November 30, 2024

There is a Buddhist temple in Tampa and every year, they have a festival where they sell their orchids. I love plants and had never been, so my daughter and I took a few hours out of our day to visit. The plants were gorgeous, and I bought several that were very unusual. While there, we enjoyed some delectable food options that were quite savory. My daughter and I knew very well that the people serving the food worshipped Buddha, and the temple we saw was dedicated to the dead, inanimate statue that represented their affection. However, as believers in Christ, how they felt about the object of their worship didn’t matter to us because we know the truth, and something stationary couldn’t possibly harm us because we were not worshipping with them. Now, if we had decided to pay tribute to their statue and partake of the food as a sacrifice to their God, we would have crossed a line, renouncing our faith in Jesus by worshipping such an object. Remember, you cannot serve two masters because when you love one, you will hate the other. Simply enjoying a bite of the food that is available is permissible according to scripture. All food is from God and blessed by Him when we pray. We have so much freedom in Christ; one day, we will realize just how much when we wake up to the truth. 

Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man's conscience? For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:29-31

November 29, 2024

If you willingly sow into spiritual things, you will benefit physically. I would be careful here and make sure you are sowing into the spiritual things of God, not some other entity, because one has benefits, but the other has consequences. Though Paul was employed in other fields, he put in a lot of work to help keep the churches going. It would have been helpful for the churches to finance him so he could concentrate on keeping them on track with biblical doctrine, which he wrote much of, rather than spend his time working in the secular field. In 1 Corinthians 9, he makes his case. 

Your preacher gets paid out of the titles of the church members, much like the priests of the Old Testament who were allowed to partake in the sacrifices, and that’s how it should be. A preacher is compelled and has a burden to preach, led by the Holy Spirit, and does it willingly; otherwise, if he feels like it’s drudgery, his only reward will be his paycheck. I don’t know how much my preacher gets paid, but it’s not enough because he is that good. It’s not only that he’s an excellent preacher, but he has to put up with a lot of bologna from his parishioners. We are truly blessed. 

If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? 1 Corinthians 9:11

November 28, 2024

Have you noticed an uptick in optimism since the election? The stores are packed with people, even before the Thanksgiving rush. People are feeling more confident, and the feeling of doom and gloom has subsided. We have much to be thankful for, especially for our salvation in Christ Jesus. Within ourselves, we are nothing but filth, but covered with the purity of Jesus, we are sparkling clean. Now, if we could cover the DC swamp with the purity of Christ, maybe our country would get back into the business of worshipping the one true God. There is always hope. Today, I will leave you with one of my favorite Thanksgiving passages of scripture; it is perfect, honors God, and blesses us in return. Happy Thanksgiving!

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. Psalms 100

November 27, 2024

We must be careful around new or weak Christians because what may be a sin to them may not be a sin to us. In 1 Corinthians 8, Paul talks about eating meat offered to idols. It's hard to find a comparison in today's society because you don't see much idol worship in this day and time. We know that idols are nothing but wood, stone, clay, or metal and cannot eat. However, let's say that you have a friend who is a former alcoholic, and they are a believer; I would say that if you are having dinner with them, you probably shouldn't have that glass of wine with your dinner. That is a stumbling block for them. What might be permissible for you may be a sin for them. 

A tidbit of information about mysterious beings that some people worship was included in this chapter. Look at this verse: 

For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 1 Corinthians 8:5-6

With what the media is now trying to sensationalize, these so-called aliens, we know as Christians that we are not alone on this planet because scripture is clear that Satan and one-third of the angels were kicked out of heaven onto earth. Going a little further, we also know from scriptures that we have heavenly beings here to protect us. Their capabilities are beyond our understanding. Could another veil be lifted? I can't be sure; we're probably seeing what we've always seen. I've witnessed some unusual things that couldn't be explained away. 

The main teaching of 1 Corinthians 8 is to be mindful of others' weaknesses and not do anything that might cause them to stumble.

