Anticipate good things from God...

I choose to go through life always anticipating good things from my Father God...I will not settle & lower my expectations during difficult seasons. My love for Him doesn't 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 isn't something we feel...love is something we do. I serve a loving Father-I don't have to understand all of His ways...to choose to believe all of His ways. I know He loves me & 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 

God looks for people who believe...He can

God looks for people who believe...He can. We are quick to say what we believe...but slow in responding to take action in what we believe. We delay the miracles God wants to carry out through us because we factor in our human ability. God does not ask us to do the impossible...He asks if we believe that He can. (Jn 6:29, Lke 18:27) 10/24/12CIFL-LMM

A conversation with God...

Listen closely, I've got it...you didn't miss anything, I have no barriers to providing for you. My love transcends time, the past, present & future have no limits on Me-I own time. Don't drown yourself in fears or try to figure out conflicts that are beyond you. I see the impossibles you see-but they're only impossible to you...they're not impossible to Me.  Trust Me-the mind of the flesh leads to death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life & peace. Look at this world through My Word; it's a lamp to your feet & a light to your path. My Word can't be separated from Me; to profess to be a Christian but think like the world will mess you up...really it will.

Accept Me, My Word & renew your mind with it-then you will hear My voice. You do know I've ordered every step of yours, right? You were planned by me-I formed you in your mother's womb...don't ever let anyone tell you that you were not planned or that you don't have a purpose. You are purposed by Me; you don't have to feel this to believe it...but as you believe it-you will feel it.

Know this, I've always loved you, but I desire for you to love Me too. I want to spend time with you every day-I know what's going in your world...but it's important to Me for you to tell Me. Even though I never leave you, sometimes you forget this, call out to Me-anytime, anywhere, anyplace-I'll answer. Let My love satisfy you & wipe away your fears...now rest child, I've got everything covered. (Rom 8:6, 12:2, Ps 91:15-16, 119:105, 139:13, James 1:6, Pr 20:24) 2/9/13CIFL-LMM #conversationwithgod #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

No devil in hell can snatch what we believe...

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 & no devil in hell can ever snatch it from us! (1 Cor 16:13) 10/31/13 CIFL-LMM #burdens #life #Godisforyou #ChristianInsightForLife www.facebook.com/ChristianInsightForLife

A road trip with Jesus...

A road trip with Jesus...I had no idea it would go this long-Jesus never gave me a timeline & I didn't start out with one; I just thought I would be back to my regular routine by now. Jesus has taught me so much on this trip, for starters, He's funny-you know He gave us laughter & the concept of humor-we're made to laugh a lot. He's shown me how to enjoy the ride while on the way to where I'm going. I've always been list maker & get it done kind of girl, but this road trip has taught me how to make time for the scenery & relationships along the way verses just getting to my destination. I've most cherished the intimate heart to heart talks-Jesus will sit up all night talking & listening. Every day He wants to know what I see then He will tell me what He sees. We've spent time talking about real humility-my complete reliance on His strength. For me to accomplish anything or overcome things, I must receive His love-it's big enough to take on my regrets, mistakes, hurts, fears & give me the strength to forgive myself for the despicable things I've done, as well as forgive others for the wrongs they've done to me, but I have to let go & hand them to Him. He asks that I agree with His truth...apart from Him I can do nothing, but with Him I can do all things He calls me to do. He's not impressed with my superhero behavior attempts-His power is perfected in my weakness; not when I try to do things that are impossible without Him. I've learned about the power & boldness of the Holy Spirit. It's the only way to have the guts & courage to do what God asks-we just don't have that kind of boldness on our own. Every time I get to the point of thinking I can't take another unknown day, Jesus wows me to speechlessness with His love. He fills me with an undeniable sense of hope that can only come from Him which washes away the discouragement & doubt that entrapped me. He shows me a glimpse of the future & reminds me that He purposed me long ago to do the good works He planned-that He will complete what He started in me! How's your road trip with Jesus going? (Ps 126:2, Jn 15:5, 2 Cor 12:9, Phil 4:13, Eph 2:10, Phil 1:6) 10/30/13LMM #CIFL #roadtripwithjesus

Agreeing, believing & doing life-God's way...

Agreeing, believing & doing life God's way leads to victory. God created you because He loved you, but you're also to carry out the works He planned & purposed for you long ago. Your salvation gets you to Heaven, but before you go...you've got a job to do. God's instilled you with specific strengths & qualities to glorify Him-to make a difference in this world. Do you know your strengths & qualities? If you do, are you using them as God has instructed you? If not, you will end up just working harder & not gaining ground-this will lead to fatigue, frustration & failure. There's a way that appears to be right in the mind...but in the end leads to death. Ask God to search your heart & reveal to you if there's anything offensive in it-this is a daily process. Often it's the three ugly cousins that keep people from walking out God's plans-their names are...doubt, pride & arrogance. They're no match for God, but you must be honest & call them out to let God help you with them. If not- they will steal the destiny God's promised you. God will bring to completion what He started in you, if you will agree, believe & do His plans. God's grace is available 24/7 as long as you humbly receive it. His grace covers everything...all that you are not & everything you need to carry out what He's asked of you. All God asks is that you trust Him with all your heart & say, "yes Lord," He does the rest-supplying  everything you need. Save yourself a life of frustration, fatigue & failure...seek God first-nothing else matters until you do. Know the Word so you can stand firm when the enemy begins to whisper lies that you don't have what it takes. If you're not renewing your mind daily with the Word...the enemy will make a mess of your mind! Are you ready to stop working harder to gain ground & begin to completely trust God with the life He planned for you-using the strengths & qualities He instilled in you? I pray you won't try to do life your way one more day...it never works. (Eph 2:10, Pr 16:25, Ps 139:23-24, Phil 1:6, Rom 12:2, Mt 6:33) 10/29/13CIFL-LMM

All God's people are called to the race...

