It doesn’t matter how well you’ve run the race or played the game if you don’t finish it you’ll be disqualified. If you loose your intensity in the end and don’t play to win you will fail. “The season” of gluttony and financial unrestraint is about to come upon us and many will yield to temptation and use “the Holidays” as an excuse and choose to lose. It’s not time to slack because if you do you’ll surely lack. It’s time to put in the winning effort and push yourself to obtain the victory - To go against the flow and believe and achieve and prepare for next year. And to start thinking about your goals for 2010 and getting ready to start next years race in top condition! The Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts are not the problem but the general lack of self restraint leading up to them. So beware or you’ll get caught in the snare and end up wondering why you lost and cry. If you “cast off restraint” you just might die so why not give something new a try. Spend Q4 getting fit for our King and start next year in full swing!
Prov 29:18 KJV
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
NKJV
Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint;
But happy is he who keeps the law.
MES
If people can't see what God is doing,
they stumble all over themselves;
But when they attend to what he reveals,
they are most blessed.
TLB
When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild.
But whoever obeys the law is joyful.
NCV
Where there is no word from God, people are uncontrolled,
but those who obey what they have been taught are happy.
Prov 23:19-21
19 Hear, my son, and be wise;
And guide your heart in the way.
20 Do not mix with winebibbers,
Or with gluttonous eaters of meat;
21 For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty,
And drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.
NKJV
2 Tim 4:7 (Caps. added)
7 I have fought the good fight, I have FINISHED THE RACE, I have kept the faith.
NKJV
1 Cor 9:24-27 (Caps. added)
24 Do you not know that those who run in a RACE all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become DISQUALIFIED.
NKJV
Col 1:12 (Caps. added)
…giving thanks to the Father who has QUALIFIED us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.
NKJV
PIE90 Scripture:
Prov 23:21
21 For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty,
And drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.
NKJV
Prov 23:21
21 Drunks and gluttons will end up on skid row,
in a stupor and dressed in rags.
MES
Prov 23:21
For those who take delight in drink and feasting will come to be in need; and through love of sleep a man will be poorly clothed.
BBE
Prov 23:20-21
20 Do not associate with those who drink too much wine,
with those who eat too much meat,
21 because both a drunk and a glutton will become poor.
Drowsiness will dress a person in rags.
GW
Prov 23:20-21
20 Don't associate with people who drink too much wine or stuff themselves with food. 21 Drunkards and gluttons will be reduced to poverty. If all you do is eat and sleep, you will soon be wearing rags.
GNT
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Ya Snooze Ya Lose!
As I was rolling over in bed this morning I looked at the door and this scripture came to mind.
Prov 26:14
14 Just as a door turns on its hinges,
so a lazybones turns back over in bed.
Prov 26:13-15
The lazy man won't go out and work. "There might be a lion outside!" he says. 14 He sticks to his bed like a door to its hinges!
TLB
Prov 26:14
14 Lazy people turn over in bed. They get no farther than a door swinging on its hinges.
GNT
Maybe God was trying to tell me something. We need our rest to maintain fitness in every area and the Bible also says.
Ps 127:2
2 It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.
NKJV
Ps 127:2
2 It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.
NKJV
Ps 127:2
2 It is senseless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, fearing you will starve to death; for God wants his loved ones to get their proper rest.
TLB
So where’s the balance, and how much rest is “proper”? It depends on the person and I believe God will help you schedule your life if you seek Him. As a general rule we need at least seven hours of sleep every night and especially if we are in the habit of exercising which we should be.
Seek first God’s kingdom and His will; you’re going nowhere lying still.
You’ve heard the old saying; “ya snooze ya loose!” the key is to get up at the time you choose.
Don’t let morning foggy head change your mind, don’t roll back over and start your day behind.
If your life is full of sleeping binges, then you’re like a door swinging on its hinges.
God’s mercy is new every day, His plan revealed as you pray.
Diligently keep the morning meeting; it’s more important than the food you’re eating.
Get good rest to be your best, but don’t ‘skip’ God and get stressed not blessed.
Be determined to first keep “eating PIE” because you need your fuel before you fly.
So today is day 42 of this round of the PIE90 Challenge, how are you doing? I’m running late today but still determined to do it. If you will “apply PIE” it will change your life forever and I believe you will fulfill God’s will. If you’ve missed some days don’t get down and discouraged just GET UP AND GET GOING and especially in the morning! You can do it if you will! The more time spend time fellowshipping with God the more you begin to think and act like Him and the more you act like Him the more you’ll win!
