#ScriptureReflection - Colossians 3:1-17 (7.31.22)

 IV. The Ideal Christian Life in the World

Mystical Death and Resurrection.
¹  If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. ²  Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. ³  For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴  When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.

Renunciation of Vice.
⁵  Put to death, then, the parts of you that are earthly: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and the greed that is idolatry.  ⁶  Because of these the wrath of God is coming [upon the disobedient]. ⁷  By these you too once conducted yourselves, when you lived in that way. ⁸  But now you must put them all away: anger, fury, malice, slander, and obscene language out of your mouths. ⁹  Stop lying to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices ¹⁰  and have put on the new self, which is being renewed, for knowledge, in the image of its creator. ¹¹  Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all and in all.

¹²  Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, ¹³  bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. ¹⁴  And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. ¹⁵  And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful. ¹⁶  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. ¹⁷  And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Source: NABRE (New American Bible Revised Edition)     

Exceedingly Abundantly (7.30.22)

 

My Child,
Do not lie buried beneath your circumstances, anymore.

I Want you to STAND on top of your circumstances and SHOUT OUT, “I will overcome for My God is able to give Me much more than this.”  To be clear, it is not your strength that will enable you to stand, it will be Mine.

We are covenant partners.
I Will supply the strength you need.

In My Name, and in the Mighty Name of My Son, the impossible will be done. It does not matter what you are going through right now, this is not the end of you. Say it with Me, “This is not the end of me.”

Do not worry about the things you see with your eyes.
Do not worry about the things coming against you.
Do not worry about perceived "limitations or challenges."
And do not worry, nor entertain (listen to), the opinions and commentary others.

Trust completely in Me.  Listen to what I Say, for I Have the final Word.  And believe that I Am able to give you much more than this.
 
Go ahead. 
Lean on Me for strength. 
Let Me do what you cannot do. 

Try Me and see if I Won’t prove Myself to you.
For I Will put your feet on a steady path.

No matter what your situation dictates right now, I Want you to know that I Have life more abundantly planned for you.

Shake off those grave clothes and the things that weigh you down, for I Am more than able, capable and willing to bring restoration to your life.

 

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

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

#ScriptureReflection - John 1:1-13 (7.29.22)

 The Word Became Flesh

¹  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²  He was with God in the beginning. ³  Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

 ⁴  In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.

⁵  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

⁶  There was a man sent from God whose name was John. ⁷  He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. ⁸  He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

⁹  The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. ¹⁰  He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. ¹¹  He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.

¹²  Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— ¹³  children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

Source: NIV (New International Version)    

How Can We Walk, Humbly, Before Our God? (7.28.22)

Sisters & Brothers,
GOD's Word tells us that GOD opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble - James 4:6.

Reflecting on this passage, begs the question - how can we walk, in humility, before our GOD?  We must recognize that humility puts us in a position to be able to receive from the Lord. And I think that we can all agree that we all need a fresh anointing from GOD, so we can hear His Voice; instead of all the noise and outside confusion going on around us.  We live in a society where many have an “I'll do it myself” mentality. However, there always comes a time when “self” just can't do it anymore.  Eventually, we realize we are not in control, we cannot "do it ourselves," we are not "GOD," and that we are in desperate need of His Power and His Might.

Fasting and prayer will help. Fasting helps us to focus on GOD, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Going without food for a period of time helps us to spiritually connect directly to our Father, as our bodies are cleansed from all distractions. There are many examples in the Bible that reiterate the notion that "fasting and prayer" are very effective tools.  Not only against our own fleshy desires, but also the works of the enemy. Fasting and prayer also allows us to develop a deeper relationship with Jesus.

 ~ Marilyn  

~ Let us Pray ~
Heavenly Father,

Please give me the strength to fast and pray, so that I can develop a deep, loving relationship with You.

Teach me to overcome my flesh and all that distracts me.
Help me to make fasting a part of my worship to You. 

I want to become completely dependent on You for all things, and in all things, Father GOD.

In the Name of Your Son, Jesus I pray,
Amen

#ScriptureReflection - Matthew 13:16-17 (7.27.22)

Jesus said to his disciples:
"Blessed are your eyes, because they see,
and your ears, because they hear.

Amen, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people
longed to see what you see but did not see it,
and to hear what you hear but did not hear it."

