Mark 9:50 - Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”
I had to go back and do research on this passage in order to ensure I fed you accordingly. This lesson turned out to be just what I needed today as God is right on time!
In the scriptures prior to this Jesus talks about leading people to sin and how it is better to detach a member of your body than to allow it to cause you to sin and go to hell. I'm going to assume this part of the message is either for non-Christians or to those followers that choose to ignore the discernment of spirit.
Salt is used for a number of reasons today including to add to, to preserve flavor, and to end grease fires. Verse 49 says everyone will be salted with fire. Fire here refers to trials we will face and salt refers to the quickening of the spirit which helps guide us away from temptation. Jesus calls us to have salt among ourselves - to preserve our faith and limit our desire to sin (of course by renewing our minds in the spirit/ the new identity we've taken on since giving our lives to Christ). He also cautions us not to lead others into temptation and therefore expects that we will be the salt of the world (Matthew 5:13), helping to put out the fire in others that causes them to walk in darkness.
If we lose our passion for Christ and live a life of sin how can we be seen as examples of his mercy, kindness and peace? As we walk in His light, as salt of the earth, we too must caution ourselves and heed to our spiritual instincts that bring peace not only within ourselves but with others.
Malachi 2:6 - True instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin.
Memo
Please Remember:
God is with you and will never forsake you. His Word is truly His bond and He will not mislead you, lie to you or teach you to do something or behave in the wrong manner. You can truly trust Him. When He stands by and whispers in your ear, you can trust that your walk will be in His perfect peace. Your ways will be ye and ye, and your heart will find pleasure in doing what is right and turning from sin.
Any questions? Feel free to contact the site supervisor: sheepnotes@gmail.com. Thank you.
(wink wink)
Memo
Please Remember:
God is with you and will never forsake you. His Word is truly His bond and He will not mislead you, lie to you or teach you to do something or behave in the wrong manner. You can truly trust Him. When He stands by and whispers in your ear, you can trust that your walk will be in His perfect peace. Your ways will be ye and ye, and your heart will find pleasure in doing what is right and turning from sin.
Any questions? Feel free to contact the site supervisor: sheepnotes@gmail.com. Thank you.
(wink wink)
Malachi 2:5
My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for the fear wherewith he feared me, and was afraid before my name.
I'm glad the conversation of fear and God has come up. There is a little confusion about how we are to respond to God's presence. He doesn't want us to have feelings of distress due to danger or harm in his presence because that is not His objective. Like any "natural" father God has high expectations of a positive future for us all. He wants us to feel comforted and at peace before him regardless of the topic of conversation. I think we are fearful before him sometimes because we have to be accountable for our sins and that can be scary when you're trying to do your best and feel bad about falling short. We will never be perfect. Meditate on that as you strive to be more like Christ. He isn't setting us up to fail but expects us to lean on him for guidance and growth.
When the Bible refers to fearing God, it mostly means to be in awe of, to revere, or hold in high regard. He wants us to respect Him, His Word and His voice. We need to be mindful to remember Christ in our daily lives showing and proving that we serve the real power over the earth. God wants us to understand the importance of this difference and to confirm His promise of love He again reminds us of the promise of life (given to live) and of peace (to be still, in harmony with, secure, free from). We have been redeemed by Christ to live our lives to the best of our abilities in peace and with a heart that loves like he does.
With 3 days left let us revere God and his genuine consideration and grace towards us that we may understand in the spirit realm how perfect we are in his eyes.
Amen!
My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for the fear wherewith he feared me, and was afraid before my name.
I'm glad the conversation of fear and God has come up. There is a little confusion about how we are to respond to God's presence. He doesn't want us to have feelings of distress due to danger or harm in his presence because that is not His objective. Like any "natural" father God has high expectations of a positive future for us all. He wants us to feel comforted and at peace before him regardless of the topic of conversation. I think we are fearful before him sometimes because we have to be accountable for our sins and that can be scary when you're trying to do your best and feel bad about falling short. We will never be perfect. Meditate on that as you strive to be more like Christ. He isn't setting us up to fail but expects us to lean on him for guidance and growth.
When the Bible refers to fearing God, it mostly means to be in awe of, to revere, or hold in high regard. He wants us to respect Him, His Word and His voice. We need to be mindful to remember Christ in our daily lives showing and proving that we serve the real power over the earth. God wants us to understand the importance of this difference and to confirm His promise of love He again reminds us of the promise of life (given to live) and of peace (to be still, in harmony with, secure, free from). We have been redeemed by Christ to live our lives to the best of our abilities in peace and with a heart that loves like he does.
With 3 days left let us revere God and his genuine consideration and grace towards us that we may understand in the spirit realm how perfect we are in his eyes.
Amen!
Peace Fast Day 26: The Coming of Zion’s King
Zechariah 9:9-10
9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. 10 I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River[a] to the ends of the earth.
This verse reminds me of Kirk Franklin's song STOMP. That song gets me excited it's a Holy Ghost Party. They are excited and can't explain it or contain it. When they think about the goodness of God it makes them want to clap their hands and want to dance. Zechariah 9:9-10 is a celebration. Everyone is rejoicing for our king is at hand! God comes to us with the victory and it is ours. People don't see it coming because he rides through on a donkey not a Maybach or Benz, so the gold diggers aren't checking for his glory. Though he is rich in houses and land he is humble in is approach drawing those that are weary and heavy laden because he has the power to bring them peace in a moment - in a breath. The bows are broken, the peace is ours and our ruler has come to set us free. STOMP!
Zechariah 9:9-10
9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. 10 I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River[a] to the ends of the earth.
This verse reminds me of Kirk Franklin's song STOMP. That song gets me excited it's a Holy Ghost Party. They are excited and can't explain it or contain it. When they think about the goodness of God it makes them want to clap their hands and want to dance. Zechariah 9:9-10 is a celebration. Everyone is rejoicing for our king is at hand! God comes to us with the victory and it is ours. People don't see it coming because he rides through on a donkey not a Maybach or Benz, so the gold diggers aren't checking for his glory. Though he is rich in houses and land he is humble in is approach drawing those that are weary and heavy laden because he has the power to bring them peace in a moment - in a breath. The bows are broken, the peace is ours and our ruler has come to set us free. STOMP!
Day 25 - Micah 5:5 And he will be our peace when the Assyrians invade our land and march through our fortresses. We will raise against them seven shepherds, even eight commanders,
When God came down to walk with us in flesh as Jesus he established himself as our peace - fortified the covenant and became a witness to his own glory. He didn't have to but he did in order to confirm his majesty and our victory over sin in the name of Jesus. Our enemies are a non-factor. They exist and need our constant prayer and understanding but they don't contribute to or deduct from our peace. This is a reminder as all of our lessons to date have been surrounded by the truth that is internal, unshakable, immovable peace. Jesus came and left his physical body but entrusted seven shepherds to continue to show teach his ways. We are descendants of these original messengers. Be conscious to maintain your composure in the midst of the enemy. As you travel on your righteous path know that haters will be working (for the enemy unbeknownst to them) to bring you down, to confuse you and to try and shake your foundation but the power lies within and you already have the victory.
My pastor reminds us that we can only change our lives by renewing our minds with the word of God. For us, today, that means to maintain focus on God and the peace he promised us that cannot be moved or brought down by anyone or anything in our view. Instead he will continue to provide, reveal and guide a path that is just for us in a way that is uplifting to bring confidence in our acknowledgement of the one to whom we belong.
When God came down to walk with us in flesh as Jesus he established himself as our peace - fortified the covenant and became a witness to his own glory. He didn't have to but he did in order to confirm his majesty and our victory over sin in the name of Jesus. Our enemies are a non-factor. They exist and need our constant prayer and understanding but they don't contribute to or deduct from our peace. This is a reminder as all of our lessons to date have been surrounded by the truth that is internal, unshakable, immovable peace. Jesus came and left his physical body but entrusted seven shepherds to continue to show teach his ways. We are descendants of these original messengers. Be conscious to maintain your composure in the midst of the enemy. As you travel on your righteous path know that haters will be working (for the enemy unbeknownst to them) to bring you down, to confuse you and to try and shake your foundation but the power lies within and you already have the victory.
My pastor reminds us that we can only change our lives by renewing our minds with the word of God. For us, today, that means to maintain focus on God and the peace he promised us that cannot be moved or brought down by anyone or anything in our view. Instead he will continue to provide, reveal and guide a path that is just for us in a way that is uplifting to bring confidence in our acknowledgement of the one to whom we belong.
