Don't give up...discouragement wants to talk you out of the good plans God has by creating "what ifs" in your mind, the undesired situations-the things you can't control. Anxious thoughts get up with you in the morning-taking shape and form inside your mind- before you know it, you've already lived weeks in a bad situation and you're still standing at your kitchen counter drinking a cup of coffee. Entertaining the potential "what ifs" deafens your ability to hear the Holy Spirit-He's trying to give you direction and comfort, but you can't hear Him for the blaring noise of "what ifs." Immediately stop these thoughts with God's truths-renew your mind with His Word...God's peace guards my mind and heart, He has good plans for me, I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me, I am complete in Christ, where the Spirit of the Lord is-there is freedom. These aren't just words-they are God's Words; His promises that stand forever...and they are power! Don't give up, renew your mind...God's got good plans for you! (Gal 6:9, Phil 4:7, Jer 29:11, Col 2:10, 2 Cor 3:17, Isa 40:8) 1/31/13CIFL-LMM
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Believing is a decision...not a feeling
To experience the peace that transcends all human understanding (Phil
4:7), to have a full life Jesus promises (John 10:10), and to know the
truth that will set you free (John 8:32), requires belief in God's Word.
Believing is not a feeling we feel...believing is a decision we make.
Believing is based on Who God is...not if we understand everything about
Him. Many have a hard time with this truth and lose direction in
life slowly fading into disbelief. Their belief is based on what they
can understand. When they encounter situations they don't understand,
they feel God has abandoned them; then their fear sets in manifesting
into anger. When they experience an answered prayer, they feel God
cares; they feel safe and secure. God says He loves us and He will never
leave us-if we believe Who God says He is, then during trials, we are
secure in His love even though we don't understand everything. But if
our belief in God is based on...what we can understand Him doing or not
doing...then we love Him conditionally-our love is determined by our
understanding of what He is doing in particular situation. When we go
through trials, we have an opportunity to mature our faith and develop
perseverance-so that we lack nothing. God says to ask for wisdom during
trials and He will give it without finding fault, but when we ask, we
must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave in the
sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not believe he will
receive anything from the Lord; he is double minded man, unstable in all
he does (James 1:2-8). God welcomes our questions that challenge
us...but not rhetorical ones that challenge Him. You're crossing a line
when you question His authority...it's blatant disrespect and you're
testing Him (Matt 4:7). Ask Him to help you to not doubt (Mark 9:24).
When I committed my life to Christ, I made the decision to believe, but I
didn't completely trust Him. I was honest and told God I wanted to
believe Him but I was scared to trust Him. Then God sent His
help...grace and mercy to do a work in me so I could receive what I
professed to believe in my heart (Eph 2:8-9). My Father God met me where
I was. I was doubting, but asked for help...and He made a way for me.
He will for you too friend, if you ask (Matt 7:7) Our Father loves
us...He meets us where we are, but we must decide to believe all of His
promises; counting on Him each day to provide for us-this is how we
strengthen our faith daily. He's for you and not against you (Rom 8:31).
Blessings friend! 5/12-LMM
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Feeling fear is different than being fearful...
Feeling fear and being fearful are different. Feeling fear is our internal security system-it alerts us to danger; it's God's design. We seek Him, lean into Him and feel safe-knowing we can proceed with His promise of protection. Being fearful results when we struggle to believe God's promise of protection-the more we reason it...the more unsafe we feel! The crazy in all of this is...we know we can't do anything about the situation we're facing-only God can, but we don't trust Him! The logic of this point is lost under layers of reasoning which spikes the anxiety level and the ability to focus-you get the picture. We've all been there...but let's not stay there-embrace the promise God gives us. He will never abandon or leave us-nothing can snatch us from His hand. Next time your security system alerts danger...run to God-He's waiting to protect you! (Heb 13:5, Rom 8:15, Jn 10:28) 1/29/13CIFL-LMM
Be defined...
Define yourself...give every part of yourself to the Lord-don't dismiss
anything! He's the Master of making nothing into something. He will do
greater than you dare ask or imagine..ginormous dreams! Your mind can't
wrap around what Jesus is able to do in you-He's ready & waiting. Your part...embrace the power that's at work within you which is believing the power of the Holy Spirit's work in & through you. This requires you to give all of yourself to the Holy Spirit; yielding to His power in you-don't hold anything back. What you keep from Him confines
you; what you give to Him...defines you! Be defined, shine your light,
let the Holy Spirit make a difference through you-do it! (John 1:3, Eph 3:20,
Mt 5:16) 1/7/13LMM #HolySpirit #bedefined #christianinsightforlife
Faith...
Faith isn't based on what we see God do...faith is based in what we believe He does-for faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see! (2 Cor 5:7, Heb 11:1, John 20:29) 1/22/13CIFL-LMM
God's conditioning you to overcome...
Don't resent where you are right now-God's
conditioning and preparing you for the next season. Every season has
trials, don't be surprised by them, in fact expect them because they're part of life. Without God, trials would do you in-but because of God... you're guaranteed to move through them. God's getting you in shape; spiritually, emotionally and
physically-running you through drills of patience, endurance and focus
to have constant faith in Him. Constant faith in God is the key to
walking in victory in every new season of your life! (Mk 11:22)
12/2/12CIFL-LMM
Monday, January 28, 2013
God's doing a new thing...making a way!
God's doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? He's making a way....with plans to prosper and not harm you, to give you hope and a future, He's a lamp to your feet and light to your path- every step has been ordered, if in doubt you will hear a voice behind you say, "this is the way." Allow God's truth to saturate your mind-being renewed with His Word. God must open up your mind...so He can open up your future! Get ready...God's doing a new thing! (Isa 4:19, Jer 29:11, Ps 119:105, Pr 16:9, Rom 12:2) 1/29/13CIFL-LMM
Stress...
Stress doesn't make you do things you normally wouldn't do...stress
presses out of you what you're normally able to contain. For out of the
overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. Ask God to search your thoughts,
examine your heart, and find the root of your undesired action. Don't
cheat yourself or those you love by dismissing your undesired behavior
to stress. If you do...you will forgo the full and complete life God
offers. 1/28/13CIFL-LMM (Lk 6:45, Ps 139:23-24, Col 2:10 )
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Jesus is the door to everything you need...
Until you find an intimate relationship with
Jesus... real, authentic, connected, unconditional-you will never find
what you are looking for. You will continue to search outside of
yourself, but your answer is...inside of you-your spirit. This is where
you will find faith, hope and the greatest of all love. Jesus is the
door to everything you need and more. He is the way, the truth and the
life. Jesus tells us that the Comforter
(Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby) the
Holy Spirit; Whom the Father will send in My name-in My place to
represent Me and act on My behalf-He will teach you all things. And He
will cause you to recall (will remind you- bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you. Jesus says for us to dwell in Him and
He will dwell in us; that no branch can bear of itself without abiding
in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can we bear fruit unless
we abide in Him. Find Jesus and find what you are looking
for...blessings friend. (John 14:6, 14:26, 15:4) 10/19/12CIFL-LMM
Anxiety results when we realize we're
not in control. Intellectually, we know we're not in control but this
becomes a reality when we're faced with an impossible situation. We say we know
God is in control, but when faced with an impossible we often revert to a
state of panic. God says do not have any anxiety about anything
(Phil4:6) and Seek the Kingdom of God above all else,
live righteously, and He will give you everything you need (Matt6:33).
