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Maintaining Our Thought-Life

Thankfully, I often think of the apostle Paul and how he and Silas began praising God while imprisoned in chains.  (Acts 16)

For as he (or she) thinketh in his heart, so is he/she:
Proverbs 23:7a (Edit Mine)

Our beliefs become our thoughts, our thoughts become our words, our words become our actions, our actions become our habits.

“Whoa, where did that thought come from and why was I thinking it?”

The devil’s attacks on, and recommendations for, our thought life are deliberate.  If left unopposed, satan’s scheme will eventually destroy us.

For instance, I woke up not feeling good today.  As a result, my thoughts followed the way I felt in my body…

Well, about ten seconds later, the Lord reminded me that His thoughts are not determined by or subject to how I feel, and I began to praise Him and thank Him.  I started being positive for my wife and chose to love her by not letting how I felt get me down.

One thing I try to remember throughout the day is that while God said He’ll never leave me nor forsake me, I can often leave Him during the day.  What I mean is that, for any number of reasons, I can let my thoughts wander away from Him and begin taking on destructive/defeating thoughts.

Let’s stay with God, saints.  Let’s ask Him to remind us of Whose we are throughout the day so we can maintain a victorious thought-life in Christ regardless of circumstances.

“Jesus, please help me to be deliberate in my thinking so I be an overcomer and live the victorious life You’ve given me the opportunity to live.”

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
1 Timothy 6:12

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
2 Corinthians 10:3-5

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Philippians 4:8

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always.  Can this really be accomplished?  Yes, the Word says it’s God’s will for Christians, those who choose to be followers of Jesus Christ!

God bless,

Mark – ChoosingJesusEveryDay@gmail.com

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Hold On, Something Great Is Coming!

Hello Christians,

Here’s a 1-minute message to help you begin your week.  God is so good!  =)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz6GwahOvsg

By the way, here is the link to Jonathan’s entire message that the above excerpt was taken from.  Very inspiring 27-minute message.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zg-47moVPtM

God bless you all,

Mark

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Heavenly Friday. Yipee!

Hello Fellow Christians, ☺

What a friend we have in Jesus.

Why take time to remind all of us to dwell on Heaven each Friday?

Well, one of the best reasons to do so is because the devil can use so much of the rest of the week to drag our minds back down into this world and its issues.  He can discourage us and try to get us to take on the weight of the world’s care.

That’s why Jesus tells us to look up; to look to our Prince of Peace and Heavenly Father; to still our spirits; to align our hearts and emotions with Him; to focus our attention on Heaven and all it has to offer us.

Each week, we’re reminded that we get to exchange any and all care we may have picked up during the week for the mercy, forgiveness, love, joy and peace of Jesus.

Truly, what a Savior and friend we have in Jesus.

 

 

 

 

Freed from care and safe in the arms of Jesus…

God bless,

Mark

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Maintaining God’s Peace During These “Troubled” Times

Asserting behavior is on the rise, big time.  Even if we’re “right,” we need to discern situations with God’s help so that we don’t fall prey to the enemy’s traps.

The other day, I was right behind a Cadillac Escalade.  We were traveling on a two-lane road that was being worked on so barriers were funneling drivers into one lane about 400 yards up the road.  I was already in the correct lane to drive through the road work area ahead.  The accelerating Escalade had flown past me and quickly got in front of me.  I could tell the driver was aggressive and impatient and sensed I should back off from them by leaving some distance between the two of us.

After about another 100 yards, another car came up on my right and quickly passed by hoping to pass the Escalade before we all reached the area where cars had to merge into my lane or hit the barriers in the right lane.  The Escalade driver was not going to let the Nissan Altima in.  No way.  I was far enough behind the Escalade so that the Altima could easily slip into my lane.  But, the Altima was not going to drop in behind the Escalade.  The race was on.  Sure enough, the Altima ran out of room in the right lane and smacked into the Escalade with the entire side of their car.  Pretty bad road rage situation.

Lately, in the news, I’ve been seeing more trouble with plane passengers fighting like the incident Burbank, California yesterday.

People are becoming more aggressive in store checkout lines even butting in front of others who’ve been waiting patiently.  Amazing.

Society is becoming more and more troubled and out of control.  I can sense we’re on the brink of some real problems in the world.  People seem to not care any more and are doing whatever they want to make sure they’re wishes are known and met.  Selfishness is becoming the rule.  Compromise is vanishing.  Grace is disappearing.  Love is giving into hate.

I share this with you not to discourage you but to encourage you to let not your heart be troubled.  We’re going to see those who don’t know Jesus succumb to their troubled hearts and we need to be careful that we’re maintaining a close relationship with Jesus so we don’t get tricked into entering into this troubled, end times world.  Satan’s baiting us and would like nothing more than for us to jump into the troubled mess he’s cooked up.

