Extra Note!

Hello!!!!

I want to make sure I keep this personable and that YOU are celebrated and recognized; because each of you mean the world to me. So I'm creating a TGN calendar. I would like to shout out birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, new homes, freedom dates, babies, baptisms, encounters, weddings, all expectations and blessings from God.

If you would like to be celebrated, please drop me the date and occasion and I'll be sure to recognize it. Even if I know you personally and should know your birthday or special date, please respond anyway so that I can know for sure you would like to be celebrated with the rest of the TGN crew.

I'm always thinking about each one of you. So whatever I can do to bring a smile to your face and remind you of how special you are, in whatever small way, I will do it!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL THE OCTOBER BABIES (includes my Mom). CELEBRATE YOUR LIFE!

Love-
Me!

ACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH GOD- IT BRINGS PEACE AND GOODNESS. Job 27:21

TGN: Compassion & Willingness

Prayer: LORD, some of Your people are suffering great pain and distress at this very moment. We can each understand that deep injury, that makes us weak, helpless and paralyzes us from living life. We in no way question the justice that You bring about in these situations; but it's time to pray about it. I pray that we each learn how to celebrate Your faithfulness and unfailing love in the midst of the devastation. As we read Your Word today, highlight what Jesus suffered to pay the penalty for our sins and lead us into rejoicing in the incredible love of the Almighty God who offers us salvation. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
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JESUS' MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 40-39 (NLT)

Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy

40 A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. "If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean," he said.
41 Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. "I am willing," he said. "Be healed!" 42 Instantly the leprosy disappeared, and the man was healed. 43 Then Jesus sent him on his way with a stern warning: 44 "Don't tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed."

45 But the man went and spread the word, proclaiming to everyone what had happened. As a result, large crowds soon surrounded Jesus, and he couldn't publicly enter a town anywhere. He had to stay out in the secluded places, but people from everywhere kept coming to him.

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In keeping with the law in Leviticus 13 and 14, Jewish leaders declared people with leprosy unclean. This meant that lepers were unfit to participate in any religious or social activity. Because the law said that contact with any unclean person made a person unclean, too, some people even threw rocks at lepers to keep them at a safe distance. Even the mention of the name of this disabling disease terrified people. Although leprosy was incurable, many different types of skin diseases were classified together as "leprosy."

Jesus was "filled with compassion" and "willing" to touch this "unclean" man and heal him of his disease. Jesus knew the real value of this man. The real value of a person is inside, not outside. Although a person's body may be diseased or deformed; or their mind may be filled with hypocrisy and sin, the person God created is no less valuable to Him. No person is too disgusting for God's touch. We have no right to give up on anyone. In a sense, we are all people with leprosy because we have all been deformed by the ugliness of sin. By sending His Son, Jesus, God has touched us "willingly" and filled with compassion has given us the opportunity to be healed. When you feel repulsed by someone- either the way they look, how they act/conduct themselves, the traditions they are faithful to, how they live their lives-STOP and remember how God feels about that person- and about you. STOP and ask God how He would like to use you to show His compassion to a person who needs His healing in their life.

According to the Old Testament laws about leprosy, when a leper was cured, he or she had to go to a priest to be examined. Then the leper was to give a thank offering at the Temple. Jesus adhered to these laws by sending the man to the priest, demonstrating Jesus' complete regard for God's law. Sending a healed leper to a priest was also a way to verify Jesus' great miracle to the community.

- YOUR WIILINGNESS TO LOOK PAST WHAT YOU SEE, AND LET GOD WORK THROUGH YOU WILL VERIFY A LIVING JESUS TO YOUR COMMUNITY.

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Prayer: LORD, use me! Use me to spread the healing that You have poured into my life, to all of these people that you have brought and will continue to bring in my life. They are here for You not me. You have a blessing for their lives LORD. I refuse to stand in the way of their miracle. So LORD, I ask You- willingly to USE ME to show Your compassion and unfailing love to Your children. Your Will and Your way. In Jesus' name. Amen --------------------------------------------------------------

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16,17

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: MAKE THE TIME TO PRAY

Prayer: Psalm 91 has not stood out as much as it does today. It tells us that Your faithfulness is our shield and protection. The plain fact that You are faithful to Your children, protects us each and every moment of our lives. Thank You Father. Because of Your mercy alone, am I saved (Titus 3:4). Your living Word, is amazing. I'm excited about this time with You. I know that the right Word will stand out for those diligent in seeking it. Holy Spirit have Your way. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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JESUS' MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 35-39 (NLT)

Jesus Preaches in Galilee

35 Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. 36 Later Simon and the others went out to find him. 37 When they found him, they said, "Everyone is looking for you."
38 But Jesus replied, "We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came." 39 So he traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and casting out demons.

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Jesus took time to pray. Finding time to pray is not easy, but prayer is THE vital link between us and God. Like Jesus, we must break away from others to just talk with God and listen to Him, even if we have to get up very early in the morning to do it!

Why the morning? So that the busyness of the day won't cause you to push it to not even happening. Why the morning? Because you want to enter the day assured that God is with You. Why the morning? Because this is a time you can usually be alone, and avoid the distraction of people and the issues of the day. It's fresh! Why the morning? Simply because God should come first. Before any and everything.

I'm not telling you, you have to wake up at 5a every morning. But how about starting with waking up 5 minutes earlier? To get on Your knees and pray (speaking aloud); and taking time to be still to hear from Him. When you make the effort, the Spirit will continue to be faithful to lead you in all the ways you should go.

We can make time for everything else. Can't we make time to pray?

- COMMUNICATIONS IS KEY IN EVERY RELATIONSHIP- EVEN WITH GOD.

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Prayer: I shout for joy to You, LORD. I worship You with gladness; I come before You with joyful songs in my heart. I know that You, LORD are God. It is You who made us, and we are Yours; we are Your people, the sheep of Your pasture. I enter Your gates with thanksgiving and Your courts with praise; I give thanks to You and praise Your name only. For You are good and Your love endures forever; Your protective faithfulness continues through all generations(Psalm 100). Show me how to make time for You LORD. Teach me how to pray LORD. I desire to communicate with You; to know You on the most intimate level, through Your Son. Amen.
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"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16,17

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: God's Way or Satan's Way?

Prayer: LORD, You are my God and alone holy. Thank You for life, for each breath I breathe. Thank You for the movie "This Is It" featuring Michael Jackson- if we receive anything from this film, it is to love. To temper everything we say and do with love. Love is the most beautiful thing. Jesus, You command us to love- this way all men will know that we are Your disciples (John 13:34-35). I'm grateful to read Your Word today, which is established in love and communicates Your love for Your children. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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JESUS' MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 32-34 (NLT)*part 2*
Emphasis on v. 34

Jesus' Authority

(Jesus) cast out many demons. But because the demons knew who he was, he did not allow them to speak.

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Jesus wouldn't let the demons speak because they knew who He was. Now, why didn't Jesus want the demons to reveal who He was? There are a couple of reasons:
1) By commanding the demons to remain silent, Jesus proved His authority and power over them. 2) Jesus wanted the people to believe He was the Messiah because of what He said and did, not because of the demon's words.
3) Jesus wanted to reveal His identity as the Messiah according to God's timetable, not according to satan's timetable.
Satan wanted the people to follow Jesus around for all the wrong reasons- for what they could get out of Him, not because He was the Son of God who could truly set them free from sin's guilt and power.

