This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him is no darkness at all. {1 Jn 1:5 RSV}
This is a dark world that we live in. However, those who have accepted Christ walk in the Light. God is Light. If we are in God then we are in the Light. There's enough stuff going on to make some people panic and be scared; if they don't know about faith. Faith people are supposed to understand that the darkness cannot overcome them. There are people around us who don't realize that they are functioning and dependent upon a dark world system and that each day they are more and more vulnerable.
A while back, the power went out in the whole State of Michigan. I think several states were affected in the United States. It happened during daylight hours and though we could still see well, we were functioning ineffectively and chaos was all around us. For example; all the Gas stations closed down. You couldn't buy ice and the supermarkets closed. Some phones didn't work. If you didn't have gas in your car you were unable to drive to the store and buy a charger for your cell phone. There were traffic jams everywhere. Yet despite all of this; it was 100 times worse when it got dark.
When it got dark, we all scrambled for candles. One neighbor had a generator. He allowed anyone with an extension chord to their homes so that they would have light. We all went to his yard for a cookout. The fire gave us light. Eventually we all went back to our dark homes. All we could do was sleep. We were so happy when daylight hit the next day. Our lives had been drastically altered by that experience.
We were used to living in the light. We didn't like the darkness, not that way beyond our control.
God is Light. When I came into the Kingdom of God, moving closer to God; accepting Jesus as the Master of my life, I had no idea what kind of choice I had made. The Light of God flushed in a gave light to every dark part of my life and corrected in. The Light flooded my household and ran out the darkness. I take that Light with me wherever I go. I see things differently. Things are different. I know what's going on. I know that what's not of God is darkness and I don't like darkness. Think about that.
James 1: 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
What Do You Hear ? (Unknown) Friday, September 28, 2007)
A Native American and his friend were in downtown New York City, walking near Times Square in Manhattan. It was during the noon lunch hour and the streets were filled with people. Cars were honking their horns, taxicabs were squealing around corners, sirens were wailing, and the sounds of the city were almost deafening. Suddenly, the Native American said, "I hear a cricket."
His friend said, "What? You must be crazy. You couldn't possibly hear a cricket in all of this noise."
"No, I'm sure of it," the Native American said, "I heard a cricket."
"That's crazy," said the friend.
The Native American listened carefully for a moment, and then walked across the street to a big cement planter where some shrubs were growing. He looked into the bushes, beneath the branches, and sure enough, he located a small cricket. His friend was utterly amazed.
"That's incredible," said his friend. "You must have super-human ears."
"No," said the Native American. "My ears are no different from yours. It all depends on what you're listening for."
"But that can't be." said the friend. "I could never hear a cricket in this noise."
"Yes, it's true," came the reply. "It depends on what is really important to you. Here, let me show you."
He reached into his pocket, pulled out a few coins, and discreetly dropped them on the sidewalk. And then, with the noise of the crowded street still blaring in their ears, they noticed every head within twenty feet turn and look to see if the money that tinkled on the pavement was theirs.
"See what I mean?" asked the Native American. "It all depends on what's important to you."
As Jesus tells the Pharisees in the Gospel, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar, but give to God what is God's."
- Unknown
His friend said, "What? You must be crazy. You couldn't possibly hear a cricket in all of this noise."
"No, I'm sure of it," the Native American said, "I heard a cricket."
"That's crazy," said the friend.
The Native American listened carefully for a moment, and then walked across the street to a big cement planter where some shrubs were growing. He looked into the bushes, beneath the branches, and sure enough, he located a small cricket. His friend was utterly amazed.
"That's incredible," said his friend. "You must have super-human ears."
"No," said the Native American. "My ears are no different from yours. It all depends on what you're listening for."
"But that can't be." said the friend. "I could never hear a cricket in this noise."
"Yes, it's true," came the reply. "It depends on what is really important to you. Here, let me show you."
He reached into his pocket, pulled out a few coins, and discreetly dropped them on the sidewalk. And then, with the noise of the crowded street still blaring in their ears, they noticed every head within twenty feet turn and look to see if the money that tinkled on the pavement was theirs.
"See what I mean?" asked the Native American. "It all depends on what's important to you."
As Jesus tells the Pharisees in the Gospel, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar, but give to God what is God's."
- Unknown
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Only a few people will get this; are you "one" of them? By Elaine Davenport (Thursday, September 27, 2007)
God Bless you today. What a great day God has for you today. I was thinking of you this morning and decided to write you to share a few things with you. First, let me tell you that I faithfully pray for you and your family. This is true. You know, when I hear that someone needs prayer, I never feel bad or any sense of urgency if I know them because I’ve ALREADY been praying for them. I never stop. That means you.
I have a story to tell you. It’s not a long one. It’s a faith story. I have met some of the most wonderful people (the best I have ever known) since I decided to take a closer walk with God in my life. One of those people is my friend Barb. Now all of us have many stories of our lives that we can tell. Barb was kind enough to tell me one of her faith stories. It’s a good one and I know that she has many more. I asked her permission to share this with you and I got her consent. Thank you so much Barb for sharing this with all of us. Thank you.
Barb received an assignment from her home church to direct the Outreach Ministry at a church in Akron Ohio. We live in Michigan and Akron, Ohio is a little over a three hour drive in good weather. (smile) It’s just a little under two hundred miles in one direction. Barb was in charge of the bookstore and all Outreach activities. She was not relocating, she was commuting. Barb traveled every Sunday, rain or snow. (WE LIVE IN THE MIDWEST SO THERE WAS SNOW) Barbara told me that she came to love the people there and the assignment. Now, I’ve heard a lot of wonderful stories but none like this one. I’m sure there are more, (few) but I haven’t heard them. I asked her: “How did you do that? How did you stay connected?” Her response is what I want to talk to you about today.
She looked at me with an angelic face in all sincerity and said something like this: I spent those long commutes meditating and communing with the Lord. Those weren’t her exact words but I tried to give it a “broad” interpretation so people at all faith levels can understand. What she was explaining to me in a very humble way was that if you have a personal relationship with God, faith and trust in Him, nothing is impossible. I want you to just imagine that every Sunday, you have to get up and drive to Akron, Ohio to go to church. You can’t oversleep, you can’t say: “I’ll stay home this week,” you can’t quit, you have to go! Could you do it?
Now, my message for you this month is to tell you to: “STAY CONNECTED.” Some people who receive this will say: “Stay connected to what?” Some will understand. So let me just say this: these letters go out by the hundreds now. This is not meant to offend or to suggest that you aren’t connected…but the Word I’ve received to give you is to tell you to STAY THAT WAY.
When you buy a car, it comes with a battery. You don’t ask to see it because if the car is new, no one hears about batteries going bad. But we all know that a few years down the road and a couple of winters and that battery better be given some serious attention and the TRIPLE A card better be current because the car needs a battery that works. The more you drive the car, the more power that goes out of the battery. My husband just explained to me that when you recharge the battery it builds the power back up. HMM……….
(Some of you can see the analogy to our faith here)
THE BATTERY HAS TO STAY CHARGED ……….AND SO DO WE.
We have got to increase our prayer lives. We have got to stay connected to God. Sunday service isn’t enough and a fleeting emergency prayer isn’t enough either. I used to think that the more prayers that I sent up, that it was bad and that God wouldn’t want to answer my emergencies because I had bothered Him about so many little things. A lot of people think that now: “I don’t want to bother God, He’s busy.” So because I misunderstood, I wasn’t staying connected. All kinds of things were happening to me. And then…………I figured it out (with help). It was the other way around, completely different than what I thought. God wanted to hear from me. All the time. I eventually learned to pray for other people as a prayer intercessor, to increase my prayer life dramatically and to stay connected.
In return, my needs were met in mighty ways day by day! I’m sitting here laughing now about my latest miracle….get connected……and stay that way. Please, I’m begging you and praying too.
I have a story to tell you. It’s not a long one. It’s a faith story. I have met some of the most wonderful people (the best I have ever known) since I decided to take a closer walk with God in my life. One of those people is my friend Barb. Now all of us have many stories of our lives that we can tell. Barb was kind enough to tell me one of her faith stories. It’s a good one and I know that she has many more. I asked her permission to share this with you and I got her consent. Thank you so much Barb for sharing this with all of us. Thank you.
