TODAY’S THOUGHT - Mark 12:42-44

TODAY’S THOUGHT

 

Mark 12:42-44

"As he taught, Jesus said, "Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely." Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything--all she had to live on."

Can’t you just hear the sound of people dropping their coins into the offering box outside the temple that day as Jesus stood nearby with his disciples? And then the poor widow came and dropped in two small coins that probably did not even make a sound. Jesus was so impressed with her heart that he brought his followers over to teach them a lesson on generosity. The lesson He wanted them to learn and He wants us to learn is when it comes to giving is: it is not equal amount, but equal sacrifice that matters.

 

Paul tells us the same thing in Ephesians 5:1-2, that "Your Love Must be Freely Given" in all things. When you imitate Christ he teaches us the right perspectives on Giving of your time and Money.  

Because God is more pleased with our hearts than He is with the amount. What does our giving say about us? Are we giving out of surplus or out of sacrifice? That will determine our true heart...

 

You are loved!

Todays Thought - Ephesians 4:29

Todays Thought

Ephesians 4:29  "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

There is a popular saying among young children “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” But Seriously nothing could be further from the truth. In our self centered culture it is so easy to get caught up in tearing others down in order to build ourselves up.

God desires for us to be builders, where we build and invest in the lives of those around us! The Bible teaches that the power of life and death are in the tongue. We as Christ-followers have the incredible ability to speak life into people by the words that we choose to use.

If we open or spiritual eyes we can see that there are so many needs around us. People have the need to be loved, encouraged, empowered and to be told that they have unlimited potential and value because of what Christ has done for them. As you go about your day, think about the words you speak. Are you a builder or are you part of a wrecking crew by the words that you speak. Become very aware of the words you speak and let your talk be life-giving today!

You are loved!

Todays Thought - Romans 5:11

Todays Thought

Romans 5:11 " Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation."

The greatest relationship we will ever have the opportunity to enjoy in our lives is our friendship with God. Think about that for a moment? The Bible speaks of his love for us in the most quoted scripture of all time, John 3:16. "God so loved the world that He gave His only Son." This word “love” in the Greek is the word Agape. It is the love that covers all, the love without demand and the love that is impossible to measure. That means we can't comprehend it. This love so great, is the love that God has for each of us and his greatest desire is not for us to be religious, but for us to have a relationship with him!

Scripture tells us that when all other loves will fail, the love of God will never fail you! Even when we feel like He is not there or that He does not care about the situation you are in. You have to remember that our minds cannot even comprehend the eternal, everlasting love of God. We just have to trust that love and gratefully accept Him as the greatest friend we will ever know. Hope you had a wonderful Easter.

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - 1 Samuel 18:1

TODAY’S THOUGHT

1 Samuel 18:1  "After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself."

Yesterday I introduced the concept of allowing God to help you find the right people for your life who will lift you up and encourage you. I called them the "right they."

Most of us instinctively know the “right they” in our lives, but we don’t always pursue those relationships. God wants us to have the kind of relationships that pour into our lives and give us fuel in our tanks. Look at David and Jonathan, Samuel records that, "After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself." God desires each of us to have those kind of relationships in our lives.

Think about people in your life that may be flying under the radar because they are humble. Look for people that are constantly encouraging others, people that easily forgive wrongs and people who are following God’s will in their lives. These are the “right they”. They just might be your David or Jonathan and the people who will help you get to the next level in your relationship with God and ultimately have a full and abundant life.

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - 1 Corinthians 15:33

TODAY’S THOUGHT

1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character."

Took this picture of my Amy and her brother in Texas messing around after his wedding in March. She was telling him to take care of his new wife and have the right friends. They were just having fun; but for most of us growing up we had to learn the lesson of todays scripture. You probably heard a parent or teacher quote this familiar Bible verse "Bad company corrupts good character." 

It is amazing how the simplest of principles can sometimes become the most complex. We so easily fall into the trap of the “wrong they”.

It may be big things that scream out that our friends are the "wrong they" or it may be small things that we might easily overlook. Things like a negative attitude, gossiping, lack of making wise choices and lack of love for God can end up being huge things if we allow them to have an influence on our character.

