DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 9th

📖 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable and pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my [firm, immovable] rock and my Redeemer.” -Psalm 19:14 AMP⁣

🙌 When the pressures of this world seem to be blowing in our direction , we have only to lean on God - our IMMOVABLE Rock. He steadies our footing and makes our way clear (Psalm 143:10) because He loves us and cares about our well-being and safety. In a spirit of gratitude for that love, we should honor Him through our words and deeds. He is a Holy and righteous God, and He cares about what we spend time meditating on (Philippians 4:8). May our thoughts reflect our respect and appreciation for His love, holiness and the sacrifice He made for us through His Son Jesus. Selah.⁣⁣

#devotional #ourRock #honor #meditation #vcccharlotte

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 8th

Feeling empty or inadequate in an area of your life? Well, there’s no need to worry, fear or grow discontent. God’s ever-flowing, agape love never runs dry; and, it has the ability to fill ANY void in our hearts and to consistently groom us towards perfection (Psalm 138:8)! ⁣⁣

🙌 He desires to heal us and make us whole, inside and out, but because He generally loves us, He also just wants us to simply trust Him. When we put our faith and confidence in His direction for our lives and what He has said and thinks about us, He can dwell in our hearts and use us for His glory. What an honor it is to be “used” by Him and at His bidding (2 Corinthians 5:20). Soak up His love for you by resting IN Him, meditating on His love letter to you (the Word of God) and keeping your sensitive to His instructions throughout the day (by praying in tongues). Have a blessed Friday!⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 7th

📖 “For His divine power has bestowed on us [absolutely] everything necessary for [a dynamic spiritual] life and godliness, through true and personal knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” -1 Peter 1:3 AMP⁣

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🤔 Have you forgotten that God has literally given you all that you need to live your life victoriously? The more time we spend “at His feet” and meditating on His Word, we get to know Him better thus making it easier to conform to His ways. He sent His Son Jesus so that you could be reconciled with Him, delivered and set free from any sickness, disease, bondage or baggage. He’s made you MORE than a conqueror (Romans 8:37). He is your protection and covering, so you have nothing to fear (Psalm 91:4). If you need wisdom and direction, you have access to the Holy Spirit - your Helper - and you only have to ask Him (James 1:5). In and through the mighty power of God, you will find the strength you need to fulfill every task before you today (Ephesians 6:10, Philippians 4:13)! So hold your head up and walk humbly and confidently in the divine power that God has been given you on this #ThankfulThursday!⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 6th

🤔 Feeling anxious or “stressed” lately? What have you been thinking on? It’s imperative that regardless of our current circumstance - good or bad - that our mind is focused on God, and that we have a desire to walk in His will and way for our lives. Then He can “keep” our minds with an unexplainable peace that the world can’t even comprehend (John 14:27). The peace that God gives is consistent and unbothered by circumstance. So remember to bring God any cares and concerns that you have. Trust that He will move on your behalf and give you the wisdom, favor and direction that you need (Proverbs 3:5-6). He will NEVER leave you. He will NEVER fail. 🙌⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 5th

📖 “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:  The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” -Lamentations 3:21-23 ESV⁣


🙌 Good morning new mercies! God has has blessed you with an entirely new set of them today. Yes…He is faithful and because of His faithfulness, we can be faith FULL; we can put our hope in Him. He is dependable and consistent, and His heart towards us is compassionate. So never tire seeking God’s direction and/or walking in His purpose for your life. If you’ve missed the mark, His grace is sufficient; if you’ve hit it, it’s still only because of His grace. ⁣

Take the time to reflect on and thank God for His love for you this morning. Appreciate His “leading” of your life (Psalm 23, Isaiah 30:21). Because of God’s faithfulness to us, our hope and faith IN HIM can be renewed afresh this morning and the next, just like his mercies. He is a good Father! May we represent you and the family well today (Ephesians 2:19)! ⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 4th

Regardless of the circumstance - good or bad - praise and a heart of gratitude will always have the ability to turn a situation around for the better. When we live by and operate from a spirit of thankfulness, quite naturally, we “reflect” on the goodness of God and what He has done previously. It is, in a way, exalting God above the circumstance, and our faith in Him is strengthened. What He did before, He can do again. He is consistent, and we can depend on Him (Hebrews 13:8).

Gratitude can even open our eyes to new or creative opportunities that we otherwise may have been blind to. So don’t neglect your time with God (through prayer & meditation on His Word); and actively look for opportunities to show your love and gratitude for His faithfulness in your life. Not only will you be honoring God’s will, but you will be setting up the scene for Him to move on your behalf and to give you the wisdom, direction & favor that you need.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 3rd

📖 “But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.” -Galatians 5:22-23 AMP⁣

🤔 In order for us to walk harmoniously with God and reject our carnal nature, we have to ensure that the fruits of the spirit are actively “growing” inside of us. Love, inner peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are all fruits that should be developing and bearing witness in our personal character if God’s Spirit is in us, and we are allowing Him to change us from the inside out. Just as fear & love - light & darkness - can NOT co-exist, neither can we walk in the spirit and in the flesh simultaneously. ⁣

The more we grow and mature in our relationship with God, the more we are able to reject carnality. The “fruit” will be visible to those around us; and as representatives of Christ, it’s important that others know us by our fruit, especially love (John 13:35). Ask God for His help in making sure that you are providing the best “environment” for your fruit to be harvested in. Sometimes, that simply means being aware of what we are exposing our spirit man to (entertainment, unfruitful conversations, associations, etc.). So stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit. The maturation and condition of your fruit depends on it. HappyGrowingSeason!⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 2nd

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!

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | February 1st

📖 “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

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 31st

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! ⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 30th

“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.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 29th

🤔 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!⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 28th

“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!

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 27th

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).

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 26th

📖 “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

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 25th

“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.⁣

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 24th

“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.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 23rd

“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. 

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 22nd

📖 “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.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL | January 21st

“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.