"And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Genesis 1:2
The verse above tells us that the earth was without form, void and darkness was upon it. The word for "without form" also means "chaos". Literally, the earth was a place of chaos, empty and covered in darkness. Does that seem to describe your life? Is it full of chaos? Does it feel like it is covered in darkness? There doesn't seem to be any light shining in your situation- you can't even see any light at the end of the tunnel? Then I have good news for you this morning.
I love the next part of the verse- "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Even in the darkness, even in the confusion, even in the chaos, even in the emptiness, God was still there moving over the situation, watching what was happening, making His presence known. You are not alone, He is there with you also watching over your life.
Just the presence of God watching over the situation did not change it, it changed when God spoke a word into the situation. "And God said, Let there be light: and there was light." (verse 2) When God spoke, the situation changed. You need to hear a word from the Lord and things will change in your situation also. It doesn't matter how great the chaos and darkness is, in our verse it covered the whole earth- that is a lot of chaos and darkness. But just one word from the Lord and the darkness and chaos was gone- the light outshined it.
When God speaks a word into your situation, it will change. It will either literally change the situation as it did at creation, or, it will change something inside of you that will lift the darkness and calm the confusion so that you can go through that place. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4) The Psalmist said he was walking "through" the valley of the shadow of death- not translated out of it. But something was on the inside of him that caused him to walk through it with peace of mind, without fear, distress or confusion.
Paul was an example of what I am talking about. Paul wasn't delivered from prison. The end of his life was spent in a dark dungeon bound in chains, yet, Paul pinned the words, "I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." (Phil. 4:11b). How was that possible? Because God had spoken a word into his situation and it changed the situation by changing Paul on the inside. (Acts 21:10-13)
Seek God in prayer and stay there until He speaks a word into that situation you are in. He will speak. And His word will settle and remove the chaos either externally or internally.
Have a great day. One word from the Lord and the chaos clears up-- the chaos that is around us or the chaos that is in our hearts.
For further reading:
Philippians 4:11-13
Psalm 23
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Every Entree Requires Good Ingredients~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Are you the type of person that gives up on your dreams and goals real easy? At the sight of trials and tribulations, do you easily surrender to the opposition? When family and friends do not support your aspirations, do you give up on the plan of God for your life? So often in our lives, we expect the blessings without anticipating the challenges. The enemy will never allow you to receive or enjoy the blessings of God without doing what he can to hinder you. Yes the promises of God will come to pass in your life. You can rest upon God’s promises. However, between the promise and the fulfillment, will always be a process. It is during the process that the enemy sends everything and everyone against you. It is during the process that makes the fulfillment seem uncertain. If you lose sight of the fulfillment while experiencing the process, the enemy has won. It is during the process that you must trust God and depend upon His strength and guidance.
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. During the process of your life, you must understand the importance of God in your life. Many people celebrate the victory with you, but they do not endure the training. My friend, Every Entrée Requires Good Ingredients! We tend to forget several important ingredients that are needed to make the best entrée. The first ingredient is God. You cannot build, plant, sow or expect without having a foundation based upon God. No matter how hard you try, any man that builds a house without the Lord involved, that man labors in vain (Psalms 127:1). The Bible declares in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. The second ingredient required is the Word of God. You must apply God’s Word to every situation in your life. Whether you think it is major or minor, you must apply God’s Word. Do you not know that every big situation started out small? The Bible declares in Psalms 119:105 - Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
My brother, my sister, Every Entrée Requires Good Ingredients! The third required ingredient is prayer. You must have a prayer life that goes beyond the traditional Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep. You must have a personal, intimate prayer life with the Father. A prayer life that’s center around your desire to fellowship and commune with God. The Bible declares in James 5:16 - … The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. The fourth ingredient required is obedience. After you have placed God first, applied His Word, talked to Him in prayer, now you must operate in obedience to whatever God tells you to do. The Bible declares in 1 Samuel 15:22 - Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. There comes a time when you must walk in accordance to God’s commandments and instructions. Beloved, the entrée you desire to enjoy will come as a result of you following the ingredients in the order God instructs. The blessings of God are predicated on your willingness to follow the ingredients. Prayer for Today: Father, thank you for investing greatness within me. I will do my best to apply the ingredients listed. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: Isaiah 1:19
Our God Is The Awesome God~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Do you realize God is able to do whatever He wants, when He wants and how He wants? Do you realize God is not limited by our fears and insecurities? Do you realize God is aware of you and your needs? Do you realize God knew you before you knew you and momma and daddy knew each other? Do you understand there is nothing too hard for God (Genesis 18:14)? Many times in our lives, we tend to forget how Sovereign our God really is. We often place God in the same category as ourselves. We approach God as if He has limitations and weaknesses. We pray to Him only when we feel He is able to do it. While man is an imperfect being, God is perfect in every way. There are no shortcomings or skeletons in God’s closet. He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think of (Ephesians 3:20). He is God. He is Lord of all and in all. He is before all things, in all things and the conclusion of all things.
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. My friend, Our God is The Awesome God! He is not an awesome god, but He is THE Awesome God. This means no one else is on His level. There are no other gods or lords great as He. The Bible declares in Revelation 17:14 - … for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful. The limitations we have limit us not God. When you approach the throne room of God, you must come unto Him in belief and certainty. You must know He can and He will. You must be confident in God’s abilities. No matter how horrific the situation appears, you must have an unwavering trust in the Lord. The Bible declares in Hebrews 11:6 - But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Our God is The Awesome God! You will never find anything or anyone that can ever take His place.
My brother, my sister, your current situation is small potatoes to such a Great God. The same dilemma that consumes your thoughts and robs you of your sleep, is the same dilemma God desires to free you from. Whether you believe it or not, I know God specializes in things that appear impossible. The Bible declares in Luke 18:27 - And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God. Beloved, Our God is The Awesome God! He is God that sits high, but looks low. He knows your needs before you have need of them. He’s so much God that He can send the solution before you realize there is a problem. Who else can do such great things? No one but our God. Today, what are you dealing with? What trial or tribulation do you find yourself faced with today? The Bible declares in Psalms 46:1 - God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Child of God, never forget Our God is The Awesome God, He resigns from Heaven above with wisdom, power and love. Our God is The Awesome GOD. Prayer for Today: Father, thank You for being the AWESOME God in my life. I know You can fix any problem and answer any prayer. I honor and adore You. Bless Your name. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: Exodus 34:14
What's Your Job?~G. Craige Lewis
1 Peter 4:10 - 'God has given gifts to each of you from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God?s generosity can flow through you.' NLT
What are you good at? Nine times out of ten, what you are good at doing can be used for the Kingdom of God. Your gift that you possess can richly add to a ministry that is spreading the Gospel. It would be a shame for you to be talented in an area and only use it for money, or for your secular job. God is the giver of good and perfect things, not the enemy, so you should be using your gift and talents, not only for your secular job, but also to build the Kingdom of God. Many times we spend years in prayer over our purpose and our God given destiny to find what it is that God wants us to do for his benefit. But if you look into the Word of God, you will find that the purpose He has for us is built into us from our conception! Look at God choosing the 12 disciples. Each one he chose had an occupation that was used for the Kingdom to benefit from. The fisherman, became fishers of men. The Tax collector became Jesus' accountant. Even Jesus, who was a carpenter by trade, became the chief builder of the Church of God! So, what are you good at?
What are you good at? Nine times out of ten, what you are good at doing can be used for the Kingdom of God. Your gift that you possess can richly add to a ministry that is spreading the Gospel. It would be a shame for you to be talented in an area and only use it for money, or for your secular job. God is the giver of good and perfect things, not the enemy, so you should be using your gift and talents, not only for your secular job, but also to build the Kingdom of God. Many times we spend years in prayer over our purpose and our God given destiny to find what it is that God wants us to do for his benefit. But if you look into the Word of God, you will find that the purpose He has for us is built into us from our conception! Look at God choosing the 12 disciples. Each one he chose had an occupation that was used for the Kingdom to benefit from. The fisherman, became fishers of men. The Tax collector became Jesus' accountant. Even Jesus, who was a carpenter by trade, became the chief builder of the Church of God! So, what are you good at?
Why are you just giving your services for money and not using it to benefit the Kingdom? Don't you know that you could add so much to a ministry, a church, or a non profit helps organization? I know sometimes we see feeding the poor, clothing the homeless, or street preaching as the only true means of evangelism and missions but everyone in a ministry, church, or helps organization is important. And the lives that we touch are credited to each and every active member. You are a Christian, so use your gifts and abilities to help others. Even when there is no money involved, you should still want to sow your gift and talents to bless others and God will always credit you for being a blessing.
Suggested Reading: Jer. 1:5, 1Cor. 12:31, 1Cor. 14:12, Heb. 9:9
The Weapon Of Prayer~G. Craige Lewis
Ephesians 6:12 - 'For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.'
It's time to pray saints of God. When people harm you, or misuse you. When they slander your name, lie on you, or disregard your very own desire to do the right thing. When you have changed, yet they will not let you live down your past, or when you stand for the truth and yet they tear you down, it's time to pray! Prayer is our weapon, not gossip, backbiting, slander, or violence! We as believers don't react to a spiritual devil by fighting in the physical realm. You can always tell a very immature Christian, because when they get upset or hurt, they will always revert back to worldly methods of revenge. But God said "HE" would fight our battles. Let's grow up Christians and not allow the devil to beat us up in the spirit realm while we shadow box him in the natural. You will get no where like that.
It's time to pray saints of God. When people harm you, or misuse you. When they slander your name, lie on you, or disregard your very own desire to do the right thing. When you have changed, yet they will not let you live down your past, or when you stand for the truth and yet they tear you down, it's time to pray! Prayer is our weapon, not gossip, backbiting, slander, or violence! We as believers don't react to a spiritual devil by fighting in the physical realm. You can always tell a very immature Christian, because when they get upset or hurt, they will always revert back to worldly methods of revenge. But God said "HE" would fight our battles. Let's grow up Christians and not allow the devil to beat us up in the spirit realm while we shadow box him in the natural. You will get no where like that.
Prayer is your weapon! You can deal with the devil through prayer and if you are strategic, you can overcome his attacks! And when you develop a strong warfare prayer life, those enemies will reap the very attacks they are casting upon you! In other words, praying for them and wishing them no harm will cause God to react! God said in Prov. 6:17 , he hates "hands that shed innocent blood" and that's not just talking about death, but it's talking about hurting people that mean you no harm! We must never forget that God requires us to pray for those that do us wrong and that's not a weak cop out, but that puts your enemies in the hands of God for him to take revenge for you! So, again I say, pray instead of retaliating. When you are attacked and you feel that you have been wronged, pray for them and watch the vengeance of the Lord set it straight. Remember, God said "Touch not my anointed" and if you are chosen by him, the anointing resides within you! That means harm will come to them that harm you!
Suggested Reading: Psa. 105:15, Phil. 4:6, Rom. 12:19, 2Cor. 10:4
TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria
“A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world”
(John 16:21, NIV)
TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Years ago when we first found out that Victoria was pregnant, we were so excited. Even though she didn’t look any different on the outside, we began planning and preparing for our new baby. Then as time went on, we moved out of the fun, easy stage of conception and into that much more difficult stage of development. That’s when the mother becomes uncomfortable, swollen, can’t sleep at night, her back aches. Things seem to get the hardest right before the birthing begins.
In a sense, it’s the same way in our spiritual lives. When we conceive something in our hearts from God, it’s so exciting. It’s easy to stay encouraged and full of faith during that time. But the real test is when we go through the development process. Are we willing to keep a good attitude even when we’re uncomfortable and things aren’t going our way? Are we willing to stand and fight the good fight of faith until we give birth to our dreams?
If you’re standing for something today, keep standing. Keep believing even when you don’t see anything happening. Hold on to that promise even when it’s uncomfortable because soon you will give birth to every dream and desire the Lord has placed in your heart!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for the dreams and desires You’ve planted in my heart. Give me the strength to persevere even when times are hard. Give me Your peace and joy so that I can stand strong until I see those dreams and desires come to pass. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
— Joel & Victoria Osteen
(John 16:21, NIV)
TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Years ago when we first found out that Victoria was pregnant, we were so excited. Even though she didn’t look any different on the outside, we began planning and preparing for our new baby. Then as time went on, we moved out of the fun, easy stage of conception and into that much more difficult stage of development. That’s when the mother becomes uncomfortable, swollen, can’t sleep at night, her back aches. Things seem to get the hardest right before the birthing begins.
