December Cover Photo (2013)

Prayer is the Key to Unlock God's Infinite Grace and Power (12.28.13)

The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops - James 5:16-18

Prayer is powerful because GOD is powerful; 

and prayer is the means through which the divine power is released 

and channeled into our lives. 

In other words, all the power in prayer is really GOD’s power,
activated by prayer. 

When you pray for another person, there is nothing that flows from you to them – no vibes, no force, no energy.  Instead, your prayers go heavenward and the power of GOD moves from Him to the ones you pray for. When the Bible says prayer is powerful and effective, it means that GOD acts powerfully and effectively through the prayers of his people. 

Prayer is the instrument by which GOD has chosen
to have His power directed in the universe. 

This power is so rich and so mobile that all we have to do when we pray is to point to the persons or things to which we desire to have this power applied.  And He, the Lord of this power, will direct the necessary power to the desired place. 

What a awesome arrangement! 

GOD partnering with human beings to accomplish his purposes!

Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of GOD’s infinite grace and power. All that GOD is and has is at the disposal of prayer. Prayer can do anything that GOD can do, and as GOD can do anything, prayer is omnipotent.

Prayer can do what political action cannot, what education cannot, what military might cannot and what planning committees cannot.  All these are impotent by comparison. 

Prayer can move mountains. 

It can change human hearts, families, neighborhoods, cities and nations. It is the ultimate source of power, because it is the power of Almighty GOD. This power is available to GOD's children.. It was “a man just like us” (Elijah) who prayed “that it would not rain,” and GOD stopped the rain in Israel for three and a half years. 

Where will the power of your prayers be felt today?

- Prayer -

Father, 

I give You praise for Your great power 

by which You move in this world 

and by which You govern the affairs of all people. 

Thank You for Your willingness to hear my prayers 

and direct Your power to places and persons through them. 

In Jesus’ Name, 

I ask that You would help me to grow

in my ability to become a powerful and effective pray-er!

Amen

Expect to Be Blessed (12.27.13)

My Child,

I have promised that all your needs shall be met,

I will not turn a deaf ear to your cries,
when you call I will hear and answer.
I want you to start expecting to receive an answer.
Expect to hear my voice, expect to be blessed.
Why do you pray and don’t expect to be blessed?
You pray without expectation.
My promises are true.

I need you to trust Me. Let me Lead and guide you.
I long to whisper words of love and affection in your ear.
I promised that I would not leave you comfortless.
You must believe that what you have asked for, will come to past.

Trust in Me, don’t be moved by what you see,
and don’t be moved by what you feel. 

Be confident that I have risen in your midst to bring healing, 

to bring salvation, to bring victory and council to those in need.
Even now I am interceding for you and My Father always heareth My prayers.
I expect you to pray to Me.  You must expect to receive your blessings.

Know that I hear your prayers and I am bringing all that you ask to pass.
I am bringing about a complete change in your life.
Trust in Me and believe that I am faithful 

to do those things that I have promised to do.
Expect Me to bring the natural in alignment with the spiritual.
GOD is the God of Abraham, of Moses, of Isaac.  

Remember, there is nothing too hard for God.

Expect to be blessed! 

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (12.26.13) **

1. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
2. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)
3. Look not to Your Circumstances, Look to the Lord (10.30.13)
4. Spend More Time in Prayer with Me (8.8.13)
5. My Child, Speak to It! In My Name (6.25.13)
6. A Repentant Heart (6.9.13)
7. Take the Victory through the Words you Speak (6.24.13)
8. When You Pray.... (12.4.13)
9. God is a Master Planner! (11.25.13)
10. Do Not Allow Fear to Invade Your Spirit (10.31.13)

The ten most popular are always on the right hand side @ http://wordofgodfortoday.blogspot.com/. #Enjoy #BlessAndBeBlessed

Trade your "To-Do" List for God's "To-Do" list (12.26.13)

Everyday we start our day with so many things to do.

Sometimes our “things to do list” seems so long, 

and there just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day 

to do all that needs to be done.

I hear the Lord saying, “DO ONE THING THIS DAY.”

GOD is only asking us to do ONE THING this day….LOVE HIM.

With all of our heart, all of our soul and all of our mind.

ONE THING. 

And if you love Him, you won’t have a problem with the ONE THING list below.

Didn’t He say we could cast our cares upon Him for He careth for us, 

and that His yoke is easy and the burden light?

Matthew 11:28-30 - Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Well trade your list for His list today. 

Take a pick, choose ONE THING from the list 

and see how much better your day will be.

I dare you to take a chance and do ONE THING FOR JESUS THIS DAY!

ONE THING LIST

Joshua 23:14 - And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not ONE THING hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your GOD spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not ONE THING hath failed thereof. 

Trust Him, Step out in Faith today and know that He won’t fail you.

Psalm 27:4 - ONE THING have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.

Seek His Kingdom this day and watch Him give you peace in your temple.

Luke 10:41-42 - And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things, but ONE THING is needful and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Break open your alabaster box and give Jesus your most precious gift …. YOU!

Luke 18:22 - Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou ONE THING: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.

Share with those who are less fortunate and
watch treasures from Heaven fall upon you.

John 9:24-25 - Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give GOD the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: ONE THING I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. 

Ask the Lord to remove the blinders from your eyes so you can see
every way the enemy is tempting, hindering, lying and distorting
the truth in your life. 

The Word of God for Today can be translated in hundreds of languages on our blog site: http://wordofgodfortoday.blogspot.com/.

