May Cover Photo (2014)*

Photo courtesy of Rachel J Newman

The "Ingredients" That Should Go Into Prayer (5.31.14)

The Lord's Prayer is a prayer our Lord Jesus taught His disciples in Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4. 

Matthew 6:9-13 says, This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' Many people misunderstand the Lord's Prayer to be a prayer we are supposed to recite word for word. Some people treat the Lord's Prayer as a magic formula, as if the words themselves have some specific power or influence with GOD.

The Bible teaches the opposite. GOD is far more interested in our hearts when we pray, than He is in our words. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words - Matthew 6:6-7.
In prayer, we are to pour out our hearts to GOD (Philippians 4:6-7), 

not simply recite memorized words to GOD.

The Lord's Prayer should be understood as an example, a pattern, of how to pray.
It gives us the "ingredients" that should go into prayer. Here is how it breaks down: "Our Father in heaven" is teaching us whom to address our prayers to 'the Father.' "Hallowed be your name" is telling us to worship GOD, and to praise Him for who He is. The phrase "your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" is a reminder to us that we are to pray for GOD's plan in our lives and the world, not for our own plan. We are to pray that GOD's will be done, not for our desires. We are encouraged to ask GOD for the things we need, in "give us today our daily bread." "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" reminds us to confess our sins to GOD, to turn from them, and also to forgive others as GOD has forgiven us. The conclusion of the Lord's Prayer, "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" is a plea for help in achieving victory over sin and a request for protection from the attacks of the devil.

So, again, the Lord's Prayer is not a prayer we are to memorize and recite back to GOD. 

It is only an example of how we should be praying. 

Is there anything wrong with memorizing the Lord's Prayer? Of course not! 

Is there anything wrong with praying the Lord's Prayer back to GOD? 

Not if your heart is in it and you truly mean the words you say. 

Remember, in prayer, GOD is far more interested in our communicating with Him and speaking from our hearts than He is in the specific words we use. Philippians 4:6-7 declares, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to GOD. And the peace of GOD, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

I Am Calling You to a Higher Place & It is Time to Run Your Race (5.30.14)

My Child,
You know in your heart that I have led you to this door. 

You also know it time to open the door, and step through it. 

This move is necessary so that you can continue to walk with Me. 

It is time. 

It is time for your past to be past. 

You’ve come to this point before; but you would not let go.

You would not move on. 

Now, here I am knocking, 

tugging on your spirit again.

Telling you to please let it go. 

And move on.

There should be no more lingering, no more doubt. 

You must proceed with full confidence and trust in Me. 

I am calling you into a higher place, and it is time to run your race. 

No one else can do it for you. 

You must forsake the past and press on to your high calling in Me.

I say unto you, arise up, take your bed up, and move on. 

You cannot remain where you are anymore. 

You cannot dwell in the memories of your past. 

No longer allow family and friends to dictate to you the plan for your life. 

I have already given you a divine plan for your life 

and it is time you follow the destiny I have shown you. 

Leave them to Me, and go forth. 

I am still knocking at the door. 

Will you open it? 

A new beginning awaits you.
_____
Mark 2:11 - I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

Philippians 3:13-14 - Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Revelations 3:20 - Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

The Secret to Effective Praying is ..... (5.29.14)

But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray - Luke 5:16

In His public ministry, our Lord felt it necessary to frequently withdraw from the crowds, for time alone with the Father. In so doing, Jesus may have been communicating to us one of the secrets of interpersonal ministry, namely personal time with the Father.

Indeed, the secret to effective praying is effectively praying in secret.

Praying alone, praying in private, is biblical. 

Isaac went into the fields to pray and meditate. 

Jacob remained on the eastern bank of the Brook Jabbok. 

Moses hid in the clefts of the rocks on Mt. Horeb. 

Elijah withdrew to the lonely crest of Mt. Carmel. 

Daniel remained on the banks of Hiddekel. 

On one occasion Paul arranged to go by land while his associates 

traveled by ship, perhaps to use the time alone for prayer (Acts 20:13). 

John, though not of his own will, prayed alone on Patmos.

To follow the example of Jesus, it is important to recognize the necessity of drawing apart with GOD.

Lord, sometimes my days are so full and so rushed, and yet, Jesus was never so busy that He couldn’t stop and reach out to those around Him. If His life of constant ministry was fueled by His prayer life, that is what I want to do also. 

Teach me, Lord, to find opportunities to withdraw from my busy life to sit quietly in Your presence.

