Biblical Finances

Day Fifteen-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-15T11:18:00.003-05:00

Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord and turn [entirely] away from evil.It shall be health to your nerves and sinews, and marrow and moistening to your bones.Honor the Lord with your capital and sufficiency [from righteous labors] and with the firstfruits of all your income;So shall your storage places be filled with plenty, and your vats shall be overflowing with new wine.My son, do not despise or shrink from the chastening of the Lord [His correction by punishment or by subjection to suffering or trial]; neither be weary of or impatient about or loathe or abhor His reproof, For whom the Lord loves He corrects, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights. Happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding [drawing it forth from God's Word and life's experiences],For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, and the profit of it better than fine gold. Skillful and godly Wisdom is more precious than rubies; and nothing you can wish for is to be compared to her. Proverbs 3:5-15 AMP

“I said lean on, trust in and rely on only Me for understanding. You cannot get true wisdom without leaning your entirety on Me. Only I can show you the way out. Only I can give you the wisdom not to make mistakes and do what is right in every situation. Get understanding by asking Me for it. Study Proverbs 3 today. Ask Me to help you ingest Proverbs 3 into your heart and mind. Length of days is in My right hand. A happy, enviable life is yours for the taking. But only if you seek Me for wisdom and understanding in ALL matters. There is no reason to make mistakes when you have a relationship with Me. Many people think it is normal to have human error. It is only “normal” if you refuse to seek Me first and learn to understand My leading in areas. There is no reason for you not to live a happy, fulfilled, long life when you have My word, My Holy Spirit, My Son Jesus Christ. When you can go directly to Me for wisdom, guidance and understanding. Lift up to Me every area of your life today and ask Me to give you wisdom and guidance. To give you understanding of why you are, where you are in life. Why you have the station you have and I will tell you. It was never meant to be a mystery why I have called you to certain places, vocations, and areas on this earth. I am not withholding this information, you only have to spend time in My presence to find out why and what is next. I love you. I long to be with you. I created you because I first loved you. Study Proverbs 3, then spend time in My presence getting wisdom and understanding. I will guide you in every affair of your life if you simply spend time with Me listening, and desiring understanding.”

Definition of Understanding: (Dictionary.com)-Superior power of discernment; enlightened intelligence.

Scriptures to study (Proverbs 3):

MY SON, forget not my law or teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; For length of days and years of a life [worth living] and tranquility [inward and outward and continuing through old age till death], these shall they add to you. Let not mercy and kindness [shutting out all hatred and selfishness] and truth [shutting out all deliberate hypocrisy or falsehood] forsake you; bind them about your neck, write them upon the tablet of your heart.So shall you find favor, good understanding, and high esteem in the sight [or judgment] of God and man.Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord and turn [entirely] away from evil.It shall be health to your nerves and sinews, and marrow and moistening to your bones.Honor the Lord with your capital and sufficiency [from righteous labors] and with the firstfruits of all your income;So shall your storage places be filled with plenty, and your vats shall be overflowing with new wine.My son, do not despise or shrink from the chastening of the Lord [His correction by punishment or by subjection to suffering or trial]; neither be weary of or impatient about or loathe or abhor His reproof, For whom the Lord loves He corrects, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights. Happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding [drawing it forth from God's Word and life's experiences],For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, and the profit of it better than fine gold. Skillful and godly Wisdom is more precious than rubies; and nothing you can wish for is to be compared to her. Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left hand are riches and honor.Her ways are highways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.She is a tree of life to those who lay hold on her; and happy (blessed, fortunate, to be envied) is everyone who holds her fast.The Lord by skillful and godly Wisdom has founded the earth; by understanding He has established the heavens.By His knowledge the deeps were broken up, and the skies distill the dew.My son, let them not escape from your sight, but keep sound and godly Wisdom and discretion,And they will be life to your inner self, and a gracious ornament to your neck (your outer self).Then you will walk in your way securely and in confident trust, and you shall not dash your foot or stumble.When you lie down, you shall not be afraid; yes, you shall lie down, and your sleep shall be sweet. Be not afraid of sudden terror and panic, nor of the stormy blast or the storm and ruin of the wicked when it comes [for you will be guiltless],For the Lord shall be your confidence, firm and strong, and shall keep your foot from being caught [in a trap or some hidden danger].Withhold not good from those to whom it is due [its rightful owners], when it is in the power of your hand to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, Go, and come again; and tomorrow I will give it--when you have it with you. Do not contrive or dig up or cultivate evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly and confidently beside you. Contend not with a man for no reason--when he has done you no wrong. Do not resentfully envy and be jealous of an unscrupulous, grasping man, and choose none of his ways. For the perverse are an abomination [extremely disgusting and detestable] to the Lord; but His confidential communion and secret counsel are with the [uncompromisingly] righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with Him).The curse of the Lord is in and on the house of the wicked, but He declares blessed (joyful and favored with blessings) the home of the just and consistently righteous. Though He scoffs at the scoffers and scorns the scorners, yet He gives His undeserved favor to the low [in rank], the humble, and the afflicted. The wise shall inherit glory (all honor and good) but shame is the highest rank conferred on [self-confident] fools. Proverbs 3 AMP

Day Fourteen-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-14T13:00:00.001-05:00

The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline. Proverbs 1:7 AMP

“The fear of the Lord is a Spirit. Just like the spirit of fear. But the spirit of wisdom is My Spirit and come from Me. Ask Me for the fear of the Lord now and I will give it to you. It is impossible to continually make right choices in your life if you do not have the fear of the Lord. Over time, billions have tried to circumvent My wisdom and create their own. That is why you see so much chaos in the world. Man’s wisdom will never stand up to My wisdom. To walk in wisdom is to HATE evil. To run from infidelity, lying, stealing, cheating, backbiting and the like. To refuse to get tied up in the evil behavior of unbelievers and some believers. Wisdom will be granted to you, but you must seek Me for it. It is a free gift, but it must be studied in My word and obeyed. I will give you wisdom in every area of your life, but you must ask Me for it and do what I tell you to do. Wisdom is granted. I want all of My children to operate in supernatural wisdom. To be full of the fear of the Lord. But many have refused to seek Me for it and calamity will come upon them because of it. My word is true. Proverbs 1 is true. The wisdom I gave King Solomon is correct. Obey My word, study Proverbs chapters one and two today, and I will give you wisdom in the areas of your life that you have been seeking Me for.”

Scriptures to study (Proverbs 1 & 2):

THE PROVERBS (truths obscurely expressed, maxims, and parables) of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: That people may know skillful and godly Wisdom and instruction, discern and comprehend the words of understanding and insight,Receive instruction in wise dealing and the discipline of wise thoughtfulness, righteousness, justice, and integrity,That prudence may be given to the simple, and knowledge, discretion, and discernment to the youth--The wise also will hear and increase in learning, and the person of understanding will acquire skill and attain to sound counsel [so that he may be able to steer his course rightly]--That people may understand a proverb and a figure of speech or an enigma with its interpretation, and the words of the wise and their dark sayings or riddles. The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline. My son, hear the instruction of your father; reject not nor forsake the teaching of your mother. For they are a [victor's] chaplet (garland) of grace upon your head and chains and pendants [of gold worn by kings] for your neck.My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.If they say, Come with us; let us lie in wait [to shed] blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause [and show that his piety is in vain];Let us swallow them up alive as does Sheol (the place of the dead), and whole, as those who go down into the pit [of the dead] We shall find and take all kinds of precious goods [when our victims are put out of the way], we shall fill our houses with plunder;Throw in your lot with us [they insist] and be a sworn brother and comrade; let us all have one purse in common--My son, do not walk in the way with them; restrain your foot from their path; For their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed blood. For in vain is the net spread in the sight of any bird! But [when these men set a trap for others] they are lying in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives. So are the ways of everyone who is greedy of gain; such [greed for plunder] takes away the lives of its possessors. Wisdom cries aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the markets; She cries at the head of the noisy intersections [in the chief gathering places]; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: How long, O simple ones [open to evil], will you love being simple? And the scoffers delight in scoffing and [self-confident] fools hate knowledge?If you will turn (repent) and give heed to my reproof, behold, I Wisdom] will pour out my spirit upon you, I will make my words known to you. Because I have called and you have refused [to answer], have stretched out my hand and no man has heeded it, And you treated as nothing all my counsel and would accept none of my reproof, I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when the thing comes that shall cause you terror and panic--When your panic comes as a storm and desolation and your calamity comes on as a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. Then will they call upon me [Wisdom] but I will not answer; they will seek me early and diligently but they will not find me. Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord, Would accept none of my counsel, and despised all my reproof, Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way and be satiated with their own devices. For the backsliding of the simple shall slay them, and the careless ease of [self-confident] fools shall destroy them. But whoso hearkens to me [Wisdom] shall dwell securely and in confident trust and shall be quiet, without fear or dread of evil. Proverbs 1 AMP

