The Gift
of
An Abundant Life
By
L.A. Lewis
The Gift of An Abundant Life
L.A. Lewis.
Copyright 2009 by Lorna Lewis.
Smashwords Edition
This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
This book is dedicated to my family
who I love more than anything.
A Message From the Author
Dear Reader.
Thank you so much for supporting me and purchasing this book. I'm ecstatic that you're ready to start living a life of abundance. This is an interactive book. It's not meant just for reading and enjoyment. I want each of you to really absorb the words in these messages. Under each message I ask that you write your own personal reflection. How will you use the message to impact your life or the lives of others. You may even write at night how the message helped you throughout the day. Many times it helps to write out our thoughts, and periodically go back and read them again. I want you to really grow spiritually and to really feel God's love speaking to you through these words. Don't just read the words, but apply them to your life and start to live the life of abundance that God has planned for you.
God Bless You,
L.A. Lewis
January 1
In It to Win It
I Corinthians
9:24
You know that many runners enter a race, and only one of
them wins the prize. So run to win!
Personal Note: Let me start by wishing everyone a Happy New Year. I feel that this scripture is very appropriate because it is a new year. For many of us we see the New Year as a new beginning, a time when we can let go of the past and start over fresh. Many of us have vowed to make some changes in our lives, and we all know that sometimes change can be scary. We allow ourselves to get so comfortable in our everyday lives that we don’t allow room for change. We must remember that change is not always a bad thing. Some of the most successful people in the world are that way because they had the courage to change. If you’re struggling with a decision, there are three steps you must take in order to win the race. First, you must go to God and ask for direction; second, you must wait patiently for His answer, and finally, you must obey. No matter what He says you must obey. Winners are winners because they had the courage to listen and obey. Life is about risk, so don’t sit idly by while everyone else gets the victory. Isn’t it time that we start living the life we see others living? It’s waiting on us, you know. Believe me this message is as much for me as it is for you. I plan to start living the life God has designed for me. What about you? We may not make it to the finish line at the same time, but the important thing is that you finish. Vow today to live your life with no regrets. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 2
The Promises of God
Psalm 32:8
You said to me, “I will point out the road that you should follow. I will be your teacher and watch over you.”
Personal Note: Are you rejoicing yet? God has said that He will point out the road that you should follow. God doesn’t have to think of a plan for your life, He did that before He made you. He knew exactly what He needed you to do with your life here on Earth. We don’t have to walk around lost and confused, wondering which path to take. Why don’t you allow God to point out the road for you to follow? You can trust that He will never lead you wrong. He promised to be our teacher and to watch over us. God knows that we don’t know everything, and in this life we’ll make a lot of mistakes. Some mistakes He allows because we need them to learn and grow. Some mistakes we bring on ourselves because we make decisions without consulting with God first. He’s watching over you, and the good news is He’ll only let you go so far before He gives you a little tug. You know that feeling that says, “maybe I shouldn’t be doing this” or “maybe I need to rethink this before I make my decision.” Consider that the tug from God. We need to go throughout life with our eyes and hearts wide open. Open your eyes to all the beauty God has set before you. Take in every detail of the world He’s designed. Open your hearts to His children and love them like He loves you. You should promise yourself that from this day forward you will be happy knowing that you’re not just wondering through life with no purpose or no plan. Be happy that God is there to point you in the right direction. Be happy that He’s your teacher. Be happy that He’s the one watching over you. Most communities have neighborhood watch, but doesn’t it make you feel good to know that you have your own personal security guard? He’s promised all these things and you can trust Him and take Him at His word. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 3
Trust God
Proverbs 3:1–6
My child, remember my teachings and instructions and obey them completely. They will help you live a long and prosperous life. Let love and loyalty always show like a necklace, and write them in your mind. God and people will like you and consider you a success. With all your heart you must trust the Lord and not your own judgment. Always let Him lead you, and He will clear the road for you to follow.
Personal Note: Because we live in such an instant society, we expect the same thing from God. Just because you pray does not mean He’ll answer right then. Just continue to trust Him and have faith in your prayers and He’ll do just as He promised, but only if you obey Him. We all know the consequences for being disobedient. The same goes for us with our relationship with God. No one likes to be chastised, but just like when we were kids and our parents said, “I’m doing this because I love you,” the same goes for God. If He didn’t love us He would allow us to do whatever we want. Can’t you think of a time when you were glad that God didn’t let you do what you wanted to do? Having a relationship with God is simple. All you have to do is continue to follow him and do what you know is right, and sit back and wait on your blessings to flow. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 4
Paul’s Prayer
Ephesians 1:15–18
I have heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God’s people. So I never stop being grateful for you, as I mention you in my prayers. I ask the glorious Father and God of our Lord Jesus Christ to give you His Spirit. The Spirit will make you wise and let you understand what it means to know God. My prayer is that light will flood your hearts and that you will understand the hope that was given to you when God chose you. Then you will discover the glorious blessings that will be yours together with all of God’s people.