When the two cars smacked together, I have to admit, it was really weird.  I couldn’t believe what I’d just witnessed.  I thought, “Man, this world is getting even more crazy.”  It was then that the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart and told me to back off, to let go of any of my own aggressive tendencies, to calm down, and to let His peace reign in my heart.  The Holy Spirit meant that He’s watching over me and that I must yield to Him today to keep from getting harmed by this world’s troubles.  He told me not to let a macho, California spirit of aggression cause me to make decisions that could harm me and my wife.  I was really thankful for His words of wisdom.  I pray all the time and ask God to keep me from falling into the trap of the spirits that are coming on this world to bring destruction to many.

Please, if you sense your rights are being violated and that aggression is mounting in you, back off and take a moment to let God reign in you before proceeding.  It could really mean the difference between great harm and safety.

There are so many Bible passages that help us discern the times we’re living in and how we should conduct ourselves to keep us in Christ, in His protection and care.  I’ve listed just a few below.

Know this, my beloved brothers:  let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
James 1:19-20

Be sober-minded; be watchful.  Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8

Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the bosom of fools.
Ecclesiastes 7:9

One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless.
Proverbs 14:16

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.  Not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 14:27

Be still, and know that I am God:
Psalm 46:10

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,
Colossians 3:15a

God bless,

Mark

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Romans 8:28: Our Ever-Ready Defense System

Hello Precious People in Jesus,

At times, I can still be tempted to doubt that God’s working all things, even my past, for my good.  The large, ever-present angel pictured below is pretty much the picture the Lord showed me when He told me He’s protecting me from not believing Romans 8:28.  I’m so grateful He’s this faithful to protect me/us, to see to it that I/we believe.

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear:
1 John 4:18

The love of God is so rich and pure.  It’s measureless and strong!
Lyric taken from “The Love Of God” hymn by Frederick Lehman

Then the Lord said to me, “You have seen well, for I (Psalm 34:7 below) am watching over my word to perform it.”
Jeremiah 1:12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

God, Himself, is watching over His Word (Romans 8:28) to perform it.

Romans 8:28 is intended to set a perimeter and stand guard over our minds and spirits like a behind the scenes, ever-ready and impenetrable, missile defense system that’s ready to stop any, and all, incoming weapons (fiery darts) meant to harm us…

I’m finding that if I keep believing Romans 8:28, if it’s preeminent in my thinking, I’m kept much more free from the purpose and impact of satan’s lies that try to tear my faith and me down, or to wreak havoc in my life.

The shield of faith that Romans 8:28 puts in my hands (in my spirit to keep my faith safe and intact) pretty much quenches the devil’s fiery darts.  I mean, what can satan convince me of if I’m walking in knowing that God is working all things for my good.  As God continues to show me that He’s truly working all things for my good, I can truly experience/realize His perfect love that casts out any fear associated with the possibility that something may not work for my good.

Yep, Romans 8:28 can be a huge spiritual tool for taking thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ Who’s ALWAYS working for ALL things for my GOOD.

It’s so much easier for me to cast any care on Jesus, to be still and know that He’s God, and to let the peace of God reign in my heart as I relax in the amazing protection the Holy Spirit places in my life with Romans 8:28.

And we know (with great confidence) that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

God bless,

Mark

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Perfectionism and Growing In Grace

Wow, I could write so much about the following.  But then, I’d begin to feel some perfectionism creeping in.  =)

I’m becoming more and more convinced that satan can make us give up on Christianity by making us strive in our desire to be more like Christ…

We, desperately, need to extend grace to ourselves as well as to others…

It can be really difficult to truly forgive others if we can’t forgive ourselves or God.

Boy, I’m just SO thankful for the Apostle Paul’s life and experiences…

The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.  Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.…
Galatians 6:8-10

The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more,
Romans 5:20

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.
Ephesians 2:8-9

For I do not understand my own actions.  For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.  Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good.  So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.  For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh.  For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.  For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.  Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.  So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand.  For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members.  Wretched man that I am!  Who will deliver me from this body of death?  Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!  So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.
Romans 7:15-25

I hope the following is clear and simple enough to express what I’m trying to say…=)

First I want to say that we need to realize that when God’s pointing out something in our lives that we often feel condemnation for it.  But, what God’s really up to is freeing us from whatever He knows is weighing down our spirits.  In His love for us, He’s being a faithful Father.  And, that, we can rejoice in.

With that said, I want to share a personal matter that may be helpful to many – I have just now seen this issue more clearly in myself, again.

