a black swan or best year yet?

hey hey,

2024 is on the horizon! What lies ahead?

Will this be a Black Swan year — with an high-impact event and global uncertainty? Will this election year bring chaos in the USA with threats of a great reset, financial collapse, wars, cyberattacks, an EMP strike … or worse, a civil war?

Or, will this be your best year yet — based upon God’s Word, and your faith in Jesus, His blood and His Name?

Or, all of the above????

If I have your attention, I want to wish you a blessed and happy New Year as I share this week’s blog —  “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” — to look ahead into 2024.

A WORD

The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
    which shines ever brighter until the full light of day.

Proverbs 4:18

If we believe God and His Word … then the future for believers in Jesus — those who have been made the “righteousness of God in Christ” —  is guaranteed to shine brighter and brighter!

At the same time, the Bible tells us that perilous times and persecutions are also a part of the last days global scene. In 2024, according to many respected prognosticators, it’s possible that a Black Swan event defined as: a rare event that seems to “drop out of the sky” with a world-shaking impact (think 9/11, pandemic, etc.) … will be put forth.

How do we reconcile the idea that while the world could get darker, believers can count on their lives getting brighter? Because God’s Word tells us so.

Isaiah 60 speaks about God’s people (Israel and the Church) and our future. “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.”

So, how should we approach the New Year and what should we be doing as 2024 gets started? Let’s look at 3 things we can do.

1. Get Your Mouth in Agreement with God

Let’s start by setting the rudder of our lives, our tongue, to sail in the direction of God’s will this year. Find out what God has promised you in His Word; then speak and declare those things over your life. What an advantage God has given us, that we can put His promises in our mouths and declare our future by calling things that do not currently exist as though they did. We can declare the end of 2024 from the beginning.

Proverbs 18:21, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Job 22:28, “You will also declare a thing, and it will be established for you; so light will shine on your ways.”

Romans 4:17, “God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did…”

1 Peter 3:10, “For the Scriptures say, ‘If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies.’ ”

>> Practically speaking, we can say things like: I am always at the right place at the right time. I am surrounded with God’s favor. I am protected and He orders my steps. I am blessed. I have God’s wisdom and I am led by the Holy Spirit. I have an abundant life in every way. I am healed, healthy, whole and full of energy. I get stronger every day. I have a peaceful heart, a sound mind and a blessed memory. I am an ambassador for Christ. I am loved by God. The Name of Jesus is my strong tower and I am safe in Him. His blood covers me, my family, my church, my community, my country. The enemy is defeated and Jesus is Lord of my life and my family.

Get the idea? You can customize the things you say per God’s promises to you and the desires He has put in your heart.

>> On the contrary, be vigilant and don’t say things like: I am so sick of this or that. I am so tired. I can’t take it anymore. I’m scared to death. I am falling apart. I can’t get a break. That just kills me. I can’t stand this or that. Every year it gets worse and worse. I never have enough. Nothing ever goes my way. I knew it wouldn’t work out. I am in a panic. That just worries me to pieces. If it’s not one thing, it’s another.

Don’t declare “evil” or “lies” - by saying things that are contrary to what God has promised.

If it’s true that the power of life and death is in the tongue and we eat the fruit of our words, let’s start 2024 off by speaking words that will produce the fruit we want to eat. :)

2. Live by Faith not Fear

As believers, our DNA is faith, not fear.

>> To live by faith is to take God at His Word. To believe He meant what He said. To trust that He really does love us and He does good. Then, to act boldly in accordance with those beliefs.

>> To live by fear is to doubt God and His Word. To not believe He meant what He said. To not trust that He love us nor that He does good. Then, to shrink back, hunker down and live a small and timid life in accordance with those beliefs.

Don’t live in fear when we can live by faith in 2024. If God is for you, who can be against you?

Hebrews 11:6, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

2 Timothy 1:7, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

3. Sing Your Song and Keep Your Joy

These are the days, ya’ll! We were born for this. Whether we are in the midst of trials and persecutions or celebrating great blessings and victories; we, like Esther, are here for such a time as this.

When we stay full of joy with a song in our hearts, this keeps us strong in the Lord — strong for ourselves and strong to help those around us!

The Bible is full of stories where God gave His people supernatural victories as they sang His praises, sang of His salvation, sang songs of deliverance … and kept their joy!

Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!”

Nehemiah 8:10, “ … Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Psalm 32:7, “You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance.”

2 Chronicles 20:21-22, “…the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: ‘Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!’ At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves.”

Acts 16:25-26, “But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.”

Can you see the connection between choosing joy, singing His praises and having His strength and victory?

>> Carve out time every day to sing! Go for a drive and put on a playlist of praise and worship then sing every song from your heart to God’s heart, Watch the Lord bring joy, strength and breakthrough into your life. This is the recipe for 2024!

So, in the end it doesn’t matter if there is a Black Swan event or not this year — if we will put these things into practice, we’ll have our best and brightest year yet, in Jesus’ Name!

Future of the BWB blog in ‘24?

Fun updates in the next blog - stay tuned!

As you are gearing up for the New Year, I hope you will listen to this message, “That’s Not How This Works: I want to love my life!” to be encouraged in the role you can play to have a life you love in 2024. You can love your life and see good days … and in this message you’ll find out how!

A SONG

Okay are you ready to shout your way into 2024? I’m taking you on an eclectic pentecostal adventure today! Crank these songs up and get ready, get ready, get ready!!

Just the Mention of His Name, by Natalie Grant and Andrew Holt - if you are walking into 2024 one way, you are gonna walk out of it blessed, healed and favored and — ya’ll better get your joy-filled bounce going!!

Just the Mention of His Name, by Eastwind Pentecostal Church — this is the same power-packed song from above. Sing it one more time … this is what pentecostal sounds like! Let’s go!

