DO NOT SUGAR COAT GOD’S WORD

The danger in sugarcoating God's Word is; there will be no conviction, so the Word will fall on deaf ears. We cannot worry about offending people regarding God's Word. The Word transforms us into the people that God designed us to be, so when we sugarcoat the Word, it loses that transforming power. Most of us rely on our Pastors to interpret the Word for us, which is not a bad thing, but what if their interpretation is wrong. We must also study the Word for ourselves; this will ensure we get a clear understanding and not be misled by false prophets. (2 Timothy 2:15 15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.)  Many people do not understand the Word; because they just read the Word now and then, but when we study the Word daily, God will begin to reveal to us the true meaning of His Word.

Father, thank You for revealing to us the truth of Your Word; and the conviction that helps renew our hearts and minds. Lord, we are still sinners; but we are better than we used to be because of grace and the knowledge we receive from Your Word. Lord, let us speak the truth of Your Word to others; so we do not lead them astray. Lord, it's time for us to stand up with boldness and truth and stop compromising and sugarcoating God's Word. Father, let the leaders of our Churches not live in the flesh but live a surrendered life to God. Lord, help us walk with You daily and not when it's convent for us. Father, help us deny ourselves daily as we take up our cross and follow You. Father, Let the words of our mouths and our hearts' meditation be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, our strength, and our Redeemer, in Jesus' name, Amen.

2 Timothy 4:3 For the time when people will not put up with sound doctrine will come. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them many teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.

ACTIONS SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS

 We can talk about God until we are blue in the face, but if our actions do not match our words, we are only fooling ourselves. Some people might be impressed by what we say, but God only reacts to our actions and hearts. (James 1:22-26 but prove yourselves doers of the Word, not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the Word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was.  

 We would never have to open our mouths if we were true believers; because our actions will speak for us. Our parents love us, and they may never say the words "I love you,"; but the things they do for us and the sacrifices they make prove they love us.   I love my sons so much that I would die for them; that is how much Jesus loves us; he is willing to die so we can live.    And we crucify Him daily through our sins and disobedience; some of us preach His Word but do not live by His Word. 

Lord, forgive us for being listeners of Your Word, but not doers of the Word. Father, reveal those that prophesy falsehood in Your name; because they preach a false vision, divination, futility, and the deception of their own minds. Lord, please give us Your wisdom through studying Your Word; so we can stand in the council of You.  Lord, give us eyes that see and ears that hear so that we will give heed to your Words. Father, we are disconnected from our Spirits; because of our desires of sin. Please open our hearts and minds to Your Word so that we may be restored to You.  Father, give us the exact knowledge of Your Word; so we may be transformed into Godly people and not a hypocrite. Lord, forgive us for not making the sacrifices, to live as You have instructed us, and putting other gods before You.  Father, please, deliver us from abominations as we stand before You in the house called by Your name. In Jesus' name Amen

GOLGOTHA "THE HILL OF LOVE"

Matthew 27:29 And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

30 And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.  31 And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.  32 And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.  33 And when they come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,  34 They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.  35 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.  36 And sitting down they watched him there;  37 And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

We can only imagine the power of love gathered on the hill of Golgotha; that redeemed us from our sins, through the crucifixion of Christ.  God is all about love and if we are His followers; we too are all about love, for all people.  He loves us even as sinners; even though we do not obey or honor Him, He stills love us. Any believer that does not show love to all people is a liar and is not part of God; because God is love, and there is no exception to this rule.  So to all the people that harbor hate in their hearts; you are not a true believer, and you will perish. 

Lord, let us not withhold kindness from anyone; but with every opportunity express love, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.  Father, You have commanded us to love one another as You love us; so give us Your love and courage so that we may obey this command.  Lord, please make our love for each other increase and overflow; just as Christ love overflows for us.  Father, help us to do right; seek justice for all, defend the oppressed, and plead the case of the widows.  Lord, teach us not to do things for our selfish ambition or vain conceit.  Rather encourage one another and build each other us, just as You have done for us. Father, Your Son endured a horrible death so we could live; and for that we are so grateful, please forgive us for our disobedient. In Jesus name, Amen

WE MUST STUDY THE WORD DAILY

John 1:1, In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God  .2 The same was at the beginning with God.  3 All things were made by Him, and without him was not anything made that was made.  4 In Him is life, and the life is the light of men.  5 And the light shined in darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not.

Jesus knew the Word, but more than that, He was the Word, the Word made flesh.  In biblical times God used the prophets to speak for Him; but when He speaks to us, He uses His Word, His Son.  Who is King of all things; Jesus is the radiance of God’s glory and grace, and through Him, we live.  But, to live through Him; we must know Him, and we accomplish that by studying His Word.  Studying the Word is necessary for our instructions, and the Word is the basis of our goodness. It is through the Word that our character becomes Christ-like; then the Holy Spirit compels us to obey the Word, which gives us the same authority as Christ.  It’s through the Word and our faith in the Word that we receive eternal life.  So we must study daily to gain what the Word has to offer us.