PIE
1. Pray - fellowship, communicate, talk and listen, read, write, journal, meditate, tune in
2. Itemize - PLAN - WRITE IT DOWN - list - admonitions, "get the hint," info. - P.S. it - SCHEDULE
3. Exercise - PERFORM, execute, accomplish, fulfill, ACT, action, actors
PIE90 Scripture:
Matt 6:33
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
NKJV
Prov 26:14
14 Just as a door turns on its hinges,
so a lazybones turns back over in bed.
Prov 26:13-15
The lazy man won't go out and work. "There might be a lion outside!" he says. 14 He sticks to his bed like a door to its hinges!
TLB
Prov 26:14
14 Lazy people turn over in bed. They get no farther than a door swinging on its hinges.
GNT
Maybe God was trying to tell me something. We need our rest to maintain fitness in every area and the Bible also says.
Ps 127:2
2 It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.
NKJV
Ps 127:2
2 It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.
NKJV
Ps 127:2
2 It is senseless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, fearing you will starve to death; for God wants his loved ones to get their proper rest.
TLB
So where’s the balance, and how much rest is “proper”? It depends on the person and I believe God will help you schedule your life if you seek Him. As a general rule we need at least seven hours of sleep every night and especially if we are in the habit of exercising which we should be.
Seek first God’s kingdom and His will; you’re going nowhere lying still.
You’ve heard the old saying; “ya snooze ya loose!” the key is to get up at the time you choose.
Don’t let morning foggy head change your mind, don’t roll back over and start your day behind.
If your life is full of sleeping binges, then you’re like a door swinging on its hinges.
God’s mercy is new every day, His plan revealed as you pray.
Diligently keep the morning meeting; it’s more important than the food you’re eating.
Get good rest to be your best, but don’t ‘skip’ God and get stressed not blessed.
Be determined to first keep “eating PIE” because you need your fuel before you fly.
So today is day 42 of this round of the PIE90 Challenge, how are you doing? I’m running late today but still determined to do it. If you will “apply PIE” it will change your life forever and I believe you will fulfill God’s will. If you’ve missed some days don’t get down and discouraged just GET UP AND GET GOING and especially in the morning! You can do it if you will! The more time spend time fellowshipping with God the more you begin to think and act like Him and the more you act like Him the more you’ll win!
PIE
1. Pray - fellowship, communicate, talk and listen, read, write, journal, meditate, tune in
2. Itemize - PLAN - WRITE IT DOWN - list - admonitions, "get the hint," info. - P.S. it - SCHEDULE
3. Exercise - PERFORM, execute, accomplish, fulfill, ACT, action, actors
PIE90 Scripture:
Matt 6:33
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
NKJV
Friday, November 6, 2009
Cheers! Before Cheers!
Feeling tired, dehydrated and down? You don’t need another shot of Java what you need is some joy juice! Joy is the juice of the fruit of the Spirit. Not fermented and rotten but spiked with life by the Holy Spirit. If you will partake, then you will see, that He’ll fill your heart with glee. Joy is like the cup that draws your life up. When you rejoice (praise, shout, dance, jump, leap, spin, etc) then you turn on the faucet within and your life starts to fill up and be infused with divine life. You are hydrated, quickened and strengthened with joy so you can keep your pace and run your race enduring until the end. Joy is the ultimate energy drink! Have you ever seen a tired haggard joyful person? Not so much. Joy will vitalize and revolutionalize your life your life and change your perspective on everything. You’ll begin to see yourself strong, and be yourself strong - strengthened with might through His Spirit in your inner man. The abundant life of the Almighty is in you but you need to “DRAW” it out. Some people have a wine cellar in their house but it will have no “effect” on their lives unless they open it up. And God has given you not rotten grapes but the new wine of the fruit of the Spirit – it’s in you! And it will quicken you when you “drink” it! Rejoicing! – And especially in the midst of trial and tribulation “pops the cork” and gives you an infusion of “liquid courage!” It makes you strong and able to endure hardship so that you can finish your race WITH JOY and glorify God by overcoming and not just undergoing all the “normally scheduled” trails and tribulations. And HA, HA! Is what you say right before you pull out your sword and start routing the enemy! So you can either mope and “try” to cope, or take God’s Word and rejoice, it’s your choice! Complaining will land you in debtor’s prison but God’s joy will give you freedom, life, strength and vision. Some things won’t change but you can always “take a drink” and change the way you see and think. Being depressed will put you in the slums so chug God’s joy and overcome!