From the Very First Day, God Heard Your Prayers (5.28.14)

Do not fear, from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come because of your words. - Daniel 10:12

We all have goals, dreams and visions in life. 

We pray about them and try to hold fast, because with faith in Jesus, we believe they will come to pass. And when they do, it is the most wonderful feeling in the world. A dream becoming reality. A prayer answered.  And our faith in GOD is strengthened even more.

However, there are times when the enemy will cloud the vision GOD gives us.  he may not be able to read our minds, but he can hear our words. he sees our actions and our reactions, and knows our hot buttons. he knows just what buttons to push, and when to push them, to get our minds off of GOD's vision. The enemy would like nothing better than to steal our dreams. But he can't steal our dreams, unless we let him. This is why it's so important for us to hold fast our confession of faith.  To be diligent in our faith.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour - 1 Peter 5:8

Disappointment can open a door for the enemy to slip in and steal, kill and destroy our hopes and dreams. There’s a song entitled, “When GOD is Silent”, that I truly love. The song talks about how when GOD is silent He is giving us more time to pray. If you’ve prayed and prayed for something and it just hasn't come to pass; don’t stop believing that it won’t happen. Keep praying, praising and believing in GOD’s word. After you’ve prayed; PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME UNTIL YOUR PRAYERS COME TO PASS!!

The song goes on to say, “There are times when we pray to GOD for an answer, and it seems that all hope is gone. There is no need to spend time worrying, just fall down on your knees again and again”. Our Lord and Savior, prayed the same prayer three times in the Garden, the night before He gave His life for us (Matthew 26:36-44); then the Lord sent angels to minister unto Him to give Him the strength to make it to the cross. If you believe GOD is working all things out to your benefit; then you have to trust that His timing is part of that. He wouldn't have given His only Son if He wasn't going to keep His promise to us.

I want to encourage you this day, not to be disappointed at what appears to be a lack of results in prayer. We have no idea what the Lord is doing on our behalf to answer our prayers. We cannot see it; but rest assured He is working it out. What He requires from us is faith to believe the Word of GOD is true. Just because you FEEL the answer isn't coming; don’t let the enemy make you BELIEVE your prayers have been denied.

So, remember, what our scripture said, “…from the very first day, GOD heard your prayers.” Therefore, do as Daniel did, and keep your eyes focused on Jesus; keep praying in faith, remembering to thank Him for all He has done and all He is doing in your life.

Remember: GOD IS FAITHFUL

 - Marilyn

Who or What Are You Trusting In? (5.27.14)

Why would anyone place their trust in the unstable, un-powerful, unfulfilling things of this world when we can place our trust in a stable, powerful, satisfying GOD? 

That seems like such a no-brainer, but yet we do it.

We embrace our own cisterns, especially the broken cisterns, and expect them to satisfy our thirst and bring us contentment. We drink from the broken cisterns of materialism, position, wealth, popularity, stuff, relationships, rules and religion. We expect our kids, spouses and friends to satisfy our needs. 

We were created to pursue GOD. 

We were created to know GOD to be satisfied in Him and Him alone. 

We were created to worship Him and Him alone.

Even as believers, we tolerate emptiness and bow to idols other than GOD. We place our faith in the economy, in our financial situations, in our health, in our employment, politics, marital status and our relationships. When they fail or fall apart, we then fall apart … and no wonder! They are all broken cisterns and were never meant to be our source of hope nor satisfaction!

We need to turn away from our broken cisterns and turn toward the spring of living water. 

From stagnant waters to the Living Water of JESUS CHRIST. 

The Bible tells us that the Word Of GOD is the path to the spring of living water. When we eliminate the things that clutter our faith – the broken things we trust in – and place our faith in the resurrection power of Jesus Christ, GOD will show mercy, compassion and grace toward us. He will forgive and strengthen us.

Who or what are you trusting in today?

______

May God's peace be with us,

- Marilyn Chaney

 

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (5.26.14) **

1. Take the Victory through the Words You Speak (6.24.13)
2. Today is A New Day, The Time is Now - Prepare Yourself, Rejoice and Do Not Delay (1.4.14)
3. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)
4. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
5. No Matter Where the Road Leads, God is Always With Us (3.5.14)
6. You Have Believed God for Your Blessings (4.5.14)
7. When God Opens Doors for You, Walk Boldly Through (3.20.14)
8. Lay Down the Burdens of Your Heart & the Brokenness of Yesterday (2.1.14)
9. You are an Example to More People Than You Know (4.28.14)
10. Perfect Timing: Excerpts from "Timely Gifts" by Lynn Cowell (2.18.14)

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

Walk by Faith, Despite the Hard Times We May Face (5.26.14)

There are times when we encounter such great difficulties, that it causes us to question whether GOD will do certain things in our lives.  Things go from bad to worse, and time is passing by; so we think about other possible solutions, decisions we will make just in case things don’t pan out.  We begin gathering our emotions, reaching out to others to ensure we are well-prepared for an undesired outcome.