All God's people are called to the race...not all stay in it. There are many reasons God's people don't finish what He calls them to, but the reason I hear most is the rejection of God's grace. God's grace is our fuel to run daily-without it we're left to move forward in our intellect & stamina. Regardless of how smart & strong a person may believe they are-they have limits...God has none. We need His grace daily-it gives us the ability to go beyond our own ability. We can't run the race without His grace. That settles it for me- what about you? To agree with this truth is step one-step two is being purposed in renewing your mind daily with it, step three is putting it into action. A mind not renewed daily with God's truth will not experience the victory He promises. Don't let your own reasoning remove you from the race God's called you to. Jesus has gone before you & laid out the course-every step has been ordered; however, this doesn't exempt you from disappointment, falls or injuries. You will have many troubles & God will deliver you from each one. His love gives the race a purpose...His grace gives you the strength to run it with joy. Let's be real: the race is grueling. You will be exhausted many days & might consider giving up at times; maybe you already have. None of us are exempt from exhaustion-it's a sign to rest & be restored-it doesn't mean you're weak. Don't try to be a superhero-God's not impressed when you try to move forward in your strength. The enemy wants you to believe you don't have what it takes... he's a liar! God made you for the race-you have what you need to win. Focus on your run & don't compare yourself to others-God only wants to talk to you about your personal progress. Persevere & move through the obstacles of hurt, rejection, lies, grief, fear, unfairness, loneliness, ridicule, sadness, fatigue, disappointment, offenses & unknowns. Each one makes you rely on Jesus more-His power is made perfect in your weaknesses; independent of Him, you won't make it. When what you see doesn't line up with what you expected-don't drop out of the race...be confident, the good work God, He will complete. The race isn't over until you go to Heaven-if you're breathing, you're expected to run. Do life with other Christians who will be honest with you-real friends will challenge where you are in the race, not to judge you, but to hold you accountable. God purposed you for this race, you're approved, don't let anyone tell you differently. You're equipped, Jesus lives in you-enough said! You are God's people, He planned this race long ago for you-it's won! The question is...will you run in it? (2 Cor 12:9, Gal 6:4, Ps 34:19, Pr 14:12, Phil 1:6, Eph 2:10) 10/28/13CIFL-LMM

Acknowledge the reality...but rely on God's hope.

As Christians we're to acknowledge the reality of worldly operations & systems but rely on God's hope for the outcomes. The success of worldly operations & systems is measured & determined by assessments that are created in man's wisdom. What a relief to know although we adhere to the systems & operations, our livelihood isn't dependent upon the outcome...we're dependent upon God's hope & His hope never disappoints!

When you're assessing the reality of current interest rates or stock portfolios, financial forecasts or career projections, induced psychosis or genetic predisposition, personality traits or resiliency skills, obsessive or aggressive behavior, ability & inability, educated or uneducated, experienced verses inexperienced, bank approved or high risk, knowing the right people, sometimes, maybe or if we're lucky...remember, not one of them determine our hope-God does! 

Our hope is found in Who we know, what He does & what we believe about Him. We can be sure of what we hope for, certain of what we don't see & confident that God loves accepts & approves us. We don't have to prove our worth…Jesus did when He died on the cross for us! We know we were purposed long ago to do good works despite  because God says so. Our God reigns over what we see & don't see & He holds it all together in His mighty hands. We're not bound by the the factors & stipulations of this world-we're bound to God & He loves us dearly-He will never leave us! 

Look at life through God's eyes-put your hope in Him, not what the world says. Take a deep breath & rest in Him-God's got it! The question is...will you let Him have it! (Heb 6:19, 2 Cor 5:7, Heb 11:1, Col 1:16-17, Eph 2:10) 10/27/13CIFL-LMM #godlovesyou #christianinsighforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

Begging God or believing God...

