Today's Word : As it is in Heaven

"Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven"
(Matthew 6:10, NIV)

God longs to give you a glimpse of heaven while you are here on earth. He wants to show you His wonderful plan and bring it to pass in your life. Have you ever thought about how God's will is accomplished in heaven? In heaven, God's will is automatic. There are no opposing forces of darkness or anything that can come against His will. On earth, His will is activated in our lives first when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior; and then we must choose to come into agreement with His will on a daily basis in our thoughts, our words, and our actions. On earth, we have to stand against the forces of darkness. We have to refuse those negative, self-defeating thoughts. As you open your heart to the Word of God and invite His will to be done in your life, you are becoming one with the Father. Ephesians six tells us that we are empowered by our union with Him.

Today, declare God's Word over your life. Declare that His will be done in your life. As you stand strong in your union with Him, you will overcome opposition and see His will in your life…as it is in heaven!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, I humbly come to You today and invite Your will to be done in my life. I submit every area of my heart to You. Let everything I say and do bring glory to You. In Jesus Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Garment of Praise‏‏

"Provide for those who grieve…a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor"
(Isaiah 61:3, NIV)

What are you wearing today? Not on your physical body, but what's covering your mind and emotions? Are you clothed with despair and disappointment? Are you wearing "heaviness"?

If you've recently gone through a hurtful or disappointing situation, the Bible says there is a time to grieve. It's important to go through that process and release the hurt to God. But the Bible also says that God wants to give you a garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness or despair. He wants to exchange your hurt for His healing. He wants to fill you with His peace and joy.

Are the garments of yesterday holding you back and weighing you down? Maybe it's time to exchange that heaviness for His garment of praise. Maybe it's time to release those heavy burdens. It's time to forgive those who have hurt you and begin to praise your way to victory! Just start right now by thanking Him for the life you have today. Thank Him for the opportunities today has to offer. Thank Him for the beautiful sunrise. When you wear that garment of praise, you'll stand strong and display His splendor all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, I humbly come to You asking that You take my old, heavy garments of despair and heaviness. Make me new today. Give me a garment of praise so that I can be a display of Your glory and splendor. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : For Your Sake

"The Lord isn't really being slow about His promise, as some people think. No, He is being patient for your sake…"
(2 Peter 3:9, NLT)

It doesn't take very long to discover that God's timing is not always our timing. It's easy to question and wonder why you've been waiting for your breakthrough for 15 years and your neighbor got their breakthrough in 15 minutes! In the Bible, Abraham waited 20 years for his promise, and in the upper room they waited about ten days. I don't know how long you'll have to wait, but you've got to understand that God has your best interest at heart. He is being patient for your sake. He's aligning things and waiting for the exact right moment! If you'll just continue waiting with the right attitude, then at the right time, God will bring it to pass.

Remember, God is always working behind the scenes for your good. Just because you don't see any changes taking place doesn't mean they aren't happening. Keep standing, keep believing, keep hoping because you're breakthrough is coming for your sake!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father in heaven, today I choose to surrender all my questions, all my fears, and all my doubts. I know that You have only my best interest at heart. I trust You and believe that You are working behind the scenes for my sake. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Your Appointed Time

"For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarry, wait for it"
(Habakkuk 2:3 KJV)

God has an appointed time to fulfill the visions, dreams, and desires in your heart. Just because it has taken a long time or because you've tried and failed, doesn't mean it's not going to happen. Don't give up on those dreams! Don't be complacent about pursuing what God has placed in your heart. Our God is a faithful God. No matter how long it's been, no matter how impossible things looks, if you'll stay in faith, your appointed time is coming.

Remember, every dream that's in your heart, every promise that has taken root, God put it in there. And not only that, but He has every intention of bringing it to pass. Hold on to that vision today by declaring, "My time is coming. God is working behind the scenes on my behalf. I will fulfill my destiny!" As you continue to hold on to that vision and speak life over your dreams, you'll see them begin to take shape. You'll see your faith grow, you'll see your hope strengthen, and you'll see yourself step into the destiny God has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father in heaven, I receive Your truth today. I receive Your promises today. I ask that You ignite my heart with Your holy fire so that I can pursue Your perfect plan for my life. Make my thoughts and words agreeable to Your will. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Twice as Much

"Return to your fortress, o prisoners of hope, even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you"
(Zechariah 9:12, NIV)

God wants to bring to pass everything that He's promised to you! He longs to give you the deepest desires of your heart. He wants to restore to you twice as much as what's been stolen from you! But you have to do your part and stay filled with hope. That means that no matter how long you've been in that negative situation, no matter how many setbacks you've suffered; you've got to get up each day with the attitude that this could be the day God turns it all around!