Lord, we thank You for adopting us into Your Holy family; and giving us the same authority as Your Son.  Father, we thank You for the wisdom of the Word; and the knowledge of how to implement the Word in our lives.  Lord, we thank You for inward change through the Word; and not just religious fanatics, but changed people.  Lord, forgive us for not spending time with You as we should; and the fact that no matter what You still love us.  Father, please give us forbearance; and help us become the people You designed us to be so that we may sit at Your feet.  Lord, help us make every effort to add to our faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly and sisterly kindness; and to kindness love. Father, help us maintain justice and do what is right for all people; because our salvation is close at hand, so please keep us from evil.  In Jesus name Amen

Father Can You Hear Me - Tyler Perry (With Lyrics)

WE BECOME NEW

We want to be believers, but on our terms, living in hate, wickedness, and sin. 1 John 2:15-16 doesn't love this evil world or the things in it. If you love the world, you do not have a love of the Father in you. This is all there is in the world: wanting to please our sinful selves, wanting the wicked things we see, and being too proud of what we have. But none of these comes from the Father. They come from the world.  We want all the rewards as long as we don't have to sacrifice to receive them. Some of us attend Church but want to worship and praise Him.  We want God and the Church to bless us, but we want to tithe, serve, or help others.  We are believers in the flesh; we know Christ, but we choose to live in the world. We must be restored to THE FATHER; by repenting, asking for forgiveness, and turning away from our sins to receive the promise.

Matthews 9:16 No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. The patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. 17Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will spill, and the wineskins will be ruined. So instead, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved. When we are restored to God, we become new; the old will pass away as we study the Word daily, pray without ceasing, and keep the faith.  Then we allow ourselves to reflect Christ-like character and show our Father how grateful we are for Christ's sacrifice.  So don't just talk about Christ; the scriptures we post can be read from the Book. But to take action can only come from a renewed heart and mind.  God does not patch us together; He renews us inside and out, mind, body, and soul.

Lord, so often, it's the little things in life that get to us, and it seems to be so many of them. Whenever we are tempted to lose our temper, blame someone, judge someone, or just give up, help us see You.  Lord, help us live a quiet life, helping those in need and serving You, just as You instructed us before. Then people who are not believers will respect the way we live and see You through us. Lord, You have redeemed us by Your precious Blood and made us new; we are incredibly blessed and loved, and we are so grateful.  Father, may Your blessings fill our hearts with hope, peace, and joy all the days of our lives.  Lord God, our Creator and Savior of all people, we lift up in our prayers for those suffering as a result of losing their jobs, sickness, war, oppression, and violence throughout the world. So often cannot seem to grasp that people of all colors are parents, relatives, friends, and ordinary citizens.   Forgive us, Lord, for being so narrow-minded and thinking more of ourselves than we should.  We pray for the Countries that deal with devastation daily; Father, we pray for all refugees, the homeless, and the falsely incarcerated. Father, help us be full of your transforming love and compassion; and let us not be silent to injustice.  Lord, teach us that without Your love, compassion, and unity, we too will fall into the hands of the evil one.  Thank You, Lord, that there are believers of every race; and they are unity through faith, in Jesus name, Amen

THOSE THAT ARE CLOSE TO GOD TALK TO HIM DAILY

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Understanding and Faith comes from hearing the Word; but we must hear it in truth DAILY, so we receive the conviction of our sins.  There’s nothing about God’s Word that has not been said before; but when we begin to hear the Word of TRUTH, God speaks to us.  When we hear God’s voice, we receive conviction by the Word and become ashamed of our sins; just as Adam was in the Garden of Eden.  When we hear the Word in the flesh; we reject it, so there’s no conviction, so there will be no change.  But when we study the Word daily we begin to hear the Word in Spirit, and the Spirit gives us belief and faith helps us change.  Hearing the Word is always good; but when we STUDY the Word we grow.   As we grow, we begin to understand who we are in the Lord; and who He is in us.  Doing this transformation the power of the Holy Spirit; will comply us to act by the Word of God, then He will reveal to us the secrets of His powers.  As our understanding of His power increases; our will decreases, then God can use us to draw others near to Him.   But this transformation can only happen if we study the Word daily; pray without ceasing, and have faith in the Word.

Lord, give us a strong desire for Your Word so we will study daily; that we may mature into strong, unwavering believers of Christ.  Father, teach us the parables of Your Word; so we can receive the Your wisdom, and give us the knowledge of how to use its power.  Lord, forgive us for not obeying Your Word; and dishonoring You, with our sinful desires.  Father, let Your Word convict us of our sins; so we may repent and turn away from them.  Father, thank You for saving us; and restoring us to You.  Thank You, for peace, love, and joy that comes from knowing who You are; and what You can do.  Now, Lord, continue to work in and through us as we study Your Word today and every day; and keep us in Your will.  In Jesus name, Amen

WE BECOME WHAT WE THINK

Our sins come from our thoughts, ( Romans 12;2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.)  Worldly desire and our thoughts are what cause us to sin; if we keep our minds in the Word, it will help us control our thoughts.  Because if we do not study the Word daily, the world will control our thoughts; but when we study the Holy Spirit controls our thoughts.  Our sinful nature has a mind and a will of its own; the Word helps give our live guidance, to God’s will, because when we’re not in the Word, we’re in the flesh, and the flesh desires to sin.  The Word gives us a craving for what the Spirit needs love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; but the flesh craves for sin,  (Mark 7:20-23  And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”  Sinful thoughts are why we need the Word daily.

