April 15

Sometimes the truth isn't fun. Who wants to believe it anyway when it doesn't fit our narrative? There are lies we allow to continue, because, if we exposed them, the backlash would be great and an ingrained tradition would be toppled. Just look at what the Pharisees did to try and disguise the truth and keep the people under their control! They remembered what Jesus said about rising from the dead after three days. They thought they could keep the truth from getting out by placing a guard and a heavy stone over the door! If the people believed the truth, their whole religious structure would be demolished. So they were proactive in preventing the truth from being believed. Their scheme has worked! Jews today still believe the lie that they fabricated over two thousand years ago, even though the truth is evident in their own scriptures. What lies are you believing just because it's a tradition?

and said, "Sir, we remember how that impostor said, while he was still alive, 'After three days I will rise.' Therefore order the tomb to be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples go and steal him away and tell the people, 'He has risen from the dead,' and the last fraud will be worse than the first." Matthew 27:63-64

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32

April 14

It was now the next day after the Sabbath and the second day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The women have just this one work day to gather the spices needed to anoint Jesus body before the weekly Sabbath; if you follow the biblical calendar rather than our calendar, this makes more sense. This would have been the start of Jesus second day in the grave. They had witnessed His horrific death, rested in acknowledgment of the Passover, and the festival had begun, all while trying to process what had just happened. They must have been so overwhelmed with grief. They had to go on with life and do what was necessary to meet their obligations and their desire to honor Jesus. We all have dark days, it's just part of life. During these times, we must remember that we are not alone and must give ourselves over to Jesus and allow Him to carry us through these tough times. 

When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. Mark 16:1

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26

April 13

After Jesus was crucified and died on the cross, His body was taken down and placed in a nearby tomb. It was the day before a High-Day Sabbath. After His followers saw where they laid Him, they went home to rest according to the commandment. Can you imagine how they must have felt? They thought that they were going to be delivered from the tyranny of their oppressors only to watch their only hope die the death of a criminal. They believed, but there was still that moment of doubt, especially now that it was quiet as Jesus' body lay at rest in the tomb. We all have moments like this, where we feel hopeless and alone, where the voice of God is quiet and we feel like He deserted us. Sometimes we don't know about the other things that must take place so that our prayers can be answered. Just like the quiet after His death, there is an amazing plan about to unfold. Wait for it!

Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid. Mark 15:47

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

April 12

Just after the Passover meal, Jesus and His disciples went to the garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus prayed the most beautiful prayer for His followers. This was not just a prayer for His current followers, but was a prayer for those to come, that they too would pass on that truth to others. He expressed His desire for us to be one with Him and the Father as they are one. Now here we are, more than two thousand years later and that prayer still applies. Just as Jesus prayed for us, we should be praying for our family for generations to come, that they may also know our Savior as we know Him. Our prayers do not fall to the ground unheard by the Father, but last for an eternity. Wouldn't it be great, once we are all together in heaven, to hear a great grandchild say to you, "I'm only here because you prayed that I would know Jesus too"? Let it be known to the Father, your desire for your family.

"I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. John 17:20-21

April 11

There are many people today who try to find alternatives to traditional medicine. I agree with this idea; we don't want to put excessive chemicals into our bodies unless it is completely necessary for our healing. For many years now, essential oils have become prominent in the marketplace. Those who have bought them know how expensive they can be for just a few drops. Imagine having a pound of Spikenard! One tablespoon is worth about twenty five dollars on the market today! Mary was a woman who loved Jesus and gave Him her full attention. At a dinner a couple of days before Jesus crucifixion, she anointed our Savior with this precious perfume; He was lavished as a King should be! Jesus said that her preparing Him for burial would always be remembered, and it has been mentioned in pulpits across the world. What sacrifices are you willing to make for our Savior and King? Whatever you decide to give up for Him, as an act of worship, will be worth every penny!

And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. Mark 14:3

April 10

You have heard many time that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. We allow so much filth to be poured into our body that you wander how our perfect God could dwell there. The day after Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, He came back into the city and entered the temple. There He saw all the business that was taking place, and not just any business, it was a business of cheating. He drove them out not allowing them to carry their merchandise throughout the temple. He cleansed the physical temple! But, Jesus was so much more about the spiritual, the things that last forever, that, this act was very symbolic of what He has done for us through His sacrifice. The temple is supposed to be a house of prayer for the nations! Are you still allowing the money changers and the cheats to do business within your temple? If you are, it's time to drive them out! No longer should you let sin and corruption dwell there.  