The Bible says that the Name of the Lord is a strong tower. When you put your trust and hope in Him, you are in a fortress of strength. Nothing can steal your joy, peace, or enthusiasm. You are positioned for victory! You are positioned for power! And you are positioned to receive everything God has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness. Thank You for Your promise to restore every area of my life. I choose to be a prisoner of hope trusting in Your Name alone. I bless You today and always. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : He Increases Your Strength

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might He increases strength [causing it to multiply and making it to abound]"
(Isaiah 40:29, AMP)

In the Bible, Joseph went through seasons of difficulty. He was rejected by his family, sold into slavery, lied about, mistreated, abandoned, falsely accused, and thrown in jail. But through it all, Joseph never gave up. He kept pressing through and doing the right thing even though the wrong thing kept happening. The Bible says in Psalm 105 verse 18, as Joseph laid in prison in those chains of iron, his soul entered into that iron. In other words, as Joseph just kept on fighting life through, his soul became as strong as that steel. God developed a supernatural strength in him that no one could take away.

If you are going through difficulty today, God wants to increase your strength. He wants to increase your power to overcome. He wants to make your inner man as strong as steel. When you keep standing, keep believing, keep doing the right thing, you are opening yourself to God's supernatural strength. That's when you know you are growing in Him. Be strong today. Keep pressing forward because God is at work increasing strength in you so that you can live in victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father in heaven, today I surrender every difficulty to You. I release the questions, hurts, and frustrations. I choose to trust You and do the right thing. Increase Your strength in me so that I can live in the victory You have in store for me. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Preparing for Promotion

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"
(John 16:33 NIV)

Are you going through a season of difficulty? Does it seem like for every step you take forward, you take two steps back? The Bible tells us that hard times and difficulty will come in this life, but we can rejoice because God promises us victory!

Whatever you may be facing today, make the decision that you are going to shake off negative thinking and trust that God is working behind the scenes. The more we trust Him and exercise our faith in Him, the more we are preparing ourselves for promotion. Focus on the fact that brighter days are just ahead. Weeping may endure for a night, but when you fight the good fight of faith, God promises that joy is coming in the morning! If you'll work with God, He'll take that adversity, turn it around, and use it for your good. It may be uncomfortable at times, but you've got to know that you are growing. God is maturing you. He is building character in you, and he is preparing you for the promotion and increase He has in store for your future!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, today I release all of my cares on You. I choose to focus on the blessings that You have given me. Search my heart today and remove anything that is displeasing to You. I bless You and honor You alone. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : What's Your Attitude in Adversity

"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior"
(Habakkuk 3:17-18, NIV)

We all face challenges, difficulties, and times when things don't go our way. God doesn't send these storms, but He will allow us to go through certain things in order to shape our character and prove our faith. Really, it's in our times of difficulty that we grow and develop.

God wants to use the tough times in our lives to do a work in us. He wants to strengthen and develop us. Our attitude in times of adversity is the evidence of our maturity. Are we going to treat people right even when we’re being mistreated? Are we going to stay full of joy even when the bottom falls out? Are we going to be faithful even in the dry seasons of our lives when we don't see anything good happening?

It may take more effort. You may have to work harder to keep a good attitude, but remember, attitude is the key to your promotion. As you keep that positive attitude of faith and expectancy, even in times of adversity, God will deliver you and move you forward into the destiny He has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, I want to grow spiritually and be more like You. I choose to trust You in times of adversity knowing that You are working things out for my good. Renew a right attitude within me by Your Spirit. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Live in Integrity

"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches……"
(Proverbs 22:1, KJV)

What do people think when they hear your name? Do they think, "Oh, that person is always so trustworthy and faithful; they always do the right thing?" Or do they think, "Watch out for that person. You never know what they're going to do?"

