God’s purpose…

"God will continually revitalize you, implanting within you the passion to do what pleases him."
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Do you ever get tired? Tired of work or the daily grind? Maybe you're doing the wrong things? Maybe you're not doing what God designed you to do?

When we are in God's will, life becomes easier. We are fulfilled and energized in our daily lives. We have a purpose!

So look at your life, are you doing what God has for you? Maybe it's time to reevaluate so that you can Be Blessed!

What to rid yourself of…

"So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls."
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬

As the new year approaches, what is it that you need to get rid of in your life? A TV show, secular music, kind of books your reading? What filth and evil is hindering you from God's plan?

Can you take 30 mins a day and replace something you're doing with God's word? Maybe switch that podcast you listen to in your commute to some praise and worship?

Whatever you need to clean out of your life, God can fill it in with something much better! See what He has in store and Be Blessed!

Eternal food…

"Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.."
‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭27‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Often we spend so much time working for worldly things that we forget what is truly important. Fancy houses, cars, bank accounts and all the stuff we accumulate will be gone one day.

What will survive is the legacy of love you leave. Time with your family, the service you gave to others, and the gospel that you spread, sharing God's word. How will people speak of you when you're gone?

Share the "food that endures to eternal life". See how it changes the world and you will Be Blessed!

To save us…

"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."
‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Some of you might have already put up your Christmas decorations or headed back to work. And Christmas is now a fading memory to be celebrated again next year.

But Jesus was sent to save you. He will spend His next 30 years living like us and preparing for His ministry. A ministry that will lead to His ultimate sacrifice, so that we might be saved.

So don't just thank God once a year for sending His Son. Thank him daily for all He has done and the sacrifice He will give, just because He loves you, so you can Be Blessed!

A Savior…

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."
‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Today we celebrate Christmas. The birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ the Lord.

He was born for one purpose, to die for us!

So as you're celebrating today with family and friends, take time to thank Him for his sacrifice.

Merry Christmas and Be Blessed!

A star…

"We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.""
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭2‬b ‭NIV‬‬

A star led the Magi from a great distance to find the Savior, it guided them to the one who would save the world.

Jesus is that light in the dark, He is still the star that guides us! So when your lost and can't find your way, look up, Jesus will guide you!

Thank you Lord for the coming birth of our Savior. Remind us to look up when we can't find our way so that we can Be Blessed!

Together…

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Life is tougher, and doing it alone is even tougher. God never designed us to be alone. As men, He gave us a soulmate and best friend, your wife. But as a body of believers, He gave us each other.

In ancient times, we did life with our neighbors and like minded people. We have gotten away from that in today's society and hence, we have suffered for it. So find a group of Christian brothers and sisters, do life together! Love and support each other.

When we lift each other up, we are better for it. We grow together and the.n we can Be Blessed!

Chosen people…

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever been around a grump, someone that always brings you down? Or that negative co-worker that never has anything good to say? Maybe that's you somedays.

God gave us a higher calling! To be kind, humble, gentle, patient and compassionate! We are called to lift people up, not drag them down. To show that love, grace and mercy that God has shown us.

So today, be better than the world! Be who God has called you to be, then you will Be Blessed!

Follow me…

""Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people.""
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As Jesus called Simon and Andrew to follow Him. He transformed mere fishermen into something great!

Is Jesus calling you? Does He have something bigger for your life? Are you willing to take that step, out of your comfort zone and follow Him with all you have?

Take a leap of faith! Follow Him, see what He has in store and then you will Be Blessed!

Scars….

"The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip."
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭32‬:‭31‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I don't talk about my scars much. And you will never catch me with my shirt off. My chest is covered with scars from multiple surgeries. But my scars reveal the healing power of God and the results of a praying family.

Jacob, who would eventually become Israel, had scars from wrestling with God. Scars reveal what we have been through, emotionally or physically. But they also show healing, that you survived and God brought you through and you are better for it.

So I'm thankful for my scars! They remind me of God's love and His healing power. So take a look at your scars and Be Blessed!

If you can…

"" 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for one who believes.""
‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever question God? "Hey God, can you do this or that?" I'm sure we all have, but that's the wrong attitude. Anything is possible for God!

So next time you're praying and talking to you Heavenly Father, don't question whether He can or not. Give your request to Him and let go and let God!

Our faith may be small but His ability is unimaginable! Believe for the possible and Be Blessed!

Other believers…

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."
‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭42‬ ‭NIV‬‬

In the early church, believers did life together. So many times today, we only see other believers on Sunday. Our lives are so busy with work and kids that we don't make time for anything else. But God meant for us to do life together.

So call up that friend at church, have coffee or better yet, share a meal, in your home, together. Invest time in one another. Do life together!

God placed a support system around us with other believers. Spend time with each other and Be Blessed!

Whatever you do…

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Making dinner, taking care of your family, leading a Fortune 500 company or building a house; whatever it is you do, commit it to Him.

God doesn't just want your Sundays and Wednesdays nights. He wants your everything! From the simple task, like making your bed or feeding the 5,000; God wants to be involved in every part of your life.

He has a plan and purpose for your life, give Him every part of it and see where He takes you. Then you will Be Blessed!

Hope…

"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment."
‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What is your hope and faith founded upon? Your finances, your job? Your social status?

Worldly hope will fail you and leave you void and lonely. I have seen some of the happiest, fulfilled people who may not have had "two nickels to rub together" but their satisfactions came from God above. He provided all their needs!

So put your faith and trust in Him. He will always provide. You will be happy and healthy knowing that God made you to Be Blessed!

Keep your guard up…

"Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other,"
‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Nehemiah's men rebuilt the wall in Jerusalem in record time. They were doing God's work, but they were also prepared for battle. They never let their guard down.

As we go about our daily lives, at our jobs or serving and doing God's work we must never let our guard down. The enemy is always ready to find a chink in our armor or catch us not looking; that's when and where he attacks.

So always be prayed up, be read us and be prepared for battle, no matter your task at hand. The enemy is lurking, keep your guard up and Be Blessed!

Like mud in the street…

"You armed me with strength for battle; you humbled my adversaries before me. You made my enemies turn their backs in flight, and I destroyed my foes."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭39‬-‭40‬ ‭NIV‬‬

David goes on to say that he trampled his enemies like "mud in the streets!" All because he trusted in the Lord and relied upon His strength!

It doesn't matter what enemy you're facing: fear, anxiety, addiction, doubt, or worry; God will give you strength! The enemy "turns their back in flight" at the power of God.

Don't face this world alone, God is for you! Rely on Him, trust in Him, let Him lead the attack and give you strength. Then you will Be Blessed!

Wrong side of the tracks…

""Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked.
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭46‬ a NIV‬‬

Have you ever judged someone because of where they were from or who their family was? Maybe because of something in their past? Maybe you were the one being judged?

All throughout the Bible and history, God has used people from "the wrong side of the tracks" to do great things. He has taken people with torrid past and made them great leaders. God see the heart of the person, not their past or where they are from.

So don't be so quick to judge, God can use anyone, including yourself, to do great things! Keep an open mind, next time you start to judge and Be Blessed!

Security…

"It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭32‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What do you rely on when the world is closing in on you? King David, a man with more power than anyone in his time, relied upon the Lord.

You can put your faith in the world, your finances, your resume and those around you, but eventually they will all fail you. Only God has the power to keep you secure through the toughest times. He loves you beyond your wildest dreams!

So trust Him through the good and the bad times. Feel His loving arms wrap around you, keeping you safe and you will Be Blessed!

Your why…

"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,"
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What's your reason for being a Christian? Can you articulate it in a way that is non offensive and respectful to others? Have you ever really thought about your reason?