I never like to tell folks to dwell on their past since God tells us to press onto the future while forgetting the past, but sometimes knowing our past can help us resolve lingering spiritual issues that free us from the past.

I can be a perfectionist.  God’s helping me with this issue.  I believe being a perfectionist comes from a victim mentality, some form of self-pity, from being compared to others, from never feeling good enough, never living up to others’ expectations, from having chronic health issues, from feeling inadequate, shame, or like I’m a burden.  I can feel like I’m always trying to prove my worth to others.  I’m sure satan is ever ready to bring these thoughts to our remembrance.

As I grow in the Lord, at times, I can feel like I want to do everything perfectly.  I don’t like it when I mess up in my walk with Jesus or when I still react to others in my old ways.  It can bother me for a while, sometimes.  What I also noted about messing up is that it can bother me so much that I can be tempted to feel like, “Oh well, what’s the use.  I’m never going to be able to overcome these strongholds so why try.”

That’s about the time I come to a fork in the road.  Am I really frustrated enough to want to give up Christianity?  Or, do I receive God’s grace for my failure, stop my striving and proving my worth, and ask His help to keep going, to keep me motivated to continue on with renewing my mind in Christ.  Do I let my desire to be free from generational strongholds fill me with such strife that it makes me weary and resentful, or do I let God’s grace cover those irritating items and release Him to work them out of me in His time knowing He loves me in the meantime?

Thankfully, God’s always had me continue on with Him.  He’s always allowed me to forgive myself and to move on.  He’s always helped me to not grow weary in well doing.  In fact, whenever I feel myself growing weary in my Christian walk, God helps me recognize my striving and brings His grace to my mind and heart as if to say, “I know your efforts to be more like My Son.  But, your own efforts only lead to strife and weariness.  So please let go of your strife and walk in My forgiveness and timing for your growth.  Let My grace fill you with the peace that passes understanding right now.”

If you sense that, perhaps by no fault of your own, you’ve become a perfectionist, let God love you into His grace.  Know that apart from Christ we can do nothing.  Jesus is the One Who helps us grow. He’s the One Who forgives us and teaches us to forgive ourselves when we can’t live up to the image we may have formed for ourselves.  He can set us free from serving that idol with His mercy and grace that are new every morning.

Maybe someone needed to hear this today – I did.  I was going to write about something totally different today, but it seemed like the Lord was saying to write the above instead.

I love you all.

God bless,

Mark

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The Blessing In Forgiveness

How do I deal with hurt?  What’s my reaction when someone (even when/if I think God’s hurt me, I hold something against Him, I’m still blaming Him for something) hurts me?  What about forgiving myself?

The devil works to plant sin, like unforgiveness, in my life.  His plan isn’t only to to use unforgiveness to make me miserable, but to destroy me.  And he wants to use my unforgiveness to infect as many others as I can with it.

In His mercy, God steps into my life to show me how to walk in forgiveness.  As I learn the blessing in forgiveness, I’ll feel so much better and want to let others know they too can be freed from the terrible weight of unforgiveness.

Pursue peace with all men, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.  Be careful that no one falls short of the grace of God, so that no root of bitterness will spring up to cause trouble and defile many.
Hebrew 12:14-15

Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.”  And you forgave
the guilt of my sin.
Psalm 32:5

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Proverbs 28:13

For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Matthew 6:14

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

Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression
of the remnant of his inheritance?  You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.
Micah 7:18

You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you.
Psalm 86:5

Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.
Acts 3:19

Isn’t God’s mercy incredible?  It just rejuvenates us like nothing else can.

Wow, my wife and I listened to some teachings on the importance of forgiveness over the weekend.  I have to admit, before listening to the videos, we didn’t think we had any issues with forgiveness – maybe some lingering religious pride there?  =)

As soon as the forgiveness lessons began, the precious Holy Spirit began speaking to our hearts about some things.  We had to stop the videos several times and let Jesus speak to our hearts.  God’s truth shared in these videos was SO soothing to our hearts, minds and spirits.

I even identified some unforgiveness I had towards God.  It was so healing to deal with that.

As we sat listening to the teacher who taught how important it is to forgive others and then to bless them as a lifestyle, God just loved us into more and more forgiveness.  It was so freeing.  Made us feel so much more lite in our spirits like taking a spiritual bath in God’s love.

Funny how you don’t even realize you’re still carrying around weighty baggage like unforgiveness.  God is SO GOOD, friends.  He does everything He can to show us how to let go of the heaviness our sins can bear on us.  His ongoing faithfulness just keeps surprising us.  It’s so incredibly wonderful how He keeps showing us how to become more and more free to walk in His amazing love.