That includes...everything you need...that means any situation you're
facing-His power will manifest through you. Do you have faith in His
ability...to handle your inability? His ability is available to everyone
who believes in Him-but you must consistently factor in His
Presence...all the time. If you do...God will think and speak for you,
give you the courage and stamina you don't have, lead you to people who
can help you, give you fresh ideas, work through unimaginable grief,
restore dead relationships, forgive the unforgivable, connect you to the
job that is matched to your skills, lead you to a friend who will
understand and walk with you, find the school that has the teacher who
knows how to work with your child, see the doctor that has a cure for
your
disease, connect you with the loan officer who meets you instead of your
FICO score, gives you the opportunity you've needed to market your
concept-but most of all...God Himself breathes His life into you to give
you a hope and a future. His love soothes your mind-bringing it into
proper focus of His truth. Next, He tenderly pours His love into every
hurting area of your heart-continuing until the wounds find relief,
finally overflowing into your spirit and refreshing you-giving you the
stamina needed to move forward with His confidence. Will you factor in
His Presence in all you do
and know how crazy in love your Father is with you-then let His ability
move through you to handle your inability? Take a risk ...trust Him-I
guarantee it will work...because He said so and He never breaks a
promise. Blessings!
Rev10/7/12CIFL-LMM
Rev10/7/12CIFL-LMM
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Your impossible...God's possible
The season of being turned inside out...Saying
good bye to a familiar way of life and hello to a new way. The front
door to the new way has...IMPOSSIBLE written across it-under it reads,
"with man this is impossible, but not for God." This season is for you
to know and trust your Father God... knowing His tender love and
clearly recognizing the voice of truth. He will manifest His power
through you, if you believe in Him. And
you will have to believe in Him or choose to lose your mind...because
no reasoning or plan of yours will work. The only way to sustain while
being turned inside out, is to cast aside doubt that wants to take you
down and live and breathe the Word-clinging to your Father's truth
while gaining revelation of His love for you. God's love empowers those
who hope in Him...His love allows you to renew your strength, soar on
wings like eagles, run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint.
You're at an edge that you would not have volunteered for, but would not
trade once living through it. You know with confidence your Father will
do immeasurably more than all you could dare ask for or ever imagine
according to the power that's at work within you. Having been pushed to
completely embrace the fullness of the power that's at work within you
through faith and prayer as you face impossible situations. God's love
is unstoppable and when you receive His fullness and completeness
in you... you're unstoppable as you carry out His purpose in this world!
(Mk 10:27, Isa 40:31, Eph 3:20, Col 2:10) 1/7/12CIFL-LMM
What if you would be...you?
What if...you would be the you...God designed
you to be...would you act the way you do-feel better about you? Would
your life look different-would you be in a different career? Would you
carry out the desires God put in your heart without regard to what
others might say? Would you speak up more for what you believe
in...would you feel less pressure to prove your value? Would you be free
inside your personality-the one God
made just for you...that matches perfectly with your talents and gifts?
Would you more readily accept the differences in others, if you could first accept... your differences? Would you hear Jesus whispering to you
more often instead of fighting off grueling anxiety...would you laugh
more, sleep better & grind your teeth less if...you enjoyed being
you? We so
easily toss aside our authentic make-up for fear of looking different
or being perceived as opposing the majority. God made each one of us
with His very own hands-giving each of us a fingerprint that no one in
the world has & each of us are unique to carry out a specific plan purposed by God Himself! (1 Cor 12:7, Jer 29:11, Ps 139:14, Ps 138:8) 8/29/12CIFL-LMM
Authentic Love...you can have it!
Love comes from God who loved
us first-Love is seen-Love is secure-Love believes God's Promises-Love
is tireless-Love is fierce, pushing back wrong-Love scales a wall to
protect- Love is not afraid of criticism or rejection-Love stands firm in
adversity-Love works through the night to provide-Love perseveres when
exhausted-Love that's fabricated stinks-Love is hurt but never destroyed-Love
waits and endures, never self serving- Love builds godly
relationships-Love holds on loosely, never controlling or
manipulating-Love seeks the Holy Spirit's direction-Love does not choke,
push, put down or force-Love forgives and releases but never binds or
compromises-Love can't endorse sin- Love moves in courage and knocks
down Goliaths. Love believes God in the middle of impossibles-Love
hears, speaks and implements the Word with the confidence and
boldness of Christ-Love relies on the authentic love that flows from The
One who authenticated Love...Holy Holy Holy, Lord God Almighty, Maker
of Heaven and Earth...Make sure your love comes from the One Who loved
you first.
(Zeph 3:17, 1 Jn 4:7-8, Jn 13:34-35)4/12CIFL-LMM
(Zeph 3:17, 1 Jn 4:7-8, Jn 13:34-35)4/12CIFL-LMM
God calls everyone...few respond
God equips every person with a purpose to fulfill in His kingdom-their
unique plan. Everyone is called but few respond. God's calling you to
fulfill the plans He has for you. He calls each one of us...our days
were ordained before we were born. I believe there are three reasons
people forfeit their call: 1)They don't recognize God's voice-He's made
numerous attempts to reach them...but His voice is drowned out by the
life they choose; 2)They reject the call because they can't envision how
God will carry it out through them...sadly, their own reasoning
disqualifies them before they ever begin; and 3) Some begin the journey
then turn around because every step requires them to completely trust
God and they just can't take the second by second pressure of having to
trust God. For them choosing to believe by faith and not by their sight,
is too much for them-eventually they fade out. But then a few make it,
because they know...it's not about them being able...it's about them
being available to God to work through them! Get the revelation
knowledge... we can't do anything on our own unless God equips us to do it!
We're all called...but God equips-we must follow His Ways...not ours
and we can do what He's called us to do. Purpose to know Him. You must
know God to know your purpose...knowing Him is not facts about Him, but
intimately seeking His face, praising Him, finding your security in Him,
believing Him when your life is falling apart around you... knowing
He's for you and not against you. Believing God is a not a culmination
of feelings about Him that change from one day to the next...but
believing God is based on Who He is always. Receiving His love
daily is essential for you to carry out what He calls you to do; God's
love is your fuel to sustain and move you forward. Spend time with Jesus
daily-studying scripture. How can you know what His promises are unless
you read them? Many say they don't have time...it's time invested in the rest of your life,
how can you not have time! Daily God's love flushes out my selfish
motives, brings to my attention things I need to work on, puts words on
my heart that I need to say to others, cleanses my pride and arrogance,
continually renews my mind with His thoughts. Then I still mess up and
experience adversity on my journey. Expect opposition daily-trials
strengthen us. Every time you're pushed on...press in and you will
become stronger...like a muscle being developed to peak performance.
Trials mature you-God's always ready to give wisdom...if you ask. Are
you going to respond to God's call? Don't forfeit your privilege to
fulfill your call and absolutely love the rest of your life! Yet, I am
with you always. (Jer 29:11, Ps 139:16, Phil 3:10, 4:13, Rom 8:31, James
1:2-5, Ps 72:26,).
8/4/12CIFL-LMM
8/4/12CIFL-LMM
Jesus' peace is authentic...
As Christians we must know the peace Jesus gives and distinguish it from what the world gives. Jesus' peace is authentic-we have access to His peace because He lives in us. Be careful what you hear; see to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophies...by adding or taking away from the Word with human reasoning. We can't create Jesus' peace, self-will it, or meditate our way to it; we receive it from Jesus. God says His peace surpasses our human understanding-it guards our minds and hearts. Our minds can't comprehend how God's ways work...His ways are higher than ours. There's a way that seems right to a man, but it's end is the way to death. Every living person has a faith deposit from God. He puts faith in each person when He knits them together in their mother's womb. Every individual is designed to seek outside of themselves ultimately choosing Jesus as their Savior and following Christ and walking out the plan He purposed for them long ago. God loves each person He created, but will not force His love-each individual is given the choice to believe in His love or not to believe. Many want to believe some of God's truth, then mix His truth with other beliefs...Jesus is the only way, truth and life. No person is to add to His truth or take away from His truth; if they do...they're flirting with disaster and will create confusion-forfeiting God's protection of peace in their minds and hearts. Don't drown in the grandeur of self deception and forfeit the peace Jesus Christ offers...turn, repent and run to Him! (Phil 4:7, Rom 12:3, Col 2:8, John 14:6, Isa 55:9) 1/26/13CIFL-LMM
Friday, January 25, 2013
Hurt doesn't go away with time...
