Planting His Word in the Hearts of our Children

Today’s Scripture Focus: Proverbs 4:10-27

10 Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many.
11 I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.

12 When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble.
13 Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.

14 Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men.
15 Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.

16 For they cannot sleep till they do evil; they are robbed of slumber till they make
someone fall.
17 They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence.

18 The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the
full light of day.
19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them
stumble.

20 My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.
21 Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;

22 for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body.
23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

24 Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
25 Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.

26 Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.
27 Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

Prayer for the day:

Father, cover my descendants in the wisdom of your guidance. Plant flowing canals in their hearts to receive the minerals of the lessons you teach. Keep their eyes focused on the richness of your word so their households reflect the nature of their purpose in you, so the covering of my ancestry revealed to me through my parents, in obedience to you blanket their being until we are all no more, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

Thinking of the gospel song that says “I had a praying grandmother” and really understanding how pivotal the faithfulness of my family in obedience to the Word of God was in the construction of my acceptance and knowledge of the importance of life & presence of God in our home. My grandmother was a veiled, prayerful woman with a quiet conservative manner, but a pointed, decisive one, but the one thing that really stuck out in my mind was remembering my grandfather always introducing himself in this manner, no matter what setting “I am John Gilbert Yates & I am a born again Christian”. When I was a child, I thought this was grandpa being annoying…as an adult my understanding has evolved to the fact that Christ was as great an identifier to who my grandfather was, as his birth name and there was no break in the consistency of his introduction of himself no matter where he was, there was no shame in the workplace to state “I am a born again Christian”, there was no thrust to “separate” Church from state when in his kingdom the Church is the state of the union. His kingdom is “on earth as it is in heaven”, there is no separation.

Thought for the Day:

“I know that my unity with all people cannot be destroyed by national boundaries and government orders.” Leo Nikolayevich Tolstoy

Goal for the Day:

Pass along the knowledge and wisdom of your father that it is always present in the hearts and minds of those who live on after you.

Take Off Your Shoes, Walk In Righteousness, Where You Stand is Holy Ground

Today’s Scripture Focus:

Acts 7:33 (NIV) & Exodus 23:27-30(King James)

³³"Then the Lord said to him, 'Take off your sandals; the place where you are standing is holy ground.

²⁷ "I will send my terror ahead of you and throw into confusion every nation you encounter. I will make all your enemies turn their backs and run.

²⁸ I will send the hornet ahead of you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites and Hittites out of your way.

²⁹ But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and the wild animals too numerous for you.

³⁰ Little by little I will drive them out before you, until you have increased enough to take possession of the land.

Prayer for the day:

Father, my prayer is for your unending presence in my life to move me daily to share the blessing, the knowledge and my experience in my walk with you. May your righteousness be what I live. I praise you for your covering, protection and placement of my life firmly within your kingdom, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

How powerful is HIS word!!! Today’s scripture, WOW, my father, our father… To explain to you how I received the above scripture, I had to throw it into how it read:

In the righteousness of our Father through the blood of our Savior Jesus Christ, take off your shoes, where you stand, right here, right now is holy ground!!! Amen!!! Don’t you dare be afraid, I will send my protection out the door before you and throw confusion upon anyone who stands in your way!!! (AMEN!!!). I will do what need be done, to get them out of your path, this day and everyday!!! (AMEN!!!). Have patience, I have a plan…this will not happen in a day or even a year or two, because it is going to take time to repair what was wrong, so I will do this systematically, on your behalf, so there is no pain or strife for you. (AMEN!!!). Little by little, I will rid you of them and you will know it is me, until you have prospered enough to fully possess all that I’ve purposed for you. Have faith & trust it is done, now open that door and exit it in joy, peace and confidence!!!

Thought for the Day:

If I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning. Mahatma Gandhi

Goal for the Day:

Chin Up, Clear Mind, Firm Stance, Conquer The Task at Hand!!!

You Were Crowned With Glory & Honor

Today’s Scripture Focus:

Psalm: 8-1-10 (King James)

¹O LORD, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.

²Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.

³When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;

⁴What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?

⁵For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.

⁶Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:

⁷All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;

⁸The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas.

⁹O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!

Prayer for the day:

Father, thank you for your consideration. Thank you for thinking of me so much, for knowing me so well, from the tips of a single hair on my head to the end of the sole of my feet, made individual to me. Thank you for your guidance and unending, unconditional love. Please keep me focused on my purpose in your kingdom, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

Have you taken a moment just to look out in consideration of everything you see. I am humbled by the perfect balance of everything around us. The sun warming us perfectly in the sky. The birds flying in patterns seemingly dancing. How everything serves a purpose, from the rain to the air, everything serves a purpose. Who are we that we were given so much favor. That our heavenly father thought so much of us that we were designed so perfectly? Who are we to think that we were placed as overseers of the earth without purpose? Open your bibles and discover your heritage, your nature, your purpose. He crowned us with glory & honor…wear your crown and never stop praising him.

Thought for the Day:

“Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are.”–Malcom S. Forbes

Goal for the Day:

Stand taller, walk purposefully and in full confidence.

Do Not Be Deceived, Do Not Be Weakened

Today’s Scripture Focus:
Isaiah 54:4 (NIV)

⁴ "Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated. You will forget the shame of your youth and remember no more the reproach of your widowhood.

Prayer for the day:

Father, you have rolled away all reproach by the blood of Christ. Bring forward your knowledge and understanding of the positions of all those who accept you as their father & Jesus as their savior, in you, in our rebirth into your kingdom we are whole. Clear the veils so they know who’s they are and disallow the temptation to walk backwards thrusting them forward in their faithful walk with you, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

The world & anyone in it can not determine your worth. You determine your worth according to your nature. As Christians, our nature is of our father, our Lord. No label is large enough to define who you are. No circumstance heavy enough to weigh you down so much you can not look up. No stereotype definitive enough to fit you into it. A stereotype is a simplified and standardized conception or image invested with special meaning and held in common by members of a group. Stop feeding into the deception of what someone else has figured you to be, refuse to be associated as your nature is of our father, our Lord – wear that crown.

Thought for the Day:

“No one can tell you who you are & make you believe it.”–Unknown

Goal for the Day:

Stand tall, walk firm and in full confidence.

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Just A Thought

Kenya Anderson

When difficulties come, God says that because you're His child, because you honor Him, even though that problem has formed, in the end it is not going to prosper. When it's all said and done, it's not going to harm you. God is going to turn it around and use it to your advantage. That's your heritage as a believer! -JO

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Inspiration
by
Lindsey Ragans

When you think the game has started… it really hasn’t…you might find yourself questioning the emotional rollercoaster that you have placed yourself in….there might be times where you need to pull back and keep the course straight…..remember the new year’s saying….this year will be different from last….keep in mind BUSI-NESS is Business..now re-group/focus your goals

Understand Your Righteousness is the Righteousness of God

Today’s Scripture Focus:
Romans 8:1-4 (NIV)

1Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

2because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.

3For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man,

4in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.

Prayer for the day:

Father, your prevalence in my life is the only confidence I need. I understand confusion is not of you and all that is, is not for me. I stand righteous before you in your perfection a complete work of yours. I understand I alone am imperfect, but through the grace of the blood of our Savior I am without spot or wrinkle, made whole by you. I disallow anything that comes against your promises for my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

I heard a wonderful message and could not wait to share it with you. Stop allowing yourself to be fooled into mixed emotions and confusion, our father is the author of peace, joy, prosperity, love, honor & truth. So if confusion is not of God, assign it to who it belongs to and disallow it in your existence…it doesn’t belong there. If you are born again, you are righteous. Does this mean you don’t make mistakes? NO. Does this mean because of your mistake you are no longer righteous? NO. The textbook definition of righteous is: acting in accord with divine or moral law: free from guilt or sin… and His word states “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death” It is time you take ownership of who you are in Christ. Make no excuses, make no exceptions, be the change you want to see!!!

Thought for the Day:

“All men's souls are immortal, but the souls of the righteous are immortal and divine.”–Socrates

Goal for the Day:

Chin Up, Straighten your stance to an erect position, place your crown on your head and wear it proudly.

Know What You Know, Choose and Be Assured He’s There Every Step of the Way

Today’s Scripture Focus:

Isaiah 43:5-10 (NIV)

⁵ Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west.

⁶ I will say to the north, 'Give them up!' and to the south, 'Do not hold them back.' Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth-

⁷ everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made."

⁸ Lead out those who have eyes but are blind, who have ears but are deaf.

⁹ All the nations gather together and the peoples assemble. Which of them foretold this and proclaimed to us the former things? Let them bring in their witnesses to prove they were right, so that others may hear and say, "It is true."