Said and Done, by Benita Jones -- this is one of my husband’s favorite songs — so, don’t stop singing now. Put your shouting clothes and your dancing shoes and sing yourself into 2024! If God said it, He will do it! The devil is a liar and God is still on the Throne!

Fear is Not My Future, by Tasha Cobbs and Todd Galberth — sing this over your future!!

These Are the Days, by Lauren Daigle — we were born for such a time as this!

peace, love and happy new year,

A LAUGH

Sometimes ya gotta tweet it. :)

your secret weapons

hey hey,

In today’s blog, I want to share “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to talk about your secret weapons!

A WORD

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”

Revelation 12:11

Did you know we have secret weapons? You do!

When you watch the news or read your Twitter feed or listen to the prognosticators — it’s easy to forget you have power over all the power of the enemy!  When the enemy comes knocking on your door — with paralyzing fear of a terminal disease; temptations of pride, lust or greed; anxious thoughts of another pandemic; panic about the safety of your kids; thoughts of jealousy, anger or bitterness; news reports of domestic terrorists, financial markets on the verge of collapse, a corrupt political system, threats of a nuclear attack or an EMP. What do you do?

Living in defeat, disappointment and fear not God’s best for His children. He wants us to overcome. But how? How do we experience the overcoming life?

We find a clue in Revelation 12:11. We overcome the enemy of our souls by the blood of Jesus, the words we speak and because we are not afraid to die! These three things are secret weapons and give us the upper hand in a world of temptation and fear.

Let’s talk about it.

The Blood of Jesus: His blood is the most powerful substance in all the universe! His blood resounds life! The life for all of humanity is in His blood. His blood brought our redemption and the once and for all forgiveness of our sin. Just as the hymn says, “What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!” Declare your freedom from sin and proclaim the overcoming power of the blood of Jesus that flows in you, your family, your property, your community and your church.

The Word of our Testimony: Our words have power — the power of life and death is in our mouth according to the book of Proverbs. When we testify about Jesus, His goodness, His blood, His Name, His Word, His love and His work on cross and resurrection — heaven backs us up! God has promised to confirm His Word, so when we put His word in our mouth as our testimony, God Himself has promised to confirm it!!

>> This is a big secret to the overcoming life.

What that means is we want to get in the habit of testifying (saying words) that align with God’s Words — and not saying words that are contrary to God’s Word. If God says we are blessed and favored, we don’t say we are a wreck or a hot mess — we agree with God and say, we are blessed and favored. And guess what will happen? We will be blessed and favored. Get the idea. Let God’s Word be your testimony!

Love Not Our Lives to the Death: One of our secret weapons is being free from the fear of death. Coming to terms with the reality that death has no sting for the Christian is a big overcoming moment! As believers, we have already passed from death to life and the fear of death has been destroyed. For believers — it’s a win, win. If we live - we win. If we die - we win. When we live in this reality, the enemy has no power over us.

So today, can I encourage you to use your secret weapons? Don’t let the enemy steal your confidence in God - instead go on the offense with your weapons and declare the blood of Jesus over your life, speak the words of your testimony that are in alignment with God’s Word and live in the reality that death has no power over you as a believer.

BLOG BONUS: In the midst of the pandemic, when church attendance was a struggle and fear was rampant, I shared a message with our Valley Family Church family in Michigan. The message, Why the Gory, Bloody Details?, is one I have taught many times and love to be reminded of. It reminds us of the overcoming life Jesus brought us through His blood. Even today, we still need this message. I hope you are reminded and stirred up by this video teaching.

Why the Gory, Bloody Details?

A SONG

Here are a few songs to encourage you to use your secret weapons to live that overcoming life!

Thank You Jesus for the Blood, by Charity Gayle — an all time favorite — big tears and big praise!!

Plead the Blood, by Chris Davenport, Brandon Lake, Cody Carnes. So, so good — it’s back again this week!

I Speak Jesus, by Charity Gayle. Another favorite!

This Blood, by First Baptist Dallas Choir - this baptist gal and the choir can flat sing…get ready to run around your living room with your hands in the air!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

If you know, you know. :)

in perilous times

hey hey,

In today’s blog, I want to share “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to encourage you in these perilous times. I missed sending out this blog the last two Wednesdays, so to make up for those missed blogs, I am sending you a longer “Saturday night special” blog! Somehow this seems equivalent. :)

A WORD

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!”

2 Timothy 3:1-5, NKJV

There’s no doubt, we are living in the perilous times of the last days. The Holy Spirit, through Timothy told us these days would come and what they would look like. Does anyone doubt we are there? If so, the question we might be asking is this: “In light of these times, what should we be doing?”

We know what we shouldn’t be doing, right? We shouldn’t be curled up in the fetal position in a dark corner. We shouldn’t be fearful, passive, or operating in angry outbursts. As Christians, we should lift up our heads as our Redeemer draws near and we should do these five things:

Five Things:

Be Strong in Faith and Love.

Declare God’s Word.

Live Your Joyful Life.

Proclaim Jesus.

Speak and Pray Out Your Future.

Be Strong in Faith and Love. As believers, we are people of faith and love. We don’t live in fear. We live by faith. We rest in His love. We trust God and His Word and we walk in His wisdom. In fact, knowing God and His perfect love is what enables us to live a fearless life — and empowers us to love others. God is faithful. Trust Him. Meditate on these Scriptures, receive the reality of God’s love and faithfulness toward you.

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 Joh 4:18-19

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” 1 John 4:7-8

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

Declare God’s Word. While the world has a narrative and it is being proclaimed on every airwave and internet platform; we have a more powerful and authoritative voice backed by heaven. We should be more diligent to use our voice to declare God’s Word — the Name of Jesus, the blood of Jesus and the angels of God — over our lives and sphere of influence. Sometimes Christians can fall into the trap of being passive or fatalistic — with the “whatever will be will be” type of mindset. Some believers assume God is going to do whatever He wants to do whether we believe, pray or speak His Word — but that is not true. The Lord has given us a responsibility to believe and to declare His Word to “frame our world” and to determine the “fruit we will eat.” So, don’t be silent. Don’t be passive. Don’t be fatalistic. Put God’s Word in your mouth and declare it over your life, your church, your community and this world. Sure, the world is getting darker and darker, but it doesn’t have to be dark where you are! In fact, the glory of the Lord can shine on and through you if you will cooperate with God and His Word. Meditate on these verses:

“Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you.” Isaiah 60:1

“A man’s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; from the produce of his lips he shall be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Proverbs 18:20-21

“And make the Almighty your gold and [the Lord] your precious silver treasure, then you will have delight in the Almighty, and you will lift up your face to God. You will make your prayer to Him, and He will hear you, and you will pay your vows. You shall also decide and decree a thing, and it shall be established for you; and the light [of God’s favor] shall shine upon your ways.” Job 22:25-28, AMP

Live Your Joyful Life: Yes, the world is a crazy place where people call evil things good and where they call good things evil. The Bible told us this would happen, but that doesn’t mean we stop living. This isn’t the time to hunker in a bunker — it’s time to live your life with great joy because you know the King of kings and the Lord of lords and your future is bright!! It’s true, we still have to work, pay bills, raise kids, make meals, love others … and we can do it with joy — not with apathy, anxiety, depression, panic or anger. Being full of joy does not mean you are oblivious or naive to the perilous times, it means you know God and His joy is your strength! Let these verses lift you up to a place of joy!

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials…” James 1:2

“… And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.” Nehemiah 8:10

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” Philippians 4:4

Proclaim Jesus: We still have the great commission to “go into all the world to proclaim the gospel!” Time is short, so let’s be busy telling people about Jesus and leading them to faith in Christ — and remember Jesus is with you confirming the words you proclaim!! Use your voice, your social media platform, your texts and tell people Jesus loved them so much He died on a cross to take away their sins — all they need to do is repent, believe and receive Him as Lord. This is no time to debate or speak in circles trying to convince people — just tell them the good news of Jesus and His plan to rescue them from the wages of their sin so that they could have an eternal life with Him and invite them to prayer a salvation prayer with you. The gospel of Jesus is good news! Memorize these passages.

“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.” Matthew 28:18-20

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:9

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30

Speak and Pray Out Your Future: God is the only One who knows what the future holds … and He is on our side! That means, we don’t have to play defense…we can play offense! The best way to play offense is to speak and pray! Pray with your understanding and in the spirit. We can speak and pray out the mystery of our future — according to God’s perfect will. What a divine privilege! When we can’t wrap our heads around these perilous times and what the future, specifically our future, might look like, we can speak and pray in the spirit. The Holy Spirit will help us pray out our future according to His perfect will. Soak up these passages and start talking.

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” 1 Corinthians 1:7-13

“For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.” 1 Corinthians 14:2

“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:26-28

I hope you are encouraged and will put these five things into practice as we live in these perilous times.

BLOG BONUS: Today, I’d like to share a video I recorded several years ago titled, “The Future God Has Prepared” This video teaching will give more context to the Scriptures above. I encourage you to listen with your heart and put it into practice. :)

The Future God Has Prepared

A SONG

Here are a few songs to encourage you as we live in these perilous times.

Surrounded, by Beth Jones & Valley Worship Team. This is a song I wrote while in Berlin, Germany several years ago. It’s from a prayer we’ve prayed over our kids and church family for decades. The Valley Worship team helped me with finishing touches and they recorded this version for our church family. Listen and sing it out in faith over your life and family.

Plead the Blood, by Chris Davenport, Brandon Lake, Cody Carnes. So, so good!! Sing it over your family!

Great is Your Faithfulness, by Charity Gayle. I love everything she sings.

Name Above All Names, by Charity Gayle. This is her newest song and my favorite line in this song is: “hell still knows.” Hell knows the power of Jesus Name and His finished work on the cross. This one has been on repeat for me, so go ahead and turn it up!! All praise to the Name above all names… Jesus You reign!!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

This isn’t a funny meme, but it sure is true! While earth is preparing for a war, Jesus is preparing for the grand “Marriage Supper of the Lamb” for He and believers. Jesus is coming again soon. Get ready for the wedding of all weddings!!!

what must I do to be saved?

hey hey,

In today’s blog, as I do each week, I want to share “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to share the most basic message of all … the gospel message of God’s saving grace…

A WORD

For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

What must I do to be saved? This is the most important and eternal question anyone can ask.

In other words, how can I be certain I have peace with God? How can I know for sure that I will spend eternity in heaven? That all of my sins are forgiven? That the Lord will welcome me into His eternal home? What must I do??

As it turns out, God made it very clear — and the Bible tells us so.

“Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romas 10:13

“Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Acts 16:30-31

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” John 3:16-18

“…if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” Romans 10:9-11

What must I do to be saved?

>>Call on the name of the Lord.

>>Believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord and raised from the dead.

>>Confess with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord.

Jesus did the heavy lifting by going to the cross to pay the penalty of death our sins demanded and He extends the free gift of salvation to everyone who will believe. It turns out, God is not interested in our religion or even what church a person attends, per se. But, He is very interested in having the whole world — every language, every tribe, every nation, every kindred — call, believe and confess that Jesus is Lord to be saved.

