September Cover Photo (2014)*

Photo courtesy of Rachel J Newman

To Hear God's Voice, You Must Be at Peace; and Take the Time to Listen (9.30.14)

My Child, 

You have asked Me for wisdom,
to know how to deal with difficult problems.
However, are you really listening to Me?
It is in your best interest to stop worrying and fretting;
and to have more faith and trust in Me.

Be quiet and pay attention to My still small voice.
I will show you the way, and I will be with you on the journey.

You asked Me for help,
because you don’t understand what to do next.
However, in order to receive the help you need, 

you must silence your frustration and fears.  

You must be at peace, before you can hear My voice. 

You have so many things vying for your attention,
that you are distracted, and not paying attention 

to what I am saying.

Take some time away from it all and quiet your mind. 

Be sensitive to My leading and My direction,
and do not rely on your own understanding and desires.
When you’re at peace, you will be able to hear Me.
When you hear My voice, be obedient to My will.
It is one thing to ask for wisdom,
and another thing to receive it and be obedient. 

I know what is best for you, My Child;
and I will supply all the help you need.

I am the Lord, Your God and
I just need you to take some time to listen
to My voice and be at peace.
_________

MEDITATE ON GOD'S WORD:

Deuteronomy 4:30-31  - When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; (For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.

Deuteronomy 7:12 - If you listen to these regulations and faithfully obey them, the LORD your God will keep his covenant of unfailing love with you, as he promised with an oath to your ancestors. (NLT)

James 1:5-8 - If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his way

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

Being Purpose-Filled, Holy & Pure of Heart Before the Lord Our God (9.29.14)

But your iniquities have separated you from your GOD; and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He will not hear. - Isaiah 59:2

When we come into the presence of GOD,
we will always behold one outstanding characteristic
of God's nature: His holiness. 

There is not a blemish in GOD. Purity and impurity do not mix.
If we are to have intimate fellowship with our God,
who is holy, then we must be clean before Him.
 
David asked the question in Psalms 24, “Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who may stand in His holy place?” He then answered his own question saying, “He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully” - Psalms 24:3-4. Only the pure in heart will be able to enter into the presence of GOD and discover intimacy with Him.

Sin, in the life of the believer, hinders an intimate fellowship with GOD. GOD is pure. GOD is holy. When sin resides within the heart of a disciple, it is impossible for that disciple to walk in deep intimate fellowship with GOD, the One who is absolute purity. 

We must confess our sins, and “He [will be] faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

_______
~ A Purpose-Filled Prayer ~

Righteous Father, 

You created me for a purpose;
and my heart’s desire is to fulfill
what You have called me to do.

I struggle with being pulled in many directions,
because of all the needs around me,
and I can easily be caught up too often
in busyness or distractions!

Please God, do not let me be deluded
by the comfortable, or satisfied with
less than Your best!

Draw my heart into the depths of Your Kingdom,
here on earth, for the sake of Your Kingdom to come.

May I bring You honor and glory,
in the midst of what You have entrusted to me!

Amen

God will Direct Your Path, Seek Him in the Stillness & Quietness (9.28.14)

My Child, I am not found in the hurricane, 

but in the gentle breeze.

So do not look for My Will in the loud noises around you, 

but rather in the stillness of your spirit. 

For when things are silent, you will feel a gentle prompting within; 

and when you do, know that it is I, the Lord your God that you are hearing.

For as your Father, I will not shout at you nor shake you.
I will not push you nor demand of you.
Rather, I will whisper to you and woo you.
You will be invited to listen to My direction.

For it is the world, and the enemy, that pulls you 

from direction to direction.
It is the voice of the enemy that accuses
and forces you into his will.
It is the voice of the enemy that makes demands
of you and pushes you beyond what I intended.

So silence those voices.  Seek Me in quietness.

Listen for My soft and tender voice.
Find a place of rest and come so you can hear Me.
Find a moment of quiet in your day today,
and listen to the gentle prompting within,
for I am talking to you right now.

I am trying to get your attention, My Child,

so that I can show you the way you should go.
I will direct your path through stillness and quietness.
You will see that I have been trying to lead you all along
and there are many secrets I want to share with you.

My Child, I Am the Lord your God,

and I am here now, knocking at your door.
I will not bang on the door.  I will only knock gently. 
Come to ME My Child, so we can fellowship. 

I am here.  I am patiently waiting.

Turning Completely to God through Fasting & Prayer (9.26.14)

GOD’s Word tells us that GOD “opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). 

How can we walk in humility before our GOD?  We can recognize that humility puts us in a position to be able to receive from Him.

As individuals, families, churches, communities and nations; we are in desperate need of a fresh touch from GOD… we desperately need to hear His voice, instead of the clamor around us!

We live in a society of an “I’ll do it myself” mentality. However, there always comes a time when “ones self” just can’t do it anymore. Eventually, we realize that we are not GOD, and that we are in desperate need of Him!

That was the situation in Judah during Jehoshaphat’s day. An army from several nations was on the march against them. Outnumbered and in despair, they turned to GOD, fasted and prayed. Their fasting put them in a place of humility where they could pray the right prayer. After they fasted, Jehoshaphat’s prayer was not a prayer asking GOD to bless their efforts, nor to do what they wanted Him to do.

