The Good News: January 2010

Friday, January 29, 2010

TGN: Recognize

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Daily Prayer: Father God, You hear me because You are compassionate.
By faith in the name of Jesus, thank You for this time of refreshing that comes from You. Amen.

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:53-56 (NLT)

Jesus Recognized

53 After they had crossed the lake, they landed at Gennesaret. They brought the boat to shore 54 and climbed out. The people recognized Jesus at once, 55 and they ran throughout the whole area, carrying sick people on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 Wherever he went—in villages, cities, or the countryside—they brought the sick out to the marketplaces. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed.

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I'm so amazed by the faith and love of the people who got Jesus. They not only believed Him, but they didn't keep it for themselves. People were carrying others (friends, relatives, strangers probably) on mats to wherever He was. They didn't care who saw them, they didn't care about anything else but for what Jesus could provide for them.

I believe people are too concerned about what others think today. They'll talk Jesus with another believer but not with anyone else; at least not until they know their faith. They'll go to church every Sunday, and not be ashamed about it; but wont live anything they've learned.

We have to be eager for Jesus family. We have to seek Him, learn to recognize Him and let Him be recognized in us.

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Prayer: Thank You Jesus for meeting us where we are at and taking us to places we could never even imagine. In Your Grace. Amen

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

Spread The Good News: 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

Sent from my Good News Wireless BlackBerry

Thursday, January 28, 2010

TGN: Walking on Water

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Daily Prayer: There is no other God but You, Heavenly Father. I love You LORD, and I'm so thankful to spend this time with You today. Continue to guide me in knowing and keeping ALL of Your commands. For partial obedience, is rebellion. I desire to be fully obedient to You. In Jesus' Name, amen.
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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:45-52 (NLT)
Jesus Walks on Water
45 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and head across the lake to Bethsaida, while he sent the people home. 46 After telling everyone good-bye, he went up into the hills by himself to pray.
47 Late that night, the disciples were in their boat in the middle of the lake, and Jesus was alone on land. 48 He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. He intended to go past them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the water, they cried out in terror, thinking he was a ghost. 50 They were all terrified when they saw him.
But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage! I am here!" 51 Then he climbed into the boat, and the wind stopped. They were totally amazed, 52 for they still didn't understand the significance of the miracle of the loaves. Their hearts were too hard to take it in.

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The disciples were surprised to see Jesus walking beside them on the water. But they should have realized that Jesus would help them when they were in trouble. Though they had lost sight of Jesus, He had not lost sight of them. His concern for them overcame their lack of faith. The disciples were afraid, but Jesus' presence calmed their fears.

The next time you are in "deep water" remember that Christ knows your struggle and cares for you. He sees you fighting hard to keep your head above water, or even on straight. He sees your struggle. We all experience fear. Choice is: Do we try to deal with it ourselves, or do we let Jesus deal with it?
In times of fear and uncertainty, it is calming to know that Christ is always with us (Matthew 28:20). To recognize Christ's presence is the antidote to fear. How do you build your faith and trust in Jesus? Transfer what you know to be true about Him into every area of your life. He is LORD of our lives, not just church on Sunday, or when we need a blessing. Our whole life. The disciples did not transfer the truth they already knew about Jesus to their own lives while Jesus was with them. It had to be a lot to take in. I'm not going to judge them. But let's talk about us, we read that Jesus walked on the water (and other miracles), and yet we often question if He is able to work in our life. We must not only believe that these miracles really occurred; we must not only remember His grace in the past or in someone else's life; we must also transfer the truth to ALL of our own life situations.

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Prayer: Jesus, thank You for interceeding for us! I'm so thankful that You can see it all; You see us straining in certain areas of our lives, You see what is against us. And You come our way in just the right time. I call on Your Name, Jesus. I will not have You pass me by. I am not terrified by Your grace, I desire to honor You by it. Thank You for courage. Thank You for being here with me. Thank You for eliminating my fears. Thank You for understanding; for if there is any hardening of my heart, please remove it. Thank You LORD. In Your Name, amen.
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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible.
Spread The Good News: 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

Sent from my Good News Wireless BlackBerry

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

TGN: Nothing is Impossible With God

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Daily Prayer: Thank You LORD for the bread from heaven today. I am ready to receive my portion for the day and learn how to follow Your instruction. Thank You for the strength and the nourishment to face what comes my way, day by day. You are such a special God, all in my business and I love it. Creator of my business; hallelujah. In honor of my LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen (Exodus 16).

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:35-44 (NLT)

Jesus Feeds over 5000

35 Late in the afternoon his disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. 36 Send the crowds away so they can go to the nearby farms and villages and buy something to eat."

37 But Jesus said, "You feed them."

"With what?" they asked. "We'd have to work for months to earn enough money to buy food for all these people!"

38 "How much bread do you have?" he asked. "Go and find out."

They came back and reported, "We have five loaves of bread and two fish."

39 Then Jesus told the disciples to have the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of fifty or a hundred.

41 Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share. 42 They all ate as much as they wanted, 43 and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover bread and fish. 44 A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed from those loaves!

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In chapter 6 different people have examined Jesus' life and ministry: His neighbors and family, Herod the king, and the disciples. Yet none of these appreciated Jesus for who He truly was. The disciples were still pondering, still confused, still unbelieving- and they spent the most time with Jesus. They did not realize that Jesus could provide for them in all ways. They were so preoccupied with the immensity of the task that they could not see what was possible with God. Do you let what seems impossible about Christianity keep you from believing?

When Jesus asked the disciples to provide food for over 5,000 people, they were amazed and said it would take a small fortune to feed such a crowd. How do you react when you are given an impossible task? A situation that seems impossible with human resources is simply an opportunity for God. The disciples did everything they could by gathering the available food and organizing the people into groups. Then, in answer to prayer, God did the impossible. When facing a seemingly impossible task, do what you can and ask God to do the rest. He may see fit to make the impossible happen.

What are your motives? What are you believing in? Is it just for you? Is it for others and God's Kingdom? Does it come from the heart of God; from His Will?

We hear this all the time "Nothing is Impossible with or for God" or "All things are possible with/for God" But do we truly believe it? Some of us probably don't even believe this event of feeding over 5,000 with the limited supplies available. Is this you?

Well, how can God do the impossible for you if you don't believe it. Clear your mind and your heart and build that faith. Let God move in you and your life. On the victory of a friend's personal testimony just today, I know You will be amazed! God is awesome!

Good Day!

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Prayer: Heavenly Father, You ARE everything that I need. You are my Strength, my Wisdom, my Protection; You ARE my Provider, my way Maker, my Problem Solver, my Dream Giver, my Healer. You ARE my VICTORY! Thank You so much for Your pure existence in my life. I don't want to know a life without You. I am a friend of God. It's amazing! I have nothing to fear, worry or be anxious about, because absolutely nothing is impossible for and with You. In Jesus' Name, amen.

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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible, Prayer: Joel & Victoria Osteen.

