Month: January 2020

What Your Character Should Look Like – Because of God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Character, Forgiveness, Kindness, Pleasing to GodLeave a comment

Friday, 2020-01-31

Bible Reference: Ephesians 4:30-32
Translation: The Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: 30 Don’t cause the Holy Spirit sorrow by the way you live. Remember, he is the one who marks you to be present on that day when salvation from sin will be complete. 31 Stop being mean, bad-tempered, and angry. Quarreling, harsh words, and dislike of others should have no place in your lives. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God has forgiven you because you belong to Christ.

OBSERVATION: This is an awesome passage today, in that it tells us what pleases our Father; Some major things that we should strive to avoid in our character; but most importantly, some things that we should be doing that really exemplifies and pleases Christ.

APPLICATION: Many people look at the Bible as a Book of ‘don’ts’ for there is so much that we are told not to do. This could be the case for those who have a guilty conscience for all that they are doing that probably do not please our Maker. For I have found in several cases where, although we are told about our wrong doings, we can also find even stronger teachings on what we should be doing that would please God. Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, told the Ephesians, and I truly believe that his Words are still echoing to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ today, that there are some things that we do that are so contrary to the will of Christ, that it downright sorrows, or grieves the Holy Spirit. No doubt there are tons of guilty consciences hitting each reader by now, for that same sweet Holy Spirit speaks to us personally about what displeases Him. But let’s have a look at what Paul taught, and let’s particularly draw a parallel between what the Holy Spirit dislikes, vs what pleases God:
* Instead of being mean; bad-tempered; angry; quarreling, using harsh words; and displaying obvious dislike for others….
* Try instead to be kind to each other; tenderhearted; and forgiving one another;

Now, although Paul didn’t say that the first list of characteristics were not of Christ, he did say that the second list – especially forgiveness, was the image, or practice that imitates how God has forgiven us because we belong to Christ. Friends, we must always keep in mind that our natural, sinful selves will lead us towards the characteristics mentioned in the first bullet. A surrendered life, seeking to please the Master – Jesus Christ, will always seek to do the things mentioned in the second bullet. It may be a good idea to keep the two lists posted in a prominent place to remind us when we are acting ungodly and displeasing the Holy Spirit, so that we may quickly seek God’s help to overcome and change our evil ways. Being a child in the Algreen home, caused me to always strive to please my Algreen parents. Being a child of the King of all kings, should always cause you and I to strive towards pleasing Jesus Christ in every aspect of our lives. There’s a song that includes the words ‘they will know us by our love’, meaning that the world will recognize Christians by our love – the love and character of Jesus Christ. How are you perceived by others, Brother and Sister? Is it obvious to whom you belong, based on your actions and characteristics?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You set an awesome example for us to follow. So in reading this passage today, and hearing Paul teach on the characteristics that please the Holy Spirit, we can reflect back on Your Word and see example after example where You demonstrated these characteristics. Although the qualities on the ‘don’t’ list are all ones that You warned about in many of Your teachings, may we use this Scripture as a reminder of what pleases the Holy Spirit, and what grieves Him. Please touch Your children today so that we may make wise decisions in every aspect of our lives, especially in our character. May we please You by obeying Your teachings and Your example. In humbleness of heart and seeking to serve You obediently today, I ask these things in the worthy name of Jesus, my Savior and Lord, AMEN!

Our Mission, Our Passion

On By Ed AlgreenIn Evangelize, Needs of others, Obedience, SalvationLeave a comment

Thursday, 2020-01-30

Bible Reference: Acts 26:18
Translation: The Voice (Voice)

Bible Text: 18 It will be your mission to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the kingdom of Satan to the kingdom of God. This is so that they may receive forgiveness of all their sins and have a place among those who are set apart for a holy purpose through having faith in Me.”

OBSERVATION: Paul is known as one of the prominent writers of the gospel, in what we know today as the New Testament. However, it is good to reflect on all that Paul shared with King Agrippa in the testimony included in this scripture passage from which our verse is taken today. For you see, Paul was not born in a preacher’s home and spoon-fed the gospel all of his life. In fact, quite the opposite, for he was a persecutor of the Christian church and was feared by them, for his cruelty to Christians. However, once God got a hold of Paul, and he redirected his life, it was ‘all in’ for him, and he stayed consistent to His call by God, even if facing personal persecution, or death.

