Powerful Word

The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

Hebrews 1:3

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

Jesus was God with us. No imitation, knock off, or clone. He was God with us. To this day, he sustains creation with his word -- so much for "Mother Nature." But now "God with us" has paid for our sins and is not just God with us, but God for us at the Father's side.

MY PRAYER...

Precious Lord, as you have so many times in the past, you take these humble human words and bring them to the Father as my friend and brother. Thank you for your sacrifice, which saved me. Thank you for your sustaining presence in our universe. Thank you for your daily intercession. Thank you for being God for me at the Father's side. To the glorious, majestic, and holy God, who sent Jesus as Savior, be glory, honor, and adoration forever and ever. Amen.

SAME SPIRIT, SAME POWER

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"And if the Spirit of Him Who raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you, [then] He Who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead will also restore to life your mortal (short-lived, perishable) bodies through His Spirit Who dwells in you"

(Romans 8:11, AMP)

TODAY'S WORD

When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit makes His home inside of you. That's God Himself, the same Spirit with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead! His resurrection power can bring back health, strength and life to your physical body. He can restore hope and breathe life into your dreams. In fact, He can resurrect any area that may seem dormant on the inside of you!

The next time you feel overwhelmed by sickness, challenges or despair, remember, the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in you through Christ Jesus. You may have been burdened by an addiction, fear or worry, but there's nothing that can stand against the power of God. Rise up and declare by faith, "He whom the Son sets free is free indeed. I am restored and healed in the name of Jesus! No weapon formed against me can prosper!" Receive His truth, declare the Word, and activate His power within you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for filling me with Your power by the Holy Spirit. I choose to feed my faith by declaring Your Word. I choose to walk in Your ways and honor You in everything I do in Jesus' name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

source:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://feeding-his-sheep.blogspot.com/2010/05/witness-power-of-word.html

http://www.capecodtoday.com/blogs/index.php/2011/08/01/recovering-alcoholic-powerful-words?blog=40

"There is no God" -- by Fool

The fool says in his heart there is no God.

Psalm 14:1

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

We have raised an angry fist to fate, cursed the darkness, and denied there is a God. Each of these is equally ineffective. To rob heaven of God is only to rob ourselves of grace, hope, and a future. How foolish indeed to forget that behind a creation of wonder, order, variety, beauty, ferocity, and pattern is the Creator who is far greater than his handiwork.

MY PRAYER...

O Lord God Almighty, Creator and Sustainer, thank you for being there, but for being with me today. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

CONSTANTLY SPEAK

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises”

(Psalm 34:1, NLT)

TODAY’S WORD

When you wake up in the morning, do you expect the goodness of God in your life? Do you set the tone of the day for success, favor and blessing with your words? Scripture tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue. That’s why it’s so important to declare praises to God all throughout the day. Things may be bad all around you, people may be negative, complaining and discouraged, but don’t let that spirit rub off on you. The worse it gets, the brighter you’re going to shine. The good news is that no matter how you feel, no matter what’s going on around you, you can choose your words. There’s nothing that can stop you from constantly speaking His Word!

Today I encourage you, be determined to set the tone for your day, week, month and year by praising God and speaking words of faith over your future. Remember, when you put God first, He promises to honor you. He will pour out His favor on you and lead you into life, health, strength and blessing all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, I choose to bless You at all times. I choose to set the tone to receive Your favor, grace and mercy. Thank You for Your faithfulness at all times in Jesus’ name. Amen!

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

source:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://www.thecalloffreedom.com/2011/03/20/scripture-sunday-20/

http://www.sodahead.com/united-states/the-last-crusades-or-have-they-ever-ended/

The Most Awful Disease

He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 53:5-6

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

I don't know how Jesus could stand up under its weight. He had my sin, your sin, our sin, placed upon him so we would not have to bear the consequences of it. But in that sacrifice, as horrible as it was, we find ourselves healed, cured of the most awful disease a sin-sick soul. In its place, he has left us a transforming peace.

MY PRAYER...

God of peace, fill my soul with the wonder of your grace. Let me not forget the cost of your love. Stir in me the constant and abiding memory of your redemptive grace. Thank you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in”

(Psalm 112:4, NLT)

TODAY’S WORD

Everyone goes through seasons of difficulty or times when things just seem dark. During these challenging times, know that you are not alone. God has a plan to drive out the darkness — He will flood you with His light! Notice that in today’s verse it doesn’t say, “The light will come trickling in.” No, it says that the light will come bursting in! That means suddenly, you will see God’s goodness. Suddenly, you’ll be promoted. Suddenly, the answer will come!