¹⁰ "You are my witnesses," declares the LORD, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me

Prayer for the day:

Father, thank you for your guidance. In all that I do, I come to you in prayer that my decisions are in line with what you expect of me. I praise you in my decision and all that I do. I am comforted by your protection. I know I am not perfect so your perfect will is the route I choose knowing you are with me every step of the way, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

We all are faced with tough decisions. How do we choose what is right for our lives? Take it to God in prayer, ask that your decision is guided according to His purpose and make your decision knowing He is there with you. Move courageously forward and stay on course, He will not leave you, nor forsake you – Deuteronomy 31:8. God is not a father of mistakes and his word, truth. In all that you do, consult your guide, acknowledge his presence, thank him for his help and walk confidently as His army marches before you, as our commander, God leads you to victory!!!

Thought for the Day:

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” –Theodore Roosevelt

Goal for the Day:

If you are unsure, ask

You Are Individually Responsible

Today’s Scripture Focus:
Luke 12:48 (NIV)

“48But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

Prayer for the day:

Father let the light of your word be etched in the hearts, minds and souls of all who hear it. That they rise to the occasion of the responsibility proposed on their life in reflection of you. That they excitedly move victoriously sharing the knowledge of you as witnessed in each of their lives so your kingdom, our kingdom live on forever, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

Have you ever stopped to think about all that you have accomplished over the span of your life? When you look back on everything what would you change, what would you keep, what would you improve? As Christians, a few additional questions, as we move forward in our walk, are: How is Gods Word ACTIVE in my daily life? Now that I am born again, what is the effect of that rebirth? What are my individual responsibilities?

Seeking answers to those questions in application to your own life is the bridge between “worldly thought” and “kingdom thought”. Everyone grows at their own individual level and coming into the knowledge of Gods’ word is great, acting within the wisdom and promises of His word is GREATNESS. Never stop seeking a better understanding of His word, don’t cease sharing the witness of his word as it applies to your life and mostly walk in joy, peace, love and understanding of those who have not yet achieved your level of wisdom.

The one thing I have learned is there is always something I can do, right where I am, with what I have, no matter how much or how little, to lift another, give from the excess of what was given you. It may come in the form of a song, a kind gesture, that favorite dish you have perfected, your ability to help others understand something, a smile, an admission, a willingness to improve yourself or lighten the load of someone else. There is always something that can be done, right where you are, with what you have. Have you assumed your responsibility?

Thought for the Day:

"Put yourself in a state of mind where you say to yourself, "Here is an opportunity for me to celebrate like never before, my own power, my own ability to get myself to do whatever is necessary."" –Tony Robbins

Goal for the Day:

Be responsible and act accordingly.

Be The Change You Want To See

Today’s Scripture Focus:
Job 8:8-9 (NIV)

8 "Ask the former generations
and find out what their fathers learned,

9 for we were born only yesterday and know nothing,
and our days on earth are but a shadow.

Prayer for the day:

Father thank you for your faithful servant, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his courage and example of being the change he wanted to see to your glory. Ensure his memory live on forever and it continue to point others to the presence of you in his life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

In honor of the greatness of God in Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his example that we all in remembrance of him as a faithful example of our Lord stand up and be the example we want to see. Stop at nothing to move forward not just as a single person but as a Christian community that we disallow the desecration and destruction of ourselves, by ourselves.

That we stop walking past those with less and not offer more. That we return to that community as responsible representatives of His kingdom for our children and elevate them to the level of purpose they were intended for.

That we hold responsible ourselves as beacons of light where there may be none. That we stop making excuses in failure and make strides towards success. There is the greatness of God in every one of us, as there was in Rev. King. Be that change you want to see.

Goal for the Day:
Remember, Refocus, Restore.

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Inspiration
by

Lindsey Ragans

Self-discipline and self-motivation are joined at the hip….. Why is that? When you practice self-discipline you feel like you are in control of your life…… You feel content and motivated because you're moving toward your goals…..self-motivation follows because you make it happen with self-discipline…Think about it..Good Day

Make a Choice, It's All Up to You, You Choose.

Today’s Scripture Focus:

Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)

“¹⁹ This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live”

Prayer for the day:

Father, remove from me any inhibition to walk in the way you have set for me, fear is not for or of me. I move courageously forward in faith knowing your promises for my life. Forgive me for all that preceded my choice to complete focus on your kingdom, I choose you father. Cover my life and the life of my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren – all who come after me, that your light shines over their lives through eternity, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

I had to share with you the words of this poem:

Choices

Long ago my momma told me I am who I am because of HE who guides me. That my

attitude demands the hands I am dealt, that my presence good or bad is felt…. You

Choose.

