The Church Within You!: Recent Episodes
Elder Barbara
This is a podcast designed for the heart, mind, and soul. In the storehouse you will find Poems, Spoken Words, Skits, Messages & Prayers of encouragement. There are interviews that will share personal life experiences, along with interviews of spiritual & everyday living. Know this, within you is the church. We all serve a living God, who is the Pillar, and Ground of His Truths which lies hopefully within you!
"And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62
The core message is that following Jesus requires complete devotion, prioritizing His call over all other life events and concerns.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Php 4:7 NIVJesus promised us a path to His peace, even in this world of struggle. He is our Advocate, our Joy, and our Hope of a better tomorrow.Blessings,Elder Barbara HayesTWFYT | Php 4:7 NIV
Devotional reading by Amari: "If you feel Jesus is holding back His love and compassion from you because of something you have done or not done, think again!"
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | John 8:7 NIV
With God, we never have to worry about being the one who bestows unrequited love.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | Proverbs 8:17 NIV
"Live" interview with Minister A. Cox. Discussion topics: Prayer, Grief counseling, and Spiritual support.
Special thank you to Minister Cox.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Church Within You!
The LORD GOD gave me the ability to teach so that I know what to say to make the weak strong. Every morning, He wakes me. He teaches me to listen like a student. Isaiah 50:4
To be chosen by God: Thank you, Jesus, for choosing us to impact the world for You! Thank You for the gifts we have through You. Help us to be faithful in teaching others what we have learned from Your love towards us.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
Be Still & Know | Moody Bible Commentary
Are you available? Matthew 28:19–20 is known as the Great Commission, where Jesus instructs his followers to make disciples of all nations by baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything He commanded, with the promise of His perpetual presence until the end of the age. This passage outlines the mission for believers: to spread the gospel, baptize new followers, and instruct them in Jesus' teachings, ensuring His presence and support throughout this process.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | John 20:21
The saying "beauty is only skin deep" means that physical beauty is superficial and fleeting, while true beauty is found in a person's character, personality, and inner qualities. It suggests that what we see on the outside is less important than a person's heart and soul, and that a person's actions and inner nature are more meaningful than their appearance.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV
Solomon wrote, "I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life! That way they will experience some happiness" (Ecc 8:15 NLT).
Let's learn to laugh more and cry less!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
The final of our 5-part series is the Crown of Glory. These crowns are not physical objects but rather symbolic representations of the blessings and honors bestowed upon those who live faithfully by His Holy Word.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
UCB Word For Today
The Crown of Righteousness. The term "Five Crowns" in Christian theology refers to five different crowns or rewards that believers can receive in heaven. Stay tuned for episode number 5, the final of the Five Crown Series.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
UCB Word For Today
The term "Five Crowns" in Christian theology refers to five different crowns or rewards that believers can receive in heaven. Stay tuned for episode number 4 of the Five Crown Series.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
UCB Word For Today
The term "Five Crowns" in Christian theology refers to five different crowns or rewards that believers can receive in heaven. Stay tuned for episode number 3 of the Five Crown Series.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
UCB Word For Today
The term "Five Crowns" in Christian theology refers to five different crowns, or rewards, that believers can receive in heaven. Stay tuned for episode number 2 of the Five Crown Series.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
UCB Word For Today
The heart of Communication with God. The LORD wants you to talk with Him in all occasions and with all kinds of prayers.
We might not be able to trust our intentions when we pray, but God sees our hearts!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
God wants to give us good gifts. His love is better than life itself, and He knows exactly how to satisfy us.
Our loving Father says to ask.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
There are 1440 minutes in a day. At the end of each day, you should be able to look back with joy and satisfaction and see that those valuable minutes were spent wisely. Someone has said, "Time is God's gift to you, but what you do with your time is your gift to God." So, how will you use your allotted 1440 minutes today?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLKJV | NLT
Do you know that from the beginning, God had you in mind? He planned you out to the tiniest detail. To Him, there is nothing new. He has loved you forever. It may not seem like it to you, but you have a beautiful story to tell. Begin telling yourself this, and be ready to share it when the time comes.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
How blessed you are. God has opened your eyes, He will always lift you in times of trouble, and He loves you because you have chosen that which is Good!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
When you make dedicated time with the Lord, conversing with Him becomes a part of your everyday life, a necessity to make your day complete.
Be sure to add Him to your daily and weekly planners!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
This has not been an easy road I've had to travel. Many twists and turns, many hills I've had to climb. However, I'm thankful that God never left me, nor did He ever forsake me. He has been my fourth Man in the fire, time after time. That's why I'm grateful to know, I've come too far to turn around.
How about you?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
As we turn away from our sin and return to God, we discover refreshment and renewal. We are granted grace to move forward in forgiveness and are clothed with power to live righteously and resist future temptations.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
Patience is a challenging skill to develop in relationships, especially when you feel lonely, empty, and incomplete. Don't rush; wait for the right moment. God knows exactly what you need, so seek His guidance first.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
UCB Word For Today
Are you letting past or present circumstances hold you back and prevent you from moving forward?
If Jesus were to ask you, "Do you wish to be made whole?" what would your answer be?
Read John 5:6
Think about it.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
UCB WORD FOR TODAY
To discover your life's purpose, you must start with God as your reference point. Remember it is He who made you; He redeemed you; He has a plan for your life, and He will reveal it to you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
UCB Word for Today
Father, I can't believe you chose me. With all my faults and all the times I go my own way, I'm amazed You call me Your beloved child. Knowing I bring pleasure to You just by being me is one of the great joys of my life.
Amen!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | Ephesians 1:5 NLT
The power of the tongue is not only harsh and angry words, but also false and foolish doctrines.
The tongue is the main expression of our personality and usually calls forth an immediate reaction, of one kind or another, in others.
This tiny member has been known to cause many wars, loss of life, and end many marriages.
Our words steer our lives and direct our destiny. Let's work at keeping it in check.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
HSB
"For forty days He was tempted by the devil." Luke 4:2 NIV
Don't give in to fear and despair. Don't quit, and don't run. God has ordained victory for you. You may have taken a few hits and carry a few scars, but God will bring you through and make you stronger and wiser if you trust Him and stand on His Word.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NIV
Just as a shepherd cares for his sheep, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, cares for His flock (those who follow Him).
"I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before Me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture." John 10:7-9
Come to Jesus, He will save you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Fascination: allure, attract, captivate, charm, and enchant. The natural result of love is fascination: being so irresistibly drawn to something that nothing can keep you from it.Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
"Whom have I in heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:25—26
If you are looking for support, remember God is your all in all!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
The believer is simply an "earthen vessel'; it is the treasure within the vessel that gives the vessel its value.
2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.
We can take heart that God is glorified through weak vessels!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
"IF THE LORD WILL". We should never boast about tomorrow nor anything that lies before us. In making goals and plans for the future, believers must always consider God and His Will. We must not act like the rich fool spoken of in Luke 12:16-21; instead, we must recognize that true happiness and a helpful life are entirely dependent on God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
NIV | FLSB
There is a divine energy that fills and dwells within the hearts and souls of believers in God. God does not call us to speculate about the nature of this power. He desires that we use it to partner with Him in His purposes on earth. Therefore, if you are connected to the power source, are you using your God-given power for His work?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NKJV
Gossip! If you wouldn't say something to a person's face, don't say it behind their back. Make this a personal litmus test for all future conversations. Adopt a no-tolerance attitude toward gossip. You have the power to shut it down before it spreads like wildfire. If it's not edifying to your soul, then why let it in? Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
We may be facing challenges that seem to press us from every side; however, we must remember that we are not defeated. We may be confused, but we are not in despair. We may even have been persecuted, but we are not abandoned because we know the One who has our back, no matter how tough the situation appears. God's Glory covers us, and He keeps us and has never forsaken us.Remember that!Blessings,Presiding Elder Barbara HayesToday's word was written by Minister Annie Cox
LORD, I bring all my emotions before You and ask You to meet me in whatever is now holding me or keeping me from feeling at ease. Allow me to feel Your presence, so that I know I am not alone. Only You, LORD, can comfort me.
Help me to be a comfort to those around me who need it, in the same way You have shown me comfort.
Blessings in prayer,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
Understanding the depth of God's love and the power of prayer and trust in God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
To be able to say "my God" by faith transformed David's wilderness experience into a worship experience.
With his whole being, body and soul, he yearned for God's satisfying presence. Just as we have physical senses that are satisfied by God's creation, so we have spiritual senses that can be fulfilled only by Christ. He is the bread of life (John 6), and He gives us the water of life by His Spirit (John 4:1 14), and we shall be filled with spiritual food and drink (Matt. 5:6).
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
"In the Word of God, I have a hiding place!" David was unable to climb higher on his own; he needed the Lord to help and sustain him. We are never so far away—or, as in the case of Jonah, so far down (Jon. 2) that we can't pray to God.
We must trust that God will never fail us in any crisis.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
The concept of "breaking every chain" is a common theme in scripture, often used to represent overcoming obstacles, finding freedom, and experiencing liberation from sin and bondage.
Isaiah 9:4 Prophesies that God will break the chains that bind His people. "For You have broken he yoke of his burden And the staff of his shoulder, The rod of his oppressor, As in the day of Midian."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
No matter the troubles or trials we face, it's always beneficial to look back and recall the goodness of the LORD. David remembered how long he had waited before the LORD delivered him from his enemies and Saul, but the day came when God inclined His ear, heard his cries, and lifted him from the pit. You are never too far out of reach for God to hear your cry and deliver you. Trust God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
God is my hope for today and tomorrow. He is my all in all. God is the strength of my life; His promises are always sure. I know He never falls short of His Word. I want to go with Him when He returns. Please, LORD, help me to live each day and walk in Your way according to Your Word. God is my hope for life here on this day and every day. God is my all in all! Blessings, Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes Be Still & Know
Psalm 19:8 states, "The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes." In other words, God's laws are righteous and bring joy, while his clear commands provide insight.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | ESV
'Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.'
God Himself asks us to call Him, and He will answer. Isaiah 65:24 "It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer; and while they are still speaking, I will hear. "
There you have it, signed, sealed, and delivered.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
Psalm 94:12 states that happiness is found in being disciplined by the LORD and taught from His law. It highlights the blessing of learning from God's corrections and instructions, ultimately leading to rest and relief from adversity. The psalmist recognized that the difficulties of life could help him mature in his faith. If God immediately rescued His people from their personal difficulties, they would become “spoiled brats” and never grow in faith or character.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
Dynamic faith is genuine, has power, and changes lives. Every professing Christian should examine his or her own heart and life and make sure that he or she possesses true, saving faith, dynamic faith.
James 2:26 says, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven". Ecc. 3:1
Knowing the season you're in. The idea that "in everything there is a purpose" is a belief that every event or experience, even negative ones, serves a deeper meaning or reason within the larger context of life.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
In Christ Jesus, you have a perfect friend. Therefore, let your prayer be one of thanksgiving to Him for being your loyal friend who sticks closer than a brother.Blessings,Presiding Elder Barbara HayesBe Still & Know
The subject of human suffering is not easy to understand, as there are mysteries in the workings of God that we will never grasp until we reach heaven. Just know that God is eternally present and will guide us through, if we believe and trust in Him. Blessings,Presiding Elder Barbara HayesBe Still & Know | TWSB
Your lovingkindness, O LORD, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast. Psalms 36:5, 6.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | FLSB
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us." 1 John 5:18
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
"And His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace." John 1:16
Jesus Christ has fullness of grace and truth. Grace is God's favor and kindness bestowed on those who do not deserve it and cannot earn it. If God dealt with us only according to truth, none of us would survive, but He deals with us based on grace and truth.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | TWSB
"I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry." Ps 40:1 NKJV
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
For those who believe in Jesus, physical death is not a tragic end. Instead, it serves as the gateway to abundant eternal life and fellowship with God. Blessings,Presiding Elder Barbara HayesTWFYT | FLSB | WSB
I HAVE LEARNED TO BE CONTENT. The key to contentment is realizing that God has given you everything you need to remain victorious in Christ in your present circumstances (1 Cor. 15:47; 2 Cor. 2:14; 1 John 5:4). Your ability to live triumphantly above changing circumstances is Christ's power flowing in and through you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know | FLSB
"And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two." Mat 5:41
Love is the church's most effective weapon. Love is the essence of God's nature. Love is the perfection of human character. Love is the most powerful, ultimate force in the universe.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Hayes
TWFYT | HSB
No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 1 John 4:12
Let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
"Consolation" refers to the sense of comfort or relief that helps someone feel better after experiencing sadness, disappointment, or distress. Life is filled with painful moments that can arise unexpectedly, but it also brings many opportunities for second chances. Do not lose hope in yourself; God has not given up on you! Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
God, I know you have a plan for my life, but sometimes it's hard to see. Help me lift my head confidently above the fray and believe that You will lead me to victory.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
Make me to know Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths. God and upright is the LORD; therefore He instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble His way.
Psalm 25:4, 8-9
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayees
Be Still & Know
Tell them while you still can. Do not put off today for tomorrow, as tomorrow is not promised.
Don't let shyness, fear, or rejection keep you from saying what needs to be said. Tell them while you still can.
"Gracious words are ... sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Pr. 16:24 NIV
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
It has been said that love is the "circulatory system" of the body of Christ. Young people live for the temporary, and adults live for the permanent.
"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails." 1 Cor. 13:4-8
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up — the flames will not consume you. Isaiah 43:2 TLB
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still & Know
When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12
There is joy everlasting in the presence of God!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Always
I'm learning to lean on Jesus. We must learn to understand and depend upon God through every difficult situation and trial.
God promises never to leave you nor forsake you. Therefore, no matter what it may look like or how it may seem, know that God is there for you to bring you safely through.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still and Know
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11
When we speak positively and affirm our faith, we shift our mindset and open our hearts to God's blessings.
Remember to speak over yourself and encourage yourself in The LORD.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
Courage is often associated with acts of bravery that defy typical human experience—firefighters running into a burning building, rescuing someone who has fallen into deep water, or pulling someone out of the path of a speeding vehicle. Courage can also mean delivering a speech in front of a room full of people. When we trust in God, He gives us the courage we need when the time comes. We must remember that we are never alone—God is there to carry us through.Blessings,Presiding Elder Barbara HayesBe Still and Know
Compassion is at the heart of our faith and humanity. It allows us to empathize with others, feel their pain, and offer our support and kindness. In times of hardship, compassion becomes even more vital, providing the strength and solace individuals need to navigate their struggles. Through compassion, we can fulfill the commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Blessings
The Church Within You!
UCB WFT | Mat. 9:36 NKJV
Life offers many ups and many downs. Sometimes, the ugliness, pain, and disappointment box us in.
During those downtimes, we must remember who provided us with our source of strength, enabling us to press onward.
God, our heavenly Father is there to guide us through the storms. He will supply us with that much needed strength.
We must never give up nor give in, but remember that we've come too far from where we started. Trust God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB | The Promises of God
He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will — to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given. Eph. 1:5-6
In Christ Jesus every "faithful" believer has life only "in Christ Jesus."
There's a song that I belong to You, and all the praise, glory, and honor belong to You.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
KJV
To all of your questions, Jesus is the answer, and that's it in a nut's shell.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NLT
Peter is a warning to all of us, for if an apostle who walked with Christ denied his LORD, what might we do in similar circumstances?
How many times have we denied the LORD and lost opportunities to share the gospel with others? Do we, like Peter, talk when we should listen, argue when we should obey, sleep when we should pray, and fight when we should submit?
The Bible says, "Let a man examine himself." 1 Cor. 11:28. Where do you stand when sharing "the good news"?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Catalyst/TWSB
God is a shelter, a refuge when we are afraid. This should be a picture of our trust — trading all our fears for faith in Him, no matter how intense our fears are.
We must "dwell" and "rest" with Him to do this. We will be kept safe beneath His wings by entrusting ourselves to His protection and pledging our daily devotion.
Knowing that God watches over us even in times of great stress and fear is comforting.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB | TWSB
Do you believe that your heavenly Father is pleased with you? Do you walk in peace knowing that you have His approval? If you believe in The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit, and He dwells within, then you are APPROVED!
So, if you ever feel damaged or unworthy, remember you are in good company. God has a history of using the least likely candidates to accomplish the greatest feats. Trust in His plan and allow His grace to work through you. Yourbrokenness can be a powerful testimony of redemption, healing, and hope. Know this: you have been approved by His eyes!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still and Know
We must be careful not to judge others quickly based onour limited perception of another. First, we have a limited perspective because we often only see a small part of someone’s life and don’t fully understand their struggles, experiences, or reasons behind their actions.
By withholding judgment, we open ourselves to understanding others' feelings and challenges, fostering empathy and compassion.
Kindness is always right!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Be Still and Know | Ephesians 4:32 NLT
In a world that often values perfection and success, it can be easy to feel inadequate or unworthy, especially when we've faced hardships, failures, or brokenness. But here's a comforting truth: God uses damaged people. He sees the beauty in our scars and the strength in our struggles.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | Luke 22:32
"You are not beyond God's reach" conveys that no matter what you've done, where you are, or how far you may feel from spirituality or redemption, you are never too far gone for God's love and grace.
It underscores the belief that God's compassion and forgiveness are boundless and that He can reach anyone, anywhere, at any time.
This message often brings comfort, hope, and encouragement to those who feel lost or disconnected, reminding them that they are always within God's care and concern.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
It has often been said that love is the "circulatory system" of the body of Christ. Spiritual gifts can only be used creatively when Christians are motivated by love. Love is enriching. Paul identified five spiritual gifts: tongues, prophecy, knowledge, faith, and giving (sacrifice). He emphasized that the exercise of these gifts is meaningless without love. This means we must focus on others rather than ourselves, which requires love. Love is enduring. These gifts will become useless and cease, but love will last forever, for "God is love."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
God is described as One who picks up an individual lamb to protect and carry it close to His heart.
Although God is all-powerful and the nations are as dust before Him, He still cares for each of His own in a personal way.
We must never think that God is so majestic that He ignores the needs and problems of the individual believer.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
UBC WFT | FLSB
So, you feel like your back is up against the wall, and there is no way out!
Recall the story in the Bible of a man namedJob. If you do, you will read in Chapter 1 how wealthy he is. Then, in Chapter 2, you will read how Job lost everything. Well, just like that, Job lost his wealth, his children, and his health. But did Job give in? No. Did Job give out? No. Job kept his faith in God.
In Chapters 3 to 41, Job truly went through the test of a lifetime. Yet he continued to place his trust in God.
At the time, Job did not know that he would get it all back, including some.
So, when you feel like it's dark and there is no clear view, stop looking around and look up. Do not let go of your faith; God has you.Keep trusting God!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
God said to Jeremiah, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." Jer 1:5
Being special does not necessarily imply superiority over others. You were chosen to be God's special possession, and that's an amazing thing. To be truly special means to have been chosen. You were no mistake in God's eyes, and you have a unique relationship with your Heavenly Father.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
BSAK | FLSB
For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable [for He does not withdraw what He has given, nor does He change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call]. Ro 11:29 AMP
As a Christian, you have a responsibility to help your brother who has stumbled or fallen into sin.
Approach the situation with kindness and compassion, not judgment or condemnation.
As we are our brother's keeper.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | AMP
"Cast it on the ground." "Throw it down!" These are the words that the LORD spoke to Moses when he asked him what was in his hand. The staff he threw down was used to tend the sheep, and the one he picked up would be used to part the waters of the Red Sea!
Sometimes, we carry a lot of junk as security. When all we need to do is place our trust in God! He is your security!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
2 Tim. 2:2 In this verse, the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, a young leader in the early Christian church. Paul emphasizes the importance of passing on the teachings and wisdom he has received. He instructs Timothy to entrust these teachings to reliable and faithful individuals who will, in turn, be able to teach others. This creates a discipleship chain and ensures that the gospel message continues to be spread effectively.
The verse highlights the importance of mentorship, leadership, and the perpetuation of sound doctrine within the Christian community.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NKJV
When we are tested, we must overcome the temptationsin our lives. Just as Jesus was aware of the devil's schemes, we must be vigilant in recognizing the temptations we face in our daily lives.
The world can quickly draw us backward, just as Lot's wife. We must resist the devil, and he will flee. We must pray for the strength of Jesus to cover us and keep us at all times.
Jesus remained steadfast in His identity as the Son of God. We must hold firm to our values and beliefs, knowing who we are and what we stand for.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB | BSAK
"Order my steps in thy Word" is a line from Psalm 119:133 in the Bible. The verse is a plea to God to guide one's steps and not allow sin to have power over us.
It's a cry in prayer in faith, as in Romans 6:14 promises that "sin shall not have the dominion over us."
The verse expresses the belief that God will order one's steps if they are willing to obey and follow Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Are you feeling invisible today? Do you ever feel that, even in a crowded room, no one notices you are there?
If a billion voices call out right now, do you know that Jesus knows your voice, needs, wants, and heart's desires?
It is so good to know that our Heavenly Father always sees us right where we are; he never overlooks us, cares for us, and is a patient Father to His children.
You are never invisible to God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
BeStillAndKnow
The right path for living is ancient and has been marked out by God. But the people refused to take God's path, going their way instead.
We face the same decision today: going God's old but true way or following a path of our own choosing. Don't be misled. The only way to find peace and "rest for your souls" is to walk on God's path.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
BeStillAndKnow | LAB
"The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade upon your right hand. The Sun shall not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth and even forevermore." Psalm 121:5—8
This Psalm gave the people hope and courage to calm their fears.
Trust in the LORD, for He said in His Word that He shall keep you with the right hand of His righteousness.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
BSAK | FLSB
Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.
Planning for tomorrow is time well spent; worrying about tomorrow wastes time. Sometimes, it's difficult to tell the difference. Careful planning involves thinking about goals, steps, and schedules and trusting God's guidance. When done well, planning can help alleviate worry. Don't let concerns about tomorrow affect your relationship with God today.
Try to live in the "here and now."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | TLAB
Trust in God by relinquishing control and putting it in His hands. If you let go and let God, He will and can work out the things troubling you.
Bring everything to God in prayer, trust, and believe that your heavenly Father hears and knows what you need even before you ask.
You have to recognize that He is God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling
As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love.
In John's Gospel, Jesus speaks several times about the Father's love for Him. We often emphasize God's love for the world and the church but forget that the Father loves the Son.
He has put all things into the Son's hand and has revealed all things to the Son. He loved the Son when the Son died on the cross. The amazing thing is believers today can personally experience that same love.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WSB | FLSB
The Virtual Altar of Prayer: (You can revisit this one anytime, anywhere, and come pray with me.) While visiting the hospital, an Elder who was a patient at the time said to me, "Elder, last night, I couldn't hear anyone praying."
Prayer involves the worship of the heavenly Father. In the morning, commit your day to Him; in the evening, render your thanks for His mercies; when the Holy Spirit prompts us to pray, pray.
Read the sixth chapter of the Book of Matthew regarding the model prayer. Christ indicates areas of concern that should be addressed in a Christian's prayer. Bring your petitions before the LORD in prayer, and God will meet you there.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
When we permit God to perform His "good work" in us, we grow in our love for one another.
True Christian fellowship is much more than having a name on a church roll or being spiritual. One of the sources of Christian joy is the fellowship that believers have in Jesus Christ.
Fellowship among Christians has to do with a growing realization that we are all undergoing the process of spiritual transformation. Together in Christ!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Wiersbe Study Bible
"Answer me speedily, O LORD." What were the answers to David's anxious waiting? These are the same answers we want to receive today.
We want to hear God's Word, to see His smile and hear His voice gives us the strength we need to overcome the enemy.
We want to receive from the LORD a knowledge of the will of God. His Spirit teaches us from the Word and shows us the path we should take. When God answers prayer, we want to bring glory to His great name.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Wiersbe Study Bible
Let God comfort you, receive comfort from Him, and use that comfort to help others in need.
When we are down and going through something, our LORD provides us with the comfort we need. If we call upon Him, He will answer as our Father who art in heaven He is the Father of all comfort. Through His goodness and mercies, we learn to share with others who may be in need.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WFT | KJB
Isaiah 43:18-19 says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | LAB
Trusting in God is considered highly important in manyfaiths as it provides a foundation for peace, stability, and guidance in life, allowing individuals to rely on a higher power, especially during challenges, by believing in God's goodness, wisdom, and plan for their lives, whichcan lead to a sense of security and purpose; it means having faith that God will care for you and guide you through life's difficulties, even when you don't fully understand the situation.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling for Moms
According to Wiersbe’s Study Bible commentary, Jesus's Sermon on the Mount is one of the most misunderstood messages.
One group says it is God’s plan of salvation, that if we ever hope to go to heaven we must obey these rules. Another group calls it a charter for world peace and begs the nations of the earth to accept it. Still, a third group tells us that the Sermon on the Mount does not apply today but will apply at some future time, perhaps during the tribulation or the millennial Kingdom.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
The Wiersbe Study Bible Commentary
“‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’
The LORD promised to Israel (and through Israel to us) a Redeemer. Isaiah continued the theme of light and darkness by announcing that the darkness and despair will not be upon her who is as distressed, as when at first. The Redeemer will come and bring the dawning of a new day to the world!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Hayes
FLSB | TWSB (Is.9:6-7; Mat. 1:18-25; Mat 2:1-12 NIV)
The Prophet Isaiah 9:6 KJV: For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
God so loved the world, that He gave His only son that we might have a chance at the Tree of Eternal Life.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TFLSB
Outlook determines the outcome, and attitude determines action. God tells us to expect trials. It is not "if you fall into trials," but "when you fall into trials."
Satan fights us, and the world opposes us, resulting in a life of battle. Thus, we must prepare ourselves for the trip of life here on earth!
Blessings to listeners of His Word. Amen.
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Wiersbe Study Bible
One Thing Have I Desired: It is the most treasured thing in his life, and David prays for it with singleness of purpose that is to be found in the House of the LORD. His greatest desire was to live in God's presence each day.
We should all have this hope, to "Seek the LORD, to be in His Presence". Those who desire to live in God's presence each day can enjoy that relationship forever.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | WSB | FLSB
IMPORTANCE OF PRAISE. The Scriptures often encourage God's people to praise the LORD.
The call to praise God reverberates throughout the N.T. Jesus Himself praised His Father in heaven. Paul expects all nations to glorify God (Rom. 15:9-11; Eph. 1:3,6,12) and James calls us to praise the LORD (Jas. 3:9; 5:13).
And in the end, the picture in Revelation is of a vast throng of both saints and angels praising God continually (Rev. 4:9-11).
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
Liberation through Christ: A New Kind of Freedom. "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that He lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ." Eph. 1:7—10Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
ML | WSB
Think about it, Moses reflected the Glory of God, but you and I may radiate the Glory of God.
"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as a mirror the glory of the LORD, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the LORD." 2 Cor. 3:18
Glory!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
We All Need The Same Grace! Our approach confirms or denies it for us: the Pharisee's pride, and the Tax Collector's humility. One's pride condemned him, and the other's humble faith saved him. Luke 18:13
Prayer is much more than the words of our lips; it is the desires of our hearts, and our hearts are constantly "desiring" before Him, even if we never speak a word.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
Embracing Love Over Fear! "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us." 1 Jn 4:18,19.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
EMOTIONS are a natural part of the human experiencethat can be positive or negative, mild or intense, and can help one understand how to react to what you're experiencing.
Emotions will do what we, in faith, order them to do.For example, when David prayed, he ordered his soul, the center of his emotions, to bless the LORD. He believed and by faith, took control of his feelings.
Remember, by faith, we can speak to those things thattry to overwhelm us. The core words are, 'by faith'.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Keep awake then and watch at all times [be discreet, attentive, and ready], praying that you may have the full strength and ability and be accounted worthy to escape all these things [taken together] that will take place, and to stand in the presence of the Son of Man. Luke 21:36Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
AMP MAT 6
What is man that You are mindful of him? Or the son of man that You visited him. You have made him to be a little lower than the Angels, however, because they have figured out a few things.
Man has gotten to the point where the more they know, the less they worship the Creator of all things. Men believe they got it all figured out. They seem not to remember that God created all things in "the heaven and the earth."
The word "created" (Heb. bara') is used exclusively for an activity only God can do.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
GFTM/ML | FLSB
Ezekiel realized the seriousness of his calling and how great the responsibility God had placed on his shoulders was. Ezekiel 3:16—21.