#ScriptureReflection - Esther 7:7-10 (7.26.22)

 ⁷  The king left the banquet in anger and went into the garden of the palace, but Haman stayed to beg Queen Esther for his life, since he saw that the king had decided on his doom. ⁸  When the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet hall, Haman had thrown himself on the couch on which Esther was reclining; and the king exclaimed, “Will he also violate the queen while she is with me in my own house!” Scarcely had the king spoken when the face of Haman was covered over.

Punishment of Haman.

⁹  Harbona, one of the eunuchs who attended the king, said, “At the house of Haman stands a stake fifty cubits high. Haman made it for Mordecai, who gave the report that benefited the king.” The king answered, “Impale him on it.” ¹⁰ So they impaled Haman on the stake he had set up for Mordecai, and the anger of the king abated.

Source: NABRE (New American Bible Revised Edition) 

God Is Doing Something New. Think About It. Think About It..... (7.25.22)

My Child,
I Want you to be prepared to move as My Holy Spirit leads.

Do not become so complacent that you do not want to accept the changes that I Am making in your life. 

For some of you, the enemy will attempt to use this against you; and it will hinder your walk with Me. Refuse to allow the enemy to paralyze you with anything.  he has not stopped you from moving forward; it is only a delay. And if you look closely, it is only in certain areas of your life; which I Have allowed. Think about it.
 
the enemy has no authority.  Think about it.

My Son said in John 14:12 - .... whoever believes in my will also do the works that I do; and greater works that these.  Think about it.  

For some of you, all this has left you uncertain about so many things; and now, the fear of making the wrong choices has hindered and crippled your faith in Me.

For others of you, you are strengthened in your faith in Me.  You know that I Am the Author and Finisher.  And you are keeping yourself encouraged, seeking Me, talking to Me first, refusing to be defeated.

I Say to all of My Children, this day, be not dismayed; there are other things you need to move ahead with. I Do not want you to try to force anything open. Seek My Wisdom and My Guidance in everything you do.

Do not become so obsessed with what seems to be blocked, that you miss the new thing that I Am Doing in your life.

Yes, I Am doing something new.   Think about it.
 
I Want you to stop thinking negatively and stop allowing your mind, the opinions of others, and sometimes (but often not) - the enemy - to control your thoughts. When you allow all of these other influences to control your thinking (yourself, others, occasionally the enemy - who by the way should have NO authority or representation in your life, mind or words) then you are not trusting Me; and it only reinforces alternative "false control constructs" over your life.  And that has, for some of you (not all of you) gone on for far too long.  That mindset and those habits must stop. Do not allow these outside, worldly things to get into your mind anymore.   Rise up and rebuke ALL OF IT, in MY NAME! From this moment on, I Want you to only #speakLife, to focus on Me and to focus on how amazing I Made You.  Stop uttering discouraging words, participating in low-level conversations or allowing yourself to "operate below capacity;" things and habits and words that so easily come to mind or command your actions.

  
I Know that for some of you, frustrations and trials have left some of you weary.  That, for some of you, discouragement has crept in overnight. However, now is the time for you to hunger and thirst for more of Me; like never before.  Think about it.  

You must enter into spiritual warfare, to break hindrances and destroy strongholds.

Seek My Face.
Confess every sin.
Even sins of doubt, fear, and anxiety.

Do these things. 
And I Will hear from Heaven.
In order to lift you out (and over)
     every obstacle.

READ AND MEDITATE ON GOD'S WORD

Jeremiah 29:11 - 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.
 

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

#ScriptureReflection - Esther 7:1-6 (7.24.22)

 ¹  So the king and Haman went to the banquet with Queen Esther. ²  Again, on this second day, as they were drinking wine, the king said to Esther, “Whatever you ask, Queen Esther, shall be granted you. Whatever request you make, even for half the kingdom, shall be honored.” ³  Queen Esther replied: “If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, I ask that my life be spared, and I beg that you spare the lives of my people. ⁴  For we have been sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, killed, and annihilated. If we were only to be sold into slavery I would remain silent, for then our distress would not have been worth troubling the king.” ⁵  King Ahasuerus said to Queen Esther, “Who and where is the man who has dared to do this?” ⁶  Esther replied, “The enemy oppressing us is this wicked Haman.” At this, Haman was seized with dread of the king and queen.

Source: NABRE (New American Bible Revised Edition) 

God's Word will Never Fall Short (7.23.22)

 

My Child,
If I Promised it,
     I Shall make it good.

Command your thoughts to come in order with My Word. 

My Word to you will never fall short.