Ezekiel 37:26
Moreover, I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them and I will place them and multiply them and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for ever more
I like the passages I pulled for our focus on peace. I chose them randomly from a concordance and am getting to know them with a fresh eye the same way you are. Ezekiel is definitely great because most of the verses begin with and. Here God again declares His covenant of peace but he adds to it and makes it a forever bond. We are in peace with God and it's an everlasting commitment. As sure as He knows everything else, you better believe God knows we will make mistakes yet, he agrees to maintain his covenant even then. How blessed are we without due cause. Yesterday I mentioned connecting to our internal spirit and this is why, God set a sanctuary inside of us where He chooses to dwell. How many of you know that God only abides in the most Holy of Holy places? So He knows we're not perfect but has made a home for himself within our spirits! This is the place where our peace resides. When we believe in our soul, tell our mind that it is so and it agrees with out spirit we have truly become one with God.
Though these times are sometimes few and far between, it is possible to actively act in spirit, speak in spirit and build or strengthen a Christ like spirit life. Don't feel pressure to be more than you are at this moment just understand that you are more than you've ever considered. You're peace comes with knowing that the covenant is everlasting. You are a living, walking breathing home for the spirit of God. With this knowledge you should understand the power inside of you - your decision to tap into the source is purely up to you. I choose the peace of God that passes understanding.
Moreover, I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them and I will place them and multiply them and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for ever more
I like the passages I pulled for our focus on peace. I chose them randomly from a concordance and am getting to know them with a fresh eye the same way you are. Ezekiel is definitely great because most of the verses begin with and. Here God again declares His covenant of peace but he adds to it and makes it a forever bond. We are in peace with God and it's an everlasting commitment. As sure as He knows everything else, you better believe God knows we will make mistakes yet, he agrees to maintain his covenant even then. How blessed are we without due cause. Yesterday I mentioned connecting to our internal spirit and this is why, God set a sanctuary inside of us where He chooses to dwell. How many of you know that God only abides in the most Holy of Holy places? So He knows we're not perfect but has made a home for himself within our spirits! This is the place where our peace resides. When we believe in our soul, tell our mind that it is so and it agrees with out spirit we have truly become one with God.
Though these times are sometimes few and far between, it is possible to actively act in spirit, speak in spirit and build or strengthen a Christ like spirit life. Don't feel pressure to be more than you are at this moment just understand that you are more than you've ever considered. You're peace comes with knowing that the covenant is everlasting. You are a living, walking breathing home for the spirit of God. With this knowledge you should understand the power inside of you - your decision to tap into the source is purely up to you. I choose the peace of God that passes understanding.
During our final seven days of peaceful meditation I'd like to present a challenge, for myself mostly, but in hopes that you too will grow and benefit from the experience. I am excited about the hope God has given me in all aspects of my life, in turmoil and during good times. I have to believe that this restoration is directly related to our peace fast. I believe that the next seven days will be the most impactful days of our fast thus far. Today's verse, Ezekiel 34:25, is probably one of the most powerful that we've studied thus far! With high hopes of positive expectations and the determination to exponentially move forward I challenge us to all hone in on our true desires and match those thoughts with positive action words, prayer and works. As we walk and believe and turn our thoughts to God we will tap into the spirit within us to reach our goals and at least move forward in our faith. Remember the key ingredients include, meditation, prayer, the peace fast and following God, our Shepherd as loyal sheep!
Ezekiel 34:25 And I will make with them a covenant of peace and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.
Let's just begin with the first word in this sentence, AND. I'm excited because, before we know what to expect God is already adding to. I know I might sound like one of those southern baptist ministers right now but that's how I feel - I feel like God is pouring more into my cup and surely it is running over!!!!
So we already know that we are in a covenant of peace with God. We learned this a few weeks back and can rest assured that our peace is internal and untouchable. Today we are given the blessed assurance that in the midst of trouble we will remain untouched so God can make true is promise of peace to his people. The thing is, more than internal comfort and joy, God understands affliction that is fleshed based and damaging so he extends our spirit's peace to cover our earthly burdens. In addition to being internally secure in your affects and emotions for God, you have "life insurance" that protects your outer man from any thing that might have you doubt.
I was driving home from work late one night in the midst of a bad storm. I was scared but a friend reminded me that the storm couldn't touch me because I was in covenant with Jesus and that's like having a bubble around me that prevents me from being hurt or harmed. This is the kind of peace God extends to us in Ezekiel 34:25. He says that in addition to proving us with internal security he will remove the beast from the land COMPLETELY so we can safely make our way even to the point of rest. That is a blessing. Today, remember how safe you are in God's grace and let that peace guide your movements. The less we worry the more we can focus on God who's grace and mercy consistently surrounds and surprises us in goodness and in truth.
Ezekiel 34:25 And I will make with them a covenant of peace and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.
Let's just begin with the first word in this sentence, AND. I'm excited because, before we know what to expect God is already adding to. I know I might sound like one of those southern baptist ministers right now but that's how I feel - I feel like God is pouring more into my cup and surely it is running over!!!!
So we already know that we are in a covenant of peace with God. We learned this a few weeks back and can rest assured that our peace is internal and untouchable. Today we are given the blessed assurance that in the midst of trouble we will remain untouched so God can make true is promise of peace to his people. The thing is, more than internal comfort and joy, God understands affliction that is fleshed based and damaging so he extends our spirit's peace to cover our earthly burdens. In addition to being internally secure in your affects and emotions for God, you have "life insurance" that protects your outer man from any thing that might have you doubt.
I was driving home from work late one night in the midst of a bad storm. I was scared but a friend reminded me that the storm couldn't touch me because I was in covenant with Jesus and that's like having a bubble around me that prevents me from being hurt or harmed. This is the kind of peace God extends to us in Ezekiel 34:25. He says that in addition to proving us with internal security he will remove the beast from the land COMPLETELY so we can safely make our way even to the point of rest. That is a blessing. Today, remember how safe you are in God's grace and let that peace guide your movements. The less we worry the more we can focus on God who's grace and mercy consistently surrounds and surprises us in goodness and in truth.
Ezekiel 13:10
“‘Because they lead my people astray, saying, “Peace,” when there is no peace, and because, when a flimsy wall is built, they cover it with whitewash,"
In this verse God discusses what will happen to false prophets. He declares that their foundations will be torn down and the he will send torrent storms to destroy their weak foundations. Many people ask me where I worship and when I share, they quickly begin to tell me why they don't go to my church and repeat all of the horror stories they've heard about the congregation and pastor over the years. I happen to really enjoy service with the pastor and congregation at the church I attend and have yet to witness any of the negative things I've heard. More so, I've learned more about God, The Bible and my own walk with this group of believers than in most other places. The thing is, church is not about the man or woman speaking. Before I enter most services, I ask that I maintain focus and am made aware of the lesson God has prepared for me or to share with someone I come in contact with. When I allow the Holy Spirit to move and trust that comfort over man's word, I find peace knowing I've exhibited Holy based faith.
God is the only one true judge. He is in charge of exposing false prophets and dealing with their judgment and the consequences attached with lying and misleading his precious, precious sheep. You can enjoy the peace of worshiping at the church you feel good at and learn from the Bible from. As long as their teachings are in line with the Word and your prayer life is in tact, God will surely show up. Trust that his covenant of peace covers your daily walk and your worship life and that He will always comfort and protect you.
“‘Because they lead my people astray, saying, “Peace,” when there is no peace, and because, when a flimsy wall is built, they cover it with whitewash,"
In this verse God discusses what will happen to false prophets. He declares that their foundations will be torn down and the he will send torrent storms to destroy their weak foundations. Many people ask me where I worship and when I share, they quickly begin to tell me why they don't go to my church and repeat all of the horror stories they've heard about the congregation and pastor over the years. I happen to really enjoy service with the pastor and congregation at the church I attend and have yet to witness any of the negative things I've heard. More so, I've learned more about God, The Bible and my own walk with this group of believers than in most other places. The thing is, church is not about the man or woman speaking. Before I enter most services, I ask that I maintain focus and am made aware of the lesson God has prepared for me or to share with someone I come in contact with. When I allow the Holy Spirit to move and trust that comfort over man's word, I find peace knowing I've exhibited Holy based faith.
God is the only one true judge. He is in charge of exposing false prophets and dealing with their judgment and the consequences attached with lying and misleading his precious, precious sheep. You can enjoy the peace of worshiping at the church you feel good at and learn from the Bible from. As long as their teachings are in line with the Word and your prayer life is in tact, God will surely show up. Trust that his covenant of peace covers your daily walk and your worship life and that He will always comfort and protect you.
Isaiah 52: 7
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
Are you a bearer of good news? Let me explain to you how easy it can be to proclaim peace. All you need to do is realign your thoughts, examine the things that are important to you and compare them to God's plan. Unsure of God's plan for your life? Pick up a Bible! Know that God could care less about most of the things we stress about. We were all placed here to deliver a message, spread the good news, proclaim peace and bring good tidings by preaching the gospel of Jesus. If you're having a bad day and trying to find new ways to lift your spirit, try talking about Jesus. When the story is retold, when you hear of his goodness - that He died for us to be free - there is no way you can remain sad, mad or depressed. Proclaim the salvation of this Earth by acknowleding that OUR GOD REIGNS, and watch the blessing come down!