In whatever language you speak, wherever you are in the world,
I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas.
- Love, Marilyn Chaney

Teaching Our Children the Meaning of Christ's Birth, Christmas and Keeping God's Commandment to Love (12.25.13)

How many of us can say that our children know the real meaning of Christmas? 

How many of us have shared with our children that Christ was born in a manger. 

Oh yes, they see the displays' of the manger and think how beautiful it looks, but have you really told them about the environment our Savior was born in? 

Have you told them about the animals that were there, and what it actually looked like and may have smelled like? 

Do they really understand what His birth means to us? 

If not, it is time we teach them about our Savior’s birth.
It is time we teach them the true meaning of giving and receiving.
We have allowed the world to dictate to us
how we should celebrate the birth of Jesus,
when we, as Christians,
should be showing the world the true meaning of Christmas.
It’s time we made a change, and the time is now.

GOD gave us the best gift He could ever given us when He gave us His only Son.

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

His Son is THE PERFECT GIVE OF LOVE.

Oh, how the Father so love us.
This is what Christmas is all about, the love of the Father and His Son. 

You can give love by mending your broken relationships. 

You can give love by blessing others as the Lord has blessed you. 

You can give love by praying for those who have misused you,
falsely accused you, taken from you or abused you.

Most of all you can give love and demonstrate love by surrendering your life to the Lord and loving Him with all your heart, soul and mind.

I can’t imagine that it was easy for GOD to send His only Son to save us, but He did.
It is overdue that we begin to show Him how thankful we are for His sacrifice and celebrate His birth in the way He truly meant for us to celebrate it, by remembering why He came, what He did while He was here, what He did for us when He laid down His life and most of all by keeping His commandment to LOVE.

Remember: John 15:7 - These things I command you, that ye love one another. I COMMAND YOU TO DO THIS SAYS THE LORD.

Father I Praise You, For All Good Things Come From You! (12.23.13)

Father,

I Praise You!   For all good things come from You! 

You are wonderful in counsel and magnificent in wisdom! 

You sent Jesus to be my Wonderful Counselor. 

Thank You that the Spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel and power rest on Him; and that He is the one who intercedes on my behalf before Your throne, God.

Thank You for the instructions and counsel given to me by the Holy Spirit. 

May I always trust in You and not be dismayed by the circumstances that seem to have overwhelmed me. 

I pray for the relationships in my life that are in total disarray. 

I ask for Your wisdom, O GOD, and the humility to serve others out of my love for You. 

In the handling of my finances, and in the circumstances I find myself, give me Your wisdom, Father. 

The circumstances I face right now appear to be hard but I confess that apart from You, I can do nothing.  I confess that I need Your wisdom always Lord. At the very depths of who I am, may I have Your wisdom - that I might respond in each situation that I face, as one who has listened to Your counsel. 

O how I long to hear your voice more clearly and submit to Your counsel, Lord! 

Forgive me, I pray, for the times that I have been wise in my own eyes, 

for running ahead of You, or excluding You completely from decisions that I make. 

I have been foolish, forgive me O Lord. 

Like Jesus, who was anointed to preach the good news to the poor, 

proclaim freedom for the spiritually imprisoned, the blind and oppressed; 

may I reflect His likeness and become a person of wisdom and godly counsel. 

Use me, I pray, to be a blessing to someone who needs to hear 

something positive and uplifting today. 

I trust in Your Holy Spirit to lead me and guide me in all truth; 

and I thank You Father for the promise of Your Word, 

that You will be a sure foundation and strong tower in my times of need. 

When the world closes in on me, remind me to pray. LORD, you are the answer and there is no other GOD that can compare to you. You are GOD all by yourself and I love you. 

In Jesus name I pray, 

Amen

Reference Scriptures:
Isaiah 28:29        Isaiah 9:6        Isaiah 11:2       Romans 8:34       Hebrews 7:25
Psalm 16:9         Isaiah 28:16    James 1:5         Psalm 51:6          Proverbs 3:7
Psalm 111:10     Luke 4:18       Psalm 73:24      John 16:13          Isaiah 33:6

Trust and Believe in God, at all Times (12.21.13)

Beloved,

How can you doubt Me?

How can you not trust in My words?

How can you not know that I am your supplier?

How can you not believe in divine healing?

How can you not think all is well?

All is well!

Trust Me and do be not be afraid.

Know that I will keep you in my hands, 

regardless of what the situation appears to be. 

Let go and trust Me. 

Have I ever failed you?

Have I not cared for you and your family?

Have I not kept you strong?

I am here for you. 

I might not show up when you think I should, 

but I will always be right on time.

I promised I would never leave you nor forsake you, 

therefore what I have spoken will come to pass.

You Have Come too Far to Settle for Just Anything, Wait on God (12.19.13)

Philippians 4:19 - But my GOD shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

My Child, 

Why do you look to others for what you need? 

Did I not tell you that I would supply your every need,
according to My riches in glory? 

Did you not believe Me? 

Then why are you trusting in man over me? 

Why do you continue to ask them to supply your needs? 

You are My child and my children do not beg. 

You do not have to beg them. 

My children will never be forsaken as promised.

Do not let man use you. 

I hold all things in my hand.  

There is nothing I can't provide to those who love me and obey My Word. 

The world does not know what you need, but I do. 

What you need, they can’t supply.

Beloved, man will fail you every time. 

Man will forsake you. 

Wait and allow Me to supply all your needs. 

You have come too far to settle for just anything. 

I only want good and perfect things for you. 

I am the Lord your God, Allow Me to give you My best.

Pray and Expect to Receive, for Now is Not the Time to be Timid in Prayer (12.17.13)

Beloved,

Start looking for the hidden blessings that are all around you. 

Open your eyes to the wonders of My hands upon your life. 

Take hold of this new day and learn that it is okay for you to trust Me. 

I have begun a new thing in you, and I want you to trust Me.

I want you to trust Me in your loneliest moments, 

and I will give you peace. 

Trust Me with the fear of the unknown, 

for I have already provided for you. 

Trust Me with where you are at this very moment, 

because I know your beginning and end. 

Trust and believe that I am NOT a God of suffering, 

but a God of love and compassion who cares for you.

Now rise up, renew your time in prayer,
and this time I want you to pray with expectation. 

PRAY AND EXPECT TO RECEIVE. 

Pray and release MY WORDS, not your words, 

over your life and watch the enemy withdraw. 

This is not the time or the season to be timid in prayer. 

IT IS time to speak forth what I have spoken to you 

and to see the truth prevail. 

IT IS time to proclaim aloud what I am doing in your life.

THE TIME IS NOW! 

Wait no longer!

WAKE UP FROM YOUR PLACE OF SLUMBER, 

and shout the victory!

------
Isaiah 43:19 - Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?

Isaiah 55:11 - So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it.

Romans 13:11 - And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

Be Prepared to Move as the Spirit Leads You (12.16.13)

Isaiah 43:18-19 - Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

My Child, 

I want you to be prepared to move as the Spirit leads. 

Don't become so complacent 

that you don't want to accept the changes 

that I am doing in your life. 

The enemy will use this against you, 

and it will hinder your walk with Me. 

Refuse to allow the enemy to paralyze you with anything. 

He hasn't stopped you from moving forward; 

it's only a delay, and if you look closely, 

it's only in certain areas of your life.  Areas in which I have allowed. 

Think about it.

All this has left you uncertain about so many things 

and the fear of making the wrong choices 

has hindered and crippled your faith in Me. 

But I say to you this day, be not dismayed; 

there are other things that you need to move ahead on. 

I don't want you to try to force anything open, 

however, seek My wisdom and guidance in everything you do. 

Do not become so obsessed with that which seems to be blocked 

that you miss the new thing I am trying to do in your life. 

And you can trust and believe that I am doing something new.

I want you to stop thinking negative 

and stop allowing the enemy to control your thoughts. 

When you allow the enemy to control your thinking, 

it only reinforces the enemy's control over your life.  

And he has done that for much too long. 

Don’t allow him to get in anymore. 

Rise up and rebuke him in MY NAME! 

From this moment on, 

I want you to stop uttering discouraging words that so easily come to mind.

I know frustrations and trials have left you weary and feeling down.

And that discouragement has crept in overnight, 

but now is the time for you to hunger and thirst for more of Me 

like never before.

You must enter into spiritual warfare 

to break hindrances and destroy strongholds. 

Seek My face and confess every sin - even sins of doubt, fear and anxiety. 

Once you do this, then I will hear you from Heaven 

and lift you out, and over, every obstacle the enemy has tried to hinder you with.

Lastly, I want you to know Beloved, that where you are now, 

is not where you are going to be.
                        

Bring All That Troubles You to the Foot of the Cross, and Leave it There (12.14.13)

My Child,

So much negativity is happening right now 

and your head feels like its spinning. 

You will go under if you don't give it all to Me. 

These things are not yours to handle 

and certainly not yours to worry about. 

They are rattling around in your mind all day long 

and then pop to the surface when things quiet down, 

like when you lay in the bed at night. 

I am the only one who can do anything about your situation. 

I do not condemn you for confessing your concerns to others; 

but keep in mind that I am the only one who can do something about it. 

Yes, My Word does say that 'where two or three agree, I am in the midst,' 

but know, that at the end of the day, it will be Me and Me alone 

who will quiet your storm. 

Rest in Me, says the Lord,

bring all that troubles you to the foot of the cross 

and leave it there.

1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) - Give all your worries and cares to GOD, for he cares about you.

Never Give Up Hope, You Will Overcome, There Will Be a Breakthrough (12.13.13)

My Child,

I have seen your struggles, your tears and your frustration. 

I have even heard you say, "Is this all there is in this life?” 

No, it is not; there is so much more.

It seems you have come up against a wall 

and have not been able to go through, climb over or get around it.

But I am sending a breakthrough, so never forget 

that I came that you will have life, and have it more abundantly.

And that you shall break through every barrier 

that has kept you from entering into all I have for you.

The enemy wants you to think that I am not good to you. 

He wants you to think that I enjoy seeing you suffer. 

Please know that My heart aches when I see My children in pain.
My heart aches when My children are deceived into thinking
that "a breakthrough must not be for me, I don't deserve it."
My heart aches when I hear that, when I see that My children have given up hope.
My child, you must stand on My word, trust in who I am,
and continue to press forward in My name.
Never give up hope, because those walls will fall.
There will be a breakthrough.

And one more thing, don't allow the enemy to defeat you
with guilt, condemnation, or your past mistakes,
for your breakthrough was purchased at the cross with My blood.
My Father so loved you that He sent Me to give you life,
to take away all your guilt and shame, and destroy the works of the enemy.

