Grab Hold To Courage Today

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.

(Psalm 31:24 KJV)

Just ask The Lord God for courage to face what is before you. Courage is yours for the asking and receiving. We often don't have it in ourselves to face with strength the trials, sorrows, disappointments, requirements, tribulations, unfairness, rejections, horrors and struggles in this earthly life. God, in his mercy, that is not always evident, has provided help for us. He has opened the door for us to come to him at any time of the day or night, in our minds. Our minds are often very weak, and we just don't feel like coming to God's open door, even if it's just a thought away. The thoughts of this life and what many of us face every day overwhelm us. As long as we know, without a doubt, that we trust in the Lord, we know that we have help in any time of need. It may not seem like it at times, but our faith requires that we believe it. With that ever present belief will come change.

  

Ask him for courage today, and receive your strength. You may not feel it, but it will rise up and enforce in your circumstance God's power, and the power of all of his angels in Heaven, who encamp around you, because you have a Holy fear or reverence and appreciation of the Most High God, the Only Wise God, and the One True God.

Have You Made Jesus Christ your Savior? Have you wondered about it? Longed for it? Played around with the idea of becoming a Christian? Have you wondered if God could and would really ever help you? God the Father has made it possible for you to come to him and be saved forever in only one way, through accepting his only Son, Jesus Christ, as your Savior, and the only Savior of mankind. Choose to believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so that you can be safe in God's kingdom, safe in his loving arms. That's it. No matter what all of the different denominations and Christian organizations call it, it is the same. Say with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead for you, for each of us who choose to believe, and you shall be saved. Then you can go confidently before God at any time, and know that he hears your prayers and will always answer, according to his will, because you acknowledged his Son. You will never again have to fear death, because Jesus conquered it at God's request.

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You'll Feel Better Right Away

One of the most wonderful things about God's Word is its ability to remind us of the help, love and abundant provision that we have.

~

When we don't feel like reading, and we're not feeling particularly faith-filled, if we will just pick up something and begin to read, we'll be refreshed. This uplifting and renewal can come from Christian books, pamphlets, devotionals, scripture cards, and even song books,

not only from the Bible. 

The Holy Bible, however, is the best book to incorporate into our daily schedules. His Word restores and invigorates. It is everlasting and endures to all generations (Psalm 119:89-90).

 ~

So pick up something of God, and start reading, even if your heart is not into it. You'll feel better right away.

Image: Pixabay.com free images

Scripture text added by: The Handmaid

The Christian, Mental Illness & God

When suffering with emotional and mental challenges, Christians often ask questions such as is something wrong with me? Who will help me? Should I see a doctor and get a diagnosis? Why is this happening to me? Does God really care? Will I ever be free from this horrible suffering? 

There are many reasons that we struggle mentally. Some of them are hereditary, trauma and tragedy. The environment in which we grew up can cause and/or increase mental struggles. Despite the severity of these challenges, the Christian has a source of help that others do not have. Chantal C., a Christian blogger and artist who has managed her mental challenges for many years, shares,

"When we suffer tragic events and huge changes in our lives that lead to trauma, and on top of that have a mental illness, life can overpower us. We may even be in therapy and taking medication but due to our inner suffering, our support network does not seem to be enough.

What it comes down to, is that when we feel overpowered, trapped and defenseless by situations that are happening in our lives, the one we must go to is God. He is the one that will empower us, free us and give us strength to live the life He wants us to.
We must also ask Him the difficult questions we cannot figure out and understand. Why the torment? What purpose does it serve? With God there is a reason and as painful as our torment is and as hopeless as we may get, we must remember to always trust in Him. He provides for us a way out of our anguish through prayer and Scripture. Let us not give up on His love and salvation, the grace He has given us. Let us always strive for that newness of life in Christ."

I met Chantal through a Google+ Christian group, and was impressed by her insight, progress and honesty in journeying through the painful valley of Christian mental illness. I consider mental illness to be a challenge more so than a death sentence, though sadly it has resulted in death for many. It is, however, no more difficult to manage than other life challenges that also have resulted in death for Christians.

We don't know the answer as to why some Christians are crippled beyond repair by damaged emotions and mental processes, just as there is no understandable answer as to why some people in this world suffer so much more than others. Whatever the level or severity of the mental challenge of any Christian, the answer is always to look to God through Jesus Christ and what he did for us on the Cross. There is always hope in suffering, but some are so damaged as to not be able to grasp this hope, to go about obtaining help, or even to pray. It is important for us who can to always pray for those who suffer mentally and emotionally and who cannot help themselves.