Spread The Good News: 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

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

TGN: Compassion

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Daily Prayer: The Word is life to my soul. I cannot go a day without it LORD. Continue to allow Your amazing Word to transform me, my life and the people I encounter day to day. Because there is mighty power in the Word of God. Thank You Jesus. In Your Name. Amen
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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:30-44 (NLT)
Jesus Demonstrates True Compassion
30 The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. 31 Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile." He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat.
32 So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone. 33 But many people recognized them and saw them leaving, and people from many towns ran ahead along the shore and got there ahead of them. 34 Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
35 Late in the afternoon his disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. 36 Send the crowds away so they can go to the nearby farms and villages and buy something to eat."
37 But Jesus said, "You feed them."
"With what?" they asked. "We'd have to work for months to earn enough money to buy food for all these people!"
38 "How much bread do you have?" he asked. "Go and find out."
They came back and reported, "We have five loaves of bread and two fish."
39 Then Jesus told the disciples to have the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of fifty or a hundred.
41 Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share. 42 They all ate as much as they wanted, 43 and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover bread and fish. 44 A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed from those loaves!
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So we know how important it is to rest and to have balance. It crucial to understand that if you're sacrificing self to the point of ineffectiveness, you're accomplishing nothing. I pray that you are geared towards incorporating both rest and balance into your life. I can't stress enough the importance of this practice. If you don't get it- please know you can always reach out to me and we can discuss. And don't forget that awesome form of communication called- PRAYER. Take it to prayer and know for sure you'll receive what you need in the right time.
So Jesus and the disciples needed their rest, however, they did not always find it easy to get the rest they needed! The people were hungry for the Word; they were hungry for Jesus. This particular crowd was as pitiful as a flock of sheep without a shepherd. Sheep are easily scattered; without a shepherd they are in grave danger. Jesus is the Shepherd. We are lost and in grave danger without Him. He was the one who could teach them what they needed to know and keep them from straying from God (see Psalm 23; Isaiah 40:11; Ezekiel 34:5; John 10:11-16). Though He wanted to rest, His compassion for His flock moved him to teach them many things. Jesus' compassion didn't stop with feeding the people's souls; but also their bodies. Jesus fed way more than 5,000 (5,000 tallied the men only; and most of the men were with their families, which included women and children).
Sometimes it isn't rest that keeps us from serving others. Sometimes it's plain selfishness. #1 thing to remember is that, we need one another. Without a doubt, there will be someone in your day today who needs you. I encourage you to take Jesus' example, and have compassion on that person and serve him/her according to the Word, with what they need. Please be moved to step up to this challenge today, this allows for the miracles we're always looking for. And I'm convinced as you move in faith, mighty good things will be unleashed. You are the example of Jesus in other people's lives. If you turn from them- what sort of message are you sending about not just you- but most importantly about the God that you serve.
Compassion and trust in God can and will take us a long way in this life.
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Prayer: Thank You for Your Word today LORD. You are bringing about messages that are really touching the lives of Your people; and stirring them to do more and more in the Name of Your Son. Continue to move, direct and guide us LORD in the ways of compassion. We thank You so much for all that we know and most importantly for all that we don't know-that You are doing not only for us individually, but for Your church. Let Your Kingdom reign, LORD. Praise You, Father. In Jesus' Name. Amen
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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible.
Spread The Good News: 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
Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Monday, January 25, 2010

TGN: Rest

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Daily Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word today. Show me how to build into my life that which will protect me in every area. For Your Word is good. I desire to fill my heart with it now, whether I think I need it or not. So that I will be able to fill my mouth with; I need Your Word at all times. There is not a moment that I can think of, that I wouldn't need it to abide in me. In all that I do, let me begin and end with Your Word. In Jesus' Name, amen.

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:30-32 (NLT)

TIME FOR REST

30 The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. 31 Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile." He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat.
32 So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.

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When the disciples had returned from their mission, Jesus took them away to rest. Doing God's work is very important, but Jesus recognized that to do it effectively we need periodic rest and renewal.

The hard truth for us is that, many of us aren't even doing God's work. We're out doing what we desire to do, and we're wearing ourselves thin.

Whether in purpose or out of purpose, God's desire for us is, NOT to burden us. How effective are we in anything when we're worn out? This is how the devil loves us. Busy, tired, self-centered, doing good things but not purposed and ineffective for God's Kingdom.

Time for a check up: First, is God's work your priority? (Do you know what God's work is? Is what you do, throughout your day for the Kingdom?) Second, when do you rest?

Review your answers to each of these questions and then pray. Take whatever is missing to God. And in the meantime, make time to chill out and rejuvenate yourselves for what lies ahead.

Personally, I've added rest to my schedule and it's awesome. Since the start of the year, I've been resting once a week. My rest consist of no emails, no blackberry, no phone calls, no studying- nothing with effort. There is a lot of quiet, appropriate sleep, some easy reading at times (no notes involved), a light movie/t.v. program, and a lot of talking to God. I'm not going to leave Him out of my rest; He is included in everything for me.

Now there is a negative to TOO much rest; it's called lazy. God didn't put us on this earth to do nothing at all times. "Anything, taken to the extreme- leads to error," so be careful. BALANCE is key.

God desires us to accomplish, succeed, achieve and fulfill. If some of us keep going the way we're going, we'll live a life of mistakes, failures, and resentment towards God- when it's really only ourselves to blame.

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Prayer: Hallelujah LORD, thank You for rest. It is an honor to serve You and do Your work here on this earth. I am so thankful You are not a man; for a man would work me to death, only to please another man. But, You, dear LORD, are the complete opposite. You are a Master, worthy of serving. You do not abuse or misuse me. You have my greatest interest at heart. You encourage me through serving to be all I can be and then You give me Your Holy Spirit to empower me to become so. You laid down Your life for me. You make me a full, complete human being; filled with Your image, Your amazing mentality; and while teaching me to be more like You, I become more of whom You created me to be. So awesome! So as You directed the disciples to rest, I ask you to direct me in getting into a quiet place to just rest while; so that I can be a fully charged able body for You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

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

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Friday, January 22, 2010

TGN: Control

Daily Prayer: Thank You, LORD, for always making a way; all I have to do is take the first step in trust of You and adhere to the leading of Your Spirit. LORD, show me how to always be on watch of the distractions in my life. Those things that would love to weigh down my heart and take me off purpose. Show me how to be on watch and prayerful about everything. For I pray I escape what's coming for the wicked and that I may be able to stand before Your Holy Son. In Your Name, Jesus. Amen (Luke 21).
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The Death of John the Baptist
Mark 6:14-29 (NLT)*part 3*
Emphasis on v. 20-28

20 for Herod respected John (the Baptist); and knowing that he was a good and holy man, he protected him. Herod was greatly disturbed whenever he talked with John, but even so, he liked to listen to him.
21 Herodias's chance finally came on Herod's birthday. He gave a party for his high government officials, army officers, and the leading citizens of Galilee. 22 Then his daughter, also named Herodias, came in and performed a dance that greatly pleased Herod and his guests. "Ask me for anything you like," the king said to the girl, "and I will give it to you." 23 He even vowed, "I will give you whatever you ask, up to half my kingdom!"
24 She went out and asked her mother, "What should I ask for?"
Her mother told her, "Ask for the head of John the Baptist!"
25 So the girl hurried back to the king and told him, "I want the head of John the Baptist, right now, on a tray!"
26 Then the king deeply regretted what he had said; but because of the vows he had made in front of his guests, he couldn't refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner to the prison to cut off John's head and bring it to him. The soldier beheaded John in the prison, 28 brought his head on a tray, and gave it to the girl, who took it to her mother.
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Herod arrested John the Baptist under pressure from his wife and advisers. Though Herod respected John's integrity and was often moved by his words (his spirit was stirred but his heart wasn't ready to receive), in the end Herod had John killed because of pressure from his peers and family.
What you do under pressure often shows what you are really like.
Herod didn't have to go to this extreme if he would had been more careful with his words, his promise to Herodias' daughter. In promising to give her anything she wanted before guests- he would have been greatly embarrassed before them if he had denied her request. WORDS ARE POWERFUL! They can lead to great sin. We should take the time to use them with great care.
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Prayer: LORD, we all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way; for Your Word declares this. The tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do. The tongue is a flame of fire. It is full of wickedness that can ruin my whole life. It can turn the entire course of my life into a blazing flame of destruction, for it is set on fire by hell itself. It can be an uncontrollable evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises You, and sometimes it breaks out into curses against those who have been made in Your image. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. As James said, this is not right! This is how the world operates, not Your saints! LORD, I need Your help with control. I believe as soon as I began to offer up this prayer, Your Spirit went to work in me and I declare the victory right now in using the mouth You created for good and not for evil. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen (James 3:2-12).
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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible.
Spread The Good News: 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

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

TGN: Jesus is...

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Daily Prayer: What am I that You are mindful of me LORD; that You care for me? I am Your child! You are my friend. You made me a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned me with glory and honor. You made me ruler over the works of Your hands, You put everything under my feet. In Your Name, I have authority. O LORD, my LORD, how majestic is Your Name in all the earth! I'm so thankful to serve You. In the name of Jesus, amen (Psalm 8).
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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:14-29 (NLT)
The Death of John the Baptist *part 2*
emphasis v. 14, 15
14 Herod Antipas, the king, soon heard about Jesus, because everyone was talking about him. Some were saying, "This must be John the Baptist raised from the dead. That is why he can do such miracles." 15 Others said, "He's the prophet Elijah." Still others said, "He's a prophet like the other great prophets of the past."

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Herod, along with many others, wondered who Jesus really was. Unable to accept Jesus' claim to be God's Son, many people made up their own explanations for His power and authority. Herod thought that Jesus was John the Baptist come back to life, while those who were familiar with the Old Testament thought He was Elijah (Malachi 4:5). Still others believed that Jesus was a teaching prophet in the tradition of Moses, Isaiah, or Jeremiah.
So how does this relate to us today? Today people still have to make up their minds about Jesus. Some think that if they can name what He is-prophet, teacher, good man--they can weaken the power of His claim on their lives. But what they think does not change who Jesus is.
Is Jesus LORD over Your Life?
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Prayer: Jesus, You are my Mighty Counselor, You are the Lamb of God, You are the Son of God, You are my King, You are my Savior, You are my LORD. You are Prince of Peace, You are Healer. You are Authority. You are compassion. You are Mercy. You are Love. You are the Bread of Life. You are everything to me. You are always with me. I would not survive without You. Your great sacrifice, is beyond a thank You. I owe You my life. Take it Jesus, because in Your hands is the only way I can attain life; and life everlasting. You are alive! I can't be neutral or lukewarm about serving You. I am in, all the way. Hallelujah Jesus. Hosanna in the highest. In Your powerful Name. Amen
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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible.
Spread The Good News: 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
Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

TGN: Hidden Sin

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Daily Prayer: O, God, You are my shepherd, all my life- just as You were for Israel (Jacob). You have delivered me from all harm. Father, rescue me from myself, restore my broken relationships, and right the wrongs in my life. I thank You for what You did for Jacob and for what You will do/are doing in my life. I pray for those who don't think You see them. I pray that they realize You are watchful and mindful at all times of all Your people. You see trouble and grief. You see sin and good deeds. I pray that we each take more responsibility of what we do, say and think. We are free to commit all that we are to You. You are our helper. You hear the desires of the afflicted; You encourage us and You listen to our cries. You are ready to defend us, in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more. The LORD is King for ever and ever. In the name of Jesus. Amen (Genesis 48:15; Psalm 10).

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:14-29 (NLT)

The Death of John the Baptist *part 1*

14 Herod Antipas, the king, soon heard about Jesus, because everyone was talking about him. Some were saying, "This must be John the Baptist raised from the dead. That is why he can do such miracles." 15 Others said, "He's the prophet Elijah." Still others said, "He's a prophet like the other great prophets of the past."

16 When Herod heard about Jesus, he said, "John, the man I beheaded, has come back from the dead."

17 For Herod had sent soldiers to arrest and imprison John as a favor to Herodias. She had been his brother Philip's wife, but Herod had married her. 18 John had been telling Herod, "It is against God's law for you to marry your brother's wife." 19 So Herodias bore a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But without Herod's approval she was powerless, 20 for Herod respected John; and knowing that he was a good and holy man, he protected him. Herod was greatly disturbed whenever he talked with John, but even so, he liked to listen to him.

21 Herodias's chance finally came on Herod's birthday. He gave a party for his high government officials, army officers, and the leading citizens of Galilee. 22 Then his daughter, also named Herodias, came in and performed a dance that greatly pleased Herod and his guests. "Ask me for anything you like," the king said to the girl, "and I will give it to you." 23 He even vowed, "I will give you whatever you ask, up to half my kingdom!"

24 She went out and asked her mother, "What should I ask for?"

Her mother told her, "Ask for the head of John the Baptist!"

25 So the girl hurried back to the king and told him, "I want the head of John the Baptist, right now, on a tray!"

26 Then the king deeply regretted what he had said; but because of the vows he had made in front of his guests, he couldn't refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner to the prison to cut off John's head and bring it to him. The soldier beheaded John in the prison, 28 brought his head on a tray, and gave it to the girl, who took it to her mother. 29 When John's disciples heard what had happened, they came to get his body and buried it in a tomb.

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This story makes me sad in so many ways, because, really- was it necessary? To behead a man? But this is what sin and guilt gets us to do; stupid, ignorant and evil things in order to get our way and cover the shame in order to continue in sin. I hope we don't go as far as beheading others; but we can be just as dirty as Herodias, even using others to make it happen like she did. I mean she used her own daughter.

So let's get into the details of Herodias. Get ready for the soap opera: Herod (Antipas) and Philip were brothers. Herodias was Philip's wife, but she left him to marry Herod Antipas. Which was and still is a sin. When we marry, we take a vow before God. Before even getting into marriage, we should be responsible over our decisions. Take our time. Make sure God is in it. Marriage shouldn't be taken so lightly as to, when we're bored or see something better- we decide to leave it. This is what Herodias did, and so many people do that today; I think of Hollywood as a huge example of that.

Anyhow, when John confronted the two for committing adultery, Herod continued to respect John. I believe Herod's spirit was being stirred by the Word John brought to him- but Herodias wasn't hearing any of it; instead she formulated a plot to kill him. Instead of trying to get rid of her sin, Herodias tried to get rid of the one who brought it to public attention.

This is exactly what the religious leaders were trying to do to Jesus. And this is what we do today. When someone holds up a mirror to us, showing us the sin we're allowing ourselves to sit in- how many of us distance ourselves away from that person? We don't want to hear anything that is going to ruin this moment for us. We would rather lie to ourselves for a few moments of pleasure, when we know that the Truth is what we need. When we know deep in our hearts that God commands us to live another way; His way.

