Acknowledging what we see is reality...so is believing God will handle it. Make a decision to face your situation with the reality that God will handle it! Enjoy your day friend. 8/30/12-LMM

God put gifts in you...

God put gifts in you for His Kingdom purpose. Don't stifle them-they're commissioned by God Himself to be to delivered through you. He's designated you as the vessel to operate them...but you don't own them nor are you to minimize or withhold them. God's given you the honor, privilege and responsibility to  carry the gifts, but you must completely rely on His ability working through you to deliver them. You will feel accomplished and purposed when doing so- fulfilling the call He planned for you. If you choose to withhold your gifts, you knowingly reject God's plan for your life-forgoing the fulfillment and contentment available to you. Everything about you is designed to carry out these gifts...your personality, intellectual abilities, athleticism, temperament, interests, desires and perseverance-glorify your Father and shine the light He put in you! I hope this will challenge your thinking. Execute the gifts God deposited in you and fulfill your purpose-to be the you..God made you to be! (1 Peter 4:10-11, Mt 25:29, Mt 5:14-16, Jer 29:11) 8/29/12CIFL-LMM

Be the You...God designed

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 worth? Would you be relaxed in 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 first could accept...  your differences? Would you hear Jesus whispering to you more often instead of fighting off grueling anxiety...would you laugh more, sleep better and 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-we're purposed by God Himself...be the you He designed! (Ps 139:13-15, 1Jn 4:16-19, Cor 4:2) 8/12/12CIFL-LMM

Spiritual Conditioning...a time of preparation and growth-training your mind for the expansion required to move into the next season...making room by replacing the old ways of thinking with new ways. God must open up your mind...before He can open up your future. Get ready! 8/28/12-LMM

Let God open up your mind...so He can open up your future to new ideas, new roads, & new people. He's waiting...are you ready? 8/28/12CIFL-LMM

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 you. So stop resenting this time and enjoy the process while on the way to where God's taking you! 8/27/12-LMM

Break-up with Doubt...today

Break-up with Doubt...today. His agenda is to steal your dreams, lie about the promises of God, and torment your mind. He poses as being concerned and he speaks truth...partially, but he omits important parts-so it's deception. He begins with questioning the dreams God has put in your heart...are you sure you heard God correctly-you don't want to say something that's not true or make up things, do you? Then he moves on to your understanding of scripture...yes, God promises good plans for us and gives us the desires of our heart, but maybe you're wanting too much-you're somehow being selfish in your dreams. Finally, he has you to examine your life as a whole-have you really made a difference...is God pleased with you, or have you used up your chances? And will He continue to reach out to those who reject Him? You've been praying for a long time-no changes in sight; in fact, things are worse. You conclude...your situation is impossible! This is a partial truth, Doubt omitted the other part-remember, he deceives in this way. The complete truth is...with men this is impossible but...all things are possible with God! So yes, your situation is impossible for you but...all things are possible with God (Matt.19:26). Write this scripture down-post it in several places where you can see it-then say it aloud throughout the day. It's a promise to whatever you are facing. Be on guard for the partial truths that will come at you daily; they're lies by omission-deliberately leaving out important parts of the truth to deceive you. Break-up with Doubt...today friend. And remember, with men this is impossible but...all things are possible with God-that's the complete truth!
8/26/12-LMM

Difficult seasons will come and go in our lives, but our joy can remain constant because it is not dependent on seasons that change...but relies on the Lord Who never changes. The joy of the Lord is my strength (Nehemiah 8:9). 8/25/12-LMM

We've got to know who we are...if not...others will tell us who we are. This results in emptiness and discontentment because there's only one authentic source for finding out who we are and it is not found outside of us. Who we are is found on the inside of us...where Jesus resides-He tells us the truth about who we are. He will remind us that we're not alone and how much God loves and values us. He helps us develop our character to overcome the adversity we will inevitably face and become the person God purposed us to be. Spend intimate time with Jesus daily so you can be reminded of who you are. Where the Spirit of the Lord is...there is freedom (2 Cor. 3:17). 8/25/12-LMM