Barb received an assignment from her home church to direct the Outreach Ministry at a church in Akron Ohio. We live in Michigan and Akron, Ohio is a little over a three hour drive in good weather. (smile) It’s just a little under two hundred miles in one direction. Barb was in charge of the bookstore and all Outreach activities. She was not relocating, she was commuting. Barb traveled every Sunday, rain or snow. (WE LIVE IN THE MIDWEST SO THERE WAS SNOW) Barbara told me that she came to love the people there and the assignment. Now, I’ve heard a lot of wonderful stories but none like this one. I’m sure there are more, (few) but I haven’t heard them. I asked her: “How did you do that? How did you stay connected?” Her response is what I want to talk to you about today.
She looked at me with an angelic face in all sincerity and said something like this: I spent those long commutes meditating and communing with the Lord. Those weren’t her exact words but I tried to give it a “broad” interpretation so people at all faith levels can understand. What she was explaining to me in a very humble way was that if you have a personal relationship with God, faith and trust in Him, nothing is impossible. I want you to just imagine that every Sunday, you have to get up and drive to Akron, Ohio to go to church. You can’t oversleep, you can’t say: “I’ll stay home this week,” you can’t quit, you have to go! Could you do it?
Now, my message for you this month is to tell you to: “STAY CONNECTED.” Some people who receive this will say: “Stay connected to what?” Some will understand. So let me just say this: these letters go out by the hundreds now. This is not meant to offend or to suggest that you aren’t connected…but the Word I’ve received to give you is to tell you to STAY THAT WAY.
When you buy a car, it comes with a battery. You don’t ask to see it because if the car is new, no one hears about batteries going bad. But we all know that a few years down the road and a couple of winters and that battery better be given some serious attention and the TRIPLE A card better be current because the car needs a battery that works. The more you drive the car, the more power that goes out of the battery. My husband just explained to me that when you recharge the battery it builds the power back up. HMM……….
(Some of you can see the analogy to our faith here)
THE BATTERY HAS TO STAY CHARGED ……….AND SO DO WE.
We have got to increase our prayer lives. We have got to stay connected to God. Sunday service isn’t enough and a fleeting emergency prayer isn’t enough either. I used to think that the more prayers that I sent up, that it was bad and that God wouldn’t want to answer my emergencies because I had bothered Him about so many little things. A lot of people think that now: “I don’t want to bother God, He’s busy.” So because I misunderstood, I wasn’t staying connected. All kinds of things were happening to me. And then…………I figured it out (with help). It was the other way around, completely different than what I thought. God wanted to hear from me. All the time. I eventually learned to pray for other people as a prayer intercessor, to increase my prayer life dramatically and to stay connected.
In return, my needs were met in mighty ways day by day! I’m sitting here laughing now about my latest miracle….get connected……and stay that way. Please, I’m begging you and praying too.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Is your Spiritual bank account flourishing or in the hole? by Elaine Davenport (Tuesday, September 25, 2007)
How much have you deposited into your Spiritual bank account?
(THAT WILL DETERMINE WHAT YOU CAN TAKE OUT WHEN YOU NEED IT)
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10: 17
Blessings to you. How are you doing? I haven’t written in a while because I have been pretty busy trying to do so many things and trying to find a balance. I have been thinking about you and yet I don’t actually know much about you from a spiritual perspective. I know you from a world perspective and I know that you are a really good person. Only you and God know how you’re doing spiritually and He’s very smart.
That’s what I am writing to you about today…YOUR SPIRIT.
DID YOU KNOW THAT WHEN YOU”RE ON FULL SPIRITUALLY, YOU”RE THE STRONGEST THAT YOU”LL EVER BE?
I was praying and I was led to send 50 of these letters out and I just figured I would be led as to who should get one and so that’s why it’s in your hand now, or on your table or bed etc..
I keep calling the bank all the time to see what’s in any of my three financial accounts and sometimes I have to transfer money from one to another. You can have a lot of FINANCIAL bank accounts if you wish; but you can only have ONE SPIRITUAL bank account. Everyday you can put something in it. What is in it is up to you.
A lot of people have grown up to believe that only a small part of each of us is spiritual, if that much. Smile. It’s a terrible deception because the BIGGEST part of us is the SPIRIT man or woman. We are a spirit, we LIVE in a body and we possess a soul.
I really knew something was missing in my life when I was afraid all the time, I worried a lot and had a lot of anxiety. Everything bothered me and I worried much too much about what people thought of me, what would happen to me and my family. I can laugh about it all now. I’m 100% confident that ALL IS WELL.
As I began to choose my own personal path for spiritual enrichment, I chose to get to know God by establishing a personal relationship with Him. I found out about how God loves me (and you) unconditionally and what He wants me to do with my life. I began to pray for and love others unselfishly, standing in the gap for them through prayer; so that their needs could be met. My prayers were not short and as I tried it, my faith began to grow. I was led to read the bible. That was a miracle! I had never done it too much and had never wanted to. At first, I fell asleep. Then, I realized it was God talking to me and instructing me telling me why I didn’t have to be afraid of anything and so much more. I eventually learned that I was on the road to building myself up spiritually and how to stay that way. Do you like living life worrying about things or would you like to be confident?
MY PRAYER FOR YOU IS THAT YOU”LL THINK ABOUT THIS LETTER AND BUILD YOURSELF UP SPIRITUALLY. THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU NEED FOR YOU TO BE JUST THAT STRONG. I DON”T KNOW WHEN YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL FACE A TEST OR TRIAL; (we all do) BUT WHEN YOU DO, DON”T DO IT ALONE.
(THAT WILL DETERMINE WHAT YOU CAN TAKE OUT WHEN YOU NEED IT)
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10: 17
Blessings to you. How are you doing? I haven’t written in a while because I have been pretty busy trying to do so many things and trying to find a balance. I have been thinking about you and yet I don’t actually know much about you from a spiritual perspective. I know you from a world perspective and I know that you are a really good person. Only you and God know how you’re doing spiritually and He’s very smart.
That’s what I am writing to you about today…YOUR SPIRIT.
DID YOU KNOW THAT WHEN YOU”RE ON FULL SPIRITUALLY, YOU”RE THE STRONGEST THAT YOU”LL EVER BE?
I was praying and I was led to send 50 of these letters out and I just figured I would be led as to who should get one and so that’s why it’s in your hand now, or on your table or bed etc..
I keep calling the bank all the time to see what’s in any of my three financial accounts and sometimes I have to transfer money from one to another. You can have a lot of FINANCIAL bank accounts if you wish; but you can only have ONE SPIRITUAL bank account. Everyday you can put something in it. What is in it is up to you.
A lot of people have grown up to believe that only a small part of each of us is spiritual, if that much. Smile. It’s a terrible deception because the BIGGEST part of us is the SPIRIT man or woman. We are a spirit, we LIVE in a body and we possess a soul.
I really knew something was missing in my life when I was afraid all the time, I worried a lot and had a lot of anxiety. Everything bothered me and I worried much too much about what people thought of me, what would happen to me and my family. I can laugh about it all now. I’m 100% confident that ALL IS WELL.
As I began to choose my own personal path for spiritual enrichment, I chose to get to know God by establishing a personal relationship with Him. I found out about how God loves me (and you) unconditionally and what He wants me to do with my life. I began to pray for and love others unselfishly, standing in the gap for them through prayer; so that their needs could be met. My prayers were not short and as I tried it, my faith began to grow. I was led to read the bible. That was a miracle! I had never done it too much and had never wanted to. At first, I fell asleep. Then, I realized it was God talking to me and instructing me telling me why I didn’t have to be afraid of anything and so much more. I eventually learned that I was on the road to building myself up spiritually and how to stay that way. Do you like living life worrying about things or would you like to be confident?
MY PRAYER FOR YOU IS THAT YOU”LL THINK ABOUT THIS LETTER AND BUILD YOURSELF UP SPIRITUALLY. THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU NEED FOR YOU TO BE JUST THAT STRONG. I DON”T KNOW WHEN YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL FACE A TEST OR TRIAL; (we all do) BUT WHEN YOU DO, DON”T DO IT ALONE.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Do you want to beat this thing? Read the Bible... by Gene McGuire (Guest Writer) (Monday, September 24, 2007)
Editor's Note: Most people are facing something big and need God's help. If you don't; ask around. I wanted to write to you about the CRITICAL IMPORTANCE of reading the bible every day for at least 30 minutes to an hour. I believe this is a key to the Open Door. I found this article written by Gene McGuire and I couldn't have expressed it better)
BY GENE MCGUIRE...