What is that one topic that you won't allow the Word to speak to in your life? It is time to stop ignoring the fact that God is not pleased with it. It's time to submit it to God, and show Him that You trust Him by living His way.

This may mean, to stop having sex outside of marriage. This may mean that you need to start tithing in the way that He commands, not in your way. This may mean to forgive the boss that hurts you day in and day out. This may mean you need to get up and go to church, and/or take the time to find the right church- instead of putting all of church into one "toxic" judgmental labeled box. This may mean to stop gossiping and slandering others. This may mean to stop flirting with that man or woman who is not your husband or wife. This may mean to stop pursuing that married man or woman. This may mean to stop treating your wife, husband, children, mother, father, a friend in the disrespectful/demeaning manner that you always do. This may mean to stop drinking (issues with drunkenness). Maybe it's your thought life, you allow your thoughts to go to places they shouldn't. It may be to break all the habits (smoking, over eating, etc.) that contradict our call and desire to live a long life. This may simply mean the lies need to stop.

None of the above may speak about your life, but there is something. God is bringing it to light today and I encourage us all to listen. To think and pray about it. To really act and make a bold change. If not for yourself, for God- because He loves you; because you desire all that He wants to provide you in life. Because you want to honor Him in every way.

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TODAY PRAY ABOUT THE SPECIFIC SIN YOU NEED TO GET RID OF. GIVE IT TO GOD AND ASK FOR GUIDANCE AND STRENGTH IN MAKING THE LASTING CHANGE. IT WON'T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT. BUT DON'T GIVE UP. AND REBUKE THAT ENEMY!

It's time family! Not our way, but God's way! We don't lose anything of value when we make this decision, WE GAIN!

*This may be tough subject manner for some of you, but if I'm not getting you to think and evaluate your life according to the Word, I'm not doing my job. It's not to condemn you at all! Satan condemns. God convicts our spirits and changes our hearts. God is concerned with every detail of our lives.* Don't forget this!

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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition (B. Donigon Seversen), Life Application Study Bible.

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

TGN: Share His Message

TGN would like to acknowledge one of our readers who celebrated a birthday Sunday (1/17/10), MARCHE' HENNINGTON.

Please join me in praying for our sister in Christ.

Prayer: Praise be to You, the God and Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, for You have blessed Marche' in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. We reverence You and worship You in spirit and in truth. As Marche' declares her servitude to You, we pray she is acknowledging and welcoming the presence of Your Holy Spirit every where she goes. We thank You, Father, that Your Son, Jesus, is with her and her family because they gather together in Your name.

LORD God, Your divine power has given Marche' everything she needs for life and godliness through her knowledge of You Who called her by Your own glory and goodness. Thank You, LORD. We pray that Marche' continues to declare the authority of Your Word that her family will be mighty in the land; this generation of the upright will be blessed.

Father, You delight in the prosperity of Your people; and we thank You that wealth and riches are in Marche's house and that their righteousness endures forever,

Continue to bless this year for Your child, dear LORD; and every year to come. You love her, you care about her and you watch over her. In the mighty name of Jesus, Your Holy Son. Amen.

Happy birthday Sweetie!
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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:6-13

Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples

Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people. 7 And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits. 8 He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick—no food, no traveler's bag, no money. 9 He allowed them to wear sandals but not to take a change of clothes.

10 "Wherever you go," he said, "stay in the same house until you leave town. 11 But if any place refuses to welcome you or listen to you, shake its dust from your feet as you leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate."

12 So the disciples went out, telling everyone they met to repent of their sins and turn to God. 13 And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil.

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Pious Jews shook the dust from their feet after passing through Gentiles cities or territory to show their separation from Gentile influences and practices. When the disciples shook the dust from their feet after leaving a Jewish town, it was a vivid sign that they wished to remain separate from people who had REJECTED Jesus and His message. Jesus made it clear that all who heard the gospel were responsible for what they did with it. The disciples were not to blame if the message was rejected, as long as they had faithfully and carefully presented it.

Did you notice that the disciples were sent out in pairs? Individually they could have reached more areas of the country, but this was not Christ's plan. One advantage in going out by twos was that they could strengthen and encourage each other, especially when they faced rejection. Our strength ultimately comes from God, but He meets many of our needs through our teamwork with others. As you serve Christ, don't try to go it alone. And even without extensive preparation, trust in God's care completely rather than in our own resources.

Get ready for a "burden-lift": We are NOT responsible when others reject Christ's message of salvation. Our responsibility is to share the Good News clearly and faithfully.

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Personal Prayer: Heavenly Father, I desire Your Will over my life. And Your Will is centered on Jesus. LORD, let my life's work, everything that I do, be in line with Your Will. Let everything that I do bring You glory. Show me how to be faithful to the responsibility that You have given me. Trusting you every step of the way; keeping myself open to the teachers and partners you set in front of me; and making sure I am sharing Your Good News clearly and faithfully. I pray that each person that I share with, adheres to their responsibility and does not miss out on Your sweetness, by rejecting Your Son. I pray for their souls, and I thank You for saving mine. May I increase, to be an increased blessing to each person You set before me. In Jesus' Name- It is not just about me. Amen.

Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible, Prayer That Avail Much...

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Monday, January 18, 2010

TGN: HAPPY UNITED WE SERVE DAY

As we celebrate the memory and great accomplishments of Martin Luther King Jr. today, SERVICE resonates on the hearts of many. As the Obama administration has turned this day into a day where we can get out there and serve others - lets join the calling and do it. Serving is the heart of God. I look forward to hooking up with some of you today at Belvedere Middle School. There are all ways to serve, some other options are below:

Please continue to pray for Haiti and long term aide. People are acting out of desperation, because that's the only way they can see. Pray for God's way. Pray for the children. Pray for the families. Pray for restoration. Pray for refuge- so many have been left homeless. Pray for healing (bodies and the land). Pray for those individuals you know and/or don't know who are personally affected by this tragedy. And pray on how you can help. We can't stop praying. Thank You.
More ways to donate below:

Christian Cultural Center, Pastor AR Bernard : www.cccinfo.org follow directions from main page.

Cottonwood,Pastor Bayless and Janet Conley : www.cottonwood.org follow directions from main page.

ZOE Christian Fellowship, Pastor Edward Smith: www.zcf.org hit giving, there will be a drop down to give to Haiti Relief.

Tyler Perry: http://www.tylerperry.com/HaitiRelief To join Tyler Perry, you can do so with the TYLER PERRY FOUNDATION. He will add it to his gift. He assures that every dime, 100%, of what you give will get to an organization that will use it to help the Haitian people. He plans to make a few, but his first donation will be $250,000.00. You can add whatever you like to this, no amount is too small.
NOW READ THIS CAREFULLY! The only way to send money is online at TYLERPERRY.COM.

And of course families of Americans living in Haiti should still contact the State Department at 888-407-4747.

Please forward this information to your Friends and Colleagues. And continue to pray; because even when this disaster fades from the minds of most, it's our job to keep it on our minds and in prayer. THANK YOU FOR WHATEVER YOU DO FROM COMPASSION & LOVE!

As more opportunities present themselves in the helps ministry for Haiti, I will keep you posted. If you know anyone collecting goods and taking them down personally, send that information over. It's time to take part in helping our fellow man, wherever they are.

1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...

