If we take a close look at the world we live in, we would immediately see the beauty and magnificence of it all. Only a very powerful God like Jehovah could have created the world we live in.
When we give our lives to Christ, we begin the wonderful journey of getting to know the wonderful and beautiful nature of God. How does God reveal Himself to His children? He does this with the help of the Holy Spirit and His Holy Word. The more we study the scriptures, the more God is revealed to each and every one of us on a personal and individual level. As he sees us through the various vicissitudes of life, we get to meet him personally so we do not have to prove his existence to anyone because we know who He is to us.
God is all-knowing. He is merciful and giving. He is a God of great grace and mercy. He values each of us because He created us and knows the treasures He has placed inside of us. He is an everlasting God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever more. He is always there for us and He gives us strength when we get weary. He is a God we can trust.
Friday, October 10, 2008
You Need Not Handle It on Your Own
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is and my burden is light. – Matthew 11:28-30
Life is tough. We all get overwhelmed and burdened at some point or another with the trials that it brings. But we can choose to suffer alone or in the comforting arms of the Lord Jesus Christ. He promises rest to all those who approach the throne of God in humility. When we strive to handle life in our own flesh and in our own strength, the Lord stands aside and lets us do our thing. But the minute we admit that we need Him to help us; He comes immediately to our aid. His answer may not be to get out of the messes we are in but to give us the strength and the means to work our way through them. There are some adversities that God allows us to experience to show His glory to the world. But as we wade through the seas of troubles, His hand is there to guide us through so we come out more experienced in the Lord and His name is glorified.
Next time the tide rises up against you, don’t despair. Call on the name of the Lord and He will help you. He is waiting on you to simply say the word and He will be by your side. There is no need to suffer alone. If we decide that we are buff and tough and want to endure pain in isolation, we are refusing to acknowledge the power that we have in the God that we serve. It’s like having electricity and not flicking the light switch!
Life is tough. We all get overwhelmed and burdened at some point or another with the trials that it brings. But we can choose to suffer alone or in the comforting arms of the Lord Jesus Christ. He promises rest to all those who approach the throne of God in humility. When we strive to handle life in our own flesh and in our own strength, the Lord stands aside and lets us do our thing. But the minute we admit that we need Him to help us; He comes immediately to our aid. His answer may not be to get out of the messes we are in but to give us the strength and the means to work our way through them. There are some adversities that God allows us to experience to show His glory to the world. But as we wade through the seas of troubles, His hand is there to guide us through so we come out more experienced in the Lord and His name is glorified.
Next time the tide rises up against you, don’t despair. Call on the name of the Lord and He will help you. He is waiting on you to simply say the word and He will be by your side. There is no need to suffer alone. If we decide that we are buff and tough and want to endure pain in isolation, we are refusing to acknowledge the power that we have in the God that we serve. It’s like having electricity and not flicking the light switch!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Want To Be a Leader for Christ?
God is looking for everyday people from every walk of life who will be effective leaders for him. He chooses whom He would use. He is not controlled by anyone or anything. When God decides to use you, His anointing power will enable you to do the assignment He has placed before you.
What does God look for in a man or a woman?
What does God look for in a man or a woman?
- Character – Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of Spirit and wisdom. – Acts 6:3a
- Full of the Spirit – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. – Galatians 5:22-23a
- True – The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness. – James 3:17-18
- Prayerful – We will turn this responsibility over to them and give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. – Acts 6:4
- Knowledgeable – Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Spread the Good News!
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. – Mark 16:15
The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ, the son of Almighty God. He is God in the form of man who walked the earth and gave up his life so that we all can be free. Jesus Christ was God’s gift to humanity. For all who accept and believe in Him, there is salvation. God sent His Only Son to die for the entire world not just a select few. The gospel is good news that is meant for everyone. That is why it is crucial that we each embark on the Great Commission – spreading the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We must each do our part in spreading the gospel. Being a “bench warmer” Christian can be considered as being selfish. If you are enjoying a life changing experience with God, it is your responsibility to share that opportunity with others starting with the people closest to you. God wants to raise leaders to help lead and guide his people. Talk to your family members and friends about Christ. Share all that He has done for you and how your life is being transformed.
The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ, the son of Almighty God. He is God in the form of man who walked the earth and gave up his life so that we all can be free. Jesus Christ was God’s gift to humanity. For all who accept and believe in Him, there is salvation. God sent His Only Son to die for the entire world not just a select few. The gospel is good news that is meant for everyone. That is why it is crucial that we each embark on the Great Commission – spreading the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We must each do our part in spreading the gospel. Being a “bench warmer” Christian can be considered as being selfish. If you are enjoying a life changing experience with God, it is your responsibility to share that opportunity with others starting with the people closest to you. God wants to raise leaders to help lead and guide his people. Talk to your family members and friends about Christ. Share all that He has done for you and how your life is being transformed.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
God is Light
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. – 1 John 1:5-7
The gospel is designed so that we may be free – free from guilt and shame. When we surrendered our lives to God, he sends his Holy Spirit to dwell inside of us. The darkness that we once were in cohort with disappears and is replaced by the light of God. Salvation brings light into the life of a believer. The things that were once hidden from sight suddenly become clear for all to see. The Holy Spirit helps us daily to continue to walk in the light such that the darkness becomes a thing of history. Even when we stumble and find ourselves on the wrong path, it no longer feels as good as it once did and we are quick to re-calibrate our lives and move back into the light of God. Being in daily fellowship with God enables us to continue our walk in the light.
If we call ourselves believers and continue to do wrong, we are telling a lie. Comfort with evil is not possible for a real follower of Jesus Christ. Walking with Christ changes who we are. He transforms us from the inside out. He cleanses us from all our sins and He sets us free. We can never be the same person we once were when we accept Christ and choose to be His disciple. We become new creatures when we enter the family of God. We are born again. We become children of the light; children of the Living God.
The gospel is designed so that we may be free – free from guilt and shame. When we surrendered our lives to God, he sends his Holy Spirit to dwell inside of us. The darkness that we once were in cohort with disappears and is replaced by the light of God. Salvation brings light into the life of a believer. The things that were once hidden from sight suddenly become clear for all to see. The Holy Spirit helps us daily to continue to walk in the light such that the darkness becomes a thing of history. Even when we stumble and find ourselves on the wrong path, it no longer feels as good as it once did and we are quick to re-calibrate our lives and move back into the light of God. Being in daily fellowship with God enables us to continue our walk in the light.
If we call ourselves believers and continue to do wrong, we are telling a lie. Comfort with evil is not possible for a real follower of Jesus Christ. Walking with Christ changes who we are. He transforms us from the inside out. He cleanses us from all our sins and He sets us free. We can never be the same person we once were when we accept Christ and choose to be His disciple. We become new creatures when we enter the family of God. We are born again. We become children of the light; children of the Living God.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Staying True to Truth
Dear Friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. – 3 John 3.
As Christians we must be ready at all times to defend the truth that we believe. God want us to stay faithful to him until the very end. We are not to step in and out of fellowship with the Lord. We are called to remain committed to Him and to His cause. But how do we remain faithful in a world filled with options? How do we walk the straight and narrow path, not deviating to the left or to the right in a world when everything is permissible? The Word of God gives us directions on how we are to walk and be established in the truth:
As Christians we must be ready at all times to defend the truth that we believe. God want us to stay faithful to him until the very end. We are not to step in and out of fellowship with the Lord. We are called to remain committed to Him and to His cause. But how do we remain faithful in a world filled with options? How do we walk the straight and narrow path, not deviating to the left or to the right in a world when everything is permissible? The Word of God gives us directions on how we are to walk and be established in the truth:
- We must know the truth: To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:31-32
- We must believe in God’s truth: But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. – 2 Thessalonians 2:13
- We must be convinced of the truth: But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. – 2 Timothy 3:14
- We must proclaim the truth: Instead speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. – Ephesians 4:15-16
- We must obey the truth: Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. – 1 Peter 1:22
- We must clothe ourselves with the truth: Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes with the gospel of peace. – Ephesians 6:14-15
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Let’s Build Each Other Up
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25
God is not thrilled when there is constant squabble amongst his children. We fuss and fight each other like we belong to separate bodies. Can the teeth persist in discord with the tongue? Why would the arms continue to find fault and criticize the legs? As Christians we get no rewards for inter-denominational quarreling. Focusing on our man-made traditions and cultures as a means to salvation is ridiculous. Placing one denomination in superiority over another based on “mini-gods” that we erect is not right.
Whether we like it or not, we are all a part of one single body, the body of Christ. Granted each part has different functions but that does not diminish the important fact that we are to all operate from the same core belief – the belief that Jesus Christ gave his life on the Cross of Calvary for all of mankind. He gave his precious life for sins past, present and future. No denomination is closer to God than another. The key is who believes in the message of Jesus Christ. The way to heaven is through Jesus Christ and not our rituals and practices.
So how do we build each other up within the Christian body?
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Don't Let Un-forgiveness Pollute Your Future
Life has had the opportunity to teach me some very valuable lessons – many of which I strongly believe I would have never learned if the circumstances that took place didn’t occur. Lessons although very painful; I so desperately need to learn. Forgiving and forgetting is not as easy as we think sometimes. Even when you say that you forgive, new situations arise to show you that you may have forgiven but you never really forgot to begin with. True forgives is essentially two-fold – forgiving others and then forgiving yourself. Forgetting is not about suddenly developing Alzheimer’s – It’s about remembering without pain and without anger. Some say you cannot truly forgive if you don’t forget. I don’t agree – unless you get a brain transplant, the chances of forgetting are pretty slim. It’s not remembering that’s the issue, it’s how you remember.
If you remember with pain and you are trying to get even, it is important to know that no matter how well calculated your plan for revenge is it will never eradicate the past hurt and disappointments. Trying to even the score is not really necessary as God has a way of showing us all that He is indeed God. That is enough; nothing can be added to that and nothing can be taken away from it. God’s ways are complete and enough. Whatever wrong or mistreatment that you believe that you have suffered can never be changed or undone. It’s become an integral part of your story; your life’s journey. And if truth be told, deep down you wouldn’t change any of it. It’s made you stronger and better.
Anger can be a very constructive as well as destructive emotion. It can serve a great deal of harm but it can also do some good. The Bible tells us never to let the sun go down on our anger which means we can get angry but resolving it swiftly brings healing to the soul. Scriptures also tells us that we can be angry but it is important to avoid sin in the process. Avoiding sin when angry is a tough call! Jesus was able to do it but I’m not so sure that I can. Anger, when used constructively can be a motivating factor to be the best you can be. When people tell you that you’ll never make it, the anger propels you to prove God right and prove them wrong.
Holding on negatively to situations of the past can give painful memories a strong hold over your life. Unconsciously, the wrong-doings control you and holding on to the past like a crutch just makes the pain worse. It’s like having a wound and continuously picking at it such that the wound never really gets a chance to heal. I found out that even though I could forgive, I couldn’t forget. I soon realized that my not forgetting is more an advantage than a disadvantage. By not getting amnesia or living in denial, I have a chance to reflect on past mistakes so that they do not in any shape or form repeat themselves. They say a foolish man/woman is one who keeps doing the same things, making the same decisions but expecting a different set of results. I have learnt from my errors and refuse to repeat them. I have grown from them. My life is different because of them.
Life is a wonderful teacher and it has taught me that forgiving allows me the wonderful opportunity for a more fulfilling and joyous life. Not forgetting stops me from traveling the same hazardous road twice. The supernatural love of God has shown me that by his forgiving my mistakes completely, it is required that I forgive the mistakes that others have made against me. I am not there yet but I’m definitely on my way.
What is the challenge you struggle with? Is it forgiving and forgetting yourself and others? Or is your challenge surrounding denial? Share with me what your toughest issue is. It helps to know that on this life’s journey, one is not alone.
If you remember with pain and you are trying to get even, it is important to know that no matter how well calculated your plan for revenge is it will never eradicate the past hurt and disappointments. Trying to even the score is not really necessary as God has a way of showing us all that He is indeed God. That is enough; nothing can be added to that and nothing can be taken away from it. God’s ways are complete and enough. Whatever wrong or mistreatment that you believe that you have suffered can never be changed or undone. It’s become an integral part of your story; your life’s journey. And if truth be told, deep down you wouldn’t change any of it. It’s made you stronger and better.