Real Life...staying focused, purposed, and determined

Staying focused, purposed, and determined. We all struggle...it's real life, but we have everything we need to reach our full potential-it's God's promise. Whatever He asks of us...He will equip us to do. [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight (Phil2:13). Ask God to search your heart-to help you to know He won't ask something of you aren't able to do...maybe others have in your life, but He won't. I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency] (Phil4:13). You have what it takes...but you must do your part. I post scripture on my phone and write down verses on index cards; I put them everywhere. I carry them in my purse and if I'm in the middle of the grocery and feel a wave of discouragement, I stop right there and pull out one of my scriptures to remind me of God's truth. I'm not feeling the truth, but with God's words in front of me...I'm reminded of His truth. I do this day in and day out...focusing, purposing, and determining to know Him and to fulfill the plans He predestined for me. Let's keep it real friends-blessings! 8/2012-CIFL-LMM

Desires, Dreams, & Destiny...are waiting on you

Desires, dreams, and destiny...surrendering to God offers endless opportunities for a fulfilled life. The desires, dreams and destiny that God put in your heart are waiting on the inside of you...your surrender to God is the release that begins the ongoing development for each of these to come to life. Development is a vulnerable, uncomfortable, and awkward place to be...but the only way for you to grow into God's plans for you. Many become overwhelmed with the unfamiliar feelings and stop the surrender process...ceasing their development. Will you choose today to trust God, the One Who made you, to also develop you into the person He designed you to be? (Jer 29:11, Eph 2:10,  Prov 3:5-6) 8/23/12CIFL-LMM

God speaks...and what was nothing becomes something. Nothing came before Him-He's always been...and will always remain...forever. He's before all things and holds everything together. He owns time...really. Whatever you're up against, He has it covered. You must decide if you trust Him...make a decision with your knowledge of Him, not your feelings based on what you see right now. Blessings friend. 8/22/12-LMM

God's Word works...if you work it. You don't have to feel it...to know it. So put to work...what you know! 8/21/12-LMM

God cares...He will show you the way to go

God is our source...not the world. Probably, the single most difficult principle for a Christian to follow. Many profess God's principles with their mouths while they follow the world's ways with their minds and hearts. God knows our future...not Self Magazine, The View, or Forbes. We rely on the Trinity...God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit for security and successful
living. God's Word works...if you work it. It's the incorruptible seed-it can't return void. God calls life to the dead and makes what does not exist...exist-we have a hope and a future. The world is limited by what it can see and manufacture-creating anxiety because their is nothing timeless-things come and go. But we, who are in Christ, triumph always! God created...and owns time...really, He has everything worked out...so why would be anxious-ever??? Honor and respect God's design of love, sex, and family. The world says, "if it feels good do it, if it doesn't-don't." Love is not a feel good, grope, or fleeting thought...it's a commitment to choose to love like God models for us. Can you imagine if God loved us based on our thought and actions??? What's your view-are you in or out? Do you consider leaving when things get hard and say "okay God, I need You to show me something or...." Or what? What are you going to do? I'm like Peter, what else would I do, I have no where else to go. Pick a team-you can't play both sides or you'll be divided; God calls that double minded. You will lose your mind...really, if you know what the Word says, but you continue to look to the world to meet your needs. News Flash...the world self serves and will serve itself before it serves you and will tell you "hasta la vista, baby!" Decide to stand on your knowledge and not your feelings...God's Word works all the time in every situation-if you work it. We always triumph in Christ (2 Cor 2:14). Blessings friend! 8/2012CIFL-LMM

Purpose to know Him...and your purpose will be known. LMM

You'd enjoy life...if you knew how much God loved you

Many Christians love God but don't have a Holy revelation of how much they're loved by Him.  If they did, they would act and live differently...They'd enjoy life despite uncertainty and hardships, unashamedly exercise God's confidence in them, boldly claim God's truths, forgive and love freely, love the unloving without conditions, have a confident expectation of their future, and not be

anxious or fearful in their circumstances, etc.  The tragedy is many try to execute God's love but are not receiving His love in full, resulting in a perpetual cycle of frustration and anxiety.  For us to live as God expects us to-we must receive His love as He instructs us.  Here's a visual...you give your child a hug but they're like a limp wet noodle and don't accept what you're offering.  You hugged-but they didn't receive or accept what you provided.  That's what God's love looks like when do not receive it. He's waiting to give but we're not actively receiving...We must with a purpose accept what He provides by reading what He says in the bible, speaking and agreeing with His promises, and spending time with Him...everyday and being cognizant of Him throughout the day.  God does not want us to be afraid-He's equipped us to execute what He calls us to do...There's no fear in love, dread does not exist, perfect love turns fear out and expels every trace of terror!  For fear brings with it the thought of punishment, and so he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love is not yet grown into love's complete perfection (1 John4:18).  God is love-purpose to know Him and you will know your purpose.  Carrying out what He's called you to do-living the life He's planned for you with His confidence in you.  Let your light shine friend...