Mine is because Jesus has done so much in my life that is unexplainable in the natural realm. Those things would not have happened…but God. From my physical health, my finances, my healthy relationships, my work, my marriage, to my servants heart; it is all because He loved on me and did miracles in my life!

So what's your reason? Can you explain it and share it? Let others know why you follow Him and Be Blessed!

Light…

""You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As Christians we should reflect God's light. Whether you are a mentor, a coworker, a friend or acquaintance, others should see His light reflected through you.

Others are watching and noticing how the "Christian" acts and interacts. They see and judge us by who we are and what we do. We must be a light in a dark and dreary world.

So be the city on a hill, the light in the dark! Reflect God's goodness and love and Be Blessed!

Without fear…

""Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them. to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear"
‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭68‬, ‭74‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever feel like the enemy is attacking from all side? That you must live in fear for your beliefs? That the world today looks down upon you for your Christian values?

As Zechariah prophesied in Luke; Jesus came to rescue us, so that we didn't have to live in fear. He is the great redeemer! So boldly stand and serve Him, knowing that our God reigns!

God will go before you and conquer your enemies, you just have to stand firm! If you're struggling today and need prayer, please let us know. Jesus will calm your fears so that you can Be Blessed!

The only way…

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Now I am a server, I love serving and helping people. That's my love language, acts of service. But as much as I love it and as much as I do, it alone doesn't get me heaven.

A personal relationship with Christ, where we have surrendered to Him and been saved by His grace is the only way. The only way!

You can't give your way to heaven, you can't serve your way to heaven, and you being a "good person" doesn't cut it either!

Jesus' mercy and grace, His sacrifice in the cross is the only way. If you haven't trusted in Him, hit me up, I'll show you the way. Then you can Be Blessed!

Living water…

"Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.""
‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever worked really hard, out in the heat and then gotten an ice cold bottle of water? Man, it's satisfying! But eventually your thirst returns.

But the peace of knowing Jesus and His living water is life changing. Living for Him gives you a contentment beyond belief. That constant searching for something to fulfill you, is gone!

So drink the living water, go "all in" and find a continuous satisfaction beyond belief. Then you will Be Blessed!

Praise Him…

"I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭69‬:‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When do you praise God? When things are going good? When you get what you want? Maybe when your paycheck is short or the kids are sick? (Probably not)

But God gave us so much! We must praise Him through the good and the bad! He is worthy of our praise, not because of what He can give us or what He does for us; but because of who He is!!

So take a moment today to praise Him, just for who He is and thank Him for all He has done! Then you will Be Blessed!

Worry…

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Are you a worrier? You worry about the future, what might or might not happen? You let your worry consume you? God tells us not worry about the future, life in the here and now has enough trouble.

Lean in to today! Feel the presence of your Lord. God is beside you, even carrying you through today. He has plans for your future, let Him guide you.

So don't worry about tomorrow. Bask in God's love today. Trust His plans and Be Blessed!

Forgiveness…

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

Forgiveness is a difficult thing for the majority of us, because we can't forget. And the enemy throws those thoughts back into our head and brings everything up again.

But Christ forgives us and throws our sins as far as the east is from the west. And He never remembers our transgressions.

To live a Christ like life, we must forgive like He did. We must attempt to forget and when the enemy brings it back up, we must resist. Forgiveness is partially about the offender, but it also allows you to live in freedom so you can Be Blessed.

Gifts…

"Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God."
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

For the majority of us, we are truly blessed. We live in the wealthiest country in the world. What God has given us, we need to give back to those in need. Not because of legalism but so that He can receive the glory.

Many times, I deliver a meal to someone in need; and the first words out of their mouths are "thank you Jesus!" They see not only a hot meal, but they see the love of Jesus. They see that someone cares, that God cares for them!

So use your gifts and your generosity for His glory! When you touch someone with the love of Jesus, then you will Be Blessed!

Serve Him…

"But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you."
‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭12‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When I consider all that God has done for me, I could never serve Him enough. Just the love He has for us is enough for us to want to serve Him.

Christ gave it all for us. He suffered and died, and rose again! And if you or I were the only person on earth, He still would have done it just for us!

So serve Him with all your heart and see how you will Be Blessed!

The battle…

"This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."
‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭20‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever face the day or a situation in your life and feel like there is a whole army fighting against you? Like you're never going to win and defeat is inevitable?

I think we have all been discouraged at some point and time. But we must trust in the Lord, if we stand with Him by our side the battle is ours!

So stand tall knowing that God goes before you. No matter what you're facing, trust in the Lord and you will Be Blessed!

Work of our hands…

"May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭90‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What kind of work do you do? An accountant, a nurse, stay at home parent. Whatever it is, God has given you the gifts and talents to do that for His glory.

You could be a ditch digger and still allow God to shine through what you do! You can influence people and lead them to His kingdom, from a desk or from a factory floor.

When God's favor is upon you, it doesn't matter where you are! Do whatever you do for His glory and Be Blessed!

Love her…

"However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭33‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I am talking to my married brothers right now. We are called to lead, serve and love our wives! Yes, love her more than you do yourself! Put her above yourself, your job, your kids!

Make her coffee first, tend to her needs first, listen to her, date her, pray with her and for her! You want a good marriage…put in the work!

Love her as Christ loved the church, place her first in your marriage and you will Be Blessed!

SHMILY Lucy!!

Here's a Bible passage I'd like to share with you...

""Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Being persecuted stinks! People may make fun of you, call you a sell out, a bible thumper. That you're not living in modern times and you need to get a clue. But God's word is TRUTH!

Standing up for God's word and what is right will be one of the most difficult battles you ever face. The enemy will attack you from all sides! But when the enemy is attacking, you know you're doing something right!

So stand fast, uphold His word! Jesus is the way! You may be persecuted but you will Be Blessed!

Anger

"A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever get angry? I sure do, especially in my younger years. I tend to be very emotional and let that anger lash out.

Now, anger is just an emotion and it's OK to have. What's not OK is letting that anger cause you to sin. Take a deep breath, say a quick prayer and think "why am I angry".

So stay calm, be patient and don't let that anger cause you to do something you will regret. That one moment of pause can change it all, then you will Be Blessed!

Generosity…

"A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As the holidays approach, most of us are more generous during this season of giving. But what if we were generous all through the year? How good would it feel to bless someone in June or September?

Everything I have was given to me, by God, to manage. He wants me to be a good steward and a generous giver. How many people could you bless tonight with that pizza and movie that you ordered tonight?

Be a cheerful, generous giver and watch how you will prosper, not only financially but spiritually as well. Then you will Be Blessed!

Forgiveness…

"For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.""
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭31‬:‭34‬ b NIV‬‬

It is hard to fathom that, not only God forgives me, but He doesn't even remember what I did! As human, we may forgive but we always remember. That's probably the toughest part about forgiveness for me, when someone hurts me. I still remember.

But isn't it great! God never remembers, He never holds a grudge and never brings your sins up again. You are forgiven!

So whatever you have done, no matter how bad, ask His forgiveness. Bask in His grace and mercy and Be Blessed!

Confess your sins…

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Confessing our sins to God is a lot easier than confessing them someone else. We don't want to be judged or looked down upon. But that's not what confessing to someone else is all about.

Sharing your sins allows a community around you to help you. Talk to someone who has "been there and done that." See what helped them overcome, allow them to pray for you and with you.

God never meant for us to do life alone. Find someone you can be accountable too, or better yet a group that can lift you up. Then you will Be Blessed!

His power…

"Never doubt God's mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energizes you."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Do you ever doubt what you can accomplish? I do, by myself I can't do much.