As far back as I recall the writing on the wall in my life was: I am the gift that keeps

giving, so share, don’t despair, there’s greatness in me, faint not, believe that as long as

I breathe there are things to achieve… You Choose.

I remember the conviction that my skin was a crown, look up not down, fear none

though everyone may doubt me. Choose not the simple path but grasp the lion by the

throat, stay afloat realizing the opportunity boat floats away if I stray…You Choose.

I gaze at the canvass at my door, too trifling to ignore yet the eye of the community

passed it. It will not define nor confine the strength that is mine to stand taller than the

intention of those who created it…You Choose.

Let not your circumstance label the external fable written lowly to hold you back,

Are you not the only living creature walking this earth whose composition was created without lack.

You have the capability to do exceedingly, abundantly, extraordinarily and above all else,

make no apology for winning nor excuse to lose, Choose…

You Choose. – Alexis Guthrie

Goal for the Day:

Choose Life & Live it Abundantly.

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Word for Today from Vandy

Vandy Harris

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"'Don't be afraid,' the prophet answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them'"
(2 Kings 6:16, NIV)

Everyone has times when they feel overwhelmed or "outnumbered" by the things that are coming against them. You may have heard the saying, "When it rains, it pours." For example, just about the time the air conditioner needs repair in your house, the transmission goes out in your car. It seems like one thing after another. It may feel as if all the forces of darkness are coming against you, but the scripture promises that with God on your side, you have all the resources you need to have complete victory. You are never outnumbered because the Greater One lives in you!

The next time you're feeling anxious, fearful, or worried about anything, remember He's on your side. If God is for you, who can be against you? He promises to guide and protect you and lead you into victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for Your peace even in the midst of the storms of life. I know that You are with me, and I can stand strong because You will lead me into victory all the days of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

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Just A Thought
Kenya Anderson

" Heavenly Father, I receive Your Word today which is life, health, and strength to me. I choose to close the door on fear by guarding what I say, what I listen to, and what I dwell on. Fill me with Your love and faith, and I meditate on Your Word. In Jesus' Name. Amen."-JO

Are You Prepared?

Today’s Scripture Focus:

2 Corinthians 2:14; 1 Corinthians 15:57; Psalm 1:2-3; (NIV)

^{2 Corinthians 2:14}But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him

^{1 Corinthians 15:57}But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

^{Psalm 1:2-3}

² But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

³ He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.

Prayer for the day:

Father, Thank you & to you be the glory, you always lead me triumphantly in Christ and through me I spread knowledge of him in my life everywhere. Thank you father for giving me victory though Christ. Every new discovery in your word excites me and it flows through me day and night. Every day my roots grow deeper and stronger in your word. I am certain the fruits of my labor, at the time allotted by you will not wither. That all I do will prosper, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Scripture Message:

The problem we have many times is we wait for things to happen to us opposed to mapping out your circumstances so the control over your situation belongs to you and the God in you.

Take the reigns of YOUR life and live it with full purpose. Know where you are going, what you expect to happen and never tire working towards it until it is achieved. Then keep moving.

No one but YOU and God, if welcomed in, has a right to your life and the purpose thereof. In order for you to understand that purpose, take ownership of your life, know yourself. Stop making excuses. Stop pawning your life off to the highest bidder. Stop willingly giving yourself away to circumstances. Stop the desperation for things that are fleeting and place value on your life which can not be bought or sold, unless you put yourself up for auction. You can not change another person, but you can fully focus on yourself and make the changes in yourself that you want to see.

Thought for the day:

“There are 3 types of people in the world, those who make it happen, those who watch what happens and those who wonder what happened.” Unknown

Goal for the Day:

Vision, Plan, Implement, Work though hick-ups, Update Plan with Changes, Implement Change, Complete. Begin the cycle again.

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Inspriations

by Lindsey Ragans

The thought of the night comes when we least expect it to come…our daily actions speak a-lot about our inner character from within…there are times when we must all question our inner circle beliefs and actions…this stems from is it happiness or just a moment to reflect on the belief that individuals have our best inter...est at heart…remember to forgive but don’t forget..but always remember that you know you best.

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Word for Today by Vandy
by Vandy Harris

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"'Don't be afraid,' the prophet answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them'"
(2 Kings 6:16, NIV)

Everyone has times when they feel overwhelmed or "outnumbered" by the things that are coming against them. You may have heard the saying, "When it rains, it pours." For example, just about the time the air conditioner needs repair in your house, the transmission goes out in your car. It seems like one thing after another. It may feel as if all the forces of darkness are coming against you, but the scripture promises that with God on your side, you have all the resources you need to have complete victory. You are never outnumbered because the Greater One lives in you!

The next time you're feeling anxious, fearful, or worried about anything, remember He's on your side. If God is for you, who can be against you? He promises to guide and protect you and lead you into victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for Your peace even in the midst of the storms of life. I know that You are with me, and I can stand strong because You will lead me into victory all the days of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Ask & It Will Be Given Unto You

Today’s Scripture Focus: Luke 11:9-10 (NIV)

9"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

10"For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened"

Today’s Scripture Message:

A month or so ago we addressed the power of speaking God’s Word over your circumstances. How can you do that if you do not know his word? We also covered the truth of his word and that it never returns to you void. Does this mean we read our bibles and memorize every inch of it and not use the knowledge we’ve obtained to benefit ourselves and from the abundance of that knowledge not share the wealth of that knowledge. Our minds are powerful things, we can absorb a great amount of information and it never means a thing to us until it is APPLIED.
Gaining knowledge of his word & acting within that knowledge is Faith in Action. You want something different in your life…seek the knowledge, confess it over your situation and act within the knowledge you gained asking for guidance and doing things differently. You can not expect change, if you are unwilling to change. Inhibition is the house fear build, move courageously through your day with the thought of our Father patting you on the back saying “go on, I got you”, if you’ve asked him to, he does. His Word IS Truth, creative, limitless, unfailing, powerful and all knowing and it is yours to use in every aspect of your lives. Why wouldn’t you share it with everyone you know?

Prayer for the day:

Father, I praise you, your kingdom is where I dwell, my will, your will, right here, right now, my heaven. Thank you for all that you have provided me today in care of myself, my family and all who are dependent on me; for forgiving my shortcomings and for teaching me to forgive. Keep from me all that is outside of your guidance, delivering me from all that is not of you. You are my all, you are my strength, to you be all the glory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for the day:

“A is in abundance THE is only…so if you know A lie is A lie, it is of many, but THE truth IS and can only be singularly, as it is.” Bill Winston

Goal for the Day:

Know you are guided, if you have asked to be.

Is Our Will Really Free?

Today’s Scripture Focus:

Deuteronomy 30:15-20 (NIV)

^“15 See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. ¹⁶ For I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess.

¹⁷ But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, ¹⁸ I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess.

¹⁹ This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live ²⁰ and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”

Today’s Scripture Message:

Recently I have been asked and have discussed this question and felt it needed to be shared. “If I do right or wrong, how is that any different from how life happens, since God doesn’t make any mistakes, and everything that happens is supposed to happen, how is that free will?”

Long ago, I asked the same question and was provided this understanding… your living is a lesson and a blessing. Anything with life in it has a positive & negative constitution. Yes God is all knowing & there are no accidents in his kingdom, but you are given free will (free choice - not consequence, but choice) & God will not impose himself on your life uninvited. Once you invite him in and give him permission to use you as the vessel you were intended to be, your faith is strengthened by His word as guidance, protection & truth, still allowing you the power of your will. Our father knows if you choose His Word as your guide & exercise your faith then your walk is elevated to his purpose for your life. As well as His knowing the consequences of a worldly choice outside of that which you were purposed for.

The greatest appreciation for what God has done for us is the gift of grace through the sacrifice of Jesus covering us with the acceptance of Christ's sacrifice that we, when we make a choice opposite of our purpose we can still repent, choose to re-invite him into our heart and be reborn in Christ and again allow his guidance.

How can we be sure if the choices we are making align with God's will for our life...it's simple... God is a father of building & lifting up to the purposes of his kingdom, that your inheritance as a child of the father is fully realized...not of destruction and confusion those are never the intention of our Father. So if you speak the word of God over any decision you have to make & your choice will build/improve you, your family, those who come in contact with you, that you are not just a conduit of his word but a living example of God's presence in your life be assured your efforts will not return to you void.

