There may be people who may read this; who knowingly or unknowingly may be looking to see if this is a critical piece. That is not the nature of this writing. It's simply about a personal experience that clearly shaped my walk with God.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
When I was younger and not walking close with God; I had an enlightening experience. It was what my friend Rose calls a "defining moment."
I always had two or three jobs even when I had a good job. We had moved into a new house and the financial needs became more demanding. I needed to be able to work at home and still earn extra monies. It so happened that an opportunity arose that allowed me to make money and a lot of it writing meaningful greetings cards and I leaped at the challenge.
BACKGROUND
I had written poetry for many years; all of my life in fact. When we were newly married in the middle of the night; something would wake me up and whisper poetry in my ears and I would jump up and write it down. When I became convinced that it could wait til morning, I would later find that it couldn't, it would be long forgotten. All I knew was that it was beautiful. So I ended up with a huge stack of poetry in a bin from these nightly writings. My husband and I even thought of putting a computer in the bedroom for my nightly writings but we decided against it.
THINGS HAPPEN TO BELIEVERS
I knew the Lord as a little child. I am very thankful. I know that this doesn't happen to everyone. God is love. I knew this as a child, but something happens to believers as we live in this world. I became sensitive to all of the unbelief that surrounded me in the wrong way. In my poems, Gods' name would just pop up. Or Jesus name would just pop up. I really couldn't explain it but they would be in the writings and nothing else would go there. I could be writing on anything, any subject and God's name, His hand was always in it.
I GOT THIS JOB OFFER
I heard about a place that paid for your poetry if they could convert it into Greeting cards. I began to do some research and wrote a stack of materials. I went to the business and met the owner. I literally spent the entire afternoon there. I don't recall her name and honestly I wouldn't say it if I did. The lady paid me extremely well and promised me that she would give me a byline on the back of the Greeting Cards that were published. She then gave me a very large assignment. I was so excited.
THEN THE BOOM FELL...
This is a true story. As I was leaving she said: "One small thing. You mention God in your poetry, can you just leave that out? I usually don't accept writings with Gods' name in it but you didn't have it in there a lot; but can you just do it less?"
She explained that she was an atheist. Now I had never met an atheist before. I couldn't even understand how someone could have that mindset. I was shocked. I remember thinking how I couldn't tell by looking at her. That was the most alarming thing.
MY RESPONSE...
I went numb. Those "visions of sugarplums" danced right out of my head. I just said the expected good-byes. For some reason I had parked a very long ways from the business. The walk back to my car was way too long. I was overcome with great sadness. I knew in my spirit that I could never return. I could not compromise my faith.
LOOKING BACK
I am very proud, because I wasn't walking close with God then. There comes a time when we will all face DEFINING MOMENTS; what will you do then? What choice will you make?
Monday, July 30, 2007
Friday, July 27, 2007
JUST A REMINDER (TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2007)
I Corinthians 13 v. 8a. LOVE NEVER FAILS
Blessings to you my friend today. All is well. I am delighted to be able to speak to you today to encourage you. I am glad that there is a light around you and that your love is far reaching without exception. Yes, I know that I don’t see you very much and my plan to keep in touch with you falls short sometimes; but I care about you. I have some very special words for you today. This is why you have this letter.
You know, even though you may not ever hear this or maybe you do but just not enough…you’re a great person. You have special talents and only you can do some things that no one else can do. This makes you very unique. Many have noticed. Sometimes you have this way about you of cracking a joke or saying something witty or wise that no one but you could pull off. Sometimes it’s just a smile or a laugh. It makes those of us who know you, feel rewarded. When this happens we all say that you’re special and we’re very glad that we know you. Did I ever tell you that you are also generous? You are greatly capable of giving of yourself, your time, your energy, your compassion to those around you. Let’s talk about those talents that you have. Not the known ones but the ones yet to come: the creative and generous things that you think that you’ll do one day.
Let me tell you that we all have those kinds of ideas. I was amazed when someone told me that God puts those ideas right there in your heart. Really. Psalms 37: verse 4 says: “Delight yourselves in the Lord and he will give you the hidden desires of your heart.” I found this to be true as I began to delight in God, He began to give me my hidden desires in my heart. It surely is a good thing.
My main purpose for writing to you is to tell you how much God loves you. It’s a whole lot. He loves you. YOU ARE the apple of God’s eye. He wants you well, healthy and whole with everything in your life in place…EVERYTHING. You are special. I just wanted to tell you that God knows it and I know it too. Stay connected to Him, He’s the POWER SOURCE. If you know someone who can stand to hear this message, I encourage you to share it with them. Many thanks. Be well my friend, be well. Love Sister Elaine
Blessings to you my friend today. All is well. I am delighted to be able to speak to you today to encourage you. I am glad that there is a light around you and that your love is far reaching without exception. Yes, I know that I don’t see you very much and my plan to keep in touch with you falls short sometimes; but I care about you. I have some very special words for you today. This is why you have this letter.
You know, even though you may not ever hear this or maybe you do but just not enough…you’re a great person. You have special talents and only you can do some things that no one else can do. This makes you very unique. Many have noticed. Sometimes you have this way about you of cracking a joke or saying something witty or wise that no one but you could pull off. Sometimes it’s just a smile or a laugh. It makes those of us who know you, feel rewarded. When this happens we all say that you’re special and we’re very glad that we know you. Did I ever tell you that you are also generous? You are greatly capable of giving of yourself, your time, your energy, your compassion to those around you. Let’s talk about those talents that you have. Not the known ones but the ones yet to come: the creative and generous things that you think that you’ll do one day.
Let me tell you that we all have those kinds of ideas. I was amazed when someone told me that God puts those ideas right there in your heart. Really. Psalms 37: verse 4 says: “Delight yourselves in the Lord and he will give you the hidden desires of your heart.” I found this to be true as I began to delight in God, He began to give me my hidden desires in my heart. It surely is a good thing.
My main purpose for writing to you is to tell you how much God loves you. It’s a whole lot. He loves you. YOU ARE the apple of God’s eye. He wants you well, healthy and whole with everything in your life in place…EVERYTHING. You are special. I just wanted to tell you that God knows it and I know it too. Stay connected to Him, He’s the POWER SOURCE. If you know someone who can stand to hear this message, I encourage you to share it with them. Many thanks. Be well my friend, be well. Love Sister Elaine
THOUGHT YOU"D ENJOY THIS (MONDAY, JULY 30, 2007)
1 Corinthians 13 (The Message Bible)
1 Corinthians 13
The Way of Love
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
8-10Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
11When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.
12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
13But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
1 Corinthians 13
The Way of Love
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
8-10Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
11When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.
12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
13But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
EVERYONE WON"T GET THIS by Elaine Davenport (Sunday, July 29, 2007)
I've spent many days and some sleepless nights for these past few years writing and rewriting about God. While some of my closest friends are faith writers; I've noted that they've easily found their style, the approach that they take in their writings is consistent. For instance one dear friend writes and has a no nonsense approach when it comes to his faith writing. On the other hand, I've found myself struggling to appeal (being sensitive to)to the varied backgrounds of the people that God sends to this site. However, I have realized that God can handle it, it's too big for me. In my travels, I have looked at people and thought incorrectly that they didn't know God that well or that they "looked" like they didn't love him that much. I've basically been wrong many times. I don't do that anymore. I didn't do it in a judgemental way, it's just that I'm always happier when I personally meet someone who really understands faithstuff. (my own made up word)
That said; I want to talk about FEARING GOD. Yes, I know again. It's that important.
My fearing God takes precedence over all. Things always appear to be the exception many times, BUT NOTHING IS.
All that said: I just want to give you some scriptures to chew on and meditate upon regarding the FEAR OF GOD
For those who don't know; fear of God means revering Him.
The payoff for meekness and Fear-of-GOD
is plenty and honor and a satisfying life. PROVERBS 22: 4
Here you see that there is a huge payoff other than intrinsic for fearing God.
Don't for a minute envy careless rebels; PROVERS 23: 17,18
soak yourself in the Fear-of-GOD—
That's where your future lies.
Then you won't be left with an armload of nothing.
Fear GOD, dear child—respect your leaders;
don't be defiant or mutinous.
Without warning your life can turn upside down,
and who knows how or when it might happen? PROVERBS 24: 21,22
Here you see a life instruction so to speak and a warning. It tells us that your life can be turned upside down without warning. It tells us to "soak" ourselves
in the fear of God.
Psalm 112 (Amplified Bible)
Psalm 112
1PRAISE THE Lord (Hallelujah!) Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who fears (reveres and worships) the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments.(A)
2His [spiritual] offspring shall be mighty upon earth; the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
3Prosperity and welfare are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
4Light arises in the darkness for the upright, gracious, compassionate, and just [who are in right standing with God].
5It is well with the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice.(B)
6He will not be moved forever; the [uncompromisingly] righteous (the upright, in right standing with God) shall be in everlasting remembrance.(C)
7He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is firmly fixed, trusting (leaning on and being confident) in the Lord.
8His heart is established and steady, he will not be afraid while he waits to see his desire established upon his adversaries.
9He has distributed freely [he has given to the poor and needy]; his righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) endures forever; his horn shall be exalted in honor.(D)
10The wicked man will see it and be grieved and angered, he will gnash his teeth and disappear [in despair]; the desire of the wicked shall perish and come to nothing.