If you’ve been going through a difficult time, get ready for the goodness of God in a new way. Know that His light is about to come bursting in! Get ready for breakthroughs. Get ready for promotion. Get ready for restoration. You may have had that problem for a long, long time, but today could be the day that it turns around. Suddenly, things can change! God wants His glory to be seen on you. He wants you to stand out in the crowd. He wants you to be so blessed that everyone around you can see His goodness on you! So keep standing, keep believing, keep hoping and keep declaring His Word because His light is going to come bursting in!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your light that drives out every trace of darkness! I choose to expect Your goodness. I choose to focus on Your faithfulness. I trust that You are working behind the scenes, and I expect that You will turn things around for my good in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

source:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY12SA?pg=team&fr_id=39714&team_id=1026488

http://whowillyouserve.blogspot.com/2012/03/healed.html

Servant's Heart

He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he took up our infirmities and he carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.

Isaiah 53:3-4

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

Jesus was everything and became nothing and we didn't notice what he did for us. We just assumed he deserved it, and so we did not repent. But there was something about that sacrificial story that grabbed our hearts and called us home we found in him not only a Savior, but a servant.

MY PRAYER...

God Almighty, your plan to redeem me takes my breath away. How and why you chose to take your precious son and expose him to such public disgrace I will never comprehend. But this I do know: you love me with an everlasting love. I pledge to you that I will serve you with all of my strength in thanks for his great sacrifice. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.

THREE THINGS TO DO EVERY DAY

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you”

(Psalm 9:10, NIV)

TODAY’S WORD

Most times, it’s not the big events in life or the big breaks that get us where we need to be, it’s the little things, the daily disciplines that move us forward in the good things God has for us.

I believe there are three things you can do every day that can change the course of your life. Number one, expect God’s goodness. Get up every day looking for God’s favor. Number two, recognize God’s goodness. There are no coincidences, no lucky breaks. It’s all the goodness of God. And number three, always thank God for His goodness. Anytime something good happens, big or little, give God the glory. “Lord, thank You for that parking spot. Lord, thank You for that idea. Lord, thank You for sending me dew in my desert.”

If you do this, I believe and declare that you’re going to come into more of God's goodness; that His blessings are going to come after you. God is going to open up supernatural doors. He’s going to turn negative situations around. Get ready because something good is coming your way! You’re going to fulfill your God-given destiny because He never forsakes those who seek after Him!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I do set my heart and mind on You today. I expect Your goodness because I know You are faithful. Every good and perfect thing comes from You. Thank You for Your hand of blessing on every area of my life in Jesus’ name! Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

source:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://wp.bikerschurch.com/?p=1311

http://pastorross1.wordpress.com/2011/06/18/genesis-24-resume-of-a-servant-leader-part-7/

God's Righteousness

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

2 Corinthians 5:21

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

Righteousness! That's what we are. God's righteousness. We are the testimony of how holy, just, and gracious he truly is, because in Jesus, we are his righteousness!

MY PRAYER...

Thank you, O Almighty God, for making me righteous in the blood of your son's death. May people see in me a reflection of your holiness, justice, and mercy. Through Jesus, who sacrificed for my sins, I pray. Amen.

CREATED TO THRIVE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”

(John 10:10, NIV)

TODAY’S WORD

So many people today are living in “survival” mode. They have a mentality that says, “If I can just make it through...” or “If I can just get by...” Of course, there are some seasons that are more difficult than others. Sometimes it’s challenging to get a vision for the future. But if you are constantly living with a survival mentality, you are missing out on God’s best. Scripture doesn’t say, “Jesus came so you could survive.” No, it says that He came to give you a full, abundant life!