Instead, it was an astonishing prayer of humility in which he said. “O Lord, we do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you (2 Chronicles 20:2-12). Fasting brings us to a proper place of humility before GOD, where we are able to pray prayers of humility, faith and dependence.

Fasting also helps us to focus ourselves upon GOD and allows us to be lead by the Holy Spirit. Doing without food for an extended period of prayer, helps us to put away distractions and turn completely to the Lord. We are living in a time in which GOD is calling His Church back into an intimate relationship with Himself – a time when we come directly to Him and get to know Him deeply.

FATHER GOD,

There is so much I want to know about You,
and yet I continue to go off in a myriad
of different directions, rather than
listening intently to Your still, small voice.

Give me the strength to fast and pray;
so that I can lean deeply
into Your heart and know You better.

Teach me to overcome my flesh
and all that distracts me.
May fasting become a holy habit
that strengthens my faith and puts me in
a posture of complete dependence upon You.

In Your Sons' Jesus name I pray,

Amen

Trust, Fear Not and Know that God is Able (9.25.14)

TRUST GOD, THE STORM WILL END

My Child,

I come unto you this day to heal, restore
and to bring you closer into My presence.

It does not matter how the storm may rage around you,
I, the Lord your God, am The One who is always in control.
You must trust Me to the end, no matter how hard
the storms are raging in your life.

Always remember, the trial you are going through,
this very thing that has come to test your faith, will end.

My Child, trust Me, the storm you are facing will end.
You must be ready to go on trusting, even until the last hour.
I will make a way when you cannot see your way.
I want you to learn to rely on Me alone.
Trust in My Spirit, not in what you see.
Trust, fear not, and know I am able to do what I promised.

What is it that you fear?
Do not listen to what others are telling you.
Listen only to My voice, only My voice.
Stand on what you know to be true.
Do you remember the last miracle I performed in your life?
Do you remember at how you marveled at what I did?
You said, "I can't believe God did that!!!" and you were in awe.

My Child, I can and will do it again.
What you saw as impossible, I took it and made it possible.
So, why do you wonder if I am able to provide?

Oh My Child, I say unto you this day,
please take time to reflect upon the blessings of the past,
and do not worry.

I have spoken unto the storms and commanded them to cease!
That storm shall be no more.

I am pouring forth upon you a sweet and gentle rain.
It shall renew, strengthen and breathe new life into you.
Embrace what I am doing and do not resist.
I need you to trust in Me until the end, for I will provide.
For have I not always provided for you?

Trust Me, the storm will end soon.

Meditate on The Word - 

Isaiah 43:2 - When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

~ My Prayer Confession ~

Oh Lord,
I confess, there are times when I feel
that I cannot go on.

And instead of keeping my eyes on you,
I look at the storm raging around me.
But Lord, I praise Your Holy name;
for when I cry out, You hear my cry
and reach down and save me,
just as you did with Peter.

By faith in Your name,
I speak to the storms
blowing in my life.
By faith, I say PEACE BE STILL!

Father, I thank you and I bless
Your Holy name for being with me
and delivering from the raging storm.

Thank you Lord.
Amen

Renew Your Mind, Rise Up with Renewed Strength & Stretch Out on God's Promises (9.24.14)

My Child,
It is time for you to move beyond your comfort zone
and begin to exercise the freedom I gave you.

Don't allow your faith to dwindle,
for it’s by faith that all things are done.

Do not let the enemy intimidate you any longer, 

do not be afraid.

Stand strong on My Word
and let the enemy know who you are.
Do not allow him to hinder your walk
by reminding you of the mistakes you have made.
Forget about the mistakes,
forget about those who have hurt you
and forget about the things that have discouraged you in the past. 

It’s time to start setting goals of what you aspire to achieve. 

Challenge yourself to get up and go after your dreams. 

Refuse to be a bystander who watches others, who've dared to experiment. 

This is a new day in which I am calling you forth
to do great things in My name.
Stretch out on My promises and trust Me.
Go deep into My Word to strengthen and renew your faith;
and you will accomplish the impossible.

Now lift your face unto the hills,
from whence cometh your help, and keep moving.
Stand strong on My Word
and let the enemy know who you are.

Move ahead with courage, boldness and know that
beyond the shadow of a doubt, that I am with you.

It’s time to renew your mind, rise up with renewed strength
and stretch out on My promises.
_______

Scripture Reading

Joshua 1:8 - This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Matthew 21:21 - Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this, which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.

2 Corinthians 4:8–9 - We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed

A Holy, Strength & Victory Prayer (9.23.14)

Loving Father, 

I long to give You the highest praise
all the days of my life -
for You alone are holy!

My heart wants to sing in Your Presence
and live continually in awareness of Christ's presence
in me, the hope of glory! 

Yet, parts of my weak self are filled with temptations
to allow thoughts, behaviors and feelings,
that are displeasing to You, into my life.

When I find myself in a spiritually dry place,
I sometimes feel entitled to indulge in the very things
that I know grieve Your Holy Spirit.