Satan is at work at this same plan today. The devil does not care that we believe in God. But he loves when we decide to serve God in our own way. According to how we feel, in our timing, compromising His values, in effort to not be judged by others, making it easier to live in the sin we've accepted and (some) love.

Yes, believe in God all we want- but in not obeying His Word as He commands us; we in turn make the enemy happy. The devil now knows he has way into our hearts. To fool and to lie to us. To get us distracted and off the track we're suppose to be on.

Jesus consistently tells us to remain alert. We cannot live this life asleep, led by our desires to please ourselves, or believing in a god who serves us- when we're called to serve the Most High and only God.

-WHICH WAY WILL YOU CHOOSE TODAY: JESUS' OR satan's?

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Prayer: Your Will not my will LORD. Your way and not my way. This is how I seek to live my life today and every day. Starting with today, Holy Spirit, direct me, correct me and love me. I live to please my heavenly Father and I don't want to live in the lie anymore. Show me how to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace in all that I day. In the name of the Almighty! Amen.
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"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16,17

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Healer

Prayer: My Redeemer is strong! The LORD Almighty is Your name. As with Israel and Judah, You vigorously defend my cause so that You may bring rest to Your child (Jeremiah 50:34). You know me LORD, Your solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The LORD knows those who are His." I seek to find my daily strength in Jesus Christ and in Your inspired Word. I am convinced that You are able to guard what I have entrusted to You today. As I guard the good deposit that is entrusted to me. For the holy Scriptures are able to make me wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. I will guard it with the help of Your Holy Spirit, Who lives in me (2 Timothy 1,2). In Jesus' name, amen.
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JESUS' MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 32-34 (NLT)

Jesus Heals Many People

32 That evening after sunset, many sick and demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. 33 The whole town gathered at the door to watch. 34 So Jesus healed many people who were sick with various diseases, and he cast out many demons. But because the demons knew who he was, he did not allow them to speak.

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For some context, let's discuss why the people came to Jesus in the evening after sunset. It was the Sabbath (1:21); the Jewish day of rest, lasting from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday. The Jewish leaders had proclaimed that it was against the law to be healed on the Sabbath (Matthew 12:10; Luke 13:14). The people didn't want to break this law or the Jewish law that prohibited traveling on the Sabbath, so they waited until sunset. After the sun went down, the crowds were free to find Jesus so He could heal them.

I said this yesterday and I'll keep saying it, "How awesome to serve a healing God!!!! He heals ALL wounds. Wounds you don't even know exist; He is aware of them and wants to reveal them, so that we seek our healing. God wants His children healed and whole. First, we have to come to Him broken. If we think we're all put together-man! Are we in for a rude awakening. If you think you can live this life on your own, you're fooling yourself. If you think, you can fix yourself alone- you're lying to yourself. If you think you can be whole without our LORD and Savior in the mix; you're totally missing out. You don't even know what healed is, until you experience God's healing. Healing is a promise from Him. You don't just hope for it, you expect it.

But don't expect it to always come in the way you desire. Don't forget we serve a God that can use anything and anyone. So also pray that the Holy Spirit gives you great discernment in what God's method will be, so that you don't miss it. Recently, I needed some emotional/spiritual healing. And I kept say, "God I need to hear You! Your voice!" And what He gave me was a couple of specific people- who showed their concern in very specific ways that clearly connected to my conversations with Him. He threw in non-judgmental but God fearing ears, that were able to give me healing through prayer and through gentle correcting from the Word that we believe in. Now that was healing! I can't explain how the wound in my heart, which was being taunted by the burden on my shoulders was removed- but it was. God healed me in His way and it was the perfect way.

Remember our LORD, knows what is best. What helped me, is that I never stopped believing in His power to heal me, restore me and not only pick me back up; but elevate me to a new level in Him from this experience. That's the mighty God I read about daily and choose to serve. How about you?

-WHAT DO YOU NEED HEALING FROM TODAY? BEGIN TO TALK TO GOD ABOUT YOUR SPECIFIC NEED- AND BE HEALED IN THE NAME OF JESUS!

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Prayer: Healer, Healer, that's what we call You! I pray that Your children seek the healing that You came to earth to provide. Heal Your children LORD, from physical wounds and pain, from sickness, from mental instability, from emotional strains... Let us know that we're not in this alone, show us how close You are. LORD, show us Who You are. Let there be no question of You being Our very present help. By Your Spirit, heal the specific need that each person is calling upon You right now for. I pray that each of us release any and all unforgiveness and ungodly attitudes in order to be open to receive all the good You have in store for us. Healer, Healer, that's what I call You! I have faith that Your children will not only experience but live in Your healing right now. In the powerful, healing name of JESUS!!!! Thank You! Amen.
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"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16,17

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Healed? Time to Serve.

Prayer: LORD, I sing a new song unto You today, because it is a new day; and I've been blessed to live in this day. To open my eyes and be included in Your work on earth. I shout praises to Your name, proclaiming Your salvation and declaring Your glory among the nations, Your marvelous deeds among all peoples. For You are great and most worthy of all praise. All other gods are idols, it is You that made heaven and earth. It is You that formed me in the womb and knew everything I would be before a thought to any human mind. Splendor and majesty are before You; strength and glory are in Your sanctuary. I worship You, LORD. Thank You for Your Word today. Speak specifically to the needs of those searching for answers from You today. In Jesus' name, Amen. (Psalm 96)
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JESUS' MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 29-31 (NLT)

Jesus Heals Peter's Mother-in-Law

29 After Jesus left the synagogue with James and John, they went to Simon (Peter) and Andrew's home. 30 Now Simon's (Peter) mother-in-law was sick in bed with a high fever. They told Jesus about her right away. 31 So he went to her bedside, took her by the hand, and helped her sit up. Then the fever left her, and she prepared a meal for them.
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If you have read the 4 Gospels, you would have noticed that each Gospel writer had a slightly different perspective as he wrote; thus, the comparable stories in the Gospels often highlight different details. In Matthew, Jesus touched the womans hand; in Mark, He helped her up; in Luke, He spoke to the fever, and it left her. The accounts do not conflict. Each writer chose to emphasize different details of the story in order to emphasize a certain characteristic of Jesus, to those they were writing to.

How awesome to serve a healing God. He heals the most inner wounds that no one else can touch. When Peter's Mother-in-Law was healed. She did not waste a second; she got up and began to serve or "wait on them." When Jesus heals in your life, what do you do after that healing? Do you serve Jesus? Or do you go back to living as you were. God doesn't heal us just so we can be better. He heals us so that we can continue our ministry in Him. Healing brings about great testimony to share. Healing takes part in strengthening our own faith. Healing gives us the opportunity to let those in our lives know, who God is and what He promises to do for each and every one of His children.

-HOW DO YOU USE YOUR HEALING TO SERVE?

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Prayer: Heavenly Father, Your love supports me; Your consolation brings joy to my soul. You renew and refresh me in ways unlike anything else in this world. You give me healing in the wounds people can see and all the wounds that cannot be seen. Thank You for my healing LORD. I choose not to be healed by You in vain, and ask that You show me how to use this healing and my life for Your glory and Your Kingdom. Show me that person who needs to know that I too suffered, but my God brought me through it all victorious- As You always do; and will do for them as they learn to trust in You. Thank You LORD, for my heart is full because of You. You knew exactly, whose ear I needed to speak to, whose voice would say what You wanted me to hear, who would step out to check on me, what song would minister to me, what Scripture would illuminate while reading, the amount of time I needed to cry; You know it all. And I love You for that. I love You for already having the plan on deck of what is next- because there is a next no matter how bad I've messed up. I love that I can bring it ALL to You. In Your hands, and Your hands only can I breathe and walk with the confident hope that only You can provide. In Your mighty Name I pray. Amen. --------------------------------------------------------------

"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (J. Briscoe), and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Demons are under Jesus' authority.

Prayer: I call on You today LORD! You said to Jeremiah that when we do this, You will answer and tell great and unsearchable things we do not know (Jeremiah 33). LORD, I need You to answer me. I want to hear what You have to say. Let Your Word speak clearly to me today. Let me hear what You want me to hear, not what I desire. I desire to be diligent in Your calling and give myself wholly to what You command (1 Timothy 5). In Your Son's name. Amen.
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JESUS' MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 21-28 (NLT) *part 2*
Emphasis on verses 23-27

Jesus Drives Out An Evil Spirit

23 Suddenly, a man in the synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit began shouting, 24 "Why are you interfering with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are— the Holy One sent from God!"
25 Jesus cut him short. "Be quiet! Come out of the man," he ordered. 26 At that, the evil spirit screamed, threw the man into a convulsion, and then came out of him.
27 Amazement gripped the audience, and they began to discuss what had happened. "What sort of new teaching is this?" they asked excitedly. "It has such authority! Even evil spirits obey his orders!"

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Many people dismiss the existence of demons. Evil spirits, or demons, are ruled by satan. They work to tempt people to sin. They were not created by satan-because God is the Creator of all. Rather they are fallen angels who joined satan in his rebellion. Though not all disease comes from satan, demons can cause a person to become mute, deaf, blind, or insane.

Professionals and people in general have determined accounts of demon possession as a primitive way to describe mental illness. Although throughout history mental illness has often been wrongly diagnosed as demon possession; for example I've heard the true stories behind the popular films "The Exorcist & The Exorcism of Emily Rose were based on two girls suffering mental illnesses-not from demons; clearly in this verse a hostile outside force controlled the man described here before Jesus.

Mark emphasized Jesus' conflict with evil powers to show His superiority over then, we'll see that he recorded many stories about Jesus driving out evil spirits. Jesus didn't have to conduct an elaborate exorcism ritual. His word was enough to send out the demons. In every case where demons confronted Jesus, they lost their power. Thus, God limits what evil spirits can do; they can do nothing without His permission.

During Jesus' life on earth, demons were allowed to be very active to demonstrate once and for all Christ's power and authority over them. I love how "gangsta" our God is. And I mean that with the utmost respect. The true "O.G." is our LORD Jesus Christ. Nothing can touch Him. He can stand against it all. The evil spirit knew at once that Jesus was the Holy One sent from God. By including this event in his Gospel, Mark was establishing Jesus' credentials, showing that even the spiritual underworld recognized Jesus as Messiah.

-WHY IS IT SO HARD FOR PEOPLE TO RECOGNIZE THIS FACT?

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Prayer: Jesus, You are my LORD and Savior. You are my King. You are my God. You are my Righteousness. Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, O LORD. Let us rejoice in Your name all day long; let us exult in Your righteousness. For You are our Glory and Strength (Psalm 89). In Your strong Name I live forever , amen. --------------------------------------------------------------

"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (D. Head), and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Authority

Prayer: Today is a new day LORD, and because of You, for You- I will choose to rejoice and be glad in it. Despite how I was feeling yesterday, despite whatever circumstance I am going through, despite any disappointment, despite my mistakes, despite how anyone has treated me. I rejoice in You. I choose to live my life with You in it. And with You there is joy! Hallelujah. There is change! Hallelujah. There is growth! There is more than my eyes can see. Thank You LORD! Forgive me for allowing anything to get in the way of knowing that. I love You for always being there to remind me of Who You are and that You are always with me. You are the center of my joy. I am Your child. Thank You for Your Word today. In Jesus' Name, amen.

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JESUS MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 21-28 (NLT)

Jesus Teaches with Authority

21 Jesus and his companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, he went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority— quite unlike the teachers of religious law.
23 Suddenly, a man in the synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit began shouting, 24 "Why are you interfering with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are— the Holy One sent from God!"
25 Jesus cut him short. "Be quiet! Come out of the man," he ordered. 26 At that, the evil spirit screamed, threw the man into a convulsion, and then came out of him.
27 Amazement gripped the audience, and they began to discuss what had happened. "What sort of new teaching is this?" they asked excitedly. "It has such authority! Even evil spirits obey his orders!" 28 The news about Jesus spread quickly throughout the entire region of Galilee.

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To understand the context, let's learn a little about this time: The Temple in Jerusalem was too far for many Jews to travel to regularly for worship, so many towns had synagogues serving both as places of worship and as schools. Beginning in the days of Ezra, about 450 B.C., a group of 10 Jewish families could start a synagogue. There, during the week, Jewish boys (girls could not attend- a man made rule not God's) were taught the Old Testament law and Jewish men would gather to listen to a rabbi or teacher, it was customary for the synagogue leader to ask visiting teachers to speak. This is why Jesus often spoke in the synagogues in the towns He visited.

During this time, Jesus had recently moved to Capernaum from Nazareth (Matthew 4:12,13). Capernaum was a thriving town with great wealth as well as great sin and decadence (moral deterioration/decline). Because it was the headquarters for many Roman troops, pagan influences from all over the Roman Empire were pervasive (spreading through every part). This is an ideal place for Jesus to challenge both Jews and non-Jews with the Good News of God's Kingdom (Jesus' ministry). The Jewish teachers often quoted from well-known rabbis to give their words more authority. But Jesus didn't have that need. Because Jesus is God, He knew exactly what the Scriptures said and meant. He was the ultimate authority.

Are you placing emphasis on learning what you read daily? By knowing this Word, by writting it on Your heart, incorporating it into every area of your life, every day; you too can live with the authority that Jesus did. Not an arrogance but confident in the authority of our LORD.

-WE HAVE THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY IN US!

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Prayer: Jesus You are the ultimate authority in this world and in my life. I know this! Show me how to make decision with, and not against that authority. In Your Name I pray. Amen.

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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible and the Merriam Webster Dictionary.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Following Jesus

Prayer: LORD, first I would like to ask for Your forgiveness for anything that I've done that is contrary to Your Word. You always watch over what is going on in my life. Place Your law on my mind, write it on my heart. I desire to hear You and respond to Your discipline at all times. My life is in need of constant cleaning, discarding, rearranging and straightening that can only happen with You. Your timing is perfect. Thank you for singleness of heart and action, so that I will fear You for my own good and the good of all around me and those who will come after me. Inspire me through Your Word today, so that I will never turn away from You (Jeremiah 31,32). In Jesus' name. Amen
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JESUS MINISTRY IN GALILEE

Mark 1 v. 16-20 (NLT)

The Calling of the First Disciples

16 One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living (fishing was a major industry around the Sea of Galilee). 17 Jesus called out to them, "Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!" 18 And they left their nets at once and followed him.
19 A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee's sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. 20 He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men.

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Have you ever assumed that Jesus' disciples were great men of faith from the first time they met Jesus? Well, if you remember anything from the previous book of Matthew, you know that they were the opposite. The disciples were more like you and me; they had to grow in their faith just as all believers do. We will learn in future books that there was more to this first call, Jesus didn't say a few words and the men instantly left their boats to follow blindly. Not many of us move on the first call either. Although it took time for Jesus' call and His message to get through, the most important fact is that the disciples chose to FOLLOW Christ. In the same way, we may question and falter, but we must never stop following Jesus.

-PRAISE GOD WE DON'T HAVE TO BE PERFECT TO SERVE JESUS. HE WANTS US JUST AS WE ARE.

Change comes from growing in Him!
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Prayer: I'm thankful to know You for myself Jesus. I don't have to go to anyone to get to You, because You're always with me and I have full access in approaching You. Nothing is too hard for my God and You rejoice in doing good to us . You are great and powerful, Your name is the LORD Almighty. Great are Your purposes and mighty are Your deed. Your eyes are open to all the ways of men; You reward everyone according to their own conduct and as our deeds deserve. Today, you continue to perform miraculous signs and wonders among all mankind, and have gained the renown that is still Yours. What You command will happen (Jeremiah 31,32). Thank Your for Your Word today. In Your Name, I pray. Amen
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (D. Head), and Life Application Study Bible.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: The Kingdom

Prayer: Thank You LORD, for this day You have made. I am rejoicing and I'm glad in it. Grateful to wake up this day LORD; a day that we have declared Your deliverance over all situations and circumstances that have been submitted unto You. Thank You for Your promise. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for Your consistency. Thank You for Your mercy. Thank You for never leaving me. You are so good! Thank You, Thank You, Thank You; JESUS! Amen.
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www.biblegateway.com
MESSAGE AND MINISTRY OF JESUS, THE SERVANT

Mark 1 v. 14,15 (NLT) *part 2*
Emphasis on v. 15

Jesus Preaches in Galilee

15 "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"

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Do you know that our King reigns? Are you living in that very important fact or are you still waiting? And if you're waiting, (as Gwen Stefani would sing) what are you waiting for?

Jesus announced that the time that God promised had come. So we should not be living like Old Testament times. We should be living a life that has learned from their examples; mistakes and triumphs. Growing stronger every day in Christ to stand firm against all that comes our way.

Living in the Kingdom, is living in honor of our King Jesus Christ. He gave us clear instructions. And thank God, that what we don't get or know; we can go to the Holy Spirit to reveal what we need to know.

We all need to determine to live a life that is of God's Will, not our own. God's Will. As born-again Christians, we've entered into His Kingdom and need to not only live by His authority, but expect all the promises that come from it.

All our rewards will not be revealed on this earth; Why would you want them here in a place that is fading any way? Isn't it awesome to have so much to look forward to eternal; even after death?

-LIVE THE LIFE NOW THAT YOU'RE EXPECTING TO LIVE IN HEAVEN.

Why wait? God doesn't tell us to wait until Heaven, He commands us to live in the Kingdom NOW!

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Prayer: LORD, I pray that the message of Your Kingdom, truly infiltrates our hearts and changes our thoughts, decisions and actions. LORD, I pray that we each learn how to acknowledge You in all our ways, so that we don't fall for the foolishness that is growing around us. Let Your message spread rapidly among us and be honored. You are so faithful LORD. You will strengthen and protect us from the evil one, delivering us from wicked and evil people, for not every one has or will have faith. You deliver us from each wicked and evil agenda that is not according to Your Will. LORD please make plain among us, what may seem ok- but is truly wickedness in Your sight. For I don't want to grow content with what You have commanded me not to accept because it is not of You. I am open to growing more bolder for You and Your Kingdom; always operating in Your love and in accordance of Your Will. I have confidence in You LORD. May You continue to direct our hearts into Your love and Christ's perseverance each and every day. Amen. (2 Thessalonians 3)
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

The Good News

Prayer: What a beautiful morning and great day of expectation. Heavenly Father, I want to continue to thank You for all those You have chosen to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the Truth. You have called each one of us, that we might share in the glory of our LORD Jesus Christ. I pray that we each stand firm and hold on to Your teachings. May our LORD Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage our hearts and strengthen us in every good deed and word, today and every day of our lives. In Your Name, we believe and pray. Amen. (2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
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www.biblegateway.com
MESSAGE AND MINISTRY OF JESUS, THE SERVANT

Mark 1 v. 14,15 (NLT)

Jesus Preaches in Galilee

14 Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God's Good News. 15 "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"

----

As we read the book of Mark, take the time to notice Mark's writting style. He tells us dramatic, action-packed stories. He gives us the most vivid account of Christ's activities. He features facts and actions, rather than teachings.

What is God's Good News? These first words spoken by Jesus in Mark gave the core of His teaching; that the long awaited Messiah had come to break the power of sin and begin God's personal reign on earth. Most of the people who heard this message were oppressed, poor, and without hope. Jesus' words were good news because they offered freedom, justice, and hope.

The Word continues to offer us the same things today. Whether it convicts you, lifts your spirit or encourage you; it's The Good News that will save your life as you learn it and APPLY it. Make it a goal in this book to really study Jesus. The way Jesus lived His life is the perfect example of how we should live our lives today.

- "THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NEAR! REPENT OF YOUR SINS AND BELIEVE THE GOOD NEWS!"

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Prayer: LORD, Your Word is the good news. Blessed are those who live in Your house; blessed are those whose strength is in You. For LORD, You are a sun and shield; You bestow favor and honor; no good thing do You withhold from those whose walk is blameless. O LORD Almighty, blessed are the people who trust in You, like Jesus did every day of His life on earth (Psalm 84). Thank You for Your awesome life, Jesus. I love You. Amen.
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Quality

Prayer: Thank You LORD, for the every day growth of our faith through Your Word. Thank You LORD, for the increase of love we have for those in our lives and all of Your children. The perseverance I have in all the trials that I endure only comes from You and I'm so grateful to all that You provide in my life; inside and out. Father God, may You count me worthy of Your calling and by Your power fulfill ever good purpose of mine and every act prompted by my faith in You. I pray this, as Paul did, so that the name of our LORD Jesus may be glorified in me and me in Him, according to the grace of our God and the LORD Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 1). Amen.
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www.biblegateway.com

Mark 1 v. 13 *part 2* (NLT)

The Temptation of Jesus

13 (in the wilderness, Jesus) was tempted by Satan for forty days.

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Recently, I was introduced to this Pastor in the Bay area of California; Pastor Paul from Enduring Truth. He is hilarious; but most importantly, right on point when it comes to the Word of God. He's on every day at 12:30p on 99.5fm in Cali if you want to check him out.

His current teaching series is: Spiritual Quality Control, and his message today touched upon temptation. There were so many nuggets of wisdom, and in flowing with the Spirit; I'm going to take an extra day with temptation, to share with you what I learned, since it's right on time.

How good it is to serve an "on-time" God!!!! This is definitely a message He wants us to get.

So, temptation...

"The devil will get you to focus on something that God said to leave alone," Pastor Paul said this today and ain't it the truth? These distractions will look good to you too; may even seem right-but be completely wrong. Did you know that satan is a LIAR? He will pervert anything, even God's Word, to get us off track. He wants us to choose the things of this world so that we will confuse what God has called us to do. And if we don't remain close to God, we won't even know it.

I'm using "worldly," "worldliness," and "of this world" a lot. Many of you might not get what that means. So let me set it straight:
Anything that is of the world is against God. It is not according to His Word nor the lifestyle that He has called His children to lead. Plain and simple. There is no in-between to it. There is no middle ground. It's not ok, because my friends accept it. There are no new guidelines just because it's 2009. If we're doing anything opposite of what He instructs in His Word, IT IS AGAINST GOD. Hard to take in right? Because we all do something(s) that doesn't agree with His commands. Some of us, because we just don't know any better. Many of us, we know- but we do it anyway...