Let this be your only thought today.  And any time that thoughts come to your mind that oppose My Word, reject them. Know - for certain - that My Word never falls short of It's intended purpose. So, there is no need to live fretting over what could happen; for My Word never fails. 

When I Speak, It Is the Final Authority.  However, you must take hold of that and believe it; because worldly, earthly circumstances will constantly try to be in opposition to My Word. Sickness and pain will try to arise when I’ve Promised you healing. Rejection and fear will try to overtake My Promises of Acceptance and Faith. Poverty and lack will try to settle in, though My Son so clearly states in My Word, I came so that you might have life more abundantly - John 10:10.

My Word will never fail.
My Word will accomplish
    what I Sent It to do.

There will be times when negative circumstances will try to speak to your mind, and fill you with fear, that My Word won't come to pass.  Therefore, you should read and meditate on My Word; and keep it fresh in your heart. The best way to take Authority over fretful thoughts is to speak to them. Yes, speak in My Name, speak Life; and command all fearful thoughts to leave. Cast down imaginations and every thing that comes against My Word.  Discipline your mind to reject anything not found in My Word; STAND on My Word and hold on tight to your confession of faith.  

Today, I say to you,
     dwell on My Promises.
Be in agreement with My Word.
And you will see that My Word
      never falls short.
 

Read and Meditate on God's Word

Numbers 23:19 - GOD is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? 

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

2 Corinthians 10:5 - Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of GOD, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 

2 Corinthians 8:9 - For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. 

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

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

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 5:17-24 (7.22.22)

 The Apostles Persecuted

¹⁷  Then the high priest and all his associates, who were members of the party of the Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. ¹⁸  They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. ¹⁹  But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. ²⁰  “Go, stand in the temple courts,” he said, “and tell the people all about this new life.”

²¹  At daybreak they entered the temple courts, as they had been told, and began to teach the people.

When the high priest and his associates arrived, they called together the Sanhedrin—the full assembly of the elders of Israel—and sent to the jail for the apostles. ²²  But on arriving at the jail, the officers did not find them there. So they went back and reported, ²³  “We found the jail securely locked, with the guards standing at the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside.” ²⁴  On hearing this report, the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests were at a loss, wondering what this might lead to.

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 5:12-16 (7.21.22)

 The Apostles Heal Many

¹²  The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon’s Colonnade. ¹³  No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. ¹⁴  Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. ¹⁵  As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. ¹⁶  Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 5:7-11 (7.20.22)

 ⁷  About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. ⁸  Peter asked her, “Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?”

“Yes,” she said, “that is the price.”

⁹  Peter said to her, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.”

¹⁰  At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. ¹¹  Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

Confidently Looking (& Moving) Forward with God (7.19.22)

Hebrews 11:8-9 says, "It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when GOD called him to leave home and go to another land that GOD would give him as his inheritance. He went WITHOUT KNOWING where he was going. And EVEN WHEN HE REACHED THE LAND GOD PROMISED HIM, HE LIVED THERE BY FAITH – for he was a foreigner, living in a tent." 

And so did Isaac and Jacob, TO WHOM GOD GAVE THE SAME PROMISE.

Abraham did this because he was confidently LOOKING FORWARD to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by GOD. It was by faith that Sarah, together with Abraham, was able to have a child, even though they were too old and Sarah was barren. Abraham BELIEVED GOD would keep His Promises.  And so a whole nation came out from this one man, Abraham, who was labeled (and technically) too old to have children. 

"By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went." - Hebrews 11:8

When you face an unknown circumstances, or a trial that is screaming in your face, 'you will never get out of this;' remember (never forget) that there were things in Abrahams' life that can actually help you - in this day and age -  as you walk ahead to possess Your Promised Land.

First, what is it that GOD has promised you?  What is He Telling you? Whatever that thing is, regardless of how impossible it looks - physically, financially, emotionally, or economically - do it. Do not let yourself (the things you tell yourself), what others say (family or friends), and not even the devil (who should have NO AUTHORITY in your life as a #faithFilled Believer) steal your promise.

GOD Is Faithful!! 
He Will do all that
     He Says, He Will do.

There was a moment in my life, where I was walking through an extremely rough battle.  I kept telling the Lord that I needed to hear from Him.  I wanted something specific for this particular need.

I continuously quoted, "…many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers them from them all - Psalm 34:19."  However, that scripture was not alive in my heart.  While it is undeniably 'a fact;' I was praying for something, for that specific day, personally from GOD; but GOD is so faithful.

He Spoke a scripture reference to my heart.  And I went to the Old Testament to see what it said and it fit my circumstances exactly!  That scripture came alive in my heart, as it should; and I stood on that scripture for another year, until what I Believed GOD for (and until what I was praying to GOD for - and about) came to pass.

Believe in GOD's Word.

Believe that GOD answers prayers.
Harken your ear to GOD.
So that you are open to (and can hear)
      GOD's Correction.

The Lord said His Word
     will not return void.

 ~ Marilyn

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 5:1-6 (7.18.22)

 Ananias and Sapphira

¹  Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. ²  With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.

³  Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? ⁴  Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”

⁵  When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. ⁶  Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him.

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

Being Content with Your Blessings (7.17.22)

Beloved,

The spirit of envy is not from Me.
The spirit of envy is from satan because
those that believe in Me know that 
I Will provide everything they need.

Faith Family,
It is never "okay" to hate someone because of material things. Materialistic people, most times, believe they acquired their things 'on their own.' Nothing is further from the truth!!! GOD can take everything from them at a moment's notice. Everything that we have comes from GOD.  Now yes, it is true that satan has the ability to give his people things too; but GOD has all power over satan and his works. Trust and believe, never doubt, that GOD can take away everything that satan gives to his people too.

Beloved,

Do not look to others and
wish that you had what they have.

Be content with what the Lord has blessed you with; because He Gives to all, Blessings, according to His Will for that person's life. Do not be envious of wicked people who appear to prosper in all they do. Remember Jehovah sees and knows everything that each of us say (and do).  He has promised to deal with each of us accordingly. Wicked people are not prospering, it only appears that way. In fact, the enemy wants you to believe this lie; but the Word of GOD says the wicked shall not prosper - Ecclesiastics 8:13 and that a wicked person shall not go unpunished - Proverbs 11:12.

Remember, envy is the feeling of discontent or resentfulness, brought on by desiring what others have.  This is a trap, and it is not from GOD. It is a trap that can compromise your standing with (and in) Christ; and can lead you down a path of pursuing empty worldly things. 

Seek the Lord first; and ask Him to protect your heart and mind from falling into the worldly trap of becoming envious of others.

Jehovah will provide all things, for His Children, in His Timing. Trust in the Lord; and know that our ways are not His Ways, and our thoughts are not His Thoughts - Isaiah 55:8-9. 

Thank God for what you have,
Trust God for what you need.
 ~ Marilyn

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 7:54-60 (7.16.22)

 The Stoning of Stephen

⁵⁴  When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. ⁵⁵  But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. ⁵⁶  “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

⁵⁷  At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, ⁵⁸  dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.

⁵⁹  While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” ⁶⁰  Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.

Source: NIV (New International Version)    

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 7:42-53 (7.15.22)

 ⁴²  But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon and stars. This agrees with what is written in the book of the prophets:

“‘Did you bring me sacrifices and offerings
    forty years in the wilderness, people of Israel?
⁴³  You have taken up the tabernacle of Molek
    and the star of your god Rephan,
    the idols you made to worship.
Therefore I will send you into exile’ beyond Babylon.

⁴⁴  “Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the covenant law with them in the wilderness. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. ⁴⁵  After receiving the tabernacle, our ancestors under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, ⁴⁶  who enjoyed God’s favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob.  ⁴⁷  But it was Solomon who built a house for him.

⁴⁸  “However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says:

⁴⁹  “‘Heaven is my throne,
    and the earth is my footstool.
What kind of house will you build for me?
says the Lord.
    Or where will my resting place be?
⁵⁰  Has not my hand made all these things?’

⁵¹  “You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! ⁵²  Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— ⁵³  you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.”

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

Jesus Words by Julie Lairsey (7.14.22)

Family,
The article below, Jesus Words (https://thelife.com/devotionals/jesus-words) was written by Julie Lairsey. When I read this article a few days ago, I immediately realized that many people need to read the contents of this message.  I felt that what Julie is saying and conveying, needs to be heard, shared, honored, amplified and elevated. Sometimes we profess to be Christians; but we speak words, about others, that do not reflect Christ. We all have sinned, we have all fallen short, none of us are perfect; and we must not only ask for forgiveness on a daily basis, but we must also be intentional in striving to do better.  To be better.  Because GOD did not make anyone perfect.  No human being is perfect.  Only His Son, Jesus Christ was made perfect.

We need to examine ourselves and ask if what we say about others, reflects the spirit of Christ? We should be mindful that the Lord our God hears every word that comes out of our mouths. God's Word says that He is going to hold each of us accountable for our words, whether good or bad - Matthew 12:36.

