Now you [collectively] are Christ's body and [individually] you are members of it, each part severally and distinct [each with his own place and function].
-1 Corinthians 12:27
Being satisfied and happy with yourself is a very important key to enjoying your life. Because of my background, I had many weaknesses in the area of accepting myself and being me. I was always comparing myself with others, jealous of them and their possessions and abilities. I wasn't being myself; I was trying to keep up with everyone else.
I often felt pressured and frustrated because I was operating outside my gifts and calling. When I finally realized I could not do anything unless God had ordained it and anointed me to do it, I started relaxing and saying, "I am what I am. I cannot be anything unless God helps me. I am just going to concentrate on being the best me I can be."
God has made every one of us unique. He personally made you and gave you gifts, talents, and abilities. Just think about it: Nobody else in the world is exactly like you. That means what is best for someone else may not be best for you. So, when you are tempted to say to God, "I wish I looked like somebody else," or "I wish I could do this or that like them," don't say it. Be satisfied with whom God made you to be. Remember that He made you exactly the way He wants you to be. If you try to be like someone else, you will miss the beautiful life God has planned specially for you.
Page 363
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please all ways remember God loves you so much, He give up His only begotten Son for you and all of us.
I would like to welcome you to my positive word blog, please read, listen, and enjoy, God bless you!
Please take some time for yourself, and listen to some positive music from my playlist. And if you want to you can also watch the video to the song you are listening to from my playlist by just clicking on to the word video in the music symbol box found in the left hand corner of my playlist box.
Thank you so much for visiting my blog, and please remember you are more than welcome to follow this blog if you like, so you can come back here and read some good word, and listen to some good music when ever you want, for that extra pick up we all need every now and then.
Thanks again, may God bless you in all you do, and please alway live a positive
LIFE !!!!!!!!!!
Thank you so much for visiting my blog, and please remember you are more than welcome to follow this blog if you like, so you can come back here and read some good word, and listen to some good music when ever you want, for that extra pick up we all need every now and then.
Thanks again, may God bless you in all you do, and please alway live a positive
LIFE !!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Nothing Else Satisfies
My soul yearns for You [O Lord] in the night, yes, my spirit within me seeks You earnestly.
(Isaiah 26:9)
The world makes it easy for us to fill our ears with all kinds of things that drown out the voice of God and push Him far, far into the background of our lives. However, the day comes for every person when only God remains. Everything else in life eventually passes away; when it does, God will still be there.
The Bible teaches that what is known about god is evident to all because He has made Himself known in the inner consciousness of humankind (see Romans 1:19-21). Each person will someday stand before Him and give an account of his or her life (see Romans 14:12). When people don't want to serve God with their lives, when they want to go their own way, they find ways to hide from and ignore this instinctive knowledge of their Creator, Who wants to talk to them and guide them in the way they should go.
The truth is, whether people try to hide from God or not, nothing can satisfy our longing for Him except communion and fellowship with Him. Even when people try to ignore Him, deep down they would love to hear His voice.
I encourage you to satisfy your longing for God by spending time with Him, sitting in His presence, and listening to His voice.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Live your life in such a way that you have no fear or dread of standing before God when your life on Earth is over.
Page 355
hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please remember God loves you more then any one else in the world, and He is there for you any time you want to spend time with Him and talk to Him.
(Isaiah 26:9)
The world makes it easy for us to fill our ears with all kinds of things that drown out the voice of God and push Him far, far into the background of our lives. However, the day comes for every person when only God remains. Everything else in life eventually passes away; when it does, God will still be there.
The Bible teaches that what is known about god is evident to all because He has made Himself known in the inner consciousness of humankind (see Romans 1:19-21). Each person will someday stand before Him and give an account of his or her life (see Romans 14:12). When people don't want to serve God with their lives, when they want to go their own way, they find ways to hide from and ignore this instinctive knowledge of their Creator, Who wants to talk to them and guide them in the way they should go.
The truth is, whether people try to hide from God or not, nothing can satisfy our longing for Him except communion and fellowship with Him. Even when people try to ignore Him, deep down they would love to hear His voice.
I encourage you to satisfy your longing for God by spending time with Him, sitting in His presence, and listening to His voice.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Live your life in such a way that you have no fear or dread of standing before God when your life on Earth is over.