APPLICATION: In today’s society, we are so determined to have things done our way, or to make sure that self is well taken care of, but way too often we cave in when faced with opposition to our witness, or hardships for our stance on the things of Christ. Paul stood before the most powerful leader of his time, knowing that one wrong word could result in death or extreme times of imprisonment or persecution, yet he testified of his life changing event that took place on the road to Damascus. He further told the king of the extreme change made in His life by his Savior, and how everywhere that he went, he chose to preach the saving news of Jesus Christ. I wonder how far into the interrogation by the King would each of us have lasted? Let’s fast-forward to today. Hopefully each of us try to find a ‘safe’ place to gain our confidence each week, by meeting with fellow believers in a church setting. As we leave the doors of our sanctuary, I pray that we may have the tenacity of Paul to share the glorious gospel that saved us on our road of self destruction that was leading us to Hell. I further pray that we may we be so burdened for the hearts of those still headed in the wrong direction, that we may become as bold and determined as Paul to allow the power of God to minister through us, as we minister to others in His name. The world must know that there is a Savior who loves them so much that He bled and died for their sin, so that they might have hope for eternity. Friends, for all who have sought Jesus, and surrendered their lives to His sovereign reign and Lordship, be reminded that He has promised eternal life with He and His Father in heaven one day! Can we commit to sharing this with the same boldness that Paul did? They may accept the invitation that we give to them, however if they don’t, we would have at least been obedient to the call of Christ. Remember, we can’t save anyone. However, as we respond in obedience, God can do His mighty work through us. Are you willing to facilitate the call on a friends life today?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, please forgive us for our selfishness in keeping the awesome news of Jesus all to ourselves. Please help us to empty ourselves of pride and fear, and to be bold in our openness and willingness to allow You to have Your way even through humble men and women. Please help us to mirror the boldness of Paul today, and may You use our obedience to accomplish Your awesome work in the lives of those that we rub shoulders with today. For thine is the kingdom, the glory and the honor, for ever and ever, AMEN!

FOOTNOTE: There are two more pages on my blog that will provide you with additional information, one of them being ‘To Know Jesus’. If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please click on the above page, or speak with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. Please allow someone to pray with you and give you help and/or encouragement as you begin, or continue your walk with Jesus. Words underlined in my blog might indicate a link to a song that came to mind as I wrote the devotional. Feel free to click on the link and listen as you continue to read or pray. If this devotional was forwarded to you and you would like to see more, please go to Nuggets From God’s Word and read more, or you may freely subscribe for a daily email conveniently containing each day’s devotional. If you are anywhere near the Sebring, Florida area and do not have a church home, I would be thrilled to welcome you at Bible Fellowship Church, located at 3750 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872! Click the link to check out service times and/or other special activities. God is at work among us! Please consider coming to worship with us!

Confident In Prayer

On By Ed AlgreenIn Bible Believing, Christian, Faith, Humility, Obedience, Righteousness, SurrenderLeave a comment

Wednesday, 2020-01-29

Bible Reference: Psalm 17:3-6
Translation: New Living Translation (NLT)

Bible Text: 3 You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night.
    You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong.
    I am determined not to sin in what I say.
4 I have followed your commands,
    which keep me from following cruel and evil people.
5 My steps have stayed on your path;
    I have not wavered from following you.
6 I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God.
    Bend down and listen as I pray.

OBSERVATION: David went before the Lord in prayer, not as a stranger, but as one who had already aligned himself with the laws and will of God. Because of this, he went confidently before God, KNOWING that God would answer his prayers. As we turn our thoughts towards the encouraging words by David, let’s meditate on our own personal relationship with the Almighty. We need Him to listen to our heart’s cry every day.