However, when the Lord looks at this, 

it might be viewed that we are demonstrating a lack of faith. 

GOD’s word encourages us to walk by faith despite the hard times we may face and regardless of what the situation dictates.  Someone may be walking through a difficult time right now and you’re making preparations for things not to work out.  

Why not wait on the Lord and expect GOD to perform a miracle just for you?  

He has not forgotten you.

Hear what the Lord says:

My Child,

Wait on Me.  Have faith in Me.  And know that I am faithful.  

It’s never too late for Me to do the impossible in your life.  Why would you pray, and then expect things not to work out?  Why didn’t you pray and believe in Me for a miracle?  I thought needing a miracle was why you prayed in My name.

I am your provider and I am well able to take care of you.  There will be times when I allow you to experience difficulty.  However, do not be dismayed when this happens; for I already have a plan in place to deliver you.  

Trust in Me. 

I want you to experience My faithfulness personally.  I want you to experience My mighty hand of deliverance in your life, so that you will bear witness to others that I am faithful.

Wait on Me.  Believe in Me.  I will do things in such an amazing way that it will bring glory to My name, and have you singing praises forever.

Where is your faith?  Repent and put your faith in Me once again.
_____

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

Luke 1:37 - For with GOD nothing shall be impossible

Luke 8:25 - And he said unto them, Where is your faith?

2 Corinthians 5:7 - For we walk by faith, not by sight or appearance.

  

You Must Simply Stand (5.23.14)

When you've exhausted every outlet 

and it appears there is nothing else you can do, 

then you must simply stand. 

The Lord will send forth His ministering angels to fight for you. 

For the battle is not against flesh and blood, 

but against principalities and powers,

 and spiritual wickedness in high places. 

The Lord will be free to fight for you, 

if you will simply stand. 

We must learn to rest in Him, 

to stand firm on His Word 

and His promises to us. 

The Lord will fight for us 

and He will deliver us from the hands of our enemies. 

We must stand firm in Him.

JUST STAND!!

________
Ephesians 6:13 - Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of GOD, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Learn to Live Above Your Environment and Walk by Faith, Not by Sight (5.22.14)

Yes, the Lord in us is full of might and power; 

yet He will not intrude upon our will and overwhelm us. 

Sometimes we wish He would do so. 

But that is not His way. 

He desires us to cooperate with His Spirit. 

When we come to Him and present ourselves as instruments to be used, He begins to mold us and shape us into suitable vessels. If we see this process as beginning and ending, in a one-time act of consecration, or a single moment of surrender, or a solitary life-changing event, then we underestimate just how thorough and far-reaching this process will be. 

It spans many years and is marked with many mountains and valleys, gardens and deserts. 

The one so committed may now expect to encounter many seasons of light and darkness, sunshine and rain, heat and cold, sweetness and bitterness. At the outset one may think he will be happy, light, and carefree now that he has tasted some of the Lord's power. 

He will rejoice for that season, and then the sun will set and the dark night of the soul will begin. All that was gained now seems to have been lost. The former sweetness is nowhere to be found. Everything is dreary and burdensome. 

When this season is accomplished, the sun rises again and the Christian rediscovers the joy of his salvation. The vows are renewed and the spirit begins to soar. Prayer and praise now pour forth like water. Everything is effortless and spontaneous. 

But then, strangely enough, that season passes and the dark night sets in once again. 

Why is this? 

The Lord is teaching us to live apart from our circumstances. 

Eventually we will learn how to live above our environment and walk by faith, not by sight.

Put on God's Garment of Praise (5.20.14)

Beloved,
Do not think I am not aware of your situation; for I am with you, and you are continually before Me.  My hand is upon you at all times. And when difficult things happen, know that I am there with you, lifting you up in My hand. Not a single one of your tears escapes Me for I love you.

Therefore, I say to you, dry your tears, wash your face, and put on My garments of praise. These garments are meant to be worn at all times, not just when the going is good. If you become a person of worship and continuous praise, you will see My glory come forth in the midst of every difficult situations. Just as I caused the sun to stand still for Joshua, I am bringing stillness to the storm raging around you, and making a way for you. Just look to Me.

