Epraize

It is written in Proverbs 14:2 There is a way that seems right to man, but in the end it leads to death. It is also written in Proverbs 16:9 In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. This leads me to the question. Who or what shall I believe. Lets look at what the Bible says about believing. In the book of John 6:28 it says Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?" Jesus answered, The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.

Look at John 3:18 it says Whoever believes in him is not condemned whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict; Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.

Living in righteous is believing in Jesus. It says in the book of Romans 3:22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished--he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

Now look at Romans 10:9 it says That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. MORE THAN WE ASK

As the Scripture says, Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame. For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!

Now look at Romans 16:17 it says I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in you way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving the Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naïve people. Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. It goes on to say at verse 25 Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him--to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen

There is a punishment for those don't believe. It says in the book 2Thessalonians 2:9 it says The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness. DO IT WHILE YOU STILL CAN

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Hebrews 11:1 In the book of James 2:18 it says But someone will say You have faith; I have deeds. Show me you faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder.
It says in John 1:10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in is name, he gave the right to become children of God--children born not of natural descent, nor of human decisions or a husband's will, but born of God.

Now in John 2:22 it says Then Jesus told him, Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. In the book of Galatians 3:6 it says Consider Abraham: He believed God, and it was a credited to him as righteousness. Understand , then, that those who believe are children of Abraham. The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance Abraham; All nations will be blessed through you. So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. In the book of James 2:22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him a righteousness, and he was called God's friend. You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.

What a Blessing For Believing
It is written in the book of Mark 9:23 it says If you can? Said Jesus, Everything is possible for him who believes. It says in Mark 11:22 Have faith in God, Jesus answered. I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, Go , throw yourself into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart but believe that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Now look at Mark 16:16 it says Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Now take a look at Matthew 5:11 it says Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. The Engrafted Word

In the book of Ephesians 1:3 it says Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will--to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. At Ephesians 2:6 it says And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

Too conclude look at 1Peter 2:17 it says Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. Now look at John 20:31 it says But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV)
 
To overcome the fear of loneliness you must:
(1) Understand who you are. Let scientists argue about whether or not there was a ‘big bang.’ If there was, you were not the result of it! Nor did you descend from an amoeba in a pond. You are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’ (Psalm 139:14). Made ‘in His own image’ (Genesis 1:27). God didn’t assign your creation to His most powerful angels. You’re a hands-on, made-to-order, one-of-a-kind product. As a redeemed child of God you are His ‘…workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works…’ (Ephesians 2:10 NIV) Believe that and stand on it-regardless of your feelings or your social status.

(2) Understand who God is. He calls Himself your ‘Heavenly Father’, not just your creator and designer. Your creator and designer refer to what He does; your Father refers to who He . ‘He will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’ (Isaiah 9:6 NIV) These aren’t His roles, they’re His proper names. They are capitalised in Scripture because they are what you are to call Him! When Jesus taught us to pray He didn’t begin with ‘O, omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient God.’ Don't Be Afraid of Failure

Yes, He’s all of those, but when it comes to us He wants to be recognised and called ‘Father’ (Matthew 6:9). That’s how He thinks about us, and wants us to think and to feel about Him. ‘Father’ is meant to convey warmth, security, acceptance, concern, compassion, protection, assurance, provision etc. He’s your Father-when you grasp the truth of that you will begin to overcome the fear of loneliness.

Overcoming the fear of loneliness requires understanding God’s commitment to you. His Fatherhood isn’t based upon mood, sentiment or emotion; it’s based on His unchanging character and faithfulness. ‘For the sake of His great name the Lord will not reject His people, because the Lord was pleased to make you His own.’ (1 Samuel 12:22 NIV) Notice two things in this Scripture: Concern for His good name and the pleasure He takes in being your Father are reasons why He will never turn His back on you. Your problems don’t mean that God is judging or disowning you.

Satan would love to convince you of that. He will tell you that you’ve failed God, or that God has failed you in order to make you feel unworthy, hopeless, disowned by God and abandoned. No, generations of believers have sung through their soul’s dark night, ‘Great is thy faithfulness, O God, my Father.’ In your circumstances and suffering, ‘…His compassions never fail. The Benefits of Reading God's Word

They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness…’ (Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV) Suffering and adversity don’t cancel His faithfulness, He’s ‘the same yesterday, today, and forever.’ (Hebrews 13:8 NKJV) He can’t love you once, and not love you always. ‘After you suffer for a short time, God, who gives all grace, will make everything right. He will make you strong and support you and keep you from falling…’ (1 Peter 5:10 NCV) Today declare, ‘Nothing can ever separate me from God’s love.’

