Category: General Christian Living

Today Is The Day
By Paul Baloche

I’m casting my cares aside
I’m leaving my past behind
I’m setting my heart and mind
On You Jesus

I’m reaching my hands to Yours
Believing there’s so much more
Knowing that all You have
In store for me is good, is good

Today is the day
You have made
I will rejoice and be glad in it

I won’t worry ’bout tomorrow
I’m trustin’ in what You say
Today is the day
Today is the day

I’m putting my fears aside
I’m leaving my doubts behind
I’m giving my hopes and dreams
To You, Jesus

I will stand upon Your truth
All my days, I’ll live for You
I will stand upon Your truth
All my days I’ll live for You

I won’t worry ’bout tomorrow
Givin’ You my fears and sorrows
Where You lead me, I will follow
I’m trustin’ in what You say

Today is the day.

Jesus, I’m casting my cares aside. I’m trusting in what You say. Today, and every day…

God bless,

Mark

Wow, it just hit me – Do you know how valuable you/we are to God? I mean He loves us so much that He makes all things – that’s everything – work together for the good of those who love Him. That’s incredible power and love.

Sure, go ahead and smile over that one.

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

Renewing my mind to the Word. “Rote” (Repetitive) learning –

Okay, this is how I came to depend on and trust in the truth God gave us in Romans 8:28. I put it into practice…Over and over again – Rote. That’s all I did. Really. Actually, that’s what I do with the whole Word of God. I apply it to situations that come up in my life. I know many of you do the same. I know of no other way to build faith and trust in the Bible than to put it to the test in everyday life – And, it works.

Remember, perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18) and knowing that God is working all things together for my good casts out the fear in a challenging circumstance or situation and reminds me that God is in control and working it for my good.

So, whenever I feel the temptation to fear, strive, worry, doubt, or get jealous over some circumstance in my life, the Holy Spirit reminds me of His promise to me found in Romans 8:28. And remembering this scripture calms me down and reminds me that God has me covered, and that, when submitted to Him, the situation is working for my good.

Practicing the Word of God by applying it to our lives is no different than learning the multiplication tables, parts of speech, etc. What’s 6 x 6? 36, right? Most of us learned that by memorizing our multiplication tables early in life.

It’s the same with Bible truths. It merely takes practice, practice, practice. And, before you know it, Bible truths pop into your head right when you need them, and God’s truth rescues you once again. It’s the most wonderful thing I know of.

Remember, 6 x 6 = 36.

And, circumstances and situations = Romans 8:28. ☺
And, circumstances and situations = Romans 8:28. ☺
And, circumstances and situations = Romans 8:28. ☺
And, circumstances and situations = Romans 8:28. ☺
And, circumstances and situations = Romans 8:28. ☺

Practice makes perfect love cast out fear.

God bless,

Mark

For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
Psalm 103:11

Because He’s taking worry, striving and care out of my life, it’s no wonder that I want more and more of Jesus in my life. He really does give us beauty for ashes. I want to know, really know inside, how wonderful and beautiful Jesus is. And with each new day, I realize that I’m only beginning to discover His infinite riches in glory. It’s so exciting to grow in Jesus.

“In every victory, let it be said of me, my source of strength, my source of hope is Christ alone.”
Lyric by Marty Nystrom

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,
Ephesians 1:15-20

“Father, cover and protect us this week. Let us be a blessing to all we meet and give us Your favor. We ask this in Jesus’ Name. Amen”

Happy Monday, precious people of God!

God bless,

Mark

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23

Here are some thoughts I had the other day about how wonderful it is to follow Jesus. I hope they bless you…

Isn’t it just the neatest thing to think that all we have to do is lift up our prayers to the Father and go on with our day not taking any of the “care” in our prayer on us? Our prayer goes up to the gold bowls of incense in His Presence and He takes on all the care for us, and those in need. What a blessed, gracious, loving Father we have, precious people. Amazing love. He takes all on care on Himself leaving us care-free. Hallelujah!