Hurt doesn't go away with time-it just keeps hurting... until it's healed. Hurt works hard...fiercely searching for relief in people, places, and possessions...but ends up disappointed and more hurt each time. Jesus is your only Healer...He will tenderly bind up your hurt, quiet you with His love and soothe you with singing. You don't have to hurt anymore...Jesus heals.
(Isa 61:1, Zeph 3:17) 1/25/13CIFL-LMM
(Isa 61:1, Zeph 3:17) 1/25/13CIFL-LMM
Don't confuse identity & status...
Be careful, the world wants to label you with a
status to qualify your value-calling it your identity. Don't confuse
identity with status. Identity is who
you are in Christ...status is a label given by the world like... single,
dating, married, divorced, renter, home owner, student, teacher,
employed, stay at home mom. These are labels...not value indicators. A
status does not define you... you define it. Purpose to know your Father and you will know His love for you-His love for you is your identity.
Make sure you get your love from the One Who loved you first and know
who you are! Statuses will change throughout your life...but God's love
for you and your value never change-you are valuable because you are
His child-you belong! Know Him...and Know Love-pass it on! (1 John 4:19,
Ps 139:14, Col 2:10) 2/2012CIFL-LMM
Passion...you're designed to carry yours out
Passion...you don't choose your passion-it's placed in you by God. When you really know His love for you...deep in your spirit, your passion rises up...it has to; it's your God's design. Your passion is fueled by your God's love...it does not rely on popular opinion or wait for approval by the world; it's been approved...because you are approved! Know God's love, rise up, and fulfill the passion that's on the inside of you. Blessings friend! (1 Cor 12:6) 10/13/12CIFL-LMM
Thursday, January 24, 2013
God never...trades even
God never trades even-each time you hand over what you can't manage, God will exchange with you...giving you His freedom for your troubles. Where the Spirit of the Lord is...there is freedom! (Eph 3:20, Ps 55:22, 2 Corinthians 3:17) 8/8/12CIFL-LMM
Grief...
Grief...the recognition of what was lost, stolen, or never given. Grief
validates what you experienced, that you matter...and what happened to
you mattered. Releasing the hurt and those that hurt you to Jesus... forgiving them. Then...His love will come in like a flood,
crashing waves of His healing pouring into every chamber, crevice, and
opening...shining His light of truth, making sure nothing is
overlooked... filling up every area in you with His love, overflowing the sides and
finally engulfing all of you. Until His love floods us, we are left in
darkness...prisoners of our own lives...captives in our hurt-chained to past hurt and unable to completely live in the present. Acknowledging
hurts, surrendering them to Jesus, forgiving those that imposed the
hurt, then grieving is the only way to complete healing. (Joel 2:25, Rev 3:20, 2 Cor 3:17) 1/24/13CIFL-LMM
Forgiving...no longer carrying the harm in your heart
Many believe forgiving is dismissing the harm...but forgiving means you
will no longer carry the harm in your heart. When you verbally give the
release... forgiving the person who caused harm; you allow Jesus to
physically remove the chains that keep you bound to them and the hurt
they imposed. Even if a person has passed away; you can still forgive
them... because forgiving is for the living...not the deceased. Let
Jesus remove the chains that keep you bound to the past...forgive. (Mt
18:21-22, Rev 3:20) 1/10/13CIFL-LMM
Layers of life...we must move through them
Layers of life...a culmination of experiences & emotions; some recalled with joy-others with sorrow. Each layer tells a story...some we tuck in our heart forever-others we want to completely forget. We get bogged down in the layers of life when we feel justified in our actions-the reasons we don't want to move forward. Some don't want to release their predictable routines-they feel safe & reason it's their option to move forward or not...so they forfeit their future-opting for the comfortable familiar. Others justify they can't move forward-they're not able to shake off regret & shame so they watch reruns of... "what I should have done & how things might be, if I would have."
As Christians, we're to always be in forward motion & making a difference-intensity can change according to the season of life, but the perpetual forward motion never stops. We're saved to fulfill the plan & purpose God called us to-we've got to see our lives from God's perspective...we're His children. We're equipped with specific skills & talents to do a job...yes, God loves us dearly & we're valuable to Him...so He gives us important jobs to carry out-to build up the body of believers, every step has been ordered, He calls the end from the beginning. We're more than conquerors, not so we can sit on the sofa and complain about what's not right in our lives but so we can go out & spread the gospel-the good news...the same good news that saved us!
The layers of life...we go through them, some we like, others we don't-but none of them excuse us from not moving forward & carrying out the purpose God put in us! (Pr 16:2, Rom 8:37, Eph 2:10, Phil 1:6, Isa 46:10) 1/24/13CIFL-LMM #layersoflife #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife
As Christians, we're to always be in forward motion & making a difference-intensity can change according to the season of life, but the perpetual forward motion never stops. We're saved to fulfill the plan & purpose God called us to-we've got to see our lives from God's perspective...we're His children. We're equipped with specific skills & talents to do a job...yes, God loves us dearly & we're valuable to Him...so He gives us important jobs to carry out-to build up the body of believers, every step has been ordered, He calls the end from the beginning. We're more than conquerors, not so we can sit on the sofa and complain about what's not right in our lives but so we can go out & spread the gospel-the good news...the same good news that saved us!
The layers of life...we go through them, some we like, others we don't-but none of them excuse us from not moving forward & carrying out the purpose God put in us! (Pr 16:2, Rom 8:37, Eph 2:10, Phil 1:6, Isa 46:10) 1/24/13CIFL-LMM #layersoflife #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife
Adversity...is a risky & confident place to be!
Adversity...going through takes you to an uncertain, unfamiliar, and uncomfortable place. A place where your pride is purged, false confidence eradicated, and beliefs challenged...a time of holy revelation of Jesus' love. His love is for you and in you- unwavering, unmovable, and unstoppable; you know deep in your spirit that you belong to Him. It's a beautiful, risky, and confident place to be...trusting He will walk you through places where you can't see, give you the strength to press on when you have none, and give hope and life to a situation that's considered dead. Knowing He will provide all you need, not to just get by, but more than you could dare ever ask for...Jesus, He loves you. Will you let Him show you? (2 Cor 5:7, Isa 40:29, Rom 4:17, Eph 3:20)) 11/25/12CIFl-LMM
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
When the revelation of God's love floods your heart...
When the revelation of God's love floods your
heart, spirit, and mind-you will know you're approved, valued and
worthy of being loved. Knowing you're loved because of Who you belong
to...not what you do. That awkward feeling of being in the way is
gone-replaced with revelation...you matter. God whispers to your
spirit...you've got what it takes-He's proud of you and delights in
you. His love allows you to enjoy being
you...no longer an aching need to prove yourself. Knowing your value and worth isn't in what you do or don't do or what you've done or
haven't done-it's in who you are...a child of God. No longer living in
the past or anxious about the future. God's love allows you trust again,
putting your hope in Him, because He will never leave you. God's love
will flood you with freedom-will you receive it?
(1Jn4:8, Jer29:11, Heb1:11, 2Cor3:17) 1/24/13CIFL-LMM
(1Jn4:8, Jer29:11, Heb1:11, 2Cor3:17) 1/24/13CIFL-LMM
God made you authentic...there's only one you!
Copying what the world says you should be is
just that...a copy. God made you authentic...there's only one you! You
are fearfully and wonderfully made. Don't allow labels to be your
identity...married, divorced, single, white, black, brown or
purple... lawyer, doctor, laborer, farmer, sophisticated, redneck,
scientist, president, tax bracket or home address. Labels don't give
life...but God does! Stay connected to
the Vine Who gives you life and value! Your authenticity is made in
Him. See what God sees, you don't have to feel it...to know it. He made
you with His very own hands-He knows you've got what it takes! Rise
up-God wants to work in and through you (the authentic you) to impact this
world! See what He sees-you don't have to feel it...to know it!
(Ps139:14, Jn 15:5, Jer 17:10) 12/28/12CIFL-LMM
Take Refuge...in the Lord!
Take refuge in the Lord...your reasoning leads
to insanity. He never sleeps, grows tired or runs out of ideas! He
loves you and will provide everything you need-trust, rest and put
all of your hope in Him...His hope is your anchor! (Isa 40:31, Heb 6:19) 7/6/12CIFL-LMM
God's Word...the common denominator
God's Word must be the common denominator in everything you calculate...otherwise you're left with chance. 6/4/12CIFL-LMM
Jesus restores what you've lost, stolen, or given away...
Only Jesus can restore what was lost, stolen
or given away. No person, achievements or financial security can
replace the missing parts of your heart...but Jesus can and will; He
will heal your broken heart, bind up your wounds, bring you out of
darkness and release you from the captivity of your circumstances.
Let His love flood and heal the missing parts of your heart today. (Ps
147:3, Isa 61:1) 6/4/12CIFL-LMM
What you bring in the light...loses its power
What you bring in the light...loses its power. What you keep in the dark-keeps its power. Avoiding an issue doesn't make it go away-it just makes it bigger. Bringing an issue in the light is the beginning of its death...and the ending
of its hold on you. Then you will know the truth and truth will
set you free! (John 8:32) 10/25/12CIFL-LMM
Come out of confinement..
Come out of your confinement...the limits
you've placed on your life because you do not see a way out. Don't you
know...Jesus' love is power! His love is in you...nothing can overtake
Him or you. What you keep in confinement...confines you. Jesus has overcome this world; come out...He's made a way for you! (Jn 16:33)
12/9/12CIFL/LMM
Adversity...
Adversity...everyone goes through it...not
everyone grows from it. Don't allow allow adversity to hold you back. To
grow from it, trust God to restore the wrongs done, then embrace
humility asking God to purge the endless pit of pride, the flesh, and
to eradicate your false confidence tethered to worldly things. If you reject
adversity...you reject growth. Many forfeit growth-preferring to focus on
unfair treatment or refusing to accept
the grace Jesus offers; both choices end in bitterness. God desires to
flood us with revelation of His love. God will lead us along paths we're not familiar with and turn darkness into light before our very eyes-making the rough places into smooth plains. He promises this when we follow Him and He will not forsake us! (Eph 1:18, Isa 42:16).
12/10/12-LMM
God's plans won't be stopped...
God's plans won't be stopped....His word will come to pass regardless of man's ignorance or opposition. (Isa 55:11) 6/30/12-LMM
Release your mind from the constant circling of potential outcomes...
Release your mind from the constant circling
of potential outcomes and scenarios..fear is disguising itself as
concern. Your efforts can't fix this...but God can. (Ps 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7, Lk 18:27)
11/30/12-LMM
Call out to Jesus...when pain & despair try to take your last breath!
When pain and despair are trying to take
your last breath...Call out to Jesus! He's the only One Who can pull
you out. He knows all about being in hell...He took it on to save us. Make a way for me
Jesus...I believe! For the sake of your name, O Lord, revive me-in Your
righteousness bring my soul out of trouble. (Ps143:11) 12/15/12-LMM
Develop verses...Define
The experience you are in right now is developing who you are...it does not define what you are. 8/20/12-LMM
Jesus celebrates where you are...
Jesus celebrates where you are...not where
you've been! My son was dead-now is alive; lost-now is found-let us
celebrate! (Luke15:24) 12/21/12CIFL-LMM
Your greatest strength...is your greatest weakness
Your greatest strength...is also your greatest
weakness. What God's empowered you to do...satan's forever trying to
undermine in you. Use your strength for God's glory...not your demise.
8/2012CIFL-LMM
Face the truth of where you are right now...
Facing the truth of where you are right
now...is the stepping stone that leads to the next place God wants to
take you. (Jn8:31-32)12/27/12CIFL-LMM
God desires for us to know our identity in Him...
God desires for us to know our identity in
Him-then no matter what we do, where we go or what happens in life we can be confident because we know who we are & Who we belong to!!! (Eph 2:10, Col 2:10) 7/2012CIFL-LMM #confidence #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife
Many can go out to the deep in their strength...
Many can go out to the deep in their strength...but only the Spirit's strength can keep them there. (Lk5:4-11) 12/28/12CIFL-LMM
Making more room for Christ...
Freedom-another ounce of my flesh
dead...making more room for Christ to live in me. Every ounce counts!
Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is Freedom. (2Cor3:17)
12/18/12-LMM
Jesus will help you...but have to let Him.
Jesus will help you...but you have to let Him. He won't force Himself on
you-He's gentle, kind, and caring...He wants you to invite Him-you
choose if you're comfortable with Him close to you. He's waiting...He's
your bridge to the Father-your desires. Go on, ask Him...He's waiting
for you. What is it you need help with...self-esteem, a relationship,
finances, heartache, job search, being real, forgiveness, time
management, jealousy, school choice, anger, a disease, assertiveness,
direction, friendship, grief and loss, parenting, hearing God...?
Whatever you need help with...Jesus will help you, but you must let go.
What you keep from Him is for you to handle...what you release to
Him...He will handle. Jesus never messes up, His plan is perfect, He
fixes what was broken, He restores the lost, He makes your path
straight, He makes the blind see and the deaf hear, He makes something
from nothing, He heals the hurting, He binds up the wounds of the
brokenhearted, He gives hope to the hopeless, He shows up when others
don't, He holds you when others won't, He reveals what others can't, He
has no barriers, He's unstoppable, He's the name above all
names...Jesus, His love completes us-He is the way, the truth, and the
life. Jesus will help you...but you must let go and He will. He's your
bridge to the Father-your desires. Go on, ask Him...He's waiting for
you. (Col 2:10, Jn 14:6, Isa 61:1) 10/22/12CIFL-LMM
Open the eyes of my heart...Lord
Open the eyes of my heart Lord...so I can see
You! Flood my heart with Your light-help me receive the enlightenment
you offer me daily through your love. My faith is in You, Your Word and
Your ability to reach through me to make a difference. You've got all
the bases covered. I can move forward in Your confidence despite obvious
barriers because of Your strength that's in me. I don't want to doubt
you...don't let me-even when all looks against me in the natural. Each
day I will remind myself of Your love and promises...over and over and
over-Your love covers, protects and gives me strength. Your love is
tender, caring, never condemning-constantly renewing my eyes of my heart
to fulfill the plans and destiny in this life you gave me. Don't let me
dismiss the fearless confidence You offer me constantly due to my
feelings that sometimes overwhelm, flood and discourage me. Help me to
remain steadfast, patient and endure
what you've called me to do...always remembering I'm a vessel for
you-performing and fully accomplishing Your will so I can receive,
carry
away and enjoy to the full what You promise! Faith looks crazy to those
who can't see...don't let their
blurred vision interfere with what you allow me to see! (Eph 1:18, Mk
9:24, Heb10:35-36) 1/1/13CIFL-LMM
God's Purpose...for you
A new you...God sees...do you? God sees all
that He made you to be...you are purposed by Him with good plans-you
must choose to walk in them with His strength in you. Nothing can ever
separate you from His love...He lives in you. Don't disqualify yourself
because of weaknesses, mistakes, fears or anxieties. God knows your
heart and statement of faith-He meets you where you are... equipping you
with all you need as you move forward trusting Him to provide. Receive
His love, see the you He sees...reconciled and complete in Him...a new you moving forward with His purpose in you! (2 Cor 5:17, Col 2:10, 3:10, Eph 4:24, Phil 4:13) 12/22/12CIFL-LMM
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Trust God...He's mighty to save!
Trust God-He's mighty to save. I know many violated your trust and you experienced many let downs...you were robbed-no argument whatsoever. But are you going to allow your past to also rob you of your present and future? God didn't rob you...other people did. The thing about pain, is it doesn't go away on its own-it keeps hurting until its given away. You're projecting your hurt and distrust onto God-which distorts and separates you from His love and truth. His love and truth will take all the hurt done to you and heal all the pain in you. Jesus is knocking on the door of your heart...will you answer and let Him have your pain so He can heal you (Rev 3:20)? He will set you free from the bondage you've been living in-the past pain that haunts you. He will restore what was stolen, given away or never received-giving back everything and more, but you'll never know this truth...unless you trust Him (Eph 3:20, Isa 61:1). My trust was violated too, so I relied on me...there is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death (Pr 14:12). I tried so hard to overcome, but I was doing it through my limited strength-then I came to the end of myself, I cried out to God...He rescued me. He will do the same for you-He's mighty to save (Zeph 3:17)! He showed me the tender love of Jesus and gave me the Holy Spirit to guide me in all things-I've never looked back. Following God doesn't exempt you from pain...but it promises that He will bring you through the pain every time! I've had more heartbreak and hurt since the day I gave all of my life to God and I expect more in the future, not because I'm negative, but because I live in a fallen world. I also expect my Father God to always love me, to soothe me and to bring me through each trial I face (Ps 34:19). God's in control over what I see and don't see-He holds creation together (Col 1:17). My faith isn't based on what I see God do...it's based in what I believe He does (2 Cor 5:7). Trust God-He's mighty to save! 1/22/13CIFL-LMM
The Voice of Truth never leaves you...
You will hear a voice behind you say, "this is the way, walk in it." This is the Voice of Truth...He never leaves you-don't be afraid. Fear presses in your chest...did you hear God clearly...maybe you missed it? Draw close to God-He will draw close to you, remain in Him-He will remain in you, He's with you always. Don't engage in reasoning with Fear, when you seek God with all of our heart, you'll find Him, He's bringing you through this situation even though you don't always see what He's doing-choose to believe what He's doing. Fear wants you to believe you missed Him or messed up and He's disqualifying you...that is a big fat lie! Our Father God wants you to succeed in the plans He made for you-you're purposed to carry out the passion He put in your heart. Read and speak His Word-believe it for your life! God's equipped you for what He's called you to do; relax, if you take a wrong turn, you will hear a voice behind you say... "this is the way, walk in it." The Voice of Truth never leaves you...(Isa 30:21, Jas 4:8, Jn 15:4, 2 Cor 5:7, Jer 29:11-14). 1/22/13CIFL-LMM
A Situation does not determine your destiny...
A situation can consume, overwhelm, and paralyze you for a period of time...but it doesn't determine your destiny-God does and He can handle any situation you're up against. It's never too late for God to intervene...He owns time. I've listened to many people over the years tell me situations... lost virginity at 13 years old, learning disability, job stress, can't read, married four times, three abortions, cost too much, chronic illness, DUIs, no education, depression, no skills, high interest rates, parents abusive, anxiety, below average, no friends, job market froze, numerous affairs, Aspergers, afraid, drug use, overweight, eating disorder, jail & prison time, etc. God's not intimidated by any of these situations- one touch of his hand...give it to Him. He's for you, there's no, nada, none, nothing bigger than our God-don't allow the situation you are in to rob you of the plans God has for you! (Rom 8:28, 31, Ps 24:1, Jer 29:11) 1/21/13CIFL-LMM
Monday, January 21, 2013
Stress presses out of you...
Stress doesn't make you do things you normally wouldn't do...stress presses out of you what you're normally able to contain. For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. Ask God to search your thoughts, examine your heart, and find the root of your undesired action. Don't cheat yourself or those you love by dismissing your undesired behavior to stress. If you do...you will forgo the full and complete life God offers. 1/28/13CIFL-LMM (Lk 6:45, Ps 139:23-24, Col 2:10 )
Focus, purpose & determination...sustain us
Focus, purpose, and determination...the
three characteristics required to sustain us during the desert periods
of life and critical to maintain us...during the prosperous ones. Being
void of these in either period leads to an unfulfilled and aimless
life. Throw off everything that hinders-sin that entangles, run with
perseverance. Don't lose heart, grow weary or faint in acting
nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season, you shall reap, if you don't loosen and relax your courage and faint. Don't forgo the life that Jesus died to give you.
Blessings friend! (Heb 12:1, Gal 6:9, Jn 10:10) 8/16/12CIFL-LMM
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Refuse to settle...& don't dread one more day!
Refuse to settle...if you have received Jesus
Christ as your Lord and Savior; you are saved and you are His child...live like it and don't dread one more day.
"Lean your entire personality on Him
in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness.
Walk regulate, conduct yourselves in union with and conformity to
Him. Have the roots [of your being] firmly and deeply planted Him-fixed
and founded in Him, being continually built up in Him, becoming
increasingly more confirmed and established in faith." Whatever God
asks you to do...He equips you to do. You're equipped when you do
what
this scripture states...lean your entire personality on Him, absolute
trust and confidence etc. Do it one step at a time, breathe, then do it
again. Yes, it's hard, but God wired you for hard. Remain steadfast,
patient, move forward, endure, don't forfeit your prize. Refuse to
settle...you won't regret it! Blessings! (Col 2:5-7, Heb
10:35-36)8/17/12CIFL-LMM
God's Promises are powerful!
God's promises are powerful, they stand
firm-never change, but His promises are only as powerful...as you choose
to receive & believe them. (Eph 3:20) 1/16/13CIFL-LMM
How we treat others...
How we treat people who have no influence or say in our life...reveals our true character. (Matt 7:20) 1/19/13CIFL-LMM
Friday, January 18, 2013
Go to God...first
It's inconceivable for you to think you don't have time for God because of the things you need to do or have to take care of...because the things you do and have to take care of are under His authority and everything belongs to Him. You want to be efficient, maximize your time and not allow stress to eat you alive every day...go to God first every morning and spend time with Him; He's over everything and holds everything together with His hands; what you have belongs to Him and He will guide you to manage it with success. God is available to you all day and all night...He will listen to your heart all day and He will stay up with you all night and comfort you. You can talk to Him about anything and everything-He loves you and wants an intimate relationship with you. Will you let Him love you today? (Matt 6:33, Col 1:17, Pr 3:5-6) 1/18/13CIFL-LMM
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Have the guts to listen to loved ones...
Have the guts to listen when loved ones express a concern to you-they are trying to connect with you...not tear you down. 8/7/12CIFL-LMM
Making a choice to release a situation to God is a risk...but you risk handling the situation within your power if you don't. You will never know how much God loves you and how He will provide each one of your needs beyond what you could ever dream or ask for. Take the risk today to trust Him-you won't regret it. One more thing...what you're trying to manage isn't yours anyway...God's just letting you manage it :) (Eph 3:20, Ps 9:10, Ps 31:14) 8/7/12CIFL-LMM
Situations...
I've listened to many people over the years tell me about situations...lost virginity at 13 years old, learning disability, married four times, job too stressful, three abortions, cost too much, chronic
illness, divorced again, no education, depression, interest rates too
high, parents abusive, no talents, anxiety disorder, below average,
don't have much, DUI's, they're too good for me, job market is not
hiring, numerous affairs, Aspergers, too afraid, overweight, nothing to
say, drug use, just average, jail and prison time and the list goes
on. One touch of God's hand...give it to Him. He's for us, there's no,
nada, none, nothing bigger than our God-no situation that can be against
us, if He is for us (Rom8:31). Make a decision today that you will no
longer allow the situation you're in to rob you of the plans God has for you. I would love to hear about how God turned your
situation around for His glory. Blessings! 5/12CIFL-LMM
Many are called...few follow
Many are called...few follow for fear of leaving their familiar-sadly, they forfeit the future God planned for them. Following God requires going against norms, conventional ways and popular vote. God likes things that create shock value to confound those that think they are wise. He will ask you to carry out radical, ridiculous and impossible tasks...just to prove He can do anything He pleases-He laughs as the naysayers stare with their mouths wide open. Following God brings isolation, resistance and ridicule from many, but you must go through the fire to know He's your source...your fuel that supplies you with the all you need to accomplish the mission. Be confident in God's ability flowing through you-the work He began in you, He will bring to completion. You know in your mind what God's asked you is impossible-that's why you have to completely rely on Him to carry it out. Opposition, discouragement and doubt come at you daily wanting you to justify your cause. Don't engage- it's a ploy to create confusion and distract you from hearing the Holy Spirit. Keep your eyes on Him-cling to His truth. God put this call in you to use you...not prove you-He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn and the justice of your cause like the noonday sun! (Mt 22:14, Phil 1:6, 1 Cor 1:27, Lk 18:27, Eph 3:20, Ps 37:5-6) 1/17/13CIFL-LMM
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Monday, January 14, 2013
Anticipate good things from God...
I choose to go through life always anticipating good things from my Father God...I will not settle and lower my expectations during difficult seasons. My love for Him does not change when times are bad or when times are good just like His love doesn't change for me...when I act bad or I act good. I may not feel His love...it doesn't mean He's not loving me. Love is not something we feel...love is something we do. I serve a loving Father-I do not have to understand all of His ways...to choose to believe all of His ways. I know He loves me and I love Him. I will continue to have a confident expectation in Him-He's good all the time-Amen!(Ps 136:1)1/14/13CIFL-LMM
There's no fear in love...
There's no fear in love...whatever
you're up against, Jesus has overcome it. Doubt will
engage you in reasoning potential outcomes...don't do it, you will slide
into a deep pit! Your energy will go into believing or doubting Jesus..ask Him to help you believe and not doubt. Don't allow your emotions to steal His promises made to you. God's Word never changes-the promises never change...make a decision to believe-there's no fear in love! (1 Jn 4:18, Jn 16:33, Luke 8:50)11/19/12CIFL-LMM
Let God make a way for you...
Let God make a way for you...opening your eyes and bringing you out of captivity...turning the impossible situation you see into a possible...the unknown into a known...despair into hope...making a way where you can't see a way. God wants to show you new things... He promises to take you a way that you've never been before-leading you on paths you've never seen; turning darkness into light before your eyes. These are His promises to those who trust in Him. Trust God with your all your heart-don't reason...look to Him for direction in everything you do. He will make a way for you...when you can't see a way! (Isa 42:7, 9, 16, Pr 3:5-6) 1/14/14CIFL-LMM
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Empty yourself of hurt...
Empty yourself of hurt-let Jesus have it...purging
every last drop. Emotions will flood you-it's all those years of denying your needs, pushing back tears, minimizing, trying
to prove you were good enough. This is
grief...the recognition of what was lost, stolen, or never given to you. Grief
validates what you experienced...it says you matter and what happened to
you was wrong. The love of Jesus will come in like a flood,
crashing waves of His healing, pouring into every chamber, crevice, and
opening...shining His light of love-nothing is
overlooked...filling up every area in you, overflowing the sides and
finally engulfing all of you. Until His love floods you, you're left in
darkness; a prisoner of your own pain-a captive of your circumstances...drowning in your own hurt. Will you empty the hurt and wrongs done to you...let Jesus have them? (Joel: 2:24, Rev 3:20) 1/13/13CIFL-LMM
God's promises never change...
Don't allow
your feelings to talk you out of God's promises-His promises never
change...your feelings do. Have faith in God...constantly. (Mk 11:22)
1/13/13CIFL-LMM
1/13/13CIFL-LMM
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Transform yourself...
God never disqualifies you...from the game
God never disqualifies you from the game He destined for you...He's given you the game book, you're never denied access to discussing the plays with Him, He will tell you exactly what you need to work on. If He benches you-it's not to condemn you- either you have an injury you're not aware of or you're not as ready to run a play as you think you are. Bottom line...your Father is the perfect coach-don't project old hurt you're carrying or feelings of insecurity on your Father-it just creates a barrier for you...instead seek His wisdom in these things that trouble you-He will walk you through to overcome them. Your Father wants you in the game. He loves you the same when you mess up and when you do poorly-His love never changes. He's specifically equipped you to make certain plays in His strength. So lift your face-look up, you're a valued player, but most of all...you are your Father's child and He loves you! Don't focus on what you're not...focus on what you are...in Him. Do it...you're made for hard! (Jer 29:11, Isa 41:10) 1/10/13CIFL-LMM
God's unique plan...for the rest of your life...
God equips every person with a purpose to fulfill in His kingdom-their
unique plan. Everyone is called but few respond. God's calling you to
fulfill the plans He has for you. He calls each one of us...our days
were ordained before we were born. I believe there are three reasons
people forfeit their call: 1)They don't recognize God's voice-He's made
numerous attempts to reach them...but His voice is drowned out by the
life they choose; 2)They reject the call because they can't envision how
God will carry it out through them ...sadly, their own reasoning
disqualifies them before they ever begin; and 3) Some begin the journey
then turn around because every step requires them to completely trust
God and they just can't take the second by second pressure of having to
trust God. For them choosing to believe by faith and not by their sight,
is too much for them-eventually they fade out. But then a few make it,
because they know...it's not about them being able...it's about them
being available to God to work through them! Get the revelation
knowledge...we can't do anything on our own unless God equips us to do it!
We're all called ...but God equips-we must follow His Ways...not ours
and then we can do what He's called us to do. Purpose to know Him. Know God to know your purpose... knowing Him is not facts about Him, but
intimately seeking His face, praising Him, finding your security in Him,
believing Him when your life is falling apart around you...knowing
He's for you and not against you. Believing God is a not a culmination
of feelings about Him that change from one day to the next...but
believing God is based on Who He is always. Receiving His love
daily is essential for you to carry out what He calls you to do-God's
love is your fuel to sustain and move you forward. Spend time with Jesus
daily-studying scripture. How can you know what His promises are unless
you read them? Many say they don't have time...it's time invested in the rest of your life,
how can you not have time! Daily God's love will flush out selfish
motives, bring attention to things that need work, put words in your heart that need to be said to others, cleanses the pride and arrogance that build up,
continually renewing our minds with His thoughts. Then you will still mess up and
experience adversity on the journey. Expect opposition daily-trials
strengthen. Every time you're pushed on...press in and you will
become stronger...like a muscle being developed to peak performance.
Trials mature you... God's always ready to give wisdom...if you ask. Are
you going to respond to God's call? Don't forfeit your privilege to
fulfill your call and absolutely love the rest of your life! Yet, I am
with you always. (Jer 29:11, Ps 139:16, Phil 3:10, 4:13, Rom 8:31, James
1:2-5, Ps 72:26,).
8/4/12CIFL-LMM
8/4/12CIFL-LMM
Confidence...do you have it? The world teaches a person to be confident
in one's own abilities and strength. Books and magazines tell you how to
be confident...Prepare
Yourself for Success, You Can Become Self Confident, Self Confidence
that will Really Last. We're guaranteed confidence, but not as the
world teaches, it's the confidence Christ offers-His very own. He will
flow through
us. That's right, Lord God Almighty, Creator of the Universe will flow
His power through us to accomplish great and mighty things just like He
did in Abraham, Deborah, David, Rahab and many others who gave
themselves to Him. Their part in the confidence equation...availability.
God needs available...He's got the able part. God does not accept egos
and pride-He uses surrender and willingness. We
complicate and delay being used by God because we want to debate
whether we trust Him with our situation, if our past is too much for Him
to handle, and if we're qualified for what He's called us to do. Read
scripture and look at the people God used ...Moses killed a guy and had
to
overcome major self esteem issues-he had no specific training in
crossing the Red Sea, David didn't go to giant killing
school, he had major sin-but God called him a man after His own heart,
Peter's fishing trade didn't qualify him to preach...but his love for
Jesus did-even though he denied Jesus three times. The common
denominator... they loved Jesus Christ and had a willingness to be used
by
Him and allowed His confidence to be manifested through them. I have
strength
for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I'm ready for anything and
equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I'm
self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]. I
seek and desire my Father and He flows His ability through me. I draw
close to Him-He
draws close to me, He never leaves me-He will never let loose of my
hand. He goes before me making a way when I can't see a way-He loves
and delights in me. He is my strong tower and fortress, I hide under
His wing, I run to Him to tell Him my deepest hurts and desires. He
loves me when I mess up as much as...He loves me when I obey, He's my
Father who made me with His very own hands-He has good plans for me,
His love overflows in me, He has every step of mine ordered and He holds
together everything in His hands-I'm His child and He's my Father
and He delights in me. He's my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Holy,
Holy, Holy...my confidence is from Him-it's unshakeable. If God's for me
who can be against me? I don't have to feel
this...I know this. Is there
anything too hard for the Lord? Well, of course not, so how can what I
encounter be too hard? Will you accept God's strength and
confidence...will you allow Him to manifest through you to accomplish
great things for the Kingdom? I pray you do friend.
Blessings! (James 4:8, Phil 4:13, Ps 18:19, 37:23, 91:1-4, Rom 8:31, Gen
18:14) 6/12/12CIFL-LMM
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Forgiving is not dismissing the harm...
Many believe forgiving is dismissing the harm...but forgiving means you
will no longer carry the harm in your heart. When you verbally give the
release & forgiving the person who caused harm; you allow Jesus to
physically remove the chains that have kept you bound to them & the hurt
they imposed. Even if a person has passed away; you can still forgive them because forgiving is for the living...not the deceased. Will you let Jesus have the harm you've been carrying in your heart so He can remove the chains that have kept you bound to the past? LMM (Mt 18:21-22, Rev 3:20) 1/10/13CIFL-LMM #forgive #chains #helpmeJesus #letgo #christianinsightforlife
Parents-God doesn't waste pain...
Parents, God clearly just put this on my
heart. Don't dismiss the sacrifices you've made for your children; it
all counts...God doesn't waste pain. He sent His Son to the cross for
me, I was grown and on my own for years before I could value and
embrace the sacrifice my Father God made for me. Continue to praise and
thank God for the seeds of sacrifice you planted in the child He loaned
to you-no matter how lost things look...God doesn't waste pain! Let His
love comfort you today in this truth. 1/7/13CIFL-LMM
God's Word Saves...
Anytime we believe "some of something," we won't be confident in all of
it...we'll believe parts, but won't have confidence that we can rely on
it completely. So we don't...leaving us uncertain and anxious. What
keeps us from believing all the parts of something? The answer is life
and our experiences-it's unfair, unpredictable, and unstable in many
ways. So we project our experiences of life on God...believing He might
be unfair, unpredictable, and unstable. To not be anxious about Him, we
must cling to His truth... God never changes, He's the same today as He
was yesterday, and will be the same tomorrow. He's with us always, is
strong when we're weak, and He's crazy in love with us! If you're
waiting on your feelings to completely trust God...you will only believe
"some of Him" and won't be confident. God says if we lack wisdom, ask
Him and He will give it to us generously without finding fault.
But when we ask, we're to believe-not doubting Him or we will be unstable
in all we do-double-minded. God says we should not expect anything from Him if we doubt Him-this seems harsh, but it's not-He's saying...choose to believe His truth, not feel His truth. Our
feelings change, but His truth doesn't. He says, ask for wisdom and He
will give it generously...and He does. For years, I tried so hard to
believe...I wanted to believe, but more days than not I ended up in a
ditch worn out and discouraged. I professed God's Word, but I didn't say
or walk it out consistently and I tried to do it in my strength-leaving
me anxious and uncertain. I was double minded-believing "some of
Jesus." Then about 9 years ago, I got the revelation of speaking God's
Word aloud-saying what He said and asking Him to help me believe what He
said. I agreed with with the Word, not because I felt it was
true...but because He said it was true. I chose to partner with
Creator of the universe...it's changed my life and it will change yours
too! God's Words are power...He spoke this world into existence...He
made something from nothing. When we speak His Words, we agree and
believe that something can come from nothing not because of what we
do...but because of Who we have faith in. I spoke scripture to things
that once would take me down. When I came up against an impossible
situation, I'd say, "I call these things that be not as though they
are." I reminded myself daily that no matter what destruction my eyes
saw, I walked by faith, not by sight. If God's for me, even when I'm
sinking in craziness, who could be against me. That my God is before all
things and holds everything together in His very hands. Friend,
continue to speak scripture in the middle of your fire just like
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abedengo. Remember they were thrown in a fiery
furnace with flames engulfing them- they walked out, no burns, not
singed, or even smelling like smoke. God's Word is a privilege...
consistently speak what He says is true, rely on His strength, not
yours. Choose to believe His truth, not feel it-your feelings
change...He never changes. God's Word saves...it will save you and loved
ones during the fire. Blessings! (Jas 1:5-8, Jn 1:3, Rom 4:17, 2 Cor 5:7, Rom
8:31, Col 1:17, Dan 3:3-30) 6/18/12CIFL-LMM
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Define yourself...
Define yourself...give every part of you to Jesus-don't dismiss anything. He's the Master of making nothing into something. He will do greater than you dare ask or imagine..ginormous dreams! Your mind can't wrap around what Jesus is able to do in you-He's ready and waiting in you....your part...embrace the power that's at work within you. Embracing the power of Jesus within you-requires you to give all of you to Him- holding nothing back. What you keep from Him- confines you...what you give to Him-defines you! Be defined, shine your light, let Jesus make a difference through you-do it! (John1:3, Eph3:20, Mt5:16) 1/7/13CIFL-LMM
Monday, January 7, 2013
Nothing can Overtake you...because God's
holding your hand. Before the truth can set you free...you must know it.
God's truth is for you to overcome... taking you from where you are to
where He wants you to be; making an impact for His Kingdom. Trust
Him-He's crazy in love with you. Know His plans are good for you. Our God is
before all things and holds all things together...there's no storm
too big for Him, no quake that can swallow Him, no fire that can burn
Him, no water that can drown Him...nor you...because He will take hold
of your right hand and never let go...never, never, never! Keep on
doing what you're called to do; don't give up friend...your Father's with
you.(John 8:32, Col 1:17, Jer 29:11, Isa 41:13) 7/2012CIFL-LMM
Season of being turned inside out...
The season of being
turned inside out...Saying good bye to a familiar way of life and hello to a new way. The front door to the new way has...IMPOSSIBLE written across it and under it reads, "with man this is impossible, but not for God." This season is for you to know and trust your Father God intimately-knowing His tender love and clearly recognizing the voice of truth. He will manifest His power through you, if you believe in Him. And you will have to believe in Him or choose to lose your mind...because no reasoning or plan of yours will work in this season. The only way to sustain while being turned inside out, is to cast aside doubt that wants to take you down, and live and breathe the Word-clinging to your Father's truth while gaining revelation of His love for you. God's love empowers those who hope in Him...His love allows you to renew your strength, soar on wings like eagles, run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint. You're at an edge that you would not have volunteered for, but would not trade once you're through it. You know with confidence your Father will do immeasurably more than all you could dare ask for or ever imagine according to the power that's at work within you. Having been pushed to completely embrace the fullness of the power that's at work within you through faith and prayer as you face impossible situations. God's love is unstoppable and when you receive His fullness and completeness in you...you're ustoppable as you carry out His purpose in this
world! (Mk 10:27, Isa 40:31, Eph 3:20, Col 2:10) 1/7/12-CIFL-LMM
No More Lunch Dates with Condemnation...
God is Mighty to save...don't forgo the fire!
Don't forgo the fire...going in the fire is the only way for you to know God will be with you-walking you through and never leaving you. The fire won't burn, singe or leave any evidence of a smoke smell on you...but the evidence of our Father God will be all over and in you...for you to know with confidence and those watching to know...our God is Mighty to Save!!! (Dan 3:30, Zeph 3:17) 1/7/13CIFL-LMM
Stay in the race...