MY SON, if you will receive my words and treasure up my commandments within you, Making your ear attentive to skillful and godly Wisdom and inclining and directing your heart and mind to understanding [applying all your powers to the quest for it];Yes, if you cry out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, If you seek [Wisdom] as for silver and search for skillful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, Then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of [our omniscient] God.For the Lord gives skillful and godly Wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He hides away sound and godly Wisdom and stores it for the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with Him); He is a shield to those who walk uprightly and in integrity,That He may guard the paths of justice; yes, He preserves the way of His saints. Then you will understand righteousness, justice, and fair dealing [in every area and relation]; yes, you will understand every good path. For skillful and godly Wisdom shall enter into your heart, and knowledge shall be pleasant to you. Discretion shall watch over you, understanding shall keep you, To deliver you from the way of evil and the evil men, from men who speak perverse things and are liars, Men who forsake the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness, Who rejoice to do evil and delight in the perverseness of evil, Who are crooked in their ways, wayward and devious in their paths.[Discretion shall watch over you, understanding shall keep you] to deliver you from the alien woman, from the outsider with her flattering words, Who forsakes the husband and guide of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God. For her house sinks down to death and her paths to the spirits [of the dead].None who go to her return again, neither do they attain or regain the paths of life.So may you walk in the way of good men, and keep to the paths of the [consistently] righteous (the upright, in right standing with God).For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the men of integrity, blameless and complete [in God's sight], shall remain in it;But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the treacherous shall be rooted out of it. Proverbs 2 AMP

Day Thirteen-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-13T17:19:00.002-05:00

Evildoers foster rebellion against God; the messenger of death will be sent against them. Proverbs 17:11 NIV

“Rebellion is the sin of all mankind. It started in the garden of Eden and continues on today. Rebellion in heart, rebellion in spirit. Satan cannot get a foothold unless rebellion is present. Today I want to purge rebellion out of you. Ask Me to reveal to you any areas of rebellion. Satan cannot hinder your walk with Me if rebellion is gone. Follow the leading of My Spirit today as He reveals to you areas of your life where there is rebellion. You cannot bring an Ishmael into this world if the sin of rebellion is not there.”

Day Twelve-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-12T13:49:00.001-05:00

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness;   come before him with joyful songs.  Know that the LORD is God.   It is he who made us, and we are his;  we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100 NIV

“Praise Me. Praise Me in the Sanctuary. Praise Me with the breath you breathe. I said to give thanks in every situation. No matter what situation you find yourself in, give thanks. Praise Me and I will open up the windows of heaven and show you the way out. A simple heart of gratitude expressed by lips that praise Me open doors of opportunity, restore peace to the home and bring endings to trying times. Praise Me. Worship Me. Give thanks now for whatever situation you find yourself in.”

Scriptures to Study:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV

Day Eleven- Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-11T13:13:00.004-05:00

*This is Day Eleven of the 60 day devotional called "Chasing Ishmael" I am spending time in prayer with God, hearing from Him and writing down what He speaks to my spirit. The purpose of this is to get rid of all "Ishmael's" that may be operating in your life.

As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Matthew got up and followed him. Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” Matthew 9:9-13 NLT

“Those who are under the Spirit of the Law have a hard time showing mercy. They feel like they work hard to be righteous, and to see Me bless someone who simply enters into My rest irritates them. But My mercy is for everyone who calls upon My name and trusts in My Son Jesus Christ who died for them. Those who rely on My Son will be blessed. Salvation is not earned, but expected through faith in the sacrifice of My Son. Religious zealots expect to earn their way in this world. But that doesn’t really work with Me does it? The Holy Spirit is a free gift to ALL who call upon My Son’s name. My Holy Spirit will FREELY comfort all who mourn if they want it. My Holy Spirit will FREELY dole out wisdom and leadership to all those who believe. In this world there will be certain steps you have to take to move ahead in the workforce, in ministry, and in other areas of your life. But My Son Jesus Christ finished the work of salvation at the cross. My Holy Spirit has been FREELY given to ALL. Harnessing the power of the Holy Spirit is free and cannot be earned. It is simply a belief system of agreeing with My word that it can be done. That healing, words of knowledge, walking in My love and other Holy Spirit led manifestations can happen. Agree to rest in My love and understand that your salvation is complete. Ask Me to open the eyes of your heart so you can understand mercy, understand entering into My rest. I have called sinners to repentance, not dead works.”

Day Ten-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-10T09:57:00.000-05:00

The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked came against me To eat up my flesh, My enemies and foes, They stumbled and fell. Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident. One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. Psalm 27:1-5 NKJV

“Did you know there is a place you can go in the time of trouble? That I have a tabernacle for you? A place where My light and presence dwells continually. You do not have to be afraid. You do not have to be scared of what the future holds. Go to this place. Choose to habitually be there. Ask Me to hide you in My pavilion, to set you upon a rock.”

Day Nine-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-09T15:19:00.001-05:00

For [it is] better to suffer [unjustly] for doing right, if that should be God's will, than to suffer [justly] for doing wrong. For Christ [the Messiah Himself] died for sins once for all, the Righteous for the unrighteous (the Just for the unjust, the Innocent for the guilty), that He might bring us to God. In His human body He was put to death, but He was made alive in the spirit, In which He went and preached to the spirits in prison, [The souls of those] who long before in the days of Noah had been disobedient, when God's patience waited during the building of the ark in which a few [people], actually eight in number, were saved through water. And baptism, which is a figure [of their deliverance], does now also save you [from inward questionings and fears], not by the removing of outward body filth [bathing], but by [providing you with] the answer of a good and clear conscience (inward cleanness and peace) before God [because you are demonstrating what you believe to be yours] through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 3:17-21

“When you are in a situation, you need to seek Me as to who you are to witness to. Remember, I have called you to be witnesses on this earth and that is your first job. Right before I left the earth I said to go into all the world and preach the gospel, making disciples. Any believer would hear My voice better if they made witnessing a priority. Spend time in prayer today finding out who I called you to witness to. People who are automatically attracted to you (not romantically) and are unbelievers, you are called to witness to. Make witnessing a priority in your life”

Scriptures to study:

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 NIV

Day Eight- Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-08T07:51:00.007-05:00

These people all died controlled and sustained by their faith, but not having received the tangible fulfillment of [God's] promises, only having seen it and greeted it from a great distance by faith, and all the while acknowledging and confessing that they were strangers and temporary residents and exiles upon the earth. Now those people who talk as they did show plainly that they are in search of a fatherland (their own country).If they had been thinking with [homesick] remembrance of that country from which they were emigrants, they would have found constant opportunity to return to it.But the truth is that they were yearning for and aspiring to a better and more desirable country, that is, a heavenly [one]. For that reason God is not ashamed to be called their God [even to be surnamed their God--the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob], for He has prepared a city for them. By faith Abraham, when he was put to the test [while the testing of his faith was still in progress], had already brought Isaac for an offering; he who had gladly received and welcomed [God's] promises was ready to sacrifice his only son, Of whom it was said, Through Isaac shall your descendants be reckoned. Hebrews 11:13-18 AMP

“Isaac! Isaac! Where God is my Isaac? Is what I hear from My children on a daily basis. Over the centuries My chosen ones cry to Me wanting to know why their promises aren’t being fulfilled. Where is the land that I promised to give them? Why are they being tortured for their faith? Why aren’t they being accepted by those around them even though they are living by My precepts? All of these questions I am constantly asked throughout the ages. But the answer is plainly in My word. I knew what would happen to those who chose to believe in Me. I knew what Satan would coerce unbelievers to think. I created Satan. He is a fallen angel, a creation who was supposed to worship Me. But like you, Satan had a choice, and he chose to worship himself. Satan’s thoughts are not My thoughts, but I am omnipresent and can tell what he is thinking at all times. That is how I am able to stop or severely hinder his plans when My people stop and pray for My will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. My children like to forget they are in a battle for souls. They like to focus on themselves and what I am doing for them. Malfunction, disease and ill-will has everything to do with Satan and his plan for creation. His plan to fill Hell with My people. You are only a number to Satan. When you are forbearing My will, it will almost always have to do with bringing people to Me. People who truly follow My plan are willing to take on a surname. A banner declaring they are the children of a King. My son Jesus Christ. They are not willing to shut down their walk with Me based on a spirit of insanity attacking them. Because that is what the spirit of the world does, it attacks with insane thoughts that don’t line up with My word. I want to remove this insanity from you. Seek Me today about removing insanity from you and your family line, your children, and your children’s children. I want you to have no part of the spirit of the world and the fruit of insanity that he produces. True wisdom is knowing Me, seeking Me, and putting My presence ahead of your carnal desire to put yourself first.”

