Word for Wednesday with Rita Langeland: Recent Episodes
Rita Langeland
A weekly devotional by Rita Langeland designed to give you a midweek boost of Bible-based inspiration and encouragement!
Did you know that God offers his children a package of amazing benefits? The writer of Psalm 103:2 exhorts us to "Praise the Lord... and forget not ALL HIS BENEFITS;" and then proceeds to list these many benefits that our Father God graciously bestows on those who seek Him. This one-of-a-kind "benefit package" includes forgiveness, healing, redemption, love, compassion, and longevity!
Your actions are seed! You will reap a harvest as a result of those actions, whether good or bad. Proverbs 1:31 shows us that we will reap the fruit of our lifestyle, in other words, the outcomes of our actions will become evident in our lives. We want to sow seeds through our actions that are consistent with the word of God so that we can reap a harvest of blessings and righteousness, not just for our own blessing, but also for those around us.
God's law of Sowing and Reaping applies to our words, which are very powerful forms of "seed." This includes words we speak regarding ourselves. If we sow negativity towards ourselves through our words, we will reap a "cursed" harvest of failure, loss or death in those areas of our lives. If we speak blessings over ourselves in alignment with Scripture, we will reap a harvest of blessings, just as God intended for our lives! Which harvest do you want to see in your life?
Throughout the Bible we see the power of the spoken word. From God creating the universe with his words, to Jesus raising the dead with only a word. Many scriptures point out the power of our tongues, and the gravity of our spoken words. Every word we speak is a seed planted, whether for building up or tearing down. Are we sowing seeds through our words that will lead to a harvest of life, peace, health, unity, success and love? Or are we tearing down ourselves and those around us words that will result in harvest of hurt, disunity, sickness, failure, death, and destruction?
Since the creation of the earth, the principle of sowing and reaping has been active in both the physical and spiritual realms. Many terms are used in modern culture to describe this cause and effect phenomenon and this powerful concept is operating in our lives whether we are are aware of it or not. The Bible clearly states that what a person sows, that they will also reap, this applies equally to natural farming as it does to our efforts, words, actions, thoughts, and relationships. Thankfully we have many Biblical scriptures to guide us in how to sow good seeds and how to pull up bad seeds!
What would God say about you in a conversation with a third party? He knows your every thought, sin, and misdeed. However, there is no reason to hide in shame, as God sees your heart's desire for Him, and has thrown our sins into the Sea of Forgetfulness. We too can be like King David, who despite his many transgressions, God called a man after His own heart.
We all know that almost nothing in this earthly life can be counted on to stand the test of time. However, the Bible shows us that there are two things that WILL last forever - God's word and His unfailing love!
Are you facing a "mountain of a problem" in your life? Psalm 97 tells us that "mountains melt like wax in the presence of the Lord." God wants us to bring our "mountains" into his presence through prayer, and we will see God move on our behalf in a miraculous way!
In Psalm 77:14 the author states, "You are the God who works wonders." When God wants to do something wondrous in the earth, He must find someone who will willingly come into agreement with Him. There are two vital keys to agreeing with God - faith and submission. We must have faith that God can and will do something wondrous, and we must submit to His will and calling, in the same ways that Noah, Moses, and Mary the mother of Jesus did. God wants to use your life to do wonders on the earth today, but only if you are willing to agree!
When trouble comes, where do you run for shelter? In Psalm 91 we see a promise of long life for any person who chooses to take shelter in the Most High! This is a key t
We continue in our examination of Biblical keys to a long and prosperous life. In today's message we will discuss the Psalmist's instructions in Psalm 34:14 to "turn away from evil" and "seek peace." There are many aspects of our earthly existence that we do not have control over. However, two things we can control are what we watch and listen to and how we interact with other believers.
Throughout history people have chased fame, fortune and even the Fountain of Youth. However, The Bible plainly gives a simple key to anyone who desires to live a long and prosperous life in Psalm 34:12-13 - "keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies!" Today's society is full of people "speaking evil" and "telling lies" both in the media and on social platforms, however we should pursue this Biblical injunction to avoid such activity, and in return we will receive the blessing of a long and prosperous life!
Modern life is fast-paced with constant activity, stressors, uncertainties, and opportunities for anxiety that can easily prevent you from obtaining the rest that every human needs to survive, let alone thrive. However, are you aware that God promises quality rest to his people? Psalm 127:2 clearly states that God "grants sleep to those He loves!"
Do you believe that you have had a vision or dream from God regarding a greater purpose for your life, but it has not come to fruition? Did you pursue a calling from the Lord that was derailed in some way, or simply seems impossible? The story of Abraham in Genesis 17 shows us a Biblical "hero" who also felt this way, specifically regarding God's promise of many children and his offspring becoming a great nation. Despite many natural obstacles that made Abraham's vision appear impossible and essentially dead, God restored this vision, and it certainly came to pass. Allow the Lord to restore your vision!
God desires that our family relationships, no matter how difficult or broken they may be, be restored to wholeness. No situation or circumstance is too difficult for the Lord to restore in your family, He is the restorer of the years the locust has eaten (referring to complete destruction), as we see in Joel 2:25. We also see God's desire for restored family relationships in the parable Jesus told of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11. Your family is NOT TOO DYSFUNCTIONAL for God to restore!! Let us believe and receive that 2023 is the the Year of Restoration! Share this with a friend who needs to hear this encouraging message!
This is an encouraging word for the coming year, for those who will take hold of it, regardless of earthly circumstances! There are many promises and examples for us in the Word of God regarding the restoration of various aspects of our earthly lives, including; former prosperity (Zecaraiah 9:12), years lost (Joel 2:25), physical health (Psalm 41:3), mental and emotional well-being (Psalm 23:3), relationship with God (Lamentations 5:21), joy of salvation (Psalm 51:12), and former positions of influence/leadership (Daniel 4:36)! The Lord will restore these things that have been stolen and consumed in our lives, we just have to take these promises by faith!
In this fallen world we will face crises at some point. However, in the Word of God we find keys to overcoming crises we may face. One of these keys is voicing our thanksgiving and praise of the Lord for his provision and goodness to us in the past and present. In 2 Chronicles 20, we see the King of Judah facing an invasion by overwhelming military forces. The Lord instructed him to lead his people in a time of thanksgiving and praise to God, and then place the worship teams at the front of the army at the start of battle. As the they praised and thanked God, the enemy turned on one another and God's people were delivered miraculously without ever fighting the physical battle!
Are we living life grumpy, or are we grateful? We live in a self-centered society, with an expectation for our needs and wants to be met speedily. However we may find ourselves complaining with our words or in our hearts, forgetting to give thanks for God's love, care and provision in our lives. We must reject this outlook, and regularly self-evaluate our hearts to maintain a spirit of gratitude and thankfulness for the many blessings with which our Father God has blessed us. When we focus on our list of "thanks" rather than our list of "wants" - our hearts will remain right toward the Lord. It is impossible to remain grumpy when you are thanking the Lord for His blessings!!
Believers have a powerful spiritual weapon to counter difficult circumstances - THANKFULNESS! Several examples in the Bible show us the power of thankfulness to literally change earthly circumstances. We see this principle in Acts 16:25, Paul and Silas are giving thanks to God while imprisoned after being falsely accused and beaten. God sent an earthquake that destroyed the prison and loosed the chains that bound them. Not only were they freed physically but their evangelistic mission "took off" with the conversion and baptism of the jailer and his family. This miraculous turn of events was initiated by Paul and Silas's determination to "give thanks in every circumstance" (I Thess. 5:18).
Did you know that anxiety can be quickly overcome by thankfulness? In recent years, contemporary scientists have caught up with the truth found in God's Word, finding that their subjects' anxiety levels improve when they express gratitude. We see this "prescription" written in the Bible nearly 2000 years ago; "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, WITH THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds" (Philippians 4:6-7)
One of the most obvious battles in the Christian life is that of FAITH - Whether we will take God at His Word and believe what He says is true and that it will come to pass or whether we will doubt and thereby jeopardize losing the thing God longs to give us! How many times have we prayed a prayer with no real expectation of God delivering the answer we have requested? The psalmist shows us the proper outlook to emulate in Psalm 62:5 - "My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him."
Throughout the Bible we see the mention of the universal truth of sowing and reaping applied to both the physical and the spiritual realms. Galatians 6:7 plainly states that "whatever a person sows, that will he also reap." We must choose the "seed" of our spoken word wisely - so that we reap a harvest of life, health, peace! Many believers overlook the importance of their words, but Deut. 22:19 instructs us to avoid "mixing our seed." This means we must avoid speaking both blessing and cursing from the same mouth as James 3:10 exhorts us.
Did you know that your words have power to influence your earthly circumstances and should therefore be chose with care? We see this plainly in Psalm 13:3, that if we guard our mouths, we will preserve our lives. We must embrace this Biblical truth that our words are powerful and can either preserve or destroy. Once again we are reminded in Proverbs 18:21, that death and life are in the power of the tongue!
What type of words are you using with your family, friends or co-workers? The Bible instructs us in Ephesians 4:29 that our words must minister grace to those around us. We should not be tearing down our family, friends or co-workers with angry or sarcastic words - but rather building them up with gracious speech. We know that our words are immensely powerful - let us use our words to strengthen our relationships, not destroy them!
Did you know that what you speak is a matter of life or death? Many people are under the false impression that their words do not matter, or have no power. Proverbs 18:21 clearly refutes this view, stating, "death and life are in the power of the tongue." Our spoken words impact three realms - the spiritual realm, the soulish realm, and the physical realm. In this message we will examine corroborating evidence showing the immense importance of what we choose to speak, and the power of life and death found in our words. Let us choose to speak life!
Your words are so important! Throughout the scriptures it is clear that God placed a high premium on words. In the Bible we see the power of words; God created the earth with words, and Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead with his words. In James 3, our tongues are likened to a rudder, steering the course of our lives, this can be for righteousness or destruction. Our words are like seeds, and we want to sow words consistent with the Lord's ways, and reap a harvest of righteousness in our lives!