THE MESSAGE IS CLEAR. LOOK AT VERSE ONE. IT SAYS BLESSED, HAPPY< FORTUNATE< TO BE ENVIED IS THE MAN WHO FEARS THE LORD.
O fear the Lord, you His saints [revere and worship Him]. For there is no want to those who truly revere and worship Him with godly fear. PSALM 34: 9
THERE IS NO WANT TO THE SAINTS WHO "TRULY" REVERE AND WORSHIP HIM.
6In the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord there is strong confidence, and His children shall always have a place of refuge.
27Reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death.(B)
he reverent, worshipful fear of the Lord leads to life, and he who has it rests satisfied; he cannot be visited with [actual] evil.(H) PROVERBS 19: 26
DO YOU HAVE STRONG CONFIDENCE?
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That said; I want to talk about FEARING GOD. Yes, I know again. It's that important.
My fearing God takes precedence over all. Things always appear to be the exception many times, BUT NOTHING IS.
All that said: I just want to give you some scriptures to chew on and meditate upon regarding the FEAR OF GOD
For those who don't know; fear of God means revering Him.
The payoff for meekness and Fear-of-GOD
is plenty and honor and a satisfying life. PROVERBS 22: 4
Here you see that there is a huge payoff other than intrinsic for fearing God.
Don't for a minute envy careless rebels; PROVERS 23: 17,18
soak yourself in the Fear-of-GOD—
That's where your future lies.
Then you won't be left with an armload of nothing.
Fear GOD, dear child—respect your leaders;
don't be defiant or mutinous.
Without warning your life can turn upside down,
and who knows how or when it might happen? PROVERBS 24: 21,22
Here you see a life instruction so to speak and a warning. It tells us that your life can be turned upside down without warning. It tells us to "soak" ourselves
in the fear of God.
Psalm 112 (Amplified Bible)
Psalm 112
1PRAISE THE Lord (Hallelujah!) Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who fears (reveres and worships) the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments.(A)
2His [spiritual] offspring shall be mighty upon earth; the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
3Prosperity and welfare are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
4Light arises in the darkness for the upright, gracious, compassionate, and just [who are in right standing with God].
5It is well with the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice.(B)
6He will not be moved forever; the [uncompromisingly] righteous (the upright, in right standing with God) shall be in everlasting remembrance.(C)
7He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is firmly fixed, trusting (leaning on and being confident) in the Lord.
8His heart is established and steady, he will not be afraid while he waits to see his desire established upon his adversaries.
9He has distributed freely [he has given to the poor and needy]; his righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) endures forever; his horn shall be exalted in honor.(D)
10The wicked man will see it and be grieved and angered, he will gnash his teeth and disappear [in despair]; the desire of the wicked shall perish and come to nothing.
THE MESSAGE IS CLEAR. LOOK AT VERSE ONE. IT SAYS BLESSED, HAPPY< FORTUNATE< TO BE ENVIED IS THE MAN WHO FEARS THE LORD.
O fear the Lord, you His saints [revere and worship Him]. For there is no want to those who truly revere and worship Him with godly fear. PSALM 34: 9
THERE IS NO WANT TO THE SAINTS WHO "TRULY" REVERE AND WORSHIP HIM.
6In the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord there is strong confidence, and His children shall always have a place of refuge.
27Reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death.(B)
he reverent, worshipful fear of the Lord leads to life, and he who has it rests satisfied; he cannot be visited with [actual] evil.(H) PROVERBS 19: 26
DO YOU HAVE STRONG CONFIDENCE?
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A Prayer of Faith by Elaine Davenport (Saturday, July 28, 2007)
FAITH
In the Name of Jesus, Father we come before you with
humble and thankful hearts. Father we are asking you to
strengthen________ (your name) this day. We stand on your word for
you said:
According to your faith be it unto you. Verily I say unto you
that if you have faith and doubt not, you shall not only do this
which is done to the fig tree but also if you say unto this
mountain be thou removed …it shall be done. The just shall
live by faith, but if any man draw back; my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for,
the evidence of things not seen.
Father, ___________( your name) is believing for: __________
_______________
And___________________ etc. She/He is standing on
their faith and we stand in agreement that these things
will unfold exactly that way that he/she wants them to
in accordance with your Word; though there is no evidence
that can be seen, __________(your name) is stronger and stronger
every day never doubting that these things will come to
pass. We also pray that YOU the God of our Lord Jesus
Christ , the Father of Glory , may give unto ___________
(your name) the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of you.
That the eyes of __________’s (your name) understanding being enlight-
ened that she/he may know what is the hope of his calling
and the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is
the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe,
according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought
in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at
his own right hand in the heavenly places….For this cause we
bow our knees unto You the Father of our LORD Jesus Christ
of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.
That he would grant unto_________(your name) according to the riches
of his glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in
the inner man; That Christ may dwell in ______________’s
heart by faith, that _____________ being rooted and grounded
in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the
breadth and length and depth and height; And to know the
love of Christ; which passeth knowledge, that she/he/they
might be filled with all the fullness of God!
In the Name of Jesus we ask and Pray.
In the Name of Jesus, Father we come before you with
humble and thankful hearts. Father we are asking you to
strengthen________ (your name) this day. We stand on your word for
you said:
According to your faith be it unto you. Verily I say unto you
that if you have faith and doubt not, you shall not only do this
which is done to the fig tree but also if you say unto this
mountain be thou removed …it shall be done. The just shall
live by faith, but if any man draw back; my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for,
the evidence of things not seen.
Father, ___________( your name) is believing for: __________
_______________
And___________________ etc. She/He is standing on
their faith and we stand in agreement that these things
will unfold exactly that way that he/she wants them to
in accordance with your Word; though there is no evidence
that can be seen, __________(your name) is stronger and stronger
every day never doubting that these things will come to
pass. We also pray that YOU the God of our Lord Jesus
Christ , the Father of Glory , may give unto ___________
(your name) the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of you.
That the eyes of __________’s (your name) understanding being enlight-
ened that she/he may know what is the hope of his calling
and the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is
the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe,
according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought
in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at
his own right hand in the heavenly places….For this cause we
bow our knees unto You the Father of our LORD Jesus Christ
of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.
That he would grant unto_________(your name) according to the riches
of his glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in
the inner man; That Christ may dwell in ______________’s
heart by faith, that _____________ being rooted and grounded
in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the
breadth and length and depth and height; And to know the
love of Christ; which passeth knowledge, that she/he/they
might be filled with all the fullness of God!
In the Name of Jesus we ask and Pray.
Putting God First by Elaine Davenport (Friday, July 27, 2007)
Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I deny before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10: 32-33
Dear Heavenly Father, I am not ashamed of you. In fact, quite the contrary. I love you. You are First in my life. You are my daybreak, my daylight, my light and with you there is no night. Blessed Father, I pray this day for the misguided people. Someone must pray for you. I am asking you today to send your laborers to them. Many think that you and all the other Gods are one God. To hear the vain philosophies of mankind, we sound like the ancient Greeks. You are the true and living God and your sheep hear your voice. Yet, there is a misconception among men that we all have the same God no matter what the belief. Some think Jesus is a prophet O LORD. Please help them to understand that he is the Messiah and no one comes to the Father except through him. Let our words of truth from your Holy book fall on willing ears. Let us all be able to boldly confess you to all men. AMEN
Dear Heavenly Father, I am not ashamed of you. In fact, quite the contrary. I love you. You are First in my life. You are my daybreak, my daylight, my light and with you there is no night. Blessed Father, I pray this day for the misguided people. Someone must pray for you. I am asking you today to send your laborers to them. Many think that you and all the other Gods are one God. To hear the vain philosophies of mankind, we sound like the ancient Greeks. You are the true and living God and your sheep hear your voice. Yet, there is a misconception among men that we all have the same God no matter what the belief. Some think Jesus is a prophet O LORD. Please help them to understand that he is the Messiah and no one comes to the Father except through him. Let our words of truth from your Holy book fall on willing ears. Let us all be able to boldly confess you to all men. AMEN
Sunday, July 22, 2007
They don't want to hear it by Elaine Davenport (Monday, July 23, 2007)
Heavenly Father, we stand in Your presence and in awe of You. In the Name of Jesus we just ask You to help us to speak the mystery of Christ to those whom the god of this world hath blinded. Please count us to be the worthy laborers that other saints have prayed for us to have a Divine encounter with. Help us not to be ashamed of the gospel. Please give us an opening in conversations so that we may spread the light and snuff out the darkness.
Teach us patience. Help us to exude Your love to others. We ask for Your favor as we move out into the missions fields, the highways and the by ways and we thank you. Teach us to pray the perfect prayer so that hearts will be touched and minds will be enlightened. Help us to understand that it will not be a cakewalk without sacrifices. Teach us not to be offended but to love those that despitefully use us or snub us. Enable us to save the lost.
We ask for the spirit of boldness to overcome us and that You will send the ministering angels forth in front of us to prepare hearts and minds. Enable us to pray in public places and to give people an on time Word in due season. Heavenly Father, help us not to be lofty minded about our positions or abilities but enable us to humble ourselves and to be thankful. We'll be careful that You and not our flesh will get the praise, the honor and the accolades. We ask it all in the Authority of Jesus. So be it.