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God. . . .rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)
COMMENT: Have you ever taken something for granted and then after a period of time your eyes are opened to a deeper understanding? Well, that happened to me the other day. You probably have been aware of what I am about to mention, but it took me 70 years to clearly see the obvious. What I’m talking about is a part of speech called a “contraction”. For all these years I never gave a second thought as to why that name was given to those particular words; it was just another word like a noun, adjective, pronoun, etc. I knew one when I saw one or used one. About a month ago, it finally dawned on me that the word “contraction” means to make smaller and that is what happens when we take two words, eliminate one or more letters and replace the missing letter(s) with an apostrophe. Now, of course, my failure to be fully aware of that concept is not very important to my life in the natural, however the same lack of cognition in spiritual matters could be very detrimental. I’ve heard some people say that they’ve read the Bible once, cover to cover, and truly believe that they’ve gotten out of it all it had to offer. NOT. There are deeper meanings in the Scriptures that only come to us by studying and meditating on God’s Word. A cursory examination of it is definitely insufficient because the Scriptures contain “acres of diamonds” that can be continually ”mined” by conscientious Christians.
SCRIPTURE STUDY: Psalms 119:130 and Hebrews 4:12
WISE SAYING: KNOW THE WORD, BE NOT DECEIVED. YOUR IGNORANCE COULD LEAVE YOU GRIEVED. (gene mcguire)
BY GENE MCGUIRE...
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God. . . .rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)
COMMENT: Have you ever taken something for granted and then after a period of time your eyes are opened to a deeper understanding? Well, that happened to me the other day. You probably have been aware of what I am about to mention, but it took me 70 years to clearly see the obvious. What I’m talking about is a part of speech called a “contraction”. For all these years I never gave a second thought as to why that name was given to those particular words; it was just another word like a noun, adjective, pronoun, etc. I knew one when I saw one or used one. About a month ago, it finally dawned on me that the word “contraction” means to make smaller and that is what happens when we take two words, eliminate one or more letters and replace the missing letter(s) with an apostrophe. Now, of course, my failure to be fully aware of that concept is not very important to my life in the natural, however the same lack of cognition in spiritual matters could be very detrimental. I’ve heard some people say that they’ve read the Bible once, cover to cover, and truly believe that they’ve gotten out of it all it had to offer. NOT. There are deeper meanings in the Scriptures that only come to us by studying and meditating on God’s Word. A cursory examination of it is definitely insufficient because the Scriptures contain “acres of diamonds” that can be continually ”mined” by conscientious Christians.
SCRIPTURE STUDY: Psalms 119:130 and Hebrews 4:12
WISE SAYING: KNOW THE WORD, BE NOT DECEIVED. YOUR IGNORANCE COULD LEAVE YOU GRIEVED. (gene mcguire)
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
We're Looking for Faith Writers by Elaine Davenport (Saturday, September 22, 2007)
*************We're looking for Faith writers for our Faith Blogs. *****************
We're accepting articles. We can't pay you but we can give you a letter of recommendation for you. Also, it will look great on your resume and you can call it community service or volunteer work. Accepted articles must be Word based. (Biblical) The length can range from 150 to 400 words. All submissions must be submitted by email. Prior writing experience is not a criteria; and resumes are unnecessary. If you feel it is an asset, you may submit it.
THE FIRST STEP
All we need from you initially is your email address and a brief statement of interest. After that we will email you. After receipt of the email; you will have 10 days to respond and then you will be on the second step. NOTIFICATION OF ACCEPTANCE WILL BE WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF RECEIPT OF STEP TWO MATERIALS FROM YOU THE REQUESTOR/WRITER.
THIS IS THE SECOND STEP
Cover letters or Letters of introduction are a requirement. Please if interested place a comment at the end of this post with your email address. Please include your name, address, church affiliation and experience or any other pertinent information. bIt will not be seen by other people. All information for these purposes remain confidential. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO PICK ARTICLES THAT ARE APPROPRIATE TO OUR STYLE. Please see the links below to our other Blogs so that you may better understand our writing style and our Spiritual objectives.
GODLY WISDOM
HEALMENOW
PRAYER FORCES
PRAYER TIME
We're accepting articles. We can't pay you but we can give you a letter of recommendation for you. Also, it will look great on your resume and you can call it community service or volunteer work. Accepted articles must be Word based. (Biblical) The length can range from 150 to 400 words. All submissions must be submitted by email. Prior writing experience is not a criteria; and resumes are unnecessary. If you feel it is an asset, you may submit it.
THE FIRST STEP
All we need from you initially is your email address and a brief statement of interest. After that we will email you. After receipt of the email; you will have 10 days to respond and then you will be on the second step. NOTIFICATION OF ACCEPTANCE WILL BE WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF RECEIPT OF STEP TWO MATERIALS FROM YOU THE REQUESTOR/WRITER.
THIS IS THE SECOND STEP
Cover letters or Letters of introduction are a requirement. Please if interested place a comment at the end of this post with your email address. Please include your name, address, church affiliation and experience or any other pertinent information. bIt will not be seen by other people. All information for these purposes remain confidential. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO PICK ARTICLES THAT ARE APPROPRIATE TO OUR STYLE. Please see the links below to our other Blogs so that you may better understand our writing style and our Spiritual objectives.
GODLY WISDOM
HEALMENOW
PRAYER FORCES
PRAYER TIME
Keeping Score by Elaine Davenport (Thursday, September 20, 2007)
When we were little kids and I would sulk; my sister would ask what's wrong. I wouldn't even answer until she had asked me 5 or 6 times. I determined that she wasn't going to ask anymore, so I answered quite pitifully: "You did this to me, remember." I would say almost to the point of tears.
My sister would respond with wisdom: "Well, I did that because of what you did. We'd go back and forth until we were exhausted never resolving anything.
The most that we knew about forgiveness at that6 time from a practical sense was saying: "I'm sorry."
Now, in my house if you said it, you had to mean it; at least that's what I believed. My parents were pretty passionate.
A lot of people bring those childhood habits of keeping score into adult relationships and it's just not the best way to handle things. I wonder if it impacts our divorce rates, crime rates and how much it spills over into our everyday affairs.
Keeping score twinges on unforgiveness; it hinders the love walk.
Proverbs 20:22
Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.
Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
My sister would respond with wisdom: "Well, I did that because of what you did. We'd go back and forth until we were exhausted never resolving anything.
The most that we knew about forgiveness at that6 time from a practical sense was saying: "I'm sorry."
Now, in my house if you said it, you had to mean it; at least that's what I believed. My parents were pretty passionate.
A lot of people bring those childhood habits of keeping score into adult relationships and it's just not the best way to handle things. I wonder if it impacts our divorce rates, crime rates and how much it spills over into our everyday affairs.
Keeping score twinges on unforgiveness; it hinders the love walk.
Proverbs 20:22
Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.
Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
THE PERSECUTION HAS STARTED AND IT'S SPREADING by Elaine Davenport (Wednesday, September 19, 2007)
Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also (John 15:20).
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you (Matthew 5:10-12).
I read a report today and it sounded like the stories that we often hear in this country about the uneven scales of justice. In this country it's often been black vs. white. However, in the Middle East today it was reported that a mob of 150 Hindu extremists attacked a pastor and set his church on fire with 500 of the congregation inside.
Then I read about an 18 year old Christian who was finally released for a crime he didn't commit; while his Muslim "accomplice" had been declared innocent nine months earlier.
But the real shocker was when I read that in Egypt, the sixth Christian girl was kidnapped and they believe that she will be forced to marry a Muslim. They say this is becoming common in Egypt. Her name is Amal Zaki Nessim.
In Indonesia, Catholic students were forced to wear an Islamic veil. (9-17-07)
Countries with greater oppression more recently noted are: India, China, Egypt, Turkey, Iraq to name a few.
Please read the following report by the State Department concerning religious freedom. See link on the side panel.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you (Matthew 5:10-12).
I read a report today and it sounded like the stories that we often hear in this country about the uneven scales of justice. In this country it's often been black vs. white. However, in the Middle East today it was reported that a mob of 150 Hindu extremists attacked a pastor and set his church on fire with 500 of the congregation inside.
Then I read about an 18 year old Christian who was finally released for a crime he didn't commit; while his Muslim "accomplice" had been declared innocent nine months earlier.
But the real shocker was when I read that in Egypt, the sixth Christian girl was kidnapped and they believe that she will be forced to marry a Muslim. They say this is becoming common in Egypt. Her name is Amal Zaki Nessim.
In Indonesia, Catholic students were forced to wear an Islamic veil. (9-17-07)
Countries with greater oppression more recently noted are: India, China, Egypt, Turkey, Iraq to name a few.
