August Cover Photo (2013)*

Slave Memorial/Burial Ground at Pres. George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate/Plantation
Mount Vernon, Virginia

- Photo by Rachel J Newman

"Can I Really Trust the Lord to See Me Through?" (8.31.13)

I hear the constant thoughts in your mind.  

Yes, I even hear the things you don’t speak.  

You’ve been asking yourself, “Can I really trust the Lord to see me through?”  
Well, let me answer that for you, “Yes, I can really be trusted”.  
I am the same GOD you trusted in the past, nothing has changed.

Do you honestly believe that I would forsake you in your greatest time of need?  I know it doesn’t seem like it, and you may not believe it, but I am arranging events even now that will deliver you from the struggles that have been causing you sleepless nights.

This deliverance won’t be as difficult as you imagine because the worst is already behind you.  

I just want you to trust in Me and stop belittling yourself.  Don’t you know each time you speak bad things to yourself, you are giving what you speak strength and power over your life.  Each time you say, “That was so stupid of me” - it only magnifies the mistake you've made and causes those words to take control of your spirit.

Do you believe I created anything stupid?  
Of course not.  
Everything I make is good and perfect, and I made you.  
You were created to conquer, and if you surrender all to Me, you will conquer every task that will be given you.

Soon there will be some interesting provisions coming your way.  Seemingly out of nowhere.  You will be amazed at what I am doing in your life to bring glory to My Kingdom. The provisions will be timed to meet, and in some instances exceed, all your needs.  You see, you only asked me to supply your needs, but I am a Father that goes above and beyond for His children.

So now, cease striving from those anxious thoughts in your mind, and start thinking of good things.  Then be at peace and know that The One who sees and hears all, can be trusted, and that He has everything under control.

Philippians 4:6-7 - Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto GOD and the peace of GOD which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 - Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do what he has promised (KJV)

Don't Worry and Don't Fret -- Faith Is... (8.30.13)

Do you truly understand what having faith in My Word means?

Faith in Me has nothing to do with what you can see in the natural. 
Faith is standing on My promises in spite of your circumstances. 
Faith is trusting in Me when you can’t see your next step.  
Faith is waiting patiently on Me to bring My word to pass, no matter how long it takes.

Faith is running to Me when your heart has been broken, 
instead reaching for a temporary source of fulfillment.  
Faith is receiving your healing, when all you feel is pain in your body.  
Faith is knowing I will prepare a table before you in the presence of your enemies, 
when you don’t know where your next meal will come from.  
Faith is believing your cup will runneth over, when your bank account is low.

Faith believes in the report of the Lord, even when you’ve just received bad news.  
Faith stands up and faces the enemy and says “So what." I am still standing. 
I am more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus.  

Faith says, because I believe, all things are possible to me, 
and know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Faith trusts Me with your future when all around you is going wrong.  
Faith does not back down when discouragement and disappointment come your way.  
Faith rises up and displays the detour sign, 
by lifting up the Sword of the Spirit, and shouting Hallelujah anyway!

Faith knows big miracles come from the midst of desperate situations.  
Faith is knowing that I will put a hedge of protection around you, 
so no harm can come near your dwelling place.  

Faith is walking victoriously before your blessing comes to pass.  
And faith is knowing when you are in a seemingly difficult situation, 
that I have already planned a miracle to work on your behalf.

So don’t worry and don’t fret.  
Look expectantly to Me in faith for your miracle and your deliverance, 
for I am faithful and I do take care of My own.

Now do you know what faith is?

Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

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

Hebrews 11:6  - But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to GOD must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 

You Never Have to Walk Alone (8.29.13)

We were created for one another.
There is no sense in trying to deny it.

Those who attempt to stand on their own two feet,
find that before long, they become tired,
wishing they had someone to lean on. 

GOD created us equal, so that we can adequately fill one another's needs.
He hopes we will share our lives with one another and with Him. 

Remember to always put GOD first in all things because He is the only one who can change any situation. People who feel they are above others or above needing others, are displaying signs of weakness; and they will be shown the error of their ways in due time. 

It is better to admit our needs to one another, than to try and go it alone. 

The Lord said that in the presence of two or more, there He will be, in the midst. 

Prayer:  
Father, 
I thank You 
that I never have to walk alone. 

You are by my side, 
and I have opportunities to share my life journey
with so many others. 

Bless my path, O Lord. 
Amen

Call Upon God in Truth (8.27.13)

The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth - Psalm 145:18

The promise of nearness to GOD when we pray was echoed centuries later by James - Come near to GOD and He will come near to you - James 4:8a.

James also mentions the issue of 'praying in truth', You do not have, because you do not ask GOD. When you ask and you do not receive, it may be that you are asking with the wrong motives. It is important to examine our hearts before we make requests of GOD.

For example, if your prayer stems from selfish desires, you are not calling upon Him in truth.  Ask the Father to show you anything that will keep you from drawing near to Him. The LORD will forgive you when you confess and ask for forgiveness.

Ask GOD to put the desire in the hearts of your friends and family to have a deep thirst for Him, and to allow nothing else to quench that thirst.

Prayer:

Loving Father,

Show me all the things that separate me from Your truth, 
so that You will draw near to me and hear my prayers. 

May your grace wash over me 
so that my motives will be pure 
as I seek You.

In the name of Your Son, JESUS CHRIST,
Amen

Praising Through Our Pain (8.26.13)

Praise heals brokenness in a way that words alone cannot. 

When we praise through our pain, GOD supernaturally empowers us
to do what seems impossible:
to rise above our circumstances. 

Our praise redirects our focus on Him, rather than our rejection, 

and reminds us that GOD always welcomes us into His presence.

Praising GOD is easy when life is full of happiness and success. 

However, when we're dealing with rejection, 

praising GOD can be difficult; it can feel like a sacrifice. 

It's not necessarily easy to offer a heart of thanks 

when we feel like we don't have much to be grateful for. 

 However, the writer of Hebrews advises us to 

"continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to GOD, 

that is, the fruit of lips" - Hebrews 13:15b. 

Just like fruit is sweet and pleasing to our taste, 

praise is sweet and pleasing to the Lord. 

Praising through the pain 

(and if we're honest, sometimes through the self-pity) 

seems to take strength we don't have to give. 

But the author of Hebrews 13:15 tells us that

our ability to praise in hard moments comes through Jesus.

As we tap into His power, 

our sacrifice of praise will generate more strength to praise, 

which will generate more praise.

It is a beautiful cycle! 

Praise lifts our eyes from the rejection 

and sets it on all that we have in Jesus 

which is peace, comfort and acceptance.

Being Alone with God (8.25.13)

The Son of GOD had thousand of people in his presence at any given time. He had a multitude in His presence as He opened the eyes of the blind and healed the sick; but when He was sweating on the cross and about to be crucified, He was alone.

When going through your trials, sometimes it is good to be alone. 
Often the greatest trials of your life will take place when you are alone. 

When this happens, you will need the power of GOD to sustain you while you are going through.  It is always good to have someone to pray with, but there is nothing that will give you courage and build up your character as being alone with GOD during the great battles of your life. 

Sometimes we depend on people and will listen to them when we are vulnerable. Jesus was left by those who had been with Him and knew Him best. They were tired and weary, and they had no conception of what was going on. 

It is good to be with friends and to hear their encouraging words; but being alone with GOD and praying to Him during our most challenging trials will help us to get through. Many of us fail this part of the test, because we are not prepared to go through our test alone without having anyone around. 

GOD does tell us to pray for one another and prayer groups are very effective; but sometimes you need to be alone with GOD, just you and Him in prayer. 

Remember we all have to stand before the Lord one day, alone, one-by-one and give an account for our lives. 

My point is, alone is not a negative word when it pertain to the Lord; because the bottom line is, you are never alone. 

He promised to never leave you nor forsake you!!!

Blessings & Prayer Points from Psalm 119 (8.23.13)

This excerpt is taken from Bryce Bouchard
------

As I thought about how to bless my loved ones through the Word of GOD, I came up with a list of topics that directly relate to select verses from Psalm 119.  Topics and areas that can be prayed on each day. 

I love praying these scriptures, as the Word is so vital to our walk with Jesus. I also find that my loved ones knowledge of the Scriptures is an encouragement and protection for me as well.

Why not pray these scriptures for your loved ones? 
Read each point, look up the verse, and turn it into a prayer. 
Pray one point each day of the month.

Prayer Points:

1. That they will learn the Word - Psalm 119:7
2. That they will hide the Word in their heart and not sin against God - Psalm 119:11
3. That they will declare the Word before others - Psalm 119:13
4. That they will meditate on the Word and learn the ways of God - Psalm 119:15
5. That they will delight in the Word and not neglect it - Psalm 119:16
6. That their eyes will be opened to see all the wonderful things in the Word - Psalm 119:18
7. That their soul will be consumed with a longing for the Word at all times - Psalm 119:20
8. That the Word will be their counsel in all things - Psalm 119:24
9. That when they are discouraged; the Word will be their life, strength and delight - Psalm 119:25, 28 & 143
10. That the Lord will give them understanding and discernment of the Word - Psalm 119:27
11. That God will be gracious to them and keep them from deceitful ways through the Word - Psalm 119:29
12. That their heart will be turned to the Word and away from selfish gain and worthless things - Psalm 119:36 & 37
13. That as they grasps the goodness of the Word; God will take away any dread or fear that may have a hold on them - Psalm 119:39
14. That they will trust in the Word and use it to answer the enemy who taunts them - Psalm 119:42
15. That the Word of truth will not be snatched from their mouth - Psalm 119:43
16. That they will seek out the Word, and find in it freedom for daily living - Psalm 119:45
17. That they will have opportunity to speak the Word to people of influence; and that they will do it boldly and without shame - Psalm 119:46
18. That their love and longing for the Word will grow; and that it will be sweeter and more valuable to them with each passing day - Psalm 119:47, 72, 103 & 131
19. That the Word will come to them during times of trial and bring them comfort - Psalm 119:52, 61 & 83
20. That they will be grieved when the Word is forsaken - Psalm 119:53 & 136
21. That the Word will be their song, regardless of their outward surroundings - Psalm 119:54
22. That they will have friends who follow the Word - Psalm 119:63
23. That the Lord will do good to them, according to His Word - Psalm 119:65
24. That they will learn knowledge and good judgment through the Word - Psalm 119:66
25. That they will meditate long and often on the Word; gleaning much insight from it - Psalm 119:97 & 99
26. That they will stay far from evil paths, so they can obey the Word - Psalm 119:101
27. That the Word will be a lamp to their feet and a light to their path, bringing them delight - Psalm 119:105
28. That they will stand in awe of the Word - Psalm 119:120
29. That the meaning of the Word will unfold to them; and that it will give them light and understanding - Psalm 119:130
30. That they will be convinced that the Word is righteous and fully trustworthy - Psalm 119:138
31. That when they stray, they will seek the Word; and that it will woo them back to God - Psalm 119:176