Ezekiel is the prophet of human responsibility. While some people blamed God for their sad plight, others blamed their ancestors, Ezekiel made it clear that each individual is held responsible and accountable before God (ch. 18).
Personal responsibility is the key here for the watchman and the people.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
To the LORD I cry aloud, and He answers me from His Holy Hill. Sometimes we have to steal away, get into our quiet space, and have a one-on-one with The LORD.
There we can tell Him all about our concerns and troubles. He will hear our faintest cry.
God hears us when we pray and responds when we urgently call upon His Name. Selah.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Our God understands our weaknesses. Jesus is our "High Priest," our Mediator with God who has full access to the Father, and He entirely understands our reality and what we are going through while here on earth.
Jesus truly gets us! Because He alone knows all about us. There is no secret that He does not know. Find your quiet space and tell Him all about your troubles, and He will answer bye and bye.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart.
Blessings until next time.
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NLT
What's stopping you from your quiet time with God? Nothing but yourself. Listen, you want to build upon a relationship with anyone, what do you do?
First, you have to spend time with them, getting to know them, right? If you want to get to know God, wouldn't that mean spending time in prayer, reading your Bible, and studying His Word?
Now, find that moment of the day in a quiet space and talk with your LORD, He is waiting on you.
Until next time, enjoy the rest of your day!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NIV
"For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall show signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect." Mark 13:22
Is it possible for Christians to be deceived? Yes, so convincing will be the arguments and proof from deceivers in the end times that it will be difficult not to fall away from Christ.
Jesus says that if we are prepared, we can remain faithful. But if we are not prepared, we will turn away.
Stay watchful, and prayerful.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
FLSB
Thy Prayers ... A Memorial Before God. God considers our prayers a sacrifice ascending to Him, reminding Him of our perseverance in calling upon Him in faith and devotion.
"May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice."
Know this: Your prayers and charitable acts will ascend as a memorial offering before God and are worthy of being remembered by God.
Blessings,
Elder B. Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | LAB
If you are in a position of spiritual leadership, this reading has some important lessons for you.
Christian leaders must know how to handle false accusations, vicious letters, unfounded press reports, and gossip. Otherwise, these devilish weapons will upset them so much that they will lose their perspective and spend so much time defending themselves that they will neglect their work, and possibly decrease in church membership.
Nehemiah didn't make that mistake; he took his problems to God in prayer. Remember, the congregation of people is not yours; they belong to the LORD.
Trust God to provide you with your answers on how to lead.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB | Catalyst
Today's reading speaks of a few of Paul's teachable moments.
The LORD knows how to bring balance to our lives. If we have only blessings, we may become proud; so He permits us to have burdens as well. That being said, we have good days and some not-so-good.
One thing is for sure, God is still in control, and all we have to do as faithful to His Word is trust Him.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
The Wiersbe Study Bible's Catalyst
Whether it is convenient or inconvenient ... "Preach the Word!" You are to be instant in season and out of season.
How can you say that you are a child of God, yet you walk around with a "do not disturb" sign hanging around your neck?
We must always be ready to proclaim God's goodness and mercy toward men. He will stand with you and strengthen you in that hour.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
"There's danger in the land ... The safest place in the whole wide world is in the Master's Hand."
"I Delight To Do Thy Will, O My GOD." Every believer should affirm these words of Christ in his or her own life.
It is by Christ's obedience to death that we have been sanctified (Hebrews 10:10) so that the law of God may be put into our hearts (Hebrews 10:16).
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Should I go or should I stay? Many before you have asked this question of yourselves.
Should I move to another church or take that new job offer? or Should I relocate to another state?
TWFYT says this; "What you must seek God about is, Am I called to go or to stay?" However, there are times when you ask God the answer that comes back, is to stay where you are!
We should always seek the LORD before we make any major decision and then wait for His reply. God will never mislead you.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Seek Him while He may be found. God has a special family love for those who through Jesus are reconciled to Him, and remain loyal to Him while experiencing tribulation in this world.
Our affection for Jesus brings forth the Father's affection toward us. Love responds to love.
Seek His Face while He may be found.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FLSB
God wants to do a "new thing" in your life—a new time of forgiveness, blessing, restoration, and God's presence.
Isaiah wrote about a "New Exodus. " Just as God had led His people out of Egypt and through the Red Sea (Exodus12—15), He would lead you if you drew nearer to Him to a "new thing."
This is your exodus, for this, we give God Praise!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FLSB
Can you put the world on hold for a few minutes? If it were so, what would you do with those moments? Would you pause to thank the LORD for all He has done?
If He asked you to, "Follow Me" or " Come Away with Me", would you without question? What if He asks you to put Him first for a change, instead of all those other things that seem more important?
Would you choose the best thing that will never be taken away from you?
Think it over.
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
SY Jesus Calling
Seek the LORD above all else. You can have only one Master, the LORD Jesus Christ.
Do not allow others' expectations to drive you. Trust the LORD to direct your paths, and lean not to your expectations.
Allow no pretense, in your Christian walk. Be real at all times and at all costs.
"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:" Eph. 5:8
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
SY's Jesus Calling
The word for you today says, "Sadly today, the road less traveled is honesty in small things and honesty in all things."
Honesty is being truthful and not lying, stealing, or deceiving. Integrity is the quality of being honest having strong moral principles, and being trustworthy and incorruptible.
Honesty and integrity are often associated with trustworthiness. They can be developed from the inside out, and involve listening to your inner voice about how you feel about what you've said or done.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
Have you ever had cause to wonder? especially about events in the Bible. For example, "I wonder if Eve ever ate fruit again after that incident in the Garden." Or, "I wonder if Noah ever slept well during storms? After the great storm that caused the big flood."
If we continue reading each Bible story related to these questions, we will find the answers to these questions and more.
Oh my the way, yes God loves you! And yes, if you repent your sins will be forgiven. Just in case you were wondering!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Max Lucado | Grace for the moment
Can you become what you read? If the world controls our thinking, we are conformers; if God controls our thinking we are transformers.
If we read and study the Word of God, memorize it, and make it a part of our inner selves, God will gradually make our minds more spiritual.
Your Bible is your basic instructions before leaving Earth!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Wiersbe Bible
Your mind is the doorway to your heart. Therefore you must guard your thoughts.
The Word of God says, "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ." 2 Cor. 10:5
Beware that the mind is a battleground. Some thoughts originate with us, while others come directly from the enemy.
Be aware that God knows every thought and nothing is hidden from Him. We will have to account to God for our thoughts as well as for our words and deeds.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Grace For The Moment | Max Lucado
The Christian is engaged in a spiritual conflict with evil. This spiritual conflict is described as a warfare of faith that continues until he enters the life to come.
The believer's victory has been secured by Christ Himself through His death on the cross.
Victory is yours in Christ Jesus!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
One of the key defenses against Satan's attack is being aware of the enemy's continual effort to gain an advantage over us and to lead us away from sincere devotion to Christ.
The believer's victory has been secured by Christ Himself through His death on the cross.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
The river was where Moses' mother placed him in hopes that he would be saved. The river took him from hopelessness and despair to where everything became possible.
There is a river of life, the river of God which can take you from the place of lack to the place of abundance.
Seek Him first and foremost, He will lead you if you are willing to follow.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Do you know that not everyone will applaud your every choice? Some will say they are with you, they're not. Some may sprinkle a little doubt or withhold any encouragement.
Then there is — you, yes you! You can sometimes be your own worst enemy. Sometimes you have to stand in your mirror and pat yourself on the back, encourage yourself!
Push yourself! First, eliminate the distractions, and turn off those negative comments.
Remember what Paul says, forget those things that are behind, and reach forward to those things that are ahead!
Believe in yourself!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Cross The Line! We should not let anything take our eyes off our goal—knowing Christ. With the single-mindedness of an athlete in training, we must lay aside everything and make up our minds. The decision to move forward or stay in place should be yours and yours alone.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Jabez prayed specifically to be protected from harm and pain. We live in a fallen world filled with sin, and it is important to ask God to keep us safe from the unavoidable evil that comes our way.
As we grow we learn spiritually those things that we should stay away from. If we are not careful the things that are not right in the sight of the LORD can easily become part of our nature. But we must also avoid evil motives, desires, and actions that begin within us.
Therefore, not only must we seek God's protection from evil, but we must also ask God to guard our thoughts and actions. We can utilize His protection by filling our minds with positive thoughts and attitudes.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Could you lie on your side for 390 days and only eat an eight-ounce meal a day that was cooked over manure? Shave all your off body? What if you were told you could not show any sorrow at the loss of your husband or wife? Could you do it?Ezekiel was a man who chose to obey God without question. Beginning with his call as a prophet and commissioning as a "watchman for the house of Israel, ".
God may not ask you to do anything quite so dramatic or difficult; as He asked of Ezekiel; but if He did, would you do it?
Ezekiel was a man who chose to obey God without question. How about you?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB
Worthless worry. We give so much energy away to worry. We worry about things that take up much of our time and add pressure to our hearts. We worry about the things that we cannot change instead of placing such things in the hands of God.
Psalms 91 says, "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. And what better place is there to be?
Let's put ourselves in the Hands of the One, The Most High who made us a sincere promise to keep us and be with us no matter what storm or storms may come against us. He is our Rock and Shield, our Mighty God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Grace For The Moment | Full Life Bible Commentary
A Chosen People: Believers are set apart from the worldto belong completely to God (Acts 20:28; Tit. 2:14) and proclaim the gospel of salvation to His glory and praise.
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood,a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." 1 Peter 2:9
He picked you out!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLB | GFTM
TRUSTING GOD IN ADVERSITY. It is easy to think that we have all the answers. In reality, only God knows exactly why things happen as they do, and we mustsubmit to Him as our Sovereign.
A Test of Faith, trust God even when you can't traceHim.
Trust and know He already knows just what you need.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB
"Ever good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17
The Bible often compares goodness with light and evil with darkness.
The purpose of God giving us spiritual gifts is clear. God, our Father who art in Heaven and loves us infinitely, has gifted us with gifts. Think of the gift of free will, the gift of receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit.
We are ever so thankful for the wonderful gifts of God!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Grace For The Moment | LAB
"So the king restored all that was hers, and all the fruits of the field since the day that she left the land, even until now."
Because this woman demonstrated sincere faith and remained faithful to God's prophet in a time of general apostasy, the LORD guided and helped her in her time of need by the way of divine intervention.
There is no door that God cannot open that man has locked.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
God is often pictured as a Shepherd, gently caring for and guiding His flock. He is powerful, yet careful and gentle. He is called a Shepherd (Ps. 23); the good Shepherd (John 10:11,14); the great Shepherd (Heb. 13:20); and the Chief Shepherd (1 Pet. 5:4).
Note that the Shepherd cares for the most defenseless members of His society: children and those caring for them.
This reinforces the prophetic theme that the truly powerful nation is not the one with a strong military, but rather the one that relies on God's caring strength.
Remember, God is the Great Comforter.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB
SEEK ME. Believing that God exists is only the beginning; even the demons believe that much.
God will not settle for mere acknowledgment of His existence. He wants a personal, dynamic relationship with you that will transform your life.
Those who seek God will be rewarded with His intimate presence. SEEK ME.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | LAB
Don't rush to judgment! Jesus tells us to examine our motives and conduct instead of judging others. The traits that bother us in others are often the habits we dislike in ourselves.
Jesus' statement, "Do not judge," is against the kind of hypocritical, judgmental attitude that tears others down to build oneself up.
Remember be careful of that finger you point at another because you have three fingers and a thumb pointing back at you!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Why do we worry? The Bible tells us that we should not worry about tomorrow, it asks us "Where is our faith?"
The rich man in Jesus' story died before he could use what was stored in his big barns. Planning for retirement and preparing for life before death is wise, but neglecting life after death is disastrous!
Live today as if Jesus was coming tomorrow. If you accumulate wealth only to enrich yourself, with no concern for helping others, you will enter eternity empty-handed.
Trust in God and consider how the lilies grow.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | LAB
Have you ever been asked, "How do I become a Christian?" These verses (Rom. 10:8-12) give you the beautiful answer — salvation is as close as your mouth and heart.
People think it must be a complicated process, but it is not. If we believe in our hearts and say with our mouths that Christ is the risen LORD, we will be saved.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Knowing when it's best to speak or to hold your peace. The Bible says, "For everything, there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven ... A time to be quiet and a time to speak" Ecc. 3:7
Solomon's emphasis on this phrase reminds us all, that there are times when we should zip our lips. It's OK not to have the answer to everything. Then when you know the answer, it does not mean you have to be quick to provide the solution.
However, there are times when God's people should speak, such as when the Bible commands us to speak out against injustice or when believers should not keep silent about their faith in Jesus.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | AMP | Commentary
ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD. This passage greatly encourages the children of God when we must endure suffering in this life.
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God will bring good out of all affliction, trials, persecution, and suffering; the good that God brings about is conforming us to the image of Christ and ultimately bringing about our glorification.
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This promise is limited to those who love God and have submitted to Him by faith in Christ.
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The "all things" do not include our sins and negligence; no one can excuse sin by maintaining that God will work it out for good.
We have victory in Christ Jesus!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Listens | AMPB | FLSB
The crowd believed that the Messiah would restore Israel nationally and rule the nations politically.
They had failed to understand the purpose that Jesus expressed regarding His coming into the world.
Mark 11
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
When God Opens The Door: Either the door of opportunity or the door to the Kingdom.
In seeking to know God's Will, there are two things you should never do. First, when the door is closed, get impatient and force it open. Second, create your own door.
In this context, the door seems to be the entrance into heaven and "the new Jerusalem".
Jesus uses this gateway status, referring to Himself as the One who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens. He is sovereign over who is admitted to His Kingdom, He holds the key of David, an allusion to Isaiah 22:22.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | MBC | HSB
God's promises for the safety of loved ones. We can find peace in God's refuge and strength. His unmatched protection is God's guarantee.
God will keep your loved ones safe, continue to trust in Him and His Promises.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Be Present in the Moment: Trying to keep your mind on what is taking place at that very moment can be hard, especially when you feel you have a hundred to a thousand other things running through your mind.
We can end up missing out on life's most precious moments when we are not actively present in the moment God has blessed us to be in.
Remember tomorrow is not promised to any of us. So let us love and learn to appreciate the people who are in our lives today.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Define success as sowing, not reaping. Christians can give either generously or sparingly; God will reward them accordingly (Mat. 7:1—2).
Remember the widow who gave little, but God considered it much because of the proportion she gave and the complete dedication she reflected.
The more you give, the more He gives to you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
How to ease financial stress, everyone thinks or believes they have a handle on how to lower stress when it comes to finances. Listen to a few great suggestions offered by Bob and Debbie of UCB:
A. Paying God first and being mindful of expenditures.
B. Communicating and being in agreement with your spouse.
C. Committing to excellence at work and paying off debt.
D. Saving monthly and setting up an emergency cash supply.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WFT UCB
Be A Giver! Isn't it better to give than to receive? This is what the Word says in Acts 20:35 "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”
Remember, in blessing others you are blessed!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Strengthened ... Inner Man. To have the "inner man" strengthened by the Spirit is to have our feelings, thoughts, and purposes placed more and more under His influence and direction so that the Spirit can manifest His power through us in greater measure.
Listen to STRENGTH THROUGH THE SPIRIT.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
The path to personal growth is the process of becomingmore aware of yourself, and changes in the things that you do, your habits, and your values. As you grow your outlook changes as well as your behavior. It’s like shaking off the old and starting afresh. This could be your home life, your career, and or those around you.
Most people who are on the path to personal growth find their first mentor within the pages of a book they have read. That's all well and good, but suppose you had a question regarding ‘Point #4’, you couldn't just call the author.
FIND A MENTOR: You know the Bible is the best Mentoryou can find. Within those 66 books are Words of guidance, instruction, teachings, and warnings. Also knowledge and wisdom, dos and don'ts? It's all in there.From Genesis to Revelation.
BLESSINGS,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
All the sufferings of this present age—sickness, pain, misery, disappointments, poverty, mistreatment, sorrow, persecution, and trouble of any kind — must be considered insignificant when compared with the blessing, experience, privileges, and glory that will be given to the faithful believer in the age to come.
In the Book of 2nd Corinthians 4th chapter verses, 8 and 17 we find words of strength in times of weakness; (8)"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but now destroyed. (17) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;"
A Christian is an "earthen vessel" who sometimes experiences some or most of these things, yet because of the heavenly "treasure" within him or her, you are not defeated.
"For when I am weak, then am I strong" 2 Cor. 12:10
Finding strength in weakness, reach for your Bible.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FLSB
THE LORD STOOD WITH ME. "At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me." 2 Tim. 4:16
Some have said, "It is lonely at the top." While the teams around them may surround a leader, he or she can feel isolated from others.
The loneliness of those in leadership can be attributed to several factors, including the need to maintain a professional persona. Also, they are held to higher standards than those that they lead.
Take a listen to "Leadership Can Be Lonely".
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | HSB
THOU SHALT NOT COVET: Coveting involves the desire or lust for all that is wrong or belongs to another person.
Paul claims this commandment reveals the depth of human sinfulness, Rom. 7:7—13. This law, as well as the others, exposes the depravity of men and women and calls for them to seek grace and moral power from God.
Focus on the blessings God gives you, not those of your neighbors. Trust and believe your gift has your name on it, God does not make mistakes.
"Mr. Smith brought his family, a new house. Here's what you should say, hooray for the Smiths!"
Envy, it does not look good on you!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Behaving like a Christian means showing love, kindness, and genuine affection. Having diligence, fervent Spirit, and serving the LORD with all your heart, and mind.
Rejoicing in hope, patience in tribulation, and steadfast in prayer.
We are rejoicing and weeping with others, being of the same mindset as the teachings of Christ.
We are leaving revenge to God and overcoming evil with good.
Showing generosity, hospitality, and blessing persecutors.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Hayes
WSB
Rely upon the Power of God to bring about change in and to your life. You can shake off the old you and add a new bounce to your step. If you truly trust in Him and His Word, you can change.
Steady effort and determination for lasting changes, are there all within you! Have faith in God and faith in yourself.
Starting each day afresh and putting this verse to memory; "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Excellent! You got this!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
The Bible in the Book of James mentions the most common problems in prayer: not asking, asking for the wrong things, asking for the wrong reasons, or just the plain failure to keep praying about it.
The Bible says we have not because we ask not, and then at other times we ask amiss.
Do you talk to God at all? and when you do is it just to ask for something. Do you ask to satisfy your desires? Do you seek God's approval for what you already plan to do? Your prayers will become powerful when you allow God to change your desires so that they perfectly correspond to His will for you (1 John 3:21, 22).
Keep praying about it, don't give up or give in. If the LORD God intends for you to have it, you shall.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB | AMP
REBUILD YOUR MARRIAGE: Peter mentions three things husbands must be concerned about concerning their wives.
(1) They must be considerate and understanding, living with their wives in love and harmony with God's Word (Eph. 5:25—33; Col. 3:19).
Listen to the reading to hear the last of the three things Peters suggests to husbands.
Be sure to leave a comment! and Subscribe!
Blessings and enjoy!
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
MY FATHER'S HOUSE. This phrase refers to heaven, for Jesus must "go" there to prepare a place for us (Mat. 6:9). God has a home where there are many rooms and to which the "household of God" now on earth (Eph. 2:19) will be transferred; "here we have no continuing city" (Heb. 13:14).
As certain as Christ went to heaven, He shall return from His Father's presence and take His followers to be with Him in heaven, to the place prepared for them. This is the hope of all believers. The ultimate purpose of the LORD's return is that believers may forever be with Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FLSB
EVERY DAY I WILL BLESS THEE. No day should pass without praising and thanking God for His blessings and gifts to us. He is our Maker, Redeemer, and Provider.
The LORD is Gracious. This oft-repeated refrain expresses God's delight in showing mercy. When He sees misery, it moves His heart to compassion. He is slow to become angry at our offenses and quickly shows mercy when forgiveness is requested.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.
I thank You, LORD, for Your goodness and mercy.
See how many times you pause to give thanks to God during a day.
Remember thankfulness opens the door!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | HSB
Because you are "accepted" in Christ, you can be sure that God will answer your prayers.
The LORD spoke and announced what He would do for those of His people who truly loved Him and acknowledged Him with obedient lives.
Among His blessings will be deliverance and protection, answered prayer, companionship in times of trouble, honor, satisfaction, and a long life. (Ps. 21:4; Ex. 20:12; Deut. 30:20).
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
Paul shared this with us: "I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I'm self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]."
Jesus said, "I am with you always."
It does not matter how things seem, we must trust that our LORD God made a promise to us that He would be with us, not some of the time, but all of the time.
Some rely upon horses, others depend upon their governments and/or other folks. But I'll put my trust in the One who promises to never leave me nor forsake me no matter what the situation may look like.
In God, you can depend upon Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
Trusting in the LORD with all our hearts is the opposite of doubting God and His word.
Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. Pro. 3:5.
Trusting in God is a conscious dependence on God, much like leaning on a tree for support. The command to acknowledge Him means to observe Him and get to know Him in the process of living.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | HSB | FLSB
Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.
"A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:" Pro. 1:5 It is good to share your insights and the wisdom of things you have learned.
The Book of Proverbs speaks of wisdom and the importance of gaining as much as possible and reaching for more.
Wisdom, as used in this book (Proverbs), means living and thinking according to God's truth, ways, and design.
Gaining knowledge is far better than possessing silver and gold.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
MY SOUL THIRSTETH FOR GOD. "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, my God." Psalm 42:1
Water is essential for the satisfaction and wholeness of life. True believers will hunger and thirst for God and His grace, blessing, and supernatural activity.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FLSB
When God says go, we should prepare to leave without question. Despite what it may look like, grab what you can and move.
God may be telling someone to move on to the next thing or to trust Him in a new adventure. Hesitation has caused many to miss out on their blessings from God.
When the LORD spoke to Abram, He called him to leave everything—home, family, land. Abram moved forward without even a map to show where he was going.
Recall when God spoke to Noah about building an Ark, without instruction or the reason why he should make something of that magnitude. Noah began to build, not knowing what lay ahead, and because he listened his family was spared from the death of a watery grave.
Isn't the sacrifice worth the blessings of God? It's your time, go and get your blessing!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLNKJV
Bring Me all your feelings. Fear and anxiety can wear you down if you allow them to. These attacks can come at you unaware, freezing you in place.
At those times we must affirm our trust in God and know that He already knows what we are experiencing and is there to keep us anchored.
Turn them over to Jesus, He can work them out on our behalf!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling
Life is full of choices. We've all made good choices and bad choices, wise ones and foolish ones.
Proverbs 2:6 says, "For the LORD gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." God gives us wisdom and victory but not for drifting through life or acting irresponsibly with His gifts and resources.
If ever in doubt seek the LORD first and foremost before making that next step. Then stay upon the path He has laid for you. Making the right choice will keep you from a life full of regrets.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TEC | LAB
Sometimes through affliction, God intends to create endurance in us, which produces proven character, and proven character produces hope.
Hope, like faith, is only as good as its object just as our faith can only lead to salvation if it is faith in God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB | TEC
Never allow anyone or anything to compromise your walk with the LORD your God. Satan will place obstacleson your path. You either step over them or go around them, but you do let them hinder you in no way, form, or fashion. Put distance between you and the world.
If you are a confessed Christin honor God by staying true to His Word, by your faith, and by living life according to the Word of God.
The reading tells us that the best way to succeed in life is to stand on Bible principles. Delight in God’s Word. The book of Psalms opens with an exaltation of God’s Word. If David so loved the few writings that then constituted God’s Word, how much more should we love that same Word.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | HSB
Do not com
Expecting Good Things From God. Some say that expectations from God can be shaped by faith in God and knowledge of God's will—hope and future, strength, rest, love, peace, and meeting one's needs.
This is what Is. 30:18 tells us; Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore He will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | HSB
Jesus, He is the Lover of my soul. He took my place back at Calvery, only He hung on that rugged cross. He died so that I might live. He is The Lover of my Soul.
He died so that we might live. This is the positive aspect of our identification with Christ: We not only died with Him but we also were raised with Him so that we might "walk in the newness of life" (Rom. 6:4). Therefore, I am an overcomer!
He is The Lover of your soul!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | WSB
AFTER THIS MANNER ... PRAY. With model prayer, Christ indicates areas of concern that should occupy prayer.
1) Steal away to your personal space. 2) Do not use vain repetitions, as the heathen does. Why? Because they think they will be heard because of their many words. So do not babble on, and on.
Talk to God, and tell Him all about your needs. He already knows what you require, even before you ask, therefore be open, be honest.
"Have a little talk with Jesus, and tell Him all about your troubles, He will hear your smallest cry and will answer by and by."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Trust Me in all your thoughts. "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Ps. 20:7 Our trust should be in the LORD God, who knows everything and sees everything.
The Word of God helps to overcome thoughts of negativity. It addresses fear, self-doubt, and self-criticism.
Phil. 4:8 says: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in Me — put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
Whenever doubt clouds your mind, trust God in all your thoughts. Instead, commit such things to God in prayer, trusting He will deliver you from those thoughts that are unconscious or semi-conscious.
Trust in God!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | WSB | HSB
The mentors you take advice from help to shape you. If you are blessed to find wise leaders, good role models, and positive friends, they will speed you on your journey.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
Come, learn what it means to be a child of the King! Your richest duty is devotion to your Father who Art in Heaven.
The Creator is calling to His children to come and spend time alone with Him. to seek His Face, to enter intoHis presence with joy, singing, and praise.
Be still in His presence listen for that small stillvoice to speak to your heart. Come and know that He is God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling
For we speak and act from the overflow of our hearts. Jesus used the illustration of a tree to remind us that fruit is always true to its character.
An apple tree can only produce apples, not oranges, therefore a good person produces the good from within their heart, not evil.
The heart, the center of our being, determines our outward behavior and deeds and must be changed or converted. Without that inward change, no one can do God's will.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | WSB | FLSB
The importance of why you should not judge! Jesus' statement reminds us that we reap what we sow and how much we sow. If we judge others, we will ourselves be judged.
If we forgive, we shall be forgiven, but if we condemn, we shall be condemned. Jesus was not talking about eternal judgment but about how we are treated in this life.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | WSB
"That's Jesus' Way of Telling me He loves me." Do you remember when one of the Church Mothers' calls to service was done in song? There was no music, just that sweet voice would fill the entire sanctuary, and everyone would start filling in the seats as they knew it was prayer time.
Let's sit back and take a trip down memory lane.
Blessings and enjoy!
Elder Barbara Hayes
Distractions can be your family members, like my family who continually interrupt me to look at old photos as I write the description for today's devotional. "Ma, look at this one..." LOL
Distractions cancause you to lose focus on the most important things in your life; family, and work. They can also be caused by a loss of interest in the primary activity, an inability to pay attention, or the intensity of the distraction itself.
However, the worst distractions are the ones (if allowed) that take a person's attention away from God.
Our prayer should be, LORD please deliver me from distractions from the importance of serving You!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NIV
An invitation to try before you buy. This invite also contains a promise to you.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
If we trust in Him, He can help us with our feelings. We have the assurance that God is near to us when our hearts are broken and our spirits are crushed, whether we feel like it or not. This is not a promise with conditions attached to it; it is a fact!
Come, taste, and see that the LORD is good, Blessed is the man or woman that places their trust in His Hands!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | WSB
Come Rest With Me A While: The LORD said, "I Am with you, I will never forsake you. I Am your friend when you are lonely. I'll be your bridge over troubled waters, your Spiritual Bread when you need filling. I'll be your rest when you grow tired and weary.
Even lions may get weak and hungry, but those who look to the LORD will have every good thing. Ps. 34:10
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FL
Why does God choose weak people to do His Will?
The Bible tells the stories of many people who God chose to do extraordinary things, even though they had weaknesses: for instance, Moses had a speech impediment, yet God used him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. And not just Moses, what of Esther, Nehemiah, Jonah, and Gideon who hid in a winepress when an angel appeared to him?
Do not let what you call a weakness keep you from your calling. The Word of God 1 Co. 1:27 says, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."
When He calls, let your answer be: "Here I am LORD, use me."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NIV
"You shall not be afraid of the terror by night," These Words are quoted from Psalm 91:1. Letting us know that underneath the Shadow of the Almighty, we have a secure, hiding place.