If you find it difficult to speak positive words about someone, please remain silent, do not speak against them, pray for that person, pray for yourself and your heart, and ask God (or Jesus) to guide you in that moment.  To change you in that moment.  To do a mighty work in you, in that moment.  In.  That.  Moment.

~ Marilyn Chaney

~~~~~~~

Jesus Words by Julie Lairsey

Just spit it out! We were playing a fun and high energy game, and our insightful granddaughter, B, was in the “hot seat”. She had to answer the question on the game card in rapid-fire fashion before the timer ran out in 5 seconds. With excitement, our daughter read the next question to B. “Name 3 people who help others.” Quickly, she shouted, “Mimi and Papa, they use Jesus words!”

Before I placed my eternal hope in Jesus Christ, I used to struggle with a bad temper which was rooted in sin and selfishness. Sin was affecting my relationship with others and separating me from God. My words and lack of patience claimed me as a victim, and I kept falling into its snare. I realized I needed to change and to be transformed by Jesus Christ alone.

I am incredibly grateful for the Lord’s endless mercies and how he answered my cries for help. After surrendering to the Holy Spirit, praying and reading the Scriptures, the Lord freed me from the bondage of sin and taught me how to use my words to speak life into others that would glorify him. I was transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, and am constantly reminded of the promise in Proverbs 10:11 “the words of the godly are a life-giving fountain.”

Christ allows us to be free from sin. Well-known, Billy Graham once said, “Sin is the great clogger, and the blood of Christ is the great cleanser.” You too, can experience the freedom in Christ by seeking him through prayer, reading and applying Scriptures, and being obedient in his ways in the power of the Spirit. By staying in right relationship with GOD by faith you will be changed by the Holy Spirit and experience growing freedom and righteousness in Christ.

~~~~~~~

~ Prayer ~

Dear Jesus,

Please forgive me for the sin in my life. Help me to turn from temptation and keep my eyes on You. 

Thank You for setting me free from the bondage of sin. Use me, Lord, to bring glory to You and to use my words wisely. 

In Your Mighty Name, Jesus, I pray, 

Amen

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 11:25-30 (7.13.22)

 ²⁵  Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, ²⁶  and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

²⁷  During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. ²⁸  One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) ²⁹  The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. ³⁰  This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.

Source: NIV (New International Version) 

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 11:19-24 (7.12.22)

 The Church in Antioch

¹⁹  Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. ²⁰  Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. ²¹  The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.

²²  News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. ²³  When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. ²⁴  He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.

Source: NIV (New International Version) 

You Must BELIEVE BEFORE You Can (or Will) RECEIVE!! (7.11.22)

 

When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judaea into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of death.  Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.  The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down before my child die.  Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth.  And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way.  And as he was going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth.  Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to amend.  And they said unto him, yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.  So, the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole household. 
 - John 4:47-53  

Family,
For many of us, our situation(s) today is no worse than what the father in John 4:47-53, had to overcome.  And just like with that father, Jesus expects us to do something first; before He responds to us.  Jesus expects us to believe His Word.  Jesus expects us to walk by faith, not by sight - 2 Corinthians 5:7. 

When Jesus saw the persistence in this man, Jesus said to the man, Go thy way; thy son liveth! - John 4:50.   And the man believed that his son was healed.  The man did not question; he did not doubt, he believed, by faith, that his son was healed. This is the same response that we must have in our lives today.

We must believe that what the Lord Says, shall come to pass. 

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. 
- John 14:13-14  

We must have complete faith in what Jesus has spoken into our lives, and then enter into a place of rest.   Resting on GOD’s Word, means that you believe it is already done. Our faith in GOD should acknowledge the truth of GOD’s Word; even when there is no sign to prove it. 

For those who are going through difficult times right now, it does not matter what you are facing; it does not matter how your body feels.  We must believe that we have the victory, before we see it. We must never allow our natural sight to be stronger than our eyes of faith.  The broken areas in our lives will be restored when we believe. 

We must believe so we can receive GOD's Blessings.  

We should not have to see it with our eyes first; before we shout the victory.  We should enter into rest, knowing that all things are in GOD's Hands; and that all is well.  All.  Is.  Well.  All is well.   When we reach this level of believing, healing will manifest in our bodies, our finances will be restored, and the dead areas in our lives, will come alive.

However, we must believe it before we can receive it.   