A Prayer for Perfect Peace (8.22.13)

Heavenly Father,

I come to you in the name of your son JESUS 
asking you to please forgive me
for allowing worry and anxiety to take root in my life.

I plead the blood of Jesus Christ against the spirit of fear,
and I declare and decree that you did not
give me a spirit of fear, but of power, love
and a sound mind.

You are in complete control and
You are greater than any fear my mind can conceive.

By worrying,
I have displayed an obvious lack of faith in you Father.
Please forgive me LORD,
because without faith, it is impossible to please You.

Father, I give You the weight of the world 
that I have taken on my shoulders,
and I place it in Your hands.

I cast all my cares upon You, because You care for me.

Father, in the name of Jesus
I bind anxious and worrisome thoughts
out of my life.

I bind my heart, my sound and my mind to the Holy Spirit. 
I take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ 
and in its place, I loose the peace of GOD, 
which surpasses all understanding that it should guard 
my heart and mind through Christ Jesus.

Oh Lord, when my heart is overwhelmed,
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Father, you promised to keep me in perfect peace
if I keep my mind on you, and if I trust in you.

I make this my declaration Lord,
I will fix all my thoughts on You because I trust in You.

Thank You Father, for delivering me from worry,
I thank You Lord for binding every stronghold
of the enemy coming against me
and thank you for casting them out.

I thank You for allowing me to rest in this confidence,
knowing that You are for me and with me,
I know that there is nothing I will face today
that You can't see me through.

I know that no power is greater than You.
I can rest in Your arms because nothing is strong enough
to come against me and succeed.

I praise You for this victory,
and for Your divine peace that floods my soul.

In Jesus Name I pray,
Amen

God Transforms Us with Each Trial We Experience (8.21.13)

Malachi 3:3 illustrates the picture of a silversmith purifying precious metal.

GOD shares this picture to let us know that He is the silversmith refining us.
He is the one who burns away the dross, which is anything that is trivial or inferior.
Anything that is not necessary nor helpful. 

Most of us would agree that life's trials can sometimes feel like a punishment. 
Major disruptions seem like they're meant to make us miserable.
The truth is, GOD transforms us with each trial we experience. 
He is removing the "dross" or imperfections from us. 

Each time we experience a major ordeal, we should become stronger, wiser and more prepared for the next challenge. We are conquerors and overcomers with GOD's help. Ordeals, hardships and distresses are permitted by GOD for our perfection. Either He permits them or He plans them. If GOD has intentionally allowed us to go through a troublesome path, He always has a purpose for doing so.

Trials and hardships are not always about us.
GOD allows us to go through pain, suffering and distraction
to teach others about His love, His steadfastness, and His mercies.
The way we react to hardships and suffering reflects what we believe about GOD.
It also allows others to see how faithful He will be to those who have trusted in Him.

None of us are immune to hardship and tough circumstances; and sometimes these are the best ways for GOD to perfect us. He wants to display us as His showpieces, to give hope to those who might be going through the same test.

We may not always feel good about how GOD chooses to perfect us.
However, if GOD allows these things to take place in our lives, then we must trust that He has a purpose.

God sends His "assignments" to believers, so that we can show the world that He is worthy to be trusted.
If I show I have confidence in GOD, then I'm announcing to the world with my actions and attitude that our great GOD knows exactly what He is doing with my life. 

Nothing compares to knowing and trusting that the Lord is in control, especially when everything around you appears to be unstable. He won't allow us to go through any trial or test without having a greater purpose behind it. This purpose will make us more like Him. 

 What you are going through, or should I say your time of testing, is not in vain!

Father,

Help me with the anguish I feel when life has overwhelmed me, 
at times it seems to be more than I can handle. 

Give me strength to push on. 

Remind me of Your peace and keep me focused on the truth 
that You have a greater plan and purpose for my life.

In Jesus Name, 
Amen

Rise Up, Press Through, Pray and Enter Into a Most Fruitful Season (8.20.13)

I hear you crying in the midnight hours. 

Do not lack faith in My ability to deliver you.
Do not fear the raging rivers or turbulence that you see. 

