Awesome Savior

What an Awesome Saviour. Satan tried to kill him as a child; tried to tempt Him to bow for riches and fame; shut Him up with religious beliefs. But instead God did the impossible; was born of a virgin; blew the mind of the religious know it all at the age of 12; over came temptation; healed the sick and raised the dead; the earth bowed to His every word when He calmed the storms; sinners hung on to every word of life and deliverance. He had all power and was unstoppable. But Jesus the Son of God dropped His hands to take your sin and mess on the cross. Satan said its done He's gone He is dead. But it has just begun. Because death and Hell could not hold Him. Grave where is your power now...you are empty. Jesus is Alive forever more..He Lives He Lives....hallelujah He is Alive.

What a God

To think that the hands of our Creator, who made all things, would humble Him self as a servant. He whose hands formed Adam and mankind. Would yield up His hands on an old rugged cross; to be nailed there by man for our sin; to redeem us from death unto eternal life. Hallelujah, what a God, what a Saviour. Philippians 2:7-10 KJV But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.

My Friend

What kind of friend are you??!! I mean would you take a bullet for me?? Would you give your life for me?? What would you do for me if I ignored you and didn't want anything to do with you?? Yeah, that is what I thought, you wouldn't go out of your way and probably me neither, so don't feel bad. Don't get me wrong, we treat our friends nice; and probably would sacrifice for them and do whatever we could. But, lay your life down...um...and for a complete stranger who don't even like you!? Well that's okay, I have a friend that did lay his life down for me. He was willing to take everything I did wrong and pay my debt; and I just ignored Him. But he loved me any way. Oh, the suffering he went through! He was so beaten and whipped beyond recognition. Why, because His Father loved me with all His HEART, and my friend wanted to fix our relationship. Then when you thought nothing worst could happen, they nailed His hands and feet to a cross, as a crown of thorns they had place upon His head, was digging into His head and skull. One of the saddest things I heard; was that His Father turned His back, on my friend. Why would He do that? Because He was so filthy, ugly and disgusting with all the sin He was bearing upon Himself, for His friends. While my friend was all alone on that cross, between Heaven and earth, His last words were...IT IS FINISHED. You see I have been forgiven. I now have no debt to sin and I have the Free Gift of eternal LIFE. My Friend's name is JESUS, He said to tell you that He is YOUR friend also and not to worry. He knows it's FRIDAY....BUT SUNDAY IS COMING. John 15:12-14 KJV This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

Peace in God

Peace in God. To truly have peace and harmony in ones life, you must receive peace through Christ the Messiah who is our salvation. The Holy Spirit shields us and brings safety, security and prosperity through Jesus. Jesus came that we might have life abundantly, Jn 10:10. The reason we don't have peace; it's because we tend to desire the evils and unholy things of this world. God exhorts us to stay holy, so anxiety and worries do not overwhelm us. God is able to keep us and preserve us blameless, mind, body, soul and spirit by Christ Jesus. But we must keep ourselves set apart from the evils of this world, even the appearance of evil. Because peace with God brings a safe and prosperous presence into your life. I Thessalonians 5:22-23 NKJV Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God has Spoken

God has Spoken. One of the greatest dangers today is the spirit of Satan that causes such confusion in the spiritual realm. It is the spirit of the Antichrist. 1 Thess 5:20-21 God through His Word has warned us to heed to His prophecies that He has spoken. I find people running to psychics and palm readers trying to find out the path and future. They are at best good guessers and are of the devil. God warns us to prove all things and to hold fast that which is good, excellent, eminent and pure. Do not give into the deception, the spirit of the Antichrist. Jesus is the Christ the Son of God, Messiah, Saviour and soon coming King. He is not just a great prophet or teacher. He is the only way to heaven and eternal life. The Bible tells you your future just read the prophecy. Revelation 1:3 NKJV Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.

Life Force

Life force. One of the greatest dangers we face today in our lives and world is trying to think God away. The void and emptiness that we try to fill in our lives with worldly pleasures, will never be satisfied without God. The only connection that remains between you and God is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works on drawing you to the Father through His Son Jesus, to bring you life, comfort and help. If you try to ignore him, you will be trying to put out an all consuming fire. Your life will be empty and miserable. You can never get away from the presence of God. It's like being in the middle of the ocean and trying to tell yourself there is no water. Or maybe in the middle of a barbecue cook off with chicken and baby back ribs, trying to tell your senses it's not real. God said taste and see that he is good. Psalms 34:8 NKJV Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

God's Will

God's Will. Where are you walking in your life right now? If you are a child of God then you are right where he wants you. It might be tough, maybe not where you what to be; and possibly you are not sure what is going to happen. But, we know ..."all things work together for good to those who love God"...Rom 8:28. This is why our next checkpoint, in our race, God calls for three responses from our lives. These prove our faith and yielding to God's perfect will for our lives. We are to always rejoice and be glad in God. Pray continually, communicate and meditate on God. Lastly, in everything give thanks, be grateful and feel thankful. You say that is tough to do. Not if you believe that your heavenly Father loves you and is guiding your steps. Remember life is not always about you, but that others may see God in you. I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Pay Back Time

Pay back time. I remember as a kid growing up playing jokes on one another. It was sort of like revenge, but for fun. I played a few good jokes in my life, but most of the time I was the receiver, because I was always easy going, fun and good spirited. : I've learned some people don't like being the blunt of a joke, but they can dish it out. We are definitely living in a time that people are very revengeful. They are not patient, tolerant or forgiving. Look at the road rage, hot tempers and lack of consideration that we see today. Because of wrongs that have been done in people's lives they're bitter and unforgiving and have a victim mentality that everybody's against them. They strike out at everything and everyone. Next checkpoint! God says do not repay evil for evil. What a sad state to live everyday with revenge and resentment. We have to learn to give everything to God and let him have control. Otherwise you are controlled. With God's help I can honestly say all is forgiven, and then I release everything to him. I Thessalonians 5:15 NKJV See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

Running Together

Running together. One of the first checkpoints in this life and race in Christ; is that we are running this race together. We cannot leave fallen comrades behind. We were watching Biggest Loser last night. The whole team ran back to help someone that was struggling and cheer them on to finish the race. Then they all cheered. We are to warn those that get off track and out of ranks, not to judge them, but help them. Those that get behind and are weak, we are too encourage and help. When they feel like giving up cheer them on. Remember to be patient, not everybody is at your level or has been where you been already. Remember you're going to need someone along the way. Together all things are possible when we believe in God through Jesus Christ. I Thessalonians 5:14 NKJV Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.

Checkpoints!

Checkpoints! This is what I'd like to do for devotions this week. In our devotions. I have referred to the fact that we are running a race. It is the most important race you will ever be in. It is a race for this life, a race of faith, to eternal life with Jesus Christ. Not only for your life, but your family and friends and who ever will call upon the name of the Lord. In 1 Thess 5:14-22 there are some checkpoints. Checkpoints or pit stops help us to fine tune our race so we can finish strong. Remember the less weight you carry, the more knowledge you have, the better you can run this race and receive the reward that Jesus has. Have a blessed day. Hebrews 12:1 NKJV Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

Who are You?

Who are You? Have you ever watch The Lion King and the baboon hits Simba over the head with his stick? Then he ask him, who are you? Of course Simba responds, I don't know leave me alone. But the baboon says I know who you are, Simba Mufasa's son. Now I'm not quoting verbatim, but you get the gist of what I'm saying. He was a lion but his past was keeping him from his future as king of the pride. When the baboon hit him over the head it hurt, but it didn't matter any more, because it's in the past. He was trying to act and be what he wasn't. Lions are definitely not vegetarian. Why is it that we act life out rather then being what God has called us to be? We tend to be fake; and we see this the most in the church. God has called us for a purpose and a plan. He tells you to be true and pure in your actions. To put on his righteousness and stop trying to act righteous, that way our sins and past can be covered. To open our eyes to his Word that we can see we are conquerors through Jesus. Remember God chastens and corrects who he loves. Revelation 3:18 NKJV I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.

Who let you down?

Who let you down? That's not a hard question to answer; and we probably will have a list of not only family and friends : but employers, businesses and churches. The list would go on. Why? Because no one is perfect and even if we have the best of intentions we sometimes fail each other. But Jesus on the other hand will not and cannot fail you or let you down. He didn't bet his life on it! He gave his life on it! He is always faithful. He is the same yesterday and today: he is the guarantee for your future. When God speaks it is eternal, His Word cannot come back void, but gives life to those who believe. Deuteronomy 7:9 NKJV “Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments;

Not Imitation

Not Imitation. Have you noticed today that a lot of stuff you buy is imitation. Man made materials. Alligator wallet, not. Real find gold jewelry, not. We have imitation sweeteners, flavorings and foods. The quality, durability and longevity just isn't there: because a lot of our products are not the real thing. In Revelations 3:14 Jesus says he is the "True Witness". True means he is not a counterfeit, pretended or imaginary. He is not imperfect, defective, frail or uncertain: he is the truth and the real thing. Jesus is the true witness of who he says he is. He is God and has all power to change your life, if you'll just open the door. So what do you need? He can supply. John 14:6 KJV Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

The Amen

The Amen. I didn't know this but Amen was used at the beginning or the end of a discourse. If at the beginning it met: surely, truly, or of a truth. If at the end it means: so be it, so it is, or let it be fulfilled. Whoever responded with Amen would actually be saying, that whatever was said, they believed it and make it their own. Jesus was saying He is the beginning of and ending of all things. He is the very Word of God and is God: and has all power and authority from the Father to carry out for you whatever you are in need of. You need ( healing etc..you can insert whatever you need here) in Jesus name, so be it...let it be so. Amen. If you believe all things are possible. John 1:1 NKJV In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Faithful and True Witness,

Faithful and True Witness. I pray your worship was powerful yesterday and strength for today. Remember whatever you face this week you are an overcomer and victorious. Why? Because Jesus said we are overcomers because he has overcome the world. This week we will study about Jesus our Faithful and True Witness: and how our life is triumphant because of Him. Revelation 3:14 NKJV “ ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God:

Power working in us

The Power working in us. So you see, it is not you or me that makes the inherent blessings and riches of Gods grace work in our lives abundantly. But it is God in us. That's right, the same God that loved us so much, that He the Father would send his only Son Jesus to die for us, also loved us so much that he would not rely on us, to finish the work that He started in us. So Jesus sent us God the Holy Spirit to handle and bring about the smallest details of our inheritance, to the more than we can even image or think details of God's Grace and Power. That's right, all we have to do, is choose, receive, believe and leave the work and details to the Power in us, the Holy Spirit. I am fully confident He is able. Ephesians 3:20 NKJV Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, Philippians 1:6 NKJV being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;

Are you smarter than a First Grader

Are you smarter than a First Grader? Isn't it amazing how smart children are? Now I know you're saying isn't that a fifth grader? No, they start thinking they know it all by then. Jesus said if we come to him as a little child. That means a child that still trust, loves, forgives and is humble Matt 18:3,4 Amp. I believe attitude has a lot to do with faith. We get to the place we think we know it all and that we can tell God how it should be done. If you had a bright idea from the day you were born until you died at 100, you still have fallen way short of what God intended for you. Why? Because we don't know it all! Only God himself knows everything. So why not trust him who knows the best for your life? Maybe next time we think we have it all together. Go outside pull up a blade of grass and see if you can reproduce that to cover the whole earth. God did in one day. Ephesians 3:20-21 KJV Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

Out of this World

Out of this World. That's right! The relationship that God wants to have with you, is out of this world. It's bigger than you can ever imagine. His blessings and favor are higher than you can get over, deeper than you can get under, wider than you can get around. You cannot get away from God's great Grace and love. I mean consider our galaxy. If our solar system out to Pluto were the size of a quarter, the Milky Way galaxy, that we are part of, would be 1200 miles diameter. You see God is so awesome your mind cannot comprehend the vastness of what he can do he's a big God. He can handle your life if you just trust Him. Ephesians 3:18-19 KJV May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Yum Yum is that good

Yum yum is that good. Yeah I figured that would help you to start reading today's devotion. I really wanted to use Healthy spiritual appetite. Yeah that's what I thought if you seen healthy you might would have skipped it. Haha! Dealing with our spiritual inheritance in Christ. We have talked about it's free, God is not hiding anything, and you can have confidence in God. Today let's look at the spirit. If we are going to get the full benefits of our inheritance then we have to get our spirit in better health. We cannot be controlled by the desires, passions and lust of this world. God gives us the glory of his inheritance so our inner man, our spirit, may be strengthened by the Holy Spirit. For what reason? So that Christ may dwell in your heart by faith. You see faith is strengthened by the Word of God. But if you continue to feed your flesh, before your spirit, the enemy comes to steal the inheritance and the purpose God has for your life. So take time to get in the word and to pray. God is looking for a relationship with you that is abundant. We will pick up there tomorrow. Ephesians 3:16-17 KJV That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

Confident Access

Confident Access. That is what we have in our inheritance. Because of Jesus our inheritance is very powerful and the benefits are out of this world. Therefore you do not have to be faint or weak of heart to receive the blessing that God has for you. Paul writes that we can come with boldness, assurance or confidence before God in Jesus. That whatever you are facing you have the full backing of heaven on your side. Don't give in just keep the faith God is faithful. Ephesians 3:12-13 NKJV in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

knowledge of inheritance

The knowledge of our inheritance. Alot of the time people do not know they are receiving an inheritance or that their name is in a will. When the awarding comes they are surprised. Paul by the Holy Spirit writes to us and says God has made known this mystery. He is not hiding it from you. God wants you to have all the promises that are for you in His Word. He wants you to search out and read about this great future, both now and in eternity, that He has planned for those who love him. Ministers are like the lawyers reading a will. They help you to search out and to study the things of God. This is why we go to church so we can walk in the divine purpose and plan that God has in store for us. Your victory depends on the knowledge you have about God's unlimited grace. Ephesians 3:3-7 NKJV how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery,... by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), which in other ages was not made known....as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel, of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power.

Free Free Free

Okay it's free free free, it's a gift you cannot pay for it. Who in their right mind tries to pay for a Gift? I mean, otherwise it's not a gift. This is the first stipulation to receiving your inheritance from God. Doesn't matter who you are, where you came from, what race or who your family is, everyone is equal before God. Oh and let me say we are all equally sinners and don't deserve God's mercy or grace. But because of God's great power he works grace in our lives through Jesus Christ. So stop trying to earn your inheritance, God is working on making our relationship with him greater than you can imagine. All he needs from you is a surrendered life to Him and let His grace do the work. Ephesians 3:7 NKJV ... according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power.

Inheritance of the Father

Riches and inheritance!! Have you ever wondered or thought about getting a big inheritance,wealth and riches, and it didn't cost you anything? The only stipulation would be that you're a relative. I have dreamed and fantasize about having a lot of money. Now I know in the natural realm that's not going to happen. But in the spiritual realm it has happened. You see through Jesus Christ the Father has given us unsearchable riches. It's not about money or wealth that you can hold in your hands, but it is about priceless Riches that cannot be bought. Jesus gave His life so we can have The inheritance of the Father. For a few days we will look at our inheritance. Ephesians 3:8, 16 KJV Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

Fellowship with God

Fellowship with God. This is what we receive through Jesus Christ. We were once enemies of God with a wall separating us from receiving his blessings. We were alienated and had no hope. But Jesus gives to us this adoption, relationship, grace and peace with the Father. At the cross Jesus totally abolished and destroyed the power of sin. He opened up the door of life and blessing, to become a holy people built unto him for His glory and for our eternity. Praise God for Jesus Christ. Thank God for his unmerited love and Grace. Ephesians 2:12-13 NKJV you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

God's original plan

God's original plan is carried out through Jesus Christ. We are the workmanship and handiwork of God. Created to be vessels of honor unto God by fulfilling the purpose and plan that the Father ordained for our lives when conceived in our mother's womb. But sin from Adam keeps us from living out that predestined, fulfilled and abundant life. Jesus through the cross and resurrection gives us new life. That we may walk out the path and good life that God predetermined for those that choose to follow Christ. Ephesians 2:10 NKJV For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

The debt, the price, the payment

So it is God's wonderful grace. That's right, it's nothing that we can do to receive this brand new life, or to receive eternal life. Works cannot get you to heaven. Even works of righteousness, do not have merit with God. We are only saved by God's grace through faith. The debt, the price and the payment have all been taken care of through Jesus Christ the Son of God. It is an absolutely free gift you just have to surrender your life to the true and living God, who loves you so much and wants you to be blessed. Ephesians 2:8-9 NKJV For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.

Great Grace

Because of God's great love we receive His wonderful grace. Because of sin we receive death, but through Jesus Christ we die to sin and live with him in heavenly places. God takes us out of our past and brings us into a brand new life in Jesus Christ. We do not deserve this, but we receive it because of his unconditional love and His grace and His mercy. Then in eternity God shares the riches of his grace and gives us eternal life. I don't know about you but that is awesome. To be able to sit with Christ in heavenly places. What a wonderful life we have because our Father loves us so much. Ephesians 2:6-7 NKJV and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

God's great Love

God's great mercy. Have you ever wondered why God is so merciful, so gracious towards us? It's because of his great love where with he has loved us. It is his nature because God is love. It's the same nature he created us with. The kind of love that will lay its life down for friends. But the love of God goes an extra step further. God has "agape" love which is unconditional love. No matter what you've done where you been God has already chosen to love you. Because it is his nature, it's who he is and I have full faith and Trust in that kind of love. Ephesians 2:4-5 NKJV But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),

Faith for discipline

Faith for discipline. In closing this week Paul finishes with the importance of one not finishing and becoming disqualified. In 1 Cor. 9:27 the King James used the words " under and subjection " which means to discipline and keep under control like slavery, to the point of being beaten and black and blue. Paul is trying to stress to you the importance of finishing this race in Christ and going to Heaven. Nobody wants to talk about it today, but there is a Heaven to gain and a HELL to shun, and it is for eternity. Don't be a castaway, disqualified or not stand the test. Keep your faith in Jesus. Remember this life is a vapor or grain of sand compared to eternity. Don't lose your focus on the cross. The price has been paid. 1 Corinthians 9:27 KJV But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. Hebrews 12:2 KJV Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Faith in the fight

Faith in the fight. That's what Paul is talking about in 1st Corinthians 9:26. See if you don't have faith you will have uncertainty, you will have doubt and unbelief. Paul refers to a fighter, a boxer is the actual translation. If you are going to win the match and not get knocked out you have to fight with faith. Paul uses the words beat the air. To beat means to slay scourge, smite. I believe the word air refers to the physical realm, the natural realm. You are not fighting the flesh, but a spiritual battle, against a strong enemy and principalities. Your enemy the devil does not fight fair. You have to come in every round, fighting with faith which is the Word of God. The Holy Spirit that is in you is more powerful, than any of your enemies that you're facing. You might lose a few rounds, but get back up because you can win the match . With God on your side nothing can be against you. Romans 8:31 NKJV What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Temperance in all

Temperance in all. In 1 Cor 9:25 our next thought is to have mastery in every part of our lives. Mind, body, soul, emotion, will and spirit. I believe the spirit is the most important. Whatever you feed your spirit determines the outcome. So whatever you feed your mind, body or emotions, all bear on your spirit's health. In our word study let's look at it from the Greek culture of athletics. (Thayer) says, ... "to be self-controlled, continent, conduct, in a figure drawn from athletes, who in preparing themselves for the games abstained from unwholesome food, wine, and sexual indulgence" Sounds like our world today...out of control. Sounds like our own lives as Christians, which don't look to much different than the world. We carry to much baggage and expect to win this race. Remember there are a lot of witnesses watching, there is eternity at stake. The Holy Spirit is running with you to finish. Hebrews 12:1 NKJV Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

Why do you think that way?