APPLICATION: Oh to have the heart, determination and will of David! Too often we barge into conversations with God, demanding our own way and expecting God to respond like a puppet would, to all of our wishes and demands. But what if God truly responded to us exactly in the same way that we think things should go? What an awful mess that would be, friends! I believe our attitude for prayer must be one of honor and gratitude for who God truly is. Then there is Scripture that guides us into the remaining attributes of prayer, for in 2 Chronicles 7:14 we are told that if we are truly known as His children, in fact, if we are called by His name, and if we get off our ‘high horses’ and humble ourselves and pray with every intention and determination to turn from our wicked and sinful ways, then He would hear from the Father and heal us and all those around us (our land). Friends, this is not rocket science, nor is it unreasonable, for which of you will walk up to a total stranger and ask for anything substantial with full confidence that they would reach into their treasury of physical assets and just start handing them over to you? May I suggest to you that although my Savior knows each of us intimately and, while I am convinced that He will hear our cry, I believe that He is wanting most of all to know that our heart is totally in tuned with Him, and that He has the liberty to work freely in our lives. Friends, if you are not seeking God’s face as your own personal Savior and Lord, then no matter what your other needs are today, you must settle the ownership question first – you must be born again – new birth in Jesus Christ. This requires a conversation (prayer) with the Master, where you would surrender yourself to Him, and invite Him to rule and reign in Your life. There is no greater need of mankind today friend, and there is nothing more important, for what if you gained the whole world through your own efforts and finances, but yet have no hope of tomorrow, or a Savior who loves you more than anyone else in this world, and who is looking forward to your arrival in heaven one day. Jesus is the key to heaven friend, know Him and know total peace for today and always. I would be tickled to death to introduce my Lord to you! Drop me a note using the contact information below. I might also suggest that you click on the link below ‘To Know Jesus’ and there you will find scriptural references on what you might do to have eternal life. I look forward to meeting you in the most exciting worship service ever – at the feet of Jesus when we graduate to heaven!! Oh, what a day that will be!!

PRAYER: Lord You are good, and Your mercies are everlasting. You have opened the means of us communicating with You and seeking Your face. You have shown us the way to Your throne and ultimately to the glories of heaven with You and Your Father! What a blessed people we are! Lord, I am concerned about my friends that might read this devotional and brush off the truths of Your Word. There may be some that will seek Your hand for all they may need or want, but who may ignore the fact of first knowing You intimately. Please soften the hearts of the hardened, and please touch the hearts that simply read and choose to ignore a relationship with You. Thank You Lord for being available to us, and for loving us enough to demonstrate it through the sacrifice You made on Calvary. I am eternally thankful, and I desperately want to see all my readers, friends and family accept You as Lord, so that we may one day rejoice together around Your eternal throne. I commend them to You Lord. Thank You dear Lord Jesus! AMEN!

Fix Your Thoughts on…

On By Ed AlgreenIn Bless Others, The Mind of ChristLeave a comment

Tuesday, 2020-01-28

Bible Reference: Philippians 4:8
Translation: The Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.

OBSERVATION: There are so many things that get our attention in this world with television, provocative dress options and with various habits, that these may force us to feel like they are needed in order to be the popular kid on the block. However, many of these things often distract from the true virtues of a person, so God ordained His servant Paul to share with us things that we should really concentrate on, if we are serious about reflecting Christ before a lost world. This is worth being reminded about as we meditate on this one verse today. Join me, won’t you?

APPLICATION: When a cup is filled with water, it replaces the air that the cup was filled with. When leaving your child at college, and you’re pulling out to head back home, what are some the last minute things that you tell your child? Paul was about to leave his brothers and sisters at Philippi, and he didn’t want them to fall back into the condition that he had found them when he first visited with them, so he was coaching them on how they might stay strong in the power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Imagine how the pastor who led you to the Lord would feel if he chose to leave your town and move elsewhere in the country? Don’t you know that he would have some wise words of wisdom for you? I believe that God got my attention in reading about Paul’s words to his people, because these are included in the Word of God for my benefit. God knows that I needed to hear this today, and I am sharing this with you, because I feel like God wants you to hear this. So friends, may I therefore encourage you to displace everything ungodly in your mind with these things:
* Those things that are true;
* Those things that are good;
* Those things that are right;
* Think about things that are pure, and lovely;
* Dwell continually on the fine, and good things in others. Even in those ones that you have never been able to get along with;
* Be diligent about looking for things you can praise God for; and
* Be glad in all things because of the love of God for even you.

And the God of all grace will be with you dear friends, even until the end of time!

