Authority
6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, 10 and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. Colossians 2:6-10
Do you sometimes feel those in authority over you really have no rational reason to be in charge? God places those in authority over us for many reasons, and some we just need to understand that we might not know why. If we knew why, then things would be easy for us and there would be no challenge in life. Typically the ones placed in authority are older, more experienced, and have something to share to help us learn. It might not always be something good that is being taught, but it might be something that shows us how not to act or treat someone. To understand this fully, you really need to look closely at verses 9 and 10 where it shows two things, one that Christ came here in a bodily form, and two that He is over every power and authority. Which if you think carefully, if he put people in authority over us, it is because He is overseeing that person and their authority. So the next time you look at a person in authority over you, remember that Christ is right there.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, December 27, 2019
Friday, December 20, 2019
Fantastic Friday #712 - Merciful
Merciful
36 Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:36
This is the time of the year when we either get caught up in the world of Christmas celebrating the secular way, or we celebrate with a focus on Christ's birth and why He came to earth. There is one way that we tend to forget to celebrate, and that is the human spirit that we all share. It is easy to celebrate by seeing how many gifts we can get or give, but what kind of gift of mercy can you provide to someone else. Do you think about how you might help someone, be kind to them or see how you can make an impact in their life? We need to remember that not everyone is in the same place emotionally, spiritually or physically in their life and they might need someone to be merciful to them. Take a moment to show mercy, because if you remember God showed mercy on us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
36 Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:36
This is the time of the year when we either get caught up in the world of Christmas celebrating the secular way, or we celebrate with a focus on Christ's birth and why He came to earth. There is one way that we tend to forget to celebrate, and that is the human spirit that we all share. It is easy to celebrate by seeing how many gifts we can get or give, but what kind of gift of mercy can you provide to someone else. Do you think about how you might help someone, be kind to them or see how you can make an impact in their life? We need to remember that not everyone is in the same place emotionally, spiritually or physically in their life and they might need someone to be merciful to them. Take a moment to show mercy, because if you remember God showed mercy on us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, December 13, 2019
Fantastic Friday #711 - Heal
Heal
12 Therefore strengthen your tired hands and weakened knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated but healed instead. 14 Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness—without it no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:12-14
When you pray for someone to be healed from their illness or weak body, do you keep these prayers hidden to yourself? Do you actually pray for someone when you tell them you are going to be praying for them? It is so easy to silently pray for someone, because there might be times when you aren't with that person and cannot be near them. When you have the opportunity to pray for and with someone, do it out loud so they can know you are praying for them and they can have the confidence that God hears your prayers, both the silent and the verbalized prayers. Some might say that I don't pray out loud because I am not eloquent with my words. One does not have to be eloquent, one only has to have a humble heart with simplistic requests for God to hear. God hears all our prayers and will answer them in His time, and in His way. It is easy for us who pray for months about an ill person to not see any improvement or change in the healing process, but we cannot be the one in charge of the healing process, only God can. We just need to be faithful in our prayer and He will be faithful in His timing and process. It is not an easy pill to swallow when we see someone suffer, but it is easier to know that God has His plan.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
12 Therefore strengthen your tired hands and weakened knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated but healed instead. 14 Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness—without it no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:12-14
When you pray for someone to be healed from their illness or weak body, do you keep these prayers hidden to yourself? Do you actually pray for someone when you tell them you are going to be praying for them? It is so easy to silently pray for someone, because there might be times when you aren't with that person and cannot be near them. When you have the opportunity to pray for and with someone, do it out loud so they can know you are praying for them and they can have the confidence that God hears your prayers, both the silent and the verbalized prayers. Some might say that I don't pray out loud because I am not eloquent with my words. One does not have to be eloquent, one only has to have a humble heart with simplistic requests for God to hear. God hears all our prayers and will answer them in His time, and in His way. It is easy for us who pray for months about an ill person to not see any improvement or change in the healing process, but we cannot be the one in charge of the healing process, only God can. We just need to be faithful in our prayer and He will be faithful in His timing and process. It is not an easy pill to swallow when we see someone suffer, but it is easier to know that God has His plan.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, December 6, 2019
Fantastic Friday #710 - Trust
Trust
14 But I trust in You, Lord;
I say, “You are my God.”
15 The course of my life is in Your power;
deliver me from the power of my enemies
and from my persecutors. Psalm 31:14-15
Why does our trust waiver so much? We go down the path knowing that God is right beside us, if only we turn to Him, but why do we still lack a feeling of trust that He is there. Is it the constant voices of doubt, or is it our own lack of faith. Our faith is built on many things but we have to recognize that God is involved with our daily life and cares about us deeply. If we ignore this simple recognition of Him, our faith waivers because we push away these thoughts easily. This is why God needs to be the first thing we think about when we come upon trouble or the first One we go to in thanks when something positive happens. If we put Him in the forefront of our circumstances, no matter whether they are good or bad, then our trust in Him will grow stronger every day. Trust in Him.
Have a great weekend.
14 But I trust in You, Lord;
I say, “You are my God.”
15 The course of my life is in Your power;
deliver me from the power of my enemies
and from my persecutors. Psalm 31:14-15
Why does our trust waiver so much? We go down the path knowing that God is right beside us, if only we turn to Him, but why do we still lack a feeling of trust that He is there. Is it the constant voices of doubt, or is it our own lack of faith. Our faith is built on many things but we have to recognize that God is involved with our daily life and cares about us deeply. If we ignore this simple recognition of Him, our faith waivers because we push away these thoughts easily. This is why God needs to be the first thing we think about when we come upon trouble or the first One we go to in thanks when something positive happens. If we put Him in the forefront of our circumstances, no matter whether they are good or bad, then our trust in Him will grow stronger every day. Trust in Him.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, November 29, 2019
Fantastic Friday #709 - Unclear
Unclear
7 Even inanimate things that produce sounds—whether flute or harp—if they don’t make a distinction in the notes, how will what is played on the flute or harp be recognized? 8 In fact, if the trumpet makes an unclear sound, who will prepare for battle? 9 In the same way, unless you use your tongue for intelligible speech, how will what is spoken be known? For you will be speaking into the air. 1 Corinthians 14:7-9
Do you see something or hear something and it feels like it is unclear? Do you find too many distractions around you that cause you not to hear what is going on? How do you communicate your feelings and actions to others? Many times the world around us can have noise that we can't communicate with others effectively, and sometimes we just don't know what to say. I know that I have to many times make sure people are listening before I speak, and I have to take my time so that people understand me as I can rattle and not be clear. I know some people who mumble and things definitely are unclear. We all need to take the time when speaking with others about the Gospel or anything else to be clear and concise, and then give people a chance to ask questions so that our words don't just fall into thin air.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
7 Even inanimate things that produce sounds—whether flute or harp—if they don’t make a distinction in the notes, how will what is played on the flute or harp be recognized? 8 In fact, if the trumpet makes an unclear sound, who will prepare for battle? 9 In the same way, unless you use your tongue for intelligible speech, how will what is spoken be known? For you will be speaking into the air. 1 Corinthians 14:7-9
Do you see something or hear something and it feels like it is unclear? Do you find too many distractions around you that cause you not to hear what is going on? How do you communicate your feelings and actions to others? Many times the world around us can have noise that we can't communicate with others effectively, and sometimes we just don't know what to say. I know that I have to many times make sure people are listening before I speak, and I have to take my time so that people understand me as I can rattle and not be clear. I know some people who mumble and things definitely are unclear. We all need to take the time when speaking with others about the Gospel or anything else to be clear and concise, and then give people a chance to ask questions so that our words don't just fall into thin air.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, November 22, 2019
Fantastic Friday #708 - Speech
Speech
24 Enemies disguise themselves with their lips,
but in their hearts they harbor deceit.
25 Though their speech is charming, do not believe them,
for seven abominations fill their hearts.
26 Their malice may be concealed by deception,
but their wickedness will be exposed in the assembly. Proverbs 26:24-26
Do you find yourself running across people who are speaking eloquently but their speech doesn't sound quite right? A lot of times there are people of "faith" who talk a good talk, but aren't biblical with their teaching. There are people who talk about being good to each other and to live a righteous life and you will prosper, but the prosperity they are teaching is not what God teaches. We hear about false prophets in the Bible and the world is full of them. We have to remember that God will teach us through His word and not someone else's own thoughts. I heard someone say this week that we shouldn't take the Bible literally, and that is a big mistake if we begin to think this way. Don't let the enemy make you think that what the Bible teaches is only a suggestion, God uses the Bible to guide us and command us so that we can be with Him again. Don't listen to speech that drives you away from His word.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
24 Enemies disguise themselves with their lips,
but in their hearts they harbor deceit.
25 Though their speech is charming, do not believe them,
for seven abominations fill their hearts.
26 Their malice may be concealed by deception,
but their wickedness will be exposed in the assembly. Proverbs 26:24-26
Do you find yourself running across people who are speaking eloquently but their speech doesn't sound quite right? A lot of times there are people of "faith" who talk a good talk, but aren't biblical with their teaching. There are people who talk about being good to each other and to live a righteous life and you will prosper, but the prosperity they are teaching is not what God teaches. We hear about false prophets in the Bible and the world is full of them. We have to remember that God will teach us through His word and not someone else's own thoughts. I heard someone say this week that we shouldn't take the Bible literally, and that is a big mistake if we begin to think this way. Don't let the enemy make you think that what the Bible teaches is only a suggestion, God uses the Bible to guide us and command us so that we can be with Him again. Don't listen to speech that drives you away from His word.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, November 15, 2019
Fantastic Friday #707 - Stand
Solid
19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, having this inscription:
The Lord knows those who are His, and
Everyone who names the name of the Lord
must turn away from unrighteousness. 2 Timothy 2:19
Have you been in a situation where you were standing or walking and you lost your footing because there was no solid foundation below you? I was in a situation this week where I was walking in sand and all of the sudden the solid sand foundation I had disappeared, and I sunk into a deep-filled hole of mushy sand where I began to lose my balance. I think our Christian walk can be the same way sometimes when we don't pay close enough attention to the things around us. A lot of times we might be having the best day ever, then the enemy throws something up in our path that causes us to stumble, lose balance and sometimes fall. The great thing about stumbling and falling is that we can get back up again, and with God’s help we can stand on His firm foundation. Keep in mind that we always have that firm foundation to walk on, we just need to stay on the right path.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, having this inscription:
The Lord knows those who are His, and
Everyone who names the name of the Lord
must turn away from unrighteousness. 2 Timothy 2:19
Have you been in a situation where you were standing or walking and you lost your footing because there was no solid foundation below you? I was in a situation this week where I was walking in sand and all of the sudden the solid sand foundation I had disappeared, and I sunk into a deep-filled hole of mushy sand where I began to lose my balance. I think our Christian walk can be the same way sometimes when we don't pay close enough attention to the things around us. A lot of times we might be having the best day ever, then the enemy throws something up in our path that causes us to stumble, lose balance and sometimes fall. The great thing about stumbling and falling is that we can get back up again, and with God’s help we can stand on His firm foundation. Keep in mind that we always have that firm foundation to walk on, we just need to stay on the right path.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, November 8, 2019
Fantastic Friday #706 - Remember
Remember
1 May Yahweh answer you in a day of trouble;
may the name of Jacob’s God protect you.