Why do you think that way? Do you realize that no one wins, that doesn't believe they can. Who shows up for a race thinking I want to lose. In 1 Cor. 9:24 Paul writes that every one in a race runs, but only one receives the prize. First we run. Metaphorically speaking the Greek word here is saying: to exert one's self, strive hard, to spend one's strength in performing or attaining something, word occurs in Greek writings denoting to incur extreme peril, which it requires the exertion of all one's effort to overcome. (Thayers) This is a race for your soul. For your life. For your eternity with or without God. This is not a joke. The devil is in the background seeing to it that you don't finish this race. Paul finishes the verse by saying run in such a way that you may obtain it. That means you have to have the mindset to win. You cannot afford to lose. Jesus had the mindset to go all the way to the cross for you. Now its up to you. The Holy Spirit can only help you if you want to win, its your choice. Philippians 2:5, 8 NKJV Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,... And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

Faith for the course

Faith for the course. Paul several times in his writings refers to our walk in Christ as a race or competition. Now this race is not against each other, but on the contrary, it is encouraging one another to finish. For it is for a prize. A priceless crown. It is life eternal with Jesus. This week we will study about this race. We must have the right heart and mind set for this race for there are enemies ready to stop you dead in your tracks. Remember God has a great reward and he is coming soon. I Corinthians 9:24-27 NKJV Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Faith is Triumphant

Faith is triumpant. Seeing then that God gives us a brand new start, our past is forgiven and we know our true identity in Jesus Christ. Satan is defeated. We do not believe in the lies of the devil, because he knows Gods true plan is to love, forgive and bring hope to everyone that will have faith in Christ. So in closing for the week, we know that all have sinned, we all need forgiveness. We know our true identity, because we have been made in the image and likeness of God. We also know the devil is a liar because even he believes and trembles before God. So go ahead let faith arise be triumphant . God is on your side and has a great plan for your future. II Corinthians 2:11, 14 NKJV lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ..

Faith and the devil

Faith and the devil. Okay you're saying what in the world does the devil have to do with faith? Well according to Scripture a person can believe but not live the life or be saved. So it is with the devil and his demons. He knows there is a God and trembles at him. He is proof for your faith to be stronger in God. First he knows that God is all powerful, he got dropped kicked out of heaven, like a bolt of lightning, trying to rise above God. What was he thinking...that was stupid!! Pride will do that. Second he knows the word of God is true because he tried to tempt Jesus, with changing the Word to conform to worldly appetites. Well that didn't go over either Jesus rebuked him. Thirdly the devil does what Jesus says. A legion of demons were cast out of a man, they wanted to know, if they could go into a herd of swine. Jesus said go, and it didn't turn out so well, because the demons ran the whole herd off a cliff. Which is exactly what will happen to your life if the devil controls it. Jesus told sickness you got to go, death you can't have them. Then there's the cross. The devil thought he had killed Jesus. Finally got rid of his threat. Big mistake, because what really happened Jesus took our sins and paid our debt. Then he went into the bowels of the earth set the captives free, took the keys from death, hell, and the grave. The devil has a rockin headache to this day. Gen.3:15 Oh and you don't believe and have faith in God. Devils do. James 2:19 NKJV You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!

Faith Identity

Faith for your true identity. OK, yesterday we dealt with the sin issue. To sin is to miss the mark or to have disobedience towards God. So what is the devil trying to hide and keep us from? Let's jump back in time to Genesis. In chapter 1:26-31 God said let us make mankind in our image and likeness. Let us give him dominion over all things on the earth. To be fruitful and multiply. No sickness, no depression, no death, but blessed and prosperous and happy. All that we may have a relationship, with God and worship Him only. OK see anything wrong with that picture... ummm...me neither. It was perfect because God loves us and there was no sin. See that is your DNA. VICTORIOUS. After all of that I hate to bring this up...there was a serpent a devil hiding behind this plan. He didn't like God giving man all this cool stuff to enjoy. He didn't like he had no control or power over man. Well need I tell you the rest of the story. A lie, a choice and a piece of fruit. Someone made a really bad choice and missed the ultimate plan, all of Hell broke in and oh what a mess. Oh!! so you don't think your choices effect anyone else? Someone has been listening to the serpent, the Liar. Genesis 2:7 NKJV And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.