Keep your eyes on Me, so that you will know when I am moving, then go forth with Me in My power and glory. In this world you may encounter a season of tribulation, but it does not mean it will be a season of defeat, because I shall lead and guide you through it all.

Look to Me in the midst of your difficult situations, and don’t expect the worse. Instead, be prepared for victory, for it is My promise to you. Rise up in My name and you will see your enemy fall before you. You will see My glory come forth, and My victory shall surround you; for this day, I have decreed victory. Now, look to Me and rejoice, for your day of victory is at hand.
_______
Isaiah 61:3 - To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

In God's Time (5.19.14)

All glory to GOD, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. - Ephesians 3:20

“Why is GOD taking so long to answer?”

Have you been praying hard for GOD to work in your life? Scripture tells us that GOD hears our prayers, yet we might wait years for His answers. Eventually, though, His response can be greater than anything we can expect.

GOD Might Say “Yes; Here Is More”

GOD promised His people, “I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Many people don’t realize that GOD’s plan for Israel involved 70 long years of suffering under Babylonian exile. It was a good plan, but it was far from instant success. So we must trust Him, even when relief or fulfillment seem to take forever.

The Example of Job

When we meet Job in the Bible, he has it all: wealth, family, friends, and trust in GOD. But in the blink of an eye, his riches were plundered and his family wiped out. Terrible physical suffering soon followed. But his trust in GOD remained; he declared, “The Lord gave me what I had, and the Lord has taken it away. Praise the Name of the Lord!” (Job 1:21). Nearly forty chapters later, after hearing from GOD directly, Job humbled himself before GOD, and prayed for his friends. Only then, “The Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, The Lord gave him twice as much as before!” (Job 42:10). Again we see GOD responding and blessing in a great way, but only in His time.

Blessed is the One who Trusts in the Lord (5.18.14)

Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. - Matthew 7:7

GOD is Trustworthy

Does it sometimes feel like your prayers are not making it past the ceiling? 

How can we be sure GOD is listening? 

GOD answers prayer in many ways. When we want something, we want it now! But GOD does not always work that way; in fact, He instructs His people, “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act” (Psalm 37:7). We do not know what GOD is doing “behind the scenes,” but you can trust that He is working things out for His purpose and our good. 

Remember, “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Psalm 40:4).

GOD Might Say “No”

In Matthew 19:26, Jesus says "With GOD all things are possible." 

Even though GOD can do anything, it doesn’t mean that He will. 

GOD has a special plan for each of us. What you ask of GOD may seem like a humble request that will honor him, but maybe it isn’t in His plan for your life. You might be a faithful follower of Christ and you’re praying for GOD to take away something that gives you pain and suffering. But GOD knows the trial you are going through will result in an amazing testimony. That testimony might cause many others to believe in Christ. Remember, GOD may have a purpose for your pain. GOD can see the bigger picture and, as a result, GOD may say no to your prayer.

Trust and Hope

GOD has promised His people that “He will neither fail you nor abandon you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). It might seem like He is ignoring you, that He does not hear your prayers, or that He does not care. But He will not ignore you, He can always hear you, and He loves you so much that He gave Himself through Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul taught, “if we hope for something, we must wait patiently and confidently” (Romans 8:25). While you wait for GOD to answer your prayer, you can ask Him for patience.

Why Should I Keep Praying?

So why should you keep praying for something you want? 

Jesus told His disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up, which you can read about in Luke 18. GOD might be using this time of waiting to build up your faith and hope in Him. When you are praying and waiting for GOD to act, remember that GOD can use whatever you are going through to “strengthen your confident and hope of Salvation” (Romans 5:4).

A Mighty Prayer of Trust, Praise & Thanks (5.17.14)

King of Creation and Mighty Lord of my Life,

You are my rock and my fortress. 

I will put my confidence in you.

I come to you today positioning myself to hear you and obey you.

I will put into practice the things you teach me.

Thank you, Lord, for bringing me new boldness and courage.

I will become the mighty overcomer you have destined me to be.

I will take one remarkable step of faith after another. 

I will trust you Lord.

My mind will become calm and I will not allow any confusion to enter it.

Worry and fear will flee from me. 

Thank you, that you are giving me great power, 

to do great things this day, Lord.

I will praise your Holy name as miracle after miracle unfolds in my life.

The only thing I cannot do is live without you Father. 

You promised to never leave me nor forsake me, 

and I am thankful for this promise. 

In the name of your son Jesus Christ, 

I pray this prayer.

Amen!