Scriptures to Study:

For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 1 Corinthians 2:11-13 NKJV

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father! The Spirit Himself [thus] testifies together with our own spirit, [assuring us] that we are children of God. Romans 8:14-16 AMP

Day Seven-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-07T21:56:00.002-05:00

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:10-13 NLT

Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. Matthew 7:17-19 NIV

“One of the deceptions of the enemy is someone thinking circumstances will automatically work out if it is My will. That could not be further from the truth. There will always be a battle both in the natural and in the spirit to get accomplished My plan. Satan will always try to stop what I want to do. Many of My children fall short of the goal because they give up, believing they are out of My will. I will put a plan on your heart when you ask Me to. Follow the plan. It may not work out how you wanted it to, but if you follow the plan, trying circumstances will eventually give way to My presence. There will always be a battle over bringing souls into My kingdom. There will always be the blind leading the blind. There will always be people standing in the way of justice and righteousness. But just because you have enemies, does not mean you are out of My will. There will always be a battle, and there will always be a fight. That is why it is important to seek Me for a battle plan. I have a plan and purpose for each person on this earth. But it won’t come to fruition if the person does not choose to walk closely with Me. Even if you misstep during the plan, I can always bring you back in line if you seek Me for a solution. Today ask Me to reveal to you what My plan is. Ask Me to remove discouragement from the enemy. Ask Me to remove distractions from you. Write down what I speak to your heart and look at often until the mission is complete.”

Day Six- Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-06T08:29:00.002-05:00

ONE OF the seven angels who had the seven bowls then came and spoke to me, saying, Come with me! I will show you the doom (sentence, judgment) of the great harlot (idolatress) who is seated on many waters, And [the angel] bore me away [rapt] in the Spirit into a desert (wilderness), and I saw a woman seated on a scarlet beast that was all covered with blasphemous titles (names), and he had seven heads and ten horns.[She] with whom the rulers of the earth have joined in prostitution (idolatry) and with the wine of whose immorality (idolatry) the inhabitants of the earth have become intoxicated. Revelations 17:1-3 AMP

Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Revelations 3:17-19 KJV

“Neither hot nor cold. Is that how you want to look to Me? My judgments are swift and sure. Revelations was written at the end of My book and is meant to reveal to the reader what happens when you choose not to obey My word. My word is secure. My Holy Spirit has been given to help. Do you seek My counsel? I AM the Holy Spirit. I AM the Word of God. Are you seeking Me for direction? Don’t be deceived, don’t listen to teaching that will demean the meaning of my book of Revelations. Every word is true, and I meant every word. If you are neither hot nor cold I WILL vomit you out of My mouth. You will not care what people think of you when you face judgment. You will only care about how you look to Me. Whether or not your obeyed Me with all of your heart, mind, body and soul. Do not be deceived, a teaching is coming, and has already arrived that demeans the meaning of Revelations. It will run rampant in My church, but don’t believe a word of it. It is a doctrine of Satan and meant to bring My already lukewarm church into judgment. Because if Satan cannot get you to renounce service to Me, he will look for ways to pull you into My punishment. Don’t believe any teachings that do not point you to Me. Don’t believe any doctrines that disqualify My word, that allow for sin to rule and reign instead of holiness. A sure sign of a false teaching is when ungodly behavior is excused.”

Scriptures to study:

Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. See with what large letters I have written to you with my own hand! Galatians 6:6-11 NKJV

A watchman on the tower in Jezreel spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Send a horseman to meet them and have him ask, Do you come in peace?So one on horseback went to meet him and said, Thus says the king: Is it peace? And Jehu said, What have you to do with peace? Rein in behind me. And the watchman reported, The messenger came to them, but he does not return.Then Joram sent out a second man on horseback, who came to them and said, Thus says the king: Is it peace? Jehu replied, What have you to do with peace? Ride behind me.And the watchman reported, He came to them, but does not return; also the driving is like the driving of Jehu son of Nimshi, for he drives furiously.Joram said, Make ready. When his chariot was made ready, Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah went out, each in his chariot. Thus they went out to meet Jehu and met him in the field of Naboth the Jezreelite.When Joram saw Jehu, he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, How can peace exist as long as the fornications of your mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many? 2 Kings 9:17-22 AMP

Day Five-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-05T07:55:00.002-05:00

HE WHO dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand].I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust! For [then] He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. Psalm 91:1-3 AMP

You will destroy those who speak lies; the Lord abhors [and rejects] the bloodthirsty and deceitful man. Psalm 5:6 AMP

“If you remain in the secret place of the Most High, deception will have a hard time sticking to you. Wise decisions come from dwelling in the secret place of the Most High. In My throne lies truth. How do you dwell with Me permanently? It is a step of faith. By faith see yourself dwelling permanently with Me. When you need a decision, spend time with Me seeing yourself with Me in My secret place. Then the answers will come. There is no reason to be deceived on this earth. My throne is for ALL who wish to be near Me. My resources are unlimited. I love My children, I want them to dwell with Me in heart and mind. Your flesh may be on this earth, but you can permanently dwell with Me in heart and mind while walking this earth. I am yours. Won’t you be mine? Dwell with Me today and everyday. I love you and long to be with you. I created a garden for My people which was ruined because they chose not to be happy with dwelling in My presence. I have a garden for you. I have an Eden for everyone. Won’t you come and live with Me? No need to seek Me for wisdom when you dwell in My secret place, because you will automatically have it as you need it. Come to Me today. Choose to dwell with Me permanently. Choose life. Your destiny, you birthing Isaac’s instead of Ishmael’s is based entirely on your walk with Me. Isaac’s come out of you dwelling with Me. Only good can come out of you dwelling in My secret place. Does a TV show take you out of My secret place? Then don’t watch it. Does a phone call take you out of My secret place? Then don’t talk to that person. Let go of anything in your life that would fight to take you out of My secret place. Cherish My presence over everything else in life and I will bless you. Life will go right for you. You will have unlimited choices and wisdom that glorify Me. Life will be full of joy and peace. Choose Me.”

Day Four -Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-04T22:17:00.002-05:00

Teach me your way, LORD; lead me in a straight path  because of my oppressors. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations. I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Psalm 27:11-13 NIV

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life;  And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever. Psalm 23:6 NKJV

“Is mercy and goodness following you? Command it to be so. Expect goodness and mercy to follow you around. Negative thoughts are not My will for believers. It is not My will you dwell on thoughts that produce unkind, unfruitful remarks, comments, complaints and heart cries. What do you think about? My goodness and mercy? Today take inventory of your thought life. If the thought does not produce righteousness, if it doesn’t bring joy, peace and love, then take that thought captive and submit it to me. Your thoughts are what ultimately bring to fruition successful living. On the next few pages, write down your main thought patterns and examine them. Do they line up with My word? Do they bring goodness and mercy or death and destruction? What you dwell on will come to pass. I have called My people to see goodness in the land of the living. To be productive with joy and peace. Not negative, bitter and full of contempt. Live the way I have called you to live, and you will see a greater measure of success is every area of your life. But it starts with your thought life. Ishmael started as a thought in Sarah’s mind. That thought not examined to see if it lined up with My commands, caused years of pain and an entire nation to rise against My church. How many Ishmael’s in your life began with a single thought?”

Scriptures to study:

for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete. 2 Corinthians 10:4-7 NASB

Day Three-Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-03T13:57:00.001-05:00

*This is Day Three of the 60 day devotional called "Chasing Ishmael" I am spending time in prayer with God, hearing from Him and writing down what He speaks to my spirit. The purpose of this is to get rid of all "Ishmael's" that may be operating in your life.

Hebrews 12:11-13 AMP: For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness--in conformity to God's will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God]. So then, brace up and reinvigorate and set right your slackened and weakened and drooping hands and strengthen your feeble and palsied and tottering knees, And cut through and make firm and plain and smooth, straight paths for your feet [yes, make them safe and upright and happy paths that go in the right direction], so that the lame and halting [limbs] may not be put out of joint, but rather may be cured.

“No discipline is joyous when done through Me, but it will produce the fruit of righteousness and keep you on the path I have for you. However, if you refuse the path of discipline, in the end you will not fulfill the perfect plan I have for you. Do you endure discipline in other areas of your life? Then have a good attitude when I care about you enough to discipline you. Endure like a good soldier, the temporary pain you may feel will produce fruit for my Kingdom. There is a pruning process that My people must go through, and sometimes that hurts. When you are born with, and line yourself with unholy attitudes, wrong ways of thinking and insist on adopting a culture around you that doesn’t serve Me, then I must take you through a process so your life lines up with My word. My word says that you work out your own salvation through fear and trembling (Phil 2:12). This does not mean My Son did not finish the work of salvation, it means your walk with Me is a continuous work bringing you towards the goal of a spotless bride. A season of discipline is coming your way, when it does, embrace it and allow My Holy Spirit to do a perfect work. Spend time with Me today asking Me to make corrections in your life concerning attitudes, belief systems, ideals, and cultural concepts.”

Scriptures to Study:

And the [instructions] which you have heard from me along with many witnesses, transmit and entrust [as a deposit] to reliable and faithful men who will be competent and qualified to teach others also.Take [with me] your share of the hardships and suffering [which you are called to endure] as a good (first-class) soldier of Christ Jesus.No soldier when in service gets entangled in the enterprises of [civilian] life; his aim is to satisfy and please the one who enlisted him.

2 Timothy 2:2-4 AMP

For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness--in conformity to God's will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God]. Hebrews 12:11 AMP

Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ). [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight. Philippians 2:12-13 AMP

Day Two- Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-02T14:42:00.001-05:00

It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. Abraham, who had received God’s promises, was ready to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, even though God had told him, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted.” Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. And in a sense, Abraham did receive his son back from the dead. It was by faith that Isaac promised blessings for the future to his sons, Jacob and Esau. Hebrews 11:17-20 NLT

“Many people think they are offering up Isaac to Me, when in reality they are giving Me Ishmael. They go on with their own plans and ask Me to reward them accordingly. Then they balk when the reward never comes. I said I was a rewarder of those who diligently seek Me (Hebrews 11:6). Not a rewarder of those who seek their own purpose. Man’s ways are NOT My ways. All these charities, all these fundraisers, whose plans are they? Are they really producing everlasting life? My Kingdom, My gospel, should lead every non-profit/ministry effort. Food, shelter, clothing given away should only come second to this. Ask Me today to show you where you have been offering Me Ishmael instead of Isaac and I will.”

Scriptures to study:

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.Hebrews 11:6 NKJV

By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.Matthew 7:16-20 NIV

Day One- Chasing Ishmael

2012-02-01T08:13:00.003-05:00

*This is Day One of the 60 day devotional called "Chasing Ishmael" I am spending time in prayer with God, hearing from Him and writing down what He speaks to my spirit. The purpose of this is to get rid of all "Ishmael's" that may be operating in your life.

This morning the Lord led me to these two sections of scriptures, then He spoke to my spirit:

And He spared not the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a preacher of righteousness, with seven other persons, when He brought a flood upon the world of ungodly [people].And He condemned to ruin and extinction the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, reducing them to ashes [and thus] set them forth as an example to those who would be ungodly; And He rescued righteous Lot, greatly worn out and distressed by the wanton ways of the ungodly and lawless--For that just man, living [there] among them, tortured his righteous soul every day with what he saw and heard of [their] unlawful and wicked deeds--2 Peter 2:5-8 AMP

[Prompted] by faith Noah, being forewarned by God concerning events of which as yet there was no visible sign, took heed and diligently and reverently constructed and prepared an ark for the deliverance of his own family. By this [his faith which relied on God] he passed judgment and sentence on the world's unbelief and became an heir and possessor of righteousness (that relation of being right into which God puts the person who has faith).[Urged on] by faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and went forth to a place which he was destined to receive as an inheritance; and he went, although he did not know or trouble his mind about where he was to go.[Prompted] by faith he dwelt as a temporary resident in the land which was designated in the promise [of God, though he was like a stranger] in a strange country, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs with him of the same promise .For he was [waiting expectantly and confidently] looking forward to the city which has fixed and firm foundations, whose Architect and Builder is God. Because of faith also Sarah herself received physical power to conceive a child, even when she was long past the age for it, because she considered [God] Who had given her the promise to be reliable and trustworthy and true to His word. Hebrews 11:7-11 AMP

“Like a flood is when My Son is coming. Like a thief in the night he will bring back with him everyone who is serving him. And when he does, it will be too late. All through the Bible I have foreshadowed My Son’s return. I haven’t revealed all details in My Word because it is meant to be a mystery to all mankind. The Day of My Son’s return is to be a mystery so that people cannot prepare the day of, but are prompted to be constantly ready. Don’t delay in getting ready, for I AM returning. Teach bible studies, witness for Me, spread the gospel for the time is short and repentance is a MUST to enter into My kingdom. Witness to your family members, witness to your friends, witness to your coworkers, and those in your neighborhood. If you don’t, when you get to heaven you will regret not telling more people about My glorious name. About My Son who gave it all so we could be together. I love you with an everlasting love. Not like the world loves do I love you. Love others, the time is short. Love others with My word, preaching, praying, prophesying, encouraging others to serve My Son Jesus Christ.

I have called most people to some form of ministry preaching the gospel. It may not look like your current culture’s version of ministry where you stand on a stage and preach, but MOST of my people are called in to some form of ministry. Only in rare circumstances will I not call a believer into ministry. There is a call on your life. Seek Me for direction. Seek Me today for the direction I have called you to go. If you do not have some form of ministry operating in your life, you are more than likely OUT of My perfect will. Ask Me today what ministry I have for you and I will tell you. Ask Me what I have called you to do to promote My gospel and I will reveal it to you. Remember the time is short and at the appointed time, He will return.”

Chasing Ishmael (Excerpt from Chapter One)

2012-01-28T13:17:00.005-05:00

The Lord woke me up this morning and began giving me the material for the intro to Chasing Ishmael. First He led me to the following scriptures and then spoke clearly to my heart:

Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation. By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen. It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith. Hebrews 11:1-4 NLT

So then, brace up and reinvigorate and set right your slackened and weakened and drooping hands and strengthen your feeble and palsied and tottering knees, And cut through and make firm and plain and smooth, straight paths for your feet (yes, make them safe and upright and happy paths that go in the right direction) so that the lame and halting (limbs) may not be put out of joint, but rather may be cured. Hebrews 12:13 AMP

“I will give you faith for something and to succeed, you must follow that faith. Search your heart and ask Me to make plain the path of faith I have already stuck in your heart. Follow that faith. Faith is supernatural guidance and assurance you are in My will. It is a pleasant feeling and brings great joy. A deep knowing that you are in the right direction. Follow faith and you will be following My will. But it is not a blind faith as some teach, but a faith full of joy and peace. When I ordain you to do something ,the fruits of the Holy Spirit will be evident. Love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, faithfulness, righteousness, self control. You can always judge if you are in My will or not by the fruits of the Holy Spirit being evident. The Holy Spirit is ALWAYS in line in with My will. And if the fruits aren’t there, then you are OUT of my will. It is important to keep your peace. When you are not producing the fruit of peace in a situation you need to step away and pray. My peace is the ultimate test of guidance. My Son is the PRINCE OF PEACE. My supernatural peace is the first way I lead my people. A sign of maturity is someone who is led by My peace. Ask Me to restore peace to you today and I will do it. Too many people get confused by “voices.” If it is MY voice, it will be with supernatural peace. “Not as the world gives, but as I give (John 14:27)” Any other voice is NOT My voice and should be dismissed. People miss it looking for, and following voices when my peace is what they should be experiencing. Anything that blocks that peace is NOT from me.”

