Colossians 1:29

For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

 Heavenly Father I come before You in the name of Jesus giving thanks for all people in authority. I'm approaching You with confidence, and with an attitude of gratitude. I thank You for all You have done and continue to do. By Your Holy Spirit that lives in us may we have an inner composure that is peaceable, and with a godlily reverence as we toil to finish the work set before us. Our desire like Yours is to see all come to the knowledge of the truth, for there is one God and one Mediator between You and us, the Man Christ Jesus. We were once hostile and alienated in our minds, doing evil deeds but now with much thanksgiving have been reconciled to You. Father as leaders and followers of Jesus I pray we would continue to proclaim, warning everyone, and teaching them with all wisdom so they may be presented mature in Christ. I pray for the church to be honest and transparent with the struggles of striving for the faith, so we may bear each other's burdens, strengthening them to finish the race with gusto. Let us not forget Lord the responsibilities we have for one another in Your body. When one grieves, we all grieve, when one hurts, we all hurt and so on. No one is an island unto himself. I thank You that everything in my life, all the things I face is ultimately leading me to reach the goal of maturity. I thank You Lord that You are with me, granting me wisdom and discernment. Though somethings maybe taxing all my energies even to the point of exhaustion and weariness. I am as a wrestler against a hostile foe, but I rest knowing it is for my good and Your glory. Because I have come to know it is futile to try to do Your work in my own carnal and fleshly strength. May Your power continue to work mightily in me and Your church. May we remember the only hope of glory is the Christ in us. I thank You for the empowering and the equipping of the saints to be victorious and living examples to learn from. Their emulation of crucified lives that spur us on to bring honor to You Lord. Jesus, I praise You today for You are worthy of all our devotion. Amen.

I Timothy 2:1-7 and Colossians 1:19-29

Matthew 5:13

You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.

Lord, I praise You for Your mighty acts. I praise You Lord according to Your excellent greatness! Let everything that has breath praise You Lord. For our Lord God reigns. Does the world really belief this? As Your disciple Jesus, there are several ways my life can be beneficial to others and influence the world around me. Just as salt is used as a preservative, seasoning or cleaning it also can be used to put out small fires, gets rid of fishy smells, removing stains, shine up silver and even removing grime, sweat and rust from objects so too can a life that is devoted to You. With the fruit of Your Holy Spirit and the words of our testimony we can be as salt to those around us. But sometimes salt is mixed with other ingredients and pouf the salt is gone. Lord, You have given us instructions and warning not to mingle with things of this world, listen to those who tickle the ear, or compromise the truth of Your word. Daily we need You to help us Your servants to carry out Your will and bring hope, healing and reconciliation to those who have not tasted of Your goodness. Pour out Your water on those who are thirsty, and flood those who are dry. Pour out Your Spirit on Your descendants and bless their offspring so each may declare I am the Lord's. You are our Redeemer Jesus, the Lord of hosts, the first and the last and beside You there is no God. We shall not fear nor be afraid as we are Your witness' that there is no other rock in which we stand. You are our firm foundation. May the saltiness of our lives bring a thirst to others that only You can quench Jesus. Just as a deer pants for water so the soul desires You. We love You Lord, Amen.

Psalm 150:2. Isaiah 44:1-8, Psalm 42:1

Hebrews 12:1

Therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witness, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.

As we look to You Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, the One who for the joy set before You endured the cross and have sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. I'm strengthened by Your Holy Spirit to endure till one day when I'm forever with You in glory. I'm so thankful for the great cloud of witnesses that testify of the truth of who You are and all that You have done. As the Bible says Abel offered a costly sacrifice, Enoch lived in a way that pleased You. Abraham was obedient to go to a land he didn't know and willing to offer his son trusting You completely to raise him up. Sarah bore in her old age. Issac exhorted his sons to obey the covenant, Jacob likewise reminded his sons of Your promises. Joseph expressed confidence that You would bring the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses' parents refused to carry out the commands of Pharoah to kill their child, who then turned his back on the passing pleasures of sin and sided with the downtrodden children of Israel and lead them out of Egypt and also carried out Your difficult commands. Joshua trusted You to give them victory, Rehab believed in Your power and helped the spies and so many more people trusted You for power and victory and refused to compromise their faith even in the midst of life-threatening circumstances. Lord, when the saints come marching in, I want to be counted in their numbers. So today Lord I lay aside every weight and sin which so easily ensnares me and run straight into Your loving arms. Amen.

Hebrews 11 summary 

Hebrews 11:31

By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace.