Lord, please give us thoughts of the Truth; and not of the world.  Father give us a strong desire to study Your Word daily; so we can walk with You in the Spirit, and not in the flesh.  Lord, we all are weak; please open our hearts and minds to the things of the Spirit to help us lay our flesh to rest.  Father, teach us that the more we study the Word the closer we are to You; and the closer we are to You, the less we sin.  Lord, we cannot take this walk without Your daily nourishment; to strengthen us, to protect us, and to keep us in Your will.  Father’ we ask for forgiveness of our sins; the past, present, and future, and we thank You for mercy, grace and favor.  In Jesus name, Amen

CULTIVATE OUR SOULS WITH THE WORD

When we tolerate day to day problems of life, we gain patience.  When we think of how many time God has allowed us to make a mistake, we learn how to show kindness.   When we deal with hate on a daily basis, we learn the power of forgiveness.  When we have to deal with people that cannot take care of themselves, we learn gentleness.  When we do not let our worldly desires prevail over our life needs, we learn self-control.  When we stop trying to take control; over things that are out of our hands, we experience peace.  When we learn how to love ourselves just as God created us, we find joy.  When we start studying God’s Word daily; we gain wisdom and knowledge, which increases our faith.  But, when we begin to feel God’s presence in our lives we know unconditional love.

Father, we come to You as humble as we know how, asking that Your restore Your love upon us. Civilians are being shot because of the color of their skin; innocent children are being sold as sex slaves, and our young people feel they have no reason to live. Oh Lord, you are our God; we earnestly search for You. Our souls thirst for You; our whole bodies longs for You in this parched and weary land where there is no love. We have seen You in Your sanctuary and witnessed Your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how we praise and worship You! Lord, we're asking You to help us restore peace; in a world filled with so much evil and hate.  Lord, we come on bending knees with the faith of a mustard seed; asking You to help us develop into the people You designed us to be so that we can live in harmony.  Lord, assist us in cultivating our souls with Your Word; so we can blossom into trees that bear spiritual fruit, and become Christ-like.  In Jesus mighty name, Amen.

SEARCH OUR SOULS LORD

Colossians 3:5-6   So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.  Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming.  Galatians 5:19-21  When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division,  envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

These scriptures are among the least discussed and in the Bible, but they cannot be ignored just because we don’t like what they say.  Now the scripture tells us there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ, but that does not mean we can continue to sin, and not suffer the consequence.  It says that if we live as the Word tells us too; we have fellowship with Christ and each other, and the Blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin when we repent ask for forgiveness and turn away from sin.  We cannot live in sin and claim to be saved; that not why Jesus died, He died to release us from the penalty of death for our sins.  So once we confess, ask for forgiveness, and turn away from sin; He is faithful to forgive our sins and restore us to the Father.

Father, search our souls and remove all that is not of You; Lord, take away all our worldly desires and replace them with the desire of Your Word.  Lord, teach those that claim to belong to You but live against Your Words that You do not know them.  Lord, decrease us and increase You; so will develop Christ-like character, and walk with You.  Lord, help us reflect on our lives more than we do others; looking for ways we can obey You.  Father, reveal the wicked and let them perish in their evilness; and serve justice to the unjust and those who oppress others.  Lord, give us the courage to share Your Word in truth to others; so we can point them to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.  Father, do not allow our seeds to fall on rocky ground; but fall on good soil so we can produce fruit and become like You Son, in Jesus name Amen.

LORD HELP US UNDERSTAND THE WORD

Matthew 13:10 The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” 11 He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12 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. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables: “Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. 14 In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: “‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.

We cannot obtain God’s truth by philosophical reasoning or other mental activity.  The truth of God’s Word comes only as God makes it known, as He did through Jesus teachings.  Once we become committed to studying God’s Word we being to receive the wisdom that opens the window to the truth about the kingdom.  But the knowledge will only come to us in God’s will and in His time.  Now, those who do not believe the Word will never understand the truth so they will hear, but it will not make a difference in their lives.

Lord, please reveal to us the truth of Your Word, and help us use it to strengthen our faith and uplift your Kingdom.  Lord, help us not to be just hearers of the Word, but doers of the Word. Father, thank You, for Your undiscriminating love; and for allowing the sun to rise on the good, and the evil.  Lord, teach us to reflect Christ-like character by showing love for all people.  Lord, help us understand that we can love people without condoning their sins.  Lord, give us Your strength to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.  Father, we thank You for grace and mercy; and Your courage to express the same mercy to others, in Jesus name Amen.