Chantal graciously agreed to answer some deep questions about living with and healing from mental illness and emotional challenges. Here are her heartfelt, insightful and profound answers.

1.  When did you first know that you needed help with your mental processes? 
Though I struggled with mental illness most of my life, it was not until seven years ago, in 2008, that I realized I needed help. My world came crashing down on me and I needed hospitalization. I no longer had the mental and physical health I once did. My body shut down and depression settled within me. I felt like I was failing at life, making one mistake after another—broken relationships and lost of employments. I was once very motivated and had my own photography business but as time went on, it seemed like I was fading away from all that was positive in my life.

I realized I needed extra support when I overdosed twice in 2011. I was living with many life-changing experiences all at once and my mental health could not handle it.

I remember when I came out of the psychiatric hospital how ill I still was. My mind was filled with dark thoughts all the while I felt so alone inside. My emotions where still out of control as they wrestled within me. However, four months later I received the support I needed.

2.  Was there anyone to help you? 
I had many counselors since 2008 but it was in January 2012 that I finally found the right therapist. I started to work on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for personality disorders. This helped me tremendously to understand negative thought patterns, emotions and behavior. I am still in therapy as it takes many years to recover from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Nevertheless, I am healing and doing better than ever.

I also received spiritual guidance. This helped me to seek deliverance as I became closer to God. I also learned many things about myself and God, especially that there was hope for me and that I could find it in Jesus. I was encouraged to read Scripture such as Psalm 51. Eventually, I knew God was giving me a fresh start—a chance at recovery.

3. Did you have formal diagnosis and treatment, and what advice do you give about seeking it?

When in hospital in 2011, I was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), later confirmed by another psychiatrist. The diagnosis was a relief to me, as I finally knew what mental illness I suffered from. This explained why I had such a chaotic and distressing life. Receiving a diagnosis helped me to realize I was not the only one struggling this way. This gave me hope. I then started my recovery journey consisting of therapy, medication and spirituality.

In my opinion, I think it is important for a person with mental illness to receive a diagnosis. This guides them in the proper direction for their healing process. Accepting what illness they have and seeking the right support are the first steps to recovery.

4.  How long have you known the Lord and how did you become a Christian? 
I have known the Lord since my early childhood years. My mother was there for me and shared her beliefs about God. As I got older, due to my symptoms, I often drifted on and off my Christian path. One thing I have always known throughout the years was that Jesus was my Savior. I always found consolation in knowing this, especially through the difficult times.

Nevertheless, it was not until three and half years ago that I truly became new in Christ and felt like my life was being transformed. I grew stronger in hope and trust towards God, and my recovery. I started to live that intimate relationship with Jesus, even in the midst of illness. 

5.  During your hardest times, have you ever felt that God does not care, or wondered if He even exists?

I know God always exists, but I felt like God did not care so much, when I lived through spiritual emptiness. These were times where I felt a deep emptiness within my core.  Moreover, I could not sense Him, feeling lost in my spiritual life and on my recovery journey. During the past four years, I have experienced spiritual emptiness many times. I either experienced it for hours, days or even months. Nonetheless, this emptiness would not last, my soul would resurface to God’s Light and I would be in awe of Him—knowing that He is always there even in the darkness.

6. How do you justify the suffering of mental illness with God's love? 
God loves all His children. The suffering that Christians with mental illness go through, is due to this fallen world we live in.  God does not want us to feel the agony of mental illness; He wants us to be happy, healthy and holy.

In order for this to happen, we must realize that we have a recovery journey to undertake and that an essential part of it concerns our relationship with God. We must seek Him with all our hearts in order to heal. Just as we have to accept our mental illness, we have to accept that God’s love is there for us, no matter what we have. Moreover, that His love is stronger than all our weaknesses.

7.  When did you start writing about your journey? 
I was inspired to write about my recovery journey during the year of 2012. When I became new in Christ, I felt called to share God’s Word, especially in a way that would help others with mental illness. Through my lived-experience and this newness of life, I decided at the end of the year to publish my blog. I not only wanted to express my healing process but also give others hope that recovery is possible. 

8.  What is your goal when you write about being a Christian with mental illnesses? 
I want people who are Christians and have mental illness such as BPD, to not feel alone with their inner pain. I know from my own experience the confusion and self-condemnation I struggled with concerning symptoms and faith. I believe others may feel the same way, therefore my goal is to be real, ease the suffering, give hope, offer compassion, and share God’s message. Therefore, to bring them closer to God with a better understanding of themselves within their Christian faith.

