Peter Disowns Jesus

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Head back to the ministry titled "Following At A Distance" (www.tgndaily.wordpress.com ‎) and then flow into Mark 14:66-72.  You'll understand why after you follow instruction.  Let the Holy Spirit minister to you.  TGN trusts that God will provide a Word in season to us all from these verses.

Peter Disowns Jesus


66 While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by. 67 When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him.
"You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus," she said.
68 But he denied it. "I don't know or understand what you're talking about," he said, and went out into the entryway.
69 When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, "This fellow is one of them."70 Again he denied it.
After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, "Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean."
71 He began to call down curses on himself, and he swore to them, "I don't know this man you're talking about."
72 Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times." And he broke down and wept.

"To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his." Job 12:13

Acknowledge and SPEAK the TRUTH

Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding. Proverbs 23:23

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Mark 14: 60-65 NIV

60 Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, "Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?" 61 But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.  Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?"
62 "I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven." 63 The high priest tore his clothes. "Why do we need any more witnesses?" he asked. 64 "You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?"
They all condemned him as worthy of death. 65 Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, "Prophesy!" And the guards took him and beat him.

Every time I read this, I'm quickly convicted - because as soon as someone speaks ill of me or to me, I am ready to jump from the defensive.  I don't just do this for myself, but also for those I love, and in many areas of injustices that stir me up.  I will quickly speak to let the person/people know - how wrong they are.  But has it been very helpful?  Nope, not really (just being real with you, is that ok? as I chuckle a little ha).  I can't think of one time of success.  Even if I've had any, the many times arguments and hurt feelings resulted, far outweigh any of the successes I've had from speaking on the defense.  What has your experiences been?

Jesus made no reply to the lies being spoken against Him, because it was based on confusing and erroneous evidence.  Not answering was wiser than trying to clarify the fabricated accusations.  But if Jesus had refused to answer the second question, it could have been taken as a denial of His mission.  Instead, His answer predicted a powerful role reversal.  Sitting at God's right hand in the place of power, He would come to judge His accusers, and they would have to answer His questions (Psalm 110:1; Revelations 20:11-13).  Of all people, the high priest and members of the high council should have recognized the Messiah because they knew the Scriptures thoroughly.  Their job was to point people to God, but they were more concerned about preserving their reputation and holding on to their authority.  They valued human security more than eternal security.

Are you going to be like Jesus, or are you going to be like the religious leaders?  God is calling us to answer to the Truth of His Word.  Not from emotion, hurt feelings, or on the defensive from lies; all of this just distracts us from what is really important.  We need to be wise in what we respond to; we're not called to respond to everything.  It's so ironic that we're so quick to react from hurt feelings and lies; but we often have to stop, think and pray about speaking the Word of God to others.  How many of you take a second before you speak or offer aloud prayer, knowing it's the opportunity to do so?  Didn't I tell you satan was crafty... but he is a fool and not the victor in this battle.  So let's be bold Church!  Let's begin to live this life for God and not just for ourselves.  Let's boldly point people into the direction of the Kingdom of God.  Let's fear God; not human opinions.

And I know this is not a call to go to the streets and hold large signs in your hands condemning people to hell.  I don't see this as an effective solution anywhere in the Bible.  I know God has not called me to do something that scares more people away, than it brings people to Him.  But this is a call to seek, with our all our hearts, how we can apply this awesome example of Jesus into our every day life, demeanor and actions.  Let the Holy Spirit reveal to you, how you are to incorporate this and/or take your witness to the next level.  But let's not be so arrogant to think that we've got this down already.  There is always room to grow, correct, and thrive.  So I pray that we thrive today; and thrive in correct alignment of God's Word and His Holy Spirit; Who speaks to You just as much as He speaks to me.

Praise You Father for Your awesome Word today!

PRAYER: Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things.  I am so glad to be in the court of the just Judge who never fails to make a fair decision, LORD.  You see into the hearts of people and judge rightly.  Thank You for sharing Your wisdom with me.  Unlike those who rebel against You, God, You often let me realize the wisdom in Your rules and plans.  I begin to see the design You have for ruling the world; and my life.  Your judgments are always wise... (Proverbs 28:5)

- Please continue praying what's in YOUR heart.  All prayers provided by TGN are just starters; please allow your heart and the Holy Spirit direct your words to God; and pray in the Name of Jesus.  There is power in that Name!  Amen!

Activity With Purpose

Today we highlight Exalt Resources in demonstrating activity with purpose. 

Originating from following what God directed His daughter to do.  It is a thriving business in the field of people - Human Resources.

Did it make sense at first?  "No."  Was it scary?  "Yes."

But I have been able to experience first hand how God delights and truly takes care of what He commanded His children to do.

I've seen nothing but growth over the years.  Growth is excellent, but the opportunity to minister in the lives of all different types of people, in all kinds of ways; and learn in the process is PRICELESS.

Thank You LORD!