PRAYER: Thank You Lord, for Your blessings on me! As I sing that song over and over in my mind Lord, I realize how blessed I am to be Your child and to be the recipient of Your boundless grace. These words of encouragement from Paul reminds me that the minds of Your chosen people should be filled with the bounties that You generously pour out on us. When this happens Lord, then our thoughts and our actions will follow our mindset and therefore cause us to be a blessing to others. In doing this, there will be no time or reason for saying or doing those things that tend to destroy and tear down the work that You need to do among Your people. Please soften our hearts and our minds so that we might seek Your face and not Your hand, as we always tend to do. I believe that Your work through us here on earth will be richer if we reflect Jesus in our lives. Please grant this today dear Lord, for I ask this in the precious name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, AMEN!

A Warning From God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Heaven, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Monday, 2020-01-27

Bible Reference: 2 Kings 17:13
Translation: The Voice (VOICE)

Bible Text: 13 The Eternal One gave fair warning to Israel and Judah. He gave His warning through the mouths of prophets and seers throughout the land: “Abandon your wickedness, and obey My commands and laws which I gave to your ancestors through the mouths of My servants, the prophets.”

OBSERVATION: How seriously do we take warnings from almighty God? Do we feel like He knows what He’s talking about? Do we believe Him? Do we do anything about His warnings? The Israelites paid no attention to God and His warnings, and in verse 18 we are told that He removed them from His sight. Meditate with me on this Scripture today. This should make a difference in what we plan to do today, and throughout the year.

APPLICATION: On New Years Eve at the grand party, where Time Square was filled with over a million people, what if someone stood before that crowd, instead of the next planned entertainer, and announced that the city of New York would be totally destroyed by March 31st, do you suppose that some might leave the square right then and begin packing their belongings so they could move out of the state before the March 31st deadline? In the southern states of the US, a large percentage of individuals take seriously the warnings each year about approaching hurricanes, and they either move out temporarily, or they purchase protection and supplies to help them survive the approaching hurricanes. Of course some do nothing for they feel they are invincible and that nothing will destroy their ‘fort’ (their home). At least weekly, many pastors will stand in pulpits, or on street corners, and they will warn parishioners about the soon return of Jesus Christ to collect His church. Some will listen to what God is telling them through the awkwardness of preaching, while some will simply consider such warnings only apply to their wicked neighbor, or the person sitting next to them at church. Friends, it is clear to see from the Word of God, that Jesus was born miraculously for one intended purpose – to show the world (you and I) how much God loves us. For God loved us so much that He gave His only Son, so that any, and all, who believe on Him, will enjoy life eternally with Him in heaven one day (John 3:16). Now you will notice that there is a condition to spending eternity in Heaven with Jesus, just like there was a condition given to the Israelites. In other words, there is an action for you to take, just like there was a condition for our ancestors. But here’s the warning, dear ones: If we believe, then we will reap the reward promised to us by God. But what about those who reject the warnings from God? Unfortunately, there are two destinations: For those who believe on the name of Jesus – Heaven. For those who do not believe on the name of Jesus – Hell. We are smart people, and we know exactly what each destination brings to the table for us. Please let me encourage all who will read this devotional, that you listen to the warnings and accept Jesus as your Savior, for I have done this, and I’m looking forward to meeting my Savior in Heaven one day. My greatest desire is that all my family and friends will be by my side, at the feet of Jesus, on that day that He calls us away from this wicked world. If you have not already heeded to God’s warnings, please let me encourage you to speak with a Bible teaching pastor or read my Footnote to gain the help needed. This warning is way more important than any other warning from government leaders or other earthly sources. Do it today dear friend, please?

PRAYER: Lord, You’ve put the rules and requirements in place, then You’ve gone on to put warnings in place for us to follow those rules. Thank You Heavenly Father! Please prompt us now to surrender our lives totally over to You, heed to Your warnings, follow Your example, and encourage one another on towards good works while anticipating Your soon return. We really want to be with You dear Lord. Please help us to live like men and women who love and serve the Lord, waiting for our greatest reward! Be glorified in us today oh Lord! AMEN!

Against All Odds

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Worship1 Comment

Friday, 2019-01-24

Bible Reference: 2 Kings 23:25
Translation: The Voice (VOICE)

Bible Text: 25 No king before him or after him ever gave himself to the Eternal so fully and deeply as Josiah did. He offered to the Eternal with all his being: all of his heart, all of his soul, and all his might, in accordance with the sacred law given through Moses.

