Scripture:
“Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.”
Psalms 5:3 NLT
Observation:
The Psalmist here asks God to listen to his voice in the morning. He said that each morning he brought requests to God and he waited expectantly. Two things I see him doing; bringing requests and waiting expectantly.
Application:
Like the Psalmist, each morning I need to set aside time to bring y requests to the Lord and to wait expectantly for His answer. Sometimes I’m good at bringing my requests, but I’m not as good at waiting expectantly. I want to build my faith to fully expect God to answer when I call out to Him.
Prayer:
Father, increase my faith. Help me to walk with You and fulfill Your will. When I have a need and I pray, teach me to wait expectantly. I am pretty god at bringing You my needs. I need help with waiting expectantly. I’m waiting for some answers Lord. Help me to expect an answer while I wait.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, July 31, 2019
Saturday, July 27, 2019
The Innocent
Scripture:
““If they listen and obey God, they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives. All their years will be pleasant.”
Job 36:11 NLT
Observation:
Elihu was giving council to Job and in this portion, was talking about the innocent. He says they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives and all their years will be pleasant. He is basically saying that the innocent will live blessed lives.
Application:
Our job is to walk innocently, God’s job is to bless our lives. Our goal should be to walk innocently before our God. He is worthy of our very best in every area of life. There is great confidence in innocence as well. When we know we are innocent of wrongdoing, we have confidence in our relationships and in society.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to walk in innocence. I don’t want to be guilty of anything You don’t want me to do. Help me to follow You well each day. Lead me in the path of innocence where my life will be blessed beyond measure. I’m looking for Your blessings to overtake my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
““If they listen and obey God, they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives. All their years will be pleasant.”
Job 36:11 NLT
Observation:
Elihu was giving council to Job and in this portion, was talking about the innocent. He says they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives and all their years will be pleasant. He is basically saying that the innocent will live blessed lives.
Application:
Our job is to walk innocently, God’s job is to bless our lives. Our goal should be to walk innocently before our God. He is worthy of our very best in every area of life. There is great confidence in innocence as well. When we know we are innocent of wrongdoing, we have confidence in our relationships and in society.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to walk in innocence. I don’t want to be guilty of anything You don’t want me to do. Help me to follow You well each day. Lead me in the path of innocence where my life will be blessed beyond measure. I’m looking for Your blessings to overtake my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, July 26, 2019
God is Speaking...Am I Listening?
Scripture:
“For God speaks again and again, though people do not recognize it. He speaks in dreams, in visions of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they lie in their beds.”
Job 33:14-15 NLT
Observation:
Elihu spoke up after listening a long time to Job and his friends conversations. He told Job that God speaks again and again, but people don’t recognize it. He said God speaks through dreams and visions in the night while we sleep. He basically said that God is always speaking, we just are not listening.
Application:
I have always desired to hear clearly the word of the Lord. I want close, intimate conversation with my maker. I long to hear clearly every detail that God wants of me. At times I have been persistent, asking God to speak to me in my dreams and I would received dreams. I want to dream again in the night. When I go to sleep, I’m going to ask God to speak to me in my dreams again.
Prayer;
Father, I want to do Your will in my life. I want to live exactly as You want me to, but I can’t do that unless I hear Your voice clearly. Open my ears. Open my eyes. Open my spirit to receive Your words. Teach me to walk in conversation with You at all times. Drop words in my heart. Speak to me in dreams and visions. Speak Lord speak. I want to do Your will, but I can’t if I don’t know what it is.
Your Son,
Jeff
“For God speaks again and again, though people do not recognize it. He speaks in dreams, in visions of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they lie in their beds.”
Job 33:14-15 NLT
Observation:
Elihu spoke up after listening a long time to Job and his friends conversations. He told Job that God speaks again and again, but people don’t recognize it. He said God speaks through dreams and visions in the night while we sleep. He basically said that God is always speaking, we just are not listening.
Application:
I have always desired to hear clearly the word of the Lord. I want close, intimate conversation with my maker. I long to hear clearly every detail that God wants of me. At times I have been persistent, asking God to speak to me in my dreams and I would received dreams. I want to dream again in the night. When I go to sleep, I’m going to ask God to speak to me in my dreams again.
Prayer;
Father, I want to do Your will in my life. I want to live exactly as You want me to, but I can’t do that unless I hear Your voice clearly. Open my ears. Open my eyes. Open my spirit to receive Your words. Teach me to walk in conversation with You at all times. Drop words in my heart. Speak to me in dreams and visions. Speak Lord speak. I want to do Your will, but I can’t if I don’t know what it is.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Seek God For Wisdom
Scripture:
“Wisdom is more valuable than gold and crystal. It cannot be purchased with jewels mounted in fine gold.”
Job 28:17 NLT
Observation:
Here we see that Job has some wisdom and understanding. He understood that God was the author of all wisdom and understanding. He knew that as humans, we don’t know it all and need God to direct our steps. He understood the value of wisdom. He said is was more valuable than gold and crystal.
Application:
If you have wisdom and understanding, the gold and crystal will find you. Wise people don’t pursue money and wealth, they understand that as they do the will of God and seek wisdom and understanding, money will come to them. It is more valuable to be wise than to have a lot of money. I need God’s wisdom in my life in ever-increasing measures.
Prayer:
Father of wisdom and understanding, there is nothing hidden from You and nothing that You don’t know and understand. Teach me Your ways and let me hear from Your heart. Show me the ways of wisdom and let my life be lived in a way that honors You.