Jesus pictured Salvation by describing chicks hiding under the wings of the mother hen, v4 "He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge;"
If ever you feel as if you are alone and have nowhere to turn, remember that He is Almighty (Shaddai), the all-sufficient God who is adequate for every situation.
God protects you!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSB
Fear thou not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God. Isaiah 41:10. "Hold My Hand". We can claim the promises of this verse for ourselves.
We must not fear other humans because God is with us, to impart the grace and strength needed to face all the circumstances of life; to help us through crises as our source of peace; and to sustain us and be our advocate.
All we must do is never let go of His Hand.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling | FLSB
Would you be ready if God needs you to do something for Him today? Would you be willing?
In Damascus, there was a disciple named Ananias (Acts 9:10) who received such a call in a vision, his reply was "Yes, LORD."
Here's a question to ponder ...
Would you be prepared if God needed you to do something for Him today?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WSB | TWFYT
First, what makes a good mentor? I recall Rev. Mary, a former Chaplain of Children's Hospital Boston saying, "Active listening is an important key". Another is empathy, being able to stand in the shoes of another.
TWFYT notes: "The understanding, experience, and wisdom of mentors help us solve problems we would have a hard time handling independently."
Take a listen to today's reading and maybe you will hear some pointers that might prove helpful when choosing a mentor.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
Elder, "I just don't feel like laughing, my life is upside down!" We all experience those days. However, did you know that the Bible says, "A Cheerful Heart is Good Medicine!"
That same scripture also says, "But a crushed spirit dries up the bones." YIKES!!
Pro. 31:25 "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
A little bit of laughter will lighten your load and make you feel better if you give time a chance. You will look back one day and say it wasn't as bad as it seemed.
Trust God, and turn it over to Jesus, He can work out any problem! Now smile and remember you are a child of the King! When someone says how big the problem is, tell them how big your God is! and SMILE!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | NIV
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." John 8:12
To "follow" the LORD Jesus means to believe in Him, to trust Him, and the results are life and light for the believer.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSB
I HAVE LOVED YOU with everlasting love.
The LORD expressed His love for His followers in this devotional.
He waits patiently for them to realize that He is their everlasting Father - offering them guidance to the path of a life in eternity. "When the time was right, I revealed Myself to you. I lifted you out of a sea of despair and set you down on a firm foundation."
God's love transience all love. The love only One can give as He laid down His life in hopes of giving you a new life, free from sin.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
SY Jesus Calling
A SPECIAL THANK YOU, TO YOU!
Hello to one and all,
I am sending a special heartfelt thanks to each of you for your listening participation, prayers, and comments regarding this podcast, The Church Within You!
Thank you for sharing the podcast with your family and friends as well as each testimonial.
I pray that the LORD will continue to use me in His Service in any way He sees fit. I am truly willing to run on all the way.
Thank you once again for all of your prayers. I pray the LORD continues to use you as His instrument to pass along the good news, in Jesus' Name.
Thank you once again, I truly appreciate you being here with me!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Vision ... For An Appointed Time. God has a purpose and a plan for you already laid out. Maybe you are an artist, a songwriter, or an author and feel that as much as you try you cannot get the notice you believe you should for your gift. Never stop believing in your dream.
God has a set time, pray seek His guidance, and trust that if He blesses your vision it will come to pass in God's time, not ours.
Trust and believe in yourself and continue the work.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
The Meaning of The Fear Of The LORD, part 1.
First, if we truly fear the LORD, we will live a life of obedience to His commandments and say "No" to sin.
Solomon taught that "by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil". In Ecclesiastes 12:13, the whole duty of the human race is summarized in two brief imperatives: "Fear God, and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man".
Just as there is a sanctifying effect in the truth of God's Word (John 17:17), so there is a sanctifying effect in the fear of God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB | LAB
If you Google the word Parable it will provide you with a simple definition: "a short simple story illustrating a moral or spiritual truth." Yes, it is a story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual life learning lesson, as told by Jesus.
This episode provides three of Jesus' Parables; The Sower, The Growing Seed, and The Mustard Seed, accompanied with commentaries.
Blessings to the listener.
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | NKJB | HSB
NOTE THIS! Full Life Bible Commentary states: "Picking up snakes or drinking poison is not to be ritualized and made into a "trial by ordeal" in order to prove one's spirituality.
These are promises given to believers who encounter such dangers in their normal work for Christ. It is a sin to "test" God by initiating unnecessary danger or trials (Mat. 4:5—7; 10:23; 24:16—8).
SIGNS OF BELIEVERS
Mark 16:17—18 "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB Commentary
"Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?"
Trust in the LORD and do good, for His Goodness and Mercies are extended to all who love the LORD, their God, with all their heart, mind, and soul.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Take time each day to be still and to exalt God.
Psalms 46:10 He says, "Be still, and know that I am God",
War and destruction are inevitable, but so is God's final victory.
At that time, all will stand quietly before the LORD Almighty. How proper, then, for us to be still now, reverently honoring Him and His power and Majesty.
Blessings evermore,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | LAB
"In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me". Psalm 56:4
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. I will not fear. I will praise His Word. When the times seem to be the hardest, we must remember that God always has us.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | EWM | KJV
Genesis 39:21 says, "But the LORD was with Joseph, and showed him mercy, and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison".
At some point in our lives, we may face difficulties, like Joseph. However, we must believe that our LORD Jesus is always with us and there for us.
Then there are the times when someone is out to mean us no good, yet the LORD stated in Genesis 50:20, As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.
What might be intended as harm for you, know that your God can turn it so that the result is found in your favor.
Trust God at all times no matter what it may look like, know that He is still in control!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NKJV
Focus on your mate's best qualities by writing down those things you love about him or her. If you want to build a happy marriage or improve a less-than-happy one, recall those items of importance.
Remember that love, patience, kindness, unselfishness, love for the truth, honesty, trust, and endurance in righteousness should be found in us.
Paul bottom-lines it this way: "If you love someone you will be loyal ... no matter what the cost. You will always believe in him, always expect the best of him, and always stand your ground in defending him." (1 Co. 13:7)
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]' I have overcome the world." [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]
John 16:33
AMP
Jesus answered, "I AM THE WAY and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
There will be times when things do not always set just so. If you are a child of the King, you must remember that your God is Sovereign over all your circumstances. There is nothing too hard for God.
Jesus said He is the only way to God the Father. Some people may argue that this way is too narrow. In reality, it is wide enough for the whole world, if the world chooses to accept it.
Keep the faith, God knows your name and sees what you are going through. Remember there is nothing too hard for God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | LAB
Fear not, for I am with you. This is both a command and a promise. Fear, worry, and anxiety are often sin. When the God who rules over the nations as described in Isaiah 41:2-4, the God who chose us and loves us as described in Isaiah 41:8-9, when that God tells us fear not, we must take it seriously!
We are much more prone to fear and discouragement when we are alone. But we are never alone because God has declared, fear not, for I am with you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | LAB
Approach each new day with the desire to find Me!
Every morning as you rise, rise with the desire to search for the LORD your God. "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD. Jer. 29:13, 14
Add Him to your schedule first and foremost. Thank Him, and ask Him to be with you throughout the day. Remember to include Him in everything, not just one thing, but EVERYTHING.
When the day is done, you'll see just how wonderful it was to have Jesus share the day with you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | LAB
Do you ever think that because you aren't good enough for God, He will not Save you?
Do you ever feel as if salvation is for everyone else but you?
News flash!! God gave His Son for you, He isn't going to hold back the gift of salvation from you! If Christ gave His life for you, He isn't going to turn around and condemn you! He will not withhold anything you need to live for Him.
Remember, He is the Creator of all things, and there's nothing too hard for Him. He offers you an abundant life, trust in Him. There is nothing too hard that the Creator cannot fix.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | LAB
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Mat. 11:28-30.
Know this, only He can forgive you of your sins, take you in, and lead you into His Righteousness.
Whenever you are ready, remember Jesus is waiting.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | LAB
"The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace."
When you have made up your mind that in Christ you live, you are welcome in the presence of God, the presence that will never leave you nor forsake you. In His presence, you never walk alone.
In His presence, there is joy forevermore, safe and secure under the covering of the LORD. Practice the discipline of walking consciously with Him throughout your day.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | NIV
In the LORD's presence is the right place to put our minds.
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."
In the presence of God, there is peace and joy. What Paul describes here is a practical way to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
For in His presence, there is joy forevermore.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Jesus Calling | FLSB
How to know God. Does anyone have an excuse for not believing in God? The Bible answers an emphatic no. God has revealed what He is like in and through His creation. Nature shows us a God of might, intelligence, and intricate detail; a God of order and beauty; and a God who controls powerful forces.
We learn through special revelation, the Bible about God's love and forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life.
Every person, therefore, either accepts or rejects God.
Don't be fooled. When the day comes for God to judge your response to Him, no excuses will be accepted.
Begin today to give your devotion and worship to Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | LAB
Sometimes, less is more. Do you need to reduce? Self-sufficiency is an enemy when it causes us to believe we can always do what needs to be done in our strength. In the Bible, to prevent this attitude among Gideon's soldiers, God reduced their number from 32,000 to 300. With an army this small, there could be no doubt that victory was from God.
Sometimes, less is more. Remember when someone tells you how big their problem is, remind them of how big their God is.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The fear of inadequacy is a state of mind in which you think your best is not good enough. TWFYT tells us to "first, acknowledge your inadequacy to God."
What God bestows on us is always sufficient for us to live our daily lives, to work for Him, and to endure our suffering and "thorns in the flesh". 1 Cor. 10:13.
As long as we draw near to Christ, Christ will bestow His heavenly strength and comfort us.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Are you raising children alone? It may seem so. However, know that God is watching over you and all of the effort you put into parenting. And if you are a single parent the way sometimes seems even harder than most. God sees all and knows all and He is making a way for you, single Moms and Dads as well. Therefore, you are not alone!
A portion of Scripture Psalms 30:5 says this, "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."
As a mother hen who will expand her wings to cover her young, so does the LORD God do so for you. He will keep you and cover you. Trust in God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB
Leaning is the sense of putting your whole weight on something, resting on and trusting in that person or thing. When we have an important decision to make, we sometimes feel that we can't trust anyone — not even God. But God knows what is best for us. He is a better judge of what we want than even we are!
We must not be wise in our own eyes!
Bring your decisions to God in prayer; use the Bible as your guide; and then follow God's leading. He will make your paths straight by both guiding and protecting you.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NKJSB | LAB
DON'T GET STUCK IN THE PAST! Paul warned us to forget those things in our past. He was referring to such things as past hurtful relationships, loss of jobs, the friend that walked away from you, and failures, those things are baggage that will only weigh you down and hold you, hostage, to everything that is behind you.
Remember the story of Lot's wife, God had said to escape from the city and not to look back, and she did. In doing so, she died turning into a pillow of salt.
Put your spiritual blinders on and focus on what lies directly ahead. Your blinders will not allow you to look to the left or the right. Stay on the path that God has laid before you.
Do not get stuck in your past.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLSB | LAB
This doxology — prayer of praise to God — ends Part One of Ephesians. The family of God includes all who have believed in Him in the past, all who believe in the present, and all who will believe in the future.
We are all a family because we have the same Father He is the source of all creation, the rightful owner of everything. God promises His love and power to His family and the church.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB
"It's only a test you're going through, the LORD is using you. Keep the faith and you will win the race, it's only a test!"
Just as fire refines silver in the smelting process, trials refine our character. They bring us new and deeper wisdom, helping us discern truth from falsehood and giving us the discipline to do what we knowis right.
Above all, these trials help us realize that life is a gift from God to be cherished, not a right to be taken for granted.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Put your faith and trust in the One who changes not! David stated, "What can mortal man do to me?" Jesus said, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul" (Mat. 10:28). Instead, we should fear God, who controls this life and the next.
Even in our deepest sorrow, God cares! Jesus reminded us further of how much God understands us — He knows even the number of hairs on our heads (Mat. 10:30). Often we waver between faith and fear. When you feel so discouraged that you are sure no one understands, remember that God knows every problem and sees every tear.
Keep your faith in the hands of the One who never changes.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
"His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things, enter thou into the joy of thy lord." Mat. 25:21
There may come a time in your life when you are put to a test, you will not know that you are being tested. It is by your own will the outcome.
These are the times you put your faith in action and your reliance upon God that you choose the right way.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | KJFLSB
Her son died saving the life of his friend, and when this friend asked her did she think whether her son, "loved him?"
She shook her finger in his face and shouted, "What more could he have done for you?"
Now think of Jesus as He was hanging there on the cross, and you ask, "Does God love me?" and His mother pointing to her Son, saying, "What more could He have done for you?" He paid the price for your salvation, "What more can He do?"
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NIV
STORMPROOF FOR LIFE! Obeying God is like building a house on a strong, solid foundation that stands firm when storms come.
When life is calm, our foundations don't seem to matter. But when crises come, our foundations are tested.
Be sure your life is built on the solid foundation of knowing and trusting in Jesus Christ your Savior.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Stress is like kryptonite (Superman's nemesis), and it's out to knock off your cape and diminish you to a heap of trembling, useless mush!
SHAKE IT OFF!! We are not going to claim it!
I know there will be times when we all feel the pressure of the world around us and days filled with rain. However, you and I must remember there are ways to shake it off and try not to allow stress to get the best of us.
Take a walk, search the Scriptures, and let us try turning it all over to Jesus. He can work it out, no matter the problem, Jesus can work it out!
Blessings,
Elder Hayes
TWFYT | HB
A friend loves at all times. When you're up, they're not envious, when you're down, they're not condescending.
Proverbs make it clear that true friendship is based on love because only love will endure the tests that friends experience as they go through life together.
We may have many companions and no real friends. "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Pro. 18:24
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSB
"I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you." Isaiah 44:22
Our God is longsuffering toward sinners. He has blotted out thy transgression, as a cloud and your sins when you come to the LORD with a sincere repenting heart.
One must forgive oneself of past sins, why carry baggage that the LORD has cast into the sea of forgetfulness? The only ones that go fishing for those past things are men.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSB
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand that He may lift you in due time.
No matter the storm we are going through, if we keep our trust in God and stand firmly upon His Word, He will bring us through.
Listen to today's reading to receive the scripture text concerning standing despite what it might look like.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
Come join me as we gather for this afternoon's Good Friday Prayer.
Blessings in Jesus Holy Name,
Amen,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
On Friday Jesus arrived in Bethany six days before the Passover to spend some time with His friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. While here, Mary anointed His feet with costly perfume as an act of humility. This tender expression indicated Mary's devotion to Jesus and her willingness to serve Him.
Take a moment to listen to the 10 points of interest that occurred during this most Holy Week.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Full Life Study Bible
The right attitude. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Php 2:3-4
Blessings
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
HSB | TWFYT
Concerning the Holy Spirit's activity in helping the believer in prayer, three observations are important:
- We have two divine intercessors.
2 The Spirit intercedes with the groans uttered by the believer.
- The spiritual desires and yearnings of believers in Christ find their source in the Holy Spirit, who dwells within our hearts.
Blessings in prayer,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Full Life Study Bible (FLSB)
If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.
But he must ask [for wisdom] in faith, without doubting [God's willingness to help], for the one who doubts is like a billowing surge of the sea that is blown about and tossed by the wind. Jas 1:5-6
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | HBAMP
Do you ever wish that you could get a parenting do-over? Or wish there was the perfect guide on how to raise a troubled free teenager, maybe there is something here for you.
Listen to the episodes coming from, The Word For You Today! RAISING GREAT KIDS IN A TROUBLED WORLD.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
“I THANK MY God upon every remembrance of you, always inevery prayer of mine making request for you all with joy.” Phi. 1:3
Every recollection that Paul had of the believers back in Phillippi, he remembered with joy. While he awaited his pending trial in Rome, Paul found joy in remembering them before the throne of grace in prayer. Perhaps the deepest Christian fellowship and joy we can experience in this life is at the throne of grace, praying with and for one another.
He recalled Lydia and her household, the poor slave girl who had been demon-possessed, the jailer and his family who found Christ, and the other dear Christians at Phillippi. Each recollection was a source of joy.
When you pray do you think of others who are in need? Do you intercede on behalf of families, neighbors, co-workers, the homeless, the sick and shut-in, our seniors, youth, and those caught in war-torn areas?
We should all be partakers in prayer for one another. Let us remember to keep each other lifted in our prayers.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
Lying always comes with consequences. Proverbs 12:22 says“Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.”
We can find many ways to turn words into weapons anddamage others. As this verse points out, we hurt others by lying. We also know that “Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight!
Solomon warns us against bearing false witness and violating the ninth commandment. When those around you find out that you have lied, it robs you of those ever-having confidence in you again. Truthful words stand the test of time but lies are soon exposed.
This is what the Book of Ephesians has to say regarding being untruthful. Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speaktruth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. Eph. 4:25
The truth may sting a little, but its bite is not that of a lie.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
Come Out of That Corner, is a reading using the Book of Ruth, a love story about a man and a young widow. It's a redemption story regarding this wealthy man, a young woman, and a near kinsman.
The Book reminds us that God is still at work in our lives. He has not forgotten you nor your faithfulness towards Him. Your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.
When Boaz saw Ruth, he called her out of the corner of the field into the midst of the harvest field. Even though you may be in a crowd of people, God can make it so, just like Ruth, that you stand out among them all.
Be assured God has not forgotten you, nor does He overlook you. When He has prepared for you, you will hear Him call, "Come Out of That Corner!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | TWSB
The world's worst prison is the prison of an unforgiving heart. If we refuse to forgive others, then we are only imprisoning ourselves and causing our torment.
Jesus warned that God cannot forgive us if we do not have humble and repentant hearts. We reveal the true condition of our hearts by the way we treat others.
Today, search your heart and see if there is anything you hold against another, if so, let it go. Forgive with all sincerity, and please do not allow "that seed of unforgiveness" to make you miss heaven!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WSB
There will come a time in your life when you will stand at a crossroads. The decision is up to you whether you will go forward or go back. Will you step over the line and go forward in faith, not knowing what you may or may not face?
Here is where it will determine where your faith lies. Will you trust God, pray, set aside fear, and step out in faith? Think about it.
Will you be like Ruth and go forward, or will you be like Orpah and turn back? The choice is yours.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
CATALYST: Enter into the inheritance God appoints for you and rejoice in it. Believe and receive what your Heavenly Father has for you. Since you have a glorious inheritance before you, keep looking up! The best is yet to come!
In Jesus Christ, all believers are one and are heirs of God. "You do not have, it because you do not ask" God for it!
God wants to give all His people their inheritance. Are you in line for your blessing? Remember your Father is rich in houses and land, He holds the wealth of the world in the palm of His hand! Aren't you glad to know, you are a child of the King?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WSB
Stewardship. The final verses of Psalm 65 fill in the picture for the Creator of the universe provides the sunshine and rain in their times and seasons so that people can plow the earth, plant seeds, and eventually harvest food.
The emphasis is on God's goodness and generosity to His people. The rains come in abundance; the rivers and streams overflow; the harvest is plenteous; the grain wagons are full; and the grain spills into the wagon nuts. Why? Because God covenanted to care for the land of Israel and visit it with His blessing if His people honored and obeyed Him.
We today are now the stewards of His precious gifts.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWSB
When it comes to choosing a leader. There are plenty of good leaders around—don't be afraid to follow them. However, regarding the blind guides that Jesus spoke of in the Book of Matthew 15:13,14, avoid them at all costs.
"If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
A leader should have a teachable spirit, with a servant's heart, and not a they-are-always-right attitude. Beware of those who tell you about planting a "seed of faith in their ground" which means your money. Beware as they are money-grubbing.
Here is God's standard for leadership: "Not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve" (1 Pe 5:2).
This is what Jesus said about the religious leaders of His day: "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit" (Mt 15:13-14).
Poor leaders are hidden reefs in your love feasts, shamelessly feasting with you but shepherding only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried along by the wind; fruitless trees in autumn, twice dead after being uprooted. Jude 1:12.
TWFYT says this: When choosing a leader, you don't need a blind prima donna; you need one with a servant spirit. Amen!
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | AMP
Are you tired of living in defeat? Then bathe your mind each day in God's Word, and allow it to flow over you, and within you.
Allow His Word to wash away everything that tells you what you cannot do. Remember in the Word of God in the Book of Philippians chapter 4 that speaks to your heart, "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."
2 Corinthians 12:9 But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness."
Whenever you are feeling defeated, reach inside where you have stored His Word as it is your armor in any situation where you feel defeated.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
AMP | TWFYT | NKJV
Your Harvest Is On The Way. God's rule is like a man who casts seed upon the soil. After sowing he goes to bed at night and gets up by day. A farmer learns patience, for how seeds sprout he does not know.
Our faith is believing in God, trusting Him beyond seeing. By faith, the farmer plants his seeds. By faith, you ask of God. The farmer knows not the crop he will yield but he hopes for the best. By faith in God and prayer, you trust the answer will come.
Remember to plant your seed in the ground, this may be your season.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LASB | TWFYT | MBC
"It's easy to say, The LORD is my Shepherd, but do you truly believe in your own words?
Let's put it to a small test. Whenever you find yourself in a bit of trouble, or if an issue arises at home, to whom do you reach out first? Think about it. It's probably a friend, the last thing to come to mind is prayer.
We forget that all-important verse, "The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want!" We forget the promise that the Promise Keepermade to His children. "I will never leave you, nor forsake you."
The LORD God is your Shepherd, and He knows not only your voice but your needs as well. Learn to put your trust in His hands, and remember this, if you confess the LORD, call Him up!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | AMP Bible
Concerning the Holy Spirit's activity in helping the believer in prayer: The child of God has two divine intercessors. Christ intercedes for the believer in heaven (Ro. 8:34) and the Holy Spirit intercedes within the believer on earth.
The spiritual desires and yearnings of believers find their source in the Holy Spirit, who dwells within our hearts. The Spirit Himself sighs, groans, and suffers within us, longing for the final day of redemption. He appeals to the Father on behalf of our needs "according to the Will of God".
Take a moment to listen to, "The Holy Spirit Prays Through You"!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB | TWFYT
How can you pray without saying a word? We are all familiar with the power of unspoken communication. You may recall when all it took was just one look from your Parent and you knew to straighten up if you were acting out. The look in those eyes was an unspoken communication that warned you to cease all actions, now! Prayer works that way too. When we think about God, it's prayer, that silent prayer; and when God communicates back to you, it's a form of answered prayer.
We don't have to scream, God knows our thoughts, and He hears us when we pray.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
By definition, a disciple is someone who never ceases tolearn. He or she makes the most of the hundred billion brain cells God has loaned to them. We should always continue seeking, asking, and knocking gathering as much information as possible about our Heavenly Father.
Examine what God has made; “And God made the firmament and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so. Gen. 1:7
Just think, by His spoken word the "firmament" which refers to the atmosphere between the water on Earth and the clouds above was made. Seven times God stated that what He created or made was "good". Each part of God's creation completely fulfilled His will and intended purpose. God created the world to reflect His glory and to be a place where humankind could share in His joy and life.
If you want to know God, examine what He has made!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB
God will speak to you—all you have to do is listen. You learn to hear from God by making time to hear from Him! Sometimes we have to turn the world off, get into our quiet space, and focus on Him.
Trust Him to provide you with His answer to your question. Trust Him to lead you or to guide you to the right path.
God will speak to you—if you will listen.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
Paul uses the conditional clause, "if our earthly house ... were dissolved," because he knows that Christ could return soon, in which case he would not experience death; rather, his body would be immediately transformed.
The "building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" likely refers either to a temporary body prepared for the believer in heaven while he awaits his resurrection body, or to the environment of the heavenly existence.
Take a moment to listen to today's reading followed by its commentary of 2 Corinthians 5:1—10.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB NKJV
BLENDING 2 FAMILIES INTO 1. Unfortunately, all marriages do not make it to the death-do-you-part ending. There’s not (I don’t believe) a couple that, from the beginning of their engagement to their wedding day, expects their marriage to be one of the ones that fail. Unfortunately, all marriages do not make it to the death-do-you-part ending and yours was one of them!
However, fate shines its light upon you once again, and you meet someone, fall in love with that special someone, and decide on marriage!
A new family comes with bonding, discipline, visitation, money, etc., etc., etc. and the band plays on!
In all of this, you must remember you chose your new partner; your children had no say so in this matter.
What must one do? "I say pray for guidance!" but let's take a listen to see what the TWFYT has to say on the matter.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLB
A prayer for help when feeling despondent. Heman is a man identified in 1 Kings 4:31 as a gifted wise man and in 1 Chronicles 15:16-19 as one of the musically gifted Levites who ministered in worship during the time of David.
Even amid despair, Heman confesses his faith in God's saving goodness. Heman's life had not been an easy one and now it had grown even more difficult, and he felt that death was very near.
But he did not give up! He still trusted in God, whom he addressed as "LORD" — Jehovah four times in this prayer.
Remember God will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
GWFT | WBS | HSB
No Reward For You if in your giving, you have to shout it from the rooftops. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give to one in need, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
In your giving do not be like the Pharisees who did their giving to gain favor or to be seen by others. You know how some people are, they feel they have run and tell everybody within listening distance of the good they think they have done! However, their given did not gain them favor with God. They seek the attention and praise of people.
When you give let your motives be in love not letting your right hand know what the left is doing, and your heavenly Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Give as unto the LORD.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSB
God has created us with the capacity to keep learning until the day we die, which is something we shouldn't take for granted. Learning isn't an indulgence; it's a stewardship matter.
The true litmus test of spiritual maturity isn't the quantity you know. It's knowing the quantity you don't know.
Loving God with all your mind means managing your mind and making the most of it. It means loving God logically, creatively, intuitively, and thoughtfully.
Learn all you can, while you can. Remember a mind is a terrible thing to lose.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | The Holy Bible
A control freak is a person who feels an obsessive need to exercise control over themselves and others and to take command of any situation.
A control freak can also be considered as a person who tries to make others do things the way that they want them done, even if the other person prefers to do it another way.
Correct measures would mean stopping to consider how another feels or how your controlling behavior affects other people.
Remember the servant of the LORD must be gentle to one and all. Truly not a controller!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSB
Refuse to allow your past to rob you of your future. It's a new year and all the bad baggage of yesteryear is behind you. Some things happened back then that cannot be healed therefore let them stay right where they belong, in the past.
We need to step afresh into the new year with a new bounce in our steps and no longer allow those old ghosts to haunt us.
Remember what Patty song, "a new dress, new shoes, I have a new attitude!" This year try your best to have fewer worries replaced with more smiles!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
Luke 18:1, the Bible tells us that Jesus "spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint."
The key point that Jesus emphasizes in this verse is that we ought to always pray. There is no reason why we should ever cease from praying.
Keep a prayer in your heart.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
2PM Saturday Prayer Warriors
Bible prayers are powerful. They put things into perspective. When we pray let us first put our trust in the words in which we cry out to the LORD as we pray. For example, when that widow went before the unjust Judge in the Book of Luke, her plea was to the point; “Grant me justice against my adversary.” Coming before the LORD in prayer, make your petition known (we know that God already knows the situation), so let's not pray amiss.
Acknowledge Him for who He is and make your prayers God-centered. Praise and recognize who He is in your life. Andremember to pray that no matter the outcome, pray to His Will to be done. God knows just what we need even before weask, we might not like the way some prayers are answered, but God knows what He is doing. In all things, He is working for our good, therefore let's remember to place our trust in His hands. God never makes a mistake.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLB NKJV | NIV
Do not allow anyone to discourage your dreams. Folks try to inject "a dose of reality" into your life by telling you what's best for you.
How many did not apply to a college or for a particular job, because someone said they wouldn't make it or they would not hire you?
We need more people around us who will encourage, inspire, or speak to the heart, "I believe you can" and those who are willing to speak to the hope in your future instead of failure.
There is a future for you, your hope will not be cut off!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT
"I won't believe it unless I see..." We've all heard or read about Thomas (nicknamed the Twin) in the Bible from John 20:25, well we may have heard or read this scripture, but it does not mean we have to be like him.
I recall the late Rev. James Cleveland singing the song about faith, "Where is your faith in God"? This is what we could ask all the doubters. Elisabeth Elliott said, "True faith only goes into operation when there are no answers." God says, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways."
Let's all put on the garment of faith; it will look better on than off.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | NIV
God loved the world. John 3:16-17 says,"For God so loved the world that He gave His One and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. God loved the world of people, and His love was not merely sentimental. For God did not send His Son into the world tocondemn the world, but to save the world through Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB | TEC | LAB | GQ.ORG
This four-part episode is a good example of how God leads His children.
Christ was born of Mary. For a betrothed woman to become pregnant would be considered adultery (Deut. 22:13-21). But Joseph did not punish or divorce Mary when he discovered she was with child, for the LORD had revealed the truth to him.
The Flight into Egypt: Herod pretended that he wanted to worship the newborn king when in reality he wanted to destroy Him!
Massacre of the Innocents: Herod's anger was evidence of his pride; he could not permit anyone to get the best of him, particularly some Gentile scholars!
The Home in Nazareth: Certainly, Joseph and Mary prayed, waited, and sought God's Will.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
WSB
God's thoughts and ways are not those of the natural person. But human minds and hearts can be renewed and transformed by seeking Him (Rom. 12:1-2); then our thoughts and ways will begin to conform to His.
Our greatest desire should be to live in conformity to the likeness of our LORD that everything we do pleases the God we serve.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB | Jesus Calling
True humility is not convincing yourself that you are worthless but recognizing God's work in you. It is having God's perspective on who you are and acknowledging His Grace in developing yourabilities.
"Just As I Am, Without One Plea". So glad that Jesus accepts us, just as we are!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | FLB | LAB
The Bible says "Put no trust in extortion; set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, set not your heart on them." ESV
How tragic when God's people today put their trust in their wealth, positions, and human abilities and not in the God who alone can give blessing.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | WSBC
God commissions angels to watch carefully over the lives and interests of the faithful. In the Scripture, there are over three hundred references to angels, described in two words: many and mighty.
The Bible says in verse 11 of the 91st chapter of the Book of Psalms "He shall give His angels charge over thee".
Let's listen to the reading from 'The Word for You Today' regarding 'Angels'.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLB | LAB | TWFYTD
Is your business struggling, or are you finding that there are difficulties that seem hard to address? Do not fret, you are not in it all by yourself. Many are finding themselves in the same situation.
Most plans fail due to lack of the correct counsel, however, we can turn to the Word of God in the Book of Proverbs 15:22 informs us that plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed. Thankfully, we have One that we can lean upon in times of trouble.
Learn to seek God first, He will put you on the path of success.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | TWFYT
When we talk too much and listen too little, we communicate to others that our ideas are much more important than theirs.
In the Bible, the Book of James advises us to reverse this process by putting a mental stopwatch on our conversations and to start keeping track of how much we talk and how much we actually listen.
Let's take a listen to today's reading in regard to waiting to see what the Holy Spirit gives us to say. Because when we provide our point of view in our responses, we could be offering dry bread crumbs.
Therefore, before we speak let's wait and hear what the LORD has to say.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | Jesus Calling
The Word for you today comes from the Book of Ephesians 6th chapter, which informs us of the importance of warfare clothing. In this Christian life, we battle against rulers and authorities (the powerful evil forces of fallen angels headed by Satan, who is a vicious fighter). To withstand their attacks, we must depend on God's strength and use every piece of His armor.
Your whole body must be armed to withstand the enemy's attacks.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
TWFYT | LAB
Jeremiah the prophet, was chosen by God to deliver a message to the nation of Judah. In the message was a word of warning, as the potter has power over the clay, so does God have power over you.
Today, warnings are all around us (in every town, city, state, and in every country). Different day, same God, we are the clay, and He is the Potter; cannot God do with us as the potter over his clay?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
"Jeremiah's Message" was delivered Sunday 8/13/2023.
Scripture invites you to seek strength from God through prayer. Draw near to your mediator, Jesus Christ. He will represent you before God, make intercession for you (Heb. 7:25), and give mercy and grace to help in times of need (Heb. 4:16).
We should take seriously God's Word: "casting all your care upon Him: for He careth for you (1 Pet. 5:7). If we are happy in the LORD, we must sing songs of praise to Him (Ps. 33: 2-3), knowing and trusting that God knows just what we are in need of even before we pray.
James is speaking of physical sickness. We may deal with illness by sending for the elders or leaders of the church. It is the duty of the pastors and elders to pray for the sick and the shut-in and to anoint them with oil. (The oil probably represents the healing power of the Holy Spirit and was used as an aid to faith [Mark 6:13]).
It is the prayer that James emphasizes as most important. Effective prayer must be offered in faith if the sick are to be healed. The LORD will give faith according to His Will. People may or may not always be healed on this side; nevertheless, God promises to be with all those who cry unto Him in fervent prayer.
We must stay prayerful and continue to lean on the everlasting arms of God our Savior.
Blessings in prayer,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLB | TWFYT
Do you know why you are here, this is a question many of us have asked at one time or another. The answer is simple, it's because God chose us! Paul says that God "chose us in Him" to emphasize that salvation depends totally on God. We are not saved because we deserve it, but because God is gracious and freely gives and blesses us with His salvation. The LORD does not want to see any of us lost to a world of sin.
We did not influence God's decision to save us; He saved us according to His plan for us. Thus there is no way for us to take credit for our salvation or to allow room for pride.
Take a listen and know that the Father loves us beyond measure!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | The word for us today.
Jesus told the parable of two men who went to the Temple to pray. One of these men was a Pharisee who did not go to the temple to pray to God but to announce to all within earshot how good he was. Whereas the other man who was a tax collector recognizes his sin and begs for mercy as he prays to God. This seemed to ignore the Pharisee, moving him to differentiate himself from other men stating how many times a week he fasted and how much money he gave to the church! What does this say about this person, was he more in tune with his own self-importance?
Self-righteousness is dangerous. It leads to pride, causes a person to despise others, and prevents him or her from learning anything from God. A self-righteous person thinks that he is righteous because of his own efforts; he is not conscious of the sinful nature within him, his own unworthiness, and his constant need for God's help, mercy, and grace. Because of his exceptional acts of piety and outward goodness, he feels that he does not need the grace of God.
The tax collector, on the other hand, was deeply conscious of his sin and guilt, and in true repentance turned from sin to God for forgiveness and mercy. The tax collector's prayer should be our prayer because we all need God's mercy every day. He typifies the true child of God.
Don't let pride in your achievements cut you off from God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | The word for you today
"I have become all things to all men, that I might, by all means, save some," Paul stated this as a way to adopt the ways of either Jews or Gentiles. Paul's attempt was to try to find common ground between himself and others. He did this by changing his behavior and manner of approach. To outside observers, Paul may have looked as one who was inconsistent, however, his main goal was to win people to Christ.
What is your approach when winning souls to Jesus? Remember we are all workers in the vineyard!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Word For You Today
AMP|TEBC|EWC
BE CAREFUL FOR NOTHING. Brother Paul's instructions to us is to not be anxious or worried about anything! The one essential cure for worry is prayer, for the following reasons. Through prayer, we renew our trust in the LORD's faithfulness by casting our anxieties and problems upon Him who cares for us (Mat. 6:25-34; 1 Pet. 5:7). The peace of God comes to guard our hearts and minds as a result of our communion with Christ Jesus. God strengthens us to do all things He desires of us.
When we call on God from hearts that sincerely endeavor to abide in His Word (John 15:7), then the peace of God will flood our troubled souls. Believers must place their minds on those things which are true, pure, holy, righteous, etc. That this is a prerequisite for experiencing the peace of God and freedom from anxiety is clear if you do these things, "The God of peace shall be with you."
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLSB|LAB
In the reading of the 91st division of the Book of Psalms, the Psalmist expresses the security of those who trust fully in God. It assures us that God will be our refuge and that we may seek His protection in times of spiritual and physical danger.
He shall give His Angels charge over thee: God commissions angels to watch carefully over the lives and interests of the faithful. Nothing can happen to a faithful servant except by God's permission (remember God's faithful servant Job). There are times when the question arises; "Why do good things happen to good people?" There is no shadow nor turning that God does not already know about. The more fully we abide in Christ and His Word, we can trust in the "Almighty" as He emphasizes His power to confront and destroy every enemy.
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“Most High” shows Him to be greater than any threat we face.
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“Almighty” emphasizes His power to confront and destroy every enemy.
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“The LORD” assures us that His presence is always with us; And
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“My God” expresses the truth that God has chosen to associate intimately with those who trust in Him.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
FLB
Reading and Lessons from History Psalms 78. Asaph retells the history of the Jewish nation from the time of slavery in Egypt to David's reign. It was told over and over to each generation so they would not forget God and make the same mistakes as their ancestors.
God's patience and mercy are clearly revealed in this psalm. Over and over His people rebelled in unfaithfulness, yet God restrained His anger.
Blessings
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB
Exodus 33:17 "Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight." This should bring an awareness to all men, that God not only did he know Moses by his name, but He knows all of us by our name. Luke 12 says; "but the very hairs of your head are all numbered."
Blessings,
Elder B. Hayes
The Word for you today
Full Life
As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the LORD has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Colossians 3:12-13
Paul offers a strategy to help us live for God day by day (1) imitate Christ's compassionate, forgiving attitude; (2) let love guide your life; (3) let the peace of Christ rule in your heart; (4) always be thankful; (5) keep God's Word in you at all times; and (6) live as Jesus Christ representative.
The key to forgiving others is remembering how much God has forgiven you. Is it difficult for you to forgive someone who has wronged you a little when God has forgiven you so much? Realizing God's infinite love and forgiveness can help you love and forgive others.
You were made in the image of God, were you not?
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
Today's Word for you
LAB|NIV
THE LOVE OF GOD ... IN OUR HEARTS. Christians experience the love of God in their hearts through the Holy Spirit, especially in times of affliction. The verb "shed abroad" is a present perfect tense, signifying that the Spirit continues to flood our hearts with love.
It is this ever-present experience of God's love that sustains us in tribulation and assures us that our hope for future glory is not illusory.
No matter what we may go through in this life, know that God is our present hope on every hand. Although at times it is easier said than done, we must continue to place our hope in the One that can and will deliver us.
Justification through faith brings the believer various results: peace with God, grace, hope, assurance, tribulations, the love of God, the Holy Spirit, salvation from wrath, reconciliation to God, salvation by the life and presence of Jesus, and joy in God.
Keep hope alive in your heart!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Word For You Today
FLSB
"Grab ... hope with both hands and never let go!" Whenever your situation looks impossible, remember what the scripture says in the book of Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future".
This reading encourages one to hold on and trust in God. We do not know the plans that He has laid for us, however, if we believe in His Word He has said that He will never leave us nor forsake us. When things might look as if they will not come to pass, take a look at Matthew 19:26, where Jesus said "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible".
I know that life has a way sometimes to take the little hope that we have and dash it against the nearest wall; however, if we just hold on a little while and trust Him. As God has never lost a battle, grab hold of your hope with both hands and never, ever let go!
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
The Word For You Today
FLSB
AMP HB
The Bible is clear that God pardons sins by His grace based on Christ's work on the cross alone, not on man's actions. The apostle Paul reminds us that we should have buried our old selves — and our old sins — symbolically through baptism (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:12). God desires to forget our transgressions as though they had not happened in the first place. Jeremiah 31:34 says, "I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more."
The best description for today's message is this: If we go to God seeking with a pure heart in repentance of our sins, He is just to forgive.
"It is finished".
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
The Word for Today
GQ.org
FLSB
"The act of changing one's mind." This is what the scripture says about repentance. True biblical repentance goes beyond remorse, regret, or feeling bad about one's sin. It means turning and walking away never to repeat the sin.
When we admit our sins and seek God's forgiveness, He forgives and forgets those things. Our LORD God chooses to forget all the bad stuff that we once were entangled with. We are given a clean slate, basically a do-over!
Look at the story told in the Book of Luke 15:17—24, in regard to the Prodigal Son. Just as the earthly father, forgave his son so will your Heavenly Father forgive you when you seek His forgiveness.
Remember God loves you — all of you and your imperfections. Only He can wash us and cleanse us from the past errors of our ways.
Stay tuned for (Part 3), the conclusion of, "GOD CAN CANCEL YOUR PAST!"
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
AMP BIBLE NKJ
THE WORD FOR TODAY
"The act of changing one's mind." This is what the scripture says about repentance. True biblical repentance goes beyond remorse, regret, or feeling bad about one's sin. It means turning away, walking away and prayerfully the sin is never repeated.
When we seek God with a true heart and seek forgiveness through prayer, it means a change of attitude and action in our walk of life. To repent means to make an about-face, heart-directed turn away from self to God, from the past to a future ruled by God’s commands, acknowledging that the Lord reigns supreme over one’s existence.
Now, once God accepts our sincere heart, those past things are washed away, gone, forgotten. I was told those sins are cast into the lake of forgetfulness. Once Jesus canceled the record of those past charges against us, they are done. Only man loves to go fishing.
God can cancel your past!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
Bible
The Word for Today
Isaiah 35 1-2 glad. Isaiah 35 stands in contrast to Isaiah 34. This chapter opens with a lilt of joy. The desert plain shall blossom and break into bloom. Centuries before, Moses had warned of a day when the rain of this land would become "dust and powder" (Dt. 28:24). That day came because Israel was disobedient to God. But, at the second coming of Christ (Rev. 20:1-6), Israel will be restored spiritually, and with spiritual restoration comes physical blessing. When judgment is removed, great blessing follows. Restoration follows repentance, and restoration is accompanied by joy.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
HSB
What are FIERY Trials?
Find out in this twenty-minute episode if you can withstand a "TRIAL OF YOUR FAITH." (See 1 Peter 1:7). The Bible said we should rejoice in our various trials remaining faithful to Christ during them because it will purify our faith and result in praise, glory, and honor both to us and to the LORD Jesus Christ at His coming. The LORD considers our perseverance through trial and our faith in Christ precious and invaluable to Him throughout eternity.
A test of your faith and the question is, if faced with a fiery trial do you think you will be able to can stand? Let's see what the Bible said Job did. Take a listen! Talk to me.
Blessings,
Elder B. Hayes
To do the work of an Evangelist, you'll need to have strong faith, a good understanding of the Bible, the love of Jesus Christ in your heart, and the willingness to help fellow Children of God achieve salvation.
The office of evangelist will be needed until the church reaches the maturity of Christ Himself (Ephesians 4:13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.)
The Good News is meant to be shared, and we have the best news of all — Jesus died and rose again and saves all who will call on Him (Romans 10:9—13 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in Him will never be put to shame.” 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”).
On today's podcast, I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Evangelist Vernessa Fountain at length in the works, duties and expectations of the office of an Evangelist. A position she truly does not take lightly. She provides excellent pointers, history, and the studies for such a post within the church.
I pray that you will push the pause button for a moment and take a listen as the Evangelist lay the road map of evangelism before us. You will not be disappointed!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
The Church Within You!
Determination, Perseverance, Persistence in Prayer is the necessary link to receiving God's blessings and power, and the fulfillment of His promises. Numerous Bible passages illustrate this principle. Jesus, for example, promised His followers would receive the Holy Spirit if they persisted in asking, seeking, and knocking at the door of their heavenly Father (Luke 11:5—13).
Thus, after Jesus' ascension, His followers continually devoted themselves to prayer in the upper room (Acts 1:14) until with power (cf. Acts 1:8) the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1—4).
When the apostles gathered together after their arrest and release by the Jewish authorities, they prayed earnestly for the Holy Spirit to give them boldness and influence when speaking His Word. "And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness" (Acts 4:31).
For prayer to be effective we must be determined, perserve, and be persistent. "Ask ... seek ... knock" (Mat. 7:7-8) teaches perseverance in prayer. Come believing, leave receiving if it is in the Will of God. Your heavenly Father know what you need before you ask Him.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
FL
Enjoy the reading of chapter one verses one through eleven of the Book of Ecclesiastes. "All is vanity," lamented Solomon. Solomon like the word "vanity"; in fact, he used it thirty-one times in this book of Ecclesiastes, as he wrote about life "under the sun." From the human point of view ("under the sun"), life does appear meaningless—futile and empty; we can easily become pessimistic.
What a relief to turn from these pessimistic views and har Jesus Christ say, "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).
Blessings
Elder Barbara
TWSB
Reading from the Book of Matthew 12th chapter. The Pharisees were asking for another miraculous sign, but they were not sincerely seeking to know Jesus. Jesus knew they had already seen enough miraculous proof to convince them that He was the Messiah if they would just open their hearts. But they had already decided not to believe in Him, and more miracles would not change that.
You know, many people have said, “If I could just see a real miracle, then I could really believe in God.” But Jesus’ response to the Pharisees applies to us. We have plenty of evidence—Jesus’ birth, death, resurrection, and ascension, and centuries of His work in believers around the world. Instead of looking for additional evidence of miracles, except what God has already given and moved forward. He may use your life as evidence to reach another person.
Jonah was a prophet sent to the Assyrian city of Nineveh. Because Assyria was such a cruel and warlike nation, Jonah tried to run from his assignment and ended up spending three days in the belly of a huge fish. When Jonah got out, he grudgingly went to Nineveh, preached God's message, and saw the city repent. By contrast, when Jesus came to his people, they refused to repent. Here Jesus is clearly saying that his resurrection will prove he is the Messiah. Three days after his death Jesus will come back to life, just as Jonah was given a new chance at life after three days in the fish.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara Hayes
AMPHB
This episode is a reading from the Old Testament Psalm 103, a Psalm of David Praise for the LORD'S Mercies.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
AMP
Ecclesiastes 3:13, 14: And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor anything taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear Him.
The ability to enjoy life and live it properly is a gift from God that comes only when we are brought into a right relationship with Him and sincerely submit ourselves to Him as our LORD and God. He then gives us joy in what we do.
To be happy and do good while we live are worthy goals for life, but we can pursue them in the wrong way. God wants us to enjoy life. When we have the proper view of God, we discover that real pleasure is found in enjoying whatever we have as gifts from God, not in what we accumulate.
What is the purpose of life? It is that we should reverence the all-powerful God. To reverence God means to respect and stand in awe of Him because of who He is. Purpose in life starts with whom we know, not what we know or how good we are. It is impossible to fulfill your God-given purpose unless you reverence God and give Him first place in your life.
The Teacher hinted at contentment in 2:24 [A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God], and was careful to say that this enjoyment of life was God’s gift. The advice of the Teacher is to seize the day in the joy of God, Biblical faith is a call for joy, even when we live in a wicked world and under terrible stress; this is because we find true joy in the living God.
Solomon is not encouraging a pagan lifestyle, but rather the practice of enjoying God’s gifts as the fruit of one’s labor, no matter how difficult life may be. Life appears to be transitory, but whatever God does is forever. So, when we live for Him and let Him have His way, life is meaningful and manageable. Instead of complaining about what we don’t have, let’s enjoy what we do have and thank God for it. The proper attitude for us is the fear of the LORD, which is not the cringing of a slave before a cruel master but the submission of an obedient child to a loving parent (see 5:7; 7:18; 8:12, 13; 12:13). If we fear God, we need not fear anything else, for He is in control.
So, don’t merely work for money; do something you like. Appropriate pleasures are a gift of God; enjoy them. But don’t expect to discover the ultimate meaning in these things. God has intentionally created dissatisfaction in life to drive us Him. You can’t change what God has made, so stop fighting the routine, the repetition, and the extremes of life. He’s made both life and you this way, so you’ll seek Him.
Let us make it easy for ourselves, “rejoice, and enjoy the good of our labor”; as it is “the gift of God,” let us return to Him our sincere thanks and make Him the center of our joy, eat and drink to His glory, and “serve Him with joyfulness of heart, in the abundance of all things.” Forever: (and everyone knows it, that knows anything of God.) His measures are never broken, nor is He ever put upon new counsels, but what He has purposed shall be effected, and all the world cannot defeat nor disannul it.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Remember: the advice of the Teacher is to seize the day in the joy of God, Biblical faith is a call for joy, even when we live in a wicked world and under terrible stress; this is because we find true joy in the living God.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FLSB|LAB|WSB|TEBC|MHSB
THIS IS WHAT THE LORD SAYS. This statement emphasizes the authority of the words that will follow. Isaiah repeated God's promise to bring His people out of captivity in Babylon and return them to the land of Israel (43:14). This would be an act of God's covenant faithfulness and mercy, not a result of His people's merits.
This is what the LORD says. The same phrase (v.1) is used to emphasize the ultimate source of this prophecy, God Himself. Redeemer. The LORD is described as Redeemer because He zealously defends, protects, and purchases back His people (Is. 41:14, Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I Myself will help you, declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel).
God takes to Himself such titles as were very encouraging to His people their Holy One. He assures them He will break the power of their oppressors, will take care to send a prince to Babylon [who] shall bring down all their nobles and all their people too, even the Chaldeans, whose cry is in the ships.
He reminds them of the great things He did for their fathers when He brought them out of the land of Egypt. "He [who] did this can make a way for you in the sea when you return out of Babylon."
I will do a new thing for you; this is God's promise even unto this day. As God encourages Israel with the hope of the coming Messiah, He exhorts the people, "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old" because something new is going to happen. Those things that you hope for, those things that seemed so far off in the distance, God is doing something new. We must not give up nor give in - TIME is just a word to the LORD. Keep and hold on to your faith in God, for He is the Author and Finisher of your faith. God has intervened to resolve our past and redeems us for a life eternal. Old things will be washed away, as He redeem us in the newness of life everlasting.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LAB|HBS|MHSB|TEBC
Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. John 5:2 "Do you want to be made well"? this is the question that Jesus ask the man that laid by the side of this pool. Legend had it that an Angel would come down into the pool and "stir up the water". The first person into the pool after the stirring of the water, "was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted". This poor man's infirmity had lasted a total of 38 years. He had experienced prolonged disappointment at not being healed, while repeately looking unto God in expectation. Yet healing did finally come to the man, and it may have been largely because of the length of this man' suffering that Jesus, in compassion, chose to help him. We must never give up hope that the time for God to move directly on our behalf may come soon.
Jesus often healed as a response to the faith of individuals. Here, however, He required no faith at all; the man was made whole merely at the Word of Jesus. Even today people may be healed according to God's purpose even though they do not demonstrate faith in Christ. The Bible teaches that there are three contacts for healing faith: (1) the faith of the one being healed (Mat. 9:27-29); (2) the faith of others on behalf of the afflicted (Mat. 8:5-10; cf. 17:15-20; Jas. 5:14-16); and (3) the faith of one who is anointed to heal (1 Cor. 12:9). The man Jesus spoke to did not see Jesus as the healer but rather was focused on the healing pools (v.13). When Jesus questioned if he wanted to be made well, instead of replying "YES"!, he provided an explanation as in a complaint that he had no one to put him in the pool when the water was stirred by the Angel.
Know this, no matter how trapped you feel in your infirmities, God can minister to your deepest needs. Some people have been stuck in their negative circumstances for so long that they have given up hope that things can change. Your faith and hope is your exodus out of any situation. Although one may feel that their circumstance doesn't stand a chance, that one must not give up on hope. When your way seems dark and bleak, when life seems to have you bound by chains that are invisible to the naked eye. When you feel as if all doors are closed and you are locked away behind them, with no escape.
Don't just sit there wallowing in mud or stand there grieving it, press your way. To make a way of escape, you will sometimes have to press. Make a road out for yourself. Do not idle. No matter how trapped you feel in your infirmities, the water is being stirred, step out in faith.
Ordinarily, faith in Jesus was essential to miraculous healing; however, in contrast to the healing of the royal official's son, (John 4:46), Jesus chose to heal this man who did not even know who he was. Jesus, ask the man, as he lay there on his mat, "Do you want to be made well"? In response, the man told Jesus that every time there was a healing opportunity he never had anyone to help him into the pool when the Angel stirred the waters. The man's situation was hopeless, and he had no one to offer him aid. Jesus told the man, to rise up and pick up his mat and walk.
Do not allow a problem or any hardship cause you to lose hope. God may have special work for you to do despite your condition, or even because of it. Trust God, He will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust Him, where you can't trace Him!
This is your exodus, press your way.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FLB|HSB|TEBC|LAB
This episode provides witnesses of those that because of their faith, and belief in the LORD Jesus received their healings instantaneously. Jesus once again emphasizes that the "kingdom of God" is associated with healing the sick. There were those that could witness, that when He healed them that He did it, suddenly.
There was the man that sat by the roadside and heard of the man Jesus and called out to Him, Jesus informed him that his faith had made him whole. The man received his sight immediately, and Jesus granted him his request for sight.
Prayer refers to the multifaceted communication of believers with the LORD God. In addition to such words as "prayer" and "praying," this activity is described as calling upon God (Ps. 17:6), calling upon the name of the LORD (Gen. 4:26), crying unto the LORD (Ps. 3:4), lifting up one's soul unto God (Ps. 25:1), seeking the LORD (Is. 55:6), coming boldly unto the throne of grace (Heb. 4:16), and drawing near to God (Heb. 10:22).
Just as those in this message believed by faith that Jesus could deliver and that He could do it suddenly. Although, they might not have expected it to happen instantaneously. However, no one knows the Mind nor the Will of God. The man lay by the side of the pool hoping to be able to make it to the waters when the Angel came to trouble the water for there was none that would help him. Because of his belief, Jesus told him to take up his bed and walk. Thus, he did walk.
Prayer is the necessary link alone with having faith, trust, and knowing that He is able to receive God's blessings and power, and the fulfillment of His promises. Not only must we pray according to God's will, but we must be in God's will if we expect Him to hear and answer us. God will give us the things we ask for only if we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness. The apostle John unequivocally states: "And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight."
Why are some prayers answered and others are not? John declares that an effective prayer life is related to our devotion to God. Obeying God's commandments, loving Him, and pleasing Him (John 8:29; 2 Cor. 5:9; Eph. 5:9; Eph. 5:10; Heb. 13:31) are indispensable conditions in order to receive what we ask for in prayer.
Know that Jesus said that men/women should always pray. Pray and believe. I heard a Pastor say, "And if He does not heal you on this side, it's not because He couldn't, know that your healing still awaits you."
The New Birth Choir sings, "He did it suddenly".
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
Full Life Bible
With all the challenges taking place today in our lives, we need sometimes to hear a word of encouragement. We need to feel that gentle wind at our backs pushing us forward and upward. "Don't Quit", provide us with just that little push. That unseen hand. As we know that things will go wrong, they often do, but we must pause and push our way through. Remember we have more strength than we know, we can't give up now.
Don't Quit
"When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low, and the debts are high, And you want to smile, but you have to sigh.
When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest if you must, but don't quit. Life is queer with its twists and turns, As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about, When he might have won had he stuck it out; Don't give up though the pace seems slow, You may succeed with another blow.
Success is failure turned inside out, The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far; So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, It's when things seem worse, that you must not quit."
This Author is unknown to us I am thankful for the sharing of this message that was taken from his or her mind to pen and paper. Every day in every way we all at some time or another need just a few words of encouragement, to help us along our way.
"I just can't give up now, I've come too far from where I started from. Nobody told me, the road would be easy. I don't believe He brought me this far to leave me."
Remember, reach beyond the break, and hold on!
Blessings to each of you,
Elder Barbara
Pray with me...
A prayer of David.
1 Hear me, Lord, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
2 Guard my life, for I am faithful to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God; 3 have mercy on me, Lord,
for I call to you all day long.
4 Bring joy to your servant, Lord,
for I put my trust in you.
5 You, Lord, are forgiving and good,
abounding in love to all who call to you.
6 Hear my prayer, Lord;
listen to my cry for mercy.
7 When I am in distress, I call to you,
because you answer me.
8 Among the gods there is none like you, Lord;
no deeds can compare with yours.
9 All the nations you have made
will come and worship before you, Lord;
they will bring glory to your name.
10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
you alone are God.
11 Teach me your way, Lord,
that I may rely on your faithfulness;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
12 I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify your name forever.
13 For great is your love toward me;
you have delivered me from the depths,
from the realm of the dead.
14 Arrogant foes are attacking me, O God;
ruthless people are trying to kill me—
they have no regard for you.
15 But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me;
show your strength in behalf of your servant;
save me, because I serve you
just as my mother did.
17 Give me a sign of your goodness,
that my enemies may see it and be put to shame,
for you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
THE DAY OF THE LORD! Although this episode is twenty minutes in length it provides the listener with a full reading of the Book of Joel's telling of the Day of the LORD! The purpose is to warn Judah of God's impending judgment because of their sins and to urge them to turn back to God. The author was writing to the people of Judah, the southern kingdom, and God's people everywhere. This is believed to have been written during the time in which Joel prophesied.
