Thursday, December 31, 2009

Promises Of A New Year!





For many, 2009 was a year of trials and fear. Today we stand on the cusp of a new decade that holds promise and dreams yet unfulfilled. It's a time of excitement and great hope. It offers us the opportunity to lay down the cares of the past, and to trust expectantly in God's provision for the future.

As you read the following devotional from Inspiration Ministries, may God's peace flood your life, assuring you that He cares and watches over you--now and forever!

Happy New Year!





Why Should I Be Anxious?

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD. For he will be like a tree planted by the water...and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8 NASB

Nils Frykman gave up everything. After growing up in a Christian home, he felt compelled to leave all behind when revivals swept throughout Sweden during the 1860s. He dedicated his life to full-time ministry, both in Sweden and in America, preaching and writing hymns.

One Saturday afternoon, Frykman was on his way to preach, when he became "overwhelmed by despair, both over my own and other people's sins." He threw himself to the ground and "cried like a spanked child. Oh, how I prayed, and how the tears flowed!"

As he grappled with sin, Frykman eventually became overwhelmed by the grace of God. The burden lifted, and he felt God's peace. It was such an awe-inspiring moment that he wrote a hymn to capture the wonder of his discovery.

In this hymn, called "Why Should I Be Anxious?" Frykman remembered, "I have such a Friend, who bears in His heart all my woe; this Friend is the Savior, on Him I depend--His love is eternal I know." Frykman realized he had no reason to worry or be afraid as long as he trusted in the Lord.

As you face the dawn of a new year, remember that you don't have to be anxious about world conditions or the problems you face! Because Jesus is your Friend, you don't have to give in to worry or fear!

God still is sovereign over all the earth. He has promised to protect you, provide for you, and make you fruitful. Trust your life to Him!

Monday, December 21, 2009

Merry Christmas!





May you and your family experience God's amazing love
and peace during this most holy and special season.
Merry Christmas!

Monday, November 23, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving!





Just a brief, but heartfelt wish, that you, and your family and friends, enjoy the upcoming holiday gathering. May it be filled with abundant laughter, love and warmth.
Happy Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Finding The Words




Veterans Day--a day where many of us wrestle with how to express our emotions toward those who have, and continue to sacrifice for this country's freedom.

Maybe we'll never find the proper words to justify all they've done for us--so today, to all veterans, we simply say "Thank you."

Thursday, October 22, 2009

He Throws A Better Punch!






In the course of living, one of the greatest spiritual truths that we can learn is: God desires to fight our battles for us! I hope you'll be blessed by this devotional, I received this morning from Inspiration Ministries.



God Fights for Us

Thursday, October 22, 2009

"But if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God."Acts 5:39 NASB

Many in Jerusalem welcomed the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. They experienced His power to change lives and perform miracles, and there were "many signs and wonders" (v. 12). But soon the established religious leaders tried to reassert control. Peter and John were confronted and arrested. As the Sanhedrin debated how to respond, one of their members, a respected teacher named Gamaliel, provided a powerful argument that won the day.

Gamaliel pointed out that the only standard that really mattered was if their activity was "of God." If their actions were not "of God," they could not succeed. They would fail, because they wouldn't receive His protection, confirmation, and blessing. Yet, as events were to prove, their labor was of God. Therefore, as Gamaliel predicted, nothing formed against them prospered.

If these disciples had tried to fight in their own strength, they would have easily become discouraged or frustrated, afraid or worried. But God was on their side, and they could depend on Him. Trusting in Him, they were victorious.

Today, remember that people in the world may attack you, threaten you, persecute you, discriminate against you, pressure you, ridicule you, or mock you. That's why you need to be sure you are pleasing God and that He is with you.

As you face challenges, tests, and temptations, don't rely on your own strength. Instead, commit these situations to God. Be sure that you're obeying His Word and following the leading of His Spirit. Seek first His Kingdom. Let Him take away your doubts and burdens, and replace your worries with peace, your uncertainty with confidence.

Remember: God is on your side. He is fighting for you!

Monday, September 28, 2009

The Times Are A Changin' !


Fall is here! For many of us, autumn means change--crisper, cooler temperatures, and bold, brilliant foliage, as nature enters a new and exciting phase!

Spiritually, from time to time, we can also experience autumn in our daily lives.

Unfortunately, it's sometimes followed by a spiritual winter. But, just as nature goes from phase to phase--we also are never stuck in the same situation!

Be encouraged--if you feel like you're now in the midst of a spiritual fall or winter--just keep in mind, it won't last forever and spring will surely come!

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Oh, No --The Fearless Forecast Is Here!




Well, after week one of the NFL season, it's time to reveal my picks, including the eventual Superbowl winner! Please keep in mind, these picks are for entertainment purposes only...so, please... no wagering!

Let's make it short and sweet. These are my winners--in the AFC East: the Patriots. The Chargers will win the AFC West. The Steelers will emerge from the North, while the Titans will grab the South crown.

Now, the NFC-- in the East, the Giants will emerge. Once again, the Cardinals win the West. The North= Packers and the Falcons win the NFC South.



Superbowl Teams:






Superbowl Winner: