February Cover Photo (2014)

Don't Allow "Failures" to Stop You; Carry On God's Work (2.28.14)

Beloved,

There are things in your life, things you see as failures; 

however, these same things you see as failures, 

I will use as weapons against the enemy. 

I will use your so-called failures as weapons 

to tear down strongholds, principalities, and powers of darkness. 

I will do this so you can see that 

everything you go through has a purpose…to glorify My Kingdom.

Your wounds will be the tools I will use to set My people free. 

Just as every stripe I endured was for your healing; 

so will the pain you’ve gone through, 
be used to destroy the strongholds of the enemy. 

I will set My people free from the fears and injustices inflicted upon them.

I will never hold your failures against you, 

but I will turn all things around for My glory and for your advancement in Me. 

I am the Lord your God, who will never remind you of your sins, 

for you have a purpose and a destiny. 

Don't allow your failures to stop you 

nor hinder the calling I have place upon your life. 

You are precious to Me, My chosen one, and I love you. 

Be healed and carry on My work.
_____

Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to them that love GOD, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Hebrews 10:17 - And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.

2 Timothy 1:9 - Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

1 Peter 2:24 - Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 

You're not at the End of Your Rope; You're at the Beginning of Hope (2.27.14)

Are you at the end of your rope?

I know you are going through some of the worst trials and situations of your life. 

It looks as if no matter what you try to do to relieve the pressure, nothing works. 

You solve one problem and two more appear. 

You are asking JESUS to help you!

You have rebuked the enemy until you are blue in the face. 

You have asked everyone you know to pray for you, 

but nothing seems to work for long. 
You are tired, beat, out of energy and 

you just can't seem to walk with the Lord like you used to. 

You cry out to GOD, and it appears that He’s silent. 

In fact, you feel like if one more thing happens…... 

Well, get ready one more thing is about to happen, the Lord has a word for you.

- Marilyn
__________

My Child,

All is not lost or hopeless; do not believe what the enemy has been whispering into your ear.  You are NOT the world's greatest spiritual failure! I am bringing you to the end of your own strength, so I can fill you with Mine. There is strength in your weakness, but I want you to rely on My strength, not yours.

I've heard every word that you've said. I've heard your thoughts. I never sleep and I will respond to your prayers and your cries; however, the problem isn't with Me. The problem is whether or not you believe that I have heard you. The problem is whether or not you believe that which you've asked for, that I am able to do. Do you believe this? If you do, then do not cry about it any longer. It is time to get up off your knees and start walking.

Yes, it is time to start walking in the Spirit, praying in the Spirit, and praising in the Spirit. You've been carrying your own burdens far too long. What you've been through has been painful, and it may feel like you are at the end of your rope, but you’re not. You’re at the beginning of hope. Renewed hope in Me. 

The way to overcome all that you're going through - is to surrender your ways, your plans and all that concerns you, to Me.  You must allow Me to lead you into the realm of the Spirit. It is time for you to move into My rest, and experience My peace and joy without measure. 

Oh, My child it's time for you to have peace and joy in your life.

If you will just stop fighting and let Me have the remote control, things will begin to move suddenly and smoothly. I want you to have a new beginning, for your season has arrived! You might not realize this, but at this very moment, things are happening that will amaze you. Now is the time for you to walk in the Spirit.  And know that nothing can stand against the presence and power of GOD.

Now, rejoice and say “My season has arrived. Bless me O GOD!!” 

Because your breakthrough is here!!!
_______

Matthew 9:28 - And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord.

Matthew 11:29-30 - 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

Putting on the Full Spiritual Armor of God (2.26.14)

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour - 1 Peter 5:8

satan vigorously opposes anyone that prays 
and he dreads our prayer life more than anything else. 

Do you realize there is nothing the devil dreads more 
than your prayers to our Father?  

One of his greatest concerns is to keep us from praying. 

He loves to distract us so that we will not have time to pray. 

The enemy laughs at us while we struggle, but when we begin to pray, 
he trembles. 

Never forget that one of the greatest thing we can do to worship GOD 
is to pray and fast.

Greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world. 

satan will flee from your life as you draw closer to GOD 
and as GOD moves in your life. 

Praying to our Father in Heaven is very key in this battle that we are in. 

We fight not against flesh and blood but against spiritual wickedness in all places.

- A Spiritual Warrior Prayer -

Lord GOD Almighty,

I desire to be strong in Your mighty power. 

Therefore, I will put on the full spiritual armor You have given to me, 

so that I can take my stand against the devil’s schemes. 

Continually remind me that my struggle is not against flesh and blood, 

but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of the dark world 

and against the spiritual forces of evil in all realms. 

I will put on Your full armor so that when the day of evil comes, 

I will be able to stand my ground. 

I will stand firm with the belt of truth buckled around my waist, 

and with the breastplate of righteousness in place. 

I will take up the shield of faith with which I can extinguish 

all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 

I will put on the helmet of salvation.  