You Lord are the Ancient of Days. Yahweh, You have graciously opened the heart and mind of a foreign prostitute to accept You as Lord. I am always in awe of the dramatic ways You deliver those who reach out to You the Living God. And then You go even further and save families. What a mighty God we serve. You take a spiritual impoverished life and make it new to live in abundance. Truly the greatest miracle of them all is the miracle of salvation. Rehab begged and asked for a true token, not one that tarnishes, fades or one that one day comes to lack luster, but she asked for kindness over her father's house. She honored her father so all would go well with her as the commandment says. She desired that her father, mother, brothers and sisters' lives would be delivered from death. How our hearts cry out for the same. The Tikvah, the scarlet rope she hung out the window, was a cord that is the symbol of expectation and hope. Our hope is woven in You Jesus. Our hope is real, and we cling to You as You are not out of reach but very present in the fabric of our lives. Just as Rehab had to wait for the realization of the promise, we Your children wait with expectation and gratitude for our prodigals to return home. We patiently wait for the healing of loved ones, the needed provisions or wisdom for the current challenges we face, because we know You Lord are faithful, and You are our blessed assurance. For thou art my hope (Tikvah), O Lord God: thou art my trust from my youth. We ask for Your kindness over our households as You do miracles today Lord as only You can. With hearts of thanksgiving, we praise You Jesus, Amen.

Joshua 2 and Psalm 71:5

Hebrews 11:30

By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days.

Your Spirit Lord gives victory. Glory is Yours not ours. I am thankful to be a small part of Your plan. Rote obedience or cooperation without trust does not demonstrate legitimate faith. Success is granted when we bond our obedience to trust in Your faithfulness. Father there are so many things we diligently pray without ceasing for, but how many times we ignore what You have required for us to do. They are not just kindly suggestions but the remedy that will bring about freedom. The madness of the endless cycle of habitual sin is one that has not truly been repented of. What is needed is an honest assessment of our hearts before You. Do we truly desire the liberation from bondage or our we just continuing to be lord over our own lives? Forgive us Father for not trusting that You will cause the walls around our lives to fall. Why is it that so many are content to fly around a cage with an open door? Whom the Son has set free is free indeed! May we rejoice and be glad turning away from that which betrays us and embrace the goodness of who You are. Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, whose heart is set on a pilgrimage. As for me I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. You Lord are my sun and shield and bestows grace and honor. No good thing do You withhold from those whose walk is upright. Blessed are they whose trust is in You. Today we give shouts of victory, hallelujah, our God reigns. Thank You Jesus! In Your name Lord we pray, Amen.

Psalm 84 and John 8:36

Hebrews 11:29

By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned.

Dear Holy Father, I pray we as Your children would not live with the attitude that since we have been justified by You nothing could happen to us. We cannot sin with impunity because You do not take it lightly. You are long-suffering, abounding in grace, but we dare not trifle with You. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom as was taught to us in Proverbs and it is a desire of those who follow Jesus. Daily we want to be in awe and wonder of You. Following where You lead. They walked on dry land passing through the walls of water because they believed in Almighty to deliver them. We believe You Lord are our deliverer, who keeps us from idolatry and lusting after evil things. May we not have a stubborn refusal to believe every word written in the Bible. Unbelief is a grave sin that leads away from You Lord. You are the Rock in which we cling, our hope, refuge and strength. Did the Israelites enter Your rest, enter into the Promise land? Did they doubt what You had promised them? Father, we asked today for Your Spirit to keep us firm in the truth not to be tempted to forgo all the words of Your Son Jesus.  The tragic unbelief in the desert is a warning not to walk in their footsteps. Grant us discernment to contend for the faith as certain people have crept in unnoticed, ungodly people who pervert Your grace. The way to the promised land is a narrow road and You have warned us broad is the way that leads to destruction. Father, may we stay on the path that leads to life everlasting. Let us not be as some who have a magnificent beginning but a disastrous end. We pray Lord to have the right words to restore a fallen brother or sister. By Your Spirit bring convictions that lead to repentance for it is a gift worth more than any earthly things. We praise You Lord and thank You for Your loving kindness that has led us to You. In Jesus victorious name, Amen.

Proverbs 9:10, Proverbs 10:27, 1 Corinthians 10:5-10, Jude 5 and Hebrews 3:16-19 

Hebrews 11:28

By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, lest he who destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

Heavenly Father, Moses' life taught us out of obedience comes blessings. Their door post bore the seal, the mark that they were protected from Your righteous judgement. We give thanks to You Lord for Your steadfast love endures forever. Father by Your Spirit may we humble ourselves under Your mighty hand, casting all our anxieties upon Jesus, as worry is a form of pride and involves taking our concerns into our own hands instead of entrusting You with them. May we remain firm in our faith and trust the shed blood of Jesus covers us from Your wrath to come, when You will make all things right again. Jesus' love covers a multitude of our sin when we acknowledge it and ask forgiveness, He is faithful and just to wash us clean. We give thanks to You Lord for Your steadfast love endures forever. Father how we long for and desire for our loved ones to be sprinkled with the blood of the Lamb and how very grateful we are for the ones that are. Today we thank You for Your protection, the gift that evil passes over us, as we dwell with You. May our faith in You grant us strength against the sinful slavish fear of men as we set You before our souls. The pleasures of this world are for the most part pleasures of sin, so today may we speedy repent or quickly live in ruin. It is true we cannot enjoy our sin without deserting You, the great I AM, the Lion and the Lamb. Today we choose whom we will serve. I desire You Lord and Your ways that are higher and far better. In Your name Jesus we pray, Amen.

