One man?!

Romans 5:1-8
New Living Translation (NLT)
Faith Brings Joy

5 Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.

3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

6 When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. 7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.


What kind of difference can one man make? In this modern world of speed and give me now mentality when was the last time we sat down and really thought about the difference one life can make? One soldier in a company jumping on a grenade can save most of his brothers. One fire fighter running into a burning home can save all those inside. Jesus bleeding dieing on the cross saves us all even when we were still wallowing in our own sin and pity.

Father I pray that I am always willing to throw a life line to those who need it. I have been so blessed, how could I not share it? I pray that all who read this will be willing and ready to throw a life line to those who need it! In Jesus name I pray

Amen

win or lose

Everywhere i look these days it seems there is some sort of battle going on.  Might be an actual battle, or a verbal battle, or a mental battle.  No matter how much you think you might have it under control, we all fight a battle on the inside.  All too often people try to wrestle with the inner demons on our own.  We were never meant to deal with this sort of battle. 

Colossians 1:15-22

GOD’S WORD Translation (GW)

¹⁵ He is the image of the invisible God,
    the firstborn of all creation.
¹⁶ He created all things in heaven and on earth,
    visible and invisible.
        Whether they are kings or lords,
            rulers or powers—
                everything has been created through him and for him.
¹⁷ He existed before everything
    and holds everything together.
¹⁸ He is also the head of the church, which is his body.
    He is the beginning,
    the first to come back to life
        so that he would have first place in everything.

¹⁹ God was pleased to have all of himself live in Christ. ²⁰ God was also pleased to bring everything on earth and in heaven back to himself through Christ. He did this by making peace through Christ’s blood sacrificed on the cross.

²¹ Once you were separated from God. The evil things you did showed your hostile attitude. ²² But now Christ has brought you back to God by dying in his physical body. He did this so that you could come into God’s presence without sin, fault, or blame. 


Why do we insist on trying to fight it out on our own?  Jesus already paid the price and provided the answer on calvalry.  It really doesn't matter what battle we fight, Jesus is always the answer! 


Father i know there are people right now who are fighting their own battle, leaving you out of it.  I pray that you would intercede.  I pray that they would truly know that you are able and willing to Totally cleanse them from the inside out, that you will wash them whiter than snow! I pray that we would all remember that when things seem to be going rough...to wave our white flag and surrender it to  you!

rain

John 7 NLT 

³⁷ On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! ³⁸ Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”


It seems these days like things are falling apart.  fiscal cliff,  greed run amok.  Oh father i pray that there would be a great revival in this land.  rain down your mighty presence on us oh father.    I pray that us as believers would remember that you are an awesome god, and are still on the throne.  i pray that rivers of your living water would flow out of me.  .



Are you thirsty?  tired of running the race the world thinks you should run?  Have you been lied to, cheated on, Hurt by the evil of this world?  tired of walking the tight rope of this world?  Come to Jesus and never thirst again!  I pray that anyone in my circle of influence that has had a tough time in life that needs you would come to you father.  If they need someone to talk to i pray they would seek me out, so i may pray for them.  Your door and mine father are open...question is will anyone knock?


jesus culture - holy

shout

When was the last time we as believers shouted from the roof tops about gods love?  When was the last time we proclaimed we were his?  When was the last time we stood arms wide open as if trying to give god a hug?  There are not words to describe how thankful I am that i am his and he is mine.  when was the last time you stood and held your arms out towards him and asked him to have his way in you?  Some might think they are beyond his saving power....nonsense!  He can save anyone no matter how bad their past was...or how evil they are living now!  All you need to do is ask! 



rooftops jesus culture

creation

How often do we actually sit and relax?  This past weekend i was enjoying lunch with my family.  The girls went to play on the playground.  I sat at the table staring out the window.  I had gotten to thinking about all the different species of plants, animals, and even how different each one of us people are.  I got to thinking about how complex that even one species is.  Not to mention the thousands of species of plants and animals.  I am in awe that god loves me, even with the complexity of his creation, to not only know the exact number of hairs on my head...but that he would send his only son to earth to be brutally beaten, and ultimately die for me.  When was the last time you really sat and thought about what can i do?  or is it more like what can be done for me?  there are many people who will never have the pleasure of a warm home in the winter, or plenty of food to eat.  There is always something we can do.  The family at the corner is making it on one income...couldn't we take them a meal?  a co worker is having problems at home...they really need to talk about it...but they are scared to say anything...can we lend a ear to them and a prayer?

All of our sins and shortcomings he already nailed to the cross.  We all have our ways that are opposite of what god wants for us...all we need is to make sure they stay nailed to the cross...and that we don't try to rip them down again. 