"WE THE PEOPLE"

Black people did not free themselves from slavery in the South; a group of people did, of all colors. A group of individuals refuses to stand by and watch our people be raped, humiliated, and killed because of hate.    A group of individuals believed in women's rights; people of all colors stood up for those rights. A group of people saved some of the Indians and their culture; since they were the ones who owned the land. A group of individuals of every race and gender believes in "JUSTICE FOR ALL." "WE ARE THE PEOPLE," GOD'S PEOPLE, AND WE NEED TO STAND UP FOR HIM AND OTHERS. UNITY IS THE KEY; WE CAN NOT UNITE THE COLORS, BUT WE CAN UNITE GOD'S PEOPLE WHO ARE COLOR BLIND, JUST AS CHRIST.

The people understand that our country cannot succeed when a shrinking few do very well, and a growing many barely make it. Yet, we, the people, still believe that every citizen deserves a basic measure of security and dignity. We, the people, still believe that our obligations as Americans are not just to ourselves but all posterity. We, the people, still believe that enduring security and lasting peace do not require perpetual war.

We, the people, declare today that the most evident of truths; is that all of us are created equal like the star that guides us still, just as it guided our forebears through Seneca Falls, Selma, and Stonewall. Just as the truth drove all those men and women, sung and unsung, who left footprints along this great Mall. To hear a preacher say that we cannot walk alone; to listen to a King proclaim that our individual freedom is inextricably bound to the freedom of every soul on Earth. (President Obama )

WE, THE PEOPLE ARE THE SAME; WHEN GIVEN THE SAME LOVE, EDUCATION, SPIRITUAL, AND PHYSICAL NURTURING, THESE ARE THE ONLY THINGS THAT SEPARATE US.

LORD, we the people of God stand together for all people; for You created us all equal. Father, we will stand for those who cannot stand for themselves; and stamp out injustice through love and understanding. Lord, help US come together in unity; so we may live in harmony and peace, in Jesus' name Amen.

FULL BODY ARMOR

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh.  But divinely powerful, for the destruction of fortresses.   2 Samuel 22:3 My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; My savior, You saved me from violence

We must train for everything if we want to become a Doctor; we study and train daily.  If we want to become a Lawyer; we study and train daily.  If we want to become a disciple, we must study and train daily.  A follower of Christ will be at war daily; with the Spirit and the flesh, so we must be prepared for the battle.  We cannot walk around with the Sword; and not train ourselves how to use it; we must study the instruction inside.  When we have to go to battle we need to know how to use the power in our Sword; that way no weapon formed against us shall propose.  But USING YOUR SWORD two or four hours a week is not enough training time to properly use your weapon; we must study the Word daily, and pray without ceasing.  We have the evidence we need to become a mighty Soldiers in the army of the Lord; but we must train daily, have faith, and pray without ceasing to claim the victory.  God will give us what we need when we need it; to be victorious over our oppressor and our enemy, if we believe what He says and act on His Word.

Father, we know as long as we walk with You; You will never leave us, and we are so grateful.  Lord, we are in the flesh much more than we are in the Spirit; so we must use Your Words daily to keep our flesh at rest.  Please, Lord; give us a burning desire for Your Word; so we will always be in full body armor, and ready for battle against the enemies.  Lord, You are our refuge in time of trouble, our shield in combat, and our Savior in life.  Father, help us gain the wisdom of Your Word; and the knowledge of how to use it power, in our lives and to help others.  Lord, we thank You for another blessing of life, health, and strength; as well as mercy, grace, and favor.  In Jesus name, we pray Amen

BELIEVERS NOT RELIGIONS

 WE NEED ALL Believers, NOT RELIGIONS BUT “BELIEVERS.” To come together in prayer to save us and our world; we must come together and pray to ONE GOD BECAUSE THERE’S ONLY ONE TRUE GOD. The reason why we need BELIEVERS NOT Religions; BELIEVERS ARE GOD MADE, AND RELIGION is manmade to keep SPIRITUAL separation. So we want those that BELIEVE THERE IS ONE GOD. TO COME TOGETHER TO MAKE HIS PROMISE WORK.  I am not sure of the different beliefs and rituals of religions, but I do know there’s only ONE GOD, and He is all about LOVE.  And if BELIEVERS, would humble ourselves and call on that LOVE He will save us. ( 2 Chronicles14  If my people, which are called by my name, humble themselves,  pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways.  I will hear from heaven; forgive their sin, and heal their land.)"  So all believers let us pray.

Lord, we come to You today with a heavy heart; OUR families and friends are being gun down at an alarming rate.  Father, please intervene before we destroy ourselves with hate and envy.  Father, we ask You to bless those who have lost loved ones in these tragic events that are going on in our Countries today.  LORD, give them Your peace, love, and forgiveness; and bring them together for strength and support, as they heal from their loss.  Lord, You said that if BELIEVERS called on Your name; You would heal the land.  Lord, we come together calling on Your name, save this land and Your people.  Father, please forgive us for our sins; the past, present, and future, and thank You for grace.  Lord, Your Word tells us that blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted “Lord we need Your comfort right now in the name of Jesus”. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth “Lord help us be submissive to You.”  Lord, we stand on Your Word that You will keep Your promise and save this land and Your people, In Jesus name, Amen

GOD IS NOT IN CONTROL OF EVERYTHING

Some people believe that everything that happens in this lost world is because of God’s will.  On the contrary, our decisions are what control our destiny.   What God does is provide us with a Book of Instruction to live by, and when we follow those instructions, we walk in His path for us.   Our lives are based on our free will; we get to choose how we live, and those choices control our destiny. (Ephesians 2:10) For we are God’s masterpiece, He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” The Bible says, (Psalm 139:16) “All the days planned for us were written in God’s book before we were one day old”.  God is in control of life, but we are in control of our destiny.

