pray
Spiritual Growth – Striving To Love With The God Kind Of Love
Spiritual Growth – Striving To Love With The God Kind Of Love
Develop Great Spiritual Growth With
the God Kind of Love Flowing In Your Life!
The God kind of love is a love
that goes beyond words.
There are of course, many kinds of love,
but living a life that strives to love with
the God kind of love,
develops great spiritual growth within us.
Many Kinds of Love
From the time we are born, we begin to experience the love between parents and children. Then there is the love shared between family members, friends, and neighbors. There is also love shared between sweethearts and lovers.
These are just a handful of the many kinds of love, but the most important to mention, is the love shared between God and each one of us as human beings.
Putting the God Kind of Love in Action
Jesus teaches us to model the love between people, based on the way God loves us; God loves the righteous and the unrighteous alike. The entire essence of the law can be wrapped up in the commandments to love our neighbors and love our God.
“You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.”
— Matthew 5:43-45
Loving our spouse, family, friends, and others who love us is a no brainer. But it’s an altogether thing to love an enemy that hates us and who may have it as a goal to destroy us.
When Christ tells us to love, do good, bless, and pray for our enemies, He is telling us to take action. In fact, the God kind of love isn’t about warm, fuzzy feelings; it is about taking action.
How Do We Take Actions of Love?
Well what we don’t do, is wait for emotions of love, because they may never come. Rather we start with actions of love, and the emotions of love may follow later.
How do we do it? Start with the things Jesus taught us (Luke 6:27-28):
Do Good –
Search for a way to do something good for your worst enemy. Maybe send a card with a gift certificate to a restaurant and wish him or her a great day. Keep in mind: We are not trying to cause shame, we are striving to love with the God kind of love that loved us even in our evil condition.
Bless –
Our goal is to speak and think blessings about our enemies even when they speak untrue, mean, and nasty things about us. When around others, try to actively speak well about your enemies instead of complaining about unjust treatment received from them.
Pray –
Actively pray and intercede for your enemies. Why not ask God to help heal their hearts and turn them toward His light and truth? Pray that God show them mercy and bless them. Again, keep in mind the abundant mercy and blessings God had shown to us while we were yet sinners.
Self-love seeks something in return and the sooner the better. Not so with the God kind of love; it seeks no repayment.
The truth is: Jesus is out to change you and me into an army of servants that love and care for people (even our enemies) just as He does. He wants to see spiritual growth in our lives.
Make no mistake about it: Once we start to take actions of love, spiritual growth begins to develop. Selfless love is not easy to do, but powerful when put into action. And it allows God to continue to transform us more and more into His image, so our actions will reflect His work and His presence in our hearts.
May the God kind of love abound in your heart and your life be continually blessed with growing prosperity!
Be blessed to be a blessing!
God bless you always,
Brenda
Happy Mother’s Day!
Happy Mother’s Day!
Have a Blessed Mother’s Day!
Our children are gifts from the Lord!
He gives us the grace,
and love to raise and train them up
in the way they should go!
May this be your most
cherished Mother’s Day yet!
“I pray that each mom out there will grow
in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ,
and that your love will abound more and more
in knowledge and in judgement.
That you will have the wisdom needed for each child,
as they are all so unique, gifted and talented in different ways.
May God give you peace and patience, and a greater capacity of
understanding of being a mom to the children you have been blessed with…
Joy and More Joy, even on the days that may be challenging.” 🙂
God Bless you all! What an important job we have as mothers! What an honor!
Cheers,
Brenda
What Are Words by Chris Medina – Music Video
“What Are Words” by Chris Medina – Music Video
“What Are Words” by Chris Medina
released as the single “What Are Words”
Chris Medina sings “What are Words” in this music video. 2011 American Idol castoff, Chris touched everyone’s hearts with his heartbreaking love story about his girlfriend who currently suffers from brain injury due to a car accident. Two months before his wedding, his beloved fiance was involved in a terrible accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
Chris continues to stand by her side, hopeful for a miracle.