Page 355
hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please remember God loves you more then any one else in the world, and He is there for you any time you want to spend time with Him and talk to Him.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
His Dwelling Place
Do you not discern and understand that you...are God's temple (His sanctuary), and that God's Spirit has His permanent dwelling in you?
(1 Corinthians 3:16)
I am amazed and in awe as I think of the great blessing of the indwelling Holy Spirit. He inspires us to do great things. He endues us with power for all our tasks. He stays in close communion with us, never leaving us or forsaking us.
Just think about it-if you and I are believers in Jesus Christ we are the home of the Holy Spirit of God! We should meditate on this truth over and over until it becomes a personal revelation in our lives. If we do, we will never be helpless, hopeless, or powerless, for He promises to be with us to speak to us, strengthen us, and empower us. We will never be without a friend or without direction, for He promises to lead us and go with us in everything we do.
Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, "Guard and keep [with the greatest care] the precious and excellently adapted [Truth] which has been entrusted [to you], by the [help of the] Holy Spirit Who makes His home in us" 92 Timothy 1:14).
The truths you know about the Holy Spirit are so precious; I encourage you to guard them and keep them in your heart. Don't allow them to slip away from you. Since you are a believer in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit is in you to help you not only maintain what you have learned about Him, but to help it grow and enable you to share it with others. Appreciate Him, honor Him, love and adore Him. He is so good, so kind, so awesome. He is wonderful-and you are His dwelling place!
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Say out loud several times a day: "I am the dwelling place of God. He makes His home in me.
Page 353
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please remember God loves you.
(1 Corinthians 3:16)
I am amazed and in awe as I think of the great blessing of the indwelling Holy Spirit. He inspires us to do great things. He endues us with power for all our tasks. He stays in close communion with us, never leaving us or forsaking us.
Just think about it-if you and I are believers in Jesus Christ we are the home of the Holy Spirit of God! We should meditate on this truth over and over until it becomes a personal revelation in our lives. If we do, we will never be helpless, hopeless, or powerless, for He promises to be with us to speak to us, strengthen us, and empower us. We will never be without a friend or without direction, for He promises to lead us and go with us in everything we do.
Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, "Guard and keep [with the greatest care] the precious and excellently adapted [Truth] which has been entrusted [to you], by the [help of the] Holy Spirit Who makes His home in us" 92 Timothy 1:14).
The truths you know about the Holy Spirit are so precious; I encourage you to guard them and keep them in your heart. Don't allow them to slip away from you. Since you are a believer in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit is in you to help you not only maintain what you have learned about Him, but to help it grow and enable you to share it with others. Appreciate Him, honor Him, love and adore Him. He is so good, so kind, so awesome. He is wonderful-and you are His dwelling place!
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Say out loud several times a day: "I am the dwelling place of God. He makes His home in me.
Page 353
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please remember God loves you.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Choose Life
I call heaven and earth to witness this day against you that I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live.
(Deuteronomy 31:19)
Thousands of thoughts are presented to our minds every day, and we must allow our minds to be renewed after the Spirit and not after the flesh. Our carnal (worldly, fleshly) minds have had so much practice operating freely that we can think wrong thoughts without much effort at all. On the other hand, we have to purposely choose to think right thoughts. After we have finally decided to be like-minded with God, then we will need to choose and continue to choose right thoughts.
When we begin to feel that the battle of the mind is just too difficult and that we are not going to make it, we must cast down that negative kind of thinking. We must choose to think that we are going to make it and decide not to quit. when bombarded with doubts and fears, we need to take a stand and say: "I will never give up! God is on my side. He loves me, and He is helping me!"
You and I will have many choices to make throughout our lives. In Deuteronomy 30:19, the Lord told His people that He had set before them life and death and urged them to choose life. Proverbs 18:21 also tells us we can choose life of death. It says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]."
Our thoughts become our words. Therefore, it is vitally important that we choose life-giving thoughts.
Page 324
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified version
FEATURING NOTES AND COMMENTARY BY
Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you and want to be involved in your whole life.