(Matt 5:16).  8/21/12-LMM

Staying focused, maintaining your purpose, & fearless determination are requirements for the dreams God put in your heart to become realities. 8/20/12-LMM

God's Word Trumps...all things.

God's Word trumps...all things. Don't fret or be anxious about anything. Does not matter how lost it is, useless it looks, number of times that it happened, far away it is, impossible it is to comprehend, or hopeless, dead, broken, angry, bitter, jealous, or envious it is...God's Word trumps all things. He existed before all things & in Him all things consist, cohere, & are held together (Col 1:17). He knows your name, every single thought you've ever had, are having, or will have. He is the Alpha & the Omega. God speaks & nothing becomes something...taking shape &  form. Holy Sees, Holy Knows, & Holy Does. Will you trust Him to walk you where you can't see to go (2Cor5:7)? You know in your heart you're not where you're suppose to be...but you don't know how to get to where He wants you to be...He wants to show you...but you must begin to take steps into the unknown. You won't know God will lead you through the unknown..until you're in the unknown; then you will see that He will show you the way. His Word is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path. (Ps119:105). God's Word trumps...all things.
5/12CIFL-LMM

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

Every experience is an opportunity...

Every experience is an opportunity-don't avoid or resist any of them. Some we embrace with enthusiasm others we dread & drag our feet. Some are put on us, others we take on us. Take care of what you've been putting off, take ownership of what you've been denying, repair what you've broken, stop blaming & rise up, quit wishing & start moving, return what you've stolen, give life to what you've spoken death to, finish what you started, keep your word, hold your words, restore what you destroyed, quit resisting & take a step. Yes, it's hared to do-maybe the hardest thing you've ever done. Read the words of our Father...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 (Isa 41:10). Own what you've done so God can help you overcome what's been holding you back. No longer believe the lies of the enemy-God's Word is final & He's called you & has a good plan for you, don't try to figure it out, just choose to believe. Bring your fears, doubts & anxieties into the Presence of Lord God Almighty, He is waiting to help you...you're made for hard friend! 4/2012CIFL-LMM

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 (Matt 5:16). 8/18/12-LMM

Jesus and you...

Jesus and you...how would you describe your relationship? Do you connect daily-are you being honest with your feelings-do you say what you think He wants to hear and avoid asking what's on your heart... do you fear He might answer in a way that would make you uncomfortable...do you trust Him-really trust Him? Jesus wants to show you new things for a new season but you must get real with Him-then get ready...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, but above all...keep your eyes in the prize-focus on Jesus...your purpose for being a light-determined to carry His love everywhere you go. Do it friend-don't forgo the life Jesus died to give you (John 10:10). Blessings!
8/18/12-LMM

God's Plan for you...

Our steps are ordered to make a difference...God desires for each of His children to make an impact for Him in His Kingdom. You have a specific plan to carry out. Do not get stuck in your limited vision of practical, logical, and attainable-you won't need God with that plan-because it's all within your ability. God wants you to take bold steps into the impossible, then He will begin to supply you with all you need...along the way. He will never be late, but rarely early-that's so your "trust muscles" can become strong for the battles ahead like, doubt, fatigue, rejection, and resistance from others. Don't worry about looking ridiculous-some will support you, others won't, and many will criticize. You have no time to figure out what others are thinking-that's a distraction. Anytime someone has the guts to step out, critics will come out from everywhere. It's easy to be a Monday morning quarterback but...it takes guts to be bold and follow what God has put on your heart; you will be rewarded for your faithfulness. Keep moving ahead with your eyes on Jesus. God will tell you if you miss it...do you trust Him to tell you? He knew the adversity you would encounter, the mistakes you would make, and the pain and hurt you would experience...but you see, He worked it all in...each and every mistake. His Word is a lamp to your feet and light to your path-He's already gone before anything you will face. You're to be anxious about nothing because He is before all things and in Him all things are held together. He does not want to hear about your mistakes or how inadequate you are; He wants a pure heart that desires Him and loves Him. He wants to know if you're ready to move forward and let Him shine His Light through you! God's ready...waiting on you...Blessings my friend!

8/17/12-LMM

Refuse to Settle...

