INTO THE DEEP
INSPIRATION
12/17/08 . . . We're on His Mind
Even the smallest encouragement is magnified when it comes from the Lord, and when He speaks major words of support, it's an "over the moon" experience. I had become discouraged while waiting for the arrival of something the Lord promised me many months ago. The promise is big and bright, and it will have a huge impact on my life. Of course the enemy told me relentlessly that "I must have misunderstood," and these lies were taking a toll.
Then one morning when I awoke, before my mind had settled on anything specific, God said to me, "Am I a man that I should lie?" Immediately, I recognized this as a scripture I hadn't thought of in years.
God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill? - Numbers 23:19 NIV.
How could this be any clearer? The Lord firmly but lovingly restored my hope in His promise. He certainly has a way with words. God has a lot on His mind regarding every one of His children, and He has much to tell us. If we listen, He will encourage us and fill us with His hope—not once a month or once a week, but every single day. Even every hour, if need be.
12/10/08 . . . The Peace of God
Stress has been defined as "being in a situation where we expect to fail and thereby lose respect and favor." Ouch! Nobody in their right mind wants to feel this way. We work hard to avoid being "in over our heads," and when we have a choice, we pick situations in which we feel comfortable and confident.
Christians can read for years about about "casting our cares upon Him." But when we actually experience the rescuing arm of the Lord from stressors both great and small, we find new confidence in His care for us. Continued surrender to His nurturing love is a step of faith and a new beginning. We won't find ourselves stressed nearly as much or nearly as often. Anxiety fades away as we are transformed to be calming influences in this turbulent world.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus - Philippians 4:6,7.
11/29/08 . . . The Fullness of God
For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God - Ephesians 3:14, 17-19.
More than just a possibility, being "filled with His fullness" is the absolute will of God. The problem is, most of us don't take His presence seriously. We don't understand the potential of this enormous gift or the new responsibility we have. Lifeless "religion" has often replaced the God's truth and power. We may have moments of profound spiritual connection, but we generally operate by human reasoning. Instead of being dependent on God, we lean on our own understanding.
Now think of what might transpire if you fervently seek the Lord and quickly obey all promptings of His Spirit. Before long, your spiritual hearing would be perfectly tuned to God's frequency. Being a trusted friend, your life would be a vessel of His transforming, healing power. This power would flow through your words and your touch. Even your shadow would make a difference. God's fullness in you would "set the captives free."
Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father - John 14:12.
Jesus tells us we'll do GREATER works than He did while on Earth. He expects miracles to be a routine part of our day. We should not succumb to false humility and lack of faith when we're free to believe God's word. If we follow the voice of the Spirit, always trusting and obeying, God will respond by giving us more of Himself. Then one day we'll find that He has achieved His purpose: We'll be completely filled—with love and life and all that God is.
10/31/08 . . . God Can
God has no expectations of our "flesh." He knows it will always fail when the pressure is on and our buttons are pushed. This flesh will never get any better.
The only way to consistently act in a Godly manner is to abide in Christ and be filled with His Holy Spirit. Then, whenever we're given a clear command, we'll also have the power to accomplish it. Whether it be simply to keep our mouth shut or to move a mountain, the Lord is always available to work through us.
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth - Acts 1:8.
We can't mend relationships that have come undone—but God can. We can't protect our families or our country from enemies within and without—but God can. We can't heal the sick or raise the dead or save a soul from hell—but God can. All of these things and more, God wants to do through us.
10/14/08 . . . Thy Kingdom Come
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven -
Matthew 6:10 KJV.
We are planted in situations that cause us to learn about God. This often happens on our jobs, where a variety of tests can take place. Maybe the current manager isn't Godly, and instead of solving problems, he only makes them worse. Or maybe we're surrounded by numerous types of dysfunction, with each allowed to freely run its destructive course. Working in such an environment will lead us to pray for guidance. The Lord will always answer, but His wisdom sometimes comes on the wings of another trial. He helps us to learn new precepts by sending more ways to apply them.
Complete understanding of a spiritual precept includes revelation of how it can change our lives and our world. Christians have power to bring God's kingdom—His way of doing things—into any disorder we face.