Scriptures to study:

Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] John 14:27 AMP

But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. Galatians 5:22-23 AMP

For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 AMP

Chasing Ishmael

2012-01-23T14:18:00.002-05:00

On February 1, 2012 I will be starting a 60 day devotional called "Chasing Ishmael" which I will publish on this blog daily, and then publish in a book after the 60 days is over. It is to teach Christians how to know if something they are doing, are about to do, is in the will of God. Here is the beginning of the book:

Making Decisions

FIrst the Lord led me to these scriptures:

BRETHREN, IF any person is overtaken in misconduct or sin of any sort, you who are spiritual [who are responsive to and controlled by the Spirit] should set him right and restore and reinstate him, without any sense of superiority and with all gentleness, keeping an attentive eye on yourself, lest you should be tempted also.Bear (endure, carry) one another's burdens and [a]troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete [b]what is lacking [in your obedience to it].For if any person thinks himself to be somebody [too important to condescend to shoulder another's load] when he is nobody [of superiority except in his own estimation], he deceives and deludes and cheats himself. Galatians 6:1-3 AMP

Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience.But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing. James 1:3-4 AMP

After I read the scriptures, the Holy Spirit spoke this to my spirit:

“Sometimes I call people to do something, but it is hard going because I am trying to do a perfect work in them. Hitting “stops” is not always an indicator that I didn’t call them to the work. Seek Me for an answer to how you get past the block and I will show you.”

Then the Lord led me to this scripture:

Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh. James 3:12 NASB

After I read the scripture, the Holy Spirit spoke this to my spirit:

“You cannot make good come out of evil. If it was never My plan, salt water will eventually spill out. That is how it is with marriages. If someone gets married without My plan-salt water, not spring water will come forth. Even if both are Christians. My Word says what Satan meant for evil I can turn around for good (Genesis 50:20). But when you (not Satan) start with an evil plan, you will get evil results. Manipulation is the #1 way My people fail. They try to manipulate Me and the situation to get the results they want. Lying and cheating are never My will. Abraham cheated on his wife Sarah and Ishmael was born. No matter what Kings did in the Old Testament (referring to multiple wives/concubines) it was always My will for a man to only have one wife.”

Spirit of Failure

2011-12-14T20:51:00.007-05:00

Right now my husband and I are in Killington, Vermont (attempting) to snowboard. Taking a few days off before he takes his final exams at Harvard. Earlier today, while the ski instructor was trying to show me how to maneuver a snowboard, he put his hand on my stomach to try to get me to push my weight back on the board. I honestly didn't think anything off it and continued to squeeze his hand off while sliding slowly down the beginner's slope. After he left me and went to work with Luke, I kept trying to snowboard down the hill...and of course fell several times. Which is what beginners typically do, and it was only my second time snowboarding! However, for some reason I felt like a giant failure. In fact, I eventually gave up and went to bury my shame in hot cocoa in the ski lodge while Luke kept snowboarding. Afterwards while walking to the car, I told Luke I was disappointed in myself for being such a bad snowboarder. That I felt like a giant failure. (Which of course made no sense!)

When we got back to the hotel, I plopped on the bed and grabbed the Gideons bible off the nightstand. I asked God why I felt so bad about myself. (I mean after two lessons, shouldn't I be Shaun White???) I heard the Holy Spirit say "Turn to Ephesians 6.... Start reading at verse 11."

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Ephesians 6:11-18 KJV

After I began reading, the Holy Spirit brought to my mind the ski instructor pushing me in the stomach and then said. "Because you didn't put on the armor of God today, when the ski instructor touched your stomach, a spirit of failure on him attached itself to you. The armor of God helps protect you from evil spirits." And it was true, I typically prayed on a daily basis for God to put his armor on me, but I was in such a hurry to get to the ski lodge, I prayed quickly with Luke and we hopped in the car. After I prayed and asked God to put His armor on me and remove the spirit, I instantly felt better.

Fruitfulness

2011-12-11T16:26:00.000-05:00

I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness. At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen.
Philippians 4:17-20 NLT

Nothing like the Christmas season to make everyone painfully aware of how much gift giving costs! Merchants take advantage of you & non-profits pour on the guilt with sugar on top! Think of all the poor starving kids!

And of course, you are sincerely hoping your money helps feed those kids! But does it? Are you being led by the Holy Spirit when you give? Or obligation? Are you adding or taking away from your debt load?

When I was in third grade, my best friend Karen and I would dress up and go around our neighborhood knocking on doors with a decorated coffee can and a story about how we were raising money for such and such. And this was a nice middle class neighborhood. Then we would run across the street to the mall and spend the money. I mean who would ever guess two nine year olds would be that sneaky? But we were.

And where did I learn this? From my dad. My college educated, biological father. Who was a school teacher during the day...that is when he had a job. But to raise money for alcohol and drugs, he would wear nice suits and stand outside grocery stores with buckets to raise money for an orphanage etc. He would go to Office Max or something and have signs printed. He also made little signs for Jerry's Kids and would tape them to a can that he would leave in stores all around town. (Remember those 20 something years ago?) He also counterfeited money which helped pay rent a few times.

So I ask you again, or you being led by the Holy Spirit this Christmas season? Before you give away your money, or buy everyone gifts, are you praying about your budget and how much to spend? And what to buy?

I promise I'm not the grinch, but a credit card unfortunately, is the gift that keeps on taking...interest that never stops!

Comfort and Joy!

2011-12-10T15:02:00.000-05:00

I came across this scripture today in prayer:

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT

Pray and ask God for a Spirit of Comfort to come upon you right now. When you go through tribulation, you can do so with style. No need to act like someone who doesn't have a relationship with God. You can multiply this spirit of comfort too. After God comforts you in an area, you will be able to carry this comfort to someone else.

Talking to God -Day Thirty

2011-11-30T04:48:00.001-05:00

*Last day of 30 day book project where I pray and then write down what I believe God is speaking to my heart.*

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Matthew 5:7

Mercy is letting something go, that doesn't deserve to be let go. Like the King letting the servant out of his debt (Matthew 18). Like My son Jesus Christ taking punishment at the cross so you are free from sin. Like a friend forgetting about a ridiculous comment you made because they love you. Like a mom excusing their child's immature behavior. I have called you to be merciful, just like I am merciful. Learn to let things go, even if they don't deserve to be. Let go of the silly offense instead of allowing it to trap you. Mercy is letting go of a debt that can't be paid. What debts are you willing to let go of today that cannot be paid? Who are you willing to have mercy on? For with the same measure you are merciful, is the same measure that mercy will be shown to you.

Read the following scriptures, then decide who you will have mercy on:

Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him,“I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. “For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves. When he had begun to settle them, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. But since he did not have the means to repay, his lord commanded him to be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment to be made. So the slave fell to the ground and prostrated himself before him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you everything.’And the lord of that slave felt compassion and released him and forgave him the debt. But that slave went out and found one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii; and he seized him and began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ So his fellow slave fell to the ground and began to plead with him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you.’ But he was unwilling and went and threw him in prison until he should pay back what was owed. So when his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved and came and reported to their lord all that had happened. Then summoning him, his lord said to him, ‘You wicked slave, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?’ And his lord, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed him. My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart.” Matthew 18:21-35

Talking to God-Day Twenty Nine

2011-11-29T15:22:00.001-05:00

The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. Galatians 6:6-10

Stealing is wrong. Period. Yet you have been a thief. Do you think it is ok not to spend time with Me? That TV or other activities should take priority? I am trying to bless you. I am trying to multiply you. Yet the only way I can change you, is by you spending time with Me. In My presence, with My word, with My Son. "Help!" You pray. Yet you don't come to Me willing to give up some of your precious time. Time that I gave you in the first place. I love you. I want to prosper you. I have good things prepared for you. But you must spend time with Me so I can help you. You have come to a season in your life where half hearted prayers are no longer enough. I expect more from you. And like a loving father, you must allow Me to chastise you so you can grow. So I can prepare the Bride of Christ. I love you, and anything I have for you must first come out of spending time with Me. Carve out time in your day for Me. Make a habit of spending quality time with Me everyday.