Teach us patience. Help us to exude Your love to others. We ask for Your favor as we move out into the missions fields, the highways and the by ways and we thank you. Teach us to pray the perfect prayer so that hearts will be touched and minds will be enlightened. Help us to understand that it will not be a cakewalk without sacrifices. Teach us not to be offended but to love those that despitefully use us or snub us. Enable us to save the lost.
We ask for the spirit of boldness to overcome us and that You will send the ministering angels forth in front of us to prepare hearts and minds. Enable us to pray in public places and to give people an on time Word in due season. Heavenly Father, help us not to be lofty minded about our positions or abilities but enable us to humble ourselves and to be thankful. We'll be careful that You and not our flesh will get the praise, the honor and the accolades. We ask it all in the Authority of Jesus. So be it.
Spiritual Vacation by Elaine Davenport (Monday, July 23, 2007)
Announcement: From August 5th through August 12th, 2007; I will leave town and travel to Convention for a Spiritual vacation that I have prayed for- for many years. When I return; I expect to have refreshing news for you.
I will then take a 2nd Spiritual Vacation for Convention from August 13th through August 17th, 2007. Many many prayers will be made on your behalf and you and your needs will be upon my heart and mind and taken to the throne of God. Blessings
I will then take a 2nd Spiritual Vacation for Convention from August 13th through August 17th, 2007. Many many prayers will be made on your behalf and you and your needs will be upon my heart and mind and taken to the throne of God. Blessings
When it's hard to find faith by Elaine Davenport (Sunday, July 22, 2007)
I've tried to engage most of my faith friends in conversations about when it's hard to find faith. They don't want to talk about it or acknowledge it. It's not that they are in denial; it's just that there is a "supposition" in some circles, that you must be doing something wrong when you can't find it. Also, to be honest it's not a good position to be in. It happened to me. I was going good; staying in the Word and I got comfortable. Little by little I started doing a little less. Not noticeably to others but I knew it. I repented and got back to my position.
That's why in Ephesians Chapter Six, we are warned to:
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil Ephesians 6: 11
Then just in case we don't know what the armour is; we are further told:
So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate,
and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace.
In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all (the) flaming arrows of the evil one.
And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. EPHESIANS 6: 14-17
We are also told to do the following with this:
Ephesians 6:
18
With all prayer and supplication, pray at every opportunity in the Spirit. To that end, be watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the holy ones
THINK OF THE BOWLING ALLEY
LOOK AT EPHESIANS 6: 16. It says that if we take the shield of faith we can quench all the fiery darts of the enemy.
Imagine you throwing a bowling ball down the lane? You don't want a gutter ball. You want to be effective. You want to know down every single pin. You want a strike. Knock down every pin belonging to satan. Knock down every opposing force, idea, or thing that presents itself that goes against what you know God wants you to do. This isn't upper level Calculus; it's simple math.
I encourage you to stay prayed up and to outline every step in Ephesians 6 regarding the Shield of Faith.
If you can keep this mindset and don't let it slip; it won't be hard to find faith.
That's why in Ephesians Chapter Six, we are warned to:
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil Ephesians 6: 11
Then just in case we don't know what the armour is; we are further told:
So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate,
and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace.
In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all (the) flaming arrows of the evil one.
And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. EPHESIANS 6: 14-17
We are also told to do the following with this:
Ephesians 6:
18
With all prayer and supplication, pray at every opportunity in the Spirit. To that end, be watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the holy ones
THINK OF THE BOWLING ALLEY
LOOK AT EPHESIANS 6: 16. It says that if we take the shield of faith we can quench all the fiery darts of the enemy.
Imagine you throwing a bowling ball down the lane? You don't want a gutter ball. You want to be effective. You want to know down every single pin. You want a strike. Knock down every pin belonging to satan. Knock down every opposing force, idea, or thing that presents itself that goes against what you know God wants you to do. This isn't upper level Calculus; it's simple math.
I encourage you to stay prayed up and to outline every step in Ephesians 6 regarding the Shield of Faith.
If you can keep this mindset and don't let it slip; it won't be hard to find faith.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
IT'S TIME FOR ACTION By Elaine Davenport (Saturday, July 21, 2007)
My Dearest friend, how are you today? God Bless you. Bless God that I find myself writing to you again. I lift you and your family up in prayer daily but I never say the same thing. I realize that everyday different things happen to make our circumstances assorted so I don’t send up the same prayers for you everyday. I ask God to meet your needs because I trust Him, I know He knows what they are. I also stand in agreement with you regarding your prayer needs. You see, Jesus said in the 19th verse of the 18th Chapter of Matthew in the New Testament:
Again, I say unto you, That if any two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
You know, a friend of mine used to lovingly tease me and say: “What are you doing now?” I always laughed in a slightly guilty way. See, I always had a series of projects; I just sort of wandered into them. My problem was I wasn’t doing anything meaningful and I didn’t realize it. I’m still working on projects…only THIS TIME, I don’t have to feel guilty because I am working to please God according to the plan that He has for my life.
I found out that I don’t have to talk about it, I just have to do it.
This means that no matter how much time goes by, I am working on the goal that God has set before me. I won’t quit. I won’t be deterred. Don’t you do it either. I hear people all the time saying: “I’m going to do this.” “I’m thinking about doing that.” That thought didn’t come from nowhere. Act on it. If it will benefit mankind, you have an obligation to do it.
So I am led in many ways, but by faith I press on, by love I press on. You see, for years I felt that there was something that I was put here to do, but I wasted precious time, not doing it. It was deep in my heart, and even when I said : ‘I’m going to write a book.” Even I didn’t believe it. So of course, nothing happened. Are you making declarations that not even you believe? If you are, change it. You deserve better! Please forgive me if I seem to be pushing you to do your best, to reach higher. It’s just because you are so capable. God certainly knows it and He loves you.
I finally started to put that book together that I had talked about since the early 1980’s and guess what? By the time I actually just went on and did it, it turned out to be so easy for me. All that “talk” about writers cramps was merely a smokescreen. I don’t get any cramps when I talk. I don’t have any trouble thinking of things to say. So I transferred it to my writing.
It (writing a book) turned out to be merely the “tip” of the iceberg. I could have never perceived that there was something far greater that I was put here to do.
I’m only using myself as an example to spur you on. There is something deep in your heart. We all have it. It’s there. So my question is: WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO AND WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO DO IT?
I guess that’s just the first part. Next, I’ll ask: “How do you intend to do it?” First, you’re going to have to trust God. A lot of people don’t want to trust God. They have many reasons. Some think it is just too much work. Others don’t know how. Some say that they are (trusting God). A lot of those same people do it like a 50-50 raffle. They trust God for half and then take over the other half. 75-25 is no better and neither is 90-10 or 95-5 or 99-1. It has to be 100%. Don’t let too much time go by before you get this. Please………
Then, I’d ask you to think of how what you’re doing is going to benefit others? I say this to you no matter what it is that you face. Perhaps right now there is a mountain in your life, a gigantic problem like Goliath. So you say: “Well, after I slay Goliath, I’m going to do this or that.” Or you might say: “I’m not even going to focus on this problem, I’m going to give it to God. (not an assignment, a problem) You get my drift right? Next, get a plan. Then, start making some notes in a notebook.
Get busy and continue to repeat the steps to a level of greater understanding and perfection. And even if a STORM comes, (we’ve all had them) PRESS ON! Finally, give thanks and expect to be guided. To most people, it sounds kind of strange to give thanks in a storm, but trust God that is the best time.
In graduate Business School they teach the Game theory. (It’s kind of funny.) In other words there are all of these varied strategy to quantifiably win at something.
But the most intriguing; yet easiest theory that I saw was the : “DO-NOTHING” theory. Some people actually believe they can have a good outcome by following this practice. It speaks for itself. Are you using that theory? Do you know it all too well? Most of us don’t even realize that we’re using this theory. Sometimes we call it procrastination. Hmmm.
It’s time for you to do something, but again I ask: What are you going to do and when are you going to do it?
I just want to remind you that no matter what the problem is; the bible has some scriptures about it.
When you read them, ask God to make it clear to you when you are reading so that you will have a clear understanding, get an amplified bible. Whatever it is that you have to do, do it. We all have something that we have to do that we don’t need to put off any longer.
I love you and that’s all that I have to say.
Copyright, 2005 Now thanks be unto God which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 11 Corinthians 2 verse 14
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things.
--Philippians 4:8
Again, I say unto you, That if any two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
You know, a friend of mine used to lovingly tease me and say: “What are you doing now?” I always laughed in a slightly guilty way. See, I always had a series of projects; I just sort of wandered into them. My problem was I wasn’t doing anything meaningful and I didn’t realize it. I’m still working on projects…only THIS TIME, I don’t have to feel guilty because I am working to please God according to the plan that He has for my life.
I found out that I don’t have to talk about it, I just have to do it.
This means that no matter how much time goes by, I am working on the goal that God has set before me. I won’t quit. I won’t be deterred. Don’t you do it either. I hear people all the time saying: “I’m going to do this.” “I’m thinking about doing that.” That thought didn’t come from nowhere. Act on it. If it will benefit mankind, you have an obligation to do it.