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Prayer: Listen to our voices in the morning, LORD. Each morning we bring our requests and concerns to you and wait expectantly. It is You God that can and will restore. It is You LORD, that will bring about Your awesome glory in a situation that looks so dire before our eyes. Thank You LORD, for having eternal perspective. Thank You for having understanding so beyond ours that hope is still in the picture.

LORD, I pray that Your compassion takes over in Haiti. I pray for each person's safety. I pray that this world will not turn their backs on them; not giving up on them in a few weeks or months, but sticking with this nation until they are abundantly better than where they ever were before. Sticking with them to help build on a stronger foundation. You will not forsake them, you will not forget them Almighty.

I pray for those with family members and friends in Haiti. I ask that You bless them with Your peace as they trust in You for all direction and strategies. Lead them on the right path, O LORD. Make Your way plain to for them to follow. I pray that they don't try to be strong on their own, but totally depend on Your Strength. I pray for those who have lost their family members and/or friends in this tragedy. My hope and desire is that those who lost their earthly lives, knew You-because then their soul is at rest- Hallelujah. I pray that this truly awakens the people still living on this earth, in realizing how precious life is; how important unity is for us; and how You are the answer to everything.

I pray that this experience opens the eyes of everyone on this earth, LORD, and that we who trust and love You- begin to appreciate and honor You without compromise. That the change that results in our lives, brings more people into Your Kingdom.

Father, You are Haiti's Refuge and High Tower. You are a refuge and stronghold in these times of trouble. I rebuke the stupidity and foolishness that results from desperation. And I ask that You allow Your wisdom to dwell in their midst and direct them. Let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread Your protection over them, that all who love Your name may be filled with joy, in spite of their circumstances.

On Your authority, let the cry of Your children be answered now. Hear them and deliver them out of all of their distress and troubles. Thank You for being merciful and gracious to Your children LORD. Thank You for bringing darkness to light. Thank You for being the Light in the darkness. Thank You for Your mighty servants and their hearts to serve, give and help. You are the very present and well-proved Help in trouble, and I give you all the honor for whatever You have planned. For You bless the godly, O LORD; You surround them with Your shield of love. In Your Awesome Name, we pray, Jesus. Amen (Psalm 5).

Peace Comes When Our Minds Stay on Him.

Friday, January 15, 2010

TGN: First, let's pray for Haiti!

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HAITI- let's pray: It is You God that can and will restore. It is You LORD, that will bring about Your awesome glory in a situation that looks so dire before our eyes. Thank You LORD, for having eternal perspective. Thank You for having understanding so beyond ours that hope is still in the picture.

I pray for those with family members and friends in Haiti. I ask that You bless them with Your peace as they trust in You for all direction and strategies. I pray that they don't try to be strong on their own, but totally depend on Your Strength. I pray for those who have lost their family members and/or friends in this tragedy. My hope and desire is that those who lost their earthly lives, knew You-because then their soul is at rest- Hallelujah. I pray that this truly awakens the people still living on this earth, in realizing how precious life is; how important unity is for us; and how You are the answer to everything.

*****************************If you have the heart and funds to donate to the following organizations for Haiti Relief Efforts, please do. These are the organizations that I know will go directly to helping the people!******************************************

Please note that when you access each site below, there will be a link for donations to "Haiti Earthquake Relief". I am not endorsing any of these sites, but these are charitable organizations where all or most of your donation actually goes toward THE PEOPLE in need.

1. YELE HAITI
www.yele.org
This organization was founded by Haitian artist Wyclef Jean. 100% of individual donations go toward programs/services. The work he has done is impressive.

You can also Text "Yele" to 501501 and $5 will be charged to your phone bill and given to relief projects through the organization.

2. DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS
http://doctorswithoutborders.org
This organization provides critical clinical services and have sites set up on the ground to help the wounded.

3. BAPTIST MISSION HAITI
http://www.bhm.org/bhm/lang-en/home.html
The Baptist Haiti Mission is operating an 82-bed hospital that is "overflowing with injured." Donate online to BHM and 100% of your donation will go to the relief effort.

4. OXFARM
http://www.oxfamamerica.org
Oxfam is rushing in teams from around the region to respond to the situation to provide clean water, shelter, sanitation and help people recover. Donate to Oxfam America online. About 80% of your donation goes into pograms/services.

Other places you can donate include:

§ The UN World Food Program is gathering all available resources to deliver food to the recently homeless and impoverished in Haiti. Donate now to help bring food to those affected as quickly and efficiently as possible.

§ The American Red Cross They expect to provide immediate needs for food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support. They are accepting donations through their International Response Fund.
* Donate $10 to the Red Cross to be charged to your cell phone bill by texting "HAITI" to "90999."
* Contribute online to the Red Cross,
* Find more ways to help through the Center for International Disaster Information.

§ UNICEF UNICEF requests donations for relief for children in Haitivia their Haiti Earthquake Fund.

And of course families of Americans living in Haiti should still contact the State Department at 888-407-4747.

1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 6:1-6 (NLT)

Jesus Rejected at Nazareth

1 Jesus left that part of the country (from chapter 5) and returned with his disciples to Nazareth, his hometown. 2 The next Sabbath he began teaching in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. They asked, "Where did he get all this wisdom and the power to perform such miracles?" 3 Then they scoffed, "He's just a carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And his sisters live right here among us." They were deeply offended and refused to believe in him.

4 Then Jesus told them, "A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his relatives and his own family." 5 And because of their unbelief, he couldn't do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief.

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LOOK AT WHAT DISBELIEF DOES! This confirms what we discussed yesterday; disbelief hinders miracles.

Jesus was teaching effectively and wisely, but the people of His hometown saw Him as only a carpenter. They were offended that others could be impressed by Jesus and follow Him. In other words, they were haters! They rejected His authority because He was one of their peers. They thought they knew Him, but their preconceived notions about who He was made it impossible for them to accept His message.

Don't allow prejudice blind you to Truth. As we learn more about Jesus, try to see Him for who He really is.

Jesus goes on to say that a prophet (a worker for God) is never honored in His hometown. But that doesn't make His work any less important. A person doesn't need to be respected or honored to be useful to God. If friends, neighbors, or family don't respect your faith, your commitment to God, the change the Spirit has made in you; DO NOT allow their rejection keep you from serving God. And most importantly, DO NOT allow their attitude to change you. Stay where God wants you. Some people will try to bring you down, mostly because of their own convictions about themselves. But DO NOT allow anyone to bring you down with them. God calls us to rise up. So keep rising and remain humble with the rise.

So, back to miracles. I'm someone who is calling forth more miracles in my life- all around me (this means in your life as well). I know God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. What He was able to do then, He is able to do now. So what's missing? BELIEF! FAITH! Jesus could have done great miracles in Nazareth, but He chose not to because of the people's pride and unbelief. The miracles He did had little effect on the people because they did not accept His message or believe that He was from God. Therefore, Jesus looked elsewhere, seeking those who would respond to his miracles and message.

Don't miss your miracle(s). Let's check our pride. Let's check our belief. Let's check out faith! Let's make room for Jesus to be completely effective in our lives. Let's allow Jesus to effect the people.

DO YOU REALLY ACCEPT JESUS' WORD?

Jesus do not look elsewhere!!!!!!!!!!