The sword of the Spirit I will use, 

which is Your holy word. 

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Praise GOD for his limitless power. 

Thank the Holy Spirit for being “in you” 

and for being “greater than the one who is in the world.” 

Confess moments when you have limited God’s power 

because of your doubts or unbelief. 

Commit yourself to living in the presence and power of GOD every day. 

Ask Him to make you more aware of His presence 

and His protection daily, and not to take Him for granted.

- Marilyn Chaney

Stand on My Word & Watch Your Blessings Come To Pass (2.24.14)

My Child,

You have endured much. 

Now is the time for you to come into

all that I had in mind for you, from the beginning. 

Your life is not happenstance. 

Every day of your life,

and every deed you have ever done, 

I have known since the day you were born. 

So calling upon Me with prayer will open My ears to all you desire. 

Your desires now are in alignment with My will for you. 

Search for Me and you will find Me. 

Cling to what I have promised you. 

When you stand on my Word, 

the things I want to bless you with, will come to pass. 

I love you and only want the best for you.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 - For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. 

For He is Greater than All of My Fears (2.23.14)

Quiet your heart before the Lord. 

Commit to Him those situations in your life that are difficult.

______

Lord Jesus, 

You said that in this world I will have trouble, 

but that I should take heart, for You have overcome the world! 

Hallelujah Lord! 

You are greater than all of my fears. 

You are more powerful than all the forces of darkness 

that wage war against my soul! 

You alone are Lord! 

May Your name be great and proclaimed loudly in and through my life!

Forgive me Lord, 

for the times that I do lose heart, 

and for those times that I am overcome by the world. 

Please intervene on my behalf before Our Father.

Dear Father, 

Give me eyes to see that my momentary troubles 

are achieving for me an eternal glory 

that will far outweigh them all! 

And may I be found worshiping You 

in the midst of the obstacles, challenges, and trials of this life. 

Remind me constantly, by the Holy Spirit, that I am not home yet. 

Empower me to persevere and endure hardships in my life 

for the sake of Your name and the formation of Your character in me.

I acknowledge that You know all my ways, 

and that You will bring me through the storms in my life.

Refining me as gold. 

May the trials I face teach me to obey Your Word. 

May my faith be proved genuine and result in praise, glory, and honor to You. 

I confess that You alone are GOD, 

there is no other and I trust in Your name alone to save me. 

I rest in Your sovereignty and hope in Your name as I wait on You.

For You have searched me and You know me and everything about me 

- when I am still, when I am busy, where I go and what I do.

You know all my ways and every thought I have. 

Even before I speak a single word, You know it. 

There isn’t anyplace I can go, where You are not there.

Thank You Father,

that even the heavy darkness that seems to engulf me at times,

is as light as a feather to You. 

I praise You and acknowledge that every day of my life 

has been ordained for me by You. 

Therefore I submit myself to You alone 

and stand against the schemes of the enemy

in your son, Jesus’ name. 

Amen

John 16:33  ;  2 Corinthians 4:17 ;  Revelation 2:3; 

1 Peter 1:7  ;  Isaiah 44:6  ;  Psalm 20:7; 

Psalm 139:1-16  ;  James 4:7

Spiritual "Drive-By Shootings" (2.21.14)

We are all subject to spiritual "drive-by-shootings." 

We are in a war with the enemy, who simply wants to steal our joy, hassle our souls and afflict our bodies.  satan has a skillful strategy. he doesn’t come up to you and announce, "Hello, I’m satan and I’m here to wreck your life." No, he is usually more subtle and secretive than that. Remember, he first appeared to humanity as a snake in the Garden of Eden.  he has mastered his craft of deception, temptation and destruction with eons of practice. 

he knows we can overcome him by faith. So he focuses his forces against our confidence in GOD; against our trust in Christ, and His word; and against our self-confidence in our new identity in Jesus. his goal is to wear you down, so that you will throw in the towel.  he wants to bombard you with so many attacks that you will give up on GOD.

Have you noticed that GOD always lets satan go first with his attacks?  In other words, GOD will sometimes allow the enemy to attack you before He steps in. After satan attacks you, GOD will overshadow you and undo every scheme and attack the enemy has constructed. 

GOD will then restore everything that was taken from you, and give you 10 times more than what you had before. He will restore all that was lost. That's why when we endure attack after attack from the enemy, it is important not go give up on GOD, but to continue to push through in faith, knowing that GOD is not a man that He should lie. 

The enemy has been defeated, and has no power to hurt you regardless of what you are experiencing. Trust GOD and know there is nothing and no one equal to HIM.  Know that He has all control over everything.

Who can stand against HIM? 

GOD said, who is man that you are mindful of him? 

The enemy will try to use whomever he can to carry out his plans. 

But put your faith in GOD and know that He is JEHOVAH SHAMMAH. 

He is ever present with you!!!!! 

No weapon formed against you will prosper.

Be Still, Stop Fretting, Be Quiet, Rise Up & Pray (2.20.14)

So much is going on around you, 

and you don't know which way to turn, 

or what to do; 

but you know you must do something. 

Listen to what the Lord would have you to do. 

BE QUIET, BE STILL. 

Yes, I know it's hard, but BE QUIET, BE STILL. 

Allow these inspirational words  to minister to your spirit right now......
________

My Child,

Set a watch, and refuse to allow your thoughts to take you down the path 

that leads to discouragement and despair. 

The enemy desires to steal your faith and expectation 

of My goodness, says the Lord. 

But, you must stand your ground and protect the seed, 

which is My Word, and My promises sown in your heart. 

Take care of your inheritance 

and be a good steward of all that you've been given and 

the tasks that you've been given to do.

Be still and stop fretting. Worry will get you nowhere. 

If you will be quiet, rise up and pray in the Spirit; 

I will give you peace.  

I will bring healing and restoration to your troubled soul. 

When you are in turmoil, it’s because you have lost focus 

and you’re paying more attention to the situations surrounding you, 

rather than trusting Me.

For those who have asked to see My glory, 

you won’t be able to see My glory until you first 

give Me continual honor in all things. 

My glory will be revealed to those who seek Me first 

and desire to glorify My name. 

So be quiet.  Be still. And allow Me to work.

Psalms 131:2 - Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.

Thanking God for Closed Doors (from November 2013) (2.19.14)

Faith believers,
I shared this message back in November of 2013, but here it is again.

The Lord laid it on my heart that someone needs to be reassured about closed doors.

-- Marilyn

_______

We need to learn to thank the Lord for closed doors,
as well as open doors.

The reason GOD closes doors
is because He has not prepared anything for us
behind a closed door.

If He didn't close the wrong door, we would never find our way to the right door.

Even when we don't realize it, GOD directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors.
When one door closes, it forces us to change our course.
Another door closes, it forces us to change our course yet again.
Then finally, we find the open door, and walk right into our blessing.

But instead of praising GOD for the closed door, which kept us out of trouble,
we get upset because we "judge by the appearances."

And in our own arrogance, or ignorance, we insist that we know what is right.

We have a very present help, in the time of need, who is always standing guard. 

Because He walks ahead of us, He can see trouble down the road.
And He sets up roadblocks and detours accordingly.

But through our lack of wisdom, we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour signs.
Then the minute we get into trouble,
we start crying, "Lord how could this happen to me?" 

We have to realize that the closed door was a blessing.
Didn't He say, "No good thing will He withhold from them that love him?"

If that man or woman won't return your call - it might not be them. 

It might be the Lord setting up a roadblock.  So just let it go. 

I'm so grateful, for the many times GOD has closed doors to me,
just to open them in the most unexpected places.

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord,
and He delights in his way" - Psalm 37:23

The Mountain top is glorious, but it is in the Valley that I will grow! 

- Marilyn Chaney

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (2.18.14) **

1. Today is A New Day, The Time is Now - Prepare Yourself, Rejoice and Do Not Delay (1.4.14)
2. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
3. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)
4. Look not to Your Circumstances, Look to the Lord (10.30.13)
5. Lay Down the Burdens of Your Heart & the Brokenness of Yesterday (2.1.14)
6. I Just Want to Thank You Lord (1.19.14)
7. God Can Make All Things New, Including You (1.14.14)
8. Spend More Time in Prayer with Me (8.8.13)
9. My Child, Speak to It! In My Name (6.25.13)
10. Learning to Wait on God (2.14.14)

The top ten most popular messages are always on the right hand side.
Feel free to comment & let us know your favorite message.

#Enjoy     #BlessAndBeBlessed

Perfect Timing; Excerpts from "Timely Gifts" by Lynn Cowell (2.18.14)

Today's message is one that I have meditated on over the years.  It is an edited excerpt from Lynn Cowell's "Timely Gifts" message.  It is as appropriate today as it was in 2010.  I pray that it brings insight & reflection to you today.

   - Marilyn

_______

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. - James 1:17 (NIV)

Several years ago ... okay, many, many years ago ... my parents gave me a unique keychain with a key to their car. I loved it! That key represented freedom and independence. Exactly what I was craving as a teenager. It was the right gift at the right time.

If my parents had given me that gift when I was six, it would have been strange and inappropriate. I would've wondered what it was for and how to use it. My parents knew what to give and when to give it.

In James 1:17, we're told that God our Father gives good gifts to us, His children. Not only does He give good gifts, but He knows perfectly what to give and when to give it. His gifts are not spur of the moment because He forgot a special day was on the way. His gifts are all about perfect timing.

When I was five, I couldn't reach my jacket hanging up just above the cement steps leading to our basement. I called out for help, but I didn't trust those who loved me would come and do what I needed when I wanted it. A tumble down those steps produced a black eye that stayed a long time.

Many of us are asking God for help. We're crying out for something we need. The question is, can we wait patiently, trusting that His timing is perfect? Can we believe He has our best in mind and is working on our behalf?