In a sense, it’s the same way in our spiritual lives. When we conceive something in our hearts from God, it’s so exciting. It’s easy to stay encouraged and full of faith during that time. But the real test is when we go through the development process. Are we willing to keep a good attitude even when we’re uncomfortable and things aren’t going our way? Are we willing to stand and fight the good fight of faith until we give birth to our dreams?
If you’re standing for something today, keep standing. Keep believing even when you don’t see anything happening. Hold on to that promise even when it’s uncomfortable because soon you will give birth to every dream and desire the Lord has placed in your heart!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for the dreams and desires You’ve planted in my heart. Give me the strength to persevere even when times are hard. Give me Your peace and joy so that I can stand strong until I see those dreams and desires come to pass. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
— Joel & Victoria Osteen
Monday, August 23, 2010
Never Stop Praying..It Really Works!~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Have you ever known someone who gives up at the first sight of attack or despair? The first person who disagrees with him or her, they want to walk away from the dream. Since no one believes it can be done, they want to throw away all of their days of fasting and nights of laboring. No willingness. No perseverance. No tenacity. Have you ever depended on other people’s prayers to get you through? You did not believe your prayers would be heard like those your friend solicit. You expected your friends and family to talk to God on your behalf. You never bowed down on your knees. You never called upon the Lord’s name. If others did not believe and pray for you, no prayers were submitted. (Key note: To pray for others and have others pray for you is very important, but you must also know how to pray for yourself.) Have you ever been there? Are you there now?
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. Do you believe there’s power in prayer? Do you believe God still answers prayer? In spite of what the enemy told you, God still hears and answers our prayers. He is still willing and able to do what we need done in our lives. Today, I want to encourage you. My friend, Never Stop Praying … It Really Works! The Bible declares in James 5:16 - Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. There’s something about prayer that enables the Believer to enter into the presence of our God. It is true, much prayer much power; little prayer little power; and no prayer no power. No matter what you are experiencing today, you can take it to the Lord in prayer. Whether it is your personal matter, a friend’s situation or a family member’s struggle, it can still be taken to the Lord in prayer.
My brother, my sister, Never Stop Praying … It Really Works! The blessings you enjoy today, comes as a result of someone’s prayers for you. You did not think you did it alone … did you? It is because of the mercies of God that we are not consumed (Lamentations 3:22). The Bible declares in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 - Pray without ceasing. Beloved, what are you dealing with today? What dilemma or tribulation are you faced with? Who are you worried about? What situation attempts to steal your joy and your peace? Are you praying about it? If yes, never stop. Have you stopped praying about it? If yes, why? Never Stop Praying … It Really Works! When you pray for someone else, pray for them … not at them or about them. The Bible declares in Matthew 5:44 - But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. Prayer for Today: Father, I believe there is nothing too hard for You. I believe You can do anything but fail. Today, I do not cease in my prayers. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: John 17
Are You Stuck?~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Have you ever found yourself doing the same thing expecting a different result? You approached each situation with the same mindset and same defense. You thought you could defeat the enemy by staying quiet, hoping he would think you were invisible. While he was attacking you and your family, in stead of you declaring the Word of God against him, you stood quiet and fearful (2 Timothy 1:7). Have you ever became complacent with your position in life? You just accepted things as they came. You grew accustom to second hand blessings. While God desired to bless you abundantly, you grew comfortable with getting the remains from someone else. Hmmmmmmmm! Have you ever missed the move of God because you expected Him to come the same way each time? You failed to realize He could bless you through someone else, while blessings others through you.
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. Are you content with the way things are in your life? Are you satisfied with just having “barely enough” to make it? My friend, Are You Stuck? Are you in bondage because of a close-minded attitude? Many times we miss many blessings in our lives, or we have doors close in front of us because we grew complacent with life and the way we defined it. To be stuck means to halt the movement or action of something or somone. The Bible declares in Hebrews 12:1 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. There are many people who look blessed and appear blessed in the eyes of man, but (s)he has not experienced a new thing in a long time (Isaiah 43:19). They talk as if slavery still exist. They are bound by the mistakes of their past. They are fearful concerning the events of their future. Are You Stuck? Are you living within a small circle? Each day you go in the same direction. Just as a hamster on the wheel, are you running in place thinking you are making progress?
My brother, my sister, are you further along than you were this time last year? Have you grown since August 4, 2009? Are you still shackled by immature behavior and animosity? The Bible declares in Matthew 16:19 - And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Beloved, Are You Stuck? Have you become dead weight? The Lord desires to use you in awesome ways. He formed you with purpose in mind. Yes you have made mistakes, but so have I. Yes you fell short, but we all have (Romans 3:23). In spite of your shortcomings, God has a plan for your life. He has a mission for you to complete. He has a blue print created with you in mind. It is time for you to get life back in your legs. When you are stuck, your mind is bound and your legs have lost strength. Today, I declare peace in your mind and strength in your legs (Job 22:28) (Acts 3:7). No longer can you or will you be stuck. Prayer for Today: Father, there is work to complete and I am the one You ordained to do it. My time being stuck is over, I am moving forward according to Your will, in Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: Romans 12:2
Using The Gift
"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15
I woke up again this morning with another song going over and over in my thoughts. I want to share one verse that keeps repeating itself. "And all my days are gifts from You I pray I'd use them as You want me to. Use them for You."
Each day we have is a gift we have been given by God-- none of us have been promised this day. How are you going to spend it? On self or on God and others? Are you going to spend it as a "living sacrifice" surrendered wholly and completely to God? Are you going to spend it letting your light shine or hiding it? Are you going to spend it in rebellion against the will of God or in submission to Him? Are you going to spend it in disobedience to His word by living immorally, seeking only your own pleasure and desires? Are you going to spend it showing love or living with hateful attitudes? Are you going to spend it in fear or in faith? Are you going to spend it being led by your emotions and feelings or by the word of God? Are you going to spend it gratifying your flesh or are you going to do those things that build up your spirit and deny your flesh? Are you going to spend it in bitterness, unforgiveness and nursing grudges, or are you going to walk in mercy, grace and forgiveness?
There are probably a hundred more questions like this that I could ask you this morning concerning how you will spend the day, but the answer to each one boils down to choice. We either choose to spend this day our way or God's way. We will choose to either serve Him or serve self. Your choices determine how you will spend it. They also reveal whether you are truly using the gift of this day for Him or not.
Have a great day. If you choose to spend the day on yourself, then you have chosen not to use this gift for Him.
For further reading:
(Song is Hillsong- "You Are My World")
Psalm 103:15
James 4:13-15
Romans 12:1; 8:14
Matthew 5:16
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
I woke up again this morning with another song going over and over in my thoughts. I want to share one verse that keeps repeating itself. "And all my days are gifts from You I pray I'd use them as You want me to. Use them for You."
Each day we have is a gift we have been given by God-- none of us have been promised this day. How are you going to spend it? On self or on God and others? Are you going to spend it as a "living sacrifice" surrendered wholly and completely to God? Are you going to spend it letting your light shine or hiding it? Are you going to spend it in rebellion against the will of God or in submission to Him? Are you going to spend it in disobedience to His word by living immorally, seeking only your own pleasure and desires? Are you going to spend it showing love or living with hateful attitudes? Are you going to spend it in fear or in faith? Are you going to spend it being led by your emotions and feelings or by the word of God? Are you going to spend it gratifying your flesh or are you going to do those things that build up your spirit and deny your flesh? Are you going to spend it in bitterness, unforgiveness and nursing grudges, or are you going to walk in mercy, grace and forgiveness?
There are probably a hundred more questions like this that I could ask you this morning concerning how you will spend the day, but the answer to each one boils down to choice. We either choose to spend this day our way or God's way. We will choose to either serve Him or serve self. Your choices determine how you will spend it. They also reveal whether you are truly using the gift of this day for Him or not.
Have a great day. If you choose to spend the day on yourself, then you have chosen not to use this gift for Him.
For further reading:
(Song is Hillsong- "You Are My World")
Psalm 103:15
James 4:13-15
Romans 12:1; 8:14
Matthew 5:16
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Times Of Life
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." Psalm 23:4
This morning, again, there has been a song repeating over and over in my heart. The words are, "The God of the mountain, is still God in the valley. When things go wrong, He'll make them right. And the God of the good times, He's still God in the bad times. The God of the day, is still God in the night."
Life is made up of various "times" - we learn this from creation. We learn this through the changing of the seasons- there isn't just one season, there are four. We can look at the landscape and see that it isn't all the same- there are mountainous areas, wildernesses, forests, valleys, the desert, etc. They each are needful and they are all part of this physical life.
We go through spiritual seasons as well. There are times when everything in our lives is wonderful and the blessings are flowing. Then there are times when it looks "dead" with no sign of "life". There are also times when we feel like we are in a valley or on a mountain top.
But regardless of where the "times" of life take us- God doesn't change and He is with us in them all. He is with us on the mountain top. He is with us in the valley. He is with us in the wilderness. He is with us when it feels like the windows of heaven are open and when it feels like they are shut up. He is with us when we face "dry spells" and when the "river" is flooding our lives.
I don't know where you might be this morning. You might be in one of those times when everything is going good and it doesn't feel like it could get any better. Or you might be in one of those times when it feels like it can't get any worse. But wherever you are, you are not alone- God is with you.
Have a great day. God is still God even when things change in your life... and He is still with you.
For further reading:
Malachi 3:6
Matthew 28:20
Psalm 23
Daniel 3:25
Deuteronomy 1:33
<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><
Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
This morning, again, there has been a song repeating over and over in my heart. The words are, "The God of the mountain, is still God in the valley. When things go wrong, He'll make them right. And the God of the good times, He's still God in the bad times. The God of the day, is still God in the night."
Life is made up of various "times" - we learn this from creation. We learn this through the changing of the seasons- there isn't just one season, there are four. We can look at the landscape and see that it isn't all the same- there are mountainous areas, wildernesses, forests, valleys, the desert, etc. They each are needful and they are all part of this physical life.
We go through spiritual seasons as well. There are times when everything in our lives is wonderful and the blessings are flowing. Then there are times when it looks "dead" with no sign of "life". There are also times when we feel like we are in a valley or on a mountain top.
But regardless of where the "times" of life take us- God doesn't change and He is with us in them all. He is with us on the mountain top. He is with us in the valley. He is with us in the wilderness. He is with us when it feels like the windows of heaven are open and when it feels like they are shut up. He is with us when we face "dry spells" and when the "river" is flooding our lives.
I don't know where you might be this morning. You might be in one of those times when everything is going good and it doesn't feel like it could get any better. Or you might be in one of those times when it feels like it can't get any worse. But wherever you are, you are not alone- God is with you.
Have a great day. God is still God even when things change in your life... and He is still with you.
For further reading:
Malachi 3:6
Matthew 28:20
Psalm 23
Daniel 3:25
Deuteronomy 1:33
<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><
Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Dancing With God
When I meditated on the word Guidance,
I kept seeing "dance" at the end of the word.
I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing.
When two people try to lead, nothing feels right.
The movement doesn't flow with the music,
And everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky.
When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead,
Both bodies begin to flow with the music.
One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back
Or by pressing Lightly in one direction or another.
It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully.
The dance takes surrender, willingness,
And attentiveness from one person
And gentle guidance and skill from the other.
My eyes drew back to the word Guidance.
When I saw "G: I thought of God, followed by "u" and "I".
"God, "u" and "I" dance."
God, you, and I dance.
As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust
That I would get guidance about my life.
Once again, I became willing to let God lead.
My prayer for you today is that God's blessings
And mercies be upon you on this day and everyday.
May you abide in God as God
Abides in you.
Dance together with God, trusting God to lead
And to guide you through each season of your life.
For prayer is one of the best gifts we can receive.
There is no cost but a lot of rewards;
So let's continue to pray for one another.
And I Hope You Dance
I kept seeing "dance" at the end of the word.
I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing.
When two people try to lead, nothing feels right.
The movement doesn't flow with the music,
And everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky.
When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead,
Both bodies begin to flow with the music.
One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back
Or by pressing Lightly in one direction or another.
