We as Children of God are living in a fasted paste time frame, and as we live and breathe in all that God has set before us, we seem to find little time for the most precious gift of them all, and that is the gift of CONTENTMENT AND PEACE.
Now let me explain, what the word of God says about CONTENTMENT; “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5 ESV)
Therefore, I encourage you to understand that CONTENTMENT destroys jealously and helps celebrate success in others, it is a trait found deep within and shines forth as light. Through your own CONTENTMENT you’re able to find peace and strength to endure what otherwise would push you to the breaking point.
CONTENTMENT unclaimed, un-recognized hinders ones’ FREEDOM; therefore, they will never truly be free unless this treasured source is tapped into; as the saying goes, “CONTENTMENT is great gain.” The amazing thing about CONTENTMENT is that it is instilled in each of us. Jesus has taught and given the gift of love and that love is unconditional love for all people.
CONTENTMENT is thankfulness for what God has already done in your life; with that, your gifts will bud and blossom touching lives in many ways some in which you may never know. Always remember this one thing; never allow anyone or anything to take away your confidence (faith) in God because he loves you without restrictions, when you allow him to become who you are. It is in Christ you can find PEACE and CONTENTMENT, much different than what the world offers.
Now I Encourage you to Find CONTENTMENT is all you are purposed to do and be at PEACE.
YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN Jesus said “Feed my sheep”(John 21:15-17).
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
Mt Airy Presbyterian Church Mt. Airy, Ga. (Photo by Pastor Davis)
Our Church leaders are Chosen Leaders, handpicked by God and called to suit up and go into the mission field on their assigned task to shepherd and guide, and then placed in the unique position to make defining decisions and choices that can have a profound impact on a few or many. Our leaders in the church are called and expected to keep diligent watch over the flock. That is the pattern and design expected when one accepts their calling knowing it comes with incredible responsibility.
Placed in their care are people who bring many loads of heavy burdens, looking for a way to find peace and joy as they are about this earthly journey. People from all walks of life seeking hope, lost, weary and tired wanting rest, a release from those things that keeps them in bondage.
Our leaders are therefore placed in position to minister to those souls as directed by the Holy Spirit, knowing they hold very fragile children in their hands. They are now given the authority through Christ to shape and mold lives for the kingdom of God, to feed the flock.
Remember, Jesus and how he was crucified outside the city gates–where he poured out the sacrificial blood that was brought to God’s alter to cleanse his people. His sacrifice is a reminder to our leaders as to their purpose and calling, who must walk in obedience, faith and be examples of godliness as he accepts the torch to carry out his mission as assigned. The mission of kingdom building is not one to be taken lightly or for granted because souls are at risk.
Our Leaders are to be visible and able to relate to the needs of their followers, meaning that in order to accomplish their assigned mission they should follow the pattern of Jesus. Scripture puts it this way; let’s go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is–not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking our Share in the abuse of Jesus. This “insider world” is not our home. We have eyes peeled for the City about to come. Let’s take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out praises from our lips to God in Jesus’ name (Hebrews 13:13-15, MGS).
We as seekers of peace and righteousness are to be responsive to pastoral leaders, listen to their counsel because they should be alert to the condition of our lives and work under the strict supervision of God. We are to contribute to the joy of their leadership, not drudgery; we are to pray for them that they be diligent in their assigned mission.
Our Leaders are accountable to God and its plain in Gods’ Word the responsibility expected of them. God says,” My sheep were scattered because they were without a shepherd and they became prey when they were scattered; I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock”. (Ezekiel: 34).
After Jesus had risen from the dead and before his ascension as he gave final instructions to his disciples: Jesus asked Peter, “Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me more than these”, three times. When he responded “Yes”, Jesus said, “Feed my sheep”(John 21:15-17). This is a reminder to our Leaders, don’t take your calling or position lightly. YOU HAVE BEEN CALLED, CHOSEN.
A good woman is hard to find and worth far more than diamonds (Proverbs 1:10-31, MGS).
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in Fear-Of-God. Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her with praises.
Flowers are known as the reproductive organ in plants and when combined into a bouquet there’s beauty and sweet aroma to enjoy. This represents essence and strength of a Mothers’ Love.
GIVE MOTHER HER FLOWERS (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
This Mothers’ Day do something different and special for Mom; set a table for two, share in some good conversation, laugh and give her a big old fashion strong hug because she deserves it. Do not ever forget, “Mothers are a Gift to be treasured and that means your Mom is included.”
TEA FOR TWO (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
Remember, your Mother is many women; she is a teacher, she is a doctor, a lawyer, a business executive, a stay-at-home mom; the list is endless as to her capabilities. The role of Mother follows many paths and is done so in such a way that she is able to understand the needs of others. Strength, dignity, and grace are her badge of honor; she is adored by her family. Gods’ design for Mother is not determined by labels of who she is because he has created her for his purpose. As she grow in wisdom and grace her beauty shines through as a tower of hope and strength for those who may not have as of yet mastered the skill.
MOTHER IS A WOMAN WHO PLAY MANY ROLES (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
Our Mothers’ worry about us in ways that we can never understand, while we are off during our own thing, mother is lying awake at night, silently praying to God to hold our hand, walk with us, keep us safe and bring us back home to them. Click on this video clip and, “REMEMBER!”
A Mother seeks answers when she asks questions:
When a Mother asks, “How can you say you love me?
How often do you call, write or text message?
How often do you ask if I’m well?
How often do you visit, sit and talk for “a spell?”
How often do you think to send flowers or a card?
Do you ever wonder if I worry about you?
Do you ever wonder if I’ve had sleepless nights because I’m concerned about you?
Do you ever wonder if I pray for you and keep you close to my heart?
She ask these questions because she is able to see that we live busy lives and have very little time to share. She ask these questions because she see through the eyes of a Mother who loves enough to set you free, but loves unconditionally.She is your Mother. HAPPY MOTHERS’ DAY MOM!
