Maximizing the opportunities God gives you...

God will work through the opportunities He gives you ...not the ones He gives to someone else. Throughout life God will strategically place you in different roles to carry out specific purposes. Don't compare the role you've been placed in to the role of another person- doing so devalues the opportunity God wants to work through you and places you at risk of not being used by God (Mk 4:25). Your value isn't defined by what you do...it's defined by Who you belong to-where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom (2 Cor 3:17); this is the freedom to be the you God made you to be! Knowing you belong to God and are approved by Him (Col 2:10) gives you the freedom to be you- being confident because He says you've got what it takes to carry out the good works He planned for you long ago (Eph 2:10). The opportunities God works through you will change throughout life...but His love and value for you won't ever change-He's the same yesterday, today and forever (Heb 13:8)! Embrace what God gives you and He will give you more (Mk 4:24). Will you let God work through the you? I have good plans for you declares the Lord...plans to prosper you, to give you hope and a future (Jer 29:11)!  6/30/13CIFL-LMM

Relief from burdens in life...

Relief doesn't come when the burden changes...it comes when perspective change. When you release the impossible you're facing to Jesus, you move the burden off of you and into His hands. This allows you to experience the peace He promises because you're no longer trying to manage an impossible situation; your hope is no longer tethered to the burden which caused hopelessness, but now you're tethered to Jesus-Who never fails you. After releasing the burden to Jesus, you make room to receive His peace. His peace gives your mind the clarity needed to recognize the burden hasn't changed, but your perspective has. Humanly speaking it's impossible, but not with God...everything is possible with God! Will you give God the  impossibles you're facing today-the ones from yesterday and the ones you will face tomorrow? Jesus is your anchor of hope; He holds on when you can't. All authority in Heaven and on Earth have been given to Him...the burdens you face are subjected to His authority! Jesus is your relief-He will never fail you! LMM (Mk 10:27, Heb 6:19, Phil 4:7, Mt 28:18) 6/28/13CIFL #burdens #relief #Jesus #impossibles #anchorofhope #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

God has a perfect plan for your life...

God has a perfect plan for your life-the only way you're eliminated is...if you remove yourself from walking it out. You will face opposition on a regular basis, discouragement will chase you down some days and weariness will consume you at other times but... God will supply you with everything you need! Be confident...the good work God started in you will be brought to completion until the day Jesus returns. 
(Jer 29:11, Eph 3:20, Phil 1:6) 6/26/13IFL-LMM

Vulnerability...leads to authenticity

Vulnerability...allowing others to see who you really are-it's risky, but you won't authentically connect, until you do. Every person is uniquely designed by God to carry out a purpose-to be authentic. Your vulnerability activates the process; many begin, but stop because it's too awkward. Jesus modeled vulnerability; He remained authentic-true to being the person God called Him to be. He could do this because He knew Who He belonged to-His Father was "well pleased" with Him-He was approved. Until a person knows they're approved-they fear ridicule & rejection from others. Jesus boldly carried out requests from God because He knew He was loved-trusting God's to sustain & supply all His needs. God's love gives you the courage to follow Jesus; His love is your life line-continuing to pull you closer to freedom in Him. Do you feel misunderstood or disconnected? Do you have secrets you will take to your grave for fear others would not accept you? Do you only show parts of you-fearing the other parts of you would be rejected? Go to Jesus, your only source for answers. He's waiting to show you love (Rev 3:20). His love gives you life, direction & purpose. Forgetting the past & looking forward to what lies ahead (Phil 3:13). Embrace God's truth...you're His masterpiece-created to do the good things He planned long ago (Eph 2:10)! Have you completely surrendered to Jesus-making His Will...your will? If you're holding back-you will hold back from others; your relationship with Jesus is reflected in your relationship with others. You will never experience the fullness & completeness Christ wants to offer you-until you completely surrender. Where the Spirit of the Lord is-there is freedom (2 Cor 3:17)! Let God open up your mind to understand His Word (Lk 24:45). You were designed by Him to connect intimately, be vulnerable & walk with others to carry out His plans. Get quiet & listen...the Advocate, Strengthener, Standby, Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name-in my place, to represent Me & act on My behalf, He will teach you all things-He will remind you of & bring to your remembrance everything I have told you (Jn 14:26). You are loved my friend-let God show you how you can love & connect with others the way He designed... be vulnerable & experience authenticity! 6/23/13CIFL-LMM

God looks & listens...for those who call out to Him

Take comfort knowing God looks & listens for those who call out to Him...and He answers & upholds those who love Him. 6/23/13CIFL-LMM

I called out to the Lord...and He answered me!