Sometimes we grow impatient. We want what we want and we want it now. So we make the mistake of trying to get it by ourselves.

Is there one thing you feel if you could have it, your life would be complete? If you could just have that job at that pay, life would be so much better. If God would just open your womb, the emptiness would finally be gone. If He would just heal your broken, cold marriage, your heart would be joyful. Are you tempted, like me, to get that thing any way you can, even with the possibility you could end up with way more than a black eye?

There are times when He seems to answer "no" or at least "not now." It is here, where our desires intersect His will, that we have to trust the Father knows best and every gift comes from Him. Every time, in His time, the gift is good and perfect.

I've seen God's perfect gifts in my life as I've waited on Him. Waited on Him for a husband. Waited on Him to open doors for ministry. Waited on Him to draw my kids to Himself. Let's keep our eyes on His history of faithfulness in our lives as we wait for His good and perfect gifts.

______

Dear Lord, 

waiting on You is so hard! 

My heart wants to get things moving, step up and take action. 

Help me to always bring my desires to You, 

knowing that You always have my best at heart. 

In Jesus' Name, 

 Amen.

© 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Draw Close to & Praise God (2.17.14)

My Children,

I delight in the praises of My people, 

and I am moving by My Spirit, 

drawing people into a closer relationship and dependency on Me. 

I want My people to praise Me at all times. 

I want you to praise Me when your spirit is crushed 

and when your heart is broken from the things of this world.

Praise Me, for I am close to the brokenhearted 

and to those whose spirit is down trodden. 

Lift up your voice and praise Me, 

for I inhabit the praises of My people. 

Come close and praise Me at all times.

Yes, praise Me in the good times,
My presence will break every chain the enemy has bound you with.

and even when you don't feel like praising Me, 

praise Me anyway. 

I am your mountain mover and as you draw nigh unto Me with praises, 

My presence will come down from Heaven 

and cause change to happen all around you. 

As you praise Me, you shall feel My presence; 

and in My presence is joy and peace. 

I AM THE GREAT I AM, your Deliverer! 

The Bible tells that when Paul and Silas were in prison, 

bound with chains and having endured a beating; 

they both decided to praise Me in the midst of their situation. 

My presence broke the chains which held them captive. 

An act of intimacy and worship brought about a mighty miracle. 

Their chains were broken and the prison guard was saved 

by My presence, all because Paul and Silas chose to praise Me 

in the midst of their adversity.

So, Beloved draw close to Me and praise Me. 

During your time of tribulation, enter into a spirit of praise and thanksgiving 

to break free of the chains which has come against you. 

Oh, I inhabit the praises of My people says the LORD. 

Yes, come to Me. 

I AM THE GREAT I AM, and as you praise Me, 

I will set you free from the works of the enemy.

Let your lips continually praise MY HOLY NAME!!!!
_____

Psalm 2:3 - Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.

Psalm 34:18 - The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

Ephesians 5:20 - Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Acts 16:25-26 - And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.  

Moving Ourselves Out of the Lord's Way (2.16.14)

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

There will be times in our lives that in order for our blessings to come to pass, the Lord will allow us to go through trial after trial before He steps in. He does this to allow us to see that we may not have the faith or trust in Him as we should. It’s only when we lay aside our ideas, our plans, our ways and come to the end ourselves; that the the LORD will start working in our lives. He want us to get out of the way, so that He can do what He needs to do. So often our 'striving to work things out' in our own power, hinders us from receiving all the Lord wants us to have.

It is not that the Lord does not want to answer us.  He wants very much to supply our needs and that is why He sometimes allow things to appear as though every door has been closed and blocked. Oh, but faith believers, we are to praise the LORD, for He is not restricted by anything!  He will open up a new way.  Even if He has to bring about abundant blessings to you, through the most least expected way.  When you think that all hope is gone; when you can see no way out; it is then that the Lord will step in and show you that He is more than able to bless you, with not only what you have asked for, but so much more.

- Marilyn Chaney


~~~~~

Beloved, 
Are you facing a situation that appear to be beyond hope? 
Have you tried so hard to work things out but it appears that you are getting nowhere.
And that your faith is fading? 

If you are in this position, then I say to you, let go. 
Just take your hands off of it and commit it to Me. 
Once and for all, talk to Me about your concerns. 
Talk with Me about what you’re struggling with, 
then leave it at My feet and rest in Me. 
Say a prayer of thanksgiving and know that I will work it out.

When you do this, you move self out of the way 
and allow Me the opportunity to move mightily on your behalf. 
Have childlike faith in Me and know that I won’t fail. 
Rest in Me and begin to praise Me in advance 
for the blessings you asked for. 

Then suddenly, when you least expect it, 
and out of nowhere, 
your desires and requests will come to pass. 
Oft times, you will find that I have exceeded your request 
and that I have done the impossible in your life. 

Then you will see that while you were worrying needlessly, 
I had been working on your behalf.
Quietly and behind the scenes, 
to bless you and to cause My joy 
to be upon your life.

- Your Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST 

~~~~

I think this Scripture sums it up perfectly, Ephesians 3:20 says - Now to him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us… 

The Lord wants us to have so much more.