Often, people get distracted from this simple truth and they think they can put it off for another day. Or, they want to focus on temporary things like making money, accumulating material possessions or making a name for themselves rather than prioritizing the most important eternal thing — making sure they are saved.

Jesus addressed this when He said, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26)

There is nothing more important for you and everyone you love than to be sure you are saved. We don’t want anyone we know to lose their soul.

If you’ve never called on, believed in and confessed Jesus as your Lord — let’s do it together, right now. Say this:

“Jesus I call on You right now. I do believe that You are Lord and that you died on a cross for my sins and were raised from the dead by God. I invite You into my heart and I confess You as the Lord of my life. From this day forward, I am a Christian and Jesus is my Lord. Amen.”

__

BLOG BONUS: Today, I’d like to share a video I recorded several years ago titled, “Where Would You Go If You Died Today?” It’s a clear gospel explanation using the classic “Four Spiritual Laws” booklet. If you know someone who is afraid to die and doesn’t know for certain where they will spend eternity, please forward this video and blog.

What Must I Do To Be Saved?

A SONG

Here are a few songs to encourage you as you call, believe and confess Jesus as your Lord — and for you who already know Jesus as Lord, may you experience His love afresh.

Softly and Tenderly, by Kristyn Getty, Vince Gill, Ellie Holcomb, Sierra Hull

Just As I Am, by Alan Jackson

My Redeemer, by Nicole C. Mullens

Tis so Sweet, by Shane and Shane

Come Unto Jesus, by Keith & Kristyn Getty, Laura Story, Jordan Kauflin

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

I believe in the Biblical power of joy and laughter — and we need the strength that is found in the joy of the Lord. Let your heart laugh.

Thanks to my friend Phil Cooke for the chuckle!

oh, israel!

hey hey,

In today’s blog, as I do each week, I want to share “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to encourage you in these troubling times and regarding the brutal atrocities happening in Israel.

A WORD

“Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, and do not be still, O God! 2 For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; and those who hate You have lifted up their head. 3 They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, and consulted together against Your sheltered ones. 4 They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more.” 5 For they have consulted together with one consent; they form a confederacy against You: 6 The tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites; Moab and the Hagrites; 7 Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek; Philistia with the inhabitants of Tyre; 8 Assyria also has joined with them; they have helped the children of Lot. Selah 9 Deal with them as with Midian, as with Sisera, as with Jabin at the Brook Kishon, 10 Who perished at En Dor, who became as refuse on the earth. 11 Make their nobles like Oreb and like Zeeb, Yes, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna, 12 Who said, “Let us take for ourselves the pastures of God for a possession.” 13 O my God, make them like the whirling dust, like the chaff before the wind! 14 As the fire burns the woods, and as the flame sets the mountains on fire, 15 So pursue them with Your tempest, and frighten them with Your storm. 16 Fill their faces with shame, that they may seek Your name, O Lord. 17 Let them be confounded and dismayed forever; Yes, let them be put to shame and perish, 18 That they may know that You, whose name alone is the Lord, are the Most High over all the earth.”

Psalm 83

This past week, we all witnessed the brutal, surprise attack on Israel. The unimaginable atrocities committed against innocent children, women and elderly is beyond comprehension. That humans could be so vile, evil, savage and heartless towards other humans is beyond the pale. It is so heartbreaking. We love Israel and the Jewish people … and we pray for all innocent victims in this war.

My husband and I have been to Israel many times with The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) and then last May, I was in Israel with Christians United for Israel (CUFI) and a group of Christian women leaders. We were there at the northern tip of Gaza and we toured the very fence the enemies of Israel broke through as they began the vicious war with Israel. We met with numerous Jewish women, children and leaders there and throughout Israel and I can’t bear to think of how they are doing now. I am heartbroken, shocked, sad and angry and also filled with so much compassion towards our Jewish brothers and sisters who have suffered so much throughout history.

I want to do something, and I am sure you do, too — in the natural, it’s easy to feel helpless. I know I can pray and I have been praying continuously, as I am sure many of you are doing also. We can give financially to trusted agencies on the ground in Israel — we trust Christians United for Israel and The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews and recommend them to you. These are practical thing we can do, so let’s keep praying and giving.

Jesus told us that these sad and difficult things are signs of the last of the last days.

“Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” 

Matthew 24:3-14

There is so much we could say about the Scriptures, last days, end times, God’s timetable, the imminence of the rapture and then the 2nd coming return of Jesus. I will do so in a future blog, but for today, I just want to alert you to the reality that we are in the last of the last days and encourage you to support Israel, pray for all innocent people affected by this war — and let’s be busy about the Master’s business in spreading the good news of the gospel of Jesus to the whole world.

___

Several friends of mine posted this on Facebook and I thought it was a great perspective and very well-written.

Why does Israel matter?

Did you know that the time clock of the return of Jesus Christ isn’t based on America’s timeline? It’s based on what is happening in Israel.

Did you know Jesus wasn’t a “Christian” ? He was a Jew. He celebrated and kept the Jewish holy days and customs, as well as the feasts of the LORD. He didn’t come to eradicate the Torah and writing of the Prophets / Old Testament. He came to fulfill the prophecies that were written in them.

When Jesus returns, He isn’t returning to the United States. The Bible says He is going to plant His foot down on the Mount of Olives and go through the Eastern Gate, which is currently sealed off with 16 feet of concrete. A cemetery was also placed in front of that gate because touching the dead makes a Jew considered unclean and unable to enter the Temple, which is considered Holy. The Word of GOD says He will return there and from there He will rule and reign for 1,000 years.