2 May He send you help from the sanctuary
and sustain you from Zion.
3 May He remember all your offerings
and accept your burnt offering. Selah
4 May He give you what your heart desires
and fulfill your whole purpose.
5 Let us shout for joy at your victory
and lift the banner in the name of our God.
May Yahweh fulfill all your requests. Psalm 20:1-5
How do you remember things? Is it by writing them down, putting them in your phone, or do you have the memory like an elephant? A lot of times we tend to remember things that are bad before the good things that happened to us. We focus too much on what the enemy tries to do to us rather than think about what the Lord does for us. Our memories are short for the Lord, and that has a lot to do with our faith. If we can focus on the faith we have in the Lord's accomplishments for us, then the enemy's attacks on us will have very little impact and we won't remember what the enemy is trying to do. So remember the good and don't focus on the on the bad, God is there for us through all of it and will fulfill our needs and requests.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
1 May Yahweh answer you in a day of trouble;
may the name of Jacob’s God protect you.
2 May He send you help from the sanctuary
and sustain you from Zion.
3 May He remember all your offerings
and accept your burnt offering. Selah
4 May He give you what your heart desires
and fulfill your whole purpose.
5 Let us shout for joy at your victory
and lift the banner in the name of our God.
May Yahweh fulfill all your requests. Psalm 20:1-5
How do you remember things? Is it by writing them down, putting them in your phone, or do you have the memory like an elephant? A lot of times we tend to remember things that are bad before the good things that happened to us. We focus too much on what the enemy tries to do to us rather than think about what the Lord does for us. Our memories are short for the Lord, and that has a lot to do with our faith. If we can focus on the faith we have in the Lord's accomplishments for us, then the enemy's attacks on us will have very little impact and we won't remember what the enemy is trying to do. So remember the good and don't focus on the on the bad, God is there for us through all of it and will fulfill our needs and requests.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, November 1, 2019
Fantastic Friday #705 - Argument
Argument
8 Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument. 1 Timothy 2:8
How many of you think our world has become a place where all we do is argue with each other. People in politics are always arguing, people are using social media to argue their point, the people on the news are arguing back and forth, and sometimes this arguing can permeate places we don't want it to, like our homes. This scripture is very specific in how we should pray, and if you notice it is stated that we should lift up our hands without anger or argument, now I wonder why that is stated. When you find yourself arguing a point or with someone, what happens to your heart rate? It goes up and I assume you get a little tense and worked up. When you get angry or argue, sometimes your thoughts are probably not in order and you probably aren't very concise with your speech. If God tells us to pray without anger and argument, that probably means that He wants us calm and thoughtful and humble when we approach him. God doesn't want us to do anything with anger in our heart, so why do we argue with other people? It sure doesn't feel good. Think about how God wants us to approach Him the next time you think about getting in an argument.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
8 Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument. 1 Timothy 2:8
How many of you think our world has become a place where all we do is argue with each other. People in politics are always arguing, people are using social media to argue their point, the people on the news are arguing back and forth, and sometimes this arguing can permeate places we don't want it to, like our homes. This scripture is very specific in how we should pray, and if you notice it is stated that we should lift up our hands without anger or argument, now I wonder why that is stated. When you find yourself arguing a point or with someone, what happens to your heart rate? It goes up and I assume you get a little tense and worked up. When you get angry or argue, sometimes your thoughts are probably not in order and you probably aren't very concise with your speech. If God tells us to pray without anger and argument, that probably means that He wants us calm and thoughtful and humble when we approach him. God doesn't want us to do anything with anger in our heart, so why do we argue with other people? It sure doesn't feel good. Think about how God wants us to approach Him the next time you think about getting in an argument.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, October 25, 2019
Fantastic Friday #704 - Answers
Answers
I am a laughingstock to my friends,
by calling on God, who answers me. Job 12:4
What kind of answers do you expect from God when you pray and how fast do you want the answers? I know that all have heard that God answers in His own time, but the answer is what I would like to focus on. I don't think we look closely enough at the answers He gives in the moment. We all know the answers we want, but how many times have you received exactly the answer you were looking for? God knows every aspect of our life and really knows the next steps down the road, so when we get an answer we didn't expect, why do we turn on God and try to develop our own answer or manipulate His? Just like my prayers for healing, while I know He hears those prayers, I know that the healing will be done in His will. I turn to the doctors and forget to realize that God is giving them the tools to heal as well as the guidance to treat. While we work through difficulties in our lives, we need to not stop praying, but continue to pray for the answers that God wants to give us. So, the next time you pray, trust that God has an answer in store and pray with a humbleness that releases all anxiety. Do not try an manipulate Him into the answer you want to receive, because it just isn't going to work.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
I am a laughingstock to my friends,
by calling on God, who answers me. Job 12:4
What kind of answers do you expect from God when you pray and how fast do you want the answers? I know that all have heard that God answers in His own time, but the answer is what I would like to focus on. I don't think we look closely enough at the answers He gives in the moment. We all know the answers we want, but how many times have you received exactly the answer you were looking for? God knows every aspect of our life and really knows the next steps down the road, so when we get an answer we didn't expect, why do we turn on God and try to develop our own answer or manipulate His? Just like my prayers for healing, while I know He hears those prayers, I know that the healing will be done in His will. I turn to the doctors and forget to realize that God is giving them the tools to heal as well as the guidance to treat. While we work through difficulties in our lives, we need to not stop praying, but continue to pray for the answers that God wants to give us. So, the next time you pray, trust that God has an answer in store and pray with a humbleness that releases all anxiety. Do not try an manipulate Him into the answer you want to receive, because it just isn't going to work.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, October 18, 2019
Fantastic Friday #703 - Extinguish
Extinguish
45 The word of the Lord came to me: 46 “Son of man, face the south and preach against it. Prophesy against the forest land in the Negev, 47 and say to the forest there: Hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Lord God says: I am about to ignite a fire in you, and it will devour every green tree and every dry tree in you. The blazing flame will not be extinguished, and every face from the south to the north will be scorched by it. 48 Then all people will see that I, Yahweh, have kindled it. It will not be extinguished.” Ezekiel 20:45-48
To put out a fire, to wipe out from existence, to annihilate are all definitions of the word extinguish. Is there something in your life that you wish to extinguish? We all have fires burning inside us, some of them good and decent, and some are filled with passion. There are other fires that are not so good and they have the enemy pouring an accelerant on them to keep that fire burning stronger and wood is placed on them to keep the fire burning longer in us to hopefully make us fall away from the Lord. There is only one individual that can extinguish these fires within us, and it isn't us. We need the help of our Lord and Savior to extinguish the enemy's flames. The problem we have is that we tend to like the warmth of the flames sometimes, and we don't think of the burning that is taking place is impacting anyone. The fires that should be burning inside us, are those that we should help fan with the power of righteousness. When we fan those flames, they can overtake the flames of the enemy that tend to burn and not heal. The flames of righteousness can hold a barrier between you and the enemy's flames, and maybe those are the fires we should be focused on. I don't know about you, but I would rather see the fire that cannot be extinguished which protects us than a fire that consumes us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
45 The word of the Lord came to me: 46 “Son of man, face the south and preach against it. Prophesy against the forest land in the Negev, 47 and say to the forest there: Hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Lord God says: I am about to ignite a fire in you, and it will devour every green tree and every dry tree in you. The blazing flame will not be extinguished, and every face from the south to the north will be scorched by it. 48 Then all people will see that I, Yahweh, have kindled it. It will not be extinguished.” Ezekiel 20:45-48
To put out a fire, to wipe out from existence, to annihilate are all definitions of the word extinguish. Is there something in your life that you wish to extinguish? We all have fires burning inside us, some of them good and decent, and some are filled with passion. There are other fires that are not so good and they have the enemy pouring an accelerant on them to keep that fire burning stronger and wood is placed on them to keep the fire burning longer in us to hopefully make us fall away from the Lord. There is only one individual that can extinguish these fires within us, and it isn't us. We need the help of our Lord and Savior to extinguish the enemy's flames. The problem we have is that we tend to like the warmth of the flames sometimes, and we don't think of the burning that is taking place is impacting anyone. The fires that should be burning inside us, are those that we should help fan with the power of righteousness. When we fan those flames, they can overtake the flames of the enemy that tend to burn and not heal. The flames of righteousness can hold a barrier between you and the enemy's flames, and maybe those are the fires we should be focused on. I don't know about you, but I would rather see the fire that cannot be extinguished which protects us than a fire that consumes us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, October 11, 2019
Fantastic Friday #702 - Tongue
Tongue
5 So too, though the tongue is a small part of the body, it boasts great things. Consider how large a forest a small fire ignites. 6 And the tongue is a fire. The tongue, a world of unrighteousness, is placed among the parts of our bodies. It pollutes the whole body, sets the course of life on fire, and is set on fire by hell. James 3:5-6
This last week in church we discussed many aspects of the tongue, but this one section of the description of the tongue really struck me. We think the tongue is a small part of our body and we don't often think of how the tongue impacts people if we use it to gossip or talk about others. We don't realize the hurt we cause others, but we definitely don't think as Christians of how others view us when we are talking about folks. Are we truly a Christian when we use our tongue to knock down people or speak negatively? This kind of violates God's commands of loving others. We don't want people talking about us not being a true Christian, so why do we think it is OK to speak about others behind their back. We need to focus on our tongue just as much as our actions, it is not easy but God provides a way out of negativity and hatefulness. We just need to remember that God always has us, we just need to turn to Him.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
5 So too, though the tongue is a small part of the body, it boasts great things. Consider how large a forest a small fire ignites. 6 And the tongue is a fire. The tongue, a world of unrighteousness, is placed among the parts of our bodies. It pollutes the whole body, sets the course of life on fire, and is set on fire by hell. James 3:5-6
This last week in church we discussed many aspects of the tongue, but this one section of the description of the tongue really struck me. We think the tongue is a small part of our body and we don't often think of how the tongue impacts people if we use it to gossip or talk about others. We don't realize the hurt we cause others, but we definitely don't think as Christians of how others view us when we are talking about folks. Are we truly a Christian when we use our tongue to knock down people or speak negatively? This kind of violates God's commands of loving others. We don't want people talking about us not being a true Christian, so why do we think it is OK to speak about others behind their back. We need to focus on our tongue just as much as our actions, it is not easy but God provides a way out of negativity and hatefulness. We just need to remember that God always has us, we just need to turn to Him.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, October 4, 2019
Fantastic Friday #701 - Frame
Frame
24 Overlay it with pure gold and make a gold molding all around it. 25 Make a three-inch frame all around it and make a gold molding for it all around its frame. 26 Make four gold rings for it, and attach the rings to the four corners at its four legs. Exodus 25:24-26
What do you think of when you hear the word frame? Do you think of a house being framed, do you think of a picture frame holding a precious memory, do you think of the frame of your body or do you think of framing an opinion? So many things come to mind when I hear the word frame. I mainly think of framing as an object that provides a support system for something to stand on its own. What about you? What do you have to support you, or do you have system of friends in place that can support you? We often don't think of how we can stand up to the enemy's schemes, but with the proper support structure in place, we can stand up to anything. If you think about how God created your bone structure to be the frame that supports your body, you can see that He took His time to take care of His precious creation. Just like when He gave direction on building the ark of the covenant, He made sure it was properly framed and supported. We just need to make sure our frame is a strong one that can withstand the pressures of the enemy, and know that our creator is the maker of that frame.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
24 Overlay it with pure gold and make a gold molding all around it. 25 Make a three-inch frame all around it and make a gold molding for it all around its frame. 26 Make four gold rings for it, and attach the rings to the four corners at its four legs. Exodus 25:24-26
What do you think of when you hear the word frame? Do you think of a house being framed, do you think of a picture frame holding a precious memory, do you think of the frame of your body or do you think of framing an opinion? So many things come to mind when I hear the word frame. I mainly think of framing as an object that provides a support system for something to stand on its own. What about you? What do you have to support you, or do you have system of friends in place that can support you? We often don't think of how we can stand up to the enemy's schemes, but with the proper support structure in place, we can stand up to anything. If you think about how God created your bone structure to be the frame that supports your body, you can see that He took His time to take care of His precious creation. Just like when He gave direction on building the ark of the covenant, He made sure it was properly framed and supported. We just need to make sure our frame is a strong one that can withstand the pressures of the enemy, and know that our creator is the maker of that frame.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, September 27, 2019
Fantastic Friday #700 - Alarmed
Alarmed
4 Do all these evildoers know nothing?
They devour my people as though eating bread;
they never call on the Lord.
5 But there they are, overwhelmed with dread,
for God is present in the company of the righteous.
6 You evildoers frustrate the plans of the poor,
but the Lord is their refuge. Psalm 14:4-6
What alarms you or overwhelms you? We know that daily the enemy works in secret trying to figure out ways to make us feel dread in our life. Whether it be an illness that seems to not getting better, an important meeting or project at work that seems daunting or an exam coming up that you know there is no way you can handle all the information you have on the test. You can just feel the negativity of that last sentence and how the enemy works to make you feel like you can't do, know, or become who God wants you to be. If you are in the present company of God, how can the enemy touch you with this doubt and dread? The enemy cannot and therein lies the secret. Be ever-present with God in your life and these daunting tasks will seem much more manageable and clear. God loves you and will frustrate the enemy's plan. Live in Him.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
4 Do all these evildoers know nothing?
They devour my people as though eating bread;
they never call on the Lord.
5 But there they are, overwhelmed with dread,
for God is present in the company of the righteous.
6 You evildoers frustrate the plans of the poor,
but the Lord is their refuge. Psalm 14:4-6
What alarms you or overwhelms you? We know that daily the enemy works in secret trying to figure out ways to make us feel dread in our life. Whether it be an illness that seems to not getting better, an important meeting or project at work that seems daunting or an exam coming up that you know there is no way you can handle all the information you have on the test. You can just feel the negativity of that last sentence and how the enemy works to make you feel like you can't do, know, or become who God wants you to be. If you are in the present company of God, how can the enemy touch you with this doubt and dread? The enemy cannot and therein lies the secret. Be ever-present with God in your life and these daunting tasks will seem much more manageable and clear. God loves you and will frustrate the enemy's plan. Live in Him.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, September 20, 2019
Fantastic Friday #699 - Strength
Strength
11 The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. 12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”
13 “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”
14 The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Judges 6:11-14
Do you find yourself stating, I don't have the strength. Maybe it is strength to move a box, get through a day, overcome an illness, or move past the personality conflict you have with someone. What does this strength mean? Fortitude, energy, courage are all interesting synonyms to go along with the word strength to accomplish something. Maybe you don't have the courage to face what is in front of you because of fear. We can all combat fear with our Lord leading the way, but we rarely do that. It is amazing to see Gideon's story play out, when he had 300 men that battled 10's of 1000's of enemies and defeated them all, because God was with Him. We cannot doubt ourselves or our God, we need to find our internal strength which comes from the Lord and accomplish His plan. When we doubt what God can do for us, the enemy sneaks in and makes us think we have no strength. Just like with Gideon, God can find a way to strengthen us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
11 The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. 12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”
13 “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”
14 The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Judges 6:11-14
Do you find yourself stating, I don't have the strength. Maybe it is strength to move a box, get through a day, overcome an illness, or move past the personality conflict you have with someone. What does this strength mean? Fortitude, energy, courage are all interesting synonyms to go along with the word strength to accomplish something. Maybe you don't have the courage to face what is in front of you because of fear. We can all combat fear with our Lord leading the way, but we rarely do that. It is amazing to see Gideon's story play out, when he had 300 men that battled 10's of 1000's of enemies and defeated them all, because God was with Him. We cannot doubt ourselves or our God, we need to find our internal strength which comes from the Lord and accomplish His plan. When we doubt what God can do for us, the enemy sneaks in and makes us think we have no strength. Just like with Gideon, God can find a way to strengthen us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, September 13, 2019
Fantastic Friday #698 - Let Go
Let Go
3 I will proclaim the name of the Lord.
Oh, praise the greatness of our God!
4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect,
and all his ways are just.
A faithful God who does no wrong,
upright and just is he. Deuteronomy 32:3-4
How many of you have heard the statement of Let go and Let God? While well-intended, there is a huge flaw with this statement. Thank you first to my friend Dewayne for pointing this out, we all need friends in our life that show us God's Word and how we can us it in our daily lives. Iron sharpening Iron, I sure you have heard that before. Now back to "Let Go." There is nothing particularly wrong with this part of the statement, because there are many times we need to let go of what we are holding onto, or what circumstances we are in currently. The second part of the statement of "Let God" is wherein lies the problem. As my friend put it, if God is perfect and all powerful, does He really need us to Let Him do anything? The answer to that is fairly obvious. God does anything when He wants to, how He wants to and where He wants to. We have no control over how, when or where God does things. We do however have the ability to release whatever we are holding onto. When we show a true faith in God and His works, only then does the door open for God to do His good work. No matter how hard you think about it, we are not going to let God do anything, but we are going to be open to Him and His blessing. Humble yourself, let go of what you are holding onto and God will be just in His time.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
3 I will proclaim the name of the Lord.
Oh, praise the greatness of our God!
4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect,
and all his ways are just.
A faithful God who does no wrong,
upright and just is he. Deuteronomy 32:3-4
How many of you have heard the statement of Let go and Let God? While well-intended, there is a huge flaw with this statement. Thank you first to my friend Dewayne for pointing this out, we all need friends in our life that show us God's Word and how we can us it in our daily lives. Iron sharpening Iron, I sure you have heard that before. Now back to "Let Go." There is nothing particularly wrong with this part of the statement, because there are many times we need to let go of what we are holding onto, or what circumstances we are in currently. The second part of the statement of "Let God" is wherein lies the problem. As my friend put it, if God is perfect and all powerful, does He really need us to Let Him do anything? The answer to that is fairly obvious. God does anything when He wants to, how He wants to and where He wants to. We have no control over how, when or where God does things. We do however have the ability to release whatever we are holding onto. When we show a true faith in God and His works, only then does the door open for God to do His good work. No matter how hard you think about it, we are not going to let God do anything, but we are going to be open to Him and His blessing. Humble yourself, let go of what you are holding onto and God will be just in His time.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, September 6, 2019
Fantastic Friday #697 - Cry
Cry
17 You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted;
you encourage them, and you listen to their cry,
18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed,
so that mere earthly mortals
will never again strike terror. Psalm 10:17-18
Some days I wonder if the Lord hears my cry. I want answers but I don't always hear them. People give an encouraging word, yet I ignore it wondering why the Lord is silent. Does any of this sound like something you say? God is always there to hear us, whether we rejoice in His name or cry out to him in agony for relief from something going on in our life. This scripture easily reminds us that the Lord hears us and cares for us. We just don't see it sometimes because we want an answer now! Remember, God does listen, He does respond, it is just only when we are ready to hear his response or He is ready. It may be yes, it may be no, or it may be not yet. Wear this verse on your heart to remind yourself that God does hear us and cares for us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
17 You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted;
you encourage them, and you listen to their cry,
18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed,
so that mere earthly mortals
will never again strike terror. Psalm 10:17-18
Some days I wonder if the Lord hears my cry. I want answers but I don't always hear them. People give an encouraging word, yet I ignore it wondering why the Lord is silent. Does any of this sound like something you say? God is always there to hear us, whether we rejoice in His name or cry out to him in agony for relief from something going on in our life. This scripture easily reminds us that the Lord hears us and cares for us. We just don't see it sometimes because we want an answer now! Remember, God does listen, He does respond, it is just only when we are ready to hear his response or He is ready. It may be yes, it may be no, or it may be not yet. Wear this verse on your heart to remind yourself that God does hear us and cares for us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, August 30, 2019
Fantastic Friday #696 - Behind
Behind
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
I know that a lot of us have been with people learning how to drive or new drivers. One of the things new drivers tend to focus on too much is what is going on behind them. If a car is following you too closely or coming up really fast behind you, there isn't much you are going to be able to do about that driver if they decide to rear-end you or just stay really close. The same can be said about our past experiences. If we look back, there isn't anything we can do about what was done, but we can certainly focus on what is in front of us directly and ahead for our future. We can make decisions that will have a positive impact on our future, or a negative effect. Our current decisions will make no difference about our past, because it has already happened. Just like when we are driving, you need to be aware of what happens behind you but not focus on it. Our focus should be in front of us and pressing forward with what God wants us to do. Don't spend time driving by always looking in the rear view mirror at a small area, but focus looking through the windshield that is much larger and shows a bigger picture of what is in front of you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
I know that a lot of us have been with people learning how to drive or new drivers. One of the things new drivers tend to focus on too much is what is going on behind them. If a car is following you too closely or coming up really fast behind you, there isn't much you are going to be able to do about that driver if they decide to rear-end you or just stay really close. The same can be said about our past experiences. If we look back, there isn't anything we can do about what was done, but we can certainly focus on what is in front of us directly and ahead for our future. We can make decisions that will have a positive impact on our future, or a negative effect. Our current decisions will make no difference about our past, because it has already happened. Just like when we are driving, you need to be aware of what happens behind you but not focus on it. Our focus should be in front of us and pressing forward with what God wants us to do. Don't spend time driving by always looking in the rear view mirror at a small area, but focus looking through the windshield that is much larger and shows a bigger picture of what is in front of you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, August 23, 2019
Fantastic Friday #695 - Gracious
Gracious
4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous. Psalm 112:4
Can you remember the last time your were gracious with someone? It is really easy to look the other way, and pass by someone who is reaching out because we are typically focused on our needs and what we need to get done. What about those people who have wronged you. Maybe someone cut you off on the highway, cut in line, or cut into the conversation you were having. If you look at this previous sentence, the word cut can describe how these people made you feel. Your probably didn't experience a true cut on your body, but maybe you felt a little bit of your heart was cut away. The visual of getting cut shows also an open wound, but there is something that can heal that open wound, and that is giving grace and compassion to those that cut you. God has given us grace for our sins, so why is it so hard to be gracious to others who hurt us? It goes back to our heart, we need to have a strong heart that cannot be cut, and the way to do that is practicing being gracious to others and taking the time for others. I guarantee when you show someone grace, your heart is healed and becomes stronger.
Have a great weekend,
Matt
4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous. Psalm 112:4
Can you remember the last time your were gracious with someone? It is really easy to look the other way, and pass by someone who is reaching out because we are typically focused on our needs and what we need to get done. What about those people who have wronged you. Maybe someone cut you off on the highway, cut in line, or cut into the conversation you were having. If you look at this previous sentence, the word cut can describe how these people made you feel. Your probably didn't experience a true cut on your body, but maybe you felt a little bit of your heart was cut away. The visual of getting cut shows also an open wound, but there is something that can heal that open wound, and that is giving grace and compassion to those that cut you. God has given us grace for our sins, so why is it so hard to be gracious to others who hurt us? It goes back to our heart, we need to have a strong heart that cannot be cut, and the way to do that is practicing being gracious to others and taking the time for others. I guarantee when you show someone grace, your heart is healed and becomes stronger.
Have a great weekend,
Matt
Friday, August 16, 2019
Fantastic Friday #694 - Lesson
Lesson
12 Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, saying: 13 “This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Go and tell the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, ‘Will you not learn a lesson and obey my words?’ declares the Lord. Jeremiah 35:12-13
How many of us learn a lesson when we do something wrong and then never make the same decision again? I would gather that most of us have made a decision that was probably not the best decision more than once, because we did not learn our lesson the first time. It is a good thing that God has given the power of forgiveness, but even with that we should not continue to sin as a famous set of verses in Romans states. We must however learn our lesson when God pulls us out of whatever situation we are in, and then remember this lesson so we are less likely to make the same mistake twice. We all have daily lessons, we just need to take them to heart and know that God is with us and with that we can learn from each lesson He teaches.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
12 Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, saying: 13 “This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Go and tell the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, ‘Will you not learn a lesson and obey my words?’ declares the Lord. Jeremiah 35:12-13
How many of us learn a lesson when we do something wrong and then never make the same decision again? I would gather that most of us have made a decision that was probably not the best decision more than once, because we did not learn our lesson the first time. It is a good thing that God has given the power of forgiveness, but even with that we should not continue to sin as a famous set of verses in Romans states. We must however learn our lesson when God pulls us out of whatever situation we are in, and then remember this lesson so we are less likely to make the same mistake twice. We all have daily lessons, we just need to take them to heart and know that God is with us and with that we can learn from each lesson He teaches.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, August 9, 2019
Fantastic Friday #693 - Cover
Cover
3 Surely he will save you
from the fowler’s snare
and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
5 You will not fear the terror of night,
3 Surely he will save you
from the fowler’s snare
and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
5 You will not fear the terror of night,
nor the arrow that flies by day, Psalm 91:3-5
When the storm comes in your life, where do you go for cover? In today's world you see people attempting to cover themselves thinking that they can do it all themselves. When you pray, do you ever ask our God to Cover you in His presence. Do you ask Him to Cover you with His Angels for protection. We are all fighting the enemy on a daily basis. Whether it be darts that the enemy shoots at us telling us we are not good enough or that we can deviate from the path we are on, the enemy is sneaky. We need cover! Whether it be addictions that we are fighting against, or the enemy pinpointing very specific things in our life, we need cover and the only cover can come from our God. Give God everything that we need protection from and He will provide. All you have to do is ask.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
When the storm comes in your life, where do you go for cover? In today's world you see people attempting to cover themselves thinking that they can do it all themselves. When you pray, do you ever ask our God to Cover you in His presence. Do you ask Him to Cover you with His Angels for protection. We are all fighting the enemy on a daily basis. Whether it be darts that the enemy shoots at us telling us we are not good enough or that we can deviate from the path we are on, the enemy is sneaky. We need cover! Whether it be addictions that we are fighting against, or the enemy pinpointing very specific things in our life, we need cover and the only cover can come from our God. Give God everything that we need protection from and He will provide. All you have to do is ask.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, August 2, 2019
Fantastic Friday #692 - Disaster
Disaster
2 For what is our lot from God above,
our heritage from the Almighty on high?
3 Is it not ruin for the wicked,
disaster for those who do wrong?
4 Does he not see my ways
and count my every step? Job 31:2-4
How many of us think of bad things that happen to us as a disaster? A fire, a flood, a significant illness or even a significant family issue. Disaster is defined as a calamitous event. But are the things listed above truly a calamitous event? When you search the Bible for the word Disaster in the NIV version, Disaster only appears in the Old Testament. I began to wonder why it is only in the OT of the Bible, and I think it must have to do with the Good News that is in the New Testament. God wants us to focus on the Good in our lives and the Good that Jesus brings in our life. Nothing is a disaster if we have Jesus. Something to remember daily.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
2 For what is our lot from God above,
our heritage from the Almighty on high?
3 Is it not ruin for the wicked,
disaster for those who do wrong?
4 Does he not see my ways
and count my every step? Job 31:2-4
How many of us think of bad things that happen to us as a disaster? A fire, a flood, a significant illness or even a significant family issue. Disaster is defined as a calamitous event. But are the things listed above truly a calamitous event? When you search the Bible for the word Disaster in the NIV version, Disaster only appears in the Old Testament. I began to wonder why it is only in the OT of the Bible, and I think it must have to do with the Good News that is in the New Testament. God wants us to focus on the Good in our lives and the Good that Jesus brings in our life. Nothing is a disaster if we have Jesus. Something to remember daily.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, July 26, 2019
Fantastic Friday #691 - Hands
Hands
1 Clap your hands, all you nations;
shout to God with cries of joy.
2 For the Lord Most High is awesome,
the great King over all the earth. Psalm 47:1-2
How many of you sit around when you are listening to some music and want to tap your foot or maybe even clap your hands. Or maybe you are at church and feel the spirit and begin to clap your hands while the music is playing, but you don't want people to see how into it you are so you keep everything close to vest and don't clap too loud. I know some loud clappers and some soft clappers, and I even know some non-clappers. God gave us hands for many things, but the most important thing He gave them for was to use them for good works. Whether that be through your daily work of your hands or whether it be that special touch of kindness you provide, use your hands in a way that would honor God. Then don't forget to clap your hands, whether it is loud or soft or somewhere in-between, God wants to hear your joy.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
1 Clap your hands, all you nations;
shout to God with cries of joy.
2 For the Lord Most High is awesome,
the great King over all the earth. Psalm 47:1-2
How many of you sit around when you are listening to some music and want to tap your foot or maybe even clap your hands. Or maybe you are at church and feel the spirit and begin to clap your hands while the music is playing, but you don't want people to see how into it you are so you keep everything close to vest and don't clap too loud. I know some loud clappers and some soft clappers, and I even know some non-clappers. God gave us hands for many things, but the most important thing He gave them for was to use them for good works. Whether that be through your daily work of your hands or whether it be that special touch of kindness you provide, use your hands in a way that would honor God. Then don't forget to clap your hands, whether it is loud or soft or somewhere in-between, God wants to hear your joy.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, July 19, 2019
Fantastic Friday #690 - Voice
Voice
2 Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:2-3
Do you listen for a voice to guide you and teach you Voices are all around you, some are good but some try to lead us away from the Lord and the path we should follow. When you wake up in the morning do you turn your voice to the Lord, or do you stay silent forgetting to acknowledge God and what He has done for you and what He has yet to do. God wants to hear our voice and He wants us to speak with Him. It doesn't always have to be a cry for help, but a thoughtful and thankful heart that prepares you for the day. Remember as you go throughout your day there is a also a still small voice that guides you and keeps you from straying off the path. Don't let the voices of many cover the voice of our one true guide.
Have a great weekend.
2 Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:2-3
Do you listen for a voice to guide you and teach you Voices are all around you, some are good but some try to lead us away from the Lord and the path we should follow. When you wake up in the morning do you turn your voice to the Lord, or do you stay silent forgetting to acknowledge God and what He has done for you and what He has yet to do. God wants to hear our voice and He wants us to speak with Him. It doesn't always have to be a cry for help, but a thoughtful and thankful heart that prepares you for the day. Remember as you go throughout your day there is a also a still small voice that guides you and keeps you from straying off the path. Don't let the voices of many cover the voice of our one true guide.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, July 12, 2019
Fantastic Friday #689 - Stone
Stone
4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:4-5
Seeing the damage an earthquake can cause is quite interesting, the movement of rock and earth and seeing how the ground shakes back and forth, there is great power there. Every time I read a scripture dealing with stones being built up I ask myself, how sturdy are stones. If you look at buildings that are built with stones compared to wood or another less sturdy material, the stones are typically standing after a major event. Think about a tornado tearing apart a wood structure home, at times only the chimney, built out of stone, is still standing. God is our stone and He is stronger than anything that can shake us, and believe me, I have been shaken recently. Each time I am shaken, I lean into that Rock that provides me comfort and guidance. Don't forget about the stone that is strong and can do anything. He is your fortress and your very strong reward, you just need to have faith to allow Him to do His work.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:4-5
Seeing the damage an earthquake can cause is quite interesting, the movement of rock and earth and seeing how the ground shakes back and forth, there is great power there. Every time I read a scripture dealing with stones being built up I ask myself, how sturdy are stones. If you look at buildings that are built with stones compared to wood or another less sturdy material, the stones are typically standing after a major event. Think about a tornado tearing apart a wood structure home, at times only the chimney, built out of stone, is still standing. God is our stone and He is stronger than anything that can shake us, and believe me, I have been shaken recently. Each time I am shaken, I lean into that Rock that provides me comfort and guidance. Don't forget about the stone that is strong and can do anything. He is your fortress and your very strong reward, you just need to have faith to allow Him to do His work.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, July 5, 2019
Fantastic Friday #688 - Healing
Healing
17 He went down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coastal region around Tyre and Sidon, 18 who had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. Those troubled by impure spirits were cured, 19 and the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all.
20 Looking at his disciples, he said:“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Luke 6:17-20
When you look at Jesus' time on earth, you can see the healing power He had for many people. You can also read in the Bible about how his disciples were healing others as well. This healing was made possible through Christ and not through anyone else's power. Today there can be that same healing power through God and through prayer. We need to remember that we cannot change God's plan for us, but if we are prayerful and faithful God can heal anyone. We need to remember to thank God for what He has given us and look for that healing power from Him. This healing power is not just for illness, but can be a spiritual healing as well. There are many of us that can go through times of weakness or questioning our spiritual path when things aren't going our way or someone we love is sick. If we can remember that God can heal all, it can help us through those difficult times.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
17 He went down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coastal region around Tyre and Sidon, 18 who had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. Those troubled by impure spirits were cured, 19 and the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all.
20 Looking at his disciples, he said:“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Luke 6:17-20
When you look at Jesus' time on earth, you can see the healing power He had for many people. You can also read in the Bible about how his disciples were healing others as well. This healing was made possible through Christ and not through anyone else's power. Today there can be that same healing power through God and through prayer. We need to remember that we cannot change God's plan for us, but if we are prayerful and faithful God can heal anyone. We need to remember to thank God for what He has given us and look for that healing power from Him. This healing power is not just for illness, but can be a spiritual healing as well. There are many of us that can go through times of weakness or questioning our spiritual path when things aren't going our way or someone we love is sick. If we can remember that God can heal all, it can help us through those difficult times.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, June 28, 2019
Fantastic Friday #687 - Triumph
Triumph,
12 When the righteous triumph, there is great elation;
but when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding. Proverbs 28:12
We experienced a triumph tonight by winning a baseball championship. Can you think of what triumphs you had this week that made an impact in your life? What about a triumph that was made for you. How often do you think about God's triumph over evil, or do you ever think of God's triumph over all things for us? With victory there is joy and with victory there is a feeling of elation that many experience. We need to remember that God has triumphed over all and we are the beneficiaries of his triumph. Keep looking forward to what is ahead.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
12 When the righteous triumph, there is great elation;
but when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding. Proverbs 28:12
We experienced a triumph tonight by winning a baseball championship. Can you think of what triumphs you had this week that made an impact in your life? What about a triumph that was made for you. How often do you think about God's triumph over evil, or do you ever think of God's triumph over all things for us? With victory there is joy and with victory there is a feeling of elation that many experience. We need to remember that God has triumphed over all and we are the beneficiaries of his triumph. Keep looking forward to what is ahead.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, June 21, 2019
Fantastic Friday #686 - Fear
Fear
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
I have always liked the way this Psalm started out, the light, the Lord being the stronghold in my life. It really lays it all out in front of us. I didn't realize how much was in this Psalm until this last week. We all have fears of the unknown, but we should not fear the unknown, because there is One who knows all. The enemy on this earth senses the fear in all of us and will do everything in his earthly power to get us to succumb to that fear. He puts doubt in our head, he tries to show us where we are weak, and he tries to pull us away from our Savior. When in the middle of our circumstances, whether we fear them or not, we tend to forget how strong our Lord is and He can comfort us from all this fear or guide us through our rough path. I prayed this Psalm this week on more than one occasion and I also spent many other times praying very specifically. When I did these things, I felt an overwhelming calmness come over me and the enemy quit trying to make me think that my God did not care about me. God does care about all His children, we just need to remember to involve Him in our daily walk and not forget who He is. No Fear was a famous saying a few years ago, and I think we need to start saying "With God I Have No Fear." #WGIHNF
Have a great weekend.
Matt
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
I have always liked the way this Psalm started out, the light, the Lord being the stronghold in my life. It really lays it all out in front of us. I didn't realize how much was in this Psalm until this last week. We all have fears of the unknown, but we should not fear the unknown, because there is One who knows all. The enemy on this earth senses the fear in all of us and will do everything in his earthly power to get us to succumb to that fear. He puts doubt in our head, he tries to show us where we are weak, and he tries to pull us away from our Savior. When in the middle of our circumstances, whether we fear them or not, we tend to forget how strong our Lord is and He can comfort us from all this fear or guide us through our rough path. I prayed this Psalm this week on more than one occasion and I also spent many other times praying very specifically. When I did these things, I felt an overwhelming calmness come over me and the enemy quit trying to make me think that my God did not care about me. God does care about all His children, we just need to remember to involve Him in our daily walk and not forget who He is. No Fear was a famous saying a few years ago, and I think we need to start saying "With God I Have No Fear." #WGIHNF
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, June 14, 2019
Fantastic Friday #685 - Trouble
Trouble
19 Like a broken tooth or a lame foot
is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble. Proverbs 25:19
How many of your have experienced trouble lately? I know trouble is an interesting scenario and not every situation is the same. What do you find yourself asking for when the trouble occurs? Is it that you ask for your trouble to be removed from you or do you ask that you be removed from the trouble? Either way you look at it, you need someone else to intervene in helping you, but how many of us turn to the right people and how many of us turn immediately to God? I would say sometimes we turn to those who cannot help because they blame someone for your trouble or don't acknowledge that it is truly a troublesome situation. Some people might tell you to pull yourself out of it, and be a grown up. We all need to turn to God first since we are all his children. Without His support, we are not going to get through anything. Rely on the faithfulness of God and get out of your trouble. He will be there for you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
19 Like a broken tooth or a lame foot
is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble. Proverbs 25:19
How many of your have experienced trouble lately? I know trouble is an interesting scenario and not every situation is the same. What do you find yourself asking for when the trouble occurs? Is it that you ask for your trouble to be removed from you or do you ask that you be removed from the trouble? Either way you look at it, you need someone else to intervene in helping you, but how many of us turn to the right people and how many of us turn immediately to God? I would say sometimes we turn to those who cannot help because they blame someone for your trouble or don't acknowledge that it is truly a troublesome situation. Some people might tell you to pull yourself out of it, and be a grown up. We all need to turn to God first since we are all his children. Without His support, we are not going to get through anything. Rely on the faithfulness of God and get out of your trouble. He will be there for you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, June 7, 2019
Fantastic Friday #684 - For All
For All
5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. 1 Timothy 2:5-7
Do you sometimes wonder if God is always for you or whether He is for all people? Sometimes the burden gets so heavy we forget what God did for each and every one of us. We forget that His one and only son died on the cross for our sins. Probably we forget these things because we are overwhelmed with the thing of this world and in our life where there seems to be no relief or escape. I am here to shout from the rooftops that God is here For All, not just for a few, but For All. The enemy wants us to think that we can't have Him, but I know better, I know that we can have all of Him. Don't let circumstances drag us away from Him, but pull us towards Him. He is For All.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. 1 Timothy 2:5-7
Do you sometimes wonder if God is always for you or whether He is for all people? Sometimes the burden gets so heavy we forget what God did for each and every one of us. We forget that His one and only son died on the cross for our sins. Probably we forget these things because we are overwhelmed with the thing of this world and in our life where there seems to be no relief or escape. I am here to shout from the rooftops that God is here For All, not just for a few, but For All. The enemy wants us to think that we can't have Him, but I know better, I know that we can have all of Him. Don't let circumstances drag us away from Him, but pull us towards Him. He is For All.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, May 31, 2019
Fantastic Friday #683 - Deliver
Deliver
4 Turn, Lord, and deliver me;
save me because of your unfailing love. Psalm 6:4
There are many times when we look down the road for a delivery truck to bring us something we ordered. In the past, we would look out the window and wonder when it would come. Now, we can look on our phones and see where the delivery truck is and exactly how many stops until it delivers our precious item we ordered. How many times do we look to the Lord to deliver us from our pain, or deliver us from a circumstance. We can call on the Lord to deliver us, but God will deliver us in His time and not ours. We can't look on our phone or out the window to see when the delivery will come, but we can know, if we have faith, that He will deliver us from any circumstance we are experiencing. We need to be faithful and ask with a grateful and humble heart.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
4 Turn, Lord, and deliver me;
save me because of your unfailing love. Psalm 6:4
There are many times when we look down the road for a delivery truck to bring us something we ordered. In the past, we would look out the window and wonder when it would come. Now, we can look on our phones and see where the delivery truck is and exactly how many stops until it delivers our precious item we ordered. How many times do we look to the Lord to deliver us from our pain, or deliver us from a circumstance. We can call on the Lord to deliver us, but God will deliver us in His time and not ours. We can't look on our phone or out the window to see when the delivery will come, but we can know, if we have faith, that He will deliver us from any circumstance we are experiencing. We need to be faithful and ask with a grateful and humble heart.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, May 24, 2019
Fantastic Friday #682 - Battle
Battle
1 Praise be to the Lord my Rock,
who trains my hands for war,
my fingers for battle. Psalm 144:1
Today, my oldest son graduates from high school. Over the years of raising him into the man he has become, I have asked myself if he is ready for that next step in his life. This is his personal verse and I honor him today as he begins a new path, that I have not only tried to prepare him for, but God has been there to prepare his hands for every battle he will face. I can only do so much, but God can do much more. As this day we honor him, we also honor God who has been right there with him every step of the way. Praise God and allow Him to move through my son's walk. Think about how you can Honor God this day in your life or other's lives, because you can have an impact.
Have a great weekend.
1 Praise be to the Lord my Rock,
who trains my hands for war,
my fingers for battle. Psalm 144:1
Today, my oldest son graduates from high school. Over the years of raising him into the man he has become, I have asked myself if he is ready for that next step in his life. This is his personal verse and I honor him today as he begins a new path, that I have not only tried to prepare him for, but God has been there to prepare his hands for every battle he will face. I can only do so much, but God can do much more. As this day we honor him, we also honor God who has been right there with him every step of the way. Praise God and allow Him to move through my son's walk. Think about how you can Honor God this day in your life or other's lives, because you can have an impact.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, May 17, 2019
Fantastic Friday #681 - Delight
Delight
17 The Lord your God is with you,
the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
but will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
Over six hundred weeks ago, this scripture struck a chord with me, and this week it struck another chord but in a different manner. What delights you, or a better question might be what do you find pleasure in daily? I find that a lot of the pleasure I experience is around friends and family, but there are those unexpected locations that I can find things that I delight in when I look through a different lens. The question is, why should I be looking through a different lens? God looks at us through the same lens all the time, a lens of love and forgiveness. How many times do we look at others through love and forgiveness? We should take delight in others, no matter our circumstances. We should turn to delight when we find ourselves doubting our circumstances, easier said than done of course. I have found over the past week that there are people who delight in me and their presence around me. I just need to remember that those same people that find pleasure in my company, I should also recognize how I can delight in them. Take a moment to reflect this week on how you can delight and know that God delights in you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
17 The Lord your God is with you,
the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
but will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
Over six hundred weeks ago, this scripture struck a chord with me, and this week it struck another chord but in a different manner. What delights you, or a better question might be what do you find pleasure in daily? I find that a lot of the pleasure I experience is around friends and family, but there are those unexpected locations that I can find things that I delight in when I look through a different lens. The question is, why should I be looking through a different lens? God looks at us through the same lens all the time, a lens of love and forgiveness. How many times do we look at others through love and forgiveness? We should take delight in others, no matter our circumstances. We should turn to delight when we find ourselves doubting our circumstances, easier said than done of course. I have found over the past week that there are people who delight in me and their presence around me. I just need to remember that those same people that find pleasure in my company, I should also recognize how I can delight in them. Take a moment to reflect this week on how you can delight and know that God delights in you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, May 10, 2019
Fantastic Friday #680 - Faithfulness
Faithful
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
I have seen a lot in the past week. A lot of stress, a lot of angst, and a lot of worry, the funny thing is that I have seen this all in myself. How come those of us with a deep faith in God, still question God's faithfulness in our lives. Every day we miss those little pieces of God in our lives and when the big thing comes down the road, we wonder where He is. The last two weeks have been full of several work and personal issues that have been hanging over my head. They really didn't need to make my heart so heavy, but I allowed them to because I wanted a clear answer right now. God wasn't ready for my answer to come so quickly, but it did come in several ways and to my benefit. Just another reminder of how God is faithful and how we need to remember to be thankful in the small things so that when the big things come down our road it is an easier transition to continually rely on His faithfulness. When we need to change gears, God is always there to put on the breaks until He feels like we are ready to move forward.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
I have seen a lot in the past week. A lot of stress, a lot of angst, and a lot of worry, the funny thing is that I have seen this all in myself. How come those of us with a deep faith in God, still question God's faithfulness in our lives. Every day we miss those little pieces of God in our lives and when the big thing comes down the road, we wonder where He is. The last two weeks have been full of several work and personal issues that have been hanging over my head. They really didn't need to make my heart so heavy, but I allowed them to because I wanted a clear answer right now. God wasn't ready for my answer to come so quickly, but it did come in several ways and to my benefit. Just another reminder of how God is faithful and how we need to remember to be thankful in the small things so that when the big things come down our road it is an easier transition to continually rely on His faithfulness. When we need to change gears, God is always there to put on the breaks until He feels like we are ready to move forward.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, May 3, 2019
Fantastic Friday #679 - Start
Start
5 In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls,
but those who would preserve their life stay far from them.
6 Start children off on the way they should go,
and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:5-6
When you were young, did your parents start you off in the way you should go? When you were a young adult, did you hear God's voice and teachings start you off in the way you should go? As an older adult, do you listen to God's voice in the way you should go? At one time in our life, whether it be our parents, grandparents, someone in authority or God has taught us the way we should go. Whether we listened to that, this is another story for another time. As I enter my latter years, and I am experiencing my second child graduating from high school, I ask myself have I started my children off in the way they should go, or did I do enough. While it is my responsibility to start them off, they all have personal choices, but they also have God who can guide them long after I have given my guidance. I tend to forget that God is still guiding me at times as well, but know that He is ever faithful and will guide me away from the path of the wicked snares. Did you know doubting God is one of those pitfalls that the enemy puts out there for us, but that if we remember how we were taught in the way we should go, we will be fine. God provides, God protects, and God cares. What a better guide than God and His teachings, we just need to remember what everyone has said along the way and keep God out front.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
5 In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls,
but those who would preserve their life stay far from them.
6 Start children off on the way they should go,
and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:5-6
When you were young, did your parents start you off in the way you should go? When you were a young adult, did you hear God's voice and teachings start you off in the way you should go? As an older adult, do you listen to God's voice in the way you should go? At one time in our life, whether it be our parents, grandparents, someone in authority or God has taught us the way we should go. Whether we listened to that, this is another story for another time. As I enter my latter years, and I am experiencing my second child graduating from high school, I ask myself have I started my children off in the way they should go, or did I do enough. While it is my responsibility to start them off, they all have personal choices, but they also have God who can guide them long after I have given my guidance. I tend to forget that God is still guiding me at times as well, but know that He is ever faithful and will guide me away from the path of the wicked snares. Did you know doubting God is one of those pitfalls that the enemy puts out there for us, but that if we remember how we were taught in the way we should go, we will be fine. God provides, God protects, and God cares. What a better guide than God and His teachings, we just need to remember what everyone has said along the way and keep God out front.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, April 26, 2019
Fantastic Friday #678 - Mind
Mind
4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:4-6
Where is your mind during the day? Does it move from idea to idea, with thoughts that you can make a difference in today's world? Or, does it move from idea to doubt to where the enemy sneaks in and talks to you about how you are not worth it and neither is anyone else. The enemy is strong but scripture is stronger. This set of verses focuses on the endurance that we face through the teaching of the scriptures. This typically ends with hope, and you know that the enemy doesn't do well with hope, because God surrounds those with hope in their life. We need to remember to pick up those around us and give us hope in the path that we have before us. Have endurance and have hope to defeat those thoughts from the enemy.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:4-6
Where is your mind during the day? Does it move from idea to idea, with thoughts that you can make a difference in today's world? Or, does it move from idea to doubt to where the enemy sneaks in and talks to you about how you are not worth it and neither is anyone else. The enemy is strong but scripture is stronger. This set of verses focuses on the endurance that we face through the teaching of the scriptures. This typically ends with hope, and you know that the enemy doesn't do well with hope, because God surrounds those with hope in their life. We need to remember to pick up those around us and give us hope in the path that we have before us. Have endurance and have hope to defeat those thoughts from the enemy.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, April 19, 2019
Fantastic Friday #677 - Easy
Easy
11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13
I am amazed by the number of people I see daily who try and take the easy way out. They do work to a certain level, maybe just enough to get by or they try and find the easy way out by putting in no effort at all. I saw a kid and his dad at the baseball field tonight, one that I have known for a number of years. He was working out with his dad, I am sure just hours after he had worked out with his college team. He is one that doesn't find the easy way out with baseball, but continues to work hard to reach his goal. We all need to look at ourselves to not find the easy way out in life but work hard in coming closer to God and encouraging others. Sometimes it is "easy" to just pass by someone without encouraging them or lifting their spirits, but we should go out of our way to do God's work. We must hold all around us in a higher regard and work hard to spread God's love.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13
I am amazed by the number of people I see daily who try and take the easy way out. They do work to a certain level, maybe just enough to get by or they try and find the easy way out by putting in no effort at all. I saw a kid and his dad at the baseball field tonight, one that I have known for a number of years. He was working out with his dad, I am sure just hours after he had worked out with his college team. He is one that doesn't find the easy way out with baseball, but continues to work hard to reach his goal. We all need to look at ourselves to not find the easy way out in life but work hard in coming closer to God and encouraging others. Sometimes it is "easy" to just pass by someone without encouraging them or lifting their spirits, but we should go out of our way to do God's work. We must hold all around us in a higher regard and work hard to spread God's love.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, April 12, 2019
Fantastic Friday #676 - Liar
Liar
22 Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. 1 John 2:22-23
I heard a great man this week make an amazingly simple statement. "If you are not sure you even believe in God, start there." How many times are we listening to other voices when doubt creeps into our mind, and we doubt God is even around to listen? Don't let the enemy creep in and put doubt in your mind, this is the liar who wants to pull us away from God. This man talked about being humble and creating experiences with God. Maybe that is what we are lacking and we need to look for those moments when we can ignore the liar and lean into God for a new experience. I don't want to be an individual that denies the Father and has no place with Him, I want to be one that Glorifies the Lord through my actions and learns from God.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
22 Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. 1 John 2:22-23
I heard a great man this week make an amazingly simple statement. "If you are not sure you even believe in God, start there." How many times are we listening to other voices when doubt creeps into our mind, and we doubt God is even around to listen? Don't let the enemy creep in and put doubt in your mind, this is the liar who wants to pull us away from God. This man talked about being humble and creating experiences with God. Maybe that is what we are lacking and we need to look for those moments when we can ignore the liar and lean into God for a new experience. I don't want to be an individual that denies the Father and has no place with Him, I want to be one that Glorifies the Lord through my actions and learns from God.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, April 5, 2019
Fantastic Friday #675 - Foundation
Foundation
9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.
10 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:9-11
If you have ever watched a foundation to house or building be prepared for a concrete pour, you will notice that there is a lot of leveling of the ground first where the foundation will be laid. You can't pour a foundation on ground that is full of hills, rocky and un-level, because the foundation will crack and heave and not have the ability to have a strong building placed on it. God worked to lay the foundation for His building . We have to be sure to be careful how we build upon that foundation. We cannot ignore any guidance God has given us, and we certainly cannot rely upon ourselves to be the only ones building on it. We must have others with us to support us and help strengthen God's church. We need to set an example for others to follow and not follow the ways of the high-speed world to complete a building too quickly. We don't want that building to crumble, so we must be careful to take God's guidance daily. Have a good plan and make sure you are building on God's foundation and not the enemy's rocky and unstable ground.
Have a great weekend.
9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.
10 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:9-11
If you have ever watched a foundation to house or building be prepared for a concrete pour, you will notice that there is a lot of leveling of the ground first where the foundation will be laid. You can't pour a foundation on ground that is full of hills, rocky and un-level, because the foundation will crack and heave and not have the ability to have a strong building placed on it. God worked to lay the foundation for His building . We have to be sure to be careful how we build upon that foundation. We cannot ignore any guidance God has given us, and we certainly cannot rely upon ourselves to be the only ones building on it. We must have others with us to support us and help strengthen God's church. We need to set an example for others to follow and not follow the ways of the high-speed world to complete a building too quickly. We don't want that building to crumble, so we must be careful to take God's guidance daily. Have a good plan and make sure you are building on God's foundation and not the enemy's rocky and unstable ground.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, March 29, 2019
Fantastic Friday #674 - Endurance
Endurance
4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:4-6
I have been thinking about endurance this week, and making it past the things that are challenging. What I found instead of endurance was a real lack of patience with certain things. This lack of patience did not cause me to lose control, but caused me to build up some anger in my soul, and not be in a good place. It is funny how that same endurance that is spoken of in scripture is supposed to lead to encouragement, and certainly I have experienced that as well, but I let the anger overtake my thoughts which is not a good thing. Moving forward into the weekend I am going to reflect on how I might look at patience as an enduring process that we all need to take our time evaluating. When we are patient, God can give us a calming spirit that can overtake the anger and stress that can build up from not enduring whatever is placed before us. Have a good attitude, and not a negative one, because that can bring down others around you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:4-6
I have been thinking about endurance this week, and making it past the things that are challenging. What I found instead of endurance was a real lack of patience with certain things. This lack of patience did not cause me to lose control, but caused me to build up some anger in my soul, and not be in a good place. It is funny how that same endurance that is spoken of in scripture is supposed to lead to encouragement, and certainly I have experienced that as well, but I let the anger overtake my thoughts which is not a good thing. Moving forward into the weekend I am going to reflect on how I might look at patience as an enduring process that we all need to take our time evaluating. When we are patient, God can give us a calming spirit that can overtake the anger and stress that can build up from not enduring whatever is placed before us. Have a good attitude, and not a negative one, because that can bring down others around you.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, March 22, 2019
Fantastic Friday #673 - Drought
Drought
7 “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.
8 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
Do you have a drought in your life right now or have you had one recently? Droughts can come in many forms, whether they be financial, family, or even the lack of a regular relationship with our Lord and Savior. I love the picture that this scripture provides of how you can avoid having a drought affect you. It all starts where you place your faith. If you place your faith in man and the world to solve your problems, your roots are not going to be firmly grounded and nourished. This can cause you to remain in the drought condition until you decide to put your faith where it belongs. I saw a show this week where a man didn't believe in any life after death. It was uncomfortable for me to watch, because I knew how much he was missing out on, and he was truly in a drought. Now I know this was only a show, but I also know there are people out there like this who are not firmly grounded because their faith is in the wrong place. Don't allow your faith to be misaligned but rely on God to keep you out of that drought condition.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, March 15, 2019
Fantastic Friday #672 - Eloquent
Eloquent
10 Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”
11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind?Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” Exodus 4:10-12
I have been speaking in front of groups a lot lately, and I never have believed that I am an eloquent speaker. I always feel that I stumble over my words, use the incorrect phrasing, or even completely misspeak. I haven't truly realized what God meant by this scripture until I came across it this week. When we doubt our ability to talk to others about God and gift that He promises, we don't need to rely on our words, but God will provide the words and teach us through these moments as well. I thought it was a very simple explanation by God, of who gave human beings their mouths? If you stop to think about it, if we are his creation, then he not only gave us the tools to do His will, but He also gives us the opportunities. Take those opportunities and use the tools he has given you. We are all eloquent in our own way.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
10 Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”
11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind?Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” Exodus 4:10-12
I have been speaking in front of groups a lot lately, and I never have believed that I am an eloquent speaker. I always feel that I stumble over my words, use the incorrect phrasing, or even completely misspeak. I haven't truly realized what God meant by this scripture until I came across it this week. When we doubt our ability to talk to others about God and gift that He promises, we don't need to rely on our words, but God will provide the words and teach us through these moments as well. I thought it was a very simple explanation by God, of who gave human beings their mouths? If you stop to think about it, if we are his creation, then he not only gave us the tools to do His will, but He also gives us the opportunities. Take those opportunities and use the tools he has given you. We are all eloquent in our own way.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, March 8, 2019
Fantastic Friday #671 - Words
Words
27 The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,
and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.
28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
and discerning if they hold their tongues. Proverbs 17:27-28
Do you think about the words you use? I know I have to pay attention to this regularly, and there have been times when I have been using words calmly, then I have been interrupted with rude behavior or an accusatory remark. I have to look at myself and how I handle those situations. To be honest, there have been times where I have taken the next step and not used very kind words or inflection that has elevated the issue. I need to work on being wise and even-tempered as the scripture notes. There are times when we all need to be silent and discerning in situations, but not completely hold our tongues. But when we do speak, we need to ask for guidance from our Father and allow Him to guide us and our words. How many of us wake up in the morning and ask God to guide or words and actions. If we did this more, we would become not only closer to God but we would become more wise. Be wise and manage your tongue, because people will view you and your beliefs on how you respond to others.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
27 The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,
and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.
28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
and discerning if they hold their tongues. Proverbs 17:27-28
Do you think about the words you use? I know I have to pay attention to this regularly, and there have been times when I have been using words calmly, then I have been interrupted with rude behavior or an accusatory remark. I have to look at myself and how I handle those situations. To be honest, there have been times where I have taken the next step and not used very kind words or inflection that has elevated the issue. I need to work on being wise and even-tempered as the scripture notes. There are times when we all need to be silent and discerning in situations, but not completely hold our tongues. But when we do speak, we need to ask for guidance from our Father and allow Him to guide us and our words. How many of us wake up in the morning and ask God to guide or words and actions. If we did this more, we would become not only closer to God but we would become more wise. Be wise and manage your tongue, because people will view you and your beliefs on how you respond to others.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, March 1, 2019
Fantastic Friday #670 - Talk
Talk
7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 2 Timothy 1:6-8
Can you think back to your conversations with people outside of your family this week? Did you have an opportunity to thank God for who He is and what He has done? I can think back to my conversations and can clearly say that God was not the focus of the discussions even though there were opportunities for me to share what He has done for me. Maybe it is because God is not at the top of my list of conversation topics every day, and maybe it is because I take for granted His influence in my life. There are many factors to why this could be the case and a lot of it boils down to the enemy that distracts me from God and His power and influence. Don't be timid in your sharing of God's wonderful influence, but use His power to share and discuss what He does for you. Fight back against the enemy and keep God on the forefront of your conversations.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 2 Timothy 1:6-8
Can you think back to your conversations with people outside of your family this week? Did you have an opportunity to thank God for who He is and what He has done? I can think back to my conversations and can clearly say that God was not the focus of the discussions even though there were opportunities for me to share what He has done for me. Maybe it is because God is not at the top of my list of conversation topics every day, and maybe it is because I take for granted His influence in my life. There are many factors to why this could be the case and a lot of it boils down to the enemy that distracts me from God and His power and influence. Don't be timid in your sharing of God's wonderful influence, but use His power to share and discuss what He does for you. Fight back against the enemy and keep God on the forefront of your conversations.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, February 22, 2019
Fantastic Friday #669 - Respect
Respect
17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17
There is something to said about respecting those around you. This last week, I was involved in an adverse situation where I was able to negotiate a solution to the benefit of some people. The other people were not showing much respect to the individual I was negotiating with, and it really bothered me and made me wonder how those people's actions reflected on me. Well, that question was answered through God when I spoke to the person today I had been negotiating with and they thanked me for my professionalism and how I treated them. Respect is a two-way street, but sometimes is only one-way because of people's choices. I see where God has given us direction in this verse to show proper respect to everyone, without this respect who are we? Take a moment to think before speaking, look before moving forward and breathe before acting. Honor and respect is the way that God wants us to act.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17
There is something to said about respecting those around you. This last week, I was involved in an adverse situation where I was able to negotiate a solution to the benefit of some people. The other people were not showing much respect to the individual I was negotiating with, and it really bothered me and made me wonder how those people's actions reflected on me. Well, that question was answered through God when I spoke to the person today I had been negotiating with and they thanked me for my professionalism and how I treated them. Respect is a two-way street, but sometimes is only one-way because of people's choices. I see where God has given us direction in this verse to show proper respect to everyone, without this respect who are we? Take a moment to think before speaking, look before moving forward and breathe before acting. Honor and respect is the way that God wants us to act.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, February 15, 2019
Fantastic Friday #668 - Ahead
Ahead
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Are you one of those people who are always looking behind them to see how things were, what you did, or what you wish you would have done? If you are that kind of person, may I remind you that you cannot change the past, unless you are some kind of time traveler and I have not seen evidence of this ability in my time on earth. It is very easy to look back, and we all do it, but we can take the past and press forward to the future in order to make a difference. I am a history buff and look back a lot at our past history in order to see how we compare or have we changed, but I also look back to see if we have gotten better. I think if we could remember the bad past just enough to move ahead to the future, all of our lives might be different, and if we focus on the prize at the end, I certainly believe in a better future. Take the steps to move ahead to what God has called you to. Your life will be impacted, I guarantee it.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Are you one of those people who are always looking behind them to see how things were, what you did, or what you wish you would have done? If you are that kind of person, may I remind you that you cannot change the past, unless you are some kind of time traveler and I have not seen evidence of this ability in my time on earth. It is very easy to look back, and we all do it, but we can take the past and press forward to the future in order to make a difference. I am a history buff and look back a lot at our past history in order to see how we compare or have we changed, but I also look back to see if we have gotten better. I think if we could remember the bad past just enough to move ahead to the future, all of our lives might be different, and if we focus on the prize at the end, I certainly believe in a better future. Take the steps to move ahead to what God has called you to. Your life will be impacted, I guarantee it.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, February 8, 2019
Fantastic Friday #667 - Good
Good
10 As it is written:
“There is no one righteous, not even one;
11 there is no one who understands;
there is no one who seeks God.
12 All have turned away,
they have together become worthless;
there is no one who does good,
not even one.” Romans 3:10-12
There was a friend of mine who asked this week if people can be considered good without involving religion. I believe that was the question, however it has now been deleted. My first thoughts were that I commented with was that no one is good, which brought the question back to me of why do you say that Matt. I quoted a Romans scripture that was not this particular one above, but was more of the answer to who is good since all have fallen short. I think if you look at the definition of good, then this might be more clear. Good = morally excellent, virtuous, righteous, pious. How many of us can honestly look at this definition of good and say that we are good. I know I can't, but that doesn't mean I cannot strive to be good. The only way we can strive to be good is through a relationship with our father, and through religion we can come closer to our Father because there is an intentional focus with religion on God. So there is truth to both, while you don't have to have religion to have a relationship with God, it sure does make it easier. You just have to make sure that the religion you choose to involve yourself with is closely embedded with the teachings of God and does not primarily focus on a man or a woman, or an earthly inheritance that can bring you nothing but brief happiness. Choose God first and work on that relationship with Him daily.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
10 As it is written:
“There is no one righteous, not even one;
11 there is no one who understands;
there is no one who seeks God.
12 All have turned away,
they have together become worthless;
there is no one who does good,
not even one.” Romans 3:10-12
There was a friend of mine who asked this week if people can be considered good without involving religion. I believe that was the question, however it has now been deleted. My first thoughts were that I commented with was that no one is good, which brought the question back to me of why do you say that Matt. I quoted a Romans scripture that was not this particular one above, but was more of the answer to who is good since all have fallen short. I think if you look at the definition of good, then this might be more clear. Good = morally excellent, virtuous, righteous, pious. How many of us can honestly look at this definition of good and say that we are good. I know I can't, but that doesn't mean I cannot strive to be good. The only way we can strive to be good is through a relationship with our father, and through religion we can come closer to our Father because there is an intentional focus with religion on God. So there is truth to both, while you don't have to have religion to have a relationship with God, it sure does make it easier. You just have to make sure that the religion you choose to involve yourself with is closely embedded with the teachings of God and does not primarily focus on a man or a woman, or an earthly inheritance that can bring you nothing but brief happiness. Choose God first and work on that relationship with Him daily.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, February 1, 2019
Fantastic Friday #665 - Self Control
Self Control
You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.2 Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.
3 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4 Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.
6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us. Titus 2:1-8
How in control are you of the things that you do? Do you practice self-control? Lately a young man I know has been tossing things around at people, and not thinking clearly about what he is tossing before he does it and what the ultimate impact might be. I also know some people who are not careful with what they are eating and drinking, even though they know that they shouldn't be eating certain foods and drinking certain things, they continue to do it. I also know that I personally struggle with self control on many things throughout the day and find myself wondering why I have negative thoughts about people and their actions, instead of focusing on my own self control and personal actions. God wants us to be in self control and humble ourselves to Him for what He wants for us. Faith comes with that self control and allows us to endure the pain of whatever we are struggling with. So, don't spend time thinking you can't control what you are doing, know that with God you can practice the self-control and the humble obedience He wants from us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.2 Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.
3 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4 Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.
6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us. Titus 2:1-8
How in control are you of the things that you do? Do you practice self-control? Lately a young man I know has been tossing things around at people, and not thinking clearly about what he is tossing before he does it and what the ultimate impact might be. I also know some people who are not careful with what they are eating and drinking, even though they know that they shouldn't be eating certain foods and drinking certain things, they continue to do it. I also know that I personally struggle with self control on many things throughout the day and find myself wondering why I have negative thoughts about people and their actions, instead of focusing on my own self control and personal actions. God wants us to be in self control and humble ourselves to Him for what He wants for us. Faith comes with that self control and allows us to endure the pain of whatever we are struggling with. So, don't spend time thinking you can't control what you are doing, know that with God you can practice the self-control and the humble obedience He wants from us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, January 25, 2019
Fantastic Friday #664 - demons
demons
The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. 1 Timothy 4:1-3
I believe in demons in today's world and I wonder if you do as well. Do you know why I believe in demons, because not only did Jesus have a lot of experience with demons, but satan is allowed to rule the earth. I watched a show the other night before bed and it had some demonic activity in it. While I knew in my heart it wasn't real, and only a show, the demons saw an open door and wanted to remind me they were there. And sure enough I struggled with sleep and had burning thoughts of issues at work that I am having and they made them bigger in my mind than what they should be. We need to remember that God is bigger than all these things, and can protect us if we call on Him to help. We cannot abandon our faith in our Lord but must continually be thoughtful and thankful for all He provides.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. 1 Timothy 4:1-3
I believe in demons in today's world and I wonder if you do as well. Do you know why I believe in demons, because not only did Jesus have a lot of experience with demons, but satan is allowed to rule the earth. I watched a show the other night before bed and it had some demonic activity in it. While I knew in my heart it wasn't real, and only a show, the demons saw an open door and wanted to remind me they were there. And sure enough I struggled with sleep and had burning thoughts of issues at work that I am having and they made them bigger in my mind than what they should be. We need to remember that God is bigger than all these things, and can protect us if we call on Him to help. We cannot abandon our faith in our Lord but must continually be thoughtful and thankful for all He provides.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, January 18, 2019
Fantastic Friday #663 - Weeds
Weeds
37 He answered, “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man.38 The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Matthew 13:37-39
I had a friend tell me a story about a menacing thick weed in his yard that had been taken down months ago and the weed came back even stronger than before. So strong, he mentioned, it reminded of the Beanstalk, which was going to be a challenge but he got his gloves for protection and began the process of removing the weed. In order to keep the weed from coming back he visited his local greenery to purchase something to keep it from growing even higher. Once he got the weed removed, he thought he was safe and took his protection off to begin removing some of the thorns and sure enough he got pricked by the thorns. This story reminded me of the story in Matthew where the good seed is the Son of Man and the weeds are the people of the evil one. As long as we keep the protection of the Lord around us, we will be protected, but the moment we remove that protection is the moment we will be pricked and engulfed by the weeds. Remember that all we have to do is remind ourselves that God is our protection daily and can help us through those thorny situations.
Have a great weekend.
37 He answered, “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man.38 The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Matthew 13:37-39
I had a friend tell me a story about a menacing thick weed in his yard that had been taken down months ago and the weed came back even stronger than before. So strong, he mentioned, it reminded of the Beanstalk, which was going to be a challenge but he got his gloves for protection and began the process of removing the weed. In order to keep the weed from coming back he visited his local greenery to purchase something to keep it from growing even higher. Once he got the weed removed, he thought he was safe and took his protection off to begin removing some of the thorns and sure enough he got pricked by the thorns. This story reminded me of the story in Matthew where the good seed is the Son of Man and the weeds are the people of the evil one. As long as we keep the protection of the Lord around us, we will be protected, but the moment we remove that protection is the moment we will be pricked and engulfed by the weeds. Remember that all we have to do is remind ourselves that God is our protection daily and can help us through those thorny situations.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, January 11, 2019
Fantastic Friday #662 - Hands
Hands
6 Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly;
though lofty, he sees them from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
you preserve my life.
You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes;
with your right hand you save me.
8 The Lord will vindicate me;
your love, Lord, endures forever—
do not abandon the works of your hands. Psalm 138:6-8
Have you looked at your hands today? What do they look like? Do they appear that you have worked hard and put forth significant effort, or do they appear lazy, soft and unmovable? God gave us hands to do many things and accomplish things as well, but in order to use our hands we have to use our brain, because this organ controls everything. What have you done with your brain today to come closer to God? Was it prayer, there is a simple one out there you can speak daily. Is it read and absorb God's Word? There are over 800,000 words in the Bible, surely you can absorb some of those, especially if you can remember song lyrics, movie lines, or the latest YouTube video phenomenon. The great thing about this verse is that it shows how God has hands like us, that can be used to protect us from the things of this world that want to pull us away from Him. If you work with your mind and hands to come closer to Him, he will protect you from the trouble you face. The further away from Him we run, the further away from His hands we become. Stay within reach of our Father, for only He can vindicate us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
6 Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly;
though lofty, he sees them from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
you preserve my life.
You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes;
with your right hand you save me.
8 The Lord will vindicate me;
your love, Lord, endures forever—
do not abandon the works of your hands. Psalm 138:6-8
Have you looked at your hands today? What do they look like? Do they appear that you have worked hard and put forth significant effort, or do they appear lazy, soft and unmovable? God gave us hands to do many things and accomplish things as well, but in order to use our hands we have to use our brain, because this organ controls everything. What have you done with your brain today to come closer to God? Was it prayer, there is a simple one out there you can speak daily. Is it read and absorb God's Word? There are over 800,000 words in the Bible, surely you can absorb some of those, especially if you can remember song lyrics, movie lines, or the latest YouTube video phenomenon. The great thing about this verse is that it shows how God has hands like us, that can be used to protect us from the things of this world that want to pull us away from Him. If you work with your mind and hands to come closer to Him, he will protect you from the trouble you face. The further away from Him we run, the further away from His hands we become. Stay within reach of our Father, for only He can vindicate us.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
Friday, January 4, 2019
Fantastic Friday #661 - Mercy
Mercy
6 Praise be to the Lord,
for he has heard my cry for mercy.
7 The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:6-7
What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word mercy? The first thing that comes to my mind is compassion and an act of kindness. How have you shown mercy to someone this week? There is less compassion in our world today, for many reasons, and I think the biggest reason is because we don't acknowledge the mercy our Lord and Savior gives us daily. Once we start recognizing the Mercy our Lord heaps on us, then maybe we can see how it makes us feel and can provide mercy for those others that are less fortunate than us. Take a moment this week and ask God for mercy for whatever situation you are experiencing and then take that mercy and remember that daily for a week. Maybe then you can see how it can make a difference and then show mercy to others whenever you can.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
6 Praise be to the Lord,
for he has heard my cry for mercy.
7 The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:6-7
What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word mercy? The first thing that comes to my mind is compassion and an act of kindness. How have you shown mercy to someone this week? There is less compassion in our world today, for many reasons, and I think the biggest reason is because we don't acknowledge the mercy our Lord and Savior gives us daily. Once we start recognizing the Mercy our Lord heaps on us, then maybe we can see how it makes us feel and can provide mercy for those others that are less fortunate than us. Take a moment this week and ask God for mercy for whatever situation you are experiencing and then take that mercy and remember that daily for a week. Maybe then you can see how it can make a difference and then show mercy to others whenever you can.
Have a great weekend.
Matt
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