Yours,
Jeff
“Wisdom is more valuable than gold and crystal. It cannot be purchased with jewels mounted in fine gold.”
Job 28:17 NLT
Observation:
Here we see that Job has some wisdom and understanding. He understood that God was the author of all wisdom and understanding. He knew that as humans, we don’t know it all and need God to direct our steps. He understood the value of wisdom. He said is was more valuable than gold and crystal.
Application:
If you have wisdom and understanding, the gold and crystal will find you. Wise people don’t pursue money and wealth, they understand that as they do the will of God and seek wisdom and understanding, money will come to them. It is more valuable to be wise than to have a lot of money. I need God’s wisdom in my life in ever-increasing measures.
Prayer:
Father of wisdom and understanding, there is nothing hidden from You and nothing that You don’t know and understand. Teach me Your ways and let me hear from Your heart. Show me the ways of wisdom and let my life be lived in a way that honors You.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Pure Gold
Scripture:
““But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.”
Job 23:10 NLT
Observation:
Job knew he was being tested by God and he was determined not to fail the test. He didn’t understand what God was doing and why the unrighteousness prosper, but he also knew better than to walk away from God. As much as it depended on him, he was determined to pass the test and come out as pure as gold.
Application:
There are testing times in each of our lives. There are times we don’t understand what God is doing or why He is doing what He is doing. Our response must be that we will live for Him and remain in His ways, whether we understand what is happening to us or not. We must be people who are determined to come forth as pure as gold.
Prayer:
Father, help me to come through every test more pure and more refined. Help me to finish well and to accomplish Your will in my life. Teach me to walk with You daily and to hear Your voice more clearly. I want to serve You well in my generation. My life is Yours. My home is Yours. My family is Yours. Use it for Your glory and help me to pass every test.
Your Son,
Jeff
““But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.”
Job 23:10 NLT
Observation:
Job knew he was being tested by God and he was determined not to fail the test. He didn’t understand what God was doing and why the unrighteousness prosper, but he also knew better than to walk away from God. As much as it depended on him, he was determined to pass the test and come out as pure as gold.
Application:
There are testing times in each of our lives. There are times we don’t understand what God is doing or why He is doing what He is doing. Our response must be that we will live for Him and remain in His ways, whether we understand what is happening to us or not. We must be people who are determined to come forth as pure as gold.
Prayer:
Father, help me to come through every test more pure and more refined. Help me to finish well and to accomplish Your will in my life. Teach me to walk with You daily and to hear Your voice more clearly. I want to serve You well in my generation. My life is Yours. My home is Yours. My family is Yours. Use it for Your glory and help me to pass every test.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Confidence in God’s Promises
Scripture:
““But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God!”
Job 19:25-26 NLT
Observation:
Job had been through terrible suffering. He felt like he was about to die and his friends and counselors were not helping him. As he was defending himself one more time, he said these powerful words, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last.... after my body has decayed, I will see God”.
Application:
Job knew that, even if his life was taken, he would see God. He was confident that his Redeemer lived. We need to have the same confidence in our lives. When it feels like death is at the door and everything has gone terribly wrong, we should be confident that our Redeemer lives and we will see Him one day. I want to walk by faith and not by sight.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are amazing and I love You. You have rescued my so many times. You have saved me and put me on Your path for my life. When things are not going well, help me to say I KNOW my redeemer lives. Help me to walk in confidence in You at all times and never to waiver.
Yours,
Jeff
““But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God!”
Job 19:25-26 NLT
Observation:
Job had been through terrible suffering. He felt like he was about to die and his friends and counselors were not helping him. As he was defending himself one more time, he said these powerful words, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last.... after my body has decayed, I will see God”.
Application:
Job knew that, even if his life was taken, he would see God. He was confident that his Redeemer lived. We need to have the same confidence in our lives. When it feels like death is at the door and everything has gone terribly wrong, we should be confident that our Redeemer lives and we will see Him one day. I want to walk by faith and not by sight.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are amazing and I love You. You have rescued my so many times. You have saved me and put me on Your path for my life. When things are not going well, help me to say I KNOW my redeemer lives. Help me to walk in confidence in You at all times and never to waiver.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, July 22, 2019
Pour it Out to God
Scripture:
“My friends scorn me, but I pour out my tears to God.”
Job 16:20 NLT
Observation:
Job couldn’t figure out why God was doing what he was doing. His friends didn’t understand him. His wife wanted him to curse God and die, but he knew what he needed to do. Even though he wasn’t feeling God’s love, he poured out his tears to God. God saw him and blessed him with double for his trouble in the end of his life.
Application:
When nothing seems to be going right, rather than pouring out our heart to humans that can’t understand anyway, we must learn to pour out our hearts to God, who can hear us and help us. There is nothing wrong with crying in difficult times, it is just important that our cries are to the Lord, for He is always willing to help.
Prayer:
Father, when things are difficult, let me cry out to You. Let my heart be poured out like the unceasing waves of the ocean, over and over again. Let my cries not be to those who cannot help me, but to the one who always comes through. You are my everything and I love you desperately.
Your Son,
Jeff
“My friends scorn me, but I pour out my tears to God.”
Job 16:20 NLT
Observation:
Job couldn’t figure out why God was doing what he was doing. His friends didn’t understand him. His wife wanted him to curse God and die, but he knew what he needed to do. Even though he wasn’t feeling God’s love, he poured out his tears to God. God saw him and blessed him with double for his trouble in the end of his life.