Fill me, Lord God, with the strength to stand up
to the enemy’s schemes!

My strength comes from You and I do not
have to engage in behaviors or activities that drain the life
from my relationship with You.
Help me to be victorious over the enemy’s attempts
to separate me from fellowship with You!

I want to be holy as You are holy!
Purify my heart, my thought life and my emotions
so that I will only dwell on what is true, noble, right,
pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy! 

I pray this prayer to you Father God,In the name of your son Jesus Christ,

Amen 

Opening Our Hearts to God (9.22.14)

The heart is open to hear from GOD, 

when the heart is opened to GOD. 

At first glance that statement may seem like an oxymoron, 

but it is actually a necessary order of action. 

First, the heart must be opened to GOD. 

There must be a response to His knocking. 

But the opening of the door is not as simple as just saying, 

“come on in,” because in a sense, when the door is initially opened, 

the heart is often too full of other voices 

to receive anything, new or otherwise, from GOD.

The heart makes room for GOD when our ideas, thoughts, 

emotions, sins, dreams and desires of our heart 

are poured out unconditionally to GOD. 

The heart is open to hear from GOD, 

when we pour out to GOD, that which is in our hearts. 

When we pray, we expose our heart to GOD.
Only then does our heart become open to receive 

and understand what God is communicating to us. 

But there is often a fear about exposing an openness to GOD, 

particularly if we have unseemly or embarrassing heart-issues 

that seem contrary to the spirit of Godliness. 

Strange as though it may seem, even people who believe 

in an all-knowing GOD, may somehow feel that there are secrets of their heart 

that GOD does not know about. Hence, there is an attempt to hide 

from GOD, what God already knows. 

We must realize that our hearts are 

totally open and transparent before GOD.

There is nothing that comes out of our heart 

that shocks nor surprises GOD. 

There are no real, "inner-heart" secrets that we may have,

that are hidden from GOD’s all-knowing nature. 

The "barriers" that we may have to "hearing GOD,"
are barriers that we create.  Barriers that we choose to keep in place. 

To hear GOD with our hearts, our hearts must be
consciously and openly exposed to hear and listen to God.

For He has amazing things to share.

Open your heart today, and allow God to speak to your heart.

Learning to Ride the Storms, Embrace the Wind & Trust God (9.21.14)

As a ship is tossed about in the ocean, too often, you may feel tossed about by your circumstances. However, you may fail to realize that these same waves contain the power to take the boat to its destination. Those strong, powerful winds will catch the sails and transport the vessel through the rough waters; and although it may not be comfortable, it will reach its destination. 

You may tend to complain about the strong winds blowing, and the discomfort they bring; however, these same winds hold the power to push you to your destination. While may be focusing on the discomfort, you are not realizing the power of these situations. Instead of fighting against them, embrace them and learn to ride them.

Learn to ride waves and the situations that challenge you. 

If you learn how to use the 

challenging circumstances in your life.... 

You will rise above them. 

Then, once you do this, you will look up and see that God is the I AM.  He is the One at the helm of your ship. God is the I AM, the One steering you. And yes, God will at times steer you into the wind so that His sails can catch it, and take you where Our Father needs you to be.

Therefore, because you are a Child of God, stop struggling; and learn to yield to what God is doing in your life. Learn to stand in His name and face these situations, knowing that Your Captain is in control of the ship. Learn to rise above fear, and use faith, in these circumstances. 

Instead of avoiding the storms, 

embrace the winds 

and sail through to your destination.

Then, when you arrive to your place of victory, you will see that you are much stronger than when you first started the journey. You will see that through (and by using) your circumstances, God pushed you beyond what you could have ever imagined. You will see that only the Lord our God could have done these thing in your life. And then you will hear the voice of the Lord our God say to you, "Learn to ride the storm, embrace the strong winds blowing in your life, and sail on to victory with Me."
______

Acts 27:30-31 - And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship, Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved. 

God is Calling You Out to Come Closer to Him (9.19.14)

My Child,

I see you're anxious and you're worried. 

Why is this when you have Me?

 Don’t you know all things are in My hands? 

I know everything you have endured. 

I know how you chose to stay with Me, 

even when it was easier for you to walk away. 

Come to Me and tell Me what troubles you so much. 

I am watching over you and walking with you, 

although you think I am not there. 

Beloved, I would never leave you nor forsake you.  That is My promise.

I am calling out to you to come closer to Me. 

I desire to give you rest, in the midst of the storm that surrounds you. 

When you find yourself weak and weary, come unto Me, 

and lay all that troubles you at My feet. 

I shall lift the heaviness; and then restore, strengthen, and heal you. 

Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 

If you believe that I am GOD, then come to Me now. 

Allow Me to release all that is weighing so heavily on your mind. 

All good and perfect gifts are from My hands, 

and I shall not withhold anything good from you. 

All you have to do is ask. 

Heavenly treasures are waiting for you.

Come closer and allow Me to bless you. 

Come, and I will refresh you. 

My Child, let Me pour My refreshing spirit over your weary soul. 

Why worry when I am in your presence? 

Have faith in Me and trust Me to deliver you. 

Come closer, do not worry and feel the refreshing coming over you, 

bringing peace in the midst of the storm. 

Come closer and do not worry.

 

Meditate on God's Word: Luke 12:25, John 14:1, John 14:27

~ My Prayer Confession ~

Heavenly Father, 

Thank you for always being with me
and being my strength when I am weak.

You are my Rock, when I need a place to lay my weary head.

I thank you Lord for staying close to me
and drawing me nearer to you.

Thank you for pouring a fresh anointing over my life.
Lord, I bless Your Holy name
for You are more than worthy to be praised! 

In Your Son, Jesus' Name,

Amen

Finding a Way to Bring Peace to Your Spirit, In Order to Hear God Clearly (9.18.14)

My Child,

I know you are going through a lot right now.

Yes, times may be difficult, but you will learn and gain 

so much by not giving up on Me. 

I know the thoughts that are going through your mind. 

You are desperately trying to find a solution to your problems. 

Your mind is running to and fro, thinking that you need 

to do something right now. Please let go of those thoughts. 

The challenge that is before you is one that I have allowed. 

Yes, I have allowed this challenge to come to you, 

just as I did with Job. Right now, it seems difficult and 

may look like there is no way out.  

However, if you endure to the end, you will see that this trial 

will lead you to the blessing that is waiting for you.

My child, find a way to bring peace to your spirit, 

so you can hear Me clearly.  Reading more of My Word will help you. 

Allow My Word to saturate your spirit, in order for you 

to make it through this current challenge, 

My Word must be rooted and grounded in your spirit. 

And at that point, you will be amazed, as you see Me
turn your trials around.

____
Meditate on God's Word:

Job 1:6-8 - Now there was a day when the sons of GOD came to present themselves before the LORD, and satan came also among them.  And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then satan answered the LORD, and said, from going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth GOD, and escheweth evil?

Job 42:12  - So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning:

God has Called Us to Pray for Our Enemies (9.17.14)

Faith Believers,
The Lord our God is the “GOD who gives life to the dead 
and calls things that are not as though they were” (Romans 4:17b).

Sometimes it is hard to imagine that our enemies could ever
turn away from evil and come to God,
but He has called us to pray for them.

What seems impossible to us,
is possible with God (reflect on Mark 10:27).
What greater love could there be
than to pray that GOD
draws them into His kingdom? 

Below are some passages from the book of Colossians that you may pray on their behalf:

• Pray that GOD will rescue them from the dominion of darkness and bring them “into the kingdom of the Son He [the Father] loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” - Colossians 1:13-14.
  
• Pray GOD will make known to them His glorious riches through the mystery of Christ (reflect on Colossians 1:27).
  
• Pray that they may “know the mystery of GOD, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” - Colossians 2:2-3.
  
• Pray that they will “put to death whatever belongs to their earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry” - Colossians 3:5.
  
• Pray that they will rid themselves of “anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from [their] lips” - Colossians 3:8.
  
• Pray that they will become one of GOD’s children, holy and dearly loved, clothed with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience (reflect on Colossians 3:12).
  
• Pray they will come to know and possess the love of the Lord (reflect on Colossians 3:14).
  
• Pray that they will come to know the peace of Christ and that it will rule in their hearts (reflect on Colossians 3:15).

~ A Focused Prayer ~
Loving GOD, 
Teach me to pray for my enemies, 
and show me how to love them as You do! 

Free them from darkness and draw them into Your light! 

Make Yourself known to them, 
so that they will become Your precious children, 
clothed in holiness. 

Fill them with Your peace!  
And continue to use me as a conduit 
for Your love in their lives!

Your Circumstances & Difficulties are only for a Season. Stay Focused on God & Speak Words of Faith. (9.16.14)

My Child,

Do not focus your attention on your circumstances and difficulties, 

for they are only for a season. They have no power over you. 

The only power they have is the power you give them. 

Therefore, do not give them any power by glorifying your pain. 

Keep your mind focused on Me instead. 

Speak words of faith and glorify Me at all times.

As the Lord Your God, I will cause you to stand firm through your storm. 

Make a commitment to seek and pursue Me. 

Believe Me and trust in My Word. 

Do not listen to the many lies the enemy has placed 

in the current storm that is swirling around you.  

Expect Me to bless you through all of this, 

and know that the things I have promised will come to past. 

Remind yourself of this daily. I am not man that I should lie. 

I am almighty, all powerful and I can do all things; 

so keep your eyes fixed upon Me for I am the One 

who will cause the wind and the storms to cease.

Believe.  Have Faith.  Trust.

_________

Psalms 121:1-2 - I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.

Mark 4:39-41 - And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

Hebrews 12:2  - Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of GOD. 

Instead of Avoiding Storms, Embrace the Winds, Trust God & Sail to Your Destination (9.15.14)

My Child,

As a ship is tossed about in the ocean, too often you may 

feel tossed about by your circumstances. 

However, you may fail to realize that these same waves 

contain the power to take your boat to its destination. 