But I have found, that when I submit to the Lord and allow Him to work through me…great things are possible!! So when you finally let go and let God do his will through you….you better hang on!! It's going to be a great ride!

God will provide what you need, He will do great things, if you allow Him. See what you can accomplish with His power in you and Be Blessed!

Love your enemies…

""But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you."
‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Tough words from Jesus! We shouldn't pick and chose who we are kind too or who we serve. We are not meant to be the Judge, that is our Heavenly Father's job.

Jesus called us to love everyone and bless them. Whether it's the grumpy neighbor, the person with strong-opposite political views than you or the ill co-worker, we must be like Jesus to them.

Pray for them, bless them, serve them and see how it changes you. I guarantee you will Be Blessed!

All consuming fire…

"Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench."
‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭18‬:‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Elijah was in a battle with all the prophets of Baal. He had built an alter, placed a sacrifice and soaked it all with water…three times! Our God sent fire to consume it all, What seemed to be an impossible task!

But because of Elijah's faith and trust, God showed up and showed out!

Do you feel like you're facing the impossible? Is there something you fear that God can't do? I have good news, He can!

So whatever you're facing, no matter how big or small, our God can! Put your faith and trust in Him and watch the enemies flee and then you will Be Blessed!

His voice…

"…, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice."
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭4‬ b NIV‬‬

What voice do you follow? Is it society? A political agenda? Work? Are you a sheep being led to slaughter? Or do you hear the voice of your Master leading you to safety?

We all have things pulling us in different directions. Wanting us to go this way or that way, but we must listen for that voice. The voice of Jesus that is calling you: to make the right decision, to serve the needy, to lead your family, to stand up for what is right in God's eyes!

What voices do you hear? And which one do you follow? Follow Jesus and Be Blessed!

Whatever and wherever…

"Then they answered Joshua, "Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go."
‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Although this was Joshua's men, when he sent them to conquer the promise land, this should be our answer to God's call on our lives. Whatever and wherever God, that should be our answer!

God will equip you, He will supply your needs. He will conquer the land for you. You just have to answer His call!

So Lord, we surrender to "whatever and wherever!" Guide our steps so that we can Be Blessed!

Flowers…

"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.""
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

My wife keeps a beautiful yard, but tonight she came to me and said: "I think my flowers have finally died."

Things in our life come and go: plants, animals, friends and family. But one thing we can always rest upon is that God and His word endure forever!

The Bible is as alive today as the day it was written. Its word's and principles can guide you through some of the toughest times you could ever endure.

So take a few minutes to read His word today. Talk to your Heavenly Father, He is still there and wants you to Be Blessed!

The light…

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.""
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Darkness is the absence of light. If you're in a dark place, then you're missing something - the light! When you feel like you're overwhelmed and can't move forward, then you're missing - the light.

Life sucks some days, and the enemy attacks! But we can learn to navigate those times if we have, the light! Jesus is the light that we need to get out of that dark place.

Allow Jesus to lead you and guide you, follow the light, then you will Be Blessed!

Leadership…

"He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it."
‭‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

No matter at what level, you are a leader! A leader in your home, your workplace, school or your social life. God called men to be Christian leaders.

And in doing so we must lead with the truth, God's word. We must stand in the sound doctrine that it contains. And we must be able to defend the Word to those who oppose it.

People these days are looking for someone to follow. And many are looking to you. Are you giving them the Godly example that you would be proud to follow?

Stand on His Word, lead like Jesus did and Be Blessed!

He will fight for you…

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.""
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭14‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Our Heavenly Father will fight for us…if we allow Him. You see, we can't try to solve the problem ourselves and expect Him to solve the problem. It just doesn't work that way.

We have to turn it over to Him, put our trust in Him and let it go. When you truly do that, you will receive a peace that you can't compare.

So let God fight your battles, give them to Him, then you will Be Blessed!

Pruning…

"He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

My wife and neighbors are pretty good backyard gardeners. During the growing season, they will prune the branches of the flower or bush that are tending too. They cut away the bad or dead branches. This allows the rest of the plant to grow and flower even more. It is a necessary task for good growth.

God often "prunes" the bad or dying parts out of our lives so that we may grow and flourish. It makes us a stronger and better Christian in the long run.

What is God trying to prune from your life this week? If you allowing the gardener's touch to prune you, end the end you will Be Blessed!

With God…

"The Lord answered, "I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.""
‭‭Judges‬ ‭6‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Gideon led the weakest, smallest clan of his people. How could he possibly defeat the Midianites? Because God was with him!

You see, God is known for taking those who thought they couldn't and doing great things. Why? Because God was with them! It shows God glory, His power, and with Him we can do anything!

So don't tell me you can't. That you're not smart enough or brave enough or have enough resources. Remember, with God, you can, then you will Be Blessed!

First…

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Read that again, "seek first"! God wants our first! God wants you to give Him your best, He doesn't want to be an afterthought.

Are you giving God your first? The first part of your day in prayer and praise? The first part of your finances? The first part of your time in service to others?

Seek Him first and the rest will be given to you, then you will Be Blessed!

Rise and walk…

"Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.""
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Jesus has so much more for you than worldly possessions! He wants so much more for you.

While we tend to focus on what we can have and treat God as a Heavenly ATM machine, He wants a relationship with you. He wants you to be free, to have joy and peace, to be able to breathe without the weight of the world in your chest.

So forget the silver and gold, rise and walk and Be Blessed!

Eternal perspective…

"So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?""
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Our mindset changes when we focus on the eternal perspective. We worry about the things of this world, most of them trivial. But when we trust in the Lord and have an eternal mindset, all that changes.

There is nothing, even death, that can harm us as long as we have God as our helper. Life here is temporary, we must trust and serve the living God. He has so much more in store for us than what our eyes have seen.

So when life's challenges hit you, don't be afraid. Lean on Him and you will Be Blessed!

Strength….

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Where do you get your strength? From working out? Your career, your family?
Your finances? I hate to say it, but relying solely on those things will eventually make you weak and cause your fall.

As Christians we need to pull our strength from the Lord. We should rely on Him and Him alone. He will lift you up and fill you with a power that will surpass all earthly things.

So pull your strength from the Lord, then you will Be Blessed!

Eternal goal…

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

"Brothers, what we do in life, echoes in eternity!" - Maximus, Gladiator

It may have been a fictional movie, but Maximus nails what Paul was trying to tell the church at Phillipi. Our life here on earth should have an eternal goal!

Everything we do should have Christ in mind. Teaching kids, managing a business, flipping burgers; it really doesn't matter - do what you do with an eternal mindset. You would be amazed how you can influence people with your attitude and actions, when you have Christ in mind!

So keep a Christ mindset and Be Blessed!

Others first…

"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Such simple words could change the world: love and honor others! In the self centered world we live in, those two things seem difficult. But are they really?

Just be kind to one another, respect each other. Open a door for someone, buy them a cup of coffee. Call or text an old friend and check on them, better yet, stop by and visit.

Jesus first, others next and put yourself last. That will make for a better day, better world and you will Be Blessed!

The finish line…

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I am told that long distance runners picture themselves crossing the finish line, even though they cannot see it yet. This gives them the motivation to keep going and eventually cross that finish line.

For Christians, our finish line is eternal life in Heaven. We can't see that yet, but if we lose focus on it we can really go astray. So whatever you do, keep your eyes on the eternal goal, then you will Be Blessed!

The driver’s seat…

"Then he said to them all: "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."
‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The Message version of Luke 9:23 says it like this: "you are not in the driver's seat, I am."