It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully.
The dance takes surrender, willingness,
And attentiveness from one person
And gentle guidance and skill from the other.
My eyes drew back to the word Guidance.
When I saw "G: I thought of God, followed by "u" and "I".
"God, "u" and "I" dance."
God, you, and I dance.
As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust
That I would get guidance about my life.
Once again, I became willing to let God lead.
My prayer for you today is that God's blessings
And mercies be upon you on this day and everyday.
May you abide in God as God
Abides in you.
Dance together with God, trusting God to lead
And to guide you through each season of your life.
For prayer is one of the best gifts we can receive.
There is no cost but a lot of rewards;
So let's continue to pray for one another.
And I Hope You Dance
Have You Forgotten How Blessed You Really Are?~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. I often wonder if we understand how blessed we really are. Many times we forget to tell God thank you when we rise in the mornings. We forget about those who lost their lives prior to that morning. We often forget to bless God for the food we receive each day. We forget about the people and families who go to bed hungry each night. So often we enter and exit our doors at home without ever telling God how much we appreciate His provision and protection. We forget about the people living in homeless shelters or on the streets, as well as the people who experienced burglary or assault the night before. Have you told God thank you today? Have you thanked our God for watching over you while sleeping last night? Have you thanked our God for another day of life? There are many people who rose out of bed with a fatal disease and illness, but they rose with praise on their lips and thanksgiving in their hearts. What about you? What’s on your lips or in your heart?
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. How often do you forget to tell God thank you? When our peers do something nice for us, or give us a nice gift, we instantly reply with a thank you. When the Lord blesses us, we act as though He took too long to respond. My friend, Have You Forgotten How Blessed You Really Are? In the Old Testament times, when the people committed sins, the High Priest was the only one who could atone for their sins. Read Leviticus 16:30. The people did not have access to the presence of God like we do today. There was a certain time and a certain way the High Priest could enter God’s presence to atone for the people’s sins. But when Jesus gave His life on Calvary’s cross, He atoned for our sins once and for all. Read Matthew 27:51. Through the love of Jesus, we are now able to approach our Father in His name. Have You Forgotten How Blessed You Really Are? The Lord has been so good to us. When we deserved to die, He spared our lives (mercy); and when we did not deserve it, He blessed us anyway (grace). What a mighty God we serve.
My brother, my sister, I do not care what the enemy has attempted to do. I do not care what others have said about you. In spite of it all, you are blessed. Read John 10:10. The enemy is out to destroy us because he knows God has His hands on us. Have You Forgotten How Blessed You Really Are? Beloved, you owe the Lord a radical praise today. A praise that comes out of your mouth. Not just a hand clap, but a praise where words exit your mouth. No longer are you allowed to say, “I praise God within.” When you needed God to do something quick in your life, He blessed you openly (not in secret.) Read Matthew 6:6. My friend, you are a child of God. You are amongst the promise generation. You are apart of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-3). Why? Because, not what you did, but what Christ did for you. Have You Forgotten How Blessed You Really Are? Prayer for Today: Father, forgive me for ever taking You for granted. Thank You for always watching over me. I am blessed because You chose to bless me. Today, I walk in it. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: Psalm 100
Looks Can Be Deceiving!~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Many times in life, we experience seasons of ups and downs. There are times when things seem so horrible, and then there are times when everything you touch blossoms. Sometimes there are days and nights that you would love to overlook; then there are days and nights that you would love to last forever. So often, there are phone calls and doctor visits you would love to avoid or forget; but on the other hand, there are memories and events you wish could happen again. Have you ever found yourself looking at a picture and you begin to visualize yourself involved in the scenery? It could be a picture or painting of Hawaii or someone driving a luxury vehicle. Out of no where you begin to say, “Oh what I would do for a chance to be there or have that!” Have you ever felt the grass was greener on the other side than it was in your yard? Your eyes can only see the outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7).
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. My friend, Looks Can Be Deceiving! When you look at someone else’s situation, many times you either feel good about yours or feel awful. Have you ever compared your life to that of someone else? Your success story was based on what you had and others did not. Be careful! The blessings you enjoy today were not given for you to boast or compete, but for you to glorify the name of the Lord. Jesus did not die for you to die, but He died so that you could live (John 10:10). The Bible declares in Galatians 6:7 - Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Do not think because a person has a nice home, a nice car, great salary, beautiful children, wonderful spouse and a gorgeous smile that their life is worth having. Looks Can Be Deceiving! On the outside, everything appears wonderful. They play the role very well. No one knows what takes place behind close doors like God does. Instead of comparing and praying for their life, thank God for the life He has blessed you with.
My brother, my sister, God is able to bless you in ways man could never (Ephesians 3:20). While you desire to copy another person’s life, God desires to bless you with your own. Be careful in what you ask for. The Bible declares in Exodus 20:17 - Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s. Beloved, Looks Can Be Deceiving! Your friend’s smile could be fake. Your supervisor’s nasty attitude could be a cover up for a broken heart. Your co-worker’s constant staring could be his or her cry for someone to help. Child of God, instead of trying to be like "Mike", why don’t you be the best "YOU". There is only one of you. God did not make a carbon copy when He made you. Be grateful today for the life and blessings you enjoy each day. Prayer for Today: Father, help me be more appreciative for the awesome things You are doing in my life. My life is an original work by Your hands. Thank you for investing in me. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: Ephesians 2:10, Galatians 6:3
I Declare (Decree) Unto You~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Today, the Lord pressed it upon my heart to do something different. Instead of sending a devotional, the Lord has commissioned me to declare His blessings over your life. On today, I Declare (Decree) Unto You! The Bible declares in Job 22:28 - Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways.
My brother, my sister, I Declare (Decree) Unto You:
That the peace of God will enter into your mind and destroy all confusion sent by the enemy; (Philippians 4:7)
That the joy of the Lord is your strength; (Nehemiah 8:10)
That you will use wisdom when making decisions; (Proverbs 4:7)
That you will gain understanding of your God-ordained assignment; (Psalm 119:104)
That the plots of the enemy against you are canceled in the name of Jesus Christ; (John 10:10)
That the blessings of God will overtake you; (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
That you are a blessing to the nation; (Malachi 3:12)
That your children are purpose-filled by the Lord; (Matthew 21:16)
That no weapon that is formed against you will prosper; (Isaiah 54:17)
That the healing hand of God will cancel every sickness or disease and replace it with wholeness; (Isaiah 53:5)
That you are no longer a victim but a victor in Jesus’ name; (I John 4:4)
That He which has begun a good work in you will complete it in you; (Philippians 1:6)
That you can do all things through Christ which strengthens you; (Philippians 4:13)
That your God shall supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory; (Philippians 4:19)
That the lies of man have no power over your life; (Psalm 110:1)
That the generational curses in your life are broken from your life; (Matthew 11:29)
That your finances are pressed down, shaken together and running over with abundance; (Luke 6:38)
That you are blessed to be a blessing; (Hebrews 6:14)
That you are fearfully and wonderfully made by the hand of God; (Psalm 139:14)
That you are free to praise the Lord; (Psalm 150:6)
That you have the authority to bind every demon and ungodly spirit. (Matthew 16:19)
Today, I ask that you recite this to yourself (as I have done to myself) and share it with your e-mail buddies. Beloved, walk in what God promised you.
A Limp
"Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." 1 Corinthians 10:12
For some reason when I read this verse, I get a visual image of Jacob leaning upon his staff. If you remember the story he had an encounter with the Lord and walked with a limp from that day forward. It was during that encounter that Jacob's name was changed from Jacob- meaning deceiver- to Israel- meaning prince.
What a dramatic "transformation". To have God call you a "prince" when you were known as a deceiver. That certainly would have been quiet an experience, one no doubt that could have easily "puffed" him up. He could have become proud and arrogant. That wasn't God's plan for Jacob, so at the same time his name was being changed he received a limp. Though he was now a "prince", he had to depend upon the support of a staff to help him walk-- how humbling.
I think also about the Apostle Paul. He saw things that wasn't lawful for men to see. He was taken into places by God and shown things that could have easily puffed him up with pride. But again, that wasn't God's plan for him either. So, thus the "thorn in the flesh". The buffeting he received kept Paul humble.
When God is doing something through your life, when He is giving you revelation and insight, when He is using you in the gifts of the Spirit, when He is doing signs and wonders through you, when He is taking you "from glory to glory", the last thing you need to do is allow yourself to get "puffed up". Guard against spiritual pride-- it will cause you to fall. That isn't God's plan for you either.
We may be being used by God to bring Him glory, but we all walk with a "limp" (the inability to walk without help), thus having to depend upon a "staff" to hold us up. None of us can ever think that we can do it on our own. None of us can ever think that we can walk this walk by ourselves. None of us can ever think that we don't need God's help- we do. The Lord is the "staff" that supports us through our daily journey. Without Him holding us up, we will surely fall.
Have a great day. We all have a "limp"- the need for help and support. The Lord is that "staff" that holds us up.
For further reading:
Genesis 32:20-30
2 Corinthians 12:6,7
Proverbs 16:18
Psalm 23:4
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
For some reason when I read this verse, I get a visual image of Jacob leaning upon his staff. If you remember the story he had an encounter with the Lord and walked with a limp from that day forward. It was during that encounter that Jacob's name was changed from Jacob- meaning deceiver- to Israel- meaning prince.
What a dramatic "transformation". To have God call you a "prince" when you were known as a deceiver. That certainly would have been quiet an experience, one no doubt that could have easily "puffed" him up. He could have become proud and arrogant. That wasn't God's plan for Jacob, so at the same time his name was being changed he received a limp. Though he was now a "prince", he had to depend upon the support of a staff to help him walk-- how humbling.
I think also about the Apostle Paul. He saw things that wasn't lawful for men to see. He was taken into places by God and shown things that could have easily puffed him up with pride. But again, that wasn't God's plan for him either. So, thus the "thorn in the flesh". The buffeting he received kept Paul humble.
When God is doing something through your life, when He is giving you revelation and insight, when He is using you in the gifts of the Spirit, when He is doing signs and wonders through you, when He is taking you "from glory to glory", the last thing you need to do is allow yourself to get "puffed up". Guard against spiritual pride-- it will cause you to fall. That isn't God's plan for you either.
We may be being used by God to bring Him glory, but we all walk with a "limp" (the inability to walk without help), thus having to depend upon a "staff" to hold us up. None of us can ever think that we can do it on our own. None of us can ever think that we can walk this walk by ourselves. None of us can ever think that we don't need God's help- we do. The Lord is the "staff" that supports us through our daily journey. Without Him holding us up, we will surely fall.
Have a great day. We all have a "limp"- the need for help and support. The Lord is that "staff" that holds us up.
For further reading:
Genesis 32:20-30
2 Corinthians 12:6,7
Proverbs 16:18
Psalm 23:4
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Daily Declaration
I am thankful to God for His Blessings in my life!
By the grace of God, today I have new opportunities coming my way!
I am equipped for today’s challenges!
Better jobs, contracts, customers, promotions, bonuses, dividends and offers avail themselves to me!
I welcome opportunities to grow mentally, spiritually, physically, socially, and financially!
I am ready for increase on every level!
My eyes are perceptive to recognize unique opportunities tailored for me!
My mind is alert!
My spirit is discerning!
My soul is anchored!
My body is prepared!
I am ready to receive the bounty of God’s good will for my life!
Uncommon favor rests upon my life for uncommon blessings!
I have prepared all of my life for this moment!
I am more ready now than I ever been!
Good things are flowing my way today!
Thank you, Jesus for abundantly meeting every need in my life! Empower me, O Lord, to
Become everything I shall have wished I had become when I stand before Thee!
I give you praise for being my Lord!
-Bishop Dale C. Bronner 2010
By the grace of God, today I have new opportunities coming my way!
I am equipped for today’s challenges!
Better jobs, contracts, customers, promotions, bonuses, dividends and offers avail themselves to me!
I welcome opportunities to grow mentally, spiritually, physically, socially, and financially!
I am ready for increase on every level!
My eyes are perceptive to recognize unique opportunities tailored for me!
My mind is alert!
My spirit is discerning!
My soul is anchored!
My body is prepared!
I am ready to receive the bounty of God’s good will for my life!
Uncommon favor rests upon my life for uncommon blessings!
I have prepared all of my life for this moment!