“What Are Words” Song Lyrics:
Anywhere you are, I am near
Anywhere you go, I’ll be there
Anytime you whisper my name, you’ll see
How every single promise I keep
Cuz what kind of guy would I be
If I was to leave when you need me most
What are words
If you really don’t mean them
When you say them
What are words
If they’re only for good times
Then they don’t
When it’s love
Yeah, you say them out loud
Those words, They never go away
They live on, even when we’re gone
And I know an angel was sent just for me
And I know I’m meant to be where I am
And I’m gonna be
Standing right beside her tonight
And I’m gonna be by your side
I would never leave when she needs me most
What are words
If you really don’t mean them
When you say them
What are words
If they’re only for good times
Then they don’t
When it’s love
Yeah, you say them out loud
Those words, They never go away
They live on, even when we’re gone
Anywhere you are, I am near
Anywhere you go, I’ll be there
And I’m gonna be here forever more
Every single promise I keep
Cuz what kind of guy would I be
If I was to leave when you need me most
I’m forever keeping my angel close
“LORD, I cry unto you: make haste unto me;
give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto You.
Let my prayer be set forth before you as incense;
and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice…
My eyes are unto You, O GOD the LORD:
in You is my trust.”
— Psalm 141:1-2,8
Enjoy this beautiful, heartfelt song and be sure and take time to pray for a miracle for this young lady.
God bless you –
Cheers,
Brenda
Powerful Prayers – 10 Tips Help Reveal How to Uncover the Hidden Power in Your Prayer Life!
Powerful Prayers – 10 Tips Help Reveal How to Uncover the Hidden Power in Your Prayer Life!
How to Uncover the Hidden Power of Prayer
Prayer is simple and powerful.
In fact, the believer’s most powerful God-given
means for affecting change is prayer.
Yet we find it hard to practice and get results at times.
Have you tried praying different ways, but still feel frustrated and wonder if your prayers are having any effect?
God wants His children to ask for what is on their heart because He delights to give. But even more than that, he wants to fellowship with us.
Praying the Bible way, God’s way, is something we should continually seek to learn, if we want to uncover the hidden power in our prayer lives.
10 Tips Help Reveal How to Uncover the Hidden Power in Your Prayer Life!
1. A Lifestyle of Asking, Seeking, and Knocking
Prayer is more than asking God to meet the needs of our prayer list. It takes progressive action.
Prayer should progress from asking, to seeking after God’s will to guide our requests, and then to further action. It means ‘knocking on doors’ by exploring different solutions and acquiring godly counsel to help determine the Lord’s will.
“Every one that asks receives; and he that seeks finds; and to him that knocks it shall be opened.”
— Matthew 7:8
2. Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread
God’s will is that we pray daily, declaring our trust, for Him to supply what is needed. By doing so, we acknowledge that He is the source of all our physical, material, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Of course God already knows we lack and have need, but in asking, we place ourselves in position of dependence, like a child to a father.
3. Pray with Confidence
Prayer is a privilege for those who are part of God’s family. When we receive Jesus as our Savior, God becomes our heavenly Father. (John 1:12) Because of this, we can be confident and absolutely sure He will hear our prayers. (Matthew 6:6)
You see, God invites his children to pray because He is delighted to provide for them, and He stands ready to do so. We have the assurance that the Lord will respond and that what He does is good.
4. Pray According to God’s Will
We can change our prayers from timid to bold by aligning our prayers with God’s will and remembering He wants to say ‘yes’ to His children.
Some things are obviously not in God’s will, like lying and cheating. For clarity on other things we need to study the Scriptures to find God’s general will revealed through commands and principles. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Our spirit must also be submitted to God. Before we even receive an answer, we should release our grip on the outcome be willing to say ‘yes’ to His plan.
5. Power of Jesus’ Name
Praying in Jesus’ name declares both our relationship with Christ and our right and authority, through Him, to approach the Father directly. Jesus told us of the power attached to asking in His name.
“The Father will give you whatever you ask in My name.”
— John 15:16
6. Forgiveness
We need to ask God’s forgiveness daily and we should also forgive others every single time. Unforgiveness hinders prayers and creates tension between us and God. Forgiveness is meant to insure that everything is right between us and our Father.
7. Patience and Timing
God has included delays as part of the believer’s prayer life. Sometimes He answers our first request; but many times it takes several petitions. We need to trust in God’s timetable.
Delays can test our faith and deepen our relationship with the Lord. Our attitudes and behaviors may need adjusted before we are ready to receive. We may need to grow spiritually before He gives us a gift.
8. Faith
God is waiting for us to petition Him with specific prayers, free of doubt, filled with faith, and aligned with His will. Low expectations and uncertainty only short-circuit faith and the power of prayer.
To deal with doubt we must learn God’s ways. When we center our prayers in line with the Word, faith rises and doubt decreases.
9. Prayer and Fasting
Fasting with prayer can bring a heightened spiritual awareness and more intimate fellowship with the Lord.
