We are encouraged all throughout the Word of God to diligently seek wisdom because it its value is worth far more than any riches here on earth (Proverbs 8:11-12).
Do you need wisdom to make an important decision today? God loves us so much that He freely gave us His Son Jesus so that we can be saved and reconciled with Him. In a similar fashion, He has freely given us wisdom, and He’s not stingy about how much He gives us. We have only to “ask” God for wisdom and the wisdom He gives is pure, brings peace, and is merciful and fair (James 3:17). So, what are you waiting for?
You have to make the decision to totally submit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit so that God’s wisdom directs your life. Just trust Him and NEVER doubt (v.6-7). Our God ALWAYS delivers, and He will never fail you or lead you astray! He’s consistent, reliable and dependable. So, lean on Him, trust Him and just ASK! Have a blessed Saturday!
📖 “I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return].” -Philippians 1:6 AMP
🙌It’s refreshing to know that God is a “finisher”. He didn’t start calling creation - as we know it - into existence and then give up because He was tired or no longer inspired. Be encouraged that in a similar fashion, the work that God has begun IN you, whether it’s your purpose, a vision that God has given you or even Him helping you to make improvements in your life (Psalm 138:8), He will complete it. He has not and will not give up on you, so don’t you dare throw in the towel either! You can do all things with the help of the Lord (Philippians 4:13). Pray to God for help with the faith and endurance to emulate the character of our Savior. You have nothing to fear. You have a sound mind and have been equipped with the power of God to complete any task today and moving forward in Jesus’ name (2 Timothy 1:7). HAPPY FRIDAY! #ImAFinisher #PrinciplesOfBeingAFinisher #vcccharlotte #perfect
Not only do we have the Greater One living inside of us, but He’s on OUR side! When we submit ourselves totally to God, there is nothing the enemy can do to foil the plans God has for our lives. Though he may try, his attempts will be futile in the end. We have to make the determination to "stay with God" no matter what comes our way. His love for us is UNDISPUTED because of the sacrifice He made for us through His Son Jesus. There’s nothing we cannot do or conquer because our Father not only walks with us, but He leads our path, going before us and making the crooked placed ahead straight for us (Isaiah 45:2, Deuteronomy 31:8). Because of His great love for us, we have the ability to live free and victoriously. So pick your head up (if you need to) and keep your eyes focused on God. We WIN…and YOU are loved!
“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, To all who call on Him in truth (without guile).” -Psalm 145:18
Our Heavenly Father desires to be near us at all times. He wants to be “in our midst” and to work in and through us daily (John 14:12, Ephesians 2:10, Philippians 2:13). We only have to call His name, humble ourselves and come to Him with a pure and humble heart. Regardless of where the paths of your feet tread today, determine to commit your life to God and yield to Him for wisdom in your decision-making. When you do, you set the scene for Him to act on your behalf (Psalm 37:5, Proverbs 3:5-6). Rest and have confidence in knowing that today. Have a blessed day.
🤔 Oftentimes, when we deal with challenges or disappointments in our lives, we internalize or trust our own knowledge as opposed to trusting God in combatting them. It can be easy to focus more so on what we see in the natural instead of focusing on the fact that our struggles are not really “of this world”; it’s a spiritual fight and that’s why we always have to be ready and equipped with the right weapons. We can’t fight a spiritual battle with physical weapons (vs. 10-17). The challenges and triumphs we face are often impacted by spiritual influences. So more than ever, it’s important that we put on the whole armor of God so that we are able to resist the enemy, live victoriously and share the love of God & the Gospel. Remember, you are at war, but don’t forget, we’re supposed to be dressed for battle, and we win!
“First of all, then, I urge that petitions (specific requests), prayers, intercessions (prayers for others) and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all people, for kings and all who are in [positions of] high authority, so that we may live a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This [kind of praying] is good and acceptable and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who wishes all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge and recognition of the [divine] truth.” - 1 Timothy 2:1-4 AMP
The moment after we received salvation, we were joined into the family of God and the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27). The Holy Spirit is our Teacher, Helper and Guide and can give us wisdom and insight for carrying out our assignments as His ambassadors. We are literally the hands and feet of Jesus in this earth and with all that is going on in this world (and our country specifically), it’s important that we not only pray for all man to be saved, but that we obey the charge to keep our nation and it’s leader in prayer. The state of earthly affairs can play a role in impacting whether we are able to live our lives “peaceably” while carrying out God’s will. When we pay special attention to pray along these lines on a regular basis, we are strategically placing our faith out for God to operate on our behalf in areas we are not even aware of in the spirit world. Take advantage of the opportunity you have on a daily basis to operate on the “offensive” for the Kingdom of God. We don’t have to wait for something to take action in the spirit realm; we can be proactive. Never forget the power is unleashed through our faith in God through prayer…our world depends on it. Have a blessed day!