Psalms 136 and 1 Peter 5:6-11. 

Hebrews 11:27

By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.

Invisible, immortal, God only wise, in light inaccessible hid from our eyes, most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty victorious, thy great name we praise. Abba Father Your faithfulness remains throughout the generations. Moses showed true courage and a resolute faith in You Lord. Was it Lord because You appeared in the burning bush? Was it because You parted the seas? Was it because he saw You write with Your finger the ten commandments? The life of Moses is fascinating, so many epic happenings. You are so good and gracious leading Your children to the promise. Even when Thomas doubted, You said "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve but believe." Thomas response like mine is "My Lord and my God." Jesus said "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed?" Jesus thank You for opening my heart and revealing to me You are the Messiah the risen Lord. Lord, please continue to reveal Yourself to those around me who have not yet taking the leap of faith. Do the greatest of miracles today the salvation of souls. I love You Lord Jesus and because of Your Holy Spirit living in me I am not afraid, Amen.

Hymn: Immortal Invisible God Only Wise by Walter Chalmers Smith (1824-1908) and John 21:24-29

Hebrews 11:24-26

By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called son of Pharoah's daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.

Heavenly Father You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is the fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Living in a world where pleasures abound, temptations are around every corner and false promises of gratification that come in packages of power, status and notoriety that only feed the beast of pride, leave us void of the riches that can only be found in a life hidden in Your Son Jesus Christ. Remind us today Lord of the reward that is to come and may that be our motivation for enduring faith. Your promises are yes and amen. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Father, I confess it isn't always easy or enjoyable to hear all kinds of evil said about us, but it is a bless life to bear the mark of Jesus. There is comfort knowing we are hidden in You. As You have said to us if anyone desires to come after You, we must deny ourselves, and take up our cross and follow You.  I confess crucifying my self-will is no easy task but greater is my desire to leave Egypt and all its lying seductions. Father by Your Spirit grant each of Your children victory in the battles we face, the temptations that lurk in the shadows luring us into darkness. Draw us today to dance in the light of Your grace. May we go forth singing Your praises to those who are seeking a way out from the passing pleasures of sin. May the words of our testimony and the precious blood of the Lamb set free the captives. May today be the day of salvation and all glory be Yours Jesus. Amen.

Psalm 1:6-11 and Matthew 5:10-12

Hebrews 11:23

By Faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king's command. 

Children are a blessing from You Lord. And blessed is the man who quiver is full of them. Heavenly Father sometimes we as parents face immediate dilemmas with the precious children You have entrusted into our care. It is far too easy to give way to our natural fears but with great love comes great trust. The twists and turns the road of life bring can be a frightening ride. How are we to really know what is around the bend for us and our loved ones. But just as Moses' parents didn't know what exactly would happen, they totally comprehended it is more important to obey You than to live in fear. As I look back over the days of my child's youth, the peaks and valleys I'm in awe of Your faithfulness towards us. Father, I pray today for the parents who are crying out for You to save their children, spare them of physical pain, heartbreak and suffering. Be gracious to them as You gently wipe away their tears, restoring shattered hope and bring comfort to their weary souls. We love our children so deeply and understand how special and wonderfully made they are, for it was Your good pleasure to do so. Yet at times we worry and doubt, forgive us. Father, Your Son, Your precious Jesus who is spotless and blameless, He is oh so beautiful, paid the ultimate price. It is a weighty thought to comprehend how You endured it, seeing the sins of the world thrusted upon Him. He was mocked and scourged, nailed to a cross, pouring out His blood to redeem us. No greater love, no greater love than this. Father, You know full well the plans You have for our children, so please strengthen us to endure the challenges of parenting. By Your Spirit fill us with wisdom to train up our children in the way they should go and stand firm on Your promise they will not depart from it. Protect our families from harm as we place them in the basket of Your love. May each trial bring glory and honor to Your great name Jesus. Amen.

Psalm 127:3-5

Hebrews 11:22

By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instruction concerning his bones.