If there is sickness in your body, see yourself healed.  If your business has failed, see your business restored.  If you need a job, see yourself employed.  Call those things that be not, as though they are.  Oh, blessed are those who believe without seeing.

Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. 
- John 20:29  

Whatever the situation, faith in GOD will always triumph over it. Let our faith be bigger than our fears. 

• Faith can produce rivers in dry places. 
• Faith brings harvests in the midst of a famine. 
• Faith in GOD’s Word is the defense against circumstances that were meant to destroy us. 
• Faith is a shield that will destroy the fiery darts of the enemy, every time. 
• Faith in GOD ensures that the enemy will become our foot stool.

As we start walking and speaking (for we MUST WALK AND - AND - AND SPEAK) in faith, we will see the Mighty Hand of the Lord in our lives.  And our lives will be a living testimony of the power of GOD’s Word. (Do not miss that part!  That GOD's Greatest Glory, is the LIVING TESTIMONY - so you must speak - of OUR LIVES.  GOD wants your testimony to fall afresh on the ears of those who need to know, who need to hear, who need to be encouraged.) 

So, what will your response be, to what the Lord has spoken to you? What will you do, when you have brought a request to God in prayer?  Will you continue nagging Him, for a sign to prove that the answer will come?  Will you doubt Him, if it does not happen when you think it should happen?  Or will you rest on His Promises, knowing that it is already - It. Is. ALREADY - done?

We must believe in His Word, BEFORE we receive His Promises.

  ~  Marilyn
 

And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in GOD. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore, I say unto you, Whatsoever things ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

- Mark 11:22-24  

The Name and The Presence of God (7.10.22)

Sisters & Brothers,
Jesus not only taught His Disciples to focus on the goodness and greatness of GOD; but He also taught them to place their focus on the purity of GOD. Jesus taught them to pray, “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Your name” - Matthew 6:9.

The Name of GOD is holy, because He is Holy. Names had a special meaning to the ancient Hebrew people. The name of a person, many times, represented the character of that person.

Jesus taught that when we come into the Presence of GOD, we enter the Presence of Absolute Purity.  We can come into His Presence - only by the Blood of the Lamb; with clean hands and a pure heart.  We must enter His Presence with a sense of reverence and awe; for GOD is Holy.

We must open 'the door of prayer,' with our focus
     being on GOD.
We must acknowledge His Goodness, His Greatness,
     and His Purity with praise and thanksgiving.

Something supernatural transpires when we offer Him the sacrifice of praise, from our hearts. The Word of GOD says in Psalm 22:3 that GOD dwells in the midst of the praises of His people and praise quickly becomes worship.

After Jesus taught His Disciples to open the door of prayer with praise, He taught them to close the door of prayer in worship. Jesus taught His Disciples to end prayer with their hearts basking in the Glory of GOD. He taught them to pray, “For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen - Matthew 6:13.


 ~ Prayer ~
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name!
I honor You and give thanks for the precious sacrifice that allows me to have access to Your Throne Room! 
You alone are completely worthy to be praised for you are good, pure and holy! 
Knowing that You Dwell in the midst of my praise is too amazing for my mind to comprehend, and yet I know and trust that it is true!
For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever!

Amen!

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 11:11-18 (7.9.22)

 ¹¹  “Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying. ¹²  The Spirit told me to have no hesitation about going with them.

These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s house. ¹³  He told us how he had seen an angel appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. ¹⁴  He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be saved.’

¹⁵  “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. ¹⁶  Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ ¹⁷  So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”

¹⁸  When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

#ScriptureReflection - Acts of the Apostles 11:1-10 (7.8.22)

1  The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. ²  So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him ³  and said, “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.”

⁴  Starting from the beginning, Peter told them the whole story: ⁵  “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. ⁶  I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds. ⁷  Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’

⁸  “I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’

⁹  “The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’ ¹⁰  This happened three times, and then it was all pulled up to heaven again.

Source: NIV (New International Version)     

God's Love & Mercy (7.7.22)

My Child,
I Know the season that many of you are currently in, and although some of you may "see little evidence" of anything wonderful happening, never forget the good things that I Have done. Forget not My Blessings of the past.  Forget not My Tender Mercies. I Have always been there in your times of need?  For some of you, not all of you, but too many of you; how soon some of you forget My Love when your way "seems" dark. However, in your darkest hour, do you not know that I Am always with you?   

I Am "shining a light" on the blessings
     that some of you may have overlooked.

I Am always there.