You might say, "Oh, I'm a pretty good person. I do the right thing most of the time." But understand it's the little foxes that spoil the vine. You can veer off course just a little bit, and before you know it, you're miles away from your destination. Don't allow the little things to keep you from your destiny; choose integrity–even when no one is looking. For instance, you might need some paper at home, but you shouldn't take supplies from the office. Or, you might be running into a store for just a minute, but don't park in the handicap parking spot unless you're supposed to. Sure, you might need a few extra bucks this week, but if the checkout clerk makes a mistake and gives you back too much money, that's not God's provision; that's a test of integrity. If you'll be faithful and choose integrity in the little things, it will be a great treasure in your life. God will pour out His blessing on you as you honor Him all the days of your life.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father God, today I commit to live a life of integrity. I choose a life of excellence and ask for Your hand of favor. Show me any area that is not pleasing to You so that I can continue to grow and increase in You. In Jesus' Name. Amen. "

Today's Word : Overcoming Disappointments

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past"
(Isaiah 43:18, NIV)

Every person, no matter how much faith they have or how good a person they are will face disappointments. It may be something simple like not getting that promotion you really hoped for, or not closing that big deal you worked so hard on. Maybe you didn't qualify for a house you really wanted. Or, it may be something more serious like a relationship not working out, the death of a loved one, or some kind of illness in your body. Whatever it may be, the reality is that we’re all going to suffer some setbacks. But I believe one of the main keys to overcoming disappointments is learning to let go of the past. The past weighs you down and holds you back.

If you feel "stuck" today, you may want to examine what you're holding on to. Be willing let go of the past by choosing forgiveness. Who hurt you? Who wronged you? Release it to God. Do you need to forgive yourself? Do you need to receive God's forgiveness? Make the choice today to let go of the past so that you can experience the bright future God has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, search my heart and mind today. Show me any area where I may be holding on to the past. Help me to receive Your forgiveness so that I can extend forgiveness to others and move forward in the wonderful plan You have for me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Stand Firm

"Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith"
(I Peter 5:9, NLT)

Are you standing firm against the enemy today? In other words, when fear comes against you, do you dwell on those defeating thoughts or do you rise up and start confessing the promises of God over your life? If you choose to dwell on your fears and think about all the reasons why you can't do what God is telling you to, then before long you're going to develop a negative mindset that will hold you back. It's much more difficult to overcome.

Don't just sit on the sidelines of life when there is so much potential on the inside of you! Don't allow the enemy to hold you back with fear any longer. Focus on that vision of victory. Be bold and step out in faith! Today is a new day! It's your new beginning. Just because you feel fear, doesn't mean you have to follow fear. Every person feels fear at some point. The greatest men and women of the Bible all felt fear. But when fear comes, don't give in! Stay the course of faith and follow God's Word. Break that negative power over your life and move forward into the freedom and joy He has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father in heaven, thank You for giving me strength to stand strong against fear in my life. I choose to have an attitude of faith and expectancy by focusing on Your promises. Today I am rising up and pressing forward into the life of victory You have for me. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Choose Faith Instead of Fear

"This is my command–be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go"
(Joshua 1:9, NLT).

Did you know that fear works just like faith but in the opposite direction? In the same way that faith opens the door for God to work in our lives; fear opens the door for the enemy to work in our lives.

The Bible says that fear has torment. Fear has no mercy. If you act on fear instead of acting on faith, it will keep you depressed, miserable and lonely. And so many people today are missing out on God's joy, peace, and victory because they keep giving in to fear. They feed fear by what they watch on TV or at the movies. Don't let that be you! Romans tells us that faith comes by hearing the Word of God. The more you fill your heart and mind with God's Word, the stronger you will be to stand against the powers of darkness. Choose faith instead of fear by choosing God's Word.

Remember, the power that is in you is greater than the power of fear. When thoughts come that say, "You're not able", choose faith by saying, "I can do all things through Christ!" Choose faith today so you can overcome fear and live in the freedom God has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, I receive Your Word today which is life, health, and strength to me. I choose to close the door on fear by guarding what I say, what I listen to, and what I dwell on. Fill me with Your love and faith, and I meditate on Your Word. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Power Over Fear

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline"
(II Timothy 1:7, NLT)

God's desire is that we continually progress, that we reach higher heights and go to new levels. Oftentimes, as soon as we make the decision to step out in faith and obey God, the enemy brings in fear to try to stop us. He'll bring thoughts like, "What if you fail? What are other people going to think? You don't have what it takes." He'll do his best to use fear to try to convince us to shrink back and stay where we are.

The Bible says that fear is a spirit. It plays on our emotions and holds us back. But the good news is that we have power over fear! The Bible says that perfect love casts out all fear. When we receive God's perfect love, we will have confidence about the future because we know His plans are for our good. I've heard it said that fear is an acronym for False Evidence Appearing Real. Understand that fear is a lie. Today, choose to believe God's Word and receive His love so that you can overcome fear and move forward into the good life He has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for giving me power, love, and a sound mind. I open my heart to You and receive Your perfect love. Fill me with Your confidence and assurance to embrace everything You have for me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Today's Word : I am

"God replied to Moses, ‘I Am Who I Am…’"
(Exodus 3:14, NLT)

In the Bible, God has many names that describe His character and attributes. In the same way that someone named “Joe” might also be called “father” or “husband” or “the boss,” God has names that describe Him and His relationship to His people.