And he was teaching them and saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." Mark 11:17

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 1 Corinthians 6:19

April 9

The parade was about to begin and people were lining the streets just as they do with every parade. But what are these people doing? They are carrying palm fronds! As with every good parade, there is a Grand Marshall, but this time the Grand Marshall is the King, and as a sign to the Jews, Jesus rode on a donkey colt as prophesied in the Old Testament! Our living, breathing God receiving the honor that is due Him. Arriving in the city as King, but also as the only true choice for the Passover Lamb. He had performed His ultimate miracle by raising Lazarus from the dead as proof of His deity, yet most still did not believe. The people who were there with Him for the miracle and the people they told, ran out to greet Him as He entered the city, waving the palm fronds and worshiping Him. They didn't know that His death would soon follow even though He told them it would. Choose today and every day to give honor to our only worthy king, Jesus!

So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" John 12:13-15

April 8

For whom are you living your life? Is it your kids, husband, wife, boss, parents, or someone else? If your answer is anything but God, you're starting in the wrong place. Now I'm not saying you shouldn't obey those in authority over you, you are supposed to do that, but what I am saying is that you must first dedicate your entire life to Him for things to be in proper order. Strive to please Him first. When you make Him number one, the rest of your life will fall into place. It may not be comfortable and cozy, but God will be proud. As a matter of fact, if you are feeling comfortable with your life, you're probably not within God's will! I believe that many disorders, sickness, and the stress we suffer from, could be healed if we just got this one thing right. May it never be said of me that I loved the glory that comes from pleasing man rather than the glory that comes from God!

for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God. John 12:43

April 7

Even though I live in a major metropolitan area, I'm on a street that is pure country. Most on our street abide by the rule, love your neighbor as yourself. During hurricane Francis, we had trees down everywhere. My husband, who has a heart of gold, didn't even wait for the rain to stop before he got out there with the chainsaw cutting up and moving branches to clear the road. He and the other neighbors worked tirelessly making a pathway for those trapped. Everyone worked together toward a common goal. I believe that's how God intended for us to be, helping one another out of love. It was a great lesson for my children too; they now do their part to help others without grumbling or complaining. There may come a time when all we have is one another, where law enforcement and first responders are unavailable, so go out of your way to be kind and helpful, you never know when you might need them.

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. Philippians 2:14-15

April 6

Many years ago, my husband and I, replaced the roof on our house. Our whole family worked together to remove those old shingles. The new roof was good for nearly twenty years. We decide that it was time to replace it again. The State of Florida was in a drought, the perfect time to get the job done. But, as everyone knows, once you take off the protective layer of shingles, the heaven will open up and pour out it's blessings. What was once dry and cozy became a sieve, filtering the water right into our house! What a mess it left! Like the protection of our roof that once kept out the rain, maybe your protective barrier is blocking your blessings. We sometimes become so hardened by past hurts that our hearts can't receive what God has waiting for us. It takes prayer and trust to remove barriers. If you're going through a dry spell, start taking off some layers, then watch it rain!

And I will make them and the places all around my hill a blessing, and I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing. Ezekiel 34:26

April 5

When you see your fellow soldiers in Christ sticking their necks out in obedience to Him, try to encourage them. Your kind words may be the boost they need to continue in what God has called them to do. However, even without encouragement, I pray that their efforts continue, because it is God we are to please and not man. My neighbor, as part of the conversation, asked a new friend if he and his family attended church; he replied that they never have. He then invited them to his church and they came! They now attend regularly. That small invitation has impacted his whole family and will probably affect generations to come. Who knows, the next Billy Graham may come from that simple gesture. We've all been called to make a difference in this world and there are no small parts, so I'm here to encourage you in your ministry for the kingdom. Your task may seem simple, but the impact could be felt worldwide.

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

April 4

Have you ever bitten into a persimmon before it was ripe? It is so beautiful on the outside and appears to be ready, but I can tell you that it's awful, bitter, and it dries out your mouth, and you wish you had never seen it, touched it, or tasted it! When it is ripe, it's a very sweet and delicious fruit, but having experienced such a bad taste, it makes you leery of trying it again. I think church can be like that too. Many people have had bad experiences in church and now reject it completely. It is hard, once you've felt mistreated, to want to try again. Every church is not full of spiritually mature believers, even though they talk the talk and look pretty on the outside, there are some that may be like that persimmon, bitter and nasty. If you are one of those who have felt rejection in a church, just try again. It's like dating; you don't always marry your first date. There is a community of believers just waiting to welcome you in, so get out there and try again!

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25

April 3

As believers in Jesus, we are filled with the Holy Spirit. That happened the day we accepted Jesus as our Savior. He is a permanent fixture in our life and will never depart from us. He was a gift to us from Jesus, someone to accompany us and give us comfort. Jesus knew we needed him because of the trials that we face on a daily basis. He helps us by convicting us of sin, illuminating the truths of the scriptures, and draws us close to Jesus. So much of the scripture points to Jesus and the Father, and that's the job of the Holy Spirit, to shine the light on their holiness; I think sometimes we forget how important He is because of that. Jesus spoke about Him and His name depicts who He is and shows His deity. He is the one who gave the writers the inspiration for the scriptures. He is very humble and doesn't toot His own horn, because of this, we may not notice Him, but don't be naive, His seal is on every word of the scriptures. 