Please feel free to support your sister by visiting her website: www.exaltresources.com, and if you're in California looking for job opportunities, hit the "Career Opportunities" section.

God, will never forsake nor leave you my friend.  Holy Spirit continue to direct everything, filling this earth with Kingdom and the Glory of our awesome King, through the purposes you've placed on your daughter's heart.  May she continue to step boldly in faith, in a faithful God.  In Jesus' Name.  Amen.

Lied On...

How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver. Proverbs 16:16

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Mark 14: 55-59 NIV

55 The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. 56 Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.
57 Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: 58 "We heard him say, 'I will destroy this man-made temple and in three days will build another, not made by man.' " 59 Yet even then their testimony did not agree.

The Romans controlled Israel, but the Jews were given some authority over religious and minor civil disputes.  The Jewish ruling body, the high council was made up of 71 of Israel's religious leaders.  It was assumed that these men would be just.  Instead, they showed great injustice in the trial of Jesus, even to the point of making up lies to use against Him.  The statement that the false witnesses finally agreed to use as an accusation twisted Jesus' actual words.  Jesus did not say, "I will destroy this Temple made with human hands;" He answered (them), "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it up again in three days" (John 2:19).  Jesus was not talking about Herod's Temple but about His own body.  But the truth was not the purpose here, taking Jesus down was; and they could only use lies to do it.

Let's face it, someone is probably out there lying about each of us right now. Someone may simply be stating their opinion about us; while someone else may be trying to turn the "whole world" against us.  But what God is currently teaching me, and what we all need to learn is, WHO CARES?!  The person or those people, no matter who they are have absolutely no authority over us.  Their lies, or "interpretation" of who they think we are - is just that (lie and/or interpretation).  The only one who holds the truth is God.  It hurts; it does attempt to disrupt our lives for a minute... so what can we do?

First, let's stop playing in the hands of these people who are intentionally, or being used by the evil that does exist in this world to destroy us.  Whether they admit it or not, destruction is their purpose - and it is evil.  As we will continue to observe of Jesus in this chapter, we see that He did not play their games, or into their games.  He didn't allow them to control, nor stir His ministry or His reactions.  Jesus was consistent, and consistent with the Word of God.  Are you?  We oftentimes give people little nuggets (sometime big ones) to work with.  Jesus gave them nothing.  Let's follow His example and give them nothing.  Allow the Holy Spirit of our Heavenly Father to have His Way.  If we believe He is for us and not against us.  Let's trust God to work it all out to our good; just as He promises to do.  Not just the good things - but ALL things (includes the hurtful and the bad), He promises to work out to the good of His children.

Trust me, I know how hard this is going to be.  But I trust in God that we will all make it and come out better for it, if we take just one step at a time in changing what we can - which is, ourselves.  We can do it, because the Spirit working in us, IS doing it.  Hallelujah!

On the other side of the coin; when we're hurt we often taint someone's else's reputation ourselves by pushing our side of the story as the final judgment to the people we run to talk to.  The Holy Spirit has brought this to my attention as a huge red warning sign lately.  There are (at least) 3 sides to every story - your side, their side and God's side.  Let's seek to gain God's perspective at all times, in order to not become the cause of exactly what has happened, is happening or may happen to us.

PRAYER: Father, You have promised the righteous Your protection from their enemies.  My enemies are not the people, but the darkness at work within them.  They may still come against us, but they will be powerless, ashamed, and confused by their inability to harm Your children.  Your power against them is so fearsome that when I search for my enemies, I will not be able to find them.  Such protection is beyond my understanding but not to be taken lightly; for you send forth Your angels to guard me in all my ways.  It's amazing, how involved and concerned You are with our whole being.  You know exactly what I need when I call on You for help, and I trust Your decisions; I trust Your perspective.  Thank You Father, in the Name of Jesus.  Amen

Activity With Purpose

TGN has been meaning to celebrate our "PHOENIX RISING,"  who uses her life/testimony and love for music, to share her faith and love for Jesus and all people; with all people!

Today is the day,with our new Activity with Purpose Series:

TGN CELEBRATES OUR BEAUTIFUL SISTER.  

You can check her out at: http://www.youtube.com/user/13Elizabetha

Jesus, continue to use her open and honest heart, spirit and talents to move more souls and lives to You, our mighty Savior, who is mighty to save at all times.  In your Name, thank you for blessing and maturing Your daughter and her family each and every day.  You truly honor Your children in amazing ways.  Amen.

Following At A Distance

Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom.  Though it cost all you have, get understanding.  Proverbs 4:7

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Mark 14: 53-64 NIV

So today we are going to concentrate on the first 2 verses of this section, where Jesus is now before the Sanhedrin: "53 They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders and teachers of the law came together. 54 Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. There he sat with the guards and warmed himself at the fire."  Now, do you remember verse (50) of Mark 14: "Then everyone deserted him and fled." But here we see Peter still following; and this huge picture of Christians today, came to my mind.  Just think about it, this is EXACTLY what many of us do.  We believe in our hearts in Jesus.  We declare we love Him and take Him at His Word - BUT we choose to follow at a distance.  We too, follow Him at a distance right into the seats of Sunday School/Service every week.

