Making the Lord a Priority in Your Retirement Years

 ARE YOU WATCHING THE CLOCK DURING THE DAY?

Time flies! How do we use it? We can never have a do-over! We can not retrieve it. By now you’ve lived some life and understand how the minutes in our day slip away. Chances are that you’ve proclaimed, “I don’t have enough time!” As I mature the time goes by faster than ever. I can’t seem to slow it down. There are definitely some ways to make our time productive without exhausting oneself. God created time. He gave us twenty four hours everyday so let’s reevaluate how we use it.

WHERE DOES THE LORD FIT INTO YOUR DAY?

There is only one way to control time for the Lord and that is purposely setting time aside to spend in prayer and reading His Word. This allows Him to speak back to us through His Word or His still small voice. When I do this I am prepared for whatever invades my day. Ask yourself if you have made time to spend with the Lord? Is it in your daily plan?

WHAT DO YOU DO WITH MOST OF YOUR TIME?

Let’s face it, our lives are filled with busyness. Some of us are working a job. Others of us are retired but are amazed at how much we still have to do. We are all squeezing in groceries, cleaning, preparing meals, traveling, paying bills, and helping our children with their children. The list is endless. It is important to set aside what I am doing and savor the moments that I have with friends and family. Nothing compares to in-depth conversation. Too often we can skim the surface, not stopping to hear the full story or depth of emotion.

I find it just as important to pencil in coffee with a friend as it is to determine the time in my day that I set aside for writing or artwork. It is too easy to seclude myself so I can feel that I have accomplished my goal and miss out on something important happening around me. How do I ensure that I am doing what I need to do or go where I need to go?

DEVOTE TIME TO THE LORD.

When you make time for God, you will be amazed at how much better your day unfolds. You will redeem the time that is given and will look back on your day with a feeling of contentment. Plan ahead, make a decision be diligent to follow through

I have gotten into a routine in the morning. As soon as I awake I make myself a hot cup of coffee, get in my comfortable chair, drag a blanket over my lap and then read a short devotional. This helps me to immediately start reflecting on Jesus. I then turn to my Bible and ask the Lord to clear my thoughts so that I can receive His thoughts. I do not rush this. It’s important to sit and ponder what I am reading. Sometimes I will journal passages that speak to my heart that day. I then sit back and rest in the Lord while lifting up praise and petitions to Him.

“THERE IS AN APPOINTED TIME FOR EVERYTHING AND THERE IS A TIME FOR EVERY EVENT UNDER HEAVEN.”   ECCLESIASTES 3:1

PROMPT

Take some time right now to talk with Jesus. It can be as little as five minutes — there’s no pressure! Read Ecclesiastes 3:1 and ask Jesus to tell you what He’s appointed for you in this day? What does He want you to say “yes” to? What does he want you to say “no” or “not now” to in your life? Whatever He says, thank Him for His love and instruction, rest in His presence, and then go enjoy the time set before you.

Find Refreshment Through the Holy Spirit in Retirement

 DO I NEED MORE OF HIS SPIRIT NOW THAT I AM RETIRED?

As a mature Christian that has the freedom to choose what we will accomplish each day we are in need of the Holy Spirit more than ever before. When we were younger it seemed like we had endless years stretching out before us. We now come to realize that time is slipping away and there is so much that still needs to be done to leave a lasting imprint on family, friends and society. 

BE FILLED AND REFILLED!

This is not the time to start coasting in life. This is an important time to be filled and refilled by the Holy Spirit of God. The Spirit desires to give us wisdom on a daily basis. Whether you have household chores to accomplish or people to meet with, the Spirit is happy to lead. It is a wonderful experience to be in the right place at the right time. With the Holy Spirit leading you will find more opportunities to share God’s truths and His love. 

I’M SAVED, WHY DO I NEED TO ASK FOR MORE?

The scripture reminds us that we are in need of His Spirit. We are influenced by this world constantly and it taints how we think and react. We need to be saturated daily with His Spirit to counteract this. 

1 Corinthians 2:12-13 says:

“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words.”

HERE’S A GREAT SUGGESTION FOR BEING REFILLED.

Spend time sitting alone in His presence. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you. Allow the Spirit to minister to your needs.

 Find refreshment and restoration in your relationship with the Living God through these precious moments. You will find peace and fulfillment and be recharged for the day ahead. 

His Spirit will gently speak and lead you with his direction and even correction. Rejoice in the fact that the Lord is never finished with us until we take our final breath on this side of heaven.

Victorious Living as a Mature Christian

 FREEDOM REIGNS WHEN WE LIVE VICTORIOUSLY!