Good morning, Lord. As I walk through the hall of faith as written in Hebrews, I ponder why was this the thing we are to remember and be encourage by in Joseph's life, where he wanted his bones to be? What is it that You are teaching me? Joseph was favored by his father, given a coat of many colors. You gave him dreams that all came to pass. He was hated by relatives whose jealousy brought forth the desire to kill him. He was enslaved, imprisoned and forgotten yet was a man of integrity. He was remembered and promoted. He honored and served well. He had wisdom for the challenges that were ahead. He knew what the enemy meant for evil You turned for good. You used him to bring reconciliation and forgiveness in his family. But the passage makes no mention of these things, curious. Then comes the realization Joseph foreknew the coming day when You would bring them out of Egypt. He knew one day they would dwell in the promised land. Thus, desiring that his bones should be laid there. Even though they had a good, peaceful, and prosperous life in the land of Egypt, his heart was set on the exodus. Father, I hear Joseph's message, when life is lived in You better days are coming. So today I simply rejoice and believe with Jesus my best day is yet to come when I step into eternity with You. Thank You Father for loving us and giving us Your Son and the promise of a happily ever after. Amen.

Hebrews 11:21

By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.

Someone once told me God doesn't have favorites, but He has intimates. Heavenly Father as I ponder the passing away of various loved ones, their final days on the earth. Some so dedicated and devoted to You that their indelible mark is still with me, while other lives were like a vapor and gone. Some despise the riches of Your goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering not knowing that Your goodness leads us to repentance and the blessings of an eternity with You Almighty. Father it is true that some leave a legacy of blessings while others have treasured up for themselves wrath and the revelation of Your righteous judgement. One day You will render to each of us according to our deeds. Eternal life for those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality, but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth but obey unrighteousness receive indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish for their evil. These verses in Romans are a wakeup call to speak life to the lost, whose future is grim. You have said let the dead bury the dead, but you follow Me. This is my desire to do the best for Your glory. Jacob worshiped You till he breathed his last, so too do I desire to praise You into eternity. Father, I desire not to delay till my final hour to bless my offspring but to share Your truth, promises and love with them today. You have blessed me Lord to be a blessing to others so by Your Holy Spirit use me to accomplish Your will. I love You Lord Jesus, Amen.

Romans 2:1-16

Matthew 5:9

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Heavenly Father You sent Your Son Jesus to preach peace to those afar off and those who are nearby. Jesus, You have made peace and reconciliation through Your shed blood on the cross, so may we give You all glory and honor due Your great name today and every day. If it is possible Father, may we live peaceable with all men but let us not compromise on the truth of who You are and how You expect us to live. Let us remember to love mercy, do justly and walk humbly with You our great God and King. May we reflect the character of Jesus the Messiah, our Shalom, the Prince of Peace. There is no greater love than to lay down our lives for a friend, so Father pardon our selfish intentions that bringing along with-it strife. Pride puffs us up, but love covers a multitude of sin and with it brings peace to an aching soul. Father, we desire to share the good news with the world where conflict abound, wars rage, and contentions run in families. Bless those whose feet are shod in the gospel, whose mouth proclaim our God reigns. Let not harsh words come from our lips to stir up anger but may soft words turn away wrath. Jesus may You be magnified in us to reveal to those around us we are Yours and You are our hope. May peace abound in our hearts and minds forever. Amen.

June 13, 2023

Hebrews 11:20

By faith Isaac invoked future blessings on Jacob and Esau.

Thank You Heavenly Father for hope and a future found in Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. One generation blesses the next or brings curses for the way they lived. Help us Father by Your Spirit to leave a good legacy for our children and children's children. An inheritance that is secure for eternity. Some desire fame, others desire riches, while still others desire power but Your remnant desires for their children to have awe of You as to obtain wisdom. We believe all good and perfect gifts come from You the Father of lights in which there is no variation or shifting shadow. May the blessings we bestow upon the youth be examples of lives that cling to the truth, having a heart of thanksgiving, and a spirit of patience even in the most difficult of times. In You Lord there is no darkness at all, only when we turn from You do we go deeper into the shadows. May we continue to acknowledge who You are in words and deeds for Your glory and blessings of the generations to come. We love You Lord Jesus and thank You that we are no longer slaves but sons and daughters and heirs through You. Father, please pour out Your Holy Spirit to captivate the lost across the land so they may be saved, having their names written in Your book. In Your house there are many mansions, if it weren't so Jesus would have told us, but He has gone to prepare a place for us and He will come again to receive us so where He is we may be also. Thank You Lord for loving us. May praises be continually on our lips. Amen.