Please read the following report by the State Department concerning religious freedom. See link on the side panel.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
WARFARE by Elaine Davenport (Monday, September 17, 2007)
Luke 22:31-32
31"Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat;
32 but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.
I've been all over the Internet talking about Spiritual Warfare. It's funny, it hadn't even occurred to me that Satan was quietly looking for a way to attack me. It came out of nowhere. Of course, it wasn't a new trick, it was an old trick. He got someone close to me to walk in the flesh and tell me off. It took all that I had in reserve to stay in love. I'm just being honest. We have to stay in love. When we feel unloved we have to remember how much God loves us and we have to exude love. I had decided to give my friend some air for a while but I soon found myself apologizing to them. At the time, I thought there was nothing that I had done wrong; but there was. I examined myself and realized that I talk too much sometimes and I have to learn to listen. I can never walk or talk in the flesh ever because when I do, Satan enters.
I was so crushed by the verbal attack from my friend. I was hurt more so because of their unforgiveness. If it had been the other way around I thought; I would have forgiven them. I dwelled on this for hours. What a waste. I thought about relationships and friendships in our American culture and how people walk away from them over little or nothing. It could all be averted if people were just truthful, communicated better and were more apologetic, forgiving and loving.
I could never explain it unless it happened to me first which it did. Before that they were just words.
I was shaken and I ran to the Word of God. It was there that I was reinforced. The helpful thing was that the Word already deposited just needed a little stir.
I was reminded of a church service where we laughed at the devil for a long long time. We had so much fun. When he attacks; be ready to laugh. Be ready. Then laugh. Prepare yourself. It will not be easy; but do it. As soon as you laugh it will get easier. It's the eq1uivolent to telling him off; or worse. See that the attack is not from the person voicing the words to you or the situation that you're in. See that it is from the enemy and do not let him sift you.
Jesus told Peter that Satan sought to sift Peter and that he prayed about Peter's faith that it would not fail him. What will your faith do in a trial.
My faith has gotten stronger, thanks Satan. I stood you down. God backed me; He always does.
31"Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat;
32 but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.
I've been all over the Internet talking about Spiritual Warfare. It's funny, it hadn't even occurred to me that Satan was quietly looking for a way to attack me. It came out of nowhere. Of course, it wasn't a new trick, it was an old trick. He got someone close to me to walk in the flesh and tell me off. It took all that I had in reserve to stay in love. I'm just being honest. We have to stay in love. When we feel unloved we have to remember how much God loves us and we have to exude love. I had decided to give my friend some air for a while but I soon found myself apologizing to them. At the time, I thought there was nothing that I had done wrong; but there was. I examined myself and realized that I talk too much sometimes and I have to learn to listen. I can never walk or talk in the flesh ever because when I do, Satan enters.
I was so crushed by the verbal attack from my friend. I was hurt more so because of their unforgiveness. If it had been the other way around I thought; I would have forgiven them. I dwelled on this for hours. What a waste. I thought about relationships and friendships in our American culture and how people walk away from them over little or nothing. It could all be averted if people were just truthful, communicated better and were more apologetic, forgiving and loving.
I could never explain it unless it happened to me first which it did. Before that they were just words.
I was shaken and I ran to the Word of God. It was there that I was reinforced. The helpful thing was that the Word already deposited just needed a little stir.
I was reminded of a church service where we laughed at the devil for a long long time. We had so much fun. When he attacks; be ready to laugh. Be ready. Then laugh. Prepare yourself. It will not be easy; but do it. As soon as you laugh it will get easier. It's the eq1uivolent to telling him off; or worse. See that the attack is not from the person voicing the words to you or the situation that you're in. See that it is from the enemy and do not let him sift you.
Jesus told Peter that Satan sought to sift Peter and that he prayed about Peter's faith that it would not fail him. What will your faith do in a trial.
My faith has gotten stronger, thanks Satan. I stood you down. God backed me; He always does.
Friday, September 14, 2007
THIS MAY NOT MAKE YOU SHOUT; BUT by Elaine Davenport (Friday, September 14, 2007)
I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and I will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what shall I answer when I am reproved. And the Lord answered me, and said, "Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry."
—Habakkuk 2:1-3, King James Bible
VISION...
A vision is something that you see in your future. Can you put your hands on it? Yes, you can. All you have to do is keep seeing it and keep talking about it. It shall come to pass.
Vision is not something that would make you shout but you should. I'm not big on television, but when I do watch; I am very selective. I've noted that on some talk shows people talk about how they got an idea which later turned into a Blessing for them. I hear that a lot and these are mostly people in the world.
WE LIVE IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD
"For indeed, the kingdom of God is 'within you." Luke 17:20
"...I say to you, 'unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.... Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." John 3:3-6
"...seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. " Luke 12:31-32
I just want to encourage you to meditate upon these scriptures and get a vision of God's plan for you. As you begin to really grab hold of that vision WHILE staying in the Word of God, your faith will rise up and your manifestation can come.
LIKE I SAID; THIS MAY NOT MAKE YOU SHOUT BUT IF YOU WANT MOVEMENT; GET A VISION.
—Habakkuk 2:1-3, King James Bible
VISION...
A vision is something that you see in your future. Can you put your hands on it? Yes, you can. All you have to do is keep seeing it and keep talking about it. It shall come to pass.
Vision is not something that would make you shout but you should. I'm not big on television, but when I do watch; I am very selective. I've noted that on some talk shows people talk about how they got an idea which later turned into a Blessing for them. I hear that a lot and these are mostly people in the world.
WE LIVE IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD
"For indeed, the kingdom of God is 'within you." Luke 17:20
"...I say to you, 'unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.... Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." John 3:3-6
"...seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. " Luke 12:31-32
I just want to encourage you to meditate upon these scriptures and get a vision of God's plan for you. As you begin to really grab hold of that vision WHILE staying in the Word of God, your faith will rise up and your manifestation can come.
LIKE I SAID; THIS MAY NOT MAKE YOU SHOUT BUT IF YOU WANT MOVEMENT; GET A VISION.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Happy Birthday Sister Rose by Elaine Davenport (Thursday, September 13, 2007)
This is the day the Lord has made;
we will rejoice and be glad in it." PSALMS 118:24
A few years ago, God sent a mighty woman of God into my life. She has Blessed me and prayed with and for me. She's like an angel, ever so faithful. She's in my inner circle. Her faith has been contagious and many times it has spread to me and reignited me. We all need 4 crazy friends on fire for God. Rose is one of them, a sister, a friend, an angel. May you be Blessed by having a Glorious day in the Lord on this your birthday. Love Sister Elaine
we will rejoice and be glad in it." PSALMS 118:24
A few years ago, God sent a mighty woman of God into my life. She has Blessed me and prayed with and for me. She's like an angel, ever so faithful. She's in my inner circle. Her faith has been contagious and many times it has spread to me and reignited me. We all need 4 crazy friends on fire for God. Rose is one of them, a sister, a friend, an angel. May you be Blessed by having a Glorious day in the Lord on this your birthday. Love Sister Elaine
Satan, you've got the wrong house. by Elaine Davenport (Thursday, September 13, 2007)
It's amazing. The devil is always trying to deliver voice mail, strife, confusion or affliction. Not just to me but to everybody all around me. What should we do?
Our bodies are our houses? Isn't that right. If you've made Jesus your Lord and Savior then the greater one lives on the inside of you. Don't forget it for a second. Our bodies are the temple (the dwelling place) of the Lord. The bible says so. So when Satan with his mess, our house is already occupied by the Light. Darkness can't dwell where light is. Remember that. The greater one lives on the inside of us.
Have you heard of process servers? Well, if one shows up at your door to serve a summons and it doesn't have your name on it; what would yo say? You'd say: "That's not me. You have the wrong house." Then shut your door. You can say the same thing to Satan the next time he tries to deliver something to you.
You live in the Kingdom of God. It's a place where you are covered by the Blood of the Lamb. No weapon can harm you. If God didn't say it: "It's a lie" You are of the circumcision; an elite group. Take nothing from the uncircumsized in the form of what you see. You believer walk by faith. That's a fact.
“The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.”—II Cor. 10:4.
Our bodies are our houses? Isn't that right. If you've made Jesus your Lord and Savior then the greater one lives on the inside of you. Don't forget it for a second. Our bodies are the temple (the dwelling place) of the Lord. The bible says so. So when Satan with his mess, our house is already occupied by the Light. Darkness can't dwell where light is. Remember that. The greater one lives on the inside of us.
Have you heard of process servers? Well, if one shows up at your door to serve a summons and it doesn't have your name on it; what would yo say? You'd say: "That's not me. You have the wrong house." Then shut your door. You can say the same thing to Satan the next time he tries to deliver something to you.