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Wow, to think of not having run right smack into Jesus, of never having and taking the opportunity to discover all the things Jesus wanted to help me/us with. Why would anyone want to miss such an opportunity, such a life-changing and life-giving experience? His grace, mercy and faithfulness know no bounds or limits. He just keeps leading…

I’d been raised in a Christian home with a father who was the president of a well-known Christian organization. And, I was training to be a pastor so how could I need counseling, right? How could I not know how to have a successful marriage and ministry? I found out that I was only fooling myself, that God knew it and stepped into my/our lives to heal us, face the facts, make us truthful, and to set us free on an ongoing basis until we reach Heaven. Thank You, Father. We would have been living a lie and totally lost without Your great faithfulness.

Now, I’m not saying that we didn’t grow weary at times and feel like giving up, but we kept feeling like Jesus was really leading us to a new place of living free in Him. We also had others loving us onto victory in Him.

There are so many dynamics that counselors look for and help us with. They may point areas of unnecessary care, strife, non-verbal communication issues like sighing or rolling the eyes in one partner that can really hurt the other partner and children, a lack of communication, a hurt in one or both partners that’s preventing the marriage from thriving, anger, unforgiveness, lust, a resistance to needed change, pride that can prevent healing – we can think we know it all so why change, or feel that I’m not going to make a change unless he/she does, fear of change and wondering if it’s worth it or if it will really help.

Identifying a moody or grumpy tendency, manipulative behavior, family/generational strongholds, getting to the point where they two can communicate without getting defensive and without finger-pointing. Identifying hurts of all kinds and learning to communicate honestly, responsibly and in a more mature fashion so real problem solving and health can take place. Learning to love, I mean really love, compromising, giving in. It tends to stop strife, selfishness, and calm us down.

Left untreated – and unrepented of – insecurity, inferiority, self-pity, selfishness, bitterness, jealousy, unforgiveness, insensitivity to each others’ needs, will decimate a person and marriage. But, if these are repented of and dealt with, the person and marriage will thrive and be free in Jesus and all that He has in store for them.

Because we’ve been through counseling and lived with Jesus for a number of years now, we can often identify areas Jesus wants to touch and heal in others. We know what He can do for anyone willing to follow Him into honest to goodness renewal. Really, that’s why we began choosing Jesus every day. We wanted to put the desire for restoration in others and let them know that it is definitely possible and worthwhile.

Ann and I fall in love all over again all the time. Really! ☺ And, faithful Jesus continues to help us get more and more free as He keeps releasing us from more and more of “our” ways. There’s nothing like this wonderful life He’s given us. And, all because He loved us enough to help us get free in His matchless ways and love.

Truly, nothing we desire compares with Jesus, with The Way, The Truth, and The Life.

You (God) will show me the way of life. Being with You is to be full of joy. In Your right hand there is happiness forever.
Psalm 16:11

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,
And whose hope is the Lord.
For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,
Which spreads out its roots by the river,
And will not fear when heat comes;
But its leaf will be green,
And will not be anxious in the year of drought,
Nor will cease from yielding fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8

The Lord is my shepherd. Mmmm…

God bless,

Mark

God told me I didn’t have to worry one minute while living in Oregon in the 80s – In fact, He told me I could have had His joy there the entire time. And, He keeps telling me the same thing about today and into the future. Ann and I get tempted to take on “care,” and to worry. We’re human just like everyone else. But, God always reminds us that to do so is not living life His way and that He has total freedom for us. As a result, He helps us to always repent of care and worry so we can live free in His joy. The following reminds us to be “believers.” That’s where God’s rest is. That’s where His dwelling place is. We want to always remain in His shadow. “And I will dwell in the house of the Lord, forever.” ☺

A Rock-Solid Foundation
Closer to God Each Day Devotional for 4-23-19 by Joyce Meyer

[Jesus] said to them, “But who do you [yourselves] say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:15-16

When Peter said that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God, it was a statement of faith. In making this statement, Peter was displaying faith.

I don’t think Peter just casually or nonchalantly made that statement. I think he did it with a surety and a certainty that impressed Jesus because He immediately turned to Peter and told him that he was blessed. Then He went on to say that it was upon this rock-solid foundation of faith that He would build His church.

Jesus was saying to Peter, “If you maintain this faith, it will be a rocklike substance in your life upon which I will be able to build My kingdom in you, and through you. Your faith will be developed to the place that even the gates of hell will not be able to prevail against you.”

There have been many times in my life when I have been discouraged and not known what to do, or felt that nothing was working and that everybody was against me. The words I have heard over and over again are, “Only believe.”