…that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.   =)

 

 

 

 

Those times of refreshing are so good…Keep helping us become more free with Your soothing truths, Lord.

God bless,

Mark

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Heavenly Friday =)

Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.  Only let us hold true to what we have attained.

Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.

Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,

who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.
Phippians 3:15-21

Take time to think about Heaven, precious people.  You’ll be glad you did.

Have a nice weekend and I’ll talk more with you next week…

God bless,

Mark

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Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn: A Case Of Cultural Leprosy

We have a culture and value system that increasingly seeks to avoid pain at any cost.  It even affects Christian culture.  We may not realize it, but this is a form of leprosy.  The greatest danger of leprosy is that it destroys the nervous system so that the person feels no pain.

If their hand is in the fire, they don’t feel it and the hand is destroyed.  So too, when a culture tries to avoid all pain – it becomes leprous.  If you seek to avoid all pain, you will never live a life of righteousness, godliness, and greatness.

Righteousness involves sacrifice and even pain.  There is redemption in pain.  God created it to alert you of danger to life.  If you have pain in your body, it’s alerting you that something is wrong – so you can address it.  If you have pain in your soul, it’s to tell you something is wrong.

You can fix it and it can help you.

Don’t go through your life seeking to avoid pain, or have only pleasure.  Live your life seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.  And all these other things will be added to you.

Today’s Mission:  Today, seek not to avoid pain and pursue pleasure.  But seek to pursue righteousness and the will of God , no matter pain or pleasure.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.  If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you:  on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
1 Peter 4:12-14

God bless,

Mark

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God, And His Ways, Fill Me With Joy

God spoke this to my heart this morning:  “Mark, come away with Me to the high places, those places where those who search for Me with all their heart, those who desire Me above all else, are shown a great secret.   In the high places, I will enable you to live above circumstances because of My faithful love.  I’ll show you how the joy of My Presence has preeminence over everything.”

for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Nehemiah 8:10c

Jesus’ joy is overtaking every challenge or circumstance in my everyday life, and it’s amazing.  That’s why I’m telling you, there’s nothing like Jesus, like getting to the point where His joy is right there all the time helping us to live above any and all circumstances with His joy…

‘You (God) have made known to me the ways of life;
You will fill me [infusing my soul] with joy with Your presence.’
Acts 2:28 AMP

“I serve a risen Saviour, He’s in the world today
I know that He is living, whatever men may say
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer
And just the time I need Him He’s always near.

He lives, He lives,
Christ Jesus lives today
He walks with me and talks with me
Along life’s narrow way
He lives, He lives, Salvation to impart
You ask me how I know He lives?
He lives within my heart.”
“He Lives” Christian Hymn by Alfred Ackley

Didn’t sleep well last night for a number of reasons.  Then, I woke up with this song on my heart and it brought joy to me as I was reminded of His loving care of my life.  I just love how the Lord is so faithful to keep His joy coming.  I love how He rescues me right when I need it by reminding me that His joy supersedes everything.  It’s just so wonderful to know Christ.

Whenever you’re tempted to feel like you’re at the bottom of the barrel, let Jesus turn it over for you and put you back on top.  That barrel (any and all circumstances), and every barrel in the future, is just what you needed to put your attention back on Him and His joy knowing that He’s working all things for YOUR GOOD.  =)

I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer
And just the time I need Him He’s always near…

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
John 15:11

God bless,

Mark

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So Thankful The Lord Changes Us

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts,
Colossians 3:15a

Be still, and know that I am God:
Psalm 46:10a

There was a time when it was difficult for me to trust in the Lord instead of my own understanding; to let the peace of God rule my heart; to be still in my mind and emotions knowing that He was always with me and taking care of me.  These days, it’s easier for me to do.

It just amazes me to think that He puts these spiritual strengths into our lives.  I don’t know how He does it.  All I know is that once I was blind to these dear, precious things of God, but now I can see them.

I like to put my name at the end of these verses.  It makes their message more meaningful, personal and loving knowing they’re coming directly from my Father to me to heal me and make me more whole.  Such peace in Jesus.  Such real, wonderful, deep, abiding peace…

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding, Mark.
Proverbs 3:5

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, Mark
Colossians 3:15a

Be still, and know that I am God, Mark:
Psalm 46:10a

God bless,

Mark

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Charge!

God’s teaching me that I can’t entertain the devil’s lies for any length of time at all.  I can’t nonchalantly let them linger in my mind and spirit.  I’m discovering that mighty warriors can’t live this way.  They must constantly live in the Presence of The Lord ready to put their enemy to flight at a moment’s notice.

