HAPPY NEW YEAR

Saturday, January 1, 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Genesis 1:1

In the beginning GOD created the heaven and the earth.

John 1:1,2

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD and the Word was GOD. The same was in the beginning with GOD.

We begin this year, in the same way that the Holy Scripture begins; "In the beginning GOD".

Many people are being asked for their New Year resolution; what do they purpose in their heart to accomplish in this new year. Answers range from "going on a diet" to being more responsible with money and many more promises like "quitting smoking" or "getting married". There seems to be a quiet understanding, that these promises will last about a day or, maybe a week, but for a whole year, that is somehow too long a period of time.

When we begin with GOD as the center and focus of our new year, and our years to come, things are very different. First of all, GOD creates in us, a new thing; "old things are passed away and behold, all things become new". GOD always keeps His promises, even when we break ours, so everything He has promised, He will perform and we are the recipients of His Grace and Mercy. All goodness comes from GOD, because GOD is Goodness, Mercy, Love. GOD will always keep His Word, and His Word was with Him at the beginning. I have come to understand that, if the Word was with GOD at the beginning, it was with GOD before He began to create the heaven and the earth. Yes, His Word, which He will never break, was with Him in timeless eternity and His Word became flesh and dwelt among us so that we could behold His glory. This Word of GOD is JESUS.

Do you long to hear the truth? Do you want to be able to trust? Do you want to know who is the one in whom you can put your faith? Who will never let you down, EVER. His Name is the Name above all Names:

JESUS, CHRIST THE LORD.

BEGIN YOUR NEW YEAR WITH HIM.

THREE WISE GIFTS

Friday, December 31, 2010

James 1:17,18

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of His own will begot He us with the Word of Truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.

I often hear people struggling with the task of defining their spiritual gift. Are they gifted with wisdom? Knowledge? Prophecy? or any other of the gifts of the Spirit? There are many courses on "gift identification" so that the person might know where GOD has gifted them, in order to develop that gift. This is good, but the focus is off center. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights". It seems to me, that if GOD is the giver of the gifts, then He is the one who should be asked about the use of the gift. The question hangs heavy, are all the gifts the possession of the receiver or the giver?

I find that the gifts from GOD are for the good of all people. They pass through us, from GOD, to meet the need of another. I have found that the right gift is given for the meeting of the need. If the need is for wisdom, wisdom is given to them through various means, including another person. This way, there can be no pride involved, only gratitude for the Giver of the Gift.

The greatest gift the Father of Lights has given, is JESUS, our LORD and Savior. "For as many as receive Him, to them gave He the power to become the children of GOD, even to them that believe on His Name; who were born, not of blood, nor the will of the flesh, nor the will of man, but of GOD"(John 1: 12,13) "He that hath the Son hath Life." ( 1 John 5:12a). When we receive Him and are born again, all that GOD has is ours, because of JESUS, the only begotten Son.

THIS IS THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING; THE LOVE THAT KEEPS ON LOVING. GOD NEVER CHANGES, THERE IS NO SHADOW OF TURNING IN HIM.

THREE WISE GIFTS

Thursday, December 30, 2010
Luke 11:13
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?

We have just finished the time of lavish gift giving, where Mothers and Fathers, grand parents and friends gave wonderful gifts to their chosen ones. Time and money were spent to find the right gift for the right person, so that they would be glad to receive what was given. Christmas gifts were opened and the oos and ahs resounded through homes and offices throughout the land. Christmas is the time for giving. Many Ministries rely on the generosity of people, at this time, to fill the needs and the ability to continue to serve the needy. Generosity is part of the energy for good in the hearts of people. We are human, and we know how to give; we learned how by GOD's grace

I recap this, because there is a connection with the verse in Luke, which I have quoted. If we know how to give good gifts to our friends, family, the poor and the Church; if we know how to be generous, loving and gracious; then how much more will our Father in Heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask.

The LORD GOD gave His Son, JESUS and JESUS gave the Holy Spirit, so that we would be filled full with the presence, wisdom and anointing of GOD, Himself. JESUS, the greatest gift of all, gave His life to make it possible for all of us to have access to the Father. By His Blood, He redeemed us and saved us and healed us. Now we have total access to Him, because He provided it. Ask, and you shall receive from the hand of the Father in Heaven.

Let us open our GOD given gift with greater oos and ahs, rising to hallelujahs and high praise for what the Father has given us.

"Oh, what a gift! Who can tell the wonders of the LORD? Let us open our eyes, our ears and our heart; It is Christ the LORD it is He."

THREE WISE GIFTS

Wednesday, December 29, 2010
I Timothy 1:17
Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise GOD, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen!

Lets look at these words about the LORD GOD:
The LORD GOD is King eternal, not limited by time and space; King over all things created, and by Him was everything created; He is from everlasting to everlasting, having no beginning and no ending, He IS the beginning and the ending, Alpha and Omega; He is infinite.

The LORD GOD is immortal. He is not mortal like humankind, but He transcends humankind. He IS. The LORD GOD is invisible, not seen by human eyes, but visible to the human spirit, by the Holy Spirit. He is only wise, the wisdom of man is foolishness to GOD, because it falls short of the glory of GOD. GOD sees and know all, the beginning and the end of all things. His wisdom, He imparts to humankind in small doses, so that mankind can absorb what is imparted. The total plan of GOD is known to Him alone; wisdom comes from Him alone.

The LORD GOD gave to humankind, Himself in visible form, His name is JESUS. In Him dwelt all of the GODHEAD bodily. Human kind saw Him, heard His wisdom and saw His mighty acts. Humankind felt the love and the healing power of His mercy and grace. For the sake of humanity, JESUS shed His Blood and carried His Blood to the Mercy Seat for atonement and the remission of sin. JESUS bought humanity back from the grip of death, by His willing sacrifice of Himself for loves sake.

Unto JESUS be all honor and glory; dominion and power, as we bow before him in adoration and love.

THANKS BE TO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT - JESUS CHRIST, THE LORD

THREE WISE GIFTS

Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Numbers 24: 16,17
He hath said, who heard the words of GOD, and knew the knowledge of the most High, who saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open: I shall see Him, but not now: I shall behold Him, but not near: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth..

This is one of the earliest of the prophecies of the coming of JESUS, the Messiah. Jewish scholars have seen this as being fulfilled in King David, however, there are many other prophecies which point even farther, to the coming of JESUS.

This prophecy was probably known by the wise men, who looked for a Star to arise out of Jacob and a Scepter (the Kingship sign) to arise out of Israel. This could be the reason that the wise men went to Jerusalem first, before arriving at Bethlehem. They assumed that the King would be born in the Capital City, not in a lowly stable or living in a house. The Star is the symbol of the anointing bright light; the Scepter is the symbol of the King's authority.

The corners of Moab are the two temples of Moab which Messiah will smite through on 'two sides', crushing it. In Jewish thought, Moab is spoken of as under the figure of a human head; the children of Sheth are one of the tribes of Moab and they are called "sons of tumult".

I see in this the deeper understanding of the work of JESUS for our redemption. JESUS, sent by GOD to redeem the world, arose out of the lineage of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as the Star, or King/ Authority over the people; He crushed the head of Satan, removing him from influence over the people of GOD, and He cast out fear and tumult, bringing peace to all who believe in JESUS.

In the Torah, is the vision of the coming Messiah; the vision of JESUS, redeemer of the world.

THREE WISE GIFTS

Monday, December 27, 2010
Matthew 2:1,2; 11
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod, the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."...And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary, his mother, and fell down, and worshiped Him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

JESUS is about two years old by now. We understand this, because Herod had all boy babies under two years of age slaughtered, hoping to kill the King of the Jews, JESUS. Mary and JESUS now live in a house in Bethlehem. The wise men, were astrologers from the eastern countries near Persia, which is now Iraq. They traveled far, maybe even two years to see this Holy Child. They had seen the star of the King of Kings in the sky, possibly the shekinah glory of GOD. This star signaled the coming of The King of the Jews, as foretold by the Prophet Micah, "But thou Bethlehem Ephrathah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel, whose goings forth have been from old, from everlasting." This was an ancient prophecy from around the 8th century B.C. and was know by the wise men, who studied the prophecies and the stars.