God knows everything that will happen in our lives whether we follow His instructions or our own. This life we live on earth is preparation for our next destination.  What we practice in the land will determine where we spend eternity, and God’s Word clearly states this fact.  So if we live with hate in our hearts we should know our destiny; God’s Word tells us, 'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and hope.  This hope comes from the Fruit of the Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, and self-control.

Lord, for those whom You foreknew, You have predestined to become conformed to the image of Your Son so that we would be the firstborn among many brethren.  Father, Your vision is yet for the appointed time; Your Word is the goal, and it will not fail, we must wait for it because it will certainly come.  Father, let Your Word accomplish in us; Your lovingkindness, and do not abandon us the works of Your hands.  Father, so many of us are deceived because we do not know the truth of Your Word; that we are all held accountable for our choices, and for whatever we sow, we will also reap.  So Lord let Your Word which goes forth from Your mouth; not return empty without accomplishing what You desire in us.  Lord, You have predestined us to become like Your Son in all our ways; so that Your plan will be accomplished in us and others.  Father, help us surrender to Your will; so we may walk in the plan that You have for our lives, and bless our children with Your love and direction.  Father, help us act like the people You designed us to be; so we can become the people You love, and have eternal life with You.  In Jesus name, Amen.

ACCORDING TO GOD’S DESIGN

Genesis 1:31 Then God looked over all He had made, and He saw that it was very good! But because of our disobedience in the Garden we were cursed with a sinful nature ( Romans 3:23) For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s excellent standards, yet God freely and graciously declares that we are righteous.  So God gave (John 3:16) His only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.

God originally planned for all people to live in peace and harmony, with a specified purpose of worshiping and walking with Him.  But, after sin was introduced into the Garden of Eden; God’s plan was broken, because of our disobedience.  Since then we have insisted on doing things our own way, and the consequences of our ways are separation from God.  But, because of God’s love for us, He did not leave us in our brokenness.  God knew we would not be able to live by the Laws, so He sent His only Son to us in the flesh “Jesus.”  Jesus was able to live perfectly as a human according to God’s design; this allowed Him to do for us what we could not do for ourselves.  He took our sins to the cross and paid the penalty through His death so that we may live.  Now because of Jesus sacrifice we can go boldly to the throne and asks God for forgiveness; turn away from our sins, and be restored to our Father.  Once God restores us to Him, we begin to find meaning and purpose for our lives.  Then Holy Spirit empowers us to recovery God’s design and obtain eternal life.

Father, You created us in Your image with Your Spirit, to serve a particular function. But, because of our sins we were separated from You; and because of Your love, You restored us through the death of Your Son.  Lord, we thank You that there is no judgment against those who believe in Him.  Lord, thank You for bringing us out of darkness into Your light; and giving us eyes that see and ears that hear.  Father, Your Son, is our source of hope; and He fills us with joy and peace, above all human understanding. Lord, as we study Your Word, it gives us encouragement to wait patiently for Your promise to be fulfilled.  Father, we are so grateful that You are convinced that we are full of goodness; and sorry that we are not the people You designed us to be.  Lord, we thank You for the Holy Spirit that complies us to obey Your Word and gives us guidance in this lost world.  In Jesus name Amen

Earnest Pugh-I Need Your Glory

TROUBLED TIMES

Psalms 3:4 I cried aloud to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah Psalm 34:17 When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. Psalms 50:15 …call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.

Lord times are getting harder, and people are losing faith in these troubled times.  Father, this world is filled with unspeakable sin and evil, Lord we reach out our hands to You, please help us.  Lord, we understand that Your words will come to pass, Lord prepare us for that day and keep us at peace while we wait.  Father, right now we feel our burdens are too great, please help us lay our burdens at the altar and turn away in the name of Jesus.  Lord, we want to serve You, so we ask You to strengthen our faith and help us with our doubt and train us in the way to go.  God teach us what to do to walk into our destiny and eternity so we may sit at Your feet.  It is Your name; we pray, AMEN

HUMBLE AND AT PEACE

Matthew 5:9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.   Romans 14:19  So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Proverbs 12:20 Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.  Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men

 The Word of God encourages us to make every effort to be humble and at peace.  When people are at peace with God, they are also humble, and ordinary people make the best teachers.  Humble people, for the most part, are at peace; they have no personal agendas, and no desire to be in the spotlight.  They create an atmosphere that makes others comfortable, and they do not anger quickly.   When we are humble and at peace, we are the perfect candidates for God's service.

