November 21, 2024

Do you ever feel that God has prepared you to do more, yet here you are doing the minimum to get by? For 32 years, I have been under some type of discipleship and have a laundry list of training, and here I am, only posting a short devotion every day. My opportunities to share the gospel are minimal because my interactions with people are limited, other than on social media. After reading today's scripture, I'm feeling convicted to do more. It's not just today, a sermon from my preacher several weeks ago has also stirred me to get moving. I've known for quite a while that the Holy Spirit has been moving me to do more, yet here I sit, not moving forward. I have something in mind, but I can't tell you because that would put my feet to the fire, and I'm not even sure if I can pull it off; it's a matter of me putting forth the effort, and you know how life can get in the way, or the enemy. So, for now, I'm going to hold it close. 

I'm mentioning this because 1 Corinthians 2 reminded me of some of my early training. In my Masterlife class, when my son was only 2 (he's now 34), I memorized a few verses in this chapter. Then, The Mind of Christ, by Henry Blackaby, was part of my training, and the title came directly from this chapter. Some of you have heard the Holy Spirit telling you to do more, and he's leading you in a particular direction; you know who you are! Today's lesson is your cue to get moving. Start preparing to walk in your calling. Time is short, and God wants you to do more. He's enlisting all His soldiers to get the word out about salvation in Christ Jesus. 

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10

November 20, 2024

Don’t you find it interesting that those who think they are a gift to humanity, like celebrities, politicians, musicians, and the like, are being brought down? Those who value their position in this world, who sought fame and fortune, are suddenly being blackmailed, and all the skeletons and misdeeds are being brought into the light for all to see. This revelation is a part of God’s plan! To point out the foolishness of man. The whole thing is ridiculous. No one would be famous without the creation of radio and television, and we would all continue living everyday lives.

There was a similar problem during the time of Paul’s ministry, but people placed higher importance on their local preachers and teachers than on Jesus, and it caused divisions in the church. Paul reprimanded them by thanking God that he hadn’t baptized any of them but a few so they wouldn’t make him the object of their worship. People are so foolish! 

Reset your mind and refrain from valuing a human more than God. Remember, the only one crucified for you was Jesus!

Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 1 Corinthians 1:13

November 19, 2024

No one wants to feel judged or receive condemnation from anyone. We each have things on our plate that no one knows about, nor is it any of their business, so how could you make a fair assessment without knowing all the details of someone’s life? You cannot. However, if you’re in the body of Christ and producing rotten fruit, you may receive correction, which is biblical according to scripture. Otherwise, please sit back and refrain from looking down your nose at someone because of their actions. And if you are receiving backlash from someone over how you responded to an issue, tell them to take a backseat as Paul did, reminding them that their judgment of you is minuscule in comparison to the judgment of Jesus and that you don’t even judge yourself; you’re not Jesus, but you can take your concerns to him and let him be the judge. My pastor mentioned this verse on Sunday, and it struck me, so I took a detour to cover it in today’s devotional. 

But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 1 Corinthians 4:3-4

November 18, 2024

Life right now is definitely interesting, that is, if you are keeping up with the issues happening in the world through other forms of news rather than from the mainstream television stations. They only tell you what you want to hear and not the truth. However, if you get your news from Twitter/X as I do, you have to filter it through the discernment of the Holy Spirit because you get more than you want to hear and don’t know the good guys from the bad guys. At least you get good guys mixed in, unlike television, where they are almost all bad. 

Getting the good news from preachers and teachers of the gospel is the same. Some teach you what you want to hear rather than tell you the truth about your condition. Yes, we are under grace, but don’t you want to know what grace looks like under your covenant with Jesus? It’s not all roses and butterflies. If you look at the lives of the disciples and how they were martyred, you will realize how foolish we are to think that life under Jesus would be easy. Oh, but it will be, but not while we are traipsing around in the dominion of Satan. Keep open communication with God, praying throughout your entire day so that if something doesn’t seem quite right, you will know to put it on the back burner until you have more information to back up what you are being told. Stay grounded in the Word of God, and He will lead you to all truth.