Good morning! As we prepare our hearts and minds for service this morning, let us remember Pastor’s message on the importance of unity (Romans 15:5-6). As believers, God wants us to not only be a constant source of encouragement, love and kindness to one another in spirit, but we should never take for granted the physical opportunity we have to ourselves to do just that. We need God, and we each other. May we rejoice as we walk in - unified - through His gates this morning, trusting and believing that He will continue to help us grow & develop us both individually and collectively, as a body (Psalm 138:8).
📖 “Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart].” -Philippians 4:8 AMP
🤔 Garbage in, garbage out. Whatever we feed our minds with today will eventually surface in our lives tomorrow or in days following. Are you satisfied with your current “thought life”? More importantly…is God? Thoughts are one of the things that we can hide from others, but they eventually reveal themselves because our thoughts will eventually influence and impact our actions. There’s a reason that God tells us to meditate - to center our minds - on things that are pure, wholesome, confirmed by His Word and honorable; He cares about what is on our hearts and our minds even when others are not aware (1 Samuel 16:7). So, if you’re struggling with anger, impure thoughts, doubt or even trusting God and building your faith, take a look at what you’ve allowed to “center your mind”. Even strengthening our relationship with God - just like any other relationship - demands devoting time to it and studying His Word. Think on those things that honor God and ask for His help to stay focus on those things. He is not only willing, but He desires to help you (Psalm 46:1).
#dailydevotional #thoughtlife #thoughts #meditate #vcccharlotte
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall read [and meditate on] it day and night, so that you may be careful to do [everything] in accordance with all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will be successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:8-9 AMP
How’s your diet been working out so far in 2019? Not talking about your nutritional diet (though we wish you the best in that area too lol). How has your spiritual appetite been? Most likely you’ve heard the expression “You are what you eat!” at some point in your life and with that statement is the connotation is that whatever foods you are consuming on a daily basis - good or bad - can affect your physical well-being. Well, in the same light, whatever you are meditating on a regular basis whether it’s God’s Word or entertainment, social media, etc. will eventually influence and affect your spiritual health and your outlook on the world and the Kingdom of God. God desires and has called for us to meditate (think deeply or focus one's mind for a period of time) on His Word so that our spiritual man is strengthened and so that we will know His heart and become aligned with His will for our lives. By obeying His Word, we set the scene for God to bless and prosper us! On top of that, He’s promised that He won’t abandon us while we walk in obedience. He’s promised to be with us every step of the way! Glory to God! Have a blessed & prosperous Friday.
“For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].” -Ephesians 2:10 AMP
God desires for all of His children to live the “good life”, but at the end of the day, it’s up to them whether they ever truly walk in it. Are you walking in the promises of God? He has a unique purpose for your life, but have you been obedient to His leadings and truly allowed Him to transform you from the inside out? We are so loved and treasured by our Creator. He literally considers more valuable than any piece of art that dawns the walls of any earthly museum. The beautiful montage of gifts, talents, and what you think are useless idiosyncrasies sometimes, all add to the work of art that is YOU! You are a living, breathing masterpiece…a walking representation of the artistry, craftsmanship and handiwork that can only be embodied by the Creator of Universe! So smile and hold your head up! Take comfort and trust the value that was already placed on your worth and value over 2,000 years ago! And may that “trust” lead you daily to trust the original purpose and plans of your Creator for YOUR life today. He didn’t haphazardly create you, so trust that He knows best for your life so trust Him for the wisdom and direction to walk out His plans for you life. You’re HIS masterpiece. Lord renew us and transform us so that we are ready to be used for your WORK today! Selah.
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9 NLT
Just as He was with His servant Joshua, we can rest assured that God is with us too only, the Holy Spirit lives IN us (1 Corinthians 6:19). When we receive instructions from the Lord, we have nothing to fear. God is with us, and “They that be with us is greater than they that be with them” (2 Kings 6:16, Hebrews 13:6)! God has given you the wisdom, insight, favor and the POWER (2 Timothy 1:7) to accomplish all that He’s called you to. So don’t be discouraged or hesitate about obeying the call on your life or following the specific instructions God has given you (Philippians 1:6). He’s backing you up, and He’s equipped you with power to fulfill each and every part of the assignment.