How strong is your "inner foundation?" Early in our lives our inner foundation is built and formed. Just like a building, that foundation may be weak or strong. With the Lord's help and by acting upon His words, our foundation can be strengthened! It does not need to remain weak. We want to be like the man Jesus spoke of in Luke 6:46-49, who built his house on the rock, with a deep foundation capable of withstanding any flood, without being shaken!
In this fallen world we are inundated by unkind acts and words regularly. As believers we must reject the fleshly desire to respond negatively and instead "put on kindness" as the scripture exhorts us. We must make the decision to imitate Christ's model, choosing to be kind, even when it costs us something. Showing kindness as a part of our daily lifestyle will be a true witness of the light of Christ within us.
Where do you put your trust? Is it in your spouse, another person, your job, your savings? The death of a loved one or a financial downturn can be extremely devastating if you do not put your utmost trust in your Father God. The Bible is clear that we must not trust in the "world's system" or any person, as Psalm 118:8 points out "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans." Instead we can find that security we all desire when we trust in the Lord with all our hearts and do not lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).
It is clear that hard times have come to the earth at various places and times, and the Bible shows us these occurrences will continue. However, for the believer, those who proactively put their faith and trust in the Lord, there are many promises of deliverance and safety found in the Word of God, and not one of those promises will fail (Joshua 21:45)! The Bible clearly states that God will deliver us, provide for us in famine, and enable our escape from death. We do not have to fear hard times!
Loving, or even treating kindly, someone who is mistreating you can be extremely difficult. However, Jesus taught his followers to reject the cultural norms of that time, just as we must do today and love our enemies, and pray for those who mistreat us (Matt. 5-43-45). This simple, yet powerful act is nearly impossible without God's help, as it goes counter to our human nature. If we choose to apply Jesus's teaching on this topic to our own life, it will change everything!
If we want to clearly and accurately hear the voice of God, there are a few simple steps we see in the Bible that can help to prepare our hearts. We must put aside distractions, surrender our will, take authority over the devil's lies, invite the Lord to speak to us, and be willing to wait patiently. With these simple steps we will be ready to hear the voice of our Good Shepherd as promised in John 10:27, "my sheep hear my voice."
Today we will discuss potential hindrances many Christians battle when desiring to hear God's voice. Among these "hindrances" are believing Satan's lies regarding hearing the voice of God, the feeling of "I used to hear God," and the spiritual "clutter" that can block our hearing of God's voice.
I want to encourage you that you can overcome these hindrances to clearly and accurately hear the voice of our "Good Shepherd." Remember - Jesus promised us in John 10:16; "they will hear My voice."
In this video we continue our series on Hearing the Voice of God, to help you grow in your pursuit of hearing God's voice. In John 10:27 Jesus tells us that we can hear the voice of God, just as sheep know the voice of their shepherd. I want to encourage you that you can develop the "hearing ear" of your heart, to clearly and accurately hear the voice of our "Good Shepherd." Jesus promised us this very thing in John 10:16; "they will hear My voice."
There are many voices constantly bombarding us with all kinds of ideas and notions throughout each day. But as believers, we can stand on John 10:27 where Jesus is speaking to his disciples, saying "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." We must develop our ability to hear and obey the voice of God so that we will live and not die and also so that we can impart truth, encouragement, and healing to those around us.
In Isaiah 65:24 the Lord says, "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." We can pray confidently in faith knowing that God will indeed answer our prayers as we petition him according to his will! God will even provide for you in seemingly impossible earthly circumstances. 1 John 5:14-15 states "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." Let this encouragement boost your faith and confidence in the Lord today!!
Psalms 68:20 says "Your God is a God of Deliverances" - that is a plural word! We are not just promised a one time deliverance or one time salvation. Instead, the Bible promises a wonder working God who is an ongoing deliverer for those who trust in Him!
We are currently surrounded by the constant messaging of hopelessness through the news and social media. Maybe you are in a position due to natural circumstances that appear "hopeless" or have friends that are constantly speaking the impending doom of the country, economy, or their own personal situation. God wants us to put our hope (a steady optimism about the future) in Him! Our hope is in God's faithfulness and His promises, not earthly circumstances, other people, or human institutions. Hebrews 6:19 says that this hope in the Lord is the anchor of our souls!
Speaking God's truths, found in the Bible, to our "facts," will cause our earthly factual circumstances to change! Kingdom principles supersede earthly "facts" - when we stand on the promises of God we will see changes in our earthly situations.
A question is asked in Amos 3:3, "Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?" So the question we must ask ourselves today is this - are we ready to agree with God in order to accomplish His will, both in our lives and in the lives of the people He wants us to reach? God has good plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11), but you have to be walking in agreement with Him if you want to see those plans come to pass!
It is easy to make excuses for why we cannot do something; lack of time, money, abilities and so on. However, when it comes to following God's leading, or making excuses as to why we cannot do so, we must remember the Bible is replete with story after story of individuals who appeared ill-equipped in the natural, but yet experienced great things from the Lord. It was their obedience to God's instruction to "step out" that led to amazing miracles. Don't focus on what you "don't have" - time, finances, gifting, talents, etc. - instead focus on what the Lord has given you, and use those things for His Glory!