So listen to what John says In 1 John 2:3-6, "and how can we be sure we belong to Him? By obeying His commandments. If someone says, "I belong to God" but doesn't obey Gods commandments, that person is a liar and does not live in the truth. But those who obey God's word really do love Him. That is the way to know whether or not we live in Him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did."

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Matthew 5:13-16

TODAY’S THOUGHT



Matthew 5:13-16 "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
When Jesus taught his disciples about their roles and responsibilities in life He wanted them to realize that ultimately their lives would be put on display for everyone to see as an example. It is no different with us. The expectations for how we live our lives didn't change because of time. The choices we make should be a positive example of who Jesus is and what He means to our lives. When people see how much Christ means to you they see Jesus in you.

Jesus show us in Matthew 5:13-16 that “salt” is used as a preservative and provides “flavor” and creates “thirst,” our choices in life should accomplish the same thing. Our lives should preserve the character of God. When we reflect his Character through our choices we will be like an attractive seasoning that will produce a spiritual thirst in the lives of others. People will be drawn to us and will crave what we have. This is how we are to shine our lights. Remember, God has a plan and purpose for our lives. Make a commitment today to fulfill God’s purposes in your life by shining his light through the choices you make.

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Matthew 4:1-11

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Matthew 4:1-11 " Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: "'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'"Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'" Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him."



One of the biggest challenges we face in life is distinguishing the truth from the lies of the evil one. Just because everyone else is doing it, (remember saying that to your parents once or twice) doesn't mean that is considered to be normal or acceptable; doesn’t make it right or true.

The only way we can really know for sure what is right or wrong in important choices we make in life is by asking ourselves the question, “what does the Bible say?” In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus was tempted on three different occasions by Satan. However, Jesus exposed Satan’s lies all three times by saying, “It is written…” Jesus used the truth of the Bible to overcome temptation and to expose the lies from the enemy. In the same way, we must do the same in all areas of life. Satan puts things or people in your path to try to sway to his side. Don't be tempted...some people are just tools the enemy uses.

This is the reason it is so important to memorize scripture. The next time you’re confronted with temptation or placed in an awkward situation ask yourself “What does the Bible say?” Whatever it says, stand on the truth by saying to yourself “It is written…”

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Ephesians 5:15-17

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Ephesians 5:15-17 Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.

As I sat down after a long day, I turned the news on to see what was happening around the world. Even on the news our culture is constantly pumping into our lives and minds the things we need and the things that we should prioritize. God tells us through His word that we should be careful how we live. "Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is."

We shouldn’t just thoughtlessly follow whatever is put before us, but we need to know and understand what God’s will and priorities are for our lives. The best way to do that is by reading God’s word, hearing God’s word and hanging around with people who have a close relationship with God.You can't do this on your own. We need each other on this journey. 

Life is not a dress rehearsal! We only have this one life to live so let’s make the most of this day. Let’s choose to live out God’s priorities in all that we do!
You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Matthew 6:33

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Matthew 6:33 " But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Ever heard the saying time fly's? We all have 10,080 minutes in a week. The problem with time is that it quickly passes by. We’ve all said to ourselves or to someone else, “Where did the day go?” or “This week flew by.” When we are younger we want time to go fast and when we get older we want it to slow down.

Time is life’s most precious commodity. James 4:14 say’s “Life is like a vapor, it’s here one day, gone the next.” In today’s fast-passed culture, we have become masters at multi-tasking in order to get everything done and squeeze everything in.

However, the biggest temptation is to confuse activity with accomplishment. Too many people are busy making a living and forget to make a life. The “things” Jesus was referring to in Matthew 6:33 are the “things” that usually take precedence in our lives. However, those “things” are usually the very “things” that rob us from or crowd out the most important things in life; our relationship with Christ, our family and serving others. Jesus said, when you put first things first He will take care of all the other “things” in life.

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - James 4:7-8

TODAY’S THOUGHT

James 4:7-8 " Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

It is awesome to know that God’s purpose and plan for us is to give us a rich and satisfying life! It may not seem like that sometimes, but it is His plan.