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

Release...the memories that bind you

Release the grip on your ashes-the memories that bind you...calling out discouragement to you. Lies you believe because of what someone did to you or told you-you play the voices over and over in your head. God loved you first (1 John 4:7-21). Whatever you're holding on to that was imposed on you or done to you...release it and hand it to Jesus; allow Him to cleanse you with His love. 

You've been searching for someone to tell you that you're worthy, only to end up being disappointed over and over. Only God can heal your wounds...giving back to you what was taken or given away. Jesus will take your hurt, grief and emptiness and give you His hope...He will bind up your wounds and set you free from lies you've believed. Release your grip on the ashes you're carrying (Isaiah 61:1-11). You believe these ashes represent your worth, it's not true; you are complete in Christ (Col 2:10). God loves you-He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing (Zeph 3:17). This will not feel comfortable because you've confused how you "feel" about you...with the "actual value" of you. God says you're His masterpiece-this is a truth...not a feeling (Eph 2:10). Lift your head and look up-your Father is smiling; He desires for you to know how much He loves you. God's love for you is not measured by what you've done...good or bad; He loves you because that is what He does...God is love (1 John 4:8).

You must choose to receive His love-He will not force you. The Holy Spirit will overflow you with hope-having joy and peace with who you are in Christ; transforming and healing your wounded spirit (Rom 15:13). The more you receive God's love and renew your mind with the word-the more your mind, heart and spirit are lined up with the God's truth allowing you to walk in the confidence of who God says you are. Will you let God love you today-He's waiting... are you willing? 4/16/12CIFL-LMM #christianinsightforlife

Your season has been appointed...don't forgo your destiny-stay focused friend and carry on with your purpose, determined to let no one take what God has set up for you! 8/16/12-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. Many things will attempt to distract you. Remain in Jesus and He will remain in you...providing you with everything you need to fulfill what God asks of you. Hollow and deceptive philosophies will mock what you believe- wanting you to prove them wrong. You don't have to, God already has-you're to not engage with them. Throw off everything that hinders you-don't allow anything to entice you or lure you into a trap; 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 be fooled...the enemy has every intent to steal, kill and destroy your life, but always remember the truth... Jesus died to give you life-rise up with Him to keep your focus, purpose and determination!  (Heb 12:1, Gal 6:9, Jn 10:10). 8/16/12CIFL-LMM

Who told you those lies???

Have your children ever come home from school upset and crying because another child made a hurtful comment to them or said mean and untrue things about them to others? The first thing we do as a loving parent is ask, "who told you those lies?" Then we hug them and look them directly in the eyes and tell them to not believe the lies they were told. We remind them of Who they belong to and their identity in Christ, that they are fearfully and wonderfully made-God's masterpiece and another person can't determine their worth or value. We replace their deception with God's truth!

Are you believing any of the lies the world is telling you...that you missed your chance, you're too old, it's too late for you to fulfill your dreams, you don't matter, you have nothing to offer, you will never overcome your past? Go to our Father with these lies and He will ask you, "who told you those lies?" Then He will tell you to not let any person take you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy which depends on human traditions and basic principles of this world rather than Christ! God will replace the deception you're believing with His Truth... which trumps all the fleeting opinions of the world! Your part is to continually (all the time throughout the day) renew your mind with His truth so that your mind is transformed to His will for you so you don't conform to who the world says you are! LMM (Rom 12:2, Col 2:8, Jn 8:31-32) 8/14/12 #lies #knowthetruth #deceptivephilosophies #valueinGod #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

The Rescue...in the middle of your fire.

The rescue-in the middle of your fire.  Trials are like being trapped on the second story of burning home...smoke is thick distorting visibility and invading your lungs-taking your breath, your skin is burning from the heat, panic sets in, you're crawling to a window-hopeful to get air, but you're weak and beginning to believe you won't make it-you feel trapped and your hope is fading...then you hear a voice calling your name...it's a fireman, he says, "jump!"  You hear him but can't see him, he calls again, "jump!" You say, "I can't see you!"  He responds, "I can see you...I will catch you."

God gave me this visual to remind me that we often feel like we're alone & won't make it-burning alive in the middle of our trials.  He will send us help...He is always with us and He see us...even when we don't see Him.  He has a way out for you...don't give up.  You're His & He has summoned you by name (Isa 43:1). Don't be afraid friend...He will catch you.
8/4/12-LMM

When we're comfortable with who we are...we are comfortable with whoever we're around. Where the Spirit of the Lord is...there is freedom (2 Cor 3:17). 8/13/12-CIFL-LMM

Road Trip with Jesus...