The hard thing about "worldliness" is that it is so APPEALING.
It's appealing to make money the most important thing in our lives, because it can bring, fame and power- we believe it alone can fix almost everything.
It's appealing to have sex outside of marriage, because.. "Why not?" You're in love, right? Or "your body 'is calling!' As R.Kelly sang- 'your mind is telling you no, but your body is telling you YES!', and hey, we can't deprive the body of what it needs, right?
It's appealing to get back at the person who hurt us.
It's appealing to get "them," before "they" get you.
It's appealing to talk about someone and someone else's business- with a person(s) who doesn't need to know it (why are we talking about, what we're called to pray for).
It's appealing to be sarcastic and not care whether it has hurt someone's feeling.
It's appealing to cheat, lie and steal- sometimes it's just too easy- so again, "Why not?!"
It's appealing to be angry at someone forever, with the motive of hurting that person by not allowing them into our lives...ha!
It's appealing to get everything off your chest, without even considering if it's the right time to do it.
It's appealing to act without praying, who has the time to stop and pray any way?
It's appealing to put self-first.
It's appealing to "put it in the hands of the universe."
It's appealing to blend in and be included; way more than it is to stand out for what is right and risk people standing against you.
It's appealing to just accept it, even when we know it's wrong.
It's appealing to hope and pray- but do it ourselves because God is taking too long.
It's appealing to be alone, more than it is to fellowship with others on a hard day.
It's appealing to make the outside look phenomenal without building quality inside.
It's appealing to be liked for all the wrong reasons, than for who we really are.
It's appealing to watch it because everyone else is, knowing there are evil spirits attached to the program- and "hey! It's just TV." (God is speaking to me here! Whoa!)
It's appealing to go to church on Sunday, and live any way we please every other day of the week, even Sunday if we need to.
It's appealing to pick and choose from the Word, what we will accept and use in our lives.
It's appealing to seek God as a last resort, if at all.

The list of what is appealing but not of God, can go on and on and on. But know right now, if you have never known before; the appeal is a lie from the destroyer. We cannot afford to be "worldly" any more saints! We're called to live in this world but not to be of this world. We're children of the Kingdom; and when we live like the world-we're missing God's best.

Satan is here to kill, steal, and destroy each and every one of us; and he doesn't need to actually end our lives to do it. All he has to do, is get God out of our focus. And sometimes, for those who don't know the Word nor have a real relationship with God; he will get you to think you're doing it for God, when God NEVER asked you to do it in the first place. Crazy right? Think about all these people who are killing in the name of God. I'm sure they believe they heard God speak, and don't even realize they were listening to satan. Satan knows the Bible, and will point to every scripture that says to kill; taking it out of context and giving it meaning God never intended. THIS IS WHY the details are so important.

God's Word is not a burden, it's freedom. But so many of us believe this lie and choose to not accept all that is in the Bible. We're not here to live a casual, carefree and easy life. A life that caters to ourselves. Nope, that's another lie! Live Your Life for God! Life is not about self, it is suppose to be about God. When we live for God, we live life with a servant's heart- just as Jesus did. He knew He was King, but He choose to be a servant to the people for the Kingdom.

We're not temptation proof, but temptation will always be a part of our lives. God doesn't allow us to be tempted to fail. Number one reason God allows temptation, is to build a solid genuine foundation within each one of us. We're called to flee temptation. "Get out of temptations neighborhood," as Pastor Paul put it. We will unfortunately always tend to sway more towards what is wrong, than what is righteous. We are constantly fighting against our flesh, even as born-again Christians. This is why we NEED God, He alone gives us the victory! If we would just listen, obey and stay alert. He is calling each of us each to raise the level of our walks with Him. God is taking us some where great! But He will not take us into the next direction, until we follow the direction He is giving us now.

As Pastor Paul put it, "God is our life's navigation system. As we keep making the wrong turns or passing them, He is constantly re calculating our routes to get to the divine destination."

Stop falling for and playing with the devil's tricks. God can bring us from where we are to where we ought to be. Will you work with Him or against Him and miss Him?

- ROMANS 8:28-39 (Bonus study)
KNOW WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST!
Stop allowing this world and satan to define and guide you.

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Prayer: Thank You LORD, for the message You placed on Pastor Paul's spirit. When You want to call Your children to action, You don't give just one person the message; You give it to several of Your servants, to prepare the people for what is Yet to come. Thank You for being mindful of us; for not leaving us here to live in ignorance and darkness. Hallelujah for the light! Your intentions for my life is more than just to bless me, but to build quality spiritual material in order to stand the test of time. Thank You for getting us right in order to go out into the world and serve You, represent You and spread Your love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Temptation... again?

Praise God!

I would like to welcome the new readers to TGN. My prayer, in the Name of Jesus, is that The Good News will make the Word more personal in your daily life, so that you can apply it to everything, and succeed and grow in all you do according to God's direction.
Thank You to everyone who stepped out to make a bold move; whether you got an answer or not from those you reached out to-the victory is in you making that step. Your faithfulness to the Word and spreading it will not return void.

I thank God for each one of you reading TGN, and the continued growth of this ministry.

Grace and Peace-

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Prayer: Heavenly Father, I ask that You help me use this time with You today to show me what pleases You. Guide me in what You would have me do in my specific circumstances today. I desire that my lifestyle reflects my LORD. I welcome Your Word and Your Holy Spirit to transform and conform me, including my desires into the image of Jesus Christ. In His beautiful Name I pray. Amen
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www.biblegateway.com

Mark 1 v. 12,13 (NLT)

The Temptation of Jesus

12 The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, 13 where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him.

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Who is this satan? Some people don't think he really exist. Well- he does; Satan is an angel who rebelled against God. He is real, not symbolic, and is constantly working against God and those who obey Him. He loves those people who don't think he is real, because he can play in their life and they won't ever know about their power to fight against him. Thank the LORD, that we know the power of God's Word.

Satan tempted Eve in the garden and persuaded her to sin; he tempted Jesus in the wilderness but DID NOT persuade Him to fall. To identify fully with human beings, Jesus had to endure satan's temptations. Although Jesus is God, He is also man; "The image of the invisible God" (Colossians 1:15). As fully human, He was not exempt from satan's attacks. Because Jesus faced temptations and overcame them, He can assist us in 2 important ways today:
1) as an example of how to face temptation without sinning, and
2) as a helper who knows just what we need because He went through the same experience.

But don't miss Who compelled Jesus to go to the wilderness; it was The Holy Spirit- it was God. God knew satan was there, but sent His Son there any way. Why?

To be tempted is not a sin. Temptation is bad for us only when we give in. It's also a sin to tempt others to sin but we'll discuss that later. We should not hate or resent times of inner testing, because through them God can strengthen our character and teach us valuable lessons. When you face satan and must deal with his temptations and the turmoil he brings, remember Jesus. God sent His angels to take care of Jesus in the wilderness. He sends His angels, the Holy Spirit, His Word, everything He is with us as well!

There is nothing satan can do to us that God doesn't already know. What satan will never get because he IS NOT all-knowing nor all-powerful; is that God is bringing out the best in us through that temptation. And we don't always have to suffer, we have this great thing called wisdom that we can use from His Word beforehand; instead of suffering from the consequences of making the wrong decisions afterwards. This is a huge key to eliminating the suffering in most of our situations and promoting growth in our spirit. But when we do fail, that wisdom is still waiting for us, praise God. It's nice to avoid failure, but when we don't, we have our Savior to pick us up out of our mess. Don't ever forget that! Because the devil will lie to you about that as well. Where satan is trying to bring us down, God is always waiting to lift us up.