Prayer for the day:

Father, open the eyes of all of us, your children that we see all that your kingdom has for us, right here where we are, that heaven greets us at our doorstep revealing the order of protection sent forth from you granting unobstructed passage on our walk in obedience to the call placed on each of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for the day:

“If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is compromise.” Robert Fritz

Goal for the Day:

Choose your path & walk it with confidence.

What Do I Have To Offer?

Today’s Scripture Focus:

Colossians 2:2-3 (NIV)

^“2My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, ³in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge”

Today’s Scripture Message:

Recently I read one of the most humbling witnesses written, that basically stated, Who am I? What do I have to offer and the answer from that witness was “I am as good as the greatness of God in me and knowing that, there is nothing that I can not offer”…”I AM AS GOOD AS THE GREATNESS OF GOD IN ME AND KNOWING THAT, THERE IS NOTHING THAT I CAN NOT OFFER”!!! If every animal inhibiting the earth was given ability enough that they survive and you were given dominion over all of the earth & every animal in it, created in the likeness of God with the offering of His spirit what would make you think you don’t have what you need to take your rightful place, exactly where you are, in His kingdom?

We are all provided at least 1 thing, 1 gift with the responsibility of caring for it, elevating it & sharing it that your life is a prosperous legacy of the kingdom of God. What do you have that you ARE NOT using? What talent are you sitting on, that if you planted the seed to use exactly what you have RIGHT NOW, it would bless others and in turn be that blessing you have been faithful for? When time is the only thing that can not be returned to you, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? No matter what you serve a creative God that dwells in you, awaken what need be seen even if no one else but you & God can see it...Know that is ALL you need to move in faith. He is the king of sharing His word through the most unlikely sources. So I ask you WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO OFFER?

Prayer for the day:

Father, open the eyes of all of us, your children that we see all that your kingdom has for us, right here where we are, that heaven greets us at our doorstep revealing the order of protection sent forth from you granting unobstructed passage on our walk in obedience to the call placed on each of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for the day:

“Look, if you had one shot, or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted-One moment, would you capture it or just let it slip?...The soul's escaping, through this hole that it's gaping This world is mine for the taking Make me king, … And these times are so hard and it's getting even harder Trying to feed and water my seed, Too much for me to wanna Stay in one spot, another day of monotony Has gotten me to the point, I'm like a snail I've got to formulate a plot … I cannot grow old in Salem's lot So here I go this is my shot. Feet fail me not cause maybe this is the only opportunity I got” Eminem-Lose Yourself

Goal for the Day:

Lose yourself in your purpose, and refuse to let go of what you know you are here for. Take what you were given & take your rightful place.

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Inspiration

by Lindsey Ragans

"The reflection of the day makes you stronger even when you feel weak.....take what you learned today and use it in a positive way..things that you ask for..don't always come like you want...but you must remember that when one door closes...another door opens up..you gotta believe that you will succeed"

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Word for Today from Vandy
by: Vandy Harris

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go"
(Joshua 1:9, NLT))

TODAY'S WORD

Did you know that fear works just like faith but in the opposite direction? In the same way that faith opens the door for God to work in our lives; fear opens the door for the enemy to work in our lives.

The Bible says that fear has torment. Fear has no mercy. If you act on fear instead of acting on faith, it will keep you depressed, miserable and lonely. And so many people today are missing out on God's joy, peace, and victory because they keep giving in to fear. They feed fear by what they watch on TV or read in the news or on the internet. Don't let that be you! Romans tells us that faith comes by hearing the Word of God. The more you fill your heart and mind with God's Word, the stronger your faith will be so you can stand against the powers of darkness. Choose faith instead of fear by choosing God's Word.

Remember, the power that is in you is greater than the power of fear. When thoughts come that say, "You're not able", choose faith by saying, "I can do all things through Christ!" Choose faith today so you can overcome fear and live in the freedom God has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

" Heavenly Father, I receive Your Word today which is life, health, and strength to me. I choose to close the door on fear by guarding what I say, what I listen to, and what I dwell on. Fill me with Your love and faith, and I meditate on Your Word. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

P.U.S.H.

Pray Until Something Happens!!!

The Daily Covering - Be Uplifing & Uplifted

Word for Today from Vandy
by: Vandy Harris

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline"
(II Timothy 1:7, NLT)

TODAY'S WORD

So many people today are missing out on God's abundant life of joy, peace, and victory because they keep giving in to fear. They are afraid to make a decision, they are afraid to confront issues, they're afraid to step out in faith, they're afraid of the past, and they're afraid of the future. But as believers, we don't have to live that way.