(Deuteronomy 31:19)
Thousands of thoughts are presented to our minds every day, and we must allow our minds to be renewed after the Spirit and not after the flesh. Our carnal (worldly, fleshly) minds have had so much practice operating freely that we can think wrong thoughts without much effort at all. On the other hand, we have to purposely choose to think right thoughts. After we have finally decided to be like-minded with God, then we will need to choose and continue to choose right thoughts.
When we begin to feel that the battle of the mind is just too difficult and that we are not going to make it, we must cast down that negative kind of thinking. We must choose to think that we are going to make it and decide not to quit. when bombarded with doubts and fears, we need to take a stand and say: "I will never give up! God is on my side. He loves me, and He is helping me!"
You and I will have many choices to make throughout our lives. In Deuteronomy 30:19, the Lord told His people that He had set before them life and death and urged them to choose life. Proverbs 18:21 also tells us we can choose life of death. It says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]."
Our thoughts become our words. Therefore, it is vitally important that we choose life-giving thoughts.
Page 324
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified version
FEATURING NOTES AND COMMENTARY BY
Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you and want to be involved in your whole life.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Let God Lead You to Life
I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses, therefore choose life.
(Deuteronomy 30:19)
In John 16:8, Jesus said the Holy Spirit would "convict and convince" the world about sin and righteousness. He didn't say anything about the Holy Spirit bringing condemnation. He said He brings "demonstration... about sin and about righteousness."
The Holy Spirit reveals the results of sin and the results of righteousness so people may understand which path to follow. He makes clear distinction between right and wrong, between blessings and curses, and between life and death so people can ask God to help them choose life.
People who live in sin have wretched, miserable lives. I occasionally run into people I knew years ago and haven't seen in quite some time. Some of these people have not been living for God and the rough, rugged lifestyles they have chosen have taken a toll on them. The sour, sad, miserable choices they have made are visible because sin has left them looking sad and often older than they are. They are unhappy, negative, and discontented individuals often filled with bitterness because their life has not been a good one. they fail to realize that their life is the direct result of bad choices they made.
The result of sin may be observed everywhere. The line between those who love and serve God and those who don't is becoming quite clear. god pleads with us to make right choices, ones that will lead us into the life He desires for us to enjoy. There are two paths before each of us: a broad path that leads to sin and destruction and a narrow path that leads to life (see Matthew 7:13-14). I encourage you to choose life today and every day.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Good choices become a good life.
Page 352
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please all ways remember God loves you. Say it to yourself everyday day, God loves me, God loves me, God loves me.
(Deuteronomy 30:19)
In John 16:8, Jesus said the Holy Spirit would "convict and convince" the world about sin and righteousness. He didn't say anything about the Holy Spirit bringing condemnation. He said He brings "demonstration... about sin and about righteousness."
The Holy Spirit reveals the results of sin and the results of righteousness so people may understand which path to follow. He makes clear distinction between right and wrong, between blessings and curses, and between life and death so people can ask God to help them choose life.
People who live in sin have wretched, miserable lives. I occasionally run into people I knew years ago and haven't seen in quite some time. Some of these people have not been living for God and the rough, rugged lifestyles they have chosen have taken a toll on them. The sour, sad, miserable choices they have made are visible because sin has left them looking sad and often older than they are. They are unhappy, negative, and discontented individuals often filled with bitterness because their life has not been a good one. they fail to realize that their life is the direct result of bad choices they made.
The result of sin may be observed everywhere. The line between those who love and serve God and those who don't is becoming quite clear. god pleads with us to make right choices, ones that will lead us into the life He desires for us to enjoy. There are two paths before each of us: a broad path that leads to sin and destruction and a narrow path that leads to life (see Matthew 7:13-14). I encourage you to choose life today and every day.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Good choices become a good life.
Page 352
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please all ways remember God loves you. Say it to yourself everyday day, God loves me, God loves me, God loves me.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Christlike Communication
Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you].
(-Colossians 4:6)
Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus acting in two contrasting ways. He confronted the moneychangers in the temple, overthrowing their tables and firmly demonstrating God's will to all those who watched Him. He said to them, "The Scripture says, My house shall be called a house of prayer; but you have made it a den of robbers," (Matthew 21:13) Yet in other places, we see Jesus standing falsely accused, without speaking one word in His own defense. So what are we to learn from His communication patterns? He was a lion when He needed to be and yet always a lamb-He never sinned or failed to be excellent in speech. It's difficult to ignore insults and shun retaliation. Isaiah 53:7 says of Jesus, "He was oppressed, [yet when] He was afflicted, He was submissive and He opened not His mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth."