Those strong, powerful winds will catch the sails and transport 

the vessel through the rough waters, and although it may not be comfortable, 

it will reach its destination. 

You complain about the strong winds blowing, and the discomfort they bring;

however, these same winds hold the power to push you to your destination. 

You are so focused on the discomfort, 

that you are not harnessing the power of these situations. 

Instead of fighting against them, embrace them and learn to ride them.

Learn to ride waves and the situations that challenge you. 

If you learn how to use the challenging circumstances in your life, 

you will rise above them. 

Then, once you do this, you will look up and see 

that I am the One at the helm of your ship. 

I am the One steering you. 

And yes, I will at times steer you into the wind 

so that My sails can catch you. 

And take you where I need you to be.

Therefore, My Child, stop struggling and learn to yield 

to what I am doing in your life. 

Learn to stand in My name and face these situations, 

knowing that Your Captain is in control of your ship. 

Learn to rise above fear 

and use faith in these circumstances. 

Instead of avoiding the storms, 

embrace the winds, and sail through to your destination.

Then, when you get your place of victory, 

you will see that you are much stronger 

than when you first started your journey. 

You will see that your circumstances pushed you 

beyond what you could have ever imagined. 

You will see that only the Lord 

could have done this thing in your life. 

I say to you, learn to ride the storm, 

embrace the strong winds blowing in your life, 

and sail on to victory, with Me.
_____

Acts 27:30-31 - And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship, Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.

God Will Restore, Strengthen & Heal You. Keep Your Eyes on Him & You Will Have the Victory. (9.14.14)

God wants you to know that He loves you.
He cares about you, and He is watching over you.
Our God knows the trouble you have been through
and that you have chosen to stay the course,
in spite of your hardship. 

The Lord says, now is the time of your reward.
- Marilyn Chaney
________

My Child,

I watch over you.
I walk with you, even when you do not understand I am there.
I am the Lord your God, and I am watching over you
through your many questions, even when you think I do not care.

I have spoken in My Word that I would never
leave you nor forsake you.  My beloved, is the truth.
I am calling out to you today to come closer to Me.
And do not worry.

I am watching over you, and I shall give you rest
in the midst of what you are going through.
When you find yourself weary and without strength;
bring your burden to Me and I shall lift it from you.

I will restore, strengthen and heal you.
Rest assured I am watching over you.
Keep your eyes on Me and you will have the victory.
______

Meditate on God's Word: 

Matthew 6:25-26 - Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?  Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

Matthew 6:30-33 - Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?  (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (9.13.14) **

1. Take the Victory through the Words You Speak (6.24.13)
2. God Wants to Bless Us, So That We Can Be a Blessing to Others (7.29.14)

3. God is Smiling Upon the Life You are Living. Rest, Reflect and Be Patient. (8.17.14)

4. Today is A New Day, The Time is Now - Prepare Yourself, Rejoice and Do Not Delay (1.4.14)
5. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
6. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)

7. You Have Believed God for Your Blessings (4.5.14)

8. No Matter Where the Road Leads, God is Always With Us (3.5.14)
9. Speak It By Faith. Speak Now. (7.8.14)
10. When God Opens Doors for You, Walk Boldly Through (3.20.14)
11. Smile, as the Wind Blows and Makes a Way for New Things  (6.19.14)

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

#Enjoy     #BlessAndBeBlessed

Set My Heart on a Peaceful Path (9.12.14)

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is Mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good - Romans 12:17-21

Faith Believers,

How will the unsaved most likely come into GOD’s kingdom?

Through your revenge, or by your loving acts and prayers for them? 

This is an extremely important concept to grasp, and very important to teach children.

A child's first response is often to hit back, think up revenge, cease friendship, etc.;
rather than praying, continuing to be kind, etc.

Have you ever said unkind things to your spouse or friends 

that you normally would not say?

Do you feel guilty when they do not respond to you in the same manner? 

Or they answer you with a kind loving word? 

How do you feel when this happen? 

It should make you go to GOD and repent.
Then go to your friend or spouse and apologize.
How many arguments or hurtful situations in your family
could have been avoided by simply responding kindly
instead of fighting back – submitting to GOD, instead of
to our natural human sinful flesh!
It really works!

I feel terrible for hurting my friends feelings,
or lashing out at them because I am angry.
If they responded back to me in anger, I doubt
I would feel very repentant.
But because they respond in love,
it brings me back into a right relationship with them, and with GOD.

May your heart be filled with peace,

- Marilyn

Loving Father, 

I know that praying for the people I love, 

and for those who are lost, 

is Your way of accomplishing Your plans and purposes 

in their lives! 

Set my heart on a peaceful path 

when I am angered or upset…

or when I have forgotten to pray for those 

who have not yet stepped into the light 

of Your glorious Kingdom! 

Keep me from succumbing to feelings of anger, 

outrage or revenge. 

Help me to live at peace with everyone! 

Set my desire upon loving all people,
and desiring Your best for them!

Keep me from being overcome by evil,
so that I may continually overcome evil with good.