9.  When did you start painting and what do you do with your work? 
I have been painting on and off during my life, but the work that I treasure most is what I have worked on during these past four years. My paintings have expressed my pain with mental illness but also the hope of recovery.

I presently share my work on my blog and with Google+ communities.

10.  Are you trying to share a message through your paintings? 
While viewing abstract art, a person can see many things and feel different emotions. Therefore, it is something one lives for themselves. However, what I hope for others to experience when they see my paintings is to be moved in a positive way, and that the artwork may speak to them personally.

11. Can the Christian with mental illness be completely free of it? 
I believe that Christians who suffer from mental illness can find freedom from the torment of their symptoms especially if they have chosen a spiritual life along their recovery journey. Besides therapy and medication, finding our spiritual identity in the midst of the healing process is essential to that freedom.

I believe that individuals with BPD can recover, without a doubt, from their mental illness. I say this because I have always believed from the beginning of my recovery journey that I would recover someday, and I am gradually, three years later. Besides therapy, I knew I could only recover with my ultimate Healer—God. 

I think that recovery, for Christians with mental illness, becomes a success when they have stopped suffering from the majority of their symptoms, and they have started to discover and accept their individuality and the truth about themselves—who they really are without the illness. It is when they have finally found their way to that happier, healthier and holier life. They are free from the inner pain, they sense joy and peace in their lives, and the wounds that their soul suffered from, are finally healed.

Chantal C.

Chantal C. has lived with mental illness since her early teens. Her turning point came in 2012, when with therapy and spirituality she gained insight into her illnesses. Though she had drifted in and out of her faith as a Christian, during this time she found new life in Christ. Her desire is to offer hope to other Christian mental illness sufferers. She enjoys painting, photography and writing, and considers these activities to be healing therapies. 

Chantal has discontinued her two blogs,  Mental Illness & The Christian Faith, and Chantal's Art & Photography, and is working on a new blog presence.

 

True Peace Is Possible For You

The Law is certainly a hard taskmaster, and the devil uses it to browbeat Christians. Most Christians struggle with the insidiousness of this oppression. We're born under The Law, and rather than being left behind when we step over from the flesh-based life to the Spirit-based walk, it (The Law) usually piggy-backs on our re-birthing. It tags along as we begin our journey with God.

Christians become confused by scriptures that state faith without works is dead, we are our brother's keeper, avoid the very appearance of evil, if you keep my commandments and but be ye doers of the word and not hearers only. Because of this, we often actively help with the erroneous integration of the doing of The Law into our lives.The admonishments and encouragements mentioned above are Biblical, good, true and totally possible, but the realization of them in our lives is not Law-based.

Dealing with these guidelines and instructions through the spirit of man ~versus~ through the Holy Spirit of God produce opposite results. These results, which correlate with holiness, are not obtained by working to do The Law. These are Holy Spirit-based results that instill true peace, rather than creating a false peace resulting from us continuously searching for it, as in trying to do The Law.

When we are at peace, we know that we have allowed the Holy Spirit to create holiness in us, thereby fulfilling the law, so that we can live in the freedom of not having to strive to fulfill it ourselves.

Holy Spirit-based holiness also reduces the incidence of Christian judging of others. The Law judges. If we live by The Law (which means we would always be in a state of attempting to, because we can never fulfill it), then in addition to having a judgmental spirit about others, we also constantly judge ourselves. This is one of the ways in which the peace of God eludes us when we try to do The Law to make ourselves righteous and without spot or wrinkle. True and everlasting peace cannot develop and thrive under these conditions.

Peace flees when we are constantly aware of the faults of others, and judging and condemning them. Peace is repelled when we carry the burden of our own faults, struggling to correct them and make them line up with The Law. Peace is annihilated when we strive to do The Law, rather than doing the work of believing Christ.  When we arrive at true peace, we know that we have allowed the Holy Spirit to create holiness in us, thereby fulfilling the law, so that we can live in the freedom of not having to strive to fulfill it ourselves.

REMEMBER 

Man + The Law = no peace or false peace.

Man + Christ's Atonement = TRUE PEACE.

 

Image from Pixabay Free Images

How To Replace Death With Life

Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him. (John 5:22-23 NIV)

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. (John 5:24, KJV)

Just as the Father is himself the source of life, in the same way he has made his Son to be the source of life.  (John 5:26, GNT)

Because I live, you will live too. (John 14:19)

Jesus Christ of Nazareth spoke the truth about himself.  

Pass from death to life, today.

Image Credit: Pixabay Free Images

God Is Processing It For You

As we are believing, praying and waiting for various things to come to pass in our lives, it helps to understand that our God is a god of processes. The Free Dictionary by Farlex defines a process as  "A series of actions, changes, or functions bringing about a result." We can see this behavior of God at the beginning of the Bible.