Are you willing to take a road trip with Jesus? How many times has Jesus pulled up to your door and said, "come and spend time with me."But you didn't go, because you felt you had to take care of some things...first. What "firsts" are you putting before your road trip with Jesus? In Luke 10:39-42, Jesus described Martha as overly occupied, too busy, and distracted with much serving. He described Mary as choosing the good portion, that which she can take advantage of and it will not be taken from her. I have to keep myself in check; I have a tendency to lean towards the "Martha Mentality" and want my work to be completed before I sit down. Work is ongoing...and it has no meaning unless Jesus is first. Make Jesus first...and take your road trips with Him...He will take you on road trips you can't even imagine! 8/13/12-LMM

Stop...in the name of Love!!!

God put a clear message on my heart a while back...Stop, in the name of Love...that I do not have the right to withhold His Love. At first, I thought, well I know that-I've been saying for years-love is a choice, not a feeling. We don't love when we feel like it, but we love because we choose to love. God has challenged me in the fact that His Presence is with me all the time, but His Love wasn't flowing out of me all of the time. I allowed denial to convince me that as long as I was not treating anyone poorly, that I was compliant in loving. God showed me it was what I was not doing...I was not reaching out with His Love to certain people, thus I was withholding. "The heart is deceitful above all things" (Jer 17:9).  What a revelation to me...I did not think I was stopping the flow of God's Love. I wasn't aware of my immaturity....I actually thought I was being a super Christian because I was so nice (gag)-like I was doing God a big favor. I looked the part of nice...but I was not genuine in the part of nice. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom (2 Cor 3:17). When I allowed God's Love to flow, I freed myself and freed His Love from me to make a difference. Stop...in the name of Love friend, get in check and make sure you are not withholding God's Love!!! 5/2012-CIFL-LMM

Play with fire, you will get burned...reason potential outcomes, you will go insane...8/12-LMM

A genuine "I'm sorry" is followed by a behavior change-if not...you're checking the box to look the part...but not do the part. 8/11/12-LMM

Get Movin'...God has a plan for you, don't say, " I don't know what God wants me to do." He will let you know, but you must m-o-v-e! Thank Him for revelation during your quiet time. Where there is no vision...people perish (Prov29:18)-write it out in big block letters so it can be read on the run (Hab2:2). Blessings friend!

God does His best work in us...when we're in the middle part of believing Him. It's where we've left the familiar but not yet in the new season, it's the middle part of believing Him. Uncertain, unfamiliar, and unsettled...pride purged, false confidence knocked out, beliefs challenged...you will know Him and it's a beautiful, painful, but solid place-the middle part of believing Him. Blessings friends! 8/10/12-LMM #ChristianInsightForLife www.facebook.com/ChristianInsightForLife

Self check...is your light shining? Matt. 5:16 8/10/12-LMM

God puts us in places we do not want to be in...so He can get us to the places He needs us to be in. 8/10/-LMM

Is Your Life...overstuffed like a purse?

Our life can become like an overstuffed purse; heavy and lacking the efficiency of its intended purpose.  The contents we carry around with us are to accommodate and help us to be efficient, not hinder our ability to function.  Contents of our purse can be dumped with a sudden impact like slamming on the car brakes which will force us to look at the inside or when we are frustrated enough...we will choose to make the time and dump the entire contents out and go through each item.  Either way, the dump allows us to see and examine everything that we have been carrying around with us...to determine what we need to carry with us and what we need to toss out.  We find stuff we thought we had lost, we throw away things we wonder why we ever chose to carry in the first place, we find broken pieces that need repair...some things can be given away.  Some stuff is just gross and we're horrified that we were carrying it!  Finally, we realize that we must periodically go through and examine what we are carrying around with us...the contents of what we carry impacts our ability to access the things we need in life to function effectively every day. This is an ongoing life process...make time to clean out and organize what you carry with you. So go on, look in your purse, you will feel so much better!

Don't conform...you will lose hope!

God says not to 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 do not 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 (Matt 11:30). Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering (Mark 5:34). Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 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 (John14:27). 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 you will be given more (Mark 4:24)! 12/17/12CIFL-LMM

Knowledge is power...make use of yours to be a light for others to come out of the darkness (John 12:36). 8/8/12-LMM

Things happen to us in life that impact us...how we respond...defines us. 8/8/12-LMM

God never trades even friend...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 (2 Corinthians 3:17). 8/8/12-LMM

What Do You Believe???