Personal Note: How awesome to know that God chose you—little ole you. Why? Because He sees something in each of us that many times we don’t even see in ourselves. Go forth today knowing you are a child of the King. Walk around with your head held high knowing every situation you encounter today has already been handled by God. When you feel yourself about to get depressed or about to fly off the handle, stop for a minute and ask yourself, Why? Why should I waste all my energy trying to work out a situation that has already been worked out? That’s like your mom cooking a meal then you going behind her, throwing her meal away and cooking the very same thing. Now, most of us know that we can do okay in the kitchen, but we don’t measure up to Mom’s cooking. The same goes for trying to solve a matter that God has already solved. No matter how hard we try, we simply cannot do anything better than God. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 5
Running Toward the Goal
Philippians 3:12–15
I have not yet reached my goal, and I am not perfect. But Christ has taken hold of me. So I keep on running and struggling to take hold of the prize. My friends, I don’t feel that I have already arrived. But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead. I run toward the goal, so that I can win the prize of being called to Heaven.
Personal Note: We should each vow to live each day as if it were our last. Think hard about your ultimate goal. Yes, we all want the finer things in life, but in death does it really matter? If you knew today was your last day, what would you do? There are many opportunities that will come our way today, and we have to stop putting off thinking there will always be tomorrow. “I’ll tell her I’m sorry tomorrow,” “Mom’s not feeling well, but I’m too tired. I’ll go see her tomorrow.” Today is the day to handle your business. Today live as though it is your last and take advantage of the opportunity to be a blessing to others. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 6
Trials and Temptations
James 1:12
God will bless you if you don’t give up when your faith is being tested. He will reward you with a glorious life, just as he rewards everyone who loves him.
Personal Note: Each and every day our faith is tested. The devil wants nothing more than to make us think that all the bad things in our life is because of God. However, every bad thing that happens does not come from the devil. Sometimes God allows some things to happen to us simply to make us stronger. True, because He’s God He could change things and eliminate all the bad things in our life, but if our faith is never exercised, then how strong can it be? Let me ask you this, and please feel free to answer to yourself, but be honest. How strong is your faith? Can you, even through the storm, give God praise? Thank Him in advance for bringing you through the rough times. My pastor often says that if you’re going through something then you should be thankful because going through means you aren’t staying there. Give God praise today and thank Him in advance for your victory. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 7
The Lord’s Chosen Servant
Isaiah 41:12–13
I am the Lord your God. I am holding your hand, so don’t be afraid.. I am here to help you.
Personal Note: Why do parents hold their child’s hand when crossing the street? Is it not to protect them from dangers seen and unseen. We may not see a car coming, but we hold their hands anyway. That’s what God does for us. Through everything you may be going through, just know that you are not alone. God is right there holding your hand. He will hold our hand for as long as we will allow Him to. If we let go it’s because we chose to, not because He wanted us to. The good thing is when we find out, most likely the hard way, that we can’t make it without Him, then He’ll be right there ready to take His position right beside us again. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 8
Pray or Worry (The Choice Is Yours)
Philippians 4:6–7
Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.
Personal Note: Did you know that worrying is a sin? I didn’t either until a very wise man (my father) told me so. He said that basically you’re telling God that you don’t believe Him. The scripture says don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. I take that to mean that worrying and praying don’t go together at all. Either you’re going to worry or you’re going to pray, and I personally would rather pray. If God promises to take care of us, then what do we have to worry about? As a child if you asked your dad for permission to go to your friend’s house and he said yes, would you spend all night worrying about it? No, because he’s already assured you that it’s okay. We may trust our earthly father to be honest with us and we feel that we can take him at his word. Why then is it so hard to trust our Heavenly Father? We may love our earthly father, but the bottom line is he simply doesn’t measure up to our Heavenly Father. If God tells me something, then I take Him at His word. If you need to know the promises of God, then I suggest you read your Bible because it’s filled with all kinds of promises that God has made. God may be trying to prepare you for a blessing right now. Have faith in God and pray a prayer of thanksgiving because he’s working right now on your behalf. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 9
Faith and Wisdom
James 1:2–6
My friends, be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested. But you must learn to endure everything, so that you will be completely mature and not lacking in anything. If you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won’t correct you for asking. But when you ask for something, you must have faith and not doubt.