So I am led in many ways, but by faith I press on, by love I press on. You see, for years I felt that there was something that I was put here to do, but I wasted precious time, not doing it. It was deep in my heart, and even when I said : ‘I’m going to write a book.” Even I didn’t believe it. So of course, nothing happened. Are you making declarations that not even you believe? If you are, change it. You deserve better! Please forgive me if I seem to be pushing you to do your best, to reach higher. It’s just because you are so capable. God certainly knows it and He loves you.
I finally started to put that book together that I had talked about since the early 1980’s and guess what? By the time I actually just went on and did it, it turned out to be so easy for me. All that “talk” about writers cramps was merely a smokescreen. I don’t get any cramps when I talk. I don’t have any trouble thinking of things to say. So I transferred it to my writing.
It (writing a book) turned out to be merely the “tip” of the iceberg. I could have never perceived that there was something far greater that I was put here to do.
I’m only using myself as an example to spur you on. There is something deep in your heart. We all have it. It’s there. So my question is: WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO AND WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO DO IT?
I guess that’s just the first part. Next, I’ll ask: “How do you intend to do it?” First, you’re going to have to trust God. A lot of people don’t want to trust God. They have many reasons. Some think it is just too much work. Others don’t know how. Some say that they are (trusting God). A lot of those same people do it like a 50-50 raffle. They trust God for half and then take over the other half. 75-25 is no better and neither is 90-10 or 95-5 or 99-1. It has to be 100%. Don’t let too much time go by before you get this. Please………
Then, I’d ask you to think of how what you’re doing is going to benefit others? I say this to you no matter what it is that you face. Perhaps right now there is a mountain in your life, a gigantic problem like Goliath. So you say: “Well, after I slay Goliath, I’m going to do this or that.” Or you might say: “I’m not even going to focus on this problem, I’m going to give it to God. (not an assignment, a problem) You get my drift right? Next, get a plan. Then, start making some notes in a notebook.
Get busy and continue to repeat the steps to a level of greater understanding and perfection. And even if a STORM comes, (we’ve all had them) PRESS ON! Finally, give thanks and expect to be guided. To most people, it sounds kind of strange to give thanks in a storm, but trust God that is the best time.
In graduate Business School they teach the Game theory. (It’s kind of funny.) In other words there are all of these varied strategy to quantifiably win at something.
But the most intriguing; yet easiest theory that I saw was the : “DO-NOTHING” theory. Some people actually believe they can have a good outcome by following this practice. It speaks for itself. Are you using that theory? Do you know it all too well? Most of us don’t even realize that we’re using this theory. Sometimes we call it procrastination. Hmmm.
It’s time for you to do something, but again I ask: What are you going to do and when are you going to do it?
I just want to remind you that no matter what the problem is; the bible has some scriptures about it.
When you read them, ask God to make it clear to you when you are reading so that you will have a clear understanding, get an amplified bible. Whatever it is that you have to do, do it. We all have something that we have to do that we don’t need to put off any longer.
I love you and that’s all that I have to say.
Copyright, 2005 Now thanks be unto God which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 11 Corinthians 2 verse 14
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things.
--Philippians 4:8
ARE YOU AVERAGE? By Elaine Davenport (Friday, July 20, 2007)
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. 2 Corinthians 9: 8
MY BELOVED BRETHREN, BE YE STEADFAST, UNMOVABLE, ALWAYS ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD, FORASMUCH AS YE KNOW THAT YOUR LABOR IS NOT IN VAIN IN THE LORD-1 Corinthians 15:58.
My Dearest Friend, Blessings unto you. It is my prayer that this letter finds you well. I have been praying for you. I just want to tell you to stay in faith. I’m not worried about you either; because you are a mountain mover. Jesus said that if you have faith you can move it (any obstacle or challenge) and I know that you have faith. Today, I am writing to you about a matter that is important to God and important to you. Let me say that I realize that this question may have exact timing or bad timing; but it is expedient that you give it some thought. I thank you.
THE AVERAGE PERSON DOESN'T WANT TO HEAR THIS. THEY CAN'T HANDLE IT. THEY AREN'T AT THAT LEVEL YET. EVEN THOUGH THIS IS NOT POPULAR, WE MUST NOT COMPROMISE OURSELVES. NOT IN ANY WAY. WE ARE HERE TO SERVE GOD.
At a service at my church one day, a call went out for volunteers to serve in church. I didn’t think it applied to me. That’s funny now; but I was serious then. I wasn’t being arrogant or selfish; I was just honestly overloaded. I was wrong and I truly didn’t realize it. You see, I was loaded with assignments and I was doing them and in my brain, I could not envision expansion of my schedule. I wasn’t supposed to be counting what I did; I was just to abound, to thrive, to flourish in the grace given to me by God. I couldn’t envision the Blessings that I was blocking, the spiritual growth that lay ahead, the new friendships, the unlimited reward, the opportunity to please God in a great way, the passion, the fire and the love that would take hold of me as I grew spiritually. The real truth was that; I was like a passenger trying to board a plane with too much luggage. It wasn’t going to happen. Something had to go but I did not realize it.
Well right after that, at an outside organization where I volunteered (and enjoyed great prestige) everything changed and it impacted my schedule even more. I wasn’t working with people who would really understand my spiritual calling; though they were very good people. I was led to step back and take a time out. In prayer one day, I was reminded of a prior instruction deadline to join a particular division of service at my church. In my mind it didn’t seem like I was “experienced” enough to be of any use. Even though I was obedient; I was challenged in that service. There was a lot more to it than my showing up. God was trying to take me to higher levels and I didn’t see it right away though it was clearly there in front of me. Fortunately I served with some wonderful people who helped and encouraged me. I kept my faith up.
Soon, my breakthrough came. I found out by the example of other people that serving is not just about showing up on time and being responsible, prayed up and sincere. It’s really about your heart. You serve with your heart. I was surrounded by tremendous example. You can hear this but knowing it is a whole new ball game. It’s about loving God so much and loving His children and His creation so much that you will go to great lengths to please Him. (maybe even leaving your comfort zone) You’ll show your love to whosoever that you are working or serving with, interfacing with, helping or assisting. You’ll be a Blessing by setting a wonderful example as well. Praise God!
Do you see that scripture at the bottom of the page with an asterisk in front of it? Would you please read it? Let’s just say for the sake of understanding that God has given us all assignments and asked us to do them. Sometimes that might involve front lines work and sometimes that might involve behind the scenes work; but if God tells us to do it-He wants it done. I always ask myself: “What if Jesus came today and I had to give an accounting of the assignments that I was given? How would it look?” That helps me greatly to keep things in perspective. God has given us the goods and my question is: What have you done with the goods? What have you done with the talents that He gave you? I hope this helps you and makes you think. It makes me think too. I’m still working it out praise the Lord! I’m looking forward to stepping up the pace! I declare that we will have a good report when it is time to give it! Please don’t put it off and don’t be afraid to step up. I thank you. Blessings and Love, Sister Elaine D. novelistoo@gmail.com
P.S. Please if you are led, pray for the body of Christ to examine themselves in this area. Thank you so much.
*THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS AS A MAN TRAVELING INTO A FAR COUNTRY, WHO CALLED HIS OWN SERVANTS, AND DELIVERED UNTO THEM HIS GOODS. AND UNTO ONE HE GAVE FIVE TALENTS, TO ANOTHER TWO, AND TO ANOTHER ONE; TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS SEVERAL ABILITY; AND STRAIGHTWAY TOOK HIS JOURNEY. THEN HE THAT HAD RECEIVED THE FIVE TALENTS WENT AND TRADED WITH THE SAME, AND MADE THEM OTHER FIVE TALENTS. AND LIKEWISE HE THAT HAD RECEIVED TWO, HE ALSO GAINED OTHER TWO. BUT HE THAT HAD RECEIVED ONE WENT AND DIGGED IN THE EARTH, AND HID HIS LORD’S MONEY. AFTER A LONG TIME THE LORD OF THOSE SERVANTS COMETH, AND RECKONETH WITH THEM-Mt 25:14-19.
MY BELOVED BRETHREN, BE YE STEADFAST, UNMOVABLE, ALWAYS ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD, FORASMUCH AS YE KNOW THAT YOUR LABOR IS NOT IN VAIN IN THE LORD-1 Corinthians 15:58.
My Dearest Friend, Blessings unto you. It is my prayer that this letter finds you well. I have been praying for you. I just want to tell you to stay in faith. I’m not worried about you either; because you are a mountain mover. Jesus said that if you have faith you can move it (any obstacle or challenge) and I know that you have faith. Today, I am writing to you about a matter that is important to God and important to you. Let me say that I realize that this question may have exact timing or bad timing; but it is expedient that you give it some thought. I thank you.
THE AVERAGE PERSON DOESN'T WANT TO HEAR THIS. THEY CAN'T HANDLE IT. THEY AREN'T AT THAT LEVEL YET. EVEN THOUGH THIS IS NOT POPULAR, WE MUST NOT COMPROMISE OURSELVES. NOT IN ANY WAY. WE ARE HERE TO SERVE GOD.