I am more ready now than I ever been!
Good things are flowing my way today!
Thank you, Jesus for abundantly meeting every need in my life! Empower me, O Lord, to
Become everything I shall have wished I had become when I stand before Thee!
I give you praise for being my Lord!
-Bishop Dale C. Bronner 2010
Bogged Down
"Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh." Romans 8:12
Have you ever been "bogged down"? The term means to "be stuck"; "cause to slow down"; "grind to a halt.". Years ago we lived on a creek so we spent a lot of time enjoying the sand bar and water. At times you could be walking along on the sand and all of a sudden you would step onto a soft place and bog down- we called these soft spots "quick sand". Once you got in one you would sink to your knees. Getting out was very difficult, especially if it was a large area. You would have to try to pull your leg out and try to make a step with your other leg, and usually it would bog down too. You would have to keep trying to make steps, one after the other, until you could finally get back on solid ground.
There are several things that can bog you down physically- mud, quick sand, snow. People can get "bogged down" in their thoughts and in their emotions. You can also get bogged down by pressures on your job- added work when you haven't finished the first assignment.
There is another area of being "bogged down" that I want to discuss this morning. It is something that will bog you down spiritually to keep you from advancing in victory, in knowing God's purpose for your life and in fulfilling your destiny. It's your own flesh. Your flesh is like a "boggy" place. It wants to suck you in and get you stuck so that you can't move or go anywhere in your walk and relationship with the Lord.
The more time you spend catering to your flesh, the more time you spend giving into its wants and desires, the more time you spend entertaining it, the more time you spend feeding its appetites, lusts and desires... the more "bogged down" you will become. It is like that quick sand that I described earlier. It will get a strong hold on you and won't let you go- you'll be stuck! And you will have to struggle and work hard to get yourself out. (And believe me, the flesh doesn't let go easily.) The only way that it will let go of its hold is through death. The flesh has to die.
Are you wondering why you feel like you aren't making any progress? Do you feel like you aren't going anywhere and wonder why you are at a stand still? Are you struggling but not advancing? Perhaps it is your flesh that is bogging you down? I described above what we would have to do to get free from the areas of quick sand. To get ourselves free from the flesh that has caused us to get stuck/bogged down is by denying it. The more we deny our flesh, the more freedom from it we have. The more freedom we have from it, the less power it has over us. The less power it has over us, the harder it is to get bogged down. The harder it becomes to get bogged down by the flesh, the easier it is to live in the spirit.
Have a great day. Is your flesh bogging you down? Then get unstuck by denying it, crucifying it and yielding to the Spirit.
For further reading:
Romans 8:13; 6:6,7
Galatians 2:20; 5:16,17,25
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Have you ever been "bogged down"? The term means to "be stuck"; "cause to slow down"; "grind to a halt.". Years ago we lived on a creek so we spent a lot of time enjoying the sand bar and water. At times you could be walking along on the sand and all of a sudden you would step onto a soft place and bog down- we called these soft spots "quick sand". Once you got in one you would sink to your knees. Getting out was very difficult, especially if it was a large area. You would have to try to pull your leg out and try to make a step with your other leg, and usually it would bog down too. You would have to keep trying to make steps, one after the other, until you could finally get back on solid ground.
There are several things that can bog you down physically- mud, quick sand, snow. People can get "bogged down" in their thoughts and in their emotions. You can also get bogged down by pressures on your job- added work when you haven't finished the first assignment.
There is another area of being "bogged down" that I want to discuss this morning. It is something that will bog you down spiritually to keep you from advancing in victory, in knowing God's purpose for your life and in fulfilling your destiny. It's your own flesh. Your flesh is like a "boggy" place. It wants to suck you in and get you stuck so that you can't move or go anywhere in your walk and relationship with the Lord.
The more time you spend catering to your flesh, the more time you spend giving into its wants and desires, the more time you spend entertaining it, the more time you spend feeding its appetites, lusts and desires... the more "bogged down" you will become. It is like that quick sand that I described earlier. It will get a strong hold on you and won't let you go- you'll be stuck! And you will have to struggle and work hard to get yourself out. (And believe me, the flesh doesn't let go easily.) The only way that it will let go of its hold is through death. The flesh has to die.
Are you wondering why you feel like you aren't making any progress? Do you feel like you aren't going anywhere and wonder why you are at a stand still? Are you struggling but not advancing? Perhaps it is your flesh that is bogging you down? I described above what we would have to do to get free from the areas of quick sand. To get ourselves free from the flesh that has caused us to get stuck/bogged down is by denying it. The more we deny our flesh, the more freedom from it we have. The more freedom we have from it, the less power it has over us. The less power it has over us, the harder it is to get bogged down. The harder it becomes to get bogged down by the flesh, the easier it is to live in the spirit.
Have a great day. Is your flesh bogging you down? Then get unstuck by denying it, crucifying it and yielding to the Spirit.
For further reading:
Romans 8:13; 6:6,7
Galatians 2:20; 5:16,17,25
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Do Not Judge The Book, Read It!~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Have you ever known someone who loved to judge other people? They received great pleasure from pointing their finger at another person’s less fortune. Every mistake a person makes, this individual is the first person to let it be known. If this same person were to fall short, they spend hours and days justifying why they did what they did. Have you ever known someone who loved to act as though they sit next to God in Heaven? They have an answer for every question. They can always tell you why you are going through, what you are going through. How do you handle people like this? What do you say to a person who thinks (s)he has all the answers? Have you ever seen how man’s judgment has ruined many people? It has destroyed many ministries, many marriages, many families and many friendships. People have walked away from the church as a result of this.
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. My friend, Do Not Judge The Book, Read It! What does this mean you may be asking? Before you form an opinion about someone based on their outer appearance, learn how to look within that person for the truth. The Bible declares in 1 Samuel 16:7 - … for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. Many times we judge other people based on what someone else has told us about them. You may never personally know this person, but because someone else formed a negative opinion about this person … you have also. To judge the book by what the cover displays, shows your lack of wisdom. To allow others to determine how you feel about someone, displays your lack of maturity. The Bible declares in Luke 6:37 - Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Do Not Judge The Book, Read It! Learn how to form your own opinions about someone. Learn how to befriend people that others avoid. Their avoidance may derive from a lack of security within themselves.
My brother, my sister, who are you judging today? Who have you written out of your life? Was that God’s plan or based on your friend’s opinion? Beloved, before you write your book report, make sure you have all of the factual information necessary. Do not finalize your opinion on someone without having solid proof to support your conclusion. The Bible declares in 1 Corinthians 4:5 - Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. Do Not Judge The Book, Read It! Start seeing people with the eyes of Christ. Start treating people with the love of Christ. Stop allowing others to dictate who you will befriend and why. You are a child of God. Judging someone else is not pleasing in the eyes of the Lord. Stop it! The same measure of judgment you place on someone else, God will return that same measure back on you. The Bible declares in Hebrews 4:12 - For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Do Not Judge The Book, Read It! Prayer for Today: Father, forgive me for ever judging someone else. Forgive me for allowing others to control how I see and treat others. Allow me to see people with the way Christ sees them. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
The Enemy of Unbelief
"Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief." Mark 9:23,24
Belief isn't a hard thing to do, or have, that is if it wasn't for one "little" thing-- unbelief! It would be easy to believe if we weren't hit by unbelief. Unbelief comes to try to steal our faith. It comes to try to keep us from receiving the promises of God. It is an enemy to our faith, therefore, it has to be dealt with as such.
Unbelief can't be ignored. It can't be overlooked. You have to do something about it. The father in the story above recognized that he had unbelief and he confessed it to Jesus. He didn't try to cover up the fact that it was there. He didn't try to hide it from Jesus. He didn't try to defend the unbelief. He didn't try to pretend that it didn't exist. He didn't let pride get in the way, but readily admitted that it was there.
If there is unbelief in your heart concerning a matter, don't ignore it, don't try to justify it, don't try to act like it doesn't exist- recognize it for what it is, then confess it to the Lord. It is not a "negative confession" to admit it is there- it is the first step to getting rid of it. Once you have confessed it to God, ask Him to "help your unbelief". Then begin to renew your mind and heart with God's word- "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17)
Jesus didn't scold the man. He didn't turn His back on him. He heard the cry of an "honest heart" and He met him where he was. Jesus hears the cry of your heart as well when you are feeling weak in your faith. He won't turn away from you. He will help you to overcome the unbelief.
Have a great day. Unbelief is an enemy to our faith, and must be dealt with.
For further reading:
Mark 9:20-27; 11:22-24
Matthew 21:21,22; 14:27-31
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Belief isn't a hard thing to do, or have, that is if it wasn't for one "little" thing-- unbelief! It would be easy to believe if we weren't hit by unbelief. Unbelief comes to try to steal our faith. It comes to try to keep us from receiving the promises of God. It is an enemy to our faith, therefore, it has to be dealt with as such.
Unbelief can't be ignored. It can't be overlooked. You have to do something about it. The father in the story above recognized that he had unbelief and he confessed it to Jesus. He didn't try to cover up the fact that it was there. He didn't try to hide it from Jesus. He didn't try to defend the unbelief. He didn't try to pretend that it didn't exist. He didn't let pride get in the way, but readily admitted that it was there.
If there is unbelief in your heart concerning a matter, don't ignore it, don't try to justify it, don't try to act like it doesn't exist- recognize it for what it is, then confess it to the Lord. It is not a "negative confession" to admit it is there- it is the first step to getting rid of it. Once you have confessed it to God, ask Him to "help your unbelief". Then begin to renew your mind and heart with God's word- "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17)
Jesus didn't scold the man. He didn't turn His back on him. He heard the cry of an "honest heart" and He met him where he was. Jesus hears the cry of your heart as well when you are feeling weak in your faith. He won't turn away from you. He will help you to overcome the unbelief.
Have a great day. Unbelief is an enemy to our faith, and must be dealt with.
For further reading:
Mark 9:20-27; 11:22-24
Matthew 21:21,22; 14:27-31
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Mind Games
"Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices." 2 Corinthians 2:11
When you look up the word devices in the concordance, it means: a mental perception, thought, the mind, an evil purpose. So when I read this verse I see a two-fold meaning. First, I see that it means we are not ignorant of what goes on in satan's thinking/mind- we aren't ignorant concerning his thoughts toward us. His thoughts are to "kill, steal and destroy" us. Secondly, I see it to mean that the devices he uses against us are attacks against our mind. His main weapon is to play "mind games" with us.
It has been said that the mind is the battlefield. It is against our minds where most of the attacks against us take place. Satan comes against us with accusations- "You are no good; you aren't going to make it, God doesn't care about you; who do you think you are?; etc.". He tries to plant seeds of doubt in our mind- "Did God really say that?; what if God doesn't show up on time?; etc". He brings confusion to our minds in order to make us "wishy-washy" (double minded) in our faith. He tries to make you think that your situation is hopeless and impossible, and too big for God.
Satan has his mind set on destroying you and he does that by coming against your mind/thoughts. But the Lord has provided everything we need to be victorious in the battle. We have been given the helmet of salvation to protect our minds. We have been instructed to capture wayward thoughts and cast them down. We have been told by the Lord what we should be thinking on in order to have victory and peace of mind. If we set our mind on the things that God says instead of what satan says then his devices, plans, purposes and thoughts against us won't prevail.
Have a great day. Satan's thoughts and plans are to destroy you, and he carries out his plans by attacking your thoughts.
For further reading:
John 10:10
Ephesians 6:11-18
James 1:8
Revelation 12:10
Philippians 4:8
2 Corinthians 10:4,5
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
When you look up the word devices in the concordance, it means: a mental perception, thought, the mind, an evil purpose. So when I read this verse I see a two-fold meaning. First, I see that it means we are not ignorant of what goes on in satan's thinking/mind- we aren't ignorant concerning his thoughts toward us. His thoughts are to "kill, steal and destroy" us. Secondly, I see it to mean that the devices he uses against us are attacks against our mind. His main weapon is to play "mind games" with us.
It has been said that the mind is the battlefield. It is against our minds where most of the attacks against us take place. Satan comes against us with accusations- "You are no good; you aren't going to make it, God doesn't care about you; who do you think you are?; etc.". He tries to plant seeds of doubt in our mind- "Did God really say that?; what if God doesn't show up on time?; etc". He brings confusion to our minds in order to make us "wishy-washy" (double minded) in our faith. He tries to make you think that your situation is hopeless and impossible, and too big for God.