Are you facing a "storm" in life right now? Storms come to everyone in this fallen world, but if your life is built on the "rock" of Jesus - you will stand strong and come out victorious! We have authority to speak to these "storms" and command "peace be still!"
Psalm 121 says "the Lord is your Shade... He will keep you from ALL Evil!"
I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; The Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever.
Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still and know that I am God." With so much external input all around us, we have to make time and place to hear the voice of God!
This holiday season clothe yourself in compassion (Colossians 3:12-14) as you interact with people in your life who require extra grace! Clothing yourself in compassion will not only help you "just get through" those Christmas gatherings, but also help you to walk in love toward those around you just as Christ has toward each of us!
Maybe someone has betrayed you, stolen from you, hurt you or treated you poorly. This is a sad reality of the fallen world we live in. Many people carry these burdens of past hurts or offenses in their hearts. This short message offers encouragement and some practical steps to enable you to forgive those who have hurt you, and move past holding those offenses in your heart. Are you ready to be released from the heaviness of offense? The Bible has the keys we need to live free from offense!
Many non-believers are rightly critical of so-called "believers" who talk the talk but don't walk the walk. Don't let "Christian" hypocrites keep you from following Jesus Christ. Jesus himself had no kind words for hypocrites! They are not representing the Bible, Jesus or his teachings! Turn to Jesus and follow him, he is the way, the truth and the life, regardless of what other people may say or do.
Do you feel that you are past the point of no return? Have you hurt someone or committed sins that are so terrible you feel God could never forgive you? Or maybe you feel as if you could never forgive yourself for your past misdeeds? These are all lies the devil is constantly using to keep people from experiencing the life-altering love and forgiveness of Father God, who sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to die for your sins on the cross! No one is too far gone... no one!
If we are believing for God to change our story, we must make a conscious decision to surrender bitterness, hatred, offense and anger at those who have wronged us in the past. We must not allow any spiritual hindrance in our lives that could block or prevent God from moving miraculously on our behalf. Like Hannah, mother of Samuel in the Old Testament, or modern hero Nelson Mandela, our hearts must be right if we desire to see God change our story!
Hebrews 12:2 says "Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith." However, God created us with a free will - meaning we are not pre-programmed robots. Often people choose to attempt to "write their own story" - ignoring or avoiding the calling and path God has for their lives by pursuing their own earthly, fleshly desires. No matter what else you or someone you love has pursued to this point in life, God can give a new start to any person's story!!!
Have you or someone you know endured pain, suffering or hardship? Has your lifestyle become intertwined with the hardships or tragedies you have experienced in your life? Have you taken on a victimhood identity? In Mark 10:46-52 we see Jesus change the story of a blind beggar named Bartimaeus in a single moment. Bartimaeus chose by faith to leave his old identity allowing Jesus to "rewrite" his story. Jesus can change your story in an instant too, if you are willing to answer His call to throw off that old identity and take on your true identity in Christ!
Did you know that God loves to change people's life story? When someone's life trajectory is headed in a negative direction and they have an encounter with God, that person 's story is radically rewritten in an instant! If we want that rewrite of our own story, we must come to the Lord with a humble heart, ready to surrender our lives to Christ. He is waiting for each of us to come and say "I'm ready for you to change my story!"
We are living in a time of great upheaval across the world today.
The scriptures show us that we are not to think like everyone else or live in dread for our safety, for the Lord will keep us safe!
Isaiah 8:11-14
11 The Lord has given me a strong warning not to think like everyone else does. He said,
12 “Don’t call everything a conspiracy, like they do,
and don’t live in dread of what frightens them.
13 Make the Lord of Heaven’s Armies holy in your life.
He is the one you should fear.
He is the one who should make you tremble.
14 He will keep you safe...
In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 we see two keys to standing strong in the midst of difficult circumstances.
1) Choosing wisely what we choose to focus on and what NOT to focus on.
2) Recognizing that our earthly circumstances are temporary.
2 Cor. 4:16 "Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer person is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed day by day. 17 For our momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 18 while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal."
"This is the way, walk in it" - Isaiah 30:21. When you are ready to follow the Lord's path, you will encounter difficulties and discomfort meant to dissuade you, you must guard your thought life! Voices of other people will discourage you from following the path the Lord has set before you. Alternative roads that look easier or more attractive will appear. You will run into obstacles, and you will be tempted to turn aside - DO NOT GIVE UP BECAUSE OF DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES! God has called you, He will protect, guide and provide for you!
Are you feeling stuck, unable to move forward because of your life circumstances or because of what you see happening around you? God never intended for His people to be immobilized in such a way. In 2nd Kings ch. 7 we find the city of Samaria under siege by an enemy army, literally starving out the populace. Four lepers by the gate were taking in this seemingly impossible situation. After weighing their options, they stepped out in faith - and in a complete reversal found the enemy camp totally deserted, full of everything they and the Israelites needed to survive! What steps would you take today if you believed God would meet your faith?
There are many causes of frustration and it is common to the human experience. However, God never intended us to live a life full of frustration. Frustration can be defined as annoyance or irritation when one cannot change a circumstance. It is often rooted in disappointment, discouragement, hopelessness, or unmet expectations. Frustration will rob you of joy and peace in your life. But praise God, there is hope! We can have victory over frustration!