Lord, please keep us humble and at peace, help us lay our pride to rest.  Father, give us a patient and gentle Spirit so will not devise evil, but build one another up to serve in Your Kingdom.  Father, thank You, for allowing us to vision You in our dreams and speak to You through Your Words.  Father, declare us innocent for we have acted with integrity; and we trust in You, please help us not waver.  Lord search our hearts and remove all that is not of You; and remove all the obstacles that keep us from sitting at Your feet, and all that hinders our blessings from You.  Lord, do not let us suffer the fate of sinners, put Your hedge of protection around us, as we walk in Your will.  Lord, we come to Your Altar for guidance, peace, protection, joy, love, and mercy, in Jesus name, Amen

THE GOLDEN RULE

MATTHEW 7:12 Do unto others as you wish them to do unto you; this is the essence of all that is taught in the law, and the prophets. 

Lord, You have warned us not to think we are better than we are, Father teach us how, to be honest with ourselves in our evaluation of self.  Lord, each of us will have to give an account to God for actions, and how we treat others.  Lord, help us surrender all to You, because of all You have done for us; help us live a Holy life, the kind that is acceptable to You.  Father, let us not copy the behavior and customs of this world but be transformed into new people by changing the way we think.  Father, then we will learn to know Your will for us which is good, pleasing and perfect to You.  We pray that the Spirit of HOPE fills us completely with love, peace, kindness, gentleness, and joy; because we trust in Your Word, that if we call on Your name. You will save us.  In Jesus name, Amen

LET'S PRAY FOR HEALING OF OUR LAND AND THE PEOPLE

2 Chronicles 7:14 14 if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

Father, we come to You on behalf of our Nations; asking You to reveal the plan of the enemy, that will affect us all.   Father, please do not let the HATE that has penetrated our workplace, our homes, and our justice system, destroy us. Lord, give us eyes that see the wickedness of the few that harbor HATE in their hearts, that will destroy many.  Father, open the hearts and minds of Your people; so they will receive You and act according to Your will.  Lord, we have seen what war and hate can do to a country; give Your people the strength and courage to stand up for justice, or we will all perish from HATE.  Father, remind us that saying nothing about injustice is a sin as well. Lord, give every family that lost their loved ones to senseless shootings the strength, courage, and support they need to get through their loss.  Lord, help us understand that a life is a life, no matter what race or position, unjust killing is wrong. Father, we are losing our young people at an alarming rate; so please keep them covered in the Blood from the top of their heads to the souls of their feet, and keep Your hedge of protection around them. Lord, with just one touch from Your Almighty hand, will bring our lives and Your people peace.  Father, You have healed the sick and raised the dead, we know You can heal this land.  How amazing is Your mercy and grace over all the earth, how powerful is Your redeeming love.  How great was Your sacrifice to go before us and bring forgiveness and HOPE to this wicked world?  By Your stripes we ask for healing, we stand TOGETHER AS ONE within Your reign and rule we ask for restoration of our people and our Country.   Father, we are standing on  Your Word with the faith of a mustard seed that if we humble ourselves, seek You, pray, and turn away from sin You will hear us.  Please SAVE us and heal this land in Jesus name Amen

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

MATTHEW 5:43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the just and the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not the tax collectors do as much? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You, therefore, must be perfect; as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Loving those who love us is easy even a nonbeliever can accomplish this; to exhibit Christ-like character we must be able to love those that persecute us as well.  As a follower of Christ we must demonstrate love to all people; no matter what faith, nationality, or personality, even our enemies.  We are to pray for those that persecute us as well, and by doing so, we reveal to God that Jesus is Lord of our lives.  Now when someone has hurt our children, family, or us; this is impossible for us to attain by our own efforts. Only through the power of the Holy Spirit can we love our enemies.   Jesus loved all of us the good and the evil; and when we love our enemy we live by a higher standard than that of the world.

Father, we are Your people, and we proclaim Your greatness, through our persecution and adversities.  Lord, our Spirits rejoice in our Savior; for He has looked on His lowly servants with favor, grace and mercy.  Father, You, have done great things for us through Your sacrifice on Calvary, and we are so grateful.  Lord, just as You set our ancestors free from Egypt; please set us free from the oppression of our enemies, right now in the name of Jesus.  Father, please scatter the proud in their arrogance, hatred, envy, and prejudice.  Lord, cast down the unjust from their thrones and lift us up right now in the name of Jesus.  Lord, we entrust ourselves entirely to Your loving care; Lord, our entire hope, happiness, anxiety, and difficulties we place in Your hands in Jesus name, Amen

RETALIATION

Matthew 5:38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I tell you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.

Jesus Challenges Our Desire for Personal Vindication Matt.5:38 Eye for an eye never meant that a person could exact vengeance directly for his or her eye; it said that one should take the offender to court, where the sentence could be executed legally. Jesus' words strike at the very core of human selfishness, summoning us to value others above ourselves in concrete and consistent ways. Some misread this text as if it says not to oppose injustice; what it says, however, is that we should be so unselfish and trust God so much that we leave our defense with Him. We have no honor or property worth defending compared with the opportunity to show how much we love God and everyone else. By not countering, and not coming down to the oppressors' level, we necessarily will appear unrealistic to the world.