As a parent our children will follow our example, godly or not.  We can't both be the hand...key is for us to be the glove and allow the holy spirit to be the hand!



jesus you have already taken the punishment for my sin and shortcoming,  i pray that i forever leave my way nailed to your cross, and forever live in your way!  Father this christmas season i pray that i become more like the glove, and less like the hand.  I want you to guide me totally, for i want what you want. 

I surrender
I surrender
I want to know You more
I want to know You more

Like a rushing wind
Jesus breathe within
Lord have Your way
Lord have Your way in me

Like a mighty storm
Stir within my soul
Lord have Your way
Lord have Your way in me

amen

John 3:16-18

New Living Translation (NLT)

¹⁶ “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
¹⁸ “There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son.


hillsong - i surrender

Being stil in this stormy world

my thoughts tonight go to those lost today in Connecticut.  words fail me at times like this.  I know how i feel about my own children, i can only imagine how those parents feel.  Further more i can only imagine the sadness that our heavenly father must feel. The only verse i could think of is the first 3 versus of psalm 46.  He is here weeping amongst us.  If those of you who read this blog pray, then get on your knees and pray!  If those of you who read this blog don't pray...this might be a good time to start.  As for me...in constant prayer for not only those who went to be with my lord and savior, but those who were left behind.  May they find peace that can only come from one place!

psalm 46
¹ God is our refuge and strength,
    always ready to help in times of trouble.
² So we will not fear when earthquakes come
    and the mountains crumble into the sea.
³ Let the oceans roar and foam.
    Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! 


Father as the storm clouds circle around new england tonight.  May you give all those affected by this tragedy inner peace.  I can't fathom the loss that those families are faceing.  On my knees i pray that you would give them the peace that only you could.

amen

 I hope we can all take a moment and be still and silent in remembrance of those lost this day.
casting crowns - praise you in this storm 

Thirst

About a week ago i was in a restaurant in northern Virginia.  I noticed a family in there at the bar.  The mother and father were at the bar drinking, the mother was tore up, to the point she could hardly stand.  Meanwhile their son was sitting alone in the booth behind them, watching them drink.  There aren't words enough for what i felt.  Most of all i was hurt for their son who had to watch his parents live a poor example.  I could almost see Jesus standing behind them crying.  

John 4:14 but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

Isaiah 44:3 For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.


Have  you ever been really thirsty?  So thirsty that you think you could drink a gallon or 2 of water all at once?  we live in a dry and thirsty land.  Some people seem to want to drink the sand.  This kinda confuses me when Jesus came and died on the cross to give us living water.  To give us the kind of water where we would never thirst again.  Father revive us.  reign down your holy presence on us.  I pray for the lost of this world that are drinking the sand.  May I as a beleiver be a light so bright that they would find the living water that Jesus provided for us!  All we need is to as him to fill us with his water, and we will never thirst again!    Revive us oh father!


you revive me - passion 2012

what is your strength?

 ^{Psalm 46}

¹ God is our refuge and strength,
    always ready to help in times of trouble.
² So we will not fear when earthquakes come
    and the mountains crumble into the sea.
³ Let the oceans roar and foam.
    Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! Interlude

⁴ A river brings joy to the city of our God,
    the sacred home of the Most High.
⁵ God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.
    From the very break of day, God will protect it.
⁶ The nations are in chaos,
    and their kingdoms crumble!
God’s voice thunders,
    and the earth melts!
⁷ The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
    the God of Israel^[b] is our fortress. Interlude

⁸ Come, see the glorious works of the Lord:
    See how he brings destruction upon the world.
⁹ He causes wars to end throughout the earth.
    He breaks the bow and snaps the spear;
    he burns the shields with fire.

¹⁰ “Be still, and know that I am God!
    I will be honored by every nation.
    I will be honored throughout the world.”

¹¹ The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
    the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude

what is your strength based on?  do you base your strength of what you know from the world?  do  you base your strength on what you yourself  can do?  We as humans seem to want to beleive we are self sufficient.  we seem to beleive that we are in control of all around us.  We are not, nor never have been in control!  I for one am glad that jesus assumed control of all in this world.  I can do nothing by myself...but with him in my corner there is nothing i can't do!  I pray that i never start to think that I am in control.  Jesus is in my drivers seat...who is in yours?

white flag - chris tomlin

children

while in northern virginia this week i saw one of the sadest sights i have seen in a long time.  a family was at the same resturant where i was having dinner.  sad part was the mother and father were drinking at the bar, the mother was plastered, and the father didnt seem to care that he and his wife were totally ignoring their son.  i had to stop and pray for them, i have been since i saw this.  i pray that the holy spirit would reveal himself in a mighty way to this family.  children deserve all we can give them, not to ignore them.

this world

Do Not Love This World

¹⁵ Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. ¹⁶ For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. ¹⁷ And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

I see lots of people on a daily basis craving things of this world...never enough clothes, never a big enough house, never enough stuff.  I feel so blessed.  I have a warm house, plenty of clothes, plenty to eat.  There are so many around the world, even right here in this community that don't know where their next meal will some from.  there are many more that all they want is a warm coat to wear, or a warm place to sleep.