This promise was not just for Peter alone. Jesus is saying the same thing to you and me. Only believe!

God bless,

Mark

Our Oregon Christian counselor, Chuck, met with many people and couples in the 80s. He told us the difference with Ann and me was that we took his advice and put it into practice – We were so desperate that we knew we needed to do something. We were obedient, and did what he asked us to do. He told us no one else he met with was willing to do what he told them they must do to get better, to heal their marriage, to renew their minds, etc. In other words, the others were not willing to change, to repent. Without change, without repentance, there’s no healing, no times of refreshment, no relationship with Jesus, etc. Without repentance, we can’t possibly know Christ, His deliverance and power. There’s no chance of a renewed mind and life.

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Obey The Word
Joyce Meyer Closer to God Each Day Devotional for 4-22-19.

But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. James 1:22

I recall a woman who attended one of my seminars. She desperately wanted to be free of the emotional wounds that had left her insecure and fearful, but nothing seemed to work for her. At the conclusion of the seminar, she told me that she now understood why she had never experienced any progress.

She said, “Joyce, I sat with a group of ladies who had a lot of the same problems that I did. Step by step, God had been delivering them. As I listened, I heard them say, “God led me to do this, and I did it. Then He led me to another thing, and I did it.” I realized that God had also told me to do the same things. The only difference was they did what He said to do, and I didn’t.”

To live in a close relationship with God and to receive what He promises, we must obey the Word. We should become doers of the Word and not hearers only. Obeying the Word requires consistency and diligence. Let us be dedicated and committed to follow God’s lead.

God’s way works! And there is no other way that does. Make a determined decision to obey His Word step-by-step, every day.

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Below is a part of the Jesus Always devotional entry for 4-22-19
By Sarah Young

Do not worry about tomorrow! This is a most gracious command. I (Jesus) understand human frailty; I know that you are dust. This command is not meant to burden you or condemn you. It is meant to set you free from worldly cares.

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God made it super simple: Obey the Word and be set free. There’s no other way to be truly happy. If there was another way, Jesus would have told us.

God bless,

Mark

Happy Monday, Everyone!

God bless,

Mark

Who’s my God? Is it satan, fear and lies? Or is it the God Who parted the Red Sea and removed Pharaoh and his entire army?

We must learn to stand and to count on seeing the glory of our God.

Satan wants to be your god. He wants you to serve fear. And then, he wants you to infect others with it so that he can steal, kill, and destroy more and more of us.

We’re not through. This (whatever the enemy is shooting at you about) isn’t the end. We’re going through following our courageous and almighty God…He’s always, always, always working for our good.

While in Oregon, a job was coming to an end for me. It had seemed so promising, but things began to not work out. One of the workers, a Christian brother, told me if this job didn’t work out for me, I was not going to be able to find another one. His words brought tons of fear and anxiety down on me. I didn’t know what to do, BUT God knew I would go on to what He had in store for me.

Whatever fear you’re experiencing right now, I’m telling you, this is not the end. In fact, this is just the beginning as far as God’s concerned. When fear begins to pin you in like it’s been doing to me the last several days, remember that fear is just God getting you ready for something greater. It’s merely a sign that God is working in your life to give you a breakthrough. Times of refreshing are right at the door, my friend. Believe it.

Stand in your spirit and believe Romans 8:28. Run the enemy through with it and praise God for the victory that’s on the way.

Some of you may need to know today that the enemy uses fear to make us faint-hearted, dismayed and to feel like giving up. BUT, all the enemy has is lies to bring his fear on us. Remember, fear is a liar. God’s truth opens up new avenues and breaks through fear to show us His salvation and all He has for us in the future. I encourage you to read Psalm 91 (included below) out loud three times today to break the attack of fear on your life. God has courage and bright days ahead for you, my friend.

The Battle Belongs To The Lord
By Jamie Owens-Collins

In heavenly armour we’ll enter the land
The battle belongs to the Lord
No weapon that’s fashioned against us shall stand
The battle belongs to the Lord

We sing glory and honor
Power and strength to the Lord
(repeat)

The power of darkness comes in like a flood
The battle belongs to the Lord
He’s raised up a standard, the power of His blood
The battle belongs to the Lord

We sing glory and honor
Power in strength to the lord
(repeat)

When your enemy presses in hard do not fear
The battle belongs to the Lord
Take courage my friend, your redemption is near
The battle belongs to the Lord

The battle belongs to the lord
Battle belongs to the lord…

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“I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust.”