Don't forget, the enemy wants us to think our lives are spinning out of control—in our homes, on the job and in our government. Satan hopes we'll become discouraged and fearful, eventually taking matters into our own hands. Instead, we'll use the power of faith and prayer to bring God's kingdom here to Earth.
10/7/08 . . . A Song of Deliverance
You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance - Psalm 32:7.
The closer we get to God and the more we receive His promises, then the more resistance we'll meet from the enemy. The troubles of life will try to close tightly around us. Even though character is purified in difficult situations, and much fine-tuning takes place, we still need encouragement from the Lord to get through times of testing.
Recently, I've experienced attacks from several directions, but I have peace because I know that God is in control. I'm comforted by a vision He gave me a few weeks ago:
I was a palm tree—tall, healthy and green. Hurricane winds were blowing me very hard. Though I withstood the fury of the wind and rain, I was being splattered with bits of murky foam churned up by the roaring sea. I was concerned about the meaning of the foam, so I asked God to explain. He told me not to worry because even though I didn't like the mess and the insult of being splattered, this would not damage me in the least. Then He laughingly said that nobody has ever been hurt by sea foam. Life can often be challenging, but if you spend some time with the Lord, He will give you clues about what is going on. This insight will keep you strong as you weather your raging storm. A "song of deliverance" will come to you, just as one came to me.
10/2/08 . . . He Strengthens Hearts
Oh, love the Lord, all you His saints! For the Lord preserves the faithful, and fully repays the proud person. Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord - Psalm 31:23,24.
When we're full of hope and faith about an important promise from God, then we're energized and glad. We look to the future with joy. But there are times when the enemy subtly convinces us that "it will never happen." Those are not good times.
When I first fell for this kind of deception, I was unaware of why I felt so bad. Then I gradually realized that I was suffering from an illness called "loss of hope." Over time, I've learned to recognize the symptoms when they first begin instead of later when I'm thoroughly depressed. Now I run to God immediately with my doubts and fears. The sooner I do this, the faster He can strengthen my heart.
Christians are often caught in a tug-of-war between faith and hopelessness. When we feel the enemy pulling us into disbelief, we absolutely must resist. Moving toward God through the Word, prayer and worship will always put distance between us and enemy lies.
9/22/08 . . . One Word from God
Some Christians wonder why God doesn't speak to them as often as He does to others. I'm convinced that we hear frequently from the Lord when we put value on what He's already said. Whenever He speaks to me, I write it down. Then if the enemy distracts me from a message, I'll find it later and be reminded. One word from God has the power to change my life, and I don't want to lose track of it.
The Lord is quite willing to talk with us, but He communicates on His terms, not ours. Christian ears can become "deaf" to God's voice if previous instructions have been lightly esteemed or completely ignored.Maybe you're steeped in knowledge from the Bible, but you don't understand your need for personal words from the Spirit of God. Knowledge and wisdom are precious gifts, but they must be applied with relevance to each situation we face. If you don't seek personal direction, then you probably won't receive it.
Now is the time to go to the Lord. Sincerely ask Him to open your ears, then listen with a heart that is willing to obey and ready to be amazed.
He awakens me morning by morning, He awakens my ear to hear as the learned. The Lord God has opened my ear; and I was not rebellious, nor did I turn away - Isaiah 50:4,5.
9/15/08 . . . Don't Settle
We all deal with situations that are tiresome and demoralizing. Some Christians complain, send up a quick prayer for change, then go on about their business. The next day they're confronted with the same problem, and over time they grow resigned to the ugliness of dysfunction. But others get angry enough about the sin around them to launch a fullscale spiritual assault, knowing that "adjusting to evil" is almost the same as condoning it.
To which camp do you belong? Is sin allowed to flourish in the realm of influence that God has assigned you? Or do you respectfully set higher standards while waging a holy war on evil strongholds with many hours of worship and prayer?
Do not settle for anything less than what Jesus died to give you! The time has come for Christians to reclaim what is ours. We must go to war for our families and our country—for total salvation from top to bottom, inside and out—for life, wholeness, freedom and purpose.
Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place - 2 Corinthians 2:14.