There are many in the community that could really make a difference, but think not me, maybe when the economy gets a little better, or after I get the new car i want, or after i get...or after i get...   there will always be an excuse, because so many are caught up in craving things of this world, that they will never see that they could be jesus to the homeless man of the corner, or to the family that has so steady income and can't even afford to get the simplest things.  

I pray that this season, instead of buying that extra gift that none of us need, we all will give, either time to a shelter, or food to a food bank, a coat to someone that couldn't afford it for themselves. 

‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters,^[a] you were doing it to me!’

father i pray that this season that we will all stop wallowing in our excess, and do what we can for those around us that could use a hand.  My we shine your light to them, so that they know that there is such a thing as hope.  Hope has a name, and his name is Jesus!

amen 

hillsong - came to my rescue 

short?

^{isiah 53:4-6}

⁴ Yet it was our weaknesses he carried;
    it was our sorrows^[a] that weighed him down.
And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God,
    a punishment for his own sins!
⁵ But he was pierced for our rebellion,
    crushed for our sins.
He was beaten so we could be whole.
    He was whipped so we could be healed.
⁶ All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.
    We have left God’s paths to follow our own.
Yet the Lord laid on him
    the sins of us all.

^{At this time of year when everyone is running around trying to grab bargains as fast as they appear, maybe we should stop and think, what kinds of gifts are we giving?  As a man i often think of what kinds of gifts am i leaving for my children.  am i perfect?  NO!  I fall short of Gods wonderful example in so many ways.  we have all wondered off on our own paths, Jesus is there with us just wanting us to hold out a hand for him to lead us back to his path.} 

^{Father I fall short of your glory in so many ways.  Father i raise my white flag May your presence and love so envelop me that others can't help but want the same for their lives.  My all, all i am, all i will be, all i have is yours!  I pray that my path is so deep and wide in your will father, that my children can't help but follow!} 

^amen

^{Not Ashamed - Passion featuring Kristian Stanfill} 

^{white flag - chris tomlin} 

 

least

³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶ I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

⁴⁰ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

^{matthew 25 :35, 36, and 40 NIV}

whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.  I can't quite get over this verse.  Most might not think twice about how they treat others.  They might look at a homeless person on the street and think...well  they must be homeless because of something they did, or payments to a mortgage they didn't make.  Reality might be that their home burned to the ground and they couldn't afford to rebuild.  could be that they were thrown out onto the street by someone who just didn't want them around.  there could be a million reasons. 

some people might think less of a man that asks for help, or can't help himself.  whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.  everytime i see one of these situations i am almost immediatly reminded of this verse.  There are so many that can't help themselves.  there are so many that are in our circle of influence just wanting...needing a hand.  It could be as simple as an ear to listen, could be a sholder to cry on, could be someone to prepare meals for them.  We each could do so much to help our fellow brothers and sisters, all we need to do is take off the blinders that have been placed over our eyes.  whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.

Father i pray that you remove the blinders from my eyes.  break my heart for what breaks yours.  You came to fix our broken lives.  I can be your hands and feet lord just by helping someone that needs your touch.  My hands and feet are yours use them as you need!

in jesus name,
amen


hillsong - fire fall down

Passion - you revive me

Society

Our society seems to live looking down at its feet.  The signs that the holy spirit are with us are all around us, if we would only look up and around, rather than at our feet.

Father I pray you would give us eyes to see, and ears to hear your glory.  I pray that us the faithful would shine your light to all those who see.

In Jesus name,
Amen  

Thankful

even though things seem bleek, we have so much here in this country to be thankful for.  most of us have a home, or warm place to sleep.  most of us have plenty of good food to eat.  it sometimes bothers me to see people pushing, shoving acting like total animals just to save a few dollars!

Jesus died a brutilly painful death so we could be thankful!  I pray that we all take time this holiday season and really thank god for what he has blessed us all with!

grateful for all he has provided for me!

billy

Jesus in a box?

How often do people seem to get caught up in worldly things?  The world seems to be in chaotic.  Bombing in israel, unrest here in this country.  Families arguing and bickering about stuff that is earthly...seeming to put god on the back burner, or in a box.  The evil one will stop at nothing to disturb us any way he can.

We seem to get caught up in the chaos in the box.  Instead of going to Jesus in prayer we would rather wallow in our own self pitty.

Father I pray that no matter the circumstances, that I would always go to you in prayer.  I pray that I would praise you weather it would be sunny or stormy in my life. 