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. John 16:13-14

April 2

Do you get late afternoon cravings for a snack? Sometimes I just need a little something to tie me over until dinner. So, I'm standing in the kitchen munching on some peanuts. I had just gotten back from taking my dog to the veterinarian. He gave me some new food for her because she's a little chubby. As I'm eating, I'm reading the bag to see how much to feed her. I'm not really paying attention to what I'm doing and accidentally grabbed a handful of kibble and threw it into my mouth like peanuts! I immediately spit it out! What if I had no knowledge of how peanuts were supposed to taste? Would I have known the difference between the peanuts and the dog food? The same thing is true about the spiritual food you are receiving. If you have no knowledge of biblical truth, how do you know what you are getting fed is true? You can't. Unless you study your Bible diligently, you are susceptible to being mislead and feeding your soul dog food.

Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Acts 17:11

Dog food is not for you!

You know your food and what you're eating. Do you know about what's nourishing your soul? The scriptures included in this video are Matthew 7:15-20 and Acts 17:11.

Here's the correct pronunciation for Thessalonica  [thes-uh-lon-i-kuh]. I tripped over it a bit in the video! Hahaha!

April 1

Football is such a grueling sport. The players punish their bodies through the tireless training, practices, and workouts. Their goal is to achieve victory when they meet their opponent. Day after day we are assailed by a relentless enemy who only gives up when we fall into sin. Let me take that back, he never gives up! Once we fall into sin, he keeps reminding us of how worthless we are for having fallen. The truth is, we try to meet our opponent without being prepared. We enter a fight without ever having trained! What happens when you're not prepared? You lose. In a game, even though there can only be one winner, the training will make you fierce! You would never step onto a football field as a player without the proper training, so why would you engage the enemy of this world without being properly equipped. Ready yourself for battle, study God's Word, pray, and worship Him.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37

March 31

To the followers of Christ: It is human nature to protect those you love. I have been in situations where I had to choose between those I love and someone that I saw trying to hurt them. Even though that person hadn't harmed me and I still love them, my loyalty stayed with my friend because they are a part of the body of Christ. If I had to choose between Judas and John, I would choose John every time. Loyal friendship is sometimes hard to find, so when you find that beautiful gem, you want to protect it from the enemy's snare. Jesus is that kind of friend to us. In this world where the enemy rules, we have a beautiful friend in Jesus. He is so full of love for us that He laid down His life because of that love and to protect us from the enemy. Death is what we faced until Jesus conquered it through His resurrection, and now because of that, we too will overcome the grave. That is the perfect picture of love.

A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

March 30

If you believe that God can change, where is your hope? If the God of the Bible can change, who can you trust? Someone once told me that the God of the Old Testament was mean and nasty, I've got news, that is the same God we are living with today. God does not change!  We are the ones that shift and are not fixed - our minds vary so we attach that way to God because that's our perception. Not only is He unchanging, but He is also all knowing, which means that He also knows the way that He will act according to our obedience or disobedience. He may give us the opportunity to repent before calamity happens, and it may seem to us that He change His mind, but we are the ones who made a choice. God is loving but He is also just. You can't continue in your sin and expect that you won't have to pay a price for that sin. He wouldn't be perfect and holy if He could be less than holy and then go back to being holy. 

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

March 29

My dogs have to go out early in the morning. My yard is somewhat like a jungle, so it's easy to lose sight of them. One dog came back in the house, and I thought the other one was coming in too. I turned around for just a second and he was gone. I searched the whole yard, but couldn't find him. I went back inside just to make sure he hadn't sneaked past me, and there he was, standing on a chair looking at me. I knew he couldn't be far away, I had just seen him. We need to remember that about God too; He's right there! You just saw Him when He answered your prayer, He never left! He has promised to never leave you or forsake you, so if you feel like you've lost Him, go back to where you last saw Him, you'll find Him as you remember that answered prayer or the other good things in your life. This is why it's so important to write down or bank in your memory the things He has done for you. 

You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

March 28

Do you like to watch mixed martial arts (MMA)? Even though it can sometimes be bloody, it's also quite exciting. This is a sport where there is no mercy. A fighter could have their opponent's arm in a position to break it, and that's exactly what they are going to do. It is merciless! There is only one thing that they can do and it's what could save their arm, and it is to tap out. It makes you cringe when you think that pride is getting in the way of them receiving mercy. When they can no longer take the pain you'll see them give up and tap their challenger, then the fight is over. But, what if the underdog fails to tap? No mercy will be shown and it will be a long time before they can fight again because of that broken arm. We are to always show mercy. How do you show someone mercy? Show them Jesus or they will face judgment where there will be no mercy. Give them to opportunity to tap out!

For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:13