Begging God or believing God...why do God fearing, Jesus loving & Spirit filled Christians ignore unresolved issues? The obvious reason is denial, but why? Many address issues at the onset, but when attempts fail, they feel hopeless so they get busy & hope things will resolve on their own. They seek relief in busy schedules, deadlines & anything else that can pull them away from the frustration & hopelessness that gnaws on the inside them. They know nothing is too hard for God-so what's the problem? Many say they've begged God for help & nothing changes. I understand this because I've been there & still go there at times. I've also listened to clients tell me the same thing for 30 years. I'll tell you the revelation God put on my heart regarding me. He said I needed to stop begging Him & start believing Him-that I believed He could & would turn impossibles around, but I didn't believe He would help me each time I prayed. So I prayed like a gambler pulling the arm of a slot machine….pleasssse Jessssus let this be my lucky one! I vacillated between believing I somehow messed up too much & wasn't eligible for more than the Basic Christian Plan with no extras or that I had misunderstood the promises of God & expected too much. So I resorted to begging prayers-believing the more I begged, the more likely God would help me. I wasn't ever completely confident in the provisions of God because I didn't believe I completely deserved to be helped-this left me with an uneasiness that I really tried to overcome, but of course couldn't. It's dangerous to add our reasoning to God's truth…we lose every time-there's a way that seems right, but its end is a way that leads to death. My thinking skewed my ability to receive the supernatural help God makes available to every Christian...it's called grace. We can't earn it & only God can give it. Grace is available to all who believe in Him-God pours His strength through us to deal with otherwise impossible situations while He intervenes on our behalf. You can be saved, but until you appropriate God's grace, you're left with your natural ability-it's not enough. You're won't live the freedom God promises or walk in victory He makes available. Until I received the revelation of God's grace I was under the strain of the impossibles I faced & I allowed them to steal my hope- because I knew I couldn't overcome what I faced. I had to appropriate God's grace, once I embraced God's truth...it set me free-where the Spirit of The Lord is, there is freedom. God's promises are full of power, but are only powerful to those who believe in Him. Instead of hiding in busy routines to avoid impossibles, will you run to God? His grace will meet you at the end of your natural ability & go to work on your behalf-He will calm your fears & give you direction & fill you up with wisdom. Don't beg God…believe Him. (Jn 8:32, 2 Tim 2:1, Jn 6:29, Pr 14:12, 2 Cor 12:9, 2 Cor 3:17) 10/26/13CIFL-LMM

Is anything too hard for God?

Is anything too hard for God? Keep this question in front of you all day as you face hard situations. If it's not too hard for God...it's not too hard for you. He lives in you & He will strengthen you to overcome what you're facing...He's made you for hard! (Isa41:10, Gen18:14)10/24/13 CIFLl-LMM

Confident expectation...in Him

What are your expectations ? What you expect...is what you will find. Expectations are what you believe. Every day you have expectations-anticipating what you will find, based on what you believe. Many believe circumstances dictate what they can expect- this is a worldly lie. As a Christian, your expectations are in Christ-being sure of what you hope for & certain of what you do not see. Fear screams, "what you see is what you can expect." No matter what you're facing...a broken relationship, financial ruin, betrayal of a loved one, death, war, diseased body, depraved mind...you can expect God's mighty to save & He will quiet you with His love. God reigns over the seen & unseen-He holds it all together. Lift your head, have a confident expectation because Jesus lives in you. Your expectations determine your livelihood, not the circumstances you experience. Life is full of  cruel & unfair experiences, but you can have a confident expectation, despite this reality because Christ reigns over all this world-His truth trumps the reality of what you see. Your expectations rely on Jesus-He has overcome this world, expect Him to make a way for you. Daily, you can rely on joy of the Lord being your strength & Jesus filling you with His joy. You're limited in what you see-things are impossible for you-this is a reality, but not for God-remember His truth trumps all reality! God will work out the impossibles you're facing...if you keep your eyes on Him-He's your confident expectation every day! (Heb 11:1, Zeph 3:17, Col 1:17, 2 Cor 5:7, John 16:33, Neh 8:10, Jn 15:11, Luke 18:27) 10/26/13CIFL-LMM

Waiting on God is...hard!

Waiting on God is hard...but it's the only way for us to be developed & determine our readiness for the next season God wants to take us into. So...how's your waiting coming along? Merely waiting for time to pass so you can put another day behind you doesn't qualify as waiting on God-that's just wasting time. Waiting on God is a time of spiritual endurance-testing what you profess to believe, purging your pride & eradicating the false confidence you've acquired. Waiting on God is about you knowing-apart from Him you can do nothing. It's what you do while in a season of little that determines what you will do when in a season with more. Faith sees what the mind can't comprehend-believing God's promises despite the evidence in our hands. What we see doesn't determine our destiny...it's what we believe. Waiting on God is a time to grow stronger-He will renew your strength & you will soar high on wings like eagles, run & not grow weary, walk & not faint. If God says it, He means it-He doesn't lie. If you're doing all you're suppose to be doing, you can wait with confidence. If in doubt, ask God, He gives wisdom generously. Don't let pity take you down-there's nothing pathetic about you...you're a child of God! This doesn't make the wait any less painful, but it does promise Jesus will never leave you & He will lead you through it. Keep your mind renewed with the Word-reach out & help others...it always takes the mind off of self. You're don't have to know how He will make things work...to believe He will make things work. God provides exceedingly more than we dare imagine, delivers us from every trouble & will never leave us, but none of us are exempt from the trials & troubles of this life. Make your wait count so you will be ready to go when God's ready to take you into the next season. So…how is your waiting coming along? (Isa 40:29-31, Rom 8:35, James 1:2-5, Isa 30:21, Eph 3:20, Num 23:19, Ps 34:19) 1/7/14CIFL/LMM

Jesus...He loves you-will you let Him show you?

Adversity...going through it takes you to an uncertain, unfamiliar, and uncomfortable place. A place where your pride is purged, false confidence eradicated & beliefs challenged...a time of holy revelation-knowing the love of Jesus. His love is for you & in you-unwavering, unmovable & unstoppable; you know deep in your spirit that you belong to Him. It's a beautiful, risky & 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 & give hope & life to a situation that is 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) 11/25/12CIFl-LMM

Life is hard, but God won't give up on you...