Do not think that I cannot part the sea before you. 

Do not see it as an obstacle before you, 

but view it as another opportunity for Me
to come in and speak peace to calm your sea.

Do not fear anything that the enemy puts before you, because I will shake what needs to be shaken. I will push back what opposes you, and I will purify what requires holy purification in My sight. I tell you that I am the same yesterday, as I am today and will be tomorrow. Nothing can stop My hand and now you will see My hand move.

I am bringing you into a season of bearing more fruit than before, for My glory. 

This should not surprise you because I put this seed in your heart a long time ago. Yes, I planted that seed in your heart, and you have prayed a long time for this. But it seems as though the closer you get to the promise, the more the enemy opposes you. 

He knows who you are and what you are about to do. 

So don’t allow him to hinder you anymore.

You must rise up, press through, and pray through this last step. 

For I am sending a release, a refreshing restoration, 

and the breakthrough will be like nothing you have ever experienced. 

You will rise to a new level of wisdom and understanding. You will soar to new heights. My wings will carry you through this next season. Your steps have been ordained. It has been written in My word, and My word cannot return void. What I put in order shall come to pass; in the order for which I have decreed.

So stand in faith on the promises that I decree before you and you will see them pass. 

I am the LORD.
I will provide.
Nothing can stop My hand.


Isaiah 41:10 - Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy GOD: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

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.

Malachi 3:6 - For I am the LORD, I change not. 

Let Go of the Fears & Worries in Your Heart (8.19.13)

You know that the Lord is going to bless you, 

but when you look at your circumstances you begin to wonder 

if things will ever get better. 

You begin to wonder where is the Lord in all of this? 

Your situation seems so impossible, 

and although you know the Lord is more than capable of giving you 

exceeding, abundantly, above that which you ask, 

something inside of you just can't let go of those feelings of 

anguish.  And fear takes over.

Today, I pray this word will comfort, encourage, 

strengthen, and give you renewed faith in GOD’s word 

I pray you know that IT’S ALREADY DONE.


Beloved,
Your cries and prayers have not fallen on deaf ears. Not one tear that has been shed has fallen to the ground. Don’t you know that I saw this day before you were born? I know your needs and desires. I knew about them before you took your first breath. All that you have been through has brought you to this point. You are where you are right now because I want your trials to bring you closer to me.

Let go of the fear that’s in your heart. 

Let go of doubting that I will come through for you. 

I have kept you, and I have brought you this far.  

Am I not capable of delivering you? 

Fear not, beloved, fear not. For I am the same GOD which opens your eyes each day to see the sun that hangs in the sky. I am the same GOD which causes you to walk on the land that I formed.

I AM, that I AM. 

And I am more than capable to do all things. Is it not written that you are more precious than the birds in the air and the lilies of the field? Then, please don’t worry about your situation. Has the worrying changed anything? So please release your trials into my hands. When worry attempts to invade your thoughts just stop and say “JESUS”. That’s all you have to say. Worry can’t linger when I am present. Just say, “JESUS”. 

So precious child, I am here for you. I am watching over you. I am working on your behalf. I am bringing restoration into your life and I will deliver you. Just let Me have full control and know that I have you safely in My hands. Rest now and be assured that all you need, all that concerns you is in My Hands, and that’s IT’S ALREADY DONE.


Luke 12:22 – 31 - Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of GOD above all else, and he will give you everything you need. (NLT)

A Prayer of Commitment & Intercession (8.18.13)

Heavenly Father,

Forgive me for the many times I have told others
that I would pray for them, but have forgotten! 

Prompt me by Your Spirit to develop a holy habit 

of praying for a person or situation as soon as possible,
even immediately in the presence of the one who asks! 

May I boldly trust You to give me
Your Words to speak into every life and situation.

Keep my mind from moving on to the busyness of my day,
until I have sought Your face on behalf of the one
who has asked me to pray for them!

Count on me, Father, to do the work of an intercessor,
releasing Your power into the lives of others.

In the matchless name of JESUS,
I pray this prayer

Amen

----
1 Timothy 6:15 - Praise GOD as the blessed and only Ruler over all things

Thank him for sustaining all things by his powerful Word and holding all things together. 

Confess any situation in which you have resisted GOD’s rule in your life. 

Commit yourself to knowing and doing his will. 

I pray the Lord will put a hedge of protection around you and your loved ones, 

protecting you always.

There is none other, who can stand equally beside our Father. 

He is the "Great I AM". 

You are Ready. Loose Yourself from the Past and Move into the New (8.16.13)

Grieve no more at the losses and troubles of the past. 
Rise up with joy in your heart, and sing praises to My name. 
For a change has come upon your life. 

You were living in the wilderness, where everything around you was dry or dying. I know you were frustrated at times, but this time was needed to uproot and remove all the weeds that were trying to overtake your life.

Yes, now the time has come for your resurrection, your new life. 
The old has passed away, and those obstacles that once stood in your way are no more. 

For My wind uprooted them and blew them away; during this process you were strengthened and learned not to depend on your own strengths and abilities.  You learned to lean on Me. So you see, your wilderness season was needed.