In Jesus name, amen

1 thessalonians 5:16-18

Not ashamed

not ashamed - passion 2012


For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes

romans 1:16

Should i be ashamed to proclaim his word?  Should i be afraid of criticism by those who are still lost in the darkness?  NO!  I should tell them the good news and show them the freedom that can only come from jesus!

Father i pray that i am never too afraid...that i am not ashamed to proclaim your work to those you put in my path that need to hear it.  I pray that I recognize someone living in darkness so i might try to lead them to the light!

in his arms

Lyrics from Christy Nockels - Sing Along [Passion 2012]

From the farthest corners of the earth
Still His mercy reaches
Even to the pain we cannot see
And even through the darkness
There's a promise that will keep us
There is One who came to set us free

Great God
Wrap Your arms around this world tonight
Around the world tonight
And when You hear our cries
Sing through the night
So we can join in Your song
And sing along
We'll sing along

So let Your song rise
And fill up the earth
Let Your hope ring out
Let Your heart be heard



I've been spending a lot of time out of town in northern Virginia on a construction project here lately.  Being up there in the faster pace of life makes me realize how much the world needs us as Christians to be a Light.  It seems that people don't often enough take the time to just stop and bask in His light!  I pray that I never get too busy and to stressed that i don't stop and just bask in his warm light!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9o3bAYhLR0I

Thirsty?

Chorus:
You revive me
You revive me Lord
And all my deserts are rivers of joy
You are the treasure I could not afford
So I'll spend myself till I'm empty and poor
All for You
You revive me Lord

Verse 1:
Lord I have seen Your goodness
And I know the way You are
Give me eyes to see You in the dark
And Your face shines a glory
That i only know in part
And there is still a longing
A longing in my heart

Chorus

Verse 2:
My soul is thirsty
Only You can satisfy
You are the well that never will run dry
And i'll praise You for the blessing
For calling me Your friend
And in Your name I'm lifting
I'm lifting up my hands

Bridge:
I'm alive
I'm alive
You breathe on me
You revive me

I recently purchased the passion cd from amazon.com, and i heard this song.  It very much reminds me of how we live in a dry and thirsty land.  we get parched by the evil winds that blow around us constantly.  There is only one way to quench that thirst...That is with the love of jesus. 

Lord i pray that you would breathe on me, revive me oh lord.  We live in a dry and thirsty land.  I am hungry and thirsty for you o father.  Fill me with the only thing that will satisfy!  father i can't stop listening to the song You Revive Me by Christy Nockels.  I have never heard a song that so perfectly describes where not only i am at, but where this world is at.  Revive us of father...revive us!

is jesus name, amen

christy nockels - you revive me

Watch "I am Second - Mike Huckabee" on YouTube

White flag

jesus gave it all to us on the cross, when will we wave our white flag and surrender all we have, and all we are to him?  We seem to all have the i can do it myself mentality.  In reality many times we need help.  He is waiting, wanting for us to just ask him, to confess any wrongs we have done. 

Lord you are my refuge and my strength.  I have you in my corner whom shall i be afraid of.  what shall i fear.  all i am is yours! Lord i wave my white flag, I have surrendered, and am surrendering all i am all i have again to you.  I want nothing more than to live minute, by minute in your presence!  I pray that you would break my heart for what breaks yours.  I pray that you would give me the right words to say when confronted by evil.

In jesus holy name, amen

Isaiah 41:10 ESV 

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Psalm 71:1-24

New International Version (NIV)

Psalm 71

¹ In you, Lord, I have taken refuge;
    let me never be put to shame.
² In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me;
    turn your ear to me and save me.
³ Be my rock of refuge,
    to which I can always go;
give the command to save me,
    for you are my rock and my fortress.
⁴ Deliver me, my God, from the hand of the wicked,
    from the grasp of those who are evil and cruel.

⁵ For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord,
    my confidence since my youth.
⁶ From birth I have relied on you;
    you brought me forth from my mother’s womb.
    I will ever praise you.
⁷ I have become a sign to many;
    you are my strong refuge.
⁸ My mouth is filled with your praise,
    declaring your splendor all day long.

⁹ Do not cast me away when I am old;
    do not forsake me when my strength is gone.
¹⁰ For my enemies speak against me;
    those who wait to kill me conspire together.
¹¹ They say, “God has forsaken him;
    pursue him and seize him,
    for no one will rescue him.”
¹² Do not be far from me, my God;
    come quickly, God, to help me.
¹³ May my accusers perish in shame;
    may those who want to harm me
    be covered with scorn and disgrace.

¹⁴ As for me, I will always have hope;
    I will praise you more and more.

¹⁵ My mouth will tell of your righteous deeds,
    of your saving acts all day long—
    though I know not how to relate them all.
¹⁶ I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, Sovereign Lord;
    I will proclaim your righteous deeds, yours alone.
¹⁷ Since my youth, God, you have taught me,
    and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
¹⁸ Even when I am old and gray,
    do not forsake me, my God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
    your mighty acts to all who are to come.

¹⁹ Your righteousness, God, reaches to the heavens,
    you who have done great things.
    Who is like you, God?
²⁰ Though you have made me see troubles,
    many and bitter,
    you will restore my life again;
from the depths of the earth
    you will again bring me up.
²¹ You will increase my honor
    and comfort me once more.

²² I will praise you with the harp
    for your faithfulness, my God;
I will sing praise to you with the lyre,
    Holy One of Israel.
²³ My lips will shout for joy
    when I sing praise to you—
    I whom you have delivered.
²⁴ My tongue will tell of your righteous acts
    all day long,
for those who wanted to harm me
    have been put to shame and confusion.

chris tomlin - white flag

How lucky!

Most of us take forgrented how good we have it.  We go to work each day, maybe go out to eat at lunch, stop at a store sometimes and buy a drink.  All of which is a luxury!!   In some places in the world you are treated like an animal just because of who your parents are or to what caste you belong to.  It breaks my heart to see others being treated this way.  It breaks my heart even more to know that we sit here and do nothing while this is happening not only in india, but so many other countries.  what will it take for us as christians to drop to our knees and pray for these situations that happen all the time!  what will it take for us as gods hands and feet to rise up and do something?  We have been given much in this country...will we give back to those who so despritly need it?!



The fields are ripe for harvest...but where are the workers?

Matthew 9:35-38

New International Version (NIV)

The Workers Are Few

³⁵ Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. ³⁶ When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. ³⁷ Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. ³⁸ Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

treatment of low caste people

treatment of low caste children

Lord i drop to my knees and pray for you to do a mighty thing in india.  i pray for you to do a mighty thing in the middle east.  I pray for your grace and mercy to fall on these people.  I pray that others that would call themselves christians would humble themselves and pray.  i pray that out of our abbundance we have been blessed with, that we would do all we are able to do!  I pray we as christians would be a light to those who only know darkness.

in his holy name i pray,

amen

A high price

These days it seems almost everything has a huge price compared to what it used to be.  I have been reading in 1 Corinthians these past few days.  Particularly chapter 4 to 6.  I often wonder how many of us realize the high price Jesus paid for us.  Our bodies are his temple.  We don't belong to ourselves, god paid a high price for us with his only son.

Lord I pray that I never forget the high price you paid for me!

P.s.  search YouTube for you came to my rescue, by hillsong

be strong

Joshua 1:6-9

New Living Translation (NLT)

⁶ “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. ⁷ Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. ⁸ Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. ⁹ This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Definition of COURAGEOUS

: having or characterized by courage : brave <a courageous soldier> <a courageous decision>

Definition of STRONG

1 : having or marked by great physical power, not mild or weak 

All to often it seems some people when put under pressure by things of this world break....it might mean having a fit or rage or anger towards someone or something....might mean a person takes the life of another in a fit of rage...Jesus would never leave us...nor would he ever want us to carry a burden of sin, or anger around with us.  The devil might try to break us...but is we remember

Matthew 11:28-30

New Living Translation (NLT)

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

He will take it all away from us, so that we might be strong and courageous to fight off all the tricks the evil one might throw at us!

I pray that I am never too proud, or stubborn to pray that you would take my earthly burden from me!  I am so glad you come running to your children when we call!

hillsong - came to my rescue

 

Not of this world

John 18:36-37

New Living Translation (NLT)

³⁶ Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”
³⁷ Pilate said, “So you are a king?”
Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”




When being questioned by pilate jesus said my kingdom is not an earthly kingdom.  My kingdom is not of this world.   Often times there are several filters that block our true view of what god did for us by sending Jesus to be the sacrifice so we wouldn't have to spend an eternity in a place we were never ment to go.  I somtimes wonder what the world would be like if we all were out of this world with our faith.  Jesus was sent to testify to the truth, if we would only live according to the truth that he spoke this world would be a much different place.

Lord i pray for an out of this world faith.  I trust you with all i am and all i have, for the kingdom i belong to is not of  this world.  I will live life as a glove, Trusting you to be the hand!

in jesus name, amen

Treasure

2 Corinthians 4

New International Version (NIV)

Present Weakness and Resurrection Life

4 Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. ² Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. ³ And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. ⁴ The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. ⁵ For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. ⁶ For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”^[a] made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

¹⁶ Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. ¹⁷ For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. ¹⁸ So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.