More Reading: 1Kings 10-11, Matthew 22:15-22, Psalm 27, Proverbs 7:10-20

“Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you, And whatever I command you, you shall speak (Jeremiah 1:7 NKJV).
 
Jeremiah told God, ‘…I cannot speak, for I am a youth.’ (v6 NKJV) Sound familiar? Have you been saying, ‘I don’t have what it takes’? God told Jeremiah, ‘Do not say, I am a youth, for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you…’ (vv 7-8 NKJV) When actors audition for a part, the director conducts what are known as ‘callbacks’.

At that point the actor either gets the part or it goes to somebody else. But when an actor is experienced and well-known, sometimes the director offers them the part without them even auditioning for it. Understand this: God doesn’t do auditions and callbacks! That’s because He’s already designed a role for you that nobody else could fill. Even if others were to study you endlessly they still couldn’t be you. When God says, ‘I know you by name and you have found favour with Me’ (Exodus 33:12 NIV), be careful about responding to any other call except the one that comes from Him. The Importance of Waiting

Since God designed you with all the built-in qualifications you need, you don’t have to compromise your convictions, manipulate, drop names or do special favours. The part is yours! And don’t be jealous or intimidated by anybody else no matter how talented they are. In God’s eyes there are no other contenders; you’re it! You’re the only one who can fill the slot because He created it with you in mind. When you feel insecure and unqualified, remind yourself of that.

Do you remember Rosa Parks, the black woman who refused to surrender her seat to a white man and move to the back of the bus? There was more at stake that day than just a ride home from work. By simply being herself, Rosa suddenly moved to centre stage. She wasn’t playing games. She was the real thing, and God shone a light on her soul that day that changed history.

That’s how it works: when God’s light shines on your efforts, little becomes much. Jesus said that everyone ‘who learns to be humble will find promotion.’ (Matthew 23:12 PHPS) Now, since God is the only One who knows when your time will come, you must be prepared. ‘How do I do that?’ you ask. The Bible answers: ‘…don’t be proud. Put yourselves under God’s mighty hand. Then He will honour you at the right time.’ (1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV) Allow the Holy Spirit to be your agent and advance man. Don’t get ahead of Him. Just be faithful; when the time is right God will shine His spotlight on the next stage and assign you an even bigger role. Learn to Say 'Enough!'

And when the moment comes for you to stride confidently into the spotlight and fulfil your God-given role, try to remember that there’s no room for self-importance and pretence. This moment calls for: stripping away all lesser roles you’ve acted out and settled for; discovering who you are and what your life is really about; depending totally on God to help you give the most authentic performance of your career.

In God’s Kingdom, centre stage is not for those who think they’ve got their act together and deserve public recognition. Nor is it limited to those in leadership and public ministry. It’s a call to action, to you, whoever and wherever you are today. When you trust God’s timing He grooms you for bigger and better parts. But there are some things you must, and must not do:

(1) Don’t try to make it on your own. Popular wisdom says, ‘Fake it till you make it,’ and you’ll be tempted to debut in your own strength. Don’t do it! If you do, you will get in the way of a much greater production. The Bible says: ‘Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain who build it.’ Trust God, and when your moment comes He will give you your cue. Share Your Life

(2) the shadows. Are you ready to transform ‘acting’ into an authentic performance that reveals the real you? Fear of rejection is powerful. It takes courage to be yourself. But you gain strength from the struggle and power from the pain when you are willing to risk moving from the shadows into the light.

(3) Confront your inner critic. We are all subject to the little voice within that says, ‘You’ll never be smart enough, rich enough, pretty enough or good enough to stand in the spotlight.’ But when God raises you up, nobody can put you down. So remind your inner critic of God’s promise: ‘…You shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.’ (Jeremiah 1:7 NKJV)

More Reading: Deuteronomy 10:12-21, Colossians 2:9-15,Psalm 136:1-12, Proverbs 6:30-31

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you (2 Corinthians 13:11).

When Jesus sent His disciples out to preach, He told them to go into each city, find a suitable house in which to stay, and say, ‘Peace be unto you.’ If they were accepted they were to stay there and minister. If not, they were to leave and shake the dust of that place off their feet (Matthew 10:11–15). Why did Jesus say that? Because instead of staying where you’re tolerated, you need to go where you’re appreciated.