Father, Your, Words says vengeance is Your; but how long Lord must we copy with this oppression, and murdering of our people.  Lord, we are getting weary and tired of being abused by people we have done nothing wrong too; please give us Your strength and courage, so we will allow You to defend us in Your will.  Lord, forgive us for our hateful thoughts when our children are killed by those who should serve and protect us; and serve justice to the unjust.  Father, keep Your hedge of protection around us and continue to bless our children from the top of their heads to the soles of their feet.  Father, show us that hate is of the devil and has nothing or no place in Your Kingdom.  Lord, we need You, You said if we call on You with the faith of a mustard seed You will hear us and answer our prayers; so please hear us save our PEOPLE, in Jesus name, Amen

PRAY FOR OUR CHILDREN

Acts 16:31-33 and they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.  We must introduce the Lord to our children; children today do not know our heavenly Father, so they have no fear of God or their parents.  We must teach our children as our parents and grandparents taught us; and do not quit praying for our children, until the day we go home to be with the Lord.  Even if we don’t see them saved in our lifetime, God can still save them. Although God does not guarantee they will be saved, He promises to hear our prayers, and the prayers of believers are powerful and effective.  The intercessory prayers of our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents are the reason some of us are saved and still here today

Lord, You give us the authority to trample over the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt us. Lord Jesus, you have promised Your people that are taught by You and receive You will be saved.  Please reveal yourself to our children from generation to generation and draw them near to You, through your blood.” Lord, we intervene and claim Your power over our young people, right now in the name of Jesus.  Father, there is no help from man, so we come to You on bending knees crying for help. “Save our children, save our country, save this world” from all this gun violence.  Lord, we say a special prayer for all who have lost their loved one to violence, war, and diseases. Father, we ask that You give them rest and peace of mind, that their loved one will be sitting at Your feet.  Lord, give our Political and Spiritual Leaders Your wisdom; knowledge, and love for the people, so they will do what is right for all the people.  Lord, we ask You to touch the hearts of law enforcement that come in contact with our children, give them compassion, understanding, and love for all people; so they may serve equal justice.  Father, continue to work in and through our children; put a hedge of protection around them, and keep them on the path of righteousness.  Lord, help us to become communities and neighborhoods that work together as a village, to raise our children as we were instructed to do “by the word of God.” In Jesus name, we pray Amen

LET US PRAY

When we pray, we must have a clear mind and empty our hearts of hate, jealousy, envy, or strife.  Never pray against your enemy pray for God’s will to be done, so we will not take a vindictive approach in our prayer.  If we have unforgiveness in our hearts, God will not forgive us of our sins.  We must pray daily without ceasing to help fight the temptation of this evil and sinful nature we all have, our flesh.   

Our Father, who is in heaven, we glorify Your name, as we wait for You to return, let Your will be done, in our lives on earth as it is in heaven.   Thank You for another day to study Your Word and the opportunity for correction.  Forgive us of our sins, as we forgive those that sin against us.  Lord, give us the strength to fight temptation and the courage to stand on Your Word during Spiritual warfare.  Thank You Lord for saving us, in Jesus name Amen.

OUR PURPOSE IS TO SERVE GOD AND OTHERS

Our purpose is to praise God, worship Him, proclaim His greatness, and accomplish His will. That's our purpose, and this is His promise, Obedience to His Word will correct us if we walk daily in truth.  The walk is a process that if we obey the New Covenant; that Jesus walked in the flesh, we will be saved.  That covenant is the FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT and our obedience to His Word.  If we do the things He asks, we will lie down in green pastures and walk beside the still waters.  When we ask for forgiveness and turn away from our sin, He restores us, to the path of righteousness, for His name sake.  But as we walk through the valleys of shadows of death; we should fear no evil, for as long as we are connected to Jesus, He walks with us.  Even though we walk with Him, we are not clear of life situations; but we receive guidance and comfort from His presence through our situations.  He will allow His works to be seen by the enemies through us, and He will anoint us as we speak the truth of His Word.  When we serve God's purpose our cup overflows with goodness and love; as we dwell in the House of the Lord;  with our bodies and minds.  Amen

Father, thank You, for the Holy Spirit that lives in us; and gives us the guidance, peace, and submission to Your Word, and help us become servants to You and others.  Lord, continue ordering our steps in Your Word and give us protection from our enemies.  Father, keep us covered in the Blood from the top of our heads to the souls of our feet; and remove every obstacle that keeps us from sitting at Your feet, or that hinders our blessings from You.  Lord, give us a clean mind and heart, so we may have a strong desire for Your Word.   Father, right now we ask that You remove every demonic Spirit over us and our children; please remove all generational curses, from our children and our children's children.  Lord, teach us how to draw our children near to You; so they may not stray far from You, and give them Your strength and courage to proclaim Your Word.  Father, make Your will our will, so we may desire the things of the Spirit and not of the World, so we may serve others and Your purpose.  In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

