10 April 2016

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. - Colossians 4:5-6

With the advancements in technology and the social media presence…our communications are not restricted to face-to-face or telephone, it is also the words we use on web for the eyes of the general public, the voice or opinion we raise, it could even be boasting or making known of our personal life, to public. We need to learn to be wise in our dealings everywhere. Some comments, talks/events may tempt us to shun others, belittle others. If we spend or linger more time in voicing our opinions(unsolicited), boasting or crticizing, we may have to walk away from it all and spend time with God. To be like Christ, we have to spend more time in His presence, saying “He must increase, but I must decrease

 Whether it be with dealing with outsiders, friends, brethren or family; let our speech be laced with grace, holding a tight rein on our tongue to control our words / emotions..although it isn’t easy and it is natural to lose our temper and words.  Let us suppress the angry words or critical comments and be quiet if we cannot say anything nice :) as they say “if you can’t say something nice, you shouldn’t say anything at all.” When we speak, we can choose to be gracious than being negative. Let our words glorify God and not just exalt our own opinions. Our Mothers have taught us as young children not to boast or speak evil…instead “cup our mouth” "If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth! - Proverbs 30:32” Let us be the mouth pieces for Christ and remain in is presence to talk like Him!

12 April 2016

 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (NLT) ( 1 Corinthians 13:7 )

The love Paul is referring to is of a self-sacrificial, never ending, and unconditional love just like Jesus had. We are called to love prickly relatives or prickly people, ostracized neighbours, and hurtful enemies in this way. It may not be easy to love when it isn’t reciprocative. There is a long way to grow for us to truly be like Christ. How far can we love those who hurt us, who left us, dejected and rejected us, who talk behind our backs, who spread incorrect news about us, those who snub us out, those who threw out of their circle because we tried to share the gospel??

I pray dear Lord to truly teach me to live (not know) according to your definition of love for others and to understand our purpose of life in your eyes.

11 April 2016

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. — Romans 12:12

We have little control over what happens in our life..but we have access to someone who has control over life, our Heavenly Father. When we face challenges, trails, we have to be resilient. The only way to deal with things beyond our control is  to LITERALLY leave it to God. The  God who just spoke and everything was created.

Let us not buckle under the weight of the circumstances we face, instead may the hope in knowing a God, in belonging to a loving Heavenly Father keep us still..And not forgetting to pray for His help to face the impossibles

IF OUR FAITH AND HOPE IS IN CHRIST, we will be strengthened even in adversity. Paul stresses to be “ JOYFUL” in difficult times to Be patient during hard times   Our hope is in a God who promised us abundant life. We have a choice to either hide from the world, or face the hardship knowing that we are not alone. God is a very present help in times of trouble. All we need to do is, to reach out to Him in prayer.

7 April 2016

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. (Psalms 27:4)

Not simply spending a day in the four walls of a church building will allow us feel God’s presence. Jesus should reside in our hearts and His sanctuary can be a place that we have chosen to set apart for His glory. David had to live in the wilderness of Judea when he fled from King Saul. David desired to dwell in God’s presence daily and he wanted to enjoy a full fellowship with God and to be filled in His glory.

Firstly , there was a desire, regardless of his condition….Secondly, he wanted to dwell with God daily and for all the days of his life.. Not just when there was a dying need, not when it was Sunday but each and every day. David wanted to delight in the beauty of Lord….Let us also desire to be in His presence and may it be our delight daily!!

6 April 2016

Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. (NLT) ( Proverbs 10:19 )

Over sharing too much information, failing to consider others' feelings, dominating the conversation, a demanding tone, boasting about ourselves, etc.....the ways we use our words can lead to sin! Solomon gives us a wise advice to close our mouths it will definitely help us to listen. Let us be sensible, and speak less! Forgive me dear Lord for every wrong word that I have spoken today!! Give me your wisdom not to fail your expectation!!!

5 April 2016

As the Scriptures say, "No one is righteous - not even one." (NLT) ( Romans 3:10 )

Have we looked at others who may not seem to be as faithful/fervent as we are and feel angered because of them not being so faithful/ fervent? Do we feel "let God punish them for their indifference" and feel "superior or elated because we don't skip meetings or prayers"?

That kind of thinking isn't right, one with a self-righteous tone, like, when we compare ourselves to others and feel we are a good example.God sees our heart and its desires both spoken and unspoken that He even knows our motives behind every word we speak!!! Apart from Jesus, everyone is a sinner. Forgive me Father, today, for all the self righteous thoughts! I want to be like you Jesus ...more humble...and driven towards fulfilling God's call !!

4 April 2016

“God has spoken plainly, and I have heard it many times: Power, O God, belongs to you; unfailing love, O Lord, is yours. Surely you repay all people according to what they have done.” Psalms‬ ‭62:11-12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Some seemingly long days...what we need is the power of God to move through! When we feel powerless, when we feel we are the point of breaking....He comes with an uplifting hand to lifts us up.... Or reminds us of an encouraging verse to comfort us throughout the day!! If God will repay us for what we have done....let us continue to strive to do good!!

3 April 2016

After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray. Later that night, He was there alone.  (Matthew 14:23)

When it gets tricky to find quiet moments Jesus understands us…Jesus knew He needed solitude when people were pulling and tugging at Him with their needs & desire to learn of Him.  We read that Jesus withdrew to be by himself and pray ...Before His public ministry, He spent 40 days in the wilderness. Before laying his life on the cross, He spent time alone…

As parents it can get busy, demanding and taxing on some days. If we have sick days it can be rough on us, on the children with disturbed nights’ or longer nights. Although Parenthood isn’t easy, it is VERY rewarding when we get a friendly smile, a loving hug, a caring look and a heart-to-heart talk!! But with all of the noise, all the busyness we still need to be renewed, refreshed and re-charged by spending time with God….

When we feel at the verge of being worn-out..what we really need is, a lone time with God, to recharge and refill us !! Life’s demand will never end but let us ask God for the wisdom to make time/space to stop everything and spend time with God!!

31 March 2016

“I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what he has promised.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭56:10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

 God's promises are a reminder that He cares for us!! What is more promising than sending Jesus, his only son??

His promises of giving us hope, peace, strength in times of weakness, joy in times of a battle came true. He first loved us, gave Jesus for us, called us by nAme, he sustained us, he cares for our every need, and is our future. We have several reasons to praise God even for unseen promises!! Let us praise God for what He has done for us till this very minute and praise Him for all of God's promises to us !!
Scripture says "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!!" Praise the lord

30 March 2016

And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned. These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages.They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won’t hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed.” (Mark 16:15-18)

The language here is plain and simple, anyone who believes and baptises will be saved; a two step process: 1. To believe and 2. to be baptised. It may be worthy to note the quality of all those Jesus says who “believes” not to be condemned! Today as we read the verse, let us ask ourselves where do I stand...? Am I a believer or will I be saved according to the standards of Jesus ??? Let us pray !!

29 March 2016

On the way they were asking each other, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” But as they arrived, they looked up and saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled aside. (Mark 16: 3-4 NLT)

The problem was huge; their master, teacher and friend was crucified, laid in a tomb with a huge stone at its entrance. It seemed impossible to these women that they could roll away the stone themselves. Some of us would be too troubled to even step forward, and the walk would seem pointless. Who knows, if it was us, we would even stop walking towards the tomb altogether? Or perhaps not because we may be inquisitive to know what happened to our Master. These women continued walking although they knew there was an obstacle.

Many of life’s situations may pose the same question to us..”who will roll away the stone(our present issue/trouble) for ME?” When faced with this question are we weighed down, distressed and broken without energy to step forward? Do we feel lost or nearly lost??

Remember a good disciple trusts GOD no matter what! Even though he may be CRAWLING, he will keep moving. Instead of stoping, having a pity-party, or be depressed and live in the shadow of the blues, let us move towards the obstacle, God can do the impossible. Let us not take everything into our hands to solve, leave something for God to work on….

Do we trust God enough, do we have enough faith in the God who called us…???

If our trust is in Him, if our focus is set on God and not the size of the problem, the same God can bring a timely help, an angel, to roll away that obstacle for us ! But do we have the faith?

28 March 2016

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:39 KJV)

The heights of power, honour, prosperity or circumstances may draw one to occupy and capture time but Apostle Paul says even these won’t be sufficient to withdraw their love from the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Have we not seen people who has everything in life (everything the world can give) and yet DON’T have contentment OR the peace of mind…??? What do they really lack ?? A realisation of the love of Lord Jesus…and the assurance of their future in Him!! 