You shouldn’t waste your time on people who don’t want to be helped. If you remain where there is strife you can’t be effective. Strife grieves the Holy Spirit. When peace leaves, the Holy Spirit leaves, and He’s the one who does the real work. Following in the Footsteps of Jesus

Question: when you picture Jesus ministering to others, how do you see Him? Certainly not with the stressed-out, hurry-up attitude we often have. Don’t you get an image of Him ministering in a quiet, tranquil peace? That’s a trait you need to develop too. As ambassadors of Christ we need to become more like our Master in dealing with others. Paul writes, ‘Live in peace, and [then] the God of love [Who is the Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author and Promoter of peace will be with you.’ Share Your Life

When you resort to force, argument, intimidation, anger, and coercion, you’re on your own. But when you demonstrate affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence towards people, God has promised to be with you. So the word for you today is—choose to ‘live in peace’.

More Reading: Numbers 9:15–23, Exodus 24:15

For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them (Matthew 25:29 ).
Every accomplishment starts with a decision. Choice, not chance, determines your destiny. Jesus gave us the parable of a businessman who gave one employee ten talents to invest, and he doubled them. A second employee received five talents, and he doubled them too. You Can Conquer Worry

 A third employee got one talent, but he buried it. Afraid of losing it, he failed to take even a modest risk. '"You bad and lazy servant!" his master said. "You knew, did you, that I reap harvests where I did not plant, and gather crops where I did not scatter seed?"' (Matthew 25:26) The Bible says '...we walk by [the eye of] faith, not by [natural] sight.' (2 Corinthians 5:7) Unless you're willing to take prayed-over, carefully-considered and well-advised risks, you're not operating in faith. And '...without faith it is impossible to please Him...' (Hebrews 11:6)

 Jesus ended His parable saying, '...everyone who has will be given more...Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.' (Matthew 25:29) Your goal should be to maximise the investment on everything you do. Ken Blanchard calls this getting the highest return on life. It means putting all your eggs in God's basket (don't worry, He won't drop them!) To get more, you must use what God's already given you. When you step out in faith, God moves, and extraordinary things happen. Stop Being So Critical

John Mason says: 'Not what we have but what we use, not what we see but what we choose these are the things that mar or bless human happiness.' When you limit what you will do, you limit what you can do. Think: if you don't act now, what will it ultimately cost you?

More Reading: Isaiah 34-37, Luke 2:21

And they said the Lord hath need of him (Luke: 19:34) 
 
Luke records: ‘He sent two of His disciples, saying, “Go into the village…you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Loose it and bring it here. And if anyone asks you, ‘Why are you loosing it?’…say to him, ‘Because the Lord has need of it.’”’ (Luke 19:29–31)

Who notices a donkey tied to a tree in a town where nothing ever seems to happen? Jesus! During the busiest week of His life, on His way to Jerusalem to die, He paused for a lowly colt, saying, ‘Bring him to Me.’ There’s a lesson here for you. Jesus knows where you are today, and when the time is right He will call you. Notice the words, ‘A colt…on which no one has ever sat.’ Maybe that’s because nobody placed much value on it. But when God has a plan for your life, He’s not influenced by those who overlook or underestimate you. Protect Your Life Source

Note also the phrase ‘a colt tied’. You may be tied up with legitimate things like raising a family or holding down a job. Or you may be tied up with illegitimate things you can’t even talk about. Either way God knows, and He’s bigger than your problem. Note the words, ‘If anyone asks you, “Why are you loosing it?”…say to him, “Because the Lord has need of it.”’ Understand this: neither your friends nor your foes control your future—God does. How long had the colt been tied to that tree? Days? Weeks? Months? We don’t know. But this much is sure, when the Lord says, ‘Loose it and bring it here,’ the clock starts ticking and His plan for your life starts falling into place.