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew name for “God” was considered so holy that the people wouldn’t even say it. So, when God appeared to Moses in a burning bush and sent Him to lead the Israelites out of captivity, Moses asked God, “Who should I say sent me?” After all, He couldn’t breathe the name of God in public. God replied by saying, “Moses, my name is I Am.” In other words, “I am anything and everything you need. I am your joy. I am your peace. I am your strength. I am your victory. I am your way of escape. I am whatever you need.”

Today, God is saying the same thing to us! What is it that you need? The Great I Am, the Almighty God is on your side. He is ready to supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Open your heart of faith to Him today and receive all the blessings He has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, today I call on You—the Great I Am. I surrender myself to You - spirit, soul, and body. I ask that You direct my steps and supply every one of my needs as I move forward in obedience to Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Today's Word : Look Beyond

"…Lift up now your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward;"
(Genesis 13:14, AMP)

God has a place of victory in store for you today! You may be facing challenges. You may look around you and see impossible circumstances. In the natural, it may look like things won’t ever change, but God is saying today, “Quit looking at your circumstances and look up! Lift up your eyes of faith and look beyond where you are because there is victory as far as the eye can see!

Your enemies may have some power today, but remember, our God is All Powerful! There’s no foe that can stand against Him. Those things you are facing are temporary, but God Almighty is eternal. He’s the God who flung the stars into space. He’s the God who spoke the world into existence. When He said, “Let there be light,” light came at 186,000 miles per second. That’s power and that’s the God we serve.

I encourage you to stand strong today. Keep believing because He is working behind the scenes on your behalf. As you lift your eyes to Him, as you focus on His goodness, He will guide you and direct you in the path of victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I choose to lift up my eyes of faith toward You. Thank You for surrounding me with Your goodness and mercy. Thank You for believing in me and for preparing a good future for me. Fill my heart with Your peace and confidence as I continue to trust You in every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Today's Word : Hope Against Hope

"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him…"
(Romans 4:18, NIV)

Do you feel like you are in a hopeless situation today? Is there no sign of change in the natural? Remember, we serve a supernatural God. What looks impossible with man is possible with God.

In the Bible, God told Abraham he would be the father of many nations. But in the natural, this looked impossible. Both he and his wife were beyond child-bearing years. They had no reason to hope or believe it would happen. They had nothing to go on in the natural. But one translation of this verse says, "Hoping in spite of hopeless circumstances, he believed." And you probably know the story. Abraham finally had a son, Isaac and his son, Jacob had 12 sons—the twelve original tribes of Israel with descendants outnumbering the grains of sand on the shore!

Today, I encourage you to do what Abraham did and go against all the odds; hope on in faith anyway. Keep believing. Keep praying. Keep moving forward. Don’t focus on the impossible circumstances, focus on the God who makes the impossible possible! Keep looking through your eyes of faith because He has blessing and victory in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I choose to hope in You even when everything around me looks hopeless. I invite You to breathe Your life into the impossible circumstances around me. Have Your way in and through me as I dedicate every part of my heart and mind to You. In Jesus´ Name, Amen.

Today's Word : Give Your Faith a Target

"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see"
(Hebrews 11:1, NLT)

So many people today are depressed and discouraged because they only focus on their present circumstances. They’re constantly dwelling on their problems, what they don’t have, and what’s wrong with them. They don’t realize it, but they’re allowing the enemy to steal their hope. This negative frame of mind is what keeps people from moving forward in life.

Understand today that faith is confidence and assurance about the things we hope for according to the promises of God. Like an arrow, your faith points to the target of hope. If you don’t have hope, that arrow of faith will just drop to the ground. It won’t accomplish anything. But, when you keep your hopes up, when you keep expecting and keep believing, it’s as if that target gets larger and larger—easier to hit!

Choose today to live with an attitude of expectancy. Get your hopes up! Start by taking captive any negative thoughts you may have one at a time. As you focus on God’s goodness and faithfulness, you’ll feel that hope inside you growing. You’ll give your faith a target, and you’ll move confidently into the blessings and peace the Lord has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, today I surrender every thought to You. I choose to release my cares and concerns so I can focus on Your goodness in my life. Thank You for the gift of faith to see the impossible become possible as I continue to place my hope and confidence in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Today's Word : Be a Blessing to Someone Today

"A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed"
(Proverbs 11:25, NIV).

Do you need strength and encouragement to make it through a difficult time? Maybe you´ve been through a big disappointment or going through a situation right now that´s just not really fair. I challenge you today, don´t sit around feeling sorry for yourself or allow that circumstance to overwhelm you. One of the best things you can do is to go help somebody else in need.

The Bible tells us, "God turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends." Isn´t it interesting, Job didn´t see breakthrough by sitting around feeling sorry for himself. He didn´t get healed when he prayed for himself. And we should pray for ourselves and present our requests to God, but if you really want to see things change, go out and be a blessing to someone else. Look for ways to refresh the people around you and watch how your own soul becomes refreshed in return. As you give, it will be given back to you, pressed down, shaken together and running over in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for Your Word which is life to my soul. Show me ways I can be a blessing to others, help me refresh those around me today. Thank You for refreshing me by Your Spirit. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : With All Your Might

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…"
(Ecclesiastes 9:10, NIV).

Are you being fruitful and productive right where you are today? Are you doing everything to the best of your ability? A lot of times we think, "As soon as I get a better job, then I´ll start working hard." "As soon as I get over this sickness, then I´ll cheer up, then I´ll have a good attitude." Or "As soon as my spouse changes, I´ll start working harder at my relationship."

But really, God wants us to do everything with all of our might no matter what the circumstances are. He wants us to become fruitful and productive today! He wants us to have a good attitude and do the right thing even when the wrong thing is happening to us.

See, we have to be faithful in the wilderness if we´re ever going to make it into our Promised Land. Remember, God is keeping the records. If you´ll keep doing the right thing with all your might, in spite of the circumstances, then you are sowing a seed for God to bring you up higher. You are opening the way for Him to bless and multiply you in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, I humbly come to You. Show me any area of my life that I need to rise higher in. Give me the strength and courage to do everything with all my might so that I can honor You in all that I do. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : A Heart Toward Him

"God is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to Him"
(II Chronicles 16:9, The Message).

God is looking for people who have a heart toward Him! Notice this verse doesn´t say, "God is looking for people who have perfect performance records, who never make mistakes." No, God knows we are a work in progress. He is looking at our hearts. He knows we are going to make mistakes and fall down, but He also knows we are going to get back up and make the right choices. That´s having a heart toward Him—being committed that no matter how many times you fall, you are going to get back up and press forward toward the things of God. You´re not going to quit, you´re not going to give up, hold back, or lay down. You are going to rise up because you see His hand outstretched before you ready to help you move forward.

Remember, God is on the lookout for you today. He´s longing to be good to those who are seeking His goodness. Keep your heart turned toward Him and allow Him to strengthen and empower you to rise above every obstacle and live in victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy toward me today. Search my heart. I dedicate it to You. Help me to live a life that is pleasing to You always. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : What God Forgets

"I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more"
(Isaiah 43:25, NIV).

Did you know that the very moment you repent of your sin, God does not remember it anymore? Why is it that so many people constantly focus on their past mistakes and wrongdoings? Let me challenge you today—stop remembering what God has already forgotten! Start receiving His mercy and let the past be the past.

In order to receive the new things God wants to do in your life, you have to let go of the old. Once you ask for God´s forgiveness, quit dwelling on your mistakes and failures. As long as you´re looking back, you will never be able to move forward. Maybe the past just keeps coming back to your mind, but do you know who keeps bringing it up? The enemy. He´s called the accuser of the brethren. His goal is to keep you focused on your past, feeling guilty and condemned. But Romans 8 tells us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Don´t follow the enemy down the path of dwelling on your failures. Let the past be the past. Receive God´s mercy today so you can move forward in the life of blessing He has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for cleansing me and making me new. I choose to turn away from my past and receive Your grace, mercy, and forgiveness today. Lead me and guide me forward in the good plan You have for me. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Child of the Most High God

"For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.´ The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children"
(Romans 8:15-16, NIV).

Do you see yourself as a son or daughter of the Most High God? Do you see yourself as royalty, worthy of His blessing today? How can we expect His goodness if we go around feeling defeated, depressed, weak, and unworthy? We have to remember that God has given us a royal robe of righteousness through His Son, Jesus. We are already approved by God. We are already accepted by Him and adopted into His family. We are royalty!
"Well," you might say, "Joel, we are just all old sinners saved by grace." The truth is, we were old sinners, but when we came to Christ, we were made new. We´re not sinners anymore; we are sons and daughters of the Most High God. We have been changed. We have been born into a new family. We are new creatures.