If you are living in survival mode right now, I believe that today can be your turning point. If you’ll take a step of faith and begin to declare, “My days of survival are over; my days of thriving have begun,” then I believe God will meet your faith. I believe He will open an unexpected door. He’ll pour out His favor and blessing on you. He’ll make a way where there seems to be no way! Even if you’re in a tough time right now, remember tough times don’t last, but the Word of the Lord stands forever. Begin to declare what God says about your circumstances because you are created for more than to just get by — you are created to thrive!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, thank You for giving me abundant life through Jesus Christ. I believe that You have a good plan for my future. I declare that my days of thriving have begun as I continue to put my faith and trust in You alone in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

source:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://thingsgodtaughtme.wordpress.com/2008/04/09/study-of-jesus-is-the-way-the-truth-the-life/

http://www.ccclongview.com/media/sermons/righteousness-god-part-12

The Perfect Mediator

There is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men.

1 Timothy 2:5-6

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

We do not need another person, no matter how mighty, pious, or special, to intercede for us before God. As his children, we can go freely, knowing that God himself has provided the perfect mediator between us and himself. That mediator alone is head of the church and chief priest before God for us. His name is Christ Jesus, our Lord.

MY PRAYER...

O God, you are my God, and I praise you for making yourself so available. I know that in my power, I have no right to approach you. Yet in your grace you not only provided a ransom for my sin but a mediator for my approach to you. Jesus, I thank you as well, for paying the price and staying at the Father's side to intercede and speak for me! Thank you for making this prayer known to the Father. Amen.

PROSPER IN ALL YOU DO

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper”

(Psalm 1:3, NKJV)

TODAY’S WORD

Large trees represent power, majesty and stability. Have you ever noticed the difference between a tree planted by the water and a tree far away from water? The tree next to the water is much more healthy and vibrant. Its fruit and blossoms are the most beautiful.

In the same way, when you are “planted” in the Word of God, your spirit is fed and you grow strong just like the tree by the water. You’ll bring forth fruit at the proper season. In other words, you’ll be in the right place and the right time. You’ll be productive and fruitful. And notice the end of today’s verse. It says that whatever you do will prosper! Do you want to prosper in your relationships? Seek God’s Word regarding relationships. Do you want to prosper in your health? Seek God’s Word about healing. Do you want to prosper in your finances? Seek God’s Word regarding finances. Make sure your heart and mind are planted in the Word of God. Let Him illuminate your heart with truth. Let Him wash over you with His promises. Seek Him, trust Him and obey Him, and everything you do will prosper!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, I love You so much today. Thank You for Your Word which is truth and water to my soul. Search me, know me and guide me in the way that I should go as I stay focused on You and planted in Your Word in Jesus name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

sources:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://losangelesmediator.net/los-angeles-mediator/how-can-your-los-angeles-mediator-help/

http://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photo-the-mediator-image16717070

Source of Refuge

^{My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.}

^{Psalm 62:7}

^{New International Version}

^{THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...}

^{Who we are, what becomes of us in life, is in God's hands. We cannot purchase or achieve lasting honor for ourselves without his blessing. We cannot secure the future or our safety without his protection and blessing. The basis of all achievement and glory is dependent upon us placing our lives in his care.}

^{MY PRAYER...}

^{O Rock, Fortress of my life, I place myself in your care. Take charge of my future and use me for your glory. In you I take refuge, and on your strength I rely to make my days worthwhile. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen.}

^{MAKE YOUR MOVE}

^{TODAY'S SCRIPTURE}

^{"And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness'"}

^{(2 Corinthians 12:9a, NKJV)}

^{TODAY’S WORD}

^{We all go through seasons of difficulty and face storms in life. But during those times, we have to remember that Almighty God is greater than any struggle we face! He’ll take those challenges and use them to strengthen us, but we have to do our part and take a step of faith toward the victory.}

^{Think about the caterpillar before it becomes a butterfly. When it’s wrapped in its dark cocoon on the backside of some tree, it doesn’t look like it has many options. But inside that cocoon as it becomes a butterfly, it doesn’t just sit and wait for someone to come and let it out. No, that butterfly knows that it has to make a move if it’s going to be set free to fly. In the same way, we have to do something to get out of the confining places we are in. We have to pray, we have to believe, and we have to press through to victory.}

^{Today, no matter what you may be facing, remember His grace is sufficient for you. His strength is made perfect in you. He has given you everything you need to overcome in this life. Now is the time to break free and rise to new levels because He has victory and blessing prepared for you!}

^{A PRAYER FOR TODAY}

^{Heavenly Father, thank You for the strength to make it through any challenge I may face. I choose to put my trust in You. I declare that You are good and faithful. Thank You for equipping me for victory in every area of my life in Jesus’ name. Amen.}