Trust God, Walk in Victory & Peace will be Your Portion (5.15.14)

Beloved,
Any time you place your hope in anything or anyone, other than Me, disappointments will happen. Any time you take your eyes off of Me, and place your expectation in something other than the knowledge of Who I am, you can and will set yourself up for disappointments to enter into your life. The enemy watches and waits for this to happen, so he can have access to you, and whisper lies in your ear.

Indeed, his ways are subtle. he loves to manipulate disappointment into discouragement, so that you will not move forward in Me. he knows that his time is near, and he will do whatever he can to have you follow him. Do not listen to him. Listen to Me.

Every difficulty you face is an opportunity for Me to show you Who I really am. Every trial you endure is another opportunity for Me to reveal another facet of Myself to you, so you will not want to put your trust in anyone else. Put your trust in Me and allow Me to move in your life. For when you do, disappointments will never have a chance to turn into discouragement, and they will fade away. 

When you continue to trust in Me, 

you will find yourself walking in victory

and peace will be your portion.

______
Psalm 31:24 - Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

Psalm 42:5 - Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in GOD: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

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

With God, Victory is Always Assured (5.14.14)

1 John 5:4-5 - For whatever is born of GOD overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith. And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of GOD.

My Child,

I know that it seems like things may be closing in on you. You feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. At this very moment, even your faith is being challenged. 

However, I tell you, the faith I have given you is more than enough to move every mountain, and it will overcome any problem or circumstance that ever comes your way. It is the faith that I have imparted in you that will see you through to victory over every mountain and every form of discouragement the enemy will try bring your way.

You must take your eyes off your problems and look unto the hills from whence comes your strength. Turn your thoughts towards heaven and think on things above. Reach inside yourself, and rely upon all I have imparted in you to make it through. Whenever your strength is weak, you must know that I am always there and My strength is always more than enough to see you through. 

With Me victory is always assured.

Refuse to stay where you are. 

It’s time to move to a new level. 

It’s time to release this burden unto Me. 

Undo the chains from the past that have held you down. I will not have you feeling overwhelmed. Now release it, release it unto me.

- My Prayer Confession -
Lord, 

Even though, at times, 

it seems the weight of the world is weighing me down; 

I promise You, I will lift my head up 

and speak to the mountains that stand in my way.

I know. by faith, that the mountains then have to move out of my way! 

I am going to lean and depend upon You 

whenever I feel weak, 

because Your Word says, 

“My grace is sufficient for thee: 

for my strength is made perfect in weakness”. 

Amen

Do Not Worry, For God is With Us, and For Us (5.13.14)

I see someone crying out to GOD for help during your time of need. 

My Child,

Do not be embarrassed that your need is so great, 

for I am greater than your need.  

I am your Father who cares for you. Don't you know that I am aware of your needs? Look at how I care for the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to Me than they are?

Look back on your life and remember the times I extended grace towards you. I have always been there during your time of need and I always will be. The praises coming from your heart confirm that I will be there in the midst of your troubles.

Do not worry beloved, for I am with you, and for you. 

And if I am for you, who can be against you? I will crush your enemies and send them fleeing from your presence. I will prepare a table for you in the presence of your enemies. I hear your cry, I love you and I AM GREATER THAN YOUR NEED AND YOUR ENEMIES!
_______

Psalms 56:9 - When I cry out to You, then my enemies will turn back; this I know, because GOD is for me

Lamentations 3:22 -23 - It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Matthew 6:26 - Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

Romans 8:31 - What shall we then say to these things? If GOD be for us, who can be against us?

It's Time for You to PUSH (5.12.14)

Dear Male Readers,

I apologize for the "labor, pushing and due dates" part because we know this does not "specifically" pertain to you. However, believing in GOD's promise and that He is getting ready to bless you in a mighty way is gender neutral.

Marilyn : )

____

Faith Believers,

I hear the Lord say this is your season; this is your “DUE DATE”. PUSH!!!!

It’s time you PUSH from beneath to above, from the tail to the head, from a borrower to a lender. 

You’re blessed coming in, blessed going out, blessed in your home, blessed when you lie down, blessed when you get up, blessed in the street. 

Blessings are drawn to you. 

Your faith is so strong you’ve become a blessing magnet.

You prayed, believed, decreed, and you waited; now you shall receive. There is a sevenfold recovery of everything stolen coming your way. Don’t give up now, you are too close. The war raging against you has increased. Yes, that’s right, it has because it’s your time. The pain of carrying a blessing is always the strongest and hardest just before it’s birthed. The labor pain has increased; that’s your blessing; pushing, trying to come forth. It’s your due date to birth the promises of God into your life.