If someone didn't love you like they were suppose to...that doesn't make you unlovable. No one has the power to determine you're unlovable because God chose you...in advance to fulfill His purpose (Eph 1:11). If you've been hurt by someone who was suppose to love you...you will have a hard time believing those who have chosen to love you. God's love will heal you from this rejection-He restores the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Isa 61:1-3). Your hope is in Him all the day long (Ps 25:5). God decided in advance to adopt you to Himself through Jesus Christ. God did this because He wanted to and because it gave Him great pleasure to do so! Do not let let another person determine your value...only Jesus Christ has that authority and He says you're approved! You must decide if you will accept His truth. I called out to the Lord and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant...there faces are never covered with shame(Ps 34:4-5)! Call out to the Lord-He will answer you...because He loves you! 6/22/13CIFL-LMM   

God chose & adopted us...we must choose to belive this truth

When we've been hurt by those who are "suppose" to love us...we have a hard time believing those who have "chosen" to love us. Often, children that are adopted carry a fear that they will be abandoned again. This is natural, but eventually they must make a decision to "believe" they've been chosen-adopted. God put this Word on my heart as I go through the foster children apps (I'm honored to go to foster camp every year as a therapist for both the children and staff of volunteers). God chose us-He adopted us (Eph 1:5, 1:11). Fear is constant wanting to remind us of the rejection and abandonment from those that were suppose to love us and didn't. Fear's agenda is to create doubt in our relationship with God...maybe He will abandon us too. We've got to make a decision to believe that we've been chosen and adopted by God. Until then we will be anxious and uncertain-always wondering...will His love fail us? Don't take the bait; if you're anxious-you can't hear God clearly telling you...I will never leave you or forsake you (Deut 31:6). His love never fails or gives up on us (Ps 136:1). If someone didn't love you...that doesn't make you unlovable. Will you believe God...He chose and adopted you! 6/22/13CIFL-LMM

Focus, Purpose & Determination...

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

Burdens in life...Jesus will help you

When you become desperate...you lose perspective. Losing perspective leads to impulsive decisions and  often choices you regret. If you try to take on the burdens life wants to give you...you will become desperate-hopelessness is the only door that desperation leads to. Jesus tells us this in John 16:33, that He's taken all the troubles and in Him, we can have peace because He's overcome the world. When facing impossible situations you must immediately defer to God's Word for hope. God's hope anchors our soul-firm and secure (Heb 6:19), giving us a peace that transcends human understanding (Phil 4:7). You must be prepared for your mind to go into a natural processing mode of how to handle this impossible you're facing. Remember, God gave us our mind and we're to use it, but it must be calibrated to the Word. Deferring to God's truth in situations where you see no way out seems irrational in your mind-and that's because it is. Our rational mind can't comprehend how God makes the impossible situations we face work out. Jesus tells us this, "humanly speaking it is impossible, but with God everything's possible (Mt 19:26)." God's got our best interest in mind...even when our life is crumbling around us. Throughout scripture, the people who believed God in the impossible situations they faced, where the same ones who witnessed His miraculous provisions. Don't you know Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were ready to meet the Lord when they were thrown into the fiery furnace. Still, they stood firm, believing God. They didn't know how God would provide for them, but they held onto His truth that He would provide for them (Dan 3:17). When you set your mind in advance to believe God, that He will provide everything you need in every situation...you've made a bridge that will walk you out of every humanly impossible burden the world wants t impose on you. That bridge is named...Jesus! With Jesus you can do all things-He will strengthen you (Phil 4:14). This mindset keeps you focused on Jesus as your bridge and keeps desperation from flooding you. You acknowledge the reality of what you're facing-because it's real, but you don't take on the impossible burden of trying to resolve it, because it's a job for Jesus, not you. You move ahead in what you know to do-which will seem crazy in the natural. This may lead you  right into the fiery furnace-if so, know Jesus is with you and He will never leave you. You can tell Him your fears and still...completely trust Him. Most burdens require us to walk into the fire to stand on what we say we believe-this is how we strengthen our faith. None of us ever want to walk in the fire, but after we walk out...we know Jesus more than before we went in. We know what we believe and no devil in hell can ever snatch it from us! And each fire brings a greater revelation of our powerful, mighty and sweet Jesus. The more we know Him...the more we know our purpose and that He approves us. Nothing can ever separate us from His love and He has good plans for us...our hope is in Him all day long-His joy completes us! You're purposed by Jesus-let your light shine! (Phil 3:10, Rom 8:38-39, Jer 29:11, Ps 25:5, Jn 15:11, Mt 5:16) 6/21/13CIFL-LMM

God's promises for youe life...