You live in the Kingdom of God. It's a place where you are covered by the Blood of the Lamb. No weapon can harm you. If God didn't say it: "It's a lie" You are of the circumcision; an elite group. Take nothing from the uncircumsized in the form of what you see. You believer walk by faith. That's a fact.
“The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.”—II Cor. 10:4.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
THE DEVIL DON'T CARE IF YOU'RE ON VACATION by Elaine Davenport (Wednesday, September 12, 2007)
1 Peter 5:8 (King James Version)
King James Version (KJV)
Public Domain
[A Public Domain Bible] [KJV at Zondervan] [Zondervan]
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
The devil doesn't care if you need a vacation or if you deserve one. He sure proved it to me.
I went on vacation to a family reunion a few years back. It was in Charleston, West Virginia. I was very excited about going. It was not a last minute decision. I had planned to have a great time. I arrived with my husband. Instead of renting a regular room we rented a suite with a kitchen and shared it with my brother and his family.
I decided to keep my normal routine. That meant that when I woke up that I would seek God and have my early morning meditation. I distinctly remember the last words said to me by the Holy Spirit: "Watch and pray." Now mind you that I didn't have a clue as to what that meant. I started praying harder after that and heard: "Watch and pray." I said: "Okay Lord." I then got ready to go for my walk alone.
As I walked; I prayed in the Spirit. I was in unfamiliar territory but the area looked harmless. After all, compared to where I lived it was a small town, almost rural but not quite. Our room was at the back of the hotel and I know that my protective husband could not see me from the window. Sheltered as I've been I knew that I had my angels with me. My angels don't blow bubbles, play marbles, basketball or chess, I keep them busy because I dispense them everyday with my mouth. If you don't that's okay; it doesn't affect me.
The weather was great as I cut down unknown streets and between buildings trying not to lose sight of the hotel as I walked early in the morning. In my spirit I heard again: "Watch and pray."
By this time, God has my full attention. I began to look around. I walked about a block and I saw a man in a red truck wit the weirdest face I have ever seen. He looked like his eyes were filled with hate and he fixed them on me, revved up his engine. I immediately began to say: "Devil, you don't know who you're messing with." In a contradictory manner that I can't explain, but I'm thinking it was nervousness not fear... I speeded up my pace and went about 2 steps and then I got madder. I decided to change my course and head towards the red truck letting this man know that
I was not afraid of him. I considered him to be Satan's representative. I knew my authority and no demon would force me off the street; this was warfare. He was gone. I began to walk all around praying louder, speaking in tongues looking for the red truck. It was totally gone.
This experience made me stronger. I give this message simply to illustrate the importance of staying prayerful. It was a Divine trip, a wonderful vacation, the devil tried to ruin it, but I didn't let him.
King James Version (KJV)
Public Domain
[A Public Domain Bible] [KJV at Zondervan] [Zondervan]
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
The devil doesn't care if you need a vacation or if you deserve one. He sure proved it to me.
I went on vacation to a family reunion a few years back. It was in Charleston, West Virginia. I was very excited about going. It was not a last minute decision. I had planned to have a great time. I arrived with my husband. Instead of renting a regular room we rented a suite with a kitchen and shared it with my brother and his family.
I decided to keep my normal routine. That meant that when I woke up that I would seek God and have my early morning meditation. I distinctly remember the last words said to me by the Holy Spirit: "Watch and pray." Now mind you that I didn't have a clue as to what that meant. I started praying harder after that and heard: "Watch and pray." I said: "Okay Lord." I then got ready to go for my walk alone.
As I walked; I prayed in the Spirit. I was in unfamiliar territory but the area looked harmless. After all, compared to where I lived it was a small town, almost rural but not quite. Our room was at the back of the hotel and I know that my protective husband could not see me from the window. Sheltered as I've been I knew that I had my angels with me. My angels don't blow bubbles, play marbles, basketball or chess, I keep them busy because I dispense them everyday with my mouth. If you don't that's okay; it doesn't affect me.
The weather was great as I cut down unknown streets and between buildings trying not to lose sight of the hotel as I walked early in the morning. In my spirit I heard again: "Watch and pray."
By this time, God has my full attention. I began to look around. I walked about a block and I saw a man in a red truck wit the weirdest face I have ever seen. He looked like his eyes were filled with hate and he fixed them on me, revved up his engine. I immediately began to say: "Devil, you don't know who you're messing with." In a contradictory manner that I can't explain, but I'm thinking it was nervousness not fear... I speeded up my pace and went about 2 steps and then I got madder. I decided to change my course and head towards the red truck letting this man know that
I was not afraid of him. I considered him to be Satan's representative. I knew my authority and no demon would force me off the street; this was warfare. He was gone. I began to walk all around praying louder, speaking in tongues looking for the red truck. It was totally gone.
This experience made me stronger. I give this message simply to illustrate the importance of staying prayerful. It was a Divine trip, a wonderful vacation, the devil tried to ruin it, but I didn't let him.
Monday, September 10, 2007
A Divine Moment by Elaine Davenport ( Tuesday, September 11, 2007)
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Prov. 3:5-6).
The Word Divine basically means: things that are of or from God; also holy.
I had a tough time getting to Early Morning Prayer this morning. I am sure that the Holy Spirit woke me up early. I went back to sleep and then woke up late. Usually when I wake up "that" late; I stay home. After all it was ten minutes before prayer and I was sleepy. I started getting all of these thoughts to stay home and go back to sleep. Then I saw a picture of one of the faithful prayer warriors; Sister Rose. I also recalled that I had told another prayer warrior that I would see her there Monday morning. I knew the Lord told me to be there at least 4 days a week; despite my busy schedule; but this voice kept saying wait until Tuesday. I wasn't even sure how much gas was in the car. I needed to give Sister Rose a donation for her Holy Assignment the Lord has given her. In my meditation last night; I was clearly instructed to do this.
I got up. Good girl, I thought. I knew that it was going to be a good day.
I said my prayers before leaving home and prayed in the Spirit as I got ready. My hair was perfect, clothes were laid out and the car had gas. I think I arrived in 5 minutes. Prayer was wonderful, but afterwards I waited for Sister Rose and we talked to a couple of people and embarked on our trek to the car.
Sister Rose told me that she had a really hard time getting there today as well. Her truck had a weird flat tire and it shouldn't have. She heard voices trying to convince her not to go to prayer.
A young woman was standing there and I nor Sister Rose knew her. But Rose walked up to her and asked her if everything was okay and was she waiting for a ride home. She began to explain that she was waiting for a cab and how she was from Trinidad. As it turns out; she had been catching a cab to prayer off and on for two years. She had recently moved closer into a condo right by my house. We all began to laugh with great joy.
She explained that she had just told the Lord that she was spending too much on cabs and asked Him to send some people to give her a ride. We immediately understood that it was a Divine Moment. God sends them, we receive them in thanksgiving. So she will be riding with me to Early Morning Prayer and I recall when someone was coming to pick me up for prayer. I am too happy to be able to help. In case you're wondering how could someone catch a cab to prayer off and on for two years and not find a ride. I can't tell you. I just know it's a large church with thousands of members. I came with no transportation and had two new cars within a timespan of about a year and had acquired a steady ride within about 6 months so I can't say. This was even before I came to prayer. We've seen a lot of people come and go to prayer. We've prayed many prayers even on the parking lot; after prayer was over and seen and heard of many miracles as a result.
I thank God for Divine moments like this and I know that all of us were meant to be there. For it was a Divine connection. Prayer honors God and God honors Prayer. I know it for a fact.
'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" (Jer. 29:11).
The Word Divine basically means: things that are of or from God; also holy.
I had a tough time getting to Early Morning Prayer this morning. I am sure that the Holy Spirit woke me up early. I went back to sleep and then woke up late. Usually when I wake up "that" late; I stay home. After all it was ten minutes before prayer and I was sleepy. I started getting all of these thoughts to stay home and go back to sleep. Then I saw a picture of one of the faithful prayer warriors; Sister Rose. I also recalled that I had told another prayer warrior that I would see her there Monday morning. I knew the Lord told me to be there at least 4 days a week; despite my busy schedule; but this voice kept saying wait until Tuesday. I wasn't even sure how much gas was in the car. I needed to give Sister Rose a donation for her Holy Assignment the Lord has given her. In my meditation last night; I was clearly instructed to do this.
I got up. Good girl, I thought. I knew that it was going to be a good day.