Faith in Christ

Faith in Christ is the first step in your victory over sin. In our scripture yesterday, Satan is the father of sin. Therefore no matter how good you are, you're a sinner without Jesus. There are two masters; one speaks truth that can set you free, from your past and present sin. The other one lies, twist and distorts the truth, to keep you bound to your failures and sin. You see there is no one without sin. Rom 3:23 says that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God". We all are born on the same Ship in life and it is sinking. Jesus is the life boat that can save and redeem us from our self destructing life bound by sin, disobedience to God the Father. The Titanic called out all night, but it was to late, the great ship went down. Jesus is so close that He is waiting for you to call out to Him. This is an emergency situation. He loves every single person rather you think your perfect or believe you are the worst person alive. Not one of us meets Gods qualifications of Holiness and Righteousness accept for Jesus Christ. That is the reason Rom. 6:23 states, "the wages of sin is death, but the Gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord." The devil does not want you to know the truth. Romans 6:6-11 NKJV knowing this, that our old man (sinful nature) was crucified with Him (Jesus on the cross), that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. For he who has died (that means we have confessed our sin and ask Jesus into our heart, to be our Lord and Saviour) has been freed from sin. Now if we died(confessed and ask forgiveness) with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Faith over Lies

Faith over lies. Do you realize that everyday life is more negative than positive. We are drawn not to the positive things in life because of a spiritual fact. Fact one we are born into sin and our nature tends to be one of defeat instead of victory. We grow up hearing: you can't, no, it's not possible, our family just don't get those kind of breaks, I'm not this or that. Etc. Fact two the devil is a liar. If you were to find out the truth about who you are, the DNA of God that is in you, the plan and purpose that God has for you than you would be a threat to the enemy. Fact three is the devil has no doubt whatsoever that God is God and that God can do anything he wants to. He just doesn't want to past that info on to you. This is our thought this week unless God leads me different. John 8:44 NKJV You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.

Faith in His Purpose

Faith in His purpose. I was just messaging a friend that lives in a warmer climate. They love it. I have always been a four Seasons kind of guy. Winters here in Ohio can get a little crazy. My wife, she could live where its warm all the time, just give her some snow on Christmas Day. Me on the other hand, it is absolutely beautiful when it is snowing, and I love when it sticks to everything. A little vacation in the middle is nice, don't get me wrong. I'm saying all of this for a purpose. Look at all the trees in the winter they all look the same. They can't show their color or give you shade. It's very hard to identify them. Just trunks and limbs, they are in a state of rest as white snow paints on them. There is a purpose, if they don't get rid of their leaves and their beauty they would die. In life we have to do the same thing. Because we all are going to have winters and hard times. We have to make time, for the blood of Jesus, to cover our failures and messes in life and find rest in him. Life has a grand purpose and every season is important. But if you don't have winter, a time to really reflect on who you are inside, you will miss the purpose that God has planned for you. Can you really know a book by its cover? In closing think about an old car and brand new Mercedes. When the snow is all over them it's hard to tell what they are and what condition they're in. So it is with the blood of Jesus we are all the same at the cross. Romans 8:28 NKJV all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Isaiah 1:18 “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow...

Faith like God

Faith like God. Is that your desire to be more like Jesus? To be more like God, to have his love and compassion. Rather than fight back with revenge and remorse that controls our lives. To have His long suffering and self-control, rather than lashing out and bring hurt to those around us. To have the faith of God which created the heavens and the earth. Which created you in your mother's womb to fulfill a wonderful and powerful purpose and plan. That faith that sees all of our faults and failures. But because of His awesome LOVE, He still has faith and has not given up on us. Oh! That we could have that kind of faith, by surrendering and seeking Him. We could see lives changed, relationships healed, people delivered and set free. Mountains can be moved with that kind of faith. Hebrews 11:3, 6 NKJV By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God,... But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Faith for Now

RIGHT NOW. That's right! God is the God of the right now. I am reminded of words in a song " right now if you believe, God can work a miracle for you". When we read the Bible we have the tendency to believe that the miracles were for them in their day, and their time. That somehow God moved differently back then, then he does now. Okay, faith check. According to the Bible faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. So what does the Bible say? That God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He does not change according to time. He always remains constant. So if God has not changed, then it must be us. I mean think about it. It's amazing what we sacrifice for that has nothing to do with God, but has everything to do with our desires, passions and lust for things of this world. God has not called you to be weak, but to be strong in the power of his might. So when you are weak, you have to stand and fight the good fight of faith. He can and will change your life. Repent, have faith, receive your miracle! 2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJV For all the promises of God in Him (Jesus) are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.

Faith in Trials

Faith in trials. Do you have faith to overcome trials and test in life. I am reminded of a story in Daniel Chap 3. Three Hebrew boys had been taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar. They were very wise and knowledgeable. After training they were placed as rulers over Providences . The king built a false god for the people to worship . If they did not bow and worship, they were thrown into a furnace. The 3 Hebrew boys, which are now men, would not bow down and worship a false god. The King called them forth and told them he would give them another chance. They told the king they did not need time to think about their answer, but that they would not bow to any other god , but their God. They knew that God could deliver them, but if he didn't they still would not bow down to a false god. He was so upset he heated the furnace 7 times hotter and threw them in. The strongmen that threw them in were destroyed by the fire. The king looked into the furnace and seen them walking around with the Son of God. He called them to come forth and they came out without 1 hair being singed on their body. They didn't even smell like smoke. God elevated their positions. This story remind me if I will keep the faith and put God first in my decisions. If I will not bow or give in, or compromise to the things of this world my God is able to deliver me, elevate me, promote me, without compromising my faith in him. Our God is mighty to save. You never walk alone in the trials of life. Daniel 3:16-18, 25 KJV He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

Faith is Witness

Faith makes you a witness that God is God. When you live a life of faith and believe in God your life becomes a testimony of the power God. You become a living book that nothing is impossible to those who believe, that trust and live out the power and healing of the Word of God. How does your life reflect Christ? Do others see God as a forgiver, healer, helper encourager, or does your life reflect doubt and uncertainty, unhappiness and complaints? Remember how others see you reflects on faith or doubt in our Great God and Saviour. Isaiah 43:12 NKJV Therefore you are My witnesses,” Says the Lord, “that I am God.