Personal Note: As you can see I’ve been staying on faith for a while. This is not only for you but for me too. I chose these scriptures because we need to remind ourselves the importance of having faith. Many times we miss out on good opportunities because of lack of faith. Have you ever heard people say they didn’t do something because they knew it wouldn’t work? That shows a lack of faith. The attitude should be, I’m going to do it and with God by my side it will work. We need to have an “I will” attitude. I will overcome, I will survive, I will make it through. Starting today all of our attitudes will change. We’re conquers and our words and actions should show that to be true. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 10
Come to Me and Rest
Matthew 11:28
If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest. Take the yoke I give you. Put it on your shoulders and learn from me. I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest. This yoke is easy to bear, and this burden is light.
Personal Note: I can personally attest to the fact that God will surely be there to carry your burdens if you just call on Him. If you’ve never had to bury a loved one then you’re truly blessed, but for those of us who have and felt that life was over, did God not show up and not only allow us to have good days, but great days afterward. During those times we may have thought life would never be the same again, but because we’re His children He made sure we continued to live the life He designed for us. If you’re carrying a burden today, please turn it over to God. He promised to fight your battles, so why not let Him? There’s nothing too small or big for Him to handle. Start your day today knowing God is working it out for you. Just that thought alone should keep a smile on your face. No matter what challenges may come your way, He’s working it out for you. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 11
A Prayer for Victory
Psalm 20:4–5
May God do what you want most and let all go well for you. Then you will win victories, and we will celebrate, while raising our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers!
Personal Note: This is my prayer for all of you today. Remember to take everything to God in prayer. Joel Osteen, pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas always says we need to learn to be victors and not victims. Know that you are not a victim, no matter what comes your way today. You will come out victorious because you have God on your side. In all things remember to give Him thanks. Thank Him for the blessings you’ve received, those He’s giving to you right now, and go ahead and thank Him now for the many blessings to come. You know they’re coming. Why? Because they’re your inheritance. Be joyful today as you wait to inherit all God has to offer. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 12
Worry
Matthew 6:31–34
Don’t worry and ask yourselves, “Will we have anything to eat? Will we have anything to drink? Will we have any clothes to wear?” Only people who don’t know God are always worrying about such things. Your Father in Heaven knows that you need all of these. But more than anything else, put God’s work first and do what He wants. Then the other things will be yours as well. Don’t worry about tomorrow. It will take care of itself. You have enough to worry about today.
Personal Note: If we believe the Word of God, then this scripture should be no different. It says that God will make sure we have everything we need, and not only that but He’ll also give us the desires of our hearts. It says “put God’s work first and do what He wants. Then the other things will be yours as well.” The other things are the things you desire to have. All He asks is to be first. He gave his only son for our sins, so surely we can put Him first in our lives. Can you say you would be willing to give up your child to save someone else? I know I can’t. He did gave up His son because He loves us, and it’s time we show Him that we love Him. I absolutely love the last verse. We will run ourselves crazy worrying about tomorrow or next week, and why? Life’s short. We need to learn to live in the moment and enjoy it day by day. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 13
God’s Spirit and Our Own Desires
Galatians 5:22–23
God’s spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled.
Personal Note: As children of God who have inherited the spirit of God, there should be something different about us. There should be something different about the way we handle situations. People should look at us in awe at how calm we are, how easy we let things roll off our backs. If they don’t have the spirit of God, they’ll never understand. They may think we’re just timid and weak, but they don’t know that we don’t have to say a mumbling word and the situation will be handled. Don’t you know God will fight those battles for you? In fact He’ll do more than you can ever do. If you’re one of those people who always seems to find themselves in the middle of confusion, try something new today, and instead of feeding into it just turn it over to God and let Him handle it. I promise you’ll be surprised by the outcome. Today should be a fabulous day because you have the spirit of God in you. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 14
A Prayer for Help
Psalms 40:1–3
I patiently waited, Lord, for you to hear my prayer. You listened and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm, and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the Lord God.
Personal Note: Are you waiting on God to deliver you from something today? David writes in verse one that he waited, but take notice as to how he waited. He waited patiently. He was able to wait patiently because he knew God would answer his prayer. He understood that everything is done in God’s perfect timing. While you’re waiting on God, go ahead and praise him for the deliverance that’s coming your way. We don’t know when, but whenever it happens just know that it’s right on time. People will see you and know that it had to be the hand of God because they’d written you off a long time ago, but God will give you a whole new song to sing. He will use you to show others what a true blessing looks like. Get ready to receive it. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 15
Free At Last!
Galatians 5:1
Christ has set us free! This means we are really free. Now hold on to your freedom and don’t ever become slaves of the Law again.