November 26, 2024

Get married if you want to be married; otherwise, stay single. It’s better to marry than to burn with passion. There are problems associated with marriage. One problem is devotion to God and serving Him. Married people tend to concern themselves with worldly things to please their mates. Paul thought everyone should stay unmarried to devote all their time to God in this short life. However, he knew that people were passionate and may want to release that passion, so choosing a mate was not wrong, however unwise it may seem. This chapter directly coincides with chapter 6, where Paul instructs the church at Corinth not to pollute their bodies by fornication. Chapter 7 of his letter shows them the options and explains how marriage or singleness should be handled. We would do ourselves good to follow his instructions, especially since it is included in God’s scriptures. 

Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 1 Corinthians 7:2

But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. 1 Corinthians 7:9

November 25, 2024

The body you have right now is a part of your salvation and will go with you into eternity. Yes, God will glorify it, but I’m unsure what that means. I’m guessing He will perfect it. Whatever the case, we should honor God by keeping our bodies from sinful behavior. One of the things Paul mentions is fornication and reminds us that this sin is the most intrusive and introduces prostitution into our temple. I would go a step further and include gluttony and drug use as intrusive on your temple, especially in this day and age where we aren’t sure what kind of poison might be in either of them. I knew and understood this scripture, but it struck me differently because it reminds me that though we live in a body of death, we will one day be reunited with it when God allows us into the new heaven and new earth; therefore, we should remember this truth when we consider introducing and subjecting it to sinful behavior.

Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. 1 Corinthians 6:15-16

We are cleansed through Jesus, but are sins honorable? To pollute your body again after conversion should make you feel ashamed of your actions because you have introduced sin into that which belongs to the Lord. Consider your actions, weigh them against Jesus, and avoid anything that could shame him. 

November 24, 2024

A man in the church of Corinth had either married or was sleeping with his father’s wife. So Paul wrote to them, telling them to get him out because a little leaven would spoil the whole bunch. 

Side note: Does this say to keep the feast? 🤔 Maybe we should live this feast daily. 

Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 1 Corinthians 5:8

This particular sin was even a stench to the Gentiles outside the church. Paul told them to put him out and let the devil have his way with him. If this person were simply an outsider to the church, Paul wouldn’t bother judging him, but because he was part of the congregation, he called out his sins. This scripture is where the Bible tells us that the church has every right to admonish the sins of professing Christians. Those in the world are dead until they come to know Jesus, so there is no need to judge their actions related to biblical issues. 

For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. 1 Corinthians 5:12-13

November 23, 2024

My husband and I have been what I call “church jumpers.” We had settled into a church that we loved and joined. We were so into it that we took a three-year discipleship class that was supposed to help us with our biblical knowledge and serve in positions in the church. The preacher got mad at a discussion our class was having and kicked us out of the classroom right before we were to graduate. We finished it in the homes of different students. I don’t know if the preacher was right or wrong, but his actions led to people leaving, and he didn’t seem to care because it was a mega-church, and it still is. The students challenged his authority, and there were consequences. This preacher’s sermons could appeal to the new Christian and have depth and meat for seasoned hearers, so we were sad to leave but felt we were not given a choice. That same year, many of the pastors left. We counted it as part of God’s plan because the word of God was spread instead of being concentrated in this one church. 

After attending a couple of different churches, both of which had great pastors, we have finally settled into a church family that we love and where the preacher’s message has great depth that can appeal to those still on milk and those who are ready for meat. When a message has more than words but has power, you know God is in the mix. We are thrilled with our new church, which we’ve been a part of for almost three years; we love the people and appreciate a well-educated pastor who studies in depth to bring a powerful word from God but also cares about people. 

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. 1 Corinthians 4:20

November 22, 2024

I found a couple of tasty morsels this morning that are too good not to share. If you do not know your worth in God, I want you to meditate on this verse and realize your value.

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16

We should never be too puffed up. However, we must consider that God thought enough of us to give us His Holy Spirit as a placeholder until Jesus comes to rule and reign. The Creator of all things dwells within us! Think about that for a minute. That truth is humbling and an incredible honor. As if that wasn't enough, read this verse:

Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; 1 Corinthians 3:21

Don't glorify any man; look towards God because He has given you everything! Take your place in the kingdom of God, realizing that all things belong to you, including this world and everything in it! I wouldn't suggest you try to claim it yet, but remember that even though we live in the enemy's territory, God will renew it one day, and it will be clean and pristine.

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