9/8/08 . . . Freedom
If I were an animal, I would like to be a "shore bird." I'm fascinated with these graceful creatures that feed and frolic at the water's edge, running from the waves just before they crash. If humans get too close, these birds simply fly to another spot on the shore. The beautiful White Ibis stab their beaks into wet sand and grab hidden crustaceans, while Egrets and Herons wade into the water and catch small fish.
Shore birds have plenty of options to choose from. In addition to saltwater shorelines, they can congregate and feed along river banks and lakes. They are completely free to pursue and enjoy their purpose in life.
Now, what about you? Do you indulge in the freedom that is yours? Jesus came to release the captives (Luke 4:18), so you needn't be trapped by the kingdom of darkness ever again.
God has set before us a feast of holiness, provision and power. We're free to select all that we will wisely use. We are free to become like Him.
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" . . . . . Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed - John 8:31, 32, 36.
8/19/08 . . . Sing to the Lord
We should be lifting our voices to God throughout each day. He delights in our praise and even pipes it into His throne room to be uplifted by its beauty (Psalm 22:3). Yes, God savors the sound of our love for Him!
Sometimes I sing popular Christian songs to the Lord, but I also approach Him with lyrics I learned as a child. If God has a library, I'm sure it includes many hymnals from centuries past—collections of songs that have poured from the hearts of His adoring children.
Occasionally, I will sing along to some "oldies" and put God into the picture. "Unchained Melody" is wonderful to sing to the Lord when it comes sincerely from the heart. God never intended for the "love of our life" to be a man or a woman. Instead, He implores us to love Him with all of our heart and soul and mind (Matthew 22:37).
Just as little children perform for their parents, you can show your love to God in a private presentation of song and dance—then look for the smile that is surely on His face.
I will sing to the LORD as long as I live. I will praise my God to my last breath! May he be pleased by all these thoughts about him, for I rejoice in the LORD - Psalm 104:33,34 NLT.
8/8/08 . . . Grace Abounds
But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more . . . - Romans 5:20.
When making his point to the Romans, Paul wrote these words in past tense. But they are just as true today, so we can claim them in present tense. We still have plenty of sin in this world, and grace still abounds "much more."
Because God "makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust" (Matthew 5:45), a certain amount of grace is given to all who live and breath. But to enter the overwhelming flood of God's power and love, Christians must use the key of faith. If the crumbs that fall to the unsaved world no longer satisfy you, then rise up and claim the banquet that is yours.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God -
Romans 5:1,2.
Open your Bible, and let the Word light up your heart. Know that God's grace through you will make an impact in this world.
8/1/08 . . . God Has Chosen the Weak
The Lord goes to great lengths to strip away our pride and show us our need of Him. To do this, He may surround us with those who have more education and money, greater social skills, and superior physical attributes. It's good to have a realistic view of our condition.
It's also important to see how the unsaved world behaves when pursuing an agenda. Systems and fraternities exist to protect and promote their own. Against these groups, a Christian cannot stand without the help of God. We are often considered dispensable if we get in someone's way. So in addition to our weakness, we find that we live in a world of greedy, controlling people. But with God, there is always good news:
But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence -
1 Corinthians 1:27-29.
Now that's exciting! If you are weak or base or despised, then the Lord desires to use YOU to pull down some mighty strongholds. If you draw near to Him and align with His holy purpose, then through YOU the unsaved world will behold the power and love of God.
7/22/08 . . . Abiding in the Lord
In the challenging days ahead, "abiding in Christ" will be paramount to our effectiveness in the Kingdom of God. We will need more of the Lord's strength, encouragement and daily direction. This supernatural empowerment will not be ours from a distance. Only as we draw near to the Lord with a sincere heart—valuing His presence above all else—will we receive what we need.
God places us in hard situations and tight places that we cannot handle or navigate on our own. He shows us how much we need Him and how to avail of His help. This learning curve is very steep, and some give up when the tests become painful. But those who stay the course and learn to abide in the Lord are rewarded beyond measure.
If you're wondering what you need to be prepared for, then your situation is dire. It's time to seek the Lord with all your heart, and do it now. Find out what is on His mind. Spend time in the word. Praise Him and thank Him. Worship and adore Him. Then quietly wait for Him to speak.
I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you - John 15:5-7.