Satan has his mind set on destroying you and he does that by coming against your mind/thoughts. But the Lord has provided everything we need to be victorious in the battle. We have been given the helmet of salvation to protect our minds. We have been instructed to capture wayward thoughts and cast them down. We have been told by the Lord what we should be thinking on in order to have victory and peace of mind. If we set our mind on the things that God says instead of what satan says then his devices, plans, purposes and thoughts against us won't prevail.
Have a great day. Satan's thoughts and plans are to destroy you, and he carries out his plans by attacking your thoughts.
For further reading:
John 10:10
Ephesians 6:11-18
James 1:8
Revelation 12:10
Philippians 4:8
2 Corinthians 10:4,5
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Friday, June 25, 2010
Make Sure It's God!~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Have you ever had friends pressure you into doing what you knew was not right? They made every attempt to persuade you. Have you ever found yourself in a difficult position on your job? The temptation to lie was trying to overtake you. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life? Everyday seemed to get harder and harder to handle. Everyone and everything requires your attention. You feel pressured to perform at the highest level man expects each day. Have you ever tried to lock yourself in your bedroom, office or car? You hoped hiding would erase the increasing demand. Have you ever wanted to resign from a committee, a position or an organization? Because of increasing disagreements, you have experienced a strong desire to separate yourself. Can you relate to any of these questions?
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. Life will often place you in position where sudden decisions must be made. There are times when you are not given ample time to think or meditate on the offers or assignments. A response is requested immediately. Have you been there? Are you there now? My friend, before you open your mouth to speak … Make Sure It’s God! The Bible declares in 1 John 4:1 - Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Make sure your response is from the Lord. Make sure you can hear the Lord speaking to you. The enemy will always try to push you away from the will and plan of God. You will receive offers that appear unreal. Meet people with ulterior motives. Meet wolves in sheep clothing. Make Sure It’s God! Make sure what you do and why you do it brings glory to the Lord. If what you are doing does not offer God glory, why are you doing it?
My brother, my sister, what are you involved in today? Who are you serving? What decision do you feel pressured to make? Make Sure It’s God! Allow me to offer one point of advice: If the decision(s) you make leave you confused, know that it is not of God. The Bible declares in 1 Corinthians 14:33 - For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Beloved, there are some things God will ask you to do that seem ridiculous. You will question your abilities. While that may be, God will not ask you to do something that causes confusion. The enemy uses this to pollute your mind with his thoughts and plans. The enemy is trying to destroy you and your relationship with God. Make Sure It’s God! Dear friend, before you join yourself to a person, place or thing, make sure it is the Lord’s will for you. Everything that seems good is not God.
Prayer for Today: Father, I have a desire to please You in all I do. Please help me make decisions for Your glory. Lead and guide my steps, in Jesus’ name … Amen!
Don't Cry, Fight!~Minister Darrick D. McGhee
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Have you ever endured a storm that seemed to never end? As time went on, and you suffered a little while, you assumed things would begin to change for you. It has been days, weeks, months or even years and it feels as if the storm has not passed. Have you ever felt like giving up in the middle of the battle? For some reason, you no longer had the desire to fight. What you once prayed for, now you do not feel it is worth it. Have you ever asked God to take the pain away? Things were so painful until you could no longer handle it. The dilemma became overwhelming. The responsibility began to consume you. Are you currently experiencing a test? Where you are in your life, are you faced with a challenge?
Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. So often in our lives, we find ourselves in the face of a giant. This giant stands between you and your promise from the Lord. As much as you scream or cry, this giant has no desire to move out of your way. The enemy is trying all he can to keep you from receiving what the Lord has promised. The giant is symbolic for whatever has been designed to stand in the way of your destiny. My friend, Don’t Cry, … Fight! This is not the time for you to cry and complain. It is time for you to go after what the Lord said was yours. The Bible declares in 2 Corinthians 1:20 - For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. The promises of God are assured. If He said it, He will complete it (Philippians 1:6). Knowing this, the enemy will try what he can to hinder the process. Don’t Cry, … Fight! You have to be willingly to fight for what is yours. While it is true, what God has for you is for you, the enemy is still going to attack when he can. Your tears do not move him. Wipe them and fight back.
My brother, my sister, what has the Lord promised you? What has the Lord spoken in your spirit? Do you still believe? Don’t Cry, … Fight! The Bible declares in 1 John 4:4 - Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. Beloved, the Lord is on your side. He is a very present help in the time of trouble (Psalms 46:1). You have to been determined. You must not roll over and die. Dear friend, do you realize the enemy is trying to steal your promise, kill your dreams and destroy your destiny (John 10:10)? Now is not the time to be passive and shy. The Bible declares in Matthew 11:12 - And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. When the enemy attacks on your job, in your home, at the church, in your finances, within your marriage, Don’t Cry, … Fight! Fight for what the Lord has promised you. Remember, anything worth having is worth fighting for.
Prayer for Today: Father, for too long I have allowed the enemy to attack me and I never fought back. Today, I walk in the boldness and authority You gave me. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Can't Hide
"Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord." Jeremiah 23:24
The verse above lets us know that even if we deliberately tried to hide ourselves from God and remove ourselves completely from His view, it would be impossible. He is everywhere- including the place where you would be hiding.
Nothing is hid from Him. Nothing can be hid from Him. Not your problems, not your pain, not your tribulation-- nothing. Not your sin, not your weaknesses, not your evil doings. Not your good works and deeds, not your obedience to His commands. There is nothing and no one who can hide from Him- whatever you do, good or bad, He sees it all. That should be comforting to those who are going through hardships and difficulties- your situation is not hid from Him. But for those who are not living the way they should be, this should compel you to make some changes.
If you are among those who are wondering if God sees what you are going through. If you are wondering if He sees the problems you are facing- take heart, He does-- neither you nor the situation is hid from Him.
Have a great day. God sees everything and everyone- nothing can hide from His all seeing eyes.
For further reading:
Hebrews 4:13
Psalm 139
Proverbs 15:3
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
The verse above lets us know that even if we deliberately tried to hide ourselves from God and remove ourselves completely from His view, it would be impossible. He is everywhere- including the place where you would be hiding.
Nothing is hid from Him. Nothing can be hid from Him. Not your problems, not your pain, not your tribulation-- nothing. Not your sin, not your weaknesses, not your evil doings. Not your good works and deeds, not your obedience to His commands. There is nothing and no one who can hide from Him- whatever you do, good or bad, He sees it all. That should be comforting to those who are going through hardships and difficulties- your situation is not hid from Him. But for those who are not living the way they should be, this should compel you to make some changes.
If you are among those who are wondering if God sees what you are going through. If you are wondering if He sees the problems you are facing- take heart, He does-- neither you nor the situation is hid from Him.
Have a great day. God sees everything and everyone- nothing can hide from His all seeing eyes.
For further reading:
Hebrews 4:13
Psalm 139
Proverbs 15:3
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Doing My Part
"One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple." Psalm 27:4
The Psalmist said that there was one thing that he desired-- to dwell in the house of the Lord. For him this was not just a mere profession, some cliché or empty words, but a deep yearning. He sincerely wanted to dwell in God's presence. Therefore, he did his part to make that happen. David sought after the presence of God. He brought the Ark of the Covenant- the dwelling place of God- into his own courtyard. Then he appointed worshippers, priests and ministers around the Ark twenty-four hours a day.
It's one thing to have a desire for God and the things of God, it's another to do your part in order to have that desire fulfilled. Often we say we want it but never make a move in that direction. We sit back and wait for God to just "drop" it on us. There comes a time when we have to "pursue" what we desire- including the presence of God. The scriptures tell us, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you". Moses would have missed His destiny if he had not drawn near to the bush when he saw it burning- the place where God's presence was manifesting. Those in the Upper Room on the Day of Pentecost would have missed the glorious baptism in the Holy Spirit if they had not done their part- tarry until His presence came.
Do you desire to dwell in the presence of God? Do you desire intimate fellowship and a close relationship with Him? Then what are you doing to make it happen? It won't happen through slothfulness. It won't happen by sitting back just hoping and waiting for it to happen. It is God's desire for you to dwell in His presence. But you have to "make room", "draw near", "seek after" for it to happen.
Have a great day. Are you doing your part in order to dwell in His presence?
For further reading:
James 4:8
1 Chronicles 16
Luke 24:49
Acts 2:1-3
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
The Psalmist said that there was one thing that he desired-- to dwell in the house of the Lord. For him this was not just a mere profession, some cliché or empty words, but a deep yearning. He sincerely wanted to dwell in God's presence. Therefore, he did his part to make that happen. David sought after the presence of God. He brought the Ark of the Covenant- the dwelling place of God- into his own courtyard. Then he appointed worshippers, priests and ministers around the Ark twenty-four hours a day.
It's one thing to have a desire for God and the things of God, it's another to do your part in order to have that desire fulfilled. Often we say we want it but never make a move in that direction. We sit back and wait for God to just "drop" it on us. There comes a time when we have to "pursue" what we desire- including the presence of God. The scriptures tell us, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you". Moses would have missed His destiny if he had not drawn near to the bush when he saw it burning- the place where God's presence was manifesting. Those in the Upper Room on the Day of Pentecost would have missed the glorious baptism in the Holy Spirit if they had not done their part- tarry until His presence came.
Do you desire to dwell in the presence of God? Do you desire intimate fellowship and a close relationship with Him? Then what are you doing to make it happen? It won't happen through slothfulness. It won't happen by sitting back just hoping and waiting for it to happen. It is God's desire for you to dwell in His presence. But you have to "make room", "draw near", "seek after" for it to happen.
Have a great day. Are you doing your part in order to dwell in His presence?
For further reading:
James 4:8
1 Chronicles 16
Luke 24:49
Acts 2:1-3
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Rejoicing Faith
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24
Did you notice that in this verse there is no provision made to do anything other than rejoice each day? There isn't a footnote tagged on it, there wasn't a "with the exception of" clause added to it, there wasn't allowance or room made to do otherwise. The verse doesn't tell us to rejoice as long as everything is going well; or as long as things are going the way we planned or hoped; as long as nothing bad happens today; as long as no problems arise. It just says, "I will rejoice and be glad".
Is the verse telling us that we won't experience bad things, difficulties, pain or grief? Does it mean that we won't get bad reports, or find ourselves in battles under the attack of the enemy? No, it doesn't. Because the scriptures teach us otherwise. They teach that bad things and tribulations come to the just and unjust and the righteous face afflictions. Why then didn't the verse make allowances to be sad, downcast and complaining during the bad times? Simply because-- the just shall live by faith.
We walk by faith not by sight. What we see, what we hear and what we feel isn't the "final authority". I may lose my job, for example, but am I going to stop rejoicing and get worried, sad, depressed and fearful? No. Why? Because that wasn't a bad thing that happened to me? No, but because the just live by faith. Faith in God who is my provider. Faith that He will meet and supply all my need. Faith that if God feeds the sparrows and clothes the lilies daily, He will certainly take care of me because I am of much more value to Him than a sparrow. I live by faith, which means that I know that somehow, some way, the Lord will work all things together for my good. I live by faith which means I have the confident assurance that He will never leave me nor forsake me but will be with me always- He is not a "fair weather" friend who leaves me when the going gets tough.
There was no provision made in the verse above because there has already been a provision made that will keep your head up and joy in your heart when things aren't always "well". That provision is faith. Absolute trust, confidence and dependency on God. The situations that we face don't change God. He is still the same loving, caring Heavenly Father and provider that He has always been. Therefore, I can rejoice in that unchanging knowledge even in changing situations.
Have a great day. There is no provision made for us to be cast down when bad times come because we live by faith all the time.
For further reading:
Psalm 34:19
Matthew 5:45; 6:25-29
Habakkuk 2:4
Romans 1:17; 8:28
Galatians 3:11
Hebrews 10:38; 13:5
Philippians 4:19
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Did you notice that in this verse there is no provision made to do anything other than rejoice each day? There isn't a footnote tagged on it, there wasn't a "with the exception of" clause added to it, there wasn't allowance or room made to do otherwise. The verse doesn't tell us to rejoice as long as everything is going well; or as long as things are going the way we planned or hoped; as long as nothing bad happens today; as long as no problems arise. It just says, "I will rejoice and be glad".
Is the verse telling us that we won't experience bad things, difficulties, pain or grief? Does it mean that we won't get bad reports, or find ourselves in battles under the attack of the enemy? No, it doesn't. Because the scriptures teach us otherwise. They teach that bad things and tribulations come to the just and unjust and the righteous face afflictions. Why then didn't the verse make allowances to be sad, downcast and complaining during the bad times? Simply because-- the just shall live by faith.
We walk by faith not by sight. What we see, what we hear and what we feel isn't the "final authority". I may lose my job, for example, but am I going to stop rejoicing and get worried, sad, depressed and fearful? No. Why? Because that wasn't a bad thing that happened to me? No, but because the just live by faith. Faith in God who is my provider. Faith that He will meet and supply all my need. Faith that if God feeds the sparrows and clothes the lilies daily, He will certainly take care of me because I am of much more value to Him than a sparrow. I live by faith, which means that I know that somehow, some way, the Lord will work all things together for my good. I live by faith which means I have the confident assurance that He will never leave me nor forsake me but will be with me always- He is not a "fair weather" friend who leaves me when the going gets tough.
There was no provision made in the verse above because there has already been a provision made that will keep your head up and joy in your heart when things aren't always "well". That provision is faith. Absolute trust, confidence and dependency on God. The situations that we face don't change God. He is still the same loving, caring Heavenly Father and provider that He has always been. Therefore, I can rejoice in that unchanging knowledge even in changing situations.
Have a great day. There is no provision made for us to be cast down when bad times come because we live by faith all the time.
For further reading:
Psalm 34:19
Matthew 5:45; 6:25-29
Habakkuk 2:4
Romans 1:17; 8:28
Galatians 3:11
Hebrews 10:38; 13:5
Philippians 4:19
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Missing Altars
"And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne." Revelation 8:3
Altars have always been important structures/places in all religions throughout history. They were used as places to offer sacrifices. I don't know how many religions still set up altars and actually offer real sacrifices upon them, but perhaps some still do. In Christianity altars aren't used for offering animal sacrifices but they are used as places where prayers are made offering our lives as living sacrifices to God.
This morning I want to ask a question, "Where are the altars?" Over the last several years there has been an alarming rate at the number of missing altars- missing in our churches, missing from our homes, missing from our personal lives. I can remember having time at the altars during every church service. It didn't matter if you had a "need" that you needed to pray about or not, you still went to the altar- the whole church would often make their way to the altars. At the altar lives were changed, prayers were answered, people were touched by the power of God, cleansing of heart, soul and mind took place, joy was restored, bodies were healed, burdens were undone.
Today altars in the church have been removed and replaced. Replaced with "walking the aisle". Replaced with "repeat a prayer pews". Replaced with prayer lines mostly wanting and waiting for someone to do your praying for you. I submit to you that this is one of the reasons why the church appears to be so weak, confused and compromising. You may disagree, but there has to be times of contrition and sacrifice; there have to be times of pouring out your heart and soul to God. And the altar is the place to do just that. Sure one could do their praying at home (and should pray there as well), but sadly, few homes have an altar- and why would they when it is evident in the church that altars aren't important. But there is something powerful about praying at the altar with other believers in God's house.
Revivals are birthed around the altar. Every great movement of God started around an altar. Our salvation was paid for at an altar- the cross. There are some things that can only occur at an altar. In the Book of Revelation we are told that there is even an altar in heaven. So there must be something special and significant about an altar that we have seemed to miss.
Altars are not just physical structures that sit in the front of the church. But the missing physical structure is just symbolic that the true altar of prayer and sacrifice is missing. Is it missing in your life? Do you have an altar- a place where you meet with God on a regular basis and present yourself to Him as a living sacrifice? If not, then you need to restore the missing altar.
Have a great day. If the altar is missing in your life, it needs to be restored.
For further reading:
Revelation 6:9
Romans 12:1
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Altars have always been important structures/places in all religions throughout history. They were used as places to offer sacrifices. I don't know how many religions still set up altars and actually offer real sacrifices upon them, but perhaps some still do. In Christianity altars aren't used for offering animal sacrifices but they are used as places where prayers are made offering our lives as living sacrifices to God.
This morning I want to ask a question, "Where are the altars?" Over the last several years there has been an alarming rate at the number of missing altars- missing in our churches, missing from our homes, missing from our personal lives. I can remember having time at the altars during every church service. It didn't matter if you had a "need" that you needed to pray about or not, you still went to the altar- the whole church would often make their way to the altars. At the altar lives were changed, prayers were answered, people were touched by the power of God, cleansing of heart, soul and mind took place, joy was restored, bodies were healed, burdens were undone.
Today altars in the church have been removed and replaced. Replaced with "walking the aisle". Replaced with "repeat a prayer pews". Replaced with prayer lines mostly wanting and waiting for someone to do your praying for you. I submit to you that this is one of the reasons why the church appears to be so weak, confused and compromising. You may disagree, but there has to be times of contrition and sacrifice; there have to be times of pouring out your heart and soul to God. And the altar is the place to do just that. Sure one could do their praying at home (and should pray there as well), but sadly, few homes have an altar- and why would they when it is evident in the church that altars aren't important. But there is something powerful about praying at the altar with other believers in God's house.
Revivals are birthed around the altar. Every great movement of God started around an altar. Our salvation was paid for at an altar- the cross. There are some things that can only occur at an altar. In the Book of Revelation we are told that there is even an altar in heaven. So there must be something special and significant about an altar that we have seemed to miss.
Altars are not just physical structures that sit in the front of the church. But the missing physical structure is just symbolic that the true altar of prayer and sacrifice is missing. Is it missing in your life? Do you have an altar- a place where you meet with God on a regular basis and present yourself to Him as a living sacrifice? If not, then you need to restore the missing altar.
Have a great day. If the altar is missing in your life, it needs to be restored.
For further reading:
Revelation 6:9
Romans 12:1
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
It Doesn't Fit
"And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him." 1 Samuel 17:39
(I believe that there is a particular word for someone in this morning's devotional.) Like Saul tried to dress David with his own armor, many in the body of Christ are also being "dressed" by someone else. They are trying to change you into "their image". They are trying to make you like themselves or into what they think you should be. They are trying to lead you in the direction that they think you should go.
The word from the Lord this morning is "stop trying to fit in". Stop trying to fit in-- to someone else's ministry, anointing, calling or vision. Stop trying to fit in-- to what I have not called you to. Stop trying to fit in-- to roles that I have not ordained you to be in. Stop trying to fit in-- to places that I have not sent you to.
Too often we will allow someone else to place their own ideas and opinions on us and we will then try to conform to that. We will try to "make it work or fit" when there is no way it can. David could not wear Saul's armor because it was not designed for him. God has not designed someone else's "armor" to fit you. He has designed a plan and purpose that is "well suited" to you.
Allow God to direct your life. Allow Him to do with you what He desires. Find and fulfill His plan not what everyone else or even you think it should be. Don't worry that it doesn't look like you think it should. The norm when going out to battle was to be dressed in armor. David went out to the battlefield with only a sling shot and some stones. But he was victorious where the king and army had not been. Why? Because he let God do the "dressing".
Have a great day. Stop trying to fit in to what others are trying to put on it. Only what God places on you will fit.
For further reading:
1 Samuel 17
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
(I believe that there is a particular word for someone in this morning's devotional.) Like Saul tried to dress David with his own armor, many in the body of Christ are also being "dressed" by someone else. They are trying to change you into "their image". They are trying to make you like themselves or into what they think you should be. They are trying to lead you in the direction that they think you should go.
The word from the Lord this morning is "stop trying to fit in". Stop trying to fit in-- to someone else's ministry, anointing, calling or vision. Stop trying to fit in-- to what I have not called you to. Stop trying to fit in-- to roles that I have not ordained you to be in. Stop trying to fit in-- to places that I have not sent you to.
Too often we will allow someone else to place their own ideas and opinions on us and we will then try to conform to that. We will try to "make it work or fit" when there is no way it can. David could not wear Saul's armor because it was not designed for him. God has not designed someone else's "armor" to fit you. He has designed a plan and purpose that is "well suited" to you.
Allow God to direct your life. Allow Him to do with you what He desires. Find and fulfill His plan not what everyone else or even you think it should be. Don't worry that it doesn't look like you think it should. The norm when going out to battle was to be dressed in armor. David went out to the battlefield with only a sling shot and some stones. But he was victorious where the king and army had not been. Why? Because he let God do the "dressing".
Have a great day. Stop trying to fit in to what others are trying to put on it. Only what God places on you will fit.
For further reading:
1 Samuel 17
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Strength In Weakness
"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
Are you feeling weak? Do you feel faint? Do you feel as if you just aren't going to make it? Do you feel like you are too weak to stand when you need to be strong and stand? Do you feel like you are ready to cave in to the pressures that are surrounding you? Don't give up, don't give in, don't despair you can be strong and rise above the weakness.
The answer is found in the verse above- "wait upon the Lord". Your strength is found in the Lord, not in your own resources or abilities. Weakness is not a sign of defeat, it just reveals the fact that we are utterly dependent upon the Lord and not on self. In our own strength we will always be weak. But when we draw from His strength, we will be refreshed, renewed, get that "second wind", soar higher, run further and keep on going even when the going gets tough.
If you are experiencing weakness today- regardless of what area it is in- go to the Lord, press into His presence and stay there until you receive the strength that you need to rise up and keep on going. He gave us His promise in the verse above that if we will "wait upon Him" we SHALL... not perhaps, not maybe, not hopefully... renew our strength.
Have a great day. The presence of the Lord is energizing, so wait in His presence until your strength is renewed.
For further reading:
Hebrews 11:11
2 Corinthians 12:9
1 Corinthians 1:25
Ephesians 6:10
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Are you feeling weak? Do you feel faint? Do you feel as if you just aren't going to make it? Do you feel like you are too weak to stand when you need to be strong and stand? Do you feel like you are ready to cave in to the pressures that are surrounding you? Don't give up, don't give in, don't despair you can be strong and rise above the weakness.
The answer is found in the verse above- "wait upon the Lord". Your strength is found in the Lord, not in your own resources or abilities. Weakness is not a sign of defeat, it just reveals the fact that we are utterly dependent upon the Lord and not on self. In our own strength we will always be weak. But when we draw from His strength, we will be refreshed, renewed, get that "second wind", soar higher, run further and keep on going even when the going gets tough.
If you are experiencing weakness today- regardless of what area it is in- go to the Lord, press into His presence and stay there until you receive the strength that you need to rise up and keep on going. He gave us His promise in the verse above that if we will "wait upon Him" we SHALL... not perhaps, not maybe, not hopefully... renew our strength.
Have a great day. The presence of the Lord is energizing, so wait in His presence until your strength is renewed.
For further reading:
Hebrews 11:11
2 Corinthians 12:9
1 Corinthians 1:25
Ephesians 6:10
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Be Still
"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10
As I was studying this verse a little closer, I discovered one of the literal meanings was- "leave off (your own attempts) and know". There are some things about God- His power, character and nature- that we cannot know unless we are "still". Another meaning for the word still was "relax, withdraw, let alone".
There are times we have to step back and move out of the way- be still- in order to "know that I am God". There are times when we have no choice but to be still because there is nothing that we can do about the situation and we know it. Like Moses at the Red Sea. He had no choice but to be still- there was nothing that he could do in his own strength and ability to make the sea move out of the way. But then in the times when there is something that we can do about the situation we have to be willing to step back and take ourselves out of the picture. David spent several years running from King Saul, who was out to destroy him. One day David was in a cave and Saul came into the cave unaware that David was there. While in the cave David crept around and without Saul's detection of him cut off the corner of his robe. David had the opportunity to avenge himself. He had the means and ability to kill his enemy. But he didn't. Instead he "stepped back" and left it to the Lord to take care of Saul.
There are many situations that we cannot handle ourselves. Then there are some that we can, as was the case when God said to Moses, "What is in your hand?" But then there come times when, even though we are able to do something about the situation, God says, "Be still, withdraw yourself and let me handle this one." It's in those times where God "shines" and we see His glory revealed in ways we may have never seen otherwise. It's in those times where He alone can get the credit. It's in those times where we discover a little more about who He is and our faith is increased in the process.