So called "storms" come to every person. God wants us to be able to withstand these troublesome times in perfect peace. In Mark 4, we see Jesus sleeping peacefully in the boat while the disciples struggled with a ferocious storm, how can we possibly do the same?
Isaiah 26:3 tells us how God will help us in this way. “You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]."
Often when we are facing a difficult or hopeless situation or are in need of a miracle, we tend to voice fears, complaints or maybe even prayer and scripture recitation. However, the Word of God show's us that there are times when we need to sit quietly in the presence of God and quietly wait on Him - no matter the circumstances we are facing.
With the Pharaoh's army hot on their heels, hemmed in by the Red Sea, God's instruction in Exodus 14:13-14 to the Israelites seemed completely nonsensical. “Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will perform for you today... The Lord will fight for you, while you keep silent.”
Have you, or someone you know, struggled with blaming God, holding offense at Him for allowing some past negative experience? This is quite common in the world and in the church, but as followers of Christ we must reject this notion! In Luke 7:23 Jesus said, "And blessed is anyone who does not take offense at Me.” We want to walk in the blessing of God by staying unoffended at Him when we experience trials or hardship. Remember He has promised to do us well in the end!
Are you so busy working or caring for others, perhaps family members or in ministry, that you don't have time to take care of even your own basic needs? The Lord knows our human limitations and commands us to take times of rest! If you burn out, you cannot work, help or minister to anyone!
In the Gospel of Mark 6:30-31 Jesus instructed the disciples to rest from the ministry they had been involved in... "The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Are you facing battles today in your health, family, school, work or business? There is a battle raging against every believer, every day. Praise the Lord that the Bible gives us encouragement to continue, but also lays out strategy for us to win the battles we face! Psalm 55:22 instructs us - "Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken."
If we are going to be dedicated followers of Jesus Christ, we must surrender our own wills in every area of our lives, even to our own earthly discomfort. We must follow the Lamb wherever He goes, regardless of the impact we think it would have on our own lives. Revelations 12:11 shows us a group of people who "overcame him [Satan] because of the blood of the Lamb... and they did not love their life even when faced with death."
-Part 2 of the message "Your Life is not Your Own"-
In this message we look at New Testament comparisons of Christian believers to soldiers or slaves who are subject to the will of higher authorities. As followers of Christ we should seek to submit our lives to the direction and will of the Lord, serving Him, rather than as slaves to our own desires!
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states - "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought for a price: therefore glorify God in your body."
Your decisions and plans MUST be guided and directed by the Lord! Your loving creator, our Father God knows what is best for each of us, He knows the future! Let us look to Him for our next steps and yield our will to Him! 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states - "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought for a price: therefore glorify God in your body."
Here is a two-part message on receiving freedom from the orphan spirit. Many people, believers and unbelievers alike, are weighed down with an "orphan spirit" that negatively impacts their every relationship, interaction and choice, and even their relationship with Father God. Whether this is something you or someone you know struggles with, God the Father is ready to pour out his all-encompassing love on each of us, accepting and caring for us as a loving father cares for his dearly beloved child. We are no longer spiritual orphans, but children of the Most High God!
Here is two-part message on receiving freedom from the orphan spirit. Many people, believers and unbelievers alike, are weighed down with an "orphan spirit" that negatively impacts their every relationship, interaction and choice, and even their relationship with Father God. Whether this is something you or someone you know struggles with, God the Father is ready to pour out his all-encompassing love on each of us, accepting and caring for us as a loving father cares for his dearly beloved child. We are no longer spiritual orphans, but children of the Most High God!
What is your inner foundation? Your foundational attitude and beliefs about yourself are shaped early on in life. No matter what hurtful experiences have been endured, our Father God can rebuild, restore and strengthen our inner foundation so that we are strong enough to accomplish what God has called us to do!
What legacy will you be leaving as you transition into the next season the Lord has for you? Will you be leaving the lasting "aroma" of the love and knowledge of Jesus? 2 Corinthians 2:14 says: "But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere." THIS is what we want to be leaving behind!
Millions of believers are struggling every day with a burden of shame. The Word of God says that every single person on earth has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Thankfully, the Bible promises us that God is faithful to forgive us! But how do we get free from the shame of those misdeeds that we have in fact committed? God does not intend for us to carry that burden of shame - Jesus bore our shame on the cross with our sins!! 2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
Sometimes we may feel as if we are struggling in the ocean, repetitively battered by one crashing wave after another, barely able to keep our heads above water. The devil wants to overwhelm individuals into making bad decisions or even to turn away from following the Lord. Psalm 124:4 says "The waters had overwhelmed us..." It is not God's will for his children to be overwhelmed by this life's pressures, but to be "more than conquerors!" Here is what the Word of God says we can do when we are feeling overwhelmed!
Often when we are cut off or prevented from some potential opportunity or desired outcome we are frustrated with the devil, with other people or even the Lord! However, if we live a prayerful life, we can know the heart of God, that He is seeking our best and that a closed door is an indication that the Lord is directing us in a different direction. Like Noah, we can trust that when God closes a door it is for our benefit!