Amen
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
Are you a bearer of good news? Let me explain to you how easy it can be to proclaim peace. All you need to do is realign your thoughts, examine the things that are important to you and compare them to God's plan. Unsure of God's plan for your life? Pick up a Bible! Know that God could care less about most of the things we stress about. We were all placed here to deliver a message, spread the good news, proclaim peace and bring good tidings by preaching the gospel of Jesus. If you're having a bad day and trying to find new ways to lift your spirit, try talking about Jesus. When the story is retold, when you hear of his goodness - that He died for us to be free - there is no way you can remain sad, mad or depressed. Proclaim the salvation of this Earth by acknowleding that OUR GOD REIGNS, and watch the blessing come down!
Amen
Isaiah 55:12
You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
This morning my nana (my mother's mom) died. She lived a full life, bore 9 children, raised 8 of her own teenagers, and shared in the life of 6 adults of her womb. She had too many grandchildren to count and so far only 4 great-grand sons with one little girl on the way. Her life was full and even though my family is still only dealing with her passing, we were all blesed to have had so much time with her.
Isaiah 55:12 is a great passage to meditate on during this time. It reminds me to find joy despite the physical pain. Our emotional and spiritual lives are so much more than just our physical relationships and experiences. To wake up to bad news and go out in joy is a strong indication that God is the center of your life. Meditating on his desire for your life is just one way to encourage yourself. Others include counting your blessings, giving to those in need and contemplating on the everyday miracles. When we push ourselves to go out in joy, God confirms his commitment by leading us in peace (remember the covenant we spoke about)!
If you're wondering whether you've experienced peace as a result of your joy check out the second part of this verse. Not only is our perspective renewed but our external environments change. The bible says the mountains will burst into song and the trees will clap their hands! Amen. Stabilize your peace to enjoy a joyous outcome.
More and more I've come to know that practicing and excersicing our peace produces increased levels of peace. It's like physical exercise! The more you work a muscle the stronger it gets. Three sets and 20 repeitions of bicep curls a day will strengthen your arms. Take this same formula and apply it to your peace. The more you build the harder it will be to disturb. Practice peac to gain peace. Go out in joy and God will lead you, throught the day, to peaceful outcomes.
You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
This morning my nana (my mother's mom) died. She lived a full life, bore 9 children, raised 8 of her own teenagers, and shared in the life of 6 adults of her womb. She had too many grandchildren to count and so far only 4 great-grand sons with one little girl on the way. Her life was full and even though my family is still only dealing with her passing, we were all blesed to have had so much time with her.
Isaiah 55:12 is a great passage to meditate on during this time. It reminds me to find joy despite the physical pain. Our emotional and spiritual lives are so much more than just our physical relationships and experiences. To wake up to bad news and go out in joy is a strong indication that God is the center of your life. Meditating on his desire for your life is just one way to encourage yourself. Others include counting your blessings, giving to those in need and contemplating on the everyday miracles. When we push ourselves to go out in joy, God confirms his commitment by leading us in peace (remember the covenant we spoke about)!
If you're wondering whether you've experienced peace as a result of your joy check out the second part of this verse. Not only is our perspective renewed but our external environments change. The bible says the mountains will burst into song and the trees will clap their hands! Amen. Stabilize your peace to enjoy a joyous outcome.
More and more I've come to know that practicing and excersicing our peace produces increased levels of peace. It's like physical exercise! The more you work a muscle the stronger it gets. Three sets and 20 repeitions of bicep curls a day will strengthen your arms. Take this same formula and apply it to your peace. The more you build the harder it will be to disturb. Practice peac to gain peace. Go out in joy and God will lead you, throught the day, to peaceful outcomes.
Be a Truth Bearer
There is a separation taking place between those who claim to be Christians and those who really live according to the Word of God. With the world becoming increasingly dark and depraved, it is critical that those who truly represent Jesus Christ allow their light to shine in an unprecedented way. We must be bearers of truth at all times and in every arena in which we find ourselves. God has called us to share the Gospel with the world; it is the Great Commission.
Sharing Jesus with people is not an option when you are born again, but a commission. The world needs to hear the truth about Jesus and what He came to do for mankind. There are many different belief systems and religions, but none of them offer redemption from sins and the opportunity to have a new spiritual nature. Only through accepting Jesus Christ are these things made available to us. Without Jesus, man has no hope for redemption or cleansing of sin. Only through faith in Him are we made righteous and given the right to stand before the Father without a sense of guilt or condemnation.
How important is it to share the Gospel with others? It is essential, according to the Word. Jesus Himself, in Mark 16:15, gave very straightforward instructions to His disciples, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” As followers of Christ, we are also His disciples, which means this commission applies to us as well. We are to share the Gospel with people at every opportunity.
Ezekiel, Chapter 33 describes the person who witness to the truth as a “watchman” who is actually looking out for the souls of other people. When we know the spiritual condition of our friends and loved ones who are not born again, or when we come in contact with someone who does not know Jesus, as those who do carry the knowledge of the truth within us, we must do all we can to let people know they are in need of a Savior. Ezekiel 33:7-9 (NIV) says, “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you will surely die,’ and you do not speak out to dissuade him from his ways, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood. But if you do warn the wicked man to turn from his ways and he does not do so, he will die for his sin, but you will have saved yourself.”
Even though this is an Old Testament passage, it also applies to the necessity of us evangelizing the lost today. What a cruel act of selfishness to have understanding about the need for redemption through Jesus Christ and not share it with others who are spiritually perishing. Many times, people are scared to tell others about Jesus for fear of being looked at a certain way, but the Word says we cannot be ashamed of the Gospel for it alone has the power to bring salvation.
God has given each of us a specific sphere of influence where we have been called to share the truth of the Gospel. Our unsaved family members and friends should definitely hear about Jesus from us, regardless of whether they accept Him or not. Our job is not to cause people to receive the Lord—that’s God’s job. Our job is to make sure that everyone who has contact with us hears the truth.
Besides telling others about the Lord, one of the most significant ways we can be truth-bearers is to live an uncompromising lifestyle for God. People observe the way we carry ourselves as Christians, and they also take note of any hypocrisy or behavior that contradicts the Word of God. If we want to be excellent witnesses of what Christ has done in our lives, we must make the Word of God our final authority and align our thinking and behavior up with the Bible’s standard. Being a doer of the Word preaches a sermon that is undeniably truthful.
Take a moment to make a list of people who are close to you that do not know Christ. Pray and ask the Lord to show you how you can effectively minister to them if you have not done so already. Pray for those who are unsaved and ask that God would send laborers to cross paths with them to share the Gospel in a special way that they would listen to and understand. Be a bearer of truth and light wherever you go so that when your time comes to go before the Lord you will hear Him say, “My good and faithful servant—well done.”
— Creflo A. Dollarhttp://www.worldchangers.org/monthly-BeaTruthBearer.aspx
There is a separation taking place between those who claim to be Christians and those who really live according to the Word of God. With the world becoming increasingly dark and depraved, it is critical that those who truly represent Jesus Christ allow their light to shine in an unprecedented way. We must be bearers of truth at all times and in every arena in which we find ourselves. God has called us to share the Gospel with the world; it is the Great Commission.
Sharing Jesus with people is not an option when you are born again, but a commission. The world needs to hear the truth about Jesus and what He came to do for mankind. There are many different belief systems and religions, but none of them offer redemption from sins and the opportunity to have a new spiritual nature. Only through accepting Jesus Christ are these things made available to us. Without Jesus, man has no hope for redemption or cleansing of sin. Only through faith in Him are we made righteous and given the right to stand before the Father without a sense of guilt or condemnation.
How important is it to share the Gospel with others? It is essential, according to the Word. Jesus Himself, in Mark 16:15, gave very straightforward instructions to His disciples, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” As followers of Christ, we are also His disciples, which means this commission applies to us as well. We are to share the Gospel with people at every opportunity.
Ezekiel, Chapter 33 describes the person who witness to the truth as a “watchman” who is actually looking out for the souls of other people. When we know the spiritual condition of our friends and loved ones who are not born again, or when we come in contact with someone who does not know Jesus, as those who do carry the knowledge of the truth within us, we must do all we can to let people know they are in need of a Savior. Ezekiel 33:7-9 (NIV) says, “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you will surely die,’ and you do not speak out to dissuade him from his ways, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood. But if you do warn the wicked man to turn from his ways and he does not do so, he will die for his sin, but you will have saved yourself.”
Even though this is an Old Testament passage, it also applies to the necessity of us evangelizing the lost today. What a cruel act of selfishness to have understanding about the need for redemption through Jesus Christ and not share it with others who are spiritually perishing. Many times, people are scared to tell others about Jesus for fear of being looked at a certain way, but the Word says we cannot be ashamed of the Gospel for it alone has the power to bring salvation.