Your breakthrough is based on My blood, and My blood alone,
so no one will be able to boast about what they did for you.
You will overcome, there will be a breakthrough.

Beloved, in spite of all the opposition that has come against you,
look at where you are. You are still standing.

Yes, you are still standing and because of that,
you will reap great rewards.
Therefore, do not let go of my hand.
Do not loosen your hold on the things for which you prayed and believed me for.
Continue to trust and believe that I am going to deliver
what you have prayed for according to my will for your life.

Continue to trust and believe that I am working things out for your good.

So come and ask your Heavenly Father for what you need.
I love you with an everlasting love.
I am waiting for you with open arms.

Never give up hope, never give up.
You will overcome, there will be a breakthrough.

---

John 3:16 - For GOD so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 10:10 - The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

John 16:33 - These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Speak Beloved Speak (12.12.13)

 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD, and the Word was GOD. The same was in the beginning with GOD. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory as of the only begotten of the Father. - John 1:1

Beloved,

In the beginning, I spoke one word and it was so. 

When I said "Let there be light”, there simply was light. 

With just one word, with just one whisper, man became a living being.

I have given to each of you My Word. 

I have given you My authority, 

I have given you all the resources you will ever need 

to defeat the enemy, and I say to you 

SPEAK BELOVED SPEAK! 

Don’t you know there is a creative force that resides within your spirit? 

The same Spirit that raised My Son from the dead 

now dwells within your mortal beings.

Speak beloved 

and know that My Word is not confined by any circumstances. 

Nothing can stop My Word. 

My Word goes forth and accomplishes what I have commanded it to accomplish. 

It will not return to Me void. 

My Word, and faith in My Word, is all that you will ever need 

to change your circumstances and situations. 

My Word transcends even the stars in the heavens. 

Heaven and earth shall one day pass away, 

but My Word will remain forever.

My Word is your sword in this battle. 

Use My Word and watch demons will flee. 

When you release My Word, in faith, over your circumstances, 

mountains are moved, walls come down and giants are subdued. 

My Word has power, My Word has authority. 

Stand upon My Word and nothing will overtake you. 

Oh speak, beloved, speak!

Speak and watch the mountains move out of your way. 

Speak and watch your night turn into day! 

Speak and watch the walls fall down before your very eyes. 

Speak and watch the giants flee from your very presence.

-----

Ezekiel 12:25 - For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged: for in your days, O rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith the Lord GOD.

Ezekiel 12:28 - Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord GOD.

A Jesus-like Prayer Life (12.11.13)

Jesus’ primary mission on earth was His atoning, death and resurrection. 

However, He also served as the perfect example for all Christians to follow. 

Being the Son of GOD, He was the model teacher, the consummate leader, 

the exemplary servant and the excellent ethicist. 

His prayer life, as in all other spiritual disciplines, was perfect. 

So a Christian desiring to learn about prayer and how to pray
should carefully examine and follow the prayer life of Jesus.

Jesus is divine, and He was filled with the Holy Spirit
throughout His earthly ministry.
If anyone ever had an excuse for a lax prayer life, it was Jesus!
Yet, Jesus prayed frequently (Luke 5:16), fervently (Luke 22:44), and faithfully (John 17).

Even rising early to pray after a long day of teaching and healing (Mk.1:35).

- Prayer - 

Lord Jesus,
Please teach me how to pray frequently, fervently and faithfully; 

as You did in Your humanity!
You are God, and yet, You rose early to pray.
And you never did or said anything You didn’t receive from Your Father.

Please give me a better understanding of the power of prayer, 

so that I will seek Your face passionately and continually.

Amen

Each Day God Sends a New Dawn, and a New Mercy (12.10.13)

My Child,

You do not have to carry your burdens; 

I am here to take them from you. 

Do not walk each day in guilt from previous sins. 

Give these to Me, and I will wash them away.  

I will throw them as far away as the east is from the west, 

and they shall be remembered no more. 

If I AM with you, who can be against you? 

Who can come against Me? 

Who is powerful enough to make Me run? 

Is there any? No! 

Say yes, and amen.

Each day I send a new dawn, and new mercy. 

So no matter what yesterday held, 

a new dawn unfolds for you every morning. 

My child, you know this, 

yet you allow the enemy to weigh you down 

with the guilt and shame of the past. 

You must believe that My promises are true, 

and sealed with the blood that I shed for you. 

This same blood washed away your sins. 

I have forgiven, I will restore, and I will heal you. 

Say yes, and amen.

Let go of all that held you captive, and all that anchored you down. Release the chains that bind you, for I have set you free.  There is nothing that can enslave you. Just believe and walk in the faith you have in Me. Set your eyes on Me, listen for My voice, fill your spirit with thy truth and walk forward in your freedom; knowing that I Am walking with you. Say yes, and amen.

For I made all things and I have much in store for you, more than you can perceive, more than you can begin to imagine. Turn away from the past and walk forward with Me so you can receive all I have promised you.  All I have planned for you. Say yes, and amen.

My child, I love you with an everlasting love and I will be with you unto the ends of the earth. I will not let anything harm you. I will make a way out when your back is against the wall and I will deliver. Believe in Me as you believe the sun will rise each day. Believe because they are My words and I am not man that I would lie or seek to deceive you. 

Trust that I will restore all things and bring you into a new season.

Now will you say Yes and Amen to My will?  Yes and Amen to My way?  And Yes and Amen to Me?