The depths of poverty or rank of life OR any thing created shall not separate us from love of God. Paul says if we are true Christian, our love for Christ would be stronger than, any influence of things of this world have on our minds. The love of God is in Christ and it is through Christ alone that we love God.  

When we feel lonely and weighed with burdens of life, remember we have A GOD WHO promised us to never leave or forsake us. If we truly love God and desire to walk in His ways, nothing, nor the high ranks or the lowest ranks or any things of the earth can take priority over Christ!! He will fill us with the peace that surpasses all the wisdom and understanding ! 

God Bless 

27 March 2016

They went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, “Sit here while I go and pray.” He took Peter, James, and John with him, and he became deeply troubled and distressed. He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” (Mark 14:32-34, NLT)

Jesus goes to the Gethsemane deeply burdened and to pray. He even asks his disciples to sit and pray…and takes only 3 of the disciples with him. He says to them..”my soul is crushed with grief to the point of death” what an intimate statement!! If we were to say such word with deep meaning, it would be to people who we are close with. To those who can identify with out grief, those who may have the burden for us to pray. We say prayer requests to the public, but certain matters are only shared with our intimate friends/relations. And expect them to pray for us. We read that Jesus says to them “Stay here and keep watch with me”!!!

If you have a family, or those who are in Lord's ministry would understand this clearly!!! Sometimes, when the leader(parents) has a vision, a burden, a unspoken desire about the kingdom of God, and if there are none to stand by, IT HURTS deeply and TERRIBLY, and make them feel isolated and lonely!!

Few weeks back I saw a dream, Pastor of a church delegating an elder(spiritual elder) to lock a house( mean the house of God) as going away to run an errand. When the Pastor (and his family) returns, along with the elder (and his family) to the house they saw something painful and bitter. The house that was supposed to be locked was unlocked. The person(elder) who was given the responsibility to lock didn’t seem to be concerned or look SORRY for the mistake he did. However,  the Pastor (& his family) was hurt deeply with their negligence. All they could do is STEP in again with faith and confidence in the Father who called them. But praying and letting go of the hurt and pain, but walked into the house..without any fear of danger!!

How often do we carry out our roles and responsibility in spiritual aspects with integrity? Do we take it light ? Do we disregard or neglect or devalue it ??? WATCH OUT, we are RUNNING OUT OF TIME. When Christ returns, all of us will have to stand before the Judgement seat …Will our hands be strong in that day???

25 March 2016

“No!” Peter declared emphatically. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the others vowed the same. (Mark 14:31)

When Jesus foretold His death and resurrection(before), Peter didn’t want to take it. Now when Jesus talks about denial, Peter’s says even if i have to die with you I will not deny you. Notice other disciples said the same. Later on Peter denies 3 times, although when Jesus foretold it Peter didn't believe it or he refused to think so! 

In today’s context, when do we deny God..? When we misrepresent God..are we not denying Him?? We read on to see after the 3rd denial Jesus’ turns back and looks at Peter with an intimacy and in grace not in anger or bitterness!  Today, jesus is watching us……does our way of life deny or misrepresent God ?? Let us ask God to give us deeper understanding of Him, that we might reflect Christ to people around us. 

24 March 2016

Then the LORD said to Moses, “Gather before me seventy men who are recognized as elders and leaders of Israel. Bring them to the Tabernacle to stand there with you. I will come down and talk to you there. I will take some of the Spirit that is upon you, and I will put the Spirit upon them also. They will bear the burden of the people along with you, so you will not have to carry it alone. (Numbers 11:16-17 NLT)

When we find it hard to tackle our spiritual call alone, God will not turn His back to us but pour His spirit on certain few amongst us to have the same spiritual burden as the leader. When Moses was deeply troubled with the way Israelites reacted God says he will pour the burden on a few elders and leaders to be with Moses to carry the burden.

Church needs leaders and elders who will have the burden for the people. What church needs is elders and leaders who spends time to pray for the spiritual growth and needs of its members' and to execute the Great Commission of Christ.  

As an individual what can we do??

Is it only to pray for the leaders, pray for our Church, our ministers….?? 

We must be committed to God, led by Holy Spirit  to carry the burden of the people.

We need to be open to His call, be committed to a local church (that worships God in Sprit and truth) and be willing to serve…

Let us pray for His Spirit to fall upon us too, to take up the call of Great Commission and serve God! 

23 March 2016

I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire (Psalm 40:1-2, NIV).

 Earlier this week, one of my children wept so bitterly. It made me feel helpless. My focus was to help the child move past blues although I was sad. I was troubled, praying within but trying to “fix” but there was one person who was on his bed praying for his child. Within hours, God did turn to us….He heard our cry and God intervened in the most impossible way in our life once again.

 When dealing with pain, troubles in life we have several choices of reaction, we could become bitter, blame someone or ourselves, have self-hatred moments, simply deny the existence of such a trouble OR simply trust God believing that He will work in favour of us. Remember when we trust God, we are saying “not my will but Yours be done” which means we must accept whatever God has in store for us for that situation!

Regardless of the depth or gravity of our problems, remember God is with us. He might be using our problems to teach us to Hope in Him, to understand His power, to feel His comforting hand, to understand His healing hand. After all, He refines us all to be pure as gold!!

Let us pray with confidence that He will turn to us,to our cries and draw us out of the pit..out of every mud and mire we are in!!

22 March 2016

You, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him! ‭‭(Mark‬ ‭13: 35-37‬ ) Are we ready for Jesus' second coming ? If he comes tonight will we be taken?? Are we complacent with our spiritual life and our relationship with Christ?? Do we have the zeal to meet him or are we cold/lukewarm?? Bible not fiction but real ... Let us carry the zeal outside of our prayer halls, outside church meetings and bring it into our daily life!! And let not Jesus find each of us sleeping!!

21 March 2016

If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, You Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up. ( Daniel 3:17-18 ) These men had a powerful faith,even if God didn't save them from death, they still stood their ground. Why do we ask God to meet our conditions before we stand up for God? They trusted God no matter what would happen to them.... Can we trust in God even when it appears God won't come through to help?

20 March 2016

Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. ( Lamentations 3:21-22 NLT) Have we stopped daring to hope? But there is healing and deliverance when we submit to God, a hope of being made whole through Christ When our hope in our dreams and plans to do great things diminish, when we don't see success we may stop daring to hope. We have a great call, Abraham obeyed God even though it may have felt hopeless to offer his son as a sacrifice.. Let us not allow any situation to stop us from believing in God's plan for our life. Remember, we have to set our eyes on Him from. where our help come from? Our help comes from the lord the maker of heaven n earth even though we may not see God, our hope in His love and grace is always there. Keep hoping no matter what. His mercies endures forever and the only reason why we are still alive!

19 March 2016

But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them. And the gospel must first be published among all nations. But when they shall lead [you], and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.(Mark 13:9-11, KJV)

Jesus stresses, on how the disciples should respond and live till His second coming. We know that the disciples had to face several trails….and persecution. We may also be mocked and sidelined but let us stand firm in Him than to compromise. Jesus says, the gospel must be preached and when being taken up to councils and courts they must depend totally on the Holy Spirit, to give the appropriate words of wisdom for them to speak. Even today, our Lord has a message to us to be willing to be His disciples ..He will speak through us. The Holy Spirit will guide us with His Words all he needs are obedient vessels who are willing to be used by Him.Let us be that disciple who allows Jesus to be Lord of our life, so that it won’t be us speaking but the Holy Spirit within us.

18 March 2016

Mark 13:7 "And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for [such things] must needs be; but the end [shall] not [be] yet."

 In short,peace will not be there until Jesus returns….to establish His Kingdom on earth. There would war and disharmony although it may stop at one it may break out at another place. Jesus says, “be not troubled”…but to have the peace of God in the midst of the turbulence. Instead of being overwhelmed with fear, he expects us to spread the gospel even in such state. There is panic among the people when the economic condition is poor, but we need to know Jesus to outgrow the uncertainty and to look forward to the future Jesus promised!! Earth is not out home, Jesus has promised to prepare a mansion for us in heaven..O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

17 March 2016

Jesus replied, “Yes, look at these great buildings. But they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” (Mark 13:2) 

 This was Jesus’ reply to one of the disciple who was admiring the beauty of the temple and the surrounding buildings saying “Teacher, look at these magnificent buildings! Look at the impressive stones in the walls.” History says after around 40 years, Romans plundered Jerusalem, killing people and destroying the temple. It is said only the huge stones that served as foundation were left. Many of the things we admire can be brought to destruction in a moment. Today, our attention, our admiration, our dream might be in the things we “see” around and “feel” stateliness in. But, there is a God who knew us before the foundations of earth were laid, who watches us day and night, who prevent our foot from falling, who knows the very hairs on our head.. What grandeur or magnificence does he hold in our minds?? What do we glory in…is it in perishable or the imperishable ? While we appreciate God given talents and skills, let us not forget the Maker of this earth, the source of such talent and honour Him the way he deserves honour.