God has given each of us a specific sphere of influence where we have been called to share the truth of the Gospel. Our unsaved family members and friends should definitely hear about Jesus from us, regardless of whether they accept Him or not. Our job is not to cause people to receive the Lord—that’s God’s job. Our job is to make sure that everyone who has contact with us hears the truth.
Besides telling others about the Lord, one of the most significant ways we can be truth-bearers is to live an uncompromising lifestyle for God. People observe the way we carry ourselves as Christians, and they also take note of any hypocrisy or behavior that contradicts the Word of God. If we want to be excellent witnesses of what Christ has done in our lives, we must make the Word of God our final authority and align our thinking and behavior up with the Bible’s standard. Being a doer of the Word preaches a sermon that is undeniably truthful.
Take a moment to make a list of people who are close to you that do not know Christ. Pray and ask the Lord to show you how you can effectively minister to them if you have not done so already. Pray for those who are unsaved and ask that God would send laborers to cross paths with them to share the Gospel in a special way that they would listen to and understand. Be a bearer of truth and light wherever you go so that when your time comes to go before the Lord you will hear Him say, “My good and faithful servant—well done.”
— Creflo A. Dollarhttp://www.worldchangers.org/monthly-BeaTruthBearer.aspx
Day 20: Isaiah 54:10
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.
What more can I say to convince any of us that God, our father, will not leave or forsake us? We are in relationship with God. He is our father and will listen to and provide for us without it being warranted. His covenant is an agreement between us and Him - where he promises to provide. You have to know the power of a promise from God. He cannot tell a lie! So if God says something, it is so forever more. Not only will his love never fail us but he promises to maintain our peace - to never remove it from our make up. Yesterday I mentioned peace being born into us like one of our organs such as a kidney or lung. The same way God won't come down one day and remove our lungs while we sleep, he assures us that he will never come down and remove his promise of peace. If God promised us peace why are we depressed, stressed and disappointed? Once you meditate and know this scripture to be true in your life, for yourself there is nothing that can stop you - no obstacle too big to be defeated by God's unfailing love for you or the presence of His eternal peace!
AMEN.
Tomorrow's reading: Isaiah 55:12
Day 19
Isaiah 48:18
Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments then your peace would have been like a river and your righteousness like the waves of the sea.
When I read the first few words of this passage I think of the title of Zora Neal Hurston's novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God. While here, God discusses what the benefits would have been had his children been obedient, we have a cheat sheet - a real live question and answer manual to help us along the way. If we pay attention to God's commandments we will have peace like the waves of the sea. The waves of the sea ride the shore consistently, which leads me to believe we will have steady peace that washes away the doubt. If ever there seems to be an air of doubt or confusion - LOOK UP! Pay attention to God and His commandments and your peace will flow through fluidly like the waters of the sea.
Next passage Isaiah 54:10
Isaiah 48:18
Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments then your peace would have been like a river and your righteousness like the waves of the sea.
When I read the first few words of this passage I think of the title of Zora Neal Hurston's novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God. While here, God discusses what the benefits would have been had his children been obedient, we have a cheat sheet - a real live question and answer manual to help us along the way. If we pay attention to God's commandments we will have peace like the waves of the sea. The waves of the sea ride the shore consistently, which leads me to believe we will have steady peace that washes away the doubt. If ever there seems to be an air of doubt or confusion - LOOK UP! Pay attention to God and His commandments and your peace will flow through fluidly like the waters of the sea.
Next passage Isaiah 54:10
I know I'm behind but we're pushing on nevertheless...
Day 18
Isaiah 32:17
The fruit of righteousness will be peace. The effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.
When I speak about change and growth, I usually mention this blog and my journey of peace realization. I tell people that I've come to know that my peace is a birthright, given to me like a rib that cannot be taken by anyone without my willingness to give it to them. While this is true, Isaiah 32:17 goes on to show that we can experience the fullness of our peace when we practice living in a way that is edifying to it's illumination. In other words, our good works will prove to bring forth fruits of peace, quietness and confidence. Beyond knowing that we own our peace, that no one can take it from us or distrupts its stillness - we have to know how to increase our overflow. This is done by being good shepherds over our lives, choosing to do the right thing and making integrity-based decisions that create calm instead of havoc.
Next reading Isaiah 48:18
Day 18
Isaiah 32:17
The fruit of righteousness will be peace. The effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.
When I speak about change and growth, I usually mention this blog and my journey of peace realization. I tell people that I've come to know that my peace is a birthright, given to me like a rib that cannot be taken by anyone without my willingness to give it to them. While this is true, Isaiah 32:17 goes on to show that we can experience the fullness of our peace when we practice living in a way that is edifying to it's illumination. In other words, our good works will prove to bring forth fruits of peace, quietness and confidence. Beyond knowing that we own our peace, that no one can take it from us or distrupts its stillness - we have to know how to increase our overflow. This is done by being good shepherds over our lives, choosing to do the right thing and making integrity-based decisions that create calm instead of havoc.
Next reading Isaiah 48:18
Day 17
Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts you.
In this song of praise, Isaiah expresses his thanks to God for being a just God and for securing peace in those who are constantly fixed on him. Do you totally trust God with your life? Are your thoughts constantly fixed on His plan for your life? When I start to worry or stress in the least bit I know it's because I am not trusting God and allowing him to move perfectly in my life. Relax and know that He is God. There is nothing you can do other than give him the glory.
A few sayings to help you trust God and find peace in this trust:
What God has for me is for me.
When man plans, god laughs.
God is in control.
Be still and know that I am God.
Don't worry about anything, pray about everything.
In God we trust.
I trust God to show me the way.
Thank God for what you have. Trust God for what you need.
Tomorrow's scripture: Isaiah 32:17
Day 16
Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders and he will be called; Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace
If you believe stand up! Amen! In the name of Jesus, believers stand on the foundation that Jesus was born as flesh on earth and redeemed us. He stood up for our sin and sacrificed himself for us to change the way we were governed by God. He made us his righteousness!
As I meditated on this Word, I thought about God's names in this verse.
1. Womderful Counselor - an advisor The consultant we should call on when we need help or are uncertain about an issue, person, place or thing. There have been times when I was going through something Iand wanted someone to talk to but no one was available. In those moments God reminds me that he is present and the only one I should really turn to for advice.
2. Mighty God - Merriam Webster gives a definition of God that describes him as perfect in power and wisdom and goodness, and the one who is creator and ruler over earth. In this instance God in the flesh = Jesus, born to redeem. He didn't have to but he did! With God (the creator) for us no one can be against us (there is peace in knowing that fact).
3. Everlasting Father - HE WILL NEVER FAIL HIS CHILDREN!!!!!! AMEN!
4. Prince of Peace - a prince is ruler under king and or the ruler of turf/ territory. This verse refers to Jesus as the ruler of peace! God rules our freedom. you want to be free? Look to God. Jesus died so we could live freely! Amen it's yours!
Tomorrow's scripture: Isaish 26:3
Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders and he will be called; Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace
If you believe stand up! Amen! In the name of Jesus, believers stand on the foundation that Jesus was born as flesh on earth and redeemed us. He stood up for our sin and sacrificed himself for us to change the way we were governed by God. He made us his righteousness!
As I meditated on this Word, I thought about God's names in this verse.
1. Womderful Counselor - an advisor The consultant we should call on when we need help or are uncertain about an issue, person, place or thing. There have been times when I was going through something Iand wanted someone to talk to but no one was available. In those moments God reminds me that he is present and the only one I should really turn to for advice.
2. Mighty God - Merriam Webster gives a definition of God that describes him as perfect in power and wisdom and goodness, and the one who is creator and ruler over earth. In this instance God in the flesh = Jesus, born to redeem. He didn't have to but he did! With God (the creator) for us no one can be against us (there is peace in knowing that fact).
3. Everlasting Father - HE WILL NEVER FAIL HIS CHILDREN!!!!!! AMEN!
4. Prince of Peace - a prince is ruler under king and or the ruler of turf/ territory. This verse refers to Jesus as the ruler of peace! God rules our freedom. you want to be free? Look to God. Jesus died so we could live freely! Amen it's yours!
Tomorrow's scripture: Isaish 26:3
Day 15
Proverbs 16:7
When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.
Work has been daunting to say the least. I was speaking to my cousin today and she asked me how I was handling all of the "drama." I told her I was focusing on God.
A few days ago we learned that if we find peace with God prosperity will come (Job 22:21). [Prosperity refers to the success of every arena of your life and not just your finances] Proverbs 16:7 extends to say peace with God causes even our enemies to live among us - trouble free! So when I'm in a situation that has been or tries to be negative or hostile in anyway I adjust my focus and remember the peace God has instilled in me.
One of my favorite lines from the 23rd Psalm is "he leadeth me besides the still water." The thought of still water puts me in a place of quiet, of meditation and clarity. Isn't that peace! Try it with me. Close your eyes and imagine being led besides the still water by God. As we walk our walk in this life it's nice to know that despite what was, is or is to come God is with us. Not only is he forever present, he is also directing our path and making peace our traveling partner. If things around you are frustrating and distracting, take time to be present in your peace. The peace God has made available to you is waiting to join you in this walk!
tomorrow's verse: Isaiah 9:6
Proverbs 16:7
When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.