What is following at a distance?

Following at a distance is believing, but making no effort to share our belief with others.  Following at a distance, is walking in fear to take a stand in those moments when Jesus wants us to stand for Him.  Following at a distance is the fear of being labeled religious, conservative, extremist - because of our connection to Jesus.  

We have all done it!  My 5 years in New York just flashed before my eyes as, following Jesus at a distance.  I knew Him and loved Him - I knew I needed Him; yet did things my way.  Even abandoning Him several times to take part in death = SIN.  And just as Peter warmed himself by that fire, we do the same.  We take care of ourselves, instead of allowing Jesus to handle what He said He would handle.  We do what we think is best for us, to fit in, to avoid criticism - and in turn we watch and allow our God to be treated in the most degrading and disrespectful ways.  We try to play nonchalant, unconcerned, non-judgmental/accepting, just the same as everyone else.  But God hasn't called us to be these things before evil and sin.  Didn't He call us to be NOT of this world.  Yet, we act, talk, live just like it.

I'm not here to tell you what Peter should have done; but if you know this part of our history, you know what Peter does do next... Do you want to go there?  (If you don't know, feel free to read on to the end of the chapter).  This is a wake up call to all of us.  However we've become comfortable with "following Jesus at a distance"; it is time to correct this step.  Jesus wants us close! 

Prayer: Father, You have mercy upon us who have not obtained mercy; You have declared us Your people.  Today, I declare, YOU ARE MY GOD! I choose to live with ALL knowing, that YOU ARE MY GOD!  O LORD, how great is Your mercy to me.  You owed me nothing, because I paid You no heed, yet You called me.  When I walked far from You, You called me to turn to Your path.  Thank You for caring for me when I wallowed in sin.  I did nothing to earn Your grace, yet You gave it to me anyway.  May Your great mercy be reflected in my life as I pass on mercy to those who sin against me.  May mercy flow freely in my life.  

- Please continue praying what's in YOUR heart.  All prayers provided by TGN are just starters; please allow your heart and the Holy Spirit direct your words to God; and pray in the Name of Jesus.  There is power in that Name!  Amen!

In Jesus' Name.  Amen (Hosea 2:23)

Activity With Purpose

TGN loves to highlight the family of TGN when they are stepping in what God has called them to do.  

Today, we celebrate Suncera.

When you get time check her out at -  http://www.thatwritingchic.com/

SUNCERA WE SUPPORT YOU AND LIFT YOUR PURPOSES UP IN THE NAME OF JESUS!  KEEP STEPPING IN THE WAYS OF GOD AND WITH FAITH. 

THANK YOU FATHER FOR YOUR DAUGHTER!

Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

Father, fill us with the knowledge of Your Will through all spiritual understanding.  In Jesus' Name. Amen

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Mark 14: 53-64 NIV

Before the Sanhedrin
53 They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders and teachers of the law came together. 54 Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. There he sat with the guards and warmed himself at the fire.
55 The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. 56 Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.
57 Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: 58 "We heard him say, 'I will destroy this man-made temple and in three days will build another, not made by man.' " 59 Yet even then their testimony did not agree.
60 Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, "Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?" 61 But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.
Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?"
62 "I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."
63 The high priest tore his clothes. "Why do we need any more witnesses?" he asked. 64 "You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?"
They all condemned him as worthy of death. 65 Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, "Prophesy!" And the guards took him and beat him.


What verse(s) or message sticks out to you today?  If you journal, write about it.  If you have people in your life that you like to share the Word with, allow this to be a topic of conversation.  Speak to God about it.  Memorize it.


TGN isn't looking to force you to do anything my way.  But it is here to offer you the opportunity to create your own relationship with the Word, and continue to take it to the next level.  Don't just look to be fed; I hope you're looking to grow and be able to receive revelation on your own as well.  However the Spirit moves you; don't just think about it.  DO IT.  Let your spirit, heart and mind pursue wisdom and understanding directly from our God.  God loves it when we come to Him.  How do I know?  Because He consistently tells us to come to Him.  No joke, look it up.


TGN will jump into the mix of this Word on Friday!  

Betrayer

Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. (NIV - Proverbs 4:5)

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Mark 14: 43-52 NIV

I've re read these verses over and over again the past few days and the one thing that stands out is this naked man in verse 51,52.  Did you catch this: "51 A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, 52 he fled naked, leaving his garment behind."  It never ceases to amaze me that no matter how many times we read this library of books (The Bible), there will always be a new fact that stands out.  I kept asking God two questions, who is this; and why was he mentioned here?  In the Life Application Study Bible, it states that tradition says that this young man may have been John Mark, the writer of this Gospel.  This incident is not mentioned in any of the other Gospels.  Interesting right?  Let me know if you receive any more revelation on that.