---

Psalm 103:12 - As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

Lamentations 3:23 - They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Jeremiah 31:3 - The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

2 Colossians 1:20 - For all the promises of GOD in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of GOD by us.

Its Time You Begin to Expect God to Work Miracles Through You (12.9.13)

You are going through a series of situations 

and circumstances to cause your faith to grow.
They were designed to push you past your comfort zone
and teach you to trust Me like never before. 

Then, as you step out in renewed faith
you will see doors opened which you thought were impossible.
And as you experience My faithfulness in each situation,
it will cause your faith to grow.

Then I will push you a bit further. 

I am going to take you through experience after experience, 

designed to grow and mature your faith.

If you look at your life, you will see that you have been going through the same type of faith-producing situation over and over again. I am explaining it to you clearly so that you don't become confused and think you are under attack 100% of the time from the enemy. You’re not. I want you to understand that some of your trials are coming from Me, in order to cause your faith to grow. So instead of looking to war in the spirit, yield to Me while trusting and stepping out in faith, believing the things I have promised.

It is My desire that you become strong, mighty, full of faith.  

That you are able to do all things that I place in your hand to do. 

Yes, it may seem like I am asking the impossible of you, 

but I will enable you with My supernatural power. 

Your faith will activate My power in your situation 

and you will see the impossible take place according to My will.

Things are changing and it is time you begin to expect Me to work miracles through you. 

It is time for you to realize that My Son really meant what He said that you would do the same works, the same signs and wonders that He did when He walked this earth. That is why I am working in your life now.  To begin building your faith. I am preparing you for greater things. 

So look forward expectantly to what I will be doing in you and through you, for I am causing your faith to grow so that you can work with Me to fulfill My purposes.

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Luke 17:5 - And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

1 Peter 1:7 - That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ

It's a Faith Battle, My Child (12.8.13)

1 Peter 5:8 - Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Isaiah 59:19 - So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.

My Child,

The enemy has been creeping and plotting.  

Seeking ways to destroy everything you believe in. 

He never sleeps nor rests from his assignment against you, and you are being tempted to lose heart. I see your struggles and your discouragement, and I know it’s been difficult for you at times. Why do his attacks surprise you?

Remember this, some of his greatest weapons are lies and deceit. Don’t fear him My child. Stand firm and continue to resist him. He has no power over you. Do not give him a place in your life, not through unrighteous thoughts, words, or deeds. You are more than a conqueror through Me. I have provided all that you need to overcome his attacks. That’s right, by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony, he is defeated. You have nothing to fear.

So stand strong when the enemy comes against you.  Know that My Spirit shall lift up a standard against him and send him fleeing from you. You are my chosen one.  I did not put a spirit of fear within you. Stand strong and know that I have already won the battle, all you have to do is resist him. 

It’s a faith battle My child, a faith battle. 

I love you.

- A Prayer Confession -

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for reminding me
that I should not be allowing myself to fear the enemy
and his evil schemes.

Oh what joy floods my soul when I think about
how You rose on the third day
with all power, defeating the enemy for us!

Thank You Jesus!

Yes, Lord
I know it’s a faith battle,
and in Your Holy Name,
I will resist the enemy and watch him flee.

Amen!

Be Still and Have Faith, Beloved (12.6.13)

Beloved,

I see that you are very troubled and restless. 

Why are you listening to those troubling reports and believing them? 

Don't you know that GOD has control over all diagnosis? What evil scheme can the enemy concoct that will leave GOD standing there scratching His head? Nothing can take our Father by surprise because He is a forever knowing and forever seeing GOD. If GOD is for you, who can be against you? He has all power, and there is nothing and no one who is equivalent to Him. He is GOD all by himself.

GOD is the Faithful and loving Father who will never fail you. He will watch over you to guide you through even your darkest night. Hasn't He always allowed the Spirit to bring you peace in the midst of a storm? Hasn't He confirmed His words and His promises in your life over and over?

I say, Be still and have faith beloved. Praise and worship GOD for by doing so you will find rest for your soul. This will be the key to your victory and this will also be the key to defeating the spirit that troubles you. Never lose faith in what GOD is able to do for you. TRUST IN HIS WORD AND BELIEVE IN HIS WORD when the floodgates of negativity open up against you. Remember HE IS Jehovah Shammah (The Lord is present) and there is no other.

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Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Psalm 91:1-2 - He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my GOD; in him will I trust.

Psalm 61:3 - For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.

John 14:1 - Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in GOD, believe also in me.

Continue to Pray, Don't Give Up (12.5.13)

Beloved,
You have so much on your mind, 

and you’ve been praying fervently about something you need to do. 

You are seeking wisdom and guidance from Me for the next step. 

Continue to pray, don't give up. 

I will show you what, where and when to take the next step. 

Therefore, stay before Me in prayer. 

Stay in close communion with Me.  

By doing this you will be reassured of My love for you. 

This will strengthen your faith and trust in Me. 

Once all of this manifests, you will see that I was there all the time. 

I never left you alone in this matter.

I know you are concerned about the outcome.  About how others will respond. Don't worry about it or them.  Keep your eyes on Me and keep praying. I am working on all that concerns you; and you will be so relieved and renewed once this is over. There will be so much thankfulness and joy in your heart afterwards. So keep praying.

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Daniel 9:3 - And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications,

Colossians 4:2 - Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

James 1:5 - If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

James 5:16b - The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

When You Pray.... (12.4.13)

When you pray for a prayer to be answered, what are you expecting? 

Maybe the best way to ask is: Are you wracking your brain trying to figure out how GOD is going to answer your prayer? 