Work has been daunting to say the least. I was speaking to my cousin today and she asked me how I was handling all of the "drama." I told her I was focusing on God.
A few days ago we learned that if we find peace with God prosperity will come (Job 22:21). [Prosperity refers to the success of every arena of your life and not just your finances] Proverbs 16:7 extends to say peace with God causes even our enemies to live among us - trouble free! So when I'm in a situation that has been or tries to be negative or hostile in anyway I adjust my focus and remember the peace God has instilled in me.
One of my favorite lines from the 23rd Psalm is "he leadeth me besides the still water." The thought of still water puts me in a place of quiet, of meditation and clarity. Isn't that peace! Try it with me. Close your eyes and imagine being led besides the still water by God. As we walk our walk in this life it's nice to know that despite what was, is or is to come God is with us. Not only is he forever present, he is also directing our path and making peace our traveling partner. If things around you are frustrating and distracting, take time to be present in your peace. The peace God has made available to you is waiting to join you in this walk!
tomorrow's verse: Isaiah 9:6
Week 2 came upon us so quickly. At this point we know that trials and trouble are still lurking (now more than ever) but we've changed our minds so we now know how to deal with this pain in a way that allows us to maintain our foundation and continue to pursue ultimate happiness.
Day 14: Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
Commit your heart to being at peace. Look, I can tell you that this is a difficult task. At least three times a day, I find myself struggling to feel good, fighting the temptation to pay back evil for evil or hurt for hurt and conquering my fear of loneliness. The truth is what sets me free. Believing what God says helps get me back on track. I also remind myself that I have a choice - there are options. I can choose to know I have peace inside of me - planted like the rest of my organs and ready to be used daily for my survival. Recognizing the light inside you doesn't mean things will happen perfectly - it means your better off now than you were before. It means there is a goal to achieve an end point to this thing that will provide the reward we've needed so long.
Has anyone ever told you that stress will kill you? Envy - a resentful or unhappy feeling of wanting what someone else has - is a form of stress that will rot our bones. Be careful not to want so much of what others have. I like to remember that what God has for me is for me. No one can open a door that God closes or close a door that God opens. The more we realize that this is God's plan and we are limited operational partners, the sooner we will learn to trust His works. Opening your heart to God invites peace and longevity. Live strong!
Tomorrow's scripture Proverbs 16:7
Day 14: Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
Commit your heart to being at peace. Look, I can tell you that this is a difficult task. At least three times a day, I find myself struggling to feel good, fighting the temptation to pay back evil for evil or hurt for hurt and conquering my fear of loneliness. The truth is what sets me free. Believing what God says helps get me back on track. I also remind myself that I have a choice - there are options. I can choose to know I have peace inside of me - planted like the rest of my organs and ready to be used daily for my survival. Recognizing the light inside you doesn't mean things will happen perfectly - it means your better off now than you were before. It means there is a goal to achieve an end point to this thing that will provide the reward we've needed so long.
Has anyone ever told you that stress will kill you? Envy - a resentful or unhappy feeling of wanting what someone else has - is a form of stress that will rot our bones. Be careful not to want so much of what others have. I like to remember that what God has for me is for me. No one can open a door that God closes or close a door that God opens. The more we realize that this is God's plan and we are limited operational partners, the sooner we will learn to trust His works. Opening your heart to God invites peace and longevity. Live strong!
Tomorrow's scripture Proverbs 16:7
Day 13: Psalm 85:10
LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS MEET TOGETHER; RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PEACE KISS EACH OTHER.
I came across this pic and it really expressed psalm 85:10. I see a loving, thriving, committed community and even though it takes a lot of hard work on all ends to get to this place the effort is mandatory as everyone has a common goal. It is only in the presence of God that we find reason to be all the good and positive things he's called us to be. Faithful, loving, righteous and true - Peace is the blessing we have been granted to bestow upon others lighting the way for their paths.
Tomorrow's passage Proverbs: 14:30
I probably listen to this song every morning. It reminds me to count my blessings instead of focusing on the things I don't have YET! God's timing is so perfect. His plan can never be thwarted, so be a peace with His plan for your life as you remember just how blessed you really are.
Day 12:
Psalm 37:37
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace.
If you are taking this journey or any other Christian-based pursuit, remember to look to those who are living examples in which you can call on for help and/or advice. There are times when holding on to your blessing of peace will be difficult. When you are faced with adversity go to your bible and study the habits of those that victoriously came through a similar struggle. When you want to connect with someone - look to those they regularly strive to make good of the gift God has bestowed upon them. These people have a future promised by God. I encourage you to keep drawing upon your blessings. Don't waste the jewels that you've been given by God's grace - they are also integral pieces of the map that leads us home.
Tomorrow's scripture >>> Psalm 85:10
Psalm 37:37
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace.
If you are taking this journey or any other Christian-based pursuit, remember to look to those who are living examples in which you can call on for help and/or advice. There are times when holding on to your blessing of peace will be difficult. When you are faced with adversity go to your bible and study the habits of those that victoriously came through a similar struggle. When you want to connect with someone - look to those they regularly strive to make good of the gift God has bestowed upon them. These people have a future promised by God. I encourage you to keep drawing upon your blessings. Don't waste the jewels that you've been given by God's grace - they are also integral pieces of the map that leads us home.
Tomorrow's scripture >>> Psalm 85:10
Day 11
Psalm 37:11
BUT THE MEEK WILL INHERIT THE LAND AND ENJOY PEACE AND PROSPERITY
I did a search on the word Meek. It literally means humble patience. Both are hard concepts for most of us to understand, let alone practice. Remembering the reward of humility and knowing that its presence breaks down walls to help us better communicate with God and others helps keep us on the right side of the track. I was thinking about a recent break-up, for me the hardest part of the break-up is wondering if my ex's next partner will be better than me. I had to remind myself that we are all God's children, no one better than the other in His eyes and all justified by the blood. This kingdom perspective helps me see the truth about myself and others, recognizing how hard we are all trying to live better lives. Seeing myself the way God sees me helps to keep me humble.
"Patience is a virtue," a term we've heard and have probably used without really knowing how it applies to us. People that practice patience do it from a place that respects moral excellence. It says, I will wait without complaining because you deserve the time you need. This is a challenge for me. I have never had the gift of patience and because I hear you have to be tried in order to receive it I rarely ask for its gift. To know however, that God works on His time and to respect His knowledge helps me find peace; accepting that His movement is made perfectly and cannot be thwarted. The psalm says that the people who can humbly and patiently accept God's movement will inherit peace AND prosperity. What a blessing.
Tomorrow's reading Psalm 37:37
Psalm 37:11
BUT THE MEEK WILL INHERIT THE LAND AND ENJOY PEACE AND PROSPERITY
I did a search on the word Meek. It literally means humble patience. Both are hard concepts for most of us to understand, let alone practice. Remembering the reward of humility and knowing that its presence breaks down walls to help us better communicate with God and others helps keep us on the right side of the track. I was thinking about a recent break-up, for me the hardest part of the break-up is wondering if my ex's next partner will be better than me. I had to remind myself that we are all God's children, no one better than the other in His eyes and all justified by the blood. This kingdom perspective helps me see the truth about myself and others, recognizing how hard we are all trying to live better lives. Seeing myself the way God sees me helps to keep me humble.
"Patience is a virtue," a term we've heard and have probably used without really knowing how it applies to us. People that practice patience do it from a place that respects moral excellence. It says, I will wait without complaining because you deserve the time you need. This is a challenge for me. I have never had the gift of patience and because I hear you have to be tried in order to receive it I rarely ask for its gift. To know however, that God works on His time and to respect His knowledge helps me find peace; accepting that His movement is made perfectly and cannot be thwarted. The psalm says that the people who can humbly and patiently accept God's movement will inherit peace AND prosperity. What a blessing.
Tomorrow's reading Psalm 37:37
Day 10: Psalm 34:14
TURN FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT
Instead of cursing someone out in the car beside me, having the last word in a disagreement, or telling the customer in line behind me her "much needed" truth - I relax and know that I can be a bigger and better blessing if I chose to communicate in more positive ways. Turning from the evil things we do or say in an unguarded moment is a true exercise and testament of our growth and strength in God's power. I remember watching an old episode of Oprah, Iyanla Vanzant was her guest and she said changing our lives often times begins with re-recording our mental cassette tape (reprograming our thoughts). Intentionally turning from the negative actions we may have chosen to take is the next step. This is where our new thoughts can come in to help us practice more peaceful living on a daily basis. I think it's important to recognize how evil is directly ahead and we must turn from it but peace needs to be found and pursued. Ironically - as we found out yesterday - God blesses his people with peace so the journey and pursuit of peace is a direct road to God. Once we have established our relationship with Him and pursue his calling for us #BAM there peace is too!