Sometimes I find that one of the hardest things God has asked us to do is to Christlike in our communication with others. When somebody is rude and tells you off, mistreats or insults you, it is hard to just stand there and look at them with godly love and just wait on God. Thank God, He gives us the power to change and to become like Christ. I still feel the reaction of my old nature sometimes, but more and more I am learning self-control. The key to improvement is to learn to confront when God says to confront and to leave an issue alone when God says to leave it alone.
Page 351
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Also please remember at all times, no matter what is going on in your life, no matter what things look at in front of you, that you all ways have God to run to. God loves you with all His might, just go to Him and He will save you.
(-Colossians 4:6)
Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus acting in two contrasting ways. He confronted the moneychangers in the temple, overthrowing their tables and firmly demonstrating God's will to all those who watched Him. He said to them, "The Scripture says, My house shall be called a house of prayer; but you have made it a den of robbers," (Matthew 21:13) Yet in other places, we see Jesus standing falsely accused, without speaking one word in His own defense. So what are we to learn from His communication patterns? He was a lion when He needed to be and yet always a lamb-He never sinned or failed to be excellent in speech. It's difficult to ignore insults and shun retaliation. Isaiah 53:7 says of Jesus, "He was oppressed, [yet when] He was afflicted, He was submissive and He opened not His mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth."
Sometimes I find that one of the hardest things God has asked us to do is to Christlike in our communication with others. When somebody is rude and tells you off, mistreats or insults you, it is hard to just stand there and look at them with godly love and just wait on God. Thank God, He gives us the power to change and to become like Christ. I still feel the reaction of my old nature sometimes, but more and more I am learning self-control. The key to improvement is to learn to confront when God says to confront and to leave an issue alone when God says to leave it alone.
Page 351
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Also please remember at all times, no matter what is going on in your life, no matter what things look at in front of you, that you all ways have God to run to. God loves you with all His might, just go to Him and He will save you.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Make It Personal
You are My friends if you keep on doing the theings which I command you to do.
(John 15:14)
In today's verse, Jesus tells us we are His friends if we obey Him. In the following verse, He says He no longer calls us His servants, but His friends. Clearly, He wants a personal relationship with us and He wants us to get personal with Him. He proves this by the fact that He lives in us. How much more personal can anyone get than to live inside another person?
If God had wanted a distant, businesslike, professional relationship with us, He would have lived far away. He might have visited occasionally, but He certainly would not have come to take up permanent residence in the same house with us.
When Jesus died on the cross, He opened up a way for us to get personal with almighty God. What an awesome thought! Just think about it: god is our personal friend!
If we know someone important, we love to have an opportunity to say, "Oh, yes, that person is a friend of mine. I go to his house all the time. We visit with one another often." We can say the same about God if we do our part to fellowship with Him, listen to His voice and obey what He says, and stay in His presence every day.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: You can have a personal relationship with God; He's your friend.
Page 349
hearing from God each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you.
(John 15:14)
In today's verse, Jesus tells us we are His friends if we obey Him. In the following verse, He says He no longer calls us His servants, but His friends. Clearly, He wants a personal relationship with us and He wants us to get personal with Him. He proves this by the fact that He lives in us. How much more personal can anyone get than to live inside another person?
If God had wanted a distant, businesslike, professional relationship with us, He would have lived far away. He might have visited occasionally, but He certainly would not have come to take up permanent residence in the same house with us.
When Jesus died on the cross, He opened up a way for us to get personal with almighty God. What an awesome thought! Just think about it: god is our personal friend!
If we know someone important, we love to have an opportunity to say, "Oh, yes, that person is a friend of mine. I go to his house all the time. We visit with one another often." We can say the same about God if we do our part to fellowship with Him, listen to His voice and obey what He says, and stay in His presence every day.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: You can have a personal relationship with God; He's your friend.
Page 349
hearing from God each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Are You Listening?
The Lord came and stood and called as at other times, Samuel! Samuel! Then Samuel answered, Lord, for Your servant is listening.
(1 Samuel 3:10)
The verse 1 Samuel 3:10 comes from a story in which god wanted to tell Samuel what He planned to do in a certain situation. He had to speak several times before Samuel knew the voice he heard belonged to God. Once Samuel realized god was speaking to him, he responded by saying, "I'm listening."
Hearing God's voice is vital to enjoying His plans for your life, but whether or not you will listen to Him is a personal decision. No one else can make it for you; you must make it for yourself. God wants you to listen to Him. He will not force you to choose His will, but He will do everything He can to encourage you to say yes to Him.
God wants you to know what He wants you to do, how He feels about you, and what His plans are for your life. Proverbs 3:7 says "Be not wise in your own eyes." In other words, don't even think you can run your life and do a good job without God's help and direction. The more confidence you have that you can hear His voice, the better you can receive His guidance and instruction.
Decide today that God wants to speak to you, that you are going to listen when He speaks, and that you will give your full attention to His voice.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God has good plans for your life and will tell you everything you need to know. Remember to listen!
Page 346
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Also please remember that God loves you.
(1 Samuel 3:10)
The verse 1 Samuel 3:10 comes from a story in which god wanted to tell Samuel what He planned to do in a certain situation. He had to speak several times before Samuel knew the voice he heard belonged to God. Once Samuel realized god was speaking to him, he responded by saying, "I'm listening."
Hearing God's voice is vital to enjoying His plans for your life, but whether or not you will listen to Him is a personal decision. No one else can make it for you; you must make it for yourself. God wants you to listen to Him. He will not force you to choose His will, but He will do everything He can to encourage you to say yes to Him.
God wants you to know what He wants you to do, how He feels about you, and what His plans are for your life. Proverbs 3:7 says "Be not wise in your own eyes." In other words, don't even think you can run your life and do a good job without God's help and direction. The more confidence you have that you can hear His voice, the better you can receive His guidance and instruction.
Decide today that God wants to speak to you, that you are going to listen when He speaks, and that you will give your full attention to His voice.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God has good plans for your life and will tell you everything you need to know. Remember to listen!
Page 346
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Also please remember that God loves you.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
God's Way Is Best
For who has known the mind of the Lord and who has understood His thoughts, or who has [ever] been His counselor?
(Romans 11:34)
We need to come to the realization that God is smarter than we are. His plan really is better. No matter what you or I may think, God's way is better than ours. I look back now at many of the frustrating times I went through trying to give birth to things in my timing and being frustrated about waiting, and I realize now that I really was not ready for them. God knew I wasn't ready, but I thought I was. I spent so much of my time asking, "Why God why?" and "When God when?" I asked questions only God had the answers to, and He had no intention of telling me. Remember, god wants our trust-not our questions
I have discovered over the years that trust requires unanswered questions. When we face puzzling situations, we should say, "Well, Lord, this does not make any sense to me, but I trust You. I believe You love me and that You will do Your best for me at the right time." God does not need our counsel in order to work; He needs our faith.
I Exodus 33:13 Moses prayed for God to show him His ways: "Now therefore, I pray; You, if I have found favor in Your sight, show me now Your ways, that I may know You [progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with You, perceiving and recognizing and understanding more strongly and clearly] and that I may find favor in Your sight." We should pray that prayer regularly, remembering that God's ways include His timing.
Page 346
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please all ways remember God loves you very much. Take some time with Him and spend some time with Him get to know who God really is, and how much He loves you.
(Romans 11:34)
We need to come to the realization that God is smarter than we are. His plan really is better. No matter what you or I may think, God's way is better than ours. I look back now at many of the frustrating times I went through trying to give birth to things in my timing and being frustrated about waiting, and I realize now that I really was not ready for them. God knew I wasn't ready, but I thought I was. I spent so much of my time asking, "Why God why?" and "When God when?" I asked questions only God had the answers to, and He had no intention of telling me. Remember, god wants our trust-not our questions
I have discovered over the years that trust requires unanswered questions. When we face puzzling situations, we should say, "Well, Lord, this does not make any sense to me, but I trust You. I believe You love me and that You will do Your best for me at the right time." God does not need our counsel in order to work; He needs our faith.