The next time you start feeling defeated, rise up and say, "I am royalty! I am the head and not the tail, above only and not beneath!" Remember, you are a child of the Most High God, and He has victory and blessing in store for you today!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father in heaven, thank You for choosing me. Thank You for making me an heir of Your promises. I choose to stand in Your righteousness and walk worthy of Your high calling today. In Jesus´ Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Made Righteous

"For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous"
(Romans 5:19, NKJ)

Proverbs 28:1 tells us that “the righteous are as bold as a lion.” But the only way you’re going to have that kind of boldness is to know that you have been made righteous through Jesus. When you know who you are in Christ, when you know that God is smiling upon on you and that your sins are forgiven, then you’re going to hold your shoulders back and have the boldness and confidence that God really wants you to have.

Being righteous doesn’t mean that you’re perfect. It doesn’t mean that you don’t make mistakes. Righteousness is being in right standing with God. If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior and have a desire to please Him, then you have been made righteous. You have been born into God’s very own family. You did not do anything to earn this righteousness, it’s simply a gift. Because of Jesus’ obedience to pay the price for our sin, we are made righteous through Him! Receive His gift of righteousness today so you can move forward in the boldness and victory He has for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son to pay the penalty for my sin. As a believer in Jesus, I receive Your righteousness by faith today so that I can live in boldness and confidence all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Come Boldly

"So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most"
(Hebrews 4:16, NLT)

Notice in today’s verse that God doesn’t say, “Come to Me with a weak, defeated, pitiful attitude.” He doesn’t say, “Come to Me thinking about all your failures and how unworthy you are.” No, God says, come to Me with boldness. Come to Me with your head held high, knowing that I’m a good God, and I want to help you! He says, “Come to Me knowing that you are the apple of My eye, and I want to be good to you.”

And really, the only way you’re going to approach God boldly is to know that you’re righteous—that you are in right standing with Him. You have to know in your heart that God is pleased with you. You have to know that your sins are forgiven.

Today, instead of dwelling on what you’ve done wrong, dwell on what you’ve done right! You may not be all that you’re supposed to be yet, but you can thank God that you’re not what you used to be! You are forgiven. You are chosen. You are accepted. Receive His forgiveness today so you can go boldly to His throne of grace.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and grace. Thank You for inviting me into Your presence. I receive Your forgiveness today and come boldly before You. Teach me Your ways that I may walk in Your truth all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Learning to Receive

"If you believe, you will receive…"
(Matthew 21:22, NIV)

All through the Bible, there are so many promises of what God has already done for us. It says in Ephesians that "God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing." It says in Colossians that "God has made us worthy." There is mercy for any mistake we will ever make. It’s already been taken care of. He paid the ultimate price through the death, burial, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. He’s done His part. Now it’s up to us to do our part. We have to start believing it so we can receive it.

In the natural, when someone gives you a gift, what’s the first thing you usually say? "Thank you." When you give thanks, it’s a sign that you are receiving the gift. Today, start receiving what God has given you by saying, “"Father, thank You for Your mercy. Thank You for supplying all my needs. Thank You for Your goodness in my life.”

As you learn to give Him thanks, you are learning to receive from Him. Open your heart by faith today and thank Him for all the blessings He has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father God, I come to You today giving You thanks and praise for Your faithfulness in my life. I choose to receive Your Word which is life and strength to my soul. Help me to keep my heart focused on You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Empowered to Overcome

"I have given you authority …to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you"
(Luke 10:19, NIV)

God has given you all power and authority to overcome every obstacle you may face in life! That means you are well able to do what God has called you to do. You can accomplish your goals. You have the ideas, the creativity, and the talent to be successful. You have been armed with strength for every battle!

God has already lined up the right people to come across your path. He’s already lined up the right opportunities. You have everything you need to live a victorious life. Not an average life, not a barely-get-by, mediocre life—you were created to excel. You have seeds of greatness on the inside.You may not have seen it in the past, but if you’ll stay in faith, it’s just a matter of time—victory is on the way. Don’t settle where you are.

Rise up in faith today and begin to declare, “I will accomplish my dreams. I can overcome any obstacle. I’ve been equipped and empowered to live in victory in every area of my life.”

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for the power to overcome every obstacle I may face. Help me to see myself the way You see me. Help me to embrace the victory You have in store for me today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Today's Word : Take a Step of Faith

"…And as they went, they were cured and made clean"
(Luke 17:14, AMP)

One time in the Scripture, there were ten lepers who saw Jesus coming through the city. They hollered out, “Jesus! Have mercy on us and make us whole!” Jesus could have healed them right then, but instead, He asked them to do something to express their faith. He said, “Go show yourself to the Priest, and you will be made whole.”