Personal Note: Are you free? Are you really free? Many of us may think that we’re free, but in actuality we’ve become slaves—slaves to negative thinking, slaves to a defeated attitude, slaves to negative people, slaves to our past hurts and disappointments, and many other things that we’ve allowed to capture and enslave us. The scripture says that Christ has set us free. It’s time we truly understand this scripture. Jesus died so that we may live. Don’t let His dying be in vain. If you go through life allowing all of these things to keep you as slaves, then you’ll never move forward and you’ll never truly enjoy life the way God intends for you to. I read a saying and although I don’t remember the exact words, I do remember that it said that each day is like a blank canvas. You are the artist and it’s up to you how the picture turns out. You can choose to have a wonderful day and paint a beautiful picture or you may choose to have a bad day and paint a terrible picture. No one likes to see a bad picture, so I can’t imagine that you would choose that as your choice for the day. As I was leaving a workshop one day a lady told me something that I’ll probably remember for the rest of my life. She said, “Have a good day or not, but the choice is yours.” I thought about that and honestly I wasn’t having a good day, but after she said that, it really hit home and I thought, You know, she’s right the choice is mine, and I’m going to choose to have a good day today. So I’ll leave you by saying, “Have a wonderful day or not, but the choice is yours.”
January 16
Honor the Lord
Psalm 34:1–6
I will always praise the Lord. With all my heart, I will praise the Lord. Let all who are helpless, listen and be glad. Honor the Lord with me! Celebrate his great name. I asked the Lord for help, and He saved me from all my fears. Keep your eyes on the Lord! You will shine like the sun and never blush with shame. I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the Lord saved me from all my troubles.
Personal Note: In the first verse David writes that he will always praise the Lord. That means that no matter what trouble may come his way, he will still praise the Lord. This is because David knows something that many of us may not know. David knows that his breakthrough comes from His praise. He knows that His deliverance comes from His praise. I need you to know today that if you hadn’t started already you need to get in the habit of giving God some praise. Praise Him because He’s worthy and because He’s doing things for you right now that you don’t deserve and He’s constantly protecting you. Once you get in the habit of praising Him, then you’ll have a testimony like David in the last verse where he says, “I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the Lord saved me from all my troubles.” Give God some praise as you go throughout your day today. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 17
Faith and Wisdom
James 1:6–8
But when you ask for something, you must have faith and not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like an ocean wave tossed around in a storm. If you are that kind of person, you can’t make up your mind, and you surely can’t be trusted. So don’t expect the Lord to give you anything at all.
Personal Note: This scripture really stood out to me because a lot of times we mess ourselves up with our prayers. We know that there isn’t anything that God can’t do. Sometimes our prayers aren’t answered because of our lack of faith. Prayer without faith is useless. Basically you’re just rambling off words. I’ve heard people say, “I prayed about it, but…” There is no “but” it’s just “I prayed about it now I’m waiting on the Lord to deliver.” I once heard a preacher say that our prayers should be like a fishing line. When you’re fishing you swing back and let that line go as far out as possible. No one in their right mind would try to swim out to bring the line back in. We should all reach back and throw those prayers to God and leave them there. So whatever you’re praying for today give it to God with faith that your prayers will be answered. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 18
Thanks for the Gifts
Philippians 4:13
Christ gives me the strength to face anything.
Personal Note: This scripture is short, but oh how powerful. Everything you’re facing today or will face in the future cannot get you down. Why? Because God has given you the strength to face anything. Paul didn’t write that God will give me the strength to face anything; he writes that He’s already given him the strength. You’ve heard the phrase, “God will never give you more than you can bear.” God made you and He knows all about you. He knows your strength. Sometimes God allows us to go through things so we can become aware of our own strength. We’re children of God. We can handle anything on the strength with which He’s provided us. Go out today knowing you’re capable and strong enough to handle anything that comes your way. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 19
No Limit
Ephesians 2:6–7
He raised us up together with Him…that He might clearly demonstrate through the ages to come the immeasurable, limitless, surpassing riches of His free grace, His unmerited favor.
Personal Note: Aren’t you glad you serve a God with unlimited grace and favor? God is unlimited, but we limit the blessings He gives to us. We are limited in our thinking and in our hearts. Why not allow God to do all he’s planned to do for you? Why limit him by not believing and being too afraid to ask? When you increase your faith, you’re opening the door for God to pour out His blessing on you. We need to change our thought process. I’ve said it before, but I feel that someone needs to hear it again. We need to learn to choose thoughts of victory, thoughts of increase, and blessing. Once we change our thought process, we’ll start to see God’s unlimited grace and favor in our lives. Then and only then will we start to live the abundant life that God designed for us. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 20
Thank God for His Wisdom
Proverbs 19:21
We may make plans, but the Lord will do what He has decided.