At a service at my church one day, a call went out for volunteers to serve in church. I didn’t think it applied to me. That’s funny now; but I was serious then. I wasn’t being arrogant or selfish; I was just honestly overloaded. I was wrong and I truly didn’t realize it. You see, I was loaded with assignments and I was doing them and in my brain, I could not envision expansion of my schedule. I wasn’t supposed to be counting what I did; I was just to abound, to thrive, to flourish in the grace given to me by God. I couldn’t envision the Blessings that I was blocking, the spiritual growth that lay ahead, the new friendships, the unlimited reward, the opportunity to please God in a great way, the passion, the fire and the love that would take hold of me as I grew spiritually. The real truth was that; I was like a passenger trying to board a plane with too much luggage. It wasn’t going to happen. Something had to go but I did not realize it.
Well right after that, at an outside organization where I volunteered (and enjoyed great prestige) everything changed and it impacted my schedule even more. I wasn’t working with people who would really understand my spiritual calling; though they were very good people. I was led to step back and take a time out. In prayer one day, I was reminded of a prior instruction deadline to join a particular division of service at my church. In my mind it didn’t seem like I was “experienced” enough to be of any use. Even though I was obedient; I was challenged in that service. There was a lot more to it than my showing up. God was trying to take me to higher levels and I didn’t see it right away though it was clearly there in front of me. Fortunately I served with some wonderful people who helped and encouraged me. I kept my faith up.
Soon, my breakthrough came. I found out by the example of other people that serving is not just about showing up on time and being responsible, prayed up and sincere. It’s really about your heart. You serve with your heart. I was surrounded by tremendous example. You can hear this but knowing it is a whole new ball game. It’s about loving God so much and loving His children and His creation so much that you will go to great lengths to please Him. (maybe even leaving your comfort zone) You’ll show your love to whosoever that you are working or serving with, interfacing with, helping or assisting. You’ll be a Blessing by setting a wonderful example as well. Praise God!
Do you see that scripture at the bottom of the page with an asterisk in front of it? Would you please read it? Let’s just say for the sake of understanding that God has given us all assignments and asked us to do them. Sometimes that might involve front lines work and sometimes that might involve behind the scenes work; but if God tells us to do it-He wants it done. I always ask myself: “What if Jesus came today and I had to give an accounting of the assignments that I was given? How would it look?” That helps me greatly to keep things in perspective. God has given us the goods and my question is: What have you done with the goods? What have you done with the talents that He gave you? I hope this helps you and makes you think. It makes me think too. I’m still working it out praise the Lord! I’m looking forward to stepping up the pace! I declare that we will have a good report when it is time to give it! Please don’t put it off and don’t be afraid to step up. I thank you. Blessings and Love, Sister Elaine D. novelistoo@gmail.com
P.S. Please if you are led, pray for the body of Christ to examine themselves in this area. Thank you so much.
*THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS AS A MAN TRAVELING INTO A FAR COUNTRY, WHO CALLED HIS OWN SERVANTS, AND DELIVERED UNTO THEM HIS GOODS. AND UNTO ONE HE GAVE FIVE TALENTS, TO ANOTHER TWO, AND TO ANOTHER ONE; TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS SEVERAL ABILITY; AND STRAIGHTWAY TOOK HIS JOURNEY. THEN HE THAT HAD RECEIVED THE FIVE TALENTS WENT AND TRADED WITH THE SAME, AND MADE THEM OTHER FIVE TALENTS. AND LIKEWISE HE THAT HAD RECEIVED TWO, HE ALSO GAINED OTHER TWO. BUT HE THAT HAD RECEIVED ONE WENT AND DIGGED IN THE EARTH, AND HID HIS LORD’S MONEY. AFTER A LONG TIME THE LORD OF THOSE SERVANTS COMETH, AND RECKONETH WITH THEM-Mt 25:14-19.
Miracle at 70 Miles an Hour By Elaine Davenport (Thursday, July 19, 2007)
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psalm 91: 11
I start every day out with prayer for many many people. I plead the Blood of Jesus over our family, our home, our possessions, our cars, our situations. Everyday.
I had just began to pray the Prayer of Jabez daily as well and keep it posted on my back door. It says:
"Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request."
1Cronicles 4:10
I just have to tell you what happened to me yesterday. I had to take my mom to the hospital for a very serious matter. We did tons of driving as I took her to various clinic. There were times when I found myself sitting in the car alone. I was sleepy and wanted to go to sleep but I persevered. When I am with my mom I try to see to it that she gets a good snapshot of what a believer act of love is rather than a bad one so that it won't negatively impact my witnessing to her. She's a believer but she was raised in an era where they never taught about having a personal relationship with God and its importance. Anyways, we did a lot of driving.
I was sitting in the car in front of the Fairlane Clinic in Dearborn when this overwhelming desire to sing: "Oh, the Blood of Jesus" came over me. At first, I fought it because I couldn't "think" of any reason that I needed to sing it, but at first I sang it slowly then I got into it. I eventually stopped before my mom got back in the car. We both do a lot of talking. We drove on several freeways.
Well, I dropped mom off and jumped on the Southfield Freeway heading north to get home. I normally don't get in the fast lane but this day it just made sense. After a few miles; I heard a noise that sounded very unusual. I was going 70 miles an hour and I couldn't see anything so I kept on going.
I came off of the freeway and heade4d home. There was less noise but clearly there was a noise coming from my car. Just as I got near the end of my street I got out of the car to investigate; I had a very flat tire.
My road service had expired and they needed $58.00. I paid it and then found out that my car insurance would write me an i8mmediate check so that was done. I took my car to get the tire repaired and this is what they found:
my tire had a hole in it and another tire had a horrible leak in it and was just about to go flat as well, Both tires were repaired for free. PRAISE GOD.
I was reminded of the following verse:
"When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up A standard against him." Isaiah 59:19(b)
I don't know how long there was a hole in my tire. I just know that God sent His angels to suround me and prosper my way. I also know that it was a favor filled day.
I start every day out with prayer for many many people. I plead the Blood of Jesus over our family, our home, our possessions, our cars, our situations. Everyday.
I had just began to pray the Prayer of Jabez daily as well and keep it posted on my back door. It says:
"Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request."
1Cronicles 4:10
I just have to tell you what happened to me yesterday. I had to take my mom to the hospital for a very serious matter. We did tons of driving as I took her to various clinic. There were times when I found myself sitting in the car alone. I was sleepy and wanted to go to sleep but I persevered. When I am with my mom I try to see to it that she gets a good snapshot of what a believer act of love is rather than a bad one so that it won't negatively impact my witnessing to her. She's a believer but she was raised in an era where they never taught about having a personal relationship with God and its importance. Anyways, we did a lot of driving.
I was sitting in the car in front of the Fairlane Clinic in Dearborn when this overwhelming desire to sing: "Oh, the Blood of Jesus" came over me. At first, I fought it because I couldn't "think" of any reason that I needed to sing it, but at first I sang it slowly then I got into it. I eventually stopped before my mom got back in the car. We both do a lot of talking. We drove on several freeways.
Well, I dropped mom off and jumped on the Southfield Freeway heading north to get home. I normally don't get in the fast lane but this day it just made sense. After a few miles; I heard a noise that sounded very unusual. I was going 70 miles an hour and I couldn't see anything so I kept on going.
I came off of the freeway and heade4d home. There was less noise but clearly there was a noise coming from my car. Just as I got near the end of my street I got out of the car to investigate; I had a very flat tire.
My road service had expired and they needed $58.00. I paid it and then found out that my car insurance would write me an i8mmediate check so that was done. I took my car to get the tire repaired and this is what they found:
my tire had a hole in it and another tire had a horrible leak in it and was just about to go flat as well, Both tires were repaired for free. PRAISE GOD.
I was reminded of the following verse:
"When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up A standard against him." Isaiah 59:19(b)
I don't know how long there was a hole in my tire. I just know that God sent His angels to suround me and prosper my way. I also know that it was a favor filled day.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Prayer of Salvation (Wednesday, July 18, 2007)
Father, it is written in Your Word that if I confess with my mouth that Jesus
Is Lord and if I believe in my heart that You have raised him from the dead
Then I shall be saved. I confess with my Mouth that Jesus is My Lord. I
make him the Lord of my life right now. I believe in my heart that You
raised Jesus from the dead. I renounce my past life with Satan. I close the
door to any of his devices.
I thank You for forgiving me of all my sins. Jesus is my Lord and I am a new creation. Old things are passed away and all things have become new
In Jesus Name. Amen.
Is Lord and if I believe in my heart that You have raised him from the dead
Then I shall be saved. I confess with my Mouth that Jesus is My Lord. I
make him the Lord of my life right now. I believe in my heart that You
raised Jesus from the dead. I renounce my past life with Satan. I close the
door to any of his devices.
I thank You for forgiving me of all my sins. Jesus is my Lord and I am a new creation. Old things are passed away and all things have become new
In Jesus Name. Amen.
Monday, July 16, 2007
SALVATION: THE CHOICE IS YOURS Part Two By Patricia Saddler (Tuesday, July 17, 2007)
PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO READ PART ONE FIRST!
AFTER YOU HAVE READ PART ONE AND PART TWO; PLEASE RETURN TOMORROW FOR PART THREE WHICH WILL INCLUDE THE PRAYER OF SALVATION WHICH WILL BE A BLESSING TO YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE!
WHAT IS SALVATION?
Personally, years ago salvation was a term that I’d heard but didn’t quite know its meaning. I knew it was something that I thought Christians had. I’d heard that it was free, but what was it?