A process is "A series of actions, changes, or functions bringing about a result."

We can see God's principle of processes by starting in Genesis, where we are told that He created the Heavens and the Earth in 6 days. The 7th day was also a process; the process of purposeful, scheduled rest. Even when we experience what appears to be an instantaneous miracle, it is the result of God's procedure of instigating processes to bring about a desired result.

I've heard it said that any person becomes saved because at some time in history, someone prayed for that person. That was a process. Angels were dispatched and the Holy Ghost commissioned to bring about the work. They attended to the drawing of that person to the salvation that God offers through the sacrifice of His only son, Jesus Christ. Some experienced that process when they fought with God before yielding to His calling. Others were not aware of God's process when they surrendered to God without a long battle.

A process is used "To prepare, treat, or convert by subjecting to a special process," or procedure.

Another illuminating definition for the word process is "To prepare, treat, or convert by subjecting to a special process." The word procedure also defines how God operates. "A process is a set or series of actions directed to some end or a natural series of changes; a procedure is a series of actions conducted in a certain manner, an established way of doing something."

"A procedure is a series of actions conducted in a certain manner, an established way of doing something." 

Understanding that God is a god of procedures and processes helps us to endure, with Godliness, the trials and tribulations that He allows to come upon us. It does not matter how small or how devastating a test, trial or training is. If it has the potential to discourage, depress and distract the servant of God, then we must embrace it as a process of God. In order to triumph in our walk with God, we have to accept that He always uses processes and procedures, whether He speeds up or slows down the realization of the end result.

Only in understanding this can the strengthening scriptures take root and empower us to overcome challenges and grow in the Lord.

Only in understanding this can the strengthening scriptures take root and empower us. Romans 8:28 means nothing without grasping hold to this operation of God. Isaiah 26:3 falls on deft ears without considering this principle of God. Romans 12:2 is useless without understanding that God creates change through processes. James 1:4 will bear no fruit without the hearer understanding that God is a god of processes. We need firm footing in order to cooperate with God when we are asked to endure. Only then can we obtain what He so lovingly wants to give.

One day is like a thousand years to God, and vice versa. Even so, it is still a process. Whether we feel the processing in our flesh, or whether our desires seem to manifest swiftly and miraculously, God began the process of delivering to us long ago. He will keep His promises to us, and His Word is true. If we choose to understand this simple principle of God and endure in the way in which He would have us to, then we'll reap all of our desires that we long for and ask for, according to His will.

We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him,

those whom he has called according to his purpose.

(Romans 8:28 GNT)

 You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you,

because he trusts in you.

(Isaiah 26:3 ESV)

 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world,

but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

(Romans 12:2 NIV)

But let patience have her perfect work,

that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

(James 1:4)

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Image credit: plaum

Scriptures taken from: BibleStudyTools.com
All definitions taken from: TheFreeDictionary.com

With Faith

If you have received this week's post via email or maybe feed, you may not be able to see this video by Kutless, titled What Faith Can Do.

Follow the link to the blog so that you can be inspired by this great song, which has the lyrics displayed also.

Just another reminder that it is your growing faith that will carry you through to all of the wonderful blessings that you are believing God for.

Without faith you cannot stand firm and wait, expecting what he has already sent your way.

Faith is necessary to obtain what you have asked God for.

You can tell what you have faith in by what you do each day.

If you say you have faith that something great is going to happen in your life, and you don't find yourself doing little things to prepare for it, you don't REALLY believe it. If you don't REALLY believe it, you can't receive it. So the question to ask yourself is this, If I have asked and confessed that I believe that God has heard me, and that this thing is done in God's spiritual world, why am I not preparing to receive it in my natural world? Why am I going about each day as if nothing is coming? Why am I having to ask God for the same thing over and over again, if I really believe that it is done?

It is easy to grow your faith. Ask God to increase it, and then obey as he prompts you. He will make sure that you will feel the prompting when he does it. It will be up to you to respond and obey.

Without faith it is impossible to please God, because God is pleased when our lives reflect health, wealth, happiness, joy, peace, compassion, love, long-suffering, goodness and meekness, under all circumstances. These things bless us and elevate us above the darkness of this world. God is happy and pleased when we are living with his best and growing into more of his best, every day, no matter what our circumstances are. These things can be received only through faith.

Jesus said to him, If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes. 

(Mark 9:23, NKJV)

Belief is the same as 

F * A * I * T * H.