Truly following Christ is about giving up control. It's like getting in an Uber and telling the driver, take me wherever YOU think I should go. It can be scary to relinquish that much control in our lives.

But, unlike an Uber driver, God knows what's best for you. He wants to bless you, you just have to let Him get you there. It may be a crazy path to that place, with pot holes and detours. But as long as you allow God to be your driver, you will Be Blessed!

Holy Spirit…

"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth."
‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬a NIV

Have you ever heard that still small voice when your trying to make a decision, or felt that knot in your stomach when you know something just isn't right. That is, more than likely, the Holy Spirit trying to lead and guide you. ‬‬

Our Heavenly Father sent the Holy Spirit to us for this purpose. To be with us daily, to lead and guide us, to nudge us the right way.

So next time you feel "odd" about something, take time to pray about it. It may just be the Holy Spirit showing you the way. When you learn to listen to Him, then you will Be Blessed!

God’s masterpiece…

"For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

It is said that when a sculptor carves a work of art, they just chip away at the wood or stone that isn't a part of the sculpture. They remove all the unneeded material and reveal the masterpiece.

We are God's masterpiece! Sometimes He has to chip away the unnecessary things to reveal the work of art He has created in you! He knew you long before you were born and has great plans for your life.

What needs chipped away in your life so that God might reveal His masterpiece? Allow Him to sculpt you and Be Blessed!

Dive in…

"As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?""
‭‭Acts‬ ‭8‬:‭36‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Reading this passage makes me smile. They were not afraid to stop what they were doing and show the world that they believed in the Heavenly Father!

So many times, the opportunity comes up for us to show the world we are Christians. But we back down, we cave to political or social pressures. We worry what people will think of us.

Stand up for your faith, when the opportunity arises, stop what your doing and "dive into the water!" Show the world who your Lord and Savior is and Be Blessed!

Fix your eyes…

"fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever gone "all in" for something? Maybe learning a new hobby, you buy all the gear, watch all the videos and spend all your free time at it. You "fix your eyes" on it.

Running the race of life, we need to fix our eyes in Jesus. We need to go all in! Have laser focus on Him! Dedicate our time and resources for His glory. Jesus doesn't just want part of you, He doesn't just want you attention some of the time. He wants an "all in" relationship with you!

So "fix your eyes" on Jesus, I guarantee you will Be Blessed!

Leaders…

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.""
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

An old military saying goes: "Leaders lead from the front!" When I first read this verse I thought about how God is going before us and fighting for us. But I took a moment and thought about it from a husband / father / man's perspective. It is an example of how we must lead!

Our families must see us as a leader, that we will never leave them, that we will fight for them. They should never be afraid because their husband / father is guiding the way. We should be the example in their lives; morally, and in their Christian walk.

"Leaders lead from the front!" Are you a man that your family is proud to follow? Step up fir the ones you love, follow God, and they will follow you, then you will Be Blessed!

Confidence in prayer…

"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever worry when talking to God? Like when you had to tell your parents you did something wrong or messed up? Sometimes I get that gut feeling when I'm praying too.

But the first part of Hebrews 4 describes Jesus, as the high priest, who goes before us! Making intercession, so we can have confidence to ask for grace and mercy.

So approach God with confidence, know Jesus is interceding for you. God love you, He wants the best for you, that's why He gave His Son for you, so that He can show you grace and mercy! Live with that thought when praying and Be Blessed!

Tripped up…

"The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬a NLT

Do you know how many times I have failed? It's way more than seven, probably more than seventy times seven! But with God help, His grace and mercy, I get back up again and keep going.

You will never progress in your Christian walk if you give up when you fail. But what we must do is learn from our mistakes, get up, keep moving and don't make the same mistakes again!

Don't beat yourself up when you fail, ask forgiveness, He will grant it. Get up and move forward. As you progress you will Be Blessed!

The gardener…

""I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬-‭2‬, ‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

My wife is a flower gardener, she grows beautiful flowers, plants and trees. She makes sure the roots are strong, the vine is growing and the branches are pruned. Apparently, you produce more flowers and fruit when pruned promptly.

Our Christian lives are much like my wife's flowers, we must have strong roots in the Word of God, remain with Jesus the vine, and allow Him to prune us so we can produce good fruit and flowers.

Do you allow Jesus to nurture you and prune your life? What are you holding back that needs to be pruned so you can produce more fruit? Allow the gardener to work in your life and Be Blessed!

The morning…

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭143‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The old saying goes, "I woke up this morning so it's a good day!" But I try to wake up and spend some time in God's word, then it's a good day.

Those few minutes remind me of God's love. It gives me time to speak to God, see what He has for my life that day. Without my few minutes with God, the day can go off course.

How do you spend your morning? Is time with God a part of it? Make it a habit and Be Blessed!

The light…

"In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I woke up in my hotel room this morning, I had pulled the black out curtains last night, but light was piercing the corners with the sunrise. Darkness cannot overcome the light!

No matter what darkness your going through, their is still light. Jesus is that light! He can overcome all darkness in your life.

So as you awake and you feel like darkness surrounds you, look for the light of Jesus. He is there for you, He will drive away all the dark, let Him be your sunrise and Be Blessed!

A masterpiece…

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Have you ever seen a piece of marble or wood before the artist has used it for his creation? It's just a big blank rock or chunk of log, doesn't look like much. But once the master artist chips away, it becomes a thing a beauty!

Although we were born in a sin nature, God created us for so much more! If we allow Him to "chip away" all the sin nature, He can carve a masterpiece out of our lives!

He is preparing you for so much more, but we have to let Him remove some things to get to that point. Allow Him to creat a master in you and Be Blessed!

Faithful…

"These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect."
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭39‬-‭40‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Hebrews tells us of the unnamed faithful that we're served others, spread the gospel, even tortured and stoned for their faith. We may not know their names but God does! They may not have received a promise on earth but God was waiting for them at the gates of Heaven!

You may not be on the forefront, you may not have your name in lights as a dynamic speaker or singer, but God knows your name! Remain faithful, keep doing good work. Spread the gospel, share your story!

God is faithful, He is waiting for you with open arms! Then you will truly Be Blessed!

Children…

"And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them."
‭‭Mark‬ ‭10‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As I welcome my granddaughter, Lorén, I to the world today; I see how Jesus loved the children. Their innocence, love and grace. They weren't judgmental or fearing of Jesus. They loved Him because He loves them.

Shouldn't we love Jesus just as much as a little child? Not wanting any from Him but a hug and a blessing. Jesus loves you so much today. Love Him back!

He gave His life for all His precious children. He loves you that much, bask in that and Be Blessed!

Fear…

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Fear is the enemies way of attacking us from the inside. He puts thoughts of doubt, anxiety and fear inside us to hold us back for what God has in store for us.

If we let it, fear will overcome us and cause us to fail. But, we have a Savior, who will conquer those fears. Jesus will help us overcome but we must replace that fear with focus on Him. We can't overcome if we are balled up in a corner, worried with fear.

We must stand up, fix our eyes on Jesus, put our faith in Him and move forward. Trust that He will help you conquer your fears and Be Blessed!

More than your soul…

"And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?"
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Have you achieved success? Do you have the important title, the fanciest truck, the nicest gold clubs, the lush bank account? You have climbed the corporate ladder and reached the top, but you still feel an emptiness inside.

You don't have love or happiness, their is no peace in your rest. Your soul longs for something more? Jesus is calling, He is waiting for you. Only He can give you the peace and contentment you desire.

Is anything worth more than your soul? I know my answer, do you? Seek out the One who can send you peace and Be Blessed!

An example…

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."
‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Paul is speaking to Timothy, a young Christian, telling him to set an example. I want to encourage you to do the same. No matter where you are in your Christian walk.