The wise men brought with them gifts of great value. These gifts were also prophetic signs which JESUS would fulfill by His life. Gold - the Kingship of JESUS, King of Kings and Lord of Lords; Frankincense - Priest, JESUS the great high Priest, whose Blood is the atonement for all who call upon Him for salvation; Myrrh - the Salvation and Healing, JESUS is our Savior and healer, He who restores us to GOD through the remission of our sins.

There was a fourth gift, this gift was given by GOD to man and given back to GOD through man; the gift of WORSHIP. This is the gift we all can bring to JESUS, all of the time, in every place were we are located. It is the gift from the heart in thanksgiving for for His great Love.

THEN SINGS MY SOUL, MY SAVIOR GOD TO THEE; HOW GREAT THOU ART.

JESUS CHRIST IS BORN

MERRY CHRISTMAS
JESUS CHRIST IS BORN TODAY
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Isaiah 9:6,7
For unto us a child is born,unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulders; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor,the Mighty GOD, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace, of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon His kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with justice and with righteousness from henceforth even forever. THE ZEAL OF THE LORD OF HOSTS WILL PERFORM THIS.

In the fullness of time, GOD sent His Son, to be born of a virgin, betrothed to Joseph of the House and lineage of David. HIS NAME IS JESUS, IMMANUEL - GOD WITH US. He shall rule over all the earth with justice and righteousness. All leaders of every nation will bow and all the people will bow before Him, for He is LORD of all. He is "Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty GOD, The Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace" and His government and peace will have no end. THIS IS GOOD NEWS.

Today, many people wonder what will happen to this world, caught in turmoil and the constant threat of war, terrorism, and nuclear attack. Many tremble at the thought of our homeland being destroyed and our values being crushed and crumbled. The angels said to the Shepherds at the birth of JESUS, FEAR NOT, FOR BEHOLD I BRING YOU GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY. We who believe in the LORD JESUS Christ, have no need to fear. Immanuel is with us - GOD is with us in our homes, in our work, in our schools, in our government. He is watching over all of us with the eye of Truth, justice and righteousness. Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that JESUS Christ is LORD, to the glory of GOD the Father. All governments and leaders; all people of every nation, tongue and tribe are under His control.

His word to us is: TELL MY PEOPLE THAT I LOVE THEM. GOD so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.

JESUS LOVES US, THIS I KNOW; FOR JESUS TELLS US SO

THE UNSPEAKABLE GIFT

Friday December 24, 2010
THE EVE OF CHRISTMAS
Matthew 1: 20,21
But while he (Joseph) thought on these things, behold, an angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary, thy wife; for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she shall call his name JESUS; for He shall save His people from their sins.

It is remarkable how Joseph, this honorable man of GOD, believed and acted on his belief to protect Mary and the baby JESUS. We often think about the faithfulness and obedience of Mary as being remarkable, which it is; think about the faithfulness and obedience of Joseph. By Jewish law, Joseph could have put Mary out of his life and publicly disgraced her for being pregnant before their marriage. Joseph obeyed the angel, sent from GOD, and protected his betrothed. This means that JESUS was protected from harm, also.

This is the Eve of Christmas, the towns and cities are buzzing with last minute shoppers. There is noise and confusion everywhere. Parties are being readied and plans are in the works for a glorious Christmas, with family and friends. In a setting such as this, the Holy Child, JESUS was born in the utmost humility and poverty. There was no room in the Inn, only a stable with animals. The Son of GOD was born in obscurity, while the towns and cities were a buzz with activity. Joseph, Mary, the animals and all of heaven witnessed the birth of GOD'S Son. The people of the world walked in darkness, rushing around looking for someone to save them. In the midst of their world, the Savior Christ is born, the savior of the world.

Today, right now, in the rush of our life, as we hurry around to find that last Christmas gift; LOOK, AND SEE, in the lowliest and smallest place, GOD will arise. He is here; He is with us; He is Immanuel, GOD with us; HE IS JESUS, look and see, He is here. Turn to Him, open your heart to Him and let Him be born in you and you be born again. NOW IS THE DAY OF REDEMPTION.

O COME TO MY HEART, LORD JESUS, THERE IS ROOM IN MY HEART FOR THEE.

THE UNSPEAKABLE GIFT

Thursday, December 23, 2010
Luke 2: 16-19
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had see it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

THE PONDERING HEART

What does it mean to ponder? Our Pastor equated pondering to a puzzle. First the pieces are all scattered about, but one by one those pieces are connected and a picture is formed. Events in Mary's life were all overwhelming, but they were scattered in time. As Mary pondered these events, she put them into relationship with each other, forming a portion of a picture. Many more events would unfold, but as Mary ponders them, she can place them into the puzzle, revealing more of the picture.

GOD is weaving a giant tapestry, called His plan of salvation. Each unique person has a part in that tapestry. We all were born for a purpose in GOD'S plan. a purpose that only we can fill.

Mary had a believing heart, a rejoicing heart, and a pondering heart; we, too, can see the plan of GOD for us by believing GOD, rejoicing in Him and pondering the events of our life. As we put together the pieces of the giant puzzle, we can see a portion of our place in the plan of GOD.

BELIEVE, REJOICE AND PONDER

THE UNSPEAKABLE GIFT

Wednesday December 22, 2010
Luke 1:46-48
THE REJOICING HEART OF MARY
And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the LORD, and my spirit hath rejoiced in GOD my savior. For He hath regarded the low estate of His handmaiden; for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed...

There are three things about Mary that are notable, she had a believing heart; she had a rejoicing heart; she had a pondering heart. Mary believed the angel sent from GOD and agreed with the message the angel brought to her. Mary rejoiced in her spirit, that the baby in her womb was the Son of GOD. She was humbled by the fact that the LORD had chosen a lowly woman to bring forth His Son. She was aware that her baby would be JESUS, the Messiah and she rejoiced. Now, all generations would have the promises fulfilled. Promises that were spoken by the Prophets of old.

Mary's rejoicing was in her heart and out of the abundance of her heart her mouth spoke. Her rejoicing was not with pride, but with great humility. She would be the means by which the Son of GOD would be born.

OH COME, OH COME, IMMANUEL, GOD WITH US (Matthew 1:23)

THE UNSPEAKABLE GIFT

Tuesday, December 21,2010
Luke 1: 26-28
In the sixth month, the angel, Gabriel, was sent from GOD unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou who art highly favored, the LORD is with thee; blessed art thou among women.

Within these few verses, there are many very interesting facts which can be applied to us. They are especially important for women to hear, but are also very important for men, as well. The whole of humanity needs to hear these words spoken to it.

The first important fact is that Gabriel, the angel, was sent by GOD to a specific person and place. GOD has a plan which includes specific people and places; He is not the GOD of haphazard events, He is always intentional in His actions and words.

Mary, whom GOD chose to be the Mother of JESUS, was espoused to Joseph. GOD wanted to place His Son in the Household of David and both Mary and Joseph were of that Household. Mary was a virgin, who was espoused. She was not just a virgin. We can see, by the history of Israel, that it was espoused to GOD, by GOD'S choice. He called them His people and He would be their GOD. It was in this setting that the Bridegroom, JESUS, was born. JESUS, who is GOD in the flesh, IS the way for humanity to be united to GOD, as in a marriage. In the Revelation, there is the account of the "Marriage Feast of the Lamb". This is the marriage of true believers in JESUS, to GOD.