7/8/08 . . . Enter His Rest
We human beings—body, mind and spirit—need plenty of rest from our labors. God chose to rest after His work of creation, and those who are made in His image should do the same.
And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done - Genesis 2:2.
Most of us know how to rest when we've finished working. But the Lord wants us to be at rest during our work and during the trials and tribulations we face. As we turn to God for help with the storms of life, we see Him calm our troubled waters. We learn how to be at peace in a variety of situations. Each intervention of the Lord on our behalf becomes a building block for entering His rest. By these we learn to trust His word, His character and His love for us.
Our trust in God is the key that opens the door to His rest, but some Christians indulge in the enemy's temporary fixes instead of using that precious key. Let us beware of settling for any type of sedation, distraction or seduction. These will never supply the unique rest that only comes from the Lord.
Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it - Hebrews 4:1.
6/23/08 . . . Sanctify Yourselves
And Joshua said to the people, "Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you" - Joshua 3:5.
Coming with the dawn is the end-time harvest of souls. The Holy Spirit is giving increased power to those who are ready to serve. Some Christians will receive a strong prophetic anointing to encourage and give direction. Others will discover the gift of healing on their lips and in their hands. God has unique gifts for all who will simply believe for His glory to be poured out.
But first, we must sanctify ourselves. This was God's word through Joshua many years ago, and it's still His word for us today. The Holy Spirit is whispering to those who hear His voice. He tells of God's plans to reveal Himself to the world very soon. And He also speaks of holiness. To be anointed by God, we must be holy.
Jesus' blood has already met the requirement for perfection. Every sin has been paid for, so we needn't worry about "being good enough." It is our hearts that have to be pure. We must promptly respond when God pulls back on our reigns or nudges us left or right. If we fall into sin, we must repent quickly instead of stalling and dragging our feet. A pure heart embraces humility and submits to what it's asked to endure—if not immediately, then certainly after some time alone with God.
Will you sanctify yourself? Will you prepare for the glory that is coming soon—maybe even tomorrow? Will you meet the Lord with confidence to receive His marvelous gifts?
6/5/08 . . . Personal Missions
Every day we're confronted with the difficulties in this world. Many people are without food and shelter while others use vast resources to promote their evil agendas. Family values are under siege, and our children are pummeled with filth by the entertainment industry. Society crumbles around us as we watch.
What can we do to change these things? Where do we start? Can we even make a dent in the mountain of problems? What does God require from us?
First of all, we must pray. We can stop disease, resolve conflicts and turn our world around by simply praying. We dare not neglect this mighty weapon!
We must also give. Being led by the Spirit, we must give to individuals, churches or Godly organizations This action blesses us as well as others, especially when done with a joyful heart.
Our spiritual gifts should be exercised. If we are prophets, teachers or healers, then we must prophesy, teach or heal. With these gifts, we offer life and hope to others.
We need to be available. Our Lord has marvelous plans to transform the world through each of us. Since the day we were born, He's been grooming us for unique projects and ministry that are perfectly matched to our experience, gifts and talents. We must listen for His calls to action.
Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: "Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?" Then I said, "Here am I! Send me." - Isaiah 6:8.
5/22/08 . . . Opportunities
It's easy to be stressed by the trials of daily living. The enemy tries to wear us down by picking away at our strength, little by little, day after day—a very effective strategy against Christians. If we respond to the pressure with human reasoning and human strength, we'll soon become tired, discouraged and depressed—certainly not the "light of the world" that we are called to be.
On the other hand, daily annoyances can work for us instead of against us if we understand that God uses them to train us. If you find yourself resisting this idea, then ask the Holy Spirit to give you revelation. This concept is very important to comprehend and embrace.
Many of our trials involve the selfish attitude, distorted perception or emotional immaturity of another person. Often, these problems provide a door for us to enter with unexpected words and acts of love. If we're looking for opportunities instead of dealing with problems, then we'll be more likely to respond with the heart of God.
But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you . . . But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them - Luke 6:27, 28, 32.
5/17/08 . . . Being a Friend of God
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you - John 15:15.