Life will forever be changing...God's Word will never change. Take a breath of relief-the burden of life isn't on you. Rest in this promise, Jesus said, "I'm leaving you with a gift-a peace of mind & heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give-so don't be troubled." The peace of God, which  transcends all understanding, will guard your heart & your mind in Christ Jesus. These are your promises from God...you must decide if you believe them. (John 14:27, Phil 4:7) 6/21/13LMM #beleivegod #christianinsightforlife

Do not fear...God will uphold you!

Walk out the dream God put in your heart...

Focus, purpose and passion-requirements for the dreams God put in your heart to become realities. Do not throw away your confidence-it will be richly rewarded. Persevere and do the will of God-walk out the dream He put in your heart...so you will receive what He has promised! (Heb 10:35-35) 6/19/13CIFL-LMM

Your identity and destiny are found in Jesus...nothing else!

Your identity and destiny are found in Jesus-nothing else. The One Who gave you life...gives meaning to your life-He knitted you together in your mother's womb ( Ps139:13) and every moment was laid out  before a single day passed (Ps 139:16). Put your confidence in Jesus...He approves of who you are and will guide you daily in the way to go. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ (Col 2:8). You will always come up empty searching for meaning in people, places or things. You can do meaningful things in life-but they only sustain you for certain seasons. Your identity and destination must be rooted in Jesus-then He will sustain you after meaningful things have gone, run their course, or have been removed from your life. Even though you grieve the loss and experience heartache, you know you will move forward because your trust is in Jesus-alone. You discover that you're fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps 139:14). You receive revelation of His truth...being confident that He, Who began a good work in you, will bring it to completion (Phil 1:6). You know you're His masterpiece-that you were created to do the good works He planned long ago. You accept the truth- God's love has approved and completed you (Col 2:10). You stand on God's Word; when you're weak...you're strong-because His power's in you (2 Cor 12:10). God's power works best in your weakness; when you can't-He can and He does for those who rely on Him. Until a person embraces this revelation of truth-they will forever be beat up by life. Life isn't fair...mistakes are made, people cheat, treat others harshly, people let loved ones down, bad things happen to good people...and Jesus promises He will deliver us from each one (Ps 34:19). God's plans will not be stopped; He finishes what He starts-His Word won't return void (Isa 55:11). The burdens of life aren't on us-they're on Jesus and He's deprived them of the power to harm us (Jn 16:33). What a relief to know we don't have to figure this complicated life out-God's done that for us. We can be certain that what happens to us...doesn't define our identity or determine our destiny. Thanks be to God, Who always leads us to triumph in Christ! (2 Cor 2:14)! God's got good plans for you (Jer 29:11).  Will you trust Him? 6/19/13CIFL-LMM

When life overwhelms you...God's with you

When life overwhelms you...God's with you. He's got all the bases covered. You don't need to stay awake half the night trying to figure out how you're going to make things work-God's already got the answers. He doesn't sleep, ever close His eyes...or even blink-He's not going to miss anything. He doesn't get tired, weary, discouraged, or cranky-He's God-you can rely on Him for all your needs. There's nothing in your life that God's clueless about. He's not forgetful, things don't go over His head, He's not out of touch with reality or has He ever had a hard time processing His thoughts. Technology has never baffled Him...He's not stumped by calculus, integers, or geometry. He's fluent in every language known to man and has been all over the world...He is God! He's always loved you and He always will-He desires to spend time with you because He loves you and He enjoys being with you. He's available to talk anytime, anywhere and about anything.

Call out to Him-He always answers (Jer 29:12). When you're afraid, put your trust in Him (Ps 56:3). His truth will set you free (Jn 8:32). He's for you-nothing or no one can be against you (Rom 8:28). His hope anchors your soul-firm and secure (Heb 6:19). Delight yourself in God, He will give you the desires of your heart (Ps 37:4). His Word is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Ps 119:105). His love never fails (Ps 136:1). Those who look to Him are radiant; there faces are never covered wit shame (Ps 34:5). He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn justice of your cause like the noonday sun (Ps 37:6). Will you give God the things in life that are overwhelming you?  6/18/13CIFL-LMM #godishope #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

God's Word is Life...

 

 







God's Word is life, full of power-it will change your life! Speak God's Word daily-agreeing with what He says about you & life. Don't try to do life alone-Jesus will walk with you...during the good & bad times; you're never alone. Rest in God's Word-the burden of life isn't on you! 6/17/14CIFL-LMM

Purpose to know Jesus...and you will know your purpose!

Purpose to know Jesus and you will know your purpose! (Phil 3:10) 6/17/13CIFL-LMM

Our Eyes are upon You, Lord!

Took this pic of sky while praying-God reminded me I don't have all the answers... but He does. I'm to keep my eyes on Him so He can lead me in the way to go. 6/17/13CIFL-LMM #godislove

Dare to Believe...

God's promises are full of power...but they're only powerful to the one who believes. Don't allow your feelings to deceive what you believe. Feelings change-God's truth doesn't. He that began a good work in you-will bring it to completion...Dare to believe! (Phil 1:6) 6/15/13CIFL-LMM

Blame robs you of your future...

Blame keeps you chained to the harm done to you- robbing you of your future because you keep looking ...in the past. Blame is powerful because it focuses on the reality of what happened-you were done wrong by someone. Blame wants you to believe your dreams are done...your destiny over. When the past reminds you that you can't undo what's been done; remind yourself, it's true you can't...but Jesus can! He's the Author and the Finisher, He has no barriers-He's unstoppable. His Word will not return void-time has no impact on Him because He owns it! Acknowledge what happened, give all your hurt and disappointment to Jesus, then trust Him to guide you on how to proceed. Don't get stuck on when, how, or if God's going to release His vengeance on those who harmed you-that's not your concern. But do expect God to deliver you..."a righteous man has many troubles-expect the Lord to delivers him from each one." Blame has no case against the power of Christ-hope in Him when your hope fails; He will sustain you-His joy completes you and gives you a hope for the future! (Heb 12:2, Ps 34:19, Heb 6:19, John 11:15, Heb 11:1) 6/15/13CIFL-LMM

What does your hope hinge on...?

God put this on my heart, "Are you hinging your hope on what I'll do through you...or Who I Am to you?" This resonated in me; the revelation He gave me is profound. I believe many are delayed or miss going into the next season that God's called them to because of the subtle distinction that many overlook. I'll be posting on this tomorrow evening...it's really good! 6/14/13CIFL-LMM 

You're not exempt from mistakes...but God's got you covered!

You're not exempt from making mistakes-everyone does, but don't rely on your knowledge to assess the situation. First seek God-trust He will speak to your heart, let Him guide you. When you ask God for guidance and how to proceed, He will give you wisdom freely. But when He does give it to you-take the wisdom and apply it. Many seek God's advice, but don't like all of His answer, so they add to or take away parts by reasoning what they believe will or will not work. This obviously doesn't work and it's where many make the bad situation they're in even worse.  The important thing to remember is if you're seeking God with all your heart-He has you covered in His grace and that includes your mistakes. But if you're moving forward without trusting God's provisions- then you're responsible for fixing your mistakes. Seek God for wisdom-learn from mistakes...but don't let them paralyze and stop you from pursuing what God's called you to do. His mercy meets you where you are and He will supply you with all you need-more abundantly than you could ever imagine-according to the power that's at work within you. Blessings friend! (Matt 6:33, Prov 3:5-6, James 1:2-8, Eph 3:20) 6/14/13CIFL-LMM

This Journey...

New seasons...

God's revealing new things-to see what He sees...you have to release your comfortable & familiar. Will you? 6/13/13CIFL-LMM

Faith...

Long & hard seasons...make you more than a conqueror!

The long and hard seasons that deplete and fatigue you...are the very same ones that make you more than a conqueror. You can beg Jesus to remove these hard times, but He's more likely to get you through them. These seasons are the building blocks for your identity in Christ-the authentic you. You're pressed, pushed and purged of most of your comforts...the earthly securities-the things you cling to more than Christ. When these things are threatened-you're threatened because they're grafted into your identity; you believe without them you won't make it. But it's only when the props are taken away, the back ups removed and the comforts that made you feel approved, good enough and important are gone...that's when you find Jesus, His love, security and promises. It's when you're out of resources, no plan B and you choose to believe or to go crazy. Jesus is waiting for you to get to get to the end-so He can begin...this is how you become more than a conqueror. A conqueror doesn't gain merit based on who or what they conquer, but an authentic conqueror knows their strength comes from Jesus-the One Who chose and justified them. Who can come against you if God's for you, can anything separate you from His love, a situation too big for Him, a hardship He can't handle, a hurt He's never heard of??? Nothing, nada, no one can come between Christ and you-ever! Don't run from this hard season-you'd be running from the arms of Christ; He wants you to know He loves you. His strength in you...makes you more than a conqueror! (Rom 8:31-39) 6/12/13CIFL-LMM

You are God's masterpiece...even when you don't feel like it

God made you unique, one of a kind, with special gifts. You're His masterpiece; you're purposed to carry out the works He planned long ago. Believe what God says about you...it's the truth...even when you don't feel like it is. (Eph 2:10) 6/12/13CIFL-LMM

My Redeemer lives...