I Exodus 33:13 Moses prayed for God to show him His ways: "Now therefore, I pray; You, if I have found favor in Your sight, show me now Your ways, that I may know You [progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with You, perceiving and recognizing and understanding more strongly and clearly] and that I may find favor in Your sight." We should pray that prayer regularly, remembering that God's ways include His timing.
Page 346
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please all ways remember God loves you very much. Take some time with Him and spend some time with Him get to know who God really is, and how much He loves you.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Spending Time in God's Presence
As for me, I will continue beholding Your face in righteousness (rightness, justice, and right standing with You); I shall be fully satisfied, when I awake [to find myself] beholding Your form [and having sweet communion with You].
(-Psalm 17:15)
There is a God - shaped hole inside every one of us, and we cannot buy something across the counter to fill that hole. The only thing that is going to fill that craving is God Himself. One prayer will not be enough. We have to have daily maintenance. The Bible says, "Ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit." (Ephesians 5:18)
I spent years trying to find a time to fit God into my day. God finally told me to stop trying to work Him into my schedule, but to work my schedule around Him.
Contentment is found in the Lord's presence. The Psalms proclaim that the fullness of joy is in God's presence: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore." (16:11)
We will be fully satisfied when we awake to find ourselves beholding His form and having sweet communion with Him. When God is first in our lives to point where Hi is the first thing on our minds when we wake up in the morning, we will have a depth of satisfaction that no devil can take away from us.
Page 345
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please all ways remember God loves you so much. Please come on and just love Him back.
(-Psalm 17:15)
There is a God - shaped hole inside every one of us, and we cannot buy something across the counter to fill that hole. The only thing that is going to fill that craving is God Himself. One prayer will not be enough. We have to have daily maintenance. The Bible says, "Ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit." (Ephesians 5:18)
I spent years trying to find a time to fit God into my day. God finally told me to stop trying to work Him into my schedule, but to work my schedule around Him.
Contentment is found in the Lord's presence. The Psalms proclaim that the fullness of joy is in God's presence: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore." (16:11)
We will be fully satisfied when we awake to find ourselves beholding His form and having sweet communion with Him. When God is first in our lives to point where Hi is the first thing on our minds when we wake up in the morning, we will have a depth of satisfaction that no devil can take away from us.
Page 345
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please all ways remember God loves you so much. Please come on and just love Him back.
Friday, December 7, 2012
How to deal with Discouragement
AS THE hart pants and longs for the water brooks, so I pant and long for You, O God.
(Psalm 42:1)
(putting the WORD to work) - page 856 - (Amplified Bible)
Psalm 42:1 tells of a deer that longs for a refreshing stream. On a hot day, knowing about water does nothing to quench you thirst; only drinking water does. The same is true of your desire for God. Have you ever longed for more than just information about God? God wants you to experience Who He is. Seek Him, and He will satisfy your desire to know Him intimately.
My inner self thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? [John 7:37; I Thess. 1:9, 10.]
My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, Where is your God?
These things I [earnestly] remember and pour myself out within me; how I went slowly before the throng and led them in procession to the house of God [like a bandmaster before his band, timing the steps to the sound of music and the chant of the song], with the voice of shouting and praise, a throng keeping festival.
Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, my Help and my God.
O my God, may life is cast down upon me [and I find the burden more than I can bear]; therefore will I [earnestly] remember You from the land of the Jordan [River] and the [summits of Mount] Hermon, from the little mountain Mizar.
(Psalm 42: 2-6)
(Lift Point) page 856 in Amplified Bible
In Psalm 42:5, we see the sons of Korah struggling with depression. I would like for us to examine how they handled their situation, because it shows us what to do when we are feeling depressed.
As we dissect this verse, we see three distinct responses the sons of Korah give to their depressed feelings. First, they put a question to their own souls and ask themselves; "Why are you downcast?"
Then they give an instruction to their souls: "Put your hope in God." Finally, they declare what they are going to do: "I will praise the Lord." We might say the sons of Korah have a talk with themselves.
We must follow this same basic pattern of action as we confront our feelings of depression and come out of them and into victory.
In Psalm 42:5, the psalmist is discouraged. Discouragement destroys hope, so naturally the devil always tries to discourage us. Without hope we give up, which is exactly what the devil wants us to do.