Make God your refuge and fortress by believing Romans 8:28 and that God, as your Father, has so many wonderful things in store for you today and into the future. Believe it!

So come on – Let’s go!

God bless,

Mark

1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Psalm 91

I don’t know what kind of fiery darts the enemy hits you with. Most of the time, though, he uses them to inflict fear, worry, doubt, confusion, dismay, etc.

I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:14

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Ephesians 6:16

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19

The devil will shoot all the fiery darts he can at us to get us to disbelieve God’s Word. That’s his job and he has a lot of experience at it. That’s why I believe in Romans 8:28, and the rest of the Bible, so strongly. The tug-of-war battle we’re in as Christians can be won only by believing God’s Word no matter what we face in life.

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

Use Romans 8:28 to extinguish the lies behind the enemy’s fiery darts, to disarm the fright, worry, sudden fear, and “care” contained in the lying darts – Jesus used the Word against satan when He was in desert fasting for 40 days. It can really keep you on the narrow road heading towards the prize of the high calling of our Lord.

No matter what, God has this and us and He’ll use it for our good.

God bless,

Mark

Be strong and of a good courage…Only be thou strong and very courageous…Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: For (Because) the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest…Only be strong and of a good courage.
From Joshua Chapter 1

Ever feel like the following?

But God, what about my health? “Only be thou strong and very courageous.” What about my finances? They’ve got me scared? “Only be thou strong and very courageous.” What about this and that? Oh God, help! “Only be thou strong and very courageous.”

The devil wants us to get caught up with trials and tribulation. He wants to make us ineffective witnesses for Christ by trying to weigh us down with anything he can.

It hit me last night that “care” is God’s job. And, He does a good job with it. I don’t ever have to try to do His job. Hallelujah! I mean, how loving is God that He commands us to cast ALL our cares on Him? Amazing. Simply amazing.

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Boy, I just love it. Don’t you?

“What are you talking about, Mark?”

Well, I’ve been wrestling with more health issues and woke up “feeling” pretty lousy about myself and life. Came out and had coffee with Ann while we talked about a book she’s reading. The book is about the life of one of our dear Oregon friends. The book inspired me to drop the care, self-pity and ill feelings I was having about my own life. That’s when Jesus said, “We don’t live by feelings and I’m never going to stop teaching you this incredibly liberating lesson, Mark. Now, come on. Let’s go and I’ll show you all the great things I have in store for you and your spiritual well-being today. In Me, you’ll only have victories because I’ve overcome the world.”

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
1 Peter 5:7

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

God bless,

Mark

I’m beginning to understand a great lesson and truth regarding this Christian life we’re living. Fear points the way to victory in Jesus. That’s amazing. The very thing we shy away from, that the enemy uses to try to avert us, is the very thing God tells us to walk through so we can experience victory in Jesus. Facing some fears? Keep walking towards them. Funny how the fear road leads to the crown of faith. Hallelujah!

Just reminded again this morning about Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn’s experience when the Lord asked him to go on an outreach trip to Cuba, and some other countries who were hostile to the Gospel and the Jews.

Right before the trip, everything went wrong in Jonathan’s ministry and life. And then, on take off, parts began flying off the plane he was on. Next, he was tempted to fear while in some of the countries God had sent him to. BUT – and this makes all the difference – God gave Jonathan huge victories on the trip and hundreds of thousands of people from all backgrounds and religions came to Jesus as a result. While talking about his trip some months later, Jonathan encouraged believers to stay their course and that God has victories, not defeats, for all who will follow Him into the challenges in this Christian life.

Be encouraged today, Christian. Though the challenges may seem steep, God will use them to strengthen you and to show you His matchless faithfulness. Stay true to Jesus. Keep running your race. The King will see you through and will make your testimony a valuable lesson for all those who follow you in your quest to learn that Jesus IS TRUSTWORTHY. No power can stand against God Almighty. None.

Be strong and of a good courage…Only be thou strong and very courageous…Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: For the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest…Only be strong and of a good courage.
From Joshua Chapter 1

By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one how called us to himself by means of his marvellous glory and excellence.
2 Peter 1:3

“For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.”
Colossians 2:12

“The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command.
Hebrews 1:3

“For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities – his eternal power, and divine nature. So, they have no excuse for not knowing God.”
Romans 1:20

“He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.”
Psalm 147:4-5

“For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? God is my strong fortress, and he makes my way perfect.”
2 Samuel 22:33

“And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the LORD before the new court and said, “O LORD God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you.””
2 Chronicles 20:6

“God stretches the northern sky over empty space and hangs the earth on nothing. He wraps the rain in his thick clouds, and the clouds don’t burst with the weight. He covers the face of the moon, shrouding it with his clouds. He created the horizon when he separated the waters: he set the boundary between day and night. The foundations of heaven tremble; they shudder at his rebuke. By his power the sea grew calm. By his skill he crushed the great sea monster. His Spirit made the heavens beautiful, and his power pierced the gliding serpent. These are just the beginning of all that he does, merely a whisper of his power. Who, then, can comprehend the thunder of his power?”
Job 26:7-14

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

“For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power.”
1 Corinthians 4:20

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”
Ephesians 3:20

God bless,

Mark

But without faith it is impossible to please him (God): for (“because” meaning there’s no other way) he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

What does it take to follow Jesus? Faith in Him.

By faith, by faith, by faith, by faith…All of the real people mentioned in Hebrews chapter 11 were ordinary people like you and me who reacted to God’s Word by taking Him at His Word. They were able to face anything by faith. We’re not to let anyone or the devil talk us out of our faith in God, in His Word, in Jesus Who is The Word.

We were living in Oregon and I was miserable a lot of the time. People were loving and praying for us, but I just couldn’t seem to break out of the heavy darkness I felt in my soul. I’d often try to wear a somewhat happy, religious face but I wasn’t experiencing any true spiritual victory in my life – At least, not the kind I’d see in other Christians’ lives.

I thought if I just had a well-paying job that I would finally have “the breakthrough” I longed for and needed…

What I discovered was that God had deeper plans and was much more concerned with giving me a spiritual breakthrough than He was with giving me a nice income and letting me go off on that road not really coming to the spiritual breakthrough He knew He wanted for me. He also knew that, bottom line, His spiritual breakthrough was what I really wanted as well.

God knows our hearts far better than we do. ☺

When Ann and I caught onto the idea of pinning up Bible verses all over our Oregon home and began memorizing them, little by little, God’s Word began to change us. We were really becoming different inside. We were growing in the Lord and in the power of His might. We truly began to stand against the devil’s lies and to become believers.

“But without faith it is impossible to please God” isn’t a guilt trip or legalistic. That verse is in the Bible to inspire and motivate us to become free in Jesus – and in the power of His might – by finally living in true faith.

Take up the challenge, precious people. Know the Word and act on it – This is faith. Let’s get free in Jesus.

Is God really working all things together for my good? YES! And, He’s doing the same thing for anyone (just like the ordinary people in Hebrews chapter 11) who will, by faith, keep believing. This is what being a Christian is all about, and it’s always been true of people clear down through the ages to you and me.

1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.

3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.

6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:

10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.

12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.

13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.

15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.

16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,

18 Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:

19 Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.

21 By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.

22 By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.

23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment.

24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter;

25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.

28 Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

29 By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.

31 By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.

32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:

33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.

34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:

36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:

37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:

40 God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.
Hebrews 11 KJV

God bless,

Mark

Man, I want to please God. Don’t you? Of course you do…☺

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

Why does God include this scripture? To encourage us. To tell us to have faith. To tell us to drop all doubting, and to believe. Be inspired this morning. Have faith. Right now this very moment, and keep the faith.

I love it when God says, “You can be happy and full of My joy every day, Mark.” That’s the God I know, love and serve. What an incredible Heavenly Father we have as Christians. Not feeling too good today? Do what I did this morning. Remember that you’re a child of the Most High. Your Father is the King of kings and Lord of lords. He’s Maker of the universe and the One Who reminds us each day of His unfailing love and faithfulness. Look for His favor, always. Always! He always comes through.

Remember, we’re called “believers.” So you’re free to believe every minute of every day that your Father loves you, and has plans to show you His faithfulness today. Yipee!

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations,
Deuteronomy 7:9

Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.
Psalms 36:5

O LORD God of hosts, who is mighty as you are, O LORD, with your faithfulness all around you?
Psalms 89:8

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Psalms 20:7

I love you all.

God bless,

Mark

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.
Hebrews 4:12-13

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 12:2

The thief (Satan) does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I (Jesus) have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly (Living life God’s way by repenting of our ways that only lead to bondage and death).
John 10:10

The Word, the Bible, is alive. That’s why it’s often referred to as “The Living Word.”

How is it alive? Well, when we come to Jesus and repent of our sins, the Holy Spirit comes into our lives and helps us grow to become more like Jesus in every way. For instance, if I have unforgiveness in my life, Jesus knows that will bring me harm emotionally, mentally and physically. So the Holy Spirit living in me as a Christian will help me by reminding me to be a person who now forgives others. It may not be easy to live out at first, but the Holy Spirit keeps reminding me to be forgiving and that changes me. If I need help in my marriage, the Holy Spirit will point that out to bring joy to my marriage. And so on…

That’s why the Bible is called The Living Word. If we’ve asked Jesus into our lives and repented of our sins, He’ll continue to make us free indeed by transforming us into His likeness. And, that’s a very good thing. All He asks is that we be willing to let the Word (Him) live in us.

God bless,

Mark

Out of His glorious, precious love for you and me, Jesus desires to restore each of us. It’s true…

Has this happened to you?

I’ll be in a line in a market, or elsewhere, and wonder why my line is moving so much slower than the other lines. This is just one example of what takes place in our daily lives and the type of situation that can make us impatient, discontent, steal our witness for Jesus, our peace, faith and joy in the Lord.

This morning, I had the following thought and found that it is true of my own life and the struggle I’ve had with this world and its ways, my own flesh and the devil’s temptations to keep me keyed up, anxious, jealous, dissatisfied, discontent, in a state of unrest and striving.

Here is the thought –

When you finally surrender (it’s so sweet to do so) your will to God by truly believing Romans 8:28, you will have such joy, peace and rest in your emotions, mind and soul. And, you will have overcoming faith. A new calm and resolve will move into your life that I can only describe as the supernatural favor of the God of the Bible. You’ll have a relaxing and calming assurance that “it will all always work out.”

That line at the grocery store? Well, I can either choose to be out of step with the Lord, act like a primadonna, mad, arrogant, anxious and bitter about it, or I can choose Jesus and let Romans 8:28 allow me to be content and in His peace, rest and joy knowing that He’s in control – Even then. That’s better. It’s life changing. That’s Jesus!

God bless,

Mark

This devotional was taken from the Jesus Always devotional by Sarah Young. For those of you who may not know, like my daughter, Faith, Sarah has been battling Lyme Disease for years.

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I (Jesus) delight in brightening your perspective. That’s why I ventured into your world, knowing full well the terrible price I would pay. I came to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison, and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. When you find yourself imprisoned by ingratitude, ask Me to open your eyes and release you from that dark place.

You live in an age of entitlement, so you need to counteract the messages proclaiming that you deserve more. One way is to jot down some things you’re thankful for each day. This changes your focus from things you wish you had to blessings you already have.

Saturating your mind with Scripture can help you see from My infinitely wise perspective. My Word is sharper than any double-edged sword; I use it to perform spiritual surgery on the thoughts and attitudes of your heart. As Scripture lights up your point of view, I set you free from the dungeon of ingratitude, releasing you to enjoy the pleasures of a thankful heart.

Your word (God) is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
Psalm 119:105

“I, the Lord, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness.
I will take you by the hand and guard you,
and I will give you to my people, Israel,
as a symbol of my covenant with them.
And you will be a light to guide the nations.
You will open the eyes of the blind.
You will free the captives from prison,
releasing those who sit in dark dungeons.
Isaiah 42:6-7

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

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God bless,

Mark

For the word of God is (it always is; for all time) 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

Wait. Isn’t Jesus that guy who wore those Bible day clothes and lived thousands of years ago? How could He, and the Bible, possibly be relevant for today?

Good question.