Day 11: Psalm 37:11
TURN FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT
Instead of cursing someone out in the car beside me, having the last word in a disagreement, or telling the customer in line behind me her "much needed" truth - I relax and know that I can be a bigger and better blessing if I chose to communicate in more positive ways. Turning from the evil things we do or say in an unguarded moment is a true exercise and testament of our growth and strength in God's power. I remember watching an old episode of Oprah, Iyanla Vanzant was her guest and she said changing our lives often times begins with re-recording our mental cassette tape (reprograming our thoughts). Intentionally turning from the negative actions we may have chosen to take is the next step. This is where our new thoughts can come in to help us practice more peaceful living on a daily basis. I think it's important to recognize how evil is directly ahead and we must turn from it but peace needs to be found and pursued. Ironically - as we found out yesterday - God blesses his people with peace so the journey and pursuit of peace is a direct road to God. Once we have established our relationship with Him and pursue his calling for us #BAM there peace is too!
Day 11: Psalm 37:11
Peace Fast Day 9: Psalm 29:11
THE LORDS GIVES STRENGTH TO HIS PEOPLE. THE LORD BLESSES HIS PEOPLE WITH PEACE.
For me, the Word of the day isn't always about learning a new lesson. I find that there are times when I just need something to hold on to - something to remind me of God's higher power. This scripture is meditative. Throughout the day there are so many opportunities to fail - way more than there are to succeed. When faced with one of those times it is helpful to remember that the Lord gives us strength and blesses us with peace, so we don't have to be tempted by fear, hurt and anger. Instead we can hold on to God's mighty word which reminds us to exercise our gifts and believe in the hope He gives not what the world says about us.
Day 10: Psalm 34:14 (can't wait)!
THE LORDS GIVES STRENGTH TO HIS PEOPLE. THE LORD BLESSES HIS PEOPLE WITH PEACE.
For me, the Word of the day isn't always about learning a new lesson. I find that there are times when I just need something to hold on to - something to remind me of God's higher power. This scripture is meditative. Throughout the day there are so many opportunities to fail - way more than there are to succeed. When faced with one of those times it is helpful to remember that the Lord gives us strength and blesses us with peace, so we don't have to be tempted by fear, hurt and anger. Instead we can hold on to God's mighty word which reminds us to exercise our gifts and believe in the hope He gives not what the world says about us.
Day 10: Psalm 34:14 (can't wait)!
So we've completed a week of peace! Personally, I have noticed I'm way less concerned with the things I cannot control. Things I can control such as my attitude, my responses and the places I convene have changed because I am actively seeking peace and the opportunity to prosper in it. Holding on to a daily scripture has truly helped me change my focus and practice what God preaches. I know the end of this road leads to abundance.
Day 8
Job 22:21
Submit to God and be at peace with Him in this way prsoperity will come to you.
It's that simple people. When negative things seem to sometimes slip in I remember to be at peace with God. I remind myself to turn to him, consult with him and most importantly listen to his command. It's not always easy to listen to God because we can't hear him in the presence of noise, distractions, opininons and guilt. Meditating on his word gives us discernment. We are instantly released from bonds of fear when we are aware of what God has granted us access to. When we focus on God and commit our peace to him we are fulfilled in ways that most don't understand. It is the peace that passes all understanding which helps us to dream more, achieve more, love and give more!
Be at peace with God. Give him what he wants from you so you can live your life to reach its full potential.
next up: Psalm 29:11
Day 8
Job 22:21
Submit to God and be at peace with Him in this way prsoperity will come to you.
It's that simple people. When negative things seem to sometimes slip in I remember to be at peace with God. I remind myself to turn to him, consult with him and most importantly listen to his command. It's not always easy to listen to God because we can't hear him in the presence of noise, distractions, opininons and guilt. Meditating on his word gives us discernment. We are instantly released from bonds of fear when we are aware of what God has granted us access to. When we focus on God and commit our peace to him we are fulfilled in ways that most don't understand. It is the peace that passes all understanding which helps us to dream more, achieve more, love and give more!
Be at peace with God. Give him what he wants from you so you can live your life to reach its full potential.
next up: Psalm 29:11
Day 7
The Peaceful Approach
2 Kings 9:17
and there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said take a horseman, and send to meet them and let him say, is it peace?
Are you walking and approaching people with peace? In this passage, Jehu was just anointed King but the present king, Joram didn't know. Jehu approaches Joram's kingdom and the guard on duty is instructed to ask if the company that approached came in peace. The question and it's ultimate response puts the offense on guard. Imagine, you're at home it's Sunday evening and the house is winding down - preparing for the work week when suddenly someone pulls into your driveway and parks. No one in the house is expecting company so you begin to wonder who this stranger is and what they want from you. While Jehu was anointed King it seems Joram would still be in a position to wonder who was approaching and to prepare to protect his household.
My mother sent me a text recently that said, "never go to battle undressed... Pray!" When we are immersed in prayer our battles (be they known or unknown) are the Lords. We can prepare our response in accordance to our opponents approach but a healthy prayer life is the loaded weapon we need to truly prepare for battle.
As Jehu is the defensive end, he was well prepared to defend his army and the army of the lord against a king that practiced idolatry and witchcraft. The servants that were sent to ask of Jehu's presence fell in line with him - immediately converted by the love of God and his appointed servants. This says to me that Jehu's battle was one to restore peace. Had Joram repented of his ways and turned from evil he too could have been spared by the love and peace God has available to all of us.
With this passage I encourage you to think about your position on peace. Are you practicing a lifestyle that encourages a life of peace from others? Meditate and pray on this as we prepare for tomorrows passage Job 22:21.
The Peaceful Approach
2 Kings 9:17
and there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said take a horseman, and send to meet them and let him say, is it peace?
Are you walking and approaching people with peace? In this passage, Jehu was just anointed King but the present king, Joram didn't know. Jehu approaches Joram's kingdom and the guard on duty is instructed to ask if the company that approached came in peace. The question and it's ultimate response puts the offense on guard. Imagine, you're at home it's Sunday evening and the house is winding down - preparing for the work week when suddenly someone pulls into your driveway and parks. No one in the house is expecting company so you begin to wonder who this stranger is and what they want from you. While Jehu was anointed King it seems Joram would still be in a position to wonder who was approaching and to prepare to protect his household.
My mother sent me a text recently that said, "never go to battle undressed... Pray!" When we are immersed in prayer our battles (be they known or unknown) are the Lords. We can prepare our response in accordance to our opponents approach but a healthy prayer life is the loaded weapon we need to truly prepare for battle.
As Jehu is the defensive end, he was well prepared to defend his army and the army of the lord against a king that practiced idolatry and witchcraft. The servants that were sent to ask of Jehu's presence fell in line with him - immediately converted by the love of God and his appointed servants. This says to me that Jehu's battle was one to restore peace. Had Joram repented of his ways and turned from evil he too could have been spared by the love and peace God has available to all of us.
With this passage I encourage you to think about your position on peace. Are you practicing a lifestyle that encourages a life of peace from others? Meditate and pray on this as we prepare for tomorrows passage Job 22:21.
1 Kings 2:33
So shall their blood return on the head of Joab and on the head of his descendants forever, but to David and his descendants and his house and his throne, may there be peace forever.
Don't you worry about revenge. The Lord is responsible for managing all people and their actions. You are responsible for managing your own actions, words and intentions. Solomon was newly appointed king after his father David passed. He was faced with the same trouble and strife that his father had to manage and was made aware that Joab killed innocent people without Kind David's consent and his punishment was death. Solomon (now king) made his army aware of the fact that the new blood shed would too be Joab's own fault due to his actions and that the descendants of David would forever find peace from the Lord.
The old testament can be hard to understand. At that time they lived by an-eye-for-an-eye and those that killed, hurt or harmed were either given instruction by God to present a sacrifice for forgiveness or were killed. Aren't you glad we live in the 21st century with full access to the throne and a promise of peace much like the one God promised David and his descendants? Because we were created with peace in us, it's wise to utilize that gift, learn to focus on God's grace and appreciate his love than to concern ourselves with revenge.
I once heard a saying, "seeking revenge against someone is like grabbing a burning coal with the intentions of throwing it at someone... you end up burnt." It's true, having a heart that desires ill will and hurt in return to others only means we are focused on those negative things bringing them to existence in our own lives. When we focus on peace it is reflected from us and impressed upon others.
Know that like David, we have access to God's peace forever. Chose to walk in it and wash your hands of the blood of sin.
What's your interpretation?
Tomorrow's scripture 2 Kings 9:17
So shall their blood return on the head of Joab and on the head of his descendants forever, but to David and his descendants and his house and his throne, may there be peace forever.
