"Respond gently when you are confronted and you'll defuse the rage of another. Responding with sharp, cutting words will only make it worse. Don't you know that being angry can ruin the testimony of even the wisest of men?"
Proverbs 15:1 TPT
My wife and I were discussing this very point yesterday. How our anger and our words can ruin our testimony.
I have gotten better in my old age, but I was a hot head in my younger years. And for that, there are still people from my past that think I am just a jerk. Because of my anger and my words.
Consider your words and what you have to say. You may be the only witness that's lost souls will see, your interaction with them may be crucial.
Take a deep breath, say a prayer and speak what God would want you to say, then you will Be Blessed!
Wednesday, November 30, 2022
Tuesday, November 29, 2022
The least of these…
""And the King will answer them, 'Don't you know? When you cared for one of the least of these, my little ones, my true brothers and sisters, you demonstrated love for me.'"
Matthew 25:40 TPT
The homeless, the orphans, the widows, maybe just the elderly neighbor or the guy that just doesn't "fit in" at work. Whoever it is, when you show them love you show love to your Heavenly Father.
And I get it, in todays world, some people are just hard to love. But God sees you and it makes Him so happy when you take that extra step and love on those people.
And trust me, they can tell the difference between the Christian that looks down on them vs those that love on them. We want more love and less condemnation. When we do that, we too will Be Blessed!
Matthew 25:40 TPT
The homeless, the orphans, the widows, maybe just the elderly neighbor or the guy that just doesn't "fit in" at work. Whoever it is, when you show them love you show love to your Heavenly Father.
And I get it, in todays world, some people are just hard to love. But God sees you and it makes Him so happy when you take that extra step and love on those people.
And trust me, they can tell the difference between the Christian that looks down on them vs those that love on them. We want more love and less condemnation. When we do that, we too will Be Blessed!
Monday, November 28, 2022
His purpose…
"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."
Romans 8:28 NLT
When your going through tough times, it is hard to see the truth in this verse. Can God really use my suffering for good? Yes, He can.
God has a purpose and plan, He weaves together ever facet of your life for His good. What may be a devastation today will turn out to be a glorious testimony next year.
I would never be where I am without God's divine plan, what I though was heartbreaking and I would never recover from us now a redemption story. Trust in Him and Be Blessed!
Romans 8:28 NLT
When your going through tough times, it is hard to see the truth in this verse. Can God really use my suffering for good? Yes, He can.
God has a purpose and plan, He weaves together ever facet of your life for His good. What may be a devastation today will turn out to be a glorious testimony next year.
I would never be where I am without God's divine plan, what I though was heartbreaking and I would never recover from us now a redemption story. Trust in Him and Be Blessed!
Saturday, November 26, 2022
Endurance…
"For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance. And then as your endurance grows even stronger, it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking."
James (Jacob) 1:3-4 TPT
Like an athlete, the more he trains and puts his body through, the more endurance he builds up. Eventually those heavy weights are no longer a burden.
So is our faith, as a young Christian our faith is tested and tried. But if we keep our eye on God, we build endurance. What once was a big burden is no longer an issue because we have built our faith and know that God will help us endure.
So all those trials that keep knocking you down, will eventually help you stand strong, with God by your side. Know that God's got this and Be Blessed!
James (Jacob) 1:3-4 TPT
Like an athlete, the more he trains and puts his body through, the more endurance he builds up. Eventually those heavy weights are no longer a burden.
So is our faith, as a young Christian our faith is tested and tried. But if we keep our eye on God, we build endurance. What once was a big burden is no longer an issue because we have built our faith and know that God will help us endure.
So all those trials that keep knocking you down, will eventually help you stand strong, with God by your side. Know that God's got this and Be Blessed!
Friday, November 25, 2022
Overcome the world…
""I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.""
John 16:33 NIV
Sometimes life stinks, especially the Christian life. We are not politically correct, we are looked down upon and even persecuted for our beliefs. Or maybe finances or relationships have you down.
Whatever it is, remember this earth is temporary. And whatever is bothering you, God has overcome it. He will get you through it, just lean on Him. He will send you peace and understanding beyond measure when you truly allow Him too.
Better days are coming as long as you walk with the Man who made the days! Trust Him and His plan and Be Blessed!