I've been a counselor for approximately 30 years-I've seen and heard a lot of heartache; I lived through much myself. I'm certain of this...my Redeemer lives and His Word works all the time and it doesn't return void-ever! As Christians we must be purposed in believing God no matter what we see with our eyes and no matter what others say about the situation we're in; if not, we will be eaten alive. No one is  exempt from trials-the unfair, hurtful and horrific situations where the pain sears so deep, we don't think we'll make it; & if it weren't for Jesus...we wouldn't. You've got to decide that you will stand on the Word or die-either way you come out a winner. Standing on the Word guarantees you will overcome, but if you die doing that...then you're with Jesus. We're privileged-God's promised us victory. We get off track when we try to determine what the victory looks like. God's says He has good plans, okay, that's what I accept-I don't have to know what that looks like, to believe that's what God will do. Keep your eyes on Jesus, not the circumstances you're going through. God's verdict is final-not man's; there's no judge in the land that can overrule our God...stand on that and don't waiver from His truth. God's truth precedes any worldly fact or law. If you feel anxiety beginning to creep up-knock it down with God's Word. The key to maintaining your sanity during crisis periods in life is...have faith constantly (Mk 11:22). Your outlook is based on your faith in God. If you doubt Him, your faith decreases and anxiety will plague you. If your faith increases in God-your outlook is expectant and confident; you're certain you will overcome. Having faith is a full-time job, but it pays good...doubt is a full-time job also, but it leads to poverty. I didn't plan on posting this tonight-I actually had another post ready, then the Lord put these words on my heart. I pray you will stand on His Word and walk out the victory that has already been won for you. I'm including some specific verses for different trials, I pray you let them bless you the way God intended. Blessings to y'all-give all of yourself to the Lord and He will bless all of you! LMM
*Stay confident-Give thanks & praise Him (Ps 106:1).
*Stand firm daily-God goes before you each day-He's redeemed & summoned you by name; deep waters & rivers will not sweep over you, the fires won't burn you (Isa 43:1-2).
*Afraid-God will never leave you (Heb 13:5).
*Uncertain-Commit to the Lord whatever you do & your plans will succeed (Pr16:3).
*Are you being taken to court or falsely accused? The *Lord won't let you be taken to trial & condemned (Ps37:33).
*Need to deal with a difficult situation? Be strong & courageous-don't be discouraged; God's with you wherever you go (Jos1:9).
*Feeling like you can't take one more day of a certain situation? "Fear not [there's nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror & be dismayed, for I am you God. I will strengthen & harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; Yes, I will hold you up & retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness & justice (Isa41:10)." He has a good plans for you (Jer29:11).
*Peace be with you friend (John14:27). 6/22/12CIFL-LMM

Knowedge is power...

Knowledge is power! God says do not  conform to the patterns of this world...but be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom 12:2). We're to acknowledge the troubles, heart aches and pain in the world...but we're not to conform. Be careful-we're to pray, help and grieve losses of our own and with each other, but we're not to lose hope. When Fox News, CNN, and Dateline report families in crisis, political turmoil and unspeakable tragedies -keep your hope...go to the accurate source of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Read Jesus' words-take comfort in His report of the gospels. My yoke is easy and my burden is light (Mt 11:30). Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering (Mk 5:34). Nothing is impossible with God (Lk 1:37). My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and don't be afraid (Jn 14:27). Speak God's Word, walk it out...this is your daily transformation. Don't perish for lack of knowledge(Hos 4:7). God's knowledge is power...use what you have and given more (Mk 4:24)! 12/17/12CIFL-LMM

Grief...letting go of what was

Grief...letting go of what was. Often we don't completely let go of the past, because it is was   familiar-we felt confident there, we knew the routine. The past is gone, it's behind us...we can't reach behind us...we can only reach forward to what lies in front of us. Life is a perpetual motion forward...it continues on whether we choose to move with it or not. Move forward-don't let life pass you because you're trying to resuscitate what God has said is over. Don't forfeit your future...for fear of releasing your familiar. God has plans to give you a hope and a future-will you let Him? (Mt 5:4, Mt 11:28, Jer 29:11) 12/4/12CIFL-LMM

Take refuge in the Lord...