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Scriptures taken from: Bible Study Tools

Good Thinking For Good Things

I read this encouraging devotion in a Guideposts booklet titled Courage: Finding Your Strength In Troubled Times:

One of the most powerful traits in human nature is that when you maintain a mental attitude of trust and faith-when you hope, dream, believe, pray and work toward God's assurance-you will create conditions in which every good thing can come to you.

It reminds me of the popular belief that 

like attracts like.

It is also the inverse of misery loves company, Murphy's law and garbage-in-garbage-out. There are many passages in the Bible that encourage the growing Christian to surround himself with positive-thinking people, in other words to be equally yoked. The Bible also teaches us that within the realm of faith, Murphy's law does not and cannot exist. It is not true that anything that can go wrong will go wrong.

Another important principle that the Bible promotes is that in studying and thinking upon good things, we input them into our hearts. From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, or

good-things-in-good-things-out.

Our words always get their cue from what is in our hearts.

The Bible also alerts us that in determining to think good, positive, healthy thoughts, we are maintaining a mental attitude of trust and faith in God's ability and love for us. As a result, our thoughts and words will create the future that we desire; whether tomorrow, next week or next year. In essence, we will be opening the door and paving the way for God's goodness to come in and flourish.

Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life.

(Proverbs 4:23 KJV)

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

(Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

 

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Resources:

Image Credit: Trip Advisor, http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotos-g34172-w1-Daytona_Beach_Florida.html

Quote Credit: (c)2008 Peale Center for Christian Living Guideposts Outreach GuidepostsFoundation.org

Scriptures Taken From: Bible Study Tools, http://www.biblestudytools.com/proverbs/4-23.html

Seeing The Ducks For What They Are

We serve a Good God, the Most High God, the Only Wise God, the One True God. No matter what is looks like and sounds like, God is in control of our lives, if we've given him that. It is said that if it looks like a duck and quacks like duck, it is a duck. The world, the flesh and the devil would have us believe that the struggles, difficulties, challenges, trials and tribulations that we are experiencing is just the way it is, and will always be. There is another way, though, to think upon this.

The negatives in our lives that look like ducks and sound like ducks are not ducks. They are not what it is. The only thing that IS is our God. He has our very best interests at heart. The Heart of God IS. The Heart of God IS alive. The Heart of God IS caring.

If you are challenged today or tonight; depressed, downtrodden, disturbed, disabled, devastated, dislocated, discombobulated or demeaned, remember what God can, will and IS doing in your life.  He IS the Great I AM. He's not just some shadowy, idealistic vapor in our imagination, and way up there somewhere. He is here. Let go. Believe. Submit to his loving care, his instructions, his prompting, for he IS: the RESTORER, the RENOVATOR, the REVEALER,  the REPLENISHER, the RENEWER, the REVITALIZER, the REJUVENATOR, the REFUELER, the RESTOCKER and the REDEEMER!


Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
(I Chron. 16:34 NIV).

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Image Credit: http://newlaunchout.com/bartley-ridge/
Scripture Source: http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?q=give+thanks+to+the+Lord.

Ask For Courage To Hold On

Some challenges and trials just seem to be too severe to continue enduring. We're not sure how to handle a particular situation that is unfair, depressing, painful, distressing or even devastating. We wonder why it is happening. Like with Job, some may come to say that we've done something wrong, or offended God in some way, but Job had not committed any wrong that justified his suffering. When we honestly can't think of an offense that we may have done, we are once again puzzled and depressed about why this agonizing situation is happening to us.

Sometimes, we feel guilty about past thoughts and deeds, and wonder if we are being punished for them. If we believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ and all that He did to pay the price of sin for us, we know that God does not punish us. When we remember the absolutes of the Gospel, we again wonder why we are going through this. We again ask why is it happening.

We understand that though we've been forgiven by God through Jesus' sacrifice for us, often we have to live with the consequences of past deeds. Sometimes we can make them right and enjoy smooth sailing regarding those deeds, and sometimes not. God does not always prevent or alleviate the reaping in this earth of what we sow. If this is not the case, reaping for sowing, regarding a particular trial, then what is it?

The truth is that there is often no answer, that we could ever find in this world, for what we are suffering through. Sometimes we are not given an answer when we ask God why. It has been said that some answers will not come until we are with God. Of course, ironically it probably won't matter then.

Whatever the cause of what you are going through, if you believe God and His Word, you will want to hold on through it all. You'll want to endure until the end of the trial; because often there is a special blessing in it for us. There is often the growth to be had that we need in order to receive the higher up blessings that we desire. And the end will come, one way or another. God has ordained an end to suffering I once heard someone say. I believe that. Whether your trial is mental, physical, emotional, social, financial, etc., it will not go on longer than God allows. It is to the Christian that all things work together for good. It is to those who believe that God takes hard and difficult things and turns them in to something good.