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

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

TGN: Jesus Restores Life

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIAN READERS: Amazing opportunity to mentor the youth. If you're between the ages of 17-24, send me your email and I will email the attachment with the details. Please feel free to pass on to other young adults with a heart for the youth and service.
Wish I could join you; crazy- I've entered the stage of being "TOO OLD" for things. LOL!

All questions should be directed toward the contact on the flyer.

1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...
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Daily Prayer: I will praise the LORD at all times. I will constantly speak His praises. I borrow the words of Jacob when I say, that I am unworthy of the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant. But I am so grateful. There is something about that name Jesus! Oh how I love it. Thank You, Jesus! Amen. (Psalm 34:1, Genesis 32:10)
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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 5:37-43 (NLT)
Jesus Restores a Girl to Life
37 Then Jesus stopped the crowd and wouldn't let anyone go with him except Peter, James, and John (the brother of James). 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw much commotion and weeping and wailing. 39 He went inside and asked, "Why all this commotion and weeping? The child isn't dead; she's only asleep."
40 The crowd laughed at him. But he made them all leave, and he took the girl's father and mother and his three disciples into the room where the girl was lying. 41 Holding her hand, he said to her, "Talitha koum," which means "Little girl, get up!" 42 And the girl, who was twelve years old, immediately stood up and walked around! They were overwhelmed and totally amazed. 43 Jesus gave them strict orders not to tell anyone what had happened, and then he told them to give her something to eat.
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The crowd/mourners sure were not looking at the situation from Jesus' point of view; they actually had the nerve to laugh at the Source of Life. The child was dead, but Jesus used the image of sleep to indicate that her condition was temporary and that she would be restored. I absolutely LOVE how He made all the non-believers leave. Their disbelief was not going to get in the way of the Promise before this young girl. Today, many (too many) people laugh at Christ's claims, which seem ridiculous to them. When you are belittled for expressing faith in Jesus and hope for eternal life, remember that unbelievers don't see from God's perspective (1 Thessalonians 4:13,14- for a clear statement about life after death).
Jesus told the girls parents not to spread the news of the miracle. He wanted the facts to speak for themselves, and the time was not yet right for a major confrontation with the religious leaders. Jesus still had much to accomplish, and He didn't want people following Him just to see miracles.
Jesus not only demonstrated great power, He also showed tremendous compassion. Jesus' power over nature, evil spirits, and death was motivated by compassion- for a demon-possessed man who lived among tombs, for a diseased woman, and for the family of a dead girl. The rabbis of the day considered such people unclean. Polite society avoided them. But Jesus reached out and helped anyone in need.
So what are we to get from all of this?
First, take an inventory of those you have in your life. Jesus was very specific when he brought Peter, James and John with Him. And you should be prayerfully as specific in your life. Are you entrusting your hopes in the hands of people who do not believe in the power of our faithful God? Real quick, I am NOT saying that if they're not of faith, you need to get rid of them. Nope that's NOT what I'm saying. What I am saying is that you do have to guard your hope. You have to watch what you say, how much you share. Why, because their disbelief can affect your belief. You're probably saying, "Yeah right." But how many of you who claim to trust God, accept the worldly statement, "Good Luck?" Do you know when you receive that (no matter how nice the intention), you have accepted contradiction to God. God is not a God of luck; He is the God of Purpose. He is not the God of chance; He is a deliberate God-completely. You might think this is small and insignificant, but God is concerned with the small- just as much as He is concerned with the big things. I stress over and over, the way we live this life is something we should all be seriously concerned about.
We can't tell everybody everything. Just ask yourself, "Why would I share what I'm hoping for in God with someone who doesn't trust Him?" You need all the people who trust Him to surround you. You need the people who are going to encourage you in His Word. You need the people who are going to pray over you and for you, according to that Word. You need those people who can stand in the Gap on your spiritual behalf. You need the people who are going to offer up advice according to the Word- not opinion. You also (definitely) need people who are going to gently correct you according to the Word. You need the people filled with FAITH in the LORD ALMIGHTY!
Only when you get this, can you allow the facts to speak for themselves- like Jesus did. It's not our job to convince people about our LORD and Savior, it's our mission to live a life where He is clearly involved in it all. Living a life in honor of God, is one form of "preaching the Gospel." You're living the Word that you hold as Truth.
And like Jesus, let all that you do be motivated by compassion. We don't have enough of it. Do you want compassion shown towards you? Well, begin to start demonstrating it yourself.
- I know, this all sounds serious! Right? And when things are serious, many people believe the fun is taken out of it. This is a LIE. Who is the creator of fun! God is. So, it's pressed upon me to stress the importance of really pressing into the Word you are receiving. It's pressed upon me, that if the Holy Spirit is speaking to you in certain areas- it's time for you to listen to His gently voice and obey. I believe you will then be able to experience the fun, joy and happiness that comes from God; and in abundance.

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Personal Prayer: LORD, I just want to take the time to thank You for correction and revelation. I pray we each adhere to what You are telling us today. There is no time better than now, to make better decisions. Decisions that honor You and do not contradict my faith in You. LORD, You are speaking to Your people. The time is NOW! In the mighty name of Jesus, amen.
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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible.
Spread The Good News: 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
Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

TGN: Don't Be Afraid. Just Have Faith.

Daily Prayer: HALLELUJAH, shout unto our KING because he is so worthy. I want my faith to be increased so that that the faith that He gives me can be shared with others.... I am believing God for the IMPOSSIBLE for the unlikely I am believing God because he specializes in impossibilities. In Your Powerful Name, JESUS! Amen.

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 5:21-24, 35-36 (NLT)

Jesus Heals in Response to Faith *part 2*

21 Jesus got into the boat again and went back to the other side of the lake, where a large crowd gathered around him on the shore. 22 Then a leader of the local synagogue, whose name was Jairus, arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet, 23 pleading fervently with him. "My little daughter is dying," he said. "Please come and lay your hands on her; heal her so she can live."

35 While he was still speaking to (the faith healed woman), messengers arrived from the home of Jairus, the leader of the synagogue. They told him, "Your daughter is dead. There's no use troubling the Teacher now."

36 But Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid. Just have faith."

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Jairus' crisis made him feel confused, and afraid; then once he was informed that his daughter was dead- he had to be (in that moment) without hope. Jesus' words to Jairus in the midst of crisis speak to us as well: "Don't be afraid. Just have faith (just believe, just trust me). In Jesus' mind, there was both hope and promise.

Do you feel hopeless today? Do you know someone who has lost all hope. It's time to redirect your focus and help them redirect their focus; to look at the problem from Jesus' point of view. He is the source of ALL HOPE and PROMISE. It is important to maintain hope and trust in Jesus because everything around us will tell us to do differently. This new year, I've restarted the Bible from Genesis again. And what I'm noticing is how from Adam and Eve to Jacob, Leah and Rachel (Genesis 1-30)- someone, at one time decided to look at their problem from their own perspective, or by how others would perceive their situation- and they walked right into their mistake. Sarah's disbelief in God's promise, had her give her husband to Hagar to make a child. Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden of Eden for looking at things from their own perspective. Cain killed Abel, when he only looked at things from his own perspective- and this list can go on and on and on. I can even look at my own life, and any time I decided to look at my situation from how I felt, and from what I wanted- the mistake was not far away from those thoughts.

Was God able to work in their lives and through them still? Yes. And praise God, He hasn't given up on me! But we all could have avoided much strife and terrible consequences, if we would have held on to God's perspective.

