Dogs

10-31-2014    Mark 7:24-30

S.       24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid. 25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet: 26 The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter. 27 But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs. 28 And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs. 29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter. 30 And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.

O.      Jesus honors the faith of a non-Jewish woman and declares her child to be free of an unclean spirit (demon).

A.      Faith is a wonder to me. I have faith and I know faith is real and still I fail to stand in faith in many situations. This must stop!

P.       Father; increase my faith and help me to overcome all doubt and fear. Amen.

Two days worth

10-29-2014    Mark 7:14-16

S.       14 And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man.16 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.

O.      Jesus explains that it is the spiritual man that can be defiled, not the physical.

A.      The things that come out of me are evidence as to what is in me.

P.       Father; clean me from the inside to the outside. Renew a right spirit within me and wipe away the stain of sin. Amen.

10-30-2014    Mark 7:17-23

S.       17 And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable.18 And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; 19 Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? 20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.

O.      Jesus finishes his explanation of the source of evil from within a man.

A.      My inner man must be set free from sin and then be protected, supplied, taught and corrected in the ways of God.

P.       Father; I cannot find my way alone. I am weak and weary from the struggle. Take my hand Lord and lead me. Amen. 

Is this true?

10-28-2014    Mark 7:6-13

S.       6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death:11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother;13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.

O.      Jesus speaks of vain worship and hypocrisy that id based on the traditions of man. He does not condemn tradition except when the tradition is taught as doctrine.

A.      I will use the words of Jesus as my doctrine and only observe man’s traditions that are in harmony with the teachings of Jesus.

P.       Father; help me Father to live my life in total obedience to you and your word. Show me the differences between the tradition of man and your commandments that I may teach others. Amen.  

Poor Leadership

What does a pastor do when he has failed in his preaching? I know that on many occasions my sermons were unprofitable and full of useless clatter. I ask for forgiveness! Forgiveness from God and Man. God always forgives and man.........I wait and see, some do and some don't. I need to be forgiven......Please.

10-27-2014    Mark 7:1-5

S.       1 Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem.2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders.4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables.5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?

O.     The Jewish leaders ask Jesus to explain why his disciples failed to follow the traditions.

A.      Tradition can be observed to our benefit or tradition can be a trap. We must learn the reason underlying each tradition we embrace, compare that tradition to God’s word, then decide the value of the tradition. 

P.       Father; open my understanding of the traditions of my time. Lead me in the direction that is pleasing to you, even if that means that I must abandon popular traditions. Amen.

SONDAY

Happy SON-day yáll. See you in church. I know that I spelled it different......it is his day.....you know....Jesus, the SON of God. :)

10-26-2014    Mark 6:53-56

S.       53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. 54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him, 55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was. 56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.

O.      Great numbers of people are healed by touching the garments of Jesus. Faith was growing in the hearts of people and actions were showing results.

A.      Spreading the truth about Jesus, his love, compassion, healing, hope and salvation will still show results. I will spread the truth.

P.       Father; fill me with courage as I spread your word. Touch my mind and heart and give me strength to endure. Amen.

God IS!

I will believe. I will not doubt. I will not quit. I will not fear. I will believe. AMEN.

10-25-2014    Mark 6:45-52

S.       45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people.46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out:50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.

O.      After Jesus spent time praying on the mountain he came to his disciples walking upon the sea. This caused much trouble to the minds of the disciples as they knew that this is impossible. Their hearts were not full of faith…….the facts were in the way.

A.      My faith is small and weak. I must resist doubt, fear, worry and man’s explanations as what is possible and what is not. With God; all things are possible. I rebuke doubt, worry, fear that lives in my heart and mind. I surrender myself; body, mind, spirit and soul to the will of God under the blood of Christ.

P.       Father; I believe, but help all unbelief to be erased. I surrender all that I am unto you. Wash me in the blood of Jesus; fill me with your Holy Spirit as I go forth and minister. Amen. 

Plenty

10-24-2014    Mark 6:33-44

S.       33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him.34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed:36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat.37 He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat?38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes.39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass.40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.42 And they did all eat, and were filled.43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes.44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.

O.      Jesus feeds the five thousand by blessing and multiplying five loves and two fishes.

A.      What you have can be enough to supply if you entrust it to Jesus. He can multiply until your need is meant. I will put everything, my home, my family, my future and my soul in the hands of Jesus.