We must set an example. Non-believers are watching, to see how we talk, and conduct ourselves. To see if we live with love, in faith and act purely.

They may not know that you have only been a Christian for 1 month, 1 year or 30 years. Frankly, they probably don't care. They are looking to see how you act and treat them.

So model Timothy, set and example and I guarantee you will Be Blessed!

Eternity…

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Sometimes we often get focused on ourselves or worldly things. We work so we can have this or that. Or we cling the corporate ladder so people can say "look at him."

But what about the unseen, what about focusing on God's Kingdom. Winning souls, or feeding the poor, helping the elderly. In the long run, those things will make such a difference. Your fancy boat or car can be gone in an instant. But what you do in the unseen will last forever.

Change your focus, look to eternity and see where you can make a difference. Then you will Be Blessed!

Burden…

""Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever carried a burden that feels like your toting a couch up ten flights of stairs, by yourself? Sometimes the mental things we carry are much more than the physical.

Maybe it's a past sin or guilt? Maybe it's worry or shame? Whatever it is, give it to God, let Him carry it for you!

Let Him carry the load for you. When you turn it over to Him, completely, you will feel that burden lifted from your shoulders. Then you will Be Blessed!

The walk…

"If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom."
‭‭James‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

We can talk the talk, but do we walk the walk? I met a lot of people who proclaim to be Christians, and they probably have accepted Christ as their Savior. But is their life reflecting Christ?

The Christian walk is supposed to be constant growth. Their was a time in my life where, yes, I was a Christian but it didn't show by the life I led. Hopefully that has changed and is improving.

So where do you stand? Do you just talk the talk, or do you walk the walk? I pray you are progressing in your walk with Christ so that you can Be Blessed!

Run from, run too…

"But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness."
‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When we are running from evil, we must also be running toward something. Run toward righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.

So you may stop doing a particular sin but what are you replacing it with? You can overcome that sin much quicker if, in its place, you do something godly.

So what are you running from? More importantly, what are you running too? Chose your goal, what to pursue, and then you can Be Blessed!

Listening….

"Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever been talking to someone but you know they are not listening? My wife says that sometimes I may hear her but I'm not listening. Yes, there is a difference.

But when we talk to God, when we pray to Him; we are guaranteed that He is listening! God loves for His children to talk to Him. He values that relationship.

So when you feel like your prayers are not getting past the ceiling; you can have peace knowing that God is listening. Pray to Him, better yet, talk to Him and Be Blessed!

Confidence…

""But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him."
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Jeremy goes on to describe a tree whose roots seek out water in the deep soil. That tree has no fear during the dry season because it's roots run deep.

When we trust in the Lord and we are rooted deep in His love, we have no fear of what may come. We know the Lord will sustain us.

How deep are your roots in the Lord? Place your confidence in Him and when the dry season comes, you will Be Blessed!

All in…

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'"
‭‭Mark‬ ‭12‬:‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

These are Jesus' words! It's an invitation to live life at its fullest. To obtain everything God has for you! An invitation to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Christ than you could ever imagine.

Is it time for you to go all in? To love Him with everything you have? To put Him first in your life?

What would your life look like if you made that decision? If you embraced an all in mindset with your love for God? I guarantee you would Be Blessed!

God is for you…

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭31‬ ‭NIV‬‬

You feel like your world is falling in; God is for you. Your neighbor is against you; God is for you. Your boss has it out for you; God is for you.

Your marriage is falling apart; God is for you. Your struggling financially; God is for you. The enemy is coming full force; God is for you!

No matter what life throws your way; God is for you! He loves you, He has a plan and a purpose. Know that He is for you and Be Blessed!!

Sharpening iron…

"As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

You can't get a clean razor sharp edge without removing a little metal. As a master knife sharpening will tell you. They start with a low grit sanding stone and work their way up to a high grit to polish the edge. What results is a thing if beauty.

So goes our Christian life. We must help each other, call each other out when we recognize sin in our friends life. We must help polish one another to a fine edge.

Although the process is tough, the results are beautiful! So find an accountability parents. Hold each other to the grinding stone and Be Blessed!

Fisherman…

"Then Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.""
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Jesus can take your occupation and your talents and use them for His good. He can make you fishers of men!

Jesus doesn't want you to take His gift of salvation and hide it in a closet. He wants you to share it! He wants you to help increase His kingdom.

So it doesn't matter if your a salesman, an accountant, or tradesman; God can use you and make you fishers of men. Then you can Be Blessed!

Confession…

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

There is something about confession that sets us free. Not only confession to God but to one another.

I remember when I was struggling with a particular sin. I finally got the nerve to confess it to my wife. To my surprise, I received love and support from her, and she helped me to overcome that sin in my life. Healing began.

It's good to share and confess to another supportive Christian in your life. Allow them to help you heal, to pray for you and with you. Together you can overcome and you will Be Blessed!

The long game…

"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭58‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do any of you play chess? I play some, and always look at the short game. But true chess masters focus on the long game. Sometimes we take a stand for what is right, for our faith and we get knocked down. But we are not looking at the long game.

Paul reminds the church at Corinth to remember that their work for God is not in vain. He was looking at the long game. When we take a stand for God, we may be knocked down at the moment. But we are planting a seed, we are doing what God called us to do!

God is looking at the long game. Your sacrifices are not in vain. Continue to stand for what is biblical and right. In the end, you will Be Blessed!

Forget the past…

"But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What keeps you from moving forward in you Christian life? Your past, probably has a lot to do with it. But Paul tells us to "forget what is behind". Forget your past mistakes, forgive yourself. God has already forgiven you and forgotten about your past.

Press forward, keep moving. The prize has been won for you, by Jesus. You just have to run towards him! Don't let your past hold you back.

When we forgive ourselves, we let off a big weight that allows us to push forward. God has so much more in store for you. Run towards Him and Be Blessed!

Refining…

"The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the Lord tests the hearts."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭17‬:‭3‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Superheated fire burns off all the impurities in silver and gold during the refining process. It makes them pure.

Sometimes the "test" of life help refine our hearts. God allows us to go through these test, with His help, to reveal our impurities. We become better, stronger and wiser because of those "test".

So when your going through a trial, keep the faith, rely on God. You will come out better, on the other side of the fire and you will Be Blessed!

Secrets…

"Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God,"
‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Do you have a past you're ashamed of? A hidden sin that you have never told anyone about? I'm sure we all do.

But God brought you through it, He helped you overcome and your better for it. Others are going through the same things. Share your story with them.

When we open up to others and be vulnerable, we show how God can work. Share your story so you and others can Be Blessed!

Test it…

"Test all things; hold fast what is good."
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭21‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

There is a lot of good in this world, even in this day and time. There are many good teachers and speakers, but Paul reminds us to "test all things".

What do we test it against? Well, the word of God! Someone or something can sound good and correct, but if it doesn't stand up to God's word, then we must turn from it. Hold fast to only those things that are backed by God's word.

The enemy always tries to make things sound good and pleasing. But "test it", know the truth and then you will Be Blessed!

A knock in the jaw…

"Arise, Lord! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭3‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

This is David's prayer for battle! He often prayed BOLD prayers. But David knew one thing, God listened to His prayers and answered them!

Now maybe you don't need God to break your enemies' teeth, but you do need a break through!! Pray BOLD prayers!! God is big enough to listen and and hear you.

So allow God to take the big swing for you, allow Him to knock 'whatever' in the jaw for you, trust Him and Be Blessed!

Forgiveness…

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

Forgiveness is difficult for us to do in this day and age. We tend to hold on to the past, hold on to grudges and let them fester. We must forgive.