It’s time to PUSH the enemy out of your way. PUSH past the hurt, the pain. PUSH pass everything that’s been done to you; said to you or about you…PUSH. Don’t allow anything to stop you from PUSHING. You need this blessing. You need this breakthrough. Shut your eyes to the pain of the past; come on and PUSH. Get ready, bear down and BIRTH your promises forth.

It’s your DUE DATE!!!  PUSH!!!!

You are DUE for healing… PUSH!!!!!!
You are DUE for that promotion… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for your child to get off drugs… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for prosperity… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for a breakthrough… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for that loved one to come back home… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for that contract… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for a job… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for joy… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for that marriage… PUSH!!!
You are DUE for success… PUSH!!!

I know you're in pain. 

I know what you've been through. 

I know it hurts; and I know you may not feel like it, 

but just say Hallelujah anyhow and PUSH!!! 

You can do it!

Your DUE DATE IS HERE… PUSH!!!!!
_________
Leviticus 26:4 - Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.

Ruth 2:12 - May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge."

Hebrews 10:35 - So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.

Galatians 6:9 - And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Love Her, Respect Her, For She is Fragile (5.11.14)

Beloved,
When I created the heavens and the earth, I spoke them into being. When I created man, I formed him and breathed life into his nostrils. But you, woman, you I fashioned after I breathed the breath of life into man because your nostrils are too delicate. I allowed a deep sleep to come over him so I could patiently and perfectly fashion you. 

Man was put to sleep so that he could not interfere with the creativity.

From one bone, I fashioned you. I chose the bone that protects man's life. I chose the rib, which protects his heart and lungs and supports him, as you are meant to do. Around this one bone, I shaped you.... I modeled you. 

I created you perfectly and beautifully.

Your characteristics are as the rib, strong yet delicate and fragile. You provide protection for the most delicate organ in man, his heart. His heart is the center of his being; his lungs hold the breath of life. The rib cage will allow itself to be broken before it will allow damage to the heart.

Support man as the rib cage supports the body. 

You were not taken from his feet, to be under him, nor were you taken from his head, to be above him. You were taken from his side, to stand beside him and be held close to his side.

You are My perfect angel..... You are My beautiful little girl. 

You have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence, and My eyes fill when I see the virtues in your heart. Your eyes...don't change them. Your lips...how lovely they part in prayer. Your nose...so perfect in form.

Your hands so gentle to touch, I've caressed your face in your deepest sleep. I've held your heart close to mine. Of all that lives and breathes, you are most like Me. Adam walked with Me in the cool of the day, yet he was lonely. He could not see Me or touch Me. He could only feel Me.

So everything I wanted Adam to share and experience with Me, I fashioned in you.  

My holiness, My strength, My purity, My love, My protection and support. You are special because you are an extension of Me. Man represents My image, woman My emotions. 

Together, you represent the totality of God.

So man......treat women well. 

Love her, respect her, for she is fragile

_________

HAVE A BLESSED MOTHER'S DAY EVERYONE!

- Marilyn Chaney

Watch and Pray. And Keep Your Mind on God (5.9.14)

Beloved,

Look not upon the things that are seen; but look beyond the visible, and see what I have already spoken to you. My word is written and surely it shall come to pass; for I shall perform all that I have spoken. This is why it’s important that you rely completely on My Word, and never forget I am in control. Even as I speak, the enemy is watching and waiting for an opportunity to intervene and cause you to deviate from what I’ve said. Therefore, watch and pray so you won't fall not into his traps.

Watch and Pray. Keep your mind on Me and be very wise in the words you speak, to avoid the snares of the enemy; by doing so you will stop his hand from performing evil works. Always remember, your words cause things to happen; both good and bad. Therefore, watch and pray, be consistently mindful of your words, and you will be victorious over the enemy.

I hear you say, “The Lord is in control.”  However, I step in only when you surrender all to Me and say, “Lord, have your way.” Then, and only then I will come in and take control of the situation. I gave you a free will, and I will not control you. I love you too much to do that. 

Remember, love doesn't control anyone. I am your loving Counselor, and I encourage good choices. The encouragement I give to you this day is to watch and pray, and be mindful of the words you speak. It’s an excellent choice to make.
_______

Proverbs 18:21 - Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

Matthew 26:41 - Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

1 Peter 5:8 - Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

You are Not Forsaken (5.8.14)

NOT FORSAKEN

****SOMEONE NEEDS TO BE REMINDED OF THIS TODAY****

My Child, 

There is nothing you are going through that I am not aware of. 

