A nugget…what’s the first thing that comes to mind?  To me it is a McDonald’s chicken nugget, compressed pieces of miscellaneous meat shaped into a roundish form.  To some, a small piece of gold may come to mind or a piece of advice given by someone.

We hope that you will enjoy our miscellaneous meat, our filler, our valuable pieces of counsel shared within the pages of this book.  C’mon, don’t be a nugget hater, dive in and see what we have to offer.  Let God reveal simple truths to you through your fellow brothers and sisters.

May God bless you greatly –

Bishop Ricky & Jeannie Sinclair

Choose Life                                                   Day 1

“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!”

Deuteronomy 30:19

The most important choice any person will make is not their mate, their career, their place to live or to have children. The most important decision that affects all of us is our eternal destiny. God has given us the right to choose – life or death. Through the death, burial and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, God made a way for each of us to receive eternal life. God is not some mean monster who wants to send people to hell, but a loving compassionate Father who wants the best for us. The choice is ours. Will you choose to live a life of abundant joy, peace and purpose? You can make that decision right now! Sincerely pray this simple prayer:

Dear God, I know that You love me and that You have given Your only Son for me. Please forgive me for every sin in my life. I receive your love and forgiveness. I receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to choose Life!  Amen.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 2                                                 Do Your Best

Colossians 3:23-24

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

When we are struggling with something I believe that 99% of the time it is because we forget Who it is we serve!  It is all about Jesus.  And how great is His reward?  There is really nothing to compare.  So everything we do we should do it heartily to the Lord.  I remember when I was a child, my dad taught me to do the very best job I could, no matter the circumstances.  So even if I wasn’t getting paid for a job, if I was scrubbing toilets or scrubbing behinds, I have always tried to do my very best.  I am thankful for this life lesson.  Now that I know whatever it is I do, can bring glory to God it sure makes the not so perfect circumstances much easier to put up with.  I don’t know about you, but I would do ANYTHING for Jesus!

Kathy Rogillio

Trust and Obey                                              Day 3

“Then I will take away your stubbornness and make you eager to be completely faithful to me. You will want to obey me and all my laws and teachings. You will be my people, and I will be your God.”

Ezekiel 11:19-20

That is aold hymn that packs an astounding truth. This verse explains that God is going to take away our stubbornness …if you want Him to. You see, if we will get back out of His way and not be so hard-headed, He is going to grace us with the hunger, the passion, the very unction, to truly obey Him. He said we will want to obey Him! Is that great or what? Lord Jesus, teach me to be eager in my faithfulness so that my obedience will be a sweet smelling aroma to You.

“Our happiness is directly linked to our obedience of God.”

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 4                                                  Leap of Faith

“So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.”

Galatians 3:9

Abraham followed the orders of God without question. He was ordered to leave everything behind and go to a place he’d never been. He was ordered to sacrifice his son, and he would have done it if God hadn’t intervened. God was testing the faith of Abraham.  Abraham didn’t know God’s entire plan for his descendants. He only knew the little bit that God made available. It didn’t matter. Abraham did NOT question God. He was faithful to God.

“Faith is taking the first step, even when you can’t see the whole staircase.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

God has a plan for your life. Even though you can’t see his whole plan, He gives you a glimpse. Be like Abraham and don’t question God’s motives. Take a leap of faith in the right direction and surely the gates to the Kingdom of Heaven will be open to you.

Brandon Martin

Trials and Temptations                                  Day 5

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”

James 1:2-3

Even though times may get difficult, know that everything happens for a reason. I am a firm believer in the old saying, “What does not kill you will only make you stronger.” I feel that when you aren’t going through any type of trial or tribulation is when you truly have a problem. I say this because life is about change. Life is a process; either you’re growing or you’re dying. When you no longer have a current struggle and God is no longer testing your faith, you should really begin to worry because if you are a Christian walking strong in your journey with Christ, Satan will throw any and every obstacle in your path to try to make you stumble and fall. Keep strong and know that God is own your side. You should be happy that you have tests of your faith in life because this means you are still in the growing process and not on your way out. So take joy in life’s struggles.

Jacob Roberts

Day 6                                             God Has a Plan

“And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings.”

Acts 17:26

This verse teaches us that God had ordained everything from the foundation of the world.  He made, of one blood, all nations of men.  The Lord determined the times before…He appointed them.  This tells us that the Lord has placed gifts and abilities in us that they may be used for God’s battle when He needs it.  He had also ordained the boundaries of our habitation, which is where we would be living.  What this means to me, is that God has us right here, right now, for a reason.  We are living wherever we are for a reason, as preparation for what God wants to use us for in His perfect will for us.  God wants to bring us to a place commanded blessings in our lives and He wants to use willing, teachable people.  Remember to always pray for God’s will to be done and not ours.  Remember that God doesn’t make mistakes, but He will test our faith.

Kyle Engels

Train a Child                                                  Day 7

“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”

Proverbs 22:6

During the course of our lives we will be faced with the great challenge of rearing our children to be everything that God wants them to be.  We face a great challenge because Satan desires for them to be influenced to his ways.  It takes time to understand exactly how God wants us to motivate our children and the discipline to carry it through.

“Spare the rod and spoil the child” is often quoted as a means to keep our children in line.  True, it is an important part of helping our children along the path of life, but the book of Proverbs is an important reflection of a special relationship of love between a father and son.  It is a book of encouragement and wisdom that, if followed, will give us great strength for the journey that we will have to travel with our children.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 8                                    Get on the Right Path

“Consider well the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established and ordered aright.”

Proverbs 4:26

Once you’ve determined that you’re going to make God’s way your way, don’t get away from it.  Make compromise a thing of the past.  The easiest time to stray from the path is when you come under pressure. Tithing and honoring God with your substance is following the path of God.  When you fail to do these things because of financial pressure then you have strayed from the path.  This is the main reason why the majority of the body of Christ still struggles financially today.  “Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness.”  Psalm 65:11 Fatness is translated into English as prosperity and abundance.  Get on that path and determine to stay on it.

Shirley Tullier

Touched by God                                            Day 9

“And Saul also went home to Gibeah; and there went with him a band of men, whose hearts God had touched.”

1 Samuel 10:26

Think about the first time you won a race or reached your highest goal.  You were on cloud nine.  What did you do after reaching the mountaintop experience?  Were you able to see that on every mountaintop there is another view of the next challenge?  Above your greatest accomplishment rises one greater!  Life has tons of challenges that can pull us down and cause us to quit.  But there’s something different about those whose hearts have been touched by God.  God’s touch resembles a lit match touching gas or a bolt of lightening striking an oil tanker.  God’s touch does more than start something; He empowers His children with miracles, signs and wonders.

Pray for God to touch your heart and to surround yourself with people whose hearts have been touched by God and watch an explosion that shatters the status quo with creativity and change.

Pastor Damon Baudoin

Day 10                                              When You Sin

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us of our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 1:9

Sin is deadly. Sin opens the door to the devil.   But none of us are immune to falling into sin. What should we do then?  If you sin, immediately confess it to God. Don’t make excuses. You don’t need to beg God to forgive you because He is a forgiver and has already paid the price so all sin can be forgiven. You confess it to get rid of the sin and its effects on you.

Nikki V. Langlois

Spiritual Gifts                                               Day 11

“…to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy…”

1 Corinthians 12:10

As I was preparing to receive my firstborn into my arms for the very first time, my heart was bursting with love and a newfound devotion to motherhood.  As I gazed upon my daughter, I couldn’t wait to open the blanket so I could see this perfect little baby.  Was I proud? You bet!  After I had admired my little girl for awhile, I was startled to hear the woman in the bed next to me ask if she could please hold my baby.  There was something so trusting and beautiful about this woman.  I was surprised to hear myself say, “Of course you can.”

After awhile, the woman looked at me and said, “Your baby is special. She is going to do something wonderful one day, something to honor and please God.” I was so stunned I couldn’t even answer her.  After she handed my baby back to me I looked into this child’s eyes and just knew my roommate was right. I was finally able to say, “Thank you.” Now I can only say thank God for my little miracle – Sister Jeannie Sinclair is doing something to honor and please God!

Patricia Cantu

Day 12                                          Choose to Stand

“Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego replied to the king, ‘O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to give you an answer concerning this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.’”

Daniel 3:17, 18

Many would call this statement an act of defiance. It really is a declaration of faith and conviction. These three young friends of Daniel were being forced to participate in idolatry. The image set up for worship was a direct contradiction to the teachings of their parents. Even though their parents were not present, these three young men understood that the eyes of the Lord see all. The faith of the parents had to become the faith of the children. In the face of terrible persecution, God’s young men made a choice. As the fires blazed these mighty young men made a stand for God and righteousness.

Pastor Paul Pierce

No Other Friend                                           Day 13

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”

1 Peter 5: 7

What a great God we serve. He is our Teacher, Leader, Creator and Master, but most of all He said that he is our Friend. No matter the problem we can go to Him and He promises that He will never leave nor forsake us. You can believe Him because He is not a man that He should lie. So cast all your cares on Him for He really does care for your every concern.

Lord Jesus today I lay every care at your feet because the burdens are much too big to bear. Today I accept Your friendship and intercession on my behalf and may You receive all the glory. Amen.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 14                                   It Don’t Take Much…

In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul found how to be content in life, whether he had much or little, he knew that “he could do all things through Christ.”  And again in I Timothy 6:6-10, he talks about the reality that we came into this world with nothing and we’ll leave the same way, that we need to be content to have food to eat and clothes on our back.

I’ve lived in a six bedroom house, had spare vehicles and so much money in the bank that I didn’t have to keep a balance in my checkbook, however, I’ve also lived off of moon pies and potato chips, slept on other people’s floors and had to walk or catch a ride to get somewhere.

At this time in my life, I live in a three bedroom mobile home in a rented slot in a park.  I drive a Kia and I fight to get through each month financially, but it’s all good.  I continue to serve, tithe, live and love and I am content.  What more is there to this physical life?  You can only drive one car at a time.  You can only sleep in one house at a time.  It’s nice to have extra “stuff” but the “stuff” ain’t what it takes to make you happy. That can only come from peace on the inside and that peace is found in Jesus.  <><

Jeannie Sinclair

Things Are Looking Up                                Day 15

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”

James 1:2-3 (NKJV)

“Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us.”

2 Corinthians 1:9 (NKJV)

Through my life I have experienced many trials and gone through many hard times.  Going through a six month rehab program is definitely up there on the list.  These scriptures really help me through these hard times. The second scripture speaks directly to me.  For so long I tried to beat this addiction by myself and it got me nowhere.  As soon as I turned it over to God, things started to look up.  It is so hard to be joyful when I’m going through hard times, but it’s so true that trials produce perseverance and build character.  As long as I trust in God He will give me His joy and if I have the joy of the Lord then nothing can get me down.

Jordan Hicks

Day 16                                      What’s In a Name?

“There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!’ And God granted him his request.”

1 Chronicles 4:9-10

When we are born our parents pick our names and our names shape our temperament and destiny. Then people try to change our name.  Some of us get called not by our right name but by the labels that people put on us. When we accept the Lord Jesus Christ in our lives, God changes our names, spiritually that is. Jabez knew God and believed in Him. He knew that God would bless Him if he just cried out to Him. What does your name mean to you? Are you representing your name or are you letting people label you? God has more in store for you than the labels which were given to you. Allow God to be the One to change your name.

Marta Garcia

Prayer Changes Things                               Day 17

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

2 Chronicles 7:14

Is it possible to change a wholeby the prayers of a few people?Yes, it is.If one bad person like Hitler, who was possessed by Satan, could change Germany for the worse, then you can be sure that a group of men and women with God’s power resting on them can change a nation for the better.No nation is so far gone that God can’t change it.God said “If My people which are called by Myname…”  God didn’t say it would take everybody in the nation to get things turned around.He said, “If My people.”God said our job is to PRAY and to BELIEVE that He will do what He says.

Shirley Tullier

Day 18                                              Come to Me…

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28

You have a great partner in life – Jesus Christ, a humble Savior, Friend, Healer, Provider and Teacher, yet He is not soft.He is always the same and is calling you to come to Him.You will experience awesome times when you come to Him on the mountain top and you will experience those times deep in the valley where character is built.Jesus does not offer a life of luxurious ease. But the life that He does offer remains easy compared to the grinding alternative.In desperate times you can come to Him and He is there, faithful to help you through.Our Lord thoroughly furnishes each of His soldiers for His work and places before each the task He has for them to do.The desire that you feel for Him can only come from Him and His spirit.If you are moving toward God, it’s because He is moving toward you. “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” (John 6:44) If you want Him, He is looking for you. Come.

Linda Burris

Humble Yourself                                          Day 19

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

1 Peter 5:6-7

This verse tells us three things we need to know. First, humble yourself under God’s mighty hand.  If we can’t humble ourselves, we can’t learn or receive anything God or anyone else has that might help us.

Next, He may lift you up in due time. That means His time, not ours.  When God lifts us up, it is permanent, not a temporary thing or something that anyone else can undo.  When God does something in His time, whatever it is, it will not fail.

Lastly, He cares so much for us that He wants to take all of our troubles, burdens, fears and all that we worry about. His Word says that He will take care of ALL of our worries. Because He loves us so much, He doesn’t want us to worry about anything.  He says He will take care of it, if we let Him.

Al Hart

Day 20                                     Attentive to His Call

“Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. ‘Let me kiss my father and mother good-by,’ he said, ‘and then I will come with you.’ ‘Go back,’ Elijah replied. ‘What have I done to you?’ So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his attendant.”

1 Kings 19:20-21

As you can see Elisha was faithfully working in the natural realm, while his spirit was also chomping at the bit. God primarily calls those that are active.  Elisha led by example, not merely by command, even when leading servants of his own household.  Due to his servant-like attitude in the natural realm, God called him to activity in the spiritual realm. God was calling Elisha to service, not Elijah.  The decision was his and his alone.  Before he went to service, Elisha burnt all the ties to his natural realm which would force him to trust only in the spiritual realm.  No back-up plan. Sheer trust in God’s calling.  What are you willing to give up to be attentive to the call of God?

Pastor Damon Baudoin

Gold, Silver or Trash                                    Day 21

“In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.”

2 Timothy 2:20-21

God has given every one of us a special gift or talent.  It is up to us how to use it.  Some of us present it back to God as gold or silver, lifting them up to Him through service for Him.  Others do nothing with His gifts.  They let them waste away as garbage.  God has placed a desire in our heart.  Sometimes we may feel as if we let God down by not using a gift He has blessed us with, but if we just get that “silver platter” and clean the tarnish off, we can once again begin using it to serve God again.

Kathy Galloway

Day 22                                  God Will Make a Way

“Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”

2 Timothy 2:22

Thank God He does not want us to entertain the desires of a foolish man’s heart. God wants us to flee the youthful lusts of the flesh. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “God will leave you a way to escape the temptations of the flesh.” If we are to flee, we are to run away from that which has become too much for our flesh to bear.

When you run away, you must run to those that are made righteous by the blood of Jesus Christ. Follow those that walk by faith, so they may be godly examples for you.

I have come to Baker from Alexandria. Baker has been my escape from the temptations of my flesh. I am now pursuing righteousness, faith, love and peace.

Brandon Miller

Race With Joy                                             Day 23

“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”

Acts 20:24

When we remember where we are going, Who our God is and what His purposes are, we have joy. When we keepin our sights, God on our minds and Jesus in our hearts, we have joy.the Spirit of the Lord is on us, in us and moving through us, who or what can steal our joy for more than a moment?

What joy it is whentheshare Jesusothers, a joy that is alive as He is alive in us.  God is alive in word, in song, and in deed! your sights on Him and race with joy to win.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 24                                Walk in the Same Way

“Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, so walk in Him…”

Colossians 2:6

The Christian life is described as a walk. Walking is a consistent, constant, repetitive action that results in motion. Our Christian life should be consistent and constant. We serve God every day, not just on Sundays.

This verse says we walk in the same way we received Christ Jesus as Lord. How did we receive Him? The Bible says we are “saved by grace through faith.”  Grace is God’s power that saves us. It works in our life through faith. Faith is the pipeline to receive God’s grace. We don’t deserve God’s love and forgiveness but He gave it. We must choose to receive it by believing and trusting Him. That is faith.

This sounds simple because it is. Everyday make a new commitment to walk in Him. Trust God for all of your needs and the power to overcome the flesh, the world and the devil. Receive His power for life as you trust Him constantly and consistently.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Yoked Together                                           Day 25

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30

We live in a world of nerve-jangling noise, fast pace, frantic activity and endless demands. Yet we yearn for the rest the Lord talks about. The Lord is not talking about being free from circumstances but resting in Him during those circumstances and feeling the rest only He can give us. Do not be burdened with the things of this world that are only temporary.  Rest in Him and think about how to be humble like Him.  The yoke the Lord puts upon us is easy.  When we do the things He asks of us, we find the burden is light.

When we give our lives to Jesus, we are “yoked” together with Him.  He does the pulling and we follow and learn, thereby finding real joy, purpose and rest.

Brandy Baudoin

Day 26                                                     Delivered

“I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

Psalm 34:4

I was running lost, doing what I wanted to do and not even doing that well.  I was a bad husband, father and friend. I was living in darkness doing what Satan wanted me to do until a voice (my Lord, Jesus Christ) said to me, “Draw close to Me and I will draw close to thee.”  So, I fell down on my knees and said to my Father, “Forgive me of my sins. Take away my evil thoughts. Set me free from my addictions.”  He heard my cry and He also gave me something more because He’s an awesome, loving, kind, wonderful God.  That’s why I can rejoice and say how great our God is.

Thank You, Father, because You saved me. Amen.

Brian Watson

Being Accepted                                           Day 27

“Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.”

Romans 15:7

All of us long to be accepted by others.  We may say, “I don’t care what others think about me,” but on the inside we all yearn for intimacy and affection.  This yearning is especially true in our relationships with our parents.  Gaining or missing out on parental approval has a tremendous affect on people.  In fact, what takes place in our relationship with our parents can greatly affect our present and future relationships with others, as well as our relationship with God.  Most children who lack or miss out on the feeling of approval from a parent end up on a life-long search for acceptance.  If you are a parent, learn how to bless your child with praise and acceptance. The best defense against a child longing and then receiving wrong acceptance is to provide him or her with true acceptance.  With this, you can greatly reduce the chances that he or she will seek acceptance in the arms of a cult or with someone in an unhealthy, immoral relationship.  Love your children with the love of Christ and accept them as He accepts you.

April Mayers

Day 28                                                By Your Side

“For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”

Hebrews 13:5

Not too long ago, my daughter, Isabel, had a stomach virus.  I was frustrated because there was nothing I could do for her except rub her back and hold back her hair as she was sick.  I vented my frustration and Isabel, in her innocence, told me, “It’s okay, Mommy.  I just feel better when you’re near.”  Her statement prompted me to think about my walk with Jesus.  Like everyone else, I go through trials, some worse than others.  I believe there are things I have to go through that build my character or teach me something.  These tests would not be effective if someone came and rescued me from them.  Even though I may have to pass a test by myself, I just feel better knowing that Jesus is right there with me.

Marion Horta

Until Eternity                                                Day 29

“It wasn’t so long ago that we ourselves were stupid and stubborn, dupes of sin, ordered every which way by our glands, going around with a chip on our shoulder, hated and hating back. But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God’s gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there’s more life to come—an eternity of life!”

Titus 3:3-8

I meet a lot of people at Miracle Place Church.  In getting to know them, I learn about their background.  Sometimes we compare backgrounds but the bottom line is this, whether we come from a church background or a background of drugs and alcohol, sin is sin.  God doesn’t see little white lies or great big sins.  When we are washed in His blood, we are new. No matter what background we are from, we are all now one family – a family with an eternity of life to look forward to.

Kathy Galloway

Day 30                                         Thank You Jesus

“Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified.”

Matthew 27:26

Jesus endured unbelievable pain and torture for us.  He suffered for an unworthy sinner like me who is undeserving of such agape love.  Jesus’ flesh was torn from His body by Romans filled with hatred towards Him, using a tool called a scourge.  This tool consisted of a wooden handle with 12 or so leather straps.  At the end of each strap were broken pieces of bone or metal that were designed to rip open flesh.  This scourge was used on the body of Christ 39 times causing 468 stripes.  Isaiah 52:14 says that Jesus’ body was marred more that of any other man.  With blood, sweat, pain and tears Christ paid a price I could not – death by crucifixion – that I might live and be healed from disease and addiction.  For Isaiah 53:5 says, “For by His stripes we are healed.”  Thank you Jesus!

Mark Smith

A Strong Tower                                            Day 31

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Proverbs 18:10

When Satan brings things against you, when you think you are all alone, when you are beat down and discouraged, just remember to call upon the Lord. When you speak the name of Jesus, all demons will flee. Evil can’t be in the presence of righteousness. When life’s storms come, when you struggle just to make it, run to the tower. Bask in the security and safety of the Lord. Lean on Him. He is Almighty. He calms the storms. He will wrap you in His love. He sends His peace.

Lord, thank You for always being there for me. Thank You for being a strong tower in my life.  Thank You for calming the storms and keeping me safe.  I’m weak but I know You are strong.  Thank you, Lord, for loving me. Thank You for giving Your life for me.  Amen.

Susan Martin

Day 32                                     Love Your Enemies

“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”

Luke 6:35-36

Have you ever heard of the saying, “I can forgive but I can’t forget?”  This is just another way of saying, “I will not forgive.”  When I am having a hard time forgiving someone, I just pray, “Lord, remind me of how many times You have forgiven me.  Amen.”

Vickie Langlois

Keep It Hot!                                                  Day 33

“For this reason I remind you to fan into the flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”

2 Timothy 1:6

If any of you have been serving in the ministry for any length of time, you know what it means for your fire to die out.  Even though fires can and sometimes will die out, this scripture tells us how to fan the flame and stir it up.  Dying fires can be stoked, punched, or added to “stir up” and soon they become a full flame again.  Just like a fire needs plenty of oxygen to build up, we too need to stay where the spirit of God can get into our deepest embers and stoke us up.  We must add more wood to the fire before it gets too low, inefficient and cold.  We must add the Word of God to our daily chores in order to keep the flame going hot and the house comfortable for the ones we love. “Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11

Pastor Damon Baudoin

Day 34                                             You Are Loved

“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”

Joshua 1:8

The battlefield is in the mind. By meditating on God’s Word, we can change the way we think. As a man thinks, so he is. See yourself the way God sees you.  Think on, ponder and meditate on who God says you are and who He created you to be. Do not listen to Satan’s lies. He cannot tell the truth. The truth is not in him.

Get a revelation of how special and loved you are by God: It is only when you realize how much God loves you that your confidence and faith rises up and pleases God.

Doris Moore

Honesty is the Best Policy                           Day 35

“The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.”

Proverbs 10:9

It doesn’t matter what version of the Bible you read, integrity will be found multiple times. What is integrity? Integrity is defined as: firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values; incorruptibility. I think integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is looking. It is the words and actions of a person that define them as individuals. When you are honest about the mistakes you’ve made, it’s easier to be forgiven. That’s what repenting is all about. We are all judged for the things we say and do. Don’t leave a lasting impression of immorality. God honors those who have integrity.

“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.” Revelations 20:12

Brandon Martin

Day 36                                        Possess the Land

“Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.”

Deuteronomy 1:21

God told Israel, “Here’s your land, the land that I’ve promised; it is yours for the taking.” He didn’t say sit back and wait for it to come to you. In fact, He said, “Go up and possess it.”

Possess means to seize; to gain; to obtain the occupation of; to have power over. Israel had to aggressively take possession of their promised land. The same goes for us today. God has promised us joy, peace, health, dominion and a more abundant life. It is your part to take authority and evict anything that is illegally occupying your promised land.

“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:19

Make the choice today to rise up and take possession of what God has already given you, your promised land.

Pastor John Mayers

The Cost of Freedom                                   Day 37

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

Galatians 5:1

Freedom is not free.To know freedom we must count the cost. One only has to stand at Normandy Beach and begin to count the number of crosses that are casting shadows over the graves.The amount of blood shed there was enough to turn the water red for miles.Our nation’s freedom and many other nations’ freedom were purchased with this blood.

The blood shed at Calvary cost the death of God Himself. The shed blood of Jesus Christ freed humanity from the bondage of sin and death.His shed blood purchased our spiritual freedom and can never be taken away.