The final battle isn’t going to be on U.S. soil. It’s going to be in the Valley of Megiddo, in Israel. The Bible says as the nations wage war against Israel Jesus will come and destroy His enemies with the breath of His mouth. (2 Thess 2:8)

GOD did not replace the Jews with Christians as some believe. We are actually grafted in with them as you would graft a wild branch into an existing tree. The Word of GOD says, “When you touch Israel, you touch the Apple of GOD’s eye.” Zechariah 2:8

“He that keeps Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. The LORD is thy keeper.” Psalm 121:4

“I will bless those that bless you and I will curse those that curse you.” Genesis 12:3

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.” Psalm 122:6

ISRAEL matters.

PRAY FOR ISRAEL.

__

BLOG BONUS: Today, be encouraged by this "Signs of the Times” sermon and interview I did with Rev. Joe Morris. He’s an expert in the Biblical understanding of the Last Days and especially Israel’s role and the impending Ezekiel 38 War. This message was recorded 3 years ago, during the pandemic while our church was meeting virtually and it’s all still very relevant. You can also watch Rev. Joe’s weekly “End of Days Update” videos every Wednesday.

Signs of the Times

A SONG

Here are a few songs to encourage you.

Days of Elijah, by Donnie McClurkin - so good and so true!

The Holy City (Jerusalem), by John Starnes - so moving!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

I believe in the Biblical power of joy and laughter — but this week, we will take a pause as we grieve with those who grieve in Israel.

And, according to the Bible, as those who love the Lord, hate evil!

the gift of encouragement

hey hey,

In today’s blog, (although I am one day behind!) I want to share “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to encourage you in the art of encouragement.

A WORD:

“When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.”

Romans 1:12, NLT

Everyone needs encouragement. EVERY ONE. The world can be a hard place. People are focused on #1. We often beat ourselves up. The enemy works overtime to discourage us.

So, what’s the answer?

Encouragement.

Encouragement works in two directions. We are to be givers and receivers.

We are to BE ENCOURAGERS. We can be on the lookout for ways to lift people up with our words, our time, our touch, our gifts and our acts of kindness. The Apostle Paul was an incredible encourager. Although he was persecuted, troubled and hard pressed, he still found a way to encourage people everywhere he went. He focused on the interests of others. We can be like the Apostle Paul.

>> Who have you intentionally encouraged lately? Who could (should) you encourage?

We also need to BE ENCOURAGED. We need the affirmation and validation others can give. None of us are a rock — only Jesus. :) Of course, ultimately whether we receive encouragement or not, we are to live for an audience of One. His pleasure and approval is what ultimately matters, but He’s created and wired us to need and enjoy the company and encouragement others provide. In a world of comparison, challenges and critics, it’s easy to get down on ourselves, but the Lord wants us to be encouraged. The Apostle Paul was a great encourager, but he also needed and appreciated the encouragement he received. We need it too.

>> Who has encouraged you lately? What did they say or do? How did it make you feel?

We may need to ENCOURAGE OURSELVES. Unfortunately, if we are not receiving the encouragement we need — we may need to encourage ourselves in the Lord. David (as in, King David!) had to encourage himself in the Lord when everyone was against him.

>> Have you encouraged yourself lately? How did you do it?

There is a law of sowing and reaping. In the realm of encouragement, as we sow encouragement into the lives of others, we will reap encouragement, too.

So today…

>> Make a decision to BE AN ENCOURAGER!

>> Ask the Lord to bring send people into your life so you can BE ENCOURAGED.

>> Be intentional to ENCOURAGE YOURSELF in the Lord.

Encouragement is a gift — I pray the Lord blesses you with the joy of giving it and receiving it.

A SONG

Here are two songs to encourage you in the Lord. When you wake up, put these two songs on and turn ‘em up! March around your house and encourage yourself in the Lord. Woot!

I’ve Got the Victory, by Yolanda Adams — put your dancing shoes on and sing it out!

Stomp on the Devil’s Head, by Shekinah Glory — my husband and I used to turn this song up as we marched around our office before preaching on Sundays — we often had to encourage ourselves in the Lord and this song was the perfect one to fire us up!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

This is an oldie, but goodie! :)

a lying spirit

hey hey,

In today’s blog, I want to share “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to encourage you as it relates to something we don’t hear much about — a lying spirit.

A WORD:

This is what the Lord says …

“I listen to their conversations
    and don’t hear a word of truth.
Is anyone sorry for doing wrong?
    Does anyone say, ‘What a terrible thing I have done’?
No! All are running down the path of sin
    as swiftly as a horse galloping into battle!”

Jeremiah 8:1, 6

So, the other day I watched the morning news for a few minutes and then as I left my house to hop into the car to run a few errands, I heard these words: “lying spirit.”

Of course, it doesn’t take a genius to discern that. But, I said to myself, “Yes! That explains it!” That explains why, like the rest of the world, we have been scratching our heads for the past several years and thinking things like: “this makes no sense.” “that’s crazy” “this is nuts”  “something doesn’t add up” “these are blatant lies” “the world has gone mad” “they can’t really believe that” “what happened to 2 + 2” and the like — you know what I’m talking about because you live on the same planet, see the same news clips and social media posts I do.

When I heard the words, “lying spirit” — it made perfect sense. So much of what we hear and see doesn’t make sense because it’s not true — it’s a lie being propagated by a lying spirit that whispers lies that are repeated by willing participants.

This concept of a lying spirit and its relevance in today's world is a larger topic and worthy of more than a short devo, but let me introduce it here with the hopes that it helps to explain what’s happening in large part in our world today.

In the Bible, a lying spirit refers to a demon or spiritual being that promotes deception, falsehood, and leads people astray from the truth. It is mentioned in various biblical passages, such as 1 Kings 22:19-23 and 2 Chronicles 18:18-22. (This is distinct from the temptation to lie that are part of our fleshly nature — this is a spirit entity.)

The story in the passages above recount the prophet Micaiah's vision of a heavenly council where a lying spirit offered to deceive the wicked king Ahab. The spirit's purpose was to entice Ahab into making unwise decisions that ultimately led to his downfall. (Notice the lying spirit’s work in the highest levels of leadership.)

In a broader context, the concept of a lying spirit symbolizes the presence of spiritual or moral deception in the world. It represents the idea that there are forces at work that seek to have power, distort the truth, mislead people, and lead them away from righteousness.

Jesus talked quite plainly about the devil and his lies. Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me. 43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me! 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me! 46 Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me?  47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” John 8:42-47

So, how prevalent is a lying spirit today? It appears to be quite prevalent. The enemy is and has always been a liar and the father of all lies and there are certainly influences and factors that can lead to deception and falsehood. The Bible tells us that in the last days deception will increase and we can see the work of lying spirits at work in this regard. Someone recently said they believe we are in a “civil war of the narrative” — and it’s easy to see that misinformation, propaganda, dishonesty, and manipulation are prevalent in various forms, including politics, media, religion, medicine, business, culture and social interactions. These can mislead people, sow discord, and hinder the pursuit of truth and justice. How do we recognize a lying spirit?

6 Ways to Recognize a Lying Spirit:

1. A lying spirit can not receive the truth. (John 8:43-45)
2. A lying spirit denies the Lordship of Jesus Christ (that He is God). (1 John 2:22)
3. A lying spirit stands with a majority opinion (many times). (2 Chronicles 18:21)
4. A lying spirit doesn’t listen to believers. (1 John 4:5-6)
5. A lying spirit speaks words that fail to come to pass. (2 Chronicles 18:27)
6. A lying spirit entices men to destruction. (2 Chronicles 18:19-21)

(This list is an excerpt from: https://aheartforgod.org/2013/09/09/7-ways-to-recognize-a-lying-spirit)

What is our response?

Step 1: Stay in the TRUTH and always side in with God. Jesus is the truth and His Word is truth. (John 14:6, John 17:17)

Step 2:When you are annoyed and worn out by it — remember our battle is not with flesh and blood, but with principalities and powers in spiritual realms and we’ve been given authority — so take authority over it in Jesus’ Name, just as the Apostle Paul did over a spirit of divination in Acts 16.

“As we were on our way to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who was possessed by a spirit of divination [claiming to foretell future events and to discover hidden knowledge], and she brought her owners much gain by her fortunetelling. 17 She kept following Paul and [the rest of] us, shouting loudly, These men are the servants of the Most High God! They announce to you the way of salvation! 18 And she did this for many days. Then Paul, being sorely annoyed and worn out, turned and said to the spirit within her, I charge you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her! And it came out that very moment.” Acts 16:16-18

Step 3: I encourage you to remember that the Bible also emphasizes the importance of exercising wisdom, discernment and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God is the ultimate source of truth, and through prayer, study, and spiritual discernment, we can navigate through the challenges of deception and falsehood.

As we cultivate our relationship with God and ground ourselves in His Word, we can develop the discernment to recognize and reject lies and falsehoods and embrace the truth. It's important to let God’s Word dwell in you richly, to stay rooted in basic biblical teachings, seek wisdom, and encourage fellow believers to do the same.

Remember, the Bible tells us that the truth will set us free so as we align ourselves with God's truth, we can overcome the growing influences of deception and falsehood in our world.

That’s all for today…I hope you are encouraged to be attentive to truth and to reject every lying spirit, in Jesus’ Name!

A SONG

Here are a few songs to encourage you in the truth.

Anchor, by Hillsong - always on repeat!

Weapons of our Warfare, by Rhema Singers and Band - this is another oldie but loaded with truth.

Your Word, by Hillsong - love this song!

Voice of Truth, by Casting Crowns - this is a classic oldie and a great song.

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

Saw this meme on Instagram and cracked up…this is no lie…but oh so TRUE!! Who else feels this?? Me! Me!

calling all entrepreneurs

hey hey,

In today’s blog, I am sharing “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to stir up all of you entrepreneurs, wanna-be entrepreneurs and marketplace go-getters!

A WORD:

And he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest.”

2 Kings 4:7

I want to encourage all of you that are … in business, entrepreneurs, idea people, inventors, innovators, creators, strategists and people-oriented! I want to cheer you on in your entrepreneurial pursuits!

For many years, I’ve been cheering, encouraging, exhorting and doing my best to inspire people to “reinvent” their lives and businesses to their max potential!!

And, I’ve said many times that if you were called to the marketplace, you should devote your heart and soul to have maximum success in order to be an influence for Christ and very generous towards the Body of Christ and the gospel cause!

I’ve always felt that if you were called to the ministry, you should reach people for Christ, make disciples and build His Church with 100% of your heart, energy and time — and we did that very thing for 40 years with no deviations.

>> Both callings — to the ministry and to the marketplace — are valid and needed!

In our case, with good conscience, we can say before the Lord we didn’t get distracted or sidelined in our ministry calling, but had our feet on the gas on for 4 decades and we loved every minute of it! Our foot is still on the gas when it comes to being an ambassador for Christ and when it comes to teaching the Bible basics, but ever since we passed the leadership baton of the church we founded, to our son and daughter-in-love, we’ve had more margin and have really enjoyed this new, fun season of being active-retired! We’ve kept our hearts open to whatever the Lord had in store for our next “assignments” might be. Recently, the Lord has encouraged me to “reinvent” a bit and while I am still actively engaged in The Bible Basics With Beth, I have felt God’s pleasure to pursue a new area of entrepreneurship — something I always desired, but was willing to forgo in light of the ministry calling and demands. (More on that in a minute!)