We know the enemy's game plan...
- SO LET'S STOP BLAMING him AND INSTEAD GO AFTER WHAT GOD IS TRYING TO BRING OUT IN US.

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Prayer: LORD, You are great! My eyes are opened and my heart desires to know what I am suppose to learn in this trial that I am in. Bring Your Word to my spirit to stand on, guide me and fight against the attacks of the enemy. Use this time in my life to take me to the next level in You, Jesus. Hallelujah. I seek Your wisdom LORD, so that I can suffer less consequences and instead celebrate where I am going with You. Please show me how to continue to celebrate and offer thanksgiving unto You, especially when things don't look good. I want to keep my eyes on the prize which is above and not be distracted by what the things that will fade away. Thank You for bringing me out of darkness and ignorance, and into Your Kingdom to be salt and light in the world and live with You forever. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Please God!

Help me spread The Good News.

Ask one new person if they would like to receive the Good News. Let's join together and spread God's Word to the people. If you receive from TGN like I do, you don't want to keep this for yourself.

It's not a hassle for me to add more names, it's a joy.

Grace & favor to you all!

P.S. I'm doing it too! Just sent an email out to 3 new people. I wouldn't ask you to do something I wasn't moved to do as well. Thanks!

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Prayer: LORD, Thank You for sowing into good ground and preparing the great harvest in our lives. Thank You for this time of gathering, time of reflection, this time of Thanksgiving. My God, my Father and my LORD Jesus, clear the way for each of us to hear Your specific instruction through Your faithful Word today. Let it stick with us and grow within us. Continue to teach us You power and might, so that we all know that Your name is LORD (Jeremiah 16:21). May You make our love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else in our lives. May You strengthen our hearts so that we will each be blameless and holy in Your presence when our LORD Jesus comes with all His holy ones. (1 Thessalonians 3:11-13). Hallelujah Jesus! Amen
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www.biblegateway.com

Mark 1 v. 9-11 (NLT)

The Baptism of Jesus

9 One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. 10 As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy."

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So, some of the scholars out there may be wondering, "If John's baptism was for repentance from sin, why was Jesus (Who is without sin) baptized?"
Well, you're right, Jesus was sinless- and although He didn't need forgiveness, He was baptized for the following reasons...
1) To begin His mission to bring the message of salvation to all people;
2) To show support for John's ministry. To show that all John was living for was in purpose of what God ordained.
3) To identify with our humanness and sin;
4) To give us an example to follow.

During the baptism, the Spirit descended like a dove on Jesus, and the voice from Heaven proclaimed the Father's approval of Jesus as His divine Son. This again shows all members of the trinity together- God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

But something else stands out here, God's words to Jesus. In the NIV translation (v.11), God tells Jesus, "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."

I know God loves me, but I wonder if He is pleased with my actions, my decisions, my thoughts. Right now, is God pleased with what I'm thinking; is God pleased with how I'm treating others; is God pleased with what I have planned for tomorrow; is God pleased with the desires of my heart. I believe if we ask this before we act, many of our decisions would change. If our motives are to accept His instruction over and in our lives, we're looking to please the Almighty. We're operating by love, not fear- because love gets as to willfully obey. Fear gets us to obey, but not because we want to.

Do all you can NOT to reject God's instruction, to live a life worthy of Him, to please Him. Don't you want to bring "great joy" to our God? Check this, when we don't live to please God, when we don't purpose to bring Him joy first and foremost- we're not only rejecting God's instruction but we're rejecting God (Jeremiah 18:8). True story! How can we reject the One who loves us each unconditionally, sticks closer than a mother, father, brother, sister and human friend and offers us the only gift worth living for...

Begin to ask yourself:
-DOES THIS PLEASE GOD?

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Prayer: Father, Your eyes are on all our ways; our ways are not hidden from You, nor is our sin concealed from Your eyes (Jeremiah 16:17). LORD, how can I please You today? Will ____ (whatever you have going on in your life today) bring you great joy? Because if it doesn't I don't want to even touch it. I'm ready to change my plans, my actions as You see fit. I want to walk on one accord with You, and not with what I think is best. I am not all-knowing, that's You; I'm not all-powerful, that again is You. I don't even know what's best for me at times, but I do know how to get that answer; from my loving God. Father, guide me in pleasing You with all that I am and everything I do. In the name of Your dearly loved Son, who brings You great joy. Amen
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Baptized...

Prayer: LORD, You're altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. Show me how to remain alert from all attacks of the enemy, to be prepared and refuse to allow anything to keep me earth bound; to resist the devil in all ways. For You call me to a higher place. Show me how to rejoice in my sufferings and to not be distracted by them. The customs of this world are worthless. And therefore, LORD, I choose to submit to Your ways. It's only by Your power, Your wisdom, and Your understanding that I make it through and to another day. Our life is not our own, it is not for me to direct my steps-but for You. Correct me LORD, direct me LORD, through every word I read today and every day. In Jesus' name. Amen
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www.biblegateway.com
PREPARATION OF JESUS, THE KING

Mark 1 v. 1-5,7-8 *part 3*(NLT)
Emphasis on v. 4-8

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

4 This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven. 5 All of Judea, including all the people of Jerusalem, went out to see and hear John. And when they confessed their sins, he baptized them in the Jordan River...
7 John announced: "Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am— so much greater that I'm not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!"

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Although John was the first genuine prophet in 400 years, Jesus the Messiah would be infinitely greater than he. John was pointing out how insignificant he was compared to the One who was coming, when he "announced: 'Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am— so much greater that I'm not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals' (v.7). What John began, Jesus finished. What John prepared, Jesus fulfilled

In John's ministry, baptism was a visible sign that a person had decided to change his or her life, giving up a sinful or selfish way of living and turning to God. John took a known custom and gave it new meaning. The Jews often baptized non-Jews who had converted to Judaism. But to baptize a Jew as a sign of repentance was a radical departure from Jewish custom. The early church, and today, baptism is associated with Jesus' death and resurrection.

John said Jesus would baptize them with the Holy Spirit, sending the Holy Spirit to live within each believer. John's baptism with water prepared a person to receive Christ's message. This baptism demonstrated repentance, humility, and willingness to turn from sin. This was the BEGINNING of the spiritual process.

When Jesus baptizes with the Holy Spirit, however, the entire person is transformed by the Spirit's power- they don't have to feel it; it's not about feelings. It's about receiving, believing and allowing the Spirit to work in every part of our lives. Jesus offers to us both forgiveness of sin and the power to live for Him.

-WHAT'S KEEPING YOU FROM TAKING JESUS UP ON HIS OFFER?

Those who have accepted Jesus' offer:
-ARE YOU ALLOWING THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TO TRANFORM YOU?

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Prayer: Thank You Jesus for the gift of the Holy Spirit. LORD, I welcome the power of Your Spirit to transform me from the inside out, into the person You created me to be. I pray that each of us, who come to The Good News daily, may stand firm in all Your Will, mature and fully assured (Colossians 4:12). I bless You LORD, You are great. In Jesus' name. Amen
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (D. Boone) & The Divine Mentor, by Wayne Cordeiro. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: The Choice to Be Different...