^{— Joel & Victoria Osteen}

^sources:

http://www.gracewaymedia.com/_Rock_of_Refuge_b-21475.html

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://www.christianmingler.com/page/136/

"Under Fire"

^{It has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him.}

^{Philippians 1:29}

^{New International Version}

^{THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...}

^{When we read the book of Acts, we find the disciples overjoyed at suffering "for the sake of the name." Jesus' followers consider it a privilege and not just a hardship. The truth of our commitment is often best shown to the skeptical when we are "under fire."}

^{MY PRAYER...}

^{What a precious name you have given to your son, O Lord. May it be exalted in all the earth and throughout all the heavens, until all existence knows that he is truly Lord. Through him I pray. Amen.}

^{SPEAK FAVOR TO YOUR MOUNTAINS}

^{TODAY’S SCRIPTURE}

^{“And Jesus answered them, Truly I say to you, if you have faith (a firm relying trust) and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, Be taken up and cast into the sea, it will be done”}

^{(Matthew 21:21, AMP)}

^{TODAY’S WORD}

^{Everyone goes through seasons when the challenges of life feel overwhelming. During these times, it’s easy to be tempted to talk about how bad things are. Maybe you are facing a situation right now that looks impossible. Don’t get discouraged and give up because God wants to do something awesome in your life. Instead of talking to God about how big your problems are, talk to your problems about how big your God is. Be bold and start speaking favor to that situation. Every day say, “Father, thank You that Your favor is turning this around. Thank You that Your favor is making a way even though I don’t see a way. Lord, thank You that Your favor is doing remarkable, astounding, overwhelming things.” When you release your faith like that, you’ll see God show up and do amazing things that you’ve never seen happen before!}

^{Remember, even if you don’t see how things could ever work out, God does. Just do your part and keep speaking to those mountains in your life. Declare favor over those situations and get ready to move forward in the victory and blessing God has prepared for you!}

^{A PRAYER FOR TODAY}

^{Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word which is life to my spirit. I receive Your strength today and choose to speak favor to the mountains. Thank You for preparing a path of victory as I keep my heart and mind stayed on You in Jesus’ name. Amen!}

^{— Joel & Victoria Osteen}

^sources:

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://readingacts.wordpress.com/2011/10/19/the-social-status-of-the-thessalonians/

http://johnshore.com/2010/10/12/the-comfort-of-the-cross-2/

Perfect Timing

Read: Philippians 1:1-7

Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. —2 Peter 3:18

An impatient college student went to the president of the school and asked if he could take an accelerated course that would allow him to graduate sooner. “Yes,” the president replied, “but it depends on what you want to be. When God wants to make an oak, he takes a hundred years. But when He wants to make a squash, He takes 6 months.”

Like that student, we sometimes get frustrated with the rate of our spiritual growth. We’d like to see ourselves a lot closer to maturity than we are. We’re disappointed that we fall back into childish behavior we thought we had outgrown. We want “school” to be over.

But growth takes time, and it often comes in spurts. Trees grow rapidly during a 4 to 6 week period in early summer, when woody fibers appear between the bark and the trunk. During the remainder of the year, these fibers solidify into the sturdy wood from which furniture is built, which will last several lifetimes.

Not growing as fast in your Christian life as you’d like? Perhaps you’re “solidifying.” It’s a vital part of the process that the One who began a good work in you will bring to completion (Phil. 1:6). Be patient. God isn’t finished with you yet.

May I never run on ahead of Thy plan,

Nor tarry, a laggard, behind.

O order my steps, precious Lord, that each one

With Thy steps may be perfectly timed.  —Bowser

About the only thing you can get in a hurry is trouble.

He Will Finish

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus”

(Philippians 1:6, NIV)

TODAY’S WORD

Are you believing for something that seems like it’s taking longer than you hoped? Maybe you’ve been praying for a loved one. Maybe you’ve believed for a situation to change for years. Don’t get discouraged. God is going to finish what He started! He is a faithful God, and He has something unmatched, unparalleled coming your way — favor, breakthroughs, restoration like you haven’t seen before!