PIE90 Scripture:
John 16:33
33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
NKJV
HA, HA!
Ps 31:24
24 So cheer up! Take courage if you are depending on the Lord.
TLB
(All scriptures – caps added.)
John 4:11-14
11 The woman said to Him, "Sir, You have nothing to DRAW with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? 12 Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, as well as his sons and his livestock?"
13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
NKJV
Isa 12:3
3 Therefore with joy you will DRAW water
From the wells of salvation.
NKJV
John 7:37-39
37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."
NKJV
1 Cor 9:24-27
24 Do you not know that those who run in a RACE all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
NKJV
2 Tim 4:7-8
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the RACE, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
NKJV
Acts 20:22-24
22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my RACE with JOY, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
NKJV
Col 1:10-14
10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering WITH JOY 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
NKJV
Heb 12:1-3
12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the JOY that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
NKJV
Col 1:11-14
11 We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul — not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into JOY, 12 thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us.
13 God rescued us from dead-end alleys and dark dungeons. He's set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, 14 the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating.
MES
Col 1:11-12
11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering WITH JOY;
NKJV
John 15:11-12
11 "These things I have spoken to you, that MY JOY may remain in you, and that your JOY may be full.
NKJV
1 John 1:3-4
3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you that your JOY may be full.
NKJV
PIE90 Scripture:
John 16:33
33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
NKJV
HA, HA!
Ps 31:24
24 So cheer up! Take courage if you are depending on the Lord.
TLB
(All scriptures – caps added.)
John 4:11-14
11 The woman said to Him, "Sir, You have nothing to DRAW with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? 12 Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, as well as his sons and his livestock?"
13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
NKJV
Isa 12:3
3 Therefore with joy you will DRAW water
From the wells of salvation.
NKJV
John 7:37-39
37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."
NKJV
1 Cor 9:24-27
24 Do you not know that those who run in a RACE all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
NKJV
2 Tim 4:7-8
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the RACE, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
NKJV
Acts 20:22-24
22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my RACE with JOY, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
NKJV
Col 1:10-14
10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering WITH JOY 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
NKJV
Heb 12:1-3
12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the JOY that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
NKJV
Col 1:11-14
11 We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul — not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into JOY, 12 thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us.
13 God rescued us from dead-end alleys and dark dungeons. He's set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, 14 the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating.
MES
Col 1:11-12
11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering WITH JOY;
NKJV
John 15:11-12
11 "These things I have spoken to you, that MY JOY may remain in you, and that your JOY may be full.
NKJV
1 John 1:3-4
3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you that your JOY may be full.
NKJV
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Need a Drink?
How about a shot of joy! Joy is part of the fruit of the Spirit. When you drink of this fruit you will be encouraged and empowered to do Gods will and enjoy it! We’ve been challenged to get fit for our King and the training has been intense and difficult lately but that’s okay because WE”VE GOT JOY! We are “training for reigning” under the strictest regimen and we’ll not make it without joy because, “the joy of the Lord is our strength.” Joy gives us the power to endure. And “you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise. (Heb 10:36) We NEED to be diligent and endure until the end and the Bible says, “…my God shall supply all your NEED according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:19) He has what you need! In His presence is ”fullness of Joy!” You don’t need Him to “make life easier” for you and that’s not what He said that He would do. What He said is that He would be with you and give you power to overcome. As you exercise your power to prevail you get stronger and then God can give you bigger challenges and victories! As long as we are in this world we will have tribulation but “it’s no problem!” as long as we realize that you have the ultimate Champion living on the inside of us! Our obstacles and opponent shall become smaller and you yield to the training for reigning from within.
Joy Drunken Brawl or Ball
What your adversary wants to do, is sap the joy and strength from you.
But if you frown you’re goin down so run your sorrow out of town.
Make a choice, to rejoice, sing and dance and raise your voice!
Be of good cheer, have no fear, and kick the devil in the rear!
HA, HA, HA! Is what to say.
Because you receive God’s joy, when you laugh and pray!
Be filled with joy, bold and strong.
And whip the enemy all day long!
PIE90 Scripture: Ps 118:24-25
Ps 118:24-25
24 This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
25 Save now, I pray, O Lord;
O Lord, I pray, send now prosperity.