Don't you worry about revenge. The Lord is responsible for managing all people and their actions. You are responsible for managing your own actions, words and intentions. Solomon was newly appointed king after his father David passed. He was faced with the same trouble and strife that his father had to manage and was made aware that Joab killed innocent people without Kind David's consent and his punishment was death. Solomon (now king) made his army aware of the fact that the new blood shed would too be Joab's own fault due to his actions and that the descendants of David would forever find peace from the Lord.
The old testament can be hard to understand. At that time they lived by an-eye-for-an-eye and those that killed, hurt or harmed were either given instruction by God to present a sacrifice for forgiveness or were killed. Aren't you glad we live in the 21st century with full access to the throne and a promise of peace much like the one God promised David and his descendants? Because we were created with peace in us, it's wise to utilize that gift, learn to focus on God's grace and appreciate his love than to concern ourselves with revenge.
I once heard a saying, "seeking revenge against someone is like grabbing a burning coal with the intentions of throwing it at someone... you end up burnt." It's true, having a heart that desires ill will and hurt in return to others only means we are focused on those negative things bringing them to existence in our own lives. When we focus on peace it is reflected from us and impressed upon others.
Know that like David, we have access to God's peace forever. Chose to walk in it and wash your hands of the blood of sin.
What's your interpretation?
Tomorrow's scripture 2 Kings 9:17
Judges 6:24
(23) But the Lord said to him, "Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die. (24) So Gideon built an alter to the Lord there and called it The Lord is Peace, to this day it stands in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.
These passages have been so interesting. They really push me to read through more of the chapter to get understanding because at first glance they seem to have no relation to my life. In the 6th chapter of Judges God prepares Gideon to recue the Israelites from the 7 year captivity he allowed them to be in due to their evil ways. Gideon didn't believe he was the most qualified candidate to perform the job and continued to ask God for signs to assure him these instruction were from God. When God appeared to him, Gideon was fearful and astonished at having seen the Lord face-to-face.
Reading verse 23 reminds me that God understands us. Though I say on a daily basis that I would love to have a sit down, face-to-face with God, I'm sure that when He does oblige I will be so very scared. But alas, He is our very present comforter offering his peace and the reassurance that this is just a special meeting and not your time to die.
The gift of verse 24 (and our focus on day 5) is that Gideon built an alter to the Lord and named it "The Lord is Peace." Amen. When I think of how I can do this in my life I am reminded of the peace that resides inside of me. To legitimize it I imagine my internal peace locus as an alter dedicated to God. Acknowledging that the Lord is Peace provides reassurance. In times of distress, pain, hurt and trouble - God is calm, loving, and always providing. Focusing on this internal alter has helped calm my reaction to the storm I am currently facing. It's so hard. It seems like my focusing on peace has brought about every possible storm of vigilance. I'm sure you are have experienced the same but stay faithful - at the end of this our peace will be established and the peace alter that we're building will prove to be a sacrifice worthy of Gods eternal love.
Tomorrow's scripture: 1 Kings 2:33
Be a blessing, promoters of peace.
(23) But the Lord said to him, "Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die. (24) So Gideon built an alter to the Lord there and called it The Lord is Peace, to this day it stands in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.
These passages have been so interesting. They really push me to read through more of the chapter to get understanding because at first glance they seem to have no relation to my life. In the 6th chapter of Judges God prepares Gideon to recue the Israelites from the 7 year captivity he allowed them to be in due to their evil ways. Gideon didn't believe he was the most qualified candidate to perform the job and continued to ask God for signs to assure him these instruction were from God. When God appeared to him, Gideon was fearful and astonished at having seen the Lord face-to-face.
Reading verse 23 reminds me that God understands us. Though I say on a daily basis that I would love to have a sit down, face-to-face with God, I'm sure that when He does oblige I will be so very scared. But alas, He is our very present comforter offering his peace and the reassurance that this is just a special meeting and not your time to die.
The gift of verse 24 (and our focus on day 5) is that Gideon built an alter to the Lord and named it "The Lord is Peace." Amen. When I think of how I can do this in my life I am reminded of the peace that resides inside of me. To legitimize it I imagine my internal peace locus as an alter dedicated to God. Acknowledging that the Lord is Peace provides reassurance. In times of distress, pain, hurt and trouble - God is calm, loving, and always providing. Focusing on this internal alter has helped calm my reaction to the storm I am currently facing. It's so hard. It seems like my focusing on peace has brought about every possible storm of vigilance. I'm sure you are have experienced the same but stay faithful - at the end of this our peace will be established and the peace alter that we're building will prove to be a sacrifice worthy of Gods eternal love.
Tomorrow's scripture: 1 Kings 2:33
Be a blessing, promoters of peace.
Deuteronomy 20:10
When you march up to attack a city make its people an offer of peace.
When I got this assignment yesterday morning I didn't know how I was going to be able to use it for others or myself. Who is at war Lord? and if we are the ones attacking why are we offering peace? My phone rang and my morning was met with anger - someone is disappointed with me, wants more from me and is yelling about how I failed to make the mark. As I repeated the scripture I thought about what wars I'm in and how I can bring peace to the negotiation table. In this chapter God wanted to relieve his people of their ways by giving them the opportunity to repent before he ordered his people to attack.
I have been praying for discernment and deliverance. I find that I sometimes make decisions that are not condusive to my long term goals but are good for the moment and satisfy the need at the time. Usually these decisions come back to bite me in the butt and I'm in too deep to confidently walk away without feeling some seperation anxiety for the people, places or things that I have gotten myself caught up in without consulting God. But my father is faithful to deliver me from the wilderness noting that some people may not understand and that I might have to fight my way out. In instances like that I am reminded to first offer peace - to demand peace even and if all else fails to fight for my salvation - knowing that the battle is won and the victory is His makes it easy to exercise my faith and settle on my peace in times of war.
What is your view on this scripture?
Be ready for tomorrow - we'll be focusing on Judges 6:24
When you march up to attack a city make its people an offer of peace.
When I got this assignment yesterday morning I didn't know how I was going to be able to use it for others or myself. Who is at war Lord? and if we are the ones attacking why are we offering peace? My phone rang and my morning was met with anger - someone is disappointed with me, wants more from me and is yelling about how I failed to make the mark. As I repeated the scripture I thought about what wars I'm in and how I can bring peace to the negotiation table. In this chapter God wanted to relieve his people of their ways by giving them the opportunity to repent before he ordered his people to attack.
I have been praying for discernment and deliverance. I find that I sometimes make decisions that are not condusive to my long term goals but are good for the moment and satisfy the need at the time. Usually these decisions come back to bite me in the butt and I'm in too deep to confidently walk away without feeling some seperation anxiety for the people, places or things that I have gotten myself caught up in without consulting God. But my father is faithful to deliver me from the wilderness noting that some people may not understand and that I might have to fight my way out. In instances like that I am reminded to first offer peace - to demand peace even and if all else fails to fight for my salvation - knowing that the battle is won and the victory is His makes it easy to exercise my faith and settle on my peace in times of war.
What is your view on this scripture?
Be ready for tomorrow - we'll be focusing on Judges 6:24
Numbers 25:12
Wherefore say, behold, I give unto him my covenant of peace.
A covenenant with anyone other than God is just a formal agreement between a group of people to do or not do something. But when God extends a covenent to His people it is a sacred agreement to protect and prosper His people. My 30-day peace fast is to help me tap into the inner peace that was promised by my father. Each and every time I feel or felt myself responding in a way that wasn't God like or getting overly angry about a small thing (like being lost in Marietta for an hour) I remembered God's agreement of peace. Peace is defined as a state of calm, the absence of war, mental serenity, free from disturbances and conflict. Each day is a journey because so many people will absent mindedly project thier feelings of guilt, distrust, and fear on us in an attempt to tap into their own peace. I am learning to pray over the things that I know are going to be difficult for me because God can handle what I cannot. The word says "BEHOLD," which mean look/ pay attention to. Pay attention to the fact that God's covenenat of peace is among you. While focusing on our promises we lessen the scope of our troubles.
Amen.
Wherefore say, behold, I give unto him my covenant of peace.
A covenenant with anyone other than God is just a formal agreement between a group of people to do or not do something. But when God extends a covenent to His people it is a sacred agreement to protect and prosper His people. My 30-day peace fast is to help me tap into the inner peace that was promised by my father. Each and every time I feel or felt myself responding in a way that wasn't God like or getting overly angry about a small thing (like being lost in Marietta for an hour) I remembered God's agreement of peace. Peace is defined as a state of calm, the absence of war, mental serenity, free from disturbances and conflict. Each day is a journey because so many people will absent mindedly project thier feelings of guilt, distrust, and fear on us in an attempt to tap into their own peace. I am learning to pray over the things that I know are going to be difficult for me because God can handle what I cannot. The word says "BEHOLD," which mean look/ pay attention to. Pay attention to the fact that God's covenenat of peace is among you. While focusing on our promises we lessen the scope of our troubles.
Amen.
Today’s message on Peace…
8/11/11
Numbers 6: 24-26
“The Lord bless you and keep you (24), The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you (25) The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace (26).