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Death and life are in the power of the tongue:  and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
Proverbs 18:21

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;
2 Corinthians 10:4

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Ephesians 6:12

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Romans 8:37

Hello Christians in Jesus’ Name,

Maybe like me you’re a sensitive person.  If so, you’ve most likely been asked to be a mighty warrior in God’s army.  Let me explain…

I had bad dreams again last night.  They’re almost always about me being a failure, and not being able to provide for my family.  Because God made me to be sensitive, bad dreams can often leave me in the cesspool of self-pity.  I can wake up feeling like I’ve been run over and left for dead.  So…

When I feel this way, I have to turn to God’s Word and fight off defeating thoughts of guilt, fear, condemnation, inferiority, etc.   By using the Word against their lies, I’m exposing their attacking lies to the light of God’s Word and that light expels the lying darkness.  I send them and their lies  running for cover back to their darkness.

Remember, we’re not fighting with flesh and blood, but against principalities in high places.  This is why I stay close to Jesus.  This is why I must dwell in the shadow of the Most High.  I don’t do it for “religious” reasons.  It’s, literally, life to me.

Without staying close to God, without using the Word (the truths I’ve come to depend on in the Bible) as the sword that it is, I’m without any weapons to fight off the thoughts that would ultimately defeat me.  Life and death (the devil and his defeating thoughts) have been laid out before me and I must choose life (Christ and His conquering thoughts and truths).  I must choose Jesus every day.

With the Word, I’m more than a conqueror like the Bible states in Romans 8:37.  When I finally read Psalm 91 out loud this morning, the enemy’s lies, that had me pretty down, broke.  I began to feel God’s strength and His truths about my life rise up in my spirit.  Darkness fled.

It seems like some people have been tricked into thinking they can be lackadaisical or complacent in their Christian walk, and not have to be this close to God – I’ve been tempted to feel the same way at times.

They don’t want to have to become mighty warriors due to the fear of man, fear of the enemy, embarrassment, don’t dare take the chance of appearing to be too radical in their faith, or some other reason.  I’m not boasting, but I’m not one of them.  I was never given the choice.  For whatever reason (probably because God knew I couldn’t make it without becoming a mighty warrior, one who must always depend on Him and His Word), God wants to make me into a mighty warrior for His glory.  If you receive these emails, you probably have the same calling.

You and I are not victims, mighty warriors.  In Jesus (Who is The Word), we are the victors, and we are more than conquerors.

It’s a spiritual battle we’ve been asked to participate in.  No matter how we feel at any given time, when we use the Word (Jesus), the sword, against the lies of our enemy, the devil sees us like the picture below, and it scares him to death.

Keep your sword (Jesus, The Word, The Way, The Truth and The Life) close at hand.  When the battle command’s given during those times when you’re walking in selfishness, feeling like a failure, overwhelmed, frantic, scared, like giving up, or like you want to go hide somewhere,

Charge!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

God bless you all,

Mark

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Great Is Our God And Greatly To Be Praised: Next Stop Is Heaven, Dear Ones

 

 

 

 

Oh dear Christian, you are SO LOVED by your Heavenly Father!

One day, the sky will roll back like a scroll (Revelation 6:14).  Wow. Amazing.  What unsurpassing power.  You’ll see it happen.  You’ll see your Savior and Lord.

God’s Kingdom contains all of His might, His character, His glory, His joy, His peace, rest, wisdom and understanding…His Love.  Nothing is missing.  Nothing.

1 I will exalt you, my God the King;
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
2 Every day I will praise you
and extol your name for ever and ever.
3 Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.
4 One generation commends your works to another;
they tell of your mighty acts.
5 They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.[b]
6 They tell of the power of your awesome works—
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
7 They celebrate your abundant goodness
and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
8 The Lord is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
9 The Lord is good to all;
he has compassion on all he has made.
10 All your works praise you, Lord;
your faithful people extol you.
11 They tell of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might,
12 so that all people may know of your mighty acts
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises
and faithful in all he does.[c]
14 The Lord upholds all who fall
and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food at the proper time.
16 You open your hand
and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways
and faithful in all he does.
18 The Lord is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cry and saves them.
20 The Lord watches over all who love him,
but all the wicked he will destroy.
21 My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord.
Let every creature praise his holy name
for ever and ever.
Psalm 145

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
Luke 12:32

 

 

 

 

 

We lose nothing.  We gain it all!  Oh, Hallelujah, Lord, King of the universe!

Let all of eternity well up in you this weekend, precious ones.  Let the Kingdom dwell within you (Luke 17:21).  It’s your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom, the Kingdom, the Kingdom… =)=)=)

God bless,

Mark

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Three Keys To Renewing Our Minds

Hello Fellow Christians,

 

 

 

 

I’ve been trying to find a symbol that paints a picture in our minds to remind us to keep applying Romans 8:28; Ephesians 5:20 and 1 Thessalonians; and 2 Corinthians 10:5.  I’d still like to find a three-arrow circle like the one above (but clockwise instead of counter-clockwise) that I can place these wonderful verses on.

