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Quickise 98.3
Do you need some extra encouragement? It only talks a minute with the Mindful Minute with Adam in the Afternoon, only on Quicksie 98.3!
Mathew chapter 11 says “Come to me all who are weary and burdened, I will give you rest. Take up my yoke and learn from me, because 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.” This is something that I struggle with every single day. When the burdens of life come my way, my first instinct is to pick it up and carry it on my shoulders. But more burdens come, and I continue to place them on my shoulders. This continues until the weight of these burdens weighs me down to the point I can barely walk. Because I am walking in my own strength, and not by the strength of the one who is stronger than me. Some of the hardest moments of my life are when I try to do everything on my own. Because I didn’t take up His yoke. It wasn’t his burden, I was trying to carry it all on my own. Don’t carry your burdens one more day alone. Tomorrow will be harder than today if you try to carry them on your own.
Everywhere we turn we are constantly bombarded with images, advertisements, and videos of who we should be, how we should look, and what we should be doing. In our over socialize, photoshopped world, we are constantly comparing ourselves to unrealistic expectations.
In Galatians 6:4 we read “Let each one examine his own work. Then he can take pride in himself and not compare himself with someone else.”
“God has made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us new people so that we would spend our lives doing the good things he had already planned for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10.
Instead of chasing unrealistic expectations, we should chase the one who made us who we are.
There are over 169 verses in the bible that show us the ways God provides for our needs. “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus”. Philippians 4:19
Like a good parent however God will never give us something that will harm us. This doesn’t mean that there won’t be difficult times. “More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces home and home doesn’t put us to shame because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Romans 5:3-5
God has plans to prosper us, and not harm us. Plans to give us a future filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11 We must simply trust Him.
How do we ensure our eternal salvation? Jesus tells us in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road the leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few will find it.” There is only one way to ensure our salvation. “For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God; it is not from works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9. “He is the one who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not based on our works but on his own purpose and grace, granted to us in Christ Jesus before time began” 2 Timothy 1:9. “For he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world that we may be holy and unblemished in his sight in love.” Friends, the road that leads to life is so narrow in fact that there is only ONE way to endure eternal salvation. It is not by good works or anything that we can do on our own. We can’t “earn” it and we have done nothing to deserve it. It is by God’s grace alone through the blood of Jesus Christ on the cross that we are promised life. If you have not ensured your eternal salvation; If you have not taken the narrow road; I encourage you to seek God’s grace before it is too late. We are not promised a tomorrow, but by God’s grace through Jesus, we are promised eternity.
Did you know that the Bible is a collection of books from dozens of authors over hundreds of years? Even with all of this diversity, there is one common theme: God’s relationship with us. As Christians, we often look to the Bible for guidance and encouragement in our walk with Christ. It deals with timeless questions such as who we are, where we came from, why we’re here, where we’re going and how we should live. The Bible is the best-selling book of all time with an estimated 5 billion copies being printed in over 250 languages.
The Bible is the living, breathing word of God. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, we read, “Every scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.” “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thought of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12.
If you desire to know the true nature of our creator, the Bible is the book for you. I encourage you to read the Bible and read it often. It is the best way to grow a more meaningful and deeper relationship with God. It is after all the best-selling book of all time.
Ambition is defined as the strong desire to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work. The problem is ambition can lead to self-centered thinking. “Instead of being motivated by selfish ambition or vanity, each of you should, in humility, be moved to treat one another as more important than yourself. Each of you should be concerned not only about your own interests, but about the interests of others as well.” Philippians 2:3-4. As Christians, we should instead focus on spreading the good news. “But I do not consider my life worth anything to myself, so that I may finish my task as the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24. “You should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had…” Philippians 2:5, and “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without blemish though you live in a crooked and perverse society, in which you shine as lights in the world.” Philippians 2:14-25. The world is lost, it needs Jesus. “There is therefore now no condemnation for these who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1. Don’t let your ambition get in the way of God’s Grace for yourself or others.
The health benefits of rest are well known and documented. It can allow time for recovery, prevent muscle fatigue, reduce the risk of injury, and can even improve performance. With the benefits of rest so well known, why do we resist it so much?
Even God, the creator of the universe found time to rest (Genesis 2:3). And the fourth commandment reminds us to “remember the Sabbath day.” (Exodus 20:8) If the creator found time to rest and called it holy, who are we to think we have the power to do more?
Forget the troubles of the world. Relax and spend time with the family. Stop the stress/fatigue cycle. Find your Sabbath.
There are some people who will be content just “being” but some of us have been chosen by God to be “broken”. In our moments of desperation, God is breaking us, but when the breaking is done, then we will be able to see the reason for which we were created. God says, “I had to break you to show you why I created you. You had to go through it so you could fulfill your purpose.”