Now you are ready to receive new life. 
Now you are ready to loose yourself from the past, and move into the new. 

Get ready to experience a new wind that will blow over your life. When you see and feel this wind, do not see it as a disaster, but rather see it as a sign that I am about to do something new in your life. This new wind will usher in My rain to water what was dry and barren. My rain will cause you to thrive and flourish, and will restore even more than what you had before.

When I bring restoration into your life, no longer will you feel sorrowful over what you lost. You will no longer mourn over the past, because what you are about to receive will be far greater than things lost. The seeds that were sown during your dry season will spring forth and bear more fruit than you have ever known.  I will enlarge you, and cause you to prosper, so that your dry season will become a blessing to My Kingdom

So prepare yourself for a period of resurrection and a time of growth. 
Prepare yourself for a new beginning, because the old has passed away.
The new is about to come. 
Lift up your head and rejoice, for your salvation is at hand. 

Isaiah 43:19 - 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.

2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Have Faith, Believe and Walk in Obedience (8.15.13)

When you have faith in Me, you demonstrate an act of obedience. 
And when you step out in faith, your obedience will gain you favor in the eyes of GOD.

Do not believe those negative things you see with your natural eyes. Do not process them with the carnal mind. It is by faith that men of old entered into the promises of GOD. And it is by faith that you should rise up and tell your problems, “MY GOD IS BIGGER”

Do not be intimidated by the negative reports of others. For this is the work of the enemy, to cause you to give up on promises made.  To render them impossible. You know that all things are possible for those who believe, so walk in this truth, and do not give room to the enemy.

You have within you the ability to overcome every obstacle in your way. 

GOD said, I gave you the power to rise up above circumstances and I have made a way whereby you are able to conquer every foe, to say "NO" to temptation, and to discern the truth from a lie. I have given you every tool to outsmart the enemy and to build up your faith according to the instructions written in My Word. All you need to do is believe and walk in faith, regardless of what is going on around you.

"Believe the Word of GOD, walk in obedience to it and you shall be numbered among the faithful," says the LORD. You will come to understand that no weapon formed against you shall prosper, because the faith that rises up in you will move mountains, tear down strongholds, and make the crooked ways straight; for the will of the Lord to be performed in your life. So walk according to faith, so that no power on earth is able to defeat you.

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

Hebrews 10:38 - Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

Hebrews 11:6 - But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to GOD must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 

Stand Your Ground (8.14.13)

There is something pressuring you.  

Something trying to convince you to do something 

I have not called you to do. 

You are hesitant and do not want to participate, but the pressure is very strong. This is not my spirit speaking to you. 

This day, Stand your ground without wavering.  

Do not give in to anything that causes stress or has a sense of urgency about it. For, the enemy wants you to be distracted from an important chain of events that will produce greater spiritual power and benefits as you continue in the flow of My wisdom and blessings, says the Lord.

Galatians 5:1 - Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

I'm praying for you; 

that the peace of God will flood your soul, 

and send any fears holding you back running. 

So that the vision the Lord has given you, 

will come to pass.

Thank God for what you have.  

Trust God for what you need.

Stop, Be Still and Become Quiet - So You Can Clearly Hear Me (8.13.13)

I know you are in the midst of a difficult situation.

I know you feel as though there’s no way out. 

There is a way out… It’s Me.

It’s time to withdraw from everyone so that you can hear My voice. 

I have been speaking to you, but you’ve been so busy - that you haven’t heard anything I've said. 

I need your attention. 

For the things I’ve called you to do are very important. 

As soon as I have your undivided attention, I can show you the things which you have forgotten to do; but  that still must be done. I can show you the doors I closed, which you thought were closed by man. I can show you things about your life that you might not otherwise see. And I can tell you why you don’t want to let go of, what you’ve been struggling so hard to hold onto. 

There are things you are thinking and enjoying that are not glorifying My Kingdom.

When you stop, be still and become quiet - you will be able to hear Me clearly and understand what I need you to do.  Only then will you be able to come out of your holding pattern

ARE YOU ON HOLD TODAY?
When we are deep in the belly of a difficult situation, there are no interruptions. GOD has our undivided attention. All we can do is sit, think, meditate, and pray. We can’t run from GOD because there are no mountains high enough, valleys low enough, rooms that are dark enough, or places that are hidden enough from Him. GOD knows exactly where we are.  He knows everything about us. (Psalms 139)


Examples of GOD's Holding Patterns:

1. When you are sick in your physical body, and you’ve prayed and claimed your healing.  Yet it hasn’t manifested in the natural… You are in a holding pattern.
   
2. When you are having problems with your children and you have put them on the altar, but you don’t see any change… You are in a holding pattern.
   
3. When you have been praying for the salvation of a loved one and they still haven’t been saved...... You are in a holding pattern.
   
4. When you are in a broken relationship and you have given it over to GOD, but it has not been restored… You are in a holding pattern.
   
5. When the doors slam shut before you even knock… You are in a holding pattern.

GOD has a reason, a purpose, and a plan behind the hold.