NKJV
Ps 118:24-25
24 This is the very day God acted —
let's celebrate and be festive!
25 Salvation now, God. Salvation now!
Oh yes, God — a free and full life!
MES
Ps 118:24
This is the day which the Lord has made; we will be full of joy and delight in it.
BBE
Note Scriptures:
Gal 5:22, 1 Cor 10:4, 12:13, Jn 7:37, Ps 16:11, Neh 8:10, Heb 12:2, 6:11-12, Ps 91:15-16, Rom 8:35-37, Lu 10:19, Rom 5:17, Jn 16:33
Others: …
Ps 105:43
43 He brought out His people with joy,
His chosen ones with gladness.
NKJV
Jer 15:16
16 Your words were found, and I ate them,
And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart;
For I am called by Your name,
O Lord God of hosts.
NKJV
John 16:23-24
23 "And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
NKJV
John 17:13
13 But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.
NKJV
John 15:9-12
9 "As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love.
11 "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
NKJV
Acts 20:24
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
NKJV
Rom 14:17-18
17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
NKJV
Rom 15:13
13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
NKJV
Gal 5:22-26
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
NKJV
James 1:2-8
2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
NKJV
1 Peter 1:7-9
7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith — the salvation of your souls.
NKJV
1 John 1:1-4
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life — 2 the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us — 3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.
NKJV
3 John 2-4
2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
NKJV
Joy Drunken Brawl or Ball
What your adversary wants to do, is sap the joy and strength from you.
But if you frown you’re goin down so run your sorrow out of town.
Make a choice, to rejoice, sing and dance and raise your voice!
Be of good cheer, have no fear, and kick the devil in the rear!
HA, HA, HA! Is what to say.
Because you receive God’s joy, when you laugh and pray!
Be filled with joy, bold and strong.
And whip the enemy all day long!
PIE90 Scripture: Ps 118:24-25
Ps 118:24-25
24 This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
25 Save now, I pray, O Lord;
O Lord, I pray, send now prosperity.
NKJV
Ps 118:24-25
24 This is the very day God acted —
let's celebrate and be festive!
25 Salvation now, God. Salvation now!
Oh yes, God — a free and full life!
MES
Ps 118:24
This is the day which the Lord has made; we will be full of joy and delight in it.
BBE
Note Scriptures:
Gal 5:22, 1 Cor 10:4, 12:13, Jn 7:37, Ps 16:11, Neh 8:10, Heb 12:2, 6:11-12, Ps 91:15-16, Rom 8:35-37, Lu 10:19, Rom 5:17, Jn 16:33
Others: …
Ps 105:43
43 He brought out His people with joy,
His chosen ones with gladness.
NKJV
Jer 15:16
16 Your words were found, and I ate them,
And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart;
For I am called by Your name,
O Lord God of hosts.
NKJV
John 16:23-24
23 "And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
NKJV
John 17:13
13 But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.
NKJV
John 15:9-12
9 "As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love.
11 "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
NKJV
Acts 20:24
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
NKJV
Rom 14:17-18
17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
NKJV
Rom 15:13
13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
NKJV
Gal 5:22-26
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
NKJV
James 1:2-8
2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
NKJV
1 Peter 1:7-9
7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith — the salvation of your souls.
NKJV
1 John 1:1-4
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life — 2 the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us — 3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.
NKJV
3 John 2-4
2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
NKJV
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
DOING GOD’S WILL OR UNDOING IT?
You are either doing God’s will or not and if you’re not then you’re undoing it. It’s hard to make any progress when you go around undoing everything that He’s doing. It’s like the old saying, “Cleaning the house while children are growing is like shoveling the walk while it is snowing.” Have you ever done something and then turned around and it’s undone? Are you working to get a paycheck that’s spent before you get it? Do you have chronic crisis – spiritually, mentally, physically, financially, and relationally? If things aren’t going right it doesn’t take a genius to figure out that you must be doing something wrong. IT’S NOT GODS FAULT! He’s perfect so He doesn’t have any. And He’s working on perfecting you but He needs some cooperation. He wants to help you clean up every area of your life – spiritually, mentally, physically, financially, relationally but how can He when you keep making messes?
I was thinking about this most of the day yesterday and the Lord was showing areas where I was asking and believing for His will do and then undoing it. Try it for yourself if you want some constructive critical coaching. It will probably hurt your feelings. Then you will also get to endure the pain of discipline if you want to solve and not just revolve your problems. You will pay a price to walk in God’s will, it’s called obedience but it’s not anywhere near the price of suffering you will pay if you don’t.