This is a song of praise by Kirk Franklin taken from my Gospel Praise Playlist. It contains 30 plus songs of praise that are listed on my utube channel. Click on the link below and subscribe to and listen to many great songs and teaching that are featured on my Channel. Click on playlist on the left side of the page and enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/user/davistheteacher?feature=mhee
Good Morning to all God’s Children and especially to all the Beautiful Mothers of the World, today is your day to be honored and praised for God has designed it that way. So as we enter into our VIRTUAL CHURCH Service this morning, we do so with the unique blessings of our Lord and Savior. We give Him the glory for He has provided us the opportunity this day to bring honor to our Mothers who He has
SISTER SHIRLEY RHODES
given to us as a Special Gift by Design.
LET US PRAY:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for this very special day, and we honor you this morning for our unique gift of life and the opportunity to lift up all our Mothers and honor them with our blessings of praise, thanking them for all they have done and the many sacrifices and hardships they have had to endure for being a Mother. But through it all, you provided them with a unique way of experiencing pure love, joy and happiness for being a Mother. Today, we lift you up Heavenly Father, in our Prayers, Praises and Thanksgiving for this honor that you have bestowed upon our Mothers and all that you do day in and day out to make our lives richer, more loving, joyful and prospers while we live on this earth. In Jesus name we pray, Amen!
Now let us honor all Mothers’ everywhere by giving her flowers that expresses her true beauty while we have the opportunity to do so. Click on this short video clip, it is for you and all Mothers’
HAPPY MOTHERS’ DAY TO ALL YOU BEAUTIFUL MOTHERS,
YOU ARE TRULY GOD’S GIFT BY DESIGN!
SISTER SHIRLEY RHODES GOD’S SERVANT AND MESSENGER
I AM SISTER SHIRLEY RHODES GOD’S MESSENGER FOR THE DAY
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE OF PRAISE GENESIS 17:15-17
And God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and moreover, I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall become nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said to himself, “Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?”
LET US PRAY: Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessings of Abraham, thank you for my blessing as your Servant and Messenger for this day. Use me to bless the lives of all the people that take the time to partake of this message, in Jesus name, Amen!
Today I just want to take a few minutes of your valuable time as a Mother that understands what it is like to be a Mother and raise her Children in these very difficult times that we live in. I speak to you on the subject,“Mother is God’s Gift by Design!”When we study the scriptures, starting with Eve the Mother of all living, we quickly discover that a Mother is a gift that often goes unseen, a chosen vessel of service, created with tenderness of heart, a loving spirit, filled with dignity, instilled with wisdom, firmly rooted in faith and love, and is known by her attributes of strength, patience and endurance that enables her to carry out her assigned mission. Many words can be used to describe Mother, because she is a gift from God. A gift: to be honored, respected, loved and cherished, through admiration of character.
When a baby is born the first instinct of a Mother is to inspect, touch and hold the baby close, she often will shed tears of joy. Throughout biblical history there are stories of Mothers and their sacrifice; Mothers who gave birth to kings and queens, royal linage passed down through-out generations.
THE LOVE OF A MOTHER (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS) MY GRAND DAUGHTER MAXINE ALEXANDER BYARS
Consider Moses’ Mother Jochebed, who, when the order came from Pharaoh to kill all male infants, hid him for three months, but, was then forced to abandon him in a basket of bulrushes among the reeds beside the banks of the Nile, only to be the one to nurse him as belonging to someone else. Elizabeth, Mother of John, known as the precursor of Jesus who was later beheaded and Mary the Mother of Jesus, who was hung on a cross, were all women of distinction, a Mother, God’s Gift by Design.
A mother is chosen to carry the baby in her womb and through that process a bond occurs that nothing or no one can take away. Mothers may give their child up for adoption or may choose to not be an active participant in their lives through circumstance or choice, but that does not remove their status as Mother.
Gods’ design for Mothers is to be models of goodness by setting examples as the keeper of home, to be virtuous and pure, loving and kind always encouraging others.
A Mother is a model of discipline and strong character and she reverence God in her teachings. A Mother avoids idleness, gossip, always setting an example and helping to guide others she may encounter.
A Mother is many women; teachers, doctors, lawyers, business executives, stay-at-home moms; the list is endless as to her capabilities. The role of Mother follows many paths and is done so in such a way that she is able to understand the needs of others. Strength, dignity, and grace are her badge of honor; she is adored by her family. Gods’ design for Mother is not determined by labels of who she is because he has created her for his purpose. As she grow in wisdom and grace her beauty shines through as a tower of hope and strength for those who may not have as of yet mastered the skill.
Remember it’s Mothers’ Day, take a moment to pick up the telephone and call, stop by for a visit and take her something special, sit and talk for “a spell, ”you never know where you will be next Mothers’ Day. Make the moment magical and watch her smile, you’ll be glad you did, because she is your Mother, Gods’ Gift by Design.
Thank you for your attention and comprehension of this message, may God bless you throughout this Mother’s Day. As you attend your local church this day, take the time to hug a Mother and tell them that they are special and that you love them. May the grace of God watch over you and keep you ever so strong, in Jesus name, Amen!
Now let us close with Israel and New Breed, singing Jesus at the Center.
Have you ever stopped to observe what was around you? For most of us we are so busy trying to earn a living to support our families and life style, it makes it very hard for us to see the forest because we are always looking straight ahead into the trees. Nevertheless, if we ever took the time to observe what was around us, we would then realize that the battlefield is wherever we are. It does not matter if we are at our homes, school, job, library, concert hall or church, the battlefield will always be where we are. Satanis and will always be an enemy of God. His job is to recruit, recruit and recruit, and believe me; he does his job very well. Satan does not discriminate on the basics of race, creed, color or national origin. He is out to destroy God’s kingdom, and that means anyone who is a believer of God is a target of Satan.
Therefore, when we understand our purpose and mission in life, we then know that the enemy we are fighting is a very smart, cunning and truly an elusive devil. His territory is very large and continues to expand every day. So finding the battlefield for us should not be very hard as long as we are committed to staying the course and following in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ. The battlefield for us will always be close by. Our neighborhoods are filled with gangs, drugs, prostitution and all sorts of petty crimes. In some major cities, people are prisons in their own homes. They have still bars on their windows and doors. Their homes are like a fort. In order for them to enter in or come out, they have to struggle to unlock the bars they are locked behind. Some people have even died in their homes from fires because they could not get out from behind the steel bars they had locked themselves behind.
Our schools from all over the country, which are located in almost every neighborhood in America, has become one of the most potent battlefields in America today. Each day more than 250,000 kids carry some type of weapon into our schools to either defend themselves or threaten someone else with them in order to show how big and bad they themselves really are. Kids are shooting and killing other kids because the evil that the old devil has been able to penetrate into our perimeter around the battlefield we have established for ourselves. When we stop and consider for a moment that our children are our futures, we cannot but to conclude that the enemy has brought the fight to us.
This to me is unacceptable in the 21st century. We must not continue to allow evil to dedicate our destiny. We have a King that roars like a might lion who is our protector. He does not know or accept defeat. We must believe that we as a chosen disciple of the one living God has been given the power to change the course of our destiny by changing the way we view the people that are committing the evil crimes within our communities. We should never forget that evil survives because we choose to let it rule over us. We must resist it on every hand, using the power that God gives us, and believe me, we do have the power to stand up and take the fight to the enemy. God has given us that power if we choose to use it. All we have to do is call on him. He said that he would never leave us or forsake us. He will always be right there with us even until the end of time.
Standing up to the enemy may not be the way you would view your mission in this world, but if you don’t, who will? Sometimes we have to just say no to the enemy, and do what is unpopular at the time even if our life depends on it. This world is not our home; we are just passing through on our way to our eternal home. We must be prepared to face the enemy with all our strength and might. Then and only then will the enemy have a sense of who we are.
The enemy will always feel that he is the biggest and baldest bully in town as long as we allow him to back us down. There comes a time in our lives when we must say no backing away or running away from a situation that I can no longer tolerate. This enemy is threaten my family, my community, my way of life, and if I don’t do something about it right now, I will no longer have a family or community to live in, because he is taken it all away. It is up to me to end this right here and now. It is time to take the battle to the enemy, no more turning my back and saying it’s not my problem. I am the child of a King, and the King gave me power over the enemy. I will take a stand and do my part. I will do it NOW! Together, we can bring a change into our Communities.
A TRIBUTE TO MOTHERS WHO HAVE LOST THEIR CHILDREN TO GUN VIOLENCE
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
TRAGEDY IN NEWTOWN, CONNECTICUT PHOTO BY SHEER INVESTIGATION.COM 03
Just a few months ago, a deranged individual with an assault weapon walked into a school located in Newtown, Connecticut and took the lives of 26 young people. Since then more than 3,900 Mothers’ have lost their children to gun violence and will not be able to hug their children this Mothers’ Day, nor receive a Mothers’ Day wish from their children. This is truly a tragedy that none of us can comprehend unless we are one of those Mother’s that have lost a child to gun violence.
So many hearts have been broken; so many tears have been shed because the family chain has been broken. Gun violence has taken many young lives and those Mothers have come to know the meaning of shattered and broken.
For those Mothers who have experienced such tragedy and pain, let me encourage you as one Mother to another, please allow this Mothers’ Day to be a time of release and reflection. Take a moment and look around you and you will see your child in the elements of the world God has created. Look at the flowers as they bloom and beacon you to come closer, see the beauty of the birds as they cross your path, excited and having fun with one another, see the brightness of the sun as the raise beams down upon your body, feel the gentle breeze of the wind as it sweeps across your face and you here in it a soft and sweet voice that says to you, “Hi Mommy, I love you, then you pause, look all around you, and say, I love you also baby!” Now embrace it as a memory of the child that once occupied your space. Know that they are always there ready to wipe away the tear drop from your eyes and give you encouragement and strength to carry on and fight the good fight that will help others survive the tragedy that took their young, tender and precious lives.
Remember the words of Job: We are all adrift in the same boat: too few days, too many troubles. We spring up like wildflowers in the desert and then we wilt transit in the shadow of a cloud (Job 14: 1-2, MGS).
Allow the memoriesof your loved one to linger as long as you like but rest assured your child was blessed to you for a season and within that season take the memories and cherish them.
Allow yourself time to mourn and then embrace life as it is given each day because it is a gift that cannot be replaced. God bless each Mother who have lost a child to violence and may your journey be one traveled in the assurance that at any given moment you will greet your loved one in a unique way, that’s how God have designed it. May you be blessed abundantly this Mother’s Day, 2013?
MOTHER’S DAY ROSE (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
We send our love an appreciation to all Mothers’ for a happy and joyful celebration. Let there be Peace on Earth and Goodwill towards all People.
TODAY WE HONOR ALL MOTHERS AS WE CELEBRATE THIS SPECIAL MOTHERS’ DAY WEEK…
AUTHORED BY MELANIE JEAN JUNEAU
I wanted to be a missionary when I was in my early twenties and was not interested even in dating at university. Suddenly, in a space of a few hours I knew God’s call was marriage; His presence was so strong, I received an inner image of Jesus’s hand on Michael’s and my heads.I was disappointed but I said yes to becoming a mother even though I had never held a babybefore my first child.
My children literally saved, healed and set me free. They have shaped my whole spirituality . My life in Christ is simple and full of Joy.
With so much to do, I was forced to let go of control and let God take control. We are cash poor and He has provided for us, even performing a multiplication of heating oil. One tank of oil lasted for 4 months instead of refilling 6-7 times.