His plan is to strengthen you, to give you hope, and provide for you a prosperous future. So stop struggling and start praying, trusting and most of all, start listening. He'll keep you right where you are, until you can clearly hear what He is saying to you.

And one thing He wants you to hear is, "I love you.  I’m with you. Trust Me."

Jonah 2:1-2 - Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly, And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.

Jonah 2:9-10 - But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD. And the LORD spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.

"Until GOD opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway." - Unknown

Wait and Completely Trust Me (8.12.13)

You are trying to force the issue. 
Wait on Me.  I will open doors and make a way for you. 

There are things that you just can't push through at this moment. 
You must be patient and wait for the right time before trying to move ahead. 
Stay calm and work your way through this current dilemma. 
Anxiety and worry will not generate any solutions at all. 

And don’t be concerned about what others are doing, nor the things they have to say.  You belong to Me and I am watching over you.  Be still and listen for my direction.  For I will certainly guide you through these difficulties and provide the help you need to achieve the victory.  But this will be done in my time not yours.  

Completely trust me with this.

Your breakthrough is closer than you realize.  I will make your latter greater than your former. So don’t force the issue and try to make things happen.   Just relinquish all that worries you to Me.  Be patient, trust Me and rest in knowing that the right time will come.  And when it does I will not disappoint you.  

Haven’t you heard that good things come to those who wait? 

This is true for you at this time, says the Lord.

Ecclesiastes 7:8 - The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.

Psalm 37:34 - Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.

Isaiah 30:15 - For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; in returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength

A Prayer of Faith (8.11.13)

Heavenly Father,

Your Word says, 'Without faith, it is impossible to please You,'
and Lord, my sincerest desire is to please You.  

To hear You tell me at the end of my life, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.”  I know, that unless I am living by faith, it is impossible to please You. In all humility I come before You, this day, with this request -  Oh Lord, increase my faith!

Instill within me the confidence and the wisdom to know that You are able and willing to intervene in my life every day. At the same time Lord, place a watch over my eyes so that I am not focused on the reward, but on You. 

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of GOD. 

Holy Spirit speak to my heart.  Speak the faith-creating words of our Father, so that my trust in JESUS is unshakable.  So that I can quench the fiery darts of the wicked one.

I thank You, Lord.  For when my mind is stayed on You, and I place my trust in You - You've promised to keep me in perfect peace. 

LORD GOD, You are in control of my life and I surrender all that I am to You.

O Lord,  increase my faith!

In JESUS Name, we pray,

Amen

I Am with You at All Times & Through All Trials; So Remain Faithful & Be at Peace (8.10.13)

Where can you go and the Lord is not present? 

How can you escape His presence? 

For He is there with you every step of the way. 

You may not feel His presence, but He is there with you.  

Experiencing and watching over everything you are going through.

You are not alone. 

He knows your trials and your heartaches. 

He knows your hopelessness and discouragement. 

He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able to bear. 

He will provide a way of escape so that you will be able to endure.

He will not allow you to be crushed under your burdens. 

He will send others to help you through, for you are not alone. 

Do not expect to go it alone, for this battle is not unto death;

but to bring much glory to the kingdom of GOD.

When you go through the fire, you will not be burned. 

When you go through the waters, they will not overtake you. 

When you go through the storm, it will not carry you away. 

For you have the power, in your words, to take authority over your trials. 

You have authority over all the works of the enemy.

Peace I speak over you. 

Peace that the world does not have, I give to you this day. 

Do not allow the enemy to oppress you because of how severe your trials are. 

I have much confidence that you will remain faithful through it all.

Look to Me, for I am the author and the finisher of your faith. 

Do not trust in your own faith but trust in Me. 

When you speak to that mountain, it has to move. 

When you speak to the storm, it will cease to exist in your life. 

Remain faithful and I will give you My crown of life.

I have allowed you to go through the fire, 

because I love you. 

I turned the heat up higher, 

because I do not want you to lean upon your own understanding. 

In all your ways I want you to seek Me, and I will direct your path. 

Give Me your heart so that I can purify it. 

If you exempt Me from the decisions you make, 

you will always make the wrong choices.

Now when things seem to overwhelm you, know that I am there with you. 

I will not allow you to go through anything that you cannot handle. 

Reach out and grab hold of My hand. 

I will strengthen you, comfort you, and direct you. 

Whatever you need I am there for you.

Where can you go from My presence? 

There is no place you can go that I am not there. 

I am there with you at all times so be at peace.

Speak Only with the Tongue of Christ (8.9.13)

Beverly was the center of attention in her close knit social group. 

For some unknown reason, she took it upon herself to be the judge and jury over the actions of her friends. 

Whenever the women got together to fellowship, they were treated to Beverly's opinion of what everyone else was doing wrong. When her friends became tired of hearing what Beverly had to say, and tried to distance themselves from her, that person became her next target of attack. People were afraid to be friends with her, and they were even more afraid not to be friends with her.

No one should like to hear gossip and criticism. 