It wasn’t until ten years ago that I actually learned what it meant. Let me say that I accredit that to becoming a member of a church with a strong teaching ministry. In its simplest form salvation is deliverance from the power and penalty of sin. According to GOD’S WORD, when Adam sinned by disobeying GOD, sin entered into all humanity and death was the outcome of that sin. (Rom.5:12) Mankind has a sin nature because Adam is their father.
We (as humans) don’t sin because we want to; we sin because it’s our nature. In other words we’re “naughty by nature”. We lie, we cheat, we over eat, we engage in pre-marital sex, we gossip, we do drugs, we murder, we do all types of sin on many different levels. Regardless of how little or how much, sin is sin in GOD’S eyes and it separates us from fellowship with Him. But GOD in His infinite love for us gave us a solution. John 3:16 reads,” But GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten SON that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” The word loved in the Greek means unconditional love, love by choice, unconquerable benevolence and undefeatable goodwill, never seeking anything but the highest good for mankind.
Many times while on the street witnessing to others about salvation and how much they’re loved, I’ll hear, “You don’t know me. You don’t know what I’ve done in my life.” My response to them is, “That’s true. But GOD knows you. He knows all about you and everything you’ve ever done and he still loves you. He loved Adolph Hitler as much as He loves JESUS. He loved Jeffrey Dalmer as much as He loves JESUS.
He loves you as much as He loves JESUS. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done in your life or what you’re presently doing, He loves you unconditionally just the way you are. You are that whosoever that JESUS died on the cross for to deliver you from eternal damnation. Hell, you don’t want to go there, but in Mark’s words, “it’s your choice.”
Patricia Saddler has been a special education teacher for the past 26 years. She is presently a member of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield, MI. Patricia works in the Outreach ministries at her church and has grown to have a passion for those in need of salvation.
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AFTER YOU HAVE READ PART ONE AND PART TWO; PLEASE RETURN TOMORROW FOR PART THREE WHICH WILL INCLUDE THE PRAYER OF SALVATION WHICH WILL BE A BLESSING TO YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE!
WHAT IS SALVATION?
Personally, years ago salvation was a term that I’d heard but didn’t quite know its meaning. I knew it was something that I thought Christians had. I’d heard that it was free, but what was it?
It wasn’t until ten years ago that I actually learned what it meant. Let me say that I accredit that to becoming a member of a church with a strong teaching ministry. In its simplest form salvation is deliverance from the power and penalty of sin. According to GOD’S WORD, when Adam sinned by disobeying GOD, sin entered into all humanity and death was the outcome of that sin. (Rom.5:12) Mankind has a sin nature because Adam is their father.
We (as humans) don’t sin because we want to; we sin because it’s our nature. In other words we’re “naughty by nature”. We lie, we cheat, we over eat, we engage in pre-marital sex, we gossip, we do drugs, we murder, we do all types of sin on many different levels. Regardless of how little or how much, sin is sin in GOD’S eyes and it separates us from fellowship with Him. But GOD in His infinite love for us gave us a solution. John 3:16 reads,” But GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten SON that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” The word loved in the Greek means unconditional love, love by choice, unconquerable benevolence and undefeatable goodwill, never seeking anything but the highest good for mankind.
Many times while on the street witnessing to others about salvation and how much they’re loved, I’ll hear, “You don’t know me. You don’t know what I’ve done in my life.” My response to them is, “That’s true. But GOD knows you. He knows all about you and everything you’ve ever done and he still loves you. He loved Adolph Hitler as much as He loves JESUS. He loved Jeffrey Dalmer as much as He loves JESUS.
He loves you as much as He loves JESUS. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done in your life or what you’re presently doing, He loves you unconditionally just the way you are. You are that whosoever that JESUS died on the cross for to deliver you from eternal damnation. Hell, you don’t want to go there, but in Mark’s words, “it’s your choice.”
Patricia Saddler has been a special education teacher for the past 26 years. She is presently a member of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield, MI. Patricia works in the Outreach ministries at her church and has grown to have a passion for those in need of salvation.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
SALVATION; THE CHOICE IS YOURS Part One By Patricia Saddler Guest Writer (Monday, July 16, 2007)
I heard this story from a dear friend of mine and these were her words exactly:
Many years ago my ten year old special education student came up to me while I was on hall duty and eagerly chimed “Teacher, I have something special I’d like to share with the class during “show-n-tell”. Now normally, it’s been a good practice to inquire what it is before it’s presented; however, that morning I said, “Okay,”
Mark said: “Wait until I come in from hall duty.” When I came in I told the children to give Mark their undivided attention as he shared with them during “show-n-tell”. The children sat attentively as Mark began to speak. He said, “This morning class, I’d like to share with you about “salvation”.
My eyes immediately darted to the door as my mind began to race into,”What if the administrators that normally come in our room every morning walked in on his show-n-tell? What would they say? What would they think?” (I could have gotten in a whole heap of trouble my friend said.)
I got up and closed the door praying all the way back to my seat that they wouldn’t come in until Mark was finished. Public schools don’t condone religious conversations in the classroom, but I wasn’t about to stop Mark from sharing his topic. Plus, even though I went to church most Sundays at that time, I wasn’t sure myself exactly what salvation was and was as eager to hear what Mark was so eager to share.
Mark began to tell the children that JESUS wanted them to be “kings and queens” but it was their choice. He said they needed to go to church to find out about JESUS and what He’d done for them which would allow them to be kings and queens. He shared with them how kings and queens should act, but it was their choice.
Mark even gave them a remedy to get to church if they didn’t have parents or grandparents that go to church. The children sat mesmerized as they listened to Mark’s mini- sermon on salvation, as did his teacher. When the administrators finally came through the door apologizing for being late with their personal greeting, the children were calmly working on their bell work with their little spirits filled with Mark’s sermon on salvation.
My friend and I agreed that we’re never too educated, intellectual, or smart to learn from the “so called” least among us. I Corinthians 1:27(a) reads: But GOD hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. Listening to the story about special needs ten year old Mark started me on a quest to find out more about salvation.
My friend told me that she was in such a hurry to share this story with me. She knew that I’d be very excited because I have such passion for the ministry of salvation. She was right.
______________________________________________________________________________________
We welcome Patricia Saddler; long time Prayer Intercessor to our site. The reader will look forward to her bold common sense approach laced with Godly Wisdom. Please tune in tomorrow to read Part Two of this series.
Many years ago my ten year old special education student came up to me while I was on hall duty and eagerly chimed “Teacher, I have something special I’d like to share with the class during “show-n-tell”. Now normally, it’s been a good practice to inquire what it is before it’s presented; however, that morning I said, “Okay,”
Mark said: “Wait until I come in from hall duty.” When I came in I told the children to give Mark their undivided attention as he shared with them during “show-n-tell”. The children sat attentively as Mark began to speak. He said, “This morning class, I’d like to share with you about “salvation”.
My eyes immediately darted to the door as my mind began to race into,”What if the administrators that normally come in our room every morning walked in on his show-n-tell? What would they say? What would they think?” (I could have gotten in a whole heap of trouble my friend said.)
I got up and closed the door praying all the way back to my seat that they wouldn’t come in until Mark was finished. Public schools don’t condone religious conversations in the classroom, but I wasn’t about to stop Mark from sharing his topic. Plus, even though I went to church most Sundays at that time, I wasn’t sure myself exactly what salvation was and was as eager to hear what Mark was so eager to share.
Mark began to tell the children that JESUS wanted them to be “kings and queens” but it was their choice. He said they needed to go to church to find out about JESUS and what He’d done for them which would allow them to be kings and queens. He shared with them how kings and queens should act, but it was their choice.
Mark even gave them a remedy to get to church if they didn’t have parents or grandparents that go to church. The children sat mesmerized as they listened to Mark’s mini- sermon on salvation, as did his teacher. When the administrators finally came through the door apologizing for being late with their personal greeting, the children were calmly working on their bell work with their little spirits filled with Mark’s sermon on salvation.
My friend and I agreed that we’re never too educated, intellectual, or smart to learn from the “so called” least among us. I Corinthians 1:27(a) reads: But GOD hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. Listening to the story about special needs ten year old Mark started me on a quest to find out more about salvation.
My friend told me that she was in such a hurry to share this story with me. She knew that I’d be very excited because I have such passion for the ministry of salvation. She was right.