I said my prayers before leaving home and prayed in the Spirit as I got ready. My hair was perfect, clothes were laid out and the car had gas. I think I arrived in 5 minutes. Prayer was wonderful, but afterwards I waited for Sister Rose and we talked to a couple of people and embarked on our trek to the car.
Sister Rose told me that she had a really hard time getting there today as well. Her truck had a weird flat tire and it shouldn't have. She heard voices trying to convince her not to go to prayer.
A young woman was standing there and I nor Sister Rose knew her. But Rose walked up to her and asked her if everything was okay and was she waiting for a ride home. She began to explain that she was waiting for a cab and how she was from Trinidad. As it turns out; she had been catching a cab to prayer off and on for two years. She had recently moved closer into a condo right by my house. We all began to laugh with great joy.
She explained that she had just told the Lord that she was spending too much on cabs and asked Him to send some people to give her a ride. We immediately understood that it was a Divine Moment. God sends them, we receive them in thanksgiving. So she will be riding with me to Early Morning Prayer and I recall when someone was coming to pick me up for prayer. I am too happy to be able to help. In case you're wondering how could someone catch a cab to prayer off and on for two years and not find a ride. I can't tell you. I just know it's a large church with thousands of members. I came with no transportation and had two new cars within a timespan of about a year and had acquired a steady ride within about 6 months so I can't say. This was even before I came to prayer. We've seen a lot of people come and go to prayer. We've prayed many prayers even on the parking lot; after prayer was over and seen and heard of many miracles as a result.
I thank God for Divine moments like this and I know that all of us were meant to be there. For it was a Divine connection. Prayer honors God and God honors Prayer. I know it for a fact.
'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" (Jer. 29:11).
Sunday, September 9, 2007
AARON HOPSON'S OBEDIENCE IS BLESSING THOUSANDS by Elaine Davenport (Monday, September 10, 2007)
If you love me, you will obey what I command. John 14:15
- Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. John 14:21
On Sunday, I went by to take dinner to my uncle who has been facing a health challenge and he handed me a newspaper article. "I saved this for you." He said with a smile. I read the article with great interest and I was so happy.
It seems our local paper, The Detroit Free Press, had written an article on a young man by the name of Aaron Hopson, A MAN WHO LOVES GOD is a thirty something year old attorney. I've got to shorten the story but here is a good synopsis:
Aaron Hopson was praying at his kitchen table and God told him to introduce a prayer in a way that would be inspiring and encouraging. So he went to work. With heavenly backing, he created the recording of "The Battle Ready Prayer CD." The prayer is underscored by Joe McNair.
It seems that the prayer is a hit in Christian circles. It seems the focus is to seek the Lord's Blessing on His people.
He says that the prayer talks about how to be toward your fellow man, walking in love, walking in forgiveness, praying over marriages, praying for single people and prayers concerning children. Aaron says that these resulted from prayers that he has been making over the years.
On most any Wednesday, Aaron, Ryan Morris of Detroit,Mi, Julius Curling of Livonia, Mi and Barrett Hirston of Southfield, Mi are delivering food and clothing to the homeless population under Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit.
THE IMPACT OF THE CD
Aaron reports that as a result of cooperation and collaboration in a spirit of goodwill The Bathat many have assisted in passing along the Cd's. To date, over 35,000 have been given out. He mentioned that recently a ministry wanted to take 250 to South Africa.
HELPING HANDS
I am sure that many who shall remain nameless have assisted greatly; but according to the article his mom and dad: Joy and Raymond Hopson II of Southfield, Mi take orders and pack Cd's while he is at work.
Professionally, he is an attorney who oversees the Children's Justice Center of the Wayne County Neighborhood Legal Services. They have implemented an Outreach program teaching about the law, rights and responsibilities of citizens, conflict resolution and other interesting topics.
SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING...
Aaron is a born again believer who stands firmly 0on and is rooted in the Word of God. I am asking you today to lift up he and his entire family and his friends in prayer. We praise God for saints like him that are doers of the Word and not forgetful hearers only.
Aaron further mentioned i9n the article that his brother Raymond, two nephews Raymond IV and Andrew as well as his wife Julia and son Aaron Jr. age seven years help with the project. They also have a daughter Charity, who is age nineteen months.
For a sound file of the free prayer , please visit the link on the left side of the page.
THIS IS A HUGE P.S.
OH MY GOD. THAT PRAYER IS SOOOO BLESSED. THANK YOU JESUS. PRAISE GOD. YOU HAVE TO HEAR IT.
I also thank God that I was able to read such a wonderful article in my local paper.
- Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. John 14:21
On Sunday, I went by to take dinner to my uncle who has been facing a health challenge and he handed me a newspaper article. "I saved this for you." He said with a smile. I read the article with great interest and I was so happy.
It seems our local paper, The Detroit Free Press, had written an article on a young man by the name of Aaron Hopson, A MAN WHO LOVES GOD is a thirty something year old attorney. I've got to shorten the story but here is a good synopsis:
Aaron Hopson was praying at his kitchen table and God told him to introduce a prayer in a way that would be inspiring and encouraging. So he went to work. With heavenly backing, he created the recording of "The Battle Ready Prayer CD." The prayer is underscored by Joe McNair.
It seems that the prayer is a hit in Christian circles. It seems the focus is to seek the Lord's Blessing on His people.
He says that the prayer talks about how to be toward your fellow man, walking in love, walking in forgiveness, praying over marriages, praying for single people and prayers concerning children. Aaron says that these resulted from prayers that he has been making over the years.
On most any Wednesday, Aaron, Ryan Morris of Detroit,Mi, Julius Curling of Livonia, Mi and Barrett Hirston of Southfield, Mi are delivering food and clothing to the homeless population under Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit.
THE IMPACT OF THE CD
Aaron reports that as a result of cooperation and collaboration in a spirit of goodwill The Bathat many have assisted in passing along the Cd's. To date, over 35,000 have been given out. He mentioned that recently a ministry wanted to take 250 to South Africa.
HELPING HANDS
I am sure that many who shall remain nameless have assisted greatly; but according to the article his mom and dad: Joy and Raymond Hopson II of Southfield, Mi take orders and pack Cd's while he is at work.
Professionally, he is an attorney who oversees the Children's Justice Center of the Wayne County Neighborhood Legal Services. They have implemented an Outreach program teaching about the law, rights and responsibilities of citizens, conflict resolution and other interesting topics.
SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING...
Aaron is a born again believer who stands firmly 0on and is rooted in the Word of God. I am asking you today to lift up he and his entire family and his friends in prayer. We praise God for saints like him that are doers of the Word and not forgetful hearers only.
Aaron further mentioned i9n the article that his brother Raymond, two nephews Raymond IV and Andrew as well as his wife Julia and son Aaron Jr. age seven years help with the project. They also have a daughter Charity, who is age nineteen months.
For a sound file of the free prayer , please visit the link on the left side of the page.
THIS IS A HUGE P.S.
OH MY GOD. THAT PRAYER IS SOOOO BLESSED. THANK YOU JESUS. PRAISE GOD. YOU HAVE TO HEAR IT.
I also thank God that I was able to read such a wonderful article in my local paper.
Friday, September 7, 2007
IT'S ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAITH by Elaine Davenport (Saturday, September 8, 2007)
According to your faith be it unto you. Matthew 9: 29
I remember standing in church, touched by the Spirit of God and just praising God. I was charged up and rightfully so. God has been more than good to me and I know it. So that means I'm thankful; but does immense thankfulness translate to great faith? I am sure that that depends on each individual and a host of other factors. Certainly, we should all be in the business of building our faith and keeping an eye on where we are at. Why? That's easy, so we don't slip, so we don't drawback.
The devil has chosen to whoop on me periodically with "symptoms" a headache. I have always been able to apply the Blood of Jesus as well as healing scriptures and have these symptoms of a headache go away. To describe the "symptoms" is important because they are of great and growing intensity when they come. They don't come often enough for me to take them seriously, but they come. I wouldn't give them this much ink except this whole illustration may help someone.
Last night they were very bad and I just began to praise God over and over again. I praised myself to sleep. Before I went to sleep in the midst of a great symptom of pain; I felt a very cool breeze blow on me. I was lying near the fan, but it was on low. The Central Air was on in my house but the vent doesn't work well in my room. Yet, there was this breeze that was blowing on my face like from the North Pole and I was feeling so good from it that I didn't want it to stop. I was still Praising God as everything unfolded and the praise brought forth my healing.
This morning I was sleeping so good, I didn't want to get up. We can stand on the Word of God.
