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.
Sunday, February 28, 2016
Saturday, February 27, 2016
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!
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!
Thursday, February 25, 2016
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!
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!
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
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!
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!
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
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!
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!
Monday, February 22, 2016
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.
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.
Sunday, February 21, 2016
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 :))
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 :))
Saturday, February 20, 2016
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!
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!
Friday, February 19, 2016
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!!
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!!
Thursday, February 18, 2016
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 !
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 !
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
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 !!
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 !!
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
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.
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.
Monday, February 15, 2016
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!!
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!!
Sunday, February 14, 2016
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 !!
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 !!
Friday, February 12, 2016
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….
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….
Thursday, February 11, 2016
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!
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!
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
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 !!!
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 !!!
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
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!!
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!!
Monday, February 8, 2016
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!
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!
Sunday, February 7, 2016
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.
(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.
Thursday, February 4, 2016
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!!
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!!
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
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!!
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!!
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
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!!
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!!
Monday, February 1, 2016
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!!
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!!
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