Life is hard & it will keep on coming at you until Jesus returns. Until then-hard doesn't disqualify you from walking out the purpose God's called you to. God promises to be with you during hard times; His strength begins where yours end-every time. God's not a quitter & He won't quit on you...don't quit on Him-nothing is too hard for Him. The good work He started in you-He will bring to completion. Don't opt out on God's purpose for your life because you can't see the end, or go through the motions of outward compliance & talk Christianese to try to look right. Jesus died to give you an abundant life…to have joy despite the hard you go through. Seek the Holy Spirit- ask what's interfering with God's promises to you. When you get real with Jesus…He will get real with you. You may feel you've messed up to much, wasted too much time or just not significant enough to be used by God-these are your feelings & they are real... but they are not truth. God chose you-He loved you first, He purposed every good work you would do long ago. Ask Jesus to help you to not doubt & disobey Him…He gives wisdom & sufficiency to all  who call on Him. God wants you to obey Him so you can succeed in what He purposed you to do-He's for you, not against you! You have everything you need to obey & do what He's called you to…Jesus lives in you, the Holy Spirit guides you & God's planned every second of your life. The only way you won't fulfill what your purposed to do is if you opt out & do life your way. God even gives you the desire & power to obey Him if you ask. One more thing-you're exhausted because you try to resolve impossible situations with human wisdom. Put your faith in God's power not man's wisdom. You sabotage your spiritual well being when you measure time in relationship to God's answer-delay doesn't mean denial. If you're still breathing-God's still at work on what you're praying about. Keep going on days when you don't see, hear or feel any different; your senses help you navigate in this world, but they don't validate God's truth...that's your spirit's job. Breathe in, breathe out, get some rest, think on what's pure, lovely & right & spend time with those who will speak truth to you. God won't give up on you, don't give up on Him-He will stay with you during hard... He wants to know if you will stay with Him? (Isa 41:10, 2 Cor 12:9, Gen , Phil 1:6, 2 Cor 5:7, Eph 2:10, Phil 2:13, Rom 8:31) 10/23/13CIFL-LMM

God seeks to define people for a job...

God put this on my heart clearly. People seek to be defined by a job...but God seeks to define people for a job. "For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship)...[taking paths which He prepared ahead of time] that we should walk in them...(Eph2:10). He has good plans (Jer29:11). Many Christians miss their calling to be defined because they're busy doing good things for God...but not being still with God to hear Him give direction (Ps 46:10). We are not called to respond to every request. If you're caught in this trap you will respond to a valid need... then resent the additional load or feel inadequate & wonder why you can't get everything done. Get with God, He wants you to know the paths He's prepared for you-His good plans. Ask God to search your heart for direction-He will answer you (Ps 139:23-24). Talk this over with wise godly counsel. We miss it at times, but we can confidently expect our Father to reveal His plan & redirect us. Be still...& let God define you.  3/21/12CIFL-LMM

Love one another..

If you love Jesus like you say you do…do people say they see His joy in you? Abide in the love of Jesus…that His joy may be in you & that your joy may be full. Love one another just as Jesus has loved you! (Jn 15:10-12)   10/22/12CIFL-LMM 

Blame keeps the harm done to you...alive in your heart

Blame keeps the harm done to you alive in your heart. Holding onto blame is a self imposed sentence into captivity & bondage-you opt out of the freedom Jesus offers you by holding onto to the harm done to you. Blame is powerful because it focuses on the reality of the wrong done to you, but blame doesn't fully disclose the rest of the reality...you can't restore the wrong done to you. Only Jesus can give back to you what was stolen, lost, given away or never given in the first place. His love is mighty to save-He comes in the heart & takes the wrongs done & then pours His love into each wounded, rejected & broken part of your heart. 

Maybe you were sexually violated, a parent withheld love, kids bullied you in school, an accident left you permanently injured, false accusations led to a job loss, you were set up in a business deal & lost your life savings, your secret was told by someone you trusted or your father left your family to raise another one. Blame's powerful because it focuses on the reality of what happened-you can't undo the harm done to you. But you must cling to the truth...Jesus can & will if you will release the harm to Him. If you don't...you will lose hope & your mind. Jesus has no barriers, He's unstoppable, His Word won't return void. Your hurt is valid-blame's evidence is solid & it recalls the events with accuracy, but blame has no case against...the power of Jesus Christ! He heals broken hearts & saves those crushed in spirit-He will give you beauty in place of the ashes you've carried, His hope holds on for you when you can't. 

The realities of this life will cause many heartaches & hardships- God promises to bring you through each one. When you can't see a way, take comfort in Him-He's making a way... His Word is a lamp to your feet & a light to your path. Acknowledge the reality of what you went through, the hurt & pain-then stand on the truth of God's Word. Let go of the blame & forgive those who caused you harm. This doesn't dismiss what they did...it just releases you from carrying the harm any longer. Don't let blame keep the harm alive in your heart one more day...what was done to you doesn't determine your destiny-God does & He will make a way if you will seek Him. Seek the Lord-He will answer & deliver you from all your fears...those who look to Him are radiant...their faces are never covered with shame. Your hurt is real-Jesus knows this. Will you let Him in your heart & give Him all the harm you've been carrying? He promises to heal you...then you can move on with your life & fulfill the destiny He's called you to! (Heb 12:2, Ps 34:18, Heb 6:19, Isa 61:1-3, Jn 8:32, Ps 115:109, Ps 34:4-5, Rev 3:20) 10/21/13LMM #christianinsightforlife

God's love lets me scale a wall...