📖 “Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. So find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.” -Proverbs 3:3-4 AMP
🤔Are you known for showing mercy and kindness to others? Is that your “staple”? In addition to being defined as 'a thick piece of square-shaped wire' that is used as a fastener on papers; a 'staple' is also defined as 'a basic or principal element or feature'. Is one of the principal elements that defines your character mercy, kindness and/or love? We have the awesome responsibility and privilege of representing the King of all kings - the Creator of the universe (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are His ambassadors and that means communicating the “staples” of His priorities and passions with love and truth being at the core of them. So, for those of you that are more visual, just imagine as you go throughout the day that you’re walking around with little pieces of paper “stapled” to your shirt. On each of those pieces of paper is written the character traits that you are known for by others, only you can’t attach them to your garments yourself. Only those that interact with you can attach the staple and description based on what they honestly observe. Would you be proud or satisfied with the descriptions that you had to wear around or would you be ashamed? Let’s commit anew and ask for God's help in more accurately demonstrating the heart of God to others. Not only will it make God proud, but it will bring us favor both in His sight and in the sight of others. Have a blessed day.
“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].” -Romans 12:2 AMP
The more we develop in our relationship with God and reject carnality, the more we will be spirit-led. The more time we spend in His presence and His Word, the easier it will be to view things from a godly perspective because God transforms us into a new person by adjusting the way we think. When our minds are renewed, we better position ourselves to receive insight from God on how to fulfill His will and what His purpose is for our lives. Even though we may have our own plans that we want to accomplish, when we renew our minds, we have to make the decision to surrender our will and desires to Him EVERY TIME knowing that He loves us, knows and wants what’s best for our lives (Proverbs 20:5, Jeremiah 29:11).
🙏 God, elevate my way of thinking. Make your heart my heart. Make those things that are a priority to you become my priorities. You created me and are aware of your purpose for my life and the gifts and talents you entrusted me with, in the process. Therefore, I will submit my plans and my mindset to you. Show me my heart and any areas where I may have unintentionally adopted a carnal way of doing or viewing things. Create in me a clean heart (Psalm 51:10, Proverbs 3:6, Psalm 37:23) and direct my footsteps God. I trust you and your plans for my life...period.
📖 “In the morning, O Lord, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will prepare [a prayer and a sacrifice] for You and watch and wait [for You to speak to my heart].” -Psalm 5:3 AMP
🙌 Such a joy to know that we too have the pleasure of serving a living God that blesses us with air in our lungs so that we can wake up and speak to Him. He loved us so much that He sent His only Son Jesus as a sacrifice so that we could be reconciled back with Him. Instead of having to sacrifice animals to be forgiven of our sins, we’ve been redeemed from the curse of the Law. We now have the pleasure of presenting ourselves as a “living sacrifice” to Him (Romans 12:1). Our prayers are just a start of our daily conversation with our Father. Selah. Lord help us to always remember that our prayers to you are a “conversation” and not a “monologue”.
🙏 How blessed and loved we are that you desire to speak to us daily, God. Thank you in advance for the love, direction, peace and insight that only you can give us today! We are eternally grateful.
“Finally, all of you be like-minded [united in spirit], sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted [courteous and compassionate toward each other as members of one household], and humble in spirit; and never return evil for evil or insult for insult [avoid scolding, berating, and any kind of abuse], but on the contrary, give a blessing [pray for one another’s well-being, contentment, and protection]; for you have been called for this very purpose, that you might inherit a blessing [from God that brings well-being, happiness, and protection].” -1 Peter 3:8-9 AMP
🤔 When there Is unity in the body of Christ and more specifically in a body of believers, and that body is walking in love with one another, they disarm the enemy from sowing seeds of strife and weeds of discord from taking residence inside it.
When we were born again and into the Kingdom of God, God’s spirit took residence inside of us (1 Corinthians 6:19). In addition, when we receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit with evidence by speaking in tongues, it’s almost as if (just imagine) we were connected to a big “communications network” that’s ultimately connected to Heaven and the heart of God. The Holy Spirit is our Helper, and when we pray in tongues, our “connection” is strengthened. We also can receive direction and wisdom from God when we’re dialed in. Contention and strife are kinks - hindrances - to our heavenly communication network and can cause a “bad signal” or bad connection all together. However, when we have unity, especially in our church body, a platform is even set for the gifts of the spirit to be in operation without hindrances. As we prepare our hearts today for service and the word to be shared tomorrow. Let’s pray for God's best for our Pastor and each other. Let's ask God to help us to continue to walk in love with one another and to show us if we need to make any adjustments on our end, so that our "connection" stays and remains clear for Him to flow [in our services, the ministry and our personal lives].
・・・
#unity #dailydevotional #vcccharlotte