Personal Note: We should rejoice and thank God that He doesn’t always allow our plans to go through. Because of our limited vision, we have no idea what awaits us up the road, but God does. When your plan falls through, thank God because that means a better plan is in the works and is on the way. Thank Him now for the better plan. I’m sure we’ve all experienced it at one time or another. When the house you were bidding on fell through, but later you were able to get a better house at a cheaper price, that’s an example of God’s plan. He’s always looking out for us, and He knows what’s best. Thank him today for the unexpected blessings that are coming your way. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 21
Warning against Turning from God
Hebrews 12:14
Try to live at peace with everyone! Live a clean life. If you don’t, you will never see the Lord.
Personal Note: Wouldn’t the world be a better place if everyone read the Bible and truly followed the rules that God has set before us? This scripture says to live at peace with everyone. It doesn’t say “try to live at peace,” and it doesn’t say “with those people you really like.” It says to live at peace with everyone. There are those who will try to push your buttons and test your limit, but remember what happens if you give in to them. Remember there should be something different in how Christians handle situations and negative people. We should each remember our ultimate goal, and that’s to one day live eternally in Heaven with our father. This message may not necessarily apply to any of you, but you may know someone to whom it does apply. If you do, it’s your responsibility to pass this on to them. Go out today and help to change someone’s life for the better. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 22
Faith is the Only Way
Galatians 3:9
This means that everyone who has faith will share in the blessings that were given to Abraham because of his faith.
Personal Note: One of my favorite Gospel songs of all time is Donald Lawrence’s song “Blessing of Abraham.” I love this song because it tells you that Abraham’s blessing is all over our life. It tells us that it’s our inheritance, and it encourages us to get our inheritance. Because we’re God’s children, we are Abraham’s heir. Anything we touch is anointed to grow. It also tells us that God made us the head not the tail. We should be above and not beneath. We’re leaders not followers. If you didn’t know, you do now. Today we will begin to live a life a victory. We will not be defeated by any situation. I don’t know about you, but I’m happy to be Abraham’s heir, and I plan to enjoy all the wonderful blessings God has in store for me. Have a wonderfully blessed day as you go out now to walk into your inheritance.
January 23
Who Compares with God?
Isaiah 40:12
Did any of you measure the ocean by yourself or stretch out the sky with your own hands? Did you put the soil of the earth in a bucket or weigh the hills and mountains on balance scales?
Personal Note: I’m sure the answer to these questions is no. Then why do you try to handle your problems on your own? If God is able to do all these things, surely He’s able to handle your situation too. Many of us are going through something. There’s something in your life that no matter how hard you try it just won’t turn you a loose. It seems that every time you seem to make progress something else happens and take you right back to where you started. Obviously this is a situation you can’t handle alone. Don’t you think it’s now time to call in the expert? You wouldn’t assist the surgeon with the operation, so don’t try to assist God with doing His work. He knows just what you need. He does need your help though. He needs two things from you, and these are two very important things so don’t miss this. He needs you to (1) stand still and (2) have faith. You do that and allow God to do the rest. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 24
Only God
I Corinthians 3:9
“What God has planned for people who love him is more than eyes have seen or ears have heard. It has never even entered our minds!”
Personal Note: This is another scripture that should have you shouting right now. How awesome to think that God has things planned for our lives that our minds can’t even grasp. One day we’ll look back and be able to say, “If someone had told me a year ago that I’d be here I wouldn’t have believed them.” I’m sure you’ve heard it before. There are so many wonderful things God has in store for us. All He asks is for you to love Him. Do you love Him? Are you ready for Him to do as He’s promised in His Word? If the answer is yes then tell Him, “Lord, I love you and I am ready to receive the blessings you have over my life.” Have a wonderfully blessed day as you get ready to receive your blessings.
January 25
Don’t Cheat God
Malachi 3:7–10
Even though you have ignored and disobeyed my laws ever since the time of your ancestors. But if you return to me, I will return to you. And yet you ask, “How can we return?” You people are robbing me, your God. And, here you are, asking, “How are we robbing you?” You are robbing me of the offerings and of the ten percent that belongs to me. That’s why your whole nation is under a curse. I am the Lord All-Powerful, and I challenge you to put me to the test. Bring the entire ten percent into the storehouse, so there will be food in my house. Then I will open the windows of Heaven and flood you with blessing after blessing.