In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ,

Amen

Look Up, Look Up & Receive God's Joy. And Do Not Stop Believing. (9.11.14)

Beloved,

It is time for My people to rise up, and stop looking down at their ashes,
counting their woes and pains.
It is time for them to lift their heads and look to Me.

Where does your help come from?
Your help comes from you God, the maker of heaven and earth!
I am the One who has healed you,
who has removed sickness from your midst,
who has removed oppression from your life,
who has brought you joy amidst pain.
I am the Lord your God, I am the One who will do it again!

Many of you are asking, "When Lord?"
And I am saying, "It is already yours. 
Believe you have received what you prayed for."  

I am calling My people to rise up and continue proclaiming the truth
of what is already theirs.  Do not allow the enemy to sow seeds of fear
and lies into your lives, but SPEAK in faith to your circumstances.
And don’t stop speaking when things don’t happen 'on your time',
but be faithful in prayer like Daniel and stay before Me.  Watch the power
of My Word change your situation.

Rise up from the ashes, for they will not bring you freedom.
They will only push you deeper into oppression, and fear.
Many of you have heard the words 'new day,'
and have been wondering when is this new day coming?
When will the sun rise on my circumstance?
I speak to you today; do not be discouraged
just because the day has become darker instead of brighter.
Haven’t you heard; it is always darkest before the dawn?
The sun is about to rise on many of your lives and circumstances.
I am fighting for you.
Continue to stand on My Word.

Remember, that no harm shall come to you and no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Continue standing in faith and don’t allow fearful thoughts to enter your mind.  Take every thought captive, and no matter how your body feels, no matter how your circumstances look -- STAND.  Stand firm on My Word, and continue to confess your breakthrough. 

Continue to confess victory in the face of the adversary.

The breakthrough is so close, don't give up now. 

You have heard it said that it is coming.

Well, it is closer than you think. 

The darkness has increased 

because it is about to turn into the dawn. 

Step up out of your ashes. 

Look up, look up and receive My joy, 

and do not stop believing.
 ______

Meditate on these scriptures:

• Psalm 73
  
• Psalms 121:1-2 - I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
  
• Daniel 10:12 - Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy GOD, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
  
• Mark 11:24 - Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. 

_____

Remember this; there is nothing that you will face today

that the Lord can't bring you through. 

Thank GOD for what you have.

Trust GOD for what you need. 

God Wants Us to Be Strong, Confident & Unbreakable; Always Trusting in Him, Never Giving Up (9.10.14)

My Child,

It seems as though you are tested at every turn. 

I see you hanging onto hope, wondering when is this pain going to end. 

Oh My Little Ones, I know you do not understand 

what you are going through right now, 

but it is only a test. 

Please do not give up. 

This test will strengthen you and build character. 

I am preparing you for greater things coming your way, 

things that you are not ready to handle right now. 

You were not chosen by chance, but rather with a purpose. 

I know the plans I have for you.  

And My plans for your future are good.

Stop entertaining discouragement and self-pity, 

for those things are not of Me. 

You do not have time for that. 

Cast all your fears upon Me, I will not disappoint you. 

Do not give up. If you lose hope, you will lose your vision, 

and the enemy will win. 

The enemy knows if he can cast a spirit of fear upon you, 

he can hinder the plans I have for you. 

If you allow this to happen, others who are waiting 

to be blessed through you, will be lost. 

My Child, you can make it. 

For it is only a test.

During this test, do not expect others to keep you encouraged. 

They are busy fighting battles of their own. 

It is time for you rise up and encourage yourself. 

That is what David had to do when the enemy attacked him. 

Your battle will be won when you enter your prayer closet and pray. 

In our secret place, I will be waiting for you 

with divine instructions. 

It is there you will hear from Me; and will be strengthened. 

It is there I will teach you how to press your way to victory. 

I want you to be strong, confident and unbreakable; always trusting in Me. 

Again, I say unto you, never give up. 

It's only a test. 

Now, rise up in faith!

_____________

Scriptures to Meditate on:

1 Samuel 30:6 - And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his GOD.

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.

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

God Ordained You for Victory & You Shall Overcome, for God is with You Always. (9.9.14)

My Child,

Don't you realize you are ordained to overcome the enemy? 

You will prevail against him, no matter what he tries to bring against you. 

he will not be able to defeat nor destroy you. 

Remember, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. 

I know this because I have already seen how your story ends. 

I see your past.  And I see your future. 

Whether you believe this or not you have already won. 

You are an overcomer. You have the victory. 

You may not understand this yet, because you are bound by time. 

However, for Me, I can see it all at once. 

I see one who has defeated the enemy.

I see a victorious and mighty warrior when I look at you.

The valley you are in right now may look like there is no way out. 

Nevertheless, you must remember, to lift up your eyes 

unto the hills from whence cometh your help.

You must keep walking through the valley. 

Yes, at times you will have to endure hardships and frustration;

and even have to fight battles. 

However, always remember, you won't ever be alone in the battle. 

I will be right by your side, fighting with you. 

There will always be more fighting with you than against you. 

I am God your Father, and I will always be your strength and your support.

Child, you have won because great authority has been given to you. 

The authority I placed in you works, 

even when you don't feel very confident in it. 