James 1:17, Romans 8:17, 29 and John 14:2-6

Hebrews 11:17

By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, 

Testing and more testing, our lives Father are filled with them. All the while the still small voice whispering trust Me, trust Me. I confess Lord when it comes to my family, my precious loved ones, it's far too easy to make them idols. Such hope I have in them for the future, but the promise is in Your beautiful and precious Son. He is where I desire my focus to be. My worship. Love and adoration for the King of kings, Lord of lords who is above all powers, above all else. He is the resurrection and life. When I stop to ponder the depth of love in my own heart, the love I have for my child it is overshadowed by Your great love for us Your children. Such incredible faith Abraham had to believe You could raise Isaac from death to life, so why do I worry? You are faithful Lord, and nothing is impossible for You. I lay down my loved ones today where Your mercy and grace are poured out from the cross of Calvery. Creation Father cost You nothing as You spoke and it was good, salvation cost You Father all You had as You gave Your only begotten Son. That blood-stained hill spilling out in crimson letters the story of love that surpasses all love. How could I stop singing Your praises, for nothing is difficult with You Lord. My worry has been nailed to the cross and I bear it no more, praise You Lord Jesus, praise You Lord Jesus. May I go forth singing today. I have put my trust in You and know You are able to redeem that which is lost, rebuild what has been broken, make new what has been faded, claim what has been abandoned and grant us peace in the process. Thank You Holy Father for giving us Your Son. Amen.

Hebrews 11:11

By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. 

Father, You blessed Sarah with a son whose name is Issac, and his name means laughter. The meek shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. The wicked plot against the just, but You Lord laugh. Your promises are sure, You don't relent for what You have spoken through the prophets will surely come to pass. Sarah received power to conceive, Your loving intervention and sovereignty was upon her. How we still need You today Lord to do the things You have promised for us. Stir up the gifts of the Holy Spirit to patiently endure till the appointed time for the things You have said will be in our individual lives. The expectation of salvation of loved ones, healing from mental and physical illness, the mending of broken hearts, the providing of resources needed for various debts, purchases and provisions are all wrapped up in our faith in You Almighty God, El Shaddia. Father, we lift up to You today those who have grown weary in the wait, strengthen them and pour out joy onto their parched souls. Jesus You are our living water and many need refreshing please draw them with Your kindness to drink from Your wellspring. Empower Your children today to speak words of hope that will encourage the faint of heart to continue on. We believe You are the God that make all things possible so lead us to the Rock in every area of our lives without doubting Your mercy and grace. We bless Your Holy name Jesus and give You the honor and praise do You always, Amen.

Psalm 37:12-13

Hebrews 11:8

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.

You have taught us Lord faith means obediently stepping into the unknown. I admit Lord I'm not always willing to walk in the unfamiliar. Human experience as caused broken trust, but I know You are trustworthy and only have my best interest at heart. I surrender to Your will because above all else I desire for You to be glorified, magnified and exemplified. Believing in You brings about obedience regardless of consequences. Father, I do not want my faith to be hindered and not see what You are doing. I want to see beyond the physical world around me. May I not be limited by the temporal circumstances blinding me to what You are doing. Putting my hope and trust fully in You to lead me and mine to the promised land.  I am convinced You are Almighty God, so cause my trust to grow in this season so I'm less overwhelmed by this finite world. Grant me a fearless boldness by Your Spirit to take this journey one step at a time as I am firm in Your grip. May joy and a sense of awe wonder coupled with excitement over endless possibilities abound as I wait upon You for instruction. Father, continue to bless me with wise council and the discernment of that which is not. May no time be wasted swirling in circles when You have called me to swim against the current of mainstream. May my ears be attentive, my eyes bright and my soul courageous as we embark on the journey together. Bring about unity within the walls of my family because there is strength in numbers. I love You Lord and thank You for choosing me to serve You all the days of my life. Amen.

Hebrews 11:7

By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.  

Abba Father, I want to know You more. Lightening is sudden and visible to all, likewise, so will be the sudden return of Your Son Jesus. It is written when He returns, so it will be like in the days of Noah. His arrival quick and obvious, there will be no doubt even for the unbelieving. Every knee will bow, and tongue confess Jesus is Lord. Far too many pay no attention to You and face judgement. Father thank You for being merciful and longsuffering with us, but we also know You will not strive with us forever.  There is this persistent unfaithfulness that is so offensive to You, but I boldly ask to forgive them Father they know not what they are doing. You allowed Noah to build a boat and You sent Your Son to be an ark for us to be safe. Grant me boldness today to share the good news and by Your Spirit turn their rebellious hearts before it's too late. Jesus said He desired that none should perished but to come to repentance, I take Him at His word and fully trust that me and my household like Noah's family are heirs of Your righteousness. I'm so grateful for Your promises Lord and fully believe and trust, yet my heart is heavy for the lost, do the greatest of miracles today, Lord the miracle of salvation. My heart desires to live obedient as Noah did, to heed Your instruction even when I may not understand. To live life in awe reverence of who You are the great I AM. I thank You Lord that You hear my prayers and bless Your Holy name as You honor our request on the behalf of our loved one. Jesus, I praise You for You are good and gracious. I love You Lord, Amen.

Luke 17:20-30 and 2 Peter 3:9

Hebrews 11:5

By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having please God.