More Reading: Leviticus 26-27, Luke 2:41-52

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds (James 1:2).
James writes: 'Consider it all joy...when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance...that you may be perfect and complete.' (vv2-4) Peter writes: '...don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.' (1 Peter 4:12) Trials are the common thread that unites us. When you get through with one, chances are there's another one coming up the road. That's why James didn't say, 'if,' but 'when you encounter...trials.' Observe:

(1) Trials come in various categories. They're physical, emotional, financial, and relational; it's not a one-size-fits-all deal. Some are shocking, like the unexpected loss of a loved one; others are more drawn out, like an acrimonious divorce or a prolonged illness. Some play out in public while others take place in your own private hell. Some are due to your own, or other people's mistakes; others have nothing whatsoever to do with human shortcomings. You Can Conquer Worry

(2) Trials test our faith. They bring us back to basics and remind us where our priorities should lie. Charles Swindoll says, 'During...intense trials I go back to...what I really believe...elementals such as prayer and dependence...getting quiet and waiting on God. Trials...force us back to the bedrock of faith upon which our foundation rests, and this becomes a refining and necessary process.' The Voice of Fear

(3) Trials mature us. When we're suffering there's a tendency to try to look for the quick way out. Don't do that. Trials are designed to make us 'complete'. By letting them do their work, you end up stronger.

More Reading: Zechariah1-4, John 20:10-18

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps (1 Peter 2:21).

If you want to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, observe the following things about Him:
(1) He never acted in haste. He didnt make decisions in response to the pressure tactics of others. Skilled negotiators know that waiting is a weapon; whoever is the most hurried usually ends up with the short end of the deal. Waiting reveals the weakness in any plan, plus the motives of those around you. Your greatest mistakes will often happen because of impatience, so think long term.

(2) He knew when to work and when to rest. In the storm on the Sea of Galilee the disciples sweated, but Jesus slept. In the garden of Gethsemane the disciples slept, but Jesus sweated. Thats because He knew when to work and when to rest. Knowing when to act and when to trust, what to give your attention to and what to leave in Gods hands, is a secret you must learn if youre to do Gods will and not burn out. Nobody was busier than Jesus. Share Your Life

Everybody wanted something from Him. The more successful you are the more people will reach for you. Jesus separated Himself in order to receive. He understood that you cant give what you dont have. Work means giving; rest means receiving. Jesus understood the balance; thats why He accomplished so much in three short years. When youre rested you think more clearly, you make better decisions, you see life through confident eyes, you accomplish more in less time, and what you build is built to last. So stop your frantic rush. Following in the footsteps of Jesus means being led, not driven!

Jesus knew He didnt have to prove Himself. At the cross, sceptics said, If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross. (Matthew 27:40) His reaction? He refused to let their comments intimidate Him or alter His plans. He didnt need their approval; He already had His Fathers: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Matthew 3:17) Critics, Coaches, Cheerleaders

Jesus didnt waste time answering His critics. Jesus made no reply, not even to a single chargeto the great amazement of the governor. (Matthew 27:14) Jesus responded to hunger, to need, to seekers, but not to people trying to trap Him. You owe nothing to a critic. Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words. (Proverbs 23:9)

Do you know why theres never been a monument built to a critic? Because critics are spectators, not players! Jesus didnt focus on the past, but the future. His mother was pregnant with Him before she was married. Only a few people knew the truth. Jesus grew up with this, yet He didnt feel the need to explain it. You Need Faith

Stop complaining that your family was poor, or talking about your limited education, or repeating stories of those who failed you, or advertising your pain, or meditating on your flaws. All of us are challenged in some way. Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing (Isaiah 43:18-19) Satan discusses our yesterdays; apparently thats the only information he has about us. Jesus discusses our tomorrows. So if you want to follow in His footsteps, focus on whats ahead.

More Reading: 1 Chronicles1-2, John 7:45-53

Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O LORD, God of hosts (Jeremiah 15:16)

God promises certain things to those who take time each day to get to know Him through His Word. Let’s look at some of them:

 (1) Joy. ‘When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear Your name, Lord God Almighty.’

 (2) Strength. ‘Now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.’ (Acts 20:32) Seeing God's Hand in It

(3) Peace. ‘Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing can make them stumble.’ (Psalm 119:165) ‘If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river.’ (Isaiah 48:18)

(4) Stability. ‘I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure.’ (Psalm 16:8–9)

 (5) Success. ‘Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.’ (Joshua 1:8) What It Means to Repent

 (6) Answered prayer. ‘If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.’ (John 15:7) Joy, strength, peace, stability, success, and answered prayer—these are the things everybody wants. Don’t you? Well, look no further. God has promised them to you when you spend time with Him in His Word each day.

More Reading: Job 5-7, John 18:25-32

Then Jesus asked them, "Didn't you ever read this in the Scriptures? 'The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. This is the LORD's doing, and it is wonderful to see (Matthew 21:42).