It’s interesting that those lepers were not supposed to be around other people. They had to live in colonies by themselves because they were very contagious and considered unclean. I’m sure they debated among themselves, “Do you really think we should go? I don’t look any better. My skin is not clear. It’s just going to be a waste of my time.” But they dared to put action behind their faith. They decided, “Jesus said if we go, we will be well. Let’s go. Let’s take a step of faith.” The Scripture says, “As they went, they were made whole.”

Friend, what is God telling you to do in your heart today? Take a step of faith. Put action behind what you are believing for. God is faithful. As you step out and show that your faith is in Him, it will open the door for His miracle-working power to flow in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, I choose to trust in You. I choose to be obedient to You. Even when it doesn’t make sense to my natural mind, I am going to continue to walk by faith. I love You and bless You today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Forum : Building Shared Vision - Philippines

Forum : Building Shared Vision - Philippines

Today's Word : You Are Closer Than You Think

";…He said to the paralytic, ‘I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.’ Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all, so that all were amazed and glorified God, saying, ‘We never saw anything like this!’"
(Mark 2:10b-12, NKJ)

In Mark chapter two, the Bible talks about a man who was paralyzed. He heard that Jesus was in town teaching at another house and knew that He could heal him. The paralyzed man convinced four of his friends to carry him on his bed over to where Jesus was. When they arrived, the house was so packed that they couldn’t get in. Do you know what happened next? Instead of just giving up and going home, the man was so determined to get his miracle that he convinced his friends to climb up on the roof, cut a hole in it, and lower him down to where Jesus was!

Now this man understood that you are closest to your victory when you face the greatest opposition. A lot of people would have just given up. They would have seen the crowd and gone home—even though they were just a few feet away from their miracle. Don’t let that be you! What are you believing for? Don’t give up just because there is opposition. Don’t let others discourage you from seeing your miracle. Keep pressing through today because you are closer than you think to the victory God has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, today I release all of my cares and anxieties on You. I trust that my breakthrough is coming. I choose to press in and stand strong. I believe Your Word, and I believe that You will reward me as I diligently seek after You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Today's Word : What Moves God

"And when He saw their faith… "
(Luke 5:20, KJV )

Do you know what moves the hand of God? This may surprise you, but God is not moved by complaining and self-pity. He’s not even moved by our needs. Yes, He is concerned about our needs, and yes, He wants to meet our needs, but we have to do our part and invite Him to work in our lives by exercising our faith.

When Jesus walked the earth, oftentimes right before He healed someone, the Bible says something like this, "When He saw their faith…" And so I ask you today, can God see your faith?

When God sees you doing everything you can to get well; when He sees you getting to work a little earlier because you really want that promotion; when He sees you bypass the cookie jar because you’ve been believing to lose weight; when He sees you bite your tongue to keep the peace in your house; when He sees you help others when you really need more help than they do; when God sees your faith, that’s when extraordinary things will begin to happen. Faith opens the door for God to move, so demonstrate your faith today and watch the hand of God move in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of faith. I choose today to exercise my faith and invite You to move on my behalf. Keep me close to You, search my heart and remove anything that is displeasing to You. I bless You today and always. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Give Life to Your Faith

"…faith without works is dead"
(James 2:20, NKJ)

Are you putting action behind your faith today? If we aren’t doing something that shows that we believe God, the Bible says that our faith is dead. Dead faith won’t accomplish anything. We have to give life to our faith by putting actions behind it. And, it doesn’t have to be anything big, just something that shows your faith in God. For example, I know people who are down and discouraged. They pray, “God, please. Get me out of this discouragement. God, give me my joy back. God, give me a new beginning.” And yes, prayer is important, but it’s only part of the process. What really causes God to act is when you do something about it—you get back up, dust yourself off, and say, “You know what? I’m not going to stay down. This is the day the Lord has made! I am going to be happy and have a great day.” That’s putting action behind your faith.

I encourage you today to let your actions give life to your faith. Show the world that you are trusting God’s Word. As you do, you’ll give life to your faith, and you’ll step into new levels of His victory and blessing in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, thank You for Your Word that builds faith in my heart and refreshes my soul. I choose to put action behind my faith today. I choose to give life to my faith so that You can accomplish Your will in me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Faith That God Can See

"…You can no more show me your works apart from your faith than I can show you my faith apart from my works. Faith and works, works and faith, fit together hand in glove"
(James 2:18, Message)

We all have dreams that we’re hoping will come to pass and promises that we’re standing on. And we should always be praying, believing, and hoping. That’s all part of faith. But there’s another step that oftentimes, people leave out—you have to put action behind your faith.