I remember standing in church, touched by the Spirit of God and just praising God. I was charged up and rightfully so. God has been more than good to me and I know it. So that means I'm thankful; but does immense thankfulness translate to great faith? I am sure that that depends on each individual and a host of other factors. Certainly, we should all be in the business of building our faith and keeping an eye on where we are at. Why? That's easy, so we don't slip, so we don't drawback.
The devil has chosen to whoop on me periodically with "symptoms" a headache. I have always been able to apply the Blood of Jesus as well as healing scriptures and have these symptoms of a headache go away. To describe the "symptoms" is important because they are of great and growing intensity when they come. They don't come often enough for me to take them seriously, but they come. I wouldn't give them this much ink except this whole illustration may help someone.
Last night they were very bad and I just began to praise God over and over again. I praised myself to sleep. Before I went to sleep in the midst of a great symptom of pain; I felt a very cool breeze blow on me. I was lying near the fan, but it was on low. The Central Air was on in my house but the vent doesn't work well in my room. Yet, there was this breeze that was blowing on my face like from the North Pole and I was feeling so good from it that I didn't want it to stop. I was still Praising God as everything unfolded and the praise brought forth my healing.
This morning I was sleeping so good, I didn't want to get up. We can stand on the Word of God.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Divine Appointments at the Bus Stop by Elaine Davenport (Wednesday, September 5, 2007)
Numbers 6:24-26
"The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: the LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: the LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
Yesterday, there was a hole in my schedule. There rarely is as I am busy a lot of most days. But yesterday, in the afternoon there was a window of time. My uncle was diagnosed with a rather serious condition and a long time family friend was seeing after him. I thought about her and about how many older people she had taken time out to see after or to clean up their houses. I remember how many times she did it without pay. I also recalled how challenging it ad been for her to get to the various places without a car or a drivers license. As a result, if she calls me for a ride; I generally try to accommodate her if I am able.
I was thinking about how kind she is and it was imprinted upon my heart about her salvation. Not long after that, my phone rang and it was her. She needed a ride home which is about 6 or 7 miles away. I take her home a lot but this time I wasn't going to be able to because of some challenges with my car. I explained the situation and told her that I would come by and pick her up and take her to get something to eat and then help her find the right bus stop and stand there with her to wait on the bus and to make certain that it was the right one. It had been in my spirit to do this if I wasn't able to drive.
She was very amenable to this. In fact, after I picked her up and began to minister to her; she explained that she had prayed and asked the Lord to have me go the the bus stop and wait with her until the bus came to make sure that it was the right one.
When we finally got to the bus stop a few bees chased us but we held our ground and ignored them. Finally, a young man came along and in answering us informed us that we were at the right bus stop and we made a lot of small talk; the three of us.
Pretty soon, we were joined by a woman who had just gotten out of jail. She explained that she had been incarcerated for 45 days for driving with a suspended drivers license. She was anxious to see her 4 year old son. Can you imagine the hardship? It seems the Correctional Facility which was over 100 miles away had their representatives drop her off in the Metro area, nowhere near her home and they told her to catch a bus by showing the Bus Driver her arm band as proof of recent jail release. She had no money. She asked us first if we thought she could ride for free and we honestly didn't know. Then she asked how much the bus fare was and we told her. She was going to run to an ATM machine about a block away to get some money; and try to get back before the overdue bus arrived.
As she ran up a hill nearby; we called her back. It's true that she was a stranger but it didn't seem fair to have her do all of that and we could help her. We gave her the bus fare. I told her: "There are no coincidences. The bible says that we are supposed to help people.' So she smiled and took the money. As we all began to talk, the other person that was there began to talk about a similar incarceration that he had faced for driving with a suspended license. He talked about the hardships he had faced and indicated that it was his fault so he was past reflecting on it. She agreed with him. He explained that he was on his way to his second job because he was about to gain custody of his little children and had to save money.
John 14:13-14
"And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it."
I am a prayer warrior and a lot of people might say: "Did you bring them to Christ?" No, I didn't but when I asked them all if we could hold hands and pray, they all agreed and I led a prayer and then spoke a Blessing over all of their lives. I am believing that God will send a worthy laborer behind me to bring them to Christ because that is most important. They were very thankful for the prayer; hearts have been prepared. It was my job on that day to point them to God. Not long afterward, the bus came; they all got on and we all waved good-bye. Now that's the kind of day that I like to have.
"The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: the LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: the LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
Yesterday, there was a hole in my schedule. There rarely is as I am busy a lot of most days. But yesterday, in the afternoon there was a window of time. My uncle was diagnosed with a rather serious condition and a long time family friend was seeing after him. I thought about her and about how many older people she had taken time out to see after or to clean up their houses. I remember how many times she did it without pay. I also recalled how challenging it ad been for her to get to the various places without a car or a drivers license. As a result, if she calls me for a ride; I generally try to accommodate her if I am able.
I was thinking about how kind she is and it was imprinted upon my heart about her salvation. Not long after that, my phone rang and it was her. She needed a ride home which is about 6 or 7 miles away. I take her home a lot but this time I wasn't going to be able to because of some challenges with my car. I explained the situation and told her that I would come by and pick her up and take her to get something to eat and then help her find the right bus stop and stand there with her to wait on the bus and to make certain that it was the right one. It had been in my spirit to do this if I wasn't able to drive.
She was very amenable to this. In fact, after I picked her up and began to minister to her; she explained that she had prayed and asked the Lord to have me go the the bus stop and wait with her until the bus came to make sure that it was the right one.
When we finally got to the bus stop a few bees chased us but we held our ground and ignored them. Finally, a young man came along and in answering us informed us that we were at the right bus stop and we made a lot of small talk; the three of us.
Pretty soon, we were joined by a woman who had just gotten out of jail. She explained that she had been incarcerated for 45 days for driving with a suspended drivers license. She was anxious to see her 4 year old son. Can you imagine the hardship? It seems the Correctional Facility which was over 100 miles away had their representatives drop her off in the Metro area, nowhere near her home and they told her to catch a bus by showing the Bus Driver her arm band as proof of recent jail release. She had no money. She asked us first if we thought she could ride for free and we honestly didn't know. Then she asked how much the bus fare was and we told her. She was going to run to an ATM machine about a block away to get some money; and try to get back before the overdue bus arrived.
As she ran up a hill nearby; we called her back. It's true that she was a stranger but it didn't seem fair to have her do all of that and we could help her. We gave her the bus fare. I told her: "There are no coincidences. The bible says that we are supposed to help people.' So she smiled and took the money. As we all began to talk, the other person that was there began to talk about a similar incarceration that he had faced for driving with a suspended license. He talked about the hardships he had faced and indicated that it was his fault so he was past reflecting on it. She agreed with him. He explained that he was on his way to his second job because he was about to gain custody of his little children and had to save money.
John 14:13-14
"And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it."
I am a prayer warrior and a lot of people might say: "Did you bring them to Christ?" No, I didn't but when I asked them all if we could hold hands and pray, they all agreed and I led a prayer and then spoke a Blessing over all of their lives. I am believing that God will send a worthy laborer behind me to bring them to Christ because that is most important. They were very thankful for the prayer; hearts have been prepared. It was my job on that day to point them to God. Not long afterward, the bus came; they all got on and we all waved good-bye. Now that's the kind of day that I like to have.
We're not like anyone else by Elaine Davenport (Tuesday, September 4, 2007)
A lot of people think we're all the same; but we're not. We who have chosen to follow Christ are different; according to God. Listen to this from 1 Peter 2: 9
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
Now let me begin my message. Last night around 12: 30 am; I was awakened and I kept hearing Phillipians 4: 13 which says:
I can do all things through Christ which stengtheneth me.
The Message Bible gives us a clearer more modern day version of what he Apostle Paul was saying:
Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.
I love this kind of talk. This is what we're about. You see, we've chosen a life of faith, a faith journey; a faith adventure and we these words must be our mantra.
I meet people of all different faiths and they don't talk like this, but we must. When people ask us how we are this should be our response:
I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me and that gives me great peace today; how are you?
WHO IS THEY, YOU MIGHT ASK.
That is simple; it's anyone who doesn't know this deep in their spirit. These are more than just words. It could be a close close friend, a family member, a stranger, a foreigner; it could be anyone. It could even be a fellow saint;
We are different than they are and they should know it. Spread the word.
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
Now let me begin my message. Last night around 12: 30 am; I was awakened and I kept hearing Phillipians 4: 13 which says:
I can do all things through Christ which stengtheneth me.