16th March 2016

I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.(‭‭Psalms‬ ‭130:5‬ ‭KJV‬‬)

We have prayers, requests, needs and desires that we take to God. It's not easy to wait when our answers are delayed! But today although our answers are still pending can we say with hopes unshaken and with faith in Him that " I wait on the Lord and my hope is His word!" We have a God who says "I will never leave you or forsake you". Let us wait upon the Lord, with the hope in the living word of God !!

15th March 2016

You have been set apart to LORD today, for you were against your own sons and brothers, and He has blessed you this day.”(Ex. 32:29, KJV)  

God spared the firstborns of His people from the plague, “the death of the Firstborn while Egyptians lost theirs. God told Moses to dedicate all the firstborn among the children of Israel for God himself. The order of the twelve sons/tribes of Israel were : Reuben, Simeon, Levi,Judah, Zebulun, Issachar, Dan, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Joseph (listed as two tribes: Ephraim and Manasseh), Benjamin. 

As per the first born command God gave Moses….it should have been Ruben the first born…..to be separated for God. Why Levi, the third born was chosen to be priests, to serve in the Tabernacle and to teach and not the Ruben or Simeon? 

When Moses went up on Mount Sinai the Israelites created and worshipped a calf idol in God’s place!! Moses was furious that people were out of control when he called out, “Whoever is for Lord, come to me.”(verse 26)  And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him ….no other tribe is mentioned. They were asked to kill about 3000 were killed on that day…Then Moses said, "You have been set apart to the LORD today, for you were against your own sons and brothers, and he has blessed you this day."

The Levites took a stand for the Lord when everyone failed to stand up for the Lord. It is our decision and commitment to God that makes us special to God. 

14 March 2016

I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.(Mark12:43-44)

Our Jesus who failed not to notice the poor widow’s contribution will surely notice every sincere offerings of prayers, thanksgiving and wealth ! Our God is not a respecter of persons, position, power, name, or even ministries!! What HE values is a sincere heart.. When we honour God with all we have, HE will testify about us.

Let us not feel inferior when it comes to approaching God, he knows our frame, he is the author and finisher of our faith. Can we bring into His presence the little we have to whole heartedly glorify His Name?

We may have said "I’m not eloquent to speak the word of God” or "I'm not righteous enough to do God's work" or "I’m not well versed in the bible that I cannot pray as the others do..”, “I’m a minister of a small group”,…..and the like. Instead, with a whole heart, let us offer our two mites like the poor widow so that Christ will testify of us. Even if the whole world may judge us otherwise, let us boldly give Him our best!!

13 March 2016

The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked. ( Proverbs 24:16 NLT)

No body is immune to challenges or trails but if we follow Christ or pursue the path  that God shows, we will ALWAYS get back up after a fall. If we follow a path devoid of His presence, ignoring God's message to us, we are likely to fall quickly and permanently. Let us not allow the devil to speak words of failure and discourage during trying moments instead speak words of faith !!

Let us examine if we fit in Our Heavenly Father's plan today. HE will surely give us the Grace to rise up each time the devil tries to push us down!

12 March 2016

Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory. (1 Peter 1:21 NLT)

It may seem hard to connect with God if we think of Him sitting high on a throne. In Romans we read that, it is through Christ we have a personal relationship with Him. Christ knows our unique strengths and weaknesses and He provides blessings tailored just for our individual needs and situations. Christ died on the cross to become a bridge to God. Our personal relationship with Christ is what it takes to connect to God! Let's continue to communicate to Him, allowing it a double sided one :))

11 March 2016

Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.”.(Mark 12:34)

One of the teachers of law was listening to the discussion between Christ and Sadducees who asks Jesus which was the greatest commandment of all.Jesus replies "You must love the lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength and Love your neighbor as yourself."

This teacher said he knew these were more important than to offer burnt offerings and sacrifices . Upon which Jesus said "you are not far from the Kingdom of God!!"

Today what will Jesus look at us and say? Where are we standing?? Will he say we are child of God or say we are "not far from the Kingdom".

Do we  say "I’m almost a child of God", "almost a christian" , "i know the word of God" but not altogether following. Jesus is coming back for his bride, virgins who have oil will only be taken in, not the ones; who have lamps, but no oil. They came only as as far as the door, but the door was shut upon them. Let us be wise and have oil in our lamps!!

10 March 2016

And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry: And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet….. And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away(Mark 11:12-14,20-21).

No Jesus wasn’t throwing a temper tantrum by cursing a tree .Research indicate leaves comes after fruit in fig tree; also there should be a forerunner of the fig fruit, which is a small almond sized crop called “ taqsh”(in arabic). So Jesus found "nothing but leaves" - no taqsh- a pretense of fruit but the tree was fruitless!!
After this event Jesus went to Jerusalem to drive money changers out of the temple. If we look at it analogically, the barren fig tree seems were symbolic of the religious activity in Israel. The temple which had to be fruitful was turned into a place of business..of NO fruit to God, useless in His sight!!

Jesus said in his John 15:5 that every tree that doesn’t bear fruit will be cut down (Matthew 7:19; Luke 13:6-9). If we who are the temple of God doesn’t bear fruit we will also be destroyed. We should diligently strive to not be barren!! .Matthew chapter 7 says "By their fruits you shall......know them.”  Let us bear fruits in season and out of season!!

9 March 2016

So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple. After looking around carefully at everything, he left because it was late in the afternoon. Then he returned to Bethany with the twelve disciples. (Mark 11 :11)

When we read “ went into the temple", I understand it that being not a Levite, Jesus wasn’t permitted to enter the holy or most holy place, it is the “courts” that Jesus went in. Jesus carefully looked, he clearly saw or examined the place. Although he saw the disorder at that point he didn’t say a word until He returned next day; it was late in the afternoon. We are the temple of God..we must examine and get rid of anything within us or about us that isn’t honouring God..

Our God clearly sees all our mistakes, errs and sins. No one is immune to sin, but although He sees it, He weighs our attitude, if we confess our sins and guard our life He is merciful enough to forgive us! If we continue to sin as if God isn’t aware, then He himself might overturn tables and rebuke the disorder in our lives!!  Our God is slow to anger and  waits patiently before He rebukes. When we see wickedness, injustice and corruption in this world…remember Jesus is watching carefully and will return with justice!! God honours those who honours Him, if today we stand to honour Him..we will not be forsaken.

8 March 2016

 Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it, and he sat on it. (Mark 11:7 NLT)

Why did they throw garments over the colt ??Could it be because the colt was was unclean? If we sit on anything unclean our garments will get unclean too..They cast their garments on the colt so that the colt will be clean for Jesus to sit on …. If we are the colt Jesus chose to ride on…we might also have to purify ourselves or get rid of the unclean for the spirit of God to dwell in us!!
Have a very blessed day! God Bless

7th March 2016

“Go into that village over there,” he told them. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.”
‭‭(Mark‬ ‭11:2‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

When God calls us he knows us though no one knows us deep down, the destiny God has for us or the hunger we have for Christ ! Even though people won't see anything worth while in us God does. King James 2000 Bible says
And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door outside in a place where two ways met; and they loosed him.…were we not between two things , (not all the way in bondage but not all the way in freedom) when He first found us?

Jesus told the disciples to loose the colt and bring him to Jesus! freeing a colt isn’t enough but to be lead to Jesus. After being loosed one should be lead to Christ, we all need a shepherd. No one can be a leader until he learns how to follow !!

We see instructions and mission,  Disciples got instructions (to get the colt), the mission was for the colt. God may lead us to find some people not because ours is the mission but because God needs that person. Credit belongs to God for He directs us to them who are tied up. The colt had never been sat on before weren't we that colt too?? Isn't our glory because of Who we carry as a royalty, Christ??