One answer about the Bible and Jesus’ relevancy for today is found in Galatians 5:19-21:

When you (anyone who has ever lived) 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.

Be sober (stay alert), be vigilant (watch out); because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
1 Peter 5:8

Yes, Jesus will always be relevant as long as sin (living apart from God’s ways) is attempting to destroy our lives. As long as people have unforgiveness, jealousy, pride, fear, worry, sexual immorality, etc., battling for their attention and souls, we’ll need Jesus. He is the only One Who can save us from ourselves (the flesh), this world and the devil. That’s why Jesus came…To save us from our sins; to deliver us from being conformed to this world; and to destroy the works of the devil.

1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

4 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.

7 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. 9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. 10 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.
1 John 3:1-10 NLT

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

“Father, In Jesus’ Name, please set me free from any sin (any harmful way) You see in me so I can be free indeed to live my life with and for You, Lord. I know that’s the only way I’ll truly be happy in this life and have Your peace and joy that Jesus died to give me regardless of the circumstances in life.”

God bless,

Mark

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

I just love how God says to me every morning, “Come on, let’s go and I’ll show you all of the wonderful things I have in store for you today.”

What a remarkable heavenly Father we have, precious people. He already has our week planned out and is with us working it all together for our good. That beats all…☺

Happy Monday, everyone!

God bless,

Mark

Abraham’s Seed and Satan’s

37 “I (Jesus) know that you are Abraham’s descendants, but you seek to kill Me, because My word has no place in you. 38 I speak what I have seen with My Father, and you do what you have seen with your father.”

39 They answered and said to Him, “Abraham is our father.”

Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would do the works of Abraham. 40 But now you seek to kill Me, a Man who has told you the truth which I heard from God. Abraham did not do this. 41 You do the deeds of your father.”

Then they said to Him, “We were not born of fornication; we have one Father—God.”

42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me. 43 Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. 44 You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. 45 But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me. 46 Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me? 47 He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.”
John 8:37-47 NKJV (New King James Version)

Satan is a liar. There’s no truth in him. I repeat, there’s no truth in him. None. But sometimes his lies can sound so right, enticing, justifiable and convincing. His lies are so deceptive, and when we’re deceived, we don’t know it –

Satan (the murderer) will do something in our lives that will almost guarantee that we’ll get mad at God so we’ll never consider getting close to God. The devil works this way because he knows that God is the only One Who can set us free from the trap satan’s set us up for in life. The flip side of the devil’s plan is that, often, the very thing he’s used to make us mad at God is the thing that can make us aware of our need for God. Satan knows this so he handles his plot to destroy us very delicately.

At this point, the devil must work the hardest to insure that we stay mad enough at God that we’ll not resort to seeking God’s help and deliverance – think of the children of Israel in the Exodus account. I know this firsthand because it happened to me and I’ve seen so many people throughout my lifetime that face this same situation and decision.

If you sense that you’re getting angry with God about something in your life, please recognize what’s going on and don’t let the devil harden your heart towards God. Soften your heart and get close to God. Surrender your will to God. Repent of anything that’s keeping you mad at God like an unrealized dream or goal, etc. God is leading in your life and discovering that will keep you from getting mad at Him. Let God show you the reality of Romans 8:28 and that He really is working all things together for your good. Doing this can totally set you free (free indeed) from the thinking the enemy’s trying to trap you with.

God bless,

Mark

Through My (Jesus) resurrection from the dead, you have new birth into a living hope. My work in you is all about “newness.” Because you belong to Me, you’re a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! Your adoption into My royal family occurred instantaneously, at the moment you first trusted Me as Savior. At that instant, your spiritual status changed from death to life – eternal life. You have an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade – kept in heaven for you.

You are indeed a new creation, with the Holy Spirit living in you. But your becoming a Christian was only the beginning of the work I’m doing in you. You need to be made new in the attitude of your mind and to put on the new self – becoming increasingly godly, righteous, and holy. This is a lifelong endeavor, and it is preparing you for heaven’s Glory. So receive this assignment with courage and gratitude. Be alert, and look for all the wonderful things I am doing in your life.

For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.
Romans 6:4

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
2 Corinthians 5:17

throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
Ephesians 4:22-24

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay.
1 Peter 1:3-4

God bless,

Mark