Did you know you have an assignment from God to be an encourager? God has called every single believer, no matter what your station in life, to be an encourager!! Whether you are young, old, rich, poor, working or retired, this is what you can, and should, contribute to the kingdom of God!! One encouraging word can change the entire course of someone's life!
Are you facing a "storm" in life right now? Storms come to everyone in this fallen world, but if your life is built on the "rock" of Jesus - you will stand strong and come out victorious! We have authority to speak to these "storms" and command "peace be still!"
Don't Doubt in the Dark What You Heard in the Light! Many times when adversity comes against us in our Christian walk through various life circumstances, we begin to question whether we are really on the right path and if we correctly heard the Lord's voice. However, just as when the disciples were on the storm-tossed sea in a boat, knowing that Jesus had indeed told them to cross to the other side - we have to trust that what we heard the Lord say to us "on the shore, in good weather," was indeed His command! Then we can be confident we are in His will and he will not allow us to be overcome but bring us safely to the other side!
Speaking God's truths, found in the Bible, to our "facts," will cause our earthly factual circumstances to change! Kingdom principles supersede earthly "facts" - when we stand on the promises of God we will see changes in our earthly situations.
No matter what circumstances we face, there is something for which to be thankful. We cannot give in to the temptation to complain about negative circumstances - it will rob us of all hope and joy in our life! Complaining will bring death, figuratively, if not literally, but thankfulness is the antidote! We must forsake complaining and embrace thankfulness if we want to survive the pressures of the "wilderness seasons." Give thanks for something right now!
There are many references in the Bible describing God's promises of blessings or favor for those who follow Him. We need to take these promises to heart and stand on them! However, many people have incorrect assumptions about what it means to walk in those promises and what one's earthly life should look like. It does not mean no trials or hardships will come, but rather that we have been given the tools to overcome any pressures of life that we face. We are more than conquerors through Christ!
Its time to quit DWELLING ON THE PAST!! Maintaining a thankful heart is the best remedy for escaping the grip of self-pity! The Bible commands us to be thankful in ALL things, both the past AND the present!
The sin of comparison is easy to fall in to in the modern world of social media. The sin of comparison will drag you down into this "swamp of self-pity" will hinder you from making any progress in life!
With the help of the Lord you can climb out of this self-centered swamp, the "swamp of self pity!"
There are promises in God's word that we can turn to in times of trouble, anxiety or any other uncertainty! Psalm 27:5 says, "For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock." This was written by King David, a man who saw many troubles and physical danger. Take this promise from the Bible and claim it for yourself and your family and receive true "security" from the Lord!
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us reveals the fragrance of the knowledge of Him in every place." 2 Corinthians 2:14 NASB
The Lord spoke to me that 2021 would be a year of TRIUMPH for those who would closely follow His lead and refuse to react hastily to circumstances happening around them. To be victorious in 2021 you must swim against the tide of natural human responses to shocking events which will be taking place in the earth. Prepare yourself to respond “super-naturally,” allowing God’s nature to work in and through you this year!
The Bible clearly states that the marker of whether or not someone is a disciple, a true follower of Christ, is how they demonstrate love for others. God is love, the Bible says, and we are called to be imitators of God. In these times of harsh rhetoric and much social and political rhetoric, make it your aim to show love, not just in words, but in deeds and actions!
Many of us attempt to be self-reliant, but at some point we will find ourselves at the "end of our rope," confronted with a situation that we can't deal with in our own strength or resources. Being self-sufficient is a noble intention, but God wants us to always rely on Him, not on ourselves. Jesus came into this world to remove the burden of self-reliance from us! This Christmas season, remember why Jesus was born, so that you wouldn't have to "make it all happen" all on your own - what a relief!!!
Often we humans have a propensity to make snap judgements concerning people or events, often incorrectly. In our limitations we do not know the full picture or God's intentions. We need to trust the leading of the Holy Spirit over our own perception. We must allow time for God's purpose to be fulfilled and refrain from human judgement "before the time!"
We have a promise in the Word of God that when hard times come, God will be our deliverer! It doesn't say that we will never experience difficult seasons, but Bible does show us that God will protect us, keep us and bring us through with a testimony of God's goodness!
At some point the Lord may lead you to the often difficult step of breaking away from what is familiar into a life-changing opportunity. He has your best interest in mind! If you are feeling that pull in the spirit to new things, don't resist it - remember, your heavenly father has good things in store for those who will follow His leading!
Thankfulness is a powerful spiritual principle. In Psalm 50:23 it shows us that giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors God. Ingratitude is very unattractive, even in the natural realm. However, we must remain thankful even in difficult or trying times as many of us find ourselves or see our country in now. Don't let current circumstances dictate your thankfulness. God loves when we give thanks and will respond to thankfulness with powerful deliverance!
There are certain tasks the Lord gives us here on earth that must be carried out in a certain time frame before circumstances change and the opportunity to fulfill those purposes is no longer available, such as sharing the Gospel message with a friend or relative before you or they move or even pass away. In John 9:4 Jesus says: "We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work." Let's not miss our opportunities!!