Conform verses transform...where do you stand? Conform is to comply with socially acceptable conventions-pressure to behave to standards.  Transform is to make a thorough or dramatic change in form, appearance & character.  Don't be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind...(Rom12:2).  Renewing your mind is not merely replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts...it's replacing the lies of conformity with the transformation of God's Word.  Check yourself...does your talk and walk line up with God's truths?  If you profess the Word, but walk with the world-you're split in your beliefs & will be filled with anxiety.  What do you really believe?  What the world says...or what God says?  Transform your mind with God's Word & His peace will guard your mind & heart.  God's waiting for you to run to Him-He's madly in love with you.  Blessings friend!

8/8/12-LMM

Making a choice to release a situation to God is a risk...but you risk intimacy with God if you don't... you will never know how much He loves you & how He will provide each one of your needs beyond what you could of ever asked for. Take the risk today to trust Him...you won't regret it. One more thing...what you're trying to manage is not yours anyway, God's just letting you manage it :) Be blessed! 8/7/12-LMM

Have the guts to listen when loved ones express a concern to you-they're trying to connect with you, not tear you down. 8/7/12-LMM #laydownyourdenial

Christians have gotta get some guts...

Christians have gotta get some guts and take risks- going after what God puts on their hearts and boldly stepping out in faith; instead of shrinking back in fear of what others might think. I'd rather try and be wrong than not try...and be wrong for doing nothing. Many hear God speak to their heart, but hide behind fear masked as prudence-sadly forfeiting their future. People need to be prudent; I've been a counselor for 28 years and have heard many stories of people going after valid causes that were on their hearts, but they were not led by God-they were self directed. These people placed their cause above God, which put them in jeopardy of relying on their human abilities instead of God's provisions. A cause that's not led by God will come to an end eventually. Stories like this create fear in those do hear God speak clearly to their heart. So I've put together seven steps to maintain balance while having the guts to follow Jesus: 1) Line your desires up with God's-not His with yours. Ask Him... "was that you God?" If you're truly following what God put on your heart, He's going to cover you. Many fall off spiritual cliffs because they are pushing their own agendas. 2) Be accountable to a few close friends and meet with them on a regular basis to challenge your thinking and pray with you. 3) Research what you can, but don't try to anticipate every problem before you ever begin-you will drown in distraction. 4) Move forward in steps of faith-God gives answers when you move, not while you sit and wait for an angel of the Lord to appear with the details. 5) Do regular everyday life; many let daily responsibilities slip. It's difficult incorporating a new agenda while still balancing an old agenda-especially with a new learning curve, but God will give you the balance you need. 6) Continue to press in when you're pressed on; this how spiritual maturity is developed-when doubt pushes on you and you're exhausted. Rely on the strength of Jesus in you to move past what you don't "feel" like doing. Doubt doesn't go away; know it's the enemy's tactic to discourage you-expect it from him. 7) Learn to encourage yourself; it's nice when others do, but it's not their job. Stay connected to Jesus-apart from Him, you can do nothing. Ask God for wisdom-He will give it to you generously.
Remember, God loves you friend, if you've missed Him, He will put you back on the right path...but you won't know that He will until you take steps and move forward. We have the Word and those brothers and sisters in Christ who went before us like... Abraham, Deborah, Joshua, Rahab, Peter, James, John and all the others in the bible who followed God-they trusted Him. They were all regular people who dared to believe God at His Word. And they didn't have the inexhaustible amount of resources like we do, but they had guts...and so do we! We have one common denominator-God knitted each one of us together with His hands; we're His masterpieces-purposed by Him to do the good works He planned long ago! Every person has a choice to receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior then follow God's call on their life, but you have gotta get some guts to fulfill your call...God's equipped you with all the guts you will ever need! Will you use your guts to follow Him? (Jer 29:11, Isa 30:21, James 1:2-4, John 15:5, Heb 11:1-39, Eph 2:10)8/6/12CIFL-LMM

God's love works all the time, in every situation, & with anybody-it never fails & always returns a harvest! LMM

GEN18:14 CHALLENGE: "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Take the challenge & release your situation to God-He's waiting to give you His peace. Say aloud His promise all day-it's your shield to the doubt that wants to knock you down & steal your dreams. I can promise this works because it's God's Promise to us-do it friend! 8/6/12-LMM

Your Limits...God's Possibles

Limiting God with your limits...opens a door for doubt to distort what God can do. Questioning and doubting what God can do in your specific situation, limits His ability to help...you.  You believe He will do for another, but not you. Ask the Holy Spirit for revelation; you're believing a lie-you're not exempt from God's possibles. Doubting also places a heaviness of hopelessness deep in your spirit further distorting your spiritual vision. Renew your mind with God's promises (Rom 12:2) and read scripture to be encouraged. Look at Luke 1:27-38, a virgin willing to be ridiculed by society, possibly stoned to death, much less what, Joseph, her fiancee would think of her and a million other "what ifs." She didn't know how things would unfold, being pregnant but never having been with a man...who's going to believe her??? But she didn't look at her impossible situation, instead trusted God saying, "let it be done to me according to what you have said." Move forward in this season of your life...knowing what you face is impossible for you...but with God nothing is ever impossible (Luke 1:38). Continue to thank God for making a way-you are bringing the glory of Heaven before you when you thank Him for what He has not brought to fruition. Think about the times when your child or someone has thanked you for what you had not yet done for them. I know as a parent and grandparent, I can hardly wait to bless my kids when they have confidence in me delivering what I promised them. Same holds true for God; when we thank Him in the middle of our trials, knowing with confidence He will provide for us, we are showing Him we believe. It's a Romans 4:17 promise-calling those things that be not, as though they are. Continue to thank God for turning your impossible into His possible. Don't allow doubt to distort what God can do friend. Blessings to you! 8/4/12-LMM

Your greatest strength...is also your greatest weakness. What God has empowered you to do...satan will forever try to undermine in you. Use your strength for God's glory...not your demise. Blessings friend! 8/2012-CIFL-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... we can't do anything on our own unless God equips us to do it! Purpose to know Him & your purpose will be known. 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, bring 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 miss  absolutely loving 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 #youarecalled #askGod #christianinsightforlife

Break Up with Self-Defeat Foreverrrrrrrr!!!!!

If we really knew how much God loved us...we would think and act differently. We would see ourselves as God sees us. We would know His love never leaves us...never. Knowing we are fearfully & wonderfully made (Psalm 139:15); that we are God's masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10). Really knowing we are knitted together by His hands and that He lives in us-that we have His confidence which gives us the resources to overcome...anything. For sure we would break up with self-defeat...foreverrrrrrr!!! Self-defeat wants to bind us in fear, anticipate let downs, be afraid of being passed over, rejected, and unfulfilled.  Self-defeat is a liar...all the time!!! 1 John 4:18 says there is no fear in God's love-dread does not exist-His love expels every trace of terror. Self-defeat will stir up your feelings and before you know it, you're feeling like a failure. Jesus did not engage in conversation with satan-Jesus responded with scripture. We are to do the same; when self-defeat knocks on your door and wants to entertain you...slam the door!!!  Renew your mind (Romans 12:2) with God's promises. Continue to speak aloud throughout the day what God says about you. You will begin to think and act differently...because the more you say what God says about you, the more of a revelation of His love you will hear and receive and you will know you are loved...by your Father. When you really begin to receive God's love...self-defeat won't come near you, because self-defeat is a coward and it will run from God's mighty love for you! Remind yourself everyday throughout the day-you are loved! Blessings my friend. 5/12CIFL-LMM

Agree with what God sees in you-He needs available to plug into His able to make His plans happen. Are you available friend?

Guaranteed Help for Changes in Your Life...

Walking away from a person or situation may feel like you're leaving your problem behind...but it is the issues in you that causes your problems in life
and... until you deal with them...they will go where you go-creating problems where you go.  Take responsibility for yourself and deal with these issues that have been messing up your life...stop blaming people and situations for where you are in life.  Let Jesus help you, so you can live the fruitful life He promises.  I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything & equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency] Phil 4:13.  Don't waste another good day-take responsibility for yourself...receive the guaranteed help available to you to make the necessary changes in your life friend-blessings!

8/2/12-LMM

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 about you.  Know His plans are good for you. Our God is before all things and holds all things together so...there's no storm too big for Him, no quake that can swallow Him, no fire that can burn Him, no water that can overtake Him...nor you...because He will take hold of your right hand & 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. (Jn 8:31-32, Col 1:17, Jer 29:11, Isa 41:13) LMM #christianinsightforlife #truth #freedom #trust www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife