Just Obedience

So many times we look for the glitz and the glamor. We want the high life with everything on the side (double portions). If we don’t watch – that can begin to define our lives. Maybe it’s time we looked again…but now from His perspective; IE: from His side of the fence.

Is it greatness, perfection, everything in it’s place He really wants? Or is it just simply obedience? You see the reality is this- obedience is the pathway to obtaining those such things and more.

Naaman was a sick man ( II Kings 5) and because of His position he thought He would get preferencial treatment. The king didn’t know what to do- but the prophet had the answer. Arriving at Eusha’s house he expected the red carpet treatment…”Come in sir we have been preparing and making ready for you”…- but no… not even a face to face encounter. A messenger was sent to bring the message. “Go and wash 7 times in the Jordan River!” That’s it? Nothing else? You must be joking!

Turning away He almost walked away from his miracle. One of his servants stopped Him and said “if he would have had you to do something great, wouldn’t you have done that”? Reluctantly he went and did- and his miracle happened.

Simple obedience- maybe that’s all we need to do!

Don’t lose Heart

Ever felt like giving in and throwing in the towel? You wouldn’t be human if you hadn’t. Quitting is satan’s way of getting us to forfeit our God given potential – and our God given destiny.

Is the roadway easy? But He never promised it would be…but it’s a roadway that we must continue on down. Destinations can never be reached if forward momentum is ceased. We have got to hold on- we’ve got to keep going. Quitting can never be an option.

We have to purpose in our hearts that no matter the struggle and the fight ( and even failure) we cannot allow ‘that’ to determine life’s outcome. We all struggle, we all have challenges and even fail- but are they going to be our defining points – I chose to let the fact I won’t quit – but will keep going define the outcome of my life. My destiny depends on that.

It’s amazing that at the end of us is the beginning of God. When we have nothing left to give – He says that’s alright your weakness plus faith in Me equals my strength.

Remember however – it’s strength for you to keep going! For you to be able to take the next step on that pathway of life. Don’t lose heart – keep your focus – look towards your prize. Look to Jesus.

Galatians 6:9 – “and let us not grow weary while doing good. For in due season we shall reap if we don’t lose heart!

‘Tis’ the Season to be Jolly

It’s Time To Praise-

John 15:8 tells us that our Father is glorified when we bear much fruit. Bearing fruit brings glory to God, therefore it’s so important that we live a fruitful life. Anything that’s living will grow!

One of the greatest tools of growth God has given us is through Praise and Worship. Praise is more than just singing a few songs to fill up time – it’s literally giving to God; telling Him that despite our present situations (surroundings) He is still worthy. Praise gives God something to work with.

Ps 22:3 tells us ‘But you are Holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel’ (your people). Another translation uses the word inhabits, thus stating that when we praise, God comes down to dwell. The greatest visitation we need is His habitation. Visitors come and leave ( thank God sometimes for that, LOL) but is that how we desire Him to be?

According to this Scripture when we praise we build Him a throne so that His presence comes down and collides with our world. Although He is ‘Omnipresent’ there is something great which happens in the realm of praise. Praise causes God to enter your world. He doesn’t just want to enter and leave….He stays when we praise.

Anytime in the word of God when you read of God’s presence, you also read about change. God’s presence (habitation) will bring about change. ‘Tis the season to be jolly – don’t let the devil steal your praise. Praise Him…He’s worthy.