Living on a hobby farm helped us raise kids with a good work ethic, who learned how to work and play together. Today they socialize with other regularly and help look after each other
Melanie Jean Juneau is a petite wife, writer and mother of nine children who blogs at melaniejeanjuneau.wordpress.com. When the words “The Joy of Mothering on a Hobby Farm” popped into her head as a subtitle for her short stories it was like an epiphany for her because those few words verbalized her experience living with little people. The very existence of a joyful mother of nine children seems to confound people. Her writing is humorous and heart warming; thoughtful and thought-provoking with a strong current of spirituality running through it. Part of her call and her witness is to write the truth about children, family, marriage and the sacredness of life, especially a life lived in God.
MY MOTHER was truly an inspiration to my soul. Whenever I felt someone had hurt me, she would simply say, “Son, don’t hold a grudge against them, you must find in your heart the words to forgive them.” I would say, “but Mom, it hurts, how can I forgive them, they hurt me.” Son, if you truly want to stop the pain, you must release it and let it go, forgiveness is the only way to your personal peace.
MY MOTHER was a godly woman, she loved and feared the Lord, and she made sure that I understood what she meant when she said I must forgive those who would seek to do harm to me. Now let me share with you the lesson MY MOTHER taught me on FORGIVENESS. She begin by saying, “Son if the LORD can forgive us of our sins, why do we have such a difficult time of forgiving others when we perceive them to have done us wrong? Getting rid of our heart aches and pains begins with us. We must learn to free ourselves of all the negative baggage we carry around each and every day with our unforgiving spirit.
FORGIVENESS works the miracle of change. When Lincoln was asked why he did not destroy his enemies, he replied: “If I make my enemies my friends, don’t I then destroy them?” When you forgive you change others and you change yourself. You change discord to harmony.
FORGIVENESS should span the years. You should first forgive yourself for the wrongs you’ve done to yourself and others, for the mistakes you’ve made. Then you should forgive and bless all those who have wronged you during your lifetime. Thus you release others and you release yourself. You break the chains of regret and remorse that bind you. You free your mind from the burdens of the past so you may walk victoriously into the future.
FORGIVENESS works two ways. You must forgive to be forgiven. “He who cannot forgive others,” wrote Edward Herbert, “breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass; for every man has the need to be forgiven.”
FORGIVENESS should become a habit. When THE MASTER was asked how often we should forgive, he answered: “Until SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN.” He who forgives to infinity will never hate.
FORGIVENESS should start now. Putting off forgiving only deepens the wound. Clinging to bitterness postpones happiness. Life is short, time is fleeting. Today is the day to forgive.
FORGIVENESS is the way to personal peace. It is performing mental surgery in yourself, probing deep within to remove hurts, grudges and resentments. It is forgetting wrongs as though they had never been. It is flooding your mind with the powerful medicine of forgiveness that cleanses and heals. It is discovering a serenity you’ve never known before.
Then with her big beautiful brown eyes, looking and penetrating deep into my soul, the softness of her voice changing, she said, “you may not understand all that I am telling you at this moment, but when the time is right it will all come to you and you will get it and use it to help your own children and others to understand that we all must learn the art of forgiveness.
So on this Mother’s Day weekend, I salute My BelovedMother for teaching me the art of forgiveness.
I see my mother as a Spirit created by God with purpose; a tower of strength, patience, and humbleness. She selflessly met the needs of family as well as others whom she encountered. Her home was one with plenty of activity as children found solace as part of the family. She never turned away anyone who came to visit. She was always willing to share of her bounty. She was a disciplinarian, a firm glance with eyes that could see the truth in you. There was no way to avoid issues you may have thought private, it was almost like she was a mind reader. She always offered encouraging words to others while pushing her own children to move beyond their own capabilities. She had a heart that loved you no matter what she saw on your face or heard from your lips. She would gently instruct and give guidance to all children of the community. Her large heart was so full of the lives of others, held dear with barely enough room for herself in there. Her legacy today is remembered by those who had the opportunity to meet her and her love will always guide us as a family to do what’s right, simply because she was a living example of godliness. She was my Mother, my friend and I loved her dearly. Happy Mothers’ Day Mom, I know you are watching.
What about you, what are some of the lessons you have learned from your Mother that you would like to share with others? Just click into the comment box below, or you can email me at: davismbyarsjr@gmail.com I respond to all my emails. May God add a blessing to all the Mothers of this world? You are so unique and will always hold a special place in all our hearts here at this Ministry. We love you and truly do appreciate you, and will always be lifting you up that others may see the light of God shining from within you. May Gods’ Peace be with you throughout this Special Mothers’ Day Week Celebration in your honor?
THE BLACK ORCHID IS A SYMBOL OF OUR BEAUTIFUL MOTHERS (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
THE BLACK ORCHID IS A SYMBOL OF OUR BEAUTIFUL MOTHER’S (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
Today marks the beginning of our week long Celebration Honoring all Mothers for their many great contributions to all of us in this Universe. One of the problems that too many of us have is that we take our Mother’s for granted. This week’s long Celebration is meant to bring attention to the Women of the world and especially the Mothers. If you are not a Mother today, one day you will be, therefore, we all must learn how to share in your pain and suffering as well as the joy and pleasure you receive and we receive from being your Sons and Daughters.
When we come into the full knowledge and understanding that you are truly one of God’s greatest creation, and He endowed you with many gifts, the greatest gift of all was the gift to conceive the seed of a brand new life. For that reason along, we take this time to stand back and reflect upon your uniqueness to the world and all that you bring to the table that helps to transform this world into what it is today.
LET US PRAY: Eternal God, our Heavenly Father, we thank you for sharing with us the gift of a Mother’s
WOMAN OF PRAYER (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
Love. A gift that has brought so much joy and pleasure into our lives, by allowing us to have a voice this day to say to our Mothers; thank you for my life and all that you have done to allow me to be lifted up on the wings of an eagle and experience the power and joy of your love and blessings, AMEN!
We invite each of you to share your thoughts and opinions here daily honoring all the Mothers of the World. When you bless our Mothers, God will add a blessing to you. The choice is yours. Give and it shall be given unto you. Thank you for reading and sharing.
WILL YOU JOIN OUR WEEK LONG CELEBRATION HONORING THE MOTHERS OF THIS WORLD?
A bouquet of Red Roses for your Mother (Photo by Pastor Davis)
Let me remind you that beginning Monday Morning, we will begin a weeklong celebration service honoring our dear Mothers from around the globe. Please join with us each day and share your thoughts and prayers with one of our most precious resources and that is our Mothers. For the Bible teaches us to honor our Mothers that our days will be long upon this earth. Each one of you can be a part of this celebration by returning here daily and sharing a word with our tens of thousands readers from all over the world. In our comment section just give a big shout out to some of the thousands of Mothers that will be reading these articles daily. One of them could be your very own Mother. Help us to lift the Spirits of our Mothers who have sacrificed so much that we may enjoy the fruits of this world. I thank you for your participation in our Week long Celebration and Honor of our very Beautiful, Sweet and Loving Mothers. May God add a blessing to each one of you for what you will bring to the Spiritual Table in honor of our Mothers!
Good Morning Children of God, if it’s Sunday, it is time to enter into our Virtual Church for our Prayer, Praise and Worship Service. Are you ready to give God your heart, worship Him and Praise Him this Morning?
LET US PRAY! Eternal God, our most precious and Holy Father, the Father of all life in the Universe, we enter into your present this morning, seeking your blessings over our Nation and all its inhabitants. Father, there is much trouble in the land, your children are suffering from fears of their safety been invaded, and lack of the basic substances of not enough food to feed their families, clean fresh water in short supply and being able to find jobs that will help them provide shelter for their families. Our government leaders seem to be paralyzed when it comes to making the correct decisions that will help the least among us to lift them out of poverty and bring this nation together as one people. Father I pray for divine intervention into the lives of all your Children this day. I speak healing into their physical bodies, I speak revelation over all that they desire to have changed in their lives. I speak restoration for our Nations and its leaders to be lifted up into the light that they may see the suffering and harm that they are bring into the lives of your children and this great nation of ours. And in seeing, they will be transformed by the renewing of their minds and they will become Spirit filled in ways that would be unimaginable in other times. Let the power of your divine Spirit invade our Nations as it provides all your children with peace and joy for another day. It is in the name of Jesus that we seek these blessings this day, as we lift you up Heavenly Father, in Prayer, Praise and Worship. Amen, Amen, Amen!
Now it is time to lift up our Holy Hands and Praise God. Join me with my favorite Praise Team leader, Brother Ron Kenoly as he lifts us up higher on the SOLID ROCK.
Now it is time for our Message for today, delivered by God’s Messenger, Pastor Davis speaking to you on the subject, “STOP LIVING IN FEAR-LACK AND LIMITATION!”
LET US PRAY:
Most Holy God, our heavenly Father, open our hearts and minds that the lesson you have for us today will penetrate deep into our souls and heal the wounds that have been inflicted upon us. Bind up our broken hearts in order that our Spiritual Eyes and Ears may be open to the truth of your teaching this day, in Jesus name I pray, Amen!
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:
In today’s lesson, this is what the Scriptures teach us, it says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7 KGV) Do you believe this truth of God’s Holy Word? If you believe, I encourage you to hold onto that thought and listen to the message God wants you to partake of as you study his word today and the rest of this week. Click on this video clip and be blessed.
LET US PRAY: Heavenly Father, we thank you for opening the windows of Heaven and pouring out a blessing upon your Children that took the time to be a part of this Sunday Prayer Praise and Worship Service. Now may the Holy Spirit watch over them, guide them and teach them your ways as they walk out their purpose in this life, in Jesus name, AMEN!
Let me remind you that beginning Monday Morning, we will begin a week long celebration service honoring our dear Mothers from around the globe. Please join with us each day and share your thoughts and prayers with one of our most precious resources and that is our Mothers. For the Bible teaches us to honor our Mothers that our days will be long upon this earth. Each one of you can be a part of this celebration by returning here daily and sharing a word with out tens of thousand readers from all over the world.
Thank each one of you for been a part of another Sunday Prayer and Praise Service. If this service has blessed you, why not share it with others as your blessing over their lives this day. For this is truly the first day of the rest of your life. Be Blessed My Friends!
THE FLOWER MAKES HER SACRIFICE (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
In today’s lesson, I set before you a very important question for you to ponder, and that question is; “What Are You” Really” Willing to Sacrifice for the price that has been paid for your FREEDOM?” Pride, distrust, envy, hatred, anger, lack of commitment, and unwillingness to love those who strive against you in every way are just a few of the obstacles encountered in life, even when up against such odds, “What are you willing to sacrifice?”
Deciding to step out or move forth requires an in creditable amount of will power and self-discipline, much more than many of us are able to envision in our minds. Making sacrifices requires us to rethink our own agenda, knowing that in life there are no quick fixes. Jesus made that sacrifice in order for us to see and understand that it is possible to reroute the way we think in terms of our daily lives. It is the mission of “the Dark One” to create in each of us self-doubt and when we surrender control of our will we find ourselves on loosing grounds, where we become like a rubber band stretched and pulled so that there is no more room to expand.
So, the question is, “What Are You Willing to Sacrifice?”First of all you must be willing to admit that you are not your own, we are all sinnerssaved by grace. To sacrifice your will or desire to get to know more about Christ and his many teachings will become one of the greatest accomplishments of your life.
We live as mortal beings, yet we are spiritual, awareness brings about enlighten and we come into that knowledge by submission and change of attitude, no longer conditioned by how the world dictate who and whose we are.
What Are You Willing to Sacrifice? In Christ we become new creatures with meaning and purpose, willing to surrender our lives to a Savior who patiently waits. Admitting that we are sinners and in need of salvation is a start, acceptance, and total surrender of our lives brings us into an intimate relationship with Christ. We set aside “sacred moments” to allow the Holy Spirit to minister to our needs, learning to live in expectancy.
We must remember that God is not someone we bargain with; think of your relationship with your parents as a child, how you trusted them in all innocence, or your children dependence on you to meet their needs; Christ is the spiritual connection that brings wholeness, a sense of direction, and is the supplier of all that we need.