Some here in this life work day and night year after year to store up treasure.  Not a single piece of which will matter in the Eternal life.  Jesus doesn't care how much wealth we have, or what kind of house we live in...what car we drive...All he wants is for us to be sanctuaries.  He lives in us already....he wants us to stop acting like the world does...he wants us to be the glove and let him be the hand, leading the glove where it is needed.


Lord i pray that I am never too stuck on this life to lay down all i have to let you be the glove!

in jesus name, amen

Legacy

What is a legacy? Legacy is defined in mirriam-Webster as a gift by will especially of money or other personal property. But is legacy just money and property? According to the world yes.

As I sit here typing this there is another legacy. A legacy Jesus left for us. He was beaten, bled and was crucified to leave it for us. He left a path for us to follow. A path of love, mercy and freedom for all those who would take up their cross and follow him.

Lord I gladly follow the path you set out for me! Nothing I am or have is better than the road you would have me travel! I pray that your holy fire would fall on me, so that I may share the message you would have me share

In Jesus name, amen

rescue

How often do some beleivers wonder through life seemingly lost, or overwhelmed with a situation or tragedy infront of them?  The evil one will use any situation to attempt to tear us from Jesus.  The good side of any seemingly hopeless situation is that we only need cry out to our saviour for help.  He is always beside us just waiting for us to cryout to him.  A good friend of mine just recently lost his great uncle and step brother, with whom he was close.  I offer us this prayer for him tonight.  On his behalf i cryout to jesus for help and comfort.  I pray that you cover my friend with the love that only you could!  Lord i lift you high tonight, you always are there beside me, no matter what!


Prayer below taken from a book of common prayer Printed in 1892


Lighten our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord; and by thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night;  for the love of thy only son, our saviou, jesus christ.   amen.

Hillsong united - came to my rescue

Repentance

Zephaniah 2:1-3

GOD’S WORD Translation (GW)

A Call for Judah to Turn Away From Sin

2 Gather yourselves together!
Yes, gather together, you shameless nation,
²     before the decree is carried out
        and the day passes like windblown husks,
    before the Lord’s burning anger comes to you,
    before the day of the Lord’s anger comes to you.
³ Search for the Lord, all you humble people in the land
    who carry out his justice.
Search for what is right.
Search for humility.
    Maybe you will find shelter on the day of the Lord’s anger.

Lord many in this world fall short of what you have called us to be.  There is lots of violence toward each other, mean talk toward each other, people just plain being evil to one another.  Father i pray for revival around the world.  Strengthen us beleivers so that we might be light to those around us.  Bless those already speeking the good word in though places.  give them strength and an open audience to receive the word.  Lord i too fall short of your expectations.  if there be any offensive way in me lord remove it, that i might be an example of your grace to all those i encounter.  Give me the strength and words to say when confronted with a person who is living far apart from you.  Give me the words to say to reach that specific individual!

in your name i pray,  amen

Hillsong UNITED - Came To My Rescue (Be Lifted High)

Salt

Matthew 5
13 you are the salt of the earth.  But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor?  Can you make it salty again?  It will be thrown out and trampled under foot as worthless.
14 you are the light of the world-like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 no one lights a lamp and then puts it under a blanket.  Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.  16 in the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly father.

Lord I pray that I never put my light under a blanket.  I pray instead that I shine it openly and brightly for all to see!

paths

A path is an expression of a habit, Evidence of a journey often made.  A habit made visible where others can follow.  Most of us think of a path made by footprints, but there are paths in the mind, both good and bad.  They are made by repeated words and actions...Some sharp as daggers, others kind and gentle.  We all leave paths in the journey with us.  It is up to us to see the path leads somewhere worth going.

James spruill



The above statement is taken from one of my favorite sermons.  It holds so true in every situation. We all create paths in our journeys through life.  It breaks my heart to see so many broken families...children that don't have fathers or mothers.  Still other families that have both parents...but those parents are too busy with their cariers to stop and see what is actually more important.  I saw a video the other day showing 9-11 through the eyes of the firefighters...I don't often cry, but that one made me sob.  Those courageous men and women that rushed in to save the lives of those still in the towers, most of them knowing full well that they might not make it back out...still they rushed in.  We should all be this way.  Even when life seems too hard...we need to trust that god always has our back. 


Hevenly father, I stand in awe of all you are tonight.  I had the pleasure of making over a room this afternoon/evening for a family that probably couldn't have afforded to hire someone to do the things that myself and the other members of my life group accomplished.  I pray that the work we did for this family truely blessed them in more ways than just improving a bedroom.  I pray that we left an impression that this is what godly people do for others.  We expect nothing in return.  I lift us this family to you father i pray they were truely blessed!

in jesus name
amen!


hillsong - shout to god

death couldn't hold him down!

They falsely accused him...mocked him...tried him...beat him...nailed him to the tree...