WE ALL SIN AGAINST THE TEMPLE OF GOD

Christians love to talk about sexual behavior, but if anyone of us had sex out of Wed- lock has sinned, "he who has not sinned throw the first stone."  If you are married, and you are having sex with others, you have sinned.  Sex is the only sin against the body; and we have polluted God’s Spiritual temples, with evil Spirits.  We have all been in love; or so we thought, now we realize this is not for me, but we have already allowed that person Spirit to mixes with our Spirit.  When we have different Spirits in one temple; falling in love with God, ourselves or anyone is hard to do, but there is a cure, Christ. ( Galatians 5;1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery).  The Word gives us instruction on how we should behave sexually; married or unmarried but does any of us follow these instructions.  Of the seven lists of sins found in the writings of Paul, the word sexual behavior is mentioned in five of them.  (Galatians  5:19 19 The acts of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.

Lord, forgive us because we are sinners and without You we or lost.  Lord, give us a loving desire for Your Word so we can be obedient to Your instruction on how we should behave sexually.  Lord, help us break the chains of flesh; so we may live and honor You as we were created too.  Father, let us be that beacon of light that guide someone lost to You today and every day.  Father, give us eyes and ears so we may see and hear Your truth and not that of man.  Lord, help Your Spiritual Leaders and Teachers understand that the only way we receive conviction is hearing Your Word in truth, in Jesus name Amen

CHILDLIKE FAITH

It still amazes me when little children show us how resourceful they can be.  It is hard to understand how someone so small can be so self-sufficient when just a few years ago they were totally dependent on you. Children believe in God because the seed is planted at birth.  Now their understanding of God and how their character develops depends on how we nourish their hearts and minds. "Child-like faith" it is called, and that is the kind of faith God wants Christians to have.

Matthew 18 Jesus called a little child to Him and put the child among them.  Then He said,  I tell you, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven

Lord, give us childlike faith so we can bear the cross we must carry.  Lord, help us understand without the cross there is no crown and without the crown of thorns, there is no glory. Father, You said to ask, and we shall receive, seek and we shall find, knock and You will open.  Lord, we ask that You give us Childlike faith so that we may be humble and obedient to Your Word.  In Jesus name Amen.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE AND SACRIFICE

1 Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not insult others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts hopes, and always perseveres.  8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, and they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.  Ephesians 5:2 And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

"The Praying Hands" is a story of selfless sacrifice and love, the same sacrifice, and love Jesus exhibit for us. This story of the Albrecht and Albert two brothers that wanted to become Artist, but could not afford it, so one brother worked in the mines to support the other brother thru school. In return when Albrecht finished school he would support Albert, but by the time Albrecht completed school and became a success Albert hands were damaged beyond repair, which destroyed his chances of him every becoming an Artist. So to pay homage to his brother for the sacrifice he made for him, he made a sculpture of Albert’s hands. He named the sculpture “Hands”, which was renamed “The Praying Hands”. This story brought me to tears when I thought about the sacrifice Jesus made for us, and we have yet to pay homage to Him, by surrender all.

Father, thank You for Your love and unselfish sacrifice of Your only Son; You put our needs before Your own, and we are so grateful.  Lord, there is no greater gifts we can give than love and sacrifice; and if we love You, we would also sacrifice our worldly desires, to walk with You.  Lord, may we love You in all things and above all things. May we reach the joy which You have prepared for us in Heaven. Nothing is right that is against Your Will, and all that is good comes from Your Hand. Place in our hearts a desire to pleaseYou and fill our mind with thoughts of Your Love so that we may grow in Your Wisdom, knowledge, and enjoy Your Peace. In Jesus name Amen

THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE

My brother was killed protecting family members, and I carried the pain of guilt for eighteen years.  I kept thinking if I had not come to visit he would have been home.  I blamed myself and others for his death until I spoke to one of God’s Spiritual Soldiers; he reminded me that my brother made the ultimate sacrifice; he gave his life to save someone else. ( John 15:12-14 this is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.  No Greater love has anyone than this that someone lay down his life for his friends.  You are my friends if you do what I command you)  My brother was truly Christ-like; he gave his life out of love for us.  So as I write this with tears in my eyes; I can now release the pain of guilt because Shawn Spirit is sitting at Christ right feet.  When we die to ourselves we make room for Christ to rule our lives; but when we give our lives so someone else can live, we show real Christ-like character” unconditional love.”  Thank You, Lord, for easing my heart, and breaking the chains of guilt; because I know my brother is with You.

Lord, we cannot live for You until we die to ourselves; when we crucify ourselves we begin to live at that moment, but the greatest sacrifice is to give our lives to save someone else.  Father, give us Your Spirit of love, the type of love that is unconditional and that bears all things.  Lord, we cry out to You, please help us endure our  day to day struggles; and lift us up when we fall.  Thank You for redemption from sin, death, and the wrath of God through Your sacrifice.  Thank You that You showed favor and woke us up this morning, and we pray for those that passed on, and the family and friends they left behind.  Lord, Your grace, and Word has conquered our sinful nature; and we acknowledge the price You paid to redeem us, in Your beautiful name we pray Amen