Learning to Wait on God (2.14.14)

Waiting on GOD sometimes is very hard. 

If you wait on Him and trust in Him, 

the presence of the Holy Spirit will come upon you 

to let you know all is well.

- Marilyn Chaney

~~~~~

My Child,

During this waiting season, 

I will give to you so much wisdom and understanding. 

Please do not allow the enemy to cause you to believe 

that you are waiting in vain. 

Know this beloved, 

from the moment you surrendered all of your cares into My hands, 

I began working out your circumstances and answering your prayers. 

Although you may not see the answers yet, 

you must believe by faith that your prayers have been answered.

Yes, the wait is hard.

But, Oh Beloved, 

there was so much you had to be taught to avoid future mistakes. 

And the best way to accomplish that was to place you in a holding pattern. 

I want you to learn to trust that I have worked things out for you; 

bringing the greatest glory to My Kingdom. 

So, use this waiting time to build 

a strong, intimate relationship with Me;

and to increase your knowledge of Me. 

For a time will come 

when I will call upon you to go forth 

and share this wealth of wisdom with others, 

who I also have placed in a holding pattern.

While you are waiting, worship and praise Me 

for the things I am getting ready to bless you with.

_____

Psalm 27:14 - Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

Psalm 52:9 - I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints.

Psalm 59:9 - Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defense.

Psalm 62:5 - My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.

A Praise Prayer of Fearlessness, Boldness, Strength & Faith (2.13.14)

As you pray, in the midst of whatever trial you presently find yourself in, 

choose to worship GOD for who He is.

Father,

How desperately I need Your help 

in aligning my heart with the truth of Your Word. 

With my mouth I declare that You are always in the midst
of the difficulties of my life, 

working them together for my good. 

Help me, O GOD! 

By the power of Your Spirit at work in me, change my heart! 

Remove fear and make me fearless. 

Remove timidity and make me bold for Your kingdom. 

Remove doubt and unbelief and increase my faith.

For I will remember Your deeds Lord, 

all the miracles that You have performed in my life 

as I have journeyed with You. 

I will meditate on all of Your works 

and think about the many mighty things You have done for me. 

I choose this day to worship You alone. 

I will bow to no other god.

Because You are my GOD, my refuge and strength, 

I will not fear even though trouble may seem to surround me. 

Because of Your great love for me, I know that You will rescue me. 

You will protect me and be with me. 

Deliver me O GOD!

Because You are my GOD - You have redeemed me and called me by name. 

You will be with me when I pass through the waters of adversity, 

and I will not drown.

The swift current of the trial of disappointment that I find myself in, 

will not sweep me away. 

The fiery trial of sickness or loneliness or financial instability will not set me ablaze!

For You are the Lord my GOD, 

the Holy One of Israel, 

my Savior JESUS CHRIST. 

Therefore, I will praise You, O Lord, with all my heart. 

I will tell of all Your wonders. 

I will be glad and rejoice in You and sing praises to Your name. 

For my hope is in Your unfailing love that is at work on my behalf, 

for my good, to make me more like Jesus. 

In the beautiful name of the One who died to make me Yours, JESUS CHRIST. 

Amen.

Romans 8:28   ;   Isaiah 29:13  ;   Isaiah 41:10; 

2 Timothy 1:7  ;   Mark 9:24    ;   Psalm 77:10-15; 

Daniel 3:16-18 ;  Psalm 91:14-15; Isaiah 41:1-3; 

Psalm 9:1-2     ;  Psalm 33:18  ;    Romans 8:28

God Chooses To Work Through Our Prayers (2.12.14)

Moses said to Joshua, ‘Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites…I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.’ As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning - Exodus 17:9, 11

GOD sometimes teaches us in surprising ways. 

When Israel faced a serious military threat, Joshua and the army went out to fight, 

but Moses went up on a hillside to pray.

When his praying hands were up, Israel was winning.
But when they were down, the enemy was winning.

Why, we may ask, would GOD allow his people to suffer defeat
when they don't pray?

The answer is that GOD teaches his people that he chooses to move,
in response to prayer, and that sometimes He will not move without it.

Although JEHOVAH is almighty, all-wise, and fully able to work without us,
GOD chooses to work through our prayers.

He calls us into a working partnership with Him.

We co-labor with him to accomplish His purposes.
Things will happen when we pray.
These things might not happen if we don’t pray.
The Lord our God has the final word.

Father, 
I give You praise for the wisdom of Your plan 
to govern the world through the prayers of Your people. 
Thank You for this amazing privilege 
that You have entrusted to me. 
In Jesus' name,
Amen

Praise the Lord as your rock and refuge, as a shelter, as a safe dwelling place (Psalms 31:3, 20). Give thanks that you have been rescued from the dark forces in this world that would have overwhelmed your soul. Confess those times when you have paid little attention to the safety and refuge GOD offers. Commit yourself to remaining under the shadow of his protection. Ask Him to shelter you this day.

Pray that GOD will be especially close to those Christians around the world who are imprisoned or persecuted for their faith. Ask that they may sense your prayers around them like a shelter or a cloak of protection.