6 March 2016

Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My Rabbi, ” the blind man said, “I want to see!” And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road. (Mark‬ ‭10:50-52‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

Bartimeus had only HEARD of Jesus and his miracles..when he heard JESUS was passing by decided to receive his healing. His act of faith was seen in three steps, threw his coat away, he wouldn’t need it he believed, he jumped with joy because he had the faith in Christ the healer…!!

Why did Jesus ask “what do u want from me”, didn’t Jesus see the need? In few verses before the Zebedee Sons asks for a favour, which infuriated other disciples.. There was a difference in the request, one was asking for position, the other for mercy!!

ASKING a favour for MERCY IN FAITH, BELIEVING THAT JESUS CAN HEAL AND MAKE HIM WHOLE, Jesus not only healed but testifies of Bartimeus’ faith! He did not leave after his healing but instantly could see and started to follow jesus(A new disciple added!!).

When the so called disciples were asking for position, and glory…(they seem to have a spiritual blindness) Jesus made Bartimeus to “see” and follow as a disciple !!

Today Jesus is asking each of us what do we want Him to do for us? What are we asking for …..is it the world and its desires or a true sight? Just because we claim to be disciple is doesn’t mean we are healed completely of our blindness, let us pray without ceasing !!!

5th March 2016

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A personal statement : I have no intention to point fingers or hold these thoughts against any individual or group. I follow a reading plan as my way of learning and I highlight verses that touches me or makes me mull around. Accept my sincere apologies if these are not of your liking…:) let me know I will take ur name off my list :) Let’s talk the language of LOVE …

Cheers, 

Geebz

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So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.   But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant,and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:42-45)

We all tend to read the KJV but NLT speaks in more a common language…notice the words ”flaunt authority”, "Whoever wants to be a leader among you”! A few verses above these, we see Jesus speaking of his death and resurrection, that he would be betrayed. James and John asks a favour, if they could sit at Jesus’ right and left side when Jesus sits in His glorious throne. Jesus says it is not for him to decide who sits on his side. We see disciples were indignant after hearing what James and John asked, they mightn’t have paid attention to what Jesus said but were outraged! These words are said to that “mind bogged” disciples, the difference between the leaders and officials of this world and Kingdom of God! Leader needs to be a servant, whoever wants to be first must be a slave of everyone. What position do we need?? How far can we go to take up the servantship ?What humble service are we ready to do for God and to our brethren? Are we able to put the needs of others into our daily agendas? May God bless us to be good servants for Christ !!

4th March 2016

Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? You must have the qualities of salt among yourselves and live in peace with each other.” (Mark 9:50, NLT)

In the olden times salt was used as a seasoning, a preservative, and as purifier. When salt is used to season, it not only adds flavour to the food but brings out the flavours thats present in the food, it enhances flavour ! How can we enhance the flavour? By a lot of effort, we have to continually cultivate a life of faith through prayer, worship, learning the Holy Bible. Even when challenging situations we need to handle them with perseverance and hope for it will refine and build our character. We need to cultivate it within us !!! 

When salt is used to preserve it signifies permanence ..when something is salted, it will last longer both literally and symbolically. Being a person of faith is a long-term commitment requires perseverance

Salt is used as a purifying ward against evil. If we focus on wrong things(jealousy, resentment, blame, fear, fame, name) it can “contaminate” us. …. “have salt within yourselves” means to have a unique flavory, have perseverance, and to focus on the right things. However, we must understand although salt is powerful it can also symbolise destruction…Lot’s wife turned into a pillar or salt! Adding too much salt in food makes the food taste terrible. Let us not loose our flavour or be that salt that overpowers or harms but live in peace with everyone! 

3 March 2016

John said to him, "Teacher, we saw someone who doesn't follow us casting out demons in your name; and we forbade him, because he doesn't follow us." But Jesus said, "Don't forbid him, for there is no one who will do a mighty work in my name, and be able quickly to speak evil of me. For whoever is not against us is on our side. For whoever will give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you are Christ's, most certainly I tell you, he will in no way lose his reward.” (MARK 9:38-41)

Just like his (their) nickname (John & James––the Sons of Thunder) John seems to be much ready to act hastily. He reports of what they did to someone who cast out demon using Jesus' name. John isn’t asking Jesus how to handle the person but says what they did probably expecting Jesus to praise or confirm their action.   John says "he doesn't follow us.”. In modern language the "certified" disciples tried to stop an "uncertified" disciple but one who is successful in casting out demon using Jesus' name. I’m assuming John’s concern is not only with protecting the sanctity of Jesus' name, but also with protecting the disciples' unique status.  They drew a circle to keep that person out. But Jesus who touched lepers, who ate with tax collectors and sinners RE-DRAWS a wide circle to include him too. This “someone” may not meet the standard of authentic discipleship, YET Jesus shows sympathy and encourages. It doesn’t mean Jesus will open doors to any religious activity, it had two conditions do "a mighty work.”, "in my name"––in the name of Jesus (not use His name in vain).

A similar thing occurred during Moses’s time. Moses appointed seventy elders, to whom God gave them gift of prophecy. 2 people who weren’t part of it prophesied which casued Joshua to ask Moses to stop them, but Moses said ..only if all of God’s people were prophets!

What is our stand…do we draw a circle too…or do we re-draw it like Christ or do we consider others as inferior or less?? Christ wants us all to GENUINELY put aside petty jealousies and to respect the gifts of those who work in His name(remember Jesus also warns of the deceivers) . However, these beliefs must adhere to the fundamentals of the faith and in-line with The Word of God!!

2 March 2016

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? (Mark 8: 36,37)

Often times believers think this verse does not apply to them but to those who are not saved! This applies to anyone who spends all their energy seeking contentment based on possessions, position, or power. All the efforts is ultimately worthless if our intentions and motives are not right with God. The position/power/fame/name is what even spiritually anointed people may fall in trap for!! Whatever we have on earth or gained or attained is TEMPORARY; it cannot be exchanged for OUR soul. If we work hard at getting what we want, we might have a "pleasurable” life, but there will be a void/hollow and emptiness if it isn’t really entered around JESUS?? Let us continue the pursuit of God more than the selfish pursuit in all realms!! If we truly follow Jesus, we will OBEY him…He will show us what it means to live abundantly now and to have eternal life as well.

1 March 2016

He looked up and said, "I see people; they look like trees walking around." Once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. (Mark 8:24,25)

Why did jesus use two steps to restore the blind man’s eye sight? Couldn’t he have it done at one go? At the fist stage the man sees with a blurred vision but when Jesus touches again he sees clearly. Is it telling us something about spiritual sight?

The chapter begins with Jesus feeding a 4000, then we see Pharisees coming to argue with Jesus, then Jesus & disciples leave on a boat. Jesus warns his discples of the "leaven of the Pharisees” referring to false teaching of the Pharisees. But disciples thought Jesus was talking about “literal" bread. Jesus then rebuked the disciples by asking how they could be SO BLIND after having seen and been with him.

Could this miracle have to show something about His disciples’ understanding of Jesus?? They could  “see” but their understanding was still very poor, they needed a second touch. Their understanding was coming in stages. We might be church goers, know several verses of the bible, can re-tell several stories of the bible, but our sight/our proper understanding and revelation of Christ matters!! We all experience God in stages but let us ask God to heal us of any blurred or cloudy spiritual vision…At the end of the chapter we read about Peter’s revelation of Christ !!! Let us pray that healing to touch our inner eyes!

28 February 2016

And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day(Genesis 32:24)(KJV)

If we were ALL LEFT ALONE more oft to be with Him would we be spiritual giants?? When Jacob was alone with God, he encountered God, wrestled and finally God changed Jacob's name to Israel!! In Joshua 1:1 we see a Joshua being alone when the Lord came to him. We know of a Gideon threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. He too was all alone, when God commissioned him to save Israel. The burning bush appeared to Moses in the wilderness when he was alone!! John the Baptist was alone in the wilderness, John the disciple was alone in Patmos!!

I feel weighed down to type out words…instead of these moments of typing my thoughts…I must get MORE alone with God to change my destiny in Christ. So many excuses come in when it comes to using more lone time with God. That too, forgetting the fact that I breathe this moment only because HE didn’t say an excuse to love me!! John the baptist, or the beloved may not have died rich, or successful in the eyes of this world BUT they were used to impact the lives of many!!! It is only because the chosen men was left alone and had opened door to God in their deepest silence.. that we read of many works of God.

Father help me to be steady, consistent NEVER to neglect or rob myself of the spiritual blessings.