______________________________________________________________________________________
We welcome Patricia Saddler; long time Prayer Intercessor to our site. The reader will look forward to her bold common sense approach laced with Godly Wisdom. Please tune in tomorrow to read Part Two of this series.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
MAKE A PLEDGE TO FIGHT by Elaine Davenport (Sunday, July 15, 2007)
Heavenly Father, I have boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus. (Hebrews 10:19) I will not cast away my confidence in you regarding this situation that I face or am enduring because I KNOW that it hath great recompense of reward). (Hebrew 10: 35) I am the just and I live by faith. (Hebrews 10: 38)
I will fight the good fight of faith. Thereby I will lay hold on the eternal life that I have been called to and I will continue to profess a good profession before many witnesses. (1Timothy 6: 12) I thank you Father that Your hand is upon and on this situation that I face. I thank You that You are God and that You are able to make all grace abound toward me that I ALWAYS have all sufficiency in ALL things and that I may abound
(be plentiful, thrive and flourish) to every good work! (2 Corinthians 8: 8)
Thank you Father for being the God of all comfort. (2 Corinthians 1: 3)
I thank you that You comfort me in all of my tribulation. (2 Corinthians 1: 4) My faith is in Your power. (1 Corinthians 2: 5) I have the God kind of faith. (Mark 11: 22) If a problem is in front of me or hindering me; it is a MOUNTAIN! Therefore, I “say” unto the mountain in front of me: BE THOU REMOVED _______________ (speak whatever it is) AND BE THOU CAST INTO THE SEA. (Mark 11: 23) Because I believe and have NO DOUBT in my heart; I will have what I say. God’s Word says so and I BELIEVE GOD. In Jesus Name, AMEN
I will fight the good fight of faith. Thereby I will lay hold on the eternal life that I have been called to and I will continue to profess a good profession before many witnesses. (1Timothy 6: 12) I thank you Father that Your hand is upon and on this situation that I face. I thank You that You are God and that You are able to make all grace abound toward me that I ALWAYS have all sufficiency in ALL things and that I may abound
(be plentiful, thrive and flourish) to every good work! (2 Corinthians 8: 8)
Thank you Father for being the God of all comfort. (2 Corinthians 1: 3)
I thank you that You comfort me in all of my tribulation. (2 Corinthians 1: 4) My faith is in Your power. (1 Corinthians 2: 5) I have the God kind of faith. (Mark 11: 22) If a problem is in front of me or hindering me; it is a MOUNTAIN! Therefore, I “say” unto the mountain in front of me: BE THOU REMOVED _______________ (speak whatever it is) AND BE THOU CAST INTO THE SEA. (Mark 11: 23) Because I believe and have NO DOUBT in my heart; I will have what I say. God’s Word says so and I BELIEVE GOD. In Jesus Name, AMEN
Hold Fast To Your Profession of Faith by Elaine Davenport (Saturday, July 14, 2007)
Occasionally I meet faith people who don't understand faith. I sympathize because I totally understand. We always have to remember that no matter how terrible any situation may be; that God can handle it. Maybe, we can't, but He can.
Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen. Hebrews 11: 1
Without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing to him, for he who comes to God must believe that he exists, and that he is a rewarder of those who seek him. Hebrews 11: 6
By faith, Abraham, when he was called, obeyed to go out to the place which he was to receive for an inheritance. He went out, not knowing where he went. Hebrews 11: 8
Dearest Friend, Blessings to you and yours. It is with great joy that I write to you today because I have been on quite a journey and I am relieved to have my feet settled and be in my right place, even though my journey continues. I am writing to you today to encourage you and to tell you to hold your chin up and to stand tall and be proud. Whatever you may be facing; you are not in it alone. I am praying for you. Prayer warriors are praying for you; but that’s not all. You see, behind the scenes, angels are moving and God the Father is arranging things so that you may have perfect peace. You just have to stay focused on God and speak the truth; the truth of Gods’ Word. I want to talk to you about your faith and my faith.
Do you believe God? Do you believe His Word? Either you do or you don’t. Everyday your faith will be tested. EVERYDAY.
*One morning after leaving prayer, I was walking next to a fellow prayer warrior. I said with my mouth: “I hate these dizzy spells that I have. I can hardly see or walk.” My friend looked at me and shook her head. She seemed angry. She said: “I don’t believe it.” She went on to say something like we just left prayer and you thanked God for hearing your prayers and ANSWERING them and now you’re out here confessing sickness. She looked at me as if to say: “WHO ARE YOU AND WHAT HAPPENED TO THE PERSON THAT WAS IN THERE PRAISING GOD?”
I didn’t understand her lack of sympathy and pity at the time. I certainly didn’t like her response. I even prayed about it. Months passed and I realized this was good medicine that she gave to me. Sometimes believers go to other believers for advice and instead of a long dissertation of sympathy, they just need to hear three words: “ DO YOU BELIEVE GOD?”
Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen. Hebrews 11: 1
Without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing to him, for he who comes to God must believe that he exists, and that he is a rewarder of those who seek him. Hebrews 11: 6
By faith, Abraham, when he was called, obeyed to go out to the place which he was to receive for an inheritance. He went out, not knowing where he went. Hebrews 11: 8
Dearest Friend, Blessings to you and yours. It is with great joy that I write to you today because I have been on quite a journey and I am relieved to have my feet settled and be in my right place, even though my journey continues. I am writing to you today to encourage you and to tell you to hold your chin up and to stand tall and be proud. Whatever you may be facing; you are not in it alone. I am praying for you. Prayer warriors are praying for you; but that’s not all. You see, behind the scenes, angels are moving and God the Father is arranging things so that you may have perfect peace. You just have to stay focused on God and speak the truth; the truth of Gods’ Word. I want to talk to you about your faith and my faith.
Do you believe God? Do you believe His Word? Either you do or you don’t. Everyday your faith will be tested. EVERYDAY.
*One morning after leaving prayer, I was walking next to a fellow prayer warrior. I said with my mouth: “I hate these dizzy spells that I have. I can hardly see or walk.” My friend looked at me and shook her head. She seemed angry. She said: “I don’t believe it.” She went on to say something like we just left prayer and you thanked God for hearing your prayers and ANSWERING them and now you’re out here confessing sickness. She looked at me as if to say: “WHO ARE YOU AND WHAT HAPPENED TO THE PERSON THAT WAS IN THERE PRAISING GOD?”
I didn’t understand her lack of sympathy and pity at the time. I certainly didn’t like her response. I even prayed about it. Months passed and I realized this was good medicine that she gave to me. Sometimes believers go to other believers for advice and instead of a long dissertation of sympathy, they just need to hear three words: “ DO YOU BELIEVE GOD?”
YOU HAVE TO ACTIVATE YOUR FAITH by Elaine Davenport (Friday, July 13, 2007)
Today, you need to know that God will do some stuff for you,
I know that you realize that He always acts on cue,
Just like a contact number when you get a master card,
You can activate your faith, it should not be so hard,
God tells you in His word, He tells you that it’s true,
His word is full of love and you know it’s meant for you.
You want him to lift you up, protect you, be your guide,
The book is in your hand and He said: “My child, abide.”
Lift up your beautiful arms, and toward heaven reach out,
Call upon His holy name, you can even shout,
Ask Him to come beside you to go with you where you go,
He will never mislead you, He will never tell you: “No.”
Sing praises to His name and give Him all the glory,
Confess to him your woes, retell Him your lifestory,
He will not judge or leave, that much I assure,
He can ease your burdens, He can give a cure.
God loves you so very much, if you only knew,
You would never feel sad, you would not miss your cue.
He told me to really tell you how He watches o’er your life,
He’s your Shepherd and He’ll lead you- away from all the strife.
So, when you hear songs of God’s love, bouncing in your head,
Think about your spirit and how it must be fed.
God has told you many things; and you know that you’re first rate,
Feel His presence, renew your faith and enter in the gate.
© Bended Knee Productions
Elaine Bracken-Davenport 2002
I know that you realize that He always acts on cue,
Just like a contact number when you get a master card,
You can activate your faith, it should not be so hard,
God tells you in His word, He tells you that it’s true,
His word is full of love and you know it’s meant for you.
You want him to lift you up, protect you, be your guide,
The book is in your hand and He said: “My child, abide.”
Lift up your beautiful arms, and toward heaven reach out,
Call upon His holy name, you can even shout,
Ask Him to come beside you to go with you where you go,
He will never mislead you, He will never tell you: “No.”
Sing praises to His name and give Him all the glory,
Confess to him your woes, retell Him your lifestory,
He will not judge or leave, that much I assure,
He can ease your burdens, He can give a cure.
God loves you so very much, if you only knew,
You would never feel sad, you would not miss your cue.
He told me to really tell you how He watches o’er your life,
He’s your Shepherd and He’ll lead you- away from all the strife.
So, when you hear songs of God’s love, bouncing in your head,
Think about your spirit and how it must be fed.
God has told you many things; and you know that you’re first rate,
Feel His presence, renew your faith and enter in the gate.
© Bended Knee Productions
Elaine Bracken-Davenport 2002
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
THEY CAME FOR LOVE by Elaine Davenport (Tuesday, July 10, 2007)
We had our Family Reunion this year. It was wonderful; it wasn't so much about what we did for me; it was about what I saw. You need to know that I had prayed for this group of people for many months and others had too. In fact, my cousin and I were believing God for a spiritual reunion. It did happen, but not the way that I thought.
Days before the reunion, the regrets began to pour in. This person could not come and that person couldn't come. One by one; people were bowing out. I remembered the words of my dear friend Ruth (a mighty prayer warrior), who always says: "God will have who He wants to be there." Those words of wisdom have given me great comfort since I entertain a lot.
I decided to stand in faith for this reunion. Faith is what you can't see. Faith is what you don't know. Faith is what you haven't heard. Faith is required when you don't understand. I didn't know what was happening, so I gave it to God.
I asked myself what did I have to give to the many people who came. As a result of my prayer life, my prayers for the family that was coming, the teaching and instruction from the Word of God that had been imparted to me, I knew the answer without a second thought. Every thought for them, every action for them, every deed for them, every word for them would be motivated by and grounded in love.
Three days before the Reunion was scheduled to begin, the doorbell rang and rang and rang. Some of my family was here. They had come early. Oh Joy. (This site doesn't allow an exclamation mark or I'd have one. Smile.