P.       Father; I give you my all. Use me as you will. I surrender everything into your hands. Lead me by your Holy Spirit as I put my trust in you. Amen.

Rest a while

10-23-2014    Mark 6:30-32

S.       30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught.31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately.

O.      After the twelve return and report their ministry to Jesus he leads them away for a time of rest.

A.      Ministry is very demanding both physically and mentally. It is important that time is set aside for rest and rejuvenation. The key to successful rest is to include Jesus. Jesus was with the twelve during their time of rest.

P.       Father; help me to understand the need for rest and guide me to the type and place of rest that will be beneficial and spiritually renewing. Amen. 

Hell is real!

What will your future hold? That is up to you! Confess your sin, abandon sin (repent), and live for Jesus in every aspect of life and you will be a resident of Heaven. Live in sin, embrace sin, make excuses for sin and you will be escorted to Hell for eternity. Hell is a place of darkness (no light), limited communication, pain without relief and no escape. You can choose your eternal destination. You have free will. It's not up to God......you choose by the life you live. Choose Heaven.....Please.

10-22-2014    Mark 6:14-29

S.       14 And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.15 Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets.16 But when Herod heard thereof, he said, It is John, whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead.17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her.18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife.19 Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not:20 For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee;22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee.23 And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom.24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her.27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison,28 And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it to her mother.29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.

O.      John the Baptist is murdered by Herod to fulfill a lustful promise. Herod believes that Jesus is a risen John the Baptist.

A.      Lust, of any kind, will lead to failure and sin. The power of lust is rooted in our mind and must be removed by constant communion with God. When we are in communion with God, praying, memorizing the word and ministering to the lost we do not give in to lust. Our weak flesh must be strengthened to overcome temptation. That strength comes in the form of; faith and Joy.

P.       Father; fill me with faith and joy as I willing surrender my mind, heart and soul to you and your perfect will. Amen.

Welfare?

Wake up, wake up, daylights a breaking; peas in the pot and hoecakes a baking. This is the little song my father-in-law would sing each morning (as loud as possible) to awake the house, happy and ready to enjoy life. He was always thankful for the simple necessity's of life. He worked hard and never ask for anything he did not earn himself. He never was envious or greedy, never wanted charity. How do you stand concerning this welfare world we live in? 

10-21-2014    Mark 6:7-13

S.       7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; 8 And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: 9 But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats.10 And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place.11  And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent.13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.

O.      Jesus gives power to the twelve. This power is over unclean spirits. They travel from place to place and stay in worthy homes. The worthiness of a home is decided by the manner in which the gospel message is, or is not, received. The home is to be judged by the disciples and a sign of un-worthiness is explained.

A.      Jesus gives me power over all un-clean spirits. This is power over sin and satan thus giving me power to live, as Jesus lived on earth as a man, without sinning or being overcome by evil spirits. I will not use the excuse; I am only human…..therefore I must sin. I will believe God’s word and the example of Jesus’s sinless life.

P.       Father; I claim power over sin, in the name of Jesus. I believe you and your promises. I am dead to sin because of Calvary for I have confessed and repented. Lead me Lord by your Holy Spirit that I may live in the center of your perfect will. Amen.  

Are you a sinner?

Christian are to be "dead to sin". If you choose to sin, love sin, enjoy sin then you are choosing to be a sinner......not a christian. Quit lowering the standard of God's word. Get your focus off of sin and on Jesus....."I CAN do all things through Christ".......this includes overcoming SIN!

10-20-2014    Mark 6:5-6

S.       5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.

O.      The ministry of Jesus was hindered because of un-belief, not stopped; just hindered. With God; “all things are possible”. The exercise of “free will” will bring blessing or cursing depending on how it is used.

A.      I must be careful to keep my will in a state of surrender to the word of God. God has a plan for my life; I will seek to learn and obey.

P.       Father; enlighten my mind to your perfect will for my life. Amen.

Just Believe

10-18-2014    Mark 5:35-43

S.       35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.37 And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.38 And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.41 And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.42 And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.43 And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

O.      Word comes to the ruler that his daughter is dead and Jesus tells him to believe and not to fear. Jesus raises the dead girl to life, but he wants this kept secret and fails to explain why.

A.      I must believe and not fear. If I believe, anything is possible……even life over death. I must believe, I will believe.

P.       Father; help me to overcome all unbelief, to keep my eyes on you and your promises and not on the circumstances around me. Help me to remember your word. Graft your word into my heart that it become a natural source of my faith. Amen.

Fight the GOOD fight, overcome yourself!

Are you growing, changing and becoming the person you should be? Each time I reach a goal, master a problem or overcome a weakness I think to myself; another step up the ladder of success. Then I find myself in another challenge. When will I find a finish? When Will I arrive at my full potential? Some questions do not have an answer.  So, I will keep on fighting the good fight>

10-17-2014    Mark 5:25-34

S.       25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

O.      A woman is healed by touching the garment of Jesus. Jesus tells her that it happened because of her faith.

A.      Faith is the foundation of my spiritual life. Faith saves, heals, supplies and keeps me. Faith is a gift from God. He gives everyone a portion. Faith will increase or decrease depending on how it is used (or un-used).

     P.      Father; increase my faith as I grow and become more like Jesus. Help me to overcome all doubt and fear. I                         commit my everything and my all to you. Amen. 

Deviants

I will give my sermon notes to the Mayor of Houston if she will read aloud every word to the city council in open session. She might help some hurting person to hear the truth.....and be saved, healed, delivered or just be encouraged. If she is confident in the decision to live her gay lifestyle, why is she afraid of others that want to live their lifestyle. Simple statistical comparison shows that "she" (and others like her) has deviated from the norm. There are more people unlike her than like her. Makes you think.

10-16-2014    Mark 5:21-24

S.       21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea.22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, 23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

O.      Jesus is asked to come and heal a ruler’s sick daughter. As they are traveling to the ruler’s house large crowds gather and hinder their progress.

A.      Large crowds are often present when Jesus is teaching and preaching. This would make it very difficult for him to travel from place to place. Not one time do I see Jesus complaining or upset by this difficulty, he just kept moving toward his destination and ministering as he went. I must be careful about complaining in difficult situations and be sure to minister (represent Jesus) as I go.

     P.       Father; thank you for showing me this aspect of how Jesus dealt with problems. I want to be like Jesus and                       minister to others, even in my difficulties. Fill me with wisdom, love and grace. Amen.  

VOTE AND BE HEARD

Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country. Please vote in the coming
election. Vote out the old, and let's start over. The result could not be any worse than the messed up junk going on now. If everyone would vote......politicians would realize......the PEOPLE are the government......not their little pals in D.C.

10-15-2014    Mark 5:18-20

S.       18 And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.

O.      The man who had the demons cast out wants to leave home and stay with Jesus. Jesus gives him instruction; Stay home and tell everyone of your great deliverance, be a living testimony!

A.      I will be a living testimony where I live. I will declare how Jesus has healed me, body, mind, spirit and soul.

P.       Father; increase my courage and my faith. I want to be strong and to endure until you call me in the Rapture or I go by the way of the grave. Thank you Lord for calling and saving me; I am worthless without you working in my life. Thank you for loving me. Amen. 

What do you want Jesus to Do?

They that worship God must worship him "In Spirit and In Truth".  Much of the current noise about worship leaves this scripture completely out of the conversation. To worship in the spirit you must be filled with the Spirit....not sin. 

10-14-2014    Mark 5:15-17

S.       15 And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.16 And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.17 And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.

O.      After Jesus cast out the demons all the people were afraid and ask Jesus to leave.

A.      I must not become afraid of supernatural events. God is always the same and his ways are not always understandable. I will embrace and believe each miracle in the Bible. I will seek to draw closer to my Lord and conquer fear.

P.       Father; I seek to overcome all my fears and worries. Heal my mind and touch my spirit. I praise you and invite you to use me in this dark hour. Amen.

New...All New!

Yesterday God gave me a word about forgiveness, not the forgiveness of my sin but "MY" forgiveness of others. God said; "Forgive like I forgive"........stop bringing up hurts from your past. I ask God to help me turn loose of my hurtful memories......to forgive......Like he forgives......."to be remembered no more". What freedom and peace have filled my heart.

10-13-2014    Mark 5:10-14

S.       10 And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.11 Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.12 And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.13 And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.14 And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.

O.      Jesus allows the evil spirits to enter into a swine heard. The swine all jump over a cliff and die in the sea.

A.      Animals would not live with evil living inside them. I will learn from these animals and I will evict evil from my life. I will use faith, prayer, fasting, repentance, conversion, salvation and forgiveness to conquer sin and eradicate it from my life.