So, today, I want to encourage those of you who are already in the marketplace — to suggest you “reinvent” in some fresh ways by asking the four reinventing questions we find in the story of 2 Kings 4. (If you’ve followed me for very long, you know I wrote “Reinvent,” a book devoted to unpacking the entrepreneurial maven found in 2 Kings 4.) Here’s the story…

A certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets cried out to Elisha, saying, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the Lord. And the creditor is coming to take my two sons to be his slaves.” 2 So Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?” And she said, “Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil.” 3 Then he said, “Go, borrow vessels from everywhere, from all your neighbors—empty vessels; do not gather just a few. 4 And when you have come in, you shall shut the door behind you and your sons; then pour it into all those vessels, and set aside the full ones.”

5 So she went from him and shut the door behind her and her sons, who brought the vessels to her; and she poured it out. 6 Now it came to pass, when the vessels were full, that she said to her son, “Bring me another vessel.” And he said to her, “There is not another vessel.” So the oil ceased. 7 Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest.”

2 Kings 4:1-7

Notice, there are 4 questions embedded in this story. Four questions every entrepreneur should ask from time to time.

Question #1: What do you want?

Question #2: What do you have?

Question #3: What will you do?

Question #4: Why will you do it?

All of these questions are important and the answers to these questions are essential! Today, I want to focus on Question #3: What will you do?

When it comes to “What will you do?” in this story, the widow woman was in need of finances to pay her debts — she needed big money! And she needed it now! Money didn’t grow on trees then any more than it does now — so she had to get God’s wisdom and He led her to become an entrepreneur! (I hate to give a shameless plug, but really, read my book, Reinvent to get the whole picture.)

After the widow woman had followed the guidance of Elijah the prophet, she found herself as a single mom with two boys and a garage full of inventory — oil vessels to be specific! Now what? How was she supposed to turn all of that oil inventory into the money she needed to pay her debts? Elijah told her. He said, “Go sell the oil.” (Re-read that phrase.)

This was a big key! She needed to get good at sales, marketing, interacting with people, managing her inventory and enjoying her profits! In fact, Elijah told her that as she sold the oil she would be able to pay her debts and enjoy life with her sons!

What’s the application for us? If you are a business owner or entrepreneur with a product, business, skill or service — you’ve got to “sell the oil!” You’ll have to listen the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and get busy marketing and selling the oil. Your biz, products, skills and services won’t sell themselves.

That means you may need to learn a few new skills.

>> Maybe you need to figure out how to leverage social media and get a better understanding of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and the like. (I know it can be a beast, but it may be necessary to learn and leverage it, if you want to sell the oil!)

>> You may need to take a class to understand SEO (search engine optimization) so that your webpages move to the top of Google searches.

>> Perhaps, rather than run from it, you need to run towards the Ai bandwagon (artificial intelligence) to learn how it can help you sell the oil.

>> You might need to revisit old-fashioned direct mail, phone calling and door-to-door sales methods to sell your oil.

Whatever the method — you will likely need to put yourself out there to sell the oil. (And by the way, you will be your own worst critic and you will have to overcome fear. Others may criticize you, be jealous, show zero support and question your motives. Stay the course. Wink! Sell the oil!)

But for those who stay focused on selling the oil … it’s sweet victory! I love watching people succeed. It makes me happy. I can think of several people in our church who’ve stepped out in faith to launch a business, write a book and offer their services. They are shining brightly for the Lord — they decided to sell the oil and God has been blessing and multiplying it!

I think of Ben and Tori. As a teen and young adult, Ben was on our Valley Family Church (VFC) staff for many years; after he was married, he and his wife Tori felt called to launch their own construction business — B+A Homes. So, they did. They build beautiful custom homes and have been featured in our local Parade of Homes for several years. They sold the oil!

I think of Malena Jean. She has served as a volunteer leader in the VFC Middle School ministry for several years, while also teaching middle school locally. Her love for the Lord moved her to write a book, The Truth About Christmas, to explain the Christmas story when her children began asking questions about Santa, Rudolph and Baby Jesus. She helps kids understand the real Christmas story in a way that makes sense and while keeping the wonder of the Christmas season alive. Her book just launched and she’s selling the oil!

I think of Jaila Rykse. She, and her husband Josh, served as our Student Pastors for many years. She is a gifted photographer and several years ago, she felt God’s leading to focus on developing her photography business — Jaila Rixie Photos. She is an incredible luxury wedding photographer and has been featured in numerous magazines. I love what Jaila said in a recent interview with Voyage Michigan, “It’s been a whole lot of hustle, endless abundance of the Lord’s grace, much joy, sweat, and tears; I am thankful to be where I am in this journey of entrepreneurship.” She is selling the oil!

In my own life, I was recently presented with the opportunity to become an Amazon Influencer, so I pulled the trigger and applied (and got approved!) This means, not only am I still passionate about The Bible Basics With Beth, but I am thrilled to launch The Lifestyle Basics With Beth through my very own Amazon Influencer Storefront: www.amazon.com/shop/bethjones. I am on a steep learning curve, but I am enjoying it and figuring out how to sell the oil!

I could tell dozens more stories of amazing people, called by God to shine His light as they serve as entrepreneurs in marketplace ministry and give generously to His cause.

Our daughter and son-in-law launched their own business, Bros Doughs and just opened up their second location. They are selling the oil — well donuts, but deep fried in oil!

Two of our ministry Board Members are very successful entrepreneurs in their respective fields. Frank Mumford, as the owner of Sir Home Improvement for the past 43 years and Todd Bradfield, with 22 years as a top producing real estate agent, now with eXp Realty. They have both embraced their calling to be ambassadors for Christ in the marketplace. They have successfully learned to “sell the oil” and have been very generous towards the cause of Christ!