Dear Lord: Bless this reader with courage to hold on to faith and to endure what you have allowed. Help him to stand firm and obtain the blessing that this trial will provide. Give her the wisdom to discern between what you have allowed and what circumstances are not of you. Bless him with the knowledge to end any trial or challenge that is not ordained by you. In Jesus' name I ask. Amen.

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Background Image In Graphic Credit: hdwpapers.com

Keep Growing And Flowing

I know that you are committed and faithful about seeking God's face. You are faithful in drawing nigh to him. You don't seek counsel from those who don't love the Lord. You refuse to practice the un-Godly ways of unbelievers. You don't socialize with those who scorn the Kingdom of God.  You delight in the things of God, and you meditate in his Word day and night. You work out your salvation with fear and trembling every day. Because of this lifestyle, you are like a tree planted by the rivers of waters, that brings forth fruit in it's season. Your leaf shall not wither, and whatever you do shall prosper. You are on a roll, in God and for God.

 

You will run across others who desire for you to be bound, as they are, because they have not advanced as you have. They will want you to be fearful, as they are, because they are still living in fear. They will want you to draw back, as they do, because they can't move forward in their faith, or lack of faith. Don't buy into it. Don't receive it. Allow your faith, your God-given insight and your power through freedom in Christ to reign. Don't turn back. Don't be drawn back. Keep pressing forward in studying and learning. Rivers of living waters flow from your belly, but that water is only for those who will partake of it, as God ordains.

As you continue to be filled with blessings, you will bless. Flowing waters of blessings from God in to you. Flowing waters of blessings from God out to others who are ordained to receive. Don't allow those who can't receive from you to stop your flow. Get wisdom. Get understanding. Protect your relationship with the Lord.

Dear Lord: Send anointed friends and associates to those who are growing in you everyday. Close the hedge of protection around your servants who obey you, and who prove daily what is your good and acceptable and perfect will. We thank you for only allowing the appointed ones to get through to close fellowship with them. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Psalm 1:1-3

Romans 12:2

Philippians 2:12

John 7:38

Proverbs 4:5,7

Proverbs 16:16

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Image Credit: loewus9_photos
Scripture References: Bible Study Tools

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Paul's Letter Of No Condemnation

Paul grabbed hold to the essence of his salvation.

Because of his past persecution of Christians, Paul elaborates in Romans on the great state of grace that we are under. This grace that we are free to receive was bought for us through Jesus Christ's sacrifice. Paul's agenda can be seen as an ultimate sin by some, to harass, persecute and murder those who choose to accept The Christ as Savior. Paul must have felt a great burden when his past came to mind. I believe it came to mind often.  How could so infamous of a past not torment the perpetrator. Through his torment and his desire for relief, Paul was able to quickly grasp hold to the spiritual truth of salvation.

Paul's ministry, after he encountered Christ on the road to Damascus, is a large part of the story in Acts. However, though the bulk of Paul's life figures heavily in Acts, he did not write it. At times as we read, we would think that he had. Luke penned Acts, which some feel should have been named The Acts of Paul. If you have read Acts, you may have felt a natural flow to proceed into Romans. This is because Paul wrote Romans, which is actually a letter to friends in Rome. This letter is full to overflowing of the wonderful fact that we are saved by grace, not works. Scripture upon scripture reminds us of this, and is there for whomever will drink of The Living Water of The Word.

Paul grabbed hold to the essence of his salvation. Because of that he was able to obey God and to hold on until the end. God infused him with power and might. The only thing that mattered to Paul was to be able to preach and teach the gospel, whether bond or free, in Jerusalem or Rome, in a jail or hired house, before kings or peasants. He was on a mission on which he could have never conceptualized that he would be. Never would he have dreamed that he would endure a burning and driving desire to speak on behalf of God. He advanced to instant faith, as in scripture, Acts 28:3-6, and he practiced the laying on of hands. He ran headlong into the conflicts which God presented to him with determination and consistency. He never tried to save himself.

Grab hold to the real essence of your salvation, that you therefore do not have to live with a feeling of condemnation about your past, because you are in Christ Jesus. Since you choose to live by the Spirit of God and not according to your fleshly existence, you enjoy freedom from guilt about your past actions, whether they were yesterday, last week or 10 years ago. When those evil memories surface, cast them down with The Word in Romans. Paul  wrote it so that you could live free, just as he did.