God lights my lamp & turns my darkness into light-in His strength I can crush an army & scale any wall; He's my shield, I take refuge in Him. He will be yours too...will you let Him? (Ps 18:28-30) 10/21/13CIFL-LMM

God's for you...not against you!

God's always willing to tell you the truth...if you're willing to receive it. He gives wisdom generously & won't criticize you while doing it. God wants you to succeed-He's forever waiting to help you. He will give you the desire & power to walk out what He asks of you. Don't underestimate what God will do through you because you feel He can't use you…your feelings create a skewed view of you. Feelings see through your finite ability-which is limited. Instead focus on God's ability which has no limits. God will flow His ability through you if you will believe in Him. Doing so allows you to shift your focus from you to Him. This is freeing because it takes the burden to produce off of you while giving you the confidence to move forward because you know it's God's ability that's at work in you & not you. God is for you-not against you! He will bring to completion the good work He started in you...if you are willing-are you? (James 1:5, Phil 2:13, Rom 8:31, Phil 1:6) 9/22/13CIFL-LMM

Strength in Christ's Sufficiency...

I can't determine in advance what I will come up against in life, but I can determine in advance how I will respond to it. 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! (Php 4:13) 5/5/12CIFL-LMM

God has not forgotten you...

God has not forgotten you-He's making a way...you just can't see it yet. God's hope will anchor & hold on for you when your strength is gone-you don't have to figure it out...just believe He has. When despair rushes you in the middle of the night-waking you from sleep & starts pounding your mind with thoughts...you're running out of time, if you don't help they won't make it, you have to stop this, you're just trying to look important, the promotion isn't going to happen, 401K is almost gone, nobody is returning your calls, what if...?

Despair's motive is steal your hope until you give up-know this, so you're prepared for the assaults on your mind. Counter each assault with God's truth-you can't resolve these things, but God can. Apart from Him you can do nothing...that means nothing-grasp this so you can rely on God for your answer! God doesn't need your help to make things happen...He needs your trust so He can work through you. Ditch your plans & ideas for His-have faith in Him constantly. God gives life, we completely rely on Him for every breath-we only do what He enables us to do with His strength flowing through us. Anything that exists does so because God's allowed it-He changes times, seasons, removes kings & sets up kings, gives wisdom to the wise & knowledge to the discerning, reveals deep hidden things, rules over everything seen & unseen-He won't let your enemies overcome you...He's the only authority.

God's not forgotten you-He's making a way! Today, will you release all these things that you can't handle & just believe in Him…you don't have to know how God will handle things to believe He will. Do you beleive? (Num 23:19, Heb 6:19, Jn 15:5, Dan 2:21-22, Deut 28:7, Rom 13:1, Jn 6:29) 10/14/13CIFL-LMM #believe #godhasnotforgottenyou www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

Character-only grows in places you don't want to be...

When you're in a place you don't want to be...ask God what He wants you to learn while you're there. It's the place you don't want to be that prepares you for the place God needs you to be. The places you don't want to be grow character...cooperate with God & grow yours so He can move you forward! (James 1:2-5) 10/14/13CIFL-LMM

Keeping hope when we can't see a way...

It's when we can't see a way that we must choose to believe He will make a way...or despair will rob us of our hope (Heb 6:19).

Keep moving...recalling what Jesus whispered to your heart

Keep moving...recalling what Jesus whispered to your heart. This journey is to equip you...not discourage you. Doubt mocks your efforts; calling out your mistakes from the past. Questioning your understanding-did you hear correctly, do you have what it takes? Remember, doubt wants you to give up before you get there...then tell you that you are a failure for not going. Listen to the Holy Spirit guide you and allow the love of Jesus to fuel your determination. Don't give up-distractions will attempt to drown you...it's because you're so close! Keep moving-you're carrying out God's mission; your due season is close. Learn from mistakes...but don't let them paralyze and stop you from pursuing what God's calling you to do. You've got what it takes. Keep moving recalling what Jesus whispered to your heart. (Jer 29:11, Gal 6:9-10, Isa 30:21) 12/11/12CIFL-LMM

When you know better...you do better!

When you know better...you do better-don't look back...you will trip. Forget the former & reach forward to what lies ahead...press on toward the goal for the prize Jesus calls you to. Don't allow what you did when you didn't know better to steal what you can do...now that you know better. God knows your heart. Apostle Paul assisted in killing saints before he gave his life to Christ. Repent with a sincere heart-then let God use your past for his glory. Don't look back...you will trip! Blessings friend! 10/12/13CiFL-LMM

Every end...leads to a beginning

Every end leads to a beginning. A chapter must be closed before the new one can be opened. Don't be deceived-what looks like death...is the beginning of a new life. When Jesus went to the cross all looked lost; His loved ones were broken and felt all their preparations were for nothing-Jesus was gone and they were at the end of the road. Then they found the empty tomb-their end was a new beginning! Endurance, perseverance and confident expectation are required to move into the next chapter of your life-don't be deceived...every end leads to a beginning, a closed door leads to an open door, an old season leaves for a new one to arrive. Lift your head, continue to move forward-God has a good plan...the tomb is empty! (John 20:1-18, Jer 29:11)
4/13/12CIFL-LMM

Parenting-Jesus, test scores & destinies...