It cannot fail, because it is not about you, it is about Me. 

When I rose on the third day, I conquered all for you. 

This authority is yours because of what I did for you. 

No valley experience will go on forever. 

Believe in Me. 

I have ordained you for victory.

You shall overcome.  For I am with you. 

Yes, the victory is yours.
__________
Isaiah 54:17 - No weapon that is formed against you will prosper;

Psalm 121:1 - I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help

2 Chronicles 32:7 - Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:

Rise Above Your Troubles (9.8.14)

Beloved, 

Let go of everything that keeps you bound and troubled. 

Rise up above the troubles of the past 

and leave behind those things that have been holding you back. 

Refuse to allow anything to disable you emotionally. 

Let Me take those burdens from you, so that you can be free. 

It is time to redirect your energy and re-establish your spiritual goals. 

I am with you to bring healing to your soul and hope to your spirit; 

however, you must release those things that have crippled you 

and caused you to stumble in your walk with Me.

I want you to rise above your troubles 

to renew your faith and confidence in Me. 

If you don’t, disappointment and discouragement will steal victory from you 

by undermining your blessed assurance. 

You know in your heart that you can trust Me, 

but your emotional reaction to circumstances have created 

a double-mindedness in you that will prevent you from succeeding. 

Do not believe the enemy’s lies, 

and refuse to allow fear to undermine your faith. 

Now is the time to rise to a new level of faith and trust in Me.

I am able to bring all things to a point of order, perfection, and completion 

according to My purposes; however, I cannot do that 

until you release these things to Me. 

And, I do not speak of a partial release, in which you still maintain some control. 

I speak of a total release, in which you completely trust Me 

for the outcome. 

Surely, I will visit you and perform the Word, 

which I have promised. 

Then you will mount up by faith, on wings like an eagle, 

and the vision of My purposes for you will be revealed.

Now, place your blind faith in Me and in My Word. 

My promises are true and when you rise above your troubles 

and believe in Me completely.
________
Isaiah 40:31 - But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

Mark 11:22 - And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.

Hebrews 12:1 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

James 1:6-8 - But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.

God Uses Ordinary People to Reach Into the Hearts of the Lost & Hurting (9.7.14)

Father GOD,

I wonder how many times You have prompted me to pray for someone, 

or instructed me to speak a word into someone’s life, 

and I have disobeyed You. 

My soul cringes at the thought of lost opportunities 

to impact others with Your love, for the sake of Your glory! 

Thank You for using ordinary people like me 

to reach into the hearts of lost and hurting people.

Please help my heart to be open and prepared 

to respond with first-time obedience 

whenever You feel led to use me.

________

Praise GOD, the One who is before all things, the One in whom all things held together, the Head of the church - Colossians 1:17-18 

• Thank Christ for making peace between you and GOD, by His blood shed on the cross.
• Confess those times when you have allowed something to come between you and another believer, weakening your unity in Christ.
   
• Commit yourself to seeking better understanding of that person’s position and feelings.
• Ask GOD to help you see and experience the unity that should exists between all followers of Christ.

In the Midst of Pain, Believe it is All in God's Hands (9.5.14)

My Child,

Yes, I know; you are dealing with disappointment. 

You are trying to hide it because you don't want anyone to know 

how disappointed you really are. 

It is ok; you can say it, I see it in your heart. 

You are disappointed. 

However, you don't want to say you are disappointed with Me. 

My child, I understand, and I knew this day would come. 

In the midst of your pain, I hope you will believe all is in My hands.

And it will be alright.

You so hoped things would not be this way, but they are. 

Right now, you cannot see how this is a good thing 

or even how it can work out for your good later. 

You want to do something about it, but you don’t know what to do. 

My child, there is nothing for you to do; 

except hold on to what you know is true. 

Hold on to My Word, you know My Word is true. 

When My Word said, “All things work together for good 

to those who love Me,” I meant just that. 

I am working it out for your good. 

I don't want you to be hurt so please trust Me.

My child, I understand how you’re feeling. 

I see your heart, and I know the pain you are feeling. 

I want you to release your pain, 

and do not allow worry to take over your spirit any longer. 

I won’t leave you without hope. 

I know you don’t understand things have happened this way, 

and it will take some time before you understand 

that it was for the best. 

Even as we speak, I am interceding on your behalf, 

doing what needs to be done to bring glory to your situation.

Now, you are in need of healing, 

so please allow Me to minister to you. 

Release this burden onto Me and rest in My presence. 

Never forget My love for you, and always remember, 

everything I do is for your good My Child, because I love you.
________

Romans 8:27-28 - And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of GOD. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love GOD, to them who are called according to his purpose.

Christ Commands Us to Love Our Enemies (9.4.14)

Jesus had enemies…and they crucified Him. 

Yet, as we know, He had the ultimate victory in the end. 

But because GOD loved the world so much that He sent Jesus to die, 

His Son did not leave the earth without praying for those 

who were responsible for His death. 

Jesus, who told us to love and pray for our enemies, 

demonstrated the ultimate gift of love while hanging on the cross:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” - Luke 23:34a. 