Here are a few quick examples:
God’s will is:
Perfect Peace – Isa 26:3, Jn 14:27…
God has given us perfect peace but to maintain and experience it we have to keep our minds fixed on Him and His promises and resist the temptation to worry and fret. We have perfect peace the very peace of God Himself but if we choose to think about all kinds of other “refuse” then we are undoing it. God’s will we choose or refuse.
Divine Health – Isa 53:4-5, Mt 8:17, I Pe 2:24, Prov 4:20-23, Ps 107:20-21…
God created our bodies to resist sickness and heal themselves. Jesus want around healing every sickness and every disease, His body was broken, bled and He died to make us whole. He sent His Word to impart life and gave us His Spirit to help us make wise decisions. If we make poor health choices like eating junk, not exercising or practicing physically destructive habits then we are undoing His will. It’s not right to ask God to build and heal what we destroy. Our bodies are His temple so we are obligated to and cooperate with his will and take care of them - like it or not. Poor health choices are really an insult to the cross of Christ. So how can we keep undoing what He’s doing and expect to be well?
Prosperity – 3 Jn 1:2, Ps 35:27, 115:14KJV, 2 Cor 8:9, Php 4:19…
God said that He would be our source and supply all our need. That He would give us increase “more and more” us and our children. He said that we could not serve both Him and money and that the borrower is servant to the lender. So if we’re serving the lender then we’re undoing His increase by giving all the interest to the lender. “I borrowed to try to get my needs met now it’s my master and I’m its pet; this is called the disease of debt!” Ouch! That’s what the Lord was telling me. If we serve the enemy we will be in bondage and how can He deliver us when we keep running back to Egypt? This thing has spread like a cancer and is destroying many households. God’s people are groaning because of their bondage crying out for deliverance and it seems that the Lord is saying how can I help you when you keep borrowing and borrowing undoing my will?
I’ve been increasing ever since I got saved and believing for God’s provision and He’s been faithful to give it. But I was sad to find out that I had the disease of debt. He’s been giving me increase and I’ve been using it to get decrease – debt. Now I have a negative financial net worth when I should be increasing to “leave an inheritance for my children’s children. And I can pray, tithe, give and confess until I’m out of breath and I‘ll still be in bondage until I decide to get out of Egypt and stop undoing Gods will.
So I encourage you to take this question and start applying it to every area of your life, especially where you’re hurting the most. “AM I DOING GOD’S WILL OR UNDOING IT?”
Luke 22:42-43
42 saying, "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done."
NKJV
Matt 6:8-13
8 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
13 And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
NKJV
Matt 7:24-27(caps. added)
24 "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and DOES them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 "But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and DOES NOT DO them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall."
NKJV
James 1:21-25 (caps. added)
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
22 But be DOERS of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a DOER, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he DOES. NKJV
PIE90 Scripture:
Isa 1:19-20
NKJV
9 If you are willing and obedient,
You shall eat the good of the land;
20 But if you refuse and rebel,
You shall be devoured by the sword";
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
MES
19 If you'll willingly obey,
you'll feast like kings.
20 But if you're willful and stubborn,
you'll die like dogs."
That's right. God says so.
TLB
19 If you will only let me help you, if you will only obey, then I will make you rich! 20 But if you keep on turning your backs and refusing to listen to me, you will be killed by your enemies; I, the Lord, have spoken."
I was thinking about this most of the day yesterday and the Lord was showing areas where I was asking and believing for His will do and then undoing it. Try it for yourself if you want some constructive critical coaching. It will probably hurt your feelings. Then you will also get to endure the pain of discipline if you want to solve and not just revolve your problems. You will pay a price to walk in God’s will, it’s called obedience but it’s not anywhere near the price of suffering you will pay if you don’t.
Here are a few quick examples:
God’s will is:
Perfect Peace – Isa 26:3, Jn 14:27…
God has given us perfect peace but to maintain and experience it we have to keep our minds fixed on Him and His promises and resist the temptation to worry and fret. We have perfect peace the very peace of God Himself but if we choose to think about all kinds of other “refuse” then we are undoing it. God’s will we choose or refuse.