So often we have our mind made up on a "Plan A," the way we want or expect the Lord to answer our prayers. If that doesn't pan out as we hope, we often have a fall back "Plan B" calculated. However, the Lord knows what we need and how to provide for us, better than we do! He has a supernatural "Plan C" waiting in the wings that we couldn't even imagine.
What could possibly amaze the Son of God? You would assume Jesus was aware of everything! The Bible says Jesus marveled, or was amazed (depending on the translation) at the faith of a gentile Roman centurion who somehow had a supernatural understanding that Jesus's words were all that was needed heal his servant. Jesus was amazed at this man's radical understanding of the power of the Word of God! Do you have this same grasp of the power of God's Word?
"Earth shaking" events can overturn the daily routines of millions, or billions of people in a literal instant. What do you rely on for "stability" or "safety?" Is it another person, your financial resources, alcohol or a prescription medication, or on the Lord? We live in a shaky world! If we are not relying on our God as our foundation and our defense, we have no hope! As David wrote in the Psalms - only the Lord is the "rock of our salvation" and we must rely on Him if we will remain unshaken!
For some materials, hot water extracts the best potential, for some it hardens or weakens. For the last 6 or so months the whole world has seemingly been in some very hot water. Will these trying circumstances and upheaval harden your heart, or bring out the goodness of the Lord inside you? Is the proverbial " hot water" changing you or are you changing the "hot water" around you?
How do we talk about political issues, especially at election time without criticizing, name calling or judging in our hearts? Here is a a practical strategy:
- Talk about issues not personalities
- Pray for God's will to be done in this and future election cycles
- Commit to pray for all government officials
When believers gather together the Lord is listening and the Bible says in Malachi chapter 3:16 that He remembers those whose words show fear of the Lord and honor His name! Are your conversations with fellow Christians something worthy of God's remembrance? Let your words be honoring to the Lord!
Protection, direction, friendship with God, health, wisdom, and prosperity are among the blessings that are promised in the Bible to those who "fear the Lord." But what is this term, "the fear of the Lord," supposed to convey? Should we really be afraid of God? Or does this mean living our lives according to God's ways? We discuss all of these points in this encouraging video!
God has a specific divine plan for your life! However, you must make the life-altering decision to ask the Lord what His will is for your life. This may be somewhat different than the path you have mapped out in your own mind. But if you truly want to experience the fulfillment of God's perfect purpose in your life, you must be willing to ask - "Lord what would you have me to do?"
This week we continue to explore why Christians go through hardships. This week we look at a modern example for encouragement. As we discuss the seeming dissonance we feel when we face difficulties in this world, we can trust that God has a plan for each us, and it is a good plan!
Have you ever wondered why Christians go through hardships? We have all faced hard times, in various ways, but isn't God a savior, and our deliverer? Where is He? What is going on? How do we reconcile this dissonance? We look at some Biblical examples for some great encouragement!
When "seasons" are changing in our lives we must keep our hearts right before the Lord. We must not "rush" the timing of the change in seasons in our own strength. We must not begrudge the people or hardships associated with the passing season. We must end the outgoing season with no spiritual baggage that would hinder our pursuit of the Lord. Make sure you are ready to enter the new season with a pure heart, prepared to receive the blessings the Lord has for you!
Don't forget to remember! You must NOT forget to recount and record the great things the Lord has done for you. Recalling the moments of divine deliverance or provision in your own life will not only build your own faith and help you stand firm in difficult times, it will be a treasure to your children and grand children in the future. Do not despise your own spiritual journey as insignificant, every single believer has testimonies that will inspire those who hear or read them and this "spiritual inheritance" will encourage these future generations in their walk with the Lord for years to come! Write down and record your testimonies of God's goodness and faithfulness!
What are you taking into your spirit? Jesus instructed us in Mark 4:24, to guard what we hear, or as one version (NASB) translates this verse "Be careful what you listen to." We are inundated with news and information nearly constantly through TV, radio and internet formats. In WWII, the Axis powers had ongoing propaganda radio broadcasts throughout the course of the conflict, aimed specifically at demoralizing Allied military personnel. We must guard our hearts in order to not overwhelm our spirits with this current barrage of negativity. This does not mean we should remain naive of current events, but to keep the truth of the Word of God preeminent in our hearts and minds; we are overcomers through Christ, not overcome!
In Isaiah 65:24 the Lord says "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." We can pray confidently in faith knowing that God will indeed answer our prayers as we petition him according to his will! God will even provide for you in seemingly impossible earthly circumstances. 1 John 5:14-15 states "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." Let this encouragement boost your faith and confidence in the Lord today!!
If you have been waiting for a dream or vision given to you by the Lord to come to pass in your life, take encouragement in this message today! In Habakkuk chapter 2 the Lord says, "For the vision is yet for an appointed time, it hastens toward the goal and will not fail. Though it tarries, WAIT FOR IT, for it will surely come... If you have been waiting for the Lord's promise to come to pass, don't despair - it will surely come!
Your Life Speaks Without Words! Do you know that you can influence those around you without even "preaching" the gospel? By living and walking in love, wisdom and integrity your lifestyle can speak volumes those watching youlive out your faith!