I see your trials and I see your pain, and know that I have not forsaken you, I have not left you. I have not turned away. Please stop fretting about what you see; what you see is not of Me. Remember what I told you, walk by faith, not by sight, so dry your eyes, for I have not forsaken you. 

Yes, I know your road has been rough, and you are beginning to feel like all hope is gone. You don't want to feel that way, but you do. That's what the enemy wants you to feel. Remember that I told you that he would delight in you feeling this way....  But didn't I tell you also to call Me when he comes? You can't fight him with your strength; you need Me for this battle. Don't forget what I said, the battle is not yours, but the Lords'. Call on Me because I have not forsaken you.

My child, I see you going over reports. Yes, I know what the reports say. Why are you allowing the reports to intimidate you? You are allowing the reports to become your GOD. You are allowing the reports to cancel out My promises.  I AM THE REPORT for your life; Trust Me, I have not forsaken you.

Do you still feel forsaken? Then let Me remind you about the night I prayed. Yes, that night; the night before I died, the night I prayed for you. Death was near, yet I was on My knees interceding for you. Why would I pray for you, why would I die for you, and then forsake you?

You are My joy, You are My child, You are the heir to the Kingdom, and please remember that my Father will never forsake His children.
______

Deuteronomy 31:8 - And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

Psalm 9:10 - And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.

Our Faith is Like Gold (5.6.14)

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. - James 1:2

Why does God allow trials in our life? 

They help build our faith and dependence on GOD. 

The Bible says our faith is like gold that needs to be purified and refined in fire. The joy comes when we realize the fire makes the end product more valuable and beautiful.

Expect Suffering Hope of Salvation.  Romans 5:3-4

When trials come, we are forced to trust in GOD. 

We realize we cannot depend on our own strength and knowledge. 

Jesus wants us to believe in His promises no matter what our current situation is.

Focus On the Joy

When we focus on Jesus and the things in heaven, 

we see that our troubles here on earth are only temporary. 

They cannot compare to the wonderful things 

GOD has ready for us in heaven.

No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what GOD has prepared for those who love him. - 1 Corinthians 2:9.  We can endure suffering when we have faith in GOD’s promises for eternity. Jesus himself was able to endure the cross “because of the joy awaiting him.” (Hebrews 12:2)

Let our prayer be this - 

For I want to understand what really matters, 

so that I may live a pure and blameless life 

until the day of Christ’s return. 

May I always be filled with fruit of my salvation; 

the righteous character produced in my life by Jesus Christ;

for this will bring much glory and praise to GOD.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

For He Is the Great I Am (5.5.14)

Short Story

There is an old tale about a peasant who, while hoeing in his field during the spring thaw, came across a snake. He raised his hoe to kill it, but the snake begged for mercy. "I am too frozen to do you any harm," it cried. The farmer, full of compassion, picked up the half-dead serpent and put it into his tunic, against his chest. As he began to work, the snake got warmer and warmer. Suddenly, the snake bit the peasant. The peasant frantically reached into his tunic and pulled out the snake, throwing it to the ground. "Why?" asked the man, "I befriended you. I trusted you." "True!" hissed the snake as it slithered away, "but do not blame me. You knew I was a snake when you picked me up."

Many people today take sin into their own bosoms and go about their business. Someday when these things will pass away, and they are faced with eternity, they will cry out against sin and accuse it. But it will be too late for some! Sin will reply, "You knew I was sin! You knew that I was but for a season. So do not blame me!" 

The good news is the Lord will forgive each of us when we sin. 

We just have to confess to Him and ask to be forgiven.

FOR HE IS THE GREAT I AM

He is my best friend, my only friend. He redeemed me from death.

He is my Jehovah Jireh my provider: He provides all my needs,

He is the great physician: He heals me in my sickness,

He is my real lover: He loves me and I love Him too.

He cares for me: He protects me wherever I go,

He guides me out of the way of destruction. He hides me in his loving arms,

He is our real joy giver: He is the real peace giver.

He is the One who lives within me: He is the Great I Am. 

His name is JESUS CHRIST!!!