He walks with me and talks with me and tells me I am His own,,, The words of this Hymn Lord cause me to ponder do I walk with You and talk with You and tell You, You are my own? How I desire to be as Enoch who pleased You because He walked with You and pleased You, God. He had an ongoing intimacy with the You the King of the universe, I desire the same. I thank You Jesus that You first loved me and drew me with Your kindness. It is remarkable because Enoch had a special relationship with You, he didn't die. So, to is it that all who come to the cross are promised eternal life. Hallelujah thank You Jesus. You reign over all the earth which brings me much comfort to know You are the victor. The news reports are so upsetting and worry in the world abounds, sadness and sorrows grow, dread and doom loom but I will praise You for You hide Your beloved in the secret place. You are our shield and strong tower. Father, please pour out Your Spirit to turn the lost to You so they too may take Your hand and keep in perfect stride. You have blessed me with faith to believe nothing is impossible. I believe You can and will one day soon restore peace on earth for Your glory Jesus and in Your name. Amen.

Matthew 5:8

Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.

Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol or sworn deceitfully. He shall receive blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. Oh no Lord, we all have fallen short of Your glory but thank You for Your shed blood that washes us clean from all our unrighteousness. We have inability to approach You in worship, but all because of the King of glory may stand before You Almighty God. Jesus, You taught us that purifying our hearts is most important. It is a daily effort, so we need Your Spirit to expose the impure thoughts and intentions of our hearts and cleanse our minds to think on things that are true, lovely and praiseworthy. Forgive us Lord for when we walk in haughtiness because we have overcome or do not struggle in one area of life, while other parts lay in shambles. We can't hide them in boxes, sweep them under the rug, or pretend with others they are not there. With boldness we bring our hearts out in to the light of Your grace to be decontaminated. We thank You Lord for the revelation external ritual purity avails nothing. Oh, how sweet to trust in You Jesus and take You at Your word. Precious Jesus the one and only pure heart who laid down Your life to call us friend. May praise and adoration to You go continually before us today and every day. Amen

Psalm 24:4

Hebrews 11:4

By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks.

My faith Father understands You created the vast universe. You are infinite in power and mighty to save. You know the heart of every man and the sincerity of their faith in You Almighty God. Abel still speaks to us because his righteous deeds have been recorded, and so too is Cain's wickedness. Every day I sense and urgency to say to those around me, "choose this day whom You will serve". We need You Lord to pour out Your Spirit to turn the evil heart to truth. So many Holy Father, offer sacrifices without faith counting on their works and not the forgiveness given to us by Your Son, open their hearts please. Daily Lord we see so many converts ready to turn back and leave the uncharted waters of faith for the comfortable, familiar life of works and mortal effort. Do we live life to appease You? Certainly not. May we choose to live our lives trusting You. Lead us Jesus through all the various things a day may bring, because You are superior and know the way to go. Although we cannot see the outcome, and we may be unsure of what lay ahead, we have the blessed assurance of Your love through the cross of calvary. Simple put Lord we may not know what the future holds but we fully believe You hold the future. Today Lord we cling to the hope that eventually You will return in triumph and judge the earth. Help us Lord to not only trust but obey, so we may do Your bidding, even when submission is hard. Lord be glorified throughout the earth. Amen.

Jeremiah 10:23-24

Thus says the Lord; Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.

Almighty God, faithful and true, I come before You today to in thanksgiving and praise. You are the One and only who is the righteous judge, faithful to Your covenant, keeping Your promises. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. But oh, the pride of life how it causes us to boast in ourselves. Wisdom, might and riches ultimately come from You the great I AM. When we boast in our success, do we truly know You Lord? You chose the weak in the world to shame the strong; You chose what is low and despised in the world so no human may boast in Your presence. You take the downtrodden and reverse our human condition through precious blood of Jesus. May we boast in His goodness and righteousness. By Your Spirit Lord help us flee from idolatry and the exhausting of self, remembering You Jesus paid it all so we may come to the Father. Our sin separating us no more because of Your great love. May we rejoice and celebrate that You have made us Your temple sending Your Spirit to dwell within. May we tell all the world and boast of Your greatness. May all glory and honor be Yours Jesus! Amen.

March 18, 2016

Hebrews 10:19-23

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, an since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast to our confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.

Heavenly Father I bless Your Holy name. May I firmly maintain my confession Jesus is Lord and find ways to encourage the brethren. What a privilege it is to follow Messiah into the heavenly Holy place. With the confidence of Christ's finished work on the cross I boldly come to You asking to forgive them Father they know not what they do. Many I love haven't come to saving faith and are lost. I am so concerned Lord for those who are willingly sinning. I am powerless to turn their hearts to repentance, but You are all powerful and mighty to save. Please Father, pour out Your Spirit to open the blind eyes and circumcise the ears to receive the good news. We who believe have been given such a great gift may we freely share, with joy and thanksgiving. Oh, Father it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of You the Living God. I cry out for Your mercy to leave the 99 and go after the one, who breaks my heart and is lost in the dark. May You be glorified not only in the world today but within the walls of my family. Jesus, You paid it all and all to You I owe, I will praise You forever. Amen. 