Have a great day. Sometimes the real answer that you need is, "Be still"... and when you do, you will... "know that I am God."
For further reading:
1 Samuel 24
Exodus 4:2; 14:13-16
Hebrews 10:30
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
As I was studying this verse a little closer, I discovered one of the literal meanings was- "leave off (your own attempts) and know". There are some things about God- His power, character and nature- that we cannot know unless we are "still". Another meaning for the word still was "relax, withdraw, let alone".
There are times we have to step back and move out of the way- be still- in order to "know that I am God". There are times when we have no choice but to be still because there is nothing that we can do about the situation and we know it. Like Moses at the Red Sea. He had no choice but to be still- there was nothing that he could do in his own strength and ability to make the sea move out of the way. But then in the times when there is something that we can do about the situation we have to be willing to step back and take ourselves out of the picture. David spent several years running from King Saul, who was out to destroy him. One day David was in a cave and Saul came into the cave unaware that David was there. While in the cave David crept around and without Saul's detection of him cut off the corner of his robe. David had the opportunity to avenge himself. He had the means and ability to kill his enemy. But he didn't. Instead he "stepped back" and left it to the Lord to take care of Saul.
There are many situations that we cannot handle ourselves. Then there are some that we can, as was the case when God said to Moses, "What is in your hand?" But then there come times when, even though we are able to do something about the situation, God says, "Be still, withdraw yourself and let me handle this one." It's in those times where God "shines" and we see His glory revealed in ways we may have never seen otherwise. It's in those times where He alone can get the credit. It's in those times where we discover a little more about who He is and our faith is increased in the process.
Have a great day. Sometimes the real answer that you need is, "Be still"... and when you do, you will... "know that I am God."
For further reading:
1 Samuel 24
Exodus 4:2; 14:13-16
Hebrews 10:30
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Praise Ye The Lord!
It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Do you know that God is faithful? In spite of what you have been through in life. Do you understand how much He loves you? Even when you did not love yourself, He still loved you. Do you realize at your lowest points of life, He has always been there for you? After all of your friends and family disappeared, He kept watch over you. When no one could be found, you could always depend on the Lord. When the storms of life were raging, God was your anchor. When the enemy attempted to destroy you, God was your protection. When your marriage, your ministry, your home, your children, or even your job was in jeopardy, God granted an unexplainable peace. He is Faithful and Just. Do you believe it?
Today, I have been commissioned to come and encourage you in the Lord. My friend, what are you facing today? What dilemma do you find yourself involved in? You have tried everything and everyone, and the results have not changed. The people you thought could be called on, failed. Your hiding place was exposed. The thing you hid behind has been taken away. You feel as though your world is crumbling down. Beloved, the Lord desires to free you from the turmoil of this life. When your surroundings seem threatening, and everything is [seemingly] against you … Praise ye the Lord! Stop complaining. Stop griping. Do you not know who your Father is? Your Father responds to praise and worship, not whining and groping. The Bible declares in 1 Chronicles 29:13 - Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. Exalt the name of Jesus Christ. Let your enemies know who your Father is.
My brother, my sister, put your head up. Walk with upright shoulders. You have no reason to walk with a depressed demeanor. God is on your side. Through every attack of the enemy, Praise ye the Lord! When your finances get low, Praise ye the Lord! When tomorrow seems uncertain, Praise ye the Lord! When your place of employment is hellish, Praise ye the Lord! When your relationship is on the ropes, Praise ye the Lord! When your friends laugh in your face, Praise ye the Lord! Prayer for Today: Father, Today I declare that You are God of all and in all. No matter what my situation looks like, I give You the praise. I know that my current situation is not greater than You. Father, have Your way in my life. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
May God Bless you at Your point of need!
Minister Darrick McGhee
"Believing Faith" by: G. Craige Lewis
Mark 11:23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
If there is something you are believing God for, don't be tricked by the enemy to think that you are not believing when you have doubtful thoughts in your head about it. You can have doubt in your mind and yet believe with your heart and your mouth! Your mind may tell you all kinds of things, but that does not mean you are doubting. As long as you believe in your heart and confess it or speak it with your mouth, you are exercising faith! Faith is not a scary test, like some of us were taught growing up, but faith is merely believing in your heart in the unseen. The substance of things hoped for says that it is tangible even when it's only in the hopeful stage! The evidence of things not seen means that there is proof that it's coming! Impossible things are God's specialty. Either you are gonna rely on what can be attained by you or you are going to trust the most powerful God in the universe and believe that he can do all things.
The devil can use all kinds of weapons in your head and cause you to think crazy thoughts during a test or trial, but your thoughts do not have to manifest into actions. You can arrest your thoughts or bring them under captivity and say to yourself the opposite of what you were thinking. Don't think you have lost faith just because a doubtful thought came into your mind. Just speak what you believe and you are exercising faith regardless of what the enemy tells your mind! I have had bad dreams about things, bad advice given to me about things, and crazy ideas in my head, but I would have to get the bible and sort out what is biblical and what is imagination. And whatever was biblical, I would stand on it, but my imagination cannot be trusted! I trust God and I believe that by faith, I have things that are not seen yet or evident yet! That's faith and that's what we should stand on. Keep believing people of God and know that what God said is gonna come to pass. Know that your mind can play tricks on you and your gut can send you superstitious signals, but if you keep speaking it and believing it, by faith, it will come to pass.
Suggested Reading: Heb. 11:1, Rom. 14:23, 1Cor. 15:58, 2Cor. 10:5
Thursday, May 13, 2010
"Make More Room"-by: G. Craige Lewis
1Tim. 4:14 be not careless of the gift in thee, that was given thee through prophecy, with laying on of the hands of the eldership
Why is it that things we desire to do for God are many times neglected?We keep wishing, wanting and praying for great things of God, but we are still in the same spiritual rut we were in 5 years ago? Well, God works as he is allowed to in us. You see, God will move according to your ability and space to receive. In some cases, the person you have made your spiritual "head" can sometimes block your progress! Many times we belong to churches and ministries that limit us because of heretic teachings or their desire to play God in our lives rather than teach us the Word.Just because mama and grandma grew up in that church does not mean that's where God wants you. Even though your pastor may be the bomb to them, that doesn't mean that he will allow your personal ministry to be birthed! Even though you know everyone there and it's a real comfort zone for you does not mean that God will ever use you there. We cannot get caught up in the old fashion mindset where you die in the church you were born in! If you are being limited, you must go where you can be blessed of God. Of course, everyone will not do great things in the Kingdom. But many of us have the desire and the call, yet we are limited to our surroundings.
If you are packing for a trip, and everything does not fit in the suitcase you have, which would you rather do? Take things out and leave them behind, or get a larger suitcase and keep everything you had in it? Well, imagine that's your life. Are you leaving things out? Are you putting your dreams and purpose aside because they don't fit where you are, or are you making room for what God has given you? Don't sell yourself short because you are apart of the wrong fellowship, and please don't get caught up in the lie that you should never leave a church! Leave and find the right church if you have to and don't look back. You must protect your family, your call, and your purpose and you cannot be concerned with what people think about you or will say about you. Find your place in God's Kingdom and stop wasting time.God wants to use you, but you must make room for him.
Suggested Reading: Psa. 37:23, Psa. 112:5, Prov. 13:22, Matt. 12:35
The Word Is There
"Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice." Matthew 26:34
We are always wanting "a word" from the Lord. We pray for a word, we seek out a word through others, we read the Bible hoping for a word. We want the Lord to talk to us and tell us what to do, give us direction and guidance, reassure us and comfort us. There is no lack of desire or want for a "personal" word. But when He does give us a word, what do we do with it? Do we ignore it? Do we disobey it? Do we turn a deaf ear to it? Or do we heed it?
Jesus gave Peter a word and Peter did two things with it. He protested it- "Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples." (v.35) We may want a word from the Lord, but that doesn't mean that the word He gives us will always be the word we want to hear. When it isn't, do we protest against it as if the Lord "missed it"; as if He doesn't know what He's talking about; as if He doesn't understand the question. Or do we accept it and do whatever we need to do with it?
Secondly, Peter ignored the word. "Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?" (vs.36,40) Had Peter not ignored, or forgotten about it, he would not have been sleeping, he would have been praying. Had he taken Jesus seriously, he would have spent the time praying that Jesus' words would not come true. He would have taken heed to His words and prayed for strength to stand, grace to not deny, power from on high to resist the temptation. He would have followed the example of Jesus and spent the time in prayer.
The Lord speaks to us more often than we realize, but what are we doing with what He is saying. Are we ignoring it? Are we believing what He says? Are we taking Him seriously? Are we acting upon His word? If not, why are we asking Him to say something else when we are not heeding what He does say?
Have a great day. When the Lord gives you a word, what are you doing with it?
For further reading:
Matthew 26: 31-41; 69-75; 11:15
James 1:22
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
We are always wanting "a word" from the Lord. We pray for a word, we seek out a word through others, we read the Bible hoping for a word. We want the Lord to talk to us and tell us what to do, give us direction and guidance, reassure us and comfort us. There is no lack of desire or want for a "personal" word. But when He does give us a word, what do we do with it? Do we ignore it? Do we disobey it? Do we turn a deaf ear to it? Or do we heed it?
Jesus gave Peter a word and Peter did two things with it. He protested it- "Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples." (v.35) We may want a word from the Lord, but that doesn't mean that the word He gives us will always be the word we want to hear. When it isn't, do we protest against it as if the Lord "missed it"; as if He doesn't know what He's talking about; as if He doesn't understand the question. Or do we accept it and do whatever we need to do with it?
Secondly, Peter ignored the word. "Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?" (vs.36,40) Had Peter not ignored, or forgotten about it, he would not have been sleeping, he would have been praying. Had he taken Jesus seriously, he would have spent the time praying that Jesus' words would not come true. He would have taken heed to His words and prayed for strength to stand, grace to not deny, power from on high to resist the temptation. He would have followed the example of Jesus and spent the time in prayer.
The Lord speaks to us more often than we realize, but what are we doing with what He is saying. Are we ignoring it? Are we believing what He says? Are we taking Him seriously? Are we acting upon His word? If not, why are we asking Him to say something else when we are not heeding what He does say?
Have a great day. When the Lord gives you a word, what are you doing with it?
For further reading:
Matthew 26: 31-41; 69-75; 11:15
James 1:22
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Room
"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7
I was thinking about an old hymn this morning- "There is Room At The Cross". The chorus goes like this: "There's room at the cross for you. There's room at the cross for you. Tho millions have come. There's still room for one. Yes, there's room at the cross for you." As this song played over and over in my mind, I thought about making room for Jesus. This earth did not make room for Him at His first coming. There was no room for Him to be born in- He was born in a stable. There was no grave for Him to be buried in- He borrowed a tomb. Even now He still doesn't find room in the lives of multiplied millions of people. And sadly, even among His own children is room seldom made for Him in their daily activities.
But I have good news this morning. Even though we seem to find no, or little, room for Him, He has made room for us. He made room for us by coming to earth-- He took the time to reach down to dying humanity in order to give us the opportunity to receive eternal life. He made room at the cross for whoever would come to Him in repentance-- the space at the foot of the cross is not limited, there is always room for one more. He has also made room for us in His house-- He couldn't find a place here on earth, but He has made sure that we find a place in heaven. "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." (John 14:2)
He is preparing a room/place in heaven. This place is for those who will give Him room in their lives here on earth in return. Is that you this morning? Are you giving Him room in your life? If so, how much room does He occupy? If you aren't, why not? Or do you give Him room when it is convenient or only when you need His help? When He comes desiring to spend time with you, does He often walk away having found no room- not even a "stable"? You are the desire of His heart so He has made room for you. If He is your desire, you will make room for Him.
Have a great day. He has made room for you, are you making room for Him?
For further reading:
Matthew 6:33
Psalm 31:8
John 14:1-3,23
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
I was thinking about an old hymn this morning- "There is Room At The Cross". The chorus goes like this: "There's room at the cross for you. There's room at the cross for you. Tho millions have come. There's still room for one. Yes, there's room at the cross for you." As this song played over and over in my mind, I thought about making room for Jesus. This earth did not make room for Him at His first coming. There was no room for Him to be born in- He was born in a stable. There was no grave for Him to be buried in- He borrowed a tomb. Even now He still doesn't find room in the lives of multiplied millions of people. And sadly, even among His own children is room seldom made for Him in their daily activities.