We don’t get to choose how GOD will answer our prayers. Our job is to ask. 

Perhaps He will answer exactly how you expect Him to, 

or maybe the mountains will tremble right there in front of you. 

Whatever GOD chooses to do, it is going to be something so awesome, you would have never expected it to happen that way. 

Our ways are not GOD's ways and our thoughts are not His thoughts. 

Remember, when the Lord does answer your prayers (which will be in His timing and not ours) it will be huge.

- Prayer - 

Holy Father,
Come in Your awesome power.

Help me not to think I can control you
or expect you to move when I think you should move.

Father, I am expecting you to bless me as you promised, 

because I have been obedient to Your Word. 

Father, You are GOD! 

You will do what You will do. 

I choose to keep my eyes on You and glorify You through it all. 

However You choose to manifest Yourself Lord, I will wait and be grateful for my blessing. 

Amen

It's Time to Stand Against All that Is Coming Against You & Trust God (12.2.13)

Beloved,

Some of My people are running from the enemy and his attacks. It’s time to stop running and hold fast to the things that I have spoken and promised you. It’s time to cause the enemy to flee from you. There is nothing that can remove you from My hand. If you continue to look at the circumstances around you, they will cause panic, then unbelief will dwell within your heart. 

Therefore, trust Me and take My hand.

Now is the time to stand against all that is coming against you. 

Now is the time to trust Me to deliver you from all that is hindering you. 

Yes, it’s true that you were attacked by the enemy, 

but you don’t have to stay down. 

Like Peter, you have been sinking into the water. 

Now be wise like Peter and reach up, take My hand, and walk again.

Take My hand and I will heal, deliver and bless you 

beyond what you thought was possible. 

Take My hand and rise up to be all that I have called you to be. 

Nothing is impossible for Me. 

We will conquer and overcome together, 

for I called you to be victorious over the enemy of your soul. 

Trust Me to work out everything for your good. 

Look up, trust in Me, take My hand 

and we will overcome and experience victory together.

-----
James 4:7 - Submit yourselves therefore to GOD. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

2 Timothy 1:7 - For GOD hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Ephesians 3:20 - Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

1 John 4:4 - Ye are of GOD, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Forgiveness Is.... A Decision, A Choice, A Cleansing (12.1.13)

WHAT IS FORGIVENESS:

Forgiveness is a decision I make to obey GOD and to walk as a life-style, in a higher realm, by not allowing someone else's actions or attitudes dictate my actions or attitudes.

First of all, forgiveness is a decision. 

Even though some decisions can be very difficult, GOD has given us the ability to make them. Even if our emotions are screaming, "No! No!"; we are still capable of making a choice to forgive. It is not really accurate to say, "I can't forgive."  That's not true. 

What you are actually saying is, "I won't forgive."

It is a choice. A difficult one, you bet!
One you don't feel like making - sure!
But possible? Yes! 

It is possible to forgive, even though there is nothing within us that feels like forgiving. 

It is an act of our will - not our emotions!

Forgiveness is a decision I make. 

Who makes it?  I do.
Even GOD Himself cannot make that decision for you.
Only you can decide to forgive with your heart. 

If you don't forgive, you will have to live with the crippling consequences of your unforgiveness.

Forgiveness is a decision I make to obey GOD. 

Forgiveness is not a suggestion - it's a commandment. 

GOD doesn't say, "It would really be a good idea if you could find it in your heart to do some forgiving." 

No! 

He says, "You must forgive!" 

Forgiveness is a choice of obedience to GOD
and it's something that can take place in the privacy of your own heart.

Even if you are angry or bitter towards someone who has already died, forgiveness is still possible for you. Because forgiveness is an issue of the heart. And as you forgive, you will experience GOD's peace within your spirit.

Forgiveness is cleansing your heart - before you go to anyone else for advise or prayer. First, make it right before GOD. That's where forgiveness must begin. Then, as the Lord specifically directs you, you can forgive and seek reconciliation with the other person.

November Cover Photo (2013)*

Photo courtesy of Rachel J Newman

The Lord's Favor is Upon Our Lives (11.29.13)

Beloved,
I see every concern before it is ever formed as a thought. 
I know your heart's desire. 

You still listen to the whispers of the enemy before relying upon Me and you continue to try and do things your way, carrying them upon your shoulders. I carried the cross, the weight of the world, upon My shoulders.  Surely I can carry this for you for I change not.  I am the same yesterday, today and forever.

Allow Me to be in control.
Let go and trust Me.

See if I will not open doors that have long since been locked. You cannot even imagine the lengths that I will go for you. My hand is not shortened in any circumstance. Surely these are small things for Me, so allow Me to carry it.  Then wait patiently for Me to give you the desires of your heart. 

Allow Me to hold you, guide you and continue to shape you into My vessel.  

Know that My favor is upon your life.

1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Remembering to Say Thanks (11.28.13)

Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! - Psalm 107:8

In the Old Testament, there is an interesting story about King Jehoshaphat and how he took an uncommon approach when his enemies waged war against him.

Instead of sending in his army first, he sent the choir and musicians.  Imagine the scene, “All right guys, here’s the plan today. An army is out there, armed to the teeth. So we are sending in the choir and the musicians...”  If I had been a choir member or musician, I might have wondered whether the king liked our music. But GOD directed Jehoshaphat in this unusual battle tactic. The Bible says that Jehoshaphat directed the people to sing to the Lord, praising the beauty of holiness, and to approach the army singing, “Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever” (2 Chronicles 20:21).