Parenting-Jesus, test scores & destinies...teach your children to call on the name of Jesus & know the power in His name. Be honest with your kids, believing in Jesus doesn't mean they won't have problems-explain people who don't follow Jesus may look like their life is better, but Jesus will always come through for those who believe in Him. The greatest gifts you can ever give your children is to know the love of Jesus-that He's mighty to save. Then model a life committed to Him-let them know you've been given the honor to parent them...but they belong to God. Ask God for guidance in parenting then put your confidence in Him-not man's wisdom. God loved your child first-He has good plans that He purposed long ago. Don't allow test scores or expert opinions to set the bar for what your child can accomplish. Test scores & diagnoses give guidelines-they don't determine destinies...God does. God's promises cover all who believe in Him-He's got your child covered. You stand in the gap & believe for them until the revelation comes on them from God. If your child looks different, seems to go to the beat of a different drum, reacts different than other children, seems more difficult to manage...don't fret-God made them & He knows how He will navigate them in this world. God also makes up for your mistakes-His sufficiency meets you when you're at your wits end. God in His goodness & grace also makes up for when you didn't know better. When you know better...you do better-don't look back...you will trip. Your part is to seek Christ & expect Him to make a way-then you move forward expecting a way. Remember, the burden to know what's best for your child isn't on you; your child is God's child first-He will guide you along the best path...if you seek & trust Him. Don't try to fit your child into the world's categories of success-this will hinder God's unique design for them & you will certainly feel like a failure as a parent. Keep balanced by keeping your eyes on Jesus & making His Word a lamp to your feet & a light to your path. The enemy will whisper discouragement to you, especially if you watch other children & compare them to your child. If you listen to the enemy's lies you will end up eating bags of cookies over the course of your lifetim, feel sorry for yourself & your child, then go down an ugly path of self loathing...don't go there!!! We've all been there, but we don't want to stay there! Don't open the door when discouragement knocks! God doesn't ever give us a task that He doesn't equip us to handle. Let your child see you seek the Lord for guidance, witness you praying & petitioning on their behalf, see you standing firm & not wavering, hear you confessing His truth & state you believe He's making a way even when you don't see one-let your child know you don't have all the answers ...but God does. You can't control how life happens to your child, but you can control how you prepare them...for when life happens to them. Parenting, Jesus, test scores & destinies-teach your child to call on the name of Jesus...He is mighty to save! (Ps 32:8, Zep 3:17, 1 Cor 2:5, 2 Cor 5:7, 2 Cor 12:9, Jn 6:29, Ps 119:105) 10/12/13CIFL-LMM

s mighty to save! (Zep 3:17, 1 Cor 2:5,  2 Cor 5:7,  2 Cor 12:9, Jn 6:29, Ps 119:105) 10/12/13CIFL-LMM

When you're falsely accused...

When you're falsely accused...how you respond determines how long you stay under the accusation. The natural response is to let the world know...you were falsely accused! But when you're falsely accused by another Christian, it's the worse kind of hurt, because they're suppose to be on your team. But for your sake, seek Christ first-you don't want to give the enemy a foothold in your thoughts. Jesus will comfort & reassure you that He's got things covered-He knows all about false accusations. I don't know about you, but I've responded with an indignant attitude when I've been falsely accused, especially when it was another Christian. But God...quickly reminded me of my ignorance & prejudice in how I've treated others in years past. Yikes...His conviction quickly redirected my indignant attitude to a repentant heart seeking forgiveness for trying to be the judge & jury.

I released my offense to the hands of Jesus & trusted God would direct my path & He did. If I would've taken matters into my hands, I would've missed out on God's many blessings.  Things didn't move as quickly as I would've liked, but certainly I would've stayed under the accusation if I had tried to resolve the wrongs done to me.  I'm more familiar with this area than I've ever wanted to be, but I also know with confidence that my Father brought good out of the wrongs done to me. My faith deepened, my grace increased & I watched God do what only God can do in impossible situations-turning it around for His glory!

Jesus models this for us in the gospels, He constantly dealt with accusations from His family, hometown & religious leaders during His ministry & He consistently sought His Father for direction & comfort. Jesus didn't take matters into His hands, but He did consistently stand on the Word, state the truth of Who He was & Who He belonged to & then trusted His Father to vindicate Him. Jesus prayed for direction & compassion, then moved forward with His Father's agenda.

Don't allow offenses in life to steal the destiny that God's planned for you. Handing offenses to Jesus doesn't dismiss the harm that was done to you, but it does keep you from carrying the harm in your heart. God will deal with those who caused harm to you. Your job is to continue to move forward with the purpose He placed in you long ago. How you respond to false accusation determines how long you stay under them.  Isn't it great news that you don't have to figure out how to correct the wrongs done to you… that God will do it for you!  (Heb 10:23, Pr 29:25, Eph 2:10) 10/11/13CIFL-LMM #letgoofoffenses #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

Leaving the Christian Comfort Zone...