Take refuge in the Lord...reasoning leads to insanity. He never sleeps, grows tired, or runs out of ideas...there's nothing He can't make or invent...He's never borrowed money or been unemployed...He invented courageous and reliable...you won't run out of time...He owns time! He loves you and will provide everything you need...trust, rest, and put all of your hope in Him (Eph 3:20, Psalm 46:1). 7/6/12CIFL-LMM

God's hope never runs out...hope in Him all day & every day. 610/13CIFL-LMM

God's hope never runs out...

Life is unfair-you will have trouble...but Jesus has overcome!

Life is unfair; you will have many troubles-some are directed towards you-others aren't. Trouble's delivery is inconsequential-it doesn't matter how it comes on you...it never feels good. With trouble come feelings of fear, uncertainty and anger. There are three steps to effectively and biblically deal with trouble: 1) Don't be shocked at experiencing trouble-Jesus said we would have many troubles; expect them, but don't be shocked by them; 2) Do acknowledge your feelings about the trouble by talking to Jesus about what you're feeling then give Him your fears-sometimes you have to do this over and over; 3) Make a decision to believe God no matter what trouble you're experiencing-stand firm on this and trust He will guide you. God promises you're guaranteed to come through each trouble...if you exercise the privileges He's given you-which are believing His promises made to you. You don't have to know how God will work things out-you just have to believe He will. Here are two promises: "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, I have overcome the world (Jn 16:33)." "The righteous person faces many troubles, but the Lord comes to the rescue each time (Ps 34:19)." Your livelihood and future aren't determined by the trouble you encounter- until you make up your mind and believe this...you will be plagued with anxiety! Anxiety creates one disaster after another in your mind because you've taken on the trouble in your strength and you can't deal with it...but Jesus can. Give the trouble to Jesus and get your mind in balance so you can make a difference and carry out your purpose. But thanks be to God, Who give us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. He's overcome the world, there's no trouble that's too big, sick, impossible, gone or hard for Jesus to take on. Nothing, no one, not anything... no trouble can stand up against Jesus! Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty-He rules this earth! Know this truth when the next trouble tries to overtake you. Will you hand Him your trouble today? (I Cor 15:57, Col 1:16-17) 6/10/13CIFL-LMM

Jesus saves...

Life is unfair; you're subject to the trouble it brings, but not the hopelessness it imposes because...Jesus saves! (Jn 16:33) CIFL-LMM

God's path for your life...

As a Christian you must calibrate your conscience to the Word-daily, if you don't, your conscience will do what it believes is right; there's a way that seems right to a man...but its end leads to death. A conscience not submitted to the Word results in a subtle reasoning process that leads you one thought at a time into deception. Your intent is not to reject God's truth, but if you are not submitting your conscience to the Word daily, it will determine what's right, wrong, good, bad, workable or not workable for you and it will lead you on your path...not God's path for your life. Commit your conscience to the Lord; trust Him with every part of your life-the smallest detail to the biggest burden and He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn...and the justice of your cause like the noonday sun! (Pr 16:25, Ps 37:5-6) 6/10/13CIFL-LMM

God's always loved you...

God's love for you is not measured by what you've done...good or bad; He loved you before you knew Him...He loves you because that's what He does...God is love. There's nothing you can do to make Him stop loving you. You aren't going to feel your way into being loved, because love is a choice...not a feeling; you must choose to receive God's love-He won't force you. The Holy Spirit will gently guide you daily; transforming and healing your spirit-helping you to believe God-increasing your faith in Him. The more you receive and agree with God's love; His truth...the more your mind, heart and spirit are transformed-embracing the revelation of His love for you. God's always loved you...will you let Him love you today? (Mal 1:2, Pr 8:17, 1 Jn 5:14-15) 11/12/12CIFL-LMM

Jesus is the anchor of hope for your soul...

Jesus...the anchor of hope for your soul. He will walk you through places where you can't see, give you the strength to press on when you have none & give life to a situation that is considered dead. "Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him." (Heb 6:19, Ps 62:5)

6/9/13CIFL-LMM

Shine your light...

We need to talk about God's love...but the real power is in showing God's love-investing time in people. Let your light shine! (Mt 5:16) 8/18/12CIFL-LMM

Development of who you are...

The experience you're in right now is developing who you are...it does not define what you are. 8/20/12CIFL-LMM

Being comfortable with who we are...

When we're comfortable with who we are...we're comfortable with whoever we're around. CIFL_LMM8/13/12

Acceptance of self...