Dear Father: Bless this reader with a dynamic understanding of your words of freedom in Romans, and in other places in your Word. In Jesus name I pray. Amen. 
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Image Credit: vincenthteh

The Fullness Of All Three: Don't You Want It?

No matter what you call them, we need all 3.

There is great debate about whether or not there is just one God, or three beings, and whether or not the Godhead should be called a Trinity. No matter what you call them, we need all 3. Many of us need strong comfort, and we need it everyday. God sent His Holy Spirit into this lost and dying world to comfort us. (John 14:16, 26). He fills us positionally, and additionally whenever we ask for a fresh refilling. Without the ever-abiding work of the Holy Spirit, there would be much more worldwide chaos and suffering than there is.

Paul, that great converted Christian-hater, said that he kept nothing back "that was profitable" from those whom he taught. He testified equally to the Jews and the gentiles that we should have "repentance towards God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ" (Acts 20:20-21).

Some declare that they worship God, but vehemently reject Jesus Christ of Nazareth as the only avenue to God, and label Him as just a prophet and a good teacher. Jesus said, "He that hates me hates my Father also" (John 15:23). In the 14 and 15 chapters of the Gospel of John, Jesus talks extensively about His position as being the One through which we are able to reach, connect with and commune with God. He establishes that He is the way through which God has chosen to forgive each individual who chooses to walk through that door.

Some swing in the far opposite direction, choosing to idolize Jesus when Jesus himself declared that only God is good. Jesus consistently pointed to God as the source of love, and the provider of The Comforter and The Sacrifice, which was Jesus. Jesus sacrificed His earthly life for us because God provided Him as a sacrifice. Jesus' sacrifice is Our Hope. Sure we have a lot to be thankful to Jesus for, but Jesus was obedient to God. Jesus also said "the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the works" (John 14:10). Additionally, he did not say no man comes unto himself, but "no man comes unto the Father but by me" (John 14:6).

Repentance to God puts us in a position of forgiveness. Faith in the atoning Blood of Jesus puts us in a position of remission. Receiving the Holy Spirit puts us in a position of reception. God forgives us. The Blood of Jesus releases us. The Holy Spirit helps us to receive the goodness of God, and comforts us each day as we wait for God's avenging of our Savior Jesus Christ.


Don't be taken in by the battle over words and titles. God is in Heaven. Jesus is at his right hand. The Holy Spirit is in this world. Decide for yourself that you will live in the fullness of the Godhead. Give them a name, or not. Receive all that God has to give, through all of His avenues. He loves us so much. Love originates with Him. Don't forget WHO it was who gave us Jesus.

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Scriptures taken from the KJV.
Image Credit: joahkim2375

If You Believe It’s A Miracle, Then It Is

Recently, when space became available for me to participate in an educational program, I felt that it was a miracle from God. As I shared it with others, some said that openings came every day. Some said that someone was always leaving the program and making an opening available. The implication was that my chance to enter the program was nothing unusual, but was a common occurrence.

At first, I started to adopt this attitude about my blessing, but my spirit rose up and said, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of Lights..." James 1:17. "Commit thy way unto the Lord, trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass...” Psalm 37:5.

I believe with all my heart that the way into this program was paved for me by God. I believe I could have easily missed the opportunity by an hour, or by a day. I believe that God placed me in the right place at the right time, and that I could not have done that myself; not regarding this circumstance anyway. I chose to reject the idea that my blessing was commonplace. I chose to continue to embrace the conviction that it was a special gift from God.

I believe that to allow my faith to flourish like this is to “...draw 'nigh to God and he will draw 'nigh to you..." James 4:8, to become deeply rooted and grounded in Christ Jesus, and to become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit. For me it keeps the door open for His power to work in me and through me for others.

If someone wants you to believe that your miracle is an everyday, common occurrence, cast that attitude down as “…a high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God...”  II Corinthians 10:5, the knowledge of what you know God has done for you.
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Image Credit: whsung

whsung

whsung

whsung

whsung

Reject Revenge, Receive God's Blessings

Taking revenge cheats us.

Have you ever thought about what scathing comments you would return to make to someone who angered you? Ever planned what to do to someone who hurt you? Do you entertain thoughts of revenge, because of mistreatment, unfairness and maliciousness? Do you replay the imaginary scenes of revenge over and over? In your anger and suffering, you have no difficulty justifying these thoughts and plans, right?