Mary is called, "highly favored", chosen by GOD and precious. Each and every person is unique and special; favored by GOD for life with him. Next, Mary is told that the "LORD is with thee", His presence is always with us, watching, waiting, longing and reaching for each person to come to JESUS. Next, Mary is told that she is "blessed among women", women have a role in the life of humanity which is creative and nurturing. Into the womb and arms of a woman, GOD places His new born babies. This is GOD'S safe place for the nurture of children.

When we look at Joseph, we see a man of social status, he was of the house and lineage of David. We also see the protector of the mother and child. This role in the stability, safety and protection of children, provides the safe home where love and stability create a nest of wholeness.

We all have a role to play in GOD'S perfect plan. He has chosen each of us to fulfill a unique part of His plan. Yes, each of us is "highly favored"; He is present to each of us; Each person is blessed.

LIVE IN THE BLESSED LIFE, IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD, YOU ARE HIGHLY FAVORED.

THE UNSPEAKABLE GIFT

Monday December 20, 2010
II Corinthians 9:15
Thanks be unto GOD for His unspeakable gift.

There are no words, in any language, that can express adequately our thanksgiving for the gift of the only Begotten Son of GOD, JESUS Christ the LORD. There is a song which tells of this thought: "If we with ink the ocean fill; and were the sky of parchment made; and every stalk on earth a quill and every man a scribe by trade. To write the love of GOD above, would drain the ocean dry; nor could the scroll contain the whole, though stretched from sky to sky. The love of GOD, how rich and pure; how measureless and strong. It shall forevermore endure the saints and angel's song."

JESUS Christ, the unspeakable gift; silences all who would speak volumes of words. This gift, came to earth as a little child, in humility and meekness, in order to teach humankind the lesson of true love. True love comes from GOD; true love is humble and meek; true love gives and never counts the cost; true love sacrifices the highest and the best for the poorest of the poor.

THE LOVE OF GOD, HOW RICH AND PURE; HOW MEASURELESS AND STRONG. IT SHALL FOREVERMORE ENDURE THE SAINTS AND ANGEL'S SONG.

GOODWILL TO ALL PEOPLE

Saturday December 18, 2010
Isaiah 26: 3,4
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee. Trust ye in the LORD forever; for in the LORD GOD is everlasting strength.

The good news is, that in JESUS Christ there is great peace. This peace came to earth as a person, not a feeling. Feeling vanish when the setting for the feeling goes away; JESUS, who is our peace, never leaves us or forsakes us and is always with us. The peace of this world will fade away; the peace of GOD never fails or fades. How do we obtain this peace? Believe on the LORD JESUS Christ and you will experience the peace that passes all understanding; pray and study the Word of GOD and you will grow in peace. This is very good news.

When JESUS went back home to be with the Father, He sent the Holy Spirit to bring all things into remembrance that was told to us by JESUS. The fruit of the Spirit is "love, joy peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, meekness, faith, and temperance; against which there is no law." The peace of the LORD remains with us as we grow in grace and love and knowledge of JESUS. This is good news!

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST AND PEACE GOOD WILL TOWARD MEN (Luke 2:14)

GOODWILL TO ALL PEOPLE

Friday December 17, 2010
Psalm 119: 165
Great peace have they who love Thy law, and nothing shall offend them.

The question hangs in the hearts and minds of us all: "How do we have peace on earth, can we have it now?" There are three ways to have peace and they form a stepwise progression: 1. GET RIGHT WITH GOD. 2. GET INTO GOD'S WORD, 3. GET ONTO PRAYER. Yes, you can have peace on earth and nothing shall offend you, but you have to follow the steps without missing one, then you will have great peace. Peace comes from a relationship with GOD and that relationship is nurtured through reading and studying GOD'S word and living a life of prayer. There is no other way to live for Him and live with Him. Many have tried to circumvent this process, only to find that they fail to have peace when trouble comes. A life of relationship with GOD takes continual nurture; the more you pray and study His Word, the more the relationship grows. When you neglect Him, by neglecting His word and prayer, the weaker you are in the time of trial.

It is up to you; feast on Him or grow anemic by neglect of Him. It is YOUR choice. He wants to have a very deep relationship with you and give you His peace, don't ignore His love reaching out to you.

GOOD NEWS TO ALL PEOPLE

Thursday December 16, 2010
Romans 5:1 and Colossians 3:15
Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with GOD through our LORD JESUS Christ.
And let the peace of GOD rule in your hearts, to which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

I like to pay attention to all the words of Scripture, because a change in one word can be an open door to deeper understanding of GOD'S Word. Notice, in the verse from Romans, there is the word "with" before GOD. This tells us that justification by faith in JESUS brings a relationship with GOD that is full of peace. We are reconciled to GOD by faith in JESUS, through His Blood.

In the Colossians passage, we have the word, "of" before GOD. This tells us that GOD bestows upon us His peace, as we let Him rule our hearts. God imparts His favor and blessing upon all who are yielded to Him. We, indeed, need both the relationship with GOD and the peace of GOD in order to be whole. There are many who have been Born Again and through faith in JESUS have been reconciled to GOD, but, have not yielded themselves to the authority of GOD, opening their heart to His Divine influence, so that the peace of GOD does not rule their heart. Have you not seen Born Again Christians in turmoil and distress of mind body and spirit?

It is also true, that a person who does not have peace "with" God, can not have the peace "of" GOD. You can't have the gift, without a relationship with the giver. First, you must be born again; second, you must yield control of your life to Him, then the peace of GOD which passes understanding will rule your heart through Christ JESUS.

BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND OPEN YOUR HEART TO HIM, HE WILL GIVE YOU HIS PEACE. THANKS BE TO GOD!

GOOD NEWS TO ALL PEOPLE

Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Luke 10: 38,39,42
Now it came to pass, as they went, that He entered into a certain village; and a certain woman, named Martha, received him into her house; and she had a sister, called Mary, who also sat at JESUS' feet, and heard His word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving...JESUS said: But one thing is needful, and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

ONE THING IS NEEDFUL

Prayer and listening to the word of the LORD is most needful in our time of stress and anxiety. We are pressured by so many activities around Christmas, that we are in danger of losing our peace and good will. There are so very many "Martha" events that call for us to be overly busy and "cumbered about much serving" that we forget to take "Mary" time. The opposite should be our normal life; we should first take "Mary" time, a time of sitting at the feet of JESUS, listening to His Word and listening to His heart, then our activities will be under the direction, control and peace of the LORD. We will do so much more as we serve, anointed by the LORD, than jumping into "Martha" activity without the anointing.

In "Mary" time, we receive from the LORD all that He has to give us; His mind, His Spirit, His strength, His direction. We inhale JESUS and are filled full with Him and His Spirit. Then, when we serve, we exhale all that He has put into us; blessing all who are around with His love.

PEACE AND GOODWILL COME FROM SITTING AT THE FEET OF JESUS; PEACE AND GOODWILL FLOW THROUGH US TO BLESS THE WORLD.

GOOD NEWS TO ALL PEOPLE

Tuesday, December 14, 2010
John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

THAT IN ME YE MIGHT HAVE PEACE

Peace is in JESUS, the only true peace is found in Him. The world can not give peace, it can give a false sense of peace, but that peace will never last. True and lasting peace, comes from JESUS. The world gives peace, occasionally, in circumstances that can change often and without notice. Circumstances are so changeable that it is very hard to predict the direction of the change. When changes in circumstances occur, there is fear, anxiety, and turmoil, the absence of peace. I have often heard people say: "Stop the world, I want to get off!!!" This is a sign of out of control circumstances and the loss of peace. A person might find peace in a good book or a bottle of strong drink; they might escape in videos or vacations, but that peace is very fragile.

In JESUS, peace is within the heart. Circumstances can change, but the heart remains at rest and at peace. There is the sure confidence that JESUS is in control and all of His promises are yes and amen. Faith in JESUS brings His peace. When we confess that JESUS is our peace, and believe this in our heart, the turmoil of this world will not fill us with fear, because we know that He has overcome the world.

JESUS CHRIST IS BORN ON EARTH, SALVATION HAS COME TO THE WORLD THROUGH HIM

GOOD NEWS TO ALL PEOPLE

Monday December 13, 2010
Luke 2: 10-14
And the angel said unto them, "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising GOD, and saying, "Glory to GOD in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men."

JESUS Christ, who is our peace, is now on earth. This is the Father's good will towards men. The Father wanted His Son, who is our peace, to be born. Peace is now on earth. "GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16). Psalm 29:11 says to us: "The LORD will give strength unto His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace" peace is only found in JESUS.

Peace is not only the absence of worry and fear; it is also soundness of mind, serenity of spirit, wholeness, wellness, prosperity and safety. All of these are found in JESUS Christ. I Corinthians 14:33 tells us that JESUS is the author of peace; He is also the lover of concord.

No wonder the Angelic Host shouted praise at the coming of JESUS to earth. Salvation has come to mankind; peace and good will from the Father.

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST AND PEACE TO HIS PEOPLE ON EARTH

FOCUS

Saturday December 11, 2010
Ephesians 2: 8-10
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of GOD, not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ JESUS unto good works, which GOD hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Oh, what a gift, what a wonderful gift!!! JESUS Christ, the Messiah, Redeemer of the world, born in time. JESUS came from timelessness and was bound in time for 33 years. We are about to celebrate His willing entrance into time, so that He could work out the Father's plan for our salvation. This grace given to us, we receive by faith. We can not work our way to GOD, the work was done for us by JESUS. We can, right now, receive that grace and embrace the one who won it for us.

The plan of Salvation was worked out by GOD, it is the good work that brings redemption. All of our work is our thank offering to GOD. Remember the 10 lepers, how 9 went away to the Priest to be restored to social acceptance, but the one returned to give thanks to JESUS? Well, we are put in the cross-roads of this story; do we go on and accept our salvation, be restored to fellowship with other like-minded Christians and go our way rejoicing, or do we run to JESUS and fall on our knees with thanksgiving in our heart for all that He has done. In the end of this story, JESUS says: Thy faith hath made thee whole.

Christmas time is the best time for us to kneel before JESUS and praise Him for His love for us. Then, where He leads us, we will follow, never departing from His path. Every work that is good comes from GOD alone.

TELL MY PEOPLE THAT I LOVE THEM. I LOVE YOU, SIGNED, JESUS.

FOCUS

Friday, December 10, 2010
Leviticus 17:11( Pentateuch and Haftorahs)
For the life of the flesh is in the blood; and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that maketh atonement by reason of the life.

The Rabbinical commentary on the words, "Maketh atonement by reason of the life", says this:
"The use of blood, representing life, in the rites of atonement symbolized the complete yielding up of the worshipers life to GOD, and conveyed the thought that the surrender of a man to the will of GOD carried with it the assurance of Divine pardon." GOD requires a life and therefore, He requires blood.

What does this have to do with Christmas? JESUS left glory to dwell among us. He took on flesh, and life of the flesh is in the blood. His Blood was shed (sacrificed), sprinkled (upon the door post and the lintel) of our heart, and poured upon the Altar in Heaven (for Atonement). All three meanings are essential in the understanding of the willing sacrifice of JESUS. JESUS willingly came to earth; He willingly submitted to crucifixion, His Blood was shed for sinners on the Cross. When we accept JESUS as our LORD and Savior, His Blood is applied upon our heart and when GOD sees the Blood, He passes over and we are saved from death.(Exodus 12:1-30). Hebrews 9:12 says that JESUS entered into the Holy Place with His own Blood to make atonement for our sins.

Christmas, Easter, Resurrection, Ascension, and the coming of the Holy Spirit are really one event. They are the step by step march of the plan of Salvation for all humankind. JESUS Christ paid it all for us to have access to GOD; all we have to do is walk the way of the LORD and FOCUS OUR LIFE IN HIM.

CHRIST CAME TO US AT CHRISTMAS; LOVE REACHED ALL THE WAY TO WHERE WE WERE.

FOCUS

Thursday December 9, 2010
Job 1: 5, 8, 10
And it was,when the days of their feasting were finished, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all; for Job said, "It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed GOD in their hearts". Thus did Job continually...
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 who feareth GOD, and shunneth evil?"...
Satan answered the LORD, "Hast not Thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou hast blessed the work of his hand and his substance is increased in the land."

Job was a man who loved and trusted GOD; his focus, day and night was on the LORD. It was his practice (note the word "continually") to offer burnt offerings for all of his family, early in the morning. A burnt offering came from a killed animal, whose blood was placed upon the altar. Job made a blood sacrifice for all of his family. He was aware of the fact that his sons might have sinned and cursed GOD in their hearts, so he interceded with GOD for them with a burnt offering.

GOD put a hedge around Job and his family, because of the focus and sacrifice of Job. This hedge was a hedge of blood which Satan could not cross. The work of Job's hands and his substance in the land increased, due to the blood-hedge of protection.

Notice that the focus of Job, was on GOD, for provision, protection, prosperity and promise. This is the focus for us, a focus on GOD that does not waver, no matter what the circumstances. We all know what happened to Job, how he lost everything, including his family, friends, wealth and his wife, but Satan could not take his life. This was not permitted by GOD. Job was a righteous man through and through, even in the depth of despair. The LORD turned Job's captivity when he prayed for his friends and the LORD restored to him double. Keep in mind that Job had his focus on GOD and GOD had his hand on Job.

Look at the hedge for a moment, it was a total hedge formed by the blood sacrifices Job made daily. The power of the hedge was in the blood. JESUS' Blood is more powerful than the blood of bulls and goats and His Blood is the hedge around those who believe in Him.

Let us pray: LORD, put Your hedge about me and about my house, and about all that I have on every side. Bless the work of my hands, and increase my substance in the land. This I pray in the Name of JESUS and for His Holy Name sake. Amen

FOCUS

Wednesday December 8, 2010
The Acts 20: 28
Take heed, therefore, unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church of GOD, which He hath purchased with His own Blood.

THE CHURCH IS BLOOD BOUGHT

If the Church is "Blood bought", then what is the "food" we are to use to "feed the Church of GOD"? The food which JESUS gives us is the Spiritual food of new and unending life in Him; the food is to do the will of the Father who is in Heaven; The Body and Blood of Christ in the Holy Communion/Eucharist. JESUS said that His flesh was food indeed and His Blood was drink indeed. The Church is feed with JESUS in Holy Communion.

Why are we talking about this during the Christmas Season, because, without the Birth of JESUS and His life, Resurrection, Ascension and His Blood poured out on the altar in heaven, we would not have atonement or a right relationship with GOD. The flesh and Blood came to earth to set our focus. The only focus, that brings life and light is JESUS. He bought the Church back from sin and death through His Blood; He gave us food and drink to nourish our Spirit, Soul and Body in the mystical Communion. He did everything for us, He deserves all the thanks and the glory.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY, GREAT THINGS HE HATH DONE

FOCUS

Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Leviticus 17:11
For the life of the flesh is in the blood; and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for you souls; for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.

There are two especially important truths that are stated here: The first is that the value of the "life" is the measure of the value of the "blood". JESUS, the Son of GOD in the flesh, has Blood of inconceivable worth. When it was shed, the sinless Lamb of GOD gave His life for sinful man. His Blood was the perfect offering for our sin and was received as the propitiation for sin, when it was poured upon the Altar in Heaven.

The second fact is that it is not the blood in the veins of the sacrifice, but the blood upon the Altar which is efficacious. The Blood of JESUS did not remain on the earth, but was carried into the heavenly Temple, when He rose from the dead. JESUS, the spotless Lamb of GOD was slain from the foundation of the world, so that mankind would have access to GOD.

At the Birth of JESUS the plan of salvation began its earthly unfolding. The plan, begun in the mind of the Father, now is being carried out through the Son. This Holy Birth brings to man GOD the SON, the redeemer of the world.

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST AND PEACE TO HIS PEOPLE ON EARTH

FOCUS

Monday December 6, 2010
I Peter 1: 18,19
Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver and gold, from your vain manner of life received by tradition from your fathers, But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

THIS IS THE CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

I bet you are saying to yourself, "this is the Easter Message not the Christmas one". Let me show you why this is both and more. The birth of JESUS brought to earth the Lamb of GOD - JESUS, Christ. This Lamb without spot or blemish would become the willing sacrifice, which made atonement for our sins. Christmas is the celebration of the coming of the Flesh and Blood of JESUS to earth. He, who has become the propitiation for our sin and not ours only, but the sin of the whole world.

It is through this Blood that our salvation was bought back from the darkness of the evil one. This Blood is the perfect offering and sacrifice brought into the Holy of Holy by JESUS himself. The mercy seat is covered with His Blood and GOD (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) grants mercy to us, because of the Blood.

THE BODY ANDBLOOD OF JESUS CAME TO MANKIND AT CHRISTMAS. REDEMPTION IS OURS THROUGH HIS BLOOD.

LOVE SENT JESUS TO EARTH, SO THAT WE MIGHT BE SAVED/HEALED/ DELIVERED.

THANKS WITHOUT CEASING

Saturday December 4, 2010
1 Chronicles 23: 30
And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at evening.
Psalm 55:17
Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 119:164
Seven times a day do I praise thee, because of Thy righteous judgements.

Thanksgiving, praise and prayer are all acts of worship which should never cease. Luke 19:40 says: "I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out" This was said to the Pharisees who wanted JESUS to rebuke the disciples for the people shouting, "Blessed be the King who comes in the Name of the LORD; peace in heaven, and glory in the highest."

Our thanksgiving, praise, prayers and worship should never end; morning, noon, night and even seven times a day. I have seen the discipline of seven times a day worship in a Monastery. Those who take a vow of perpetual adoration of the LORD, never stop thanking Him or praising His Name. I feel that there is a lesson in this for those of us who do not live in a Monastery, THANK GOD AND PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.

Thanksgiving is evidence of the degree of our faith. The thankful heart honors GOD; increases in faith; is peaceful; gives glory to GOD; is victorious through JESUS and prays without ceasing. THERE IS GREAT BLESSING FOR THOSE WHO LIVE THE LIFE OF WORSHIP

OF THESE SHOULD HOLD THEIR PEACE, IMMEDIATELY THE STONES WOULD CRY OUT
THANKS BE TO GOD

GLORY BELONGS TO GOD

Friday December 3, 2010
Romans 1: 18,19, 21,22
For the wrath of GOD is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness, because that which may be known of GOD is manifest in them; for GOD hath shown it unto them... Because, when they knew GOD, they glorified Him not as GOD, neither were thankful, but became vain in their imaginations and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.

THE FOOL HATH SAID IN HIS HEART THERE IS NO GOD

Our Pastor heard the LORD say to him at the beginning of His Ministry: "Do not touch My Glory. saith the LORD". Everywhere we look today, people are taking credit for things that they did not do; they rob others of the credit for a success. This is a common occurrence when it comes to the mighty work of GOD. Over and over again we see humans robbing GOD of His glory and saying by their actions: "Look what I have done!"

From whom did the heavens unfold and the earth materialize? From whose design did the universe form in complete balance? Who designed man and animals to be of different kinds and functions? Who designed the body to be exactly whole, each cell moving in perfect harmony? It is GOD who made the heavens and the earth, the seas and all that is in them. It is GOD who made man in His image, designed perfectly to fellowship with Him. The fool says that there is no GOD and touches the Glory of GOD with a dark finger. This act brings the wrath of GOD upon all the ungodly and unrighteous fools.

What pleases GOD and honors Him, is the one who gives thanks for ALL that He has done. GOD created all things; by His will they live and move and have their being. Every herb and plant; every animal; every mountain and hill; every human being has been created by GOD. The overwhelming truth is that nothing exists without first being formed by GOD.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY FOR THE THINGS HE HAS DONE! THANK YOU, LORD!

FEAR NOT; BE YE THANKFUL

Thursday, December 2, 2010
Colossians 3:15-17
And let the peace of GOD rule your hearts, to which also ye are called in one body, and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another, in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs singing with grace in your hearts to the LORD. And whatever ye do in word or deed, do all in the Name of the LORD Jesus, giving thanks to GOD and the Father by Him.

PEACE AND THANKSGIVING ARE CONNECTED

When peace rules the heart, there is thanksgiving to GOD always; when there is thanksgiving in the heart, peace is the result. Thankful people are peaceful people, because they know, by faith, that GOD is able to meet any challenge that faces them. Literally, the thankful people rest in peace.

The opposite is also true, those who are not thankful have a decrease or loss of faith and an absence of peace. The thankful heart will never be afraid; the unthankful people will always be afraid.

The thankful heart honors GOD; has an increase in faith; is peaceful, not afraid. Begin, right now, to give thanks to GOD for His great blessings. Count your many blessings, see what GOD has done for you, AND BE THANKFUL.

HONOR THE LORD

Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Psalm 140:12,13
I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the poor. Surely, the righteous shall give thanks unto Thy Name; the upright shall dwell in Thy presence.

When we give thanks, we honor the LORD; when we neglect to give thanks, we dishonor Him. These are really strong words, and yet, true. Yesterday's devotion centered around the 10 lepers, only one of whom returned to give thanks. That leper honored the LORD; the 9 dishonored Him. Can you imagine the audacity of anyone who would even, for a moment, desire to dishonor JESUS? None of us would knowingly dishonor the King of Kings and LORD of LORDS and yet, when we forget to say thanks, we are doing just that.

The person who has received an abundance from the hand of the LORD, is more likely to thank Him for His grace and generosity. Have you considered giving thanks with a faith offering? What do I mean by a "faith offering"?
I mean that by faith, you thank the LORD before He meets the need, before He heals the body. It is this act of faith which glorifies GOD and exalts His Name, honoring Him highly. Throughout the Bible, there are many evidences of people who acted by faith in GOD and knew that if GOD said it, He would perform what He said. Their thanksgiving was before the evidence of fulfillment. All those who died before JESUS, died knowing, by faith, that they would see the resurrection, and so they waited with patience for the fulfillment through JESUS. Their patience was evidence of their hope and faith, as they waited with thanksgiving for the coming of the Holy One.

WAIT UPON THE LORD, BE PATIENT AND THANKFUL, FILLED WITH FAITH THAT WHATEVER HE HAS PROMISED, HE WILL FULFILL.
THANKS BE TO GOD!!!

ONE GAVE THANKS

Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Luke 17:15-19
And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified GOD, and fell down on his face at His (JESUS') feet, giving Him thanks; and he was a Samaritan. And JESUS, answering, said, Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to GOD except this stranger. Arise, go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole.

One of the ten lepers turned back to give thanks to JESUS. Doesn't this make you sad? Only one was grateful for being healed of a fatal disease, the others went their way to the Priest to be declared clean. The gratitude of this Samaritan is particularly touching, since he was a double outcast. The Jews hated the Samaritans and the world hated the lepers. People would shout "unclean" at the sight of a leper and the leper, himself, had to declare that he was unclean. So this one man, was a double outcast, and yet, he turned back to say give thanks to JESUS for so great a gift.

Luke 7:47 says: Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. Our sins, which are many, are all forgiven when we confess them to JESUS. This is a gift of grace. We can show our love and gratitude by falling at the feet of JESUS and shout with a loud voice, from the heart, "THANKS BE TO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT."

The LORD JESUS gave His life to save us from the pit of hell. We were "unclean" until JESUS washed us with His precious Blood and reconciled to GOD (Romans 5). The choice is now ours: do we turn from the path that leads away from JESUS and turn back to Him with thanksgiving or do we continue on the path that leads away from JESUS. Nine lepers chose to walk the path away from JESUS; one chose to turn back and fall at His feet, giving thanks. What do you choose?

AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD.

TELL THEM THAT I LOVE THEM

Monday November 29, 2010
John 15:9,10
As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you; continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love.

John 17:23
I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved me.

I am beginning this week of devotionals with this word from JESUS, "Tell them that I love them". While I was painting a figure of the Nativity, I was pondering the great meaning of thanksgiving to GOD for all the things He has done for humankind. I heard Him say, very clearly, "Tell them that I love them". This is the message from JESUS to all of us. He loves us with the kind of love that is way beyond human understanding. It is so simple, that it confounds the wise in their own mind. Everything that the Father has done, has been done out of love for His creation; the willing sacrifice of JESUS in coming to earth as a baby, living among us and dying to save us, was done out of love. There is nothing that we can do to equal that love. We do not deserve it, nor can we merit it. It is a free gift to all who will receive Him.

Pure love is poured out freely from the Heart of JESUS, we can all receive Him, if we open our heart to Him. The rest is our response to so great a gift. When we keep His commandments, it is our response to His love. When we serve others in His Name, it is a response to His love. Every good thing that we do, is pure response. What can we say to the One who did everything to make our life good? We can thank Him, praise Him, glorify Him and live our life for Him, every moment of every day for the rest of our life.

WHAT I HAVE I GIVE HIM, GIVE HIM MY HEART

GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD

Saturday, November 27, 2010
Luke 22: 17 - 20
And He ( JESUS) took the cup, and gave thanks, and said Take this, and divide it among yourselves; for I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of GOD shall come. And He took bread, and gave thanks, and broke it, and gave unto them saying, This is My body which is given for you; this do in remembrance of Me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in My Blood, which is shed for you.

WE GIVE THANKS IN REMEMBRANCE OF JESUS

The Eucharist/Communion is centered around the Body and Blood of JESUS. His words "do this in remembrance of Me" were a command from JESUS for all who love Him. With in this call for remembrance, is the act of JESUS who gave thanks. This act is a very important part of the Eucharist/Communion. We give thanks as we remember the great sacrifice of His Body and Blood for our redemption. Without JESUS, laying down His life for us, we could never please GOD, be right with GOD or live with Him forever. JESUS paid the price for our life, with His own life. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down His life for His friends." (John 15: 13) HOW CAN WE GIVE THANKS FOR SO GREAT A GIFT?
COME TO MY HEART, LORD JESUS, THERE IS ROOM IN MY HEART FOR THEE

WHOSOEVER SHALL CONFESS THAT JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD, GOD DWELLETH IN HIM, AND HE IN GOD.(1 John 4:15)
BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND YE SHALL BE SAVED, YOU AND YOUR HOUSE.

GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD

Friday, November 26, 2010
Matthew 15: 36-38
And He took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and broke them, and gave to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did eat, and were filled; and they took up of the broken pieces that were left seven baskets full. And they that did eat were four thousand men, besides women and children.
THANKSGIVING MULTIPLIES WHAT WE OFFER TO HIM

A little lad offered his lunch to JESUS and JESUS gave thanks for the offering, with it His disciples fed 4000 men, plus the women and children. What strikes me in this story of JESUS, is that the offering was very little, yet JESUS gave thanks for it and it met the need of all the people, with abundance. Thankfulness, which is the gratitude of the heart, turns a little bit into enough to meet the need with more left over.

I was watching the news this week and was touched by a story of a homeless man who found a backpack of an ASU Student. It contained $3300.00 that the student was going to use to buy a car. The Homeless man returned the backpack to the student, after finding his address on the student laptop. The student gave thanks to the man and gave him a token reward. The Phoenix, AZ. news picked up the story, and this homeless man has had job offers, offers to fix his teeth for free, and more cash money than the backpack contained. GOODNESS, MERCY AND THANKSGIVING FROM THE LORD, HAS FOLLOWED THE SIMPLE OFFERING OF HONESTY FROM A HOMELESS MAN. He said that the homeless community, too, has thanked him for helping with the image that people have of homeless people.

You and I can join JESUS, this homeless man and the ASU Student in giving thanks for the littlest things, because GOD is glorified in the little offerings. I think about the widow who gave everything to GOD and the LORD blessed her. I think about the widow and her son who gave the last bread and oil to the Prophet and GOD multiplied the offering so that her oil never ran out. Everything that we offer to GOD with thanksgiving, opens the door of heaven and the grace of our LORD JESUS Christ pours out.

THANKS BE TO GOD FOR ALL HIS GREAT GOODNESS TO US.

GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD

Thursday, November 25, 2010
HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY
Colossians 2: 6,7
As ye have, therefore, received Christ JESUS the LORD, so walk ye in Him, rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding with thanksgiving.

THANKSGIVING DEMONSTRATES FAITH IN GOD

Thanksgiving is proof that faith is alive in the person. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of GOD. The fruit of faith is giving thanks. Faith is part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit and comes from GOD. A thankful heart knows GOD who is love and goodness, gratitude overflows from them. Through faith we know that GOD is GOD and He created all things. By faith we know that JESUS is our redeemer, through His shed Blood and that we are reconciled to GOD through Him. By faith we know that all the promises in the Word of GOD are true and that GOD will perform what He has promised. All this we know by faith and this knowledge causes us to abound in thanksgiving. WE ARE ALIVE BECAUSE HE LIVES.

Philippians 4: 6,7 tells us to be "anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with THANKSGIVING, let your requests be made known unto GOD, and the peace of GOD, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ JESUS."
Through faith we know Him; by faith we thank Him; and through Him we have peace.
Both faith and peace are part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5: 22,23).

ON THIS THANKSGIVING DAY, LET THE PEACE OF JESUS ABIDE IN YOU.
THANKS BE TO GOD

GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD

Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Psalm 95: 1,2
Oh, come, let us sing unto the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms.

THANKSGIVING OPENS HEAVEN

The heart that is thankful to GOD for all He has done, holds a key that unlocks the gates of Heaven. Prayer from the thankful heart, reaches the heart of GOD. Psalm 100: 4 tells us to "enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless His Name." I love the image of a grand court with the King present. We enter into that court through a door which opens with the key of thanksgiving. We enter singing songs of praise for the LORD GOD, King of the Universe; JESUS Christ the Word made flesh and the Holy Spirit, the comforter. As we enter, we bow low at the Holy presence of the Holy One. The King calls us to come near and we speak to Him like a child speaks to the father. JESUS is our King and we are the children of the King.

The first "good thing" that happens when we are thankful people, is that it magnifies, glorifies and exalts the LORD. The second is that in everything there is the will of GOD in Christ JESUS concerning you, so be thankful in everything. The third "good thing" is that Heaven is opened and we have access to the throne of grace.

THANK YOU LORD, FOR THE LORD IS GOOD; HIS MERCY IS EVERLASTING, AND HIS TRUTH ENDURETH FOREVER

GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD

Tuesday, November 23, 2010
I Thessalonians 5:18
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of GOD in Christ JESUS concerning you.

"In everything", these are very exact words. Paul didn't say: give thanks when times are good, or give thanks after you have received a gift. Paul said: "in everything" this means when times are difficult, trying and impossible, as well as, in the good times, when things are going well. It is interesting that when things are going well, people tend to forget to thank the LORD for His goodness. Hmmm, I wonder why?

Psalm 119: 62 says: "At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee, because of Thy righteous judgements". The midnight hour is when things are at their worst. When you can not see through the darkness, this is the time for great thanksgiving. It is a time to exercise the greatest faith that the LORD has promised to bring you through the fiery trials without being burned.

When we give thanks to the LORD, before we see the result, we open the door for Him to enter the situations that we face, as the Great Light that dispels darkness. Our thanksgiving for the goodness of GOD ushers in the power to change circumstances. The thankful heart knows the awesomeness and power of GOD.

GIVING THANKS IS A GOOD THING BECAUSE IT IS THE WILL OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS CONCERNING YOU.

GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD

Monday, November 22, 2010
Psalm 92: 1
It is a good thing to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy Name, O Most High.

GIVING THANKS IS A GOOD THING

I am often tempted to take one "o" out of good; if I did it would spell "GOD". It really is a GOD thing, to give thanks to the LORD. II Chronicles 29:31 tells us, that the people who are consecrated to the LORD can come near to Him. GOD hears the thankfulness in the heart of those who have given their life to follow Him. He is so blessed by this degree of dedication to Him, that He returns the thanksgiving with gifts in abundance.

Giving thanks to the LORD exalts and magnifies GOD. GOD is well pleased with the praises and thanksgiving of His people. Psalm 69:30 says: "I will praise the Name of GOD with a song, and will magnify Him with thanksgiving." GOD is so good that no words can adequately express His awesomeness, or our thankfulness for Him. Therefore, exalting and magnifying Him among the people and singing praises to the Most High GOD is our way of saying "thank you, LORD, for who You are and for all that You have done".

This week, we will look at the 7 ways in which it is a "good thing" to give thanks to the LORD. The first of which is: It magnifies, glorifies and exalts His Name.

THANK YOU, LORD, FOR SAVING MY SOUL; THANK YOU, LORD, FOR MAKING ME WHOLE; THANK YOU, LORD, FOR GIVING TO ME, THY GREAT SALVATION SO RICH AND FREE.

HIGH PRAISE

Saturday, November 20, 2010
Isaiah 42: 11,12,13
Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up their voice, the villages that Kedar doth inhabit; let the inhabitants of the Rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains. Let them give glory unto the LORD, and declare His praise in the islands. The LORD shall go forth like a mighty man; He shall stir up jealousy like a man of war; He shall cry, yea, roar; He shall prevail against His enemies.

High praise of GOD brings victory in war

Who are the enemies of the LORD? Against whom does the LORD do battle? Ephesians 6:12 gives us the answer to both questions. "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of the world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
The LORD does battle against those forces which seek to hurt or harm the children of GOD.

Since GOD inhabits the praises of the people (Psalm 22:3), we can conclude that praise brings GOD into the battle and destroys the enemy. When everything seems to be going wrong and there seems to be an attempt by the enemy to kill and destroy, this is the time to praise the LORD. He is victorious in battle; He will overcome the enemy.

High praise brings 5 things into a life: 1. Deliverance, 2. Mental health, 3. The hiding place, 4. Purity of faith and strength, 5. Victory in spiritual battle.

LET EVERYTHING THAT HATH BREATH PRAISE THE LORD;
PRAISE YE THE LORD!

HIGH PRAISE

Friday November 19, 2010
Thou art my hiding place; Thou shalt preserve me from trouble; Thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance.

There is an old Hymn called "He Hideth My Soul" with the words by Fannie Crosby. Here are the words to the first verse and the refrain:
A wonderful Savior is JESUS my LORD, a wonderful Savior to me;
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, where rivers of pleasure I see.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock that shadows a dry, thirsty land;
He hideth my life in the depths of His love, and covers me there with His hand, and covers me there with His hand.

As I was writing this, I got a call from my friend in Alabama. Her grandson was found covered in blood and not breathing. He is on the way to the Hospital as I am writing this devotional. His name is Keith. In the time of such trouble the LORD hides us in His hiding place, which is His Heart of Love. He sings over us the songs of deliverance and healing. His song moves through every cell of our life, healing, restoring and delivering us and our loved ones.

This is how the faithful can shout songs of praise during the hardest of times, when things are at their very worst.
As the LORD has little Keith in His Hand, the LORD has all of us sheltered and covered in the "depth of His Love".

PRAY FOR KEITH MCALISTER. STAND ON THE WORD "BY THE STRIPES OF JESUS HE IS HEALED" THE LORD COMFORTS ALL WHO ARE AFRAID AND BRINGS THEM PEACE.
THE PEACE OF THE LORD BE WITH THIS FAMILY

HIGH PRAISE

Thursday, November 18,2010
Psalm 43:5
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope in GOD; for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my GOD.

Praise brings heath to the mind

Jeremiah 17: 14 says: " Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for Thou art my praise." There are many people who are calling out to GOD for the healing of the mind. Mental health facilities are bursting with people who are struggling with mental health issues. GOD promises a sound mind and serenity of spirit for all who believe in Him. One of the key phrases in the Psalm 43 passage is "Hope in GOD". When we praise Him for who He is, our mental attitude changes from darkness to light. When we praise Him, there is a change in our whole countenance, our whole manner of speaking, and the tone of our voice. He is the GOD who redeems us from the pit of darkness.

We have a choice; to embrace the darkness and live in the cold dark cellar of the midnight mind, or begin to praise the LORD for His glorious creation and marvelous works. To choose to praise, lifts the veil of darkness and brings the light of Christ into our whole being. HE IS OUR PRAISE!!! HE IS OUR HEALER!!! HE IS OUR HOPE!!!

THE LIGHT OF CHRIST HAS COME INTO THE WORLD AND WE ARE HEALED

HIGH PRAISE

Wednesday, November 10,2010
II Chronicles 29:31
Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the LORD, come near and bring sacrifices and thank offerings into the house of the LORD.

This verse is right in front of my computer as a reminder of my dedication to the LORD and His service. Being Born Again is the beginning of a lifetime of service to the LORD. We want to serve the One whom we love through an abundance of giving and loving. The High Praise to GOD is the offering of our heart to Him, and then the offering of ourselves to His use.

As part of the consecration or dedication of ourselves to GOD, we are robed in the garment of righteousness. Righteousness means "right relationship". We are given the garment of the family of GOD. This is a garment of praise, which delivers us from the spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3). It is not our righteousness which covers us, but His righteousness; we are dressed in Him.

When we are consecrated/dedicated to Him, He says to us to come near to Him. As we come near, His glory fills us and His presence envelopes us. He says to bring sacrifices to Him. I see this as Alms giving. We give to Him over and above our normal offering and tithe. Next He bids us to bring thank offerings to Him. I see this as tangible gifts like coats, hats, blankets, sweaters, socks and mittens for the homeless; food baskets for the hungry all given in love for GOD and His hurting people. He says to bring these into the House of the LORD, so that those who come will have what they need, from the Hand of the LORD, through His servants.

There is a song based on this verse: " We bring the sacrifice of praise into the House of the LORD." This is High praise when we consecrate ourself and to give in the Name of the LORD.

If you would like to give to the work of this ministry which serves the poor in Yavapai County, AZ. You can give on-line by returning to the Home Page. Last year, this small Church in Prescott Valley, AZ gave 1200 food baskets with a full turkey dinner with all the fixin's; blankets, coats, hats, shoes and other garments, to all who were in need. Bibles were handed out to all people and the opportunity was offered for dedication of their life to the LORD. Men, women, and children were given love, mercy and compassion in the Name of the LORD.

THE LORD BLESSES AND MULTIPLIES WHAT IS GIVEN SO THAT ALL ARE FED

HIGH PRAISE

Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Psalm 8: 2
Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast Thou ordained strength(praise), because of thine enemies, that Thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.

We begin our discussion of High Praise with the praise that issues from the mouth of babes and infants. I am sure, by now, that you think that I am out in outer space. Look at the fact that babes and infants are pure and their praise is from a pure heart. The lowliest, meekest people give the highest and purest praise of GOD. This praise comes from wonder and awe, which is the true meaning of "the fear of the LORD". So, High Praise comes from the littlest and the lowliest. Doesn't this strike a chord with you? JESUS, became the littlest and the lowliest in order to redeem us from the grip of sin and death. He pleased His Father through what He suffered as a sacrifice of praise to GOD.

The first aspect of High praise is that it brings deliverance from the evil one. Pure praise stills the enemy and the avenger. It shuts their mouth. Praise is like a lightning bolt that lights up the darkness and ends its reign upon the earth.