Anyway, I like to keep these verses in mind throughout the day.  I’ve asked God to remind me of their truths whenever I need them.  Regardless of how I may be feeling on any given day, they’re kind of my antivirus to keep me safe from the enemy’s lies, his viruses that attack my faith, peace, joy, trust and rest in Jesus.  They help me to keep dwelling in the secret place of the most High and abiding under the shadow of the Almighty.  That’s home to me, and there’s no place like home!

As God helps me take on more and more of His character, these three powerful Biblical truths and commands protect my overall growth.  They keep a hedge of protection around my walk with our precious Lord.

I can see billboards, hats, t-shirts, refrigerator magnets, aprons, and all kinds of items with the three arrows in a circle reminding us of these keys.

Remember that God’s working all things together for your good; to take thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ; and to thank and praise God (like the apostle Paul did when imprisoned) in all things, all circumstances.

God bless,

Mark

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Blessed Is Anyone Who Trusts In The Lord

But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.  They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.  It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green.  It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8

“(But) Blessed [with spiritual security] is the man who believes and trusts in and relies on the Lord And whose hope and confident expectation is the Lord.  “For he will be [nourished] like a tree planted by the waters, That spreads out its roots by the river; And will not fear the heat when it comes; But its leaves will be green and moist.  And it will not be anxious and concerned in a year of drought Nor stop bearing fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 AMP

God bless,

Mark

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Romans 8:28

 

 

 

 

 

At times, it’s easy to forget Romans 8:28.  It’s at those times that we’re tempted to list all of the things that appear to be not working for our good.  But, we soon discover that nothing can really be jotted down on such a list because we’re reminded of God’s Romans 8:28 promise.  Nice, isn’t it?

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

Whenever you’re tempted to be disappointed or discouraged, remember the incredible, supernatural and superseding promise in this verse.  It can really turn your day around.  It’s my favorite verse and for good reason.  It’s the perfect antidote for any situation that tries to cause me to, temporarily, stop trusting God’s in control.

Let the saving and comforting truth of the words of this verse get deep down into your soul.  Tape it up in your home, car, or discreetly in your work area.

God’s watching over Romans 8:28 to perform it in the life of all who love Him.  He’s making sure that all who yield to its pre-eminent truth will experience the delivering promise in its words that will keep your heart, mind, and soul protected, safe, and full of faith and hope.

Let Romans 8:28 make you more than a conqueror as you learn the strength in its words to make you into a Christian who’s able to always trust God.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And we know…  =)

Hallelujah for the Lord our God, The Almighty, reigns!

God bless,

Mark

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“Look Up,” Jesus, Our Bridegroom, Tells Us

Hello Everyone,

It was such a blessing to me that I just didn’t want to wait until Heavenly Friday to send this to you.  =)

No pictures in today’s email.  I wanted you to enjoy dreaming about what your new life with Jesus might look like without including any preconceived ideas.  Makes it more fun that way.

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
1 Corinthians 15:51-52

Boy, I viewed a really beautiful story yesterday about the bride (us) and the bridegroom (Jesus).  It was based on the Jewish wedding.  I know many of you have heard this type of story about how the Jewish wedding relates to us and Jesus, but it always lifts my spirit and I hope it does the same for you.

In the video, the Jewish bridegroom left his house (just like Jesus left Heaven to come to earth), visited the bride to be and then left her to go build the home he and she would live in.  According to the custom, the bridegroom didn’t return again until he came for his bride.  Also, the home the bridegroom built for his new bride was to be at least as big and nice as her parents’ current home.  While at her home the first time, the two had a sort of communion time (part of the marriage proposal just like when we take communion.  We’re saying “Yes” to Jesus offer of salvation, of becoming His bride) to solidify their promise, the covenant of betrothal.

Once the bridegroom built their new house, and had all of the preparations in place, he would get dressed up, take all his friends and go to his bride to take her to their new home.

While the bridegroom was building their new home, the bride was to be preparing herself with beautiful spices, jewelry and her wedding dress.  She also had people helping her to be ready for when her bridegroom came to take her away to their new home.

She wondered and probably daydreamed about what her new home would be like, and how wonderful it was to be pursued by the bridegroom.  She must have thought about how life would be like with her new husband.  Her thoughts for her current life with her parents probably started to take up less and less of her time and attention as that life was replaced by thoughts, dreams and the importance of her coming new life and wedding day.