God has been good to all of us in the past, but I believe we’re coming into a time where we will see greater anointing, greater power and greater victories! The key is that we have to stay in agreement with God. We should get up every morning and say, “Father, thank You for Your unprecedented favor. Thank You for the immeasurable, unlimited, surpassing greatness of Your power.” If you keep standing in faith, I believe you’re going to come into more of those days where you stand in utter amazement and say, “Wow, God! I’ve never seen anything like this before!”

Remember, scripture says, “Is there anything too hard for the Lord?” No, nothing is impossible when we put our faith and trust in Him. Keep standing today, keep believing, keep hoping because God has something astounding in store for your future!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I set my heart and mind on You. I choose to trust that You are working behind the scenes on my behalf. I stand strong on Your Word today knowing that victory is on the way in Jesus’ name. Amen!

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

sources:

http://www.virtuousplanet.com/soulharvest/c00000000417

http://www.tansleymethodist.com/site/gods-timing/godsperfecttiming/

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://odb.org/1997/05/20/how-a-tree-grows/

Reward from God

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

Do you believe that God wants to reward you? 
Maybe you don’t feel like you deserve a reward. I find many people struggle with this...they simply think they have to accomplish something great in order to warrant a reward. Listen to what the Bible says about this. 
Hebrews 11:6 says that God rewards those who diligently seek Him. 
I want to help you stop thinking one way and start believing and receiving a new way. Inside of you I want you to know: “God is a rewarder, and He wants to reward you!” 
There are no limits to His rewards. And with God, it’s never a competition between His children because He has unlimited resources. 
God’s rewards come because you get up every day and thank Him for His goodness, and seek His best in every situation of life. 
So no matter where you are today, let me encourage you to keep going, keep seeking and start believing that God has many rewards in store for you. 
You can look for and expect God’s rewards when you seek Him...it’s that simple. He’ll give you wisdom, favor, strength, direction, provision, healing and a greater measure of His peace. God wants you to expect Him to reward you. 
The reward comes in the “seeking.” God says that if you will seek Him diligently, if you’ll look for Him with all your heart, He WILL REWARD YOU. 
God wants to reward you! 
You don’t have to be anything, accomplish anything or do anything — you just need a heart that craves for more...more of His Word, more of the life He desires to give you. 
God hasn’t blessed me because I’m the smartest or the most qualified, and surely not the most talented or the most likely to succeed. He has blessed me because I diligently seek Him, and as I seek God, I find my heart wants more and more of Him. 
In my own strength, I never could have done it — but the one thing I can do, that no one can stop, is choose to seek Him every day. 
When you keep God first place, you won’t be able to contain all the good things He pours into your life. 
Seek God — rejoice in Him, honor Him, crave Him — and everything you need will come. He’ll open the right doors, lead you to the right people and cause you to be at the right place at the right time. 
I want you to get ready for God’s rewards. He’s going to reward you with favor and honor and everything you need to be blessed and fulfilled in life. Keep seeking God and watch what happens!

Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. —Hebrews 11:6

A National Geographic News survey in 2006 reported that many young Americans are geographically illiterate. According to the survey, 63 percent of Americans aged 18-24 failed to correctly locate Iraq on a map of the Middle East. The results for US geography are even more dismal. Half could not find New York State on the map, a third could not find Louisiana, and 48 percent could not locate the state of Mississippi.

Understanding geography is helpful in daily life, but “God-ography” (finding God) is infinitely more crucial—for now and for eternity.

In Hebrews 11:6 we are told that to find God and please Him, we first have to believe that He exists. How can we prove that God exists? Finding God is a matter of faith—confidence in Him and commitment to Him. This confidence and commitment should remain strong even though the objects of our faith are unseen. The writer of Hebrews and the apostle John agree that ultimately the way to find the Lord and please Him is by believing in His Son Jesus (Heb. 11:6; John 14:6).

Finding God is solely a work of God. Those who seek Him will find Him because God will give them a heart to recognize Him as Lord (Jer. 29:13-14).

I sought the Lord, and afterward I knew

He moved my soul to seek Him, as He sought me;

It was not I who found, O Savior true;

No, I was found of Thee. —Anon.

To find God, we must be willing to seek Him.

sources:

http://odb.org/2008/10/30/god-ography/

http://blogcritics.org/culture/article/faith-vs-belief/

http://www.squidoo.com/listening-to-gods-voice

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

Name under Heaven

Read: Acts 4:1-14

There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12

 During a television interview, a comedian was asked, “What do you intend to say when you meet your Maker?” The comedian, assuming possible rejection by God and reflecting today’s mindset, quipped, “I’ll simply ask for a second opinion!”