Personal Note: I’ve tried to avoid this subject like the plague, but for some reason I kept coming back to it. I didn’t want to give you the false perception that all you have to do is pray and God will bless you tremendously. There are things that God asks of us. This scripture came from the Bible, not from a pastor. The Bible says that it’s our responsibility to pay our tithes and our offerings. God is so serious about this that He challenges us. He says for us to put Him to the test and see if He will hold true to His word. The bottom line is paying your tithes and giving your offering is not an option. We’re simply giving back a small portion of what God has blessed us with. In verse ten He says, “I will open the windows of Heaven and flood you with blessings after blessings.” Aren’t you tired of having just enough? Aren’t you ready for more than enough? God blesses us so that we can bless others. If you can’t be faithful with a little, trust me, He won’t trust you to be faithful with a lot. Now, you give the tithes and offering because it’s right to do, what happens after it leaves your hands is not on you—that should not be your concern. Do what God says and watch Him do as He says. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 26
Are You Your Brother’s Keeper?
Galatians 6:9–10
Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up. We should help people whenever we can, especially if they are followers of the Lord.
Personal Note: I know that most of us have a lot going on in our lives. From the time our feet hit the floor in the mornings until our head hit the pillow at night, we are constantly going and doing some task that must be done that day. Even when our bodies are still, our minds are still going. I know because I’m one of those people, but in the midst of our busy lives we must not forget our brothers and sisters who are in need. Each day we should make it our mission to touch someone else’s life in a positive way. You’ll be surprised what a smile or a hug could do for someone who’s on the verge on giving up. A coworker and I were talking a few years ago about talent. I told her I was still trying to discover my talent. She said, “I know your talent. Your talent is the ability to smile all the time.” She said, “When I’m having a bad day, I try to find you because I need to see that smile.” Now to me that wasn’t a big deal, but to her it was. I didn’t have to open my mouth to make her feel good. Let’s make it our mission to impact someone else’s life in a positive way each day. God said you will be rewarded when the time is right, so don’t give up. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 27
Surrender to God All-Powerful
Job 22:21–23
Surrender to God All-Powerful. You will find peace and prosperity. Listen to His teachings and take them to heart. If you return to God and turn from sin, all will go well for you.
Personal Note: The note for today is simply going to say turn to God. He knows your heart, He made you, and He knows all about you. Our pastor always says, “When it’s too much for you, then it’s just right for God.” Just give it to Him and let Him work it out for you. Give it to Him with faith and thanksgiving in your heart. Whatever is on your mind or wearing you down, let Him handle it. It’s okay to talk to your friends or family, but in the end God is the Ultimate Problem Solver. If you love Him and you believe in Him, then try Him and see won’t He do what He’s promised. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 28
The Power of Words
Proverbs 18:20–21
Make your words good—you will be glad you did. Words can bring death or life. Talk too much, and you will eat everything you say.
Personal Note: We’ve all heard about how powerful words are. Our words are representatives of our heart and our mind. What do your words say about you? We need to get in the habit of speaking positive words over our situations. Words like, “I know the Lord will heal me,” words like “I may be struggling now, but this is only temporary because the Lord will see me through,” words like, “And this too shall pass,” words like, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” words like, “Lord, you said in your Word that if I ask in faith it shall be given unto me, and I am asking and believing right now, Lord.” I watched Oprah a while back and she talked about a vision board. You put things on the board that you see in your future. The next day I bought my vision board, and I put my heart’s desires on that board and I have it where I can see it every day. My heart swells each time I look at that board because I know and I don’t doubt that I will have those things. I didn’t put expensive cars and name-brand clothes because that’s not me, but I did put things that I feel will change my life and especially my family’s lives in a positive way. I not only put it there, but I often talk about those things and what I’m going to do when, not if, these opportunities come. I talk in faith and expectancy, knowing and believing in God’s Word. Start speaking great things into your life today. No matter how bad the situation may seem, it could always be worse. Psalms 19:14 says, “Let the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.” Your words should always be pleasing to God. He’s not a negative God, so negative words won’t please Him. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 29
Just Have Faith
Mark 11:22–24
Jesus told his disciples:
Have faith in God! If you have faith in God and don’t doubt, you can tell this mountain to get up and jump into the sea, and it will. Everything you ask for in prayer will be yours, if only you have faith.
Personal Note: What are you asking God for today? Is it healing, forgiveness, finances, your job, a child that’s going in the wrong direction? Whatever it is, please know that God can turn your situation around. It may not be when you want Him to, but it’s when He wants to. Be patient, and while you’re waiting thank Him and tell others about the blessing you’re going to receive. Remember, yesterday was about the power of words. Speak those words and believe in them. See yourself healed, see yourself no longer struggling to make ends meet, see your child being obedient and respectful. Do your part and God will surely do His. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 30
A Storm
Luke 8:24–25
So they went to Jesus and woke Him up. “Master, Master! We are about to drown! Jesus got up and ordered the wind and waves to stop. They obeyed, and everything was calm. Then Jesus asked the disciples, “Don’t you have any faith?”
Personal Note: Some of you may be going through a storm right now. It seems that everything that could go wrong is going wrong. Can’t you hear Jesus asking you, “Don’t you have any faith?” It’s these times that we should trust God the most. It’s easy to praise Him when things are going well, but a true believer praises Him in the midst of the storm. Are you a true believer? If you are, then tell someone else about the goodness of God because that person may need to hear about it today. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
January 31
What Pleases God?
Psalms 50:23
The sacrifice that honors me is a thankful heart. Obey me and I, your God, will show my power to save.
Personal Note: Sometimes our prayers should just be prayers of thanks. We shouldn’t ask for anything, but just take that time to thank God for all the many blessings He’s bestowed upon us, the blessings He’s giving us right now and the many blessings to come. Remember to thank Him for the little things. Don’t wait until it’s too late. We take a lot of things for granted, and it’s not until it’s gone that we realize how truly blessed we were when we had it. Thank Him now for the ability to walk, for good sight, for a sound mind, for a roof over your head, and a job to go to each day. Thank Him because all those things are blessings with which He’s granted us, and not because we deserve it. As you go throughout the day, remember to give God thanks. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 1
A Wonderful Future for God’s People
Romans 8:28
We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves Him. They are the ones God has chosen for His purpose.
Personal Note: We should all feel good that God is working everything out for our good. All He wants is for us to love Him and trust Him. The future may seem very dim to some of us, but just know that we serve a God who can turn everything around. In our narrow minds we can’t see how that’s possible, but it is. When it comes to God we can’t see it to believe it, we have to believe it to see it. If you believe in God and believe that He’ll work everything out for you, then it shall be done. Believe it, then hold on because you will see it. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 2
God’s Love
Romans 8:31–32
What can we say about all this? If God is on our side, can anyone be against us? God did not keep back his own Son, but He gave Him for us. If God did this, won’t He freely give us everything else?
Personal Note: I really don’t feel the need to elaborate too much on this scripture. It speaks volumes all by itself. Please meditate on the last sentence, and ask yourself this over and over. When things seem too much for you to handle, ask yourself, “If God did this…” When everyone seems to be turning against you ask yourself, “If God did this...” When your health fails you ask yourself, “If God did this...” Is there too much for God to handle? If you don’t know, the answer is no. Meditate on this scripture as you go throughout the day. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 3
What It Means to be Acceptable to God
Romans 5:35
But that’s not all. We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love.
Personal Note: The next time we’re going through something we need to spend less time having a “whoa is me attitude” and a little more time praying and asking God to help us to receive the message behind the suffering. There’s a reason for everything, and nothing takes God by surprise. Everything that happens—the good and the bad—has a purpose. There are going to be bad days, maybe even bad months, but just know that you will come out of it and a much better person because of it. Thank God for all things good and bad because all things are done for the good of those who love the Lord. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 4
Seek Him First
Mark 6:33
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Personal Note: We tend to pray for a lot of things, but the one thing we need to always pray for is our salvation. God wants us to seek Him first, not after we ask for everything else. He’s promised that if we seek Him first that He’ll add all our other desires. He knows our heart and He knows our thoughts so if we seek Him and desire to have a personal relationship with Him, He’ll make sure we’ll be happier than we can even imagine. Don’t you go out of your way to make your loved ones happy? Then trust that God will do the same for you. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 5
Jesus Blesses Little Children
Mark 10:13
Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and don’t try to stop them! People who are like these children belong to God’s kingdom.”
Personal Note: We should all have the attitude of little children. Children have a natural desire to please. They’re always looking for your acceptance and approval. They want their parents to be proud of them. God is our father, and each day we should strive to make Him proud of us. As you go throughout the day, make sure your thoughts, words, and deeds are pleasing to the Lord. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 6
God’s Available, Are You?
Psalm 55:16–18
I ask for your help Lord God and you will keep me safe. Morning, noon, and night you hear my concerns and my complaints. I am attacked from all sides, but you will rescue me unharmed by the battle.
Personal Note: Do you ever feel that way sometimes? Do you have those days or months where it feels like the devil is attacking you from all sides? Everything he can do to steal your joy, he does. We’ve all been there, but just keep trusting and believing that God is there and He’s still protecting you. Even when things seem to be at their worst, God is still protecting you. I’m sure if you look into your situation right now you can name a whole lot of things that could be worse than what you’re going through, but because of God’s protection… Aren’t you also happy to know that you can tell God about your concerns morning, noon, and night? Friends and family may not be available, but God’s always available, and He’s eager to have a conversation with you. He’s waiting on you to truly turn it over to him and stop worrying and stressing about it. Once you do that He’ll do for you what He did for David, He’ll bring you out of the battle unharmed. Hallelujah. You should be shouting just thinking about the victory God’s going to bring to you. Mediate on this scripture as you go throughout your day and I’ll do the same. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 7
In Due Time
John 13:7
Jesus answered, “You don’t really know what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
Personal Note: I feel like God is saying that to some of us today. No you don’t understand why you’re going through problems at work. No you don’t understand why sickness has invaded your body. No you don’t understand why the person you trusted the most has betrayed you, but I hear God saying, “Later you will understand.” Everything God does or allows to happen is for our good. You know how it is when you’ve finally made up your mind to clean your closet? Everyone who walks in will see a big mess everywhere, but you know what the end result will be. You know that you had to mess it up to clean it up. That’s what God has to do to us sometimes. He has to shake us up some, but it’s only to make us stronger. Thank God that trouble don’t last always. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 8
The Lord Gives Strength
Isaiah 40:29–31
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Personal Note: What I get from this passage in a nutshell is don’t give up. God will and can turn your situation around. God will give you renewed strength. Isn’t that wonderful? Just when you thought things were over and there was no help for you, Isaiah is telling you that God will renew your strength. You will run and not grow weary. It may seem impossible to you, but know that anything’s possible with God. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 9
Pleasing God
Galatians 1:10
I am not trying to please people. I want to please God. Do you think I am doing this to please people? If I were doing that, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Personal Note: I like this scripture because many of us get so caught up in pleasing others. In fact, we tend to put pleasing people ahead of pleasing God. We work hard in the church so the pastor can see how dedicated we are. We stay a little later at work so our boss can see how hardworking we are. We do all we can to make sure others are happy, but we rarely stop to think about pleasing God. Shouldn’t He be our first thought, not our last? Everything we do we should do with the intent of pleasing God. If it’s pleasing to Him, then surely it’s pleasing to His children. Now, if you know in your heart that the decisions you make are ones that will please God and someone gets mad or upset, then that’s when you need to stop and evaluate that person. Maybe this is someone you need to distance yourself from anyway. Everyone who smiles in your face isn’t your friend. There are those who will smile in your face while stabbing you in your back. We need to be careful where our loyalties lie. God should always be first before everyone, including husbands, wives, children, and parents. These people all love you, but they are limited. We serve a limitless God, and we need to start making Him top priority in our lives above everyone and everything else. Have a wonderfully blessed day as you go out to please God.
February 10
Keep Holding On
2 Corinthians 12:8–9
Three times I begged the Lord to make this suffering go away. But he replied, “My kindness is all you need, My power is strongest when you are weak.”
Personal Note: In this scripture Paul writes that he begged the Lord three times to make his suffering go away. Many of us are going through things today that we’ve asked and begged the Lord to remove from our lives, and we’re still waiting. We’re wondering if God is listening or if He is intentionally punishing us. Just know that God is listening and His intent is not to punish, it’s to humble. Sometimes God allows things to happen to us so that we can be reminded that He’s still in charge. Some people only communicate with God in times of trouble. If you constantly find yourself going through something it’s probably because God is trying to get your attention. I love the last part when God tells Paul, “My power is strongest when you are weak.” Remember when it’s too much for you, it’s just right for God. Just keep praying and relying on God to see you through. Please don’t miss the purpose in the midst of the storm. Sometimes God allows you to go through things because He knows that you will be a blessing to someone down the road. You can’t tell others about the problem if you’ve never been through it yourself. Allow God to be your source of strength and He won’t let you down. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 11
Comfort
2 Corinthians 1:3–5
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort. He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble. We share in the terrible sufferings of Christ, but also in the wonderful comfort He gives.
Personal Note: This is a continuation from yesterday’s inspirational message. Remember that one of the reasons why God allows you to suffer is so that you can be a source of comfort for someone else. Who better to tell someone about the dangers of doing drugs than a former drug addict? Who better to comfort a mother who’s just lost her child, than another mother who’s experienced the same pain? God does not mean for us to keep these things to ourselves. I’ve met a lot of people along the way who’ve lost their mothers. I feel that I’m a good source of comfort for them because I’ve walked in their shoes. I can testify that God will see you through. I never let the opportunity pass without sharing my experience with those who are suffering from such a great loss. Remember you can’t have a testimony without the test. Be prepared because life is full of tests. It’s up to you how you handle them. Just know that God is right there with you through each one of them. Remember the twenty-third Psalm, the Lord is my shepherd? Allow Him to lead you through all your troubles. Have a wonderfully blessed day.
February 12
It’s Better to Give