In our culture we become so easily distracted and drawn away by the hundreds of good options out there for us. If you have kids you know what I mean. Sports, dance classes; the list goes on and on. We can quickly become drained by our fast paced, overcrowded lives. But that is not God’s plan for us. He created us for so much more.

It is sometimes hard to stay focused on what God has purposed and planned for our lives. Today as you make choices ask yourself “is this just a good thing for me to do or is it the best thing for me?” And ask yourself, "Is this going to drain me or is this decision going to bring out the best in me so that I can be blessed and in return be a blessing to those around me?” God is ready to give us wisdom if we just take the time to ask! So ask, Gods ready to speak with you. You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Isa 43:19

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Isa 43:19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

This was an amazing verse from God to me personally today. To be reminded that He is always with us no matter what is happening in our lives; to know that He is working something new out on our behalf. To get what God is doing in us personally we must begin to prioritize our lives around what God sees as important. Change is going to have to come because his ways are not our ways. As we go about our day today begin by asking God to show you what He prioritizes. So many times we fill our schedule with things that we have always done or what others might feel is important for us; but God wants us to seek him first. He wants us to see things from his perspective not ours.

Check your “to-do” list for this week. Is your schedule revolving around things that are eternally important like your relationship with God, your family and people who need Jesus? Maybe it is time for God to begin something new in you. Jesus said He is the beginning and the end. Maybe it’s time to allow him to bring you to the end of something so He can begin something new in you. You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Philippians 4:8

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Philippians 4:8 " Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things." As I was reading this scripture this morning God brought to mind that from the very moment we wake up, thoughts begin to fill our mind and they form the attitude and altitude of our day.

We have the opportunity and responsibility to choose the direction of our thoughts. That means we have to action in our mind to choose to replace those thoughts of worry, anxiety and negativity with the truth of God’s word. God's truth is the weapon we have at our disposal, its powerful and effective.

God tells us that if He is for us who can be against us? He tells us that greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world. His word tells us we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength and with God all things are possible. Today fix the direction of your thoughts on what God says is true and not what the world is telling you.

You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Philippians 3:7-10

TODAY’S THOUGHT
Philippians 3:7-10  "But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ--the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ--yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death"

All of life is wrapped up in this one simple truth, true happiness and inner peace is only found in a relationship with Jesus. There may be others who will tell otherwise; but the fact is only a relationship with Christ makes all things good.

In life we will go through many different seasons and times in our journey of faith. There may be times when we have a lot and there may be times when we have little. There may be times when those we love disappoint us and times when they bring us great joy. There may be times when we do not measure up to our expectations of ourselves and times we have great confidence. There is one thing that will always remain and will never fail and that is God’s great love for us.

Live today thankful for your personal relationship with Jesus. Remember what He has done for you through the cross so that you can experience true happiness that is not based upon ever changing circumstances. You are loved!

TODAY’S THOUGHT - Philippians 4:11-13

TODAY’S THOUGHT
Philippians 4:11-13 " I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

When you think about the horrible circumstances Paul was in when he wrote these words to the Philippians from a prison cell, you truly wonder how he could possibly be happy. You have probably asked that question many times yourself. With all this going on how can I even begin to have joy or happiness in my life?

Something Paul learned from his relationship with Christ was that happiness is not just an emotion you feel, but a decision you have to continually make no matter your circumstances. God has given us the ability to do all things and make it through anything because of Christ who gives us the inner strength! Faith to believe through the impossible.

Sunday we prayed for Josephina Hernandez because the doctor's had documented blockage in the heart. She came and asked us to pray for her and the power of God fell on her. The next day she was scheduled for surgery and as they went in to find the blockages, they were gone!!! God healed her. She told her doctor that her God would take care of her. Afterwards Josephina told him, see my God took care of me. The doctor said you must have a big God. We have a big God!

As you go about your day many circumstances will challenge your attitude and faith. This is your opportunity to remember the recipe Paul had found for being happy. It is not about the outside situations that you will face, it is all about what God is doing inside of you and what He has given you through His word. He gives you peace, confidence, power and true happiness that will challenge the norm of our world!!
You are loved...