Application:
When nothing seems to be going right, rather than pouring out our heart to humans that can’t understand anyway, we must learn to pour out our hearts to God, who can hear us and help us. There is nothing wrong with crying in difficult times, it is just important that our cries are to the Lord, for He is always willing to help.
Prayer:
Father, when things are difficult, let me cry out to You. Let my heart be poured out like the unceasing waves of the ocean, over and over again. Let my cries not be to those who cannot help me, but to the one who always comes through. You are my everything and I love you desperately.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, July 20, 2019
Joy Comes Again
Scripture:
“He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”
Job 8:21 NLT
Observation:
In this passage, Job had been complaining about his terrible condition and how he wished he could just die and let it be over. Bildad told him to continue to seek the Lord because God would once again fill his mouth with laughter and his lips with shouts of joy.
Application:
When going through difficult times, we must realize that there are seasons in life and that we will come through the current season. Sometimes I tell people like Bildad, “you will laugh again...I promise”. During the season where it seems everything is falling apart, we need to remind people that God will once again fill their mouths with laughter and their lips with shouts of joy. It won’t last forever.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to help others who are going through trying times. Help me to give words of hope and not words of condemnation. When I am going through tough times, help me to remember that “this too shall pass” and that I will laugh again. You always bring us through and allow us to laugh again.
Yours,
Jeff
“He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”
Job 8:21 NLT
Observation:
In this passage, Job had been complaining about his terrible condition and how he wished he could just die and let it be over. Bildad told him to continue to seek the Lord because God would once again fill his mouth with laughter and his lips with shouts of joy.
Application:
When going through difficult times, we must realize that there are seasons in life and that we will come through the current season. Sometimes I tell people like Bildad, “you will laugh again...I promise”. During the season where it seems everything is falling apart, we need to remind people that God will once again fill their mouths with laughter and their lips with shouts of joy. It won’t last forever.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to help others who are going through trying times. Help me to give words of hope and not words of condemnation. When I am going through tough times, help me to remember that “this too shall pass” and that I will laugh again. You always bring us through and allow us to laugh again.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, July 19, 2019
God’s Protection And Provision
Scripture:
“You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is!”
Job 1:10 NLT
Observation:
Job was a man who was blessed by God and protected by God. When God and Satan had a discussion about Job, Satan told God, “You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is.” Satan knew he couldn’t touch Job and that God had blessed him and made him prosper.
Application:
Although God lets down His wall of protection on Job’s life in this case, it shows that God has the incredible ability to protect and prosper His people. When God decides to protect and bless You, there is nothing the enemy can do to stop it. We must have faith that knows deeply that God will protect and prosper our lives.
Prayer:
God, put your hedge of protection around my life and my family. Prosper my life as I serve You. Let Your incredible hand of blessing fall on my life, family, church, ministry, etc. I want to live a blessed life that can only be attributed to following You. Work miracles and let us see the day of Your blessings.
Your Son,
Jeff
“You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is!”
Job 1:10 NLT
Observation:
Job was a man who was blessed by God and protected by God. When God and Satan had a discussion about Job, Satan told God, “You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is.” Satan knew he couldn’t touch Job and that God had blessed him and made him prosper.
Application:
Although God lets down His wall of protection on Job’s life in this case, it shows that God has the incredible ability to protect and prosper His people. When God decides to protect and bless You, there is nothing the enemy can do to stop it. We must have faith that knows deeply that God will protect and prosper our lives.
Prayer:
God, put your hedge of protection around my life and my family. Prosper my life as I serve You. Let Your incredible hand of blessing fall on my life, family, church, ministry, etc. I want to live a blessed life that can only be attributed to following You. Work miracles and let us see the day of Your blessings.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, July 18, 2019
Others First
Scripture:
“Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests.”
Philippians 2:4 TPT
Observation:
Paul told the Philippians to abandon every display of selfishness and to be more concerned about what matters to others instead of their own selves. He went on to say that we should have the mind of Christ which laid down His life for others.
Application:
We are to abandon every display of selfishness. To abandon means to walk away from and to leave it behind. Instead, we are to be more interested in what matters to others than ourselves. I need to place others needs and interests above my own and to live a life that blesses others rather than seeking self-pleasure.
Prayer:
Lord, enable me to live a life like You lived. A life that is more concerned about others than about myself. I want to walk as You walked and live as You lived on this earth. Teach me to be see others as valuable as You do. Help me not to judge others, but to see them for the potential You have placed in them.
Yours,
Jeff
“Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests.”
Philippians 2:4 TPT
Observation:
Paul told the Philippians to abandon every display of selfishness and to be more concerned about what matters to others instead of their own selves. He went on to say that we should have the mind of Christ which laid down His life for others.
Application:
We are to abandon every display of selfishness. To abandon means to walk away from and to leave it behind. Instead, we are to be more interested in what matters to others than ourselves. I need to place others needs and interests above my own and to live a life that blesses others rather than seeking self-pleasure.
Prayer:
Lord, enable me to live a life like You lived. A life that is more concerned about others than about myself. I want to walk as You walked and live as You lived on this earth. Teach me to be see others as valuable as You do. Help me not to judge others, but to see them for the potential You have placed in them.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
The Privilege of Suffering For Christ
Scripture:
“For God has graciously given you the privilege not only to believe in Christ, but also to suffer for him. For you have been called by him to endure the conflict in the same way I have endured it—for you know I’m not giving up.”
Philippians 1:29-30 TPT
Observation:
Paul is telling the Philippians that they are going to be called on to suffer like he was suffering, in prison. He told them this was a privilege they were called to endure and reminded them that they knew he wouldn’t give up. Paul saw suffering for Christ to be a privilege because in that moment we are more like Christ.