Looking at Ourselves Through God's Mirror (2.11.14)

My Child,

Each day you look in your mirror to see how you look.
Often times you don’t notice the beauty that I’ve imparted into your life. 

You see only the negative things about yourself; the wrinkles, 

dark circles, blemishes and imperfections.

You don’t take the time to see the joy, beauty or the marvelous workmanship 

that I so lovingly poured into you.

Well, I too have a mirror and I want you to look into My mirror. 

My mirror won’t show you what’s on the outside. 

You see, man looks on the outward appearance, 

but what I want you to see is on the inside - your beautiful spirit. 

My mirror doesn’t show you the negative things, 

but rather the positive things. 

My child, I always look at the positive things in you, 

and I see things that you often do not see. 

I see things that are positive and good and throughout your day

and I send reminders to you to keep your spirit lifted.

My child, I want you to see yourself as I see you. 

I want you to see the beauty that’s inside of you, 

the beauty that you may not realize is there. 

I want you to see the potential and the possibilities that you carry inside of you, 

so that you can reach out to others. 

What I have imparted in you was meant to be a blessing not only to you, 

but to all those around you. 

When you love and care for others, 

I will bless you far more than you ever dreamed of.

So, now do you see the importance of looking in My mirror? 

Come, and let Me reveal all the beauty that you’ve kept hidden; 

so that then you will be able to go out and use that beauty to be a blessing to My Kingdom. 

Soon you will no longer focus on the negative, or your problems, 

for you will live a life of joy and favor as your eyes are fully opened 

to the beautiful things I have put into your life, says the Lord.

______

1 Samuel 16:7 - But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

Isaiah 35:5 - Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.

Psalm 34:15 - The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.

A Prayer of Strength & Courage (2.10.14)

Father,
Your Word says that I am an overcomer, because of the blood of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Your Word says that the word of my testimony, in Jesus, all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and I have been given fullness in Christ and share in His authority over every spiritual power and authority!

But I confess often times, I do not feel like an overcomer.
Too often I give in to the influence of this world instead of submitting to Christ.

O GOD, save me from myself!
May I be full of Your Spirit and Your mighty power, the power of the resurrection!
Teach me and use me, that I may see strongholds demolished in my life.
Thank You Father.  Because I belong to You in Christ Jesus, You surround me with Your presence.
Thank You that You are a wall of fire surrounding me.

You, O Lord, are my refuge and my strength.
In every situation and struggle, You are with me.
I will not be afraid, for my trust is in Your name.
Like Joshua, may I be confident that You are with me
and that You will never leave or forsake me.

Because Your Spirit being is often at work in me, this make me strong and courageous.
I will not be afraid or discouraged, but always mindful that You are with me wherever I go.

Use me to take back ground that the enemy has stolen.
Help me to maintain self-control and be alert,
knowing that the enemy of my soul is prowling,
looking for an opportune moment.

In Jesus’ name, strengthen me to submit to You, to resist the enemy
and to stand firm in my faith!
Give me, I pray, Your perspective of the situations I face
and may I live victoriously, as a conqueror,
because of Jesus and His love for me.

May I be full of faith and Your Word,
for I belong to You, Lord Jesus,
and You have overcome the world!

Revelation 12:11  ;  Colossians 2:9-10  ;   Ephesians 6:10;
Philippians 3:10    ;  2 Corinthians 10:4 ;   Psalm 125:2;
Zechariah 2:5       ;   Psalm 46:1-2        ;    Psalm 20:7;
Joshua 1:5, 9       ;   1 Peter 5:8-9         ;    Romans 8:37;
1 John 5:4

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (2.9.14) **

1. Today is A New Day, The Time is Now - Prepare Yourself, Rejoice and Do Not Delay (1.4.14)
2. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
3. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)
4. Look not to Your Circumstances, Look to the Lord (10.30.13)
5. Lay Down the Burdens of Your Heart & the Brokenness of Yesterday (2.1.14)
6. I Just Want to Thank You Lord (1.19.14)
7. My Child, Speak to It! In My Name (6.25.13)
8. God Can Make All Things New, Including You (1.14.14)
9. Take the Victory through the Words you Speak (6.24.13)
10. Spend More Time in Prayer with Me (8.8.13)

The top ten most popular messages are always on the right hand side.
Feel free to comment & let us know your favorite message.

#Enjoy     #BlessAndBeBlessed

Trust God to Help You Run, and Win, Life's Race (2.9.14)

Beloved,

A runner will train for months at a time to prepare for a big race. 

Have you spent a lot of time training and preparing for the race that lies ahead of you? 

There is much that a runner can prepare themselves for before the race. 

However, there are some things that will be different when they finally start to run the race. 

The circumstances are always unique, the weather could be different from what they are used to training in and the track may not be the same as the one they used when training.

You have trained, and now you’re ready to take on the race ahead of you. 

However, just know My child, circumstance may arise that could be different 

than they were when you trained. 

There might be a turn that you didn't anticipate, 

or a hurdle that you thought was gone, may suddenly appear. 

The best way to be prepared for the challenges and changes that lie ahead, 

is to run the race with Me.

You cannot always rely on your training, or the preparation you have gone through alone.

You must and need to trust in Me. 

You must allow Me to be the Coach, all the way through this race. 

If you will just rely on Me from start to finish, and not your own ideas, 

you will master this race very easily.

You must be willing to let some of your ideals go, 

so that I can show you My picture of the race. 

You must surrender your solutions of how to overcome the hurdles, 

so that I can give you My wisdom and show you My ways. 

As you allow your own ideas and plans to die, 

a greater visions will come forth. 

You will receive My vision and it will be greater than anything you can ever imagine. 

The race will be so much smoother and more enjoyable when you run it with Me, 

depending on My power and anointing all the way through.

My Child, let us run this race together. 

So now, walk up to that starting line, 

take a deep breath and brace yourself for a wonderful race. 

Start.  And know that I, the Coach, am with you.

Know that I will be with you until the very end. 

Trust Me, and let’s finish this race…together.
______

Hebrews 12:1-2 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of GOD.

Philippians 1:6 - Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ

Go Forth In Confidence & Stand on Faith, Your Time Has Come (2.8.14)

1 Corinthians 15:57 - But thanks be to GOD, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

My Child,
I know it’s been a very long journey, but it was a much-needed experience.
The process of teaching you to trust Me has been a worthwhile experience.
You have done well.
You have witnessed My goodness, My mercy, My faithfulness
and you have embraced Me fully.

The time has come for you to go forth in confidence,
being fully assured that I am in control of the outcome of your trials.
For the thoughts and plans I have for you, are for your success.
I only want good and perfect things for you. I have so much planned for you.
I have placed My wisdom and understanding within you.
I have deposited so much within you through the Holy Spirit.

Now is the time for you to walk in victory.
No longer are you to be passive.  And please do not procrastinate.
Stand, Stand and stand some more, on the things I have promised, through My Word!!!!

I have removed all the stumbling blocks that you relied upon
and all things that hindered your walk with Me.

For I am your GOD, and I will supply all of your needs.
Take no thought for how tomorrows' outcome will be.
I am He who controls tomorrow.

There is much that awaits you, if you will just step out in faith.

I will give you the victory in every situation the enemy will try to put you in,
if you will just walk with me in obedience to my word.

Right now, as you read this message,
you are in a place of victory.
A place where my blessings for you are going to manifest soon.

- My Prayer Confession - 

Father, 
Thank You for the victory You have given me. 

Oh, what peace I feel within my soul 
as I think about what You have brought me through. 

I will stand on the faith You have promised. 
I give You all the glory and praise that you so richly deserve Father. 

In the name of your son Jesus Christ I pray, 

Amen

A Prayer to Increase My Faith (2.7.14)

Father,

Help me to be confident that I will see
Your goodness in all situations good or bad..
Help me to wait for You, to be strong, to take heart
and to wait.
I ask that my life would increasingly become a proclamation
of Your greatness and goodness.
Make me fearless in the face of trials, Lord.

Strengthen me, I pray Father, to stand firm and open my mouth to worship You.
You are my great and awesome GOD!
You alone are GOD, creator of heaven and earth,
and I join with all of creation to praise Your holy name!
Holy! Holy! Holy! Lord GOD Almighty.
He who always has been, who is here right now and who is to come!

Forgive me for withholding my praise and adoration,
please forgive me for being silent and even sullen;
losing sight of Your greatness and glory.
In doing so, I have allowed You to become small in my eyes,
as I have taken situations and concerns into my own hands from time to time,
instead of trusting You.

You said that the one who trusts in man
and depends on the arm of flesh for his strength
is cursed.

Father, forgive me for the ways that I have trusted in others,
or my own strength, instead of trusting You.
Increase my faith, Lord.
May I become like a tree planted by the water that does not fear
when heat comes, because I have stored my faith in You,
deep down in my heart.

I choose now to cast my cares upon You.
Father, restore relationships in my life that are fractured.
Those who are close to me, who have yet to call on Your name;
Father, touch their hearts
so that they will come to You before it's too late.
Touch and restore my finances Lord.

- A Prayer of Faith - 

O Lord, 
Increase my faith! 
Enable me, by Your Spirit, to speak Your Word with great boldness 
into every situation of my life, regardless of what is happening around me. 
I choose again to put my trust in You and to hope in Your unfailing love, 
for You are my strength and those who hope in You 
will not be disappointed. 
Thank You, that You are at work on my behalf, and that nothing is too difficult for You. 
Nothing! 

In Jesus name I pray,