God is willing to give us clear direction, but for some things, fasting as well as prayer is required. As we place our body’s physical desires under the Spirit’s control, we let go of our grip on the material in order to embrace the spiritual.
We gain a cleansed mind, which is needed to hear what God is saying, and a submitted spirit ready to accept His instructions.
10. Focus on God Himself
The most important part of prayer is focusing on God Himself; loving and worshipping Him. Don’t make prayers just a checklist of needs. We should give honor to His name, His kingdom, and His will.
“Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done.”
— Matthew 6:9-10
Our words are to bring us humbly into God’s presence with praise and thanksgiving, and with a willing spirit that God’s will rule in our lives.
Uncover powerful prayers: Prayers that reach the heavens and get answered. Keep in mind, God wants us to come in faith and ask Him to accomplish His divine plan in our situation. Ask the Lord to teach you more about biblical praying; put into practice what you learn, and wait in assurance for His answers!
May you use the mighty power of prayer well and enjoy a life of growing prosperity!
God bless you always,
Brenda
Godly Dads Video – D. James Kennedy
Godly Dads Video – D. James Kennedy
Happy Father’s Day!
This video is based on a Father’s Day sermon by D. James Kennedy.
Dads are important and have one of the most important jobs in the world…
and unfortunately it has gone largely unnoticed.
Today we celebrate all fathers and pray that you are all godly dads!
Happy Father’s Day!
God bless you,
Brenda
The Cards You Have Been Dealt In Life – Skit Guys Video
The Cards You Have Been Dealt In Life – Skit Guys Video
A look at life: The Good and the Bad
My pastor reminds us regularly that “Life is Life for Everyone!”
None of us want to deal with the difficult seasons in life, but that is a part of the package of life. And everyone who walks this earth is going to face them.
Consider Jesus, the son of God. Having already dealt with trials and temptations and then facing crucifixion He prayed, “Father, if you be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but yours, be done.”
Then immediately there appeared an angel to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony He prayed more earnestly. (Luke 22:42-44)
May we strive to always be more like Jesus and trust God. To pray that God’s will be done, regardless of the suffering we may have to go through.
“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18
We don’t have to give thanks FOR the difficult times, but we do have to continue to give thanks to God IN the midst of them.
God bless you,
Brenda
Help Me! How on Earth Do I Know What God’s Purpose and Will is for My Life?
Help Me! How on Earth Do I Know What God’s Purpose and Will is for My Life?
Knowing God’s Will and God’s Purpose for Your Life
Who, at some point, hasn’t asked:
“What is God’s plan and purpose for my life?”
We sooner or later reach a time in life when we find our self questioning why we are here. We come to a point of knowing, deep inside, that there must be something more God would have for us to do with our lives.
Well, how can you know the will of God and what you should do with your life? Good question. And it all starts with the Word of God, since God’s Word is God’s will.
Knowing God’s General Will
The Bible teaches us how to live our lives. It is filled with instructions and directions and it reveals God’s general will for all of us. So, first and foremost, we need to get into God’s Word so that we can know what He wants from us. His Word is very powerful and will guide us.
Here are just a couple examples:
“Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” — Romans 12:1-2
“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
God’s will for man is not a hidden mystery. Anyone can open the Book and quickly see many things that God wants them to do (and not do). The chief aim and purpose of our lives should be to live according to His revealed will.
Knowing God’s Specific Will
Now you might be asking, “How do I know God’s specific plan for my life?” People often want God to tell them specifically what to do; like where to live, where to work, where to go to school, who to marry, etcetera.
Well, God can show us in many different ways. A loud, audible voice from heaven is not required, but listening to that still, small voice is. God has given us the Holy Spirit for guidance. The Spirit of truth is here to guide us into all truth. (John 16:13)
God can also direct us, through the events happening around us. And if we are already living daily according to God’s revealed will, decisions will be much clearer and easier to make. There is a peace that comes when we are pleasing God with our lives.
To get answers, we also need to pray and ask for God’s help and direction. When deciding between two options, the one that brings a greater peace is usually God’s will. Emotions sometimes create a false peace, but true peace will remain even after emotions fall.
Keep in mind: God allows us to make choices, but He is ultimately in control. We should trust Him always in faith that He will accomplish His will in our lives.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5-6
Plus, questions we should be asking are, “Am I doing this for me or for God? Is this what I want or what God wants?” The key is to desire to make choices that agree with God’s will. If a decision does not go against the Word of God, then we can follow our heart.