You know you're a friend of God when He begins sharing His plans with you. The Holy Spirit told me an amazing secret a few weeks ago. At first I felt a bit of pride, but only for a moment. Having a special secret between me and God that no other human knows is really the coolest thing. It's been a bonding experience at a whole new level. Because this secret will grow into a life-long venture, we have plenty of talking to do. Oh my goodness! The Lord and I have a big project together! I really am excited!
The secret has created a need to know much more. I've been shown the framework of something big, but I don't yet know the details. I'm certain the Lord will fill me in as we spend time together. He has ideas, and I do too, so there will be much discussion. Yes, we'll talk together as friends. We'll plot, and we'll plan, and we'll enjoy each other's company.
I've always felt good about God loving me, but being His friend is amazing.
4/28/08 . . . By the Grace of God
Christians are recipients of God's grace from the day we're born. Even though we're unaware of His presence, God protects us and directs our steps. We may think we're lucky or even deserving of what comes our way, but we don't suspect that it's grace. We don't even know what grace is.
Later, through salvation and sanctification, we begin to see our helplessness and our desperate need for God. We discover that we're unable to be "good" apart from His life within us. As consecration continues, our self-confidence crumbles, and we cast ourselves entirely on the mercy and grace of the Lord. Finally! We know that we are wretched apart from God.
Grace brings us to the cross and to the end of ourselves. Now God has a willing vesselthrough which to work. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me - 1 Corinthians 15:10.
4/4/08 . . . Giants
I awoke one morning with a flurry of concern and negativity swirling in my mind. Looming on the horizon were issues I soon would have to deal with. I began to meditate on what God has already told me about the coming year, and it wasn't long before He spoke: "They're only giants."
Now, that almost sounds like sarcasm, but I knew it wasn't. The message was music to my ears. With three words, God let me know that I have nothing to fear. The changes ahead may look too hard to handle, but they're only "giants of the land" that can be easily slain by faith. Just as God told Joshua before he crossed the Jordan to claim the promised land, He tells us all today:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" - Joshua 1:9.
The giants we face are not always people. Sometimes they're new circumstances that are strange and as yet "unconquered." The story of Joshua reveals the heart of God toward every Christian. If He tells us to go somewhere, we can rest assured that He goes with us. We will surely encounter giants along the way, and we can always view them as something to sharpen our teeth on. With God by our side, how could they possibly hurt us?
For you will cross over the Jordan and go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you, and you will possess it and dwell in it - Deuteronomy 11:31.
3/28/08 . . . A Challenge to Forgive
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses - Matthew 6:14,15.
Most Christians are aware that God will not forgive us if we don't forgive others, but some of us have lost sight of this fact. We've been subtly deceived into thinking it's okay to hold small grudges and even big ones if the offense was bad enough. The consequences of believing this lie are grave, so let's embrace the truth and start forgiving.
Forgiveness of another person is between you and God. The offender shouldn't be informed that "they're forgiven" unless they ask to be forgiven.Forgiveness doesn't require warm, fuzzy feelings. It is an act of the will. Sincerely determine that the person is forgiven, and your mission will be accomplished.Make a list of those you need to forgive. Start with early in life, then move into the present. As you remember each person, tell God that you forgive them. Prove your forgiveness by praying for each person on your list. To prevent backsliding,be prepared to pray for these people every time you're tempted to be angry again. Have you forgotten that Jesus suffered and died so that all could be forgiven? Then listen carefully: God will not condone your holding grudges. Withholding forgiveness will prevent your prayers from being answered. This sin will open doors of illness (Exodus 15:26) and ultimately shorten your life. Forgiving an offender will benefit you more than anyone else.
3/21/08 . . . A Measure of Growth
Do you think about your Christian maturity? Do you wonder about the true condition of your heart? One sure way to measure your growth is by listening to the words coming from your mouth.
For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks - Matthew 12:34.
Uh oh! Are you feeling convicted already? Many of us should be. Our modern culture teaches us to be assertive and confident—to be bold and strong—to speak what's on our mind. This worldly attitude does not value holiness or humility. It doesn't honor those who wisely hold their tongue instead of "taking charge" with sharp and resolute words. I know the Holy Spirit is grieved when our mouths reveal what we carry in our hearts.