God called us to love one another, to live in harmony. However, it is inevitable that we will be offended by someone or something at some point. During those times, we must forgive to be able to move on and prosper.

Had God not forgiven you and I, our eternal outlook would be drastically different. So let it go, forgive others and Be Blessed!

Anger…

"In your anger do not sin"
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭26‬a NIV

In the past, I was a very angry person. And I let that anger hurt others and the ones I loved. I took that anger and lashed out, I sinned.

Anger, in itself, is just an emotion. What we do with that anger is what matters. We must realize, that the enemy will use our human emotions against us. He will use them to soil our Christian testimony, our relationships and even our marriage.

It's OK to be angry, but what how we us that is the key. Take a deep breath, let God deal with it and Be Blessed!

Covet…

""You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.""
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

"Covet" is a yearning to possess. I believe God instructs us not to cover so we can focus on the things that He has blessed us with.

I'm a truck guy and I am always looking at new trucks. But the truck that God has blessed me with, has all the bells and whistles. It is super reliable and…it's paid for. I should be thankful.

So next time you're looking at something if someone else's, turn around and look at all the things God has given you. Stop and tell Him thank you and then you will Be Blessed!

Alone…

"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

You ever feel alone in this world? Men tend to isolate themselves, not ask for help and have very few, even no close friends whom they can confide in.

God didn't design us this way. We were made to love and support one another. To be there for each other. To confide in one another. To hold each other accountable.

So call a friend today, check on them. Take them for coffee, share life with them. I guarantee you will Be Blessed!

Other gods…

""You shall have no other gods before me."
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What or who are your gods? Sports, work, family, money, an addiction…it could be anything. If you put it before the one true God then there is a problem.

So what is most important in your life? Is God in the top of that list, or is it something else? We need to take a long hard look at our priorities.

When we put our Heaven Father before anything or anybody else, then the rest will fall in place and we shall Be Blessed!

Confession…

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
‭‭1 John‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you confess your sins? Probably…to God. But do you confess them to your wife, when you have sinned against her? How about your kids, coworkers, friends or boss?

Confessing our sins to our Heavenly Father in private is pretty easy to do. But standing up and telling those we sinned against and asking their forgiveness…that's tough.

But trust me, it may be difficult at the time. But the reward from true confession and forgiveness will be much greater. Stand up, admit your wrongs, then you will Be Blessed!

Anxiety…

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Wow, easier said than done…right. We tend to be a worrisome and anxious culture. But as a Christian should we worry? That's a hard question, but I feel the answer is "No".

God is in control. He will take care of everything, our job is to have faith and trust in His plan.

So take a deep breath, give your anxieties to Him and Be Blessed!

Mind of Christ…

"For, "Who can know the Lord's thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?" But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ."
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬

When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we too are given the mind of Christ. We must educate that mind through prayer and study, but we still have the ability to teach others, discern and understand situations.

So don't ever believe your not worthy or can't help someone. God gave you the mind of Christ so that you can teach and help others. It is our calling .

The mind of Christ can help you and others daily. God gave it to you for a reason. Put it to good use and Be Blessed!

Love…

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Often used at weddings, I believe this passage in 1 Corinthians is teaching us so much more not only in our marriage but about life. We must treat everyone with love.

We must be patient and kind, we must be humble and treat others with respect. We must honor others, slow to anger and forgive. We must love!

So whatever interactions you have today, with whoever it might be, and no matter how they treat you; show them a little love. Then you will Be Blessed!

His will…

"Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.""
‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you focus on what you want to get done? What you want for your future? Or do you trust in what God has in store for you?

It's great to have plans and goals, but are those aligned with God's plans? If the enemy can get us focused on what we want then we forget about what God wants.

So look to God for your future, share your plans and goals with Him. Pray over them but always make sure that they align with what He has in store for you. Then you will Be Blessed!

Joy…

"Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭126‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When has the Lord done something for you? It was probably today, but we don't give Him the praise and recognition He deserves.

We tend to be a "me, me, me" and a "more, more, more" society. So we forget about all God has given us and all He has done.

So take a minute, thank Him for being your Heavenly Father and blessing you immensely! Sing His praises, be filled with joy because of what He has done and Be Blessed!

Memory…

"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you read your Bible daily? Probably, but do you "hide" God's Word in your heart? Is it committed to memory? Can you draw from it, without a reference, when your in a time of need?

David knew the importance of knowing God's word. He had made a point to place it in his heart. I challenge each one of you to memorize just one new verse this week. Commit it to memory and hide it in your heart!

It is not enough just to read it, we must know and live by God word daily. Take that challenge and Be Blessed!

Faith…

"Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised."
‭‭Romans‬ ‭4‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Abraham was close to 100 years old when God fulfilled His promise of a child to Abraham and Sarah. He would eventually become the father of a great nation.

100 years is a long time to wait, but his faith never wavered. How long have we waited gift God to answer a prayer? Usually a week and we get frustrated.

God still answers prayers, in His time and for His purpose. Don't let your faith waver and Be Blessed!

The janitor…

"On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,"
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬

You every been to a large church and see the pastor or the praise band on stage? Or to a homeless mission and seen the people serving food? You know, all the people on the front line for Jesus.

But what about those behind scenes? The IT guys that make the broadcast work. The janitors and facilities guys that keep the building clean and running. The chefs making the food or the dishwasher that are cleaning up. Without these people, the frontline workers could not do their jobs. The kingdom work could not be completed without the behind the scenes guy and gals.

So never think that what your doing for God is not worthy or not important. You are indispensable in God's kingdom. Use your gifts and talents and Be Blessed!

A quiet place…

"But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed."
‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Jesus knew the importance of a quiet place to talk to His Heavenly Father. Somewhere that He could shut out the world and just be still.

Do you have a quiet place where you pray and study? Mine is the kitchen table, sounds weird but it is quiet and I can listen to God's voice. If you do t have a place of your own, I highly suggest you find one and spend time with God there.

Study, pray, be still and listen, then you will Be Blessed!

Trust…

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Sometimes, when life sucks, we wonder where God is, what He is doing and why we are suffering. Sometimes we have to go through the fire to be refined.

Remember, Jesus, the man, did not want to suffer and die, but Jesus, the Son of God, knew that it was necessary. His Heavenly Father had a plan! Submit to Him, just like Jesus did.

God has a plan, trust in Him, and then you will Be Blessed!

Faith…

"What if some were unfaithful? Will their unfaithfulness nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all!"
‭‭Romans‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬-‭4‬a NIV‬‬

Isn't that great news! God's faithfulness does not depend upon our faith!! He is always there, always faithful, always gracious and merciful!

Because if God was dependent on my faith, I sure would be in trouble. My faith, probably like yours, waivers from time to time. I have periods of great faith and periods of "uh, I'm not so sure about that?"

But rest assured, not matter what season of faith you are in, your Heavenly Father is there, waiting patiently to help. Just ask, just believe, just have faith and you will Be Blessed!

Offense…

"An understanding person demonstrates patience, for mercy means holding your tongue. When you are insulted, be quick to forgive and forget it, for you are virtuous when you overlook an offense."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭19‬:‭11‬ ‭TPT‬‬

How many times a day could you be offended? In todays cancel culture, it could be ALOT! But what if we chose not to be offended? What if we chose not to be bitter?

So instead of backlashing and going in the defensive, hold your tongue, take a deep breath and move on. It will make your day better and the offender, well, they will be quite surprised.

God wants you to forgive others like He forgave you. When we can come to that point in our life, then we will Be Blessed!

Suffering…

"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever wondered why we must suffer at times? Why God doesn't just protect us from all the hardships? I don't claim to know the true answer but 1 Peter gives us a small glimpse.