Are you doing anything to show God that you’re serious about what you’re believing for? You can pray all day long, “God, get me out of this problem.” Or, “God, give me that promotion.” But if you really want to get God’s attention and see God move in amazing ways in your life, take it one step further and do something to demonstrate your faith. You may have an addiction, but are you going to a recovery program? Maybe you lost your job. Are you putting your resume out and knocking on new doors? That’s faith that God can see. And when He can see your faith, you’ll see His hand of blessing, provision, and victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, I come to You today releasing every part of my mind, will, and emotions to You. Show me ways that I can demonstrate my faith in You. Help me to make wise decisions so I can walk in higher places with You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen

Today's Word : What’s Following You?

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (Psalm 23:6, NKJ)

As a believer in Jesus, did you know that goodness and mercy are following you? God´s grace and favor are chasing you down! But if you live with a cloud of condemnation over you, if you surround yourself with negativity, then you are putting a barrier between yourself and the blessings of God.

So many believers today miss out on what God has in store for them because they live like they´ve got a dark cloud over their heads. They´re always talking doom and gloom, living in condemnation. But when you open your heart to receive what God has for you, that cloud is lifted and all that´s left is His goodness and mercy!

Instead of living in guilt and shame, God desires that you walk in His love and forgiveness. Make the decision today to let go of condemnation, let go of the past through forgiveness, let go of self–defeating behaviors, and embrace His goodness and mercy! Let His favor surround you like a shield so you can live the life of victory He has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, I humbly come to You today asking that You remove anything in my heart that would keep me from You. Give me a heart of forgiveness so that I can move forward into all You have for me. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Say Continually

"Let them shout for joy and be glad, Who favor my righteous cause; and let them say continually, ´Let the LORD be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant´"
(Psalm 35:27, NKJ).

What are you saying continually? Do you go around talking about how bad things are in the economy and how tough your job is, or do you declare, "Let the Lord be magnified Who takes pleasure in my prosperity?"

I believe one reason that we are supposed to say this "continually" is so that we can get it deep down on the inside of us. God knows that when we hear something long enough, eventually, we’ll believe it. When I think about it, I can just hear the people in the Old Testament saying all day long, "God is prospering me. God is taking me to new levels. God has great things in store." They were saying in effect, "New doors are opening. My health is getting better. My marriage is being restored. My children are going to do great things."

Friend, God takes great joy in prospering you. Get that down on the inside of you. This is a new day and you’re entering new levels. Start continually declaring God’s goodness and faithfulness in your life and watch those supernatural doors of opportunity open before you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, today I choose to declare Your goodness. I choose to acknowledge Your favor and kindness. Thank You for taking pleasure in prospering me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Crowned With Goodness

"You crown the year with Your bounty and goodness…" (Psalm 65:11, AMP)

Are you seeing the goodness of God overflowing in your life today? If you´ll look with your eyes of faith, you´ll see that He´s already crowned your year with His goodness. In other words, you have been especially chosen; you are marked to receive His goodness. And when God crowns you with His goodness, it doesn´t matter what´s going on around you. It doesn´t matter what´s happening in the economy, in the job market, or the housing market. God´s crown of favor and blessing cannot be moved. You are the head and not the tail; above only and not beneath.

Are you ready to receive His crown today? Are you ready to walk in the authority you´ve already been given? When you choose to receive and acknowledge His blessings by faith, you open the door for His bounty, His supernatural blessing to overwhelm you in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me and crowning me with Your favor and blessing. I open my heart in faith to You to receive every spiritual blessing You have for me. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Today's Word : Go the Extra Mile

"And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two" (Matthew 5:41, NKJ)

Are you a person of excellence? Do you do more than what´s expected, or do you look for the easy way out? Do you just do the minimum requirement, or do you go the extra mile?

Back in Bible days, by law, Roman soldiers could require a person to carry their armor for one mile. After that mile, they would have to get somebody else to do it. But in this verse, Jesus is saying to go above and beyond the call of duty. Do more than expected. Carry the armor two miles. And that´s the attitude we should have today.

We are called to be people of excellence. We are called to go above and beyond. That´s the attitude God expects, and that´s the attitude God rewards. The world should look at the people of God and think, "Wow. They are people of integrity. People who outshine the rest. I want what they have." I encourage you today to look for ways to go the extra mile. Let your actions bring glory to God and open the door for His blessing in every area of your life.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I choose an attitude of excellence. I want my life to bring You all the glory. Help me find creative ways to be a blessing to those around me. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.