People often look for “proof” of God. In the words of Billy Graham, “Can you see God? You haven’t seen him? I’ve never seen the wind. I see the effects of the wind, but I’ve never seen the wind.” God is everywhere, all around us, in the green grass, and the blue sky. From the majesty of the galaxies all the way down to the cells that makes up our bodies. Christ’s blameless sacrifice on the cross paid the ultimate price for us. If you are still looking for proof check out Laminin, the cell adhesion molecule the binds all matter together. A reminder of God’s plan set forth at the beginning of creation. “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:17
We hear Romans 8:28 quite frequently when we are facing taught times. “We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him…” This is true. Whether it is good or bad, God will use it for his glory. We must also lean to trust him and be content with Gods plans for our lives. “…for I have learned to be content in any circumstance. I have experienced times of need and times of abundance. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of contentment, whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing. I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13. God has a plan for you. While it may be difficult some times, know that it will work out for the glory of God and you can overcome any circumstance when we trust and find contentment in the one who strengthens us.
Nothing can separate us from God’s love. Nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us or nothing below us–nothing in the whole created world–will ever be able to separate us from the love of God.
In the world we live in, with the deep issues and problems we face as people, we often point to a group or person to blame–a scapegoat. The real problem is never a person but a deeper spiritual one. The cure to a spiritual crisis requires a spiritual solution–prayer.
2020 has been difficult but it has also presented great opportunity. Do not feel guilty for what you did not do, instead be motivated by what we wish we had time to do and make time to do it.
Ephesians 4:1 “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”
The calling God has placed on each of our lives is unique to us. What God has called me to do may not be what God is calling you to do. Use your gift while giving glory to God and share the truth.
Listen to what God is telling you. Do not be someone else, answer your calling. Use your gifts, talents and skills and lay then at the foot of the King for his glory.
The Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ is described by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians chapter 15. Jesus Christ came, He was crucified, He was buried, and He rose again on the third day. That is the Good News, our blessed hope, our only hope!
Salvation isn’t anything we can do; it’s what He already did. He paid the price. It is finished. It is as simple as A B C. Admit you’re a sinner, believe Jesus is Lord, and call upon His name.
A. Admit you’re a sinner – Romans 3:10, “…No one is righteous, not even one.” All our good works will never be enough. Romans 3:23, “All have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God.” Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin, is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
B. Believe Jesus is Lord – Romans 10:9, if you, “…believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved…”
C. Call upon His name – Romans 10:9-10, “…if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved.” Here’s why “for it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”
Finally, Romans 10:13 seals the deal, “All who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved.” It’s that simple.
2020 has been a tough year. It can be easy to loose sight of the true meaning for the season…Jesus!
Farmers have always stopped to give thanks for the blessings of a bountiful harvest. We too should stop and give thanks to God for all He has given us. We may not have everything we want but we are blessed.
How often in out lives do we feel unequipped or unworthy? If you feel weak, inadequate or ill-equipped for your task you are not alone. Throughout history brothers and sisters in Christ have struggled with the same feelings. But there is hope. Our heavenly father promises to equip us with everything we need for doing His will.
It seems that we live in dark times. Everywhere we look there is worry, fear, and sadness. There is a lack of joy and piece. There is a real fear of the unknown. If we let it, this darkness will overtake us, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
It is easy to sometimes forget how many blessings we have in our lives. Our lives are filed with friends and family who care deeply for us.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Life is not always easy, perfect or peaceful. But we can always have a heart full of thankfulness if we remember who gives us reasons to be thankful.
I spend a lot of time feeling like an impostor, feeling like Moses at the burning bush, saying, “You what me to do what? Why should I talk to Pharaoh? I’m not good with words. Send someone else.” Can you relate?
Have you ever felt lost and alone? I struggle with these feelings often in my life. I wonder if I am on the right path or if God even hears my calls for help. Be comforted, God hears our prayers, He wants us to live a joyous live and while it may not feel like it sometimes God is ALWAYS with us. When we look back at past events in our lives, we can see the gentle nudge of God in our lives.
As a father it is easy to sometimes forget how precious a gift my children are. In Psalm 127:3 we read, “children are a gift from the lord; they are a reward from him” “Jesus said, ‘let the little children come to me, and so not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” “ Matthew 19:14. As a father I have no greater joy then to hear that my children are walking in the truth (3 john 1:4).
Life’s noise can make it hard to hear God. God speaks in a variety of ways and if we’re not listening for it, sometimes we may miss it. We need to STOP and LISTEN. The next time you find yourself distracted by the noise of this world, stop and take a moment to reflect and listen for God’s voice.
You are more loved and precious to God then you can ever know.