Anger can be a very constructive as well as destructive emotion. It can serve a great deal of harm but it can also do some good. The Bible tells us never to let the sun go down on our anger which means we can get angry but resolving it swiftly brings healing to the soul. Scriptures also tells us that we can be angry but it is important to avoid sin in the process. Avoiding sin when angry is a tough call! Jesus was able to do it but I’m not so sure that I can. Anger, when used constructively can be a motivating factor to be the best you can be. When people tell you that you’ll never make it, the anger propels you to prove God right and prove them wrong.
Holding on negatively to situations of the past can give painful memories a strong hold over your life. Unconsciously, the wrong-doings control you and holding on to the past like a crutch just makes the pain worse. It’s like having a wound and continuously picking at it such that the wound never really gets a chance to heal. I found out that even though I could forgive, I couldn’t forget. I soon realized that my not forgetting is more an advantage than a disadvantage. By not getting amnesia or living in denial, I have a chance to reflect on past mistakes so that they do not in any shape or form repeat themselves. They say a foolish man/woman is one who keeps doing the same things, making the same decisions but expecting a different set of results. I have learnt from my errors and refuse to repeat them. I have grown from them. My life is different because of them.
Life is a wonderful teacher and it has taught me that forgiving allows me the wonderful opportunity for a more fulfilling and joyous life. Not forgetting stops me from traveling the same hazardous road twice. The supernatural love of God has shown me that by his forgiving my mistakes completely, it is required that I forgive the mistakes that others have made against me. I am not there yet but I’m definitely on my way.
What is the challenge you struggle with? Is it forgiving and forgetting yourself and others? Or is your challenge surrounding denial? Share with me what your toughest issue is. It helps to know that on this life’s journey, one is not alone.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Whether I Like It Or Not
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will hold me fast. – Psalm 139:7-10
As soon as I gave my life to Christ, I became His. In times when I strayed, I knew in my spirit that I was operating contrary to everything that I believed. Even as I disobeyed the God that I said that I loved, His Spirit never completely departed from me. The longer I stayed away and languished in my sins, the dimmer the quiet voice within me that serves to guide me became. It got to a point when I became deaf to the inner still voice and stopped hearing from God entirely. It took great adversity for God to reclaim my attention.
When I was low and in pain because of the trouble I brought upon myself, God was with me. He held me up and kept me strong through it all. He showered me with great gifts and blessings. He showed me hidden talents that he created me with and gave me the strength to find my dreams and pursue them. Through the good and the bad times, God is there. If I tried to run, I could never hide from Him. Let’s face it, how can I run from myself? God has become a part of who am I. I can no longer tell where I end and He begins. We are deeply intertwined. He is my Father and I His child. He loves me when I am right and when I am wrong, He still loves me. Praise be to Almighty God for His mercy and His grace.
As soon as I gave my life to Christ, I became His. In times when I strayed, I knew in my spirit that I was operating contrary to everything that I believed. Even as I disobeyed the God that I said that I loved, His Spirit never completely departed from me. The longer I stayed away and languished in my sins, the dimmer the quiet voice within me that serves to guide me became. It got to a point when I became deaf to the inner still voice and stopped hearing from God entirely. It took great adversity for God to reclaim my attention.
When I was low and in pain because of the trouble I brought upon myself, God was with me. He held me up and kept me strong through it all. He showered me with great gifts and blessings. He showed me hidden talents that he created me with and gave me the strength to find my dreams and pursue them. Through the good and the bad times, God is there. If I tried to run, I could never hide from Him. Let’s face it, how can I run from myself? God has become a part of who am I. I can no longer tell where I end and He begins. We are deeply intertwined. He is my Father and I His child. He loves me when I am right and when I am wrong, He still loves me. Praise be to Almighty God for His mercy and His grace.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Gradual Transformation
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. – 2 Corinthians 3:18
We are all a work in progress. Every one of us has one thing or another that we struggle with. On Sunday we all look good and smell nice in church but deep down, in each one of us lies different things that no-one else knows about; the various things we hide; that we do in secret. Truthfully, none of us believers are perfect. Giving your life to God does not equal instant perfection. If we had a wart on our finger before we gave our lives to Christ, we will still have the wart afterwards. We do not get immediately transformed into the image of God when we receive salvation. Salvation is indeed instantaneous but transformation into what the Lord wants us to be is gradual. Little by little as we spend time in His presence we are slowly transformed into His likeness.