The people of Judah had become prosperous and complacent. Taking God for granted, they had turned to self-centeredness, idolatry, and sin. Joel warned them that this kind of lifestyle would inevitably bring down God's judgment.
Joel begins by describing a terrible plague of locusts that covers the land and devours the crops. The devastation wrought by these creatures is but a foretaste of the coming judgment of God, the "day of the LORD". Joel, therefore, urges the people to turn from their sins and turn back to God. Woven into this message of judgment and the need for repentance is an affirmation of God's kindness and the blessings he promises for all who follow him. In fact, "everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved" (2:32).
As you read Joel, catch his vision of the power and might of God and of God's ultimate judgment of sin. Choose to follow, obey, and worship God alone as your sovereign LORD.
My question to you do you think, with all that is currently taking place in our world today self-centeredness, idolatry, sin, wars and rumors of war, hatred, COVID, and of the extra? Are we soon to face another THE DAY OF THE LORD?
When time permits, read the book of Joel, or listen to The Church Within You! podcast's reading of the three chapters of this book.
As always, blessings.
Elder Barbara,
Presiding Elder The Church Within YOU!
The Life Application Bible
Prayer refers to the multifaceted communication of believers with the LORD God. In addition to such words as "prayer" and "praying," this activity is described as calling upon God, (Psalms 17:6 "I call on You, my God, for You will answer me; turn Your ear to me and hear my prayer"). Calling upon the name of the LORD, (Gen. 4:26 "And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enosh. Then began men to call upon the name of Jehovah.") Crying unto the LORD, (Ps. 3:4 "I call out to the LORD, and He answers me from His holy mountain").
Intercession may be defined as holy, believing, persevering prayer whereby someone pleads with God on behalf of another or others who desperately need God's intervention. Daniel's prayer in Daniel the 9th chapter is an intercessory prayer, as he prays earnestly for the restoration of Jerusalem and for the entire nation. The Bible records the intercession of Christ and the Holy Spirit and numerous godly men and women under the old and new covenants.
Jesus interceded during His earthly ministry, praying for the multitudes whom He came to seek and save. He wept in brokenness over the city of Jerusalem. He prayed for His disciples, both individually and as a group. He even prayed for His enemies while He was hanging on the cross.
A present aspect of Christ's ministry is to intercede on our behalf before the throne of God. For this reason, John calls Jesus our "advocate" with the Father, one who pleads our case. Christ's intercession is essential to our salvation; without His grace, mercy, and help mediated to us through His intercession, we would fall away from God and once again become enslaved to sin.
The Holy Spirit is also involved in intercession. Paul states, "We know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered". The Holy Spirit through the human spirit of the believer intercedes "according to the will of God". Thus, Christ intercedes for the believer in heaven; the Spirit intercedes within the believer on earth.
The Bible often refers to the intercessory prayers of believers and records numerous examples of remarkable, powerful prayers. In the O.T., the leaders of God's people, such as kings (1Chr. 21:17), prophets (1 Ki. 18:41—45; Dan. 9), and priests (Ezra 9:5—15), were to lead the way in intercessory prayer for the nation.
The N.T. presents even more examples of intercessory prayers. The Gospels record how parents and others interceded with Jesus on behalf of loved ones. Parents pleaded with Jesus to heal their sick children (Mark 5:22—43); a group of mothers asked Jesus to bless their children (Mark 10:13); a man pleaded for his servant to be healed (Mat. 8:6—13); and the mother of James and John interceded with Jesus on their behalf (Mat. 20:20—21).
Every Saturday afternoon at the 2 PM hour intercessory prayer is held via conference line to one and all throughout every region, led by various Sisters, Deacons, Pastors, and Evangelists, men and women of God. Prayers are lifted heavenward on behalf of those that are unable to attend due to various circumstances, i.e., illness, family, loss, etc., etc., etc. The intercessors intercede to Jesus, as He intercedes to the Father on behalf of one and all no matter what state one may be found in, we pray.
You are welcome to join. You are welcome to share with all listeners the prayers prayed by the prayer warriors. Remember, the day and the hour, no matter where you are to lift up your voice in prayer and join the many voices united and willing to stand in the gap. And if you can't say a word, then just wave your hand! The Father knows the hearts and thoughts of all.
Are you willing to be an intercessor, an "Advocate" with the LORD Jesus, one who pleads the case of another?
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FLB
This episode is taken from the LAB Book of Mark chapter 11:17. A house of prayer for all nations, not to the Jews only, for all of the children of God. When Jesus entered the Temple in verse 12 of this chapter, He found those that were buying and selling within the Temple and He cast them out, He overthrew the tables of the moneychangers and the seats of them that sold doves; and suffered not any man to carry any vessel through the Temple. He taught them saying; "It is not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves."
He would not allow anyone to carry goods or wares through the Temple or the courts. After He had turned out the oxen and doves which were things of sacrifice, He revived the appointment of it as a house of prayer to teach us that when all sacrifices and offerings should be abolished, the spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise should continue, and remain forever.
The kind of prayer that moves mountains is a prayer for the fruitfulness of God's kingdom. It would seem impossible to move a mountain into the sea, so Jesus used that picture to say that God can do anything. There is nothing impossible for Him. God will answer your prayers, but not as a result of your positive mental attitude. (1) you must be a believer, (2) you must not hold a grudge against another person; (3) you must not pray with selfish motives; and (4) your requests must be for the good of God's kingdom.
To pray effectively, you need to have faith in God, faith in the Will of God for you. Our prayers are often motivated by our own interests and desires. We like to hear that we can have anything. But Jesus prayed with God's interests in mind. When we pray, we should express our desires but want His Will above ours.
Check yourself to see if your prayers focus on your interests or if they focus on what God has for you.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LAB|MHSB
This episode provides you the listener a reading of the first three chapters of the Book of Job, who was a faithful man of God. The purpose of the story of Job was to demonstrate God's sovereignty and the meaning of true unwavering faith. It addresses the question, "Why do the righteous suffer?"
Job was from the land of Uz, being a prosperous farmer, he was very well off for his time in Biblical history of the Old Testament. During that time lost hiswealth, children, and health through no fault of his own. Even his friends were convinced that Job had brought this suffering upon himself. They wronglyassumed that suffering always came because of sin, and tried to persuade Job to repent of his sin. But the three friends were wrong. Suffering is not always adirect result of personal sin. When we experience severe suffering, it may not be our fault, so we don’t have to add to our pain by feeling guilty that somehidden sin is causing our trouble. For Job, the greatest trial was not the pain or the loss; it was not understanding why God allowed him to suffer.
Satan attempted to drive a wedge between Job and God by getting Job to believe that God's governing of the world was not just and reasonable. Satan had to ask God for permission to take Job's wealth, children, and health away. Satan was limited to what God allowed. Satan was allowed to destroy Job’s children, servants, livestock, herdsmen, and home; but John continued to trust in God. Next Satan attacked Job physically, covering him with painful sores. Job’s wife told him to curse God and die (2:9), but Job suffered in silence.
Suffering can be, but is not always, a penalty for sin. In the same way, prosperity is not always a reward for being good. Those who love God are not exempt from trouble. Although we may not be able to understand fully the pain we experience, it can lead us to rediscover God.
We must learn to recognize and not fear Satan's attacks because Satan cannot exceed the limits that God sets. Don't let any experience drive a wedge between you and God. Although you can't control how Satan may attack, you can always choose how to respond when it happens.
It is easy to think that we have all the answers. In reality, only God knows exactly why things happen as they do, and we must submit to Him as our Sovereign. As you read this book, emulate Job and decide to trust God no matter what happens. Trust and believe in God, He will never leave you nor forsake you. What we must remember is that our God is better than any of our problems. When someone tells you how big their problem is, ask them, how big is their God.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LAB
Job lost his wealth, children, and health through no fault of his own. Even his friends were convinced that Job had brought this suffering upon himself. For Job, the greatest trial was not the pain or the loss; it was not being able to understand why Godallowed him to suffer.
This episode provides a message of encouragement referencing John Mark. Mistakes are effective teachers. Their consequences have a way of making lessons painfully clear. But those who learn from their mistakes are likely to develop wisdom. John Mark was a good learner who just needed some time and encouragement.
Mark was eager to do the right thing, but he had trouble staying with a task. In his Gospel, Mark mentions a young man (probably referring to himself), who fled in such fear during Jesus' arrest that he left his clothes behind. This tendency to run was to reappear later when Paul and Barnabas took him as their assistant on their first missionary journey. At their second stop, Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem. It was a decision Paul did not easily accept. In preparing for their second journey two years later, Barnabas again suggested Mark as a traveling companion, but Paul flatly refused. As a result, the team was divided. Barnabas took Mark with him, and Paul chose Silas. Barnabas was patient with Mark, and the young man repaid his investment. Paul and Mark were later reunited, and the older apostle became a close friend of the young disciple.
Mark was a valuable companion to three early Christian leaders — Barnabas, Paul, and Peter. The material in Mark's Gospel seems to have come mostly from Peter. Mark's role as a serving assistant allowed him to be an observer. He heard Peter's accounts of the years with Jesus over and over, and he was one of the first to put Jesus' life in writing.
Barnabas played a key role in Mark's life. He stood beside the young man despite his failure, giving him patient encouragement. Mark challenges us to learn from our mistakes and appreciate the patience of others.
Take a moment and think it over, is there a Barnabas in your life you need to thank for his or her encouragement to you?
Blessings
Elder Barbara
LAB|HALLMARK
Psalms 91 The psalmist expresses the great confidence he has in the security that comes from dwelling in the shadow of the Almighty. With Him, there is abiding protection (91:1). Just like a bird takes refuge under the wings of its parent, the believer who lives under the cover of God's covenant finds safety (91:4).
God covers His own with His faithfulness at all times. He provides them with a shield of protection. It assures us that God will be our refuge and that we may seek His protection in times of spiritual and physical danger. The promise of God's security extends to those that trust in Him, those who commit themselves to the will and protection of the Almighty and daily seek to dwell in God's presence. The more fully we abide in Christ and His word, making Him our life and dwelling place, the fuller will be our peace and the greater our deliverance in times of danger (Mat. 23:37; John 15:1—11).
91:10 There shall no evil befall thee. Nothing can happen to a faithful servant except with God's permission. This truth does not mean that there will never be unpleasant or difficult times (Rom. 8:35—36), but that as long as we make God our LORD and refuge, everything that happens to us will work out for our good.
Rom 8:28 All Things Work Together For Good. This passage in the book of Romans, greater encourages the children of God when we must endure suffering in this life. (1) God will bring good out of all affliction, trials, persecution, and suffering; the good that God brings about is conforming us to the image of Christ and ultimately bringing about our glorification. (2) This promise is limited to those who love God and have submitted to Him by faith in Christ (Ex. 20:6; Deut. 7:9; Ps 37:17; Is. 56:4—7; 1 Cor. 2:9). (3) The "all things" do not include our sins and negligence, no one can excuse sin by maintaining that God will work it out for good.
The psalmist communicates God's promise to deliver and protect those who set their hearts on Him. Indeed, the believer whose heart is devoted and submitted to the LORD in this way can count on God to rescue Him and satisfy him with the full length of days ordained for him (91:15—16).
Blessings
Elder Barbara
FLKJV|TTEBC4
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." This episode digs into the plans of what God has for you may be bigger than you imagine. Many are the plans in a person's heart. A wise person commits their plans to the LORD. Proverbs 16:3 reads, "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. In his heart, a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps."
A person whose plans oppose the LORD as in Psalm 2:1-3 "Why do the nations rage and the people's plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and their rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us', may actually become God's enemy. But the person whose ways are from God will certainly succeed (Proverbs 16:1,9 reads (1) To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue. (9) In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.)
I like the way Pastor Evans laid it out for us to grasp a clear understanding of this scripture: "Many plans are in a person's heart, but above all else, we must believe the value of seeking God and His mind on all things. We can plan our schedules as much as we want, but what God has declared is guaranteed to take place. God did not create us and redeem us to live a plotless, purposeless existence. And that's good news!"
We should not settle for just anything. God could have something that is bigger for us. If we step out of our own way and allow God's dream for us to materialize. Then we will behold His purpose and plans for us. Therefore, let's continue seeking Him for what it is in your calling for our lives.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
TTEBC|HBS
Love and faithfulness are important character qualities. Both involve actions as well as attitudes. A loving person not only feels love; he or she also acts loyal and responsibly. A faithful person not only believes the truth; he or she also works for justice for others. Thoughts and words are not enough, our lives reveal whether we are truly loving and faithful.
In the Book of Proverbs within the third chapter, the Word speaks of the LORD's discipline. As a father speaking to his son passing along encouraging words of wisdom. Informing that the LORD'S disciple is the other side of God's grace. We, as children of the Highest, should cherish God's correction in our lives because God disciplines those He loves (Heb 2:7-10). The Beatitudes of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5:3-12) work much the way these verses are found in Proverbs. God is pleased with people who discover that wisdom is a priceless treasure.
Here we find one of the most beloved, quoted, and memorized scripture on trusting in God; "Trust in the LORD, with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding." (5 & 6) I read to trust the LORD means more than believing in who He is and what He says, but to place your confidence in Him. "Trust Him where you can't trace Him!" Even the blind man that sat by the roadside, calling out to Him trusted that He could heal him, having not seen but heard of this Man called Jesus, son of David.
Solomon the author of Proverbs, was inspired by God to write to his sons, to provide them with instruction to open their minds and hearts to all that is around them. To shun evil and do good, to be helpers of another to seek the paths of righteousness, and to stay up on the path once found. In trusting in the instructions we find that God's mercy is promising, and His truth in performing.
We have a rich history to pass along to our next generation and that history is of all the LORD has done for us then and now. Therefore, pass along to your children, your sons, and daughters the wisdom found here in these verses of scripture in Proverbs. Parents must exhort their children to pursue wisdom and avoid evil. Young people need to know the proper route to take, but they also need to recognize the telltale warning signs of a path that leads to destruction.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FLB|TEBC|LAB|HSB
“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is I heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’”
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.”
Prayer will not just change your life, it will give you a deeper perspective. It will increase your awareness that God is closer than when you first believed. He says; "Any when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
For those that stand in the gap for others than themselves, the Word in 1st Timothy says this, "I exhort therefore, that, first all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men".
As Jesus makes intercession for us to the Father, we should always have the willingness of heart to intercede on behalf of another. If you trust in and believe His Word, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." Therefore, if we come with a heart to yield unto God our Father, asking, trusting that if it's in God's Will our prayers will be answered.
How should we pray? "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;". Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
Today's broadcast was captured 'live' as those that gathered during intercessory prayer. Take a listen, and if so, join in praying for those that are on your heart. Does not matter the time you pray, send heavenward a prayer for someone. And if you are wondering what to pray for, turn on your local news station. There is so much going on right now in this world on every corner, every street, in every neighborhood, town, city, state, and the world. It's praying time folks!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
Reading Luke 14:7-15 The Parable of the Honored Guest. In ancient times the best seats at a meal were those next to the host. Here, Jesus takes occasion to reprove the guests for striving to sit in [the most important place], and this gives us a lesson of humility. Jesus observed how these lawyers and Pharisees loved the highest seats toward the head of the table. He marked how they chose out the chief rooms, every man, as he came in, got as near the best seat as he could.
Experts in management tell us that most people wear an invisible sign that reads, "Please make me feel important"; if we heed that sign, we can succeed in human relations. Jesus taught two lessons here. First, He spoke to the guests, telling them not to seek places of honor. Service is more important in God's kingdom than status. Second, He told the host not to be exclusive about whom he invites. God opens His kingdom to everyone.
The way to rise high is to begin low. Selfishness brings embarrassment; courtesy is appreciated and rewarded. Jesus used these recognized facts to show spiritual truth: only the person who humbles himself can enter the kingdom of God. It ought to check our high thoughts of ourselves to think how many there are that are more honorable than we, not only in respect of worldly dignities but of personal merits and accomplishments. Instead of being proud that so many give place to us, it should be humbling to us that there are so many whom we must give place to.
How can we humble ourselves? Some people try to give the appearance of humility in order to manipulate others. Others think that humility means putting themselves down. Truly humble people compare themselves only with Christ, realize their sinfulness, and understand their limitations. On the other hand, they also recognize their gifts and strengths and are willing to use them as Christ directs. Humility is not self-degradation; it is a realistic assessment and commitment to serve.
When Jesus advised people not to rush for the best places at a feast. People today are just as eager to raise their social status, whether by being with the right people, dressing for success, or driving the right car. Whom do you try to impress? Rather than aiming for prestige, look for a place where you can serve. If God wants you to serve on a wider scale, He will invite you to take a higher place.
Blessings,
Elder Barbar
HSB|LAB|MHSB|TWBC
Bags of gold sometimes translated as "talents," this was a large sum of money, about six thousand denarii. The parable of the bags of gold illustrates the faith required of God's servants.
The parable describes the consequences of two attitudes to Christ's return. The person who diligently prepares for it by investing his or her time and talent to serve God will be rewarded.The person who has no heart for the work of the kingdom will be punished. God rewards faithfulness. Those who bear no fruit for God's kingdom cannot expect to be treated the same as those who are faithful.
The master divided the money (talents) among his servants according to their abilities. No one received more or less than he could handle. If he failed in his assignment, his excuse could not be that he was overwhelmed. Failure could come only from laziness or hatred toward the master. Talents represent any kind of resource we are given. God gives us time, gifts, and other resources according to our abilities, and He expects us to invest them wisely until He returns. We are responsible for using well what God has given us. The issue is not how much we have, but how well we use what we have.
Jesus is coming back — we know this is true. Does this mean we must quit our jobs in order to serve God? No, it means we are to use our time, talents, and treasures diligently in order to serve God completely in whatever we do. For a few people, this man means changing professions. For most of us, it means doing our daily work out of love for God.
The last man was thinking only of himself. He hoped to play it safe and protect himself from his hard master, but he was judged for his self-centeredness. We must not make excuses to avoid doing what God calls us to do. If God truly is our Master, we must obey willingly. Our time, abilities, and money aren't ours in the first place—we are caretakers, not owners. When we ignore, squander, or abuse what we are given, we are rebellious and deserve to be punished.
I will put you in charge of many things. The first two servants received the same reward, based on their faithfulness, not on the size of their responsibilities. The smallest task in God's work may receive a great reward if we are faithful in performing it.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LAB|TEBC|HSB
LOVE. 1st Corinthians 13 "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal." This episode speaks of love, love within a family actually within generations of a family, my family, and your family.
I was going through a few of my older sermons and happen upon a few notes I had gathered for a sermon on the topic of "love". This would be one of our greatest reunions before the call of many senior family members. Our family reunions always conclude with Sunday's church service before everyone departed homeward. If you decide to listen to the podcast, please note I did not script this one, nor did I dive into the Word or use commentary for closing and apology my heart was too heavy to edit.
Speaking about love, the love shared within our family and a few of grandmas' teaching points passed along to us and the generations to follow. Therefore, I just felt like sharing some of my notes from the sermon of that day many years back regarding family love and its teaching.
The one thing we were taught is that family gives you two things, roots, and the other wings. However, the greatest gift of everything is love!
In chapter 12 of 1st Corinthians Paul gave evidence of the Corinthians' lack of love in the utilization of spiritual gifts; chapter 13 defines real love; and chapter 14 shows how love works. Love is more important than all the spiritual gifts exercised in the church body. Great faith, acts of dedication or sacrifice, and miracle-working power produce very little without love. Love makes our actions and gifts useful. Although people have different gifts, love is available to everyone.
Love is the greatest of all human qualities, and it is an attribute of God Himself (1 John 4:8). Love involves unselfish service to others; to show it gives evidence that you care. Faith is the foundation and content of God's message; hope is the attitude and focus; love is the action. When faith and hope are in line, you are free to love completely because you understand how God loves you.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LAB
I WILL BLESS THE LORD. This episode is a reading from Psalm 34 a psalm of David when he changed his behavior before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. The writer of this psalm praises the LORD for a miraculous deliverance from great trouble. His testimony encourages all afflicted believers to believe that they may also experience the goodness of the LORD.
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The angel of the LORD probably refers to the angelic host of heaven. They are "ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation" (Heb. 1:14). God has appointed His angels to protect and rescue His saints from physical and spiritual harm. This promise of divine intervention is reserved only for those who truly fear God. Note that the promises in this psalm are conditional, but many of these blessings require our active participation. He will deliver us from fear, save us out of our troubles, guard and deliver us, show us goodness, supply our needs, listen when we talk to Him, and redeem us, but we must do our part. We can appropriate His blessings when we seek Him, cry out to Him, trust Him, fear Him, refrain from lying, turn from evil, do good and seek peace, are humble, and serve Him.
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"Taste and see" does not mean, "Check out God's credentials." Instead, it is a warm invitation: "Try this; I know you'll like it." When we take that first step of obedience in following God, we cannot help discovering that He is good and kind. When we begin the Christian life, our knowledge of God is partial and incomplete. As we trust Him daily, we experience how good He is.
You say you belong to the LORD, but do you fear Him? To fear the LORD means to show deep respect and honor to Him. We demonstrate true reverence through our humble attitude and genuine worship. Reverence was shown by Abraham (Gen 17:2-4), Moses (Ex 3:5,6), and the Israelites (Ex 19:16-24). Their reactions to God's presence varied, but all deeply respected Him.
9, 10. At first, we may question David's statement, because we seem to lack many good things. This is not a blanket promise that all Christians will have everything they want. Instead, this is David's praise for God's goodness—all those who call upon God in their need will be answered, sometimes in unexpected ways.
Remember, God knows what we need, and our deepest needs are spiritual. Many, even though faced with unbearable poverty and hardship, still have enough spiritual nourishment to live for God. David was saying that to have God is to have all you really need. God is enough.
The Bible often connects the fear of the LORD (love and reverence for Him) with obedience. "Fear God and keep His commandments" (Ecc 12:13); "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching" (John 14:23).
Love the LORD thy God with all thy heart, with all thy being. God will never leave you nor forsake you. Stand upon the promises of God.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL|LAB
The Questioned About Fasting: When questioned about fasting, Jesus provided an answer with a nod towards the believer of today. Jesus expected believers to fast after He was gone. The days of the “bridegroom’s” absence is the period of this age, from the time of His ascension until His return. The church awaits this return of the bridegroom. Therefore, fasting in this age is (1) a sign of the believer’s longing for the return of his LORD, (2) a preparation for His coming, (3) a mourning of His absence, and (4) a sign of sorrow for the sin and the decay of the world.
New Wine Into Old Bottles: This verse has been interpreted in various ways by commentators. Two views are (1) The “new wine” was fresh grape juice. As it began to ferment, the new bottles (wineskins) would stretch and not break, whereas the old skins would break. The “new wine” represented the gospel as fermenting change that the old forms of Judaism could not contain. This view is questionable, however, because those familiar with the process of fermentation state that even the newest and strongest of wineskins, if sealed, would burst from the violent action of fermentation. (2) A second interpretation sees the parable as emphasizing the importance of preserving both the “new wine” and the fresh wineskins. The “new wine” was fresh unfermented grape juice, representing the original saving message of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit thrust forth at Pentecost. Jesus’ overriding concern was that the original gospel and redemptive power of the Holy Spirit be preserved from all change, corruption, or loss. This interpretation is supported by Christ’s concern that the gospel (new wine) not be altered by the teachings (leaven) of the Pharisees and Judaism (leaven being a fermenting/altering agent, Mat 16:6,12; Ex. 12:19; 1 Cor. 5:7).
Like old wineskins, the Pharisees were too rigid to accept Jesus, who could not be contained in their traditions or rules. Christianity required new approaches, new traditions, and new structures. We, too, must be careful that our hearts do not become so rigid that they prevent us from accepting the new way of thinking that Christ brings. We need to keep our hearts pliable so we can accept Jesus’ life-changing message.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LAB|FLB
This story must have happened before the events recorded in chapter 5 because the seven-year famine must have ended before Gehazi was struck with leprosy. This shows Elisha's long-term concern for this widow and contrasts his miraculous public ministry with his private ministry to this family. Elisha's life exemplifies the kind of concern we should have for others.
Performing an act of kindness can be compared to throwing sand in the wind. You can be sure some of it will come back to you. This woman life's after crossing paths with the prophet that she once had been led to feed and house, produced good fruit. Through Elisha's prayers, her child was born and restored to life, and now Elisha warned her of the coming famine informing her to move her family until the time had passed.
GIVE BACK EVERYTHING: Returning to her home, which she had not renounced nor had she sold her property. Moreover, she returned within seven years (Dt 15:1—6:“At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release. 2 And this is the manner of the release: every creditor shall release what he has lent to his neighbor. He shall not exact it of his neighbor, his brother, because the Lord's release has been proclaimed. 3 Of a foreigner you may exact it, but whatever of yours is with your brother your hand shall release. 4 But there will be no poor among you; for the Lord will bless you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you for an inheritance to possess— 5 if only you will strictly obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all this commandment that I command you today. 6 For the Lord your God will bless you, as he promised you, and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow, and you shall rule over many nations, but they shall not rule over you.)
Since the property was still legally hers, she pressed her claim to the king. To whom, the king had just heard of the story regarding Elisha and the prayers he had prayed to God for this particular woman's son, told by Gehazi the servant of the prophet. Upon hearing this amazing turn of events, the king assigned an official to her case and instructed that her land and holdings be returned to her, including the income her field had generated while she was gone.
God always remembers our acts of kindness (Mal 3:16 Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed his name.)
Remember God can open the floodgates of heaven.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
LA|HSB|TTEC
The story of The Shunammite Woman provides us with the results of one that show kindness to another. This woman lived in the town of Shunem, a village near Jezreel. She was a prominent woman with a husband. They lived in their own house, a home to which she not only opened her doors but requested her husband to build an additional room. This Shunammite woman realized that Elisha was a man of God, so she prepared a room for him so whenever he was in town, he might have a place to rest his head from his travels. (See the flat roofs of houses at this time were used as extra living space, and often a small room would be built on the roof, which could be reached from outside. This accommodated a guest while providing privacy). She did this out of kindness and because she sensed a need, not for any selfish motives. Soon, however, her kindness would be rewarded far beyond her wildest dreams. Because of her acts of kindness, Elisha sought a way to repay her for the gratitude shown to him. Elisha offered to use his interest in her in the king's court, which she declined. Noting that, "she dwells among her own people," that is to say, "We are well off as we do not aim at preferment." Elisha inquired more about this woman and in his findings from his servant, Gehazi, he was informed she had no children. He called her and informed her that a year from this day she would conceive and hold her own child in her arms. Being a true man of God, the prophet Elisha's words rang true as the woman did give birth to a son, at the time of the season in which the prophet had spoken. Sadly everything does not always go as you would hope or plan. After some time had passed, this same Shunammite woman will seek the prophet in the midst of distress, to ask a sincere question of him, "Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me?" Her questions to Elisha were heartbreaking. Listen to the podcast to see how the prophet addresses these urgent questions of The Shunammite Woman or read 2 Kings 4:8-37 for the conclusion of the whole matter.
Blessings, Elder Barbara HSB|LAB|FL or read 2 King
This reading is taken from 2nd Kings 4:1-7 andtells of the story of the Widow whose husband was in the company of the prophets under the Prophet Elisha. After the death of her husband, the creditors came around demanding that the debts owned by her husband be paid. She inturned cried out to Elisha that the creditor was coming to take her children as slaves to work off what was owed. Poor people and debtors were allowed to pay their debts by selling themselves or their children as slaves. God ordered rich people and creditors not to take advantage of these people during their time of extreme need (see Deut. 15:1-18 for an explanation of these practices). This woman's creditor was not acting in the spirit of God's law. Elisha's kind deed demonstrates that God wants us to go beyond simply keeping the law. We must also show compassion.
God cares for His faithful who are in need and distressed. This widow and her children represent God's forsaken and oppressed people. Elisha provided the remedy for her problem by telling her to collect jars from their neighbors, pouring oil into them from A SINGLE JAR OF OIL that she said was all that was left in her house. The oil was probably olive oil and was used for cooking, lamps, and for fuel.
The oil stopped pouring only when they ran out of containers. The number of jars they gathered was an indication of their faith. God's provision was as large as their faith and willingness to obey. Beware of limiting God's blessings by a lack of faith and obedience. God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. (Ephesians 3:20)
When reading the Old Testament, it is easy to focus on God's harsh judgment of the rebellious and to minimize His tender care for those who love and serve Him. To see Him at work providing for His followers helps us keep His severe justice toward the unrepentant in proper perspective.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL|LA|TTEBC
Powerful, Strong, I'm every woman! Proverbs has a lot to say about women. How lifting that the book ends with a picture of a woman of strong character, great wisdom, many skills, and great compassion. Verses 10—31 describe the ideal woman, wife, and mother. Her whole life is centered around a reverent fear of God, compassion for those in need, and faithfulness and loves toward her family. The woman described in this chapter has outstanding abilities. Her family's social position is high. In fact, she may not be one woman at all—she may be a composite portrait of ideal womanhood. She works not to get rich but to give of herself to her family and to those around her.
An attribute of kindness is valued far above physical charm in God's sight, charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD will be praised. In our society where physical appearance counts for so much, is she too thin/skinny, or is she too full/heavy, or is she too short/tall, it may surprise us to realize that the woman here in Proverbs 31:10, appearance is never mentioned. Time has a way of its own in erasing outward beauty, however, it is the beauty that is within that is everlasting. She has a heart of gold that shines forth reflections of the inward beauty of her God-given attributes.
As to her household, she spends money wisely and uses it in the best way to get maximum productivity for the benefit of her family. Those of her household, her husband, and her children rise up and call her blessed. She is a daughter, a sister, and a friend she is always one to stretch forth a caring hand.
Do not see her as a model to imitate in every detail; your days are not long enough to do everything she does! See her instead as an inspiration to be all you can be. We can't be just like her, but we can learn from her industry, integrity, and resourcefulness.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL|LA|TE|Haley's
LORD, LORD. This 4m episode of "WHEN THE FLOOD WATERS CAME," provides you with the readings taken from the Book of Luke verses 46 to 49. The commentary presents an insight into what the heart should say in response to the question, "Why do you call me, 'LORD, LORD', and do not do what I say?" Jesus pointed out that those who called Him by this title of respect acknowledged submission to Him. However, when these same people ignored His teaching, they were guilty of hypocrisy.
Hearing and reading God's Word is absolutely essential. But if you stop there, disaster will result. The Bible wasn't meant to be merely studied and memorized; it was meant to be believed and obeyed. We are to "be doers of the Word and not hearers only" see Jas 1:22.
Obeying God is like building a house on a strong, solid foundation that stands firm when storms come. When life is calm, our foundations don't seem to matter. But when crises come, our foundations are tested. Be sure your life is built on the solid foundation of knowing and trusting in Jesus Christ.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
HSB|TTEBC|LAB
This 3min episode informs those who are blessed by God not only turn from evil but also build their lives around the words of the LORD. They seek to obey God's will out of hearts that genuinely take pleasure in God's ways and commandments whereas the wicked perish because they refused to love the truth.
What motivates their actions are their redeemed spirits and emotions, captivated by the truth of God as found in His Word. Those seeking to live under God's blessing meditate on God's law (i.e., His Word) in order to shape their thinking, attitudes, and actions. They read the words of Scripture, ponder them, and compare them with other Scriptures. When meditating on a passage in the Bible, questions such as these cross their minds.
- Is God's Spirit applying this verse to my present situation?
- Is there a promise here for me to claim?
- Is the passage revealing a particular sin I must strive to avoid?
- Is God issuing a command I must obey?
- Is my spirit in harmony with what the Holy Scripture is saying?
- Is the passage expressing a truth about God, salvation, sin, the world, or my personal obedience on which I need to be enlightened by the Holy Spirit?
These I ponder.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
TTECB|CSB/FL
What does the blessed person do? He/she delights in the LORD's instruction! This 5m episode serves as an introduction to the entire book of Psalms. It contrasts the only two kinds of people recognized by God, each with a distinct set of life principles: (1) The godly, who are characterized by righteousness, love, obedience to God's Word, and separation from fellowship with the world; (2) the ungodly, who represent the ways and counsel of the world, who do not abide in God's Word, and who consequently have no part in the assembly of God's people. The godly person is known and blessed by God, but the ungodly person has no part in God's kingdom (1 Cor. 6:9) and will perish.
The separation between these two kinds of people will exist throughout redemptive history and on into eternity.
The first verse of the book of Psalms emphasizes the distinction between the righteous and the wicked. True believers can be distinguished by the things they do not do, the places they do not go, and the company they do not keep. No person can experience God's blessing without turning from those things that are harmful or destructive.
Take a listen to the thought from the TTE commentary in regard to how to become happy or whether would you rather be blessed.
Elder Hayes
TTE/CSB/FL
Please note that this 17m episode provides you with a view of the O.T. Prophets, including their place in Hebrew history and as the men and women servants of the Most High. The Hebrew word for the Prophets is Ro'eh. This Hebrew noun, translated as "seer" in English, indicates a special ability to see into the spiritual realm and foresee future events. The title suggests that the prophet was not deceived by the external appearance of things; rather, he saw issues as they really were from the perspective of God Himself. As a seer, the prophet received dreams, visions, and revelations from God which enabled him to convey spiritual realities to God's people.
Nabi'. This is the main Hebrew word for "prophet," occurring 309 times in the O.T. (nab 'im is its plural form). Although the origin of this word is unclear, the meaning of the Hebrew verb "to prophesy" meant: "to put forth words abundantly from God's mind and by God's Spirit" (Gesenius, Hebrew Lexicon). Thus a nabi' was a spokesperson from which our English word "prophet" is derived, meaning "one who speaks on behalf of another." The prophets spoke for God to the covenant people, based on what they heard, saw, and received from Him. In the O.T., the prophet was also designated by such terms as "man or woman of God", "servant of the LORD" (Is. 20:3; Dan. 6:20), "man or woman of the Spirit" (Is 61:1-3), "watchman" (Ezek. 3:17), and the "the LORD's messenger" (Hag. 1:13). The prophet also interpreted prophetic dreams (see Joseph, and Daniel) and provided an understanding of history both the present and the future from a prophetic perspective.
A few of the O.T. prophets were Samuel (Israel), Elijah (Israel), Elisha (Israel), Jonah (Nineveh), Amos (Israel), Isaiah (Judah), Miriam (Exo. 15:20), Deborah (Judg. 4:4), Huldah (2 Kin. 22:14-20).
I recall during my studies a statement made by one of my professors, "Try the prophet by his word"!
I pray you will enjoy listening to this short series of THE PROPHET IN THE OLD TESTAMENT.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FLB:pp1002-1004
The Conclusion of Matthew 5's readings provides the listener with an inside view of the attitudes of the heart. In Matthew 5, Jesus took six important Old Testament laws and interpreted them for His people in the light of the new life He came to give. He made a fundamental change without altering God's standards: He dealt with the attitudes and intents of the heart and not simply with external action. The Pharisees said that righteousness consisted of performing certain actions, but Jesus said it centered on the attitudes of the heart. Likewise, the Pharisees had a list of external actions that they deemed sinful, but Jesus explained that sin came from the attitudes of the heart. Anger is murder in the heart; lust is adultery in the heart.
We need to take an inward look at the attitudes of our hearts.
There is holy anger against sin Romans 1:18, but Jesus talked about a wave of unholy anger against people. Jesus affirmed God's law of purity, and then explained that the intent of this law was to reveal the sanctity of sex and the sinfulness of the human heart. The Lord dealt with divorce in greater detail in Matthew 19:1-12. The Pharisees used all kinds of tricks to sidestep the truth, and vows were among them. Getting revenge, Jesus replaced a law with an attitude: Be willing to suffer loss yourself rather than cause another to suffer. And in the love for enemies, Jesus defined our enemies as those who curse us, hate us, and exploit us selfishly. Since Christian love is an act of the will and not simply an emotion, Jesus has the right to command us to love our enemies. Learn to forgive as Christ forgave us. How many times? As many times as He has forgiven you of your sins. We need to be kind and compassionate toward each other, and love even when the world does not love us back. We serve a forgiving God, a God of all mercy and full of goodness.
I say this, God never promised us days without rain, nor days that the sun would forever shine. But He did promise us that if we love Him, Serve Him and no other gods He would never leave us nor forsake us.
Elder Hayes
Wiersbe
This episode of the book of Matthew begins his account by giving Jesus' genealogy (Matthew 1). He then tells of Jesus' birth and early years, including the family's escape to Egypt from the murderous Herod and their return to Nazareth.
The conception and birth of Jesus Christ are supernatural events beyond human logic or reasoning. Because of this, God sent angels to help certain people understand the significance of what was happening. Angels are spiritual beings created by God who help carry out His work on earth. They bring God's messages to people (Luke 1:26), protect God's people (Daniel 6:22), offer encouragement (Genesis 16:7), give guidance (Exodus 14:19), carry out punishment (2 Samuel 24:16), patrol the earth (Zechariah 1:9-14) and fight the forces of evil (2 Kings 6:16-18; Revelation 20:1, 2).
The angel declared to Joseph that Mary's child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and would be a son. This reveals an important truth about Jesus - He is both God and human. The infinite, unlimited God took on the limitations of humanity so He could live and die for the salvation of all who would believe in Him.
Bethlehem of Judaea: The city of David [Israel's greatest king]. Bethlehem signifies the "house of bread," the fittest place for Him to be born who is the true manna, the bread which came down from heaven, which was given for the life of the world. written by the prophet: Taken from Micah 5:2, where it is foretold (700 years earlier!) that though Bethlehem is little, it shall be found not the least among the princes of Judah. Bethlehem's honor lay not in the multitude of the people, but in the magnificence of the princes, it produced.
Elder Barbara
LA/MH
This episode is taken from the Book of Isaiah 9th chapter verses 6 and 7. The prophet's announcement of the Child "Immanuel"!
The occasion of this prophecy, states Haley, is the invasion of Judah by the kings of Syria and Israel. They first attacked Judah separately, then together. Their object was to replace Ahaz (one of Judah's evil kings) with another. However, Ahaz appealed to the king of Assyria for help. The king of Assyria responded with an invasion of Syria and the northern part of Israel and took their populations into exile.
The virgin and her son Immanuel. The virgin is not named here, however, the reference is to something very unusual that is not further explained but that would happen in the immediate future in David's family.
Isaiah bestowed on Judah the name of the promised child, Immanuel, which means "God with Us" because it is preserved only because God was with that nation.
The LORD promised to Israel (and through Israel to us) a Redeemer. Isaiah continued the theme of light and darkness by announcing that the darkness and despair" will not be upon her who is distressed, as when at first". The Redemer will come and bring to the world the dawning of a new day.
We know that this prophecy refers to Jesus because of the way it is quoted in Matthew 4:13-15 [Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali- to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah]. "Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles - the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned."
A "sign" is a miracle that is performed to provide evidence for the truth. "Try the prophet by his word, should that which he speaks come to pass then you know he truly was sent."
Blessings
Elder Barbara
Haley's/Wiersbe
This episode of Matthew chapter 5 speaks of the heart in regard to adultery in the heart and of marriage which is supposed to be sacred and binding, but not always the case.
The marriage ordained by God: God's will for marriage is one mate, one marriage for life. To this Jesus gives an exception namely, "fornication." Fornication is marital unfaithfulness and includes adultery or any kind of sexual immorality. Hence, divorce is to be permitted when sexual immorality is involved. The following are important Biblical facts concerning divorce.
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When Jesus criticizes divorce in Matt. 19:7-8, He is not criticizing a separation because of adultery, but a divorce permitted in the O.T. in those cases where a husband discovered premarital unchastity after the marriage ceremony had taken place (Deut. 24:1-4). God's desire in such cases was that the two remain together. However, He permitted divorce due to premarital unchastity because of the hardness of the people's hearts (vv. 7-8).
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In the case of immorality after marriage, the O.T. law prescribed the dissolving of the marriage by executing both the offending parties (Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22). This, of course, would leave the innocent person free to remarry (Rom. 7:2; 1 Cor. 7:39).
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Under the new covenant the privileges of the believer are no less. Although divorce is a tragedy, marital unfaithfulness is such a cruel sin against one's mate that Christ states that the innocent party has a proper right to end the marriage by a divorce based on adultery. He or she is free to remarry another believer (1 Cor. 7:27-28).
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Paul's treatment of marriage and desertion in 1 Cor. 7:12-16 indicates that marriage also may be dissolved by the desertion of an unbelieving spouse. He further indicates that remarriage by the believer in such cases is not a sin.
FL commentary
Blessings
Elder Barbara
The final readings of Matthew chapter 5 provide us as the hearers of the Word of Jesus His guidance in regard to Oaths, Going the Second Mile, and the importance of Loving Your Enemies.
Jesus not speaking against the administration of proper justice toward those who are evil. He is referring to loving one's enemies. We are not to react to the wrong done toward us in a spirit of hate, but in a way that shows we have values that are centered in Christ Jesus and His kingdom. Our actions toward those who are unkind, that commit sinful acts should be such that it might lead them to accept Christ as their LORD and Savior. Remember it is by Grace that you are no longer in darkness but walk in the light of Christ.
There is none that is perfect, no not one none other than Christ Himself. The word "perfect" in the 48th verse of chapter 5 does not imply sinlessly perfect, for that would be impossible in this life. We must continue to strive each and every day. It does suggest completeness, and maturity as the children of God. The Father loves His enemies and seeks to make them His children, and we should assist Him!
We must all strive to walk the path that God has laid out before us and remember we must repent all day long. Why? Because we never know when we in thought or deed may step out of the Will of God.
Blessings
Elder Barbara
FL /Wiersbe
This episode speaks of murder that begins in the heart of man. The commentary of the Full Life Bible states; To call one in anger ... raca ... fool; Jesus is not speaking of righteous anger at those who are wicked and unjust but is condemning the vindictive anger that would unjustly desire the death of another. "Raca" is a term of contempt and probably means "empty-headed fool." To call a person a "godless fool" in anger and contempt may indicate a heart attitude that places one "in danger of hell fire."
Let's remember that the tongue is a tiny member yet it can carry the weight death and put one in jeopardy of hell's fire.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL
These verses of Chapter 5 of the Book of Matthew provide you an insight into The LAW... TO FULFIL. It is Christ's intention that the spiritual requirement of God's law is fulfilled in the lives of His followers (Rom. 3:31; 8:4). The believer's relation to the law of God involves the following points:
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The law that the believer is obliged to keep consists of the ethical and moral principles of the O.T. as well as the teachings of Christ and the apostles (1 Cor. 7:19; 9:21; Gal. 6:2).
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The believer must not view the law as a system of legal commandments by which to obtain merit for forgiveness and salvation (Gal. 2:16, 19). Rather, the law must be seen as a moral code for those who are already in a saved relationship with God and who, by obeying it, express the life of Christ within themselves (Rom. 6:15-22).
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Faith in Christ is the point of departure for the fulfillment of the law. Through faith in Him, God becomes our Father (cf. John 1:12). Hence, our obedience as believers is done not only out of a relationship to God as sovereign Law-giver but also out of a relationship of children to their Father (Gal. 4:6).
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Through faith in Christ, believers, by the grace of God (Rom. 5:21) and the indwelling Holy Spirit (Gal. 3:5, 14; Rom. 8:13), are given an inner compulsion and power to fulfill God's law (Rom. 16:25-26; Heb. 10:16).
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Having been freed from the power of sin and now enslaved to God (Rom. 6:18-22), believers follow the principle of "faith" by being "under the law to Christ" (1 Cor. 9:21). In so doing we fulfill "the law of Christ" (Gal. 6:2) and are thus faithful in ourselves to the requirement of the law.
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Jesus emphatically taught that doing the will of His heavenly Father is an ongoing condition of entering the kingdom of heaven.
I pray this will add to your study notes within the Word of God.
Blessings
Elder Barbara
FL
This episode presents The Sermon on the Mount from the 5th chapter of the book of Matthew. The main theme in the Sermon on the Mount is true righteousness. The religious leaders had an artificial, external righteousness based on law. But the righteousness that Jesus described as a true and vital righteousness that begins internally, in the heart. The Pharisees were concerned about the minute details of conduct, but they were neglecting the major matter of character. Conduct flows out of character.
To be "poor" or "poor in spirit" means to be humble, and to have a correct estimate of oneself (Rom. 12:3). It does not mean to be poor-spirited and have no backbone at all. It is honesty with ourselves: We know ourselves, accept ourselves, and try to be ourselves to the glory of God.
We mourn over sin and despise it. We see sin the way God sees it and seek to treat it the way God does. Those who cover sin or defend sin certainly have the wrong attitude.
Take a listen to the episode then let me know what you think.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL/Wiersbe
The reading of Matthew 5:13 is the beginning of a series presented with commentary flow. Matthew 5 speaks of the Salt & Light. Salt is valuable to give flavor and to preserve from corruption. If salt should lose its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Hence, the believer and the church are to be godly examples in the world and to resist the moral decay and corruption that is evident in society today.
Churches that become lukewarm, quench the power of the Holy Spirit, and cease to resist the prevailing spirit in the world, will be "cast out" by God. They consequently will be "trodden underfoot of men", those who are lukewarm. We are valuable in our role as disciples of Christ, it is by the indwelling spirit of God that we lead others to Christ. An imposter is thrown out and trampled underfoot because they hold no effectiveness in the service of the LORD.
The reflection of the light of Christ shines within you. Jesus compared Christians to a city that is set upon a hill that cannot be hidden, you are a beacon so that all men can see the Christ that shines from within you. You are the Church, an earthen vessel. Preserved until the day of the LORD's return, until then let your light so shine that men may see your good works, and then they shall Glorify the Father, our Father which art in Heaven.
I pray that you will enjoy the Matthew series.
Blessings
Elder Barbara Hayes
Wiersbe/Full Life
Matthew 13:44 says this; The kingdom of heaven is like a [very precious] treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid again; then in his joy he goes and sells all he has and buys that field [securing the treasure for himself]. This episode of The Church Within You!, is presented by the men's meeting group of Iron Sharpen Iron out of Rochester, NY under the leadership of Bro. J.E. Booker. This group of men gather from various states through the USA via conference line every 2nd Saturday of the month.
The message presented here provide the hearer a view of the power in the treasure that lies within you. The main point here is the immense value of the kingdom, which far outweighs any sacrifice or inconvenience one might encounter on earth. God's Kingdom is a hidden treasure, we must seek Him, follow Him, trust in Him knowing that as He reveals Himself to us the wonder of eternal life exceeds any value that we could place on anything upon this earth.
The power of Jesus is the hidden jewel that lies within the believer's heart. Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Reach for the power that lies within you, for you are the earthen temple where He resides when He comes into your heart.
I welcome you to take a listen to this message presented by the Iron Sharpen Iron Men's Day speaker, Deacon Carmichael.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
This episode is one of prayer the prayer leaders and intercessors join together in prayer as they lift up those that are in need of healing, comfort, support, deliverance from hinderances in their lives.
In the book of Psalm 4:1 we can call upon Him, "Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have freed me when I was hemmed in and relieved me when I was in distress: Be gracious to me and hear my prayer." O God of my righteousness. This phrase can also be translated "O my righteous God." It has two meanings: only God is righteous, and all of a person's righteousness is found in Him alone.
As we cry out to the LORD lifting our voices in prayer as found in Psalm 3:4 "With my voice I was crying to the LORD, and He answered me from His holy mountain." We can in times of trouble do just as David cried out when he fled from Absalom his son.
We can seek the LORD in times of trouble as in the 2 Chronicles 7:14 prayer where it tells us the promise that He will hear, if the people would only pray. This is directly linked to the covenant promises that God made with the Israelites (Dt 28-30). Blessings were linked to obedience, curses linked to rebellion, and the promise that God would hear if they repented was the reminder that God had eternal commitment to them. "and My people, who are called by My Name, humble themselves, and pray and seek [crave, require as a necessity] My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear [them] from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land."
We gather every Saturday at the 2 O'clock hour together in prayer lifting up all before the LORD God, Psalm 25:1 "To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul." We place our trust in the hands of God, for in Him we have unwavering trust and we rely upon Him with all our hearts.
Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God's gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing ] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just a the right moment].
Believers should boldly approach God in prayer, because He is our gracious High Priest who sits at God's right hand interceding for us.
Come help us grow in prayer: Join the Saturday 2PM Prayer line 978-990-5290 code 575728#
Just remember God never promised us days without rain, but He did promise that He would never leave us nor forsake us. Therefore no matter what today throws at us, we know that He stands at the door and if any man opens the door, He'll come and sup with you.
Tune in and then join in, "The Church Within You!" Podcast.
Blessings
Elder Barbara
Saturday Prayer, CU@2
This episode provides a view of the Limits of Wealth. This psalm stresses the futility of trusting in riches and the transitory nature of all this earth has to offer. The psalmist declares that the person whose life consists of an abundance of possessions of worldly pleasures or fame (Mat. 6:19-21); Luke 12:15), rather than in seeking after God and His kingdom, will perish (Ps. 49: 12-14, 16-17); on the other hand, those who live for God will be redeemed from the grave.
1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Wealth will not determine your destiny, Psalm says this in its 13th to the 15th 13 This is the path of those who have foolish confidence; yet after them people approve of their boasts. Selah 14 Like sheep they are appointed for Sheol; death shall be their shepherd, and the upright shall rule over them in the morning. Their form shall be consumed in Sheol, with no place to dwell. 15 But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me. Selah
For the love of money cannot buy you complete happiness nor can it purchase you the key to eternal life.
Blessings
Elder Hayes
This episode 4min episode asks a question in regard to correction from disobeying God or perfection when God helps us to grow. Matthew 14:22 says, "Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away." Why was Jesus in such a hurry for everyone to leave? John recorded this reason: The crowd wanted to make Jesus King (John 6:14,15). The LORD knew that their motives were not spiritual and that their purposes were out of God's will.
Now the boat was in the middle of the sea, and there arose a storm that cause the boat to be tossed to and fro. The force of the waves causes the disciples to become afraid. Just as the waves began to beat against the sides of the boat, is like when in our lives storms rise and seemingly toss us for a loop and we can't seem to think nor find our way out.
Jesus always comes to us in and during the storms of our lives. We must put our trust that the maker of the storm is also the One that can calm the storm. No matter what type of storm it is. A storm of correction to discipline us or a storm that has come to perfect us. God is still in control of your storm, just question yourself which storm would you rather be in.
Blessings, Elder Hayes
This is a very small (3mins) portion of the message "Stiff-necked People"! described to be obstinate and difficult to lead. The Word describes these as having uncircumcised hearts and ears and always resisting the Holy Spirit. As God spoke to Moses, "I have seen these people, and behold, they are a stiff-necked people.
The message speaks to those that were serving idols, false gods, and statues that they had molded or carved by hand and paid homage to them as if they were the Living God. It seems when trouble from disease, sickness, or surrounding people after praying to their gods and nothing happened they would then seemingly turn to God, who had on many occasions delivered them. Now once again, they had turned their backs on God and were seeking the prophets to go to God on their behalf.
However, God spoke and ask them various questions about their fake god, to which they had no answer to His questions. Take a listen to this three-minute portion of, Stiff-necked People!
Presented here is a message from three segments from my much earlier days of preaching the Word of God. This message is taken from chapter One of the Book of Acts. Combined it's about 9mins in length. The message covers the differences in languages spoken yet they were able to understand one yet to another, it also speaks of the casting of lots after Judas' betrayal of Jesus to those seeking to take him away. As well as to those that were present.
Not all of our LORD's followers were in the Upper Room, for only about 120 were present, and 1 Cor. 15:6 states that at least 500 people saw the risen Christ at one time. Bible scholars do not agree on the size of the population of Palestine at that time; their estimates run from 600,000 to one million. But regardless of what figure we select, the 120 believers were still a minority, yet they turned their world upside down for Christ.
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus; for he was numbered with us and obtained a part in this ministry.
And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed, Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed and said, You, O LORD, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place." And they cast lots, and the lot fell on Matthias.
Prayer plays a significant role in the story of the church as recorded in this book. The believers prayed for guidance in making decisions and for the courage to witness for Christ. In fact, prayer was a normal part of their daily ministry. Let's remember, prayer has moved mountains and caused giants to fall!
Exploring this 4m+ episode from the reading of the book of James. Whence come wars and fighting among you? The root cause of every war, internal and external, is rebellion against God. At the beginning of creation was perfect harmony, but sin entered the world, leading to conflict. Sin is lawlessness (1 John 3:4), and lawlessness is rebellion against God.
God graciously draws near to us when we deal with the sin in our lives that keep Him at a distance. He will not share us with anyone else; He must have complete control. We submit to God's control by confessing our sins and asking for His cleansing. If we do this, then God will draw near, cleanse us, and forgive us; and the wars will cease! (See v.1.) We will not be at war with God, so we will not be at war with ourselves. This means we will not be at war with others.
We as Christians need to have discernment, but we must not act like God in passing judgment. We must first examine our own lives and then try to help others (Matt. 7:1-5). To speak evil of a brother or sister and to judge that person on the basis of partial evidence and (probably) unkind motives is to sin against him or her and against God. We are not called to be judges; God is the only Judge. He is patient and understanding; His judgments are just and Holy; we do well and can leave the matter with Him.
Best said, we need to stay in our own lane, God knows how to drive and He truly knows the path.
Welcome to this episode recorded from the LIVE broadcast of the Prayer, Praise, & Worship Power Hour service of The Church Within You! Evangelist Rose Booker Denard of Orlando, Fla was our guest speaker and she truly blessed us with the WORD of God coming from Luke 11:1-4 and Galatians 5:22-23. The message topic was, Developing A Life Dedicated To Prayer!
I pray that you pause and take a listen to this message where she searched the scriptures and delivered the WORD to us regarding how to develop a prayer-filled life. In the Bible Paul said; "Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit" (1 Thes. 5:17-19). This means that we should always have our minds on the things of God, be in constant communication with Him, trust, and believe that God hears our prayers at all times.
I welcome you to take a few minutes out of your busy day and listen to this broadcast. There may be a blessing or two waiting for you!
Remember to leave a comment in the comment section!
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
The episode presented in this message is from the Men's Group, Iron Sharpens Iron is led by Bro. Booker is based out of Rochester New York. The topic preached by their platform speaker Deacon Carmichael of Massachusetts, THE POWER WITHIN taken from the Word 2n Corinthians 4:7.
"In 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul makes a beautiful statement that “we have this treasure in earthen vessels so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves.” The context helps us understand what is the treasure in earthen vessels (other translations say “jars of clay”). Paul is exhorting his readers that, even though there is great difficulty in their ministry, he is encouraged (2 Corinthians 4:1). He acknowledges that in his ministry he had received mercy and that he and the others who shared that ministry are not losing heart (in this case he is also referring to Timothy, see 2 Corinthians 1:1). They could have confidence because they were walking in the truth of God’s Word and not in their own cleverness or craftiness (2 Corinthians 4:2). Because their confidence was in His truth and not their own ability, they could fulfill their ministry with good conscience even as God could observe their actions (2 Corinthians 4:2)."
Deacon Carmichael explains in detail the gift that lies within us is given by God and is to be used for the Glory of God. "Even though Paul and Timothy’s gospel-proclaiming ministry was at times met with rejection, it was not because of any flaw in the good news itself. Unbelievers suffer from a blindness of the mind and are unable to see the “light of the gospel of the glory of Christ who is the image of God” (2 Corinthians 4:3–4). Because of this great need, the message of the gospel is so important. They weren’t proclaiming or promoting themselves; rather, they were serving others by proclaiming the message of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:5). The light that Paul and Timothy were proclaiming had come from God—that same God who had originally created light (Genesis 1:3) and who had determined that Christ would come to provide light to humanity (John 1:4–9). God had accomplished the creation of light and the coming of Jesus. What He determines shall happen; it will indeed take place, and God had shone a light in Paul’s and Timothy’s hearts that they would be equipped to present the wonderful truth of Jesus Christ and the eternal life He provides (2 Corinthians 4:6). It is for this reason that Paul explains that they have the treasure in earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4:7) and why that is significant."
Take a listen!
Take a listen to this 6min episode from the seventh chapter of the Book of Mark in regard to what is it that defiles a man. The rulers in Jerusalem had already determined to kill Jesus (Jn 5:18). No doubt they heard of His waning popularity in Galilee (Jn 6:66). They now sent this delegation of Pharisees to push their propaganda campaign, hoping to make Him more unpopular with His own disciples, for it is likely that many of them held to the same traditions as the Pharisees.