So that is exactly what they did. The Bible tells us that when they began to sing and praise, GOD sent an ambush against their enemy, and they were destroyed. GOD’s people went into this situation giving thanks, because they knew He was in control.

When we ask GOD for new blessings,
we should never forget to thank Him for the blessings
He has already given to us.

Have you recently asked GOD for help and He came through for you?
Did you go back to Him and say “Thank You”?

How many times have we prayed for something, GOD answered and we never went back to GOD to thank Him for answering our prayers? Too often, we never thank Him. Can you imagine how that make GOD feel? GOD is an awesome GOD and even when we forget to thank Him for all His wonderful blessings, He continues to bless us, in spite of.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving today with our loved ones, let us not forget all that we have (homes, jobs, family, children, friends, etc.) are gifts and blessings from GOD.

Let us not forget Him today. Thank Him and praise Him today for His mercy endures forever!!!

Wishing you and yours a blessed & happy Thanksgiving,

- Marilyn Chaney

Our Responses & Behaviors are Reflections of Our Faith (11.27.13)

Have you ever gotten up early and had a sweet time with the LORD,
only to turn into an unreasonable, raging "screamer" hours later? 

Have you ever had an argument with your spouse or kids on the way to church,
only to cross the threshold of the lobby with blessings & kindness on your tongue? 

Have you ever driven in traffic,
with worship music on and praise on your lips
when suddenly, someone cuts you off
and the praises on your tongue turn to cursing?

If you've answered "yes" to any of these questions, welcome to the Sinner's Club. All humans have an automatic membership that activates at birth and is irrevocable until we accept forgiveness through Jesus Christ, and see His face on the other side of glory.

The Bible calls us to a higher, more consistent way of living. We must be careful not to praise and curse with the same tongue. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in GOD's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. It is written in the Word of GOD that you must not do this.  (See James 3:9-10 (NIV))

Are you swinging the pendulum of your responses,
or are they swinging you? 

We are accountable for our behavior.
We are accountable for the way we respond to circumstances.
Our responses reflect the core of who we are.

They reflect our faith … good or bad.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come - 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

God is a Master Planner! (11.25.13)

GOD is a Master Planner! 

He wants us to know this.  He stands ready to guide us to, and through, the plan He has created for our lives. The more time we spend with the 'Master Planner' who created heaven and earth, the more we should choose to obey His plan. 

GOD always reveals His plan to an obedient heart. When we plan things and leave Him out of the equation, He still waits for us. When the results turn out to be disastrous, He stands ready to start over with us. We could save ourselves a lot of pain and futility if we simply read, follow, trust and obey the Word Of GOD.

Let Us Pray
Father,
I want to thank You for loving me
and for creating me in response to
Your Master Plan for this world.

Forgive me when I try to do things in my own strength
and in my own way.
Help me to seek and learn Your ways.
Help me to embrace and trust in the plans you have for my life.
I know that you are too wise to make a mistake,
therefore I will trust in you.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

Hold onto Your Hope, Darkness Lasts But a Moment (11.24.13)

When a dark cloud gathers, it casts a shadow
and everything seems dark just for a moment.

However, that dark cloud cannot remain forever.

A time must come when it will open up and reveal the sun,
which was always there.

My child,
The enemy often sends dark clouds in your life to try and block out what I am doing, but that does not mean that I have forsaken you.  Just like the sun behind the cloud, I am always there.

The enemy will cast his cloud to bring darkness into your life,
to make you feel as if I have forsaken you.
And you for a moment might feel distant from me,
but don’t be afraid when this happens.

Don't give the enemy any glory, just hold onto hope and trust in Me. Because just as a dark cloud only last for so long, then it dissipates, so will the enemy. The enemy has very few resources and they are resources that you give him access to. So when you start speaking faith over your life and decreeing My word, you cut off his resources, causing him to flee.  he can't stay around when you lift up My name.

My child, hold on to Me this day.

Hold onto your faith, 
press on with hope 
knowing that I am right there with you. 

Soon you will see that dark cloud disappear and the sun shine again.
Then you will feel the warmth of My presence
and your peace will return.
Hold onto your hope
and you will see that the darkness lasts but for a moment,
but My love and mercy are forever.

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Isaiah 54:7-8 - For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. 

2 Corinthians 4:17 - For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory

A Marriage Prayer of Strength (11.22.13)

This prayer is for those of you who are married.
Marriage is not always easy.   

Sometimes frustration sets in and couples end up hurting
the one you've committed to love
through hurtful words or deeds.

- Prayer - 

Lord,

Oh how easy it is to see my spouse's flaws and ignore my own.

Help me to use my words to plant seeds of love and encouragement
and not weeds of bitterness and discouragement.

I commit this very day to not use my words to tear my spouse down,
but only to build him/ her up.

Help me to be like Job in the Bible
and put my hand over my mouth
if any negative words attempt to escape my lips (Job 40:4).

Father, I know once negative hurtful words leave my lips,
they can never be retrieved.

The tongue is the smallest member of my body
but yet the deadliest.
Help me Lord to put a guard over my mouth.
Your Word states that one day I will stand before you
and give an account for every word that I speak, be it good or bad.

Help me Lord to speak love and peace over my spouse
because Father you did not create any person to be perfect.
Give me the strength to humble myself and apologize
when I have hurt and/or disrespected my spouse with hurtful words.