Jesus said, ‘The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes.’ Note the word ‘rejected’. The rejection of his brothers put Joseph on a path that led to the throne of Egypt and the saving of his family and his nation. The Cure for Spiritual Boredom

How often has something happened in your life that you later realised was necessary? If you hadn’t experienced this or walked through that, you wouldn’t have been ready for the blessings you enjoy now. When you begin to see the hand of God in it you understand that what the enemy intended for your destruction, God used for your development.

To be ‘more than a conqueror’ means you can stand up and say: ‘Here’s how I see it. It took everything I’ve been through to make me who I am and to teach me what I know. So I choose to be better, not bitter. I trust the faithfulness of God more than ever. I’ve learned that if faith doesn’t move the mountain, it’ll give me strength to endure until tomorrow. You Need Faith

And if it is not gone by tomorrow, I’ll still believe that God is able and trust Him until He does.’ Relax, rejoice; your steps are being arranged by the Lord (Psalm 37:23). He hasn’t taken His eye or His hand off you, not even for a single moment. When you get through this trial you’ll realise that ‘the worst thing that could have happened’ was, in reality, ‘the Lord’s doing’, and it will become ‘marvellous in your eyes’.

More Reading: Esther 5-10, John 18:1-11

So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34).

Most of the stuff we worry about never happens, or turns out better than we anticipate. Worry, like faith, is a spiritual force. Like a magnet, it attracts the very things we fear, clouds our judgment and distorts our perspective. God never intended us to carry tomorrow's burdens along with today's. So, here are three steps to help you conquer worry: The Word And The Spirit

(1) Replace it. Telling somebody not to worry doesn't work. Worry is like an emotional spasm; the only way to break it is to replace it. '...whatever is lovely, whatever is admirableif anything is excellent or praise worthy think about such things.' (Philippians 4:8) In other words, switch the channel!

 (2) Dissect it. '...fear involves torment...' (1 John 4:18) Worry torments you; your imagination runs amok, conjuring up all kinds of scary scenarios. But it's also illogical; when you take it apart rationally and systemically, it loses its power to control you. Peace of Mind

 (3) Rise above it. A well-known pastor was flying over the Mississippi River one day when the sky grew dark. 'We can't see where we're going!' he exclaimed. Calmly the pilot replied, 'We just need to rise above the ground heat, dust and smoke.' After climbing another 300 metres they emerged into a clear, beautiful world. Corrie Ten Boom called faith 'the radar that pierces through the fog.' When worry tries to fog you in, you can rise above it by placing your trust in the Lord. '...those who trust in the Lord...will soar...like eagles...' (Isaiah 40:31 )

More Reading: Colossians 3-4, Philemon, John 17:13-26

Now Faith Is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrew 11:1

You don't need faith unless you're hoping for something. Hope establishes the goal; Faith Is the bridge that gets you to it. There's no need to build a bridge if you're not going anywhere. But if you're going after something you can't reach on your own, you need the bridge of faith to get you there. '...This is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith.' (1 John 5:4)

Never has it been more important to teach moral standards. But unless we also teach people how to stand in faith in God's Word, they'll end up using willpower and discipline to fight the devil, and they'll lose. Jesus told Peter, 'I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail...' (Luke 22:32) When you're up to your neck in problems and don't know which way to turn, speak to yourself and say, 'Faith, don't fail me now!' The Bible says, 'Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.' (Romans 10:17) It's in hearing yourself declare God's Word that your faith grows. And here's another Scripture: '...But the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it.' (Hebrews 4:2)

You can have an expression of faith, yet not enjoy the of faith. You can get excited about a sermon in church, yet nothing changes in your life. You've got to get the 'mix' right. You've got to take what you hear and mix it with what you think, say and do. Faith Is not an emotion, it's a decision to stand on God's Word.

More Reading: 1 Kings 16:1-18:15, Matthew 17:10-17

Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.

To bring down the ‘Goliath’ in your life, here are three things you must do:

(1) You must stand up to him! Any problem you try to excuse or escape, you empower. After listening to Goliath’s threats every day, fear gripped the hearts of God’s people and they couldn’t stand up to him.