P.       Father; wash me clean just now and renew a right spirit within me. Give me confidence. I put my trust in you to keep me clean and guide me into righteousness. Amen.

Heal Sam!

Happy to see Sunday again. Will see some of the greatest people on earth at church today. People that I love and respect. People that love and respect me. I have one hurting spot in my heart today. A dear cousin is fighting cancer. I am asking God for a miracle of divine healing for her, not because she deserves it, not because it's me asking, not because the need is so great but because Jesus paid the price for our healing on Calvary's hill. Please God........heal Sam.

10-12-2014    Mark 5:1-9

S.       1 And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.2 And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,3 Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:4 Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,7 And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.8 For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.9 And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.

O.      Jesus cast out a demon named Legion who had been terrorizing the land of the Gadarenes.

A.      Demons are real and still walk among men. I will not fear any unclean spirit. I will use the word of God to defeat them.

     P.       Father; fill me with your Holy Spirit to the full. Give me discernment to recognize the activities of evil spirits                    and build up my courage to speak your word against them. Amen.  

Sweet Rest

I am surrounded by Holy Angels today. I am inside the hedge, safe, secure and happy. Thank you Lord for this special place. I don't deserve it but I know that your wonderful love has me here to rest. 

10-11-2014    Mark 4:40-

S.       40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, what manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

O.      The disciples of Jesus are amazed at the power he has just displayed. Jesus chastises them for their fear.

A.      I must replace fear with faith and believe. With God; all things are possible.

     P.       Father; I ask for more faith, stronger faith and for that faith to be displayed through my life to the winning of the                lost. Use me Dear Lord! Amen. 

Storms

Share your faith at work today! Let Jesus calm your spirit like he calmed the storm! You may help a lost soul to find real peace.

10-10-2014    Mark 4:35-39

S.       35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

O.      Jesus calms the storm.

A.      Jesus brings calm to my mind and soul every time I call out his name. The storm is never bigger than my God’s ability, love or grace.

P.       Father; thank you for peace in the storm, for faith and deliverance. I speak the name of Jesus to my storm. Amen.

Questions?

How "saved"are you? Is God "first"in your life. Are you happy? These are my questions to ponder today.

10-9-2014      Mark 4:33-34

S.       33 And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.34But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.

O.      Jesus explains his parables to his disciples when in private settings.

A.      I will listen to the spirit and find understanding. I will use great care in the sharing of God’s Word.

P.       Father; I seek to know the hidden message of every part of your word. Spirit; lead me into the truth……all of the truth. Amen.

Faith

Faith is a gift from God. He gives it to everyone. Grow your faith by using it. Use it for the things that really matter, your health and the health of the ones you love, your peace and the peace of the world, and most of all for your salvation and the salvation of others. Faith is a terrible thing to waste.

10-8-2014      Mark 4:30-32

S.       30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:32 But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.

O.      Jesus uses the mustard grain as an example of how a small amount of faith can become massive.

A.      My faith has the potential to become very strong. I will think, plan, study and live under the direction of faith. My faith comes from God so I will ask God to help me learn how to use it.

P.       Father; thank you for the faith you have given to me. Open my understanding as I grow in grace and teach me the perfect way to live…….the way that will be pleasing to you. Amen.

How are you Growing?

I spent half of my life trying to push, pull, scare, scream, prod, shame people into living right. It never worked. The harder I was the more difficult "my" life was. People will only change when they want to change. It (change) starts from inside a person and radiates to the live others see. Lots of folks under my ministry acted as I wanted them to act. The problem was; they were just acting, no real change had occurred, no inner renewal, just paint and powder for my sake. God called me to plant seed, gospel seed. How you grow is up to you.

10-7-2014      Mark 4:26-29

S.       26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; 27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.

O.      Spiritual seed is like natural seed, it must be planted before it will grow and produce fruit.

A.      I will plant and I will harvest. I will leave the growth patterns and development to the course of nature.

P.       Father; as the farmer does not tell the seed how to grow I must do the same. Help me to trust your work in the lives that I have planted seed in and just stay ready to harvest. Help me to be a farmer instead of a policeman. Amen.

Friends

What will this week hold for you and me? Will me be closer to each other or will we drift apart? I can't seem to stay in touch with people any more. I use this social media every day and seldom hear a line back. Speak up friends and let me know how you are. I love you!

10-6-2014      Mark 4:24-25

S.       24 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.25 For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.