The hand washing described in these verses was purely ceremonial and was not for sanitary purposes. It was not prescribed in the Law but was an invention of the teachers of the Law.
The Pharisees and the scribes were guilty of the sin of legalism. A legalist substitutes outward acts or words for proper inner attitudes that come from being born of God and the Spirit.
The righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees was external only as they kept many rules; they prayed, praised, fasted, read God's Word, and attended worship services. However, they substituted the outward act for the correct inner attitudes. Jesus said the righteousness that God requires of the believer is more. The heart and spirit, not only the outward deeds but must conform to God's will in faith and love.
The heart in Scripture is the totality of intellect, emotion, desire, and volition. Contemporary people generally consider the head with its brain to be the center and the director of human activity. However, the Bible speaks of the heart as the center; "out of it are the issues of life" (Prov. 4:23). Many other spiritual activities take place in the hearts of regenerated believers. They praise God from their heart (Ps. 9:1), meditate on God's Word continually in their heart (Ps. 19:14), cry out to God from the heart (Ps. 84:2), seek God with all their heart (Ps. 119:2,10), hide God's Word in their heart (Ps. 119:11), trust in the LORD with their whole heart (Prov. 3:5), experience the love of God poured out into their heart (Rom. 5:5), and sing to God from their heart (Eph. 5:19).
An impure heart will corrupt one's thoughts, feelings, words, and actions (Prov. 4:23). What is needed is a new, transformed heart, made after the image of Christ (see Luke 6:45). Therefore, it's not as the Word states, that which goes into a man that defiles him because what goes in enters the belly and exits out into the draught. In short, those awful actions, those mean things spoken from your lips are from within your heart. Think about it.
FL|HSB
This 9m episode takes you the reader onto the ship with Jesus and His disciples as they crossed over the other side of the shore. This was when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him. This story is told in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Jesus drawing tired wanted to rest his head for a bit. He and the disciples climbed into one of the boats and set sail. Besides them, there were other boats.
As they were making their way over, a storm arose and the winds were high causing the waves to beat against the sides of the boats so that the waves broke over them. However, Jesus being tired had drifted into a deep sleep. We must remember that Jesus, was in His earthly body, and we know that these bodies do grow tired and require rest. Jesus had been preaching and teaching to the multitudes of people that had gathered around him all day. He was tired and most likely fell fast asleep as soon as His head laid upon the pillow.
The Sea of Galilee which was once calm now produced waves probably as high as one of the tall buildings of today. The men began frightening, they probably thought they were going to be tossed into the sea where they would drown. Now quite odd was that these men had to been caught in plenty of storms before this one, Yet, this storm seem to be worst than any they had ever experienced. The water was filling the bottom of the boat and even with all the rocking, bobbing, and thrashing Jesus, He slept on. Proverbs 3:24 says, "If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Remember the sleep of a believer is sweet and peaceful because he knows that the LORD is always with him.
The disciples rush to Jesus' side and out of fear they called out to awaken Him, "LORD, save us; we perish." Jesus woke and saw what was happening and said to them, "Why are you fearful," and then ask, "O ye of little faith"? He then rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. Just like that! Jesus' rebuke caused the mighty sea to stand still.
No matter what we are going through in this life, if we put our trust in Jesus He is ever so faithful to bring us safely through. All we have to do is trust in God. Believe in His Holy Word, where He said, "I will never leave you nor forsake." Be strong, be courageous. Knowing that He is our God and will keep us no matter what the trial may be, He is ever so faithful.
BH
This 4 min. episode reading from the Book of James heavily emphasizes prayer. IS ANY AMONG YOU AFFLICTED…When you experience poverty, affliction, or distress, Scripture invites you to seek strength from God through prayer. Draw near to your mediator, Jesus Christ. He will represent you before God, make intercession for you (Heb. 7:25). And give mercy and grace to help in time of need (Heb. 4:16). Take seriously God’s Word: “casting you’re your care upon Him; for He careth for you (1 Pet. 5:7). If we are happy in the LORD, we must since songs of praise to Him (Ps 33:2-3; 81:1-2; 92:1-3; 98:4-6; 144:9; 149:1-5; 150).
Here he speaks of anointing with oil. James is speaking of physical sickness. We may deal with illness by sending for the elders or leaders of the church. It is the duty of pastors and elders to pray for the sick and to anoint them with oil. Note that the responsibility to pray the prayer of faith is on them, not on the ill person. The oil probably represents the healing power of the Holy Spirit and was used as an aid to faith (Mark 6:13). It is the prayer that James emphasizes as most important. Effective prayer must be offered in faith if the sick is to be healed. The LORD will give faith according to His Will. People may or may not always be healed (on this side); nevertheless, God promises to be with all those who cry unto Him in fervent prayer. The LORD shall never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
IF HE HAS COMMITTED SINS, James recognizes that sickness may be due to sin (v. 16). Hence, whenever sickness occurs, one should examine himself before the LORD in prayer to determine if his sickness is due to personal sin. The “if” makes it clear that sickness is not always the result of personal sin.
FERVENT PRAYER … AVAILETH MUCH. The prayer of a man who is righteous accomplished much. A righteous man’s prayer draws him near to God (Heb. 7:25); opens the way to a Spirit-filled life (Luke 11:13; Acts 1:14); brings him power for ministry (Acts 1:8; 4:31, 33) and Christian devotion (Eph 1:19); builds him up spiritually (Jude 20); gives him insight into Christ’s provision for him (Eph. 1:16-19); helps him overcome Satan (Dan. 10:12-13); Eph. 6:12-13,18); clarifies the will of God for him (Ps. 32:6-8; Prov. 3:5-6; Mark 1:35-39); enables him to receive spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 14:1)p brings him into fellowship with God (Mat. 6:9; John 7:37; 14:16).
HE PRAYED … THE HEAVEN GAVE RAIN. Elijah was a man who had faith that his prayers to God would accomplish much, even to the point of God’s intervention in the course of nature. He believes that prayer by a righteous man does change things and circumstances(Vv. 13-16; Ps 34:6; Is. 38:1-5; Mat. 17:21; 26:41, 53; Mark 11:24).
IF ANY OF YOU DO ERR. Believers should do everything p[possible to turn back to God for those who stray from the truth (Gal. 4:19; 6:1; 2 Tim. 2:18, 25-26; Jude 22-23). The salvation of a wandering brother or sister should always be a high priority in the Christian community. If the backslider returns to Christ, the one who converts him or her will have saved the soul of the sinner “from death,”, spiritual death, and eternal separation from God (Rom. 6:23; Gal. 6:8; Rev. 20:14).
HSB/FL
This 4m episode provides you the reading of James 1:21 to the conclusion of what it is to be a Doer and Not Hearers Only of God’s Word. Christians begin their new life in Christ by being born again by the “Word of Truth”. New life in Christ demands that we get rid of all moral filth that offends the Holy Spirit, and that we are constant in receiving the Word of God into our hearts. The term “engrafted” means “implanted,” implying that the Word must become a part of our very nature. The implanted Word brings us to our final salvation (Mat. 13:3-23; Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 15:2; Eph. 1:13).
LAW OF LIBERTY: VV 25 puts it this way, this law is the will of God internalized in our hearts by the indwelling Holy Spirit (Ezek. 11:19-20). Through faith in Christ, we receive not only mercy and forgiveness (2:12-13) but also the power and freedom to obey the law of God.
In the book of James, verse 1:22 the Word tells us, But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. Just hearing the Word is not enough; we must do it. One of the enemy’s tricks is to convince us that our Father is holding out on us, that He does not really love us and care for us. James urges people who listen to God’s Word to demonstrate a sincere commitment to the LORD by reacting to what they hear with obedient action. Do not fall for the tricks of the enemy.
The original language gives the sense that we must “keep on becoming” doers of God’s Word. Genuine faith calls for obedience that endures. Doers of the Word are the opposite of Sunday morning Christians who go to church, sit and listen to a message, and then view it as merely an interesting spiritual discourse. Jesus said that only doers of the Word are truly blessed: “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice” (Luke 11:28, NLT).
Jesus gave a stern warning to people who hear the words of God but don’t act on them: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘LORD, LORD,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.
The Word of God is not just a beautiful piece of literature to be savored and enjoyed. Its purpose goes beyond provoking thought and inviting meditation. It requires more than memorization and sharing with others. It demands a change of heart that prompts a change of behavior. The Word of God is to be obeyed.
Blessings, Elder Barbara
Wiersbe/GQ
This 6m episode provides you the listener a reading of James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” This is the first thing James writes in his letter after his salutation. Why? Because of its importance. Many Christians think once they’ve made that decision for Christ that everything will fall into place and life will be that proverbial bowl of cherries. And when trials and tough times come upon them or continue, they begin to question, “why?” Wonder how they could possibly endure horrible circumstances and consider it joy.
The word “temptation” does not refer to enticements to sin, but to trials, persecution, and afflictions from the world or Satan. The believer must meet these trials with joy (Mat. 5:11,12; Rom. 5:3; 1 Pet. 1:6), for they will develop patience (i.e., perseverance, endurance). Our faith can only reach full maturity when faced with difficulties and opposition. James calls these trials a “trying of your faith”. Trails are sometimes brought into a believer’s life so that God can test his or her faith. Scripture nowhere teaches that troubles in life always indicate that God is displeased with us. They can be a sign that He recognizes our firm commitment to Him (Job 1-2).
“Perfect” reflects the Biblical idea of perfection, defined as a right relationship with God that bears fruit in a sincere endeavor to love Him with all one’s heart in undivided devotion, obedience, and a blameless life (Deut. 6:5; 18:13; Mat. 22:37).
Wisdom means the spiritual capacity to see and evaluate life and conduct from God’s point of view. It involves making the right choices and doing the right things according to God's will revealed in His Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit. We can receive wisdom by drawing near to God and asking for it in faith.
Remember God did not promise us days without rain or days where the sun would not shine. However, if we put our trust in Him, He will never leave you nor forsake you.
The safest place in the whole wide world is in the Will of God. My prayer is that You will use me LORD in Your service and draw me nearer to thee! Elder Barbara
Wiersbe/GQ
This 7min episode provides a peek into what is the biblical understanding of faith vs. works. The faith vs. works debate often comes up in discussions of salvation. There are many who say that a person is saved based on some mixture of faith and work. Biblical Christianity teaches salvation by faith in Jesus Christ, apart from any works we do. Perhaps the best place to start is to clearly define faith and works:
Saving faith is always a living faith that does not stop with the mere confession of Christ as Savior, but also prompts obedience to Him as LORD. Thus, those who obey can believe, and only those who believe can obey.
Is there a contradiction between what Paul said and what James had to say? There is no contradiction between the Word regarding the matter of saving faith. Normally Paul emphasizes faith as how we accept Christ as Savior (Rom 3:22). James calls attention to the fact that true faith must be an enduring faith that shapes our very existence. “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:26). Faith without works is a dead faith because the lack of works reveals an unchanged life or a spiritually dead heart. There are many verses that say that true saving faith will result in a transformed life, and that faith is demonstrated by the works we do. How we live reveals what we believe and whether the faith we profess to have is a living faith.
True saving faith is so vital that it cannot but express itself in godly action and devotion to Jesus Christ. Works without faith are dead works. Faith without works is dead faith. True faith always manifests itself in obedience to God.
See what Matt 7:17-20 says:17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
Wiersbe/GQ
This 7m episode provides the listener the reading of the 2nd chapter of the Book of James where the word favoritism is addressed in the Bible. The Bible is clear that favoritism is not God’s will for our lives. First, favoritism is incongruent with God’s character: “God does not show favoritism” (Romans 2:11). All are equal before Him. Ephesians 6:9 says, “There is no favoritism with him.” Colossians 3:25 teaches God’s fairness in judgment: “Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.”
This is where we as humans fail because to do not follow through on the teachings of the Word. We are prone to judge individuals by their past, and not their future states Wiersbe's commentary. We are also prone to judge a person by their appearance rather than what resides in their heart. We are quick on the draw when it comes to passing judgment.
For instance, as soon as one hears that I am an Elder, their first thought is to take flight, to exit as quickly as possible assuming my conversation will solely be focused on their faith and the church they belong to. First, get to know me before you judge me. I have neither heaven nor hell's key on my keychain, meaning I can't pray you in one or drop kick you into the other.
When we have visitors come into our churches, we tend to judge them on what we see outward rather than what they are inward. We favor them by their dress, color of skin, fashion, and other superficial characteristics which carry more weight than the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
Oh, goodness and mercy, do not let us find out they have money! We nearly jump out of our pants or heels to cater to the rich because we hope to get something out of them, and we avoid the poor person because they might embarrass us. The doctrine of God's grace, if we really believe it, forces us to relate to people on the basis of God's plan and not on the basis of human merit or social status.
Educated, uneducated, poor, young or old, Christian love does not mean that we must like a person and agree with him or her because of who they are or what they represent. We are supposed to love everyone no matter the status or the color of their skin. Before we attack those who do not have orthodox doctrine, we must be sure that we practice the doctrines we defend. Our motive should be to glorify God to love one another no matter our status in life.
I love the way Pastor Dardy used to ask the church, "church do you love me, if you don't then you better not die!" God is love, and love is an action word that we can't afford to have absent from our hearts as we prepare to leave earth for hopefully our heavenly home.
Let's drop the favoritism and love our brothers and sisters as God loves us. Remember He loves us in spite of, not because of!
Blessings, Elder Barbara
Wiersbe/GQ
This 9m episode provides a reading from the 3rd chapter of the Book of James, verses 1 - 12 in regards to the untamable tongue of man. The concept of taming the tongue is found in James 3 where God declares, through the apostle James, that “no one can tame the tongue” (James 3:8). The lengthy discussion about the tongue in this chapter is both convicting and illuminating. Among the things this chapter reveals about the tongue: it is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts (verse 5); it is a fire and a world of evil that defiles the whole person (verse 6); it is set on fire by hell (verse 6), and it is an unrestrainable evil and full of deadly poison (verse 7). Is it any wonder, then, that God declares that taming the tongue is impossible?
Both the bit and the rudder must overcome contrary forces. By definition, a bit is a piece of metal or synthetic material that fits in a horse's mouth The bit must overcome the wild nature of the horse, for it aids in the communication between the horse and its rider.
And the rudder must fight the winds and currents that would drive the ship off its course.
The rudder moves in the direction of lower pressure. As the rudder goes, so goes the stern, and the boat turns.
In the 6th verse Fire is a chemical reaction that converts fuel and oxygen into carbon dioxide and water. The good of Fire is that removes the low-growing underbrush, cleans the forest floor of debris, opens it up to sunlight, and nourishes the soil. Reducing this competition for nutrients allows established trees to grow stronger and healthier.
Fires not only start out small but spread and grow, creating heat; it also defiles, leaving behind a charred mess in their wake.
Fiery words can defile a home, a Sunday school class, a tear down the congregation of a church. The only thing that can wash away that defilement is the blood of Jesus Christ from that charred mess made by a fiery tongue.
This 5min and 25second episode provides a reading of the beautiful psalm by King David, God's chosen one. How David celebrated God's mercy and wondrous deeds for Israel consisted largely of praise and thanksgiving. Under the new covenant, all believers are priests unto God (1 Pet. 2:5, 9) and should offer the spiritual ministry of praise and thanksgiving to God. "By (Christ) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name" (Heb. 13:15). The believer's praise and worship must be both in word and deed and are acceptable to God only as long as he or she is committed to His Word and not conformed to the world (Rom. 12:1-2).
Let the heart of them rejoice
Our happiness, security, and freedom from anxiety are dependent on our gratitude to God and our perseverance in seeking His face daily (Vv. 8-11). Those who continually call out to the LORD with thanksgiving can have confidence that He will walk by their side and be a present help throughout all of life (Ps. 46:1).
Worship the LORD in the beauty of Holiness. Genuine worship must be done in "holiness" (2 Chr. 20:21). God accepts spiritual and jubilant worship (15:28) only as long as it is accompanied by an inward disposition of reverence and purity, an earnest desire to be near Him, and the fervent commitment to resist all that offends His holy nature.
Stop and Seek the LORD
David felt convicted about his luxurious life while the symbol of God's covenant with Israel was still housed in a tent. His statement and Nathan's response illustrate well-intentioned ideas that believers sometimes have before they have taken the time to ask God about carrying them out. As it turned out, David's plan was acceptable, but God had not chosen him to build the temple.
We may have great ideas and worthy plans, but God may decide to let others carry them out. If we insist on doing everything that occurs to us, we will run the danger of stepping beyond God's purpose for us. FL
This 15m episode opens with scripture readings throughout the Bible. Then taken from a short story that takes one's imagination to one of a child reaching upward to grasp the finger of an adult. The child is represented as the one telling the story and the Adult is the Heavenly Father. An image that is precious to the storyteller as one sharing the pure intimacy of the joy of knowing that his Heavenly Father watches over him and at times in his life, He even reaches down and holds his hand.
There are times in our lives when all around us seem to fall, this is the time when we as a child of the Highest need to remember we belong to Him, our LORD, and Savior. The wonder of it all is that the Father is always there to provide for every need. The prophet Isaiah wrote:
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might, He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall. But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.
Learning how prayer works is part of the natural process of growing in our relationship with the Lord. As we develop an active and continuous connection with God our Father through Jesus Christ His Son by the power of His indwelling Spirit, we discover the heart of prayer.
Prayer is a uniquely human activity; no other beings have the privilege of communicating in such a way with their Maker and Redeemer. But prayer can be intimidating, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the practice or if you’ve been taught to see prayer as a complex, formal, or ritualized activity.
When we are in need of God, He is there as He said in His Word, He would never leave us nor forsake us. We as His children should place all matters in His hands. Just as our earthly selves, trust in our earthly parents. We should place our hand in the Hand of our God.
Jesus taught the disciples that, through prayer, they could come to God to meet their daily needs: “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). Our Father takes care of us. We don’t have to worry about what we might need today or in the future; we talk to God about our needs, and we depend on Him as our faithful provider.
Let us remember to stay prayerful knowing that all we have to do is reach up, God got us in His hand.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
Every Prayer in The Bible; GQ
This 5min episode introduce readings from James chapter 1. The word "temptation" (Gk. peirasmoi) does not refer to enticements to sin, but to trials, persecution, and afflictions or Satan. The believer must meet these trials with joy (Mat. 5:11-12); Rom. 5:3; 1 Pet. 1:6), for they will develop patience (perseverance, endurance). Our faith can only reach full maturity when faced with difficulties and opposition. James calls these trials a "trying of your faith". Trials are sometimes brought into a believer's life so that God can test his faith. Scripture nowhere teaches that troubles in life are always an indication that God is displeased with us. They can be a sign that He recognizes our firm commitment to Him (Job 1-2).
Ye may be perfect: "Perfect" reflects the Biblical idea of perfection, defined as a right relationship with God that bears fruit in a sincere endeavor to love Him with all one's heart in undivided devotion, obedience, and a blameless life (Deut. 6:5; 18:13; Mat. 22:37).
If any of you lack wisdom, means the spiritual capacity to see and evaluate life and conduct from God's point of view. It involves making right choices and doing right things according to both the will of God revealed in His Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:4-17). We can receive wisdom by drawing near to God and asking for it in faith.
Tempted: No person who sins can evade guilt by throwing the blame on God. God may test us in order to strengthen our faith, but never with the intent of leading us to sin. The nature of God demonstrates that He cannot be a source of temptation.
Drawn away on his own lust: Temptation basically comes from our own inward desires or inclinations (Mat. 15:19). If evil desire is not resisted and purged by the Holy Spirit, it leads to sin and then to spiritual death (Rom. 6:23)
Lay apart all filthiness. The Word of God, either preached or written, cannot effectively take hold of a person's life if he or she is not separated from moral filth and evil. God commands the believer to set aside all the ungodly filth that permeates an unregenerate and corrupt society and seeks to influence him and his family.
James says that love for others must be accompanied by a love for God that is expressed in separation from the sinful ways of the world. Love to others must be accompanied by holiness before God or it is not Christian love.
Let's take a listen to the reading from the book of James chapter 1 in its entirety.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL
This 10m episode bears witness to the LIGHT. Much as our words reveal to others our hearts and minds, so Jesus Christ is God's "Word" to reveal His heart and mind to us. "He who has seen Me has seen the Father" (14:9). A word is composed of letters, and Jesus Christ is "Alpha and Omega" (Rev. 1:8), the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. According to Hebrews 1:1-3, Jesus Christ is God's last Word to mankind, for He is the climax of divine revelation.
The verb "were made" is past perfect tense in the Greek, which means "a completed act." Creation is finished, it is not a process still going on, even though God is certainly at work in His creation (5:17). Creation is not a process; it is a finished product over which God exercises authority.
Light and darkness are recurring themes in John's gospel. God is Light (1 John 1:5), while Satan is "the power of darkness" (Luke 22:53). People love either the light or the darkness, and this love controls their actions (1 John 3:16-19). Those who believe on Christ are the "sons of light" (John 12:35, 36). Just as the first creation begins with "Let there be light!" so the new creation begins with the entrance of light into the heart of the believer (2 Cor. 4:3-6). The coming of Jesus Christ into the world was the dawning of a new day for sinful man (Luke 1:78,79).
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Wiersbe Bible
David gave an amazingly accurate description of the suffering the Messiah would endure hundreds of years later. David was obviously enduring some great trial, but through his suffering he, like the Messiah to come, gained victory. Jesus, the Messiah, quote this verse while hanging on the cross (22:1); carrying our burden of sin (Matthew 27:46). It was not a cry of doubt, but an urgent appeal to God.
When others despise us and heap scorn upon us, they treat us as less than human. After much degradation, we, like David, could begin to feel like worms. When we feel the sting of rejection, we must keep in mind the hope and victory that God promises us.
God's loving concern does not being on the day we are born and conclude on the day we die. It reaches back to those days before we were born, and reaches ahead along the unending path of eternity. Our only sure help comes from a God whose concern for us reaches beyond our earthly existence. When faced with such love, how could anyone reject it?
"For it reaches to the highest mountain, and it flows to the lowest valley, the blood that give us strength from day to day, it will never lose its power!"
Come and join me in an evening prayer.
Elder Barbara
This 9m episode provide you the listener, readings from chapters 1 and 2 of the book of Proverbs the Wisdom of Solomon. One of the most annoying types of people is a know-it-all, a person who has a dogmatic opinion about everything, is closed to anything new, resents discipline, and refuses to learn. Solomon calls this kind of person a fool. Don't be a know-it-all. Instead, be open to the advice of others, especially those who know you well and can give valuable insight and counsel. Learn how to learn from others. Remember, only God knows it all.
In this age of information, knowledge is plentiful, but wisdom is scarce. Wisdom means far more than simple knowing a lot. It is a basic attitude that affects every aspect of life. The foundation of knowledge is to fear the LORD - to honor and respect God, to live in awe of His power, and to obey His Word. Faith in God should be the controlling principle for your, understanding of the world, your attitudes, and your actions. Trust in God - He will make you truly wise.
Our actions speak louder than our words. This is especially true in the home. Children learn values, morals, and priorities by observing how their parents act and react every day. If parents exhibit a deep reverence for and dependence on God, (hopefully) the children will catch these attitudes. Let the see your reverence for God. Teach them right living by giving worship an important place in your family life and by reading the Bible together.
Sin is enticing because it offers a quick route to prosperity and makes us feel like one of the crowd. But when we go along with others and refuse to listen to the truth, our own appetites become our masters, and we'll do anything to satisfy them. Sin even when attractive, is deadly. We must learn to make choices, not on the basis of flashy appeal or short-range pleasure, but in view of the long-range effects. Sometimes this means steering clear of people who want to entice us into activities that we know are wrong. We cannot be friendly with sin and expect our lives to remain unaffected.
Wisdom comes in two ways: it is a God-given gift and also the result of an energetic search. Wisdom's starting point is God and His revealed Word, the source of "knowledge and understanding" (2:6). In that sense, wisdom is His gift to us. But He gives it only to those who earnestly seek it. But because God's wisdom is hidden from the rebellious and foolish, it takes effort to find it and use it. The pathway to wisdom is strenuous. When we are on the path, we discover that true wisdom is God's and that He will guide us and reward our sincere and persistent search.
This 7min episode provide you the listener a short story concerning election and predestination, where we might use the analogy of a great ship on its way to heaven. The ship (the church which is within you) is chosen by God to be His very own vessel. Christ is the Captain and Pilot of this ship. All who desire to be a part of this elect ship and its Captain can do so through a living faith in Christ, by which they can come on board the ship. As long as one is on the ship, in company with its Captain, he is among the elect.
If one chooses to abandon the ship at any time, he/she is abandoning not only the ship but the Captain as well. As soon as you step off of the ship he/she ceases to be one of the elect. Remember, God gives us our freedom of will.
Election is always only in union with the Captain and His ship. Predestination tells us about the ship's destination and what God has prepared for those remaining on it. God invites everyone to come aboard the elect ship through faith in Jesus Christ.
This was an invitation that was extended to one and all.
Jesus said in John 14:2 "I go to prepare a place for you. and If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that were I am, there ye may be also."
We must prepare to board when He returns, we must have our ticket to board that old ship of Zion. We should want to be in the number of the elect to make our abode with Him.
Those who truly love Jesus and obey His words will experience the immediate presence and love of the Father and the Son.
This 13min episode provide you the listener a reading of the story of the woman with the issue of blood found in Mark 5:24–34 and Luke 8:42–48. I read from Mark's account here because it offers a little more details than that of Luke's.
What we know about the woman is, first, she had a bleeding condition, and the issue had continued for twelve years. That’s a very long time. Secondly, she had spent all her money on treatments from many doctors, and nothing had helped; in fact, the blood issue had only grown worse (see Mark 5:25–26). We also know that Jewish Law declared her to be ceremonially unclean due to her bleeding issue (Leviticus 15:25-27). This meant that she would not have been permitted to enter the temple for Jewish religious ceremonies. According to the Law, anything or anyone she touched became unclean as well. The fact that she was in the crowd pressing around Jesus means that each person who bumped into her would have become unclean, too—including Jesus. But, after twelve years of suffering, she was obviously desperate for a miracle. “When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed’” (Mark 5:27–28).
As soon as the woman touches Jesus, her bleeding stops and she knows she’s been healed. In an instant, Jesus does what no doctor in twelve years had been able to. This proves the power of Christ, of course, but it also illustrates an important point about Jesus and the Law. In Leviticus 15:31 God says, “You must keep the Israelites separate from things that make them unclean, so they will not die in their uncleanness for defiling my dwelling place, which is among them.” In the Old Testament, the temple was where God dwelt among the Israelites, but in the New Testament, God dwelt among men in the person of Jesus Christ (see John 1:14). Through Jesus the penalties of the Law are reversed, and the contamination of this world had no effect on Christ. The woman did not make Jesus (God’s dwelling) unclean—He made her clean!
Jesus immediately responds to the woman who touched His clothing and was healed. People were pushing and pressing into Him from all over, yet He stops, turns, and asks, “Who touched my clothes?” (Mark 5:30). The disciples were incredulous, but Jesus knew that healing power had gone out of Him. We can’t “steal” a miracle from God. After the woman comes forward and explains herself, Jesus clears up any misconceptions about her healing, saying, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering” (Mark 5:34). God is moved to action by our faith, even when He’s in the middle of doing something else!
Jesus could have healed the woman and kept on walking to His original destination. Only He and the woman would have known what had taken place. But He didn’t do that. Jesus stopped what He was doing and acknowledged the result of this woman’s faith: her complete and instantaneous healing.
see GQs
This 8m episode provide you the listener a reading from the 6th chapter of the Book of Daniel. Daniel, whose name means “God is my judge,” and his three countrymen from Judea were chosen and given new names. Daniel became “Belteshazzar,” while Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah became “Shadrach," "Meshach," and "Abednego.” The Babylonians most likely gave them new names that were completely disassociated with their Hebrew roots to hasten Daniel and his friends’ assimilation into the Babylonian culture. Under a new ruler, Daniel excelled in his duties as one of the administrators to such a degree that King Darius was contemplating making him head over all the kingdom (Daniel 6:1-3). This infuriated the other administrators so much that they looked for a way to bring Daniel down.