Ok, moving on... These verses mark Judas as Jesus' official accuser.  He was the gateway for the religious leaders and their mission to issue a warrant for Jesus' arrest.  My questions here are,  did Judas really know who Jesus was?  Was he so blinded by greed and/or power that he would lie on the Innocent, Pure and Good?  Was this always in Judas character to be a betrayer and a liar?  For, Judas had no fear in stepping to Jesus and betraying Him with a kiss.  He got all up in Jesus' face, only to bring Him down.  How did he fail to grasp the prophecy that he was told, and walk right into fulfilling it?

Then I turn this around to how can these questions apply to us.  What are the sins, the evil, the things against God and His Word that we allow to slip and slide right on by?  That we allow ourselves to ignore?  That we allow ourselves to continue to do?  That we allow ourselves to come so close to?  That we allow ourselves to sit in, while being all up in Jesus' face on Sunday (or whatever day)?  What are the areas of our character that can lead us down the wrong road OR, IS currently leading us down the wrong road?

Jesus not only told His Disciples what was yet to come, but He has left His Word to let us know what is coming.  Are we pretending to know Jesus, to call Him our LORD, Savior, our Friend; only to betray Him in the end?  God is so faithful to us; to each and every one of us.  There are some mysteries, but God doesn't hide what we need to know.  It is always before us.

What are each of us going to do TODAY, to close that door that is open to satan?  How are we going to make sure he has no room to stir us in the wrong direction; to do things against our God?  How are we going to make sure that we are not just going through the motions, allowing this world to defeat us.  Yes, we have the gift of forgiveness.  But how about we start thinking about honor and obedience first; in steps to conquer what is set to try to conquer us!

Be more than a conqueror today!

PRAYER: Father, I declare Your lovingkindness this morning and Your faithfulness at night.  You LORD, have made me glad through Your work, I will triumph in the works of Your hands.  For it is the work that You are doing in me, to will and act according to Your purposes.  You do not fail LORD.  I am thankful and confident in the successes You have created and committed to in me.  Keep me on the same page, in the same lane, in the way of my Great LORD.  I don't want to be the one who stands in the way of the greatness You have destined for my life.  You are so good!  Thank You Jesus.  In Your Name I pray.  Amen.

How Are You Doing?

Before we move further into the arrest of Jesus.  Let's do a check of ourselves and our lives.  Let's ask ourselves today, in this moment: "How am I doing?"  Truly, "How am I doing," and "fine" is not an acceptable answer.  Fine is an automatic answer.  Dig in deep, how are you doing?

Has anything been unusually hard for you?  Are you feeling like you're not making any progress?  Do you feel alone?  Are you hiding out?  Are you decreasing, instead of increasing in areas of your life?  Maybe it's not you, but you see it in someone else...  What should we do?

In the times of great stress, we are vulnerable to temptation, even if we have a willing spirit.  If we're not careful, we will start to head the wrong direction; when all we needed to do was stop and gauge our way with a little check up like this.  From what we read last week, as Jesus was praying in the garden; He gave us an example of what to do to resist temptation (to quit, to give in, to throw in the towel, to react from emotion), but to MOVE FORWARD.  Because YOU CAN move forward from whatever you're going through at this moment.  Don't trust me, trust God and His Word:

1) Pray to God (be specific and real with Him) and take time to listen to Him.  Prayer is not just a time for petition and requests - but a time to HEAR from God.  I was just enlightened by A.R. Bernard the other day,"everyone prays - even non-believers pray - but it is the believers who truly hear Him"; 2) seek support of friends and loved ones (people who truly lift you up; but are also real with you and have your best interest at heart.  Be gentle and patient with them, because you never know what they are going through too; respect their time; and be prepared to listen to what they may have to say. You don't have to take every piece of advice they give, but it doesn't hurt to listen to people who care about you, and mean it when they say they're praying with/for you.); 3) focus on the purposes God has given us collectively, and you specifically.   One collective purpose is to first SEEK the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).  Honestly, are you focusing on this?  If not, time to redirect.
And as you take these steps (please don't just think about them - don't let satan delay your steps); keep the Word with you.  I've provided our scripture for the week again for you below, Mark 14: 43-53.  Read it, study it, pray about it.  And if God leads you to other Scriptures, go for it.  Flow with Him.

TGN is truly focused on all of us getting UNDERSTANDING!  And not just me explaining, but each of us receiving understanding directly from the Holy Spirit.  When people fail us, God is who we have - so let's make sure we each know His voice and continue to mature with Him.   In the name of Jesus, may the Holy Spirit drench us with UNDERSTANDING of His Word.  Understanding, understanding, understanding!  Getting us all on the page of Your righteousness and Will.  Thank You, Father.  Amen. 




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Mark 14: 43-52 NIV

43 Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.

44 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard." 45 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Rabbi!" and kissed him. 46 The men seized Jesus and arrested him. 47 Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

48 "Am I leading a rebellion," said Jesus, "that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? 49 Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled."50 Then everyone deserted him and fled.