As children of God, we really need to push towards seeing things the way God sees them. Accepting that even when we don't understand how things are moving, that God's promise will succeed. Each and every day, we have to remind ourselves of this and live life with this assurance. Our days should always be bright. Our mood should always have some pep. We should speak to one another in hope. We should be the encouragers. Our decisions should be in the way of righteousness, because God has told us "Don't be afraid. Just have faith."

BE CONSISTENT! When that fear creeps up, take it straight to prayer. Give it to God and He WILL take care of You.

We are MORE THAN CONQUERORS and we HAVE the VICTORY!
Believe it!

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PRAYER: GIVE TO GOD EVERYTHING THAT YOU ARE HOLDING ON TO, THAT YOU SHOULD PLACE IN HIS HANDS. TELL GOD HOW YOU TRUST HIM, OR HOW YOU NEED HELP IN TRUSTING HIM. REBUKE DISCOURAGEMENT AND FEAR. THIS IS YOUR PRAYER, YOUR WORDS, YOUR CRIES... LET THEM OUT!

IF YOU NEED SOMEONE TO PRAY WITH YOU, REACH OUT AND HAVE SOMEONE PRAY WITH YOU. 2 OR MORE=POWER.

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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible, Daily Prayer: Latasha Nias.

Spread The Good News: 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

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

TGN: What has Your Faith done for You Lately?

Daily Prayer: "All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purposes." LORD this is me! I love you and I am called according to Your purposes. Where I lack direction Father, direct me in Your Word today. For I want to be on the path You have created for me and on no other path that lies before and/or around me. Thank You LORD! Shower down Your anointing on me LORD. In Jesus' name, amen (Romans 8:28).
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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 5:21-34 (NLT)
Jesus Heals in Response to Faith
21 Jesus got into the boat again and went back to the other side of the lake, where a large crowd gathered around him on the shore. 22 Then a leader of the local synagogue, whose name was Jairus, arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet, 23 pleading fervently with him. "My little daughter is dying," he said. "Please come and lay your hands on her; heal her so she can live."
24 Jesus went with him, and all the people followed, crowding around him. 25 A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding. 26 She had suffered a great deal from many doctors, and over the years she had spent everything she had to pay them, but she had gotten no better. In fact, she had gotten worse. 27 She had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him through the crowd and touched his robe. 28 For she thought to herself, "If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed." 29 Immediately the bleeding stopped, and she could feel in her body that she had been healed of her terrible condition.
30 Jesus realized at once that healing power had gone out from him, so he turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my robe?"
31 His disciples said to him, "Look at this crowd pressing around you. How can you ask, 'Who touched me?'"
32 But he kept on looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the frightened woman, trembling at the realization of what had happened to her, came and fell to her knees in front of him and told him what she had done. 34 And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over."
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How many of us have heard this story over and over? Yet, the amazement never fades. This woman had a seemingly incurable condition causing her to bleed constantly. This made her ritually unclean (Leviticus 15:25-27) and would have excluded her from most social contact. How sad and lonely! She desperately wanted Jesus to heal her, but she knew that her bleeding would cause Jesus to be unclean under Jewish law if she touched Him. Still, the woman knew without a doubt that Jesus was the only way to receive her healing. The woman reached out by faith and was healed.
Sometimes we feel that our problems will keep us from God. But He is always ready to help. We should never allow our fear or that condemning, critical voice in our heads keep us from approaching Him. Jesus was not angry with this woman for touching Him, and He is not angry with You. He knew she had touched Him, but He stopped and asked who did it in order to teach her something about faith. Although the woman was healed when she touched Him. Jesus said her faith caused the cure. If He didn't make this clarification, she may have walked away thinking the healing came from His cloak alone; which would have been a road leading towards idolatry.
It is about FAITH! Genuine faith involves action. When you pray, are you living in the faith that your request is the Will of God, or do you have that hidden fear that it just might not happen. If you have that fear, and you make decisions in that fear- sorry to tell you but you do not have faith. Faith that isn't put into action is not faith at all. It's actually something the enemy will use to get you angry at God. Don't fall for this. Live in FAITH!
Defined in the dictionary faith is Faith is the (1) CONFIDENT belief or trust in the truth or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing. (2) belief that is not based on proof:
Defined by God, "Now faith is the substance of things hope for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1
Substance and evidence are things we can see, so start showing your faith in action.
Notes from my personal journal from these verses: "Whatever my situation, whatever my problem, Jesus stands ready to help me. Be determined to touch Jesus- he will meet the need through faith."
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Personal Prayer: LORD, where does my faith lack? I want to move in the faith, like this woman, who trusted in Your power to heal her. LORD, I desire healing in my body and in my life. I desire restoration and recovery of things lost and/or stolen from me by the enemy. I desire to be equipped with all I need to serve You. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God; and faith works through love. I repent of all discouragement that has fractured my faith and I call on the mighty name of Jesus; the Author and Finisher of my faith. Jesus restore my faith and show me how to rely solely on Your Holy Spirit. And Holy Spirit, give me the Gift of Faith- God's faith. Not the faith of man. I know there is so much You want to do in my life; I don't want to get in the way of the blessing that You have prepared for me. I'm reaching out to touch You LORD and I'm expecting my healing. In Your Name, Jesus. Amen (Romans 10:17; Galatians 5:6; Romans 14:23; Hebrew 12:2; John 16:7).

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United We Serve: January 18th - The deadline to sign up for the opportunity at Belvedere Middle School (Los Angeles, Ca) with me, has been extended to THIS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13th at 8a. Please reply to this email if you're down to commit. Confirmations will now be sent January 14th.
For other opportunities: www.volunteermatch.org
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=Give-A-Day-Get-A-Disney-Day
1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...
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Resources: biblegateway.com, NIV Women's Devotional Bible- Classic Edition, Life Application Study Bible.
Spread The Good News: 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

Peace comes when our minds stay on Him.

Monday, January 11, 2010

TGN: God is Always Looking At the Bigger Picture

Daily Prayer: It is so awesome how Your Word convicts, corrects, encourages, and edifies me; and always in the right timing. I praise Your Name this morning LORD. I praise Your Name. Thank You Jesus. Amen.

17 And the crowd began pleading with Jesus to go away and leave them alone.
18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon possessed begged to go with him. 19 But Jesus said, "No, go home to your family, and tell them everything the Lord has done for you and how merciful he has been." 20 So the man started off to visit the Ten Towns of that region and began to proclaim the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed at what he told them.

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One of the many things that is so awesome about the God we serve, is that He plants the seed, even when we make the mistake of rejecting Him, or sending Him away. He continues to love us enough to plant one small seed and the opportunity to allow our spirit, our hearts and our lives to receive Him. In the above verses, this man had been demon possessed but became a living example of Jesus' power. He wanted to go with Jesus, but Jesus told him to go home and share his story with his family and friends. This man became the seed planted in this region. The people turned their backs on Jesus- He did not turn His backs on them by leaving them with what they needed to come to Him.

Have you experienced Jesus' power in your life? Are you, like this man, enthusiastically sharing the Good News with those around you? Just as we would tell others about a doctor who cured a physical disease, we should tell about Christ who saves our souls.