Leaving the Christian Comfort Zone...to experience God's best for your life. Every person in scripture who experienced God's best had to step out of their comfort zone & into the unknown. This required them to release all their familiar, comfortable & predictable for the life of "un" which is unfamiliar, uncomfortable & unknown. This is the only way God can take us through the crash course of "trusting Him." It's only when we've been stripped down from everything we cling to-so that we can only cling to Him...and finally know Him & be known by Him. Then we can trust Him to lead us where we've never been before. Are you be willing to experience God's best for you? (Pr 3:5-6, Phil 3:10, Josh 3:4) 9/29/13CIFL-LMM

This world is full of crazy...

This world is full of crazy...but you're full of Jesus- He's over every ruler & authority! (Col 2:10) 10/10/13CIFL-LMM

Jesus has moved past your past...why haven't you?

Jesus has moved past your past...why haven't you? Do you think you can add to what He's already done for you on the cross? What do you hope to gain by holding on to what... Jesus has done away with? Really take this to heart, Jesus took it all-past, present, & future...it's done! You will not be able to comprehend this truth in your mind alone...ask the Holy Spirit for revelation. Faith, hope & love-the greatest of these is love. Let Jesus love you into completeness. You will not feel your way into believing you are complete-it's God truth you agree with & the Holy Spirit will enlighten your mind to believe it. Receive the truth so you can get past your past-Jesus has & so can you. Your contribution to the body of believers is needed & valued-now let's get going! Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom (1Cor13:13, Col 2:10, Phil 2:13, 2 Cor3:17). 7/19/12CIFL-LMM

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! Your mind can't wrap around what Jesus is able to do in you-He's ready & 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

Difficutl seasons...

Difficult seasons come & go in life-but your joy isn't determined by seasons that change...your joy is determined by Jesus, Who never changes. His joy is your balance & He completes you! (Jn 15:11) 10/8/13CIFL-LMM

Having hope during despair...

Most despair in life is a result of not seeing a human solution to trials; you feel trapped because...you are. But thanks be to God, you can run to Him-His hope brings relief during the reality of despair. This isn't a "cross your fingers" kind of worldly hope or just hope you can "hold on" hope. It's God's hope & it's full of power...it raised Jesus from the dead & it can pull you out from under the despair you're facing! Receive God's hope-He will open the eyes of your heart so you can see; His power is available to all those who believe in Him...do you believe? (Eph 1:18-20) 10/7/13CIFL-LMM #hope #despair #humansolutions #christianinsightforlife

Be vulnerable...it leads to the authentic you!

Vulnerability leads to authenticity...but it involves you taking the risk to let others see who you are-mistakes, desires, fears, dreams, struggles-exposing the hidden parts of your soul. It's a scary, heart pounding, battle of your mind & spirit; you know once the words are spoken they can't be retrieved. It's when you bring what you hid in the dark into the light-the very same words that have bound you in shame...are now the very same words that will set you free!

What you keep in the dark keeps you in darkness-it must be brought in the light to lose its power! It's the things you've held onto out of fear-the enemy convinced you that if you exposed these things you will cause harm to yourself & others...don't take the enemy's bait-it's self imposed emotional blackmail. This cheats you & those you love out of knowing & accepting all of you-you only present what you believe they will accept; you know you're not being authentic but fear convinces you others will either lose respect for you or won't be able to deal with what you did. So you only share parts of you but feel like a fake-forever thinking, if they find out who I really am they will reject me. Listen closely, if you're saved-you're free...where the Spirit of the Lord is-there is freedom! God has accepted & approved every part of you-your wrongs have been worked into God's plans; He will bring to completion the good work He started in you until the day Jesus Christ returns! God also helps each person work through grief & heartaches to include those you love; He will help them deal with whatever you need to tell them. God wants to encourage & soothe you with His love-giving you hope & a future!

Renew your mind with His promises-His truth stomps out the lies of the enemy. God's love doesn't increase or decrease according to your obedience, He doesn't get angry & take His love back, He doesn't grow tired of you...no, no, no! He loves all of you all of the time, until...for all of forever-because His Spirit has sealed you! God accepts & approves you; His approval pushes you through & catapults you over the things that you try to hold you back from Him using all of you for His glory! His approval gives you the guts to be vulnerable so you can be the authentic you He created you to be be you...will you let God fulfill His purpose through you? (2 Cor 3:17, Col 2:10, Eph 1:13, 2:10, Phil 1:6, Zeph 3:17) 10/7/13CIFL-LMM #gutstobeyou #authenticity #christianinsightforlife www.facebook.com/christianinsightforlife

Plan your life until your eyes cross...