51 A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, 52 he fled naked, leaving his garment behind.

Fathers!

Please forgive me for not taking the time to honor all of the FATHERS on their day yesterday.

TGN wishes all you amazing men a terrific Father's Day!

To all you wonderful men who honor your responsibility; and do not allow mistakes to wrongfully lead you to give up on your children.  Your sons and daughters need you.  They benefit from your fear of God in raising them.  You don't have to be perfect, you just have to be all in, righteously.   Bless you; God delights in you.  Through your love, you reflect the heart of our Heavenly Father.

in His hands

Praise God, for wonderful men of influence who have been placed in our lives at the right time to give us great examples of godly men and father figures.  You give hope for who we can be, who we can marry, who we can raise, who we can love and be loved by.

Happy Father's Day (which is really every day) to those with us and those with our eternal Father.

Thank You LORD, for being our Heavenly Father since the beginning of time and for ever more!

Jesus Arrested

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Mark 14: 43-52 NIV

43 Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.

44 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard." 45 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Rabbi!" and kissed him. 46 The men seized Jesus and arrested him. 47 Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

48 "Am I leading a rebellion," said Jesus, "that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? 49 Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled."50 Then everyone deserted him and fled.

51 A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, 52 he fled naked, leaving his garment behind.

Please begin to pray for understanding.  Pray specifically for what you are seeking as you read the Word today.  Allow God to speak directly to you; and may the Holy Spirit use me, in bringing a good Word to all this week.  God answers prayer!  In Jesus' Name.  Amen

Too Good... to keep to myself!

"God believes in YOU, even when you don't believe in yourself. Once you believe in your heart that you are WHO God created you to be, is when you break out of your shell and begin to move into your divine purpose and destiny. God is not keeping you out of your destiny....It's you. God is waiting on YOU to BELIEVE you are ALL those wonderful things He says you are. 'All things are possible to him that believeth' "


Pastor Ed Smith of ZCF Whittier, Ca (www.zcf.org)

REFRESH, RESTORE AND RENEW

Hi family!

Just wanted to let you know that nothing is wrong, everything is actually excellent!  But I've been called to take a second to refresh, restore and renew with the Holy Spirit.  So I'm going to go ahead and obey.  I know when I do, I reap great increase in areas I didn't even know needed it; and those in my life also benefit from what God has planned to bring forth.

We'll be back in action Monday, June 21st.


Please do not allow this to stop your fellowship in the Word.  Continue to read Mark 14 and allow the Spirit to minister to you and prepare you for your life and what's up next for TGN.

Maybe the Holy Spirit is also asking you to shake out of routine and just refresh, restore and renew with Him as well.  If so, I encourage you to let Him lead and DO IT.  You'll experience the difference for sure!  He wants to take you to the next level!!!!!!

God is most definitely good!  Thank You Jesus.  Amen.

It Was Hard For Jesus Too

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Mark 14:32 - 42 NIV

Gethsemane

32 They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." 33 He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. 34 "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death," he said to them. "Stay here and keep watch."
35 Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. 36"Abba,Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."
37 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Simon," he said to Peter, "are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? 38 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
39 Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. 40 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.
41 Returning the third time, he said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"

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Jesus' prayer highlights the terrible suffering he had to endure - an agony so much more magnified because He had to take on the sins of the whole world.  This "cup" was the agony of alienation from God, His Father, at the cross (Hebrews 5:7-9).  Jesus was aware of what doing the Father's Will would cost Him.  He understood the suffering He was about to encounter, and He did not want to have to endure the horrible experience.  But Jesus prayed, "Yet I want Your Will, not mine."

How many times have you asked God, "Please take this away from me!!!"  Whether it's a desire, a hard situation, a habit, a feeling, a person(s), a responsibility...  In this moment, Jesus asked just that.  He took the time to express His true feelings to God, but He did not deny or rebel against God's Will.  He reaffirmed His desire to do what God wanted.


When we ask God to take something away from us, do we ever consider His Will?  What He may have purposed through the situation that we're going through?


I believe this may be a huge hindrance for us today.  In this, "ME" generation, we are often primarily concern with our own will, what we want; and sometimes we substitute our will for His, when we aren't clear of God's Will in the situation.  There are no substitutes family, God's Will is why we exist.  Sure, we are often unclear about the purpose of our current situation but we know God's overall Will, His Word is very clear.  So why don't we concentrate on what we do know...

Anything worth having costs something.  The sinless Son of God took on our sins and was separated for a while from God so that we could be eternally saved.  We must be willing to pay whatever the price to gain what is priceless - the reward we're building in eternity.  Let's follow Jesus and commit to God's Will in the midst of our suffering.  Don't allow our sufferings to defeat us into not fulfilling our purposes.  It will be hard at times, we will suffer - but because of Jesus, we will NEVER be alienated by God; we are not going through it alone.  Thankfully, just like Jesus, WE HAVE THE VICTORY!


Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the words of Paul in 2 Corinthians 1:6,7; they are the perfect words for Your message today.  Praise be to You, Father of our LORD Jesus, Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.  For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.  If we are distressed, it is for Your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in us patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.  And our hope for You is firm, because we know that just as You share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.

I know I am allotted a certain amount of suffering in this world, whether it is suffering for Your sake or just the common suffering related to being human.  People I love die; people I love continuously hurt me; supporting my family is hard or impossible; and in the end, I must come to grips with my own mortality.

But I do not let suffering overcome me or totally overshadow the joys of life, for I know You are with me in my deepest need, carrying me through the hard times safely to the other side.

Please be with those who are suffering today, Father.  Give them the hope to carry on, knowing the victory is theirs through Christ our LORD.  Amen.


- All prayers provided by TGN are just starters; please allow your heart and the Holy Spirit direct your words to God; and pray in the Name of Jesus.  There is power in that Name!  Amen!

"You Will Deny Me..."

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Mark 14:27-31 NIV

Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial

27 "You will all fall away," Jesus told them, "for it is written:
" 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' 28 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."
29 Peter declared, "Even if all fall away, I will not."
30"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times."
31 But Peter insisted emphatically, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the others said the same.


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This was the second time in the same evening that Jesus predicted the disciples' denial and desertion; we will gain more insight on this encounter later in the Gospels of Luke and John.

Now, I bet some of  you think you know where this topic is going to go today.  If you think I'm going to have you take a look at your life and determine where you find yourself denying Jesus... sorry you're wrong today.  Of course the Spirit wants to take us into another direction; so lets flow with Him into the direction of... forgiveness.   I believe there is a huge call not only to forgive others, but to actually FORGIVE OURSELVES.

Check it out, in this moment Jesus told Peter and His disciples that they were going to abandon Him.  He wasn't condemning them, He just told them a matter of fact and truth(:27). Now once they fulfilled this, the disciples could have given up, felt shame forever, hated themselves, denied their purposes and gone down the wrong road... But no, they got up, came back to submit their lives to Jesus and pressed real hard in spreading His ministry.
Sweethearts, we all fall short.  We have all done things that we swore we wouldn't do.  We have all sinned and compromised.  Now I'm about to share TMI for some of you; but I just want to be real in how God forgives when we come to Him and how He changes His children and leads them to live a glorious life.  To serve His purposes.
When I was young, I never thought about losing my virginity.  I was real adamant that it wasn't going anywhere before I got married.  I was active and pre-occupied with friends, activities, NSYNC (LOL) and school.  Sex was absolutely the last thing on my mind (for the most part).  If Jesus would have told me, "You will sin and have sex before marriage," I would have been just like Peter and the disciples "OH NO!  You've gots to be joking Jesus!" Now, fast forward to June 11, 2010, am I married today?  NOPE.  Have I ever been married?  Nope.  Am I a virgin.  Nope.  BOOOOOO!

Yes, boo on that; but thankfully God didn't let me go.  Each and every time I came to Him, He rebuilt my self-esteem and worth, He reminded me of Who truly loves me, He forgave me and loved me with open arms.  You've read my year in review - He is doing exceedingly and abundantly more than I can ever ask, think or imagine.  I would not be where I am today if I didn't believe God's Word, compassion, and salvation.  I'm not locked in a box of unforgiveness.  I've accepted that I've made mistakes, and "thank You Jesus," I AM FREE.  I've submitted it all to Jesus on the altar and I can move on.  I can expect growth and the many good things coming my way; because this is the God I serve.  Through good times and bad, I've come to a point where I'm not playing around with my life anymore.  I'm making the right decisions more often than less.  And NO, it's not always easy - but you know what?  It's worth it.

You know what else?  YOU ARE WORTH IT.  "THANK YOU JESUS!"  This right here, is a Word for You (reader).  Do you hear it?  Do you receive it?  You are FREE.  Stop allowing satan, and sometimes hurtful people, stop you from hearing the truth.  Yes, you did it - BUT THAT IS NOT WHO YOU ARE ANYMORE!!!! I don't care if you did it yesterday, Go to God, lay it before Him, ask and receive your forgiveness, forgive yourself and allow yourself, and your life to change - step by step on this wonderful journey with Christ.

If others won't allow you to walk in the freedom God has already given you.  Rebuke them and move on.  They are not your God and they have their own issues to deal with.  They too, need to read this message.  But right now, I'm thinking about YOU my dear darling; You can say it, "I AM FREE."
Move Forward, my family in Christ.  Thank You LORD for this message!  Your awesome sons and daughters needed to read this, this morning.  Hallelujah!


PRAYER: Father, your Word says in 1 John 3:20: "For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart and knoweth all things."  I know who I am, merciful Father, and I find myself unworthy of You.  Judge and jury would agree with my own self-condemnation.  I sin, then I sin again; if You kept a list of my sins, it would be as long as Your mighty arm.  Yet still I have hope for myself, because You forgive all my sins.  Your unending compassion is beyond my understanding, but I trust in Your love each and every day...