Read the following scripture then pray:

You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your striving against sin; and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons,“MY SON, DO NOT REGARD LIGHTLY THE DISCIPLINE OF THE LORD, NOR FAINT WHEN YOU ARE REPROVED BY HIM; FOR THOSE WHOM THE LORD LOVES HE DISCIPLINES, AND HE SCOURGES EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVES.”It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live?For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness. All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness. Hebrews 12:4-11

Talking to God-Day Twenty Eight

2011-11-28T09:50:00.003-05:00

Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart, saying, “In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect man. There was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me legal protection from my opponent.’ For a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow bothers me, I will give her legal protection, otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.’” And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge said; now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them? I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:1-8

Have you asked Me for justice yet against your enemies? I WILL grant justice for the bad, unfair events that happened to you if you only ask Me. Make a list of every evil, unfair event that has been bothering you. Making you wonder "Why God Why?" Forgive those who have hurt you, ask Me to heal and remove the wound. Then act like the widow woman and demand your right to receive justice. People who do wrong are led through the lust of their flesh by Satan. You have a right to demand that every evil perpetuated by Satan against you must be accounted for. You do not fight against flesh and blood, but against Satan's kingdom. One way to fight him is to demand justice from Me. My word says that my throne is built on righteousness and justice. The above parable should be used to demand justice from the harm done to you. Don't delay, for I have a plan in bringing My people justice. I have a plan for righting what went wrong. I can cause what Satan meant for harm to be reversed and used to bear fruit for My kingdom. But I cannot do this if you choose not to demand justice.

Read the following scriptures. Then make a list of the areas you want justice in. Forgive those who hurt you and ask God to heal and remove the wound. Then like the widow woman and the unjust judge, ask God to grant you justice in the areas you wrote down.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:10-13

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne;Lovingkindness and truth go before You. Psalm 89:14

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Talking to God-Day Twenty Seven

2011-11-27T07:52:00.005-05:00

John testified about Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’” For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. John 1:15-17

Grace. Grace is the ability to do something supernaturally. Grace is a special ability and favor I give by the power of My Holy Spirit. I showed grace to this world when I gave My son Jesus Christ. All grace is through Him. All abundance is through Him. Do you want grace? Then go through Him. Do you need a turnaround at your job? Then ask Him. His grace is abundant. He stands by My side and prays for My children. Ask Him to pray for you. Do you need grace in another area? Ask for it. Many of My children try to work for my grace but it is impossible to do so. Your believe system determines the amount of grace in your life. By grace you have been saved through faith. When you accepted My son Jesus Christ as God, you received the supernatural ability to come to Me through Him. This is an example of true grace. What do you need grace in? You have ALL the grace you need through My son.

Meditate on the following scriptures and then pray, seeking Jesus Christ for grace in the areas you need it.

Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Romans 8:34-35

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness. And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all. For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales and lay them at the apostles’ feet, and they would be distributed to each as any had need. Acts 4:31-35

Talking to God-Day Twenty Six

2011-11-26T06:23:00.003-05:00

“Violence will not be heard again in your land, Nor devastation or destruction within your borders; But you will call your walls salvation, and your gates praise. “No longer will you have the sun for light by day, Nor for brightness will the moon give you light; But you will have the LORD for an everlasting light,And your God for your glory. “Your sun will no longer set, Nor will your moon wane; For you will have the LORD for an everlasting light, And the days of your mourning will be over. “Then all your people will be righteous; They will possess the land forever, The branch of My planting, The work of My hands, That I may be glorified. Isaiah 60:18-21

Glory! Glory! Ask for My Glory! My children should be walking in My glory. Study My glory and it will change your life. My heavy, weighty, tangible presence should be a reality in everyone's life. Want your life to go right in every area? Walk permanently in My glory. You won't always feel it, but if you believe Me for it, you will have it. My glory covers this earth, you should be bathed in it, walking in it, operating in it. Want to do a good job at work? Believe Me for My glory to consume you. Want to be a great parent? Believe for My glory to saturate you. I can't do it if you won't believe Me for it! Want that house of yours to sell? Get covered in My glory. Shame can't stay in My glory. Anger won't rest on you in My glory. Change the atmosphere around you, stay in My glory. When you get up in the morning, ask for My glory to cover you. Walk in My glory and you will see more miracles. Feeling dry? Believe Me for My glory. I am tired of My children not receiving the full measure of their benefits. You should be victorious! I have made that possible. Believe now for My glory to cover you. Study My glory this week and I will change you!

Glory: Hebrew -kabowd- Heavy presence of God, richness of God, honor, abundance, riches

Meditate on the following scriptures, then pray:

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1

For the earth will be filled With the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, As the waters cover the sea. Habakkuk 2:14

You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life. I do not receive glory from men;but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves. I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him. How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God? John 9:39-43

Jesus said, “Remove the stone.” Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:39-40

Talking to God-Day Twenty Five

2011-11-25T05:39:00.012-05:00

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

Cast it out! Cast out that spirit of timidity! Fear is NOT My will for your life! My soul does not delight in those who draw back in fear. Move forward. I said MOVE forward. Don't look back, stop evaluating your past. Your past will capture and grip your soul forbidding you from moving forward with what I have planned. True humility is walking forward with Me, in My will, agreeing with My words. Cast off fear. Tell it to leave. Your past is your past but your future is at stake. My forgiveness, My son's blood is here to forgive you of your mistakes. Don't waste your time rehearsing the mistakes of the past. Don't let fear captivate you by rehearsing past failures. I decide what a mistake is. I decide where you went wrong. I WILL correct you if you need correcting. Self correcting isn't always true, you don't always see things clearly. Ask Me to change you, ask Me to correct you if you miss it. My word says the just shall live by faith. Are you taking every day I have given you and living by faith? Are you enjoying this life? You have EVERYTHING when you have Me. I provide for you. I take care of you. Your life is in My hands when you choose to belong to Me. Move forward by faith and I will be with you.

BUT MY RIGHTEOUS ONE SHALL LIVE BY FAITH; AND IF HE SHRINKS BACK, MY SOUL HAS NO PLEASURE IN HIM. But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul. Hebrews 10:38-39

Even in laughter the heart may be in pain, And the end of joy may be grief. Proverbs 14:13

Talking to God-Day Twenty Four (Happy Thanksgiving!)

2011-11-24T05:28:00.002-05:00

You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so thatwhatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. John 15:16

Is your heart sick? Hope deferred indeed makes for an unhappy heart. But the only way that your hope fulfilled becomes a tree of life, is if that hope was from Me. Ask Me to show you what desires in your heart are from Me, and which are not. Jealousy, madness, rage and envy come from a heart full of ungodly desires going unfulfilled. Do you compare yourself to others? That is a heart with ungodly desires. Those desires fulfilled would produce a tree of death and deadly fruit. But I promised that you would go and bear good fruit, and that your fruit would remain. How can I do this if you stuff yourself with hopes and dreams that did not originate from Me? I love you, I will be with your through all eternity. But college degrees, cars, lost loves, and blooming careers will all wash away. My love for you will never go away. Serve Me, not your heart, and My hope in you will blossom and produce the fruit that will remain.

Meditate on the following scriptures:

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:16-18

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But desire fulfilled is a tree of life. Proverbs 13:12

Talking to God-Day Twenty Three

2011-11-23T15:20:00.002-05:00

But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:4-5

Biblical Definition of Patience from Greek word hypomonē : steadfastness, constancy, endurance, the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith.

Patience produces endurance. Patience will see you through trials. Patience cannot be worked up, or bought, or manufactured in a pill. Patience, the fruit of My patience will cause you to outlast the enemy and continue in My will for your life. Impatience will ruin your life. Ask Me for patience and to work through you the fruit of patience, removing every hinderance to patience in your heart. Impatience is a dark spirit and one that works trying to circumvent My will for believers. Don't let impatience win. Misinformation has been spread that if you ask Me for patience, I will send a trial. If that were true, My motives would be aligned with Satan's agenda. I produce good, not distress. Satan sends tribulation, Satan sends destruction. You are a free agent on this earth and what you do with your life is up to you. My word will help you, My will is to be with you. But the choice is yours. Patience, My patience working through you will produce right results. Ask Me to uproot and remove all forms of impatience in you. Spend time with Me today asking Me to do this. Allow My Holy Spirit work through you allowing patience to see you through situations.

Read the following scriptures, meditate on the them, and then pray.

For oppression makes a wise man mad, And a bribe corrupts the heart. The end of a matter is better than its beginning; Patience of spirit is better than haughtiness of spirit. Ecclesiastes 7:7-8

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit,you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities,strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.Galatians 5:16-26

Talking to God-Day Twenty Two

2011-11-22T04:31:00.004-05:00

The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding. Proverbs 4:7

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:5

You must seek wisdom to acquire it. Many people believe you are born with wisdom, but that is not true. My word says you must seek Me for wisdom and understanding. Do you do that? Do you ask Me to give you wisdom on your job, for your house, in your relationships? There is a way that seems right to man, but in the end leads to death. This could be stopped through wisdom. Wisdom is the principle thing, and My word says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Does what I say concern you enough that you think about My word on a matter before pursuing it?

Read the following scriptures below, and then ask the Lord to give you wisdom:

For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield. Psalm 5:12

There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10

Talking to God-Day Twenty One

2011-11-21T11:03:00.002-05:00

I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust! Psalm 91:2

Trusting in Me is a supernatural experience. You can't find it in your mind, or rehearse it in your heart to make it happen. You have tried that many times and failed. Trusting Me for life, provision, marriage, children and all the things you need are pulled in through a supernatural trust in Me. My Holy Spirit can give you this trust if you ask Him. I am God and to serve Me you need the power of My Holy Spirit. He was put on this earth after Christ rose to help you. But you have not been using the full measure of this benefit. To know Me is to know My Holy Spirit. I did not call Him the third person of the Trinity, you did. That is your belief. But the Holy Spirit is Me, He is not separate from Me, yet you treat Him as if He is. Repent of this behavior and ask Me to restore your relationship with My Holy Spirit. Lift up your life to Me and ask Me to give you supernatural trust for the things that you need.

Make a list of the areas you need to trust God for, then lift each one up to God and specifically ask Him to give you His trust in that area.

Talking to God-Day Twenty

2011-11-20T17:16:00.002-05:00

***Talking to God is a 30 day book project where I pray and then write what I believe the Lord has put on my heart***

There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18

The poor is hated even by his neighbor, But those who love the rich are many. Proverbs 14:20

Commit your works to the LORD And your plans will be established. Proverbs 16:3

Plans. There are man's plans, and there are My plans. Man's plans end in poverty but My plans end in prosperity. Reading a Proverb a day, and accepting the wisdom will heal your life and set you on course for making right decisions. Many want to be led by My Holy Spirit, and pray to do so, but they don't study My word. My Holy Spirit works with My word and leads people through their knowledge of My word. The more of My word you have in your heart and mind, the easier it will become to be led by My Holy Spirit. A Proverb a day will keep poverty away. Make plans to study Proverbs and get them in your heart. If you follow My wisdom, evil will depart and healing will come into every area of your life. King Solomon was the wisest and most productive man on earth. He was also the wealthiest. He considered disobeying My commandments the greatest failure of his life. If you want wisdom, study the wisdom I gave him. Start with Proverbs 13.

A wise son accepts his father’s discipline,
But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.
From the fruit of a man’s mouth he enjoys good,
But the desire of the treacherous is violence.
The one who guards his mouth preserves his life;
The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing,
But the soul of the diligent is made fat.
A righteous man hates falsehood,
But a wicked man acts disgustingly and shamefully.
Righteousness guards the one whose way is blameless,
But wickedness subverts the sinner.
There is one who pretends to be rich, but has nothing;
Another pretends to be poor, but has great wealth.
The ransom of a man’s life is his wealth,
But the poor hears no rebuke.
The light of the righteous rejoices,
But the lamp of the wicked goes out.
Through insolence comes nothing but strife,
But wisdom is with those who receive counsel.
Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles,
But the one who gathers by labor increases it.
Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
But desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
The one who despises the word will be in debt to it,
But the one who fears the commandment will be rewarded.
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,
To turn aside from the snares of death.
Good understanding produces favor,
But the way of the treacherous is hard.
Every prudent man acts with knowledge,
But a fool displays folly.
A wicked messenger falls into adversity,
But a faithful envoy brings healing.
Poverty and shame will come to him who neglects discipline,
But he who regards reproof will be honored.
Desire realized is sweet to the soul,
But it is an abomination to fools to turn away from evil.
He who walks with wise men will be wise,
But the companion of fools will suffer harm.
Adversity pursues sinners,
But the righteous will be rewarded with prosperity.
A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children,
And the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.
Abundant food is in the fallow ground of the poor,
But it is swept away by injustice.
He who withholds his rod hates his son,
But he who loves him disciplines him diligently.
The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite,
But the stomach of the wicked is in need. Proverbs 13

Talking to God-Day Nineteen

2011-11-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12

For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” Romans 8:15

The spirit of the world is insidious. It changes the truth to seem like a lie, and a lie to seem like the truth. It mocks My Spirit and it mocks My word. Serve Me. Only I can keep you out of trouble. Trust in Me, only I can keep you from hidden traps and dangers. Ask Me to clean the spirit of the world off of you. Ask Me to help you recognize whether an idea is from Me or from the spirit of the world. By faith ask Me to seal in your heart the spirit of adoption.

Talking to God-Day Eighteen

2011-11-18T18:21:00.002-05:00

but this is what was spoken of through the prophet Joel: ‘AND IT SHALL BE IN THE LAST DAYS,’ God says, ‘THAT I WILL POUR FORTH OF MY SPIRIT ON ALL MANKIND; AND YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, AND YOUR YOUNG MEN SHALL SEE VISIONS,AND YOUR OLD MEN SHALL DREAM DREAMS; EVEN ON MY BONDSLAVES, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN, I WILL IN THOSE DAYS POUR FORTH OF MY SPIRIT And they shall prophesy. Acts 2:16-18

Dreams. I give My children dreams. Sometimes to warn them, sometimes to promote them. Sometimes just to speak to them. I want you to study dreams in My word and then pray, asking Me to give you dreams. Believe Me to speak to you in a dream tonight. When you wake up, write it down, and then ask Me for the interpretation and I will give it to you. With Me, all things are possible (Matt 19:26).

Study the following scriptures on dreams and then pray:

Then Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more. He said to them, “Please listen to this dream which I have had; for behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and lo, my sheaf rose up and also stood erect; and behold, your sheaves gathered around and bowed down to my sheaf.” Then his brothers said to him, “Are you actually going to reign over us? Or are you really going to rule over us?” So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words. Now he had still another dream, and related it to his brothers, and said, “Lo, I have had still another dream; and behold, the sun and the moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.” Genesis 37:5-9

Now when they had gone, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up! Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him.” Matthew 2:13

Then Jacob departed from Beersheba and went toward Haran. He came to a certain place and spent the night there, because the sun had set; and he took one of the stones of the place and put it under his head, and lay down in that place. He had a dream, and behold, a ladder was set on the earth with its top reaching to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, “I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie, I will give it to you and to your descendants. Your descendants will also be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and in you and in your descendants shall all the families of the earth be blessed. Behold, I am with you andwill keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” Genesis 28:10-15

When you wake up tomorrow, record your dream here, and ask God for the interpretation:
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Talking to God-Day Seventeen

2011-11-17T16:01:00.001-05:00

Better is a dry morsel and quietness with it Than a house full of feasting with strife. Proverbs 17:1

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. John 14:27

Inner turmoil is the cause of nightmares. Have you been getting restful, peaceful sleep? Or do you lie awake at night tossing and turning? Bad dream after bad dream. I did not create you to live with nightmares, but to peaceful sleep. Ask Me today to show you the cause of any inner turmoil inside. Strife within you causes unrest. Spend time with Me today allowing Me to lift strife out of you and heal any wounds.

Talking to God-Day Sixteen

2011-11-16T08:50:00.005-05:00

It is good to give thanks to the LORD And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your loving kindness in the morning And Your faithfulness by night, With the ten-stringed lute and with the harp, With resounding music upon the lyre. For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done, I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands. Psalm 92:1-4

Give thanks! Give thanks for all the goodness I have given you in life. Where you were born was no accident, my hand was upon you. You are called to do good in your land, don't shirk the responsibility. Know this, that no good you have done will go unnoticed by Me. I know all things, good and bad. I know how you treat your brothers and sisters behind their back and in front of them. I know the thoughts and intents of your heart. So give thanks, for I have forgiven you. Give thanks, for you were born to be prosperous and successful. I never set my children up to fail. Give thanks for the good things in your life. A grateful heart is a happy, full heart. A successful person is a thankful person. Make a list of all the good in your life and then give My kingdom the glory.

Read Psalm 100 below, and then make a list!

Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth.
Serve the LORD with gladness;
Come before Him with joyful singing.
Know that the LORD Himself is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving
And His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him, bless His name.
For the LORD is good;
His lovingkindness is everlasting
And His faithfulness to all generations. Psalm 100

Thanksgiving List:

Father God thank you for all the wonderful things in my life including: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Talking to God-Day Fifteen

2011-11-15T09:06:00.001-05:00

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:3-5

Honor. I have commanded you to honor one another in a spirit of humility. Do you not think Satan laughs when you fight and quarrel? Do you not bring shame to your name?

What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: “He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us”? But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” James 4:1-6

Do you not think the above scripture (James 4:1-6) applies to you? Did I not say hating your brother is the equivalent of murder? Do you hate people just because they don't do what you want? Is this right? I said to honor one another, to show deference to each other. The world will know that you are My disciples by your love for one another. Are you guilty of not honoring your fellow man? Come to Me today and ask Me to change you, to put love in your heart for all people. I have called you to love.

Read the following scriptures out loud and then pray, asking God to put love in your heart:

By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35

Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer; and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 1 John 3:15-16

Talking to God-Day Fourteen

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

"Talking to God" is a book project where I pray and write down what I believe the Lord is speaking to my heart for 30 days.

But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves. John 17:13

You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11

Where's your joy? Are you full of My joy? Or does your self worth come from what you do? That is not how I called you to live. To find self worth in a job. You should walk this planet with joy, My joy residing in you, bubbling out of you. Is it fun comparing yourself with others? Who did what, does what, accomplished what? It will always seem like someone else is ahead in the race. However this is not how you are supposed to live. JOY! MY JOY! Is what should be dictating your moods and emotions! Supernatural joy. Something this world cannot give you no matter how much you "achieve."

So I ask again, where is My joy in you? Is it permeating you, causing others to want what you have? Wondering what your "secret" is? This is how I have called you to live. To witness. This is why when you read about the Apostle Paul being beaten he was still full of joy and it confused the sinners. How Stephen could be stoned and still forgive. How My son could endure a painful death. My joy in you, can cause you to breeze through many situations, knowing I have it all under control. Abide in Me, and I will abide in you. Spend time in My presence today asking Me to remove hinderances to My joy being apparent in your life. Practice abiding in Me. In My presence there is fullness of joy.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire,may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls. As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. 1 Peter 1:3-11

Talking to God-Day Thirteen

2011-11-13T09:23:00.000-05:00

Therefore, let us fear if, while a promise remains of entering His rest, any one of you may seem to have come short of it.For indeed we have had good news preached to us, just as they also; but the word they heard did not profit them, because it was not united by faith in those who heard. For we who have believed enter that rest, just as He has said,“AS I SWORE IN MY WRATH, THEY SHALL NOT ENTER MY REST,” although His works were finished from the foundation of the world. For He has said somewhere concerning the seventh day: “AND GOD RESTED ON THE SEVENTH DAY FROM ALL HIS WORKS”; and again in this passage, “THEY SHALL NOT ENTER MY REST.” Therefore, since it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly had good news preached to them failed to enter because of disobedience, He again fixes a certain day, “Today,” saying through David after so long a time just as has been said before, “TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS.” Hebrews 4:1-7

In the last days, those who do not enter into My rest will not make it. Their hearts will fail them due to fear. Entering into My rest is a choice, just like everything else. What do you need to enter into My rest from? What choices are you making right now that are preventing you from entering into My rest? Choose today to enter into My rest. It is a supernatural peace, and knowing that you are in My will, and that I will provide. There is no need to behave like a heathen wondering where your next meal will come from. Wondering who will take care of you. My Word says I even take care of the sparrows, won't I take care of you? Cast your cares onto Me, because I do love you. I do provide for you. If I know how many hairs are on your head, don't you know I will provide? Seek Me first for guidance on the matters at hand, when you do this, I automatically provide peace. Receive this peace. Receive My rest. Write down today all the matters you need My rest in, ask Me for the answer and receive My rest.

Read the following scriptures out loud, then commit the above list you wrote to the Lord, asking for His guidance. Then receive His rest.

Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philippians 4:5-8

Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows. Luke 12:6-7

Talking to God-Day Twelve

2011-11-12T13:55:00.000-05:00

"Talking to God" is a book project where I pray and write down what I believe the Lord is speaking to my heart for 30 days.

“He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; Psalm 91:15

Listen. Listen for My voice in the quiet of the day. I do speak to you. You do hear My voice. Don't strive to try to hear from Me, just believe that you do. I answer your belief. Faith dictates whether or not you recognize My leading. I speak to all of my children. I will always tell you what to do if you ask. But listen. There is no need to guess which way to go in life because all you have to do is ask Me, and then listen. I will speak to you in the night, I will speak to you in the quiet. I will speak to you through circumstances and provision. I will speak to you if you ask.

Talking to God-Day Eleven

2011-11-11T17:14:00.000-05:00

"Talking to God" is a book project where I pray and write down what I believe the Lord is speaking to my heart for 30 days.

The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.Proverbs 13:3 NASB

Do you guard your mouth or do you open wide your lips? Want to come to ruin? Then don't watch what you say. A negative report is still a report. My word says "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. (Matt 12:36-37)”

Your assignment today is to watch what you say. Do you spread an evil, negative report or are you positive and uplifting? Ask Me to forgive you of the careless, judgmental words you have spoken and I will. Decide to change your habits and speak the truth in love without being careless about what you say. Words have power, My words created this world, and My words will change it.

Talking to God- Day Ten

2011-11-10T15:25:00.000-05:00

I will stand on my guard post And station myself on the rampart; And I will keep watch to see what He will speak to me, And how I may reply when I am reproved. Then the LORD answered me and said, “Record the vision And inscribe it on tablets, That the one who reads it may run. “For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; For it will certainly come, it will not delay. Habakkuk 2:1-3 NASB

Vision. Did you notice it says in Habakkuk that "the one who reads it may run?" Have you written down the vision I have given you? Have you been keeping it in front of you so that you may run? The vision I have for you must get inside of you, become part of you. Then what you do in everyday life, will line up with the vision. Get the vision I have for you inside your heart. Daydream about it, imagine it coming to pass. If you do this, your life will automatically move toward the goal.

Spend time in My presence today studying My word and getting the vision I have for you deep in your heart. Imagine that vision coming to pass. If you do this on a daily basis, it will get in your heart.

Talking to God-Day Nine

2011-11-09T12:57:00.001-05:00

Then Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more. He said to them, “Please listen to this dream which I have had; for behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and lo, my sheaf rose up and also stood erect; and behold, your sheaves gathered around and bowed down to my sheaf.” Then his brothers said to him, “Are you actually going to reign over us? Or are you really going to rule over us?” So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words.Now he had still another dream, and related it to his brothers, and said, “Lo, I have had still another dream; and behold, the sun and the moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.” He related it to his father and to his brothers; and his father rebuked him and said to him, “What is this dream that you have had? Shall I and your mother and your brothers actually come to bow ourselves down before you to the ground?” His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the saying in mind. Then his brothers went to pasture their father’s flock in Shechem. Genesis 37: 5-12

Like I gave Joseph a dream, I have given you dreams. But if you read the story of Joseph, he obeyed Me even when times were hard. He obeyed Me in Pharaoh's house and fled from sexual sin, he obeyed Me in jail and had a great reputation. He obeyed Me all the days of his life and I was able to promote him. I was able to cause his dream to come to pass. Spend time with Me today, and ask Me to bring those dreams I have given you to pass. Ask Me to reveal to you any disobedience in your heart. I want my children to prosper and succeed, but dreams have a price. Are you willing to pay the price like My son Joseph? All through the bible I rewarded obedience, and punished disobedience. The choice is yours, do you want the dreams I have placed in you to come to pass? Spend time in prayer today writing down what I reveal to you. I have great plans for you, plans to prosper you and cause you to succeed.

What dreams has God given you?
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