When we are bombarded by circumstances beyond our control and the course of our life path is taking a dark trail, begin to praise GOD for who He is. Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with song and dance and with every thing within you, praise His Holy Name and then WATCH THE BLESSINGS FLOW. Darkness will vanish and you will see GOD take control of your circumstances, bringing them out of darkness into His glorious light.

BRING TO HIM THE SACRIFICE OF PRAISE INTO THE HOUSE OF THE LORD

HIGH PRAISE

Monday, November 15, 2010
Psalm 150
Praise ye the LORD! Praise Him in the firmament of His power. Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the psaltery and harp. Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; praise Him with stringed instruments and pipes. Praise Him upon the loud cymbals; praise Him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let everything that hath breath praise the LORD.
PRAISE YE THE LORD!!!

This week, we will look at praise and High praise. We will begin with a recap of the importance of praise from the week in which praise was our focus.
1. Praise glorifies GOD.
2. Praise pleases GOD.
3. Praise brings GOD'S presence.
4. Praise brings increase and blessing.
5. Praise wins souls to Christ.
Praise is the natural overflow of the heart in response to the Holy GOD. Praise is not determined by circumstances, but by who GOD is. Psalm 8:3 says: "When I consider the heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained". When the eye of our heart turns from circumstances to look at the magnificence of GOD, the circumstances look very small in comparison.

Praise, opens the door of heaven and lets the glory of GOD shine through.

Tomorrow, we will begin our discussion of High Praise; the praise that turns darkness into Light

ALMS GIVING

Saturday, November 13, 2010
Proverbs 28: 27
He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack, but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

We end the week on a somber note. We always hear the positive side of alms giving, but never the flip-side: to give is blessed, to withhold giving is cursed. Why is this? GOD has a storehouse of provision for the poor and some of that storehouse is already in our hands, all we have to do is give it. If we withhold what GOD has intended for another person's provision, we have hurt the plan of GOD and the recipient. This is serious, and GOD is not pleased with the hoarder.

How do we overcome the natural tendency to hoard and not to give? Romans 12: 21 has the answer: "Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Just start giving, so that another might benefit and see how the blessings flow. Romans 11:36 says: "For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory forever. AMEN" Everything that is ours comes from GOD, through Him to others and the glory goes to Him. When we give, we give to Him. "Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me."

ALL THINGS COME OF THEE, O LORD, AND OF THINE OWN HAVE WE GIVEN THEE.

ALMS GIVING

Friday, November 12, 2010
Proverbs 11: 25
The liberal soul shall be made fat, and he that watereth shall be watered himself. (KJV)
Proverbs 11: 24, 25
One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed ( NIV)

The two translations give a clear picture about alms giving. When you give, it will prosper the giver and the receiver. There is much more in the way of blessings for those who give generously:
1. God is blessed. He is very well pleased when we give to aid another.
2. The recipient is blessed. Their needs are met by GOD working through the gift, to prosper those who are in need.
3. It stirs up faith in GOD and wins souls to Christ. Those who are believers are strengthened in their faith; those who are not believers in JESUS will be brought to Him through kindness.
4. The alms giver is blessed. As the 25th verse says: "He who refreshes other will himself be refreshed."

TO GOD BE THE GLORY, GREAT THINGS HE HATH DONE

ALMS GIVING

Thursday, November 11, 2010
VETERAN'S DAY
John 15:13
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatever I command you.

Today is Veteran's Day, a day to remember all those who faught for the freedom which we enjoy in this beautiful and blessed country. It was love which lead the men and women to step forward and join the Military to fight and be ready to fight at home and abroad. They laid down their life for their friends out of great love for Country and people.

As I reflect on this day, I find myself remembering the life of JESUS, who said the words I have quoted from the Scripture. Yes, He was a veteran of the war for our souls. He won that war against the enemy of our life, by laying down His own life for us, His friends. His Blood reconciles us to GOD and by his wounds we are healed.

Veterans, everywhere, are part of the fellowship of the suffering of JESUS, who did not cling to His life, but laid it down, so that we might live in perfect freedom through Him.

MAY THE LORD BLESS OUR VETERANS

ALMS GIVING

Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Hebrews 13:16 (New Revised Standard Version)
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to GOD.

The first of the blessings from GOD is, that GOD is pleased when we share and do good.

All of us want to please GOD. We have an intense desire to hear Him say: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Did you know that GOD wants us to please Him? It is His will for us to fellowship with Him for all eternity as part of His family. I know this, because He said so in His Word and He showed us, over and over again how to please Him. One of the ways that He showes us is in this verse: do good and share is pleasing to GOD. GOD is Love and doing good and sharing is an act of Love. GOD is good; GOD is Love; God is mercy, and compassion; when we are good, loving, merciful and compassionate, we know that we are pleasing to GOD.

I Peter 2: 12b says that "they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify GOD in the day of visitation." Alms giving is like a plow, it plows up the hard ground of hearts which have grown cold by the work of the enemy of our soul, and by circumstances. When we give to the poor, it softens their heart and breaks up the rocky ground of their life, so that they can receive JESUS and "glorify GOD in the day of visitation." (the day when He manifests Himself through the witness of the servants of GOD). Many conversions of heart to JESUS have come through the giving of a "cup of water" in His Name.

GIVE IN THE NAME OF JESUS, IT PLEASES THE HEART OF GOD

ALMS GIVING

Tuesday, November 9, 2010
The Acts 20: 35
I have shown you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the LORD JESUS, how He said,"It is more blessed to give than to receive."

We have heard these word so often that they slip off the tongue like water, "it is more blessed to give then to receive." Yet these words are so profound that GOD holds them in honor. Do we hold them in honor?
The Apostle Paul did and instructed his followers to support the weak and to remember that it is "more blessed to give than to receive".

Read Isaiah 58, the last words are these: "for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it." This is a dissertation on fasting, but we find in it that the LORD is blessed and blesses those who give, reach out and heal. The LORD gives to those who give. I have heard it said many times: "I receive so much more when I give to others; I am blessed beyond anything I could imagine."

What we are really giving to others is what GOD has given through us to them. We are instruments of His provision. From His riches in glory, He has blessed, so that we can bless in his Name. Our giving is really GOD'S hand giving out His love. What a privilege we have to serve GOD in such an awesome way!!!

BELOVED, IT IS MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE

ALMS GIVING

Monday, November 8, 2010
Acts 10:1-4
There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, a devout man, and one that feared GOD with all his house, who gave much alms to the people, and prayed to GOD always. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day, an angel of GOD coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius, and when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, LORD? and he said unto him,Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before GOD.

This week, we are going to look at alms giving and the effect that it has on those who give and those who receive.We begin our discussion with this story about Cornelius, a devout man who prayed and gave alms. It is evident, by the angel's words to Cornelius, that prayers and alms giving are important to the heart of GOD. GOD remembers the alms giving and it is precious to him. Are you aware of how precious in the sight of GOD is the alms giver? In these verses, we find that alms giving opened the door for a relationship with GOD that was unique and highly special. So special that GOD sent one of His angels to give Cornelius a message.

When we give to the poor, the LORD will bless with His presence. Our giving is a big part of GOD'S provision for the needy. In our hands is the material for GOD to provide. There are thousands of people crying out to GOD for help in their poverty and sickness; God answers their plea by inspiring us to give to meet their need.

A friend of mine always says that the things she has, really belong to another person. When she gives the things away, they go to the next person for whom the thing was made. We live in a getting/hording society; we as Christians must live in the counter-culture of a giving heart, so that others might live in comfort from GOD.

If you would like to give to the work of Living Faith Community Center Thanksgiving distribution of food (full turkey dinner with all the trimmings), blankets and coats for the poor in Yavapai County, AZ. Our address is:
Living Faith Christian Center
7225 Coyote Springs Road
Prescott Valley, AZ 86315
YOU WILL BE GREATLY BLESSED AS YOU BLESS OTHERS