27 February 2016

Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." (NLT) ( 1 Timothy 4:8 )

Just like there are several benefits training our physical body by strengthening muscles, burning fat, and building up heart, it is good to have a regular faith routine to follow also!! Strengthening our faith is much greater than anything else because the effects we seen will be on earth and in eternity. Sometimes although we have a routine we fall out of schedule, let us admit and restart it. Some like to follow Bible reading plans, to keep prayer journal, write a journal, pray X hours...Whatever we choose, make sure it will train us for godliness!! God values 'quality' time we spend with Him!

25 February 2016

“And if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire.”  (Mark 9:43)  

A very disturbing piece of line …..sometimes sin is conceived / lived only in thoughts, a sin that’s not open to the outside world!! Are we keen to cut off that wicked minds and iniquitous thoughts???

There are many distractions even for believers, many a things that lure..the fame, the social media addiction, power hunger / position even within a ministry, the association with a ministry, or certain relationships.Let us examine if we identify ourselves with anything than Christ..Is it the community, church, family, organization, designation??

How eager are we to cut off anything that might kill or hinder us to reach eternity??

Jesus says we must have the resolve to cut the things out of our lives that kill us. Anything that brings us down/hinders us from experiencing the fullness in Christ Jesus NEEDS to be cut OFF TOTALLY. Let us examine, if there is anything that is keeping us from fully obeying/ living for Christ. If there is any hindrance let us cut off that thing entirely out of our life. Let us discover the amazing life Jesus gives us!

24 February 2016

A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.( Luke 6:45  NLT)

There is a great connection between our hearts and our mouths..the words we say do reflect our heart. If our mind focuses on picky details, comparisons and judgments then,  our mouth will pour out words of criticism, judgement and negativeness. But if we revere someone with honor/reverence then naturally, words of respect and confessions of faith will follow. Let us monitor our words to get a glimpse into our heart. In philippians 2:3 we read "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves".As Psalmist in Psalm 26:2 let us also say "Examine me O Lord, try also my reins and my heart" !! Dear Lord, help me to lead my life in a way that my thoughts, words and deeds are pleasing in Your sight..may it always produce good things. Have a splendid day!

23 February 2016

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. (KJV) ( Isaiah 28:16 )

Do we find security in our jobs, finances, success, family, friends or anything that isn't God?  If our security is on anything other than God then, our sense of security will be shaken once it crumbles!! If we stand on Jesus the stronger rock(firm and tested rock!) we can withstand any quake and will be SECURE in Him although initially we will appear shaky. When we feel low or depressed let us examine if has remotely even to do with a foundation that isn’t Jesus. Let us admit if we make mistakes and confess to Christ! Remember God’s covenant to us is based on His faithfulness to us, not on our merits! Jesus promises something life can’t destroy - eternity, He invites us all to something that we don’t deserve or can earn- grace!! Does it not mean security, Hope and A bright future???

It doesn't mean we can live anyway we want to live because of the grace we've been given. Romans 6: 1, 2 says "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid". Father God help us to examine ourselves if our security is found in anything other than you…even at challenging times and hours, help us to walk in newness of life that we may live a life pleasing to you!

22 February 2016

“Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace.”  (Philippians 4:6,7 New Living Translation)

I feel this is one of the difficult verses in the Bible to obey: “Not to worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.” It’s not easy to stop worrying about the uncertainties, but PAUL tells us to pray when we start to WORRY “Pray about everything" and THANK God for all He has done. When we rewind the things of the past, how God answered prayers it will definitely bring a lot of peace in our current situation. As a parent it feels good when my children say “thank you” for the things that they receive from us.... How much more God would love if we thank Him SPECIFICALLY FOR WHAT HE HAS DONE??

TODAY, I admit dear Lord that I still tend to worry about things beyond my control. I thank you Master for all you have done for me in the past. Teach me to exercise my faith in even in small situations. Give me faith to thank you in advance for things yet unseen…and to declare that I will see your goodness, mercy and miracles unfold. You oh God inhabits the praise of HIS people.

21 February 2016

What man is he that feareth the Lord? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. His soul shall dwell at ease...(Psalm 25:12, 13)

Even the smallest choice we make in life can have a lasting impact on the course of our lives. The fear (reverential fear) of the Lord can only lead to a joyful and fulfilling life.  We should think of ways to please God! David says that what is most glorifying to God will always be what is most satisfying for us. What are our choices for today?? Are we teachable by God or do we already know the best for us?? Is our soul anxious/ worried or are we at ease?? If we are concerned or worried about our future it clearly shows we need His guidance!! Let us be teachable by God so that our soul will be at ease :))

20 February 2016

Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!  Jonah 3:4

Was Nineveh destroyed after the 40 days mentioned here? No, it wasn’t..Not in forty days, and not in forty years because the people of Nineveh changed their minds, and God didn't destroy them. God had said it would happen, but it didn’t happen because the people repented of their ways !! So when we see or hear visions, dreams or words of judgement on our lives remember God will never, ever change His character BUT He can and will change His mind when His people pray.

We read that "it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray thee, O LORD, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that thou art a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repentest thee of the evil" Jonah 4:2
If we see visions and dreams of judgement on others let us not be like Jonah but pray that "His People would pray" for the judgement to be removed !! God is compassionate, answers earnest prayers and is faithful and merciful if we pray!

19 February 2016

Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad(Genesis 40:6)

We see a Joseph who notices the sadness of his cellmates although he had many problems of his own!! His brothers had sold him as a slave, he was fired by Potiphar and imprisoned based on a woman's false accusations. Joseph was selfless, humble and full of integrity that he always rose above his trial and glorified God. When we go through difficult times, when others have wronged us, what is our response? Let us not deepen our sorrow by having a pity party on our self but rather ask God for wisdom to see the ways to be of help to others! God bless!!

18 February 2016

“Then if anyone tells you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah,’ or ‘There he is,’ don’t believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God’s chosen ones. (Matthew 24:23,24)

This verse reminded me of what Paul wrote in Corinthians, "let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall”. Jesus himself warns saying during the end times, false messiahs (notice the plural!!), false prophets (plural). Like Jesus warned his disciples to pray..let us press pray without ceasing, whenever we can let us read the word of God and pray in the Holy Spirit so that we may not be deceived but stand in Him till the end !

17 February 2016

Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; (KJV) ( Ephesians 1:16 )

We all pray for several things in our daily prayers. But when God gives us the burden to pray for others we do it too. Paul writes about how he makes mention of the church and people of Ephesus when he prays. We pray for our loved ones, or sometimes we feel burdened to pray for some or for those facing trials and for those that have requested. Prayer might be the only way we can help them. We can use our energy, time n voice to DILIGENTLY pray n serve others through our prayers. Our diligence, commitment, the love of God and indwelling of Holy Spirit are important than the words we say or the time we spend in prayer! Let us continue praying for others and it's really honouring to see our prayers answered in other people's lives!! Thank you for praying for us too…it was the prayers of many that we saw the hand of God’s protection on our family last evening. By 4PM a van ran into our wall, by God’s grace kids weren’t playing outside or was any of us in that area! God sent the Chief Medical Officer and a very helpful neighbour to take care of the man and shift him to a hospital on time! I thank God for everyone who had the burden to pray for us, the prayer of a righteous man will not go unanswered !! God bless !!

16 February 2016

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21 NIV)

I read a man of God's book that says "Happiness comes from service and giving your life away. Until you understand this, you’re not going to be happy for much of your life.Happiness does not come from self-gratification. It comes from self-sacrifice." Looking at the life of Paul, he remained focused on his purpose and not his problems. I ask myself today to be honest and true to my self to fill in the blank “For me to live is ______.” What will I fill it with will it be name, success, family, friends, career, ministry?? We can have many several choices and justifications for our choice but nothing deserves the place of the One who gave you your life: Jesus Christ. We were created for His purpose: to live is Christ.

Dear Jesus, oftentimes I allow circumstances to determine happiness..I let pain, pressure, problems, and people to rob my happiness. Help me to live my life by handling life in a way that is a real encouragement to others around me..and to be reminded that ALL THINGS WORKS FOR GOOD. Use me, Lord, so I have a purpose for living and for dying. From this day on, for me to live is Christ. In your name I pray. Amen.

15 February 2016

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name (Psalm 100:4)

A thankful heart is one without complains like "I deserve more than I have."  Where there is no grumbling but a gratitude for every blessing. We too like Jacob can say, "I am not worthy of all the mercies, and of all the truth which thou hast showed unto thy servant" (Genesis 32:10). He showed his mercy on us even when we were sinners. We have a great privilege to be able to offer "the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name". Let us enter his presence this day with praise and thanksgiving.Father God give me a humble heart full of thankfulness at all times regardless of what my disposition is!!