Prayer: You're all I want, Your all I've ever needed. LORD, draw me close to You. How awesome, that I am free to come to You- just as I am. With all of my faults, mistakes, foolish ways, all that craziness; because You promise to cleanse me, to make me new through the blood of Christ. This is so great, it can only be You. Let me shadow Your Son as I consume the "fresh daily bread" that You have "baked" specifically for Your children today in the book of Mark. Let me consume and digest Your Word into living differently today because of the lesson(s) You have ordained for me to learn. What do you want me to know today, Father (Proverbs 8:34; Luke 11)? You are so good, LORD! In Jesus' name. Amen --------------------------------------------------------------

www.biblegateway.com
PREPARATION OF JESUS, THE KING

Mark 1 v. 1-8 *part 2*(NLT)
Emphasis on v. 4-6

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

4 This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven. 5 All of Judea, including all the people of Jerusalem, went out to see and hear John. And when they confessed their sins, he baptized them in the Jordan River. 6 His clothes were woven from coarse camel hair, and he wore a leather belt around his waist. For food he ate locusts and wild honey.

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John didn't choose the easy life. Instead he chose to live in the wilderness, wear clothes that the "cool kids" would laugh out, and he ate locusts and wild honey-instead of the finest and choice delicacies. John chose to be different, in order to do his work for God. John chose to keep his eyes on God and live his purpose faithfully.

So why did John choose to live in the wilderness?

(1 ) to get away from distraction so he could hear God's instruction;
Is your life filled with distraction? Only you can remove it. You don't have to live in the wilderness, but you also don't have to be at everything and anything either.

(2) To capture the undivided attention of the people;
Do you just blend in? Or does the Spirit of God really shine through you. Have you ever been told, "You know, there's something about you!" Or "I feel so comfortable talking to you," or "I knew you were Christian! (with positive intent)" If you don't stand out for more than the clothes you wear; where is God? God is bold, He stands out, He wants to me known by those in your life- through you.

(3) To symbolize a sharp break with the hypocrisy of the religious leaders who preferred their luxurious homes and positions of authority over doing God's work.
Christians are called horrible names nowadays. It saddens my heart really, but it's partly due to living hypocritical and judgmental lives. How do you (or plan to) make that sharp break between the religious and those in a daily, all day, every day relationship with God?
John distinguished himself by the clothes he wore as well. He made sure his clothes weren't what established or defined him. Because that was and is God's role.
I'm not in any way saying- "don't look good." I love style! But how important is it to you? Are you thinking about what you're going to wear before you go to bed and first thing when you wake up in the morning? What are your motives for spending so much time on that decision? And when is God finally on your mind? He should be first, last and all in-between. His presence and glory in your life should define you.
I can testify to putting these type of concerns in God's hands; most of the time, I get a thought of what to wear while praying or reading the Word. True story! I thank God and move on. Once I have it, it's a done deal. But trust me, I know the consequences of not allowing it to be a done deal! I go through more outfits than necessary, ending up in the original idea anyway;yet I've wasted time- I can't eat or read the word, if I've decided to do it after I shower (this is why it's best for me to read the word first). Or I'm in something I hate the second I step out the door. I know I can trust God in all things, even in what I wear. I don't have to be concerned about it, so that I can be concerned about His business.
You feel me?

(4) It fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
Your true commitment to an honest relationship with God, fulfills your purpose. Trust me I go through the thoughts and questions: what is it I'm suppose to be doing, what am I suppose to be, what is the purpose in my life. But these questions come last to what my first purpose is, which is to serve the LORD Almighty. When we concentrate on this first and always- everything else falls into place.
God calls us to keep our eyes on Him, not on our careers, the desire to be married, have kids or whatever else is on your mind.

This is why John is really speaking to me in this first chapter and verses of Mark. The purpose of John's preaching (which was in him, even when he was in his mother's womb: Luke 1:40) was to prepare people to accept Jesus as God's Son. When John challenged the people to confess sin individually (without animal sacrifice), he signaled the start of a new way to relate to God.

Is change needed in your life before you can hear and understand Jesus' message? Well, you have to admit that you need forgiveness from Him before you can accept any change He wants to do in you. To prepare to receive Christ, you have to repent. Determine and make a commitment to STOP doing what God clearly states is against Him. Denounce the world's dead-end attractions, sinful temptations, and harmful attitudes. Doesn't mean you won't be tempted, you may fall into temptation, you may make a mistake. But where is your heart? Do you continue to live in that mistake or return to God?

-DARE TO BE DIFFERENT! DARE TO STAND OUT FOR THE GOD YOU SERVE.

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Prayer: I stand in awe of You, Holy God to Whom ALL praise is due. I thank You for transforming us into Your beautiful likeness and for delivering us from a stubborn struggle to align ourselves to a fading culture (Jeremiah 9:24). Your culture is the only everlasting culture. Help us to stand for You at all times, spreading the love You have for us to one another. By this; not judgment, not by boasting about ourselves, not by good works alone - but by love and by Your Spirit, will all men know that we are Your disciples (1 Corinthians 15:58). Praise You Jesus. I'm so thankful John the Baptist prepared the way for such a glorious, yet humble King. In Your name we pray. Amen
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (D. Boone) & The Divine Mentor, by Wayne Cordeiro. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Preparation of Jesus, The King

Prayer: Father, give us today our daily bread. Fill us with everything that we will need for today. Through Your Holy Spirit teach, guide and correct us. Thank You, Jesus, for Your power in every part of my life today-renewing me physically, mentally and spiritually. In Jesus' name. Amen --------------------------------------------------------------

www.biblegateway.com
PREPARATION OF JESUS, THE KING

Mark 1 v. 1-8 (NLT)

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

1 This is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. It began 2 just as the prophet Isaiah had written:
"Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way. 3 He is a voice shouting in the wilderness,
'Prepare the way for the Lord's coming!
Clear the road for him!' "
4 This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven. 5 All of Judea, including all the people of Jerusalem, went out to see and hear John. And when they confessed their sins, he baptized them in the Jordan River. 6 His clothes were woven from coarse camel hair, and he wore a leather belt around his waist. For food he ate locusts and wild honey.
7 John announced: "Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am— so much greater that I'm not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!"

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Jesus did not arrive unannounced or unexpected. The Old Testament prophets had clearly predicted the coming of the Great One (check out Isaiah 40:3, Malachi 3:1), sent by God Himself, who would offer salvation and eternal peace to Israel and the entire world.

Then came John the Baptist. If anyone knew their purpose from jump, it was John! He prepared the way for Jesus Christ by announcing that the long awaited Messiah had finally come and would soon be among the people.

In verse 3, when John was shouting "Prepare the way for the Lord's coming! Clear the road for him!" He was encouraging the people to give up their selfish way of living, renounce their sins, seek God's forgiveness, and establish a relationship with the Almighty God by believing and obeying His words as found in Scripture.

This instruction remains in the Bible because God is calling each of us to do the same. Jesus is coming again, are you "Preparing the way for the Lord's coming! Clearing the road for him"?

Let's be honest, and ask ourselves:

-"AM I LIVING A SELFISH LIFE (all about me) OR AM I GIVING GOD ALL THAT I AM AND HAVE TO BE USED FOR HIS GLORY?"

John did! Absolutely nothing else mattered.

We will remain in these verses tomorrow as well.