But I have good news this morning. Even though we seem to find no, or little, room for Him, He has made room for us. He made room for us by coming to earth-- He took the time to reach down to dying humanity in order to give us the opportunity to receive eternal life. He made room at the cross for whoever would come to Him in repentance-- the space at the foot of the cross is not limited, there is always room for one more. He has also made room for us in His house-- He couldn't find a place here on earth, but He has made sure that we find a place in heaven. "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." (John 14:2)
He is preparing a room/place in heaven. This place is for those who will give Him room in their lives here on earth in return. Is that you this morning? Are you giving Him room in your life? If so, how much room does He occupy? If you aren't, why not? Or do you give Him room when it is convenient or only when you need His help? When He comes desiring to spend time with you, does He often walk away having found no room- not even a "stable"? You are the desire of His heart so He has made room for you. If He is your desire, you will make room for Him.
Have a great day. He has made room for you, are you making room for Him?
For further reading:
Matthew 6:33
Psalm 31:8
John 14:1-3,23
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Reaping
"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." Galatians 6:9
Yesterday we planted a small garden. Even though it is small in size, it was still hard work. There are many steps to planting a garden- breaking up the ground, removing the grass, making the rows, planting, fertilizing, covering the seeds, watering. Each step is important and can't be neglected.
Our lives are like a garden, we are always "planting" something in them. There is one thing to note about planting- when you plant, you will reap. Do you ever feel as though you aren't reaping good things? There are three reasons for this that I want to discuss.
1) What are you planting? Perhaps you aren't planting something good. You reap what you sow. You can't plant lemons and expect to get apples. "For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." (Galatians 6:8)
2) Are you getting tired of planting? After breaking up the ground in the garden and de-grassing it, we could have quit and not gone any further because we were tired. But just because the ground was prepared if we didn't plant seeds nothing will grow. This is what our scripture is referring to- don't get weary, give up or stop in the planting process. You have to continue until you have planted something.
3) Impatience. Sometimes we just don't wait long enough for our planting to produce. My garden is finished but I can't go out there this morning and expect to pick beans. There is a time element involved- some things that we plant in and through our lives don't produce overnight. "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." (Hebrews 10:36)
There are no short cuts to sowing if you expect to reap. Each step is all part of it, and each step is important. So don't give up, don't get weary in the planting process you will reap in due season if you don't quit.
Have a great day. Keep planting and keep waiting.
For further reading:
Matthew 7:17,18
Hosea 10:12
Psalm 126:5
Proverbs 22:8
2 Corinthians 9:6
Galatians 6:7-9
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
Yesterday we planted a small garden. Even though it is small in size, it was still hard work. There are many steps to planting a garden- breaking up the ground, removing the grass, making the rows, planting, fertilizing, covering the seeds, watering. Each step is important and can't be neglected.
Our lives are like a garden, we are always "planting" something in them. There is one thing to note about planting- when you plant, you will reap. Do you ever feel as though you aren't reaping good things? There are three reasons for this that I want to discuss.
1) What are you planting? Perhaps you aren't planting something good. You reap what you sow. You can't plant lemons and expect to get apples. "For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." (Galatians 6:8)
2) Are you getting tired of planting? After breaking up the ground in the garden and de-grassing it, we could have quit and not gone any further because we were tired. But just because the ground was prepared if we didn't plant seeds nothing will grow. This is what our scripture is referring to- don't get weary, give up or stop in the planting process. You have to continue until you have planted something.
3) Impatience. Sometimes we just don't wait long enough for our planting to produce. My garden is finished but I can't go out there this morning and expect to pick beans. There is a time element involved- some things that we plant in and through our lives don't produce overnight. "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." (Hebrews 10:36)
There are no short cuts to sowing if you expect to reap. Each step is all part of it, and each step is important. So don't give up, don't get weary in the planting process you will reap in due season if you don't quit.
Have a great day. Keep planting and keep waiting.
For further reading:
Matthew 7:17,18
Hosea 10:12
Psalm 126:5
Proverbs 22:8
2 Corinthians 9:6
Galatians 6:7-9
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
"Seasons of Discipline"-by: G. Craige Lewis
Matt. 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
With all the money messages and the prosperity sermons out there, you would almost be inclined to believe that no matter where you are in Christ, you should be financially rich! Many preachers sound as though they have been rich all their lives and you should be able to ask God for any amount of money you want and it will magically appear in your mailbox!! But it's so peculiar to me how everyone of them had to go through a season of discipline before they ended up in their season of plenty! You see, God did not immediately give the children of Israel the promise land. He took them through 3 seasons. A season of not enough, a season of just enough, and a season of plenty. I believe that we as believers face these seasons today. Why?Because this is how God disciplines us. Now, you will rarely hear this on TV or in conferences where a man that has gotten rich off the people of God is making you feel less of a Christian if you don't have enough money to to plant a huge seed! They call it a curse! But its probably not a curse, it may just be your season of testing. I don't believe God will cause us to go totally without, but I do believe that God will take us through a season of testing just as he did his chosen people in the wilderness. Their every move had to be dictated by God because they had no direction. That is how God wants us that are chosen by him in the beginning. He totally blocks our sense of direction and sometimes cuts off our supply so we will depend totally upon him to work our own ability out of us. Just as a child depends upon his parents, so must we depend on God. Then, we move into another season of God giving us enough. We learned from the previous season, so now we can have more. And after that, once he has trusted us with what he has given, he moves us into our season of plenty!
But this kind of teaching messes with a lot of people's perception of God.We are now being taught by many tele-evangelists that we should always have more than enough because God has more than enough. But i refuse to believe that God would spoil his children by sparing the rod of discipline. Why would he give us everything all the time? He cares too much about the big picture to bypass discipline and correction! I just refuse to preach a prosperity Gospel like that because Jesus didn't preach that. Jesus said that if you seek the kingdom, things will be added! Now, in math, adding started out with a numeric figure and that figure got bigger and bigger right? Well, I believe that the more you walk with Christ, the more he adds to you.
"Specific Prayers" - by: G. Craige Lewis
Matt. 6:9 - 'After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.'
Prayer is a powerful tool, when used correctly. The problem is that most of the time, we don't pray the right prayers. We must learn to pray specifically and not generally. We must learn to pray as Jesus did in his prayers. Jesus did not pray vaguely, but he would even sound, to some redundant, to add specifics to his prayers. He wanted us to learn this so we won't be general when talking to the Father. Don't you hate when your children or friends talk to you vaguely and do not give specifics? That's so impersonal and it really makes you feel that you are not close to them. Well, God wants us to be specific and pray for the right stuff. There are keys to prayer that can unlock doors for you and get results in a hurry!
Jesus could have just said, "Our Father", but, after that he said "which art in heaven"! He didn't want any other father to answer this prayer, only Father God in heaven. "Thy Kingdom come" is the will of God for the earth and heaven, so many feel he didn't have to say "Thy will be done", but Jesus was specific, even when it was obvious what he was saying. Then he said, "Give us this day, our daily bread" because he only wanted what was meant for that specific day! He could have said "Give us this day our bread" but because he was specific, he got what was meant for that day. He didn't just say, "Forgive me for my sins" but he stated that he would forgive others. This is a powerful key because the Word tells us that we must forgive others to be forgiven. Jesus did not want us to waste God's time by praying to be forgiven without first forgiving others. And if God leads us out of temptation, then it would seem we will automatically be delivered from evil, right? NO. Jesus was specific and asked for correct leading and then deliverance for when we don't follow his leading. I know many of you are saying, "is all this really that important?" But I want to let you know that what you want from God can be unlocked by these keys to prayer. If you pray for specifics that agree with his will, God will act on your words. Stop praying the same old prayers, vague and general babbling, and start talking to God like you know what you are talking about. You know what you want and he knows what you need, so if you can agree with him, then you can get your prayers answered. God has all that you desire and when you learn how to ask, you will receive it.
The Word For Today-Zeal
"'I must work the works of Him who sent Me...' "John 9:4 NKJV
The Bible word for passion is zeal. Without it, life can become pretty drab. Everything is a 'have to' and nothing is a 'want to'. Zeal keeps you going when others quit. It pushes you through the toughest times and gives you energy you didn't know you possessed. Nothing can take its place. Opportunity can't . Opportunity may open the door, but without zeal you won't make the most of your opportunities and you won't get to your destiny. Howard Hendricks said, 'You don't put live eggs under dead chickens.' That's what opportunities are to people without zeal. Knowledge can't . Some of America's worst presidents are reputed to have been the smartest. And some of the greatest, such as Abraham Lincoln, had very little formal education. A resume may get you through the door, but that's as far as it will get you. Talent can't. There are many people in the world with great natural talent who never achieve personal or professional success. Talent is like money; it only grows when you put it to work. Finally, others can't. You will never be successful without the help of others, but merely being surrounded with the right people doesn't guarantee success. A team with no heart won't succeed. Zeal is the difference-maker. And one of the secrets of having zeal, is knowing that God has truly called and gifted you to do a certain thing. Jesus said, 'I must work the works of Him who sent Me.' (emphasis added) This kind of zeal is not taught but 'caught', so if you're lacking in it today, spend more time with Jesus.
Soulfood Bible Readings Dan 8-10, Mark 3:1-6, Ps 103:13-22, Pr 10:14
What Are You Living For?
"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal." Matthew 6:19
I came across this quote by Joan of Arc and felt this was a good way to start the week-- with a reminder to stay focused on the things that really matter. "Everyone gives their life for what they believe. Sometimes people believe in little or nothing and yet they give their lives to that little...or nothing.One life is all we have, we live it and it's gone. What do you live for?"
What are you giving your life for? What are you spending it on? What do you live for? That which is temporary or eternal? That which pleases self or pleases God? That which has eternal value or no real value at all? Are your sights set on material possessions or heavenly treasures? Do you work harder to get more and more possessions but are negligent in developing a closer relationship to the Lord? Where do your priorities lie? On heavenly or earthly things?
Like the quote says, people give their lives for what they believe. They make it the goal and focus of their lives. And they also spend themselves and their resources to secure that which they believe is most important. When you look at your life, does the evidence of your "spending" (spending yourself) weigh heavier toward those things that money cannot buy or those things that moth and rust destroy and thieves steal?
Am I saying that having possessions is wrong? Of course not, unless they have your heart, unless they are your goal, unless they are your focus and you are neglecting the things that are truly valuable. Many Christians are living their lives centered around accumulating more and more material possessions. Remember that these things are going to pass away and will have no eternal riches attached to them. So stay focused on laying up for yourselves treasures in heaven.
Have a great day. What you spend your life on is a clear indication of what you believe is most important.
For further reading:
Matthew 6:21,33
Proverbs 23:5
Luke 18:22
Philippians 3:8,13,14
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Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
I came across this quote by Joan of Arc and felt this was a good way to start the week-- with a reminder to stay focused on the things that really matter. "Everyone gives their life for what they believe. Sometimes people believe in little or nothing and yet they give their lives to that little...or nothing.One life is all we have, we live it and it's gone. What do you live for?"
What are you giving your life for? What are you spending it on? What do you live for? That which is temporary or eternal? That which pleases self or pleases God? That which has eternal value or no real value at all? Are your sights set on material possessions or heavenly treasures? Do you work harder to get more and more possessions but are negligent in developing a closer relationship to the Lord? Where do your priorities lie? On heavenly or earthly things?
Like the quote says, people give their lives for what they believe. They make it the goal and focus of their lives. And they also spend themselves and their resources to secure that which they believe is most important. When you look at your life, does the evidence of your "spending" (spending yourself) weigh heavier toward those things that money cannot buy or those things that moth and rust destroy and thieves steal?
Am I saying that having possessions is wrong? Of course not, unless they have your heart, unless they are your goal, unless they are your focus and you are neglecting the things that are truly valuable. Many Christians are living their lives centered around accumulating more and more material possessions. Remember that these things are going to pass away and will have no eternal riches attached to them. So stay focused on laying up for yourselves treasures in heaven.
Have a great day. What you spend your life on is a clear indication of what you believe is most important.
For further reading:
Matthew 6:21,33
Proverbs 23:5
Luke 18:22
Philippians 3:8,13,14
<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><
Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
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