Jesus prayed for His enemies…how can we do less?

One of the most amazing commands of Christ is to love our enemies. 

In our flesh, we naturally want to retaliate or fight back 

when we are treated unkindly or persecuted. 

Jesus preached forgiveness and mercy: 

“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” - Luke 6:36. 

His lifestyle demonstrated grace, that ours might also. 

He took His command one step further, 

adding another level of difficulty: 

“Pray for those who persecute you” - Matthew 5:44. 

Because of GOD’s mercy, we are saved. 

We must extend His mercy to those who are still enemies of GOD, 

so that they might also receive what we have been given.

Oh Merciful GOD, 

How blessed it is to walk with a Kingdom mindset. 

Give me a gentle spirit that is pleased to minister 

to those who try to hurt me or speak ill of me. 

Allow me the grace to bless them and pray for them 

so that You will receive all honor and glory and praise! 

In Your Son Jesus' name,

Amen

A 'Seeking Peace and Patience' Prayer (9.3.14)

Heavenly Father,

Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. 

Your Word teaches me wisdom and fills me with me with life.

As I come to you today, I bring my needs to You. 

Help me to lay down all my problems at Your feet. 

Help me to lay down all my tangled thoughts and restless emotions. 

Lord, I am seeking Your peace and Your patience. 

Father God, I humbly ask that You give me Your peace,
a peace that surpasses all understanding.

I want to learn to wait patiently for You, as You answer my prayers. 

I want to cooperate with Your plans for me; 

because I know that You are Alpha and Omega, 

the Beginning and the End of everything. 

Thank You God, for assuring me that Your plans for me are good. 

As I wait on You Lord, I will continue to turn to Your Word 

for comfort and direction. 

Your Word is solid and reliable. 

Your Word steadies me. 

Your Word brings me truth. 

Your Word gives me strength. 

Your Word chases away my worry and my fears. 

Your Word refreshes me. 

I want to thank you Lord for keeping me.

And most of all, Thank You for Your Word.

Amen

If You Pray, Christ Will Work!! (9.2.14)

I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father - John 14:12

If you are one of the 'anyone-who-has-faith-in-me' persons 

of whom Jesus spoke, then you need to be on the lookout 

for places where Christ wants and needs to work.

Is there a child who needs to be spiritually formed, 

a friend who needs encouragement 

or a neighbor who needs Christ? 

If you pray, Christ will work! 

Are there spiritual leaders who need to be uplifted, 

fellow believers who need empowerment 

or a church that needs to be revived? 

If you pray, Christ will work! 

Do you know of an anxious person who needs peace, 

a lonely person who needs befriending, 

a stranger who needs to be invited in 

or a hungry person who needs to be fed? 

If you intercede, Christ will work; 

He will work in you and through you. 

You will be doing the kinds of things that Christ did. 

You will be doing them in His power. 

You will be co-laboring with GOD. 

With this promise Christ is placing the powers of heaven at your disposal. 

What a huge and important responsibility! 

What an awesome privilege!

Gracious Holy Spirit, 

I repent of my selfishness that keeps me from 

exercising the gifts You have given to me 

for the sake of others. 

There are those who could use encouragement and uplifting…

and others who are struggling and 

may need to be helped through a difficult time. 

Yet, I keep a safe distance – at arm’s length, 

because I might get sucked in to more than I think I can handle. 

Some people, and much of life, are messy and complicated;

yet Jesus would step into the midst of the mess and reach out His hand to heal. 

May the heart of Christ be evident in me today 

as I listen for Your kingdom instructions. 

Help me to lean into the mess, 

unafraid to be the hands and feet 

of the One who extended His hand to me!

Amen

The Time of Testing is About to End. The Best is Yet to Come. (9.1.14)

Beloved,
It is time for a breakthrough!!!! 

Things are about to turn around for you. 

This time has been a time of extreme testing. 

My people have been tested in their relationships, financially, physically, emotionally and spiritually. There has been much adversity in the lives of My people and you have been extremely overwhelmed. I have allowed My people to be tested, so that I will see what's in their hearts. This time of testing has brought great growth and new perspectives for many of you in many areas of your life.

• Even My Son was tested for 40 days in the wilderness, and when the testing was over, He returned to Galilee, in the power of the Holy Spirit. 
• My servant Job was tested, and tried in every aspect of his life, and his end was better than his beginning. 
• I allowed Saul to pursue David, and it was the greatest test of his life. 
• My Son was constantly testing the hearts of His disciples. They would witness one miracle after another, and then when the time came for the next miracle, they would doubt.

Testing is a part of the maturing process,
and with each test and each season of testing
you will grow stronger.
You will come out of the wilderness leaning on Me as never before.
You will come out of your testing period knowing Me more intimately than before.
I want you to come out of your testing period trusting me like never before.

This time of testing is about to end.
The best is yet to come for those who have been obedient to My Word.
My winds of refreshing and renewing will cause you to soar
to the next level of your walk with Me.

Before I bless you with promotions, new jobs and new relationships
there will always be times of testing.

Do not give up on Me, but know that I have been testing you
to prepare you for the blessings I want to bring into your life.