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Prayer: I am calling on You Jesus, because Your Word is true. You are perfect and powerful in ways I can't even imagine. You are the head of the church (body). You are the beginning and first born from among the dead. In everything You have supremacy. By Your Name are all things according to my Father's Will done. Rid me of everything that is not worthy of Your Kingdom: greed, deceit, shame, falsehoods... I renounce every sin that I have committed against You, since the last time I've come to you. I humbly ask for Your perfect forgiveness and Your perfect peace that was made through Your blood shed on the cross. Because of You, and You only I am holy in God's sight, without blemish and free from any accusation. I'm seeking a relationship with You that never grows stagnant. You are concern about me always, it is me who loses sight of You. LORD, help me to stay on the right path. Show me how to be still, and listen to Your voice telling me which way to go and walk in. I desire for every step I take and every decision I make, honors You and declares Your Glory in everything I do. Thank You for the refreshment that only You can give. Let today, be the day I commit to walking with Jesus at all times; preparing the way for His return to earth. In Jesus' name, by which all treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. Amen (Jeremiah 6; Colossians 1-2;Mark 1:1-3)

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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (H. MacDonald) & The Divine Mentor, by Wayne Cordeiro. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: The Book Of Mark

www.biblegateway.com

The Gospel of MARK

Before we enter this next book, I wanted to present you with all the background information I could find in my resources.

John Mark is the author of this book. He was not one of the 12 disciples, but he accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey (Acts 12-13) and he was inspired by God to record the events of Jesus' life.

Mark writes this Gospel to tell the basic story about Jesus. He recounts miracles, parables and other sayings of Jesus. Mark shows us Jesus--moving, serving, sacrificing, and saving! Almost half of his book deals with the final week of Jesus' life, ending with His death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead.
As we read and study this book, notice how full of life and emotion Jesus is and how caring He is. Also note, why He came into this world-to give His life for you (Mark 10:45). God wants you to first, accept His Son Jesus as your own personal Savior and LORD.

And if you're Saved/Born Again, be ready for action. Be open for God's move in your life, and be challenged to move into your world to serve.

-THE GOOD NEWS IS A LOT MORE THAN JUST READ...

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Prayer: God, You are awesome! You are the King of Glory and You are my God. I don't just feel special; I know that in Your eyes, I am special. Thank You for creating me and having great plans for my life. No matter how small or large the task, it is for Your Kingdom and therefore it matters. Help me to take my eyes from looking out for all the big things, and to become faithful in the small, in the little, in what I have right now. Because right now matters, more than any dream I can have. Right now, is what will take me to the next day, mission and purpose in my life. I love and trust You, Father. In Your Holy and perfect Son's name-Jesus! Amen. --------------------------------------------------------------

"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Study notes from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition & Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: End of Matthew

Prayer: LORD, thank You for Your Word, that enlightens and reminds me of all that You have done in the lives of Your servants. Thank You for Your Word, that also reveals what You are going to do. Show me Your promises, so that I stand strong on the Word from my God, whom never lies. You know me LORD, every single part of me. You know what I need, fill those needs with Your Word. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen
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www.biblegateway.com
RESURRECTION OF JESUS, THE KING

Matthew 28 *part 4* v. 19- 20 (NLT)

The Great Commission

(Jesus speaking to His 11 disciples)
19 "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

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Do you know what the Trinity is? As we see here, the concept comes directly from Jesus Himself. He did not say baptize them in the names, but in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The word Trinity does not occur in Scripture, but it well describes the three-in-one nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Just as you may be a mother, dancer and child of God. Just as you can be a brother, student and actor. God is the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The disciples were to baptize people because baptism unites believers with Jesus Christ in their death to sin (going under water) and their resurrection to new life (coming up from under the water). If you have never understood the reason to get baptized, let me tell you. Baptism symbolizes submission to Christ, a willingness to live God's way, and identification with God's covenant people. Once you get this, you will definitely celebrate the act in an entirely new way.

And this concludes the book of Matthew. Good job faithful readers! We'll start the book of Mark, Monday! Remember we'll read many of the same events we read in Matthew, but from a new perspective, and trust me the Spirit will reveal things to you that you need to hear in just that time. Be continually blessed in every area of your life.

-JESUS IS KING OF OUR LIFE. WORSHIP HIM AS OUR SAVIOR, KING, AND LORD.

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Prayer: I will tell of the kindness of the LORD, the deeds for which You are to be praised, according to all You have done for us- yes, the many good things You have done for all of Your children, according to Your compassion and many kindnesses (Isaiah 63:7). You are able to do, just what You said You would do. You will fulfill ever promise to me. I won't give up on You, Father, because You won't give up on me. YOU'RE ABLE (Voices of Unity, "He's Able")! Thank You for speaking to me through the book of Matthew. I love your Word. Thank You Jesus, my King! In Your mighty name, amen.
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT

TGN: Got Disciples?

Prayer: LORD Jesus, help me to be a person who listens to Your Word. Today I will take time to hear what You are saying to me. Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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www.biblegateway.com
RESURRECTION OF JESUS, THE KING

Matthew 28 *part 3* v. 19- 20 (NLT)

The Great Commission

(Jesus speaking to His 11 disciples)
19 "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

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On the basis of the authority in heaven and on earth, Jesus told His disciples to make more disciples as they preached, baptized and taught others to obey Christ. And in their worldwide mission to make disciples of ALL NATIONS, He assured them that He would be with them always. Jesus is LORD of the earth, and He died for the sins of ALL people. God is not a God of just a certain people. He is the God of ALL people. Even in the times of the Old Testament, He had all nations on His mind. All nations will know that He is God. If this wasn't the truth, He would not have called and saved me... He would not have saved you... And if you are not saved, He wouldn't be calling You (because trust me He is).

We are to go- whether it is next door or to another country-and make disciples. It is not an option but a command to all who call Jesus "LORD." We are not all evangelists in the formal sense, but we have all received gifts that we can use to help fulfill the great commission. As we obey, we also have comfort in the knowledge that Jesus is always with us, like He was with the original disciples. "How is Jesus with us?" You might not know. Jesus was with the disciples physically until He ascended into heaven and then spiritually through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4). The Holy Spirit is Jesus' presence that will never leave us. So as Christians, Believers... whatever you label yourself as a Child of God; with the same authority, Jesus still commands us to tell others the GOOD NEWS and make them disciples for the Kingdom. We should each be a reminder that simple faith has deep roots that are impossible to dislodge. Our vast number would show the world that we are evident everywhere. Because we are everywhere, we should be easily accessible. Jesus was! We need to get out of our comfort zones and jump across the boundaries that keep us where people expect to find us. We need to show ourselves in all the spots that need a little brightening up- including the workplace. We aren't called to beat people over the head with our faith, but we're also not called to hide it. Light is suppose to shine!

-HOW ARE YOU MAKING DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS WITH THE GIFTS, the WORD AND HOLY SPIRITINSIDE OF YOU?

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Prayer: Help me apply what I've just learned. I'm thankful for the power of Your Word. Like Jesus, I will always have hope- because I know I have You; I have Your light inside of me. I will praise You more and more (Psalm 71:14). Show me how to use the talents, gifts and opportunities You have blessed me with to make disciples of all those around me. Show me those who are ready to know You. Open their hearts, give them ears to hear, and let Your Spirit discern exactly what they need to hear from You, through me. Use me LORD! I am Yours. In Your wonderful name I pray. Amen.
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"Through God's mercy I have this ministry, I will not lose heart... I do not preach myself, but Jesus Christ as LORD and myself as the servant of the people for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:1,5

Scripture from The Bible (biblegateway.com), Prayer from The Divine Mentor, Wayne Cordeiro. Study notes from Life Application Study Bible; and NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition- J.Kempe.

www.thegoodnews4yourlife.blogspot.com "Providing you with what you already have access to in the most convenient way. So that we all can continue to grow in wisdom & understanding of God." LT