Amen

Psalm 27:13  ;  Acts 4:23-31 ;  Isaiah 6:3;
Jeremiah 17:5, 7-8  ;  Psalm 55:22  ;  Acts 4:29;
Habakkuk 3:17-19  ;  Isaiah 49:23  ;  Luke 1:37

It All Begins With Prayer (2.6.14)

Does the Bible tell us to “Love your neighbor and hate your enemy?”  No, GOD tell us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, that we may be sons of our Father in heaven - Matthew 5:43–45

The best way to treat your enemy is to love them,
even when he or she is unkind in word or deed.

Take this a step further,
Jesus not only commands us to love our enemies, but to pray for them as well!
Once we begin to show love for the person for whom we are praying,
we can extend acts of kindness to that person; as opposed to avoiding them
or treating them as they have treated us.

When we show them how much we love and care for them,
their hearts may be transformed in such a dramatic way,
that everything about their lives, could change.
If they had previously rejected it,
they may open their hearts to the gospel,
having never considered the good news of Jesus.

It all begins with prayer.
When someone angers or frustrates you, begin to pray for them.

This command from Jesus has a promise attached to it.
By behaving in a loving manner, toward a person who has mistreated you
and by praying for that person; your actions will prove to others, as well as the person that offended you, that you are truly GOD's child, and that JESUS loves them.
GOD causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good; and JEHOVAH sends His rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

If you love those who love you, what reward will you receive? (See Matthew 5:45–46)

There's a saying that goes, "Hurt people, hurt people."  But you never know what causes people to act the way they do towards you. The enemy uses people in any way that he can. People sometimes will hate you for no reason, or just because they can.

Do not hate back but show them mercy and love.
Overcome evil with good, says the Lord.

- My Prayer Confession -

Father GOD,

This command of loving my enemy is contrary to my natural human nature.
Please fill me with Your love, that I may truly treat my enemies
with the type of love and forgiveness that only Your spirit can give. 

I ask You, according to Your Word, to change my heart 
towards those who have mistreated and abused me. 
Show me how to love my enemy, Father; 
and show me how to love them with Your love. 

Father GOD, sometimes it is so hard, 
because You made me as a human; 
and I too have feelings.  But I know, that as Your child, 
I must obey Your word. 
Help me Lord with this Commandment. 

This prayer I pray to you, 
In the name of your son JESUS CHRIST 

Amen

Leave the Struggles & Cares of This World Behind, Rise Up in the Power & Authority of Christ (2.5.14)

Psalm 91:1 - Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

I know that sometimes life can be quite stressful. There are times when it seems that the attacks will never cease, and each day brings a new challenge to face. Sometimes you may feel really 'weighed down' in your spirit. You may even feel as though a heavy coat of lead has been placed on you. When this happens, Oh bless the Lord!

Rise up in the power and the authority of CHRIST. Standing against the enemy in prayer and worship to the LORD will bring you a tremendous breakthrough. Sometimes our problems seem insurmountable and we become despondent and depressed. In those moments, everything appears to be too hard. It appears, that the more we stand against the enemy, the more the attacks increase. We may begin to feel as though we are going around in circles, becoming all tangled up.

Well, today, I want to extend an invitation to you to come and rest in the Shadow of the Presence of the Lord.  Leave all the struggling and the cares of this world behind, and humble yourself before the Father. Yes, run away from it all and straight into the Loving Arms of Jesus!

My friends, GOD wants you to know:
I Am always near you with My arms stretched out towards you.  Come, run away and hide in My embrace.  For I will sweep you up in My arms, take you into My secret place and remove the heavy garments that you have been laboring under.  For these heavy garments that you wear are not from Me.  I came to clothe you in light and life.  I came to wash you and anoint you with My Spirit, that you might effortlessly run the race I have placed before you.

And as you let go of trying to handle things on your own, you will finally realize that I have great love for you.  You will see within My eyes your victory and triumph! You will see within My eyes your songs of hope and the song about the great future I have for you.

And though it seems like the enemy is pulling out all the stops to prevent you from moving forward, know that every mountain he places before you, mean nothing to Me. There's nothing he can do to stop the power of My hand in your life. For with one sweep of My hand, his mountains shall be removed and cast into the sea.

I will place a song of joy, strength and comfort in your soul. Listen to My song, and allow it to fill your heart. For this song shall lift you up and cause you to overcome any mountains standing in your way. You shall rise up and soar right over those mountains. My child, bless My Name!

So come into My presence today and receive a renewing of your flesh and be restored. Stop now beloved and run into My presence there you will find rest.

- Marilyn Chaney

Isaiah 14:3 - And it shall come to pass in the day that the LORD shall give thee rest from thy sorrow, and from thy fear, and from the hard bondage wherein thou wast made to serve