(2) You must remember what God has already done for you. David recalled his victories over the lion and the bear. And you must do the same. Jeremiah said, ‘This I call to mind…therefore I have hope: because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning.’ (Lamentations 3:21–23) The strength to deal with today’s struggles comes from remembering how God helped you solve yesterday’s struggles. Peace of Mind

 (3) You must cut off the giant’s head. ‘David…took his sword…and cut off his head…And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.’ (1 Samuel 17:51 ) You need to know your spiritual enemy, study his tactics, and be willing to fight with the same level of intensity as he does. You must take what you learn and apply it to his weak areas. And never assume he’s dead when he’s just dazed. If you do, he’ll sneak up on you another day. The Word And The Spirit

Go for a permanent solution, not a short–term fix:
(1) fortify yourself with prayer
(2) renew your mind with the Word of God
(3) reach for the support that’s available to you through your spiritual family. Above all, remember your strength doesn’t lie in yourself, but in God. With Him on your side you’ll win every time

More Reading: 1 Kings 17:1-7, 1 Kings 18:41-46, Mark 4:35-41

If you want to enjoy life and see may happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies (1 Peter 3:10).

When Miriam criticised her brother Moses because of the wife he chose, the Lord heard and she was smitten with leprosy. Maybe you grew up in a family that was forever finding fault, and now you hear the same tone in how you talk to your children. You can’t enjoy God’s blessings because you’ve been programmed to inspect, nitpick, and form opinions – usually negative ones. The Bible says, ‘If you want to enjoy life and see…happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil’ (1 Peter 3:10). The definition of the word ‘criticism’ (dwelling upon the perceived faults of another with no view to their good) should cause you to pause and think. Be Led by God, Not Others

First, there’s the word perceived. Often your perceptions aren’t accurate; there are always circumstances you don’t understand. Next we come to the words dwelling upon. We’re inclined to walk through life saying, ‘That’s not right,’ or ‘I wouldn’t do it that way.’ You say, ‘I’m an analytical person, it’s how God made me.’ That’s fine, but the problem comes when you choose to dwell on your observations – when you can’t set them aside.

You say, ‘But how can I help somebody if I don’t dwell on what they’re doing?’ That’s why the last part of the definition – with no view to their good – is so important. It’s not wrong to dwell upon somebody’s faults, provided you do it in a non-judgmental way with a view to helping them find a solution. Does that mean it’s okay to discuss it with a third party? Only if you can end the conversation by saying, ‘Let’s pray about it, keep it in confidence, and try to help.’ The Secret of Lasting Happiness

Nevertheless, God wouldn’t permit anybody else to criticise Moses—not even his sister Miriam. So what can you learn from this?
(1) We’re all capable of harbouring a critical attitude. Miriam had great qualities. She saved Moses’ life as a child, and she wrote a song of praise Israel used to celebrate the crossing of the Red Sea. But she paid a high price for her critical attitude—leprosy.

 (2) When you’re resentful you become critical. ‘Miriam…began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife.’ (Numbers 12:1) But was that the real issue? No. ‘They said, “Has the Lord indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us also?”’ (Numbers 12:2) Moses’ wife was just a diversion; the real issue was Moses’ success. Their beef was: ‘How come he gets all the attention?’

 (3) Anytime you succeed you’ll be criticised. The Bible says, ‘Moses was very humble’ (Numbers 12:3), yet even he couldn’t escape the pain inflicted by self-appointed critics. And you’re no different; as long as you’re alive somebody will find fault with what you’re doing. Brush it off and keep going. Choose Your Friends Carefully

(4) If you’ve been critical, you need to repent. When Aaron acknowledged, ‘We have acted foolishly…we have sinned’ (Numbers 12:11), God showed mercy and healed Miriam. Most of us would rather classify criticism as a weakness, but from God’s perspective it’s a genuine, bona fide, registered sin. And there’s only one way to deal with sin—repent and stop committing it.

Having a critical attitude may not destroy your relationship with God, but it’ll definitely hurt your capacity to experience His love, His presence and His blessing. Notice, it was God who smote Miriam with leprosy.

She started out by criticising her brother Moses, and ended up feeling the consequences in her relationship with the Lord. Why? Because God pays attention to the way we treat each other! Maybe you’re wondering, ‘Why would God make such a big deal out of this?’ Because when you choose to sin, you choose to suffer.

Everything God classifies as sin is hurtful to you—everything. When God says, ‘Don’t,’ what He really means is, ‘Don’t hurt yourself.’ And when He says, ‘Don’t criticise,’ He’s not trying to deprive you of satisfaction. He’s saying that having a critical attitude goes against who He made you to be, and what you’re called to do.