This one seems simple and filling. God told Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel by delivering this message. It’s one that you and I can use to bless others in the name of Jesus. Remember that God will never leave or forsake you and will bless you and keep you. A blessing is defined as help from God who will protect you and keep you safe in his shadow. One of my friends once assured me in the middle of a huge storm that I should be safe because God had me in a bubble and no one or thing could break through that bond. This is what it means to be kept by God.
As I meditate on verse 25 I literally think about God’s face illuminating its wonderful light upon me and treating me in way that is special. God’s grace is an unwarranted act of pleasant kindness that I may not deserve but that he delights in giving me.
And finally we come upon His peace… I wonder what the difference is between God shining his face on us and turning his face towards us. When God turns his face towards us he is directing his attention to us. Like the boat in the storm, when Jesus woke from His sleep to give the disciples his attention and demand peace over the rowdy waves, He turns His attention to us and provides us with reassurance that brings peace in His presence.
I want to encourage you to be a blessing to others as we strive to find peace together.
Be a blessing.
8/11/11
Numbers 6: 24-26
“The Lord bless you and keep you (24), The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you (25) The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace (26).
This one seems simple and filling. God told Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel by delivering this message. It’s one that you and I can use to bless others in the name of Jesus. Remember that God will never leave or forsake you and will bless you and keep you. A blessing is defined as help from God who will protect you and keep you safe in his shadow. One of my friends once assured me in the middle of a huge storm that I should be safe because God had me in a bubble and no one or thing could break through that bond. This is what it means to be kept by God.
As I meditate on verse 25 I literally think about God’s face illuminating its wonderful light upon me and treating me in way that is special. God’s grace is an unwarranted act of pleasant kindness that I may not deserve but that he delights in giving me.
And finally we come upon His peace… I wonder what the difference is between God shining his face on us and turning his face towards us. When God turns his face towards us he is directing his attention to us. Like the boat in the storm, when Jesus woke from His sleep to give the disciples his attention and demand peace over the rowdy waves, He turns His attention to us and provides us with reassurance that brings peace in His presence.
I want to encourage you to be a blessing to others as we strive to find peace together.
Be a blessing.
I have been going through it lately. Feeling insecure, lacking confidence and really unsure about the direction God wants me to move in my life. More than anything I'm expecting God to bring me peace in whatever comes my way. The peace that passes all understanding and is present during times of joy and pain. For the next 30 days I will focus on one scripture of peace each day. These are passages I've selected and you can follow too, but you can also chose your own and tell us about your experience.
8/10/11
Leviticus 26:6
"I will grant peace in the land and you will lie down and no one will make you afraid. I will remove wild beasts from the land and the sword will not pass through your country."
I meditated on this scripture on Wednesday and tried to hold on to it whenever I was down. While I wasn't exactly sure what God was saying to me, I repeated and read and thought it through in hopes that the message God had for me would be revealed. I was talking to someone about it, read the scripture out loud to her and she was excited by the word - said it was a blessing to her because she had been asking God to expand her territory. "Awesome," I thought as I hoped one day I would be more than a mole carrying and transferring blessings for others without delivering on my own blessings.
Digging deeper into the scripture I found that God was speaking about the reward of obedience. Where He says He will increase our numbers and multiply our crops so that we will still be eating from the fruits of the year before searching for room to allot to the new crops. In this instance granting peace in the land and giving me the opportunity to lie down without being afraid says that I have nothing to worry about (as long as I'm obedient). The contemporary English version says God will prevent us from being harmed and spare us from enemy attacks. AMEN! What an awesome God we serve to know that as we try our best to do as he says he will clear our paths of any trouble preventing us from getting to His love.
Messages like these can sometimes be confusing for me because I know we all fall short and can never do enough to earn God's grace. How then can He say if you are obedient then I will grant you peace? This must be a trick. We are eternally in God's great grace but when we are disobedient we experience a certain discomfort, a level of insanity that disturbs our glory. Listening to God's gentle instruction enables us to be under his peaceful gaze. Not like a blessing versus a punishment but the gift of the blessing (the anointing).
Every day I am pushing myself to meet His will for my life while I'm still here on earth. Remembering that in all things, God is on my side helps be to focus on the blessings and things I should be grateful for more than the roadblocks I may see because God's plan can never falter.
As you read the 6th chapter of Leviticus - be inspired to cheerfully accept the peace God has granted in acknowledging his instruction over your life.
Be blessed.
8/10/11
Leviticus 26:6
"I will grant peace in the land and you will lie down and no one will make you afraid. I will remove wild beasts from the land and the sword will not pass through your country."
I meditated on this scripture on Wednesday and tried to hold on to it whenever I was down. While I wasn't exactly sure what God was saying to me, I repeated and read and thought it through in hopes that the message God had for me would be revealed. I was talking to someone about it, read the scripture out loud to her and she was excited by the word - said it was a blessing to her because she had been asking God to expand her territory. "Awesome," I thought as I hoped one day I would be more than a mole carrying and transferring blessings for others without delivering on my own blessings.
Digging deeper into the scripture I found that God was speaking about the reward of obedience. Where He says He will increase our numbers and multiply our crops so that we will still be eating from the fruits of the year before searching for room to allot to the new crops. In this instance granting peace in the land and giving me the opportunity to lie down without being afraid says that I have nothing to worry about (as long as I'm obedient). The contemporary English version says God will prevent us from being harmed and spare us from enemy attacks. AMEN! What an awesome God we serve to know that as we try our best to do as he says he will clear our paths of any trouble preventing us from getting to His love.
Messages like these can sometimes be confusing for me because I know we all fall short and can never do enough to earn God's grace. How then can He say if you are obedient then I will grant you peace? This must be a trick. We are eternally in God's great grace but when we are disobedient we experience a certain discomfort, a level of insanity that disturbs our glory. Listening to God's gentle instruction enables us to be under his peaceful gaze. Not like a blessing versus a punishment but the gift of the blessing (the anointing).
Every day I am pushing myself to meet His will for my life while I'm still here on earth. Remembering that in all things, God is on my side helps be to focus on the blessings and things I should be grateful for more than the roadblocks I may see because God's plan can never falter.
As you read the 6th chapter of Leviticus - be inspired to cheerfully accept the peace God has granted in acknowledging his instruction over your life.
Be blessed.
"They're here now and then they're gone, where they at? I don't know. That kind of friend, I gotta let go. A super friend. A super friend. I got me a super friend," Mary Mary - The Sound
I am losing all my friends. I don't know if I'm going crazy or fighting a spiritual warfare. Am I unforgiving? Am I too sensitive? What am I supposed to do Lord? Proverbs 18:24 says, A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
I value my everlasting firendship but I have to believe that God cares for me and the relationships I build and sustain on earth. I have a friend, Kharla, that I met a few months after moving to Atlanta in 2005. She introduced me to my church and invited me into her life, friends, family, favorite restaurants, men, and clubs. Over the years it has seemed as if I am more of a friend to her than she is to me. I regularly attend her events and support her in times of need. If ever I call Kharla she is available to listen and advise but she never shows up to any of the events I invite her to. I recently realized she doesn't even call to chit-chat/ say hello/ check on me. It's a little hurtful because for 5 years I've considered her a friend.
I'm honestly conflicted about what to do. Recognizing that we are merely associates and not reciprocal friends hurts. Though Jesus is the only one I can really trust to care for and do the right thing, Kharla told me, "not everyone is out to hurt you intentiaonlly." I have had issues with trusting people because they let me down but am I alienatig my friends by not being understaning of their reasons for hurting me? As I meditate and pray on my relationships and my thoughts I will keep you postd on God's instruction.
I love the Lord he heard my cry!
Jonique'
I am losing all my friends. I don't know if I'm going crazy or fighting a spiritual warfare. Am I unforgiving? Am I too sensitive? What am I supposed to do Lord? Proverbs 18:24 says, A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
I value my everlasting firendship but I have to believe that God cares for me and the relationships I build and sustain on earth. I have a friend, Kharla, that I met a few months after moving to Atlanta in 2005. She introduced me to my church and invited me into her life, friends, family, favorite restaurants, men, and clubs. Over the years it has seemed as if I am more of a friend to her than she is to me. I regularly attend her events and support her in times of need. If ever I call Kharla she is available to listen and advise but she never shows up to any of the events I invite her to. I recently realized she doesn't even call to chit-chat/ say hello/ check on me. It's a little hurtful because for 5 years I've considered her a friend.
I'm honestly conflicted about what to do. Recognizing that we are merely associates and not reciprocal friends hurts. Though Jesus is the only one I can really trust to care for and do the right thing, Kharla told me, "not everyone is out to hurt you intentiaonlly." I have had issues with trusting people because they let me down but am I alienatig my friends by not being understaning of their reasons for hurting me? As I meditate and pray on my relationships and my thoughts I will keep you postd on God's instruction.
I love the Lord he heard my cry!
Jonique'
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)