OBSERVATION: Josiah was not afraid of standing for what he believed, even though it was totally opposite to what previous kings had lived up to. Christians who aim to please God through their living and in their principles will stand out in a society where people are living according to the world leader – Satan. As we meditate, let’s analyze our way of living and determine if others might know that we are followers of Christ based on our principles, our faith, our word and our loving attitudes.

APPLICATION: I believe that this story of Josiah could easily be labeled ‘Against All Odds’, because in spite of all that the previous kings did, this young man was determined to serve the Lord His God in all honesty and with greatest integrity. It seems like today the world expects Christian leaders to belly up and accept everything dictated to them, rather than standing firm in their faith and demanding that the people of God be the people of God. I pray today for great wisdom and awesome boldness from our Christian leaders in every step of their ministry and church leadership.

This young king took his commitment to God so seriously that he ‘cleaned house’ by ridding the temple and all other places of pagan worship and things that God spoke through His prophets about. I believe that sometimes we need to ‘clean house’ so that we can truly show to whom we are truly dedicated. Too often we dilute our commitment to God with so much of this wicked world. In verse 25 it was recognized that Josiah was one of a kind by obeying all the law of Moses. I pray that God will give me the wisdom and boldness to be so dedicated to Him that it would seem unreal to this world, but looked on by God as one-of-a-kind. What about you my friend? I believe that you are not only living out what you have asked God for, but I also believe that all too often we live in a way that will blend into what others believe and practice. Will God be glorified through you today?

PRAYER: Precious Lord, You are my Rock and my Redeemer. You are my strength and awesome example in life. I need You to direct my path and make me more like You in every way so that the world might see Jesus in every aspect of my life. I would also ask that You play a vital role in the lives of my family and friends today, especially those reading this devotional. May You be glorified in us today oh Lord. AMEN!

The Reason I Live

On By Ed AlgreenIn Christian Living, Exemplary Living, Heaven, Holy Living, Living with purpose, Righteous LivingLeave a comment

Thursday, 2020-01-23

Bible Reference: Philippians 1:20-24
Translation: The Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: 20 For I live in eager expectation and hope that I will never do anything that will cause me to be ashamed of myself but that I will always be ready to speak out boldly for Christ while I am going through all these trials here, just as I have in the past; and that I will always be an honor to Christ, whether I live or whether I must die. 21 For to me, living means opportunities for Christ, and dying—well, that’s better yet! 22 But if living will give me more opportunities to win people to Christ, then I really don’t know which is better, to live or die! 23 Sometimes I want to live, and at other times I don’t, for I long to go and be with Christ. How much happier for me than being here! 24 But the fact is that I can be of more help to you by staying!

OBSERVATION: We are often so sad over the death of a loved one, and rightfully so, for we worry about how we will survive everyday life without them. But in our Scripture today, Paul directs us to consider our value while alive and also after we move from this life to the next. Paul found it very challenging to determine if his life was more valuable here on earth, or with His heavenly Father. As we meditate, let’s not be concerned about what we could get out of either side of heaven, but rather, what we might give – for the sake of the Master.

APPLICATION: Of special note regarding this scripture: Paul is in prison at the time of this writing! So if Paul has the fortitude and determination to live so that He could do more of the Master’s work, even from within four prison walls, how much more those of us who are ‘free’ should be striving to do the Master’s work? Friends, we whine and we complain about so much, but do we should really have the heart of Jesus, or of Paul, in wanting to see as many won to the Lord as possible? In the above scripture, I bolded a few sentences that, I believe, is worthy of note:
* Living means opportunities for Christ – it is only while we have breath in our bodies that we can be witnesses for the Lord, or care about sinners. Let’s not wait any longer friends, we’re on the winning side and it is our privilege, our honor, and our responsibility to share the Good News of our Savior and Lord;
* Living will give more opportunities to win people to Christ – Often we will find that it’s the threat of impending death that gives us incentive to share the love of Christ that lives inside of us. Please allow me to awaken  you to the fact that we have no assurances about the next minute. The moment of opportunity is the present. Please share the love of Christ who lives inside of you with all that you care about and/or come into contact with today!
* I can be of more help to you by staying – Only Jesus Christ has power beyond the grave. He is allowing us to remain here on earth so that we can glorify Him and spread the Good News about the Savior who loved us enough to die for us. In a nutshell friend, this is our mission!
Friends, we remain on this earth to be shining examples of our Lord Jesus Christ.  It’s not about politics, gossip, sports, the lotto or any other purpose, so use every opportunity with everyone you know, that the reason you live is to represent Jesus, and try to evangelize the lost, before it is eternally too late.