O.      The principal of sowing and reaping is explained here.

A.      I will plant much and therefore I will reap a plenteous harvest. Because I develop my faith I will receive more faith and as I receive more faith I will plant even greater amounts of seed. To God be the glory.

P.       Father; build up my faith and as I deploy my faith lead that deployment by your Holy Spirit. Amen.

Shine on

10-5-2014      Mark 4:21-23

S.       21 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.

O.      There is no reason to hide the light……the truths of God.

A.      I must not be ashamed to proclaim my faith to others. I will speak up and “let my light shine” for Jesus. Light is stronger than darkness.

P.       Father; shine through me; shine your love, mercy, grace and peace. Love through me and be my light. Amen. 

Fake Christians

Pushing myself today to get started. This is my pattern more and more. The bones are tired from all the stress and labor. Some would say; Get more exercise, eat the right foods and you will feel better. It's not my body that is slow to get started, it's my heart (soul). With all this murder and war, lazy president, stupid politicians and Christians that don't have a clue.......I am wearing out. I pray, I visit, I pray, I preach and teach, I pray, I wright, I pray. Wake up Christians......If you are sinning you are NOT GOD'S CHILD! You must ACT like your farther. If you are ACTING like satan (I never capitalize that wicked name) then he must be your father.

"You ARE what you DO, you DO what you ARE"!

10-4-2014      Mark 4:13-20

S.       13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?14 The sower soweth the word.15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.

O.      Jesus gives three examples of how people receive the word of God.

A.      I will prepare myself to receive the word and be a fruitful servant. I will keep my heart and mind fixed in the word of God; I will share the truth with as many others as I can. I will confess my sin and seek to change any aspect of my life, that I will be obedient to my Lord.

P.       Father; I am weak and feeble and I need your help. Direct my path and speak your will into my heart. Amen. 

Outside-inside or Inside-outside?

Working out is so hard for me. I want my efforts to produce instant results. Long term, slow progress is not my thing. This is what I see in many Christians when it comes to spiritual efforts. Christians today want instant gratification. You do not get into an obese condition instantly nor do you become anemic over night. This is also true of our spirit. Keep praying, studying and attending Gods house.....in the long run you will be healthier. 

10-3-2014      Mark 4:10-

S.       10 And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them

O.      Jesus sets a clear distinction between those on the inside and those on the outside of faith. Conversion is the key to understanding.

A.      I must move closer to God, learn his ways and serve his will. I must be changed! I surrender my pride, arrogance, anger, greed and selfishness.

P.       Father; re-make me like unto your son, Jesus. Create in me a pure heart, mind and soul as I willingly surrender my whole being to you. Amen.  

Slow down

Why is it so hard to stay "focused"? Probably because you are trying to do too much. Look at your life: 18 to 20 hours of non-stop duties, every day. This will lead to health problems, relational problems and a sick soul. Learn how to say "NO" and cut away all the social nonsense. Do the things that really matter. Play with your children, listen to your spouse and spend time with God! I don't get as much done these days as I did in the past........but I enjoy my life much more.

10-2-2014      Mark 4:3-9

S.       3 Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:4 And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.5 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.8 And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.9 And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

O.      The parable of the sower gives two very clear messages. The seed is the word of God and how it grows and produces.

A.      I must sow the word of God. How it is developed by the various listeners is out of my control. My own development is clearly my decision. I want to be good ground and bring much fruit into the throne room.

P.       Father; I am prepared to receive, I have my heart open and I want to be productive in your service. Please use me today. Amen. 

Going to Hell?

When will the leaders in America wake up to the depth or religious commitment in the hearts of man. These Islamic fanatics that are covering the globe with their hate and evil are not swayed by fear or deterred by  political maneuvering. The souls of these people are filled with evil. They are the tools of hate, vengeance and destruction to be used on anyone that is not "just like them".
Christians arise! Every one of these poor souls is headed to their own destruction in HELL! Pray for their lost souls. Ask God to send conviction into their hearts. Fight the war that can change their eternity.

10-1-2014      Mark 4:1-2

S.       1 And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land.2 And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine,

O.      Jesus spends time teaching his new doctrine.

A.      Teaching is important for all believers. I must constantly learn that I may teach others and keep the faith active and alive in our lives.

P.       Father; send your Spirit to instruct my learning. Reveal the truth to me that I teach no other doctrines. Teach me to be humble and useful. Amen.