Application:
We must present a balanced Gospel. It is an honor to suffer for Christ. We like to know our rights and privileges as children of God. There are many that are too incredible for words, but suffering for Christ should be one on our list. Sometimes we have to endure some things unfairly, it just means we are becoming for like Jesus. Jesus was falsely accused and went like a lamb to the slaughter.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are incredible. Help me to represent Jesus well with my life today. Teach me to walk in Your blessings and in the path You have planned for me. Help me to walk as Christ did in every area. Open my ears and eyes to hear and see You more clearly today.
Yours,
Jeff
“For God has graciously given you the privilege not only to believe in Christ, but also to suffer for him. For you have been called by him to endure the conflict in the same way I have endured it—for you know I’m not giving up.”
Philippians 1:29-30 TPT
Observation:
Paul is telling the Philippians that they are going to be called on to suffer like he was suffering, in prison. He told them this was a privilege they were called to endure and reminded them that they knew he wouldn’t give up. Paul saw suffering for Christ to be a privilege because in that moment we are more like Christ.
Application:
We must present a balanced Gospel. It is an honor to suffer for Christ. We like to know our rights and privileges as children of God. There are many that are too incredible for words, but suffering for Christ should be one on our list. Sometimes we have to endure some things unfairly, it just means we are becoming for like Jesus. Jesus was falsely accused and went like a lamb to the slaughter.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are incredible. Help me to represent Jesus well with my life today. Teach me to walk in Your blessings and in the path You have planned for me. Help me to walk as Christ did in every area. Open my ears and eyes to hear and see You more clearly today.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
God’s Incredible Timing
Scripture:
“That night the king had trouble sleeping, so he ordered an attendant to bring the book of the history of his reign so it could be read to him.”
Esther 6:1 NLT
Observation:
The nest verse tells us that the king read about Mordecai and how he had saved the king’s life in the past. It just so happened that the king couldn’t sleep on exactly the right night and that he felt to read some history on exactly the right night and he read about exactly the right person. This was a total God setup.
Application:
Even when things have already been decreed against us, God can cause someone to have a dream, make them read something, or speak audibly to them, but God’s timing is incredible. I need to learn to trust God that He can speak to the right person at the right time. He can have the right person fall across my path to change my destiny in a moment. His timing is incredible..
Prayer:
Father, help me to realize just how involved You are in my life and how You can works circumstances we are in to bring about Your will. Help me to trust You more and more. I am Yours and want to serve You well. Help me to never fear, but to know You have my back and will fix anything that comes against me.
Your Son,
Jeff
“That night the king had trouble sleeping, so he ordered an attendant to bring the book of the history of his reign so it could be read to him.”
Esther 6:1 NLT
Observation:
The nest verse tells us that the king read about Mordecai and how he had saved the king’s life in the past. It just so happened that the king couldn’t sleep on exactly the right night and that he felt to read some history on exactly the right night and he read about exactly the right person. This was a total God setup.
Application:
Even when things have already been decreed against us, God can cause someone to have a dream, make them read something, or speak audibly to them, but God’s timing is incredible. I need to learn to trust God that He can speak to the right person at the right time. He can have the right person fall across my path to change my destiny in a moment. His timing is incredible..
Prayer:
Father, help me to realize just how involved You are in my life and how You can works circumstances we are in to bring about Your will. Help me to trust You more and more. I am Yours and want to serve You well. Help me to never fear, but to know You have my back and will fix anything that comes against me.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, July 13, 2019
Never Doubt God’s Incredible Power
Scripture:
“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
Observation:
Paul says here that we shouldn’t ever doubt God’s mighty power to work in us. He says God will achieve infinitely more than our greatest request, our most unbelievable dream and will exceed our wildest imagination. He says it is God’s miraculous power that constantly energizes us. What statements about our lives in Christ and His incredible power.
Application:
If God works at this level in our lives, then we should be able to walk in extreme confidence that God will do what He says He will do. If God can take us far beyond our wildest dreams, we must learn to walk in faith more and more. I don’t want to doubt God’s incredible power, but to tap into it in my life. I want to live by faith in God’s power and not by what I see. I want God to increase my faith. I believe He is able, but I don’t always believe He will do it in my life.
Prayer:
Father, increase my faith. Help me to trust You more and more. Work Your incredible power in and through my life to achieve Your will and plans. Take away every limitation to my faith and let me see more and more answered prayer. I have no doubt You are able to do absolutely anything, help me to believe You will do it in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
“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
Observation:
Paul says here that we shouldn’t ever doubt God’s mighty power to work in us. He says God will achieve infinitely more than our greatest request, our most unbelievable dream and will exceed our wildest imagination. He says it is God’s miraculous power that constantly energizes us. What statements about our lives in Christ and His incredible power.
Application:
If God works at this level in our lives, then we should be able to walk in extreme confidence that God will do what He says He will do. If God can take us far beyond our wildest dreams, we must learn to walk in faith more and more. I don’t want to doubt God’s incredible power, but to tap into it in my life. I want to live by faith in God’s power and not by what I see. I want God to increase my faith. I believe He is able, but I don’t always believe He will do it in my life.
Prayer:
Father, increase my faith. Help me to trust You more and more. Work Your incredible power in and through my life to achieve Your will and plans. Take away every limitation to my faith and let me see more and more answered prayer. I have no doubt You are able to do absolutely anything, help me to believe You will do it in my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Friday, July 12, 2019
God Turns Things Around
Scripture:
“For they had not provided the Israelites with food and water in the wilderness. Instead, they hired Balaam to curse them, though our God turned the curse into a blessing.”
Nehemiah 13:2 NLT
Observation:
Nehemiah says here that the Amonites and Moabites were not permitted to enter the Temple because they had hired Baalam to curse the people of Israel. He goes on to say that God turned the curse into a blessing. God can take anything the devil wants to do and turn it into a blessing for the people of God.
Application:
I need to be reminded today that God can take anything that is thrown at us and turn it into a blessing. Our trust is to be in Him, not in defending ourselves or building a case against someone else. Our eyes must be on the Lord, then He will fight our battles. No matter what the enemy tries to do in our lives, God is able to turn it around and use it for our good if we remain steadfast in serving Him.
Prayer:
Father, take every curse that has been spoken over me and turn it into a blessing. Let me serve You well and fulfill Your will for my life. Let me see the day of your blessing. Bless me with the home I need for my family. Let me live above only and not beneath. Bless my congregation in every way. Build Your kingdom in and through my life. Help me to see and hear what You want me to do each day.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
“For they had not provided the Israelites with food and water in the wilderness. Instead, they hired Balaam to curse them, though our God turned the curse into a blessing.”
Nehemiah 13:2 NLT
Observation:
Nehemiah says here that the Amonites and Moabites were not permitted to enter the Temple because they had hired Baalam to curse the people of Israel. He goes on to say that God turned the curse into a blessing. God can take anything the devil wants to do and turn it into a blessing for the people of God.
Application:
I need to be reminded today that God can take anything that is thrown at us and turn it into a blessing. Our trust is to be in Him, not in defending ourselves or building a case against someone else. Our eyes must be on the Lord, then He will fight our battles. No matter what the enemy tries to do in our lives, God is able to turn it around and use it for our good if we remain steadfast in serving Him.
Prayer:
Father, take every curse that has been spoken over me and turn it into a blessing. Let me serve You well and fulfill Your will for my life. Let me see the day of your blessing. Bless me with the home I need for my family. Let me live above only and not beneath. Bless my congregation in every way. Build Your kingdom in and through my life. Help me to see and hear what You want me to do each day.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Thursday, July 11, 2019
You Did Not Abandon Them
Scripture:
“They refused to obey and did not remember the miracles you had done for them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to take them back to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You did not abandon them,”
Nehemiah 9:17 NLT
Observation:
When the people of Israel heard the Law of God being read by Ezra, they repented and were in tears as it was read all the way through and explained to the people. They stood for hours while the Law was being read. In the reading, they realized that their forefathers had abandoned the God who had done so much for them. Even though they refused to obey God and didn’t remember all His miracles, God still did not abandon them.
Application:
God is described above as being a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You are that and so much more! Thank You for not abandoning us when we mess up and go our own way. Thank You for Your unfailing love for Your people. Because of Your unfailing love, I want to serve You well in my generation.
Prayer:
Help me God, to respond to Your incredible faithfulness by living a life that pleases and honors You. I want my life to bring You praise. Empower me to live how You want me to. Help me to lead Your people well and to be an example of Your faithfulness. You are amazing and I want to be more like You. Bless my life and provide for the needs of my family today.
Yours,
Jeff
“They refused to obey and did not remember the miracles you had done for them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to take them back to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You did not abandon them,”
Nehemiah 9:17 NLT
Observation:
When the people of Israel heard the Law of God being read by Ezra, they repented and were in tears as it was read all the way through and explained to the people. They stood for hours while the Law was being read. In the reading, they realized that their forefathers had abandoned the God who had done so much for them. Even though they refused to obey God and didn’t remember all His miracles, God still did not abandon them.
Application:
God is described above as being a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You are that and so much more! Thank You for not abandoning us when we mess up and go our own way. Thank You for Your unfailing love for Your people. Because of Your unfailing love, I want to serve You well in my generation.
Prayer:
Help me God, to respond to Your incredible faithfulness by living a life that pleases and honors You. I want my life to bring You praise. Empower me to live how You want me to. Help me to lead Your people well and to be an example of Your faithfulness. You are amazing and I want to be more like You. Bless my life and provide for the needs of my family today.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Serving Well
Scripture:
“The former governors, in contrast, had laid heavy burdens on the people, demanding a daily ration of food and wine, besides forty pieces of silver. Even their assistants took advantage of the people. But because I feared God, I did not act that way.”
Nehemiah 5:15 NLT
Observation:
Nehemiah decided he would not take money from the people he was serving to feed his own family. He didn’t want to burden the people financially. He was feeding up to 150 people per day in his house, but didn’t burden the people to pay for it. His reason, “I feared God”. His fear of God caused him to serve the people extremely well.
Application:
In leadership, our job is to take care of people, not to burden the people with taking care of us. Like Nehemiah, we should fear God and have proper balance. One who serves people cannot place large demands on the people they serve. I need to trust God and believe Him to bless my life in every way. He is faithful.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to trust You more. I need a new home in order to serve my family, but I don’t want to be a burden on Your people. Bless my life so that I can own a home that works for my family situation, yet not be a burden to our church. Open financial doors and make a way for us to own a home that will work for us as we serve You and Your people.
Your Son,
Jeff
“The former governors, in contrast, had laid heavy burdens on the people, demanding a daily ration of food and wine, besides forty pieces of silver. Even their assistants took advantage of the people. But because I feared God, I did not act that way.”