Walking with the Lord over a period of years is a wonderful experience. The brothers and sisters in Christ that we have had the privilege to know and grow with is diverse to say the least. Over the years we have opened our hearts to receive from Bible teachings, retreats, church services, prayer groups and home fellowships. 

WHAT ARE YOU DESIRING?

Hopefully we are now self-feeders by consistently reading the Word and devoting time to communicate to Jesus in Prayer. There should be a striving to be more Christ like. This is done by tuning in to the still small voice of Christ through His Spirit. That voice can approve our actions, spur us on or suggest a laying down of things in our lives that could be hindering the move of His Spirit.

HOW ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME?

Journeying through life with Christ has brought us to a time where we have freedom to decide what we will or will not do. It is more important than ever to have an ear to hear His daily direction. It is too easy to while away the hours of each day in a floundering fashion.

STRUGGLES ARE REAL.

Are there things in your life that you have a strong desire to accomplish? Are there expectations laid upon you by others that are unrealistic or even condemning? Are you experiencing feelings of inadequacy or regrets? Struggles are real. Turn to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. He will direct your steps while giving you His strength and wisdom to accomplish whatever it is that He has gifted you to do. 

COMPLETE FREEDOM IS COMING!

We haven’t arrived to perfection yet. Complete freedom comes when we depart from these fleshly bodies to live in heaven with the Lord for eternity. What a glorious day that will be! No more Satan and his minions to buffet our minds, body and soul. We are now free from condemnation, grief, despair and disillusionment. 

LIVE VICTORIOUSLY!

The battle isn’t over until it is over. We will live victoriously for eternity, but Jesus desires us to live victoriously in the here and now. Meditate on the scriptures that have given you assurance and direction. Praise the King of Kings and Lord of Lords who paid the penalty for our past, present and future sins by spilling His precious blood on the cross. Rest in the knowledge that God is in control. Enjoy your freedom and take joy in His personal presence and love.

HERE IS A GREAT SCRIPTURE TO DWELL ON;

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1-2

POSITIVE STEPS:

*Draw close to the Lord through His Word and prayer

*Ask for daily direction.

*Run to Jesus when you experience condemnation.

*Praise the Lord for His goodness.

*Embrace freedom!

Mature Christians Must Grow in His Word

 IS YOUR CONFIDENCE IN THE WORD OF GOD?

Amazingly to me, individuals that have been walking with the Lord for many years, conversation never seem to turn to the Lord or His Word. Seemingly the Word of God has been pushed to the sidelines as people focus on all the enticements and distractions of the surrounding world.

ARE YOU STILL GROWING?

As mature Christians we should have developed a healthy pattern of reading the Word as a part of our daily diet. Just as quickly as we reach for the first cup of coffee or power drink we should be opening our Bible for a healthy dose of truth to stimulate our mind and spirit for the day ahead.

NO COASTING!

This is not the time to coast. This is the time to dig in. We do not know how much time we have left on this side of heaven. We need to use our time wisely and effectively to reach our friends and family. The Word will catapult you forward with purpose and drive. You may have more time for yourself now that you are retired or your children have grown. You no longer have to fulfill the desire of your boss or cart children around to all of their activities. 

THE LORD DESIRES TO DIRECT YOU.

The Word continually changes your heart and directs your steps if you allow it. The Lord desires that your heart becomes like His. He came to the earth to serve mankind, not to be served. We must ask ourselves if we are missing opportunities to better serve others. Are we bringing others joy, hope or peace?

BE HIS INSTRUMENT.

Allowing yourself to be an instrument of the Lord will bring interesting challenges. Life continues to be exciting as you continue reading and studying the Word because you acquire wisdom and knowledge from above. When someone questions you about your faith or why you think the way you do, you will have answers that come from the very mouth of God. 

THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURE WILL DESCRIBE YOU AS YOU MATURE IN THE WORD AND THE LORD:

“Be diligent to present yourself approved of God, as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the Word of truth.” 2Timothy 2:15

TODAY’S TAKEAWAY:

 *Continue the pattern of reading the Word daily

 *Look for opportunities to share the Word with others

 *Ask the Lord for His purpose and direction

 *Serve others

How to Order Your Day When You are in Ministry

 IS MINISTRY KEEPING YOU TOO BUSY?

Interruptions and schedule changes are a guaranteed part of our lives when we serve or work in ministry. We think we have our day planned when the unexpected happens. Our wonderful plans have been interrupted. So how are we to prioritize spending time with God as well as dealing with the constant changes to our schedule? Give Jesus a say over how your day is ordered.

EVERY DAY BRINGS NEW MINISTRY CHALLENGES.

If I wasn’t aware of the Lord’s leading me through this winding path of ministry, I would throw my hands into the air and give up. I think I would just leave it all and escape. The problem is the projects ahead of me do not go away. Anxiety can quickly take over and cause me more grief if I stay in this emotional state.

I was pulled in many directions as I served as Executive Director of a local Crisis Pregnancy Center. I served on committees, planned fundraising events, participated in Board meetings, trained volunteers, counseled clients looking for help, ordered supplies, cleaned the office, connected with local churches, sent out emails and prayer requests. The list goes on as it does in any ministry. We never seem to have enough money or enough workers.

HOW CAN WE BALANCE OUR TIME IN MINISTRY?

The busy day ahead with unlimited tasks can be daunting. The Lord will help you to prioritize your schedule if you ask Him. Start out your day reading His Word and spending some quiet time in prayer with the Lord is the key to success. He knows what is important and what you should focus on for that very day. When you spend the time to ask the Lord you will be amazed how the day ahead of you will unfold.

Make a list of all the things you need to accomplish, the people who you need to connect with and the places you need to visit. Place the list before the Lord and ask for His strength and wisdom to lead you throughout the day. When you rely on the Lord, He will help you to overcome procrastination which alleviates undo stress. Ask the Lord for patience with those who you are working with as they also have busy lives with never ending challenges. Be flexible. No matter how carefully you plan your day expect interruptions. Many times interruptions can bring answers to difficult problems and allow you to receive a much needed blessing.

WHAT IF ALL MY MINISTRY GOALS AREN’T MET?

When you leave your office make sure you leave the unfinished work behind. It will be waiting for you to make a new list the following day. It’s now time to focus on family, friends and church service. Be joyful. Know that your life is full and you are fortunate.

Do You Need a Recharge?

You landed a job that is considered ministry unto the Lord. You are one blessed person! I bet you started your job with great enthusiasm and joy. You are now able to put your hand the Lord’s work. The excitement to be in a position that will make a positive impression on the culture is a wonderful feeling.

WHY DO YOU FEEL WORN OUT?

Not too many days into this wonderful job you may be surprised to find that you have a feeling of exasperation. You feel like you are coming up short, unsatisfied or even dry. Welcome to ministry! There never seems to be enough help and the responsibilities all fall on you. The expectations of others are high and you are trying to live up to it. In your heart, you may yearn to do a great job but you are finding it all quite overwhelming.

HOW CAN I BE AN OVERCOMER AND BE SUCCESSFUL?

Ask yourself a simple question. Did you recharge your soul by asking the Holy Spirit to fill you up to overflowing? Did you take time to renew your mind in the Word of God before heading to the office? If you realize you are falling short in this area you will definitely find your job to be a bit trying. When you enter a job in ministry you must realize you are entering into a spiritual battle. There is a real enemy that does not want you to succeed.

JESUS GIVES US THE ANSWER!

Jesus told His disciples that He needed to leave the earth, returning to the Father, so that He could send the comforter, also known as the Holy Spirit. He told them to wait in Jerusalem until they received His power. As they were obedient and waited in prayer in the upper room the Holy Spirit made His grand entrance. The scripture calls this Pentecost:

“And when the day of Pentecost had come they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance.” Acts 2:1-4

It was after this first event of the Holy Spirit filling up the disciples that they were able to go out into the world and proclaim the gospel with boldness.

CAN WE HAVE THIS POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OUR LIFE?

These were men and woman obediently waiting on Jesus promise. We are just like them. We must wait upon the Lord to be recharged by His Spirit to fulfill the tasks that come our way in the day ahead. Make this a priority and you will be amazed at how different your day in ministry will unfold.

SET A PLAN

Start your day with prayer and reading scripture

Ask the Lord to fill you with His Spirit

Wait on the Lord and when you receive His peace head to the office

Put your hand to the Lord’s work filled with His joy

 

Serving in Freedom in Ministry

 YOU ARE PRIVILEGED!

Do you have any idea of what an awesome privilege you have been awarded? You are called by the Living Lord, the God of all creation, to serve Him with great purpose. Whether you are serving in a Christian organization that gives you a paycheck or not, or you are volunteering at your church, you are a blessed individual.

IS YOUR IMPACT EFFECTIVE?

God desires for you to make an impact on the people you are serving and on those who work beside you. It is easy to be tripped up by rules or requests that others put upon you. Others ideals about how you should lead or even busy yourself can be distracting, if not overwhelming. Be aware that well intentioned individuals may be placing a burden on you that could actually make you ineffective in ministry.