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away theirears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 2 Timothy 4:3-4

November 17, 2024

I know I don’t need to tell you this, but as a reminder, you can find everything you need in scripture to live a godly life. The obedient men God used diligently recorded what they heard through the Holy Spirit. It may be the only truth we can count on because the world has gone mad. I used to think that if you could see it, you could count on it being the truth, but with AI - artificial intelligence technology, even our eyes can deceive us. However, do not be discouraged, the Lord will help us filter through what is real and what is fake. He has given us the Holy Spirit for that purpose, and if we listen carefully and filter it through the fine sieve of the holy scriptures, he will guide us to all truth. 

If you stick close to scripture, you will find everything you need to know about how celestial beings look, whether demonic or angelic. The congressional hearings being held on UFOs and UAPs could opened the door for the next psychological operation to be released upon the world. If not fake, these UFOs and UAPs could be the work of celestial beings. Hold on to your hats! Life is going to get interesting! Immerse yourself in scripture so you are able to determine between truth and fiction. 

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

November 16, 2024

We’ve all had people who treat us differently or more harshly than they do others; it’s almost like they have judged us before they even know us. I always look at them like my Holy Spirit antagonizes their demons, and that could be true. Here is what Paul says about that:

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12

Then James says to count it all joy when you experience trials. Most of us are like, NO, NO, NO! Please don’t send me into battle! But are you actually living a godly life if it’s easy?

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; James 1:2

Nobody likes dealing with irritating people or going through trials, but if you aren’t, you probably need to step up your game! Yesterday, I felt a break and woke up feeling happy and exhilarated. On October 10th, I photographed the sky because it looked unusual. It was right after Hurricane Milton passed by us. I zoomed into the trees because I thought I saw something. There he was, a creepy thing dressed in battle gear. We’ve been dealing with so many different issues and I attribute it to the tormenting of the enemy. I think he must have left because it’s over now, and we can breathe a sigh of relief until the next battle. We were protected, and no one was harmed, but the battle was real. Here is a battle plan and the gear you need: worship God, praise Him, pray, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and be loaded with the ammunition of scripture! Always be ready because most people won’t see the enemy lurking outside their house waiting to pounce.

November 15, 2024

I can’t get over how the scriptures point to what we are experiencing right now! My path through Timothy has led me to today’s chapter, which is on point. There is so much in this chapter that I had difficulty deciding what to cover. I may linger here for a few days; we will see which direction the Holy Spirit leads. If you didn’t already know, scripture is unfolding before our eyes. Paul knew:

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Since it is so timely, I will once again point to the crying, screaming videos that we have all seen of the women crushed by the outcome of the election. I can’t make this stuff up. How did Paul know? I’m guessing that every generation deals with such foolishness. Look at this:

For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 2 Timothy 3:6-7

Their minds have a block, so they cannot see the truth. I wouldn't point this out if their views were holy, but they are crying because they can't k*ll their unborn babies! It is so sick-minded. Control your body before becoming pregnant rather than in hindsight. They have finally come full circle and are vowing abstinence and shaving their heads so they aren't attractive. I've got news for them: it's not hair that makes a person beautiful. Their viewpoint makes them ugly with or without hair. Get into your Bible. Be methodical, follow through the scripture daily, and watch God unfold them before your eyes. It doesn't matter where you are in the Bible. God will show you the truth in every book.  

November 14, 2024

It’s very easy to get ourselves entangled in the issues of this world. It is especially true as we transition to a new governmental administration; we’ve become hopeful that our newly elected president will straighten everything out and make living our lives affordable and safe again. However, we were not called by Jesus to sort out today’s issues; instead, he wants us to teach and inform others of his goodness and mercy. We are soldiers in the army of the Lord, and we are to bring a good word to those who’ve put their trust in worldly affairs and give them directions on how to seek salvation and live a life acceptable to God. How do you do that? You must first be willing to live by the word of God yourself as an example. Like a gardener, you must also show that you partake in the fruit. Share Jesus when the Holy Spirit prompts you, and remember, if someone opposes you when you bring them the good word of salvation through Jesus, reach out to them gently in patience and humility. Hopefully, you will help snatch them out of the hands of the enemy.