There was a time when the opinion of an expert in any field was taken as correct and final. But today we often seek the advice of many professionals until we find the one we think is best. This has given us many valuable benefits. But when we are looking for answers about our eternal destiny, only one opinion matters. God has the final answer.

In Acts 4:12, Peter boldly declared that Jesus is the only name given by God through which we can be saved. We stand condemned before a just and holy God because of our sin. But the good news is that His love has found a way to save us. He sent His Son Jesus Christ to take our place of punishment. We need only to acknowledge our sinfulness, ask for His forgiveness, and trust Him to save us. There’s simply no other way to heaven than through Jesus and His sacrificial death on the cross.

What will you say when you meet your Maker? If you’re unsure, settle it now—for it will be too late then.

What will you do with Jesus?Neutral you cannot be;Someday your heart will be asking,"What will He do with me?" —Simpson© Renewal 1933 Christian Publications, Inc.

It's foolish to say "tomorrow" when God says "today."

TODAY'S VERSE

The name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth... Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.

Acts 4:12

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

"Jesus, there's just something about that name!" The words to the song are right. Salvation from what is warped and broken in our world is found in no one else. He is our Savior because he was willing to come to this world, bear our limitations, shame, and sin, and then triumph over them.

MY PRAYER...

Through the precious name of Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, my Lord, I thank and praise you God, Most High. Your love has given the sacrifice for my sin and your power has given me the assurance of my resurrection from the dead. Your Son's willingness to spend a lifetime with us has given me a Great High Priest who intercedes with empathy for my struggles. His example lets me know of your great love. Thank You O God, for being so gracious and giving me such a wonderful Savior. Amen.

sources:

http://anunnaturallife.blogspot.com/2012/01/no-other-name.html

http://www.crosswalk.com/?utm_source=Weekly_Verses&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=03/12/2012

http://www.abc.edu/missions-conference.php

http://odb.org/1999/10/12/todays-the-day/

Unlimited Power

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“They turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel”

(Psalm 78:41, KJV)

TODAY’S WORD

God is a god of increase. He wants to take you to new levels and higher heights. But sometimes, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut and just settle for status quo. Sometimes we think, “Well, I’ve reached my limits. I’ve gone as far as I can go. This is as happy as I’ll ever be.” But if we’re going to continue to increase and really experience God’s best, we have to align our thinking with God’s thinking.

It’s interesting that in this scripture, the people limited the Holy One of Israel. Think about that. You and I can actually limit the all-powerful, Creator of the universe. How? By our thinking. What we believe either opens the door for God to move or it closes the door. God is limited in our lives by what we believe. So many people don’t even realize that it’s their own wrong thinking that keeps them in mediocrity.

Today, why don’t you take the limits off by choosing to believe God?! Feed your faith by studying His Word. Keep an open heart and mind before Him. Allow Him to work in your life and watch Him open up doors of blessing that you’ve never seen before!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, today I choose to believe You. I take the limits off by trusting that You have good plans for my future. I invite You to search my heart and remove anything that isn’t pleasing to You. I bless You today and always in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

TODAY'S VERSE

Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:5-8

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

Wow! What a message. God wants us to be productive in our lives. He wants us to have more than just head knowledge. He wants us to put it to work in our lives and be effective and productive with it. But, I've got to put out some effort and try to grow in these qualities. Peter is saying, "Okay folks, God wants you to get after it and make a difference through your life!" I'm ready! Let's begin today.

MY PRAYER...

Holy God, I am going to put out the effort to grow in your grace. Please bless my efforts and receive them as my heartfelt appreciation for loving me when I was unlovable and redeeming me when I was lost. I want to be productive to your glory in my life with Jesus, through whom I pray. Amen.

sources:
http://www.crosswalk.com/?utm_source=Weekly_Verses&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=03/12/2012
http://www.agreatchurch.com/news%20passover.html
http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx
http://www.firstag.net/content.cfm?id=294

A Cure for Anxiety

Philippians 4:7 The peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus

It is common to hear people say, "I just don't have a peace about it." I think that is legitimate. I would be concerned about the person who proceeds when his spirit is disturbed. God doesn't lead through anxiety. We are to cast our anxiety upon Jesus, because He cares for us (1Peter 5:7).