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (5.4.14) **

1. Take the Victory through the Words You Speak (6.24.13)
2. Today is A New Day, The Time is Now - Prepare Yourself, Rejoice and Do Not Delay (1.4.14)
3. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)
4. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
5. Perfect Timing: Excerpts from "Timely Gifts" by Lynn Cowell (2.18.14)
6. No Matter Where the Road Leads, God is Always With Us (3.5.14)
7. When God Opens Doors for You, Walk Boldly Through (3.20.14)
8. Lay Down the Burdens of Your Heart & the Brokenness of Yesterday (2.1.14)
9. Stand on My Word & Watch Your Blessings Come To Pass (2.24.14)
10. You Have Believed God for Your Blessings (4.5.14)

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

Honoring God with Our Lips, Thoughts, Pure Hearts & Actions (5.4.14)

 Does Your Inside Match Your Outside?

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see GOD -  Matthew 5:8

Once a father told his child to sit down. The child refused. Again the father told his child to sit down and again the child stubbornly refused. Finally, the father said, “If you don’t sit down I’m going to give you a spanking.” The child sat down and said, “I’m sitting down on the outside, but I’m still standing up on the inside!” 

This reminds me of what Jesus said to the Jewish leaders:  You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me… - Matthew 15:7-8.

Outwardly they honored GOD.  They sang songs and prayed and tithed.  But they had no love for GOD. Their hearts, their inner persons, were impure and they acted religious to be noticed by men, not to please GOD. They were hypocrites. The word hypocrite comes from a word meaning actor. A hypocrite’s an actor, a pretender. He professes some value or belief, but his private life does not match it. He’s not pure in heart. So, to be pure in heart, means our words must match our thoughts. Our outer life should match our inner life.

When GOD saves us he gives us new hearts:  And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules - Ezekiel 36:26-27

GOD gives us new hearts that want to follow and obey him.  He pours his Holy Spirit into us, which will motivate us to sincere obedience. To be pure in heart doesn’t mean we never sin. But it does means that now we don’t want to sin. We hate it when we do, and are grateful for Jesus’ constant cleansing (1 John 1:9).

There are a few ways to cultivate purity of heart:

• Read your Bible regularly for it convicts, warns and encourages us.
• Ask GOD for inner purity. David prayed, “Create in me a clean heart.” 
• Regularly ask GOD to deliver you from evil and temptation.
• Be careful what you take in through your eyes and ears. 
• Flee from temptation; and when you feel closed in and surrounded ask GOD for deliverance for a wise Christian should above all things keep his heart pure.
• Fellowship – confess your struggles and temptations and ask for prayer from other trustworthy believers.

The reward for pursuing purity? “They shall see GOD.”

Beloved, we are GOD’s children now, and what we will be, has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who thus hopes in Him purifies himself as He is pure (1 John 3:2-3).

Because we want to see Jesus, we should seek to purify ourselves now, by the power of the Spirit.

Bless & Be Blessed,

- Marilyn Chaney

For When I am Weak, I Am Made Strong, Through God (5.2.14)

But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, 

for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, 

so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, 

in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. 

For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Each and everyone of us has faced or will face hardships at some point in our life. 

The good news is we do not have to face these challenges alone. 

GOD has promised us that when we come to Him with our problems, 

He will make everything alright. 

Regardless of what we see with our natural eyes, 

and no matter how the world around us may look like it's falling apart; 

know that the Lord has the power to change 

each and every challenge that we face. 

He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. 

What problem is bigger than Him? 

GOD is not in heaven scratching His head, 

trying to figure out what to do next. 

Our timing is not His timing and in due season 

He will change things around for the better, 

if you just keep on believing in Him. 

Trust in GOD and know there is nothing and no one 

bigger than Our Father who is in heaven. 

He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us.

When the world seems to be closing in on you, 

turn to and trust in the God. 

A God's Peace, Order & Comfort Prayer (5.1.14)

Dear Almighty GOD and Loving Shepherd,

You are Jehovah Shalom - The GOD of peace.

Your Word says, Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need! 

He lets me rest in the meadow grass and leads me beside the quiet streams.

 - Psalm 23:1-2 TLB

Lord, you give us rest and lead us beside quiet streams. 

Thank you that you are helping your beloved child to hear your gentle voice. 

Thank you that you are helping me to be able to follow you to the quiet streams.

Lord, you say your ways are ways of pleasantness, and all your paths are peace.

Thank you that you want to guide me to a new level of peace.

Help me to find your comforting peace and to always follow your peace. 

Show me how to muffle all the noise around me, and rest in your arms.

Your Word tells us not to be afraid of people and their reactions.

Help me to not be concerned about what people (even important people) think.

Thank you for prioritizing my life and putting things in the right order. 

I pray Lord, that you will help me to keep them in the right order.

Help me to feel your presence as I draw closer and closer to you.

Amen