Feb 14, 2016

To every purpose, there is a time.(Ecclesiastes 8: 6)
Are we waiting for God to fulfill in His time in our life? God will give us everything we need to “fulfill” His plan in our life if we will agree to “abide” in His timetable. David says in Psalms several times , “Wait on the Lord.” It is not easy to wait but, by waiting on God, we’ll be walking in His plan for us not on a path of our own desires. Our Heavenly Father has a clean plan drawn for all our lives. To know it let us be close to Him, talk to Him, walk with Him. Let us wait and not be tired of waiting, although it seems hard! If we are bothered with thoughts of negativity/failure/ worry let us use the double edged sword, the Bible to defend ourselves!! Today if some of us are still waiting let us ask God for wisdom and perseverance as we wait!! God bless !!

12 February 2016

Jesus fasted for forty days and nights. After this, He was very hungry. The devil came to Jesus to tempt Him, saying, “If You are the Son of God, tell these rocks to become bread(Matthew 4:2–3)

Expect to be tested by the Devil! Watch for his tricks!!We will know what to expect. We are not ignorant of his schemes 2 Corinthians 2:11 And we know Satan will attack weak spots first!!

After 40 days of fasting Jesus was hungry, it was only Jesus’ stomach that was empty …..so Satan starts in the direction that which seemed empty and thus the topic of bread…

Where are we empty today?
What are our weak spots??
Do we hunger for attention, success, riches, name, fame or things of the world, social approval, approval of community/people???

Let us be aware of our weaknesses and bring it at the feet of Christ for His wisdom before Satan brings them to us….

11 February 2016

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (KJV) ( Psalm 27:14 )

If we are hurting physically or emotionally we may have pain that rarely subsides...we may have many concerns or worries in life. It's possible that we may focus on the pain, worry or concern and question where is God and why hasn't He healed us yet or why he hasn't answered us. Let us not allow the pain to speak louder than God's love for us. He loves us very much and is with us no matter what we are going through!! This pain or concerns we bear can have meaning by bringing glory to God.  Let us be more courageous today, and let us not concentrate on the pain, concern or worries instead, be bold in our patience for the Lord and exercise our faith in Him by waiting upon Him!

10 February 2016

The LORD caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they stripped the Egyptians of their wealth! (EXODUS 12:36)

As I read these words, it irked me a bit to think that God would allow His people to loot or strip the Egyptians off their wealth. To me when I first read it, it didn’t fit a loving God to use uncanny means to acquire things. However, it kept popping up in my mind, that I didn’t want to believe that God using such a device! To my understanding it was Satan who suited the role of a deviser, schemer and deceiver who comes to kill, steal and conquer. But, pondering over this I understood, these people had been working their heads off, who were initially welcomed to stay in Goshen,  honoured by a Pharaoh during Joseph’s time. However the death of Joseph, there was an upturn!! Israelites became many in number that Egyptians feared them and enslaved and took away Israelites'  privileges. Egyptians didn’t pay their wages fairly, they were asked to work beyond what they could do, the taskmasters made their jobs so hard…So there was a lot of “pending payment” from Egyptians!!! Anyone who serves in an organisation not only deserved a monthly wage but expect a ‘gratuity’ . The  Israelites were not even getting what they deserved! Moses asked Pharaoh to let go of Israelites to worship God but Pharaoh's heart was hardened after the 10th plague he let all of them go. Thats when God gave israelites favour in the sight of Egyptians that they gave them whatever they asked for. All the Egyptians wanted was to get rid of these people ..we read in Verse 33 All the Egyptians urged the people of Israel to get out of the land as quickly as possible, for they thought, “We will all die!” So, no God doesn’t use wicked schemes, that was the way to get their pending wages, again the point is, God did the master plan, it wasn’t a scheme of a mortal man !! So when things seem unfair let US not take things into our own hands leave it to God! He will do it perfectly well !! If Satan has held back what we deserve, lets not hasten leave it to God, HE will restore it !!!

9 February 2016

Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. – Ruth 1:16

It isn’t easy to make a commitment to someone it requires love. A love that involves self-sacrifices, trust, and faith in God. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 we see, Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, It is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, Always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. God's standard of love is very high! We need to love God, by honouring God, not self seeking but by willingly making sacrifices for Him, not to be angered even when a prayer is delayed or unanswered, but always trusting Him with hope in Him and persevere....

He loved us with an everlasting love, with an unconditional love…we see in John 3:16 For God so loved the world(let us replace “world" with our name) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. While we were still sinners Christ died for us (Romans 5:8) God’s love for us is so great that it’s difficult for our feeble human minds to grasp! How deeply God loves us..do we feel worthy of His love?

Heavenly Father, I am unworthy of your love, yet you loved me, I want to learn to extend the same love towards others even when it is hurting, even when it is discouraging, even when it seems undeserving because that how YOU loved me. Let us tell God the difficult aspect of love (as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13) for us to demonstrate towards others for He can help us overcome it!!

8 February 2016

And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.— Micah 6:8

We think of how to act justly…and walk humbly with God. My attention was stuck today at the "Love mercy” part...notice it doesn’t say “show” mercy or only“practice” mercy; he says to fall in love with it!! It means I have to become mercy’s biggest fan. Without God’s mercy, I’d perish, He made a way for us to enjoy eternal happiness. It is with His Mercy that despite our sins, we can reach out with God’s perfect gospel...

When we love mercy we enjoy from God, we can show mercy to others. If we understand God's mercy we will be able to look at the ones who wronged us with a eagerness to forgive, thoughts of reconciliation than revenge. To understand His mercy we must see ourselves as an imperfect, fallible, prone-to-mess-up, sinner saved by mercy. so shall we think of His mercy towards us..Can we fall in love with it.? Let us try to understand the gift we’re given in God’s mercy…let it not stop there instead extend this same mercy towards others, beginning with our homes. Father God, I’d want to love mercy in all what I do..I need your strength, peace and compassion to be like Christ!

7 February 2016

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.
‭‭(Ephesians‬ ‭5:15-16‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

We have been fasting as a church these 3 days and it has been a different but truly truly blessed time! When people boast about the success, counts, victories we have one thing to boast about His love for us and the cross! His mercies are new every morning, the messages to us as church right from day 1 has been to examine and to set back with Christ! We heard of a good shepherd who comes by the door, were urged to be that sheep who follows their shepherd and to be alert of the thief. Then we had a chance to examine ourselves to see if like Peter have denied Christ! In spite the zeal, despite the revelation of Christ have we denied him?? Do we have conceit, rashness or have we kept a distance from Christ?? Let us repent, be awake and pray, like Leonard Ravenhill beautifully wrote about the necessity of prayer and the reason why revival tarries!! Let us not live like fools but be wise, to be a Mary in this Martha world, to be a Hannah in this era! To be that virtuous women of Proverbs 31 who builds up a home!! Let us make most out of this evil days, let us PRAY more, not for our needs for it will be endless but for God to use us for His glory.

4 February 2016

Our adversary the Devil is prowling around . . . looking for anyone he may devour.
1 Peter 5:8

Our enemy is waiting to be successful in his schemes, he intends to lurk deep below the surface of our conscious thoughts, he will disguising behind our pressing problems, waiting to use his schemes to catch us when we are most vulnerable!! But let us act, surprise the devil through the blood of Christ even before satan brings in his schemes.

We have the Holy Sprit and He makes us swift. We read in Psalm 18:33 -  He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places.). And when we are being tested God Himself always “provides a way of escape”. We read in 1 Corinthians 10:13 but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

So, if we feel the enemy is intending to do harm to us, our families, to our mind, body, health, finances, to our SPIRITUAL life let us be proactive to defend ourselves with God’s word, power of the Holy Spirit. When the enemy is trying to let us down, put on the armour of God, remember all the blessings God has showered on us, thank Him for the life he gave us. The truth is, when we CALL upon the name of the LORD we will be saved, the devil can’t touch us. The power of God’s Spirit is in us and upon us and the devil knows it. So be on alert, the victory should be God’s!!

3 February 2016

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man (Ephesians 3:16).

Everything needs power to run be it a car, a home, an office, commercial buildings or industries…and we need power too! We need food as a fuel for our body, but we also need strength of the Holy Spirit for the inner man. When we are strengthened by the Holy Spirit we will make the right choices, admit our faults, be responsible, stand up for the right, protect the weak..the list can be endless. We also need strength to fight Satan, when he tries to plant seeds of fear, confusion, rebellion, lies, doubt, impatience. When we have the power of the Holy Spirit in us we are gentle even when others want to fight, kind even when treated unfairly, truthful even when it will cost us, hardworking even when no one is watching, and generous even when we have little!!! So today I pray that He would grant me according to the riches of His Glory to be strengthened with might by Holy Spirit for my inner being!!

2 February 2016

Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness. (1 Timothy 4:7b, NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE)

During times when we feel pressed down, when waves hit our hearts and homes, the spiritual discipline of trusting God helps us to breathe through each pressure. WE should breathe on what we learnt through the WORD of God, set our faiths in actions, practice the discipline of faith, implement prayer, fasting, AND write a journal if you’d like to read it later :) !! They will bring joy, peace and strength and an intimacy with God.God is always good, faithful, merciful, compassionate, loving, gentle, just, holy, righteous and trustworthy      

We are to run a race in a manner as if to win the prize - an incorruptible crown, that will last forever. God allows trials to refine us, to increase our faith and trust in Him. Let us allow to be disciplined, HE can take away fear, doubt and all our worries. Let us continue practicing spiritual disciplines that unites us to God. We may not FEEL like trusting God, it doesn’t come natural to trust Him but let us practise it by disciplining ourselves everyday!! Father God, give me the willingness to discipline myself to TRUST you more!!

1 February 2016

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"(Hebrews‬ ‭13:5-6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬)

Paul urges us to be content with what we have for Christ is able to meet each and every need of ours! Our conduct must be free from covetousness, free from craving for material blessings, attention, power, wealth, position or anything that we don't have !! Christ will not leave us in the midst of a need. To every bothering concern, to every disturbing thought, shall we then say today "The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" God bless!!

31 January 2016

But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”(Matthew‬ ‭16:23‬ ‭NKJV‬‬)

I don't know how many of us can identify with what Peter just said, I know I can!! Many a times we react not mindful of the things of God but from an emotional perspective, from a personal relationship perspective. Although it was god's plan that His son be sent to earth and be a sacrifice to Peter it meant loosing His teacher, friend and guide. He didn't want the difficult thing to happen to His teacher. It was after that Jesus says “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” We have to constantly deny ourselves our thoughts, interests, our acquired sense of right and wrong instead FOLLOW Christ, pursue Him alone to find out life in Him!

29 January 2016

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.  And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?  For the Son of Man will come with his angels in the glory of his Father and will judge all people according to their deeds. (Matthew 16:25-27 NLT)

How many times have we used the statement “I am hanging in there!” ..I know I have, can’t say for the rest of you. Jesus is warning that we WILL lose if we try to hang on to OUR life, rather HE expects us to GIVE OUR LIFE for His sake. If we are selfish, if we seek our own way rather than Christ's way, if we cling to what we have or want, rather than giving our lives to God, this is a path that ultimately proves stultifying, lifeless, dead and which may (therefore) lead us to perdition, to ruin. Let our choices be always right !!

28 January 2016

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (Joshua 8:1)

Joshua served humbly and faithfully in the shadow of Moses until the Lord took Moses home and chose Joshua to be the next leader His people.Joshua must have been intimidated, although he had served under Moses for 40 years. God asks him to be strong and courageous, gave him a new job. Joshua was faithful with smaller responsibilities and obediently followed the Lord.

God trusts some of us with new assignment, and He wants us to trust and follow Him too. He makes  us to be strong and courageous to lean on His unending strength.
When God tell us to go – start to move  – trust Him  – all we need is to go expecting Him to provide everything we need. When we depend on God, we are depending on the faithful Protector, Provider, Defender, and Guide… who will never leave or forsake us.

27 January 2016

He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.(Genesis 50:19-21 NLT)

I sent this two days back, never did I know how much this verse would help me today!! Even when we are hurt deeply, even when we are very emotional to a level that takes us to confront someone who seemingly broke our trust, WE CAN’T take things in to our own hands. A personally emotional and psychological drain it has been on me yesterday, during the day, and the evening message that my Pastor Husband shared centred around not being an "emotional person" but spiritual. It made me ponder over how we exhibit composure, a reflection time on how we react..… I admit I could use more of the “walking in spirit” to help me overcome the emotional person. God placed us to save the lives of others or be a blessing to many, but we must never expect anything but God’s love and favour. It doesn’t negate our pains and struggles or worries they have caused us, it might remain the bitter truth, yet let us exhibit Christ like qualities, BEHAVE LIKE CHRIST would.

We have a covenant with God..more than “feelings”, “emotions”, “rights” ..let us say ”I am NOT god to punish! I will continue to take care of you” Even when it HURTS, even when it PULLS us apart let us extend kindness, love and patience in places it may seem undeserving. For our walk must be spiritual walk…? The fruits of the spirit is not to be preached but LIVED..

So today, Father take away every bit of bitterness and resentment that is lingering on my mind give me a fresh start…even when rejected, or remorseful. Help me remember your love is unconditional!! Help me be unconditional  towards extending Your love…..If HE chose not to break covenant with US even when we do wrong, why should a mere mortal do???

26 January 2016

By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.(I John‬ ‭4:13-15‬ ‭NKJV‬‬)

To weighed down to think through or write! As I read through I admit I  haven't been my best to make God proud! I am not worthy of being called a child of God! Forgive me for all the wrong words and my spur of the moment reactions dear Lord! Make my actions, words and thoughts spotless to be known by you!!

25th January 2016

But Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you?You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.(Genesis 50:19-21 NLT)

Our attitude is very important be it towards a friend or a foe. Joseph’s brothers gave him over as a slave, expecting him to be doomed, but with a God who controls the universe nothing is hard .He can overturn tables and kings! What the enemy plots can indeed turn out for our good if we are upright, honest and have a good relationship with Christ. When every battle has been won, when every hurdle has been crossed, do we look at the people who put us in disposition with anger, envy, hurt or bitterness?? If we still look at them or think with bitterness we sure need healing in that area …we may stumble at the a spiritual level, if we need to attain more, we need to be forgiving....tell ourselves we are not God to punish them even in our minds or thoughts!!!

Looking back in our lives, don’t we also have similar “brothers/sisters” (could be even a believer) who knowingly or unknowingly who disowned us or left us wondering or left us clueless? But, when we look back don’t we have an ASSURANCE as to why it happened? Have we not accomplished which seemed impossible for them? There are many who drew a line and conspired that we wouldn't go beyond a level..but, didn't we claim "lines have fallen for me in pleasant places, yes I have a goodly inheritance"...? What we are, and is nothing but His Grace!! Some of us have experienced rejection, dejection even from Servants of God, but it was so that HE WILL BE GLORIFIED IN OUR LIVES, HE HAD TO USE THE WEAKER ONES LIKE YOU AND ME.  If that X stayed with us, perhaps we would think it was on X’s account that things flourished and the credit that was due to God wouldn’t be given in FULL to Him. There is no one who deserves more credit that God himself. Like Joseph said are we the God to punish….let us have no grudge or bitterness towards anyone. Christ is our reward, let usexhibit more of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. God Bless

24 January 2015

Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces (Jeremiah 23:29)

A cold spirit and a heard heart needs a consuming fire and a hammer which is The Word of God. We have experienced the warmth and the power of God's Word  when being preached, or when being read, or when it is sung .. It is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.

Let us strap it on before every battle, let it continue to ignite our heart daily, read/discuss it with our children, share it with friends. For it is the only answer to life's problems, when under attack and the only way to overpower Satan's dominion!! When the Word of God and the Holy Spirit comes in our hearts there is unspeakable power at work---An uncontrollable spiritual fire, a perfectly weighted hammer in the hand of the great God. May it defend us today, may it inspire us today, may it engulf us today, and may it shape us today.

23 January 2016

Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces (Jeremiah 23:29)

A cold spirit and a heard heart needs a consuming fire and a hammer which is The Word of God. We have experienced the warmth and the power of God's Word  when being preached, or when being read, or when it is sung .. It is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.

Let us strap it on before every battle, let it continue to ignite our heart daily, read/discuss it with our children, share it with friends. For it is the only answer to life's problems, when under attack and the only way to overpower Satan's dominion!! When the Word of God and the Holy Spirit comes in our hearts there is unspeakable power at work---An uncontrollable spiritual fire, a perfectly weighted hammer in the hand of the great God. May it defend us today, may it inspire us today, may it engulf us today, and may it shape us today.

22 Jan 2016

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord
(Psalm 27:14)

To patiently waiting on God's timing and on God's direction and plan may seem to be difficult. We will be tempted, to bring in our own solutions; yet we must wait. The word wait is used twice in this verse. Our solutions are usually not the right answers. So, dear child of God, wait. If we wait on the Lord he will strengthen our heart, answer our prayers and give the direction we need. God will send the help we need in His time and in his right way, as we wait on him.

So let us be of good courage and not despair. God will keep his promises to strengthen us, as we wait, on the Lord.

21st January 2016

But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. (James 1:6)

It may seem for a believer that it is natural to believe and ask God without doubting for a miracle. But when our mind is against believing, when everything around us is inclined to making us feel negatively, when it is obviously NOT even remotely possible to think through, ARE we looking for a shoulder to cry, a ear to listen, a mind that understands..in all of that multitude of emotions and feelings can we reach FAR and touch that EAR THAT HEARS, THAT HEART THAT UNDERSTAND and THAT GOD WHO IS UNCHANGING?? Even when we pray for that "impossible" thing..why can't we have faith, it is not our WEAK and FEEBLE hands that can do it, WE ARE HIS, WE ARE IN HIS HANDS.. Why can't we see beyond and trust as we ask..???

Some days, we are weighed down, we are pressured, perplexed and in dismay but aren't we feeling low about the THINGS WE HAVE NO CONTROL over...Even so, why can't we TRUST GOD? Today I have several doubts and questions that run my mind...I find it easy to believe in God but sometimes, doubts cloud my mind...Give me an unwavering heart Lord, I need it today more than ever!! As I sit down to pray Father, let me be reminded of only your unfailing love...even as Satan prompts negativity and my worthlessness :) I need you every hour Lord ....Amen

20th January 2015

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. (KJV) ( Matthew 10:7 )

God expects us to be His mouth pieces, our life should speak about Christ more than it does about "our achievements" which only complements His mercy towards us. How do we serve God with out life?? do we try to remind ourselves that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand ?? Do we remind others with our actions, or pursuits of His kingdom? We may not have pulpits to preach but necessarily it can be done through action. What is our priority in life??

We could serve as a light for others through uncommon justice, love, and peace. This world we see is temporary we aren't going to take anything with us, not even our experiences and knowledge!! Let us not wait for tomorrow to share the news....let it be today!!

I am reminded of the song by Christy Nockels :

Let it be Jesus 
The first name that I call
Let it be Jesus

My song inside the storm
I'll never need another
For me, to live is Christ
For me, to live is Christ

God I breathe Your name above everything

Let it be, Let it be Jesus

19th January 2016

Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:18-19)

God's mercies are new every morning, He offers us new beginnings. It may look inspiring and promising as we read this verse but we have to choose to walk into that future the Lord wants to give us, we must be doing our part !! What do we need to do?? Hold on to the promise, trust/believe the Lord with all our heart, obey Him.. for our God is faithful when we rely only on Him and His Word.

"Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it?”

Let us turn around, walk away from the trying past and lean towards the victory, the future God has promised...it is the Lord who will do a new thing! Jesus said "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." Mark 11:24. So shall we start our day with a walk in FAITH ..TRUST God more than we did yesterday??

18th January 2015

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

 "In every thing" not only for good jobs, wonderful family, and 'blessings' but can I give thanks when there are empty chairs in ministry, when there are many who fail to step forward, when I become ill, when my loved ones face hard times, when I don't excel well, when I don't get acknowledged for the good work, when I don't get a pat on the shoulder, when there is still a lot of work undone??

HolySpirit commands us in everything give thanks because it is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning us. God chose us in Christ before we were born or the creation of this world, despite who or what we are because Christ paid for us in FULL on the cross. Jesus he continues to work every day, in our life. Let us say boldly All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). For every concern bothering us today shall we then say "thank you"?

17th January 2015

He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. (KJV) ( Psalm 107:29 )

Our Lord God in Heaven has the power to calm any storm we face in life. All we need is to seek Him earnestly. Let us be dedicated in seeking His face regularly to learn and grow in Christ. Studying the word of God increases our faith, praying increases our connection with God, listening to Christian music will help us to worship God. May we all consciously take an effort every day to spend time with  the Lord for He desires to live with us!! If we earnestly seek Him won't He calm the storm for us?

16th January 2015

“Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” (Genesis 1:11 NIV)

God looks at all the seeds we have planted…anything valuable that we give away. When we give away praise, there’s value to it. When we give away good advice, there’s value to it. When we give away our time, there’s value to it. When we give away our money, there’s value to it. When we share our experience to help other people, there’s value to it. When we give our love away, there’s great value to it. whether it’s our time, money, appreciation, wisdom, or energy It all starts as a seed...

Our words can also be seeds that we plant in the minds of others that grow and bear fruit. Father God allow me to choose words wisely..Allow me to plant seeds of trust, faith, love, gentleness, kindness, seeds that builds up….and seeds that are useful for the glorification of your kingdom!!!

15th January 2015

Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: (1 Peter 1:6,7)

 When we are in the midst of a pressure remember they are part of life, it happens but it only lasts for a little while- for a season. What we need to tell ourselves is to LEARN to "get through,” victoriously by honouring God! When we experience Christ through these trials let us learn to trust God and His faithfulness. We should pray and trust Him for the circumstances not to overcome us. What we need is to pump up our faith, use the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, and God will give us victory. Let us trust Him and SHUN our learnt and acquired knowledge and NOT "lean not our own understanding.” In the end, it is to bring glory and honour to Christ!!

Father, I want to hang on...I want to continue to trust You and lean on You and Your Word. I speak the Name of Jesus over my circumstances and thank You for all the blessings you are already giving me . . . including the victory that I will receive. For your promises are only for Your children. I claim it in the name of Jesus in my life!

14h January 2015

They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. (KJV) ( Psalm 34:5 )

Father God, we desire to be lightened by you . Thank you for this promise to us once again that if we look to You our faces will not  be darkened without hope. You know us in and out, you know all our needs, concerns and worries. We don't want to remain in fear but look to You when we feel overpowered by the devil!! We pray that the regrets of our past should stop us from being what You expects of us. Father make our faces to be radiant!!

13th January 2015

Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. (1 Thessalonians 1:4)

What more does one need to be assured of again right before another new year in life!! This verse was the key verse an Anointed Man of God spoke last night which made me look back over years and times gone by. How privileged we are to have an unconditionally loving and faithful Father in heaven above despite our weakness and faults...Who loves us unconditionally, who knows our every emotion, feeling and position! His love is agape towards us but I admit that like Peter I have dejected Him that I cannot even say with confidence that I love Him even half of His love towards me. How many times did have I failed Him?? I am unworthy of his love but yet He is God eternal and all-loving. Even more it is assuring to know he not only loved us but elected us not by the standards of this world! Thank you dear Lord for your love, teach me to love you more and may my life express a love towards you and  glorify your name alone!!

12th January 2015

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 )

When we are tired, exhausted and feel heavy, there is hope if we choose to wait upon our Lord! The verse says not only we will renew our strength but we will soar. Today let us give him all our concerns, worries and anxiety and look to the Lord and trust Him to rejuvenate us. Father give my mind a good rest as I trust you, renew my body so that I can run and walk for Christ. Lord continue to give me the endurance to wait on you!

11th January 2016

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest (Joshua 1:7)

The world sees teens as strong if they stand up to their parents, and employees as courageous if they defy their employer. But God says to Joshua the way of strength and courage is the way of obedience and loyalty. The verse implies, if we obey the more strong we will be, if we do not questions God'a authority the more courageous we will be. Do we still try to assert ourselves , get our own way, make our own path?

The only way to succeed is by looking to God for direction and obeying his Word. When we follow him, however, we will prosper wherever we are and in whatever we are called to do.

10 January 2016

These things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous(1 John 2:1)

There is no half-way Christianity! We cannot look at our next door neighbor and live a more holy life than them; we cannot say it's enough to avoid the "big" sins! 

John says to completely sin not! We should never allow sins like pride, gluttony, bitterness, anger, worry, fear, selfishness, lying to camp in our heart instead should be intolerant to it and to root them out!! Although John reminds us that when we sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous who pleads on our behalf, we should avoid sin!! When we feel dissatisfied with our sinful self there is complete satisfaction in the righteousness of Christ. We need to strive, improve and pursue to be Holy as He expects of us. Dear Father remind me to live a life that brings joy to you every day!!