Still, a lot of money is spent on the temporary "cure" of anxiety. People consume alcohol, take illegal drugs, turn to the refrigerator, have sex, mindlessly repeat mantras, and escape to cabins, boats and motor homes--all to reduce their anxiety. One lady said, "Whenever I feel anxious, I go on a shopping spree!" Prescription drugs are regularly dispensed for the ails brought on by anxiety.

The bartender, drug pushers, occult practitioner, and other peddlers of escapism all have one thing in common: They really don't care about the consumer. They are out to make a profit. Even worse, when the temporary "cure" wears off, we have to return to the same world with the added problem of hangovers and other negative consequences of fake healers.

Internally, we desperately need the peace of God: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6, 7). The awareness of a troubled spirit should drive us to find the peace of God by turning to Him and assuming our responsibility to use our minds.

Verse of the day

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

A lot of different religious groups will give you all sorts of ways to know whether or not you have the Holy Spirit. Jesus has one simple answer: "by their fruit you will know them." Paul gives us the definition of holy fruit. Say them out loud and ask the Lord to make it true in you: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS, SELF-CONTROL.

MY PRAYER...

Abba Father, through the Spirit I call upon you. Please fulfill in me the character you possess. I want to exhibit the qualities of your child, Jesus, through whom I pray. Amen.

sources:
http://mudpreacher.org/2010/05/04/all-through-jesus/
http://health24.md/health/five-excellent-techniques-to-relieve-anxiety-and-improve-your-health.html

GOD of Wonders

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Then the LORD said: ‘I am making a covenant with you. Before all your people I will do wonders never before done in any nation in all the world. The people you live among will see how awesome is the work that I, the LORD, will do for you’ ”

(Exodus34:10, NIV)

TODAY’S WORD

Friend, if you’re going to reach your highest potential in the natural, you will need to have supernatural doors open for you that you cannot open on your own. You’re going to need promotion, good breaks, divine connections and God’s favor greater than what you’ve seen in the past.

God said in Exodus, “I will perform great wonders that I have not done anywhere before in all the world. People will see what great things I can do because of the awesome things I’m about to do for you.” Think about that for a moment and let it take root in your spirit. God is saying, “I’m going to do something awesome in your life.” “Awesome” means “astounding, remarkable, overwhelming, breathtaking.” The key is found in the very next verse; it says, “Obey what I have commanded.” God’s ready to do His part, and we have to do ours. When we do things God’s way, we get God’s results. When we follow His Word, He promises to bless us with life, health, peace and joy. He promises to do what has never been done before!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. I trust that You are opening doors for me that no man can shut. I choose to obey Your commands and walk in love as I wait on Your marvelous plan to unfold in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

The book of Nature

Read: Romans 1:18-24

Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made. —Romans 1:20

Scottish-American John Muir (1838– 1914) was raised by a Christian father who placed great emphasis on Scripture memory. By young adulthood, John allegedly could recite from memory all of the New Testament and large portions of the Old Testament.

As a young man, Muir developed a great love for God’s creation and viewed it as a source for understanding God. Historian Dennis Williams says that Muir referred to creation as the “Book of Nature.” While exploring the wilderness, he was able to study the plants and animals in an environment that “came straight from the hand of God, uncorrupted by civilization and domestication.” Muir went on to lead the forest conservation movement and was instrumental in creating many US national parks, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Mount Rainier.

To nurture the spiritual interest of children and youth, we should primarily focus on the Bible. But we can also take them to God’s outdoor classroom, where we can cultivate their love for the Creator by showing the majesty of creation: “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead” (Rom. 1:20).

O Lord, we can see all around us each day

The wisdom the creatures of nature display;

O help us to learn from Your marvelous world

The wonder and beauty Your hands have unfurled. —Bosch

In God’s pattern book of nature we can trace many valuable lessons.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. I trust that You are opening doors for me that no man can shut. I choose to obey Your commands and walk in love as I wait on Your marvelous plan to unfold in Jesus’ name. Amen.

sources:

http://jennyfisher.org/god-of-wonders-%E2%80%93-psalm-659-13/

http://odb.org/2012/01/16/the-book-of-nature/

http://www.youtube.com/user/SlacheAmalthea

http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

http://www.hogshadows.com/2011/06/god-of-wonders-psalm-136.html