John 16:33 NIV
Sometimes life stinks, especially the Christian life. We are not politically correct, we are looked down upon and even persecuted for our beliefs. Or maybe finances or relationships have you down.
Whatever it is, remember this earth is temporary. And whatever is bothering you, God has overcome it. He will get you through it, just lean on Him. He will send you peace and understanding beyond measure when you truly allow Him too.
Better days are coming as long as you walk with the Man who made the days! Trust Him and His plan and Be Blessed!
Thursday, November 24, 2022
Knowledge…
"His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness."
2 Peter 1:3 NIV
Knowledge…it is a powerful thing! It can lead to many things.
Peter tells us that the knowledge of Heavenly Father can lead to a godly life. We can be Christians and still not have a true knowledge of God. We must dive into His word, seek His face, converse with Him and become intimate with Him.
Just like a man gains knowledge about the woman he loves, so he can become closer to her; so must we gain knowledge of our Heavenly Father. Seek Him and Be Blessed!
2 Peter 1:3 NIV
Knowledge…it is a powerful thing! It can lead to many things.
Peter tells us that the knowledge of Heavenly Father can lead to a godly life. We can be Christians and still not have a true knowledge of God. We must dive into His word, seek His face, converse with Him and become intimate with Him.
Just like a man gains knowledge about the woman he loves, so he can become closer to her; so must we gain knowledge of our Heavenly Father. Seek Him and Be Blessed!
Wednesday, November 23, 2022
The future…
" No one really knows what is going to happen; no one can predict the future."
Ecclesiastes 10:14 NLT
You make plans and look to the future, but it is never for certain. Plans change, futures are put on hold. What's my point?
Do the most you can today to love those around you. Serve your Heavenly Father with a passion. Make it a point to share God's love today with someone everyday.
Live today like it's your last, love those around you and Be Blessed!
Ecclesiastes 10:14 NLT
You make plans and look to the future, but it is never for certain. Plans change, futures are put on hold. What's my point?
Do the most you can today to love those around you. Serve your Heavenly Father with a passion. Make it a point to share God's love today with someone everyday.
Live today like it's your last, love those around you and Be Blessed!
Tuesday, November 22, 2022
Nothing can separate us…
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NIV
No matter what you have done, no matter how many times you have failed, you can NEVER be separated from God's love. Isn't that good news?
You see, I have failed, I have sinned, in my past and even in the present. But I trust in the fact that God loves me no matter what, and as long as I turn back to Him, He is there with open arms!
So cherish the fact that God loves you unconditionally and nothing can change that, love Him back and Be Blessed!
Romans 8:38-39 NIV
No matter what you have done, no matter how many times you have failed, you can NEVER be separated from God's love. Isn't that good news?
You see, I have failed, I have sinned, in my past and even in the present. But I trust in the fact that God loves me no matter what, and as long as I turn back to Him, He is there with open arms!
So cherish the fact that God loves you unconditionally and nothing can change that, love Him back and Be Blessed!
Sunday, November 20, 2022
A full life…
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
John 10:10 NIV
Oh poor, pitiful me…my life stinks!
Have you ever said those words? I have. Those are words that the enemy plants in your head. They are not words of your Heavenly Father. He wants us to succeed, to be fulfilled, to live life to its fullest.
I have met rich men who are miserable, they want for nothing but hate their lives. And I have met the homeless who are fill with God's love and joy and couldn't be happier.
Don't believe the enemies lies, live the life God has for you. It starts by being grateful for what He has given you. Thank Him, bless others and return you will Be Blessed!
John 10:10 NIV
Oh poor, pitiful me…my life stinks!
Have you ever said those words? I have. Those are words that the enemy plants in your head. They are not words of your Heavenly Father. He wants us to succeed, to be fulfilled, to live life to its fullest.
I have met rich men who are miserable, they want for nothing but hate their lives. And I have met the homeless who are fill with God's love and joy and couldn't be happier.
Don't believe the enemies lies, live the life God has for you. It starts by being grateful for what He has given you. Thank Him, bless others and return you will Be Blessed!
Friday, November 18, 2022
Peace…
"Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:7 NLT
Are we too busy, too hectic, too occupied, too focused on something unimportant to have true peace? Do you need to take a breath and focus on God?
Only He can send you true peace. And when you change your focus on Him, you will receive a peace you have never felt before!
Change your focus this week, stop and let your Heavenly Father fill you with a peace only He can do. Take a breath and Be Blessed!
Philippians 4:7 NLT
Are we too busy, too hectic, too occupied, too focused on something unimportant to have true peace? Do you need to take a breath and focus on God?
Only He can send you true peace. And when you change your focus on Him, you will receive a peace you have never felt before!
Change your focus this week, stop and let your Heavenly Father fill you with a peace only He can do. Take a breath and Be Blessed!
Wednesday, November 16, 2022
Blessings…
"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!"
Isaiah 30:18 NIV
God wants to bless you, just like a father wants blessings for his children. What blessing are you missing today because you don't wait in God and His timing?
How many times do we pray briefly for something and then when we don't get an immediate answer, we do what we want? I know I have, and by doing that I missed out on what God had in store.
Wait on Him, He has more in store for you. Be patient and Be Blessed!
Isaiah 30:18 NIV
God wants to bless you, just like a father wants blessings for his children. What blessing are you missing today because you don't wait in God and His timing?
How many times do we pray briefly for something and then when we don't get an immediate answer, we do what we want? I know I have, and by doing that I missed out on what God had in store.
Wait on Him, He has more in store for you. Be patient and Be Blessed!
Tuesday, November 15, 2022
Others…
"Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests."
Philippians 2:4 TPT
In such a self centered world that is all about: likes, views and 👍, we tend to forget about others. Jesus didn't come to be liked and revered, He came to serve. He came to sacrifice for others and ultimately give His life for all.
So take a moment away from the busyness of life during this holiday season and serve others. Cook a meal, volunteer at a shelter, sit with the elderly, take someone for coffee. Focus on someone besides yourself.
You will be amazed how that simple act of kindness will cause you to Be Blessed!
Philippians 2:4 TPT
In such a self centered world that is all about: likes, views and 👍, we tend to forget about others. Jesus didn't come to be liked and revered, He came to serve. He came to sacrifice for others and ultimately give His life for all.
So take a moment away from the busyness of life during this holiday season and serve others. Cook a meal, volunteer at a shelter, sit with the elderly, take someone for coffee. Focus on someone besides yourself.
You will be amazed how that simple act of kindness will cause you to Be Blessed!
Monday, November 14, 2022
Bless the Lord…
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
Psalm 34:1 ESV
Do you ever get mad, maybe even mad at God. Something bad happened or didn't go your way? Even in the bad times, when the enemy was chasing him, David blesses the Lord, he sang God's praises!
Life happens and it sucks sometimes, but praise your Heavenly Father. You may not know why your going through a tough time, but He does and there is a purpose!
Bless the Lord at all times and you will Be Blessed!
Psalm 34:1 ESV
Do you ever get mad, maybe even mad at God. Something bad happened or didn't go your way? Even in the bad times, when the enemy was chasing him, David blesses the Lord, he sang God's praises!
Life happens and it sucks sometimes, but praise your Heavenly Father. You may not know why your going through a tough time, but He does and there is a purpose!
Bless the Lord at all times and you will Be Blessed!
Saturday, November 12, 2022
Live in harmony…
"Live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!"
Romans 12:16 NLT
Live in harmony, that's difficult this season. What is supposed to be a happy season (thanksgiving and Christmas) usually ends up with fussing and fighting. Families argue over holiday plans, feelings get hurt and lives can be devastated.
Just take a deep breath, spend what time you can together and enjoy each other's company. Then take some time to live on others. Volunteer at a shelter, invite a neighbor over for "friends-giving", adopt an "angel tree" family"
God built us to live in relationships. We are better together, especially during the holidays. So put aside your wants and needs this year and focus on others. Trust me, you will Be Blessed!
Romans 12:16 NLT
Live in harmony, that's difficult this season. What is supposed to be a happy season (thanksgiving and Christmas) usually ends up with fussing and fighting. Families argue over holiday plans, feelings get hurt and lives can be devastated.
Just take a deep breath, spend what time you can together and enjoy each other's company. Then take some time to live on others. Volunteer at a shelter, invite a neighbor over for "friends-giving", adopt an "angel tree" family"
God built us to live in relationships. We are better together, especially during the holidays. So put aside your wants and needs this year and focus on others. Trust me, you will Be Blessed!
Friday, November 11, 2022
Clean heart…
"Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me."
Psalms 51:10 NLT
When I read this I thought, I wish it were that easy. But as I pondered on it, I realized; God already did His part when I accepted Him. I have within me, the ability to have a pure heart.
But we as humans, continue to chose to fill our hearts with the worlds sinful nature. We make the choice of what we put in our hearts and minds. We must chose better.
God has done His part, now it's our turn. Fill your hearts and minds with things that are Holy and good. Clean out the sinful nature and see how much you will Be Blessed!
Psalms 51:10 NLT
When I read this I thought, I wish it were that easy. But as I pondered on it, I realized; God already did His part when I accepted Him. I have within me, the ability to have a pure heart.
But we as humans, continue to chose to fill our hearts with the worlds sinful nature. We make the choice of what we put in our hearts and minds. We must chose better.
God has done His part, now it's our turn. Fill your hearts and minds with things that are Holy and good. Clean out the sinful nature and see how much you will Be Blessed!
Thursday, November 10, 2022
Trust in God…
"I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit."
Romans 15:13 NLT
"Because you trust in Him," some people miss that part. They think that because they are Christians that they will always have joy and peace. But we have to do our part too, we have to "trust in Him".
No matter what your going through, you must trust your Heavenly Father. Knowing that God will take care of you, no matter the circumstance is what brings the joy and peace.
Whatever you facing today, trust God and bask in the joy and peace that brings. Then you will Be Blessed!
Romans 15:13 NLT
"Because you trust in Him," some people miss that part. They think that because they are Christians that they will always have joy and peace. But we have to do our part too, we have to "trust in Him".
No matter what your going through, you must trust your Heavenly Father. Knowing that God will take care of you, no matter the circumstance is what brings the joy and peace.
Whatever you facing today, trust God and bask in the joy and peace that brings. Then you will Be Blessed!
Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Worthy of grace…
"For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God,"
Titus 2:11-12 NLT
Because of God's grace, we have eternal salvation and only by His grace. This is a great gift we have been given, and we are called to live with wisdom, righteousness and devotion to the one who gave it.
Christians should stand out in this evil world. Others should be able to recognize us by the way we live and treat people. We shouldn't hide, but shine for the glory of God.
Do those around you know you are a Christian by your actions and words? Or do they just think your a nice guy? Stand up and stand out in this evil world, be worthy of His grace and Be Blessed!
Titus 2:11-12 NLT
Because of God's grace, we have eternal salvation and only by His grace. This is a great gift we have been given, and we are called to live with wisdom, righteousness and devotion to the one who gave it.
Christians should stand out in this evil world. Others should be able to recognize us by the way we live and treat people. We shouldn't hide, but shine for the glory of God.
Do those around you know you are a Christian by your actions and words? Or do they just think your a nice guy? Stand up and stand out in this evil world, be worthy of His grace and Be Blessed!
Tuesday, November 8, 2022
Controlled by the Spirit…
"But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you."
Romans 8:9 NLT
Do you ever fail? Do you ever sin? Yes, we all do. But Romans tells us that "we are not controlled by our sinful nature". Although, some days it feels like it.
As a Christian, we have a helper, the Holy Spirit. The Spirit will help us, if we allow it, to shut down that sinful nature. Sometimes it's just that gut feeling that says: "don't do that!".
So don't get discouraged when you fail, repent and call on the Spirit for help! It is living inside you, wanting to guide and direct you. Take time to listen and Be Blessed!
Romans 8:9 NLT
Do you ever fail? Do you ever sin? Yes, we all do. But Romans tells us that "we are not controlled by our sinful nature". Although, some days it feels like it.
As a Christian, we have a helper, the Holy Spirit. The Spirit will help us, if we allow it, to shut down that sinful nature. Sometimes it's just that gut feeling that says: "don't do that!".
So don't get discouraged when you fail, repent and call on the Spirit for help! It is living inside you, wanting to guide and direct you. Take time to listen and Be Blessed!
Monday, November 7, 2022
Task or significant…
"So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do."
Ephesians 5:15-17 NLT
How do you live your days? Does it make a significant impact on God's kingdom or the ones you love? Or do you go through life as a fool?
I am very "task" oriented, I like to "get it done", sometimes no matter the cost. But is what I doing significant? Will it really matter if all my "task" get done 10 years from now?
I have to slow down, spend time with those I love. Serve God with purpose and make sure what I am doing really matters. Make the most of the opportunities and Be Blessed!
Ephesians 5:15-17 NLT
How do you live your days? Does it make a significant impact on God's kingdom or the ones you love? Or do you go through life as a fool?
I am very "task" oriented, I like to "get it done", sometimes no matter the cost. But is what I doing significant? Will it really matter if all my "task" get done 10 years from now?
I have to slow down, spend time with those I love. Serve God with purpose and make sure what I am doing really matters. Make the most of the opportunities and Be Blessed!
Thursday, November 3, 2022
Love your wife…
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself."
Ephesians 5:25, 28 NIV
Last month I celebrated 20 years with my bride. And I was asked this week, by some younger co-workers, what is the best advise for a good marriage. I quickly told them: "keep God in the middle of your marriage!"
Husbands and men who are future husbands, I am talking to you: be intentional. Keep God in your marriage! Pray daily with her and for her, do a devotion daily with her, be her spiritual leader, and love her as much as Christ loved the church!
We must fight for our marriages and our spouse. We must stand up for for the traditional covenant of marriage in the Christian home. Failure is not an option!
Put the work in and trust me, your marriage will Be Blessed!
Ephesians 5:25, 28 NIV
Last month I celebrated 20 years with my bride. And I was asked this week, by some younger co-workers, what is the best advise for a good marriage. I quickly told them: "keep God in the middle of your marriage!"
Husbands and men who are future husbands, I am talking to you: be intentional. Keep God in your marriage! Pray daily with her and for her, do a devotion daily with her, be her spiritual leader, and love her as much as Christ loved the church!
We must fight for our marriages and our spouse. We must stand up for for the traditional covenant of marriage in the Christian home. Failure is not an option!
Put the work in and trust me, your marriage will Be Blessed!
Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Heavenly treasures…
"But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Matthew 6:20-21 NIV
We are a "stuff" society. We have to have the latest gadget, nice car, big house that we fill with everything under the sun. Don't get me wrong, God wants you to have "stuff" but He doesn't want that to be you focus or idol.
Treasures in heaven are the family that you lead well, the children and grandchildren that are your legacy. The friends and strangers you have shared the gospel with. The lives you have touched with your servants heart!
I want my mansion in Heaven to need a storage building because I amassed so many heavenly treasures!! Focus on the things that eternally matter and Be Blessed!
Matthew 6:20-21 NIV
We are a "stuff" society. We have to have the latest gadget, nice car, big house that we fill with everything under the sun. Don't get me wrong, God wants you to have "stuff" but He doesn't want that to be you focus or idol.
Treasures in heaven are the family that you lead well, the children and grandchildren that are your legacy. The friends and strangers you have shared the gospel with. The lives you have touched with your servants heart!
I want my mansion in Heaven to need a storage building because I amassed so many heavenly treasures!! Focus on the things that eternally matter and Be Blessed!
Tuesday, November 1, 2022
Keep my commands…
""If you love me, keep my commands."
John 14:15 NIV
So simple yet so profound! When you love someone, you do whatever it takes to please them. I do things for my wife to make her happy. Children do things to make their parents happy. Even a dog does things to make his master happy. Why? Because they all love the other!
So why do Christians continue to sin, sometimes blatantly? Do they not love their Heavenly Father? I feel like sin is a trap, sometimes it happens, not meaning to. Then we repeat it again and again. Then it becomes the norm and we no longer consider it a sin.
But keeping God commands and not repeating those sins is a way that we can show God we love Him. It is also a way that we can show others we love God. People are watching and they take note when Christian sin, especially again and again.
So keep His commands, show God your love and Be Blessed!
John 14:15 NIV
So simple yet so profound! When you love someone, you do whatever it takes to please them. I do things for my wife to make her happy. Children do things to make their parents happy. Even a dog does things to make his master happy. Why? Because they all love the other!
So why do Christians continue to sin, sometimes blatantly? Do they not love their Heavenly Father? I feel like sin is a trap, sometimes it happens, not meaning to. Then we repeat it again and again. Then it becomes the norm and we no longer consider it a sin.
But keeping God commands and not repeating those sins is a way that we can show God we love Him. It is also a way that we can show others we love God. People are watching and they take note when Christian sin, especially again and again.
So keep His commands, show God your love and Be Blessed!
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