Always remember to reflect upon My Mercy and My Goodness.  Always remember to reflect upon not only the answered prayers, but also the abundant Blessings - the surprises - that you did not even ask for.  Abundant surprise blessings that made you so grateful. Remember all of those memories, for they will lead you through some of the valleys, into a bright new day.

Remember that My Mercy and My Love are unending towards you; so be at peace, and know that this "difficulty" will pass. Never stop praying and believing for the impossible to happen in your life. Keep your hope in Me, alive; and constantly remember My Loving Kindness and Mercy towards you.

Read and Meditate on God's Word

Isaiah 63:7 - I will mention the loving-kindnesses of Jehovah, the praises of Jehovah, according to all that Jehovah has benefited for us, and the great good to the house of Israel by which He benefited them according to His mercies, and according to the multitude of His loving-kindnesses. 

Psalm 86:13 - For great is Your mercy toward me, and You have delivered my soul from the lowest hell. 

Lamentations 3:22-23 - It is by Jehovah's kindnesses that we are not destroyed, because His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. 

Hebrews 13:15 - By Him, then, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to GOD continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, confessing His name. 

The 91st Psalm is a Protection Prayer ~ Read It Daily (7.6.22)

My Child,
Did you know that My Psalm 91 is a protection prayer?  My Psalms overflow with healing, restoration, correction, direction and protection.  All of My Children should be steeped in the Psalms and Proverbs for their timeless instruction, covering and protection.  Child, read My Psalm 91, every day, for additional protections against this world; against your human self; against those habits, words, and actions that, while many of you 'know better,' those habits, words and actions still seem to reign in your life; as well as, the enemy and his principalities.

I Promised, in My Word, that the enemy will have no power over you; and that his plots to succeed in destroying your life will not ever come to light.

STAND on My Word, because My Word has the power to destroy the enemy, and restore your soul.  Go Child, into your prayer closet, and spend time with Me, everyday.

Pray Psalms 91 over your life, the lives of your loved ones, and the lives of those you hold near and dear to you, daily.

Beloved, the evil happening in this world will either intensify - as the events in the book of Revelations unfold; or those who are called, those I Have Called, will anchor themselves more intensely in Me, My Son, My Holy Spirit and My Word - to overcome and overthrow the schemes of the human mind, other humans and the enemy.  Fulfilling My Son's Prophetic utterance in John 14:12 - “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. (ESV)

Study My Son and his actions.  Believe that the enemy has no true power, so stop focusing on him and giving him "more than he deserves, an unjust due," if you will; and focus on Me, focus on Victory, focus on truly walking in your anointing, focus on changing this world.  For I Made this world to be a beautiful place, and I know that My Children, Who are called; can restore My Power, rest in My Wisdom, rule in My Anointing and abide in My Love.  That those whom I Have called, are already covered in My Armor, are already under My Protection.

I Am here.
My Word is full of protection and direction.

Seek Me.
Ask Me.
"Flow" with (and in) Me.

Know that you need Me.
And that I Need you.
Know that I Love you.

Always.

The 91st Psalm 

You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.” For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence; he will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.

You will not fear the terror of the night, or the arrow that flies by day, or the pestilence that stalks in darkness, or the destruction that wastes at noonday. 

A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only look with your eyes and see the punishments of the wicked.

Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.

Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect those who know my name. When they call to me, I will answer them; I will be with them in trouble, I will rescue them and honor them. With long life I will satisfy them, and show them my salvation. 

 

Source: NRSV (New Revised Standard Version)

 

 

#ScriptureReflection - Matthew 9:32-38 (7.5.22)

A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus,
and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke.
The crowds were amazed and said,
“Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”

But the Pharisees said,
“He drives out demons by the prince of demons.”

Jesus went around to all the towns and villages,
teaching in their synagogues,
proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom,
and curing every disease and illness.

At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them
because they were troubled and abandoned,
like sheep without a shepherd.

Then he said to his disciples,
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;
so ask the master of the harvest
to send out laborers for his harvest.”

God Is Watching Over You (7.4.22)

My Beloved,

Your way is not hidden from Me.  All night long I Have watched over those of you who slept and abided in Me, through your sorrow.  All night, I Was holding you and comforting you as you flooded your bed with tears.  When you awakened today, I Was right there - breathing My New Mercies upon you.  You are so Loved by Me.

I Know, throughout this season, that some of you may have felt as though you have been in this valley far too long, but your time in the valley has had a purpose.