You are a seed. Yes, YOU! Do you see yourself as that seed? Let me remind you again that you don't read TGN daily, nor learn more and more about God just for you. It's for the other people in your life as well; the ones who are consistently around, and for those who enter into our lives for only a reason and/or a season. How much more effective your life will become once you take heed to the command that Jesus told this man who was freed from the legion of demons; "Go home to your family (and friends), and tell them everything the LORD has done for you and how merciful He has been." No one can share God's presence in Your life, better than You. So get to sharing; You'll be blessed by it.

I worked in an industry where many people weren't talking about God, but amazingly- I came out of that industry with a host of believers as friends in my life; many who are on this list. HOW? By sharing our faith, our testimonies, sharing where our help comes from. I thank God for those conversations. I've been blessed by these friendships. You too can be blessed to be a blessing. Don't let just me be the one who knows about the Almighty God in your life.

Have I told you lately, "How Good Our God Is?" He really is always looking at the bigger picture. Amen.

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Personal Prayer: LORD, guide me in sharing Your Good News with those around me; what you have done for me and how great Your mercy is to us. Give me direction in my delivery; using words that will invite people in, instead of turning them off from You. Bless me with the patience, kindness and love I need to make sure that there is a majority of You in my words and less of me. I have a heart for You LORD, but help me not to allow my emotions to get in the way of the Truth of Your Word. I am thankful to be seed, planted in Your Kingdom. Please make sure I know when to walk away, if need be. Bless Your Holy Name. Thank You for hearing me and receiving my prayers. In the name of Jesus, amen.

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United We Serve: January 18th - The deadline to sign up for the opportunity at Belvedere Middle School (Los Angeles, Ca) with me, has been extended to THIS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13th at 8a. Please reply to this email if you're down to commit. Confirmations will now be sent January 14th.

For other opportunities: www.volunteermatch.org
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=Give-A-Day-Get-A-Disney-Day

1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************

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

Spread The Good News: 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

Thursday, January 7, 2010

TGN: What Do You Choose Over Jesus?

Daily Prayer: Heavenly Father, I desire to worship You in Spirit and in Truth. For Your Word without Your Presence is simply religion without the Power. Guide me and teach me through Your Word today, how to be salt and light in this dark world and influence the culture with Your Greatness. Greatness only lies with You. In Jesus' name, amen.

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www.biblegateway.com
Mark 5:1-20 (NLT)

*part 2; emphasis on V. 15-16
The Crowd Tell Jesus To Leave

15 A crowd soon gathered around Jesus, and they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons. He was sitting there fully clothed and perfectly sane, and they were all afraid. 16 Then those who had seen what happened told the others about the demon-possessed man and the pigs. 17 And the crowd began pleading with Jesus to go away and leave them alone.

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What would you do in this situation? There is a man next door, possessed with a legion (many) of demons. He mostly keeps to himself, but when he gets out of hand-no one can restrain him, not even with a chain. Whenever the cops are called he is place into chains and shackles (handcuffs won't do), and each and every time he snaps the chains from his wrists and smashes the shackles. No one is strong enough to subdue him. So every day and night he wanders among the streets, howling and cutting himself with sharp razor blades. Then Jesus shows up, calls out the demons to leave this man and puts their unclean spirits into your only car. Your only means of transportation, the car you are still paying for, the car you love. Your car automatically start, and drive itself (along with everyone else's' car on the block) off a cliff. Leaving you with no car to get to work, but good news-the man that you use to torture you day and night is now standing before you fully clothed and perfectly sane. What would you do next? Would you tell Jesus to leave?

I just don't get it. The people were more complacent with living with a host of demons than with Jesus Christ. They were undoubtedly afraid of His supernatural power. They may have also feared that Jesus would continue disrupting the life that they were use to. By placing the demons in the pigs, and then the pigs drowning themselves-the people lost money. And therefore, one message in asking Jesus to leave is that they would rather give up Jesus than lose their source of income and security. Another message, they would rather give up Jesus, than give up their way of life-what they knew and were comfortable with; even if it was wrong.

Can I tell you, much hasn't changed today. People tell Jesus to leave their lives daily, simply by their actions. Our love for money, our desire to be loved by man (men & women), and sometimes our self-hatred cause us to make decisions that the Holy One we serve would never approve of. And the "double-edged sword" type thing about God, is that He will never force us to do anything we don't want to do. These people pleaded for Jesus to leave, and that's exactly what He did (we'll get into His clever move of love before He left tomorrow).

My dear friends, you do not want to live a life without Jesus in it. The time is now, to start making room for Him to remove the unclean spirits around you and dominant your life with His righteousness. You can know who He is, You can know about His power-but what you need is a relationship with Him. A real respectful, honorable relationship with Him. He is where life comes from. We just have to be willing to give up this life, of the world. Trust me, I'm not talking about something that I haven't experienced. At this present time in my life, I am learning every day that I am not missing anything by putting Jesus first. When I don't I surely do regret it, but I'm thankful for His mercies; to learn from my mistake(s) and keep it moving. I haven't always been at this place, but I'm so glad that I'm here now. And my desire is for everyone to know the joy, the gift, the fully complete life that results from giving ALL (not just on Sunday, not just when you're with your Christian friends, not just when you're suffering-but at ALL times) you are totally to the LORD. We can do this right where we are; if and when God desires to move you-He will.

I will encourage you until the day I leave this earth, not to make my decisions; for my road has been paved for me, as yours has been paved for you. But I will encourage you to always make the righteous decision; what is right and just according to God, not you.

Don't live this life only partially with Jesus, and/or on your terms. Submit to Him, you won't regret it.

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Personal Prayer: LORD, I pray that Your people, who are called by the name of Jesus will humble ourselves and pray and seek your face and turn from our wicked ways, then will You hear from heaven and will forgive our sin in the name of Jesus and will heal our land. So many people are hurting and making decisions based on that hurt and or despair, resulting in cursing their land. Move us to make decision on hope for You. The hope that You promise. Show Your people why it is a privilege to serve You, love You, honor You, praise You and intimately know You. You are King, You are LORD, You are Alpha and Omega, You are everything to me. I cover this prayer with the blood of Jesus. Amen (2 Chronicles 7:14).

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United We Serve: January 18th - The deadline to sign up for the opportunity at Belvedere Middle School (Los Angeles, Ca) with me, has been extended to January 13th at 8a. Please reply to this email if you're down to commit. Confirmations will now be sent January 14th.

For other opportunities: www.volunteermatch.org
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=Give-A-Day-Get-A-Disney-Day

1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************

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

Spread The Good News: 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

This is not a game! Let's get serious.

The Good News

Friday, January 29, 2010

TGN: Recognize

Thursday, January 28, 2010

TGN: Walking on Water

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

TGN: Nothing is Impossible With God

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

TGN: Compassion

Monday, January 25, 2010

TGN: Rest

Friday, January 22, 2010

TGN: Control

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

TGN: Jesus is...

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

TGN: Hidden Sin

TGN: Share His Message

Monday, January 18, 2010

TGN: HAPPY UNITED WE SERVE DAY

Friday, January 15, 2010

TGN: First, let's pray for Haiti!

Thursday, January 14, 2010

TGN: Jesus Restores Life

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

TGN: Don't Be Afraid. Just Have Faith.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

TGN: What has Your Faith done for You Lately?

Monday, January 11, 2010

TGN: God is Always Looking At the Bigger Picture

Thursday, January 7, 2010

TGN: What Do You Choose Over Jesus?

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