It seems only natural that there were days when she felt weary while waiting, while she longed for her betrothed, their new home, and if the wedding day would ever really arrive.  I’m sure the bridegroom made his preparations with her on his mind anxious for the day when the two of them would be together, forever.

According to Jewish tradition, the time between their first meeting, their betrothal, and the day the bridegroom came for her was normally about one year.  Also, according to tradition, the bride really never knew the exact time he would come for her so she remained ready for that day.

Jesus’ first coming, about 2000 years ago, was to betroth His bride.  The entire time He’s been away from her (from earth), He’s been building His bride her eternal home and making all of the arrangements for their wedding day.  Tradition even makes it sound like He’ll have communion with His new bride on their wedding day (Mark 14:25).

Sometimes, the things of earth can consume our attention.  We can be tempted to grow weary, and bogged down, to forget about our coming wedding day.  But, yesterday’s video about the Jewish betrothal and wedding ceremony, that day when the bridegroom’s men blew trumpets and came for his bride reminded me again to keep looking up.  Our redemption is truly drawing near.  Our betrothed (Jesus) is at the door, He’s coming for us.  We’ll soon be His in our new home beyond the skies, forever.  Our past life will fade away, there with Him, there will be no more tears, and we will begin “forever.”  We’ll finally be where we belong with Him in our new home, and we’ll finally feel like we’re home with the One our hearts have longed for, our beloved Jesus.

Someday soon, in the twinkling of an eye, all of our dreams will have come true…

Now learn this lesson from the fig tree:  As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know that summer is near.  So also, when you see all these things, you know that He is near, right at the door.  Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened.…
Matthew 24:32-34

God bless each of you,

Mark

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Heaven and One Person’s Homecoming

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:16-17

 

 

 

 

 

I’m sitting remembering what my daughter, Hope, shared with me about a place she visited in Oregon.  She’d come around a turn on a path and suddenly saw a beautiful garden that reminded her of what she’d read in the “Chronicles of Narnia” books.  For just a moment, she wondered if she’d actually died and arrived in Heaven.  It was one of those surrealistic moments.  As she related this story to me, I could really sense what she’d experienced and felt Heaven tugging on my own heart. =)

For to me (The apostle Paul) to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21 ESV

The longer I live, the more I realize that living for and getting to know more about Jesus is all that matters…

Annie and I had a really nice visit with our dear friend Grace (we think of Grace as one of our daughters) a few weeks ago.  Grace told us the wonderful, following story.  I asked her if she would write it down so I could share it with all of you. What a blessed event it was…

*******

“Hi Mark!

Here is the story my father in law shared with me about grandpa’s passing from this life to heaven!!!

“I had just finished reading a booklet hospice had given us about the final stages and breaths of life.  Just as I had finished reading and placed the booklet on the coffee table in front of me, I heard grandpa’s breathing start to change.  His mouth clenched shut and the breaths became fewer.  I called everyone into the family room where his hospital bed lay.  As everyone entered the room, we all began singing grandpa”s favorite hymns.  As we were into our 2nd or 3rd hymn, grandpa took his last breath.  Grandma started dancing around with joy, shouting,  “He’s home!!!!  He”s with Jesus!!!!!”  Grandpa went home to meet his Heavenly Father with his wife of 54 years and all 3 of his children by his side, singing songs of praise!”

This story brings such joy to my heart.  What a beautiful way to leave this earthly life to eternity with God!!!  Grandpa Craker was able to see all of his children, their spouses and most of his grandkids live lives for Christ!!!!!!

I love you and miss you both!!!

Grace”

*******

Yes, furthermore, I (the apostle Paul) count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly].  For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One),
Philippians 3:8 AMPC

This life is all about Jesus and Heaven, precious people.  We’ll be happiest and more fulfilled living this life for Christ and sharing His love, mercy, forgiveness, peace and rest with everyone God sends our way.  =)

For God so loved the world…

And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
Revelation 5:13

Have a nice weekend and remember to take time to dwell on Heaven.

God bless,

Mark

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The Matchless Blessing Of “Doing” The Word

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello Precious People In Jesus,

I am the vine, ye are the branches:  He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit:  for without me ye can do nothing.
John 15:5

We can’t possibly live the Christian life without Jesus’ help and guidance.  Like me, ask Jesus to help you live this life the way He knows will bless you the most.  The precious Holy Spirit will help to bring you into all of the blessed truth God has for us.

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:  for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak:  and he will shew you things to come.
John 16:13

Sweet Jesus.  Nothing like the Name that is above every other name.  Jesus produces such joy in my heart.

“and the God of peace shall be with you.”  Such sweet words.