Nehemiah 5:15 NLT
Observation:
Nehemiah decided he would not take money from the people he was serving to feed his own family. He didn’t want to burden the people financially. He was feeding up to 150 people per day in his house, but didn’t burden the people to pay for it. His reason, “I feared God”. His fear of God caused him to serve the people extremely well.
Application:
In leadership, our job is to take care of people, not to burden the people with taking care of us. Like Nehemiah, we should fear God and have proper balance. One who serves people cannot place large demands on the people they serve. I need to trust God and believe Him to bless my life in every way. He is faithful.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to trust You more. I need a new home in order to serve my family, but I don’t want to be a burden on Your people. Bless my life so that I can own a home that works for my family situation, yet not be a burden to our church. Open financial doors and make a way for us to own a home that will work for us as we serve You and Your people.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
A Great Attitiude
Scripture:
“Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes’ reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence.”
Nehemiah 2:1 NLT
Observation:
Nehemiah was the cup bearer for a pagan king. He knew the Lord, but was serving an ungodly king who had deported him and all of his people from their homes and took them to another country. If anyone had a right to be angry and have a bad attitude, it was Nehemiah, but the Scripture says he had never appeared sad in the king’s presence.
Application:
Nehemiah received favor from the king because he had a great attitude in serving the king. We must learn from Nehemiah how important it is to serve others with a great attitude. I need to serve with a smile and the right heart at all times. When it is time for favor, I should have some stored up because I have worked with a great attitude in difficult times.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are faithful and reliable. You are unchanging. I don’t have to question if you are going to happy, sad, up or down on any particular day. Help me to be more like You. Help me to have a great attitude on good days and on bad days. Help me to always serve with a smile and a right heart.
Yours,
Jeff
“Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes’ reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence.”
Nehemiah 2:1 NLT
Observation:
Nehemiah was the cup bearer for a pagan king. He knew the Lord, but was serving an ungodly king who had deported him and all of his people from their homes and took them to another country. If anyone had a right to be angry and have a bad attitude, it was Nehemiah, but the Scripture says he had never appeared sad in the king’s presence.
Application:
Nehemiah received favor from the king because he had a great attitude in serving the king. We must learn from Nehemiah how important it is to serve others with a great attitude. I need to serve with a smile and the right heart at all times. When it is time for favor, I should have some stored up because I have worked with a great attitude in difficult times.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, You are faithful and reliable. You are unchanging. I don’t have to question if you are going to happy, sad, up or down on any particular day. Help me to be more like You. Help me to have a great attitude on good days and on bad days. Help me to always serve with a smile and a right heart.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, July 8, 2019
Humility Before God
Scripture:
“So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer.”
Ezra 8:23 NLT
Observation:
Ezra was preparing to start worship at the Temple and realized that nobody had really kept themselves clean and pure to serve in the Temple so he got some people together and fasted and earnestly prayed that God would take care of them. Their prayers were heard, I believe because of their humility.
Application:
I believe there is so much to be said for humbling ourselves before God and acknowledging that without Him and His blessing, we won’t be able to accomplish what He is asking us to do. Fasting and prayer, in this context was a way for saying, “God, we need You desperately”. We need Your blessing on what we are doing, or we are sunk. God wants us to rely on Him and to trust Him. He wants us to acknowledge that we can’t do it without Him.
Prayer:
Father, take care of my family, Word of Life, and my region. I cry out to You and ask You to bless us. Without Your blessing we have nothing. You are incredible and I need You in my life. I want You involved in everything I do and everywhere I go. I want to do Your will with my life. Help me to serve You well in my generation.
Your Son,
Jeff
“So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer.”
Ezra 8:23 NLT
Observation:
Ezra was preparing to start worship at the Temple and realized that nobody had really kept themselves clean and pure to serve in the Temple so he got some people together and fasted and earnestly prayed that God would take care of them. Their prayers were heard, I believe because of their humility.
Application:
I believe there is so much to be said for humbling ourselves before God and acknowledging that without Him and His blessing, we won’t be able to accomplish what He is asking us to do. Fasting and prayer, in this context was a way for saying, “God, we need You desperately”. We need Your blessing on what we are doing, or we are sunk. God wants us to rely on Him and to trust Him. He wants us to acknowledge that we can’t do it without Him.
Prayer:
Father, take care of my family, Word of Life, and my region. I cry out to You and ask You to bless us. Without Your blessing we have nothing. You are incredible and I need You in my life. I want You involved in everything I do and everywhere I go. I want to do Your will with my life. Help me to serve You well in my generation.
Your Son,
Jeff
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Praise God In the Process
Scripture:
“With praise and thanks, they sang this song to the Lord: “He is so good! His faithful love for Israel endures forever!” Then all the people gave a great shout, praising the Lord because the foundation of the Lord’s Temple had been laid.”
Ezra 3:11 NLT
Observation:
This is a simple verse, but it says so much. As Ezra and his team were rebuilding the Temple and they got the foundation completed, they praised and thanked God with a great shout. They proclaimed how God’s faithful love for Israel endures forever. They stopped the process to give God praise.
Application:
We need to celebrate the little wins along the way in life. We need to take praise breaks periodically to thank God for where He has brought us from and the accomplishments that have happened along the way. Our process may not be complete, but we should celebrate the smaller wins while we continue our work for the Lord.
Prayer:
God, thank You for bringing us this far! Your faithful love endures forever to Your people. You have blessed me life over and over. You are building Your church and I take time today to say thank You for working in and through Word of Life and its people. Thanks for providing for us and taking care of us these 18 years. You are truly faithful! You have provided for us over and over again! Your love never fails and You are doing what You said You would do.