PRAYER: The reason that I live is …….. Lord, as we complete that sentence today in humility and prayer before You, I ask that You will take those completed sentences and correct any misgivings about our mission, compared to the one You have assigned to us. I am pretty convinced that our mission is similar in nature to what Paul shared with the Philippians, because throughout Your Word we are told the importance of surrendering our lives to You, so that we, in turn, may be a blessing to others and convince them of their need for our Savior. Please work on us today and guide us to do Your perfect will, for this is my sincere and humble plea. It’s in Your beautiful and bountiful name that I ask all this, dear Jesus, AMEN!

Be Still, Listen and Obey!

On By Ed AlgreenIn Control, Faith, Listen, SurrenderLeave a comment

Thursday, 2020-01-02

Bible Reference: Psalm 46:9-11
Translation: The Message (MSG)

Bible Text:  “Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything.” Jacob-wrestling God fights for us, GOD-of-Angel-Armies protects us.

OBSERVATION: I’m not on Facebook as much as some are, but by now I have seen many evaluations of 2019 – good and bad, and then I have seen many wishes for 2020 – worldly and spiritual. Whether you’re a Facebook fan or not, it’s a place where people express their views, and often where many look for your response to their views. But that is really not the best place to look for your ideal advice, because some may wish to simply express their most far-out ideas with hopes of stirring up a good conversation. As we meditate on today’s Scripture we are reminded that we serve a God who fights for us and protects us.

APPLICATION:  Unfortunately, I believe that what we read on Facebook, expresses the minds and thoughts of the average person alive today. But when I read this passage of scripture in various translations, God helped me to  realize that Facebook is not the place I should go to for a spiritual meter on how well God did in 2019 nor a general opinion about how He might rule in 2020. Here are some of the thoughts that I believe God wanted me to discern in my study today: a) Get away from the noises of this world. Get to a place where it’s just you and God. ‘Step out of the traffic’ of everyday noises and seek the face of God. ‘Be still and know that I am God’ is the way one version put it; b) Don’t be one to look for the general consensus of the world, or even the church, but reflect on the proven power of your God and be reminded of His awesome power. Know that He is in control of each one of us, and if we allow Him to direct our path and control our tongues, then perhaps we too can be used for His glory, and then we just might see God’s mighty works performed in our land. We should be reminded that God is in charge of us individually; our families; our respective churches; our workplaces; our towns; yes, everywhere and in everything that He has created. Knowing all this then, why would we worry our little heads with what might happen in each of these scenarios? In other words, we have no idea what may happen in our lives – health-wise, relationship-wise or in any other area of our lives, but after being reminded of who’s in charge, will our worries amount to anything other than degrading our mental health? Friends, you can say the same things about each of the other scenarios mentioned. For the United States, we are entering into a year of presidential elections. God is telling U.S. Christians to be still and know that He is God over everything in our lives, especially our elections. We are told in Romans 13 that God places our rulers in authority over us, so are we worrying our little heads because we fear that God might mess up? Be still Brothers , and know that He is God over everything that we know and have committed to Him. Sisters, be still and allow God to be God. He is very capable, willing and able to handle our affairs today, just as He did for Jacob, Moses and all other Biblical accounts written in God’s Word to support our theory on this. Be still! Listen! Surrender control to God and return thanks to Him in all things!

PRAYER: Lord God, we acknowledge that You are indeed God of our lives, and God of this universe. Please forgive us for so often trying to reverse that order, especially when we think that we know better than You, how things should go here on earth. Thanks for the reminder that You made it all and that You are still very capable of managing everything – even today. Forgive us Lord for our lack of faith. Even as I write this, I am very concerned about many matters that I already know are hot agenda items this year. Please forgive me, and give me extra strength and boldness to declare Your glory, Your power and Your majesty as You continue to control my ‘world’. I am very weak, but praise be to the God of this universe, You are immensely strong, and very much in control of Your creation. In total surrender, I join with my Christian Brothers and Sisters – Your servants, to lead the pack in glorifying You as our Leader, our God, our Savior and our Lord. For these things, and all for Your glory, I ask all this in Your strong and mighty name, ‘Jesus’ my Lord, AMEN!