The favor of God will deliver you from extremely difficult circumstances, not because you "deserve" it, but because you have been made righteous through Christ's redeeming work on the cross. Your "part" is to expect the favor of God to be active in your life!
The favor of God can make a way for you regardless of natural circumstances in the world around you. Even in difficult situations, the Lord will make a way for those who seek Him and bring them out on top!
Proverbs 6:16-19 illuminates six things God hates, but notes that seven are an abomination - that seventh "abomination" is referring to a person who sows strife among the brethren. During these times of social unrest and intense political rhetoric, we have to remember that as members of the body of Christ we must be agents of unity, not strife! Our words, or posts and comments online, must be building up one another! If we as believers desire to see true positive change in our nation or the world, we must turn to our spiritual weapon of prayer, because this battle is not against flesh and blood!
Psalms 68:20 says "Your God is a God of Deliverances" - that's a plural word - not just a one time deliverance or one time salvation - but an ongoing deliverer for those who trust in Him!
Even when "times are tough" the Lord in his goodness will not only provide for your needs, but provide abundantly! Psalm 65:11 says - "You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance." If you are facing difficulties or pressures - the Lord will care for you DESPITE earthly circumstances around us. As believers, we are in the world, but not of it!!
When we feel the Lord leading us toward the calling or path he has for our lives, it often requires some proactive action, not simply mental assent. God is waiting for you to make that decision to take the first "step of yes" by faith!
We are currently surrounded by the constant messaging of hopelessness through the news and social media. Maybe you are in a position due to natural circumstances that appear "hopeless" or have friends that are constantly speaking the impending doom of the country, economy, or their own personal situation. God wants us to put our hope (a steady optimism about the future) in Him! Our hope is in God's faithfulness and His promises, not earthly circumstances, other people, or human institutions. Hebrews 6:19 says that this hope in the Lord is the anchor of our souls!
God has a divine assignment for you! No matter where you are in life or where you think you "should have been by now" - God's will and plan for your life are very specific and will not look like your neighbor's path. As believers, we must surrender our will, in favor of the Lord's will, and we must surrender our timing to wait patiently on the perfect timing of the Lord! He is faithful and will finish the calling on your life!
Do you feel like you followed God's calling "out into the desert" with no provision for your needs? Does it seem like you are in an impossible circumstance and need divine intervention? God has not forgotten you and is going to meet your needs - stand in faith and see the deliverance of the Lord!
Feeling separated? God has things under control and will continue to be faithful to you even while the world around us is inundated with fear!
Your life moves at the speed of your obedience! Fear, excuses or disagreeing with God prevent us from moving forward into the new things he has for us! If we are to walk in the fullness of his blessings we have to open our hearts and minds to obey that next step he has for us!
Those who put their trust in the Lord will emerge from this, or any, trying time with great testimonies of the Lord's miraculous deliverance.
Speaking and hearing testimonies builds our faith and according to Rev. 12:11 is a spiritual weapon that will help us overcome Satan!
The current mass hysteria has brought out all kinds of negativity and fear in the news reports and social media. However, as believers our reaction should not be one of fear, we must guard our words and speak only from a position of faith! Because we know something the world doesn't know! We know that God is going to care for us no matter what earthly circumstances look like, or are purported to be!
Romans 8:28 states that "we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God..."
Fear is rampant, paralyzing people with fear of lack, loss and even their lives. The remedy for dealing with the spirit of fear is simple - PERFECT LOVE CASTS OUT ALL FEAR!
The love of God has been shed abroad in our hearts(Romans 5:5), therefore fear has no hold on us as believers!
Psalm 34:10 promises us - "Those who seek the Lord will lack no good thing!"
When Jesus was headed to Jairus's house to heal his sick daughter and word came to them that the child was already dead, Jesus said "Don’t be afraid. Just believe." (Mark 5:36)
Psalm 27:1 states plainly "The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?"
With the near-hysteric levels of pandemonium surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic that has been sweeping the globe, it is time to be reminded that fear is a spirit, an attack from the enemy. The devil wants nothing more than to steal our peace, our health and our finances! The Word of God is full of promises that specifically state that the Lord will protect and keep us - we will be OVERCOMERS and not overcome, by this demonic attack of fear!
Are your words, thoughts or actions limiting God's power in your life and circumstances?
Are you serving God in the secular workplace? The Bible calls us to work willingly as unto the Lord!
God has given every Believer gifts to use in the service of the Kingdom. Don't hide or waste your talents - use them to bless the Lord and those around you!
Man judges outward appearances, but God sees the heart! The Lord sees your effort and work for the Kingdom! Man judges outward appearances, but God sees the heart!
Job 22:28 says - "You will decree a thing and it will be established." So what are you decreeing in your life? The words we speak matter - and they are powerful! Proverbs 18:21 - "Death and life are in the power of the tongue."
What do you do when one area of provision in your life dries up? Has God abandoned you to your doom or is he leading to your next assignment? Taken from the story of Elijah the prophet
Taken from the life of Isaac in the book of Genesis - God has a "Rehoboth," or "wide-open space with room enough" for you to prosper walk in blessing!
Idols - not just a part of ancient religions... where do you place your time, passion, devotion?