You can plan your life until your eyes cross & mind bursts into a million pieces, implement cutting edge technology & converse with top consultants in the field, but you're wasting time...unless you seek Christ first. God has good plans, to prosper & not harm you-giving you a hope & a future; these plans are woven into every aspect of your life. God's taken care of everything...nothing escapes Him. He can go back in time or forward; He makes the end known from the beginning-you have no worries with Him. He whispers to you all day long...seek Him first so you can hear Him. He will give you what you don't have, get you where you need to be & tell you what you don't know-exercise this incredible privilege every day. God offers this to each person who believes in Him-don't put your faith in human wisdom...put it in God's power! Many ways seem right to the human mind, but all eventually lead to destruction. Submit your mind to the Holy Spirit for direction, renew your mind with the Word daily to reinforce God's truth. If you don't, you will do what seems logical & wise in your mind, but because you don't have the capacity to see in the future-you will make decisions based on logic & equations. Since God created the world & you-He knows what you need to do in this world that He reigns over. Rest in Him, don't pass on your privilege of His provisions & protection. He summoned you by name-you're purposed by Him to make a difference. You must stand firm on this truth because there will be days where it doesn't look like truth. On these days the enemy will whisper that you missed it, you misunderstood or you're just too much of a mess to be used by God...he's a liar-pants on fire!!! What you see doesn't determine your destiny; God's mapped it out & Jesus will lead you on the path-your part is to follow even when you don't understand or can't see a way. No person or circumstance, talent or gifting, family or geographic location, who or what you know, prosperous or slow economy, low or high interest rates, open or closed seasons, era or time frame, ivy league school or public university, degree or training, intellectual ability or mental disability, connections or lack of-not one of these things stand in the way of God carrying out what He's planned for you....other than you. You have the power to determine if you will follow God's plans or yours. You decide if you will agree with His truth & the good plans He has for you by believing Him. It's up to you-you have the freedom to live life your way, but then you're responsible to handle things by yourself. Living life God's way gives you His protection. God planned every second before one had passed; He made provisions for when His plans were undermined-so for every wrong or poor choice made, God's included a plan that's turned around for His glory for those who love Him. Don't cross your eyes or burst your mind into a million pieces one more day...God's got it all worked out for you. Will you seek Him first & follow His lead? (Jer 29:11, Mt 6:33, 1 Cor 2:5, Pr 14:12, Jn 6:29, Ps 139:16, Rom 8:29) 10/5/2013CIFL-LMM

Lay down who you think you should be...

When we lay down who we think we should be...we make room to become who God says we can be-His masterpiece...to do the good works He planned long ago (Eph 2:10). CIFL-LMM

A grudge against God...

Many people have a grudge against God-they believe He didn't show up for them when they were being treated wrong or that He took away a loved one. There are other reasons, but the 30 years I've listened to people tell me their hurts these are the main two. First, let me tell you I'm so sorry for what you didn't get as a child, that another person violated and treated you wrong or that you lost a loved one-I know your hurt because I've been there. I also know how I overcame with the love of Jesus and you can too. If you're interested, the first thing is to address the grudge you have with God. Be honest with Him...He can handle your feelings. He's the only One Who can get you to the other side of your pain and put it in your past so you can move on with your life. Many will make promises; they all will fail you-miserably. You can fight against God your entire life...you will have as much success beating your fists against a brick wall. Holding onto this grudge gives you a false sense of control. Over the years people have told me that they will never forgive God. God didn't make bad things happen to you, but you forgiving the grudge you have against Him is your first step to freedom from the burden you've been carrying. Forgiving is not dismissing the pain...it's choosing not to carry the pain. Let Jesus have your pain; put it into His hands- He will take it and give you His love in exchange. You can't deal with this burden through your strength and you don't have to, but you must choose to release it...or you will continue to. This post is a very general discussion about being mad at God, but I hope it prompts you to seek Him-to be real with Him and He will be real with you. He will answer you, but you have to be willing to listen. I sought the Lord and He answered me, He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant, their faces are never covered with shame (Ps 34:4-5). May you receive the peace that Jesus died to give you and no longer walk in hurt-choose to live the abundant life Jesus died to give you (Jn 16:33, Jn 10:10). I pray you will take on the new identity in Christ that He offers you-being His masterpiece and to do the good things He planned long ago (Eph 2:10). Let go of your grudge-seek Him and all you need will be given to you (Mt 16:33). God is mighty to save...will you let Him save you? 8/5/13CIFL-LMM   

Finding relief from the burdens of life...

Relief doesn't come when burdens go away-relief comes when perspective changes. Do you seek relief in God's power... or man's wisdom? What's your perspective? (1 Cor 12:5) 10/4/13CIFL-LMM

Trials, troubles & tribulations...

Trials, troubles & tribulations...stand between God's promises & you-don't let this deter you because Jesus lives in you. Yes, life is hard, but hard doesn't go away until Jesus returns. Until then...hard doesn't disqualify you either-God says He will strengthen & harden you to difficulties. Jesus said to expect trials, troubles & tribulation but not lose heart because He's overcome the world. Following Jesus guarantees many trials & He guarantees He will be with you during each one. You will lose your mind trying to figure out the "whys" in this life, instead stay connected to the "Who" is with you...always until the end of ages! Reasoning convinces you to apply a human solution to an impossible situation-a man's way seem right to him- but in the end leads to death. Only God's provisions can handle the impossible trials-sadly many never experience God's provisions because they allow fear to cheat them out of believing God will come through. Don't allow fear to steal one more day of the future God's promised you. If you desire to follow Jesus-He will give you the desire & empower you to follow Him. He says, apart from Me you can do nothing...that includes believing! Stand firm, hold tight to Jesus & go for it...you won't regret it. God usually doesn't show up until the last second of the 11th hour-that's just how He rolls & that's how you increase your faith in Him! God keeps His promises-let Him show you. Don't set yourself up by having a preconceived idea of "how" God will show up either-you can't figure out how He will provide. Remember, going in the fire doesn't mean that it's over-you're just going through & Jesus will be with you. Troubles don't stop & neither does God's love or His provisions so keep moving-you've got things to do...God purposed you to do the good works He planned long ago! (John 16:33, Isa 41:10, Pr 28:26, Pr 14:12, Jn 15:5, Eph 2:10) 10/1//13CIFL-LMM