Yours,
Jeff
“With praise and thanks, they sang this song to the Lord: “He is so good! His faithful love for Israel endures forever!” Then all the people gave a great shout, praising the Lord because the foundation of the Lord’s Temple had been laid.”
Ezra 3:11 NLT
Observation:
This is a simple verse, but it says so much. As Ezra and his team were rebuilding the Temple and they got the foundation completed, they praised and thanked God with a great shout. They proclaimed how God’s faithful love for Israel endures forever. They stopped the process to give God praise.
Application:
We need to celebrate the little wins along the way in life. We need to take praise breaks periodically to thank God for where He has brought us from and the accomplishments that have happened along the way. Our process may not be complete, but we should celebrate the smaller wins while we continue our work for the Lord.
Prayer:
God, thank You for bringing us this far! Your faithful love endures forever to Your people. You have blessed me life over and over. You are building Your church and I take time today to say thank You for working in and through Word of Life and its people. Thanks for providing for us and taking care of us these 18 years. You are truly faithful! You have provided for us over and over again! Your love never fails and You are doing what You said You would do.
Yours,
Jeff
Friday, July 5, 2019
Too Important
Scripture:
“If you think you are too important to stoop down to help another, you are living in deception.”
Galatians 6:3 TPT
Observation:
Paul was writing to the Galatians about the danger of getting into religion instead of walking in step with the Spirit and freedom. Here, he tells them that if they think they are too important to stoop down and help someone, they are deceived. Real freedom serve people.
Application:
Serving others should be the outcome of a life in the Spirit. Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. Following Jesus means we should live like He lived. We should never think we are too good to stoop down and serve people. Our lives are to be lives of service to our King and to His people.
Prayer:
Father, let me never get above serving others and stooping down to help them out. Let my life be an example of a life of service, preferring others above self. Teach me to walk as You walked, Jesus. Help me to serve like You served and live as You lived. I am yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
“If you think you are too important to stoop down to help another, you are living in deception.”
Galatians 6:3 TPT
Observation:
Paul was writing to the Galatians about the danger of getting into religion instead of walking in step with the Spirit and freedom. Here, he tells them that if they think they are too important to stoop down and help someone, they are deceived. Real freedom serve people.
Application:
Serving others should be the outcome of a life in the Spirit. Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. Following Jesus means we should live like He lived. We should never think we are too good to stoop down and serve people. Our lives are to be lives of service to our King and to His people.
Prayer:
Father, let me never get above serving others and stooping down to help them out. Let my life be an example of a life of service, preferring others above self. Teach me to walk as You walked, Jesus. Help me to serve like You served and live as You lived. I am yours.
Your Son,
Jeff
Thursday, July 4, 2019
Child of Abraham
Scripture:
“And since you’ve been united to Jesus the Messiah, you are now Abraham’s “child” and inherit all the promises of the kingdom realm!”
Galatians 3:29 TPT
Observation:
Galatians is written by Paul because he saw people trying to make non-Jews follow the Jewish Law. He was writing to express that in Christ we are free from the Law and are to live in the Spirit. This verse tells us we have been united to Jesus and we are now Abraham’s child and that we inherit all the promises of the kingdom realm.
Application:
We have been adopted into God’s family. We have full rights to the promises God made to Abraham and the Jewish people throughout the years. We are in covenant with the Lord and all His promises have been inherited by us. By faith, I must see myself as an heir to God’s promises and not as a step-child that doesn’t get an inheritance.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for adopting me into Your family. Thank you for Your covenant with me. Teach me to walk as Your Son in the full inheritance of all You have given us. You are amazing and I want to see Your blessings in my life. Prosper my life like You did for those who have followed You throughout the ages.
Yours,
Jeff
“And since you’ve been united to Jesus the Messiah, you are now Abraham’s “child” and inherit all the promises of the kingdom realm!”
Galatians 3:29 TPT
Observation:
Galatians is written by Paul because he saw people trying to make non-Jews follow the Jewish Law. He was writing to express that in Christ we are free from the Law and are to live in the Spirit. This verse tells us we have been united to Jesus and we are now Abraham’s child and that we inherit all the promises of the kingdom realm.
Application:
We have been adopted into God’s family. We have full rights to the promises God made to Abraham and the Jewish people throughout the years. We are in covenant with the Lord and all His promises have been inherited by us. By faith, I must see myself as an heir to God’s promises and not as a step-child that doesn’t get an inheritance.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for adopting me into Your family. Thank you for Your covenant with me. Teach me to walk as Your Son in the full inheritance of all You have given us. You are amazing and I want to see Your blessings in my life. Prosper my life like You did for those who have followed You throughout the ages.
Yours,
Jeff
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
It’s Never Too Late to Cry Out to God
Scripture:
“And when he prayed, the Lord listened to him and was moved by his request. So the Lord brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh finally realized that the Lord alone is God!”
2 Chronicles 33:13 NLT
Observation:
Manasseh had lived a terrible life and followed all the gods of the people. He led his nation against the worship of the Lord God Almighty and into idol worship. This caused the Lord’s anger to be against him and he was taken away to Babylon. In Babylon, he cried out to the Lord and repented. It says here that the Lord was moved by his request so he brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to leading his nation.