I believe it is so we can grow. Our physical muscles grow by tearing them down under great stress and then they heal stronger and more steadfast. I believe the Christian walk is the same.

We suffer and with God's help and restoration we come through the other side stronger and wiser. And we give God the glory for it, then we will Be Blessed!

Words…

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Grandma always said: "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all!" I've always had a problem with that because my mouth begins to speak before my brain can stop it.

But God tells us the same thing. As Christians we must build others up with our words, in love.You can't share the good news of Christ with someone that you just berated.

Show the love of Christ, through your words, with mercy and grace. It may open their heart and give you the opportunity to show them how they can Be Blessed!

Ups and downs…

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We all have good days and bad. We all succeed and we all fail. But the good news is: God will be with you through it all!

He is not a fair weather friend. When you down, He is there to pick you up. When you mess up, He is there with mercy and grace. He loves you, He is for you, not against you.

So no matter how your day, week or year is going; God is with you. Trust in Him to see you through and Be Blessed!

Your thoughts…

"For as he thinks in his heart, so is he."
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭23‬:‭7‬a NKJV‬‬

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Wether it is baseball, finances, negative thoughts, love, service, whatever; what your mind focuses on is who you become! So what does your mind focus on?

Do you fill your mind with Jesus, the Word of God, praise music? Or is it filled with evil, sexually explicit TV, or work? Tell me what you constantly think about and it will tell me a lot about who you are.

Fill your mind with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control: then you will Be Blessed!

The battle…

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I have seen this verse several times in the past week. It reminds me that we are in a battle. You may think it's a battle with your neighbor, your boss, your mind or those with political differences; but it's not.

The enemy will use any means necessary to attack the Christian. Constant attack every where we turn; TV, books, politics, medical, financial, friends or foes. The enemy will us any and everything to break down our Christian values and what/who we stand for!

So prepare for a fight, from the time your feet hit the floor every morning! Look to your King, be prayed up and prepared! Stand and fight and King Jesus WILL be victorious and you will Be Blessed!

Thoughts…

"And we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭5‬ b NIV‬‬

The enemy uses our mind to lead us to temptation and sin. He puts in your head that your spouse doesn't care or that your not worthy. He tells you to "just try this or that, it will feel good."

Man's biggest fall can start with a single thought. A thought that can lead you down a path of destruction . Make sure your thought are captive and they lead you to where God is!

Your thoughts matter, they control you. Where are your thoughts leading you? Take them captive and Be Blessed!

The 5000…

""We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered. "Bring them here to me," he said. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭14‬:‭17‬-‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Such a great story! I share the story of 5 loaves and 2 fish with our cooking small group every year. Our prayer is that God takes what we have and helps us feed the 5000!

But this story isn't just about food. It's about giving God what you have, and allowing Him to bless it. When you allow God to bless it, miracles happen!

So whatever your talents, whatever your gifts or your resources; give it all to God. He will bless it and do great things with it. In return, you will Be Blessed!

Worries…

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever just worry? Worry about this or that? About the big things or the small things? Some people are just naturally anxious and worrisome.

But I believe that God cares about all your worries. I believe that God loves you so much that He cares what parking place you get at Walmart.

We serve a BIG God, so no matter your worries, give them to Him. He can handle it for you, He will lift you up and you will Be Blessed!

Contentment…

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Before Paul's famous verse in Phil 4:13, he shares about contentment. God wants the best for us, but He also wants us to be content in what He gives us!

When we want more and more, we lose site of the Heavenly things God has for us versus the earthly things we continually seek.

Being content doesn't mean doing without, I truly believe it means to use what God has provided you with for His glory; no matter how much or how little.

When we discover that balance then we will Be Blessed!

Sin…

"Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When we sin, we may think we are winning against our spouse or or boss, or whoever. And yes, we are, but ultimately, all our sin is against God. He is the one that we disappoint the most. He is the one who gave His son's life for us and He is the one who will forgive us!!

In the Psalms, David knew that when he sinned, it was against his Heavenly Father. And only God could forgive him of those inequities.

So ask forgiveness from your Heavenly Father, turn and run from sin. And look ahead to see whose arms your running into! He is waiting so you can Be Blessed!

Ordinary men…

"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus."
‭‭Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Peter and John were ordinary, blue collar fishermen and they did extraordinary things! The difference…they had been with Jesus!

God can use you, the factory worker, the construction worker, the salesman, the IT guy, the line cook, the waitress; whoever you are and whatever you do. God can use you to do great things!

The difference is who you walk with. Walk with Jesus, let Him do great things through you and Be Blessed!

Hang on…

"Then the man said, "Let me go, for it is daybreak." But Jacob replied, "I will not let you go unless you bless me.""
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭32‬:‭26‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Some scholars believe Jacob was wrestling with Jesus, others believe it was God-Himself. Either way, Jacob was not letting go until God blessed him (even with a dislocated hip).

How many times have we given up on our struggles, because the battle is too tough? We are tired of fighting and just give up. I'm telling you, don't let go! Keep fighting.

Fight for your family, fight for your marriage, fight for your children, fight for your community, fight for your church…there is a blessing in store!!

Jacob would be blessed, he would become Israel and the father of a great nation, God's people. So just hang on, and you will Be Blessed!

A conquer…

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

Do you ever feel defeated? Like you can't do anything right or can't achieve your goals? Do you feel unworthy if the task before you? I know that I do sometimes!

Paul tells us, in Romans, that we can conquer all things with Christ! God gives us the power, ability and talents. He can help you achieve it all. You are worthy because of His love, grace and mercy!

So lean on Him, be more than a conqueror and Be Blessed!!

Trust…

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
‭‭Romans‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever feel like all your joy and peace are gone? Like the enemy has stolen them? God promises to fill you, but only if you trust in Him!

He will take care of you and provide for you, but you must allow Him too. He will never force it on you. You must ask and you must believe and trust.

So what is weighing on you today? Hand it over to your Heavenly Father, and trust that He will deal with it. When you have that faith, then you will Be Blessed!

The vine…

""I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I think every Christian has heard the "vine and fruit" parable. But I read recently, even atheists can accomplish great things. They can lead companies, feed the hungry and cloth the poor.

But here is the catch, they can't leave a lasting, eternal impact if they are not connected back to the vine (Christ)! So we can give all our money away and do great things, but if we don't do it with the love and servants attitude of Jesus, then it is all for naught.

People can see you heart and you make a lasting, eternal impact when you have the heart of Christ. So whatever you do, stay attached to the vine (Christ) and Be Blessed!!

The other people…

"While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him."
‭‭Mark‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Are you a Christian who stays in your own world? You only visit other Christians and just attend church on Sundays and Wednesdays? Because a "good Christian" doesn't associate with "those other people".

Well, Jesus hung out with the tax collectors and the sinners. He would be walking the streets, serving the homeless and ministering to the needy. He would carry the church outside if it's four walls. How are "those other people" going ti experience the love of God, unless we show them!

Step out if your comfort zone! Walk in the Master's footsteps. When you show the love of God to those in need, then you will Be Blessed!

The good fight…

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

One of our pastors recently quoted Mike Tyson: "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." Our plans tend to fall apart when the enemy attacks.

But when we fight the good fight, we have God on our side. We are prayed up, praised up and read up! Our spiritual defenses are in tip top shape!

Be prepared for the fight, because if you haven't already faced it, trust me, it's coming. The enemy wants us down for the count. So stand tall, fight the good fight with God by your side and Be Blessed!

Seek Him…

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬-‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Most all of us know these two verse, separately. But not worrying about tomorrow is so much easier when you have first sought His Kingdom and Righteousness.