Knowing and trusting God to guide you as you journey places you under grace, when its sin verses grace, grace wins. Sin threatens us with death and that’s it. Grace, through Jesus gives us life that is never ending (Romans 5: 20-21). This means you must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives.
THE BIRD LIVING FREE (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
What Are You Willing to Sacrifice? A relationship in Jesus gives us freedom, but we must first be willing to make the Sacrifice. When we do, He releases us from our chains of bondage that have been placed upon us by the world. He allows you to lift up your head towards the sky, straighten up your back, stiffen up your spin and provide you with the freedom to walk through the path of rigorousness and fear no evil. He will prepare a table before you in the present of your enemies, and take you to places that you could only begin to experience in your imagination. Yes, when you begin to live in the freedom of God, and surrender in obedience to His will, the chains of bondage will be removed and you will be free as a bird.
The question is, What Are You Willing to Sacrifice? It is well worth the sacrifice to allow the Holy Spirit to come into your life and learn in obedience the way of Jesus, follow the pattern he has so graciously left in place for all of us to follow. Always keep his teachings at the forefront of your spiritual mind and you will journey this life in peace no matter the obstacles.
WE ARE PROCLAIMING THE I AM THAT LIVES IN EACH ONE OF US
GOD IS THE I AM AND THE LIGHT OF THE UNIVERSE (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
“I AM WHO I AM.” These simple words have been an enigma to man for centuries. He has reasoned that there must be a great mystical significance in them, and has meditated at length in hope that the enigma might be resolved. At the risk of oversimplification let us alter the tempo, the emphasis we put on the words. In doing so, they may well give depth of insight to us. “I AM WHO I AM.” Perhaps the infinite wisdom of our one transcendent God is saying to us that the “I AM” in you has arrived at some degree of self-awareness. Could it be that He is saying, ”I Am not something apart; I am that something in you that has perceived of identity”?
The Lord has spoken to us, and He has proclaimed, that He is, the, “I AM!” He said, “I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness (Isaiah 42:6a ESV)
I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. (John 10:9 ESV)
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 ESV)
“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” (John 11:25c,d ESV)
“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. (John 6:35 ESV).
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. (John 10:11-13 ESV)
I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. (John 10:14 ESV).
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. (John 15:1-4 ESV)
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bear much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
I am the Vine and you are the Branches. When you learn the truth of who the “I AM,” that lives in you and come into the full and complete knowledge and understanding that, “In him was life, and the life was the light of men (John 1:4a ESV,”) then you will know the truth of these final words spoken by Jesus when he said, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my DISCIPLES. (John 15:7-8 ESV).
We bless this word to you that it may stir up the Holy Spirit that is alive inside of you and seeking the release of its full and unlimited powers that will propel you to any place or heights that you may desire. The choice is yours, what do you believe?
THE PENALTY OF DISOBEDIENCE CAN CAUSE YOU TO LOOSE
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
THE BEAUTY OF SPRING IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHANGE OUR THINKING (PHOTOS BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
There are times we chose to follow our own path or listen to others without realizing the end results. The penalty of disobedience can cause you to lose what God has for you. He gives us tools needed to accomplish even the most “minute” assignment when we are obedient and allow him room to work through us. If the assignment is not one of his choices he moves us to a place that he has his eyes on for us. It is therefore the very reason why we should seek directions through diligent prayer in faith. As you study God’s word you encounter many who went contrary to assigned orders and lost.
The Penalty of Disobedience can Cause you to Lose:
Set aside time to study Gods’ word, it is there you’ll encounter life choices that went contrary to instructions from God. In the Old Testament you’ll encounter disobedience, testing of God through worshiping forbidden gods and idols. For example, Baal became on object of worship in which people choose to neglect Gods instruction for life. Oh, how they angered God, he handed them off to plunder who stripped them of their strength and dignity. God being the God he is would come in and save them from their enemies’ oppression, because he is a God of compassion.
THE BEAUTY OF SPRING (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
Throughout the reign of kings you’ll see how God’s instruction took a back seat in decision making and man decided to do things his way and how the penalty of disobedience can cause you to lose greater blessings.
We today are no different, we fail to set aside time and space to establish a real relationship with our Master Jesus. Many of “life’s choices” are made solely on what we think we know without considering the true source of all that we need, the one who is a constant presence waiting to be tapped into.
Just for thought, think of how and why some people choose to do wrong knowing the end results. Remember, the penalty of disobedience can cause you to lose. Jesus is a prime example of injustice, even though he brought a message of life and hope for all; he was hung on a cross. It was a bit too late for those who allowed and participated in the process when they came to the realization of their actions, because “the Penalty of disobedience can cause you to lose”, they found themselves on the losing end.
It is in our own best interest to think long and hard about where we are and what it is we are purposed for on this earthly journey while keeping our eyes on the prize; freedom in Christ Jesus, who see and know every move we make and every thought we act upon. Let us learn the true meaning of being obedient servants working toward common goals that are well defined and pleasing in the sight of God.
Below is a letter sent from Paul an Apostle of Jesus Christ to believers everywhere? It is a letter of encouragement with a promise from God just to remind us in case we forget just how much God really loves us and that he will never give up on us. This is truly a great reminder of just how much God loves all of His Children, and this is one fact we should never ever forget. Now listen to what Paul tells us:
He says, “I send this letter to you in God’s church at Corinth; believers cleaned up by Jesus and set apart for a God-filled life. I include in my greeting all who call out to Jesus, wherever they live. He’s their Master as well as ours!”
May all the gifts and benefits that come from God our Father, and the Master, Jesus Christ, be yours;
Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.
Just think—you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that. (1 Corinthian 1:1-9 MSG)
Therefore, Children of God, let me Encourage you today, to stand still, look towards the hills from which all your blessings are flowing, calm your mind, allow Jesus to open your spiritual eyes that you may see His blessings flowing all around you. Allow Him to open your spiritual ears that you may here Jesus voice speak to you as he says these words, “MY DEAR CHILDREN, BE ENCOURAGED, GOD WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU ARE FORSAKE YOU!”