Just as fish were made to swim and birds were made to fly, you were made to live in fellowship with God—and a critical spirit hinders that fellowship. Even people who don’t claim to be particularly religious are cognisant of the negative effects of criticism. Dr David Fink, author of Release from Nervous Tension, studied thousands of mentally and emotionally disturbed people. He worked with two groups: a stressed-out group and a stress-free one. The Word And The Spirit

Eventually one fact emerged: the stressed-out group was composed of habitual fault-finders and constant critics of people and things around them. On the other hand, the stress-free group was loving and accepting of others. There’s no doubt about it, the habit of criticising is a self-destructive way to live. Don’t go there. 

 Some important observations:

1) Criticism is often ego-based. Oswald Chambers wrote, ‘Beware of anything that puts you in the place of the superior person.’ And that’s exactly what criticism does: it highlights you as the one who ‘knows’. Not only that, it gives you the satisfaction of shining the spotlight on others. People find it much harder to see your life when you’re shining the glaring light of criticism on theirs. When you live this way your attitude says, ‘If I can’t make it in this world by what I do, I’ll make it by knowing what you should do better.’ James writes, ‘These things ought not so to be’ (James 3:10). And Paul writes, ‘Love each other…and take delight in honouring each other’ (Romans 12:10). Abide

2) Criticism can break hearts. Imagine how Moses felt when his brother and sister suddenly turned on him. Because the people closest to us know the details of our lives, we’re always vulnerable to their criticism. Sometimes as parents we leave our children’s lives in shambles by creating a home that’s rife with criticism. Maybe as you read these words you hear the voice of your harshest critic – a parent who constantly put you down. A parent whose words still ring in your memory: ‘You were never any good’; ‘You’ll never amount to anything.’

3) How should you respond to criticism? Paul answers: ‘If I were…trying to please men, I would not be a…servant of Christ’ (Galatians 1:10). Instead of listening to your critics, centre your attention on what God thinks of you and your life will take an upswing. In the final analysis, His is the only opinion that count

Nobody wants to spend time with someone who monopolises the conversation by updating them on their top-ten-people-to-criticise list. Staying home and watching old movie reruns is more appealing than going to that kind of party! It’s a hard truth to hear, but the people you need most are the ones who’ll avoid you when you become known as a fault-finder. Sometimes criticism is inadvertent; on a better day, led by God’s Spirit and focused on what’s positive, you’d never say such things. Notice what Aaron said: ‘We have acted foolishly’ (Numbers 12:11). He didn’t try to defend his position by saying, ‘Yes, Moses did marry the wrong person,’ or ‘We deserve more of the limelight.’ No, he realised his mistake, repented, and retreated from it. And you must do that too. Why? Because criticism blocks the flow of God’s blessing in your life! We Must Be Ready

Oswald Chambers wrote, ‘Whenever you’re in a critical temper, it’s impossible to enter into communion with God.’ Stop and ask yourself: ‘Is the momentary relief I get from criticising others worth losing my sense of God’s presence?’. To regain that sense of His presence you need to confess and forsake your critical attitude, then replace it with a more gracious and loving one. Today, get down on your knees and pray: ‘Lord, forgive me for thinking my perspective is always right. I acknowledge that as arrogance. Give me grace in dealing with others – the same grace I’ve received from You. Help me to accept our differences and not demand that everyone see things exactly as I do. Give me victory over my critical attitude. In Jesus’ name. Amen.’ 

More Reading: Genesis 28:1-30:24, John 14:1-14

 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:3)

Are you feeling misunderstood? You’re not alone! The most misunderstood individual who ever lived was Jesus. Critics joked about His birth, disputed His divine origin, scorned his purpose, reviled his teachings, were suspicious of His motives, critical of His methods and angered by His message. The Path To The Throne

Ultimately they put him to death on the cross! That explains what the Apostle John meant when he wrote, ‘The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man.  He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. (John 1:5-11). Whenever He went, Jesus met with misunderstanding and rejection. Yet in spite of it, He endured. And by His grace you can too! USE WHAT GOD GAVE YOU

The Bible says, ‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart’ (Hebrews 12:1-3). Will You Still Trust Me?

 So as you run your race today, recognize the things that slow you down, recognize the things that trip you up, recognize that obstacles and opposition are part for the course, and don’t get discouraged. How do you do this? By keeping your eyes on Jesus and drawing strength from him each day.

More Reading: Numbers 29:1-9, Matthew 24

1 Corinthians 2:16 For, “Who can know the Lord’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him? But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.