Kenney Burris

Day 38                                    All Things to All Men

“To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”

1 Corinthians 9:21-23

In our journey along the path of life, we will need to maintain the flexibility to reach people on all levels and in all walks of life.  The apostle Paul gave us a great example in the above scripture.  So, why is it that we, as Christians, have a problem associating with people who are not like us?

It takes a special love to become all things to all men and women so that we can win some of them to the Lord.  Become the example that Paul demonstrated and watch the world around us change for the sake of the Gospel.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Overlook an Offense                                    Day 39

“A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.”

Proverbs 19:11

There are times in our lives that we are offended. When those times happen we usually get offended and we leave and we never come back. Most of the time the other person doesn’t even know that they have offended us. The other person may not even know why we are mad or why we stop coming by. They may not have any idea why we are offended. If we were to use wisdom and not get offended, then our lives would be better. We wouldn’t get upset. We wouldn’t give Satan a foothold in our lives. When we get offended Satan, works on that offense. He plants doubt and dismay in us. He has us believing anything. Then he starts working on other areas in our lives.  If we remember that we don’t know what the other person is going through at that very time and shake off the offense, we will be fighting Satan. Satan wants to come between God’s people. When we overlook the offense Satan moves on to the next person. To over look the offense is to your glory because Jesus and the angels of heaven laugh at Satan and his demons…. and so can you.

Susan Martin

Day 40                                                             Free

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Matthew 6:33

Sometimes in life I go through trials.  Circumstances can be very hard to control.  When I first accepted Christ into my heart, I wanted to be free from addictions.  I wanted to have my children live with me, I wanted a home, a wife, a normal life.  God showed me, through this verse, that in order for me to receive things I had to put God first.  That meant everything else had to be let go.  At first it was hard to forget about the things I wanted but as I devoted my life to God, I started getting free of my addictions.

Cheyne Nunez

Time to Refresh                                           Day 41

“Those who feel tired and worn out will find new life and energy.”

Jeremiah 31:25

Are you dragging around, always saying I’m tired, I just can’t go any more?  Well then, this verse is just for you.  Have you ever noticed that most of the time when we say, “I’m busy, busy, busy,” we are not operating in the rest of God.  He said we will find new life and new energy. It really starts with a good confession and that is the key to living a refreshed vibrant life.

Lord Jesus, today I confess that I am refreshed, renewed by Your power working in me. Today Lord, I will be alert, awakened and vibrant so that my joy may be complete and a sign to those around me that I will live and not die. Devil, pack your bags because I choose life! Amen

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 42                                      Visit From a Friend

“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”

John 15:13

A friend of mine came to visit me today.  His radiant face showed only peace.  With Him came love and contentment and all my worries seemed to cease.  He began to speak of His great victory over the many hard roads He had trod and, as He gave me reassurance, I knew my friend was the Son of God.  I felt so ashamed of myself for complaining.  In comparison, my troubles and trials seemed so insignificant.  I wept as I recalled His pain and suffering had all been caused by me and you.

Sue Neames

Thanks for Saving my Children                   Day 43

Isaiah 54:13

Don’t waste time worrying about your children; instead start saying, “Thank God, our children are not going to hell.  Thank God they are taught of the Lord and great is their peace!”Instead of pacing the floor and worrying about the problem, walk the floor and praise God for the solution.

If your kids are headed for trouble ~ starts believing! Get the Word working in their lives.Bind the devil and tell him he can’t have them.Then speak out Matthew 9:38 and pray the Lord of the harvest will send out laborers into the field who can reach your children.God knows who they’ll listen to and He knows how to bring those people into your children’s lives at just the right time.

Shirley Tullier

Day 44                                                Our Warriors

“Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”

Hebrews 1:14

We live in a world that is dominated with challenges. Some of those challenges make us and some of them can break us. It all depends on what we think about ourselves and how we learn to rely on the ministering spirits that God has given to us to command.

There are several key factors that are important to our success in life. First is the belief that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and that His death was for our salvation. Second, we need to have faith and a belief that what is written in the Bible is true. Third, we have to speak and think those things that are not, as though they are.  Fourth, we must do the works necessary to accomplish the task. Fifth, we must hold the spirit of love in our heart so that it will radiate through all of our actions. Finally, we must pray, unceasingly, thus allowing our ministering spirits to be directed to do the work they were created to do.

Pastor Ashanti WitherspoonFailure or Faithful                                         Day 45

“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove themselves faithful.”

1 Corinthians 4:2

Isn’t it weird that so many of us know that we or others have great potential to make a difference in the world?  We seem to believe that having the potential is the climax of our worth or existence, but potential actually means “existing in possibility, though not in actuality; inherent capability of doing nothing.”  In other words, potential is meaningless without action!  Thomas Edison and Babe Ruth undoubtedly had great potential, but their names wouldn’t be at all familiar if they had not put action to their potential.  Many of us are fearful of failing and do nothing.  Our potential is only limited by what we believe we cannot do! Thomas Edison had over 10,000 failures, but had over 1,000 inventions.

The Life Application Bible says, “Now the most important thing about a servant is that he does what his master tells him.”  The world will measure you by your success, but God will measure you by your faithfulness.  If you are faithful… you will succeed!

Pastor Damon Baudoin

Day 46                                              Shut the Door

“My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”

1 John 2:1

Jesus is on your side. He died to save (deliver) sinners. Do not let sin separate you from the Lord and His love. Run to Him and be cleansed. Stay close to Him and receive His help to enable you to not sin.

step taken that is not out of love gives an opportunity for the devil in your life. But God does not turn against you. He died for sinners. He purposely made provision so you can be cleansed from sin. 1 John 1:9 was written to Christians: so when you do miss it, confess it– and by faith– immediately receive your cleansing and freedom from all unrighteousness. That shuts the door on the devil.  Say this, “God has made provision for me to be cleansed from sin.”

Nikki V. Langlois

Live Righteously                                          Day 47

“By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of  Egypt; for he was looking to the reward.”

Hebrews 11:24-26

Moses life was filled with difficult choices. As a young boy, he was raised by Pharaoh’s daughter – the same Pharaoh responsible for killing Israelite boys before they could become a threat. God’s miraculous plan for Moses put him in a position of great privilege and power in Pharaoh’s palace.

One day, Moses was faced with a choice. Would he sit idly by while his own blood suffered or would he stand with God’s people? He was on a collision course with those responsible for raising him. He could have chosen to ignore what he saw and continue to enjoy the ease of power and wealth. He made the right choice.

Everyday we are faced with the same choice. Will we stand up for righteousness or go along with the world? We must face this difficult choice with conviction and courage.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 48                                             Don’t  Give Up

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Galatians 6:9

Have you ever noticed that when the Lord told the discouraged fishermen to cast their nets again, it was right in that same old place where they had been working all night and had caught nothing?  If we could only go off to some new place every time we get discouraged, trying again would be an easier thing.  If we could be somebody else, or go somewhere else or do something else, it might not be so hard to have fresh faith and courage.  But it is the same old net in the same old pond for most of us.  The old temptations are to be overcome; the old faults to be conquered and the old trials and discouragements which we failed yesterday must be faced again today.  We must win success where we are if we are to win it at all.  It is the Master Himself who, after all these toilsome, disheartening efforts that we call failures, bid us, “Try again.”

Pastor Rip Rittell

The Path of Life                                           Day 49

“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

Psalm 16:11

Sometimes the path that we choose for ourselves is different from what the Lord would choose for us.  A missionary once said that God doesn’t put people together, he puts ministries together.  I feel that my husband and I flow well together, but…

We met as teenagers and we weren’t the best influence for each other.  He ended up doing four years in prison. We both changed tremendously.  When he was released, I felt like I was in an arranged marriage with a stranger that I was obliged to stay with.  Well, it’s a terrible mentality to have because you feel trapped.  I felt that way for years until I decided that I wasn’t going anywhere and I needed to accept that this was God’s best for me.  Where would I be if I had taken another route?  How would Miracle Place Church be without me?  What about the lives that I’ve been able to impact?  All of these things keep my mind right.  There’s always more than ourselves to think about when living for God.  It’s not always easy and it’s not always “fair,” but God is faithful and, in the long run, His way is always perfect.

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 50                                                  Out the Box

As a kid, I remember the excitement when we got a new washing machine. You see, it wasn’t the washing machine that excited me but the box it came in.  This apparatus, for all intents and purposes, was used to package and secure the item being shipped.  But to a child’s imagination, it was much more than that; it was a spaceship, a boat, a race car, a house or Batman’s cave.  Later, it became a garbage can, as Momma became tired of the clutter and threw it out.

Nowadays, kids’ imaginations have been lost to iPod Nanos, Xbox 360 and Playstations.  Kids’ minds have been transformed from an oasis of imagination to a desert of thoughts.  As I read through the scriptures, I have noticed that Jesus would consistently instruct us to become like little children (Matthew 18:3).  When you really grab hold of what He is asking of us, you will see this: children are dependent, they have creative minds, they are forgiving and they have tremendous faith.

Let your imagination run wild today and show the creativity of the Creator’s creation.  Think “out the box!”  Go ‘head! You big ol’ kid!

Keith Richard

Speak the Word                                           Day 51

“The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.”

Mathew 8:8

When we need direction, when we need an answer, when we don’t know what to do, we look for a word. We don’t need a word; we need “The Word.” We need the right Word for our situation. The centurion knew to ask for the Word from the Lord and the Word would heal his servant. How many times do we ask someone for a word of comfort? Man will give you a word, and the wisdom of this world will give you a word. But the real true Word for healing, comfort, strength and all that you need is in “The Word” of God. Do you need to hear a Word? Then go to the right source – God. Look at Job, for instance. Job’s friends each had a word for him about his situation but until Job went to the right source (which is God), he was not healed.  If you need a “Word” today go straight to the right source God.

Marta Garcia

Day 52                                     The Power of Jesus

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Philippians 4:13

I am powerless in this life.  Left to my own devices I am a drug addict, liar, thief, manipulator, fornicator, hypocrite and louse.  However, through my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ I am delivered, redeemed, set free and renewed.  I can face my addictions in Jesus’ name.  I am loosed from bondage by God Almighty.  I am washed free of my sins by the blood of the most righteous Lamb.  I am a new creation of the most Holy Spirit.  Jesus died for me and He has empowered me to do great things for His glory.  The power of this scripture and His great works give me exactly what I need to move forward in my search for a closer relationship with Him.

Dennis Marcantel

Miracle of Miracles                                       Day 53

“Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings.”

Romans 16:16

In all my years here on planet Earth I have never seen, nor been a part of such a loving family as is found here at Miracle Place Church.  As I walk through the doors, I feel a transformation of my mind, body and soul.  Every member gives you a holy hug or kiss – sometimes both!  Each and every precious person in this church makes you feel as though you have finally made it home.  All your “family” is so eager and happy to see you and embrace you.  I have to thank my great Father God for giving me such a loving and gentle family and a place to call home.  Thanks be to God for Miracle Place Church!

Patricia Cantu

Day 54                                      No Spot or Wrinkle

“That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”

Ephesians 5:27

Some time ago, I heard a testimony of a man who had taken a screw from the place where he worked.  He got halfway home and the Lord talked to him about it.  He said, “Is taking that little screw worth sending your soul to hell?  I know it’s not a big object, but you didn’t ask anyone if you could take it – nor does it belong to you. That’s stealing! Does not my commandment say ‘Neither shalt thou steal?’” The man returned the screw.  He knew in his heart it was the right thing to do.

“O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” Deuteronomy 5:29

Shirley Tullier

Wrestling?                                                    Day 55

“The world and the desires it causes are disappearing. But if we obey God, we will live forever.”

1 John 2: 17

Are you wrestling about what it is you are supposed to be doing? Well read this scripture again… Go ahead; I’ll give you a minute. One of the reasons that life is pulling us in so many different directions is that our plans and desires are in the wrong place. The plans and purposes of God are all wrapped up in His will.If we obey His will, we will win every fight!

Lord Jesus, I pray that today you will help me line up with Your will and divine purpose. Without You, I have already lost the wrestling match. I want to fight in YOUR strength and not my own. Amen.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 56                                         The Golden Rule

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.’”

Mark 12:30-31

When you look in the dictionary to find the meaning of the word love, you’ll see the words benevolence and loyalty.  Benevolence means tendency to do good. God wants us all to do good things with our lives. Instead of using negative words toward one another, we should motivate each other to be better people.  Showing God loyalty means you have the quality of being unswerving in allegiance to God.  You are supposed to hold God and your neighbor dear to your heart. Neighbors are not just the people who live next door to you; they are all other people. You should treat everyone the way you want to be treated. Doing these things will surely put you in grace with God.

Brandon Martin

Playing Favorites                                         Day 57

James 2:1-9

Verse 9 states if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.  The word favoritism means to accept or receive and the face of a person.  Literally, the idea is that someone who shows favoritism accepts or rejects another person based solely on his or her face.  Prejudging a person by their appearance is immature and not favorable with God.  We are so prone to make rash conclusions about people based on the color of their hair, skin, their dress, etc.  If our God judged us on our outward appearance where would we be?  Acts 10:34 “God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.”  There is only one cure for discrimination: obeying God’s most basic law to love our neighbor as ourselves. We cannot love God and at the same time look at our fellow human beings with a condescending attitude.  We cannot truly be devoted to Jesus and fail to welcome each member of his worldwide family as a brother or sister. God’s people can transform the world when we begin to love others as God loves us.

Brandy Baudoin

Day 58                                         A Generous Man

“A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.”

Proverbs 22:9

We will be blessed if we share with those who have less. We are blessed by God for giving to the poor. We are also blessed to see that person’s joy just to know that someone cares. God challenges us to give. When we give He repays with much more than we give. We can never out give God.

Have you ever just given because you know that the other person is in need? If you would give just a little God will bless you with a lot. Try this: look around you and give something to someone. It can be anything you own: money, time, clothes or even wisdom. When was the last time you fixed lunch for someone, taken someone to lunch or went to someone and handed them five dollars just because that is the person God put on your heart? Try it and be blessed.

Susan Martin

Division is of the Devil                                 Day 59

“I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.  For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.”

Romans 16:17-18

We are living in a period where whirlwinds of change sweep through everyone’s life. The levels of uncertainty experienced by many cause them to believe things that create division and help to build greater obstacle in their paths. A sweet lie, a false smile and a deceitfully encouraging nudge are ushering people further and further into a lifestyle of confusion.

It’s during these times that we are taught to guard our hearts and minds through prayer, fasting and applying the teaching of the Bible to our lives. If it lines up with the Word, it won’t cause division. And if it doesn’t cause division it is leading us in the direction of love.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 60                                           Good Intentions

“And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.”

2 Corinthians 8:10-11

One of my father’s favorite sayings was, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”  What he meant was no matter how well-meaning or noble your objectives are, they amount to nothing if you don’t do anything to follow through with your plans.

As a church, we can attract hundreds of visitors each year and have hundreds saved at altar calls but if we don’t follow-up with these people and get them connected it is all for naught.

Marion Horta

Click on link above to read Salvation by Bishop Ricky Sinclair

“And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the LORD, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.”

Job 28:28

There is a two-fold wisdom; one hidden in God, which is secret and does not belong to us; the other made known by Him and revealed to us (man). The knowledge of God’s revealed wisdom is within our reach, and according to Proverbs 9:10-11 “Wisdom begins with respect for the Lord, and will add years to your life.” Wisdom is to fear the Lord and to depart from evil. Get the revelation of that and you have learned enough. Where is this wisdom to be found? The treasures of it are hid in Christ, revealed by the Word and received by faith, through the Holy Ghost. Its worth is more divine than all the riches in this world. It is a gift freely given by the Holy Ghost which cannot be bought with money. Let whatever is most precious in God’s heart, be in ours as well. Amen.

April Mayers

Day 2 Christ Crucified

“But we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”

1 Corinthians 1:23,24

Man has had it all messed up since the Garden of Eden. The serpent tempted Eve by telling her God was keeping something from her – that God did not want them “to be like Him.” In fact, the very opposite was true. God gave them every opportunity to live a life of joy, peace and fellowship with Him but they traded it away. God had already created them in His image!

The truth is God loves us in spite of our turning from Him. God sent Jesus to demonstrate that love to us but we rejected him. Jesus dying on the cross looked like victory to Satan and defeat to mankind. But when He arose from that grave, He changed everything!

The real loser is the one who does not receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Well Taught Children Day 3

“Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace…”

Daniel 1:4

God’s plan was that Daniel should be raised up in childhood to be full of wisdom and knowledge. We should take this example and apply it to raising our own children and praying that this same favor and wisdom be endowed to them.

However, it is not sufficient just to pray for them to have wisdom. You must instruct them on how to read and study the Bible, how to live a daily life of prayer and communion with God, and how to apply what they learn to their lives.

Make a daily confession over your children based on Isaiah 54:13 that all of your children shall be taught of the Lord and great shall be their peace. Imagine the powerful leaders they will become as adults in God’s kingdom!

Linda Stradley

Day 4 Fear of the Lord

“And the Lord commanded us to do all these statutes, to [reverently] fear the Lord our God for our good always, that He might preserve us alive, as it is this day.”

Deuteronomy 6:24

Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 9:10

I understand that the fear of the Lord has much to do with wisdom. God has said in His Word that wisdom is to be desired and is more precious than gold. But, what does it mean to fear the Lord? Webster’s dictionary says, “The fear of God is a holy awe or reverence of God and His laws, which springs from a just view and real love of the divine character, leading the subjects of it to hate and shun everything that can offend such a holy being, and inclining them to aim at perfect obedience.” There are so many benefits to those who fear the Lord; He takes pleasure in them (Psalm 147:11), they will find knowledge of God (Psalm 25:12), He preserves them alive (Deuteronomy 6:24), He will fulfill their desires (Psalm 145:19), prolongs one’s days (Proverbs 10:27). The list could go on and on but, wisdom is the one thing that is more precious than gold (Proverbs 3:15).

Patricia Rodgers

Sunday’s Coming Day 5

“The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.”

Luke 24:7

We hear, it’s Friday many times during the Easter season. Christ has been crucified. He paid the ultimate price to redeem us from sin. He was placed in the tomb on Friday, but, oh, on Sunday the situation changed. Jesus rose triumphant.

In our lives many of us are experiencing a Friday. Things look hopeless. But look up, your redemption is nigh. Sunday’s coming! Things are not always as they seem. Jesus Christ is Lord over all! Lay hold of His Word. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;” Isaiah 43:2,3a

Doubt not in your heart and watch the darkness turn to light. You’re going through to the other side.

Beverly Oulman

Day 6 What Really Matters?

“Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.”

Ecclesiastes 1:2

This verse really reminds me not to take this life or anything in it too seriously. I know it feels good to buy something new or think we have accomplished something great, but we all need to realize that without God we are nothing and if we aren’t following His plan for our life we are just spinning our wheels. So many people get caught up in the traps of this world that they forget it is all about loving God and loving people. We have an eternity to consider. Why do we stress so much about the vanities of this life? There are so many precious souls who need to know the truth of God’s love. Today I want to encourage you to relax and rest in God, knowing that He has everything under control. The Lord will give you the wisdom you need.He will turn your focus to what really matters and guide you every step of the way.

Kathy Rogillio

Rise Up Day 7

In Exodus 8:20, “The LORD said unto Moses, Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh; …and say unto him, … ‘Let my people go, that they may serve me.’” Again in Exodus 9:13, “The LORD said unto Moses, ‘Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh, and say unto him, … Let my people go, that they may serve me.’”And finally in Exodus 12:31, “He called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, ‘Rise up, …and go, serve the LORD, as ye have said.’”

It’s going to take discipline and obedience to rise up early and seek God’s face for His Will in our lives. He will instruct us when and how to move, through our leadership, guided by His spirit, for the ultimate purpose of setting His people free.

None of these things would be possible if our Lord Jesus did not rise up early on the third day in order to set as many free that will receive Him. But how can they hear without a preacher?Church, it’s truly time to rise up, to become a great leader by being a great follower of Jesus. Together, we can help save a lost and dying world for Him. So “Rise Up, illuminate, let all the people celebrate. He’s risen victorious, in majesty He’s glorious, Jesus is alive!”

Pastor Chris Breaux

Day 8 Everything Happens for a Reason

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:”

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Being aware of what season the Lord has us in can help us overcome the challenges that we may face. Everything happens for a reason. The Lord allows certain things to take place according to His Will. There are times and seasons that takes place in life and wisdom helps us determine where we are. The Lord knows what He is doing and He knows what is best for us. He displayed his unfailing love for us when He shed His blood on the cross. Trusting in the Lord will always produce a better outcome than trusting in yourselves, this is wisdom.

John Foster

Wise Choices Day 9

“For wisdom will enter your heart,knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.”

Proverbs 2:10-11

Proverbs tells us that wisdom, which is the key to a happy life, comes from God. As we continue seeking God, following His Word and asking Him to guide us by His wisdom, we will increasingly be able to make wise choices in all areas of our lives.

Beverly Daniels

Day 10 Paybacks

“If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his house.”

Proverbs 17:13

If someone does something good for you and you pay him back by doing something evil to him, evil will never leave your life. Evil is like cancer; its whole purpose is to destroy good. It eats away at the good things little by little. As it eats away at the good things it grows bigger. As it grows, it needs somewhere to live so it lives in your house or inside of you until there isn’t any room for good.

Getting rid of evil is sometimes very hard because it clings to you and holds on to whatever spot that it can. But there is a solution. It’s called prayer, love and the name of Jesus. So when someone does an evil deed to you, don’t fight their actions with more evil. Do good to them and break the hold that evil seeks to maintain.

Dear God, allow my house to always be filled with Your Spirit of Love and Peace and help me to maintain the peace to love those who do evil toward me.

Susan Martin

Teach Your Children Day 11

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

As a mother and grandmother, I realize how important it is to teach your children about God’s wisdom and how to live a godly life. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it.” As Christian parents, we are under an obligation to fulfill this command. Our children face more temptation in the world today than ever before. Peer pressure, drugs, alcohol and sexual immorality all take their toll on our youth. Spiritual warfare is here and we must do all we can to teach our children to trust God and let Him guide their paths.

God’s wisdom and worldly wisdom are very opposite. God wants us to remain separate from the world and live apart from worldly pleasures. The devil and his army are ever ready to pounce and destroy. If we pray constantly for God’s wisdom, He will help keep our paths straight.

Rosa Turner

Day 12 A Cleansing

“I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols.”

Ezekiel 36:25

Have you ever noticed on rainy days you hear people saying how they would like to just stay home, curl up on the couch with a good movie and just do nothing? They just feel yuck. No energy, just yuck. God gives the rain to cleanse, to water the earth and to refresh all that He has made. I believe that is true of His people also. We should take notice. Maybe, He is telling us to stop all the running around we do. We need to come to him for our cleansing and refreshing.

Instead of the movie we wanted to watch, why not curl up with a book? That is to say “THE GOOD BOOK, GOD’S HOLY WORD, THE BIBLE.” Spend some time with God. He will take away the gloom and depression that settles on us and replace it with His glorious presence and love. After all, He is the “Light of the World.”

Donna Rodgers

Let Go of Anger…Quickly Day 13

“So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.”

Genesis 4:5b

Cain had been doing wrong and he knew very well that his brother’s life was better than his; jealousy entered his heart.

When God rejected his offering, he had no thought of repentance, only revenge. He said to Abel, his brother, “Let us go out to the field.” When they came to the field, Cain rose up against Abel and killed him.

Just like Cain, anyone who hates his Christian brother is really a murderer at heart. We are to love one another as Christ loved us. A man of wisdom never gives opportunity to the devil by letting anger, exasperation, fury or indignation last until the sun goes down. (Ephesians 4:26)

Judy Rogillio

Day 14 Guilty by Association

“The righteous should choose his friends carefully, For the way of the wicked leads them astray.”

Proverbs 12:26

As is true of most parents, mine were always giving me advice. One of their favorites was that I should be careful who I hung around because if my friends did something wrong, I would be “guilty by association.” I would always try to argue that people who knew me wouldn’t jump to the conclusion that I was involved just because my friends did something wrong, but I always knew my parents were right.

The way I see it, there are two dangers to having the “wrong” friends. If you are always with someone who is doing wrong you are just as responsible as they are, even if you don’t participate. The other threat is that you usually become like the people you associate with.

Now that I am a parent, and can give unsolicited advice, I tell my children that they should socialize with people they want to be more like.

Marion Horta

How to Succeed Day 15

It is very hard to know what to do at times. This life is not easy to figure out!

God is so faithful! When we are at a crossroads or a problem comes up that is too big for us to handle, He has given us the plan to succeed.

1. Pray and when you think you have if figured out seek counsel.

“Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.” Proverbs 15:22

2. When you seek counsel, make sure that your advisors know the Lord.

“The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, And his tongue talks of justice. The law of his God is in his heart; None of his steps shall slide.” Psalm 37:30-31

3. And most importantly when you have done all of the above. Follow the advice!

”Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

Kathy Rogillio

Day 16 Seek God’s Wisdom

“And the speech pleased the LORD, that Solomon had asked this thing.”

1 Kings 3:10

When the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream and said to him, “Ask what shall I give thee”, Solomon asked for wisdom. This pleased God so much that He promised Solomon not only wisdom, but riches, honor and long life if Solomon would continue to walk in the Lord’s way.

As we make our way through this life on earth, we should also be asking God for His wisdom and understanding. We are constantly being faced with decisions that will have either a positive or negative impact on our lives. Whether you are a teenager faced with the temptations of youth, a married couple dealing with family issues or an older person trying to adjust to the changes you are experiencing, it pleases God if we seek His wisdom.

Seeking God’s wisdom and following His ways will help us avoid the pitfalls that plague our world today and give us honor in God’s eyes.

Jim Turner

I Want That! Day 17

“Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.”

Proverbs 10:6

There are two types of people in the world; those who love God and those who don’t! It’s easy to distinguish between the two because of the lifestyles they live. Those who love God seem to always help and love people. Those who don’t, seem to always be involved in activities that bring harm, emotional turmoil and some sort of anguish to the lives of others.

We should live in a continuous state of self-examination.Are we living for our crowns or do our lifestyles cause violence to flow from our mouths? What type of pressure would it take for us to go from good to bad, even if only for a moment? If we experience one of those moments, does that mean that we are wicked or does it mean that we merely lost control for a moment? Can we afford to lose control, especially when those we love and who depend on us are watching?

We have to constantly work to be the righteous person who can wear the crown of blessings. Our lifestyles should be such that everyone who sees us will say, “I want some of what he has.”

Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 18 Ask For Wisdom

“If any lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”

James 1:5

Many people think of asking God for healing and blessings and for help in getting through tough situations. But as you see it says right here to ask for wisdom. I can tell you from personal experience that if you ask for wisdom from God in the name of Jesus and believe you have received it, then God will grant it to you. The Bible also makes reference to God granting wisdom. Proverbs 2:3-6 and 1 Kings 3:9-10 confirms the fact that God does grant wisdom.

Having made you aware of this fact it is your responsibility to now go to the Father in the name of Jesus and ask for wisdom.

Trey Hereford

Two Sides to Every Story Day 19

“The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him.”

Proverbs 18:17

Do you realize how quickly we can pass judgment and have offense settle on our heart? Have you ever had someone run up to tell you “their side of the story?” How many times have I fallen into that trap of the devil? You hear the first side and make your mind up on the matter without hearing the other person’s version. In my experience there are usually two sides to a story and then there’s the truth which is usually somewhere in between.

I encourage you to always hear both sides of an issue before forming an opinion. This will spare you from looking foolish, from hurting people, as well as, taking up an offense for someone else in a matter that has nothing to do with you.

“Lord, help me to keep an open mind, not to take sides or place judgment, when I should be exhibiting the fairness and love of your character.”

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 20 The Sweetest Sound

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

Proverbs 18:21a

When I first read this verse, I thought of when I was a little girl and my brothers and I would argue.Inevitably, my mom or dad would tell us, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.”After meditating a bit on this scripture, I realized that not saying mean things is only half of the equation.It’s quite obvious that we can destroy someone if we always put them down, but think of the affect we can have if we try to encourage someone with our words.

I once read that the sweetest sound a person could hear was the sound of their name spoken by someone they love.Imagine hearing your name in conjunction with a statement of appreciation or a compliment for a job well done.That’s like adding a double portion of God’s power into someone’s life!

All of us must think before we speak and, whenever possible, encourage or edify one another.We will be speaking life into each other’s existence.

Marion Horta

Patience Day 21

“Therefore I will look to the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation; My God will hear me.”

Micah 7:7

Knowing I cannot make it through life by myself, I’ve found I don’t have a problem looking unto the Lord with the sure knowledge He will hear me. When we know He has heard, we know we have an answer coming; yes, no or wait. The problem comes with that four letter word, wait, that the Lord is in the process of teaching us. His ways are higher than ours and perfect. He is always on time, even if it’s right to the minute, where He’s often brought me. He is teaching us to trust in Him with all our heart and lean not to our own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 Some learn this quickly, many of us are still a work in progress. Praise God!

Beverly Oulman

Day 22 Wisdom

“My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;”

Proverbs 2:1-6

The wisdom of the Lord supersedes any other form of wisdom. When we need direction and insight, it’s beneficial for us to lean not to our own understanding but in all our ways to acknowledge Him and He will direct our paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6) Many times this is difficult to put into practice simply because we like to figure out everything. The Lord always knows what the next step is and we should begin to trust Him at His Word. There is a reward for heeding to wisdom and the wisdom of the Lord will never lead us astray. If there is a need for wisdom, we must ask the Lord and He will reveal to us the path which we are to take.

John Foster

Raising Leaders Day 23

“And Moses called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whose heart the Lord had put wisdom, even every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it:”

Exodus 36:2

We must pray for our current church members and those who are drawn to Miracle Place that God will place wisdom in their hearts. Pray diligently for those who are seeking a place to participate in ministry here at MPC that God will stir up their hearts to come and perform God’s work here.

Once God draws them, it is our responsibility to fully prepare them to go into all the world and preach the gospel, teaching them to observe all that God has commanded them. We prepare them so their wisdom increases by teaching the Word through services, our education classes, small groups and hands-on involvement in their chosen ministry.

We pray that we yield fruit and that our fruit will remain.

Linda Stradley

Day 24 Just the Facts!

“So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”

James 1:19-20

People sometimes are quick to speak and don’t spend enough time processing what they hear. We tend to automatically draw all of our information from past experiences. They say our reaction is 90% of what has happened in the past and 10% of what is happening now. Those experiences may be similar but they are not the same. Just waiting a few minutes to hear, can change everything. Anger comes from not knowing all of the facts! I don’t know about you but I do not enjoy the feelings that come with anger. I would much rather walk in the righteousness of God. So let us try to get all of the facts, and be extra kind to one another. Remember we are all in a battle.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Got Wisdom? Day 25

“Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them.”

Proverbs 4:5

To stay on the right path we have to follow God’s instruction. When God speaks to us, we have to stand still and listen. It is so easy to get off-track. We need to make sure our priorities are in line. We have to pray to God for understanding of His Word so that we may know His Word. When we need His Word, He is always there. He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Pastor Charles R. Byrd

Day 26 Listen to God

“…but they did not listen to Moses on account of their despondency and cruel bondage.”

Exodus 6:9

In doing a precept Bible study, I came across this statement explaining Exodus, “Sometimes the pain is so great, the spirit so weak, we fail to listen to God.” What this spoke to me is that sometimes we allow “the pain” (financial worries, marital problems, problems with children) to overtake us. And “the spirit so weak,” we become tired of the daily battles and struggles. At this point we become so buried in self pity and hopelessness that “we fail to listen to God.” Maybe not intentionally but it still happens. What we have to do is take David’s advice in Psalm 27. 1) Express your confidence in God. 2) Pray for continued victory. 3) Rejoice while you wait on God.

Kathy Galloway

What Do You See? Day 27

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you;them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”

Proverbs 3:3-4

When we look around us we see all sorts of people; politicians, business professionals, mothers, fathers, teachers, ministers, singers, etc.

When we look at each of these people, what type of pictures appear in your mind or feelings stir in your heart about that person? Do thoughts of happiness and comfort fill your being, or are there thoughts of anguish, dread or even anger and hate that manifest?Whatever thoughts or feelings you have about that person have come about because of something that person has done or hasn’t done.

What thoughts come to your mind when you think about yourself? What thoughts come to the minds of others when they think about you? If we will merely let love and faithfulness become a part of our life, as indicated in this Psalm, then we will have a good name in the sight of God and man and we will win favor everywhere we go.

Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 28 A Tree and Its Fruit

“Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”

Matthew 7:19-20

Recently we had a major freeze across the states. Some states were hit harder than others. Our fruit trees suffered a tremendous freeze to the point of total loss. As I listened to the news about these fruit trees I was reminded of how our Lord says we should bear good fruit. It made me stop and do some soul searching, looking at what kind of fruit I was bearing, as it should everyone. What kind of fruit is on your tree? Is it good or bad? Or was it good fruit that has gotten frozen.

Heavenly Father I ask in the name of Jesus that you will help us to bear good fruit for Your Kingdom so when we come before You we will hear, “Well done good and faithful servant.”

Donna Rodgers

Pay Attention Day 29

“My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel. Then you will learn to be discreet and will store up knowledge.”

Proverbs 5:1-2

These verses are very intriguing. The very beginning of the passage starts out with an eye opener. He says, PAY ATTENTION to HIS wisdom. Whose voice are you listening to? Can you hear Him saying to you, “Listen carefully to My wise counsel.” Don’t allow the voices of the world to drive you into making a fleshly decision. Lean on His understanding and leading and you will see that the wisdom He offers will not lead you astray.

Father, today I pray that You will help me to hear only Your counsel. The influence You have over my decisions are life to me. Amen.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 30 Lost and Found

“My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.”

James 5:19-20

Be careful if you think you could never fall into sin, for many have. We are to be our brother’s keeper. In other words, we are to help one another stay on track.

James urges the restoration of those who have fallen. A person may wander from the truth of the gospel in either belief or conduct or both. By bringing the errant one to repentance and confession, forgiveness is obtained. He is saved from death and his sins are covered.

God heals the backslider when he returns to the Lord. (Jeremiah 3:22)

It is wisdom to bring the erring one back to God.

Judy Rogillio

Call on Jesus Day 31

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Romans 12:21

There will always be someone we will come in contact with that will push our buttons. They will come against us. They may talk about us or talk harshly to us. They will hurt our feelings. They will try to provoke us and make us mad. As human beings, our natural response is to become angry and sink to their level by arguing, hollering or even violence. At that moment, we have a choice: to be overcome by their evil actions and act the same way they do or to do as God repeatedly says and overcome evil with good. The way to do this is to call on the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Sometimes it can be hard to do when someone is screaming at you. But when you do, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, will meet you right where you are. He is love. He will give you a calmness and peace that will enable you to handle any situation the right way. When you are calm in the middle of a storm, others will notice and react in a more positive way. You can overcome when you call on Jesus!

Al Hart

Day 32 Friend of God

“No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.”

John 15:15

Most scripture is not self-explanatory. To be encouraging, Jesus said that He calls us friends and tells us all things which He heard from God. What more wisdom could we want than that? Although it takes us being open to hear His voice Jesus is wisdom and He will give us the wisdom to understand,we ask Him.When we make ourselves available to God, He sees our willingness and our desire to hear Him. Just knowing that the Spirit of God lives in us, is encouraging. Give Him the glory for His wisdom.

Patti Rodgers

Handling Finances Day 33

“Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?”

Proverbs 17:16

Money often slips through our hands if we don’t know how to handle it. We need to pray to God for wisdom in the situation of handling money. God trusts us with a little to see how we manage a small portion before He gives us more. Use wisdom in all you do for the Kingdom of God.

Pastor Charles R. Byrd

Day 34 Giving Forth Light

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.”

Proverbs 11:30

The wise man will harvest not just the temporal but also the eternal. Because of his wisdom, he will shine as the brightness of the firmament, giving forth light to lost souls, turning many to uprightness and right standing with God, capturing human lives as a fisher of men, gathering them for eternity.

Judy Rogillio

Guard Your Lips Day 35

“He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly comes to ruin.”

Proverbs 13:3

The Word teaches us that life and death are in the power of the tongue, and we shall eat the fruit thereof. That statement is simple and to the point. We have to guard and be conscious of the words that we speak.

Do you remember the expressions on the faces of everyone you spoke to today? Did their expressions reflect a sense of happiness in what you said, or did their faces look confused, angry or stern? Did your statements bring life to your relationship with them, or were they said in such a way as to bring a wedge between you?

Our words are very powerful. It doesn’t matter if they are spoken loudly or in a soft tone. They will either bring life, or they will bring ruin. They will either inspire or they will bring feelings of defeat. Let’s be an example of life and not ruin.

Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 36 Commitment

Commitment means understanding who is in charge. When we commit to something, we can not just give a corner of ourselves, we have to give it all (surrender), carrying out our commitment. Stop talking about it and live it. Just do it! Luke 14:27 says, “Anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Committing to something and following through with your commitment is a visual way of showing who you are and what you represent. Claiming with words that you are a Christian (disciple) and not having the faith in Christ that He will give you strength and meet all your needs will only give others watching you discouragement. “Let your no be NO and let your yes be YES,” says the Lord. Submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and stop making a lot of noise about it. To love Him is to love His ways, even when we don’t understand. In John 14:15, Jesus tells His disciples, “If you love me, you will obey my commands.” Go ahead and let the Holy Spirit take up permanent residence in your heart and life. Move forward with your life. Let God be in charge. You will never be the same. Just imagine that!

April Mayers

The Good Old Days Day 37

“Don’t long for “the good old days.” This is not wise. Wisdom is even better when you have money. Both are a benefit as you go through life. Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life.”

Ecclesiastes 7:10-12

Have you found yourself in a place where you are longing for the good old days? Look at these verses, what days are you living in? Are they any different? I’ll venture to say that they are not. We are constantly in a mode of trying to achieve more but wisdom is the only way that your life can be saved. Take a look at verses 13-14; “Notice the way God does things; then fall into line. Don’t fight the ways of God, for who can straighten out what he has made crooked? Enjoy prosperity while you can. But when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. That way you will realize that nothing is certain in this life.”

Lord Jesus, help me to follow after Your wisdom. Help me to fall into line with Your Word. Show me that in good times or bad, You are the only certainty that I have. Amen.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 38 Your Heart’s Desire

“What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted.”

Proverbs 10:24

When you live a wicked life Satan rules your steps. He only wants to kill, steal and destroy. He will make you think that you are something that you are not. Then he will let all evil attack and rule your life. When you live a righteous life God will send His angels to fight for you and He will give you whatever your heart desires.

As you grow in the Lord, you will see that your desires grow more for His Will in your life. You realize that the things you desire today will be different tomorrow.

What is your heart’s desire? I challenge you to take it to God and see Him grant it for you. Don’t give up! Remember that His timing is not our timing and all things work together for the good of them who love Him.

Lord, thank you for making me righteous for You so that all of the desires of my heart will be granted in accordance with Your wonderful and holy will.

Susan Martin

Put God First Day 39

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Matthew 6:33

Sometimes in life, we go through trials. We try to control situations and circumstances. When we are in the middle of it, we can only see the desired outcome. For instance, when I started to follow Christ, I wanted to be free from addictions, I wanted to have my children live with me and I wanted a home, a wife and a normal life. God showed me, through this verse, that in order for me to receive these things, I had to put God first. That meant everything else had to go on the back burner. At first it was hard to forget about the things I wanted, but as I started seeking God, devoting my attention to Him and learning His ways, things started happening. I got free from addictions. I started to get my life back. Less than a year later, my kids decided they wanted to come and live with me. Soon after, I was blessed with a mobile home. Everything I desired, I have received or it is on the way. He even gives blessings beyond our desires. One of the greatest blessings God puts in our life is people. Be encouraged! Whatever you are going through, put God first and everything else will fall into place.

Al Hart

Day 40 God Knows the Heart

“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the spirits.”

Proverbs 16:2

As I read this verse, I thought of the many truly evil men throughout history – Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, Saddam Hussein. These men followed their own ways and believed without a doubt that what they did was the right thing to do.

Before I was saved, I had convinced myself that because I was a good person and did good things that I was certainly going to heaven. It wasn’t until I was exposed to the truth of God’s Word that I realized that I was completely wrong.

Don’t be a fool and try to do things your own way. The only way to know if you are living according to God’s will is to judge yourself by God’s Word.

Marion Horta

Tags Day 41

“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

Mark 8:38

Have you ever noticed that when a person’s tag is sticking out, someone always comes along and pushes it back into their shirt. Even a complete stranger will do this. I’m just as guilty. I don’t know why we do this, but you know, as Christians, we are a tag of the Lord’s. Of course our tag says “servant” or “I belong to God.” As Christians we need to leave our tag out. Let the world know who and what we are. We don’t need to keep our tag discreetly tucked inside. I say stand up for Jesus because I know He stands up for us. So the next time you push someone’s tag back into their shirt, also remind them that Jesus loves them.

Donna Rodgers

Day 42 Obey God

“But on Cain and his offering He did not look with favor.”

Genesis 4:5f

God most likely did not respect Cain’s sacrifice, an offering of the fruit of the ground, because he did not offer it in faith-obedience, as opposed to Abel’s offering of the firstlings of his flock.

The key is, you have to do things God’s way or it isn’t going to work out, no matter how good you may feel about what you are doing.

Our worship must conform to His demands and not to what seems right in our own eyes. Obedience is better than sacrifice; it’s always wise to obey God. (1 Samuel 15:22)

Judy Rogillio

A God of Second Chances Day 43

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be multiplied, And years of life will be added to you.”

Proverbs 9:10-11

Today I was listening to a message about a man who had many regrets. As I was listening I thought back over my life and I was remembering the death of my dad. Unfortunately I have some regrets, because at the time I had little knowledge of the Lord. I wish I could have encouraged him with God’s Word! My dad was saved, and he was so hungry and desperate to learn more about the Lord.

I now know the importance of wisdom and instruction, and I, too, am hungry and desperate to learn more. We should not waste any time in establishing the knowledge of our Lord and Savior in our life. It is essential to our being able to minister to people. Thankfully, God is a God of second chances, and since that time God has given me many opportunities to speak His Word into the lives of others.

Kathy Rogillio

Day 44 What’s In Your Eye?

“Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye?”

Matthew 7:4

I think it is interesting that the Bible refers to sin as being in your eye. The Lord could have said this another way. I think about the fact that when we are in sin, that it causes us not to see right. Our vision becomes distorted, we tend to justify the things that we are doing wrong and we miss God. Without vision we perish. It is very important to see clearly. The only thing that can come between us and God is unforgiven sin. Ignoring sin doesn’t make it go away. Even if it is just a speck, it must be recognized and repented of. In 1 John 1:9 it says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”. Then we will see clearly.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Hide and Seek Day 45

“It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of the Kings is to search out a matter.”

Proverbs 25:2

Secret things belong unto Him, and they are kept by Him: many things which He does reveal, yet the manner of them remains hidden; as what relates to His own beginning, the trinity of Persons in the Godhead; the virgin birth of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; infilling of the Holy Spirit, etc. These are at present secrets in Him. Now it is His glory to conceal them; they are all known to Him, and the reasons of them; He is the omniscient, all wise God.

The secret things that Kings search for is the wisdom of God. Like the game we played as children called hide and seek, you had to search in the best hiding places. You didn’t give up until you found the other children. In 1 Kings 8:12, Solomon said, “The Lord said that He would dwell in the thick darkness.” Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. God desires to be found, keep seeking.

Pastor Isiah Davenport

Day 46 The Beginning of Wisdom

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you. If you are wise, you are wise for yourself, and if you scoff, you alone will bear it.”

Proverbs 9:10-12

Are you a mocker or a wise person? You can tell by the way you respond to criticism. Instead of tossing back a quick put-down or clever retort when rebuked, listen to what is being said – learn from your critics. This is the path to wisdom. Wisdom begins with knowing God. He gives insight into living because He created life. Do you really want to be wise? Get to know God better.

“If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) By wisdom, James is talking not only about knowledge but about the ability (wisdom) to make wise decisions in difficult circumstances. The beginning of wisdom denotes the final outcome of all wise decisions.

David Alexander

True Wisdom? Day 47

“But true wisdom and power are with God; counsel and understanding are his. What he destroys cannot be rebuilt. When he closes in on someone, there is no escape. If he holds back the rain, the earth becomes a desert. If he releases the waters, they flood the earth. Yes, strength and wisdom are with him; deceivers and deceived are both in his power.”

Job 12:13-16

Where do you think true wisdom comes from? Sometimes we can make decisions that jump out in front of God. According to these scriptures there is nowhere we can go to get away from His power. Ultimately God is in control and we should never think that we can ever be ahead of His leading.

Dear Lord, please help me follow YOUR leading and grant me the wisdom and strength to completely trust in You. Amen

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 48 Let God Heal Your Hurts

“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

1 Peter 5:7

You must open up your heart and seek God and let Him heal you because He has already made provision for you. You have to be willing to let Him heal you. It may be very painful. Your flesh and mind will fight you. You may need to seek help from a Christian friend or family member or someone at church as the body of Christ is one body. The key step is to let God do something. You are keeping yourself from experiencing the fullness of God’s calling and blessings on your life. You need to replace the hurt and pain in your heart with the Word of God.

It is important to seek God to be healed and continue to seek God after you get healed of your past hurts and offenses. Your seeking should include spending daily time reading and studying the Bible, praying and worshiping God, and attending and getting involved at church. Continue to educate yourself in the Word.

Linda Stradley

Time to _____ ? Day 49

“There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven—”

Ecclesiastes 3:1

In this chapter, Solomon states that there is a time for everything… to be born and to die, a time to cry and to laugh, a time to keep and to throw away and a time to love and to hate. What we need to learn is that this goes for everything. There is a time to learn and a time to teach others. There is a time to be helped and a time to help others. Before we take the time to do any of these things, we need to take the time to be with God. Take the time to study His word, to talk to Him, to ask Him how we are to do His will, or in other words, “God, is this a time to ___________?”

Kathy Galloway

Day 50 Wisdom for New Things

“Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them.”

Isaiah 42:9

I can say that I have experienced this over and over. I look and see what God is doing in my life and as I look back He has already told me what I needed to know. God had spoken or showed me something earlier but I didn’t understand it. When I look back, I see it. If we want to know what it is that God is doing we should be still and know that He is God. He says that He calls us friends and that He lets us know everything that He is doing (John 15:15).

God does not lie nor does He break His promises (Numbers 23:19). I know that if we ask Him for wisdom (James 1:5) to do something new, and listen and wait for His answer that He will tell us what to do. Seek God in all that you do and you will walk in the perfect will of God and have fullness of peace and joy. We are here to worship God with our lives. Ask Him to show you His heart.

Patricia Rodgers

Love Them Like Jesus Day 51

“The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly,

But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.”

Proverbs 15:2

When we are sharing God’s Word with others we must have a wise tongue. We must seek wisdom from God, and bring forth the knowledge of Jesus rightly. Hurting people don’t need to hear how bad they are. If we really want to help them, and not send them running in the wrong direction, then we need to let them know how much they are loved and how much God desires to have a relationship with them. Jesus is loving and forgiving. The Holy Spirit is a gentleman; He speaks to us in a still small voice. Jesus was gentle and wise, even in correction, He did it in a way that it would be received. “Sin no more, take up your bed, rise up, go forth…” He wants to help us get up and move forward.

Lord, help us to be wise and not foolish when we are sharing Your Word with others. Amen!

Kathy Rogillio

Day 52 Tree of Life

“Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.”

Proverbs 3:18

In the book of Genesis there is a reference to a “tree of life.” The story goes thatplaced a flaming sword to block access to the tree. The reason for that was sin. Since Calvary, all we need to do is hold fast to the wisdom of the. We have to follow theand leadership of Jesus. The true joy and fulfillment that we are looking forbe accessible once again!

Lord Jesus, I would like my happiness to truly depend on You. Help me, Lord, to climb into Your branches and operate in Your wisdom today. AMEN!

Pastor Tim Pierce

Speaking God’s Word Day 53

“My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding.”

Psalms 49:3

To speak of wisdom is to speak the Word of God. Let us strive to make sure all of our communication is from the Word or proclaiming what God has done in our lives. When we come together we should pray for each other. Analyze your activities to ensure they are beneficial to God’s kingdom.

The Word of God is power and by speaking it, it becomes activated in the spiritual realm and manifested in the physical realm. By speaking God’s Word, we hear it so it gets into our mind and hearts. This increases our faith thus imparting more wisdom to us.

Our meditation should be to seek greater knowledge and understanding of the things of God. Let’s pray as Paul did in Colossians 1:9, “… that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.”

Linda Stradley

Day 54 Highway of the Upright

“The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.”

Proverbs 16:17

Before receiving Jesus as my Lord and Savior this highway of the upright was unfamiliar territory. I didn’t walk uprightly for I was blinded to the consequences of sin and evil.

Today I am a new creature in Christ. The scales have been removed from my eyes. God’s Word has shown me the fate of the enemy and all who follow. Wisdom tells me to depart from evil and choose the highway of the upright. That’s right, I must choose to be upright and depart from evil. I also have to keep my way the high way in order to preserve my soul. The word keep means to attend to; to have the care of. I must continue to seek God’s Word, praying for His wisdom and strength to stand for righteousness and to do the upright thing when the choice is set before me. Remember (1 Corinthians 10:13) God will always leave us a way of escape, the highway.

Pastor John Mayers

Let Us Ask Day 55

“If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.”

James 1:5

There may be certain situations that you are not sure about the will of God, but He says that if we ask He will give us wisdom. We can ask the Lord to teach us His ways. Because His ways are higher than ours, He knows better for us than we know for ourselves. After all, He made us and knows what we are made of and knows our character and experiences in life. He even knows from the beginning to the end of our life. But, like the scripture says, we have to ask . If we haven’t been to God in prayer and told Him our request and expressed our feelings about our situation then we can’t expect to know what to do. God wants to hear you come to Him. Just because He knows the answer, He still desires that relationship and wants to hear your call to Him. Try Him, you may be surprised at what you get. Be quiet and get in His presence, He longs to share with you.

Patricia Rodgers

Day 56 Get Along With Others

“… Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.”

Luke 6:27-28

When someone offends you your natural response may be to strike back. You want to do something or say something that will even the score. You might spend hours, days or even years feeling sorry for yourself and let oppression and even depression set in. The devil sends people across your path to hurt, offend and mistreat you for the express purpose of stealing the Word of God and the anointing that goes with it.

The devil knows how powerful you are when you are anointed. That’s why he sends people around you that are insensitive and unappreciative. We need to realize that hurts are sent by the devil to rob us of the anointing and block the flow of the blessings of God.

God has called and equipped us with the power to respond in a supernatural way when someone does you wrong. He’s given you the power to respond in LOVE.

Linda Stradley

Big Dreams Day 57

God has big dreams for our lives. Without a doubt, His biggest dreams are for us to, be saved; to be thoroughly committed to Him and His Word, to be healed of our broken lives and made whole, as well as live clean lives full of passion so that we may follow His commands. In John 10:10 Jesus says, “A thief comes to steal and kill and destroy, but I come to give life; life in all its fullness.” God is thinking of you, all your desires, needs and dreams and wants to meet them. He is also thinking about the rest of the people in the world. The funny thing is He wants to use you to reach them, especially to reach those who have never had a chance to hear the truth (Jesus). I think about Jonah and how he carried on when God asked him to do one of the most important assignments in the history of mankind. He was to tell the people of Nineveh to repent or God would destroy them. He didn’t even need to come up with a sermon, God gave him the words. Let me tell you, God has a way of getting things done. Jonah ended up in the belly of a fish for three days because he was standing in the way of God’s dream. Read Revelation 7:9, it’s confirmation that no one will get in the way of God’s dream coming true. Do you want to be a willing vessel or do you need to spend a few days in the belly of a fish? Imagine being a part of fulfilling God’s big dream. It starts right here with me and you.

April Mayers

Day 58 Don’t Let Anger Rule You

“The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.”

Proverbs 17:14

Anger is a very powerful emotion. It has destroyed many lives, families and ministries. God’s Word is clear that we are to “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” (Ephesians 4:31) As a Christian, there is no room for “anger management.” The Bible teaches “anger eradication.”

I struggled with anger so much that it was bringing problems into my relationships with my wife, my kids and my friends. It was eating my lunch! As I was searching through Proverbs, I stumbled on this verse. I must behave proactively. Before the water is “spilt” I must “abandon the quarrel.” The only way to stop anger in my life is to avoid the possibility of an argument. I have a lot fewer messes to clean up on my journey now!

Pastor Paul Pierce

Self-Control Day 59

“Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.”

James 1:19

Man’s anger does not promote the righteousness God wishes and requires. Failure to manage anger has been very costly for leaders. As an example, Moses, the man of God, forfeited the privilege of leading Israel into the Promised Land. Anger was a part of his life: (1) he slew an Egyptian; (2) he destroyed the tablets of stone that God had made; (3) in anger he smote the rock the second time and rebelled against the Word of the Lord. He told Israel, ”The Lord was angry with me for your sakes” (Deuteronomy 1:37); it cost him his place of leadership.

The wisdom books exhort the wise persons to heed the consistent message of self-control, especially the matter of anger. Being slow to anger is a mark of “great understanding” (Proverbs 14:29).

Judy Rogillio

Day 60 Rainy Days

“And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you? They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened. So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him.”

Matthew 20:32-34

When it rains, everything looks dreary and dark. After a few rainy days everything looks the same. Nothing stands out. After two weeks of raining, the sun finally started shining. It’s as though I had entered a whole new realm. I noticed the birds singing, the dew glistening on the grass and the way the moss on the trees swayed in the early morning sun. It was great to get my sunglasses out and wear them again. But, when I put them on, it was like putting on blinders to the beauty God had made. That is how we begin looking at sin. Sin is everywhere, on television, the internet, our workplace, even in our own homes. God doesn’t want us to walk around with dark glasses on. He wants us to see the beauty He has created. He wants us to be aware of the sin around us so we will know how to pray. Let’s keep those sin glasses in the trash where they belong.

Donna Rodgers

Click on the link above to read Understanding the Power of the Holy Spirit.

“Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”

Exodus 4:12

God is so great and one of the things I love about Him is that He is not picky. He will use anyone; we just have to be a willing vessel and allow Him to work through us. He will help us! It really takes the pressure off if we can just realize that He knows all about us and all of our limitations. It doesn’t matter, there is not a single excuse that you can think of that will disqualify you from doing Kingdom business. God will teach us, guide us, lead us and even give us the words to say. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. God is so able to take care of all of the details, we just need to trust Him and go for it!

Kathy Rogillio

Day 2 Been With Jesus?

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.”

Acts 4:13

It is truly a wonder how many of us at one time thought we had it all figured out; that we knew it all. Once we meet the Creator of the heavens and earth we see that we didn’t really have the teachings, capabilities or know-how that we wished we had. Oh! But when we have been with Jesus! Something happens, to the point of others marveling at the powerful change taking place. Those who have been with Jesus are the ones who shake the place and boldly change the world around them. Those who have been with Jesus are the ones who influence the world, and are not influenced by the world.

Remember, God calls us to COMMITMENT, not COMFORT. Pray that people will marvel and take knowledge that you have been with Jesus.

Pastor Damon Baudoin

The Attitude That Overcomes Day 3

“Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening.”

Acts 16:25

Have you ever found yourself in trouble for no reason? Paul and Silas were in prison because of the gospel. There was no sin in their life but there was trouble. Challenges like these come to test our faith, to give us a new revelation of God’s character, because of enemy attacks, for God’s glory or because of personal disobedience.

Some believe, if you have trouble, there must be sin in your life or that God has to “take you down a notch.” Trials and trouble are part of life. Everyone goes through something sooner or later. It’s not what happens to you that will determine your destiny, but how you choose to respond to what happens. Paul and Silas made a choice. In their darkest hour, when they were hurting and in bondage, they began to praise God. In spite of their circumstances, they had an attitude of gratitude and rejoicing. How’s your attitude?

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 4 God Knows

“…for I know the inclination of their behavior today, even before I have brought them to the land of which I swore to give them.”

Deuteronomy 31:21

Despite the fact that God knows what we will do even before we do it, He still loves us. Even though He knows that today I might tell a lie or that tomorrow I might yell at my children in anger, He still desires to show forth His mercy and patience toward. He wants the very best for me even though I don‘t deserve it. That’s not to say that I will intentionally practice sin, but even the best of us are still human and prone to error.

Just like my salvation, my blessings are not based on what I do for the Lord; they are based on where my heart is with God. How well I behave, how much money I give, or how much I volunteer in the church are outward signs of the appreciation and gratefulness of my heart toward awesome God who loves me and who always keeps His promises. Give God glory for all the incredible things He’s done for you!

Marion Horta

Lifted Up Day 5

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Proverbs 18:10

Just the mention of the name of Jesus provides us with a strong fortress.

David found the name of the Lord to be a strong fortress when facing his enemies. He spoke to the Lord in words of a song on the day that the Lord delivered him from the hand of Saul. He said, “When I called on You, You saved me from violence; the hand of my enemies. You are worthy to be praised. The Lord is my Rock, my escape from Saul and my Fortress [strong tower] in the wilderness, and my Deliverer, my God, my Rock; in You, did I take refuge. You are my Shield and the Horn of my salvation; my Stronghold and my Refuge, my Savior-”

The name of the Lord protects, not only by strength, but by height. The righteous man is safe, “lifted up out of reach.” Selah!

Judy Rogillio

Day 6 He Tastes Better

“O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”

Psalm 34:8

The Lord gave me an awesome revelation of how good He really tastes to us. He told me to think of one of my favorite foods. My mind went immediately to seafood fettuccini with shrimp and crawfish. While meditating on this, I was remembering how awesomely delicious, delectable and delightful a plateful of this would be with seasoned shrimp and crawfish oozing and dripping with mouth-watering cheese.

My senses were heightened, my pleasures were rising and the intensity of desire for it overtook all my emotions and thoughts. The Lord showed me that He tastes even better than our favorite foods. If we spend enough time with Him we should desire Him and His Word much more than we desire our most favorite food. He wants our desire for Him to be even greater. The memory of that food is planted on our mind forever. So should it be even greater for the Lord.

Linda Stradley

The Lord longs To Be Gracious Day 7

…He will be very gracious to you at the sound of your cry; When He hears it, He will answer you. And though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers.

Isaiah 30:15, 18-21

We must trust God through the trials of life to help us to be strong. I see the teachers in these verses to be the trials we’ve gone through and trusted the Lord through. Once we go through our trials, our teachers will not hide, we will see them. Sometimes we have a tendency to try to figure it all out, which is tiring. Ultimately God is in control and knows the end result. To trust Him through trials would bring the goal that He desires for us. If we run away or try to bring ourselves out of a trial too quickly, we will have to do it again at a later date until we pass the test. This leads us to a closer walk with Him and we can truly know the way.

It really is a fight of faith to go through the trials of life and to believe and hope in God. He will see you through. He is faithful. The battle is not yours, it’s the Lord’s!

Patti Rodgers

Day 8 Love Defined

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

When asked to define love, most Christians will refer to 1 Corinthians 13, “the love chapter” as it has been called. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Paul defines love by giving examples of the outward results of walking in love. These examples include patience, kindness, and a list of phrases that add up to selflessness. Selflessness, just like love, is an intentional attitude. Love is therefore an act of will, not an accident or a feeling. In order to live up to this definition of love, we must choose to love. I don’t know of anyone who is “patient” or “kind” by accident. With knowledge of what love is, it is our responsibility to put love into action.

Now Father, I ask that You fill me with Your love. Teach me to put love into action in my life. I choose now to walk in love and to live with an attitude of love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Pastor David D. Hayes

A Tool or a Trap? Day 9

“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’”

Matthew 19:21

This young guy told Jesus that he had lived his life completely for God and had obeyed all of the commandments. And he probably did do a fair job in life of being a good person; however, God is more concerned about the condition of our hearts rather than our outer conduct. Even good people need salvation.

Jesus used the young man’s money to show him where he truly was spiritually. How about you? Is your heart right with God? Is money a tool or a trap? Are you being led by the Master or the MasterCard?

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 10 Do Good

“Trust in the Lord and do good;”

Psalm 37:3

As we travel through life, we are promised trials and tribulations. Satan and his minions are committed to destroying us, and even though he (Satan) knows the final outcome, he wants to steal as many souls away from God as he can. Our fleshly lust and the world are able partners in helping Satan pursue us.”We envy the arrogant when we see the prosperity of the wicked.” (Psalm 73:3).

Everyday we see successful people (by worldly standards) who flaunt wicked behavior such as lust, greed, envy and violence, openly, without shame. David also had trouble with this until, “I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.” (Psalm 73:17).We can only tame our fleshly lustsin nature by staying focused on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, and trusting in Him. Then we will experience the rest of Psalm 37:3 where we will “dwell in the land and enjoy safe pastures.”

Jim Turner

His Word is True Day 11

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 1:20

I have been serving the Lord for almost 16 years and one of the greatest days I can remember is when I realized that His Word was real in my life; that His promises to ME, the ones I had been believing in were coming true in MY life! I guess I was just going right along, not really paying attention, and He spoke to me and said, “Hey do you know that I am doing what I said I would do in your life?” I had a ‘WOW’ moment because it was true. I knew it was true! I am a new creation, old things are passed away! God is doing what He said He would do! How great is that?

Kathy Rogillio

Day 12 Restoration

“Then I went down to the potter’s house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.”

Jeremiah 18:3-4

Restoration means to bring back to its former condition. When you take furniture to a restorer, they strip off the old and work with the piece until it’s like new again, in all its glory as it was created to be. Restoration, where does it begin? Only in the Master’s Hand can you again come forth to be all He created you to be!

What can He restore you to? Fellowship with the Father, the joy of salvation, a sound mind, health, the ability to love others as Christ loved you and to receive love from others. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but power, love and a sound mind.

Is there a need? Jesus is waiting with outstretched hands to begin a work of restoration.

Beverly Oulman

Good Doctrine Day 13

“Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.”

Isaiah 28:9

Why are some afraid of the word “doctrine”? Why do some people never seem to grow spiritually? Are you satisfied with where you are in your walk with Christ? Have you reached a plateau, or a level where you seem to be stagnant, immobile or stationary? Can a baby learn to run overnight? What is God’s design? Doesn’t a baby drink milk first and get nourished? Doesn’t he grow stronger and learn to eat solid food? And, doesn’t he learn to crawl, walk and eventually run? And finally, as a grown man, doesn’t he teach a young one to go through the same cycle?

Therefore, arise, and let the hunger for the Word of God be ignited in you, so that you might grow in the knowledge of the Lord and in turn teach others to follow His ways! “For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law” – Proverbs 4:2.

Fernando Chacon

Day 14 He is There

“Seek the LORD while he may be found;”

Isaiah 55:6

Call on Him while He is near. We should never think that the Lord is not around when we need Him. He is always there. He said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” It’s good to know that we have a friend like Jesus around all the time, leading and guiding us in our everyday life. We need to turn to the Lord and call out to Him while He’s still ready to help us.

Pastor Charles Ray Byrd

Faith Muscle Day 15

“Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! It will be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that very hour.”

Matthew 8:13

In this verse you could substitute “had faith” for “believed”.Jesus is giving an example where this centurion, or Roman soldier, believed or had faith that Jesus could heal his beloved servant. (Note that this guy is not a Jew. Jesus loves us all.)All throughout the Bible, God meets people where their faith is and He is still doing this today. Admittedly, it is difficult for a new Christian to believe God for miracles but it is of the utmost importance that we “practice” our faith every day.We need to work that “faith muscle” every single day by staying in God’s Word and trusting in Him.The more we “exercise” the more confident we are in God’s ability to work miracles in our lives.He will then take us to another level of faith where we can witness even more of God’s love and power.Then as we grow stronger and other believers see more evidence of our faith, their faith grows stronger. Then God takes the whole group or Church to another level together. So believers, go exercise!

Trey Hereford

Day 16 Authority

“I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Matthew 18:18

As children of God we walk in authority. Part of that authority is the words that we speak. You have the authority to bind the things of Satan and darkness from your life and the lives of other people. That includes sickness, depression, confusion, poverty, conflict or any aspect of darkness that might befall you.

You also have the authority to loose the blessings of the Lord into everything. These blessings include everything that is good; like wealth, radiant health, joy, love, happiness, peace, success and fulfillment.

As you travel the journey of life and you feel that times have gotten so tough that you feel desperate, reach into the core of your being by speaking the words that will bind that feeling and loose the joy and power of the Holy Spirit.

I challenge you to try this and see the Power of God change your life.

Susan Martin

Respect God Day 17

“You and your fighting men should march around the town once a day for six days. Seven priests will walk ahead of the Ark, each carrying a ram’s horn. On the seventh day you are to march around the town seven times, with the priests blowing the horns.”

Joshua 6:3-4

Joshua and his army were preparing to defeat Jericho; but instead of using their weapons, God instructed them to march around the city. This sounds kind of crazy, doesn’t it? How in the world can you conquer a city without fighting?

Many times God will tell us to do something that we don’t understand. We have to realize that God’s ways are not the world’s ways. He tells us to love those who hate us and that to be rich, we must first become poor. This contradicts what the world and our flesh tell us. But by respecting God and following His commands, we not only give Him glory, we are rewarded by our obedience.

Marion Horta

Day 18 A Great Partner

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28

You now have a great partner in life. Jesus Christ, an humble Savior, Friend, Healer, Provider and Teacher. Yet, He is not soft. He is always the same and is calling you to come to Him. You will experience awesome times when you come to Him on the mountaintop and you will experience those times deep in the valley where character is built. Jesus does not offer a life of luxurious ease but the life that He does offer remains easy to the grinding alternative. In desperate times you can come to Him and He is there, faithful to help you through. Our Lord thoroughly furnishes each of His soldiers for His work, and places before each the task He has for them. The desire that you feel for Him can only come from Him and His Spirit. If you are moving toward God, it’s because He is moving toward you. “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” (John 6:44) If you want Him, He is looking for you. Come.

Linda Burris

Only Believe Day 19

Jesus said unto him, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”

Mark 9:23

When I had my open-heart surgery, I held on to the belief that everything was going to be all right. It was! The operation was successful and I walked away in victory. Recently, my wife had open-heart surgery. She maintained the same faith and walked away in victory.

There have been a number of incidents like those that have helped to bolster my faith over the years. Each time I witnessed them, it was like a shot of power in my life. I realized how good and powerful God is.

Part of the foundation of Christianity is our faith. Without faith we can’t walk in the power that God has given us. We are often faced with the daily problems of the world, and sometimes feel defeated because we tend to look through fleshly eyes. God has instructed us to give. When we do so in faith, our blessings return to us in ways other than financially and we become a powerful building block in the foundation of the church.

Noah Crockett

Day 20 Protect Your House

“The thief does not come except to steal, to kill, and to destroy.I have come that they may have life, and …have it more abundantly.”

John 10:10

How protected is your home?Authorities educate us on protecting our houses.We’re told to make sure there’s movement, have well-lit houses and secure doors with good locks.These protect our houses.

So it is with spiritual houses. This scripture warns of”the thief,” Satan, and his plans to steal, kill and destroy us.Have you taken necessary steps to protect your spiritual house?Is the light of Jesus shining in you so the thief and the world knows He resides there? What about God’s holiness and the Holy Spirit? Are they present? The thief wants that stolen, killed and destroyed. He knows “without holiness, no man shall see God.”Is your house sealed with the blood of Jesus? Just as a thief cannot enter a secured lock, he cannot cross doorposts covered with the blood of Jesus. Jesus says, “I come that they may have life, and …have it more abundantly.”Is your house protected?

Debra Adams

I Shall Not Want Day 21

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

Psalm 23:1

David opened this psalm by declaring the Lord (The Self Existent or Eternal One) as his Shepherd (friend, companion or associate). Because The Self Existent One is my friend, I shall not want. In Genesis 22:1-14, Abraham was told by God to take his son to the land of Moriah and offer (present or give) Isaac for a burnt offering upon the mountains. Now, when the altar was built, Abraham took Isaac and laid him upon the altar. Isaac asked his father where the lamb was. Abraham’s answer to Isaac was that God Himself would provide a lamb (Jehovah-jireh). When you give your best, God will reveal His best to you. Selah.

Pastor Isiah Davenport

Day 22 Trust God

“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.”

Hebrews 10:23

This scripture takes me back to when Jesus was in the garden. He knew what horrible pain and humiliation He would have to endure in order for His Father’s Will to be done through His life here on earth. Jesus says in Matthew 26:42, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” If Jesus had not trusted His Father with His whole life, we would surely be doomed. Just imagine no life, but death; and no light, but darkness. When Jesus prayed, “Let your will be done”, he meant it. Jesus trusted God’s promise to Him and drank of His cup, knowing all that would have to come to pass. And without sinning one time, Jesus carried out what His Father had asked of Him. His obedience and trust got Him a seat at the right hand of the Heavenly Father. Trust God and all His promises, with Jesus as your hope, and your journey here on earth will not only glorify God, but will be rewarding and fulfilling to you and those watching.

April Mayers

Blessed Assurance Day 23

“In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so I would have told you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

John 14: 2-3

My mother passed away at the age of 91. Shortly before she died, I had read this scripture to her. She knew Christ would take her to be with Him. When she passed away it was a great comfort to me to know that she was happy and in the arms of her dear Savior. I also knew we would be together again when Jesus came for me.

I hope you have this same assurance in Jesus that He will return for you one day and you will spend eternity with Him. If not, please accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior today. This is the most important decision you will ever make.

Rosa Turner

Day 24 Dominion of Faith

“God has dealt to every man a measure of faith”

Romans 12:3

No one can say they don’t have faith because the Bible says, “God has given every man a measure of faith.” We exhibit faith in humans, animals, cars, chairs and the service they provide us, yet we doubt God, even though His word says: “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 “Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6 “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:17

These are declarations of great magnitude. They mean that every facet of life – physical, material and spiritual must be brought under the dominion of faith. God tests us in all these areas until we have conquered all fears and dependence upon people, things and means and can put complete confidence (faith) in Him and His ability to do and supply ALL things. Our five senses are like the intercom system inside the body, but faith is the wireless connection with the source of ALL POWER and ALL KNOWLEDGE!

Ruth Marie Johnson

Hard Work Day 25

“Hard workers have plenty of food; playing around brings poverty.”

Proverbs 28:19

God expects us to do our part. Christians are commanded to work hard at whatever they do. Colossians 3:23 says to work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, just as though you were working for the Lord. Proverbs 12:11 says hard work means prosperity; only fools idle away their time. The Bible consistently teaches that hard work brings prosperity and success. Proverbs 6:6-11 says a little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest and poverty will pounce on you like a bandit. No matter how hard we work, though, we cannot save ourselves. We are saved only by the blood of Jesus.

When we have everything we need and are prosperous, it is easy to become complacent. Dear God, help us to remember You in good times and bad.

Lois Mautner

Day 26 Safety through Submission

“For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.”

Proverbs 6:23

I don’t know about you, but I have produced my share of rebellion through the years. I didn’t do well with commandments, laws and reproof. I had many a hard time because of it.

Thank God for His mercy. For years I couldn’t understand the concept of safety under authority. I felt that I knew what was best for me; how dare someone try to tell me different. How blind and how ignorant I have been. The laws and correction were there to help me; to light my path so that I wouldn’t stumble.

Instead of looking at rules as a prison fence keeping us in, look at it as a beautiful hedge that God has placed around us to keep the bad out. “But it’s hard to submit,” you may say and I must agree. But as you humble yourself, God will lift you up and bring you to places the hardheaded will never see.

Jeannie Sinclair

Learn to Give Day 27

“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.”

Proverbs 11:24

I remember watching my children playing when they were toddlers. More than once I witnessed one of them attempt to pick up a small toy while the other one, clutching the toy, screamed, “No. Mine!” I guess we’ve all seen that before. It is very common among children. Unfortunately, I have reacted in a similar way as an adult when asked to give sacrificially. There have been times when I had an unction in my spirit to give and my reply was, “No. Mine!” I was the one this proverb speaks of, who only suffered want.

Father I pray that you would change my heart. Give me a revelation of this kind of giving. Teach me how to give what I have so that I may gain what I do not. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Pastor David D. Hayes

Day 28 Think and Pray

“He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.”

Proverbs 13:3

“Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.” James 3:5

I must think before I speak an unkind word that will hurt anyone.

If I control my tongue today, I’ll have no regrets when tomorrow comes.

I must think before I repeat the gossip that I’ve heard.

If I can’t say something nice, I dare not speak a word.

I must think before I judge what other people do.

For the way I judge, I’m sure, God will judge me that way, too.

So I must think and pray, before I speak and I’ll be sure there is no way I’ll hurt anyone with what I say.

Sue Yglesias Neames

He is Defeated Day 29

“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night forever and ever.”

Revelation 20:10

I like to remind Satan of this verse, because he is defeated! If I say left, you say right; I say up; you say down, but if I say God, don’t say Satan. You see Satan is in no way equally opposite to God. Remember 1 John 4:4, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” The devil will try to trick you into many temptations but as long as Christ dwells in you, he really has no power against you. The only way the devil can defeat you, is if you allow him to. So the next time Satan, Lucifer, the devil, the father of lies comes your way, remind him. Just say “R E V 20 10.”

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 30 Seek Him

“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.”

Proverbs 8:17

Proverbs 8 is speaking of wisdom. The only way to gain wisdom is to seek it. You can do this by reading books, taking classes or hanging around people who have more experience and wisdom than you.

This also applies to your relationship with Jesus. You can’t develop an intimate relationship with Him by going to church just once a week. You CAN accomplish this by reading God’s Word daily, praying or learning from someone who has more experience being a Christian. Another way you can get closer to the Lord is by being a servant. By being a servant, you will be a person after God’s own heart.

Diligently seek the Lord in places you never thought to look…the nursery, Children’s Church, the home of a sick acquaintance…I guarantee you will find Him there.

Marion Horta

Peace and Growth Day 31

“Then had the churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.”

Acts 9:31

With Paul’s boldness to preach and the protection of the other believers, this great relationship spawned which caused God’s favor to come down and the believers would grow in strength and numbers. MPC would be ineffective if we didn’t have as many different ministries under the covering of the church. On any given day you can find the body of MPC going in three to four different directions, but all ultimately have the heart of God and the vision of the Shepherd. Notice that the scripture states three different locations and culture but there was peace and favor which caused growth. I noticed over the years that it is contradicting to bring in the harvest when our laborers aren’t trained by the storehouse. In order for each ministry to function properly, each one needs to be in total agreement with the leader and this is what causes PEACE and GROWTH.

Pastor Damon Baudoin

Day 32 Listen Up

“That we may be able to comfort those in trouble, by the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”

2 Corinthians 1:4

Many Christians are going through trials and they feel like they are barely hanging on. How can we comfort others – especially the ones we don’t know well? Many hurting Christians won’t tell you how bad they are hurting, but may mention something that gives you a clue. For example, someone might say, “My husband has been out of work for months and he has a job interview.” Now you know what this family is going through. Take time to call that person to see if her husband got the job. Maybe you cannot remember to call people that you’re not close friends with. After you’re finished with your conversation write yourself a note to call them and put the note in a place where you will see it. When you make the phone call, the person you are calling will sense your care and concern for their situation. You will be comforting someone who may be having a hard time.

Sheila Jackson

Don’t Grumble Day 33

“But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses.”

Exodus 17:3

The Israelites murmured continually. Their suffering in Egypt had been of a different nature; now they complained about the lack of water. Their despair is evident in the fact that they are ready to stone Moses. They had stopped trusting God and were looking to Moses as their source and provider.

No matter what trial we face, Jesus is our Provider, Source, Supply and Surplus. He is the Living Water that satisfies our thirst. Selah!

Judy Rogillio

Day 34 See the Finish Line

“…since we are surrounded by a crowd of witnesses… let us run with endurance…keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus…”

Hebrews 12:1, 2

Jesus demonstrated the greatest commitment of all. He came to earth with a purpose to do His Father’s will. He knew the difficulties He faced. He knew the cost before the time came for Him to pay it. In spite of all this, He finished His race.

It is important to see the end from the beginning. No invention or sculpture just happens without a purpose and plan. Runners have to see themselves crossing the finish line before the race even starts.

Our Christian life is pictured as a race, with crowds of those who have finished cheering us on. The finish line is before us but sometimes it gets hard. Jesus finished His race because He saw through the end to the joy on the other side. That joy was you and me in God’s presence. Don’t look at the obstacles. See through to the end, to the joy before you – heaven and God.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Spend Time with Him Day 35

“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.”

Hosea 10:12

God desires us to stop thinking about just material things in relation to sowing and reaping. He wants us to sow time with Him. Sow prayers for others instead of whining about our own problems. We reap time with God and get to know Him better. This helps to renew our minds. As we seek Him first, He will provide all the material things in life.

Sowing time with God reaps mercy, knowledge, closeness, more of His anointing, more spiritual gifts, preparation for stepping out in ministry, favor with God and man and things you cannot even imagine yet.

The more time you spend with Him, the more you get familiar with hearing from Him. You will be adding to your rewards in heaven which far outweigh rewards on earth.

Linda Stradley

Day 36 We Must Resist

“Therefore submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

James 4:7

If we were to ask ourselves the question, “to submit or not to submit,” the answer would surely be blessing or cursing, life or death.

Submit means to yield, resign or surrender to the power, will or authority of another. Submission is the acknowledgement of inferiority or dependence; humble or suppliant behavior. This is the posture deserving our King. A King of power and might, of awe and wonder. A King of mercy and grace. This posture keeps us at the King’s feet where we find the King’s favor.

The definition of resist is to stand against; to withstand; hence, to act in opposition, or to oppose. We must resist/oppose Satan, not yielding to the thoughts, desires and temptations of the world which are the weapons of his warfare. Remember the enemy is looking for a way in of least resistance. We must resist, we must put on the whole armor of God, that we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. When we submit/surrender to God and resist the devil there is a promise of victory in Christ Jesus that our adversary the devil will flee/retreat from us. THAT IS THE WORD OF GOD.

Pastor John Mayers

Part of God’s Plan Day 37

“But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings…”

1 Peter 4:13

”I’m a faithful servant of God, how could this happen to me?” It’s the same question asked by the parents of a handicapped child, a young widow or the pastor who is falsely accused by a jealous church member. How can a seemingly loving God sit by in silence?

When we look at our sufferings in comparison to the sufferings of Christ, the picture seems so much clearer. Jesus endured the harshest injustice and yet God the Father turned away. Jesus asked the same question we so often ask, “Father, why have you forsaken me?” God forsook Jesus so we could be reconciled to him, in love, through repentance. There was a reason for the suffering and the pain.

Even though it is difficult to understand, our reward is far greater than we can presently see. Our trials are not random; they are part of His divine plan.

Kathy Firmin

Day 38 A Way of Escape

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

1 Corinthians 10:13

This was the very first verse I memorized when I was radically saved and set free from drugs, alcohol and a myriad of other things in 1978. As I walked through months and years of sobriety, that verse was what kept me from falling into temptation.

God’s word tell us that temptation will be common but that He is faithful and won’t allow us to be tempted beyond what we’re able to stand. With the temptation, He WILL provide the way of escape so that we can bear (endure) it.

When I walked through temptation and applied this scripture, He never failed and would reveal my escape! Even when I didn’t, He was still right there even though my hard heart wouldn’t acknowledge Him.

If you’re being tempted, just look around! Your way of escape is right there; you just have to be looking for it! There will always be a way out of that situation, just keep your eyes open.

Ann Brent

Shine Day 39

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Romans 12:2

There is a popular song on the radio called “Shine.” The songs lyrics are a true revelation.

“Shine, make them wonder whatcha got, make them wish that they were not, on the outside looking bored, shine, let it shine before all men, let them see good works and then, let them glorify the Lord.”

As I listened to this song, it occurred to me that this is what a true Christian is supposed to do. We, as the body of Christ, are supposed to let Christ shine through us into the world. As I thought about this, I realized the true definition of the word Christian: Christ in a Nation.

Donna Rodgers

Day 40 Jesus in You

“Arise; shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth and deep darkness the people; But the LORD will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you.”

Isaiah 60:1-2

In this day it is so important for us to shine. There is a deep darkness all over the earth. Sometimes we are the only Jesus people see. That is why we must walk in love. Have you ever had someone say to you, “Don’t I know you? Have we met before?” or “Do you have a sister or brother?” I have had that happen many times, and they always seem to be so sure. I would and help them figure it out even though I knew that I didn’t know them. Then one day I thought, “Wouldn’t it be great if it was the Lord they see and recognize in me?” His Word says that His glory will be seen upon us!

Kathy Rogillio

Death to Life Day 41

“And you hath he made alive who were dead in trespasses and sins.”

Ephesians 2:1

Praise God when Jesus died on the cross He paid our sin debt in full. All of our trespasses and sins were laid on Him and nailed to the cross at Calvary.

When we ask Jesus to come into our hearts He changes us instantly and we pass spiritually, from death to life. We are made ALIVE. Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Behold now is the accepted time. Now is the day of salvation.

Marion Sturdivant

Day 42 Do It Now

“If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.”

Ecclesiastes 11:4

Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 deals with being generous and diligent. When reading verse 4, it spoke out, not only boldly but simply, so simply a child could understand. If we wait for the perfect opportunity, it will never come. Once we put ourselves in the picture, it becomes imperfect. We need to not only learn to wait on the Lord, but to proceed when the Lord tells us. If He sends us something, a chance to minister to someone, to bless someone or to pray for someone, don’t “make a note to take care of it later when it is more convenient.” Later never comes. DO IT NOW.

Kathy Galloway

Character Day 43

God is looking for people with character. Character has a root word that means statue or fixed predictable image. Fixed meaning it is always there doing the same thing. It does not go anywhere, it is fixed. Predictable means it does not move; it will always be doing what it is supposed to be doing. You can count on it to be doing just that. Image means it is put in the center of a city or somewhere very visible to be on display. It is for everyone to look at.

Romans 5:1–5 says that we would rejoice in the coming of the Glory of the Lord (sharing it with Him) and we should also rejoice in tribulations and fiery trials knowing that it produces perseverance, character and hope. Hope does not disappoint. There are a lot of people with spiritual gifts and talents but no character.

So when trials and tribulations come, instead of rebuking them, let’s rejoice.

Greg Keller

Day 44 Put Them Away

“And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, “If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.” Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only.”

1 Samuel 7:3-4

Many believers need to return to the Lord and serve Him with everything within them. I believe we are to live a vicarious life as a Christian; someone that serves out of instinct instead of being delegated. One great way to escape the hand of the devourer is to put away the strange gods. Strange gods are the things that unproductively consume your time, when deep in your spirit you know it’s pulling you away from intimacy with your Creator. I challenge you to prepare your hearts unto the Lord and serve Him ONLY.

Pastor Damon Baudoin

What’s Love Got To Do With It? Day 45

I’m sure you’ve all heard the song that asks that question. Jesus said the answer is “everything!”

The word LOVE is grossly overused in the English language. We love our children, our spouse and our parents. We love the buffet after church. We love to shop, to play golf and to cheer for our favorite team. With so many uses for love, there’s no wonder that we struggle with loving one another. How can you LOVE if you don’t really know what love means?

Love is not just a command; it is the command. When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus said, “You shall love…no other commandment is greater.” (Mark 12:28-31). It is paramount that as Christians we should fully understand what love is so that we may demonstrate love to one another and abide in love.

Father, open the eyes of our understanding so that we may learn to love one another even as Christ loved the church. In Jesus’ Name!

Pastor David D. Hayes

Day 46 Signs Accompanying

“These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons…”

Mark 16:17

As Peter and John went to the Temple to pray, they were approached by a lame man lying at the Temple gate. The man asked them for some money, expecting a gift. But Peter said, “We don’t have any money for you! But what we do have, we will gladly give! I command you in the name of Jesus Christ, walk!” Then, Peter took the man by the hand and pulled him to his feet. As he did, the man’s feet and ankle-bones were healed and he began walking, leaping and praising God.

These same signs are to accompany the Christian today. The name of Jesus gives authority over all the power of the enemy. Let’s use that powerful name to accomplish all that is set before us to do for Him.

Judy Rogillio

Live in Today Day 47

“So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.”

Matthew 6:34

“Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” James 4:14

It is difficult to live in today. We have a tendency to think about all we’ve been through, where it is that we want to go or things we want to do. If we think all the time about where we’ve been, we will miss out on today. We can live in today by being thankful for the day and letting God have the rest. He is ultimately in control.

“Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31

Let go of yesterday and leave tomorrow to God.

Patti Rodgers

Day 48 A Positive Attitude

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Philippians 4:4

Having a positive attitude is so important. And why shouldn’t we be positive? After all, we are on the winning side. We have the victory! I love this verse because it reminds me that no matter what, we are to rejoice in the Lord and all He has done for us and all He is going to do. Verse 8 says to think on whatever is true and the truth is, if He never does another thing for me He has saved my soul from an eternity of hell and has given me an eternity of heaven and fellowship with Him. Verse 8 goes on to say that we have to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. The Lord is so wonderful, His creation is so magnificent and He is so worthy of our praise that I will say it again, “Rejoice!”

Kathy Rogillio

Steadfastness Day 49

The book of Nehemiah tells the story of a man who had an uncommon destiny because of his steadfastness, in spite of opposition and weariness. As a servant to a pagan king, Nehemiah had to choose to stand before his master and ask for help with his vision of repairing the broken down walls of Jerusalem. God granted him favor and blessed him with all the materials needed. What a great start!

Once on site in Jerusalem, Nehemiah was faced with opposition from within by those who were afraid. He faced opposition from those who were in control, who wanted to stay in control. He faced opposition from enemies of God. He battled through weariness as he worked, without stopping, for 52 days to complete the vision.

Nehemiah had no great spiritual gifts. He was simply motivated by vision and his desire to glorify God. His steadfastness made his story a part of history. Most history-makers are people like you and me who decide that they will not stop serving God, no matter what happens.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 50 For Every Heartbeat

“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Matthew 7:8

Recently I’ve encountered rough terrain in my family. No matter how much I prayed and petitioned God for the thorn in my side to be removed, the situation did not get any better. As it continued, my faith was constantly put to the test. The stinking devil was playing havoc with my head. One morning, as I lay beside my husband praying for this situation, I felt my faith being pricked again. It was then that God spoke to me, “For every heartbeat there is a promise for you.” As I listened to my husband’s heartbeat I began quoting promises. As it turned out, I couldn’t quote the promises fast enough before his next heartbeat. It was in that sweet quiet time God spoke to me and renewed my faith and strength. There are approximately 7,400 promises in the Bible. I encourage you to find the promises you need and quote them until you see them fulfilled in Jesus’ Name.

Donna Rodgers

In the Storm? Day 51

“And he saith unto them, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”

Matthew 8:26

In Matthew 8:22-27 we find a story of a simple boat trip gone bad. As the weather went bad, all peace left the people in the boat. All they could see was the natural. The natural will steal your peace. I recently spoke with a client who had a fire that had gotten too hot in the fireplace. All she could think to do at the time of the fire was to throw water on the fire. The water had little affect except to damage the fireplace, cracking the bricks. As we stood in front of the fireplace, we said a fire extinguisher, baking soda or a bucket of dirt would have put the fire out. In the heat of the storm, will you have the peace to know what to do? Remember the One who can calm the storm!

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 52 For Every Heartbeat

“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Matthew 7:8

Recently I’ve encountered rough terrain in my family. No matter how much I prayed and petitioned God for the thorn in my side to be removed, the situation did not get any better. As it continued, my faith was constantly put to the test. The stinking devil was playing havoc with my head. One morning, as I lay beside my husband praying for this situation, I felt my faith being pricked again. It was then that God spoke to me, “For every heartbeat there is a promise for you.” As I listened to my husband’s heartbeat I began quoting promises. As it turned out, I couldn’t quote the promises fast enough before his next heartbeat. It was in that sweet quiet time God spoke to me and renewed my faith and strength. There are approximately 7,400 promises in the Bible. I encourage you to find the promises you need and quote them until you see them fulfilled in Jesus’ Name.

Donna Rodgers

In the Storm? Day 53

“And he saith unto them, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”

Matthew 8:26

In Matthew 8:22-27 we find a story of a simple boat trip gone bad. As the weather went bad, all peace left the people in the boat. All they could see was the natural. The natural will steal your peace. I recently spoke with a client who had a fire that had gotten too hot in the fireplace. All she could think to do at the time of the fire was to throw water on the fire. The water had little affect except to damage the fireplace, cracking the bricks. As we stood in front of the fireplace, we said a fire extinguisher, baking soda or a bucket of dirt would have put the fire out. In the heat of the storm, will you have the peace to know what to do? Remember the One who can calm the storm!

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 54 Deliverance is Yours

“At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the Lord.”

Zephaniah 3:20

God’s covenant and His promises are absolute truth. We must seek Him first and continually in everything. He expects us to draw near to Him, in order for Him to draw near to us. Jesus’ resurrection power is able to save, deliver and heal you from all that afflicts you. Whatever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive it, and you shall have it. In order to believe, you must find, study, meditate and confess scriptures regarding the promises that you are seeking.

Jesus came to set the captives free, as He is our great Conqueror and Deliverer. The plan for us to receive salvation, deliverance and healing has already been completed. We have to ask for it and believe, through faith, that we have received it.

Linda Stradley

Think on These Day 55

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Philippians 4:8

Whining is not anointed. Negative people get on our nerves quickly. They never have anything good to say and they usually drain us. They certainly do not please God either. How boring the whining and complaining must sound in God’s ears.

God instructs us to occupy our minds with good things and not to focus on the bad things. God calls us to praise Him and lift our voices in a positive way. When we praise God, we encourage ourselves and those around us. When our thoughts are pleasing to God, our words will be also. We should remember daily to think on these things and in doing so we will give glory and honor to Him who created all good things.

Kathy Firmin

Filled to be Spilled Day 55

“And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.”

Acts 4:31

Be spilled to be filled or be filled to be spilled, that is the question. Many Christians differ in their theology about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. But regardless of theology, all true believers need to be filled with the Holy Spirit… continually, regularly and daily. For the apostles, being filled wasn’t something that just happened once; it was an ongoing process or occurrence that always resulted in a demonstration of love and service to others. We have no need to be newly filled unless we have been poured out. The more we are poured out, the more we are refilled. The measure of our spirituality is not only how much we receive from God, but most importantly it is measured by how much we give.

Pastor Damon Baudoin

Day 56 Don’t Get Stuck

“I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee…”

Acts 26:2

Paul had been falsely accused and imprisoned and was facing King Agrippa – a man who’s family legacy included Herod the Great who ordered all the young male children killed when Jesus was born and Herod Agrippa who beheaded James.Knowing his life was at stake, he spoke out, not of being falsely accused or how badly he was mistreated but rejoicing in the love of God.He used that time to share his testimony.He did not let the problems of his life weigh him down.He seized the moment with joy shared God’s love.How many of us allow our circumstances to rule how we feel?We need to stop allowing our troubles to weigh us down.We have to stop getting “stuck” in the trials we are going through.Stop complaining about what is wrong in your life and start rejoicing by doing as Paul did and “think yourself happy.”

Kathy Galloway

Kids at Christmas-time Day 57

“However, as it is written: No eye has seen, no ear has heard,mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.”

1 Corinthians 2:9

I believe what Jesus is saying in this passage applies NOW. If we are laying our lives down for the Lord and for the glory of God, we have no idea what He has prepared for us or in what capacity we will serve Him. This excites me! I feel like a child at Christmas-time! God has already done far more for me than I could have possibly imagined. I can hardly wait to see what else is coming. This morning I read John 3:8 and I believe God was confirming that because I am born again of His Spirit. There is no telling what He is going to do in my life, but I know if I completely surrender to Him that it is all going to be good. Let’s have child-like faith and excitement about what God has prepared for us.

Kathy Rogillio

Day 58 River of Life

“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”

John 7:38

During the Feast of Tabernacles celebration the priests brought water, symbolic of the water supplied from the rock in Exodus 17. During the celebration the water was poured out on the altar as an offering to God. At one of these celebrations, Jesus stood and said, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. As the scripture has said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” He was speaking of the Holy Spirit, which they that believe in Him should receive. Jesus was the fulfillment of all that this ceremony typified.

Those who receive the Holy Spirit will themselves become channels of spiritual refreshment for others to drink from. There’s a river of life flowing out of the believer that makes the lame walk, the blind see, opens prison doors and sets the captives free.

Judy Rogillio

God Knew Me! Day 59

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee…”

Jeremiah 1:5

What an awesome word! No matter what the circumstances of my birth, my God knew me and had a plan for my life. Is that not cool?! It may not mean much to you, but I was an abortion waitin’ to happen. To this day, I have not met my biological father, but I am so grateful that I met my heavenly Father. It has made all the difference in the world concerning my esteem and my outlook on life.

I’m not second rate, lower class or rejected. I’m a child of God, an heir of His kingdom and a joint-heir with Jesus. I have access to all of heaven. I think I’m doing alright for myself in that respect. This world may never provide you with all that you think it should. Step out of the victim mentality and start living. Compared to eternity this life is short. Live it hard, live it loud and live it for God – give Him all you’ve got – He’s worthy!

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 60 When Storms Come

“The wise man built his house upon the rock, the rain came down and the floods came up, the winds blew, and the house on the rock stood fast.”

Matthew 7:25

Jesus used parables or illustrations to make a point. The need to be established in a Bible-believing church is found in Matthew.

Our desire is to be that wise man or woman, to become rooted and grounded in the Word of God, building our life upon His Word, so we have the solid rock (Jesus and His Word) to hang on to.

When the storms of life come, and they do, we shall not lose hope, but stand fast, victorious in Jesus!

Beverly Oulman

“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.”

Ephesians 3:16

Paul, the Apostle, is praying for us today! It is sure that this verse was directly written to those alive in Paul’s day living in Ephesus. It is also true that these things were written and preserved for us to know them today. What a great blessing!

The point of his prayer is for us to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. This empowerment is actually “energized.” The power of God Almighty fills us and gives us strength for each day. The Holy Spirit is the person of God sent to live inside of us. He brings us joy, peace and the power to live victoriously.

When you are feeling tired and discouraged on your journey, remember this prayer that Paul prayed for YOU! God’s power is UNLIMITED. Just ask Him to fill you today so you can run on your journey! God bless you with His Strength!

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 2 Strength in Numbers?

“The LORD said to Gideon, ‘You have too many warriors with you. If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength.’”

Judges 7:2

This verse seems interesting to me. God told Gideon that he had too big of an army. Sometimes we enlist a host of soldiers to fight our battles with us, but God wants us to trust Him and His strength to get us through these battles. We need not ask for an army battalion, when all that is needed is one unified, submitted and totally reliant unit to overcome the obstacle. When it is all over, we can look back and see that it was God who gave us the victory.

Lord Jesus, I pray that You will help me discern the battles I need to fight and to trust solely in You for the victory. AMEN.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Youth is Wasted on the Young! Day 3

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Have you ever heard someone say youth is wasted on the young? I know I have often thought God did things backwards. Kids have so much energy…and for what? Then one day God spoke this to me, “As you are getting older I want you to depend more and more on me.” AH HA! I realized when I was younger, I didn’t need to call on God for things that I now need. I was very confident in my own strength and abilities. I now call on Him for strength, energy, healing, wisdom, recollection…and He is so faithful. Yes, when I am weak, then I am strong, because the power of God is working in me. As I grow older I want to depend more and more on Him. I want everything I am and everything I need to be from Him. And I want to know it!

Kathy Rogillio

Day 4 Inner-Strength

“SO YOU, my son, be strong (strengthened inwardly) in the grace (spiritual blessing) that is [to be found only] in Christ Jesus.”

2 Timothy 2:1

There is a difference between being tough and being strong on the inside. Many times this tough exterior covers up our hurts and weaknesses. I know that I can be tough but it is not the kind of strength that the Lord would want us to have. He wants us to allow Him to heal these hurts and to become strong in Him. This tough outer-strength can be a type of strength of our own, a sort of self-protection or self-sufficiency.

Patti Rodgers

He IS Still God Day 5

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death.”

Revelation 12:11

Strength is seen in the three Hebrew boys that were thrown in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3). As they were being threatened with their lives, they humbly told the king that their God was well able to deliver them from the furnace, but if He didn’t He was still God and they weren’t about to worship an idol. Wow! How strong is that?

We have brothers and sisters in Christ that live in persecuted lands. They must worship discreetly for fear of retaliation. How blessed we are here in America. Remember those who must hide. Pray for their strength and that God’s word will spread in spite of the persecution.

I have a theory that the Lord gives the courage needed when and if the time is ever upon us. It’s a faith thing. He doesn’t usually waste His provision, but doles it out for the one in need when the circumstance is pressing. Be strong and of good courage. Our God is a mighty God!

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 6 BFF

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

One of my greatest sources of strength is the relationship I have with my best friend. Without fail, whenever I am going through a trial, she is there to help me see the lies of the enemy or the reward that lies on the other side of my test. If I’m ready to throw in the towel, she reminds me of the promises I have in Jesus Christ. She makes me stronger than I could ever be on my own. I thank God every day that He puts people like her in my life to keep me strong and encouraged.

Marion Horta

The Real Deal Day 7

“There is now therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus…”

Romans 8:1

For many years I struggled with guilt and condemnation. I tried in my own strength to live a godly life and would fall short. You see, I didn’t see myself as being the righteousness of God (1 Corinthians 5:21). Instead I was always trying to obtain God’s favor by praying more, reading my Bible more, working in the church more, etc.

But, praise God, one day He revealed to me that He loved me unconditionally and that I was already the righteousness of God because when I made Jesus my Lord and Savior, I put on His righteousness.

I still make mistakes and fall short, but when I do, I just repent, ask God’s forgiveness and move forward. I forget those things that are behind and press on to the higher call of God (Philippians 3:13-14).

Marion Sturdivant

Day 8 God of the Breakthrough – Part 1

“And David came to Baal-perazim, and he smote them there, and said, ‘The Lord has broken through my enemies before me, like the bursting out of great waters.’ So he called the name of that place Baal-perazim [Lord of breaking through].”

2 Samuel 5:20

Many of us know God as Savior, as Healer and as Lord. But how many of us know Him as the God of the Breakthrough? If you are in a place where you just can’t seem to go on; if you are tired and want to give up; if you’ve done all that you know to do and still you don’t have the results you know God desires for your life; what you need is a visit from the God of the Breakthrough!

What God does for one He will do for another, so ask God to reveal Himself to you as He did for David – as the God of the Breakthrough!

Pastor David Hayes

God of the Breakthrough – Part 2 Day 9

The scripture 1 Kings 17:8-16 contains 3 keys to breakthrough, in particular financial breakthrough.

There must first be a prophetic (rhema) word from God – verse 14. The word may come from the mouth of a prophet; from the mouth of someone of seemingly insignificance; directly to you from God as you meditate on His Word and seek His face.

You must be a willing to obey – verse 15 Scripture teaches us that God desires obedience over sacrifice (Hosea 6:6).

You must sow a significant seed – verses 12 &amp; 13. A significant seed is one that it cost you something to give it (2 Samuel 24:24).

Father, I ask you to give me a prophetic word, a rhema word. I commit now to obey that word before it is given. Now Father, give me the opportunity to sow a significant seed. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Pastor David Hayes

Day 10 Bear Today, Gone Tomorrow

“And David said, ‘The Lord, who kept me safe from the grip of the lion and the bear, will be my saviour from the hands of this Philistine.’ And Saul said to David, ‘Go! and may the Lord be with you.’”

1 Samuel 17:37

Strength to conquer will come from past success. God will train us from victory to victory for His glory. Count it all joy when you face fiery trials. The lion or the bear of today will give you strength to face the Goliath of tomorrow. Notice that David knew who kept him safe, and that God had delivered him. He knew he could call on God and that God would be there again for the next battle. We have the VICTORY!

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Refreshed Day 11

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

40:31

Teach me Lord, teach me Lord to wait on you. Then we will go forth with strength for the weary and rest for the troubled soul, refreshed and understanding the best way to fulfill all that comes across our path.

I tend to burn the candle at both ends, wear myself out and then don’t have that extra strength when surprises come. This is another reason to arise and seek the Lord early, then we will be ready for the day.

Beverly Oulman

Day 12 Study the Manual

“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

Joshua 1:8

When Joshua rose to head the nation of Israel, he had some large shoes to fill. Moses had allowed himself to be used by God and the world saw great and wondrous things take place. Can you imagine what Joshua felt as he was about to lead a nation of people into the next season of their lives?

Our lives are a lot like that today. Whether dealing with smaller situations or God-size challenges, the instructions are always the same: STUDY THE MANUAL (Bible). It is a manual that is filled with instructions for overcoming every situation in life. Meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything in it. As a result, you will be prosperous and successful.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

We All Need Jesus Day 13

“No king is saved by the size of his army:no warrior escapes by his great strength.”

Psalm 33:16

The mightiest, strongest, smartest, most influential person you know can’t save themselves. The saving is only done by Jesus and through Jesus. Many times people don’t want to know our problems or trials but the neat thing is that Jesus cares about our issues and He is practically chomping at the bit wanting to help us with even our most trivial problems. All of these problems have already been defeated by Jesus at the cross and all that is left for us is to believe and receive (in that order) in the Victory. Go ahead…and turn your problem over to Jesus and truly release it and watch Jesus at work. It will bring you great strength.

Trey Hereford

Day 14 Stand By Me

“But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death.”

2 Timothy 4:17

I will never forget the first time I was asked to pray for someone. My heart started beating faster, my mouth got dry and my mind went blank. I couldn’t think of a thing to say. I knew that the person on the other end of the phone needed me to say something encouraging but I really had no idea what to say. I remember just starting to talk. I can’t recall what I said but I believe it was just what that person needed to hear.

I believe that God gives us strength for times such as these. He gives us the words to say and the courage to say them. I thank God that He stands by me and strengthens me to do His work because without Him, I could not be successful.

Marion Horta

He is Always There Day 15

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Psalm 46:1

We may not see God but He is there before we call on Him. He is waiting for us. Don’t wait until you get in trouble to call on Him. When we are weak, He is our strength to help us through the day. God wants us to lean on Him every day. Remember God says He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Pastor Charles Byrd

Day 16 Always!

“…I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Joshua 1:5b

Joshua’s guarantee of success is the presence and help of God. God will not allow him to sink or fail. He will gird him with strength, and make his way safe.

God is no respecter of persons. What He’s done for Joshua He will do for us. He has promised. “I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20b)

So, take courage, for who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God? He is the God who girds us with strength, and makes our way safe. (Psalm 18:31-32)

Judy Rogillio

Land Mines of the Mind Day 17

Your success in life depends on the process. What do you think about yourself? What is your plan to improve yourself? Are you going to act upon that plan? The Bible tells us that we should “renew our minds” (Romans 8:12). If our thoughts are renewed, then our plans too, are renewed, which will lead to an expected good outcome. (Jeremiah 29:11). When we read God’s Word, we are reading His thoughts. And if we meditate on them (Joshua 1:8), the plan that He has for us will began to formulate. It’s up to us to carry out that plan.

You can win on the battlefield of your mind by stepping out on the Word of God and exploding into your destiny! Take action today. The plan has been laid out because God has thought it through.

Keith Richard

Day 18 Strong in Him

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

2 Corinthians 12:9

My mama used to say, “God will never put more on us than we can bear.” I say that He will. He doesn’t want us to live the Christian life in our own strength because we will fail. When I realized and learned about the Holy Spirit, who lived within me, I had strength to accomplish any task God called me to do while walkingtrials, suffering and pain. When I cried out, “Lord I cannot bear this!” – in that moment I became strong in Him. When we learn to walk in His strength and power, we are able to move mountains and demons will tremble when we pass them!We can face andall things in and through Him.

Sue Yglesias Neames

Surefooted Day 19

“The LORD God is my strength, and He will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and He will make me to walk upon mine high places.”

Habakkuk 3:19

I find it interesting that a hind is a female deer (a male is a hart or buck). A female deer can place her hind (back) feet exactly where her front feet stepped, not one inch off! She is able to run with abandonment! In times of danger and protecting her young, she is able to run securely and not get off-track!

This scripture is about David being delivered from his enemies after NOT fulfilling his call of being with his army, as well as, falling into adultery with Bathsheba. God sent His prophet to get him “surefooted” once again and along with David’s repentance, allowed him to gain strength for the journey that GOD had for him.

Do we have hind’s feet? Are we “surefooted” and running with abandonment based on our trust in the Father to lead us on our journey or are we taking off without direction? The choice is ours.

Ann Brent

Day 20 House of Bricks

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

1 Corinthians 3:11

Don’t be like the pigs in the Three Little Pigs story. Build your house inside (the mind) and outside (the body) with a solid foundation (the Word of God). I choose to build my house with the solid foundation of the Word of God. It holds me, keeps me and gives me strength. I have found it to be awesome in my life.

Maria Schexsnayder

Waiting on Him Day 21

“But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.”

Isaiah 40:31

What if God gave us everything right when we thought we needed it or wanted it? Do you think that would cause us to grow or be strengthened in Him? Probably not. His Word says that those that wait on Him shall be changed and their strength renewed. Sometimes when God is showing us new things and when we’re going through trials it can feel like we’re passing through a cloud. As we come through this cloud, it’s as though we are able to soar even higher and closer to Him with renewed strength. He rewards those that diligently seek Him and when we wait and look to Him for all the answers and hope and expect to hear from Him, we will.

”[Most] blessed is the man who believes in, trusts in, and relies on the Lord, and whose hope and confidence the Lord is.” Jeremiah 17:7

Patti Rodgers

Day 22 Faith = Power

“…my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.”

2 Samuel 22:3-4

In these days of late, we sometimes walk around in FEAR when we really should be operating in faith. Only faith in God is ever going to see you through the rough times. If we cling to our salvation like our life depends on it, we will see such an awesome demonstration of power that anything that happens in the physical realm will pale in comparison to the strength of God. He will protect and He is truly worthy of all praise.

Lord Jesus, help me today to walk in peace and joy knowing that You have my very best interest in hand and when the attack of the enemy comes, it is in You that I have placed my trust and I know it is only through You that I can walk in victory. AMEN

Pastor Tim Pierce

In His Hands Day 23

“The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”

Habakkuk 3:19

When Jesus took the boy’s barley loaves and two small fish and fed the 5,000 (John 6), He demonstrated the transformation He works in our lives when we are in touch with Him. Apart from Christ, the bread was merely bread, but in His hands the bread was linked to the divine. No matter how insignificant, weak or lacking in talent we feel, if we bring all that we are – body, soul and spirit – and be joined to Christ we can accomplish great things. We shouldn’t focus on our deficiencies, but rather fill our minds with His Word and our hearts with the love of Christ by faith so that we can sufficiently do whatever He has called us to do. He wants us to know that if we will do what we can do, He will do what we can’t do.

Marta Garcia

Day 24 The Power of Prayer

“It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.”

2 Samuel 22:33

Not long ago I got the revelation that I was not praying enough. The Holy Spirit was convicting me, so I decided to be obedient. I began praying all of the time! I already had my prayer time in the morning but now I just allowed it to spill over into my day by praying in the Spirit. Immediately God blessed me. I got the BEST customer I have ever had. It was truly a miracle. I believe God was proving that He is the One who arms me with strength and He makes my ways perfect.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

When God Smiles Day 25

“…neither be sorry, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Nehemiah 8:10

After many years, the Book of the Law was discovered and read to the people. They realized how far they had strayed and became depressed but God told them that “this was a holy day” and they were to “eat the fat and drink the sweet.” He specifically told them not to be sad, for His joy was their strength.

When our sins are uncovered by the Holy Spirit and we have godly sorrow that leads to repentance, then we cannot allow Satan or our own minds to bring us into condemnation. God desires that once we repent and are restored, we are to move on. What good is a person for the kingdom of God who is constantly depressed because they made a mistake? What does that say to others who are struggling? Now, I am not condoning a loose lifestyle of habitual sin, but we are no better or worse than anyone else and if we have truly repented then it’s time to move on. A joyful Christian speaks volumes about the goodness of God. Joy reveals the strength of reconciliation between you and the Lord.

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 26 Strength in Weakness

“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”

2 Corinthians 12:9

The world has a funny way of thinking about strength and weakness. We are told from the time we are little children, “Be tough!” We are made to believe that to be sensitive and caring is weakness.

I have come to the conclusion that the presence of tears is not weakness, anymore than the absence of tears demonstrates strength. On the day that Jesus arrived at the funeral of his friend, Lazarus, the most powerful statement in scripture is made – “Jesus wept.” Can you imagine the Lord of creation weeping for the loss He felt and those around Him?

I think about all of the things the early Christians endured for the faith. God’s grace was more than enough to help them through every trial. Whatever you are going through at this moment, God knows and has already provided a source of never-ending strength. His grace is sufficient. Selah.

Pastor Paul Pierce

It Does a Body Good! Day 27

“…man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD.”

Deuteronomy 8:3b

It is an indisputable fact that without food, rest and exercise our bodies would fail to function. If we don’t eat properly, rest enough and exercise our bodies end up in poor condition. We would not have the strength to survive let alone to do things that require strength. Just as our physical bodies need to be fed, our spiritual bodies need nourishment as well. If we do not spend time in God’s Word daily our spiritual body would soon weaken and fall into temptation. Spend time in God’s presence every day to guarantee a healthy spiritual body.

Marion Horta

Day 28 Call on Him

“Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. I remember Your name in the night, O LORD, and I keep Your law. This has become mine, because I kept Your precepts.”

Psalm 119:54-56

I was a baby Christian when I married Danny. I remember that at times he would have bad dreams. It was absolutely amazing to me that he would call out to Jesus in his sleep. He wouldn’t wake up in fear. He would continue sleeping and know nothing about it in the morning. Today as I read this passage in Psalms, it reminded me of that. Now I realize how much strength we receive from the Lord because of His word and following His precepts. It becomes ours! And when it becomes ours it will become part of our spirit man as well. It becomes automatic to call on His Name. We really can’t imagine or know the full benefits of serving such a mighty God! He is AWESOME!!!

Kathy Rogillio

Strength to the Weary Day 29

“He gives strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall.”

Isaiah 40:29-30

Even the strongest soldiers of the cross get tired at times, but God’s power and strength never fails. He is never too tired or too busy to listen and help. His strength is our source of strength when you feel that all of life is crushing you and you cannot go another step. Remember that you can call upon the Lord to renew your strength.

Father, I pray in the name of JESUS, according to your Word…They that wait (hope) upon the Lord, shall renew their strength. Right now Lord, I make my request known to you. I stand in need of renewed strength that I may run and not grow weary, walk and not faint, so that I may glorify You. I thank You, I glorify You and I receive my strength for the journey that I may not stumble nor fall…in the name of Jesus, so be it.

Reverend David W. Alexander

Day 30 Bread of Life

“Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’

‘Sir,’ they said, ‘from now on give us this bread.’”

John 6:31-34

At this point, Jesus tells them to stop toiling for food that perishes, but strive and work for lasting food which does not decompose, but endures continually unto life eternal. Then He declares to them, “I Am the bread of God.”

Let us also labor for lasting food. For He has promised, ‘he who comes to Me will never go hungry, and he who believes in Me will never be thirsty.’ He is our nourishment for our spiritual journey.

Judy Rogillio

Basic Info Before Leaving Earth Day 31

“This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”

Deuteronomy 30:19-20

One of the great things about serving God is that He gives us specific laws on how to survive, prosper and maintain strength for our journey through life. The Bible instructs us on how to live, think and enjoy the blessings that are given to us. He literally commands us to choose life and not death. God wants us to succeed.

When we face the challenges of life, always remember that God is constantly giving us instructions on how to walk through the storms that we have to walk through and calm the ones we are destined to squelch. All we have to do is walk, believe and know that we are children of the Creator of heaven and earth.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 32 The Joy

“We ask him to strengthen you by his glorious might with all the power you need to patiently endure everything with joy.”

Colossians 1:11

This is His Word and a prayer we all need. Life on planet earth daily brings across our paths experiences that can cause us in the flesh to cry enough! Help! Jesus will uphold you and me by the strength of His right arm. That help is available when we call on Him. He is our strength to get through the tough times and will give us JOY in the midst of every circumstance.In the natural this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.Oh, to keep our eyes fixed on You, Lord.

Beverly Oulman

Armed and Dangerous Day 33

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

1 Corinthians 10:13

God has equipped us with effective weapons to fight and win our battle against temptations. Shortly after I had given my heart to Jesus, He dealt with me concerning my cigarette addiction. I was a 3 pack-a-day smoker and it was taking a toll on my lungs.

Sin may seem pleasant for awhile, but it leads to sickness, disease and death. Whenever I felt the temptation to smoke, I would command the temptation to flee in the name of Jesus and I would start to sing Amazing Grace. Back then, I knew very few Christian songs, but I quickly learned how easy it was to take my mind off the temptation when my focus was on Him. Worship and the name of Jesus are powerful weapons in our spiritual arsenal that are effective in overcoming temptations. Remember, you are not defenseless – fight!

Tim Dean

Day 34 Let Go

“I will go before you and will level the mountains. I will break down gates and cut through bars of iron.”

Isaiah 45:2

When I read this verse I think of all of the times I was tired and didn’t know which way to turn. I think of all of the times I took it to God. I completely gave it over to God and left it with Him. I believed it was going to be taken care of. When Satan would come and try to get me to take it up again, I wouldn’t. The next thing I would see was God at work. He would level that mountain. He broke down that gate. He cut through the bars. Then it was time to praise God for His love for me.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your love. Thank You for coming to my defense. Thank You for all the times You leveled mountains in my life. Thank You for the gates You broke down and the bars You have cut and removed from my life. Please help me to be strong when I feel weak. Also make me remember that nothing is too difficult for You. Amen.

Susan Martin

Work With All Your Strength Day 35

“He said to them, “I see that your father’s attitude toward me is not what it was before, but the God of my father has been with me. You know that I’ve worked for your father with all my strength, yet your father has cheated me by changing my wages ten times. However, God has not allowed him to harm me.”

Genesis 31:5-7

I have had my own business for over 8 years now, starting out was definitely a step of faith. I was getting ready to rely on God entirely, for work and favor. As I started each day not knowing who I would be working for or what I would be doing, I knew one thing, God would not allow harm to come my way. As I read this scripture, I am reminded of the many times God has taken care of me and protected me from situations that may have been dangerous to me physically or even to the business itself. Not everyone we come in contact with has our best interest at heart, but if we work with all of our strength unto the Lord, we can know that He will cover and protect us.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 36 It Ain’t Over…

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.”

Proverbs 3:5

I was distressed with the passing of Ricky’s brother and then only a few short months later, to lose my sister I found almost unbearable. Both came so suddenly, but even if you know, I doubt that you could ever prepare yourself for the overwhelming loss that you experience with the passing of a loved one.

I pity people that don’t have a relationship with the Lord. What hope is there? To what power do you turn to find relief? As painful as this is, I thank God for His presence. I weep; even now I’m fighting back tears to finish this. But God is faithful. I have found strength and peace of mind through trusting that the Word is truth and it reads that death is not the end. Jesus said that He is the Resurrection and the Life. It ain’t over till God says it’s over.

True strength comes from trusting in our Creator, that even though we may not understand nor have the big picture, He does.

Jeannie Sinclair

God is in Control Day 37

“And He saw everything that He made, and behold, it was very good.”

Genesis 1:31

God is so amazing, for He is the creator of heaven and earth and everything within. He is a God of order. God could have spoken the universe into existence instantly, yet He took time in His creation enjoying His masterpiece day by day. It only took six days. GOD is awesome! I sit here in awe just thinking about His creation. The first part of His creation, days one through three, God created the three realms. The last three days He filled those realms with inhabitants. Just think on that for a moment. With every command the universe came to be, right down to the big climax when Adam and Eve were created. God took each day and commanded this empty and without form mass to become something with form and ALIVE! Without hesitation this mass responded immediately and obeyed what God commanded. How much more can we, created in His image, with His breath (Genesis 2:27), be obedient to His commands. I have no worries when I think about who really is in control. Amen.

April Mayers

Day 38 In the Waiting

“I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.”

Psalm 40:1

While I was waiting on God to help me with my situation, God lifted me out of despair, set my feet on solid ground, steadied me as I walked and gave me a song of praise in my mouth. Often blessings cannot be received unless we go through the trial of waiting. The waiting develops strength in your spirit.

Maria Schexsnayder

Praise Him Day 39

“The LORD is my strength and my song;”

Exodus 15:2

He has become my salvation. We need to be singing God’s praise for He gives us strength day in and day out. When we are weary He is there to strengthen us for the journey. All we have to do is call on His name and He hears our request.

Pastor Charles Byrd

Day 40 Got Workout?

“He will protect his faithful ones, but the wicked will disappear in darkness. No one will succeed by strength alone.”

1 Samuel 2:9

Whose strength did you get up in this morning? What song are you singing? The only way that we can attain or hold on to victory is to let God be our strength. We can build our muscles in the flesh all we want, but if we don’t show our vulnerability and trust Him, our strength will always fail us. Remember that there is nothing impossible for Him.

Father, I ask You today to allow me to be weak so Your strength can shine through. I am not riding on what You have done in the past, but instead looking forward to the strength that You provide. AMEN

Pastor Tim Pierce

Comfort Zone Day 41

“And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.”

2 Corinthians 1:7

As I embark on this journey God has given us called life, I am so thankful for You, Lord Jesus, that You lived your life with the utmost ambition.You did not look for the easy route.When You walked the earth, You constantly lived outside of the “comfort zone.”As I grow to know you, I have realized when I lived outside of Your will, I was always looking for a comfortable place.I was seeking the end of the work so that I could “coast” in a comfort zone.It is as your servant, that I sometimes feel what the world would call “overwhelmed” by the work involved in winning souls, but I no longer am seeking a comfort zone.It is in You that I find my comfort.You have counted me worthy to be an heir to Your ambitious work, and I find my strength knowing we are in this together.

Lori Hartley

Day 42 Call on Him

“But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!”

2 Corinthians 12:9

As a witness of our life in Christ, trusting in the Lord through thick and thin will glorify God. When you are struggling to overcome, pray for God’s grace, it is sufficient for all that you go through. When you make it through, just look back and you will see the supernatural love, peace, joy, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and/or self-control, whichever would fit the circumstance. That is what God and His Spirit will do for you (Galatians 2:22). We know that we do not have these things within ourselves, so His grace is what is needed. When you find yourself in a situation, call on Him, His grace is sufficient to be strong where you are weak. This will glorify God.

Patti Rodgers

The Power of Speech Day 43

“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Psalm 18:21

How many times do we face challenges and find ourselves talking about the circumstances that we are in, to the point that we actually lose the momentum to get out of the unfavorable circumstance? The more we speak about the situation the stronger it becomes. We need to remember that there are certain spiritual laws that govern the words that we speak.

In Genesis, God created the heavens and the earth with the words that He spoke. He created man and woman in His image. That means that we have the power to move and create with the words that we speak.

When we are faced with the challenges of life, we need to always be sure to speak life into our situations (and not death). The Bible teaches us that the words we speak shall bare fruit and we need to have the fruit be the manifestation of life.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 44 It Doesn’t Get Any Better

“And He said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.’”

Luke 10:18-20

This verse makes me feel invincible…kind of like Superman, only better. Because Christ died on the cross and conquered death, we have been given all power and authority over Satan. We simply have to claim that power by accepting Jesus as Savior and having faith in Him. Only then will we be able to defeat all works of the enemy. That’s not even the best part! We can cast out demons and heal the sick but most importantly we will join our Father in heaven for an eternity. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Marion Horta

Good Morning, LORD! Day 45

“O LORD, be gracious to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress.”

Isaiah 33:2

As I grow older these verses become more special to me.After a good night of rest and sleep it is hard for me to get out of bed, straighten up and get moving when morning comes because of back pain.So what do I do?I have breakfast with Jesus!I talk to Him, read a couple of verses from the Bible, anoint myself with oil and take communion.I say that I am prayed up, oiled up and dranked up!I am strengthened and filledHis power knowing that He will carry and sustain me as I serve Him throughout the day, without getting tired.It works for me…try it!

Sue Yglesias Neames

Day 46 Get Going

“The angel of the LORD came again a second time and touched him and said, ‘Arise, eat, because the journey is too great for you.’ So he arose and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mountain of God.”