- All prayers provided by TGN are just starters; please allow your heart and the Holy Spirit direct your words to God; and pray in the Name of Jesus.  There is power in that Name!  Amen!

Part 2 (of Covenant)

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Mark 14:21 NIV part 2
Jesus speaking:
21 "...  The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him..."
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Yesterday, we addressed one great group of people.  Those inquiring about and desiring Jesus, yet not knowing too much about Him or how to get to Him.  Today, we're speaking to those of us who need to refresh, restore, renew and grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

We must never think we got it; that we're all good because we attend church and Bible Studies regularly; because we read the Word daily; even if we have a life group(s) that we meet with weekly or monthly  -- because when you get too tired, when you get distracted, when God shakes all that activity up - what will you have to depend on?
I hope we will all have God, Himself.  Last week, I shared my progress with you, but ladies and gents I still have much growth to look forward to.  There is so much more I have to learn about our King, and there is always opportunity to grow closer to Him. I'm determined to NOT be the same person I am today, next year - even tomorrow.  Growth is so important, and the only way to not go backwards is by moving forward.  Seriously, these 2 words "MOVING FORWARD" have become my favorite words of 2010.  God wants us to continue to move forward family.  Staying the same is not an option.  I believe that God is calling His children to allow the past to be just that, "The Past."  But we want to continue to bring it up; and even if we're not bringing it up, it's always on our minds - suffocating good decisions, killing forgiveness and definitely stopping us from getting to where we're purposed to go.  A couple of weeks ago, I came across a quote by Barbara Johnson that made me go "ahhhh"; and I think about it every time the past tries to pull a sneak attack on me.  I would love to share it with you,  "If you can forgive the person you were, accept the person you are, and believe in the person you will become, you are headed for joy.  So celebrate your life."  This applies to our relationships with others as well.

Even Jesus grew, as we will read in the book of Luke next; Luke 2:52 "And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men."  What makes us think we're not supposed to grow as well.  And to share another thing that has been placed on my heart.  Please do not allow the word RELIGIOUS, stop you from growing with God.  If you're seeking a relationship with Him, you're on the right track.  What people want to label you, is their problem and not yours.  I hope to move deeper into that subject as we read on.  But for now, I'll simply touch upon that quick bite.  I'm confident that it speaks to someone fighting with that label.  Trust me I know what you're going through and that should not kill our efforts to serve God.

To our growth in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men, for all who have chosen to the answer the call to join with Jesus in this wonderful covenant. AMEN!


Prayer: Father I tend to listen to the advice of the successful, not the poor.  No one would think of going to a poor man for financial advice -- he has no power.  If he did, he would be rich, wouldn't he?  I think the rich must have knowledge I do not and if I follow their advice, I, too, may know success.  But You sent Your Son as a humble man, a man without power or riches as the world counts power and riches.  Help me see the wisdom of that act, and remind me that Your Son spent most of His ministry among the powerless, suffering the death of a criminal for my sake.

Father, I tend to listen to myself more than I seek to listen to You.  You command me to call on You. You promise that You will help me, protect me, counsel me, guide me; that You will never forsake me.  That with You, there is abundance, not stagnation.  Why is it so hard for me to trust You?  Jesus today, I want to renew my trust in You.  Thank You always for knowing that today, my heart would desire and my actions would follow to go to the next level with You.  To grow in wisdom, stature and favor.  To find security and wholeness in Your love at all times!  I love You Jesus, here I am to submit my life to You.  Let's live this life together from here on out in every way.  I am Yours!  In Your Name I pray.  Amen.


*Additional references: Happiness Is... The Simple Steps to A Life of Joy, The Every Day Guide to Prayer

Rosa's Day

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSA!

Today, TGN is honored to celebrate Rosa!  Please join me in praying over our sister in Christ.

Without You, LORD Jesus, our lives would be weighed down by sin, so we begin this celebration by praising Your righteousness.  You are our righteous, glorious LORD, the only One who heals our sin.  May Rosa’s joy come from Your hand, and may she rejoice in thankfulness for it.  Thank you for Your blessing in Rosa’s life that has brought her to this day; another year of life and purpose.  We thank You for each and every day of her life.  May her words today show that she recognizes You as the source of all good things.  May she continue to appreciate Your mercy towards her.

Thank You, LORD, for sharing Rosa’s joy as well as her sorrow.  Be with her in every moment of this celebration and life in general.  Reaffirm, that she can hold on to Your promise, which says You love her.  Without reservation, you love her.  Heal Rosa of all things that seek to separate her from You.  Yours is a wonderful love that does not count wrongs.  Help Rosa live in that love today and every day.

In Your great Name, we pray Jesus.  Amen.

Have a favorable day Rosa!