Faith in our Creator

God is the great I am. He has created all things. He has created you. All things stand at attention when He speaks. The heavens and the earth were formed by his hands.

 The paths that God leads you in will cause you to prosper, profit and to have peace. My question to you, are you listening, are you walking in his commandments?

 God leads us in the paths we should go, again this is your choice. God your Creator has spoken will you hear. He doesn't speak in secret, he openly proclaims his word and his will. Have faith in your Creator that he knows best, the Universe does.

 Isaiah 48:12-18 NKJV
 “Listen to me...I am He, I am the First, I am also the Last. Indeed My hand has laid the foundation of the earth, And My right hand has stretched out the heavens; When I call to them, They stand up together. “All of you, assemble yourselves, and hear!... I, even I, have spoken; Yes, I have called him, I have brought him, and his way will prosper. “Come near to Me, hear this: I have not spoken in secret from the beginning;...“I am the Lord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go. Oh, that you had heeded My commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river...

God is faithful

What around you can you trust today? In the day and time that we are living there is nothing sure. How about those that even have your interest as their top priority. They love you and would do anything to fulfill your dreams and happiness. But life has a way of taking things, cancer and sickness cut life short. Accidents and tragedy arise and change our world. You see we are limited and have no promise for tomorrow, neither can we promise it to others. God on the other hand is always faithful. One great thing about God is his faithfulness never changes and he is no respecter of persons. He has all power and strength to deliver you in any circumstance. God keeps his promises and nothing can stand in his way, accept for your doubt and unbelief. There is one thing that God is not going to do, that is to force you to serve him and trust him. You have the power of choice. You hold in your hands the ability to surrender or to hold back. The power to change your future through Jesus, or stay where your at. God is faithful to deliver. Psalm 31:19 NKJV Oh, how great is Your goodness, Which You have laid up for those who fear You, Which You have prepared for those who trust in You In the presence of the sons of men! Psalm 36:5 NKJV Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.

Faith in God

Faith in God is required if victory is going to be abtained. If you are going to choose, know what you are choosing to believe and have faith in.

God reminds us that first He is the only God. OH!! There are other gods, but I assure you according to scripture and history, that they are mere thoughts and images that are desired, to satisfy ones agenda and desire good or bad. They are created to control their destiny and others. There are others that will try to make God none existant so they can choose their own path.
Argue and write books, talk until you are blue in the face...THERE IS A GOD AND WITHOUT FAITH your life will have a void and will never be fulfilled to its fulness with out HIM.
This world would be in total caos, just like the Devil would like you to believe, for even he knows God is real
Dont take life for granted for there are two masters. God died for you to fulfill in you the greatest purpose and plan. Then there is Satan who is the father of lies, who hates you and laughs at your calamities, to keep you from the plan God has.
Have Faith in God. Isaiah 44:6, 8-9 NKJV “Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel, And his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: ‘I am the First and I am the Last; Besides Me there is no God. Do not fear, nor be afraid; Have I not told you from that time, and declared it? You are My witnesses. Is there a God besides Me? Indeed there is no other Rock; I know not one. ’ ” Those who make an image, all of them are useless, And their precious things shall not profit; They are their own witnesses; They neither see nor know, that they may be ashamed.

Faith to choose.

Faith to Choose. There is a battle going on in the spirit realm. It is a battle for your soul, for your freedom, your eternity. If you lose most likely so does your family. Jesus paid a great price for your victory. But God gives you the power of choice. Satan hates you and deceives you, into selling out your soul, for the temporary things of your flesh. Your desires, lusts and passions may be fun for a time, but will cost you a great price, eternity and possibly the ones you love. God loves his children to be happy and full of life, but not through sin. The wages of sin is death Rom. 6:23, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. In Rom. 7:15 God says there is a battle in you. The things I don't want to allow in my life, I allow and the things I what to do right, I don't. Why? Because this flesh is weak, but through Christ we are strong. Whoever you yield your life too is your Master. By faith choose Jesus. Matthew 6:24 NKJV “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

Faith to break the Curse

Faith to break the curse. That is the reason that Jesus came into this world. He was given the earthly name of Jesus which is the Gr. Form of the Heb. Yehoshua which means "Saviour" or "God who is Salvation". He came to break the curse of sin in our lives. The family tree that Jesus was born in was not royal by any means of the word, more like really messed up. Murders, drunkenness, infidelity, perversion of all types. Family deceit and disloyalty, the failures of preachers to kings God doesn't hide anyone's sin, all have sinned and have fallen short of righteousness. Jesus has come to break you from your past. He has come to give you life more abundantly. You do not have to be like your family tree. Break the curse and become free through the blood and death of Jesus the Christ. He who knew no sin took your sin. Be Free. This is our study this week as we continue Faith for Change. We are praying for you and love you. Galatians 5:1 NKJV Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