So if you are feeling discouraged that you are not a picture of perfection; don’t be. If we could be perfect in our own strength, Christ will have gone to the Cross of Calvary for absolutely nothing. Instead of putting yourself down, ask for the Holy Spirit to help you in your walk with Christ. You cannot be who Christ designed you to be in your own strength; you need a daily supply of fresh anointing to keep you on track. Spend time in the word of God. The Word is powerful and sharp; sharper than any double edged sword. The power to change and be the best you that you can be rests with Christ and Him alone.
We are all a work in progress. Every one of us has one thing or another that we struggle with. On Sunday we all look good and smell nice in church but deep down, in each one of us lies different things that no-one else knows about; the various things we hide; that we do in secret. Truthfully, none of us believers are perfect. Giving your life to God does not equal instant perfection. If we had a wart on our finger before we gave our lives to Christ, we will still have the wart afterwards. We do not get immediately transformed into the image of God when we receive salvation. Salvation is indeed instantaneous but transformation into what the Lord wants us to be is gradual. Little by little as we spend time in His presence we are slowly transformed into His likeness.
So if you are feeling discouraged that you are not a picture of perfection; don’t be. If we could be perfect in our own strength, Christ will have gone to the Cross of Calvary for absolutely nothing. Instead of putting yourself down, ask for the Holy Spirit to help you in your walk with Christ. You cannot be who Christ designed you to be in your own strength; you need a daily supply of fresh anointing to keep you on track. Spend time in the word of God. The Word is powerful and sharp; sharper than any double edged sword. The power to change and be the best you that you can be rests with Christ and Him alone.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
He's Always There
God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its water roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. – Psalm 46:1-2
In life there will always be trouble. Just like death and taxes, trouble is a sure guarantee for every human being that walks this earth. Some pain will be introduced into our lives by the actions of other people. Others will come our way because of things that we do to ourselves. Either way, God is always there whether we feel his presence or not. When life gets rough he gives us the strength to carry on. When the world thinks that it’s over for us; God gives us another chance at the promise of abundant life.
So regardless of the difficult stuff that life is throwing your way right now, understand that there is no need to fear. No matter how insurmountable your mountains are, they will be flattened by the power of Almighty God. Simply take each day at a time, pray constantly for God to strengthen you and in no time you will be looking back at the very mountain that once challenged you as a historical part of your life.
Do not let the chaos around you be your focus because whatever you concentrate on will definitely get bigger. Instead turn your attention to the One who has your whole life in His hands; the Only One who can change your situation. Any time life threatens you, turn your complete attention to the God, ponder upon how great He is and all the love He has for you.
In life there will always be trouble. Just like death and taxes, trouble is a sure guarantee for every human being that walks this earth. Some pain will be introduced into our lives by the actions of other people. Others will come our way because of things that we do to ourselves. Either way, God is always there whether we feel his presence or not. When life gets rough he gives us the strength to carry on. When the world thinks that it’s over for us; God gives us another chance at the promise of abundant life.
So regardless of the difficult stuff that life is throwing your way right now, understand that there is no need to fear. No matter how insurmountable your mountains are, they will be flattened by the power of Almighty God. Simply take each day at a time, pray constantly for God to strengthen you and in no time you will be looking back at the very mountain that once challenged you as a historical part of your life.
Do not let the chaos around you be your focus because whatever you concentrate on will definitely get bigger. Instead turn your attention to the One who has your whole life in His hands; the Only One who can change your situation. Any time life threatens you, turn your complete attention to the God, ponder upon how great He is and all the love He has for you.
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