Hebrews 10

Hebrews 9:14

...how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. 

Amazing God and perfect You are. Three in One, the Trinity all involved in cleansing of our conscience, the internal defilement that resides in our hearts. Thank You Jesus for setting us free from dead works to truly serve You the Living God. With redemption and inheritance, You, freely give us life and life more abundantly. Therefore, we leave the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ letting us go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and faith towards You God, and the instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgement for all these we will do if You permit. Help us Father to restore with gentleness and love those who have backslidden into empty work, and by Your Spirit keep us alert that we may not fall into temptation of self-sufficiency. Deliver us daily Lord from the evil that lurks around like a roaring lion seeking whom to devour. Therefore, Lord, may we take heed lest we fall. Oh, Father many in the church have not taking heed and have fallen, if it is possible restore them. May we not lose our saltiness but continue to shine bright in the dark world for Your glory Jesus. Amen.

Hebrews 6:1 and Galatians 6:1

Hebrews 7:19

(for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.

You Lord Jesus are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. The Lord has sworn and will not change His mind You Jesus are priest forever. You are the guarantor of a better covenant. I praise You Lord and thank You for the gift that through You I may draw near to God the Father. Thank You Jesus for making intercession for us. You are holy, innocent unstained and perfect in every way exalted above the heavens. Thank You Lord for true and final forgiveness, the day has come by Your decree that You have established a new covenant, not the one when You delivered them from Egypt, for they did not continue in Your covenant. I thank You for Your mercy and remembering my sin no more. Thank You for blessing me with Your Holy Spirit to speak boldly the truth of Your grace. To love the unlovable, to encourage the weak and faint of heart, to heal and reconcile the lost back to You Father through the gift of Your Son. May all I do and say bring glory to You Jesus. With all my heart I love You. Amen.

Hebrews 8

Hebrews 6:7-8

For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessings from God; but if it bears thrones and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned. 

Heavenly Father I believe Your word is truth and instructs us in the way we are to go. I confess that reading the passages of scripture as written in Hebrews 6 are very difficult and cause me to tremble. As I think about my loved ones who have heard the truth and have not yet come to saving faith. They have veered off the narrow road or for the ones who have shelved their faith for later use, my heart breaks and sorrow overwhelm me at the lies they believe. Save them Father. I cannot fathom the dread of being cursed by You, being burned or why anyone would desire that when You are so merciful and gracious to send Your spotless Lamb Jesus to pay for our sins. Please Lord, lean Your ear to hear my cries to save them from eternity apart from You. I'm no great theologian, not a scholarly authority, I just know I was lost and now am found. You have poured living water on me to receive the blessing of eternal life with You. May the cultivation of prayer the going forth weeping in tear-filled petitions would one day soon reap a harvest of joy as You turn the sinning heart of my family, friends and those around me to You the great I AM. Please Lord, break their harden hearts before it's too late. Remove the thorns and briers, break up the soil and remove the hearts of stone, please bring forth the blessings of hearts of flesh. You know my deepest wants; my one true desire is for me and my house to serve You always and to be a home of prayer united in the bonds of Your love. Holy and Gracious Father pour out Your Spirit and grant that today would be the day of salvation. I pray in the name of Jesus the Messiah. Amen. 

Hebrew 6, Matthew 13:1-23, Psalm 126:5

Exodus 20:16

You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. 

Morning Good Teacher. My greeting is not just a respectful formal greeting to a religious teacher but one with awe reverence of who You are Jesus. As I read and study Your Holy Word, Your Spirit counsels me and I am grateful beyond measure. The teachers of the law didn't recognize there is only One good and that is You God. May we love You Lord with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. You have taught us to owe no one anything except to love one another. Love does no harm to a neighbor. May the words of truth of Your great love for us that You poured out from the cross be on our lips. We love ourselves and others when we bear witness of truth, so Lord two things I ask, remove falsehood and lying far from us. You Lord have instructed us to teach no other doctrine, nor give heed to fables, mythologies, and pantheistic paganism which all bear false witness against You but to love from a pure heart, good conscience and from sincere faith. Help us Lord to not stray turning aside to idle talk or desiring to teach the law being loveless and legalistic with impure hearts and motives. Remind us of Your instruction without love we promotes legalism. But what Lord is the proper function of the law but to make sinners aware of our sinfulness and our need of You, our Savior. I bear witness of this truth as I am a wild olive branch gratefully grafted. Today Lord may we be bold in our speech as we testify of the Good News that You have saved us from the bondage of law and our own sin. Thank You Jesus for loving us and teaching us the Way we should go. May we never depart from it. In Your great name we pray and give thanks. Amen.