When your mind is not open to the Holy Spirit, you cannot understand god’s Word. So if you find reading the Bible unrewarding, try this: before you open your Bible, open your heart and pray, ‘Holy Spirit, show me what I don’t see and teach me what I don’t know.’ Having a Peaceful State of Mind


Paul writes'....it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets.  No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit.  And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us.

When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others.  For, “Who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?” But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ. (1 Corinthians 10-16) Listen To God
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The Bible isn’t like any other book. It words are God breathed; therefore when you approach the Bible you must ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and give you understanding. He will!

More Reading: Acts 2:1-18

2 Corinthians 9:7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

The Bible says, ‘whoever sow generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, foe God loves, a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work….you will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion’ (2 Corinthians 9:6-11). DO IT WHILE YOU STILL CAN

Are you are a cheerful giver or a fearful giver? It’s not that we’re greedy or opposed to supporting God’s work; we’re just concerned that if we don’t look out for our own interests, they might not get looked out for all. But such fear is irrational! It’s like a farmer, who, out of fear of losing his seed, refuse to plan his fields. Don’t hoard the seed God intends to be sown foe the harvest He wants you to have. God’s promise to you is, if you saw generously you’ll reap generously,’ when you make giving to God your first priority, you don’t have to fear. TAKING PERSONAL RESPONSIBLITY

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (Matthew 6:33). When you strive to be a faithful conduit for His kingdom, God promises to ‘increase your store of seed.’ And it gets better: ‘you will be made rich in every way.’ When you partner with God, He rewards you abundantly for every good deed.
When you view your money from God’s perspective, the thing to fear isn’t giving away too much but sowing too little!

More Reading: Deuteronomy 25-27 Luke 12:22-34

2 Corinthians 4: 8-9 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.  For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

How you look at yourself and things determines who you are and what you see. Many people around you might look at you and see disgrace, disappointment and shame but you need to see yourself in the light of God’s word. If you must enjoy the inheritance and provision god has given you in this life, you must look through the eyes of faith. That means you must begin to call those things that be not as though they were. use what god gave you

The world says that seeing is believing, but our Bible says we should believe before we see. You must begin to base your confessions on the unseen for the things you see are temporal. We are almost coming to the end of this year, what are you seeing?  Do you see success or do you see failure.

When David was in the field tending his father’s sheep, people saw him as a shepherd boy, some even called him; ‘’that poor shepherd boy” but god saw in David a great king and a man after his own heart. People saw Joseph as a dreamer and a prisoner but god saw a prime minister and a deliverer.

Look at yourself right where you are, what are you seeing? Well, it may please you to that any negative thing happening around you are temporal. They are all lying vanities. As long as they are not in tune or line with God’s plan and purpose for you, reject them for they are unreal. The more you see thing in line with God’s word, the more positive and beautiful your life will be. A love letter from jesus

Stop looking at the hardship in your country, or the condition of your family or health. Look at yourself in the light of God’s word. In this month of thanksgiving rejoice because the eyes of your understanding are open and brighter future awaits you.

More Reading: 2 Corinthians 4: 8-9

  Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Here are four things you need to know about forgiveness.

1)    Forgiveness doesn’t make what happened to you right; it made a decision not to let it control your life. By forgiving and attempting to restore the relationship, you reclaim your peace of mind. If the other person refuses to acknowledge what happened or that it was wrong, the offence can and should still be forgiven. Forgiveness doesn’t depend on the other person; it depends on you. the path to throne

2)    Forgiveness matters, even when the offending party refuses to admit guilt. When you wait for someone to admit he or she was wrong, you’re placing your future in that person’s hands. Forgiveness is first and foremost for your own benefit, not the benefit of others. By forgiving, you’re letting the pain and hurt go and moving forward.

3)    Your willingness to forgive can move the other person to seek forgiveness. Perhaps the person who hurt you doesn’t feel they deserve to be forgiven. Or they may know what they did was wrong, but lack the courage to step forward and ask for forgiveness. When you make the first move, it opens the door and allows them to reach out and find mercy and understanding. the engrafted word

4)    Forgiveness is easier when you accept that we all need it. When you refuse to forgive because you think someone’s offence are greater than your own, that’s pride. “In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5). The Bible says, ‘Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.’ Once you realize the depth of God’s grace toward you, it’s easier to extend grace to others.

More Reading: Deuteronomy 11-13 Mark 6:45-56

Acts 27: 23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am , and whom I serve , 24 Saying , Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo , God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. 25 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.