Determining to keep our mouths shut will not work. The enemy knows exactly how to push our buttons and loosen our unstable lips. The only cure for those evils we harbor within is the presence of Holy God: We are cleansed by His blood, renewed by His Word and sanctified by His Spirit.
Hide Your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me - Psalm 51:9,10.
3/14/08 . . . Behind the Scenes
. . . being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ . . . - Philippians 1:6.
It's a joy to watch the heart and hand of God in action. Behind the scenes and only discerned by spiritual eyes, great and mighty works are taking place. The Spirit of God stirs us to pray for change, then His hand moves skillfully at our bidding. Doors are opening. Routes of passage are being cleared. Hearts are melting and being transformed. Darkness and void is filled with light and life. We are blessed so we can be a blessing. We are taught so we can teach. We are lifted up in prayer so we can succeed in praying for others.
Our world is bursting with God's power and purpose, just waiting for believers to set it in motion with faith, prayer and Spirit-led action. Would you like to be part of this supernatural agenda? Then humble yourself before God and let Him lead you into His purpose. You will soon be engaged in prayer and spiritual warfare—those hidden activities that quietly get the job done.
Lord, please lead us deep into the battles. Take us to the front lines where we can see specific needs. Invade our prayers with your wisdom so victory will be swift.
3/4/08 . . . Overcome Evil with Good
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good - Romans 12:21.
Evil forces will intimidate us, but only if we allow them to. Fear tells us to quietly back away with our tail between our legs, but faith exhorts us to fight with determination for what is already ours. Maybe a family member is living apart from the will of God. Instead of fretting and criticizing, we must begin with prayer. If we ask, the Holy Spirit will reveal the root of any sinful behavior. Then we can bind specific evil spirits and loose the Spirit of God into the situation. Maybe a co-worker is behaving selfishly, causing continuous strife in the workplace. Instead of being drawn into the conflict, we must fight in the spiritual realm.
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him - James 1:5.
And what about our nation today? The United States could certainly be destroyed by evil within
or without. But this is not the will of God. If we pray according to His heart and His Word, then God will heal our country and bring it to a brighter glory than ever before.
. . . if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land - 2 Chronicles 7:14.
God is revving up the hearts of His people to bring tremendous change to this world. You can be a part of this coming movement. You can overcome evil with good.
2/16/08 . . . Thank You, Lord
Serving God can be difficult, but also a lot of fun. Some of His assignments are in realms that we might run from if He weren't bidding us to stay. But other tasks fall into the category of "just plain fun." Either way, whether difficult or enjoyable, each path we're set upon has the distinct smell of victory. Jesus has gone before us to clear the way, and His scent is in the air.
Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it - Colossians 2:15.
Thank You, Lord, for winning an absolute victory over sin and evil. Please open our eyes to the truth of what belongs to us. Let us see clearly the paths ahead that each of us must travel. Fill us with Your boldness and joy in everything we do at Your request.
And they sang a new song, saying: "You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth" - Revelation 5:9,10.
2/4/08 . . . Face to Face
Meeting God face to face would be a life-changing encounter. Our hearts and minds would never be the same. Seeing who God really is would make us acutely aware of our own condition, just like the prophet, Isaiah, who quickly repented of his sin and was cleansed by a coal from the altar:
So I said: "Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said: "Behold, this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away, and your sin purged" - Isaiah 5:5-7.
As we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. We don't need to be perfect to enter His presence, but a desire for holiness is certainly required.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God - Matthew 5:8.
1/24/08 . . . Choosing God
Our thoughts and feelings don't always line up with God's perspective. A huge factor in our growth is learning to get still, quiet and in touch with the Lord. Once we're connected, we receive revelation that helps us align with His heart and purpose.
Getting still, quiet, in touch and aligned takes time and determination. But as we allow Him, the Holy Spirit draws us near and helps us abide in God's presence. Every time we choose time with the Lord instead of a favorite distraction, we are blessed in numerous ways. This spiritual momentum continues as long as we choose correctly.
"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded - James 4:6-8 NIV.
Scripture is crystal clear on the subject. God cares how we spend our time and energy. He wants us to lust after Him and His kingdom instead of the things in this world. I believe we can have as much of the Lord as we really want, so let's begin "choosing God" in every hour of every day.