Stay in the race...you will be pushed and knocked out of your lane many times. Expect opposition from others-questioning your motives, if you've got what it takes. Don't allow what they say to distract you; just because they say so...does not make it so-persevere, look ahead. You're running the race your Father called you to-carrying out His will, toss off what they say or it will weigh you down and keep you from finishing the race. Fix your eyes on the prize, keep your pace and endure, so you may fully accomplish the will of God-receiving, carrying away, and enjoying what is promised. Do it...God made you for hard! (Gal5:7, Phil3:9-12, Heb10:35, Isa41:10) 1/7/13CIFL-LMM
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Setbacks in life...
Setbacks in life...you're back in a place you swore you'd never be again. Disappointment slaps you- failure overwhelms you. You worked hard to leave a place you despised, but here you are...again. You've climbed out of this same pit many times-but this time...you're done. You're embarrassed, hopeless and don't understand what's wrong with you. Shame and condemnation begin to flood you. You must know three truths about where you are right now. First, your willpower doesn't work, but grace does. You can't deliver yourself from this...only Jesus can. Willpower motivates you to start the race, but it's Jesus power that sustains you-allowing you to complete the race. Each morning seek Jesus instead of seeking to overcome-nothing is overcome unless it's done via Jesus (Mt 6:33). Thank Jesus in the morning and throughout the day for the strength He will provide to you (Phil 4:13). Don't entertain thoughts that if you try harder, you can sustain...it's a setup for a setback. It's in your weakness that God's power is made perfect (2 Cor 12:9). Next, renew your mind. Profess and believe you're delivered even when you see no indication of deliverance. God calls things that be not-as though they are (Rom 4:17). Agree with God-who He says you are...not what you feel you are (Eph 2:10). God never condemns you-He doesn't want you to either; condemnation guarantees failure. Finally, consistently seek Christ and have faith constantly (Mk 11:22). God's truth must be applied to every area of your life-completely surrender all of your life to Him...holding nothing back (Pr 3:5-6). Ask Jesus to examine, correct and enable you, because you can't...but He can and will. God will meet you where you are...love Him with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind (Mt 22:37). Do these three things daily and look forward to the peace God will provide to you (Phil 4:7). Seek the Lord-He will answer you; those who look to Him are radiant, there faces are never covered with shame (Ps 34:4-5). He has good plans for you. Will you let Him be your anchor of hope (Jer 29:11, Heb 6:19)? 1/5/13CIFL-LMM
Identity...where do you get yours?
Keep your identity in check-know your value is in God alone. Don't let your all...become your call- confusing
who you are with what you do. A crisis is guaranteed when there's not a clear line between what you do and...who you are. If the call is removed- your identity is
removed; resulting in a vacuum of emptiness. If you're not careful, the
things you do in love and with honor become your identity like... marriage, family, parenting, career, ministry, volunteering, etc. These
are important calls, but they don't identify...who you are
in life-they identify...what you do in life. Christ is your identity-His love completes you...nothing
else! Get with God-ask Him to search your heart and keep you balanced in
honoring the call He assigned you, but not allow you to make it your
identity. Everything is subject to change in life...but not God
or His love for you. God will never let go of your hand...never, never,
never! then when things change, and they will-your identity and value
remain the same. Listen closely, your identity is in Christ exclusively; things will change and when they do-you will know it doesn't mean your value has changed...it just
means your
course has changed. Keep your identity in check-know your value is in God alone...then you can relax and enjoy the journey! (Ps 136:26, Ps 139:23-24, Col 2:10, Heb 13:5, Jer 29:11) 1/5/13CIFL-LMM
Friday, January 4, 2013
Know God's love...know you're approved!
God does His best work in us...when we've left
our familiar but not arrived in our new season-we're uncertain,
unfamiliar, unsettled...pride purged, false confidence knocked out,
beliefs challenged. This is the middle part; where God's love approves
us not for what we do or don't do, but for who we are in Him. When we
know God's love...we know we've got what it takes-because He says so!
1/4/13CIFL-LMM
Thursday, January 3, 2013
God's our source...not the world
God's our source-not the world. Be informed, gain knowledge, but don't be taken captive by worldly intellectualism for direction in life. CNN, The Wall Street Journal and Forbes provide current trends, topics and projections...God gives wisdom, from His mouth come knowledge and understanding-clear direction. Commit to Him whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. God's our source-not the world.
(Col 2:8, Pr 2:6-8, Pr 16:3) 1/3/13CIFL-LMM
(Col 2:8, Pr 2:6-8, Pr 16:3) 1/3/13CIFL-LMM
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Believing God...
Believing God is knowing what you see...is not
the final chapter-that He's your Comforter, Provider, & Way Maker.
When doubt side swipes you & anxiety presses your chest so hard you
can barely breathe... believing God brings relief and a hope for the
future. He is mighty to save...He will quiet you with His love. (Zeph3:17) 12/18/12-CIFL-LMM
It seems godly...is it from God?
There are many counterfeit situations & people in the world masquerading as representing God. Just because it seems godly...doesn't make it from God. A good cause isn't always...caused by God. This may sound harsh, but we're led by the Spirit, not what looks godly. The Holy Spirit will prompt you if you're to be involved in a situation. Expect the enemy to counter the promting & accuse you of being a critical spirit for sensing that something is wrong. Because it looks right...doesn't make it right. A fish on a person's car, a bible in their hand & them saying "bless you brother & Amen" doesn't make them a Christian. I can have high end appliances, top of the line cookware & 500 cookbooks in my kitchen...these things look good, but they don't make me a gourmet cook. Look at the situation beyond what's presented, watch the walk of the person & taste the food!!! The Holy Spirit will prompt you & you will know the authenticity by their fruit you will recognize them. (Isa 30:2, Mt 7:16) 1/2/13CIFL/LMM
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Get a good attitude...it determines the course of your life!
Get a good attitude...it determines the course of your life. Be careful what you're hearing. The measure of thought and study you give to the truth you hear will be the measure of virtue and knowledge that comes back to you. And more will be given to you who hear ...for him who has nothing even what he has will be taken away [by force]. Truth is the operative word... many go through the motions of saying, giving and doing but their heart's aren't pure. Read up on what Jesus told the Pharisees-outward actions are just that... outward actions. We're to be constantly renewed in the spirit of our mind-our attitude...lining it up with God's Word. Use what you've been given to the best of your ability...making the most of what God's placed in your hands-He says He will give you more. Don't believe the lie, that you don't have anything to give or use. God gives each one of us something to work with...our attitude determines if we have the spiritual maturity to be trusted with more. If you're griping about your current job...you're probably not ready for a promotion. If you're trashing your current car...you're not ready to care for a new one. If you're not giving the first tenth of your money and being generous now, with what you have...you won't give more when you have more. As Christians we're guaranteed to achieve in God's design...His ways work all the time with all people when they submit their lives to Him. That includes our attitude...it determines the course of our life and what we're mature enough to handle. Submit your attitude today and live the life God's called you to! (Mk 4:24, Mt 23:25-28, Eph 4:23) 1/1/13CIFL-LMM
Open the Eyes of My Heart...
Open the eyes of my heart Lord...so I can see You! Flood my heart with Your light-help me receive the enlightenment you offer me daily through your love. My faith is in You, Your Word and Your ability to reach through me to make a difference. You've got all the bases covered. I can move forward in Your confidence despite obvious barriers because of Your strength that's in me. I don't want to doubt you...don't let me-even when all looks against me in the natural. Each day I will remind myself of Your love and promises...over and over and over-Your love covers, protects and gives me strength. Your love is tender, caring, never condemning-constantly renewing my eyes of my heart to fulfill the plans and destiny in this life you gave me. Don't let me dismiss the fearless confidence You offer me constantly due to my feelings that sometimes overwhelm, flood and discourage me. Help me to remain steadfast, patient and endure what you've called me to do...always remembering I'm a vessel for you-performing and fully accomplishing Your will so I can receive, carry
away and enjoy to the full what You promise! Faith looks crazy to those who can't see...don't let their
blurred vision interfere with what you allow me to see! (Eph 1:18, Mk 9:24, Heb10:35-36) 1/1/13CIFL-LMM
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