Divine Health – Isa 53:4-5, Mt 8:17, I Pe 2:24, Prov 4:20-23, Ps 107:20-21…
God created our bodies to resist sickness and heal themselves. Jesus want around healing every sickness and every disease, His body was broken, bled and He died to make us whole. He sent His Word to impart life and gave us His Spirit to help us make wise decisions. If we make poor health choices like eating junk, not exercising or practicing physically destructive habits then we are undoing His will. It’s not right to ask God to build and heal what we destroy. Our bodies are His temple so we are obligated to and cooperate with his will and take care of them - like it or not. Poor health choices are really an insult to the cross of Christ. So how can we keep undoing what He’s doing and expect to be well?
Prosperity – 3 Jn 1:2, Ps 35:27, 115:14KJV, 2 Cor 8:9, Php 4:19…
God said that He would be our source and supply all our need. That He would give us increase “more and more” us and our children. He said that we could not serve both Him and money and that the borrower is servant to the lender. So if we’re serving the lender then we’re undoing His increase by giving all the interest to the lender. “I borrowed to try to get my needs met now it’s my master and I’m its pet; this is called the disease of debt!” Ouch! That’s what the Lord was telling me. If we serve the enemy we will be in bondage and how can He deliver us when we keep running back to Egypt? This thing has spread like a cancer and is destroying many households. God’s people are groaning because of their bondage crying out for deliverance and it seems that the Lord is saying how can I help you when you keep borrowing and borrowing undoing my will?
I’ve been increasing ever since I got saved and believing for God’s provision and He’s been faithful to give it. But I was sad to find out that I had the disease of debt. He’s been giving me increase and I’ve been using it to get decrease – debt. Now I have a negative financial net worth when I should be increasing to “leave an inheritance for my children’s children. And I can pray, tithe, give and confess until I’m out of breath and I‘ll still be in bondage until I decide to get out of Egypt and stop undoing Gods will.
So I encourage you to take this question and start applying it to every area of your life, especially where you’re hurting the most. “AM I DOING GOD’S WILL OR UNDOING IT?”
Luke 22:42-43
42 saying, "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done."
NKJV
Matt 6:8-13
8 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
13 And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
NKJV
Matt 7:24-27(caps. added)
24 "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and DOES them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 "But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and DOES NOT DO them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall."
NKJV
James 1:21-25 (caps. added)
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
22 But be DOERS of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a DOER, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he DOES. NKJV
PIE90 Scripture:
Isa 1:19-20
NKJV
9 If you are willing and obedient,
You shall eat the good of the land;
20 But if you refuse and rebel,
You shall be devoured by the sword";
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
MES
19 If you'll willingly obey,
you'll feast like kings.
20 But if you're willful and stubborn,
you'll die like dogs."
That's right. God says so.
TLB
19 If you will only let me help you, if you will only obey, then I will make you rich! 20 But if you keep on turning your backs and refusing to listen to me, you will be killed by your enemies; I, the Lord, have spoken."
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Are You Doing It or Undoing It?
Why get fit for the King? Why should you take care of your spirit, soul, body, finances and relationships? Because it’s the right thing to do that’s why. Jesus allowed His body to be broken, His blood poured out, was separated from His Father, died on the cross, went to hell, took your torment and rose again so that you could be complete in every area. He was broken so that you could become whole. And now that you’ve been reconciled to God by Him, the Spirit of the Almighty has come to live within, set you free form the curse of sin and the process of a complete renewal inside and out has begin. He cared enough about your condition to die for you and is looking for some cooperation. You are His temple and your relationship with Him is the most costly and valuable asset that you possess. Jesus literally died and bore all the rejection, torture, pain and torment caused by bad and self destructive decisions. If you’ve accepted His sacrifice and belong to Him it’s not right to destroy with lazy bad habits what He perished to preserve. You should get every area of your life right because it has been given to Him. Is what you give to Him honorable? If you honor Him; spirit, soul, body, financially and especially in your relationships then it shows that you understand the awesome price He paid and your praise and worship is a matter of lifestyle and not just some surface “put on.” It’s not just your initial reaction to the gospel but your daily action that shows that you are truly a disciple of Christ. Being a disciple takes discipline, duh! Everybody wants to be “saved” and live the good life but nobody wants to sacrifice. But the solution is simple if you want to have what is good you must give up what’s bad. This is not some “deep” theology that no one can understand but just good common sense. If someone gives you a brand new car is it free? It may be initially but what about registration, fuel and maintenance? It will cost you something to drive it and maintain, and it will cost you more to keep it well. It will take time and money to overcome all the destructive elements. The same is true with your salvation, it’s free initially but it will cost you something to walk in it. He gave His all to make this venture work now the question is what will you give? He’s always available to empower you to overcome but you’re still the One who has to do the overcoming. There are too many “destructive elements” in this world for us to just live the good life without maintenance. The Master is your Mechanic but if you don’t spend any time “in the shop” then your life will flop. And how does that make Him look? He’s doing everything He can to help you but He can only help you do what you are doing. Are you doing His will or undoing it? When you choose to refuse His discipline and instruction you are undoing His will. And you can’t keep undoing what He’s doing and expect Him to make an exception and allow you to walk in His promises when you show by your inaction that His will is not what you want. God’s will is for you to be complete and whole in every area of life but what’s your will? By your decisions you show which way you will go. All the power of heaven is available to help you do what’s right. So why should you? To honor God, because you want the good life, and it’s the right thing to do!
