Charles Swindoll said “There is no more significant involvement in another’s life than prevailing, consistent prayer.  It is more helpful than a gift of money, more encouraging than a strong sermon, more effective than a compliment, more reassuring than a physical embrace.”

How many times do we look at a day ahead or a circumstance and try to “figure out” how we are going to make it work.  Imagine me – a creation – thinking I can even see all of the opportunities, tools, etc. available to me…. When all along the Creator Himself has told us – you have not because you ask not.  He makes all things work together for good for those who love Him.  That’s ALL things.  So while prayer is not tangible, it’s the most awesome way we can contribute to another’s well being.  God in His amazing love, power and kingdom has ALL – THAT’S EVERYTHING at His fingertips and His plans are far greater for us than we perceive or can dare to dream.

So – open your heart, mind and soul.  Close your eyes for a moment and remember your dream.  Now – lay it at His feet…. And watch with wonder as He honors each step in faith as you walk toward the dream He has given you.

Blessings upon blessings to you today… and pray!

The Clouds Appear...and there is blessing still

The day started and proceeded with overcast clouds that failed to produce the anticipated rain during the day, but as night fell....SURPRISE...a wonderful thunderstorm poured forth from the sky bringing joy, life, and encouragement!

You may be walking through a rough patch, with bad news, pain, heartbreak or betrayal swirling about you, but know that there is One who will never leave you nor forsake you...who is closer than a brother....and knows every hair upon your head. And as suddenly as the strike of lightening and boom of thunder, you are made aware that you are loved. You are surprised by love and joy that only He can supply. (reference: Hebrews 13:9, Luke 12:7)

So be that sweet note of friendship, the unexpected favorite beverage, the kind word of encouragement to those around you today! God bless you greatly!

Every time you smile at someone it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. MOTHER TERESA

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love, does not know God for God is love. 1John 4:7-8

We don't know what people around us are going through, but we can show them love with the gift of a smile.

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Last evening I was at a continuing education class for my profession and had the most wonderful encounter that resulted in meeting a new friend. We chatted during breaks and even for some time after class. She was the friend and connection I'd been praying for...someone who sought after God as I do. At the end of that very long day, I found myself energized and so very grateful for the connection.

How about you? What are the day's surprises for you that bring joy and gratitude to your heart?

I know I've been on somewhat of a hiatus.  I've been seeking more understanding, more life, more of God.  I just finished a wonderful book, "Unleashing Heaven's Breath: Discover the Ultimate Secret to Releasing Signs, Wonders, and Miracles.  It is about releasing the Word of God into our world and truly bringing "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven" to life. God has not changed. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. We have changed in our interpretation of the Word, watering it down to church services and rules and regulations rather than unleashing the Word in this world.

Mr. Hannett takes the reader through many scriptures with love and kindness, while speaking truth directly from THE WORD. Our hearts have a longing for more. Believers should not "blend in" but rather be the salt and light in this world where the miraculous is unleashed through a true surrender and following of the great commission. 

We are called to "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,[a] drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give." Matthew 10:8. Where you see these things happening, you see believers living out our calling.

This book will set you ablaze with power as you immerse yourself in the Word and speak it out in our world.   It will also help you to truly understand who you are as a believer.  Uplifting, inspiring, moving!

Today you might find yourself tempted to give in, "go with the flow" – it may seem harmless at the moment until you remember that we are each building a heritage/a legacy for others to see and say, “you made a difference in my life. You inspired me.” In order to do that, we must not give in, even to what appears to be the smallest of temptations – like participating in gossip, or giving an opinion where not welcomed nor invited, or supposing to know another’s motives in a negative light.

Don’t give in. It will change everything!

Know this: you are not alone. Others have been where you are and stood fast for much is at stake. Remember: No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1^st Corinthians 10:13

I believe in you and there are so many that are watching your moves this very day to see how you handle the trials (known or unknown to them) that befall you.  You have the opportunity make a difference everywhere you go.  Will you be remembered for bringing light and joy or for bringing "down" a room?  The choice is yours.  It's your legacy to build.  Stand up and be the difference.

Good Things

He surrounds me with loving kindness and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things! Psalm 103:4-5

 

Look around – are you one displaying loving kindness and tender mercies - is there someone that sticks out that does? Thank God and thank them.

Let’s be one of life’s good things to another today.

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Choose to be love...

I happened upon an old email that included children's definitions of love.  This one always causes me to pause. 

 

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.
 You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'  Billy - age 4

Wouldn't it be great if we (believers) became known as those with whom your name is safe; that in the midst of this world we were able to convey scripture by living it out?   By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:35) But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief. (Job 16:5)  

 

Would those that know you say their name is safe in your mouth?

 

Today let's choose to encourage and let the love of the Lord flow through us.