NOW...
let's talk about what brought them here. That's the good part.
One of my cousins packed her family in a van and pressed her way here fighting a sinus headache. Another cousin traveled way across the country to Ohio where she picked up her mom and drove her here so that she could come too. One cousin flew south to help another cousin drive back. One cousin drove to another state and picked up her grandchildren and drove them here with her family. One cousin came a week early. One of my brothers drove from two states away and brought his son so that he could manage and coordinate many events. My nephew bought his plane ticket and came when it would have been much easier not to come. One cousin came at the last minute and was accommodated by her family who made great sacrifices to come. One cousin came two days early just so that our families could spend extra time together. I cannot cover every story but every story is a story of personal or financial sacrifice.
So you've heard the story of their sacrifices but you haven't heard about their love.
Most of the people came a long ways. They drove multiple hours in a hot season where gas prices are soaring. The angels prospered their way and so they came without incident.
It reminds me of Psalm 91 when it says:
A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it will not come near you. (V.7)
By the day of the picnic; we had a great group of people and as we sat and gazed along the riverfront and looked on the beautiful blue waters; I looked around and realized with great pride that they had came for love. Love really can move mountains. In this family people love each other and like each other. It's a family legacy. My father taught it to us. God helped me maintain it. There are times when people can question their affections for family whether they admit it or not. I can say this: in this family everything is grounded in LOVE.
They came and they were a delight, they were charming, they brought smiles and words of kindness, God's grace was all over them; each of them. They brought love, they brought joy. I was able to see it; it was great. It truly was a spiritual Reunion.
I share this story to ask you all to pray for love in your family, pray for God's grace upon your family too. I encourage you to speak a Blessing over your family regularly; they deserve it.
Days before the reunion, the regrets began to pour in. This person could not come and that person couldn't come. One by one; people were bowing out. I remembered the words of my dear friend Ruth (a mighty prayer warrior), who always says: "God will have who He wants to be there." Those words of wisdom have given me great comfort since I entertain a lot.
I decided to stand in faith for this reunion. Faith is what you can't see. Faith is what you don't know. Faith is what you haven't heard. Faith is required when you don't understand. I didn't know what was happening, so I gave it to God.
I asked myself what did I have to give to the many people who came. As a result of my prayer life, my prayers for the family that was coming, the teaching and instruction from the Word of God that had been imparted to me, I knew the answer without a second thought. Every thought for them, every action for them, every deed for them, every word for them would be motivated by and grounded in love.
Three days before the Reunion was scheduled to begin, the doorbell rang and rang and rang. Some of my family was here. They had come early. Oh Joy. (This site doesn't allow an exclamation mark or I'd have one. Smile.
NOW...
let's talk about what brought them here. That's the good part.
One of my cousins packed her family in a van and pressed her way here fighting a sinus headache. Another cousin traveled way across the country to Ohio where she picked up her mom and drove her here so that she could come too. One cousin flew south to help another cousin drive back. One cousin drove to another state and picked up her grandchildren and drove them here with her family. One cousin came a week early. One of my brothers drove from two states away and brought his son so that he could manage and coordinate many events. My nephew bought his plane ticket and came when it would have been much easier not to come. One cousin came at the last minute and was accommodated by her family who made great sacrifices to come. One cousin came two days early just so that our families could spend extra time together. I cannot cover every story but every story is a story of personal or financial sacrifice.
So you've heard the story of their sacrifices but you haven't heard about their love.
Most of the people came a long ways. They drove multiple hours in a hot season where gas prices are soaring. The angels prospered their way and so they came without incident.
It reminds me of Psalm 91 when it says:
A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it will not come near you. (V.7)
By the day of the picnic; we had a great group of people and as we sat and gazed along the riverfront and looked on the beautiful blue waters; I looked around and realized with great pride that they had came for love. Love really can move mountains. In this family people love each other and like each other. It's a family legacy. My father taught it to us. God helped me maintain it. There are times when people can question their affections for family whether they admit it or not. I can say this: in this family everything is grounded in LOVE.
They came and they were a delight, they were charming, they brought smiles and words of kindness, God's grace was all over them; each of them. They brought love, they brought joy. I was able to see it; it was great. It truly was a spiritual Reunion.
I share this story to ask you all to pray for love in your family, pray for God's grace upon your family too. I encourage you to speak a Blessing over your family regularly; they deserve it.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Show them your Best Side By Elaine Davenport ( Tuesday, July 3, 2007)
The answer to your weights, burdens, pressures, challenges, distractions and whatever name that you call it is Love.
When we were about to leave prayer much earlier today; the good minister gave us some verses to study and meditate upon:
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
St. John 13: 34
Then:
Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13: 8a
When we were growing up; they had this thing called "the dozens." That meant that a person was quick witted and could get you told as they used to say. Later, people called it: "putting you in check." I once knew a lady who was good at it and she would recant stories of how she would put someone in check. She would tell people: "You don't want to see me act ugly." That's funny. People did accept and do accept the fact that they have a public image and a private image that they can let out of a box like Pandora.
That's what the world does. However, for born again believers, we have a directive as you saw above and it says: "Love one another." We can avoid the pitfalls of a split personality where "Pandora" comes out. We can choose to show people our better side all of the time. Make a decision.
When we were about to leave prayer much earlier today; the good minister gave us some verses to study and meditate upon:
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
St. John 13: 34
Then:
Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13: 8a
When we were growing up; they had this thing called "the dozens." That meant that a person was quick witted and could get you told as they used to say. Later, people called it: "putting you in check." I once knew a lady who was good at it and she would recant stories of how she would put someone in check. She would tell people: "You don't want to see me act ugly." That's funny. People did accept and do accept the fact that they have a public image and a private image that they can let out of a box like Pandora.
That's what the world does. However, for born again believers, we have a directive as you saw above and it says: "Love one another." We can avoid the pitfalls of a split personality where "Pandora" comes out. We can choose to show people our better side all of the time. Make a decision.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
BLAMELESS By Elaine Davenport (Sunday, July 1, 2007)
You can’t be in faith and not understand God’s Word. He said He will not withhold from anyone whose walk is blameless. So let your walk be blameless.
God is so wonderful. He looked down the road at our world in the Year 2007 and He left us a command; to the body of Christ and even to the churches. He said:
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (NIV, John 13:34-35)
The world watches the Body of Christ with great amusement. So does the devil. And sometimes I wonder if we’re accommodating them unwittingly. Close critiquing of ministries that are different is widespread within the body of Christ even though the bible is clear about the body.
"And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way." (Ephesians 1:22-23 NIV)
Romans 12:4-8
Just as each of us has one body with many members and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (NIV)
1 Corinthians 12:18-22
But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you." And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, (NIV)
I give you the Word of God and I’ll tell you that if you see another ministry that fails or misses the mark in your eyesight, pray for them and ask God what you can do to help them and wait for His instruction. Don’t give ammunition to the world by openly criticizing another ministry.
Many times I observe people complaining about other ministries; but I never see a reply very often. It’s probably because of the following verse. Get in the Word, I encourage you to meditate upon these scriptures before you publicly or privately criticize your brothers or sisters in Christ.
THE WORD IS REAL….
1 Corinthians 12:26-27
If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. (NIV)
"There is a saying, 'Love your friends and hate your enemies.' But I say: Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you. In that way you will be acting as true sons of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even scoundrels do that much. If you are friendly only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even the heathen do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. (TLB, Matthew 5:43-48)
"For if you forgive men for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. "But if you do not forgive men, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions. (NAS, Matthew 6:14-15)
MAKE CERTAIN THAT YOU ARE BLAMELESS...IT'S HARD OR IT'S EASY; THAT DEPENDS ON YOU.
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God is so wonderful. He looked down the road at our world in the Year 2007 and He left us a command; to the body of Christ and even to the churches. He said:
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (NIV, John 13:34-35)
The world watches the Body of Christ with great amusement. So does the devil. And sometimes I wonder if we’re accommodating them unwittingly. Close critiquing of ministries that are different is widespread within the body of Christ even though the bible is clear about the body.
"And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way." (Ephesians 1:22-23 NIV)
Romans 12:4-8
Just as each of us has one body with many members and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (NIV)
1 Corinthians 12:18-22
But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you." And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, (NIV)
I give you the Word of God and I’ll tell you that if you see another ministry that fails or misses the mark in your eyesight, pray for them and ask God what you can do to help them and wait for His instruction. Don’t give ammunition to the world by openly criticizing another ministry.
Many times I observe people complaining about other ministries; but I never see a reply very often. It’s probably because of the following verse. Get in the Word, I encourage you to meditate upon these scriptures before you publicly or privately criticize your brothers or sisters in Christ.
THE WORD IS REAL….
1 Corinthians 12:26-27
If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. (NIV)
"There is a saying, 'Love your friends and hate your enemies.' But I say: Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you. In that way you will be acting as true sons of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even scoundrels do that much. If you are friendly only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even the heathen do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. (TLB, Matthew 5:43-48)
"For if you forgive men for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. "But if you do not forgive men, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions. (NAS, Matthew 6:14-15)
MAKE CERTAIN THAT YOU ARE BLAMELESS...IT'S HARD OR IT'S EASY; THAT DEPENDS ON YOU.
______________________________________________________________________________________
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