I’ve Heard every cry.
I’ve Seen every tear.

Your nightly talks with prayer and supplications have drawn Me closer to you.

I Was with you through your valley of weeping, catching every one of your tears and drying your eyes.  I Am moving the stones and rocks out of your path, that would cause you to stumble.  I Am with you.  I Am watching over you.  Because you are the apple of My Eye.

My Child, the day is about to break, and the shadows will flee. Therefore, position yourself to receive this change as you STAND on My Word.  Newly found blessings are about to manifest in your life.  I Am watching over you to ensure that all of the Blessings that I Have for you, will change your life.

I Am yours, and you are Mine.  I Am watching over My Word to see that the Words I Have Spoken over you, are fulfilled.   I watched over you, and carefully removed all of those things that have been hindering you; including family members and people who you thought were your friends.  

Being in the valley is going to Bless you;
     and you will never be the same.

Trust in My Word, because I Am watching over it, to ensure that My Word manifests. 

READ AND MEDITATE ON GOD'S WORD

Psalm 17:8 - Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,

Psalm 56:8 - Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?

Psalm 126:5 - They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

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

Jeremiah 31:28 - And it shall come to pass, that like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the LORD.

Hebrews 10:23 - Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 

Revelations 7:17 - For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and GOD shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

#ScriptureReflection - Luke 10:1-20 (7.3.22)

Jesus Sends Out the Seventy-Two

¹  After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. ²  He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. ³  Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. ⁴  Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.

⁵  “When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ ⁶  If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you. ⁷  Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house.

⁸  “When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you. ⁹  Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ ¹⁰  But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, ¹¹  ‘Even the dust of your town we wipe from our feet as a warning to you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God has come near.’ ¹²  I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.

¹³  “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. ¹⁴  But it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. ¹⁵  And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades.

¹⁶  “Whoever listens to you listens to me; whoever rejects you rejects me; but whoever rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

¹⁷  The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”

¹⁸  He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. ¹⁹  I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. ²⁰  However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

Source: NIV (New International Version)

#ScriptureReflection - Esther 9:29-32 (7.2.22)

Esther and Mordecai Act in Concert.

 ²⁹  Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote to confirm with full authority this second letter about Purim, ³⁰  and Mordecai sent documents concerning peace and security to all the Jews in the hundred and twenty-seven provinces of Ahasuerus’ kingdom. ³¹  Thus were established, for their appointed time, these days of Purim which Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had designated for the Jews, just as they had previously enjoined upon themselves and upon their descendants the duty of fasting and supplication.

³²  The command of Esther confirmed these prescriptions for Purim and was recorded in the book.

Source: NABRE (New American Bible Revised Edition)     

Pray.... and Listen for Our Father's Voice (7.1.22)

My Child,
There are times that some of you have tried to speak without listening to Me. 

You must always hear Me first, then speak.  Do not allow the enemy to pressure you into doing anything before the appointed time - My Appointed Time.  Come before My Presence, to receive the clarity that you need, and I Will tell you - I Will Speak to you - clearly and plainly.

Some of you have experienced much pain; and at times, it was because some of you did not "sit still" before Me, to listen for My Still Small Voice.  Do not worry.  All is not lost.  I Will restore all the enemy has taken from you.  And I Will Bless you abundantly, with blessings you've never had before.

 

Let Me be your guide, Beloved Child.
I Am the Only One Who can turn your situation around.
I Am the Only One Who can lead you onto a path of victory,
       against all that has come against you. 

Return to the prayer life you once knew.
Allow Me to re-position you. 

My Brilliant, Powerful, Love-Filled Child, there are things that I Want to change, things that I Need to change, and things that - it's just time (some overdue) - for change; so that you can be led by My Holy Spirit in all that you do. I will speak clearly for I am not a GOD of confusion. I will make My voice known unto you. 

Listen for My Voice.
Be obedient to My Holy Spirit.
Spend time in My Word daily.
Discern My Will for you.
Ask for My Wisdom.
Be Thankful.
Come before The Throne of Grace.
Give Me Honor, Glory and Love.
As I return the same to you.

For I Am ready, to bring to fruition,
     My Blessings and My Promises,
     for your life. 
 

Read and Meditate on God's Word

Genesis 22:18 - And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because thou hast obeyed my voice. 

Habakkuk 2:3 - For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it, because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Psalm 86:6 - Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications

Isaiah 50:4 - The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.

John 10:27 -  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

1 Corinthians 14:33 - For GOD is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.