In Jesus' Name I pray,

Amen

Jesus' Love is Everlasting (11.21.13)

Beloved,
I love you, and I do care about you. 
I know there’s so much going on in your life that you feel as though I don’t love you, that I don’t care about what you’re going through, and that I’ve forgotten about you. You know in your heart that isn’t true. I love you with the same love that My Father has for you, for He loves you so much that He gave His only Begotten Son, Me. My Father and I are one. I love you so much that I hung, bled, and died for you, and all I ask is that you believe in Me so that you can have eternal life.

My love for you is unconditional.  It doesn’t change and I don’t change. So I have to ask you, “Do you love Me unconditionally, or do you love Me only when things are going well for you?” That is how the world treats Me. You are not of the world.  I chose you, I delivered you, I called you to be My own. So why do you doubt My love for you? Why do you doubt that I will provide for you? Haven’t I always come through? Haven’t I always kept you safe from dangers, seen and unseen?

Yes, you will have good days, and you will have bad days, but don’t allow the circumstances or the situation of your day dictate your love for Me. For I will never allow the things that you do to affect My love for you. I changeth not. My love for you is everlasting. Although you can’t see things changing, trust Me when I say that all is well. And I want you to love Me with all your heart and know that I love you so much.

Spend time with Me in My Word and you will see how much I love you. Come and fellowship with Me.  My love will comfort you and you won’t ever doubt My love again.
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Malachi 3:6 - For I am the LORD, I change not;

John 3:16 - For GOD so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 15:19 - If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

Matthew 22:37 - Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy GOD with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  

Prayer Starts with God (11.20.13)

The Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with GOD’s will - Romans 8:26-27

For years I believed that my prayers started with me. 

That I had to think them up. That I had to get GOD’s attention. 

Not surprisingly, with this frame of mind, prayer was often a chore. 

And then I learned that I was wrong. 

Prayer doesn’t start with us. 

Prayer starts with GOD. 

That revelation changed my prayer life. GOD is the initiator. He moves us to pray. He gives us prayer ideas. He holds out the promises we claim in prayer. When we pray, we are GOD’s instruments.

GOD is at work in all our praying. 

He makes His will known to us, so that we will ask for the very things He longs to give us. 

Out of love, He expects us to pray for others; so that, in response to our intercession, he can pour out blessings on them. And it’s the Spirit, says Paul, who makes our prayer possible. 

We don’t know what to pray, but we don’t have to. 

The Spirit is there revealing GOD’s will to us in the Scriptures and bringing GOD’s prayer concerns to life within us. The Spirit is nudging us through circumstances and opening our eyes to the needs around us. Spirit searches our hearts and tries our ways, so that we can be brought to true repentance.  Revealing the glory and the goodness of GOD so that our prayers will be filled with praise and thanks.

– Taken from Be Jesus in Your Neighborhood: Developing a 'Prayer, Care, Share' Lifestyle in 30 Days by Alvin VanderGriend

- Prayer -

Lord GOD,
What an amazing and awesome privilege it is to know
that You have made a way for all of my prayers to originate in Your heart,
so that they are heard and answered. 

Thank You that I am able to have access to the throne room of heaven,
because of the gift of Jesus Christ.
Help me to be continually aware of the prayer
You place upon my heart,
so that I can be a faithful kingdom intercessor. 

Teach me to listen carefully to the voice of Your Spirit,
so that I am always ready to accept each prayer assignment
You are pleased to give me!

I worship You, King of kings,
for loving me so much that
You desire to partner with me
to accomplish Your purposes! 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Bless the Lord at All Times (11.19.13)

I will bless the Lord at all times.

This should be your thought no matter what happens in life. Whenever faced with a trial or test, praise should be your first step. Yes, before you cry out in distress, let a praise of thanksgiving rise up to the heavens.

Do this always. 

Even in the most difficult circumstances, take time to search for the smallest thing to be grateful for, and begin to praise God. When praises come forth from your lips, you begin to defeat the enemy. You send the enemy fleeing from your presence, and open a line of communication between you and the Lord. Then you will find that God will do His part and blessings will begin to flow.

Oh what joy you bring to the Lord's heart when you overcome the enemy with praises to Him. Take time to delight yourself in God and watch the desires of your heart come forth. Take the time to search for joy everyday of your life. Hunt for it like hidden treasure. 

Right now, enter into a spirit of praise and thanksgiving, 

in the midst of what you’re going through, 

and destroy the works of the enemy. 

Oh, bless His name at all times. 

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord and watch Him deliver you from all your fears.

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Psalm 34:1-4 - I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 37:4 - Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

A Prayer for Family (11.18.13)

Father,

I want to please You by the way I love my family. 

Today, I choose to see each family member through your eyes 

of love and mercy. 

I will wage peace in my family. 

I will be quick to forgive and slow to condemn. 

I will encourage my family members with my words,
my prayers, my love and my time. 

I want my home to be a safe place filled with kindness and compassion, 

a place that illustrates Your presence and power. 

Today, I choose to trust my family to GOD.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

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Proverbs 31:26-28 - She speaks wise words and teaches others to be kind. She watches over her family and never wastes her time. Her children speak well of her. Her husband also praises her. (NCV)

1 Timothy 5:8 - Whoever does not care for his own relatives, especially his own family members, has turned against the faith and is worse than someone who does not believe in GOD. (NCV)

Galatians 6:10 - Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (NIV)

Ephesians 1:5 - GOD decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. (NLT)