Faith for Change

Wow what an awesome New Year we have ahead of us. I am so excited about doing our devotions. I believe that God is going to do great things for sure. So to start out this new year we need to first do one thing. Forget the past and the mistakes you made. Ask for forgiveness from God, forgive yourself and forgive others. Learn from them, don't stay down and defeated for this is your year. This is your time to shine and have victory. This is your moment to defeat the enemy in your life, instead of him defeating you. This is a time of hope, faith and for the impossible to happen. Because I believe God with you this year, that you are an overcomer. Set your eyes on Jesus and on your goal, don't lose focus. With God all things are possible. Remember he calls you sons and daughters he loves you and he knows your name. If you don't know him as your Father and Jesus as your Savior, then start out this new year by saying Jesus , forgive me for my sins thank you for coming and dying for me and rising from the dead for me, come into my heart and be Lord of my life. I accept you now. Thank you Father for loving me and forgiving me of all my sins and my past. I declare I have a brand new future in you as I serve you, in Jesus name Amen. Remember we love you and are praying for you and there is power in agreement.

Believe you have Hope

Ok, so to stay with our thought from yesterday. How do we move on from the past? How do we forgive and release it? First you have to believe you have hope in a future. If you do not believe there is hope than your past and present control your future. There are three things that eternally exist. You will find these in 1 Corinthians 13:13. Faith, hope and love. Now love is the greatest of these three. Love is what causes hope to spring forth. If we believe that God loved us so much that he gave us his Son, so we could be forgiven of our sin, past and present, than hope says I Can Be Free. Hope is the anchor that grabs hold of Jesus and declares that " who the Son sets Free is Free in deed." Remember God cannot lie. God I declare that I have hope today and in my future because of your great Love. I am anchoring my hope in Jesus for my victory. Amen. Hebrews 6:18-19 NKJV that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast...

You have got to want to change.

You have got to want to change. This is the second step in moving from our past. You can have hope but not believe or not want to change. Some people believe there's hope just not for them. Some just don't have the faith, then there is those that just like living the way they are . They have believed the lie of the devil that it's not going to get better.

Some just like the victim mentality blaming everyone else and relying on everyone else to change their situation. People around you may change the conditions but it doesn't change you. Jesus created us to have dominion not to be a burden, to help others to get on their feet and to be victorious. To change and be blessed and be a blessing.

So when we stand before him he can say to us well done thou good and faithful servant. It's all in your head, God has given us the power to change. Proverbs 23 as a man thinks so he is.
God help us today not conform to the ways of this world or the lies of this world but help us to be renewed and transformed by the Holy Spirit in Jesus name amen.

Romans 12:2 NKJV

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what  is  that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

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Activate your faith.

Now activate your faith. If you believe there's hope and you want to change, then activate your faith. Faith requires you to believe in something bigger than yourself. Faith says, God loves me and has made a promise, I believe him, that is my hope.

Hope says I can change and I choose to change. Faith now requires you to believe and to take the steps to change. We do this by surrendering to God. Faith is the title deed and the evidence, of what has not happened yet, but will, if you surrender, believe, trust and put your confidence in God for the awesome plan he has for your life. Remember he is your Creator he doesn't make mistakes. Sin, lies and doing nothing destroys. But life is in God through Jesus Christ.

Father today I've chosen hope I've chosen to change and I choose to have faith in you. I surrender all that you're perfect plan may be carried out in my life in Jesus name Amen.

Hebrews 11:1 AMP
"NOW FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed)
of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see  and  the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses]."

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The Challenge

Now comes the challenge,fear. That's what happens when you choose to change, when you choose to  have faith. I remember growing up being in band, a play or sport. You were really excited and your adrenaline was flowing,  you are part of the event. Until your solo part that is, until everyone was watching you. How about that new job or moving to a new place?

Change can be hard and fear can cause you to freeze up. Your hands become sweaty, clammy and thoughts run wildly  through your mind like; what did I get myself into? Why did I do this? I should have stayed where I was at etc. Stop that! You have hope, believe now and walk it out.

My son was in Airborne in the Army. One thing about jumping out of a plane, you hope your parachute opens. Because they know someone is going to freeze up and not pull the ripcord, they hook you to a line. When they jump the ripcord is pulled and the chute comes out.

Go ahead, walk out, faith is the cord and God is your chute, he will not fail you. Cancel out that fear. God does not give you a spirit of fear. He loves you and gives you the power and the right mind to go forth in victory.

Proverbs 3:4,5 Reminds us to Trust God with all of our heart and mind. Don't allow your emotions and thoughts to control you, God is directing your path.

Father we come to you today with full trust and confidence. We overcome our fear by taking the next step and the next step, trusting your Word and choosing to walk by faith and not by sight, in Jesus name amen.

2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

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