Revelation of acceptance comes when we choose to go before our Father & not hold anything back-no props, no accomplishments, no agenda...just be before Him. Then we know Him & we know we're approved by Him-then we can accept who we are in Him. Don't throw away your confidence-it will be richly rewarded!  (Phil 3:10-13, Heb 10:36) LMM

Spiritually stretch...every day!

Make sure you're spiritually stretching and strengthening yourself; seeing through His eyes, stepping out of your comfort zones, pressing back when you don't feel like it, staying on course when you'd rather quit. Keep your eyes on the prize-Jesus sustains you in each new thing and new season. Focus, be purposeful...you're a light; be determined to carry His love everywhere you go. Don't forgo the life Jesus died to give you (John 10:10). 12/8/12CIFL-LMM

Don't throw away your confidence...

As Christians we must renew our mind daily with God's Word or we will drift into worldly thinking and living. We have to calibrate our conscience to the Word, if we don't, our conscience will do what it believes is right; a man's mind seems right to Him... but leads to death. It's a subtle reasoning process that leads them one thought at a time into deception; the intent isn't to reject God's truth, but a mind not submitted to the Word will naturally disobey. That's why we hear about Christians doing shocking things like having affairs or embezzling money-they profess the Word with their mouth but their mind isn't being lined up with the Word. You might not be in an affair or stealing money, but are you submitting your conscience to God's Word consistently?

It takes just a few thoughts to before you're entertaining things that oppose scripture. The Word is counter intuitive to our mind-we must be purposed in submitting to God's truth. We don't naturally want to forgive those who've harmed us, love somebody who's unloving, give when our means are limited, or believe before we see, etc. So we must seek the Word constantly to stay on course-thoughts that don't line up have to be tossed out. Then we're still going to get off course, but we get back on and get better each time. And Jesus is with us every step-He never leaves us. His love and intimacy is the fuel that sustains us when we don't see how we can do what God asks of us. When we're depleted, tired and weary; He anchors our hope to continue onward and upward. Don't throw away your confidence-it will be richly rewarded. And thanks be to God-He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ-renew your mind with His truth!(Rom 12:2, Pr 14:12, Heb 6:19, Heb 10:35, 1 Cor 15:57) 6/7/13CIFL-LMM #renewyourmind #calibrate #christianinsightforlife

Holding on to hurt...holds you back

Holding on to hurt...holds you back. Hurt is like a toxic spill in your body. Every time you revisit the hurt...toxins leak into every cell of your body- causing harm to your heart, mind & spirit. You can't manage the damage but Jesus can-release your hurt to Him & be healed. Renew your mind with His truth-be transformed & changed; He approves you. Seek Him daily for all your needs. (Rev 3:20, Rom 12:2, Mt 6:33) 3/29/13CIFL-LMM

God's Truth Trumps...reality

Don't deny reality...but don't deny God's truth either. God's truth trumps the reality you're going through- the impossibles you face. Jesus told the disciples, "humanly speaking it's impossible, but not with God...everything is possible with God!" Will you give God the impossibles you're facing today-the ones from yesterday and the ones you will face tomorrow?  Will you let Jesus comfort you when: your bank account doesn't have enough to pay bills, dealing with a harsh supervisor, your gas tank is empty and you need to get to work, family demands are draining you, you struggle with letting go of betrayal, a loved one is self destructing, your heart aches and won't stop, your marriage is falling apart, despair and darkness consume you, fear races through your mind, a medical diagnosis changes your lifestyle, you don't see a way...will you let Jesus make a way for you when you can't see a way? The issues you face are impossible for you to handle-this is reality! Cling to God's promises-Jesus is your anchor of hope; He holds on when you can't. His peace will flood your mind giving you His confidence which transcends all human understanding. All authority in heaven and on earth have been given to Him; the burdens you face are subjected to His authority! When you release the impossible you're facing to Jesus, you move the burden off of you and into Jesus' hands. This allows you to experience the peace He promises because you are no longer trying to manage an impossible situation; your hope is no longer tethered to the burden which caused hopelessness, but now you're tethered to Jesus-Who never fails you. After releasing the burden to Jesus, you make room to receive His peace? His peace gives your mind the clarity needed to recognize the burden hasn't changed-but your perspective has; it's still there, but you're confident Jesus will handle it. You don't have to know how He will handle it, to you choose to believe, He will handle it. God's truth trumps reality...everything is possible with God! Will you let Him trump your reality right now, for yesterday and for tomorrow? (Mark 10:27, Heb 6:19, Phil 4:7, Matt 28:18, ) 6/6/13CIFL-LMM

How Great is our God...He's before all you see & don't see

How Great is our God? He performs wonders that can't be fathomed; miracles that can't be counted-He controls the clouds & makes lighting flash. He's before all you see & don't see-you can't understand all He does...but you can trust all He does. Don't allow what you don't know to undermine your faith in the One Who does know. (Job 5:9, 37:15) 6/6/13CIFL-LMM

Some days there's a lot to do and you just have to let some things go...