SPRING IS HERE, TIME TO SHAPE UP AND RENEW YOUR SPIRITUAL VITALITY FOR WE HAVE GATHERED HERE IN OUR VIRTUAL CHURCH SERVICE TO PRAISE GOD, FOR HE IS TRULY WORTHY TO BE PRAISED!
PASTOR DAVIS SUNDAY MORNING MESSAGE: RENEW YOUR SPIRITUAL VITALITY…
Good Morning Children of God, if it’s Sunday Morning, it is time to put on your shouting shoes, put a strut in your stride, put on a happy face with a big wide smile and lift up those Holy Hands of yours and together, let us begin our SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER, PRAISE AND WORSHIP SERVICE.
Can you open your mouth wide and say out loud, “I AM BLESSED, one more time, “I AM BLESSED!” Never be ashamed to shout out these three words; I AM BLESSED!” One for the Father, one for the Son and one for the Holy Spirit; For truly, we are blessed this morning beyond our wildest imagination.
LET US PRAY! Eternal God, our Heavenly Father, we are your children that have gather here in your name to bless you and give you all the glory for all that you have done that has allowed us to see and experience your glory one more time. We thank you for this opportunity and we go forth this day lifting up our Holy Hands in prayer, praise and worship, in the name of Jesus, Amen!
It is now time for our morning Praise Song and it is awesome, done so beautifully by the Rexband. God You are Holy…
Wasn’t that beautiful; now prepare your hearts and minds for our Worship Message for this Sunday Morning. Let me speak directly into your mind, these words of wisdom as God has provided them to me. Now I pray, “Lord open our hearts and minds that we may receive the fruits from the Vine that you have prepared for all your Children this day, the believers as well as the non believers, we all shall sit at your table
Partaking of the fruit from the vine…
of blessings this day and partake of this Spiritual food, in Jesus name, Amen!”
CHILDREN OF GOD, listen up, because time is not waiting on any of us. There is much work to be done. The time is now to renew your spiritual vitality. You must revitalize your ordinary life, your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and just walking around life, and place it before God as an offering. You must stop living in the traditional way of just doing what has been acceptable as part of your culture, that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead the time is now for you to fix your attention on God. Get into the Spiritual Race and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to transform you from the inside out.
You can take what I have to say to you here right now as meaningless, are you can get up from sitting in front of that television screen are just lounging around in your bed. The choice is yours. It is time to stop making excuses are blaming others for your lack of energy and enthusiasm for overcoming your weakness in being a true CHRISTIAN that God has ordain you to be, because God wants you to renew your Spiritual Vitality and He wants you to do it NOW!
Now listen to what the scripture teaches us, it says, “Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it, because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!”
The Agony of being nailed to the cross (Photo by Pastor Davis)
In this all-out match against sin, others have suffered far worse than you, to say nothing of what Jesus went through—all that bloodshed! So don’t feel sorry for yourselves. Or have you forgotten how good parents treat their children, and that God regards you as his children?
My Dear Child, don’t shrug off God’s discipline, but don’t be crushed by it either. It’s the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects.
God is educating you; that’s why you must never drop out. He’s treating you as dear children. This trouble you’re in isn’t punishment; its training, the normal experience of children. Only irresponsible parents leave children to fend for themselves. Would you prefer an irresponsible God? We respect our own parents for training and not spoiling us, so why not embrace God’s training so we can truly live? While we were children, our parents did what seemed best to them. But God is doing what is best for us, training us to live God’s holy best. At the time, discipline isn’t much fun. It always feels like it’s going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God. (Hebrews 12:1-11 MSG)
If you have not experienced the life saving blood of Jesus Christ, stop and take a moment wherever you may be, and ask the Lord to come into your life. Ask Him to forgive you of your sins, and if you have spoken these few simple words in truth, you are saved, and now have eternal life. It you have received and experience His Life saving blood, remember this, “THE TIME IS NOW TO RENEW YOUR SPIRITUAL VITALITY!”
May God continue to bless each one of you? Today I minister to you from a position of peace, power, purpose and prosperity in Jesus name. I remain your brother in Jesus Christ, Pastor Davis/Master Teacher! Now let me Encourage each one of you to use this message, this posting to bless someone else’s life this day. Give and it shall be given to you in double portions. You are a blessing to God and this ministry, now be a blessing to your neighbor. Do this in Jesus Name, and the devil will flee from you. Amen!
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO STAND FIRM WITH POWER?
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
THE POWER OF GOD’S GRACE STANDS FIRM WITH ALL HIS CHILDREN (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
This question may seem strange to some; Do You Have What it takes to Stand Firm with Power? In all actuality it is a defining question if your goal is to live out your created purpose. The Christian journey is an opportunity to share life’s teachings, so don’t waste time needlessly because your journey is God given, your destination is where you’ll spend eternity.
When you make the decision to follow Jesus your life takes on a different meaning, there will be life changes that often seem unbearable, you lose many “friends” and often members of your own family may withdraw because they have not yet been able to grasp the entire picture.
THOUGHTS ON DISCOVERING LIFE CHANGES OF A SERVANT (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
A servant, a follower of Jesus can expect hard times, tough times, hard work and dedication, but learn to take it all in joy knowing the purpose of their calling. The servant or follower is encouraged to reach out to the lost and those seeking to know more about this wonderful relationship so graciously offered.
Remember the Great Commission as Jesus instructed: “Go into the entire world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15) We are to familiarize ourselves with this thought; “to every creature” so that everyone may know their freedomhas been brought and paid for in full by a resurrected Savior.
Once you receive the gift of the Holy Spirit the question, Do You Have What it takes to Stand Firm with Power should become a part of who you are in Christ. Remember when Jesus called the Twelve together, how he gave them power and authority and to proclaim the kingdom of God? (Luke 9:1-7 NIV) that same power lives today in true believers because it is God given.
In order to work under the anointing of the Holy Spirit your character must be that of clear thinking, gentleness, holiness, and honest love. We are called to work, as believers we become one body in Christ and all power was given to Jesus by God for Jesus so stated: “His Father have given him power over all flesh “(John 17:2) through his sacrifice we are able to share in that gift. Through him we are encouraged to use our gifts as instruments of peace sharing his gospel with others. Do you have what it takes to stand firm with power?
Stand Firm (Photo credit: WELS.net)
For we are many members in one body, and all members have not the same office (Romans 12:4), knowing this gives each of us the opportunity to develop and enhance whatever that gift is to draw the lost, it may be a gift of prophecy, ministry, or teaching, whatever your calling is prepare your hearts and spirit for opposition. Always remember God has created and assigned you with purpose; therefore, as long as you’re in Christ Jesus nothing or no one can tear you down, but the attempt will be made. In your weakest moments, trials and struggles, do you have what it takes to stand firm with power?
Jesus is your Master, salvation comes through him, in obedience and faith embrace his teachings, follow his pattern for life and you’ll never regret one moment because your destination is not earthly but heavenly (eternal). Dedicate your entire being before God, and watch how he changes you from inside out, how he is able to bring the very best in you to the surface. Put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-18), when you’re confronted with discouragement and find yourself wondering, do you have what it takes to stand firm with power, you’ll know the answer at the appointed time.
On this day as you begin to read and study this lesson, pause your thoughts and think on where you are in your life’s journey and know that the reason you are where you are is only by the mercy and grace of God’s favor. He has touched each one of us in a very special way and given us an opportunity to look within ourselves and understand why we are Blessed and Highly Favored on this day and all the days of our lives.
Now let us begin this study by first understanding the word “BLESSED.” It is a Greek word that is derived from the root mak, which means “large or “lengthy,” and means “fortunate” or “happy.” The Greek word was used in Greek literature, in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament,) and in the New Testament to describe the kind of happiness that comes from receiving divine favor. The word can be rendered happy. In the New Testament, it is usually passive; God is the One who is blessing or favoring the person. God says the Blessed person is a “HappyPerson” and He describes that person in this manner,“BLESSED is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” ( Psalm 1:1-2)
OUR BLESSINGS AND FAVOR ARE IN THE RISING OF THE SUN (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
In the Beatitudes, each one describes how to “Be Blessed.” They describe how the followers of Christ should live their lives. To be blessed means more than happiness, it means to be “favored” and “approved” by God.
Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount and it challenged the teaching of the proud and legalistic religious leaders of the day. Itcalled people back to the messages of the Old Testament prophets who, like Jesus, had taught that God wants heartfelt obedience, not mere legalistic observing of laws and rituals.
Jesus is considered by scholars such as Weber to be an example of a charismatic religious leader. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The most well-known portion of the Sermon on the Mount is known as the Beatitudes. These are, a series of “blessings,” promised to those who exhibit, the attitude of God’s kingdom. They are called the “Beatitudes.”
In verse three, we note that the Beatitudes describe how Christ’s followers should live. According to worldly standards, the type of people whom Jesus described does not seem to be particularly blessed by God. However, God’s way of living usually contradicts the world. Jesus explained that “God blessed those who realize their need for him, for the kingdom of heaven is given to them.” Only those who humbly depend on God are admitted into the Kingdom of Heaven. The final consummation of all these rewards, and of the kingdom itself, lies in the future. However, the believers can already share in the kingdom by living out Jesus words.
In verse four it seems a contradiction in terms, Jesus explained that “God blesses those mourn, for they will be comforted,” tied with a Beatitudes in verse three, this means that humility (realization of one’s unworthiness before God) also require sorrow for sins. Whether Jesus followers mourn for sin or in suffering, God’s promise is sure that they will be comforted. Only God can take away sorrow for sin; only God can forgive and erase it. Only God can give comfort to those who suffer for his sake because they know their reward in the kingdom.
Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth!
Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God [d]enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God), for they shall be completely satisfied!
Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous–possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God’s favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward conditions) are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
Blessed (enjoying [l]enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
Blessed and happy and enviably fortunate and spiritually prosperous [r](in the state in which the born-again child of God enjoys and finds satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of his outward conditions) are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake (for being and doing right), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account.
Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you. [II Chron. 36:16.]
Finally, Jesus described the way the disciples should respond to persecution; “be happy about it!” “Be very glad!” This refers to deep spiritual joy that is unhindered and unchanged by what happens in this present life. A person with righteous character can rejoice and be glad because of a promise: a great reward awaits you in heaven. The persecution will pale in comparison to the great reward.
Now I pray that this lesson speaks to each one of your hearts and you will fill the love, joy, peace and blessings that surround each one of you in a powerful way and that you will use this opportunity to bless someone else on this special day. It is truly the first day of the rest of your life. We love you and appreciate all that each one of you are doing to advance the work in God’s Kingdom.
PILOT MOUNTAIN, N.C. BE ENCOURAGED (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
There is no mountain that is to high are valley to low that you can not climb. The process of getting to the top begins in your mind. You cannot climb up hill with down hill thoughts. What do you believe? Your thoughts will always manifest your reality. Good thoughts produce good results, negative thoughts produce negative results. Learn to think about the goodness of what God can do when you hold onto His unchanging hands. Look at this picture very carefully, and as you see it, try and understand it as a reality of the mountains that are in your life. Now try to remove this mountain out of your life. Jesus said you can command this mountain to move and it will obey your command. Do you believe? Click on this video clip and allow me to speak plainly to you about getting rid of the mountains in your life.
I pray that this lesson has been a blessing to your soul. If it has, why do share it with others and let it speak to them as well. Know in your heart that God has a blessing with your name on it, if you believe. DO YOU BELIEVE?
05/18/2013
PASTOR DAVIS/MASTER TEACHER