The Message Bible gives us a clearer more modern day version of what he Apostle Paul was saying:
Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.
I love this kind of talk. This is what we're about. You see, we've chosen a life of faith, a faith journey; a faith adventure and we these words must be our mantra.
I meet people of all different faiths and they don't talk like this, but we must. When people ask us how we are this should be our response:
I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me and that gives me great peace today; how are you?
WHO IS THEY, YOU MIGHT ASK.
That is simple; it's anyone who doesn't know this deep in their spirit. These are more than just words. It could be a close close friend, a family member, a stranger, a foreigner; it could be anyone. It could even be a fellow saint;
We are different than they are and they should know it. Spread the word.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Faith and The Power of Confession by Elaine Davenport ( Sunday, September 2, 2007)
CONFESSION, PLAIN AND SIMPLE IS AN ACT OF FAITH. No one told me this; I just figured it out from reading and hearing the Word of God.
When I talk about confession in this matter today; I am speaking of confession like Abraham who called those things that be not as though they were. Jesus did it many times. I call it talking faith. Faith believes before it is seen. The bible says so.
One of the most powerful illustrations of this is the story of the Woman with the issue of blood. There are three accounts by Holy men of God: Matthew, Mark and Luke.
Here they are:
And behold, a woman who was diseased with an issue of blood for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the hem of His garment;
for she said to herself, "If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole." (THIS WAS HER CONFESSION)
But Jesus turned about, and when He saw her, He said, "Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole." And the woman was made whole from that hour. MATTHEW 9: 20-22
___________________________________________________________________________________
LUKE 8: 43-49
And a woman having an issue of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her living upon physicians but could not be healed by any,
came behind Him and touched the border of His garment; and immediately her issue of blood was stanched.
And Jesus said, "Who touched Me?" When all denied it, Peter and those who were with him said, "Master, the multitudes throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, `Who touched Me?'"
And Jesus said, "Somebody hath touched Me, for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me."
47And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before Him, she declared unto Him before all the people for what cause she had touched Him, and how she was healed immediately.
48And He said unto her, "Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace."
______________________________________________________________________________________
MARK 5: 27-34
And a certain woman who had an issue of blood twelve years,
and had suffered many things under many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse,
when she had heard of Jesus, came up behind Him in the press of the crowd and touched His garment;
for she said, "If I may touch but His clothes, I shall be whole." (THIS WAS HER CONFESSION)
And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.
And Jesus, immediately knowing in Himself that virtue had gone out of Him, turned about in the press of the crowd and said, "Who touched My clothes?"
And His disciples said unto Him, "Thou seest the multitude thronging Thee, and sayest Thou, `Who touched Me?'"
And He looked round about to see her who had done this thing.
But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had been done in her, came and fell down before Him and told Him all the truth.
And He said unto her, "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace, and be whole of thy plague."
_________________________________________________________________________________
THIS WOMAN PUT FAITH INTO ACTION, BY BELIEVING, BY TALKING AND DOING.
SHE SAID: IF I MAY BUT TOUCH HIS GARMENT (HIS CLOTHES) , I'LL BE MADE WHOLE.
SHE BELIEVED...THEN SHE WENT TO FIND JESUS.
SHE PRESSED TO TOUCH HIM
SHE GOT HER HEALING....
BUT IT ALL STARTED WITH THE POWER OF CONFESSION WHICH BUILT HER FAITH AND GOD HONORED HER CONFESSION. WOW. THAT'S POWERFUL. WHAT ARE YOU CONFESSING?
____________________________________________________________________________________
Your confession doesn't have to be a dissertation; but it has to come out of your mouth.
Faith speaks and faith acts/ Faith doesn't just sit and wait and think good thoughts.
Let's look at Jesus in Mark 11`: 22, 23, 24 as he teaches the disciple of Jesus about the power of confession regarding problems or mountains that get in our way. Since I am a disciple of Jesus; I receive this as instruction for myself and other disciples. Here it is:
And Peter, calling to remembrance, said unto Him, "Master, behold, the fig tree which Thou cursed is withered away." And Jesus answering, said unto them, "Have faith in God.
For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, `Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea,' and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith.
IN ONE VERSE; JESUS TALKED ABOUT THE BASE WORD "SAY" 4 TIMES. THAT'S SIGNIFICANT.
So, I watch what I say knowing that my negative confession or my positive confession can shape my life. I believe it, put my faith out for it and back it up with the Word of God. In other words, whatever I am believing God for; I make certain that it is biblical, and in prayer; I make certain that God is directing me and ordering my steps and that it is pleasing to Him. Souls are important to God and I keep His mission in my heart. I work on becoming self "less" every day.
I might add that since Confession is an act of faith that one might remember that being in expectation of change, patience, praise and giving thanks are as well.
When I talk about confession in this matter today; I am speaking of confession like Abraham who called those things that be not as though they were. Jesus did it many times. I call it talking faith. Faith believes before it is seen. The bible says so.
One of the most powerful illustrations of this is the story of the Woman with the issue of blood. There are three accounts by Holy men of God: Matthew, Mark and Luke.
Here they are:
And behold, a woman who was diseased with an issue of blood for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the hem of His garment;
for she said to herself, "If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole." (THIS WAS HER CONFESSION)
But Jesus turned about, and when He saw her, He said, "Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole." And the woman was made whole from that hour. MATTHEW 9: 20-22
___________________________________________________________________________________
LUKE 8: 43-49
And a woman having an issue of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her living upon physicians but could not be healed by any,
came behind Him and touched the border of His garment; and immediately her issue of blood was stanched.
And Jesus said, "Who touched Me?" When all denied it, Peter and those who were with him said, "Master, the multitudes throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, `Who touched Me?'"
And Jesus said, "Somebody hath touched Me, for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me."
47And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before Him, she declared unto Him before all the people for what cause she had touched Him, and how she was healed immediately.
48And He said unto her, "Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace."
______________________________________________________________________________________
MARK 5: 27-34
And a certain woman who had an issue of blood twelve years,
and had suffered many things under many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse,
when she had heard of Jesus, came up behind Him in the press of the crowd and touched His garment;
for she said, "If I may touch but His clothes, I shall be whole." (THIS WAS HER CONFESSION)
And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.
And Jesus, immediately knowing in Himself that virtue had gone out of Him, turned about in the press of the crowd and said, "Who touched My clothes?"
And His disciples said unto Him, "Thou seest the multitude thronging Thee, and sayest Thou, `Who touched Me?'"
And He looked round about to see her who had done this thing.
But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had been done in her, came and fell down before Him and told Him all the truth.
And He said unto her, "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace, and be whole of thy plague."
_________________________________________________________________________________
THIS WOMAN PUT FAITH INTO ACTION, BY BELIEVING, BY TALKING AND DOING.
SHE SAID: IF I MAY BUT TOUCH HIS GARMENT (HIS CLOTHES) , I'LL BE MADE WHOLE.
SHE BELIEVED...THEN SHE WENT TO FIND JESUS.
SHE PRESSED TO TOUCH HIM
SHE GOT HER HEALING....
BUT IT ALL STARTED WITH THE POWER OF CONFESSION WHICH BUILT HER FAITH AND GOD HONORED HER CONFESSION. WOW. THAT'S POWERFUL. WHAT ARE YOU CONFESSING?
____________________________________________________________________________________
Your confession doesn't have to be a dissertation; but it has to come out of your mouth.
Faith speaks and faith acts/ Faith doesn't just sit and wait and think good thoughts.
Let's look at Jesus in Mark 11`: 22, 23, 24 as he teaches the disciple of Jesus about the power of confession regarding problems or mountains that get in our way. Since I am a disciple of Jesus; I receive this as instruction for myself and other disciples. Here it is:
And Peter, calling to remembrance, said unto Him, "Master, behold, the fig tree which Thou cursed is withered away." And Jesus answering, said unto them, "Have faith in God.
For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, `Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea,' and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith.
IN ONE VERSE; JESUS TALKED ABOUT THE BASE WORD "SAY" 4 TIMES. THAT'S SIGNIFICANT.
So, I watch what I say knowing that my negative confession or my positive confession can shape my life. I believe it, put my faith out for it and back it up with the Word of God. In other words, whatever I am believing God for; I make certain that it is biblical, and in prayer; I make certain that God is directing me and ordering my steps and that it is pleasing to Him. Souls are important to God and I keep His mission in my heart. I work on becoming self "less" every day.
I might add that since Confession is an act of faith that one might remember that being in expectation of change, patience, praise and giving thanks are as well.
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