Emery "Smoochabelle" on a mission...

Some days there's a lot to do and you just have to let some things go...
Emery, g-da 9mos

Moving forward during seasons of disappointment...

Moving forward during seasons of disappointment is the refinement during the fire...pain that's purposed. The maturity process required to transition into the next season. Measuring your conduct by God's definition of excellence verses justifying it by the majority opinion. Knowing delay doesn't mean denial ...believing doesn't depend on seeing-perseverance is a must to maintain focus. Walking by faith when you can't see a way, holding on to God's hope to motivate you when discouragement overwhelms you and having faith in Him-constantly. Knowing God's with you during the fire-never leaving you or forsaking you. Keep moving, this pain has a purpose-it's the refinement required...the ticket validating going through; allowing transition into the next season God's calling you to! (Ps 66:10, Phil 4:8, Heb 11:1, Mk 11:22, 2 Cor 5:17, Ps 37:28) 6/5/13CIFL-LMM

Don't waste another good day...

Don't waste another good day. What you do with your time while you're in a place you don't want to be...will determine how long you need to be there. God's not punishing you; He's preparing and strengthening you for the next season. God's Word is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path-giving you confidence and clarity in all you do. Embrace where you are knowing it's the stepping stone to where you want to be. Don't waste another day-get ready! (2 Tim 3:17, Phil 1:6, Ps 119:105) 3/19/13CIFL-LMM

God is faithful-His mercies are new every morning...

God is faithful; His mercies are new every morning-yesterday is gone and today is ahead of you. Jesus is with you in every second, every breath you take and every thought you have; praise His Holy Name...He goes before you daily to bear your burdens. What you release to Jesus-He takes; what you don't...you keep. Will you let Him bear your burdens today? (Lam 3:23, Ps 68:19) 6/5/13CIFL-LMM

Be yourself and enjoy life!

Hope

Be yourself and enjoy life! Don't try to be someone else...you forfeit the peace God offers & the good future He promises. A heart at peace gives life to the body...but envy rots the bones. (Pr 14:30) 6/1/13CIFL-LMM

God chose you...you matter

God chose you...you matter. You are valued-you may not always feel like it, but God says so, so it's true. God chose you-He loved you first. You are purposed by Him to make a difference in the world. Purpose to know Him and you will know your purpose. Know God completes and approves you-knowing this isn't a feeling you feel...it's a truth you believe. You are God's masterpiece-He created you to do the good works He planned long ago; He planned out every second of your life before you were ever born! He knew the things you would come up against-things that were intended to harm you, things you did out of ignorance and things you did out of complete rebellion. In all things God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This is a promise for those who seek, love,  and follow Him. God will reverse and turn around what was meant for your harm and convert it to your good. Don't try to figure out how God will turn things around; just make a decision to believe that...He will turn them around. Don't be anxious-rest in Him.  You're not expected to know more than the revelation you've been given...but you are expected to use what you've been given-use what you have and you will be given more. Have faith in God-constantly; He will be with you-constantly. God chose you...you matter. Will you trust Him today with the life He planned for you long ago? (1 Jn 4:19, Phil 3:10, Eph 2:10, Ps 139:16, Rom 8:29, Mk 4:24, Mk 11:22) 6/4/13CIFL-LMM  

Love...is the greatest of all!

Love...is the greatest of all. (1 Cor 13:13) 9/2012CIFL-LMM

Priceless...journal entry by my granddaughter, Hope, when she was 7yrs old. 

God is your Savior...

God is your Savior-He will revive you...call on Him & He will bring you from the pit of despair! (Zeph 3:17) Journal entry by Hope, my granddaughter,  when she was 7yrs old. 9/2012CIFL-LMM

God will make your paths straight...

I take great comfort in knowing my God knows...I will acknowledge Him in all my ways & He will make my paths straight. CIFL-LMM

God answers when you call out His name...

I sought the Lord andHe answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. 

(Ps 34:4-6) 6/3/13CIFL-LMM

Jesus...the Water of Life

But whoever drinks the water I give will never thirst again...(John 4:14) 6/3/13CIFL-LMM