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. 2 Timothy 2:3-6

November 13, 2024

If ever there was a time that unbelievers should have fear, it is now. The world isn't stable. The uncertainty of what is to come will make anyone tremble. What happens when people feel like they have peace and safety? Sudden destruction! Many rally because they think they've won, but I caution you not to become complacent; it may only be a momentary reprieve. However, we do not belong to this world. Should our life suddenly end, we can rejoice that God chose to bring us home. If He permits us to stay, He has a plan for us; our work is not finished. Would you be willing to suffer for the cause of Christ? Paul suffered, and look what he did to further the gospel of Jesus. His writings guide us to salvation and teach us how to live a life worthy of Christ Jesus. Do not fear what is to come; the Holy Spirit will guide you as to what you should say or do if you are called to stand up for the gospel of Christ. Here is the icing on the cake: we are immortal because Jesus has abolished death!! We live on once our body gives up because of our salvation. We are eternal beings and should slough off the fear of what people can do to us because we are saved by the grace of God. Rejoice in that today!

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: 2 Timothy 1:10

November 12, 2024

Don't get me wrong, I like nice things. However, over the past several years, I have learned that the physical things that belong to this world are not the most necessary to set our minds to go after. Much of what we see and desire is programmed into us, making us feel that those physical things are to be desired. If you hadn't seen it on television, would you even know you needed it? If you hadn't seen the rich man's house, would you still envy them? We must learn to be content with the food, clothing, and shelter that God provides the means for us to gain. Once we let go of the need for more and set our minds on the spiritual things of God, we will have ease and peace, a satisfaction not known by those striving for worldly wealth. Be mindful of your earthly desires; ask God to check your spirit if you wander off into physical gain rather than spiritual soundness. One is greater than the other, and you will continue to strive until you learn which is better. 

But godliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Timothy 6:6

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10

November 11, 2024

The Bible is very specific on how to treat older people, especially if they need correction. We should not be harsh with rebuke but show them respect and care. I’ve seen an older person being treated harshly, which made me mad. Yes, I know they can sometimes be mouthy, but I don’t care what they say or if they push you to the edge; you should control yourself and your tone when responding to them. Something breaks inside of them when challenged by a younger person. Shame on anyone who treats the elderly with disrespect! Need I say more? 

Paul also gave instructions for widows. If she has family, they should take care of her if she is elderly. If she is a young widow, she should handle her situation herself and remarry if she desires. Otherwise, the church might be responsible for caring for an elderly widow who is a part of their congregation. 

The key to a well-lived life in Christ Jesus is to love God and love people. We would do well to follow these commands. 

Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity. Honour widows that are widows indeed. But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. 1 Timothy 5:1-4

November 10, 2024

There are plenty of events happening to show us that we are at the end of the end times, but some things seem to jump off the pages of scripture. Look at the following verses:

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. 1 Timothy 4:1-3

I can’t make this up! Do you see how these verses point to the people lighting up social media with their disappointment over the election outcome? They are all joining forces to abstain from s*x*al relations for the next four years as a protest against their perceived loss of rights. I know of “Christians” who are voicing their disappointment, too. They may be drawn away from the faith by seducing spirits. One side clearly hates Christians; how could these “Christians,” in good conscience, side with that party? At least the other party acts as if they care about us. The verse that says “forbidding to marry” may be pointing to the Catholic Church, but it may also have prophetic undertones suggesting that what we are seeing indicates at what point we are in the end-times timeline. Remember, the Bible is the living word. 

November 9, 2024

We are learning that our behavior plays a crucial role in how others view us. Watching people fall apart when challenged is a sign of a weak character and shows us that they are not someone to follow; instead, they are someone who needs to learn to control their emotions. It’s okay to be disappointed but not to lash out at others for doing their civic duty. In 1 Timothy 3, Paul writes to Timothy to share the characteristics of an overseer and a deacon. I would go a little further and say that everyone should adhere to these characteristics as servants of the Most High God in whatever capacity. We are representatives of Jesus and should exhibit behavior worthy of him. 