People usually try to avoid gossipers, therefore making them an outcast from the rest of the world. GOD will cast the gossiper out from His presence. There is no room in His Kingdom for those who delight in the shortcomings of others. The spirit of Christ within us should build up, not tear down. If we give our heart to Christ, and put forth an effort to become conscious of what we say, then we should never say damaging things against our neighbors. 

Speak only with the tongue of Christ, and you will be a blessing to everyone you meet.

 

Prayer:

 

Father, 

Please remove from me a malicious and gossiping nature.

Lord, I know you created the tongue 

to be the smallest part of our bodies, 

yet it is the deadliest. 

GOD fill me with praise, joy and spiritual thoughts. 

Let my words bless others with kindness and love. 

In your Word, 

you told us to love one another the way you have loved us. 

Help me Lord not to slander or gossip about others, 

because I know you are going to hold me accountable 

for every word that I speak. 

Amen

Spend More Time in Prayer with Me (8.8.13)

I know some of you have almost lost hope
because you have not received what you desire
in the natural, physical realm.  

'Your faith in Me must not be in temporary things that will soon pass away, but rather in being one with Me,' says the Lord.  When your faith is in what you want Me to do for you, instead just wanting Me, it is misplaced.  You see, I already know what you need.  But it is My desire for you to need Me more than you need the things of this world.  

Spending more time in prayer with Me, 

will draw you nearer to Me.

I realize that waiting on Me is sometimes a challenge, 

and you stress over My timing. 

If you will spend more of your 'waiting time' in prayer with Me, those months might only seem like days. Spending more time in prayer with Me will prepare you to receive your blessings.  There have been times you have asked for things, but were not ready to receive them.  And that delayed your blessings.  

More time in prayer will strengthen your stand against the attacks of the enemy when your blessings are delayed.  Then you will be able to speak to the mountains blocking your blessings and see them move.

So spend more time in prayer with Me, and you will see 

that the enemy cannot touch what I have ordained for you.  

You will see My timing is always what is best for you.  

You will see the blessings have been worth the wait.

And you will see that you are becoming more like Me. 

Spend more time in prayer with Me.

Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Philippians 4:6 - Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

2 Corinthians 4:18 - While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are. 

God Is Watching Over Us All (8.6.13)

Our Lord watches over us carefully and lovingly. 

He wants us to look forward to the times we spend with Him. 

He also wants us to be assured that He will take care of us and protect us.

As a shepherd gives everything possible to protect his flock,
so GOD gives everything to guard His followers. 

Trust in Him, and He will watch over you. 

He is JEHOVAH SHAMMAH, our forever present GOD.

 

Prayer: 

Lord, 

I need to know that You are watching me.
You are the source of my confidence and security.
Lead me to spend all of my time
pursuing Your love and protection.

Amen

His Plans, His Strength, His Love and His Wisdom (8.5.13)

It is written in GOD's Word that, ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what GOD has prepared for those who love him' - 1 Corinthians 2:9.

Focusing on intimacy with GOD, and seeking a passion for Him, does not release us from loving people the way GOD loves people. When we pursue GOD passionately, we will be empowered to love people in a healthy, GOD-centered way. We will also make a great impact through our public lives. 

Without developing intimacy with GOD, we will impact our public environment in mediocre ways such as depending upon our own strength, our own plans, our own love, and our own wisdom. 

We serve a powerful GOD who desires intimacy with us. 

Together we can “win” the world, but only through His plans, His strength, His love, and His wisdom. Passion is required. 

We have no other options if this world is to be reached for Jesus!

Father,

Sometimes it is hard for me to comprehend 

Your love for every person on this earth.  

Help me to love people as You love them, 

and help me to see them through 

the supernatural loving eyes of Jesus. 

Help me to love those who do and say 

wicked things to others. 

I know that you love them, 

just as much as you love me. 

You said in your Word that, 

the sun will shine on the just and unjust. 

Help me Lord to fully understand this 

and love people anyway. 

Help me to never judge but to love every person, 

for you have created them the same way you created me. 

In the matchless name of your son Jesus,

Amen  

A New and Brighter Day Awaits You (8.4.13)

Some darkness has crept in upon you. 

You are feeling isolated and alone at times.
This has complicated your heart.  

Let Me tell you today, a new and brighter day awaits you.  

I am about to turn My bright light upon you and your path.  

It is important right now that you listen to My whispers, 

and pay very close attention to what I told you, 

while you walked through the valley.  

My prophetic word has come to you today to turn on the lamp, 

and it will drive away the darkness.

Keep your eyes fixed and heart focused on Me, as you step out.  

Do not look to the right or to the left.  

Do not be moved by what the enemy wants to distract you with.  

Follow My voice, the Voice of the One who will lead you into all truth.  

A new day awaits you.  

I have been preparing you for this time and it is time to step out in faith.  

Do not let doubt come in, but move forward with steadfastness and sureness. 

 Step forward in faith and suddenly doors will open up before you.  

I say unto you, look up,
for that which you have desired draws near.  

A new and brighter day awaits you.   

Matthew 10:27 - What I tell you now in the darkness, shout abroad when daybreak comes. What I whisper in your ears, shout from the housetops for all to hear!