TIME TO RE-EVALUATE

Inquire of the Lord what committees or programs you should busy yourself with.  Be willing to graciously say no or not at this time to others. Be wise as to what outreaches you start and areas that you should trim back or even stop. Re-evaluate the routines that are in place so that you can be the most effective. 

BE FREE FROM PRIDE

You must be in tune with the Holy Spirit. Allow Him to lead as you lead others. Striving to succeed in your own strength or striving to impress others can produce a bondage of pride. Pride will strip you of freedom.

POUR OUT HIS LOVE AND GRACE

When we choose to walk in freedom we experience Christ and His love walking along with us. We will embrace the opportunities to share God’s Word and be a living example of His grace. We are wetting the appetite of those around us to search for a deeper relationship with Christ because they see our joy, hope, strength and peace. 

BE FREE TO FOLLOW THE VISION THE LORD HAS GIVEN YOU IN MINISTRY, JUST AS THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURE REMINDS US:

“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13

HELPFUL HINTS FOR SERVING IN FREEDOM:

*Ask the Lord to fill you with His Holy Spirit.

*Prioritize the things that need to be accomplished to fulfill the ministry.

*Be open to opportunities to share the Lord’s love.

*Enjoy your freedom in Christ!

What Message are You Bringing to Your Ministry?

 YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE PRIVILEGE TO BE A LEADER. 

You have been called by the living God of all creation to set the tone for the ministry you are involved with. Step back and ask yourself what kind of message am I communicating? 

BE A LIVING EXAMPLE 

The Lord has chosen you to be His mouthpiece. The sounds that exude from you should be uplifting, encouraging and inspirational. Because you are in a position that is considered leadership many will be looking to you for a living example. Wow! This is actually pretty important! 

STARTING YOUR DAY  

Beginning each day in prayer and reading God’s Word are essential. Thanking the Lord for the new day and inviting him to participate with you throughout will give you vision and stamina to succeed. 

MAKE A PLAN TO MOVE FORWARD 

Don’t fall into the trap of complaining that there is too much to do. Rejoice that you are counted worthy to represent the Lord in everything. You can allow yourself to be buried or you can conquer the hill of tasks one step at a time. Rejoice as you move forward even if it feels like slow motion. 

DIVERSE GIFTING’S BRING STRENGTH 

Recognize those working beside you. God has gifted them in unique ways that will bring depth to your programs. Thank the Lord for the diverse individuals that complete your ministry.  Ask God how to use their gifting’s for His glory and honor. Remember you are not alone. 

TRY SMILING! 

As you work together you can create a wonderful atmosphere of fun, laughter, joy and renewal while moving forward in your busyness. God has called this ministry into being and desires to accomplish His goal and purpose. Prune faces that portray anxiety can actually stall out your work. 

PREVENT BURN OUT 

Stay true to the calling and re-evaluate the things you are doing. Are they truly benefiting? As you find God’s direction and stick to it you will give healthy direction and burnout will stay at bay. 

MEDITATING ON THE WORD AND LIVING IT WILL BRING ABOUT GREAT RESULTS. COLOSSIANS 3:16 GIVES INSPIRATION: 

“Let the Word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” 

TODAY’S TAKE-AWAY: 

*Start your day reading the Word and praying. 

*Check your attitude, are you grateful or grouchy? 

*Encourage your staff by bringing joy into the workplace. 

*Know that if God has called this ministry into being, He will continue to help, direct and provide. 

How to find Time To Read And Pray as a busy Parent

 STRUGGLING WITH TIME TO PRAY?

Are you frustrated with yourself? Have you found it almost impossible to set time aside to spend with the Lord? Might you have little ones that seem to take up all of your time? Have you thrown up your arms and shouted, “I don’t have enough time, Lord!” There are a few ways that you can redeem that time. The Lord wants to spend time with you personally. You can be in control of this with a few easy ideas.

HOW I BECAME A CONQUEROR OF MY TIME AND YOU CAN TOO!

My oldest daughter was the “early bird that gets the worm”. As soon as the sun popped up her eyes popped open. Much too early for my liking, her big brown eyes were peering up over the edge of my bed. I was never an early bird so I had to set down some rules for my own sanity. Thankfully digital clocks had been invented. I put one in her bedroom and explained to her that she could leave her room when the clock read seven zero zero. Amazingly she followed the new rule, but as soon as seven o’clock appeared, out the door she would march!

MY STRUGGLES FOR TIME WITH JESUS CONTINUED.

My day began with one eye open as I was surrounded by three chattering children, all vying for my attention. The chaos never seems to end when you have little ones. No matter where I was in the home my children were close at hand. How was I ever to find quiet time with the Lord? I tried to get up before seven but my own body clock didn’t react well. I couldn’t concentrate so it was a useless effort. I would busy the children with toys or a project and then sit down with my Bible. All too soon, the interruptions pursued.

JUST ASK AND JESUS WILL GUIDE YOU!

I asked the Lord for guidance in this area and you can too. I’m a night owl so the Lord made me aware that it was more effective for me to spend time reading the Bible and praying before I went to sleep at night. This was a tremendous help. Meditating on the Lord without interruptions gave me much needed stamina and peace for the upcoming day. Instead of striving, worrying and pushing my children to the side, I was filled with the Lord’s peace and presence.

MAKE A PLAN FOR YOUR TIME THAT WORKS.

Ask God to give you direction for the best time of day that will work for you. Early morning, children’s nap time, or in the evening are a few examples available. Turn this time into a habit. Make yourself comfortable including your Bible and a prayer journal. Take time to meditate on what speaks to your heart from His Word. Jot down a favorite scripture or prayer request. Rest in His goodness.

BIBLE VERSE

FOR ME, IT WAS THE EVENING WHEN I SET DEVOTIONAL TIME ASIDE, SO THIS SCRIPTURE SPEAKS TO MY HEART:

“MAY MY PRAYER BE COUNTED AS INCENSE BEFORE THEE; THE LIFTING UP OF MY HANDS AS THE EVENING OFFERING.”

— PSALM 141:2

The Holy Spirit Strengthens You

 HAVE YOU BEEN ASTOUNDED AT HOW DIFFICULT IT IS TO BE A PARENT?

Who would have dreamed that your beautiful little children, or your teenagers, would zap you of so much energy? While caring for their needs you are also expected to run through the thankless repetition of house cleaning, laundry, cooking meals, grocery shopping, driving children to school, play dates or sports. We berate ourselves for finding that the fulfillment we thought we would receive from having a family has flown from our grasp, possibly bringing us frustration or even tears?

WHERE IS THE STRENGTH THAT I SO DESPERATELY NEED?

There is a strength we too often forget to turn to or call upon. When we receive Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord we are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. This is a gift that can never be taken away and that fills us with strength in our everyday life situations. Too often we begin our day without finding encouragement through the Word of God and refreshment by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a gift that keeps on giving. We need to turn our thoughts to His strength, grace, wisdom and leading at every opportunity.

THE WORD OF GOD ENCOURAGES US:

“For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, for why does one hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. And in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”

EMBRACE THE GIFT!

What a wonderful gift we have been given! Recognize the Living God is residing in your heart and is continually praying for you to receive strength to persevere. As you continue parenting your children, no matter what age, to the best of your ability you are actually pleasing God. Understand that you can call on Him to help you on a daily basis. Nothing is too big or small for our Lord to be actively involved.

LET’S FOCUS ON A PLAN

As you wake in the morning invite the Holy Spirit to be an active part of your day ahead, to immerse you with His presence.

Turn to the Spirit in the hard or frustrating moments and find His strength and wisdom to increase hope and trust in Him.

Praise the Lord and thank Him for His Holy Spirit that helps you persevere. Take a moment and remember the good things that He has done for you.

Now put a genuine smile on your face and enjoy the day!

Finding Freedom as a Parent or Homemaker

 WHAT DIRECTION ARE YOU LOOKING?

It is extremely important to look forward and not back. Too often our minds start dwelling in the past and somehow our memory of things becomes skewed by sugar coating the actual experiences. We start longing for the good old days. This is not the way to walk in freedom. We are actually allowing our minds to be brought into a type of bondage as it produces depression and dissatisfaction. 

MY DREAMS AND PLANS SEEM MURKY.

When you were walking in singleness you were desiring a marriage partner, children and a home of your own. Now that that is a reality you may not be feeling the joy and contentment that you once expected. When you have a young family there are a plethora of demands on your time. You are not experiencing wonderful accolades or pats on the back for a job well done. No one seems to notice the continual cycle of cooking, cleaning, shopping, wiping noses and yes, wiping butts! Where is the promotion? The freedom I once had now seems to be lost.

TIME FOR AN ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT!

The Lord desires you to readjust your vision. He has a perfect plan and purpose for your life. The things you are experiencing now are a part of the building blocks that help form His character in you for your future. There are many people who would love to walk in your shoes. Lift up your eyes and ask the Lord to reveal what He is developing in your life. Rejoice in the growth of your children, the love of your spouse, the roof over your head, and the food you are able to prepare and enjoy.

SET SOME TIME ASIDE.

Sit down and enrich your life in the Word of God. Teach it to your children and discuss it with your spouse. The Lord desires you to look forward with expectation for your future. He loves when you walk in freedom by experiencing the depth of joy that comes from knowing Him. His path is perfect for you.

“ Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet: but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14

PLAN FOR THE DAY:

Evaluate your emotions. Are you beginning to wallow in self-pity? Run to the Lord and His Word. Get a spiritual refill. Thank God for the positive things in your life. Rejoice in the true freedom you can experience when you look forward to His perfect plan.

Making the Word a Priority

 HANG ON TO THE WORD THROUGH THICK AND THIN!

“This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Your emotional state of mind might not feel like rejoicing at the moment. You may have been sleep deprived because of sick children or just exhausted with the routine of shopping, cooking and cleaning. The weather may be dreary and or you don’t seem to have enough money. There may be a plethora of reasons you are experiencing disillusionment today.

DO YOUR EMOTIONS CONFUSE YOUR FAITH?

Fortunately, for all of us, our emotions do not dictate who God is. When you are in emotional upheaval it is time to turn to your Bible. The Bible will return you to the reality of what our existence is all about. We are reminded to turn to God’s Son Jesus Christ for all our peace, hope and inspiration. He is the one who created you, a mere human, to fellowship with Him for eternity.

FIND AFFIRMATION IN THE WORD.

The Bible, which is God’s Word, will lift you above your circumstances. His Word has recorded everything that we need to know. It reaffirms that Jesus was with God in the beginning and is God. The Word is our daily reminder that Jesus sacrifice on the cross and resurrection provides a way for us to experience an everlasting relationship with Him. What a privilege!

ARE YOU GETTING YOUR DAILY BREAD?

The Word is our daily bread. In our busy lives it is much too easy to leave reading the Word, or should I say feeding on the Word, at the end of our check list. If your check list is anything like mine, I never seem to get to the end of it.  Distractions and interruptions many times take precedent over my to do list. If this happens day after day we find ourselves starving spiritually. 

EQUIP YOURSELF.

When we are diligent in reading and meditating on the Word, we are equipped to be an encourager to our spouse and others. We are more aware of opportunities to teach our children the way the Lord would desire them to act and live. The scriptures also bring a song to our mind and heart that carries us through the mundane. We become more hopeful and gracious as the Word penetrates our very being. 

RESTORATION COMES!

Our hearts and minds are renewed and restored as we soak in the Word. We are now able to confess with our mouths the truths that have been freely given to us. We become an instrument that can be used by the Savior to bring peace, joy and hope into our homes which then spills out to others. Each new day we are presented with unique opportunities.

FIND ENCOURAGEMENT WHEN YOUR READ ROMANS 10:8-11:

“But what does it sat? “The Word is near you; in your mouth and in your heart”- that is, the Word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness; and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.”

ACTION PLAN:

*Prioritize – put reading the Word at the top of your to do list daily

*Allow your heart to be renewed and restored

*Become an encourager to your family

*Spill the Good News out to others

Start a Routine of Following Jesus

 SHOULD I DEVOTE TIME TO JESUS NOW THAT I HAVE BECOME A CHRISTIAN?

You began a new journey when you invited the Lord Jesus Christ to enter your life. This is the most amazing thing you will ever do and it’s a decision that lasts for eternity. Now is the perfect time to create new patterns in your daily routine. I want to encourage you to carve out some time in your day for the Lord. It is important to use your time differently now so that you know Jesus in a deeper way. Can you make time for the Lord to teach you? Let’s look at a few simple suggestions.

IS YOUR LIFE CHANGING?

Are you noticing changes in your surroundings? It is like a light switch was turned on in your mind and heart. The world around you is looking different. It isn’t the world that has changed, it is you! When I cried out to Jesus, I had an immediate desire to start reading the Bible. I took an old Bible that had been sitting in my home for years and started reading it for the first time ever. Where did that desire come from and when should I actually read the Bible?

The desire to read the Bible comes from God’s Holy Spirit. When we allow the Lord into our lives, He gives us new desires — His desires. The Spirit from God wants us to read His Word so that we can begin to know Him and His ways. There is no set time that you must read the Bible, just make time to read it every day. You will be amazed, just as I was, of all the history and miracles that are recorded for our faith to grow in the Lord.

WE NEED TO BE RENEWED

When you start reading the Bible ask the Lord for spiritual understanding. He desires to renew your mind. Our thought patterns have been set and influenced for years without the Lord working in us. It is now time to allow the Spirit to change our hearts and our minds by the cleansing that comes from the Word, just as the scriptures say:

“THAT YOU BE RENEWED IN THE SPIRIT OF YOUR MIND, AND PUT ON THE NEW SELF, WHICH IN THE LIKENESS OF GOD HAS BEEN CREATED IN RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS OF THE TRUTH.”

— EPHESIANS 4:23-24

I was overjoyed when I realized I was being changed: 

“THEREFORE IF ANY MAN IS IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATURE, THE OLD THINGS PASSED AWAY; BEHOLD NEW THINGS HAVE COME.”

— 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17

TODAYS TAKEAWAY:

Open your eyes to God’s creation. Make time to read your Bible. Pray for God’s understanding. Take time to meditate on the scriptures you have read. Rejoice that God is renewing you. Enjoy your new life in Christ!

Is the Holy Spirit Important?

 DO I NEED THE HOLY SPIRIT?

This is a great question. When I was growing up the Holy Spirit was called the Holy Ghost. That sounded a little spooky to me so I wasn’t too sure about allowing Him to be close by. Somewhere along the line, He was being referred to as the Holy Spirit. Regardless of His name, He is one and the same. He is the third part of the Trinity, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

DO I NEED TO KNOW THE HOLY SPIRIT?

The moment you call out to God, He reveals His Son Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross for you personally. When you believe this fact and embrace it in your heart, the Holy Spirit supernaturally enters your very soul. This is the miraculous moment when you have become Born Again.

Jesus speaks about this to the greatest religious teacher in Jerusalem, Nicodemus. You see, Nicodemus is troubled because he recognizes that Jesus must have been sent from God. He can’t grasp who Jesus actually is. This brings us to Jesus amazing answer:

“JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID TO HIM, ‘TRULY, TRULY, I SAY TO YOU, UNLESS ONE IS BORN AGAIN, HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD.’”

— JOHN 3:3

What an astounding statement. The leader and teacher of the Old Testament scriptures eyes and heart couldn’t receive full understanding until the Holy Spirit of God entered his soul. This is the only way to be truly alive to spiritual things pertaining to the Holy God. Jesus further reveals the plan by His famous statement found in John 3:16:

“FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD, THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH, BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.”

ISN’T THE HOLY SPIRIT WHO WE’VE ALL BEEN SEEKING?

We all desire, deep in our hearts, the assurance that at the end of this life we continue to live on. We each have been given a free will from God to choose Him. The Holy Spirit comes alongside us, calling our name, in hopes that we will, in turn, call out to Jesus for a new life, an everlasting life. Jesus remains a gentleman, as He does not force us to follow Him. I love the scripture that describes this in Revelation 3:20;

“BEHOLD, I STAND AT THE DOOR AND KNOCK; IF ANYONE HEARS MY VOICE AND OPENS THE DOOR, I WILL COME INTO HIM AND WILL DINE WITH HIM, AND HE WITH ME.”

ALLOW THE HOLY SPIRIT INTO YOUR LIFE FULLY TODAY!

Don’t waste another moment in time. Open the door of your heart and the Holy Spirit will flood your soul. He wants to journey with you in this life and in the world to come. Rejoice in the free gift from God and enjoy the new vibrant life you have stepped into. Hold on to this fabulous scripture from Ephesians 2:8:

“FOR BY GRACE YOU HAVE BEEN SAVED THROUGH FAITH; AND THAT NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT FROM GOD”

WHAT CAN I TAKE AWAY FROM THIS REGARDING THE HOLY SPIRIT?

Recognize that the Holy Spirit is part of the Holy Trinity of God

You need to invite the Holy Spirit into your heart and soul

God is delighted to be involved in your everyday life, so begin your day by thanking Him

Realize that you didn’t earn this but that He is a gift that will now open your mind to the Holy Scriptures. Look and see the world around you with new eyes. Embrace the day!

New Found Faith Brings Freedom

 

NEW FOUND FREEDOM!

Something amazing has happened in your life! For the first time ever you are able to walk in freedom. Now this might seem peculiar because you were brought up in the USA and have known freedom that many around the world do not enjoy. 

WHY DO THINGS LOOK DIFFERENT?

I am talking about freedom that comes into your heart, mind and soul when you became a true follower of Jesus Christ. The very moment you invited Jesus to enter your being you were forever changed. The world around you starts to look different because you now have spiritual eyes. You become acutely aware of things that you considered normal in your character and life that should be changed or corrected.

HOW DO I GET TO EXPERIENCE FREEDOM?

To truly experience the freedom that comes from Christ you need to be willing to form new habits such as prayer and reading Gods Word, the Bible. This reshapes those areas that have not been pleasing to God. When you ask the Lord for help to change to become more like Him, taking on His qualities, you will be astounded at how awesome it feels. Many choices in your past were actually keeping you in bondage.

ALLOW GOD TO FLOW THROUGH YOU!

God has gifted each person in multiple ways. So often we have stifled those gifts because we were walking through life in a form of darkness. It is delightful to see clearly. Thank the Lord for His light and the gift of new life.

THE SCRIPTURES MAKE THINGS SO MUCH CLEARER:

“Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed,”If you abide in My Word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” John 8:31-32

ENCOURAGEMENT TODAY: 

Read your Bible

When you recognize you are walking contrary to the Word, ask the Lord for forgiveness and the power to change.

Enjoy your new life in Christ and walk in true freedom!

The Bible is the Word of God

 NEW FOUND FAITH POINTS TO THE BIBLE

You have recently dedicated your life to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. This brings many unanswered questions to your mind and heart. Your eyes are now open to the wonders of creation and a yearning to acquire more knowledge and understanding of God.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN OTHERS REFER TO THE BIBLE AS THE WORD?

An interesting truth is the Bible is actually the written words of the living God. Through the ages of history over forty authors penned the specific words spoken directly to them by the Holy Spirit of God. This is an amazing, awe-inspiring book that is intertwined and interwoven. 

Boundless stories in the New Testament are foreshadowed in the Old Testament. It is significantly important to read the whole thing, not just favorite parts. The prophesies in the Old Testament are fulfilled in the New Testament. This is a wondrous book!

BE AWARE OF FALSE TEACHING!

Beware of people influencing you to believe the Bible is just a collection of stories or poetry. This idea stumbled me for many years. I was taught by a teacher of religion that Adam and Eve, Noah and the Ark, and other stories were fables that were meant to leave us with good inspiration. This led me to question if Jesus was a fable as well.

HAVE YOU CRIED OUT TO GOD?

Fortunately for me, some years later, I cried out to God to show me personally if He was real. He not only gave me assurance and peace in my heart but implanted a deep desire to read the Bible. The Holy Spirit of God drew me directly to His Word and revealed that Jesus was the true Son of God who had paid the penalty for all my sins.

TIME TO OPEN YOUR HEART!

I was amazed as I read the true stories recorded for me to learn and grow in my faith. I was led to good Bible teachers that taught directly from the Word, verse by verse. I learned that Jesus was with God in the beginning speaking the world and everything else into existence. The Bible was written to us and for us. What a marvelous gift!

A FANTASTIC SCRIPTURE SPEAKING TRUTH ABOUT THE WORD IS FOUND IN JOHN 1:1-2, 14:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,  and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.” And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

INSPIRING TAKEAWAYS:

*To understand the Word you must first accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior.

*Set aside time each day to read and meditate on the Word.

*The Word is Jesus Christ, full of grace and truth.

*Enjoy this marvelous gift!

Serving Others With Joy.

YOUR WORLD IS CHANGING DRASTICALLY!

You had a hard time living up to the expectations of others and or even yourself. You used to follow a set of rules, regulations and conduct that others may have expected. You may have felt the need to conform to those around you. You just desired to fit in. You wanted to be accepted or needed. Now you have been introduced to a new way of thinking and living. Jesus is in the process of renewing your mind.

WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Reading your Bible and sitting under good solid Biblical teaching will begin your journey of understanding. God has a great purpose for you as an individual. You no longer have to conform to the world’s image. You now have a desire to conform to the Lord’s image.

AM I REALLY CHANGING?

You are released from being pushed by the ever moving flow of humanity and are standing like a rock in a stream, not easily driven forward by the flow. This happens because there is a new inner man (or woman) immerging. The design God had intentioned for you is now budding forth in newness of life. The Holy Spirit begins giving you concern for others and a desire to reach out through creative ways to enhance or improve their lives.

SERVICE UNTO THE LORD HAS BEGUN.

Love becomes your motivation to serve and brings an inner peace to your soul. Jesus himself came to earth to serve, not to be served. He is our example. You’re becoming more like Jesus when you lay down your own desires and enjoy doing things for others. You will find enjoyment, newness of life, restoration and regeneration.

HOW DO I KNOW WHERE TO SERVE?

Service opportunities abound. Your eyes are open to accept joyfully the freedom that allows you to step into new rolls which include new areas to serve. No need to strive in this, God will show you when, where and how. Prayerfully ask the Lord to show you if you should serve in your local church and or a Christian ministry in your community. Believe me, both areas will welcome you with open arms! I love the following scripture from Romans 7:6:

“But now we have been released from the law, having died to that by which we were bound, so that we serve in newness of the Spirit and not in oldness of the letter.”

Experience the Masters’ love when you serve through His grace.

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

*You are a new creation in Christ

*Fill yourself with God’s Word

*Start noticing the needs of others

*Ask the Lord to direct your steps

*Enjoy serving others