Rosa’s scripture: “I will praise the LORD according to His righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.” Psalm 7:17

If you would like a birthday prayer shout out, or prayer over any special occasion in your life; TGN wants to glorify God with you in those moments.  Feel free to leave your info as a comment or email tgndaily@gmail.com – Please note, as always, if you do not respond and request, TGN will respect that you do not want to be celebrated in public.

*Additional Resources: The Everyday Guide to Prayer.

Jesus' Death, a must...

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Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The Servant

Mark 14:21 NIV
Jesus speaking:
21 "...  The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him..."


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I've had someone tell me, "I see Jesus as a prophet.  I can't imagine a God killing His son..."  Maybe, you too, don't get the death of Christ.  First, let's remember we don't serve a dead savior, Jesus is ALIVE.  But let's take time to explain the death that Jesus willingly walked to.  God didn't make Jesus go to the cross; Jesus willingly submitted to the cross, in order to conquer death/sin on our behalf.

Jesus' death for us on the cross seals a new covenant between God and us.  The old covenant involved forgiveness of sins through the blood of an animal sacrifice (Exodus 24:6-8).  But instead of a spotless lamb on the altar, Jesus offered Himself, the spotless Lamb of God, as the official sacrifice for sins, and His blood sealed the new agreement between God and us.  Now all of us can come to God through Jesus, in full confidence that God will hear us and save us from our sins.

Have you entered into this covenant?  Are you confident that God hears you?  Do you know that you are saved from your sins?



Prayer: Heavenly Father, so many people stumble through life in darkness, afraid of what they might touch in the blackness, of what they might become.  They have no sense of direction and no peace in their lives; only anger and fear keep them moving.  I lift up the individuals who were moved to read TGN today, and have not entered into covenant with You.   I pray that they continue to step towards You; that they do not ignore Your call today, and submit their whole being to You.  You stand outside the door, life-giving light in Your presence, if only they would turn the key and welcome You.  You will wait there eternally patient and loving.  I pray they will hear You knocking on their hearts; may they gather up their courage and answer Your call, for You offer them light, guidance, and nothing less than salvation itself - Your Son Jesus!  Amen.


*Additional Resources: The Everyday Guide to Prayer

The LORD's Supper

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Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The Servant

Mark 14:12-26 NIV


The Lord's Supper


12 On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus' disciples asked him, "Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover?"
13 So he sent two of his disciples, telling them, "Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him. 14 Say to the owner of the house he enters, 'The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' 15 He will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there."
16 The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.
17 When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve. 18 While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me."
19 They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, "Surely not I?"
20 "It is one of the Twelve," he replied, "one who dips bread into the bowl with me. 21 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born."
22 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take it; this is my body."
23 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it.
24 "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many," he said to them. 25 "I tell you the truth, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God."
26 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.


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Mark records the origin of the LORD's Supper, also called Communion or Eucharist (thanksgiving), which is still celebrated in worship services today.  Jesus and His disciples ate a meal, sang a hymn, Jesus spoke Scripture, and prayed.  It was a very personal time; yet still provided an element of fellowship.  Jesus took two traditional parts of the Passover meal, the passing of bread and the drinking of wine, and gave them new meaning as representations of His body and blood.  He used the bread and wine to explain the significance of what He was about to do on the cross.

Judas, the very man who would betray Jesus, was at the table with the others.  Judas has already determined to betray Jesus by this time, but in cold-blooded hypocrisy he shared the fellowship of this meal.  It is easy to become enraged or shocked by what Judas did; yet professing commitment to Christ and then denying Him with one's life is also betraying Him.  It is denying Christ's love to disobey Him; it is denying His truth to distrust Him; it is denying His deity to reject His authority.  Yet, how many of us find ourselves denying Him areas of our lives and decisions?  How many of us suffer from disobedience?  How many of us truly trust Him?  How many of us believe Jesus is God?  Often times, people come to church to take part in taking of the bread and drinking of the wine (grape juice), knowing they have been and/or, are just going to go out and betray Jesus again with sin.  Does this make us any different from Judas?


Are you going to follow the ways of Judas or Jesus?


Does your heart, words and actions match?  If not, take the time and consider a change of mind and heart that will protect you from making a terrible mistake.  It is so important that we do this because ignorance, and ignoring the problem, is not going to help or save us.  Only Jesus will.


Prayer: Heavenly Father, how far I have strayed from Your commandments.  It hurts to know how I've harmed You and those I love with my selfish actions.  You've promised that if I return to You, You will not turn away.  Forgive my sin, LORD, and help me make things right with those I've hurt.  Help them to forgive my wrongs, too.  Turn my heart from evil; and from betrayal of Your precious Son, Jesus.  Help me be more like You each day moving forward.  Put this sin in my past--forever; and hold my hand as I choose to live for You.  In Jesus' Name.  Amen.

- All prayers provided by TGN are just starters; please allow your heart and the Holy Spirit direct your words to God.



*Additional Resources: The Everyday Guide to Prayer.