Fear is not from God. God has given you power, and His power is greater than the power of any of your fears. You have to make a decision to deal aggressively with fear. You can't be passive and expect to live in victory. The only way to conquer fear is to confront it head on. As long as you're running from your fears, just ignoring them, or sweeping them under the rug, you're not going to get any better. Refusing to deal with fear doesn't make it go away. Instead, decide to be finished with fear. Be strong-willed and determined knowing that the enemy is defeated.

Today, declare God's Word that says you can be bold and strong! Be finished with fear so you can move confidently into the destiny He has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father God, thank You for giving me power to overcome fear. I choose to face fear head on and drive it out of my life. Show me any areas of my life where fear is holding me back so that I can press forward into the life of victory You have for me. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

P.U.S.H.

Pray Until Something Happens!!!

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Just A Thought
Kenya Anderson

Today, no matter what you are believing for, expect things to change in your favor. Today could be the day that God turns it all around. As you wait with patience and expectancy, you'll open the door for God to move. He'll fight your battles, and you'll see that abundant harvest He's promised in every area of your life.-JO

Knowing Your Kingdom & It's Inhabitants

Today’s Scripture Focus:

2 Kings 15-17 (NIV)

¹⁵ When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. "Oh, my lord, what shall we do?" the servant asked.

¹⁶ "Don't be afraid," the prophet answered. "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them."

¹⁷ And Elisha prayed, "O LORD, open his eyes so he may see." Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

Today’s Scripture Message:

Our Father places a call on each of our lives that we accept His use of us to forward & prosper the kingdom of God, our kingdom. If man is a vessel for the use of the spirit of God to elevate his kingdom to continued prosperity and eternal life, be assured the Devil also uses men to deter, obstruct and destroy the plan of our Father. The demonic purpose is to distract you in confusion, obstruction & fear. PICK UP YOUR HEART, ELEVATE YOUR SPIRIT & RAISE YOUR HEAD…Satan was defeated at the cross of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:11, states “And they overcame him by [on account of] the blood of the Lamb [Jesus Christ], and by [on account of] the word of their testimony.” Recognize the spirit behind the confusion, granting forgiveness to the man “for he knows not what he does” as his inhabitant is not of our kingdom, rebuking that evil spirit in the name of Jesus Christ knowing with the shedding of His blood Satan is defeated.

The best example I can give you is the direction we were all given in school “when you go to speak in front of a crowd, imagine them with nothing on…it makes them less intimidating” (or something to this effect)… I say to you in the faith of Elisha disallow fear, confusion…anything to keep you from your confident walk with Christ to the kingdom of our Father and your inheritance within THIS, our kingdom. As you keep moving forward see the legion of angels sent by God fighting on behalf of you, His child moving you safely along his path. YOU HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR.

Prayer for the day:

Father, open the eyes of all of us, your children that we see all that your kingdom has for us, right here where we are, that heaven greets us at our doorstep revealing the order of protection sent forth from you granting unobstructed passage on our walk in obedience to the call placed on each of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for the day:

The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature...- Anne Frank

Goal for the Day:

Move courageously through your day knowing YOU ARE COVERED!!!

Stop Fixating On The Door When There Are Windows All Around You

Today’s Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:1-3 (NIV)

¹Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. ²This is what the ancients were commended for.

³By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

Today’s Scripture Message:

When trouble or celebration meets us at the door we remain fixated in that moment of revelation. As long as you have breath in your body, as long as you awake to a new sunrise you have an opportunity to move forward. We have just begun a new year and you may not be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel of the years before, but knowing you are faithful moving in the direction of the promise you are expecting, that light will find you. Plan for your receipt, live knowing you have it until it is visualized. The secret to the abundant life you desire is simply to keep moving faithfully. You’re built with a system that is fully dependent on it’s ability to keep things flowing or moving through you, your blood, oxygen…anything that is alive is moving. If it is stagnant it is non-productive; if it is not moving at all, it is dead. Refuse not to move. Stop allowing situations to hold you down potentially missing opportunities that were presented but you were so busy worrying you missed it or so busy celebrating you didn’t see the next thing on the horizon. All that is coming, you may not be able to see it yet, but knowing it sees it through.

Prayer for the day:

Father, keep me focused, keep me fearless, keep me moving victoriously, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for the day:

This time like all times is a very good one if we but know what to do with it..- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Goal for the Day:

Map out your direction according to your expectations.