God has placed great value on your life. God loves us so much that He sent His only begotten Son to die for your and my sins. (John 3:16, Romans 5:8) He then sent the Holy Spirit to be our helper, our comforter. (Acts 5:32, 2 Corinthians 5:5) You are an heir of salvation. (Ephesians 1:5) You are not alone. Be comforted that your heavenly Father is watching over us at all times. (Psalm 121:5-8)
You are so valuable to God, not because of anything you have done, not because of anything you will do but simply because He chose to love you. (Titus 3:5) All glory deserves to go to God.The same God of scripture is the same God the is living today. (Psalm 33:11, Isaiah 40:8)
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (Psalm 51:12)
God created you in His image, for is glory. (Genesis 1:27) No matter how small, irrelevant, or unimportant you feel, no matter how insignificant you feel, you are valuable to God.
Brokenness can lead to true surrender
Have you ever been completely and utterly broken? A place of brokenness can be a humbling, painful, and yet beautiful place to be. It’s easy to forget the beauty and joy that can emerge from this bittersweet place. In these moments of complete brokenness, one this remains:
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in the spirit.” Palms 34:18
What does it mean to be humble? Simply put, it means we do not use others to benefit ourselves rather we offer ourselves to benefit others.
As a father, it is incredibly encouraging to see my children’s faith grow. Sometimes I even wonder if my faith is lacking in comparison their own. If we learn from our children and embrace these qualities in our lives, have faith like a child, we will learn and grow, and will see the kingdom of heaven rise again in our lives.
God loves us and desires a deep relationship with us. His love is infinite and never ending. It is constantly pursuing us even when we resist.
If we accept God’s grace and the relationship it offers, we answer God’s call to place our faith in Jesus Christ alone which enables us to give our hearts over to God.
We must continue to seek God’s grace in our lives. By grace through faith, the Holy Spirit renews our spirit. There will be barriers to our relationship with God. We must trust God to overcome these obstetrical to grace.
Through grace the work of the Holy Spirit is moving us toward perfection in love and truth.
Things may not look good right now, but God promises us His plans are good. He is moving us toward that day when death will be swallowed up, and He will wipe every tear from our eyes (Isaiah 25:8). He has ordained our peace (Isaiah 26:122).
Be encouraged. “…we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose…” (Romans 8:28)
Hebrews 13:8 says “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever”
Know that no matter what yesterday, today, or tomorrow holds, our LORD GOD is everlasting and has plans for you, plans to prosper you, not harm you. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Often in history people’s names were used to describe their character or even their profession. Even today we sometimes receive nicknames or superlatives; however, these names do not define us.
When people think of God, and who his is they often try to put God in a box that define him.
Some place God in a box defining Him as the Creator who has created the world and now sits back on His thrown watching. There are others who define Him as a God who “grants wishes”. And still others define God and angry and vengeful, who is waiting for an opportunity for punishment.
The problem with this thinking is that it limits God. These boxes are definitions that we have come up with to define God. They don’t come close to describing Gods true character.
So, who is God really?
God described himself as self-sufficient, self-sustaining and powerful over all things. God who was, who is, and who will be. He. Is. infinite!
In Exodus 3:13-14 God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’”
HE is the GREAT I AM…
He is THE GOD
God is in control of everything and is sovereign over everything. He Is Who He Is.
We all have situations that try our patients daily, the kids fighting and climbing the walls, being stuck on hold with customer service, painfully slow internet. When times are tough it is even harder to preserver with a good attitude. We can turn to the “Good Book” when we need help getting our minds right.
Our treasures and priorities can easily be misplaced and we can find ourselves devoting our time, finances, phone calls and acts of service into treasures that do not last. Matthew 6:19 says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.”
For centuries, people have knows about the power of kindness. Not only does kindness help others around you, it also has a positive impact in your life. Doing good has been scientifically proven to do great things for your health too. Performing intentional acts of kindness expands your ability to love others. If you need extra encouragement to keep kind, the bible is an excellent source.
Sometimes in life, negative thoughts can control how we feel. They often cause our emotions to spin out of control; dictating how we react to situations. Dwelling on the negative will breed frustration and discontentment. But just like a coin there is another side; dwelling on the positive will breed joy and contentment.
How comforting it is to know that wherever we go, God is there with us. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations and wonder if God is even there. We may feel so alone and depressed. We can’t feel God’s presence, and we need His guidance and help. But know this truth; God is with us, leading us, guiding us, loving us, and providing for. Even if we can’t see it now, have comfort that No matter what is going on in your life, He is there! God goes where you go.
Being a father or mother for that matter has rich rewards. As a father myself, I have a new appreciation for our Heavenly Fathers love for us. Even when my children disappoint me, my love for them continues, much the same way our Heavenly Fathers love never fades for us.
We all know the golden rule, “Do unto Others as you would have them do unto you” but did you know that Jesus teaches this principle as one of the greatest commandments?
It seems that violence and hatred is rampant in society these days. However as believers how should be the light of the world…
We should strive to forgive others as Christ has forgiven us. Here is a quick devotion on forgiveness.
We all suffer from worry and anxiety from time to time in our lives. Sometimes it’s hard to know what to do with worry.