Mark 10:17-22 and 1 Timothy 1:3-11

1 John 3:14

We know we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. 

Heavenly Father, how gracious You are, so loving and kind to remember our labors of love. I pray we Your sons and daughters don't become sluggish in welldoing but imitates those who through faith and patience inherit the promise. You have blessed us to be a blessing to others so empower us to fulfill the great commission to share the Good News with the world. Our love for fellow believers bears witness and is the evidence of ones who have passed from death to life so may we continue to shine for Jesus who saved us from the grip of darkness. May the message we heard from the beginning to love one another, not to be as Cain who was wicked and murdered his brother. Oh, that we would emanate the love of Jesus who is merciful and kind reconciling us to You our Father who is in heaven. Lord we are living in such a dark time when it is evident that sin has taken over the hearts and minds of those bound in various religions. But Jesus You came to set the captives free and there is no greater love than Yours. You laid down Your life to redeem that which is lost. Help us to desire to lay down our own lives for the brethren. May are arms be open to the wounded, broken and persecuted. May You open our eyes today to see those in need and put joy in our hearts to be generous in words and deeds. We stand on Your promise, love covers a multitude of sin, pour out Your Spirit so love will abound more and more so there will be peace. I Your name Jesus I pray. Amen.

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and powerful. and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Holy Father your message is alive and active, it penetrates my inner most parts. You distinguish between my thoughts and intentions what is natural and what is spiritual, amazing. Reveal to me Lord the error of my ways by exposing to me my natural and spiritual motivations in my heart. I desire to be instructed by Your Holy Spirit and am very grateful that Jesus is the great High Priest. To stand before You naked and exposed totally defenseless fills me with much more awe wonder of Jesus sacrifice on the cross making a way for me to come boldly to Your throne of grace. I desire that nothing of my natural inclinations come between us causing me to be separated from Your love. Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I hold fast to my confession Jesus is my Lord and Savior and thank You Father for giving us Your Son and leaving Your Spirit here until the work on earth is done. As I meditate on the truth the high priest of Israel passed through the courts and veils to into the Most Holy place, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for You are Our High Priest who has passed through the heavens to the very presence of God where You Jesus sit at His right hand. Thank You for thinking of me in my wretched state and not leaving me there. May the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart bring honor to YOU forever. I love You Lord. Amen.

Hebrews 4, Psalm 84, "There is a Redeemer"-Melody Green, August 2, 2015, March 17, 2014, and January 4, 2016

Hebrews 2:18

For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.

Gracious and Loving Father I come before You today in thanksgiving for all the things You have done and continue to do for me. You have delivered me from the powers of darkness, have been my refuge and strength. Daily I surrender my will into Your care and worry not because You are my every present help in my hour of need. Great is Your faithfulness. Jesus, I acknowledge You were tempted BUT You never surrendered to it. Since You know what it is like to be tempted and tried, You know how to assist us who are being tempted. I call upon You Lord to walk with me this day and lead me in the way of victory, so You may receive all the glory and honor due Your great name. I praise You for Your shed blood that cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Jesus You are superior to the mediators of the mosaic law, You are superior to Moses himself, being our great High Priest atoning for my sin and the sins of this world. I pray today when we hear Your voice, we wouldn't harden out hearts as in rebellion, as in the day of trials in the wilderness. By Your Holy Spirit may Your children endure to the end. I praise You Jesus for the convent that You established is more glorious than the convent established at Mt. Sinai. While Moses was a faithful servant You Jesus are the Son of God. Moses's work pointed us to You, and we are grateful. Help us Holy Spirit to boldly share the good news with those around us who are bumping into things in the dark, being tempted in various ways. Reconcile the lost to Yourself Lord. May all glory forever be Yours Jesus. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Hebrews 3

Proverbs 30:4

Who has ascended into heaven, or descended? Who has gathered the wind in His fists? Who has bound the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is His Son's name, If you know?

Heavenly Father your name is Abba and Your Son is Jesus! You are exalted above all the earth. Great is Your name and greatly You are praised. Every word of God is pure; and You are a a shield to those who put their trust in You. For some Lord this riddle has no answer, but You Jesus are the way, the truth and the life and no one can come to the Father without coming to the cross first. Father, I pray for all my loved ones to be born again, please hear my concern for their souls and open their heart and minds to the truth they are sinners in need of a Savior, No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is the Son of Man who is in heaven. For You God loved the world so much that You gave Your only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have ever lasting life. Two things I ask of You Lord deny me not before I die, remove falsehood and lying from my loved ones and set them free to be new creations in Christ Jesus. No more practicing of evil because evil hates the light because it exposes wicked deeds. Your precious blood Jesus washes away all the guilty sin and shame. Do the greatest miracle of all, save them, I beseech You Lord. Be glorified. In Your matchless name Jesus, I give thanks and pray, Amen,

John 3