When we are truly seeking God, the worries seem to fade away. As in all aspects of our life, we must put God first!

Seek Him first and tomorrow will worry about itself. Then you will Be Blessed!!

Give thanks…

"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you thank God for all He has done? Or are you a constant "asker", wanting more from Him every day?

Tell others what God has done for you! How He has healed you, brought you through the tough times, how He has blessed you abundantly! Sing His praises, let others see His goodness in your life.

Be glad for what He has done, praise His name and Be Blessed!

A big God…

"When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?"
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭8‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you ever consider how big God is? But yet, how much He cares for us? He made the heavens and earth, He spoke the worlds into existence, but yet He cares enough to hear your cries!!

No matter how big you feel God is, He still has time for you! He wants you to pour our all you thoughts and cares to Him. He wants to spend time with you!

Take a moment to admire His grand beauty but also spend time with your Heavenly Father. He loves you, wants to care for you so that you can Be Blessed!

A good person…

"He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy,"
‭‭Titus‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I am a good person. I help the needy, I mowed my neighbors yard that one time. I even stopped a gave a bottle of water to that homeless guy once.

Sadly, we can be good people, serve others and still go to hell. No amount of good works can buy us a ticket to Heaven. We are only saved because of God's mercy.

Accept God's mercy, accept His Son as your Savior. Then and only then will you be saved and you will Be Blessed!

Led by the spirit…

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.""
‭‭Mark‬ ‭14‬:‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Like so many of us, Simon Peter wanted to do the right thing but his flesh was weak, he was tired. How many times are we like that? We want to do what is right, but we are tired, we fall into temptation.

But we must not allow our flesh to led our spirit. We must turn it around and allow the spirit to led the flesh! We may be tired, but get up 15 mins early and spend time with God. We may be hungry, but share your meal with someone in need. We may be running late, but stop and help the elderly unload their groceries.

When we are led by the spirit, our bodies will follow suit and we will Be Blessed!

If you can…

""It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for one who believes.""
‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The boy's father ask "but if you can?" Wow, not much faith there. But how many times do we ask the same thing of God? "Lord, if you can, I would appreciate it if You would do…xyz"

Jesus responds: "Everything is possible for one who believe."

You see, it's not God's ability that our prayers don't get answered. It is our faith!! How much do you believe, have you given up because it's been so long?

Trust God, believe that He can and take a leap of faith. Then you will Be Blessed!

Give it to Him…

"Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬, ‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

David cry's out to God in his distress. But at the end of the chapter, he knows that he can rest in peace because God will take care of him.

Many times we worry and stress. We lose sleep, we are beside ourselves in grief and heartache. But we need to place that burden in God. Turn it over to Him and rest in peace.

God hears your prayers, He will allow you to rest in peace, without worry. Give it to Him and Be Blessed!

When I awake…

"I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Sometimes we feel so mentally and physically exhausted I feel like I could sleep for days. For those that suffer from anxiety and depression, that feeling can be compounded.

But trust me, the Lord will sustain you! He will wake you up and help you move forward. He will give you the energy and capacity you need to get out of the bed!

Let the Lord take your burdens, let Him refresh and renew you. When you awake you will Be Blessed!

A friend…

"For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you."
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭41‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

You every been in trouble or had something you needed help with and had that friend who shows us to help, without asking? It is such a wonderful feeling.

God is that friend, He is always there willing to lend a hand. He is always there to pick you up. Just call on Him when your in need.

He is the best friend you could ever ask for! He will always be there so that you can Be Blessed!

Walk humbly…

"With what shall I come before the Lord and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?… He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
‭‭Micah‬ ‭6‬:‭6‬, ‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As we look at the famous verse 8 in Micah, sometimes we forget to look at the context. Micah was trying to figure out what to bring God as a sacrifice. A calf, maybe a thousand of them.

But verse 8 reveals what God wants from us: act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God. Focusing on the last requirement; God wants a relationship with you!

So walk humbly with your God today, spend time with Him and Be Blessed!

Psalms 1

"Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Psalms 1 is the Christian Man's guide to life. Read it, live it and Be Blessed!

Keep fighting…

"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised."
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭36‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Sometimes the Christian life is hard, especially in this cancel culture world. You feel tired, bet up, like you can't go any further and you just want to give up.

You need to persevere, to ensure the challenges that lie ahead. God has so much more in store for you. The rewards will be worth it.

So keep pushing, keep fighting, keep digging! In the end you will Be Blessed!

Call on Him…

"I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭116‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

If you have been a Christian for any amount of time, I am sure you have called out to God. And when He answers, it is AMAZING!

Pastor Tony says: "God answers by saying 'Yes', 'Not now', or 'I have something better for you!'" God's answers, not matter what He says, are always way better than anything we could imagine.

Call on Him, all the days of your life; through the good and bad! If you rely on Him, you will Be Blessed!

He is there…

"If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

You could be in a halfway house, homeless in a ditch, a president of a Fortune 500 company or a stay at home parent: but wherever you are, God is there!

Sometime we think we have gotten too far away, "God could never love me where I am at now!" But He is all encompassing, He just needs to hear you cry out for Him. He has never left you, just reach out for Him.

You are not forgotten, you are not a lost cause. Take a step forward and move towards Him, God is there and you will Be Blessed!

Lord, bless the men of Nashamah today!

Understanding…

"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding,"
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I have said it before and will say it again and again; knowledge is power! Especially when it comes to the Word of God! We must seek God's wisdom and understanding!

To fight daily in this world, we must prepare ourselves. Daily study and prayer time with God is essential! I can guarantee a bad day for myself, just skip my time with God.

5 minutes of praise, 5 minutes of preparation (study His word) and 5 minutes of prayer; will cause your day to Be Blessed!

A good day…

"No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping,"
‭‭Ezra‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬a NIV

My wife recently shared with me a catch phrase from her Bible study: "No matter what happens, today is a good day!" Ezra tells us the same thing, even amongst their pain, there was still sounds of joy to be heard.

No matter how bad you think your day is, there is still something to be joyful about! Think of all the blessings God has given you! All the things we take for granted that we should be thankful for!

Most especially the love of our Savior! So no matter where you are or what's going on: Today is a good day! Be Blessed!

I will be with you!

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I opened my Bible app and this verse was waiting for me today. God's promise that we will not go through things alone. He will always be there with us!

So not matter what your going through, no matter how alone you feel, God is with you. And when the going gets rough and you feel like you can't take another step, He will carry you.

So trust Him, walk with Him and Be Blessed!

His word…

"He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it."
‭‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We must know the Word of God! We must study it daily so that we have a sound base to defend our faith, refute the enemy and most importantly; share the truth with others.

Knowledge is key to growing in the Christian life. Key to growing your faith and your relationship with God.

Spend time daily in His word, you will Be Blessed!

Rooted…

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Our lives, our faith, our philosophies must be rooted in Christ! This world throws many obstacles our way, and without a strong foundation we will fail.

Christ must be the center of everything we do. And we must have the knowledge to back up our beliefs. This foundation can be built upon His word.

Are you building your foundation, are you rooted in the truth? Dive daily into His word, fuel your fire from Him and then you will Be Blessed!

The battle…

"No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength."
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭33‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When we rely on ourselves we will always fail. No matter how "strong" we are or the size of the army we surround ourselves with, without God, it is a winless battle.

But the man who relies on God will always come out on top. God's strength, mercy and grace will always carry us through the battle and win the war.

So what battle are you fighting today? Are you trying to fight all alone, or are you trusting in the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords to see you through? Keep God on your side and Be Blessed!