Wow, nothing can calm my heart, protect my being, or produce more, deep, abiding peace and rest like the God of peace being with me.  It’s just so incredibly good to be loved by God, to be dwelling near Him…=)

22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
James 1:22-25

There is a way that seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.
Proverbs 14:12

Doers of the Word.  What am I “doing?”  “Doing” and “living” are pretty much interchangeable.  How am I living day in and day out?  How am I conducting myself?  Am I doing my own thing?

Am I doing (“living” my life) doing things the way I was brought up to do, and do those things necessarily line up with the Word of God?  Am I merely following in my parents footsteps.  Did they do life God’s way?  Am I “doing” (living) the way the world is “doing” life?  Or, am I “doing” the Word?  Am I living by the principles outlined in the Bible?

For example, if I’m reading God’s Word and doing what it says to do, my life will be redeemed from destruction (Psalm 103:4).  I’ll be doing God’s will and abiding within the shadow of the Most High, close to God, close to His protection over my life.

Because the Bible tells me to love my wife, that’s what I’m going to do – I’m going to ask God to show me how to love my wife more and more because there’s a blessing in “doing” so for my wife and me.  I’ve learned that loving my wife also blesses my children.  I’m going to learn how to love my children the way God wants me to love them, and my neighbor as well.

For so many reasons the Bible talks about, I’m not going to use cuss words.  I’m going to be slow to become angry, slow to speak and quick to listen.  I’m not going to get drunk with wine but rather be filled with the Holy Spirit.  I’m going to let God show me how to love my enemy.  I’m going to be a good employee.  I’m not going to steal anything.

I’m going to learn all I can about God’s wisdom as mentioned in the book of Proverbs.  I’m going to cast all my care on Jesus, and let the peace of God rule in my heart.  I’m going to learn how to not be afraid of sudden fear and to be anxious for nothing.  I’m going to thank and praise God in everything and believe that He’s really working all things for my good.

I’m going to learn that I can trust in the Lord with all my heart and, like the apostle Paul, to be content all the time no matter the circumstance.  And, I’m going to recieve all of the wonderful blessings that walking in God’s mercy, love, self-control and forgiveness afford me and those I’ve forgiven.

This is what being a “doer” of the Word is all about.  I simply look into God’s Word and see what it has to say about how to handle life, how to behave, how to be blessed because God honors His Word and blesses those who “do” what it says to do.   There are tremendous, supernatural blessings for obeying God’s Word.

If I’m not a doer of the Word, I will reap the consequences that come with doing life any other way than the way God says is the right way to “do” it.

1 Bless the Lord, O my soul:  and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

6 The Lord executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

7 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.

8 The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

9 He will not always chide:  neither will he keep his anger for ever.

10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.

14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

15 As for man, his days are as grass:  as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.

16 For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.

17 But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;

18 To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

19 The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.

20 Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.

21 Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

22 Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion:  bless the Lord, O my soul.
Psalm 103

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do:  and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:9

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7

God bless you all,

“and the God of peace shall be with you.”  Mmmmmm.  Nice to meditate on those Words.  =)

Mark

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“The Wages Of Sin” Isn’t The End Of The Story =)

Sorry to get this out so late today. =)

 

 

 

 

 

I know I’ve written about this before, but I need to be reminded of it often.

The thief (satan’s only purpose is to steal, kill and destroy our lives and the lives of each other) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:  (On the other hand) I (Jesus) am come that they (every one of us) might have life (life is free from the impact of sin, to set us free from sin and death), and that they might have it more abundantly.
John 10:10

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
1 John 1:8

For all (every person who has ever lived) have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 3:23

He that committeth sin is of the devil, for the devil sinneth from the beginning.  For this purpose the Son of God (Jesus) was manifested, that He (Jesus) might destroy the works of the devil.
1 John 3:8

Wow, I’m listening to something I hope to share with you real soon.  While thinking about what I’m listening to, I had the thought that the wages of sin is death.  The devil came to make us sin, to make life miserable, to bring us death – Death in our relationships, death in every area of our lives including physical death.  Satan wants to kill our relationships, our hope, faith, love, compassion, trust, security, future, etc.

On the other hand, Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil.  Jesus came to set us free from the wages of sin, to set us free from death in all of the nooks and crannies of our minds, souls and bodies.  Isn’t that wonderful?

And ye shall know the truth (Jesus), and the truth (Jesus) shall make you free (from the wages of sin, from the impact sin can have on our lives).
John 8:32

If the Son (Jesus) therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
John 8:36

Is it really possible for Jesus to make us “free,” to have a life free from the wages of sin, to be free indeed, to have life more abundantly?  Yes, or Jesus wouldn’t have said it. =)

More later.

God bless,

Mark