Luke 24

New Living Translation (NLT)

The Resurrection

24 But very early on Sunday morning^[a] the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. ² They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. ³ So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. ⁴ As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.

⁵ The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? ⁶ He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, ⁷ that the Son of Man^[b] must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”
⁸ Then they remembered that he had said this. ⁹ So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. ¹⁰ It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. ¹¹ But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it. ¹² However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings

the chief preiests thought they had rid themselves of him for good...little did they know that no tomb ever made could hold him!  Some might wonder what any of this has to do with them...I say everything!  He was sent here to free everyone from their bondage to sin, he was sent so that none of us would have to die, he was sent for you and for me!  It doesn't matter who you are, where you live in the world, god loves us all.  He hung on the tree while we were yet sinners.  He Triumphed over sin!

 Lord I am so thankful that the grave couldn't hold you down!  I am so thankful that the grave couldn't hold you down!  I pray for all those in my circle of influence, i pray that you would meet them where they are.  I pray that you would make my flame so bright that they couldn't help but come to you!

all this i pray in you name
amen

hillsong - shout unto god
all i need is you

presence

how often do we sit and think about our presence through the eyes of our children?  do they see jesus in us...or are we just in their life to provide for them?  i often think about how i am leading my children,  am i being a godly example to them?  we have been called to feed our sheep...to be an example of jesus to them.

my prayer is that i am always an example of jesus love to them, to be light to them, always be the father god wants me and has called me to be.


amen

Feeding sheep

After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
“I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.” (John 21:15-19 NLT)


How often do we sit and think about how we interact with others. How we treat others should be a direct reflection of how much we love Jesus. He called all of us to feed his lambs, to care for his sheep, to feed his sheep. We are to be his hands and feet. It could be a random act of kindness person we don't know. It could be carrying your children to bed, or reading to them.

I pray that I am always mindful that how I treat others is the something as doing it to you. I pray all fathers feed our sheep in a manner that you would!

Servant

Mark 10:42-45 GWT
Jesus called the apostles and said, “You know that the acknowledged rulers of nations have absolute power over people and their officials have absolute authority over people. But that’s not the way it’s going to be among you. Whoever wants to become great among you will be your servant. Whoever wants to be most important among you will be a slave for everyone. It’s the same way with the Son of Man. He didn’t come so that others could serve him. He came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many people.”
Lord teach us to never lord our authority over others, but always approach situations as a servant.  Give us your mindset as we walk through life.
Amen

Lost

John 21:15-19

The Message (MSG)

Do You Love Me?

¹⁵ After breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Master, you know I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
¹⁶ He then asked a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Master, you know I love you.”
Jesus said, “Shepherd my sheep.”
^17-19 Then he said it a third time: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was upset that he asked for the third time, “Do you love me?” so he answered, “Master, you know everything there is to know. You’ve got to know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. I’m telling you the very truth now: When you were young you dressed yourself and went wherever you wished, but when you get old you’ll have to stretch out your hands while someone else dresses you and takes you where you don’t want to go.” He said this to hint at the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. And then he commanded, “Follow me.”


I have been chewing on this verse for the past few days.   I am reminded of the story of the shepard and the lost sheep.  He has 99 who are doing ok, and are safe.  There is 1 that is lost and tangled up in the thorn bushes.  Does the shepard leave the 1 on it's own to find it's way home....NO  he leaves the 99 and sherches desperatly for that 1 that is lost.  

many times there are people in our lives that are that 1 lost sheep.  Everyone has at least 1 person that fits this picture.  How many times do we leave the saftey of the 99 and go after the 1?  Lord i pray that i am never too comfortable in the saftey of the 99 to go look for the 1.  I pray that you clense and protect me as I live my life openly for you. That I will never be ashamed to proclaim you name to the lost sheep of the world.  Lord you are my cornerstone, my rock and foundation.

amen

hillsong - cornerstone

parenting

Some people don't quite understand how important it is for parents to be there for their children.  It breaks my heart knowing that there are children that will grow up seeing their parents fight, seeing their parents angry and in-different  towards their children.  watch the youtube link at the end of this blog, it will explain exactly why it is so important that us as fathers be there no matter what for our children.



 John 21:15-19
New Living Translation (NLT)
15 After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?[a]”

“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”

“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.

16 Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”

“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.

17 A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.

18 “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others[b] will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”


The question we all must ask ourselves is are we feeding our sheep (children) gods word and ways ( in our ways and actions ), or are we letting them eat the thorns the world has to offer?





i am second - annie lobert

Sheep

Are we feeding our sheep, or letting them eat the thorns and briers of the world? As I stand here fixing breakfast for my family the lord reminded me of John 21: 15-25 and mark 10:41-45

John 21:15-25
New International Version (NIV)
Jesus Reinstates Peter

15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

20 Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) 21 When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”

22 Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” 23 Because of this, the rumor spread among the believers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”

24 This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.

25 Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.


So are we feeding our sheep with gods word, or allowing them to eat of the world? As a father it is my responsibility to make sure my family eats and drinks from gods word. I am not to be served, but to serve them to the best of my ability, and I will do that with all that is in me! I challenge all those who read this to do like wise. We can make a difference one family at a time!

weak

2 Corinthians 12:1-10
New Living Translation (NLT)
Paul’s Vision and His Thorn in the Flesh

12 This boasting will do no good, but I must go on. I will reluctantly tell about visions and revelations from the Lord. 2 I[a] was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don’t know—only God knows. 3 Yes, only God knows whether I was in my body or outside my body. But I do know 4 that I was caught up[b] to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no human is allowed to tell.

5 That experience is worth boasting about, but I’m not going to do it. I will boast only about my weaknesses. 6 If I wanted to boast, I would be no fool in doing so, because I would be telling the truth. But I won’t do it, because I don’t want anyone to give me credit beyond what they can see in my life or hear in my message, 7 even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.

8 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. 9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.


Having been under the weather the past few days I can appreciate being weak.  I feel tired and run down, but i know in my weakness that jesus is right here beside me, supporting me, carrying me when i feel i can't go on my own.  many will pray for strength, but only when we are weak are we strong.  Jesus knows when we need his strength, and will provide it, never leaving us or forsaking us.  He could have easily waved his hand in the garden when he was arested and made the whole thing stop...but he didn't.  He knew what he had to do.  I am forever grateful for that gift!

 Third day - offering

roots

Matthew 13:3-13

GOD’S WORD Translation (GW)

³ Then he used stories as illustrations to tell them many things.
He said, “Listen! A farmer went to plant seed. ⁴ Some seeds were planted along the road, and birds came and devoured them. ⁵ Other seeds were planted on rocky ground, where there was little soil. The plants sprouted quickly because the soil wasn’t deep. ⁶ But when the sun came up, they were scorched. They withered because their roots weren’t deep enough. ⁷ Other seeds were planted among thornbushes, and the thornbushes grew up and choked them. ⁸ But other seeds were planted on good ground and produced grain. They produced one hundred, sixty, or thirty times as much as was planted. ⁹ Let the person who has ears listen!”
¹⁰ The disciples asked him, “Why do you use stories as illustrations when you speak to people?”
¹¹ Jesus answered, “Knowledge about the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you. But it has not been given to the crowd. ¹² Those who understand these mysteries will be given more knowledge, and they will excel in understanding them. However, some people don’t understand these mysteries. Even what they understand will be taken away from them. ¹³ This is why I speak to them this way. They see, but they’re blind. They hear, but they don’t listen. They don’t even try to understand.


Often it seems that you can tell how deep a persons roots are in how they act.  Some are calm almost never seeming to get upset.  Others seem to get upset if the wind blows the wrong direction.  Still others never seem to he happy, or calm about anything, their lives seeming to be filled with bad deeds or thoughts.  Sometimes a person can seem to slip from one of these three to another, the evil one has many tricks and will do anything to trip us up and cause us to uproot from where we are.  It's just like a message i have heard preached, you are paralyzed by the past, afraid of the future, or present in the present. 

lord i pray that the more time i spend in your word, the deeper my roots sink into your good soil.  I pray that the more i spend in your word the harder it will be, eventually becoming impossible, for the evil one to trip me up.  I want your holy fire to rein down on me, that my fire would burn so bright that i would ignight others.

amen

Living water

John 37&38

37 On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”[a]

Footnotes:
John 7:38 Or me. And let anyone drink 38 who believes in me.” As Scripture has said, “Out of him (or them) will flow rivers of living water.”



Rivers of living water. All too often in life we are like the tight rope walker walking over a raging storm underneath . The wire is slippery and keeping balance is at times difficult. Jesus is always right there with us no matter how dangerous the situation might seem. He walked the line for us, can't we walk the line for him?!

Lord I am so glad you are always with me as I walk the line through life!

Amen

i will!

while riding around with the family today doing normal saturday stuff i had a hillsong cd in the radio.  The first song on it was beneath the waters.  I like this song anyway, but there is just something special about hearing my four year old daughters singing along to hillsong - beneath the waters at the top of their lungs.  It really touched me.  I pray that as the grow up they will really realize what jesus did for them on the cross.  I will do my part in witnessing to them.  It is so important for them to know that jesus is their cornerstone, that no matter what jesus is right beside them.  That even when they think that they are alone in what they are going through that ne is right there, laughing with them, crying with them, wanting to comfort them when they are sad and broken hearted.  It is my job and privledge as their father to make sure they know!