1 Kings 19:7-8

The truth is we can never really run away from the Lord. He always knows where to find us. In those times we want to hide in shame and fear, God speaks to us like Elijah. Many times the Lord has spoken and said, “Get going! I have already spoken to you. I have already strengthened you for the journey.”

Elijah went for forty days in the strength of that food without eating. Sometimes God allows us to walk out His Word for a while before He says anything more. What you get out of God’s Word is more important than how many times you go through God’s Word. Let the Word fill you and then GET GOING!

Pastor Paul Pierce

If It Is Meant To Be… Day 47

“And the prophet came to the king of Israel and said to him, ‘Go, strengthen yourself; take note, and see what you should do, for in the spring of the year the king of Syria will come up against you.’”

1 Kings 20:22

Sometimes we have to strengthen ourselves! When there is something I have to do that I really don’t like, I tend to put it off.

And crazy me, I seem to do better under the pressure of knowing I have to do it NOW! I find my inner strength; I make myself do whatever it is. I take note and see what it is I need to do and I do it.

I believe God wants us to grow up and use the strength He has given us through Jesus. The amazing thing is not only do I feel His strength at the time, I feel so much stronger after I have accomplished my task.

Kathy Rogillio

Day 48 Better Than Mapquest

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

Psalm 119:105

The Word of God is a spiritual road map to guide us as we travel through life. Just as our physical man needs nourishment, our spiritual man requires spiritual food to grow and mature. Jesus is the Word and He is the Bread of Life. As we feed daily on the Word of God, His Word will illuminate those areas of our motives, desires, priorities and personal behavior that do not line up with His will. If we allow the Word of God to change and guide us, we will walk in the light and the revelation of who He is and who we are in Him.

Tim Dean

Get It Done Day 49

“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink.’”

Numbers 20:7-8

At God’s command, Moses supernaturally provided water from a rock when the people were thirsty. There are times in our life that God provides for us in supernatural ways.

When it came time for Joshua’s leadership, He told the people. “Dig your own wells.” There are times in our life when God requires us to do what ever it takes to get our need met. In these times we have to remember, God always gives us strength to complete the task before us. We can do everything through Him, who gives us strength.

Judy Rogillio

Day 50 The Parking Anointing

“Still, he did not give up faith in the undertaking of God, but was made strong by faith, giving glory to God…”

Romans 4:20

My mother-in-law taught me something so valuable early in my Christian walk…and that is to Give God Glory!!! Not just in the big things but the everyday small things as well. I know I have a special parking anointing because I always give God glory for that spot right up front! It is true, by acknowledging Him in all things it opens the windows of heaven and His blessings, grace, mercy and favor are poured out on me. My faith has been made stronger because I know my help comes from the Lord.

Kathy Rogillio

All I Need Day 51

“I was pushed back and about to fall, But the LORD helped me. The LORD is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.”

Psalm 118:13-14

If my way seems rough and long,

In my heart still remains a song.

Deep within my soul a hope still lives

Strength I need Oh Lord please fill.

Till I reach my journey’s end,

Where indeed I’ll see my friend,

Who will answer all my whys

And Who will wipe my tear-stained eyes.

But I’ll praise Him until then

For I see Him near the bend

Encouraging me to continue on

Soon my journey here will end.

Sue Yglesias Neames

Day 52 Growth Within the Church

“They that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.”

Psalm 92:13

Our vision at MPC is for all people to feel welcome – the rich, the poor, the hurting, the searching, the discouraged and the confused. It is important that we as the Body of Christ break down the barriers and misconceptions that hold people back from committing their lives to the Lord, as well as, joining a church. Fellowship at the local church level gives us relationships with others of like precious faith, helps us to learn the Word of God that in turn brings spiritual growth and maturity. Being involved in a local church also gives us an opportunity to use the God-given gifts and talents that we possess.

A church atmosphere should be full of the presence of God. It should be exciting, full of love, forgiveness, joy, hope and when you leave you should feel encouraged, even if the message was one of discipline. You should leave thinking, “I can do this. God loves me and is able to transform me. There is hope for me.” No greater strength can be found than in the ties of a local church.

Jeannie Sinclair

Be Strong Day 53

“I command you—-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

This is actually a command to Joshua to be strong. God wanted Joshua to be strong so I’m sure that could apply to us as well. If we would just remember that God is always with us to give us the grace and strength that we need. We just have to ask. “Up to this time you have not asked a [single] thing in My Name [as presenting all that I AM]; but now ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete (John 16:24).”

Just grab your boot straps and get up. Always remember that God is with you. When you are going through something, practice saying, “God I know that you are with me.” Keep saying it and it will get down into your spirit and become a part of you so that you will be changed and your faith will be strengthened.

Patti Rodgers

Day 54 Push! Push!

“Again I tell you, if two of you on earth agree (harmonize together, make a symphony together) about whatever [anything and everything] they may ask, it will come to pass and be done for them by My Father in heaven.”

Matthew 18:19

Agreement is like pushing a car: unless we push in the same direction, we will not see much result. It is important to understand that our prayers must line up with the Word of God which is His will. If not, we are pushing against God.

Before you pray, search the scripture to find the will of God for your life concerning this matter. Then find a brother or sister in the Lord who will agree (push) with you about it and ask the Father in Jesus’ name. You have the guarantee of Jesus that it will be done for you!

Pastor David Hayes

Mighty Helper Day 55

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.”

Psalm 28:7

Have you ever thought about what we would have to do to look after ourselves the way the Lord looks after us? We would have to stay awake 24/7 and we would be so exhausted from worry that we would be physically sick. There is no way possible. I recently went through a trial at work with an employee. I really struggled with my flesh. I had to constantly remind myself to let the Lord handle this. Even though I had faith God was well able to handle the situation, my flesh wanted to handle it. Not only did the Lord totally handle that situation but He blessed me with the biggest production month that I had had in a long time.

If you are having trials in your life, let the Lord be your strength and your shield. Turn it over to Him completely, for there is none stronger, none more capable and, maybe most importantly, none that wants to help as much as God does. In short, He is well able.

Trey Hereford

Day 56 Victory in Him

“The LORD is my strength and my song; He has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise him; He is my father’s God, and I will exalt him!”

Exodus 15:2

I think this is one of the most quoted scriptures on strength in the Bible. There is some tremendous insight from God in this verse that we sometimes overlook. It says that the Lord is my strength. These are not just words; this is a faith statement. In Him strength is a character trait. Pose this question to yourself: Am I operating in God’s strength or my own strength? In Him I sing new songs, He has given me victory. Are you operating in God’s victory? The reason He has victory is because ultimately He paid the price. Sum it up like this: when I operate in God’s strength I can surely share in the victory He is proclaiming, simply because He is my God and I CHOOSE to exalt Him.

Lord I choose Your strength today. I am walking in it, I receive it and I choose victory today, because Your strength is perfect.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Let God Strengthen You Day 57

“Look down and have mercy on me. Give your strength to your servant; save me, the son of your servant.”

Psalm 86:16

If we try to fight our battles in our own strength we will fail. King David was a mighty warrior but he received his strength from the Lord. Before he went to battle he would seek the Lord and draw strength from Him. The Word says that David was a man after God’s own heart. Let us learn from King David and seek God and spend time in His presence and He will strengthen us also.

Let us pray as King David did in Psalms 86:16, “Have mercy and be gracious to me; grant strength to Your servant.”

Marion Sturdivant

Day 58 Freedom

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then and do not let yourself be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

Galatians 5:1

Jesus has set us free. He gave His life and He gave His blood for our freedom. It’s a freedom from Satan, hell and death. When we feel burdened and helpless remember that Jesus paid the price.

Satan wants us to feel defeated and scared. He wants us to feel helpless and hopeless. He wants us in bondage. He wants us to follow him straight to hell and eternal death. Don’t let Satan lie to you. You have power. You have so much power that it really scares Satan. That’s why he tries to make you his slave. We all know that he comes to kill, steal and destroy. When you feel angry, helpless, scared or hopeless, you give Satan power. So I say, stand up! Learn God’s WORD. God’s WORD, along with prayer is your power. Remember, if God is for you who can be against you?

Jesus, thank You for our freedom, thank You for Your cleansing blood. Amen.

Susan Martin

Swallow Your Pride Day 59

“And the LORD said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel claim glory for itself against Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’”

Judges 7:2

How many times have you heard a child, just learning to become independent, say, “I can do it myself.” As I parent, I watch my children try to do things on their own. Most times they are successful, but sometimes they really mess things up. It’s at those times that they have to swallow their pride and ask for help.

We are just like children, believing we can do it all on our own. God doesn’t want us to be self-sufficient. He wants us to depend totally on Him and give Him glory for everything we do. No matter how insurmountable a task seems, if God is on our side we are guaranteed a victory.

Marion Horta

Day 60 Where Can We Find Strength?

“Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face evermore! Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth…”

Psalm 105:4-5

We can find strength in remembering and reminding ourselves that God has and will be there for us! He is faithful and just! Years ago I worked in home health. All of my patients were at least seventy years old. Many times they would worry about things, all kinds of things. I would encourage them by asking them two questions. “How old are you?” and “Hasn’t God taken care of you all of these years?” I would see them immediately reminiscing about all of the things God had brought them through. Then the smile would come, along with the strength of our Lord! Most of the time whatever the problem was would soon be forgotten and we would be rejoicing because God had been so good to them! We have to make the choice to believe God, to think on good things. And what better thing is there to do than to remember His marvelous works?

Kathy Rogillio

The Hope of Dreams Day 1

“Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone.”

Psalm 33:22

Jesus is our hope of dreams and He watches over us. He will guide you in a world of sin and fill your heart with dreams. Finally, He’ll come for you and show you what you’ve seen. He will take you to the heavens. Don’t you try to run away. He’ll find you anyway because He loves you! He cares for you like no one else.

Isabel Horta (9 years old)

Kassidy Pierce (10 years old)

Day 2 Don’t worry. Be Happy!

“Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God, Who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; Who keeps truth forever, Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners. The LORD opens the eyes of the blind; The LORD raises those who are bowed down; The LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the strangers; He relieves the fatherless and widow; But the way of the wicked He turns upside down. The LORD shall reign forever— Your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!”

Psalm 146:5-10

We have so much to be happy about, those who hope in the Lord our God. If we really hope in God, we won’t worry. And we will be happy. At times I find myself worrying and I try to stop it immediately. I know it is sin because worry is a lack of faith. If I meditate on God’s Word, it certainly takes the worry away. Suddenly I remember just how awesome God is. And I feel the power of hope rising in me. His truth is forever! Our God shall reign forever! Hope in Him!

Kathy Rogillio

Are You Ready? Day 3

“But set apart the Messiah as Lord in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope in you.”

1 Peter 3:15

We will have to defend our Christianity on several battle fronts in life. This scripture is actually asking us first to make sure that Christ is reigning in our hearts. The next message is to prepare yourself. Get ready. Challenges to your faith are coming. The reason for the defense is that hope that you have inside.

Lord Jesus, today I ask You to help me be ready to defend You at all cost because my hope lies in You and what You have done for me. AMEN.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 4 Hope in His Will

“…imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.”

2 Corinthians 8:4-6

As a pastor, I am often frustrated because at times it seems like I am losing ground. It is very difficult to minister to a saint who has lost their way or who wants to hold onto their way. When God allows me to minister to someone, I know it is a wonderful gift and I feel the urgency and importance of the situation! Thankfully, because of God’s grace, He allows me to connect with His precious people and to fellowship with them. By His will He gives them to me and my hope is restored! I am nothing and He is everything. I know they will receive God’s Word through me because it is His will! And I give Him all of the honor and glory. Amen!

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Do You KNOW Jesus? Day 5

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”

John 3:16-17

I was devastated when my mother died. I was 23 years old and although I believed in God and Jesus, I didn’t know Him. I thought she was going to heaven but, in my heart, I wasn’t sure that I really believed that she was. About 15 years later, my dad died. I had been saved for two years and while I grieved for my dad, I knew without a doubt that I would see him again. The difference was that I KNEW Jesus. This is the hope that Jesus gives us…an eternity with Him in heaven. All we have to do is accept His gift of salvation.

Marion Horta

Day 6 Put All Your Hope In God

“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.”

Psalm 31:24

We may start by trying to achieve our goal but it doesn’t happen as quickly as we hope for. Our dreams are as big as our hearts. We tell ourselves that we’re going to excel in our careers, excel as parents and excel in our walk with God. Things may be difficult, nothing may be going our way right now but we have to keep pursuing God. We have to learn to put all our hope and trust in God. Hold your head up high because there is hope for tomorrow.

Pastor Charles Byrd

Hope Does Not Disappoint Day 7

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.”

1 Corinthians 13:13a

What does that mean? It means that you will take them with you into eternity. In fact, it is the fruit Jesus appointed us to produce in John 15. This fruit is what God is cultivating on planet Earth. He is the gardener, so you will be more fruitful. Man has free will so he can choose to love. To love is to choose to do what is contrary to our nature. Faith in Jesus is the only thing that will cause us to do this. Faith is believing God’s principles and hope is the driving force that keeps us loving, having faith and gives us the power that causes us to endure under hardship. 1 Corinthians says love never fails; that is because it always perseveres. Hope is faith with an attitude that causes us to persevere. Hope makes life rich and it will make eternity rich because it is fruit that remains for eternity.

Pastor James (Devin) O’Neal

Day 8 “No Fear Hope”

“If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us…”

Daniel 3:17

We need to live daily with an abundance of “no fear hope” in our hearts and lives that Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego had learned. It is so easy to back off on our hope and faith when we are in the midst of a trial or problem.

We should make a concentrated effort to step it up to achieve “no fear hope.” Instead of becoming complacent between trials and problems, we should prepare ourselves by a daily discipline of Bible study, prayer and worship.

God is always challenging me to keep the same hope in Him regardless of my circumstances. One day while praying over a problem He told me that if I really trusted Him I had to act like it. That meant to stop worry, anxiety and fear. It was hard at first but I am continually improving.

After all, as stated in Daniel 3:18, even if He does not deliver me, I will still trust and serve Him only.

Linda Stradley

God’s House of Hope Day 9

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as you see the day approaching.”

Hebrews 10:25

It gives me great hope every time that I come to church and see others of like precious faith that are enduring similar things as me. It comforts me to get a word of encouragement from someone, almost as much as it does when I am the one giving the support.

We are not only the hands and feet of the Lord, but we are representative of the heart of God to those around us. How wonderful it is to come to church and have the Lord communicate a Word from the Bible through the person speaking that I can apply to my life. What about the kind people that greet me and tell me how excited they are to see me or that person that tells me they love me or I look nice. Beside all of the above, the explosive presence of God in the atmosphere is enough to ignite hope in the darkest of souls.

Be a part of God’s house of hope!

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 10 The Lord Is My Portion

“[O Lord] remember [earnestly] my affliction and my misery, my wandering and my outcast state… I recall and therefore have I hope and expectation: It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness. The Lord is my portion or share, says my living being (my inner self); therefore will I hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him.”

Lamentations 3:19-24

I can remember a time when hope was not in my vocabulary. I believed in God but did not really know Him. I couldn’t tell you that He would do anything for me. There were times I went through things that I thought I would never live through and things that I did live through that I probably shouldn’t have. I know, as I look back, there is no way that God has given me the consequences that I deserved for the sin that has been in my life. I am so glad that I can hope in Him and know that He has new mercies every day. I know that when I fail Him, He will have mercy. And when I fail, I am not consumed by it. Even when we serve the Lord there may be times that because of our faith, we suffer but we will still not be consumed by these things.

Patti Rodgers

What Do You Hope For? Day 11

“What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. ‘Anything is possible if a person believes.’ The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”

Mark 9:23-24

Everyday we have needs that we hope get met. We hope that the bills get paid. We hope our children are safe and will do well in life. We hope that we won’t be late for work. We hope to do well at our job. We hope everything is okay. We hope for the best. Hope is defined by Webster’s as “desire accompanied by expectation.” Hope is great; we all need to have hope. I hope we never lose hope. When we have God in our lives, hope is taken to the next level: faith.

Faith is the unquestioning belief that does not require proof or evidence. It is complete trust, confidence or reliance. When we have faith we stand on all of God’s promises. We don’t have to worry or wonder if it’s really going to happen; we know it is. Ask God to help you believe more and turn your hope into faith. All of God’s promises are for you.

Al Hart

Day 12 His Plans, Not Mine

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

Three months had passed after the doctor told us my husband had only six months to live. I was pleading with the Lord daily, as were many others, to heal his cancer. The Lord spoke this verse audibly to me one morning. But Lord! Hope? How? It will do me harm if he dies. I tried to reason with the Lord to let my husband live. I did have faith to believe.

The Lord spoke the same verse to me three months later when my husband died. I recalled the words to an old hymn: “My hope is built in nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.” Not on my husband, nor my children, but God. If He is the center of our life, He will give us boundless hope to walk through pain, grief or any hardship, as He is preparing us for a new beginning, another season of our life. We can overcome!

Sue Yglesias Neames

Do Not Consider Day 13

“…(as it is written, ‘I have made you a father of many nations’) in the presence of Him whom he believed—God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did; who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, “So shall your descendants be.” And not being weak in faith, he did not consider…”

Romans 4:17-19

In order to hope in what God has promised us we cannot be weak in faith or consider our own limitations. Years ago, I went to the bank to see about borrowing money to build a house. The Lord told me I would be moving from where I was living into a new home and a new career. I felt very defeated and hopeless right after leaving the bank, with the mountain of paperwork they wanted me to fill out. I began to pray on my way home, and suddenly, realizing that satan was lying to me, I starting laughing out loud at him. I knew I had victory. In hope, I believed and God gave life to a dead situation.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 14 Life’s Journey

“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

Psalm 16:11

We are on a journey in life. It’s filled with many challenges, disappointments, victories and set-backs. Regardless of what happens, the journey continues. Sometimes it seems as if life delivers us a terrible blow and we feel a sense of loss, as if the world isn’t a wonderful place to be. Plans that we thought were carefully laid suddenly come to a dead end – as if an explosion had taken place.

We need to always remember the plight of King David and understand the guiding hand of a great God who guided him. There were powerful revelations given to him during his lifetime. These were revelations that he left us in the book of Psalms. They are revelations of joy, strength, encouragement and wisdom, and they fill us with a sense of hope. They allow us to know that we serve a mighty God. One who will fill us with His strength and joy and empower us to express hope to the world around us and thereby expand the hope we feel inside.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Hope Stands Firm Day 15

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

Hebrews 11:1

In this chapter the author reviews the triumphant experience of Hebrew heroes, elders who were the Old Testament saints. They had obtained a good report, not because of their achievements, personal holiness or passive acceptance of divine promises, but by their obedience, persistence and sacrifice. This was accomplished because of the hope in them.

Hope is never inferior of faith, but is an extension of faith. Faith is the present possession of grace; hope is confidence in grace’s future accomplishment.

They did not cast away their confidence in all that they faced. Let their testimonies encourage us not to throw away our confidence, giving up hope, for there will be rich reward if we stand firm.

Judy Rogillio

Day 16 Rely On Him

“He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy.”

Psalm 147:10-11

As we hope in God’s mercy, we learn to let go of self-sufficiency, independence and so-called worldly wisdom. God is not impressed with these human qualities. We please the Lord when we rely on Him.

I have learned to trust in God’s mercy through hardships. Therefore, the more I trust, the more I receive. The more I believe and act on His promises, the more I experience God’s mercy fresh and new each day.

In this trust relationship, Christ quenches our thirst with living water and satisfies our hunger with bread of the finest wheat. God is El Shaddai; the One Who is more than enough. Jesus, the Word, is true to His Word concerning our hope in Him.

Pat Chambers

The Hope of Glory Day 17

“To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

Colossians 1:27

I have really been thinking the last couple of days about what people see in me. What do I leave behind when I have visited someone or just come in contact with someone? The phrase ‘the hope of glory’ means significance, importance or magnitude. Through faith in Jesus the ‘hope of glory’ is gained. Through faith in Jesus you become a person of significance, importance and magnitude. Perhaps you have felt that you don’t count or that you aren’t important to God. If you are following God you are significant.

Father, I pray that people will see you, Lord Jesus, the Hope of Glory, in me.

Jeannette Henderson

Day 18 Remind Yourself

“When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast. Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.”

Psalm 42:4-5

It is no secret that we will have times when our soul is downcast. I have to remind myself of where God has brought me and what He has delivered me from! Just like the children in the wilderness, we tend to forget all of the unpleasant things the enemy had for us in our past life. The Bondage, Fear, Pain and Hopelessness! If we have accepted Jesus, we are free! The service of sin is slavery; the service of God is liberty. God has given us a much better life, with many blessings and promises to carry us through. Let’s remind ourselves that we have something to praise Him for and let us hope that we shall yet praise Him again!

Kathy Rogillio

Hope in Restoration Day 19

“But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by they name; thou art mine.”

Isaiah 43:1

God wants to restore and redeem you no matter what shape you are in, what problem you have or what you have done. He wants you to just come to Him and begin talking with Him. Be mad, broken, guilty, depressed, hurt or happy; JUST COME! Give Him the chance to help you.

He wants to restore you for He is a merciful God. He has designed a redemption plan for you through His son, Jesus Christ. You have to receive and allow His plan to unfold for you. The covenant forged in the blood of Jesus is there for you, it covers you, so repent and return to God. He loves you with a merciful and everlasting love no matter what you have done.

He will receive you back with loving-kindness and eternal, unending compassion. Do not fear, but allow God who formed and created you to love you and bring you back into the blood covenant fully restored.

Linda Stradley

Day 20 We Will See Thee Again

“As He spoke, He showed them the wounds in His hands and His side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord!”

John 20:20

When my mother died, I thought it was the end. I was so weary and upset because she had just accepted the Lord into her heart and then she got sick and died. I couldn’t understand why she died because she didn’t get to fulfill the calling God had for her. But the Lord told me it didn’t matter because she accepted Him as her Lord and Savior and her soul was more important to Him. The Lord told me not to worry because my mother was happy and safe with Him. When the Lord told me that, I started having peace, joy and hope because I know that one day I will see her again. I love you, Jesus, for Your precious cross and Your blood. Amen!

Maria Schexsnayder

Fill ‘Er Up Lord Day 21

“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.”

1 Peter 1:8

God is so powerful that we are drawn by His very Spirit to love Him. We have such a powerful unction within us that the very needs of our daily lives are in our grasp if only we place our complete and total hope in God. God’s ways compel us to keep moving forward; forward in such a way that we can love, believe and hope to be continually filled with an inexpressible joy.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 22 Non-disappointment of Hope

“And hope does not disappoint us because God poured His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit whom He has given us.”

Romans 5:5

Why and how do we have hope? When we receive Jesus into our hearts, God also pours His love into our hearts. Think of this in worldly terms for a moment. The people we love (spouse, children, parents, etc.) and the people that love us are whom we often times place our hope in. When our love for that person or their love for us surfaces it makes us feel really great about that person and our hope in that person rises up. Even more so and better with God. Humans can sometimes disappoint us but it says in God’s Word that our hope that comes from God will never ever disappoint us because He is faithful. Go ahead and let that hope in God rise up.

Trey Hereford

Cling to the Lord Day 23

“O death, where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory?”

1 Corinthians 15:55

With losing a brother-in-law and two sisters within a year, hope was something my family desperately needed to see us through. In the aftermath, I clung to the Lord even though I sometimes waffled between the “whys” and the “where were yous.”

Were our family members that passed perfect? Not hardly, but all of them had made a profession of faith in Jesus and had shown evidence of that commitment prior to their deaths. Of course we can’t put people in heaven or hell, only God knows the heart, but my living hope is in Him and His promise that our salvation is not based on our righteousness, but on His. This is not a license to live in sin, only an acknowledgement that we are not perfect and repentance is available.

In Christ, our future is exceptional because He has told us through His word that He has gone to prepare a place for us. That is what gives me hope…knowing that there is more to life than just this world and that my God and my family are already there.

Jeannie Sinclair

Day 24 Hope Is Our Helmet

“But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.”

1 Thessalonians 5:8

Having on the Helmet of Salvation is to rest confidently in what our salvation entails; deliverance, preservation, soundness, prosperity, happiness and our general well-being.

Christians are to be awake, sensitive, alert and prepared to avoid the potential destructive surprises of darkness; the hour that we live in. We are to look to the Author of our salvation, who is Christ, with great expectancy, for the work that He has begun within uswill complete. the helmet proudly, for it cost our Savior His life.

Judy Rogillio

A Parent’s Hope Day 25

“Train up a child in the way he shouldgo, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Proverbs 22:6

As parents, our hope is that our children will serve the Lord with their whole heart. This must begin with teaching them early that they are lovedforgiven.

Proverbs 19:18 tells us to chasten or correct our son while there is hope. Obedience is a necessity, except weto obey our earthly parents howwe learn to obey, serve and be all our Heavenly Father has planned for us?

Don’t get weary in well doing, the dayrejoicing shall surely come.

Beverly Oulman

Day 26 Hope to a Lost World

“And the Lord shall roar out of Zion, and utter His voice from Jerusalem: and the heavens and the earth shall be moved, and the Lord shall be the hope of His people, and the strength of the children of Israel.”

Joel 3:16

Wars, corruption, senseless acts of murder, terrorist countries with nuclear capabilities. Wow! To the world and maybe even to some Christians things might seem very grim and hopeless. But rejoice, for one day the Lamb of God shall return as the Lion of Judah and a great roar shall be heard throughout the universe, and all the nations and enemies of God shall tremble and fall before the Lord. In God we find the strength to overcome, and the hope that even in a world of uncertainty the promises to His people as our protector, our provider and our salvation are for certain.

This world is reaching for hope. I remember when I was lost and hopeless and it seemed darkness would prevail over me that someone spoke to me about Jesus Christ, the light of the world. And in that light I found hope. Lord, may our hope of certainty in You bring hope to this world.

Pastor John Mayers

Hope in God Day 27

“And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end.”

Hebrews 6:11

hope is in God’s promises that through the blood of Jesus Christ we are redeemed and no matter what, we should not stop believing. God’s greatest desire is that you will keep right on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true.For example, there was God’spromise to Abraham. “Since there was no one greater to swear by, God took an oath in His own name, saying: ‘I will certainly bless you richly.’” Therefore, we who have fled to God for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold onto His promise with confidence.We should not trust in ourselves, but our hope is in God who can raise the dead.The Word of God says, “To him that overcome will I grant to sit with me on my throne, even as I also overcame and am set down with my father on His throne.” “The expectation of the wicked shall perish, but the hope of the righteous shall be our gladness. Hope delayed makes the heart ill, but when it comes it is like a tree of life.”

Pat Noble

Day 28 Fear the Lord…

“Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord. Yes, happy are those who delight in doing what He commands. Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. They themselves will be wealthy,their good deeds will never be forgotten.”

Psalm 112:1-3

There is no greater hope that carries me through life than the hope that my children will have a good life. I can go through personal struggles and hardships if it will mean my kids will have a life that is blessed by God. This scripture promises His blessing to the children of those who “fear the Lord.” To fear the Lord means to develop an attitude of respect and honor for the Lord. This means obedience to His ways.

If we, as parents, learn to walk in obedience to the Lord, we will find our lives full of joy. We will have joy because of the blessing of God on our life and the generations that follow us. By delighting in God’s commands, we set the pace and the example for our kids to follow and ensure their future success.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Delight in His Commands… Day 29

“When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. All goes well for those who are generous, who lend freely, and conduct their business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. Those who are righteous will be long remembered.”

Psalm 112:4-6

Have you ever felt overwhelmed, like you were being swallowed up in darkness? Has depression ever clouded your mind to the extent that you felt all hope was lost? There is good news for you in this passage. When you have obeyed the conditions of verse one – “fear the Lord – delight in His commands” – you can trust that God’s light will come breaking through the darkness at any moment. You can have hope in the darkest circumstances. The promise of verse 6 is these people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. If you will trust the Lord today with your problem, He promises you that you will have light and life. Your name will be a memorial to the Lord’s goodness in times of despair.

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 30 Confidently Trust…

“They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.”

Psalm 112:7, 8

Have you ever felt a feeling of dread come over you when the phone rings or a knock comes at the door? Some people live their entire lives in fear of bad news. They are just waiting for the day when the news comes that a love one has died tragically, or their job has been terminated or someone they love has succumbed to addiction. Deep in the pit of their stomach is a burning feeling of worry and anxiousness. They use all sorts of medications and remedies to soothe the pain.

The remedy for this sense of despair is found in this passage. We can “confidently trust the Lord to care” for us because we “fear the Lord” and “delight in His commands”. We can face our foes triumphantly – especially the foes of fear and worry. Our confident hope and expectation is in the Lord and His loving care.

Pastor Paul Pierce

And Change the World! Day 31

“They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will never be forgotten.will have influence and honor. The wicked will see this and be infuriated. They will grind their teeth in anger; they will slink away, their hopes thwarted.”

Psalm 112:9, 10

This passage concludes Psalm 112 with great news! We can cause the devil to LOSE ALL HOPE! Because we have committed our lives honoring the Lord and His commands, we can cause our enemies to have sleepless nights, instead of us.

The point of this verse is powerful. We can have a legacy that will never be forgotten. This is accomplished through our generosity for those in need. When we take our eyes off of our circumstances and problems, we can experience the joy of helping someone else find hope again. Many people are dependent upon the generosity of God’s people. Some need help one time while others may be poor. We should be the ones on this earth that set the example for giving. God is a giver. As we display His love to the world, He gives us influence to change the world around us. Now that is HOPE!

Pastor Paul Pierce

Day 32 How Do They Make It?

“…that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power.”

Ephesians 1:17-19

When I am going through a trial in my life, I am so thankful to have the spirit of wisdom and to know the hope of His calling! It is how I make it! I can’t imagine my life without Him. How do people make it without Jesus? The answer is they don’t! I know I didn’t. I was always looking for ways to fill that void in my life. I was sad, lonely and hopeless. After all, what else is there to hope for? Thankfully we have a loving Father who gave all He had for us, that we might have a hope and a future. A glorious future and an eternity with Him!

Father, thank You for Your exceeding greatness and Your mighty power!

Kathy Rogillio

Put Your Hope In The Eternal Day 33

“I am the Lord, I do not change…”

Malachi 3:6a

The world and the things in this world (fame, fortune, etc.) all pass away.Like the grass and flowers of the field that wither away, they are here today and gone tomorrow.

Jesus said that heaven and earth would pass away but He and His Words would never pass away (Matthew 24:35). Put your trust in things ETERNAL. Put your trust in Jesus. He will never change and He will never leave us or forsake us.

Jesus, I put my trust (hope) in you alone. Come into my heart and give me life eternal and help me live for You. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.

Marion Sturdivant

Day 34 An Anchor For Your Soul

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 6: 19-20

This hope is the promise that God gave that He cannot lie and that He does not change. As much as an anchor holds in the bottom of the sea is the confidence that God’s promises are true. You can know that God is all that His Name says He is.

The hope is that even though you can’t see the anchor, you know that it is there, holding. One definition for hope is: To place confidence in; to trust in with confident expectation of good. We can hope in the Lord with confident expectation and know that He will do what He says He will do in His Word or when He speaks to us. Walking in those promises are another thing. To be confident and to expect from God takes resolve to stand on His promises and to speak His Word regularly while we wait on Him.

Patti Rodgers

A Strong Tower Day 35

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Proverbs 18:10

When Satan brings things against you, when you think you are all alone, when you are beat down and discouraged, just remember to call upon the Lord. When you speak the name of Jesus, all demons will flee. Evil can’t be in the presence of righteousness. When life’s storms come, when you struggle just to make it, run to the tower. Bask in the security and safety of the Lord. Lean on Him. He is Almighty. He calms the storms. He will wrap you in His love. He sends His peace.

Lord, thank You for always being there for me. Thank You for being a strong tower in my life. Thank You for calming the storms and keeping me safe. I’m weak but I know You are strong. Thank you, Lord, for loving me. Thank You for giving Your life for me. Amen.

Susan Martin

Day 36 Never Give Up Hope!

“Thus says the LORD: Refrain your voice from weeping, And your eyes from tears; For your work shall be rewarded, says the LORD, And they shall come back from the land of the enemy. There is hope in your future, says the LORD, That your children shall come back to their own border.”

Jeremiah 31:16-17

Recently I was tempted to be discouraged and give up hope on someone. I don’t really understand it when my spiritual children are so stubborn or why they won’t fully submit their lives to the Lord. I know that the enemy uses this to put discord and distance between us. It is a terrible time for me and for them. I realize we are all in a battle and we are fighting a spiritual war. I have to refrain from negative weeping and tears because that is a lack of faith. I must continue to hope for them, and continue to pray for them. Thankfully I do find hope because the Lord says my work (prayers, love and commitment to Him) shall be rewarded! My children shall come back! Amen!

Kathy Rogillio

Experience Him Day 37

“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”

1 Peter 1:8-9

Those who had the honor of walking with Jesus while He walked the earth experienced something that can only come through the physical touch. Those of us who didn’t have that opportunity have the honor of experiencing Him in the Spirit. We can love Him as He loves us without ever having laid eyes upon His physical presence. We can hear His words spoken clearly to our hearts. We can feel His gentle touch as He calms our sometimes turbulent emotions.

We can do these things because of the oneness of the Spirit that we share with Him. We can stand in honor of the sacrifice that He made for us because we know without a doubt that He is real and guides us through the Holy Spirit every moment of our lives. And, regardless of what challenges the world attempts to send our way, we can maintain the hope that everything is going to be alright because we belong to Him.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 38 Pour It Out

“Also through Him, we have obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that afflictions produce endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. This hope does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

Romans 5:2-5

According to verse 3 we should know that afflictions will come. So why are we surprised when they happen? Instead, if we will take our prescription provided in the Word of God, we can then operate in the supernatural power of God because the hope He GIVES cannot and does not disappoint.

Our hope should be measured by the great deposit of love that we possess. So pour it out on someone else.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Take Heart Day 39

“Be brave, be strong. Don’t give up. Expect God to get here soon.”

Psalm 31:24

In Webster’s it says that brave means to be daring and bold, but more importantly it says to encounter with courage. In the NIV version of the Bible, Psalm 31:24 says, “Be strong and take heart, all who hope in the Lord.” I think to encounter with courage and take heart, I would have to have hope in Jesus. There is no other way to encounter life circumstances with courage than with His strength.

Instead of yielding to our troubles we should turn our thoughts to the goodness of Jesus. He relieved us from a predetermined end. He released us from duty. He took our place. Let’s not stop to have unbelief or let our minds think too much under discouraging circumstances. He set us free. Shouldn’t that strengthen and comfort our hearts?

Lord, please help me to encounter affliction with courage, so I may triumphantly enter into your joy and glory. Jesus, please excuse my complaints and fears. Please increase my faith, patience, love and gratitude. Teach me how to praise You, how to rejoice in tribulation and to have hope in You.

Beka Meisenheimer

Day 40 Need Hope? Be Quiet!

“My soul waits in silence for God only…”

Psalm 62:1a

We always hope to hear from God. We pray and seek Him by telling Him all our concerns, problems and prayer requests. How long do we talk to Him compared to listening to Him? If we are going to hear from God, part of our daily prayer and worship time must include listening to Him.

We must find a private place, turn off all noise and patiently sit silent before Him. It is hard because it is not natural. It takes practice and training to wait and listen. My best times for waiting and listening to God are in His creation. I go to a park, get under some trees, sit or walk by a lake. Of course the ultimate is being in the mountains or by the ocean which is not possible for us in Louisiana. The more time you spend with Him, the more time you will want to spend. He is a consuming fire and you will become addicted to Him.

Linda Stradley

Take A Stand Day 41

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

June 1, 2006 was a day I will never forget. I was in Licking, Missouri with the Glory Riders, a white horse ministry team. We were lifting up the name of Jesus at a rodeo. I rode in standing up on my horse at the beginning of the performance and for some reason, I fell! I had a laceration across my cheek, a blow-out fracture on my lower orbital and three broken bones in my foot. I was not a pretty sight! I must admit I questioned God. I was serving Him. Why did He let this happen to me? Did I do something to get out of God’s will? I will never understand fully, but God did answer me; God showed up in a big way! No matter what the situation or circumstance you are going through, God is there! Our hope is in Him and Him alone. It is not in the things of this world such as our job, family or ministry. If I would have died that night, what better way to meet my Jesus than standing up for Him!

Tamra Shipman

Day 42 What is Hope?

“…that by being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”

Titus 3:7

“…but the Lord will be the hope of his people and the strength of the children of Israel.”

Joel 3:16

Webster defines hope as “to expect” or “cherish an expectation.” The Bible has many other definitions of hope. In the Hebrew language it can mean to trust, be confident, to be sure, to be bold, safety, assurance, shelter and refuge, to name a few. In the Greek language it means expectation, confidence, to expect or confide. We, as Christians, have the hope (expectation, confidence) of salvation. We also know that the Lord will be the hope (refuge, shelter, strength) of His people. We can all, as Christians, be confident in our walk, whether we are going through the valley and are in need of God’s shelter or going to the mountain and are confident in His salvation.

Kathy Galloway

Hope Purifies Day 43

“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am.”

John 14:3

We are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. The prospect of being transformed into the likeness of Christ should motivate us to live righteously, knowing that we shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. Everyone who has this hope in Him should purify himself, just as He is pure.

Hope is not an optimistic outlook or wishful thinking without any foundation, but is confidence with expectation based on God’s promises. We need to persevere for in just a very little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay.

I am so looking forward to His return; for when we all get to heaven what a day of rejoicing that will be. Selah!

Judy Rogillio

Day 44 Never Lose Hope

“For you are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my youth.”

Psalm 71:5

Never lose hope. Sometimes we go through some things (loss of a job, health problems,loss, etc.) and in the natural, things look hopeless. Satan will tell you they are, but don’t fall for his lies. Instead turn your focus from the situation to Jesus who is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1). He is always in control and has promised never to leave us or forsake us. Remember He is always there and He cares for you.

Dear Jesus, help me to take my eyes off this situation and focus on You. I trust you completely and I trust that You are going to work everything out for my good. I love you, Jesus. Amen.

Marion Sturdivant

Let God be God Day 45

“Let them be confounded and consumed who are adversaries of my life; Let them be covered with reproach and dishonor who seek my hurt. But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day, for I do not know their limits.”

Psalm 71:13-15

I was saved at a very young age. In my adult life when people seemed to want to hurt me, I was able to hope in God continually and completely. Yes, my flesh wanted to get involved, but instead I prayed and let God handle things. I know I have frustrated and amazed my wife, because she is a doer! And when people come against me, my hope is in God to take care of it. Over the years she has witnessed many times when God has completely turned things around and my adversaries have been confounded and covered with reproach! The greatest hope in my life is to know that God is in control. He loves me and watches over me! I can hope in Him continually to take care of me; I don’t have to do a thing! I praise Him yet more and more.

Pastor Danny Rogillio

Day 46 Portion of Hope

“I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him.”

Lamentations 3:24-25

He is MY PORTION!

God has emphasized throughout His word that He has allocated Himself to us.We are meant to take our portion, our inheritance, from His unfailing love and everlasting presence.

I have heard so many people say “God’s timing isn’t our timing, but it’s perfect timing.”Although we know this is true, there are often difficult times to walk through when we are looking for answers.It is in this season of waiting that we should partake of our portion of hope.Hope is what sustains us as God is working out the details of our journey.All He calls us to do is to seek Him.

Lori Hartley

Man, I Sure Hope That… Day 47

“Now, faith is the substance of thing we hope for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Hebrews 11:1

Where our hope lies is where our faith is. If our hope is to “just make it until…” then our faith is only going to carry us that far. Now, if our hope is to not just make it but to “conquer it,” our faith is stronger and will carry us through.

Strong’s defines substance as being the “support” or “the setting under” of our hope. When I read this, I saw the columns which are placed under the interstate at overpasses. They are set under the interstate with the expectations that it will support ALL of the traffic traveling on the roadways, not just some of it.

The same things that are the objects of our hope are the objects of our faith. Where is your hope taking you?

Kathy Galloway

Day 48 My Hope, In Growing Older

“…you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

Isaiah 46:3b, 4

As I grow older, my hope is fixed more on the scriptures than ever before. In Romans 5:5 it reads, “And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.” Although I feel good most of the time, there are just some things that I cannot do as well. My walk is not as good, I stumble many times and as a senior citizen I do not need to fall. Do I live in fear of what’s coming later in life? No! My hope is in my God who has always carried, sustained and rescued me and hope does not disappoint. I adjust to all the changes going on in my life and I do not let it rob me of my joy and the youthfulness that I feel in my heart.

Sue Yglesias Neames

Why There is Still Hope Day 49

“But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in You.”

Psalm 39:7

It may be difficult to believe right now but there is hope. Hope for your life; hope for you in every way. You may think God doesn’t want anything to do with you or that you’ve made too many mistakes for Him to love you but God does love you; just the way you are. This is usually hard for most people to believe because we have all done things we are deeply ashamed of. We can’t imagine God being able to love us in spite of everything but when we look at what the Bible says about who God is and how He operates, we begin to understand how this is possible.

No matter what your situation is, you don’t have to face it alone. You don’t have to be overwhelmed with confusion or hopelessness. God is with you now, ready to give you the hope you need. Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth.” Apart from God, hope is based only on feelings and dreams for the future. When those dreams are shattered, hope is crushed. If your hope is based in God Himself, you will have a hope that problems cannot crush.

Beverly Daniels

Day 50 The Nature of Biblical Hope

Hope can be defined as “looking forward to some desire with expectation (possibility)” or as “the source of or reason for such a hope.” In our everyday usage we seem to put less emphasis on the expectation part of hope. “I hope the New Orleans Saints go to the Super Bowl this year, but I’ve been hoping for that every year for the past twenty years.” We still look forward to a desired end, but we don’t stake our lives on whether or not it happens because the thing hoped for is uncertain. It’s looking forward to a desirable but remote possibility. Our world has become like those Paul spoke about in Ephesians 2:12, who are “separated from Christ and have no hope.” Biblical hope is different! In the Bible, hope is a certainty, an absolute confident expectation of what God will do in the future based on his past faithfulness and promises. It is definite because of who God is! God is faithful and trustworthy; He is the reliable source! He is our solid hope. Biblical hope is hope in God and His promises, even though we cannot see with our eyes the complete promise (Romans 8:24, 25). God’s hope is solid and dependable. “an anchor for the soul, sure and strong” (Hebrews 6:19). This is the hope on which we can stake our lives!

April Mayers

Hope for Tomorrow Day 51

“Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”

Psalm 42:5

No matter what happens I will look to the hills. I put my trust and hope in the Lord. He is always there; just cry out to Him. His Word lifts my soul and I sing praise to His name. When I feel down in my spirit, I read the Word of God to lift my spirit. There is a scripture for whatever you are going through. You have to dig into the Word of God. The Word of God is the answer to all of our problems. All we have to do is search the Bible.

Pastor Charles Byrd

Day 52 My Reason for Hope

“But honor the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reasonthe hope that is in you with meekness and respect.”

1 Peter 3:15

The answer is Christ within, my hope of Glory.Our desire should be to imitate Jesus, that He is able to make a difference inlives that the world cannot deny. We should belight, one that would draw others to the foot of the cross, to His forgiveness and transforming power.

Have you met the Master?His work is ongoing and His love is endless. Try Him! You’ll love Him! He’s more than enough!

Beverly Oulman

Hope Eternal Day 53

“But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations.”

Psalm 33:11

In these fast-paced days that we live in we must rely on the plans of God. Our plans are futile at best because they are imposing our will instead of God’s. Our hope is in His purpose, which is to spread the love of the gospel to all generations. Think about His plans for your life today. The reason His plans stand firm is because of the foundation provided by Jesus at the cross.

Lord, help me to place my hope in the plans You have made. I know that You will keep the purposes of my heart turned toward You. AMEN.

Pastor Tim Pierce

Day 54 Martha’s Hope

“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother Lazarus would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”

John 11:21-22

This verse illustrates how Martha’s hope in the Lord resulted in Lazarus being raised from the dead. The important thing here is how did this hope come about? It came about because she knew the Lord personally (just as we can) and she knew and understood His will (just as we can) and she knew He was well able to deliver what she hoped for, which was raising Lazarus four days after he had died.

The encouraging thing is Jesus is still alive today and we, too, can have a personal relationship with Him and get to know and understand His will and what He is capable of by getting in the Bible every day and studying His Word and meditating on it. By doing these things our hope in Jesus can produce the same kind of results. Spend some time with Jesus and have conversations with Him. You will begin to understand Martha’s kind of hope.

Trey Hereford

Everything Will Be Alright Day 55

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.”

1 Peter 1:3-5

“New birth into a living hope.” Wow! That’s powerful! Do you realize how many people exist on a hope that doesn’t have any foundation, meaning or life-giving reality? Some people call them “dreamers” who merely fantasize in a hope that everything is going to be alright.

When we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior we received a valuable “inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” and that is “kept in heaven” for us. So, when we find ourselves challenged, always remember who we are in Christ Jesus, and the gift that awaits us. Everything will really be alright.

Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon

Day 56 Character of Hope

“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

Romans 8:24-25

There is a song that sticks out in my mind that says, “Sickness must be present for healing to take place, and lives must be broken so they can be restored.” When we’re in the midst of difficulties it can be hard to find hope. It is hard to believe something great can happen in the midst of such dire circumstances. But as it states in Romans 8:24-25, “what need is there for hope if you have already received the thing you hoped for.” God uses circumstances and situations to produce in us the character of hope. Hope means to desire something with the expectation of receiving. Whatever the situation or circumstance we can have hope in the promises that God has given us in his word, and if we truly expect that the things we hope for will come to pass, then we can patiently wait for them.

Georgia O’Neal

God vs. Wealth Day 57

“As for the rich in this world, charge them not to be proud and arrogant and contemptuous of others, nor to set their hopes on uncertain riches, but on God, Who richly and ceaselessly provides us with everything for [our] enjoyment. [Charge them] to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous of heart, ready to share [with others], in this way laying up for themselves [the riches that endure forever as] a good foundation for the future, so that they may grasp that which is life indeed.”

1 Timothy 6:17-19

This verse is pretty self-explanatory. When we trust in God, do good and give to others who are in need, we will find real fulfillment in life. Our lives in God are to think on things in an eternal aspect. We no longer live for the here and now, which is not fulfilling, only temporary. The fulfillment that we will get from serving others is much more than earthly things. When we die earthly things will be left for someone else anyway. If we give to others, we will be storing up treasures in heaven. “Even the rich cannot redeem his own life.” (Psalm 49: 6, 10) Trusting in God is truly worth having hope in.

Patti Rodgers

Day 58 Work His Plan

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

God’s Word tells us that God has an awesome plan for our lives! He declares it! That is present tense – it means right now! Circumstances will come when we least expect them. God never promises our life will be a walk through the roses, but He does promise never to leave us nor forsake us. He will be with us through it all and we can stand on His Word. Keep your eyes fixed on our BIG GOD and your circumstances will begin to shrink.

Tamra Shipman

No Hope? Day 59

“Turn back, my daughters, go—for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say I have hope, if I should have a husband tonight and should also bear sons, would you wait for them till they were grown? Would you restrain yourselves from having husbands? No, my daughters; for it grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD has gone out against me!”

Ruth 1:12-13

There have been times in my life when I felt hopeless, I believed that things would never change in a situation, habit or even in a challenge I was facing again and again. As I read the book of Ruth I am reminded of God’s hope for us. HE has given us hope! In His word we can find many examples of people just like you and me who felt like giving up. God, however, made a way when there seemed to be no way. He redeemed, saved and brought forth the VICTORY! Just like in Ruth, His ways are not understood by us. We cannot imagine how He will help us, but He does. He never ceases to amaze me. We have to remember and acknowledge just how BIG our God is!

Kathy Rogillio

Day 60 Are We Pleasing Him?

“He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, In those who hope in His mercy.”

Psalm 147:10-11

I have to remind myself not to trust in my own strength. God does not delight in my natural strength and abilities. He is delighted when I rely on Him completely. God takes pleasure when I hope in the fact that He has mercy on a sinner like me. I must stay humble before Him and realize that without Him I am nothing. I am dependant on every breath He gives me. If not for His mercy in my life, where would I be? It is my desire to please God. Lord help me to hope in You and You alone!

Pastor Danny Rogillio

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