So, what about you? Do you own a business? Do you have an entrepreneurial desire? Do you sense God’s leading to the marketplace? Is there a business-to-be-born in you? Do you long to reach your greatest God-given potential to serve the cause of Christ with your success?

Do it! Sell the oil!

A SONG

Ok, here are a couple song to brighten your day and encourage your entrepreneurial faith! :)  Love and hugs!

9 to 5, by Dolly Parton — had to include this one! :)

All Things Are Possible by Hillsong — classic faith filled song!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

This meme cracks me up! It’s true, too!

all the things

hey hey,

In today’s blog, I am sharing a late night version of “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to remind you of God’s promise to add “all the things” to your life!

A WORD:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Matthew 6:33, NKJV

Just a friendly reminder to encourage you to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness — for He has promised that “all the things” you need shall be added to you.

It’s true.

I love how the Message Bible puts this verse in Matthew 6, “Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.”

When we steep our life in God-reality, God-initiative and God-provisions, He has promised that all of our everyday human concerns will be met.

However, God’s promises may not be realized in a 24-hour period of time, or a 30-day time frame or even within a year or two. There may be days, seasons or years where things appear to be a challenge or going slow. Nevertheless, God is at work behind the scenes, just as He promised. You can rest assured that He IS meeting all your needs and adding all the things you need to your life.

Over the course of our lives, my husband and I did our best to “seek first His kingdom” and yet we had several seasons that looked like we were living on the struggle bus. In those seasons, it looked (and felt) as if God was not fulfilling His promises. Sometimes it looked like we were going in reverse! We knew we had a choice to make. We had to stay the course and believe, by faith, that God was at work fulfilling His promise. And, of course, He was!

Now as I look back over the past many decades, it’s easy to see God’s faithfulness to His promises. The cumulative blessings of God over the entirety of our lives are easy for us to see. These days, we have to pinch ourselves as we feel blessed beyond our wildest dreams. Of course, we still have challenges (like everyone), but the fulfillment of God’s promises far outweigh any challenge we face.

I share that with you to encourage you. If you are in a struggle bus season, hang in there and continue day-after-day, year-after-year, decade-after-decade to seek first the Lord, His kingdom and His righteousness — and all the things you need (along with your heartfelt desires - Psalm 37) will be added to you!

God is faithful to His Word and His promises are unfailing.

A SONG

Ok, here are several songs that will fire up your faith!!  Love and hugs!

Your Word, by Hillsong - one of my favorite faith-building songs!

Anchor, by Hillsong - another favorite!!

Promises Never Faith, by Bethel - I love this song!

This is the Kingdom, by Elevation Worship - so encouraging!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

It’s that season! :)

everything is a seed

hey hey,

In today’s blog, I am sharing “A Word, A Song and A Laugh” to remind you that everything is a seed.

A WORD:

“…she plants a vineyard…”

Proverbs 31:16

We are planting seeds all the time. Did you know that? It turns out, everything is a seed — His Word, our faith, our words, our actions, our non-verbal communication, our tone, our labors, a glance, our silence, an act of kindness, our prayers, a meal, our service, our witness, a touch, a hug, our time, our generosity, our giving and so much more — even our very lives are a seed.

The good news is that we can plant an entire vineyard! (We’ve been in Michigan this summer and there are hundreds of vineyards in southwest Michigan and up north in the Traverse City area. We’ve driven by and visited several and they are stunning! They are huge, beautiful and producing multiplied levels of beautiful fruit that is being enjoyed by thousands upon thousands of people.)

When we sow seeds, we are planting vineyards! The truth is, our whole life we are planting seeds. We can plant a vineyard by sowing seeds into the ground of another person’s life or into the timeline of our own lives. Eventually, every seed produces fruit. It may takes years or decades to see the cumulative effect of the seeds we sow. But the harvest will come — and the fruit produced will be sweet or bitter, depending on the seed sown. One thing is for sure, fruit will come from the seeds we sow.

The Bible is full of this seed and harvest principle. Here are just a few passages on the seeds we sow and the fruit we eat.

Genesis 8:22 - “While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.”

Mark 4:26-29 - “And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. 28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”

Luke 8:11 - “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.”

2 Corinthians 9:7, 10 - “Who ever goes to war at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Or who tends a flock and does not drink of the milk of the flock? …10 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness…”

Psalm 1:3 - “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.”

Psalm 92:12-14 - “The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. 13 Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. 14 They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing…”

Proverbs 1:31 - “Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled to the full with their own fancies.”

Proverbs 11:30 - “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.”

Proverbs 18:21 - “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Proverbs 31:31 - “Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands …”

Isaiah 3:10 - “Say to the righteous that it shall be well with them, for they shall eat the fruit of their doings.”

Isaiah 57:19 - “I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near,” says the Lord, “And I will heal him.”

Matthew 13:23 - “But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.”

Luke 6: 43-45 - “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.”

John 15:5, 8, 16 - “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. … 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples …. 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you. 17 These things I command you, that you love one another.

Hebrews 13:15 - “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.”

So, be intentional as you go about your life — be deliberate to plant all kinds of good seeds throughout your days — and one day you’ll see, those seeds will produce a beautiful vineyard of fruit!

A SONG

Ok, here are several eclectic songs (these are not as well known as others, but still good!) to encourage you as you sow seeds. :)  Love and hugs!

Your Labor Is Not In Vain by The Porters Gate — such an encouraging song!

Seed of Faith by Charity Gayle — love her!

Seasons by Hillsong — good song!

Sowing the Good Seed by Master’s Voice — a nice men’s ensemble!

Lord of the Harvest by Fred Hammond - good gospel song!

Harvest by Freedom City Worship — good consecration and faith song!

peace, love and blessings,

A LAUGH

This meme cracks me up! It’s true, too!