The truth is, revenge is never justifiable, because God said in his Word, Vengence is mine. I will repay (Rom. 12:19 KJV). When we reject meting out revenge, and even go so far as to repay evil with good, we heap glowing coals onto the heads of those who spitefully use us (Prov. 25:22 KJV), especially for those who are not repentant and who continue in their behavior. But God's revenge and the heaping coals should not be our focus. They are facts that give us comfort, as we choose a higher path.

God is grieved, not because we plot revenge, but because in doing so, we cheat ourselves out of his blessings. This is what taking revenge, whether physically or mentally, does. It's based in the flesh, and we know that in fleshly behavior dwells NO good thing (Rom. 7:18 ESV). To be carnally minded is death. There is no useful thing in thinking on revenge. To be spiritually-minded is life, and peace.

When we are wronged, our battle is not with flesh and blood, or persons, groups, companies, etc. These are the entities that we see when we plan revenge. Spiritual thinking and taking on the spiritual weapons of God causes us to look past these entities, and see our real enemies, principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph. 6:11-12 ASV).

When we take our pain, our suffering, our fears, our angers and channel them through the spiritual principles in God's Word, we become empowered to receive His blessings. His blessings, while they manifest in the physical world, originate in the spiritual world. If we don't choose the spiritual path when we are treated unfairly, we cheat ourselves out of spiritual blessings. We receive from God by relating to him in spirit and in truth. The truth is that the warfare is spiritual, not physical, not fleshly, not carnal.

I know that it is hard. It is difficult. It is not easy to not at least think on revenge, if not being determined to do it. When we can't change our situations, and are subjected to unfairness and hostility, revenge seems the only way out, at least temporarily. While we receive temporary, fleshly relief when we choose revenge, it has no lasting significance. It also eats away at self-esteem and we really don't feel good about ourselves. Don't do it. Don't think on revenge at all, if you truly want and need help and blessings from God.

If we deal in revenge in any way, God won't be cheating us, we will be cheating ourselves. We can't walk in the flesh and receive from the spirit. Oil and water don't mix, and we can't plant orange seeds and harvest apples. We can receive the strength and courage to turn away from relying on the flesh to make things right. All things are possible to him who believes (Mark 9:23 CEB).

Reject revenge and choose God's spiritual weapons, directed at the real enemies. When we do, all things work together for good, we are kept in perfect peace, the Lord becomes our light and our salvation and we don't fear anyone (Psalm 27:1 KJV), and we overcome the world. As Max Lucado said recently, when he was speaking on Daystar, You can make it through this. If we actively take on God's weapons of warfare against spiritual wickedness, we will win God's blessings, with flying colors.

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Image Credit: sringler

sringler

sringler

sringler

Scriptures Taken From: BibleStudyTools

740 Golden Street

Years ago, I was planning to forward my current address at my son's request. I later emailed and told him that it would be changing in the spring, and I would forward it then. As I reflected upon how disillusioned my son must be with the moving around that I've done, I felt that some of his bitterness about his upbringing stems from that.

Then with the chin up, cheer up, buck up pep talk, that we are sometimes able to give ourselves, when we feel uneasy about others' perception of us, I encouraged myself. I thought well one address that I give will be permanent for all time. When I move to 740 Golden Street my address will never change again. You see, seven is God's number, the number forty is significant to God, and somewhere in eternity the streets are paved with gold.

There is much that has been said about where we will be when it is all said and done. When time is no more, when there is no more sea, and when I know God as I am known, I know that I will be somewhere from which I will never have to leave (Revelations 22:5). I won't have to worry about rent payments, property taxes or homeowners fees since Jesus paid it all in advance, forever.

I won't have to worry about making do with cramped quarters, or poorly located quarters. Jesus said in his father's house are many mansions, and that he was going to prepare a place for me (John 14:2). Whether that scripture is figurative, or literal, or both matters not to me. Jesus said it. I believe it. That settles it.

When I move to 740 Golden Street I won't have to be concerned with obtaining electric service and keeping it on (Revelations 21:23). I will exist in eternal light.

I've been packing for a while, sending my things on to Heaven for my final relocation (Matthew 6:20-21). At my final address I won't need fire, flood, tornado insurance or insurance against Acts of God. It is the act of God (John 3:16) which allowed my name to be written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Jesus Christ is my permanent insurance for my final dwelling place.

I do look forward to having a more permanent worldly address. Depending on how much longer God will allow the world to stand, or how much longer I will be here, I may have 1, 2 or 10 more addresses. I don't know. However many more there will be, and where ever they may be, none will equal the address I am most looking forward to. That address is and will always be my permanent one.

The most reliable forwarding address I'll ever be able to give you
is 740 Golden Street.

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Image 1 Credit: tlj515 
Image 2 Credit: BowenMurphy