Application:
God has such mercy on His people. WHen we mess up, we often feel like God won’t hear our prayers. Here we see a man who led an entire nation against God, but when he repented and cried out to the Lord, God restored him. We must lean on the goodness of God and see Him as faithful and merciful. We need to run to God and not away from Him when we mess up.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, help me to always run to You and not from Your presence. Teach me to follow after You completely and never feel ashamed to come to You. You are faithful, merciful, full of grace and compassion. Help me to see myself as You see me.
Yours,
Jeff
“And when he prayed, the Lord listened to him and was moved by his request. So the Lord brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh finally realized that the Lord alone is God!”
2 Chronicles 33:13 NLT
Observation:
Manasseh had lived a terrible life and followed all the gods of the people. He led his nation against the worship of the Lord God Almighty and into idol worship. This caused the Lord’s anger to be against him and he was taken away to Babylon. In Babylon, he cried out to the Lord and repented. It says here that the Lord was moved by his request so he brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to leading his nation.
Application:
God has such mercy on His people. WHen we mess up, we often feel like God won’t hear our prayers. Here we see a man who led an entire nation against God, but when he repented and cried out to the Lord, God restored him. We must lean on the goodness of God and see Him as faithful and merciful. We need to run to God and not away from Him when we mess up.
Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, help me to always run to You and not from Your presence. Teach me to follow after You completely and never feel ashamed to come to You. You are faithful, merciful, full of grace and compassion. Help me to see myself as You see me.
Yours,
Jeff
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
The Test
Scripture:
“However, when ambassadors arrived from Babylon to ask about the remarkable events that had taken place in the land, God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and to see what was really in his heart.”
2 Chronicles 32:31 NLT
Observation:
God was with Hezekiah in a big way. He defeated Hezekiah’s enemies and the armies of those against him. God worked powerfully during Hezekiah’s reign. When things were going incredibly good, the Lord tested Hezekiah by withdrawing from him for a period. The Bible says this was to test his heart.
Application:
Sometimes, when God seems far away, it may be a test of our heart to see if we will continue to serve Him when it seems He isn’t right there with us. We need to understand that there are always tests in the kingdom of God to see where we are in our relationship. The more mature a person gets, the less guidance they need in the natural and in the spiritual. Sometimes God wants to see if we have grown up and withdrawals from us for a season to see if we are mature.
Prayer:
God, let me pass this test. I love Your presence and never want to be apart from it. I also realize that You will sometimes let me walk through a wilderness to see where I am in walking by faith and not by sight. Help me to pass the tests and to trust You completely, when I see You working and when I don’t.
Yours,
Jeff
“However, when ambassadors arrived from Babylon to ask about the remarkable events that had taken place in the land, God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and to see what was really in his heart.”
2 Chronicles 32:31 NLT
Observation:
God was with Hezekiah in a big way. He defeated Hezekiah’s enemies and the armies of those against him. God worked powerfully during Hezekiah’s reign. When things were going incredibly good, the Lord tested Hezekiah by withdrawing from him for a period. The Bible says this was to test his heart.
Application:
Sometimes, when God seems far away, it may be a test of our heart to see if we will continue to serve Him when it seems He isn’t right there with us. We need to understand that there are always tests in the kingdom of God to see where we are in our relationship. The more mature a person gets, the less guidance they need in the natural and in the spiritual. Sometimes God wants to see if we have grown up and withdrawals from us for a season to see if we are mature.
Prayer:
God, let me pass this test. I love Your presence and never want to be apart from it. I also realize that You will sometimes let me walk through a wilderness to see where I am in walking by faith and not by sight. Help me to pass the tests and to trust You completely, when I see You working and when I don’t.
Yours,
Jeff
Monday, July 1, 2019
Pride Will Destroy You
Scripture:
“But when he had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall. He sinned against the Lord his God by entering the sanctuary of the Lord’s Temple and personally burning incense on the incense altar.”
2 Chronicles 26:16 NLT
Observation:
Uzziah was a great king who did awesome in the sight of the Lord, but he allowed pride to enter his heart. He felt he was good enough to enter the sanctuary of the Lord’s Temple and burn incense. I’m sure he did this out of a pure heart wanting to worship God, but disobedience always destroys. He felt he deserved to function as a priest and overstepped his boundaries.
Application:
Pride, and feeling we deserve certain things, will corrupt our lives. Uzziah ended up with leprosy because of this event. I want to walk in humility at all times, even when I think I deserve better. I don’t want pride to come into my life and destroy what God is trying to do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk in humility before You and Your people all the days of my life. Help me never feel I deserve more or better than what you have provided for me. Help me not to overstep my boundaries in any way. Keep me on the right path and help me to serve You well all of my life.
Yours,
Jeff
“But when he had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall. He sinned against the Lord his God by entering the sanctuary of the Lord’s Temple and personally burning incense on the incense altar.”
2 Chronicles 26:16 NLT
Observation:
Uzziah was a great king who did awesome in the sight of the Lord, but he allowed pride to enter his heart. He felt he was good enough to enter the sanctuary of the Lord’s Temple and burn incense. I’m sure he did this out of a pure heart wanting to worship God, but disobedience always destroys. He felt he deserved to function as a priest and overstepped his boundaries.
Application:
Pride, and feeling we deserve certain things, will corrupt our lives. Uzziah ended up with leprosy because of this event. I want to walk in humility at all times, even when I think I deserve better. I don’t want pride to come into my life and destroy what God is trying to do.
Prayer:
Father, help me to walk in humility before You and Your people all the days of my life. Help me never feel I deserve more or better than what you have provided for me. Help me not to overstep my boundaries in any way. Keep me on the right path and help me to serve You well all of my life.
Yours,
Jeff
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