Eph 2:10 AMP
For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].
PIE90 Scripture:
Rom 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
NKJV
Rom 12:1-2
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life — your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life — and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. 2 Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
MES
Rom 12:1-2
I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship.
2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
AMP
Eph 2:10 AMP
For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].
PIE90 Scripture:
Rom 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
NKJV
Rom 12:1-2
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life — your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life — and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. 2 Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
MES
Rom 12:1-2
I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship.
2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
AMP
Monday, November 2, 2009
Hope or Dope?
When you feel like you can’t cope what you need is hope not dope! You want something to kill the pain when it feels like all your dreams have gone down the drain. But don’t despair and look down there because all you’ll see is ugly goo and hair. Don’t get caught in the enemies sink trap, woe your hope and strength and life to sap. Instead look up your God is here, He has come to calm your every fear. Pray and receive His joy and hope, He’ll strengthen you so you don’t mope. He’ll lift you from the dire mire, when you look to Him your heart inspire. He’s the Almighty God so don’t chagrin, with Him on your side you’ll surely win!
Ps 118:5-9
5 I called on the Lord in distress;
The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place.
6 The Lord is on my side;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
7 The Lord is for me among those who help me;
Therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me.
8 It is better to trust in the Lord
Than to put confidence in man.
9 It is better to trust in the Lord
Than to put confidence in princes.
NKJV
Ps 118:5-7
5 Pushed to the wall, I called to God;
from the wide open spaces, he answered.
6 God's now at my side and I'm not afraid;
who would dare lay a hand on me?
7 God's my strong champion;
I flick off my enemies like flies.
MES
Ps 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord;
And He inclined to me,
And heard my cry.
2 He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps.
3 He has put a new song in my mouth —
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord.
NKJV
PIE90 Scriptures
Rom 15:13, Ps 31:24
Rom 15:13
13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
NKJV
Ps 31:24
4 Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the Lord.
NKJV
Ps 31:24
24 Be strong and take heart,
all you who hope in the Lord.
NIV
Ps 31:24
Put away fear and let your heart be strong, all you whose hope is in the Lord.
BBE
Ps 31:24
24 Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord!
AMP
Ps 31:24
24 So cheer up! Take courage if you are depending on the Lord.
TLB
Ps 118:5-9
5 I called on the Lord in distress;
The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place.
6 The Lord is on my side;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
7 The Lord is for me among those who help me;
Therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me.
8 It is better to trust in the Lord
Than to put confidence in man.
9 It is better to trust in the Lord
Than to put confidence in princes.
NKJV
Ps 118:5-7
5 Pushed to the wall, I called to God;
from the wide open spaces, he answered.
6 God's now at my side and I'm not afraid;
who would dare lay a hand on me?
7 God's my strong champion;
I flick off my enemies like flies.
MES
Ps 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord;
And He inclined to me,
And heard my cry.
2 He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps.
3 He has put a new song in my mouth —
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord.
NKJV
PIE90 Scriptures
Rom 15:13, Ps 31:24
Rom 15:13
13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
NKJV
Ps 31:24
4 Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the Lord.
NKJV
Ps 31:24
24 Be strong and take heart,
all you who hope in the Lord.
NIV
Ps 31:24
Put away fear and let your heart be strong, all you whose hope is in the Lord.
BBE
Ps 31:24
24 Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord!
AMP
Ps 31:24
24 So cheer up! Take courage if you are depending on the Lord.
TLB
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