2 Peter 1:19 - So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.

1 Corinthians 16:8 - For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.

All My Intentions are for Your Good (8.3.13)

I know there are times you question My kindness, especially when life seems unfair. 

The enemy uses this time to fill your mind with doubts, causing you to call into question if I will fulfill My word.  You should know by now that My timing and your timing will not always be the same, but My timing is always right on time. 

I understand how hard it is for you to wait, and how you long for Me to move quickly on your behalf. But I'm using this time of delay to shape and mold you into My image.  And while I am doing this, please don’t take matters into your own hands. Just begin to praise Me, and know that the longer you wait, the more deeply you will appreciate the blessing when you receive it.  

I want you to turn a deaf ear to what the enemy is saying to you, and declare your trust in My timing.  Chose to believe that I will be on time in your situation, and as you do this, I will strengthen your wait on Me.  When you praise and worship Me, My Spirit nurtures your faith and causes your faith to grow.   No matter the circumstances, thank Me for My goodness.  

All My intentions for you, are for your good. 

Soon there will come a day when you see Me bring good out of every evil the enemy has done.  Now start celebrating My loving-kindness by thanking Me for the blessings I pour into your life each day, blessings that you sometimes may take for granted.

So be at peace, and know that I will always do what's best for you.  And understand My timing is always the best timing for you.  

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

Psalm 90:4 - For you, a thousand years are as a passing day, as brief as a few night hours.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 - In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 

Fall Into God's Arms and Let It Go (8.2.13)

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.  That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Oh what powerful scriptures.  

However, there are times we fail to recognize the power in this message.  Are you going through a trial?  Are you facing a situation where you have tried and tried, yet nothing seems to be working for you?  Well, instead of causing your blood pressure to rise, or giving yourself an ulcer, go to the Lord in prayer. 

Hold your arms out and just say, "Lord, I don’t know what to do.  

I can't see how I can do this!  

I am letting it go right now, and I turn this over to you.  

I surrender!

And He will say to you:

Thank you. 
Now, leave it totally in My hands.
I’ve been standing right here with you, waiting for you to release it to Me.  I have wanted to be strong for you!  I have wanted to take that burden, but you've been hanging on to it so strongly that you hindered Me from helping you.  

Thank you for giving it to Me.

Now, I can move on your behalf.  

I can do what you were not able to do.  

In your weakness, My strength will be a rock for you to lean on.  Your surrender allows Me to release an abundance of blessings into your life.  Watch as the most amazing things begin to happen in and around you. And it will happen all because you fell into My arms and let it go. 

I’m sorry it took you so long to do this, 

but I’ve been here the entire time.  

So, I say to you this day, 

whatever you've been crying and praying about, 

it doesn't matter if it's finances, healing, family, a relationship, or whatever it is;
if you're tired and worn out from battling day and night, tired of getting nowhere,  

GIVE IT UP, SURRENDER IT TO JESUS!  

Release it right now to the Lord. Admit your weakness, and allow Him to  move miraculously on your behalf. Then start praising the Lord for taking the burden off of you, and watch the Lord do in a moment (His timing), what you could not do in a lifetime.  You will be so glad you did.

Then you will realize, 

YOU ARE NO LONGER WEAK, 

YOU ARE STRONG IN THE LORD!  

Look at Each Day as a Gift and Do Not Worry (8.1.13)

Many of us have spent restless hours being anxious about tomorrow.

I know I am guilty of this. 

It might have been worrying about a loved one, 

waiting for a test result from a doctor, 

or waiting to hear if we have gotten a job. 

It really does not matter what the situation, 

many of us have been anxious about things we shouldn’t be, or have no control over.

Jesus tells us clearly in His word 

not to be anxious about things that could happen, 

because there is nothing we can do about them. 

Listen to what He says. 

Beloved,
I don’t want you to be anxious about anything.  

I know what you need.

As I said in My Word, I know what you need before you ask. 

Yet you spend so much time being worried about tomorrow, you forget to enjoy today. 

I want you to start looking at each day as a gift, and consider it a blessing, because it is. 

Truly it is.

Sometimes one of the best things you can do when you are filled with anxiousness is to focus your thoughts on someone less fortunate than yourself and ask Me how you may be a blessing to that person. 

When you take the time to be a blessing to someone else, you soon forget your troubles, and concentrate on helping them. Only then can you realize how truly blessed you are, and you become even more grateful for what you do have.  This teaches you to count your blessings instead of focusing on your problems.

Don’t allow anxious thoughts to steal your joy.  I made this day just for you, says our Father. So remember to enjoy it, embrace it with thanksgiving and love. Remember satan came to steal, kill, and destroy. Don’t allow him to steal any more of your days. 

This is the day I have made, rejoice, and be glad.

My Prayer,
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for reminding me that You hold all my tomorrows in your hand, so there is no need for me to be worried about my tomorrow anymore.
I thank You for the peace and joy that You give me as I meditate on Your Word. 
Oh Lord, help me to stay before You in prayer and worship so my mind will stay at peace.  
Amen