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 1 Timothy 3:2-4

It also says he should not be prideful and be of good report with the poor. The office of deacon is very similar, but adds that they must be bold in their faith. In light of the current societal issues, it would serve us and others well if we had compassion for those who are not emotionally mature rather than condemning them. We know they need the healing touch of Jesus; he is our ultimate psychiatrist. Also, all the remedies for emotional maturity can be found in God’s Word. That’s why it’s so important to read the scriptures daily.

November 8, 2024

If you’ve ever wondered why Paul felt the need to expand on why women are subject to a man, look no further than the behavior of liberal women over the outcome of the election. I can understand them being upset because their candidate didn’t win; none of us like it when we don’t get our way, but to video your reaction of crying and screaming shows us that the decision made by the people was the right one. Now, many of them have made a pact to not have sexual relations for the next four years because they perceive they won’t have access to ab**tions. I hope they stick to their pact. Maybe the amount of women using that form of birth control will decrease, and we won’t have such women teaching their children their dismal behavior. Some of them are shaving their heads as part of this ritual. I call it a ritual because it seems that their behavior may have demonic influence because they seem possessed in some of their videos. If they weren’t under some demonic influence, they would grieve in privacy like most rational adults. Can you imagine such people leading our country? 

In this chapter of 1 Timothy 2, Paul encourages us to pray for all people. He points out that we should pray for kings and all in authority, which is what we must continue to do because of the instability of our country right now. Pray for these women, the current administration, and the new one coming to power in January. Don’t forget to pray for yourself, your family, your pastor, and your church. God is good and has never failed us.

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 1 Timothy 2:11-12

November 7, 2024

Be careful who you listen to, whether for worldly news or biblical teaching. It’s easy to get caught up in information that piques our interest, but sometimes, that information is tainted with lies or misinformed predictions. The recent election is a good example. You would have thought a bomb was going to be dropped on election day by what some were saying, causing many to fear. “Vote early and be careful at the polls.” It seemed like business as usual to me. I didn’t hear of any rioting or protesting afterward, which means much of what was said was to instill fear and make people stay home rather than do their civic duty. 

We have nothing to compare worldly news to other than history; however, with Bible teachers, we have God’s word as a comparison to make sure what is being taught is trustworthy and true. If you hear something new about godly things that entice you, it’s best to search the scriptures to find confirmation for what is being taught. F.B. Meyer posed this question to determine the truth: “The question always is, Do these words of theirs promote the health of the soul, and above all, love out of a pure heart and a good conscience?” If you can’t find their teachings in the scriptures, it’s probably not true. Be a Berean and diligently search the scriptures.

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:  From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. 1 Timothy 1:5-7

November 6, 2024

We are now hopeful that our newly elected president was assigned for a purpose by God to bring the wicked oppressors to justice and much of the disgusting display of heinous acts brought to an end. Maybe the out-of-control spending will stop, the prices of goods and services will become affordable again, the poison will be removed from our food, the pharmaceutical companies will be controlled, and the depressed state of our country will become a happy existence again. However, we must continue to pray that his speaking the name of Jesus is the truth and that he is not part of the evil plot to bring about the new world order.

I can’t make this stuff up. The following paragraph came from Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible for James 5. It’s almost eerie how this came up perfectly and right on time. If you don’t think God is in control of our everyday lives, read this:

“The Lord of hosts, who has all ranks of beings and creatures at his disposal, and who sets all in their several places, hears the oppressed when they cry by reason of the cruelty or injustice of the oppressor, and he will give orders to some of those hosts that are under him (angels, devils, storms, distempers, or the like) to avenge the wrongs done to those who are dealt with unrighteously and unmercifully. Take heed of this sin of defrauding and oppressing, and avoid the very appearances of it.”

Those of us who trust in the Lord are a blessed people; he will see us through to the end and protect us from the bad guys.

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. James 5:7-8

November 5, 2024

We have no idea how this election will go today or whether or not an outcome will even be decided today. Here is some good news! God already knows the outcome and has a hand in what happens, so there is no reason to be afraid. We have relied on His protection until now, so one particular day will not change His plans. Our King and Savior is Jesus; no other can compare to him, and he is the only one who can save us! We must get this right. Pray not for the outcome but that His will be done. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring and must not act like we do. Remember this verse:

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

The key point for today is: “the government shall be upon his shoulder.” No man or woman can take power out of his hands. We are to trust that God knows what He is doing and rely solely on Him, not some makeshift government that seeks to oppress us in whatever ways possible. God’s kingdom is freedom whether man enslaves us or not. Our prayers should always include, “Your will be done,” because ultimately, it’s His decision. 

For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. James 4:15

November 4, 2024

I'm going to offend everyone with my commentary on this next chapter, and maybe I should bridle my tongue, but not today. Like it or not, we all talk too much! James 3 hits hard for those who have difficulty controlling their tongue. He compares it to fire. The tongue releases the thoughts in your head, which can be frightening for those who don't control it. Wild animals can be tamed, "but the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." The Bible doesn't mince words regarding the fire that comes from your mouth. However, the text gives a solution; it suggests that you pray for wisdom, and I couldn't agree more. Though I'm peace-loving and reserved, and it takes a lot for me to act on provocation, there are times that my tongue gets me in trouble. However, sometimes people react with offense when I keep my tongue bridled, and they read into it what I didn't say, and it's usually those who don't control their own mouth that get offended because they think they know what I'm thinking. They might be correct, but I didn't say it; if they didn't run their mouth so much, they might not experience my "lack" of reaction. James probably should have included facial expressions in this chapter; that may be where I get in trouble. Remember, you use that same mouth to bless God; think before you speak; if Jesus didn't respond that way, you shouldn't either.

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. James 3:17-18

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5

November 3, 2024

James and Paul have slightly different ideas on the subject of works. Today, I will reconcile the two to help you understand that they are both right and do not differ but complement one another. It is relatively simple, but they seem to contradict one another on the subject of works. Here are the scriptures:

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. James 2:18

You were not drawn to Jesus by anything you did. It was purely Jesus who drew you to himself. There is nothing you could have done that would have made you good enough. However, once he drew you to himself, you gained sufficient faith through the Holy Spirit to believe that he is the son of God and is God. Now that you were given the Holy Spirit, you are compelled to praise and worship him, which are forms of works. But it doesn’t stop there. Our hearts are so grateful for our salvation that we want to do more. Our minds, souls, and spirits work with the body to do physical things to draw others into the kingdom of God and help them recognize their need for Jesus. 

One example of which I’m very proud is my church, which quickly jumped in to help our community that was devastatedduring Hurricane Milton. Nearly everyone was without power and tired of eating hurricane snacks. So my church, which was also without power, got with a special member who owned a meat market; they and my pastor prepared a pulled pork lunch and, together with our membership, served a hot meal to anyone who wanted one. It was an overwhelming success. Not only did they have their needs met, but they could see God’s people acting in love and doing what God’s people should be doing. Faith and works reconciled!

November 2, 2024

I’m getting a late start today because Rudy, my sweet little dog, kept me up with a stomach ache most of the night. Since he sleeps with us, he woke me up when he started moving around. This late-night trial was timed perfectly since I decided to cover the Book of James. Even though it is a minor trial, it serves as an example for the following verses:

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 1:2-4

I can count this as a trial because it caused me to sleep later than usual, which threw off my rhythm for the time I spent alone with God praying, studying, and preparing my daily posts. God used my overnight trial to teach me patience with my dog and perseverance for still doing what He called me to do even though I had to do it a little sleepy. This was only a minor inconvenience; nevertheless, it became an excellent example of persistence while depending on God to assist in our calling in our times of weakness. Yes, there was the temptation to skip it and stay in bed, but I overcame it because God’s rewards for following His commands outweighed my need to cater to my physical well-being. Hang in there when the world gets tough because God sees how you handle its inconveniences.