They could find no wrongdoing on Daniel’s part, so they focused on the matter of Daniel’s religion. Using flattery, the administrators coaxed Darius into issuing a decree forbidding prayers to any god other than the king for the next thirty days. The penalty for disobedience was to be thrown into a den of lions. Daniel disobeyed the edict, of course, and continued to pray openly to the true God. As Daniel made no attempt to hide his activity, he was seen praying and arrested. With much regret the king gave the order for Daniel to be thrown into the lions’ den, but not without a prayer that Daniel’s God would rescue him (Daniel 6:16). The next day, when Daniel was found alive and well, he told the king that God had sent an angel to shut the lions’ mouths and so he had remained unharmed. This miracle resulted in King Darius sending out a decree that all his subjects were to worship the God of Daniel. Daniel continued to prosper throughout King Darius’ reign.
GQ.org
This 21m episode provide you the listener with scripture text in regard to the infinite mercy of our LORD God!
Demonstrating mercy is one way God reveals His Glory. The word mercy in Exodus 33:19 means “kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.” When God said, “I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy,” He meant that He would show kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to anyone He chooses.
God’s mercy—His wondrous compassion—leads Him to forgive sinners and withhold the punishment that is justly deserved. After the Lord graciously led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, through the Red Sea, and toward the Promised Land, they responded by revolting against God. Yet, because of the favor obtained through their mediator, Moses, God was pleased to lavish His mercy on them.
God has granted us His mercy, every time we have fallen. In the Bible, God’s mercy means His pity, compassion, and kindness toward people. His mercy shows up in the believer’s life at salvation, and then God continues to show mercy in forgiveness.
Thank You Jesus for the space to repent of our sins, Amen!
This 7m episode provides you the listener a full reading of the 55th chapter of the Book of Isaiah. This great invitation is descriptive of God calling the people of Israel to come to Him. God’s words at the beginning of the 55th chapter uses the metaphors of water, wine, milk, and bread. The action that God desires is for the people of Israel to “come to the waters.” Specifically, God wants the people of Israel to come and receive that which they have not earned and cannot pay for (Isaiah 55:1b). God is offering a free gift to mankind.
Isaiah then records God explicitly calling Israel to come to Him (55:3). Israel is to come and listen with the purpose of having life. This same sentiment is seen in Isaiah 55:6, “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” The basic idea of the chapter is summed up in Isaiah 55:7b, “Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.”
This great invite in Isaiah 55:1 begins by appealing to a need: “Come, all you who are thirsty.” The people of Judah had a need for mercy and grace from God as they did not do the things God required. Judah was in a covenant relationship with God. They had agreed to follow the laws of God but had not kept them. The result of disobedience to God is a need for mercy and forgiveness (Ephesians 2:1–10). Judah had that need.
Will you accept the invitation, to come? Come ye to the waters!
This 5m episode provides you the listener with a scripture read of the 90th division of Psalms vs. 1-17, followed by commentary thought of the Prayer of Moses the man of God. This prayer was prayed in regard to the Israelites disobedience to God. After acknowledging their iniquities and God's punishment, Moses prays for the restoration of God's favor and of God's blessing.
The Word of God says, man should always pray.
This 2min episode is a reading from the 8th Book of Psalms, a Psalm of David. THE SON OF MAN: The N.T. quotes these verses from the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew O.T.) and applies them to Jesus (Heb. 2:6-8; cf. Eph. 1:19-22). It is only in Him that these truths are perfectly realized. He is the One who, as a representative of the human race, will be given the full dominion over all creation.
This 15m episode discuss the Scripture text surrounding Pentecost. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit—the pouring out of God’s Spirit to fill and indwell people—was prophesied in the Old Testament and fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2). This event was predicted in the Old Testament: in Isaiah 44:3 God said to Israel, “I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.” The Holy Spirit is pictured as the “water of life” that saves and blesses a dying people. On the day of Pentecost, Peter quoted another prophecy as being fulfilled: “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. . . . And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:28–29, 32).
It's time now to get equipped for the trip!
This 5m episode is regarding the Powerful Prayer that was prayed by Jabez. The prayer of Jabez is found in a historical note within a genealogy: “Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, ‘I gave birth to him in pain.’ Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory!
The prayer of Jabez in 1 Chronicles 4:10 contains an urgent request for four things: 1) God’s blessing. Jabez acknowledges that the God of Israel is the source of all blessing, and he asks God for His grace. No doubt, this request was based, at least in part, on God’s promise of blessing to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 22:17).
2) An expansion of territory. Jabez prays for victory and prosperity in all his endeavors and that his life would be marked by increase.
3) The presence of God’s hand. This was Jabez’s way of asking for the guidance of God and His strength to be evident in his daily existence.
4) Protection from harm. Jesus taught His disciples to pray in this way: “Father in heaven . . . deliver us from the evil one” (Matthew 6:9, 13). Jabez looks to God in confidence as his defender.
Jabez’s goal in his prayer was to live free from sorrow, and the last thing we read about him is that God heard and answered his prayer. Like Solomon’s humble prayer for wisdom (1 Kings 3:5–14), Jabez’s devout prayer for blessing was answered. The success Jabez enjoyed outweighed the sorrow of his beginning. The prayer of Jabez overcame the name of Jabez!
This 8m episode provides the listener with the reading of The Parable of the Good Samaritan which is precipitated by and in answer to a question posed to Jesus by a lawyer. In this case the lawyer would have been an expert in the Mosaic Law and not a court lawyer of today. The lawyer’s question was, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (Luke 10:25). This question provided Jesus with an opportunity to define what His disciples’ relationship should be to their neighbors.
Jesus answers the question using what is called the Socratic method; i.e., answering a question with a question: “He said to him, ‘What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?’" (Luke 10:26). By referring to the Law, Jesus is directing the man to an authority they both would accept as truth, the Old Testament. In essence, He is asking the scribe, what does Scripture say about this and how does he interpret it? Jesus thus avoids an argument and puts Himself in the position of evaluating the scribe’s answer instead of the scribe evaluating His answer. This directs the discussion towards Jesus’ intended lesson.
Take a listen to hear the conclusion of the whole matter.
This 13m episode provides you the listener the reading of scripture from the parable of the Sower. Everybody lives by faith in something or someone. The difference between the Christian believer and the unsaved person is not that one has faith, and the other does not. They both have faith. The difference is in the object of their faith, for faith is only as good as the object. The Christian believer has put his faith in Jesus Christ, and he bases that faith on the Word of God.
In Christ's interpretation of this parable, He explicitly affirms the possibility of a person "believing" (i.e., making a sincere beginning in the life of faith), but subsequently falling away because of a failure to resist temptation. In contrast are those who, "having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit" with perseverance. Therefore, I ask of you the listener, which soil are you planted in? The hard soil, the shallow soil, the crowded soil, or the good soil?
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
This 3m episode demonstrates why we sing unto the LORD with our hearts filled with praise. Mother Daley once again reminds us in song of the JOY in knowing that her LORD and Savior, Jesus is coming again. Psalm 95:2 reminds us; “Let us come to him with thanksgiving. Let us sing psalms of praise to him”. A psalm is a song intended to be sung with musical instruments. However, what a wonder when your voice provides all the music one needs to express the joy felt within. Especially, the joy of knowing Jesus is coming again!
This 7min episode of Luke 16:19-31 contains the account of a very rich man who lived a life of extreme luxury. Laid outside the gate of this rich man’s house, however, was an extremely poor man named Lazarus who simply hoped “to eat what fell from the rich man’s table” (v. 21). The rich man was completely indifferent to the plight of Lazarus, showing him no love, sympathy, or compassion whatsoever. Eventually, they both died. Lazarus went to heaven, and the rich man went to hell. Take a listen to the conclusion of the whole the matter.
This 10m episode is a reading from the Full Life Bible's Article in regard to THE PEACE OF GOD. The initial peace that comes from having our consciences wiped clean grows as we get to know God better (Hebrews 10:22). Second Peter 1:2 says, “May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord” (NLT). When we grow in understanding of the depths and riches of God’s love toward us (Ephesians 3:18–19; Romans 8:38–39), our minds and spirits begin to rest in His power and wisdom. We begin to understand that He really will make all things work together for our good (Romans 8:28). We learn that His purposes will be accomplished (Psalm 33:11; Proverbs 19:21; Isaiah 45:9; 46:9–11).
In this powerful prayer episode from Luke 18th chapter, it reminds us that the Word of God said that men ought to always pray! The Deacons gathered at the altar to shed prayer coverings over one and all. For the Christian, praying is supposed to be like breathing, easier to do than to not do. We pray for a variety of reasons. For one thing, prayer is a form of serving God (Luke 2:36-38) and obeying Him. We pray because God commands us to pray (Philippians 4:6-7). Prayer is exemplified for us by Christ and the early church (Mark 1:35; Acts 1:14; 2:42; 3:1; 4:23-31; 6:4; 13:1-3). If Jesus thought it was worthwhile to pray, we should also.
We have His promise that the fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much (James 5:16-18). May God glorify His name in our lives as we believe in Him enough to come to Him often in prayer.
This episode involves the reading of Psalms 27 in its entirety along with commentary. Patient, confident trust in the Lord is the central idea of the exhortation to wait on the Lord. First, we see that we can wait on the Lord by trusting in Him. David expressed great confidence in the Lord, who was his light, salvation, and stronghold (Psalm 27:1–2). This kind of dynamic trust dispels fear and despair: “When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident” (verses 2–3). We can wait on the Lord through prayer, as David did in eager expectation of deliverance (Psalm 27:7–14). David asked God for wisdom, direction (verse 11), and protection (verse 12), wholly believing he would “see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living” (verse 13). Those who wait on the Lord can fully expect Him to fulfill their hope: “Indeed, none who wait for you shall be put to shame” (Psalm 25:3, ESV). Waiting on the Lord brings God’s blessings: “Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him” (Isaiah 64:4; see also 1 Corinthians 1:7).
Elder Barbara, says, "WAIT I SAY UPON THE LORD!"
This 7m episode with commentary provides the listener the actual reading from the book of Mark chapter 16 along with commentary from the Wiersbe Bible of the Resurrection of JESUS CHRIST, our LORD and Savior! Christ’s resurrection is something that should be celebrated every day, not just once a year.
This 5m episode provide the listener an insider's view of the events that took place on Saturday, the seventh day of (Holy) Passion Week. After sundown on Friday—the day of Preparation—the chief priests and Pharisees visited Pontius Pilate. This visit was on the Sabbath, since the Jews reckoned a day as starting at sundown. They asked Pilate for a guard for Jesus’ tomb. They remembered Jesus saying that He would rise again in three days (John 2:19-21) and wanted to do everything they could to prevent that.
This 5m episode provides the listener the scriptures related to the death of Jesus. 1"For Christ also suffered for sins once for all time, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;" 1 Peter 3:18, NLT: "Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God.
Commentary: Haley's Study Bible
This 7m episode provide the listener with the last seven sayings of Jesus from the cross. As Jesus was feeling that weight of sin, He was experiencing a separation from God for the only time in all of eternity. This was also a fulfillment of the prophetic statement in Psalm 22:1. "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?"
This 5m episode provides the listener a visual into the scene at the Garden of Gethsemane, found in Matthew 26:36. Whereby, Jesus ask His disciples to watch as well as pray during His time alone in prayer. The name "Gethsemane" means "oil press". This garden was east of Jerusalem on the Mount of Olives. In the place where olives were crushed and ground, the Anointed One was crushed.
This 4m episode, provides the general question of "What is Good Friday / Holy Friday?" To those of the Christian faith, it is a Holy day in remembrance of our LORD and Savior. Romans 14:5, however, says this, "One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind." To the Christian, we celebrate our LORD every day, rain or shine. Always thankful and mindful of what He did for us, “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.” 1st Peter 3:18.
This 6m episode provides the listener an ear to Jesus as He celebrated The Last Supper with His disciples and thereby instituted the LORD's Supper with Communion. "Maundy Thursday", refers to the command Jesus gave to the disciples at the Last Supper, that they should love and serve one another. Some Christian churches observe a foot-washing ceremony on Maundy Thursday to commemorate Jesus’ washing the feet of the disciples. Doing a foot-washing in remembrance of how Christ humbled Himself and washed the feet of the disciples is a powerful reminder of how we are to live the Christian life (Philippians 2:1-11). It is a good thing to remember the Last Supper and Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf. It is a good thing to remember the Lord’s example of humility.
This 6m episode reflects Holy Wednesday of Passion Week. According to the traditional interpretation of the Bible, Holy Wednesday is the day on which Jesus was anointed with spikenard during a meal (Matthew 26:6–13). The day is sometimes called “Spy Wednesday” since it is traditionally thought of as the day Judas conspired with local authorities to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14–16). The following day is sometimes referred to as Maundy Thursday, the fifth day of Holy Week.
This 15m episode of The Olivet Discourse is the name given to the orderly and extended teaching given by Jesus Christ on the Mount of Olives. His subject is the end times. This discourse is recorded in Matthew 24:1 – 25:46. Parallel passages are found in Mark 13:1-37 and Luke 21:5-36. The record in Matthew is the most extensive, so reference here will be to Matthew’s Gospel.
It is important to recognize that Jesus’ teaching in this discourse is in reference to Israel and not the Church. Christ was speaking of God’s future program for Israel. Other passages to consider when studying the Olivet Discourse are Daniel 9:24-27 and Revelation 6:1–19:21, which refer to the future seven-year period called the tribulation. God’s program for the Church concludes with the rapture, which is not taught in the Olivet Discourse. The rapture of the Church is found in John 14:1-4; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
Jesus’ prophecy of doom got the disciples curious, and probably more than a little concerned. When they were alone with Jesus on the Mount of Olives, they asked Him, "Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" (verse 3). What follows in Matthew 24–25 refers to the future, seven-year tribulation period and the second coming of Christ at the end of the tribulation. During that time, God will complete His chastisement and purification of Israel and judge the whole world (Daniel 9:24-27; Revelation 6–19).
This 9m episode is on the Monday of Passion Week, the scripture text of Mark 11:1-24, tell the story of our LORD's "triumphal entry" which was nothing like that of a Roman triumphal entry, but it was a triumph just the same! Sit back relax and take a listen to the 1st in the series of events that took place during that week.
A Psalm of David: Psalm 28. IF THOU BE SILENT. A faithful believer may at times feel that God is not listening to his or her prayers; this experience, however, will not be the norm as long as we continue to draw near to God through Christ. After a period of trial, the LORD will respond and help us a Shepherd cares for His sheep. IN THEE, O LORD, do I put my trust.
This 4m episode demonstrates why we sing unto the LORD with our hearts filled with praise. Mother Daley reminds us in song from the heart that the LORD her God leads us along.
This 20m episode was recorded live! I had the pleasure to hear a message by Minister S. Booker presented on the Hidden Treasures Reveal A.M. Prayer ministry under the leadership of Presiding Elder Rose out of Orlando, Florida. Minister Booker, of Massachusetts took his message from 2nd Kings the 4th chapter, verses 1 - 7, it is one that I believe you will want to share with others.
From the Word of God, he informs us that: 1) You Have Enough, 2) Check What’s in Your House, and 3) Live on What Is Left!
The question I ask of you listener, is how we not only receive, but how do we use the measures that God has given to us.
Please prepare yourself and be sure to listen to the important note that he leaves with us at the completion of this powerful message.
This 16m episode contains a reading from the Full Live KJ Bible of Mark 5th chapter verses 21 through 43. The message is having faith that God will deliver if you believe. "LORD, do it for me," is a cry that many of us at on e time or another have asked of the LORD. We trust and believe in His Holy Word, when He said seek and ye shall find, ask, and it shall be given, knock and the door shall b e opened.
In the times we are living in the effective prayers of all is needed. This 14min episode speaks of what the Bible says regarding effective prayers. Prayer refers to the multifaceted communication of believers with the LORD God. As we cry out, He promises in His Name that He will answer. We must as the word says be persistent in our prayer, just as the persistent widow who cried out for relief from her adversary. So must we cry out in Jesus Name.
This 8m episode is a scripture filled message in the Word of the LORD God as one's solid rock. A sure foundation supporting us in His Word, and He alone is our refuge and our high tower. His Word instills in us that He is ever faithful, our Rock, our Fortress. In the times we are now experiencing, we need an anchor, and that anchor is none other than Jesus for He said He would hide us in His Pavilion; in the secret of His tabernacle shall he hide us.
This 8m episode provides the listener a reading along with reference scriptures to the source within the power of the "water of life". Isaiah refers to the drawing of water from the "wells of salvation" with joy (Isaiah 12:3). Take a listen to see why Jeremiah the prophet rebuked the children of Israel. It's short but right to the point. Question: Is there a river of life springing out of you? Enjoy!
This 9m episode My Alabaster Box, provide you the hearer of the devotion Mary in John 12:3, was found in anointing of her LORD. She was showing her devotion in Jesus before it was too late. She was “giving her roses” while He was yet alive, and not bringing them to the funeral! Her act of love and worship was public, spontaneous, sacrificial, lavish, personal, and unembarrassed. Jesus called it “a good work” (Matt. 26:10; Mark 14:6).
And it was with a heart of repentance in (Luke 7). No one knew the cost of the oil in this woman’s alabaster box. No one seen her all, nor knew of her sin, just as no sees yours and only you can give an account. Therefore, with a sincere heart and all that is within your alabaster box come and pour your praise upon Him.
God’s Mercy Endures Forever. Welcome to Saturday Afternoon 2PM Power of Prayer. Scripture reading Psalm 136. Join the prayer line and listen to the various prayer leads as they guide us through Prayer, Praise and Worship!
This is a 6m reading from the testimony of DAVID the servant of the LORD. This is a particularly apt image for David, who many times had to hide in the mountains for security (see 1Sa 26:1,20). This poem of praise was composed during very trying times (2Sa 22:1). Truly David voiced this powerful song of praise for God who delivered him from the hands of his enemies.
This 24m episode was recorded ‘LIVE’, as the brothers and Deacons gathered on the Saturday afternoon 2PM prayer line to lead intercessory prayer. If you need a prayer, listen in. If you need a blessing, listen in. If you need a breakthrough, listen in!
What a blessing to hear the brothers pray, to hear them cry out before the LORD on behalf of those in need around the world.
Thank you for praying with all the intercessors around the globe at the 2 o’clock hour. Thank you to each prayer lead who thought it not robbery to take from their day-off to pray for all of us.
This 6m episode is a reading from within the book of 2 Corinthians 5th chapter as it speaks of your earthly tabernacle, should it be torn down. For we know while we are absent from the LORD, we have another building not made by man’s hands. We know when reborn we become a new creature; old things are passed away and we hope for reconciliation of the world to Himself.
This 10 min episode speaks of endurance, patience, and being resilient 'having the ability to bounce back'! Can we stay strong when the world around us seem to be forcing us to give in? How do we become overcomers of the 'its’ in our lives? We must learn to reach beyond the breaks and hold on! in doing so we become the winner and not the loser. If we learn to run each race that is set before us with endurance, and with patience, for in those times we must reach beyond the break! Only God has the lifeline.
A 6m reading from the book of Joel Chapter 2. Although there are several other Joels in the Bible, the prophet Joel is known only from this book. Key Verse: Joel 2:11. In Acts 2:17-21, Peter quotes Joel 2:28-32 as a prediction and explanation of what happened on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem. This means that God intended the passage to be a prophetic image of the gospel era. Halley's Study Bible
A book interview with Bernie Fernandes, author of "We Pushed Past It!" A book compilation entitled DESTINED TO WIN volume 2. Ms. Fernandes shares her spiritual walk within the church and the hard decision to step away from her positions as the captain of her churches dance troupes, and her call to the pulpit as a minister. Bernie discusses the challenges she faced toward the end of the eighteen-year marriage to her husband and father of their two daughters; along with keeping her daughters balanced during this uncertain period in her life.
Through every challenged Ms. Fernandes faced each one head-on and "Pushed Past It!" and came out a winner! Take a listen to one who overcame her obstacles by leaning and depending upon her God to bring her safely through.
A short prayer of thanksgiving to God for bringing you (us) over into the new year 2022, from Glory2Glory! Join the prayer offer thanks to God in your own special way. Let the HEAVENS hear you roar as you tell the world that you are not ashamed to cry loud in a voice of thanksgiving to God!
Hear ye, Hear ye the WORD of the LORD as it was written by the Prophet Isaiah and A Psalm of David for your listening pleasure. May God bless you and yours each and every day, every week and month of this New Year. We are the summit of God's creation, in his own image, just a little lower than angels. We belong to Him! In that day we shall Praise God!
Powerful Christmas Day 2021 prayer led by Pastors and Sr. Deacons. You are welcome to join the praise, worship and giving of thanks to our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ in prayer. The day nor the hour matters when your heart calls for prayer, prayer time is anytime. Come bless the LORD with me!
It’s near the close of the day and this scripture and prayer is just my way of thanking Him for all His blessings and asking Him to bless those of you that are willing to forsake 7mins to join me in prayer.
O Lord our Lord how excellent is thy name in all the earth!
This 9min episode discuss,facing giants. A giant can be anything that you have come face-to-face with, sickness, marriage woes, financial burdens, loss of relationships, loss of job, a bully. You can put a name to it, but you do not have to claim it! Our prayer is that we see God instead of the giant. A giant is only an obstacle that can be annihilated by the stronger forces of prayer! There is not a battle that our God has not won, the stronghold of the giants in the land must come down.
Join me as we gather to bring down the strongholds of the giants in the land!
Let's take a six-minute look at The Model Prayer. This, then, is how you should pray. This does not mean to pray only these words, but to pray in this way, remembering the general topics of worship, request for both physical and spiritual needs, confession, and repentance of sins.
This episode provides discussion of how one might pray using scripture text in Matthew 6:5-13. Our LORD prayed privately (Mark 1:35); so, did Elisha (2 Kin. 4:32ff.) and Daniel (Dan. 6:10ff.).
Note: a request that is repeated does not make it a "babbling on," for both Jesus and Paul (26:36-46; 2 Cor. 12:7,8) repeated their petitions. A request becomes "babbling" if it is only words without a sincere heart desire to seek and do God's Will. [The Wiersbe Study Bible]
Scripture reading from the book of Philippians 4:4-9. Here Paul prohibits the Philippians from worrying about their own problems. We must commit your problems to God in prayer, trusting that He will provide deliverance. Thanking Him our God for all that He continues to do in our daily lives.
You are welcome to join me in prayer.
Blessings
Six minutes of expressing thankfulness to our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ for all that He is doing and has done for us. My prayer is that God will bless you the hearer and doer of His Word in this prayer in Jesus Name, Amen!
In this interview Minister Annie discuss the various foundational aspects of prayer. Such as; praying without ceasing, confessional prayer, intercessory prayer and when we are called to pray, how do we respond? Minister Annie is one of the prayer leaders at her church and have been invited throughout the city of Boston as a prayer lead at meetings on online conferences. A retiree of the Boston Police department, she discuss how a zoom prayer line was established for the Boston Police Department, where she is the prayer leader.
Join this interview session to hear how the Lord as blessed and gifted her with an outlook on prayer.
A three minute reading from the 103 Psalm of David in regards to the benefits of the LORD provided and designed especially for you.
This is an episode of dedicated intercessory prayer led by various prayer leads throughout the region. Join in intercessory prayer as we all stand in the gap for those that are going through any and all circumstances or trials in this life. We come to offer up praises in prayer to our LORD God. Come let us pray together. Thank you for joining in!
God bless you as you join me in prayer. This 4min episode is one of prayer seeking and asking the Lord to guide each of us throughout the day. The prayer is concluded by the reading from the Word of God found in Numbers 6 verses 22 through 27. Whereby the Lord declared in His conclusion: "And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them." May God bless you and cover you. Amen
Elder Barbara
Isaiah 61:1-3 When Jesus began His ministry, He quoted a portion of these verses and applied them to Himself (Luke 4:18-19). Pray along with me as we thank God for His goodness and mercy towards us. Remember it's not about what we once did or didn't do. It's about what Christ our Lord and Savior has done for us and within us. My prayer is that God will provide the blessing you seek. Let us join in prayer together (Matthew 18:20).
This episode is an intercessory prayer covering to start off your day. Readings from Scripture verses Psalm 90:14 "Satisfy us in the morning with unfailing love," and Job 38:1-14.
Elder Barbara, ask you to pray along with her as she seek the LORD for His Divine coverage over all throughout the day.
Let's talk about Trust,
- a firm belief in the reliability,
- truth,
- ability, or strength of someone or something.
- Confidence, belief, faith...freedom from suspicion/doubt...sureness...certainty.
Listen is a few simple stories to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, as told by Jesus in the Gospels. Basic lessons of what to and not to do. Our basic instructions before leaving earth can be found in a parable.
What is a Parable?
- They are clear, concise, and simple in detail. This means that they are easily understood by everybody
- They speak of familiar experience, the experience of everyday life
- The parables are kingdom-centered; they point to the Kingdom of God.
Blessings
You know how folks on street corners stationed themselves to push their handouts? Some of these flyers or cards announce upcoming events such as new store openings or musical groups that are coming to your town. And some even present you with free tickets just to get you to attend a listening party. Well, the person I crossed paths with was not standing on a street corner. I was out walking and as he passed by me, he said; "here you go," pressed a card into my hand and kept it moving. I don't even recall what the man looked like. I took the card quickly scanned it and dropped it into my bag. Here it is much time later and that I happened upon this same card today, and seen that it was not a card after all...
From my Spoken Word series "STILL STUCK"! falls in line with "Everyone Has One," the difference is this person loves bringing up your past (her)story every chance they get. She was what you thought a friend; or maybe he is an old love that has yet to move on. Whatever, years have passed, and lives have changed yet they are still right where you left them in your past seemingly stuck there. Their pass-time is your (her)story and sharing it with others. He/She/They are your news carriers of all the stuff you used to do - nothing about the good of today is ever up for replay. Repent! Thankfully, our God holds no record of our wrongs. Enjoy with a smile or maybe not, "Still Stuck"!
Please note all works are copy write with the Library of Congress!
A girl restored to life and a woman healed. This episode is a reading directly from the Wiersbe Study Bible along with notes on the hidden need of a woman and man.
In this episode of A Spoken Word you the listener will hear that there are always two sides to every story. And know this, let him without sin be the first to cast a stone.
"John 8:3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery, and when they had set her in the midst, they said unto him, Master this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act..."
The Power of the Tongue was A Spoken Word episode presented at the stage play, A Mother's Sorrow. Picture this, your first time visiting a new church and you are greeted by none other than the non-gossiping Sister Sue Watkins, wife of Deacon Leroy Mason George Watkins. Sister Watkins, on this day is the church greeter and in her welcoming you to the church she provides you with more than just a handshake and a welcome!
A Spoken Word of one missing out on the chance of an ever-lasting life, all because of her thirst for the life of this present world. A chance to escape to a life of joy only now captured in a pillar of salt forever frozen in time. SALT, Lot's wife reminds us there is away of escaping if we keep our blinders on and our face forward and stay upon the path that Jesus laid before us.
Blessings
A Spoken Word, "NEIGHBORS", written as one of the opening acts for A Mother's Sorrow stage play. This episode finds a few neighbors living within a courtyard neighborhood tend to gather more information than they needed to know. Enjoy!
A Woman's Spoken Word. This Spoken Word provides a view into one of the many stories by those whose view of life changed due to an encounter with the One who was able to make what they thought as impossible, possible. We do not judge, we listen, we care, we are there.
(Copyrighted Material)
The Skit 'Everyone Has One', was first performed as one of the opening sketches for the stage play 'A Mother's Sorrow,' written and placed into production September 2017. Although slightly humorous, we all seem to have one of those friends that is slightly above the rest.
Know this, 'the battle is not yours, it belongs to the Lord.' The message text is from the Book of Judges, chapters 6 & 7. This is a message to let you know that you never have to walk alone for God is with you and if God, your Savior is with you He is more than the whole world against you.
This is a message I've used many times in my ministry and walk with the Lord. Every time it has been presented God provided a different insight into the meaning of, "I will never leave nor forsake you". All we have to do is trust, have faith, and believe!
Enjoy!
This is a spiritual message which opens the gate to the JOY that only God can provide. The Joy of the Lord abides within you!
Please note this episode is 13 m 29sec in length.
This short message with give thought to keeping a closely guarded eye on the oil in our spiritual tanks.
A Pastor provided advice to his listeners in regard to the question of overcoming strongholds.
Your thoughts are welcome!