“It was the Lord who put it into my mind… I could feel His hand upon me… There is no question the inspiration was from the Holy Spirit because He comforted me with rays of marvelous illumination from the Holy Scriptures… No one should fear to undertake any task in the name of our Savior if it is just and if the intention is purely for His holy service.”
— Christopher Columbus (from his diary, in reference to his discovery of ‘the New World’)
Created with a Purpose
God does have great plans for your life! You were created by God, in His image, for a purpose. (Jeremiah 29:11) We have all been given unique gifts and talents. And just like our physical body is made up of many different parts, all unique, and all important to having a fully functioning body; so it is with the body of Christ.
Your gifts and talents have been given to you so you can be a blessing to the kingdom of God and make a positive contribution in life. So step out and act on the revealed knowledge you have already been given and use the talents you already have.
Then trust God to reveal more to you after you are faithful first in the little. Be confident that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion. (Philippians 1:6) God’s purpose for all is that He is glorified and the gospel and kingdom of God be advanced.
In Conclusion: The wise king Solomon tells us the conclusion of the whole matter and duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments. (Ecclesiastes 12:13) He also encourages us to enjoy life and be happy with our work. Keep the Word of God your foundation and watch His great plan revealed before your very eyes. God is for you and He will help you.
May you seek first the kingdom of God and live a life full of growing prosperity!
God bless you,
Brenda
National Day of Prayer 2010 – America’s People Crying Out to God!
National Day of Prayer 2010 – America’s People Crying Out to God!
The People of the United States Pray to God in One Accord!
Today the citizens of the United States of America come together, in one accord, all across the nation to cry out to God for His great mercy and grace on our country and people.
Below is the official proclamation from the President for the 2010 National Day of Prayer:
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THE WHITE HOUSE
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER, 2010
– – – – – – –
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Throughout our history, whether in times of great joy and thanksgiving, or in times of great challenge and uncertainty, Americans have turned to prayer. In prayer, we have expressed gratitude and humility, sought guidance and forgiveness, and received inspiration and assistance, both in good times and in bad.
On this day, let us give thanks for the many blessings God has bestowed upon our Nation. Let us rejoice for the blessing of freedom both to believe and to live our beliefs, and for the many other freedoms and opportunities that bring us together as one Nation. Let us ask for wisdom, compassion, and discernment of justice as we address the great challenges of our time.
We are blessed to live in a Nation that counts freedom of conscience and free exercise of religion among its most fundamental principles, thereby ensuring that all people of goodwill may hold and practice their beliefs according to the dictates of their consciences. Prayer has been a sustaining way for many Americans of diverse faiths to express their most cherished beliefs, and thus we have long deemed it fitting and proper to publicly recognize the importance of prayer on this day across the Nation.
Let us remember in our thoughts and prayers those suffering from natural disasters in Haiti, Chile, and elsewhere, and the people from those countries and from around the world who have worked tirelessly and selflessly to render aid. Let us pray for the families of the West Virginia miners, and the people of Poland who so recently and unexpectedly lost many of their beloved leaders. Let us pray for the safety and success of those who have left home to serve in our Armed Forces, putting their lives at risk in order to make the world a safer place. As we remember them, let us not forget their families and the substantial sacrifices that they make every day. Let us remember the unsung heroes who struggle to build their communities, raise their families, and help their neighbors, for they are the wellspring of our greatness. Finally, let us remember in our thoughts and prayers those people everywhere who join us in the aspiration for a world that is just, peaceful, free, and respectful of the dignity of every human being.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 6, 2010, as a National Day of Prayer. I call upon the citizens of our Nation to pray, or otherwise give thanks, in accordance with their own faiths and consciences, for our many freedoms and blessings, and I invite all people of faith to join me in asking for God’s continued guidance, grace, and protection as we meet the challenges before us.
Today
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA
[Source: http://nationaldayofprayer.org/news/2010-presidential-proclamation/ ]
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When the First Continental Congress convened in 1774, Thomas Cushing encouraged the delegates to begin their proceedings with prayer. Prayer has always been a foundational and important part of the USA.
You can read more about this history in an article at the TheChristianPost called America’s Founders on Prayer and the National Day of Prayer
Be sure and take time to pray to God today with thanks!
A free podcast episode – listen here:
If My People Will Pray – 2 Chronicles 7:14
God bless you,
Brenda
P.S. Feel free to leave your prayers or comments below.