The Bible repeatedly tells us not to be discouraged or dismayed. God knows that we will not be victorious if we get discouraged, so He always encourages us as we start out on a project by saying to us, "Do not get discouraged." God wants us to be encouraged, not discouraged.
When discouragement or condemnation tries to overtake you, the first thing to do is to examine your thought life. What kind of thoughts have you been thinking? Have they sounded something like this? I am not going to make it; this is too hard. I always fail; it has always been the same. Nothing ever changes. I am sure other people do not have this much trouble getting their minds renewed. I may as well give up. I'm tired of trying. I pray, but it seems as if God doesn't hear. He probably doesn't answer my prayers because He is so disappointed in the way I act.
If these examples represent your thoughts, then no wonder you get discouraged or feel condemned! Remember, you become what you think. Think discouraging thoughts, and you will get discouraged. Think condemning thoughts, and you will come under condemnation. Change your thinking and be set free!
Instead of thinking negatively, think more like this: Well, things are going a little slowly, but, thank God, I am making some progress, I am sure glad I'm on the right path that will lead me to freedom. I had a rough day yesterday. I chose wrong thinking all day long. Father, forgive me, and help me to keep on keeping on. I made a mistake, but at least that is one mistake I won't have to make again. This is a new day. You love me, Lord. Your mercy is new every morning. I refuse to be discouraged. I refuse to be condemned. Father, the Bible says that You do not condemn me. You sent Jesus to die for me. I'll be fine-today will be a great day. I ask You to help me choose right thoughts today.
I am sure you can already feel the victory in this type of cheerful, positive, God-like thinking. Practice this type of thinking today!
Page 857
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
FEATURING NOTES AND COMMENTARY BY: Joyce Meyer
And please all ways remember God love you!
(Psalm 42:1)
(putting the WORD to work) - page 856 - (Amplified Bible)
Psalm 42:1 tells of a deer that longs for a refreshing stream. On a hot day, knowing about water does nothing to quench you thirst; only drinking water does. The same is true of your desire for God. Have you ever longed for more than just information about God? God wants you to experience Who He is. Seek Him, and He will satisfy your desire to know Him intimately.
My inner self thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? [John 7:37; I Thess. 1:9, 10.]
My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, Where is your God?
These things I [earnestly] remember and pour myself out within me; how I went slowly before the throng and led them in procession to the house of God [like a bandmaster before his band, timing the steps to the sound of music and the chant of the song], with the voice of shouting and praise, a throng keeping festival.
Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, my Help and my God.
O my God, may life is cast down upon me [and I find the burden more than I can bear]; therefore will I [earnestly] remember You from the land of the Jordan [River] and the [summits of Mount] Hermon, from the little mountain Mizar.
(Psalm 42: 2-6)
(Lift Point) page 856 in Amplified Bible
In Psalm 42:5, we see the sons of Korah struggling with depression. I would like for us to examine how they handled their situation, because it shows us what to do when we are feeling depressed.
As we dissect this verse, we see three distinct responses the sons of Korah give to their depressed feelings. First, they put a question to their own souls and ask themselves; "Why are you downcast?"
Then they give an instruction to their souls: "Put your hope in God." Finally, they declare what they are going to do: "I will praise the Lord." We might say the sons of Korah have a talk with themselves.
We must follow this same basic pattern of action as we confront our feelings of depression and come out of them and into victory.
In Psalm 42:5, the psalmist is discouraged. Discouragement destroys hope, so naturally the devil always tries to discourage us. Without hope we give up, which is exactly what the devil wants us to do.
The Bible repeatedly tells us not to be discouraged or dismayed. God knows that we will not be victorious if we get discouraged, so He always encourages us as we start out on a project by saying to us, "Do not get discouraged." God wants us to be encouraged, not discouraged.
When discouragement or condemnation tries to overtake you, the first thing to do is to examine your thought life. What kind of thoughts have you been thinking? Have they sounded something like this? I am not going to make it; this is too hard. I always fail; it has always been the same. Nothing ever changes. I am sure other people do not have this much trouble getting their minds renewed. I may as well give up. I'm tired of trying. I pray, but it seems as if God doesn't hear. He probably doesn't answer my prayers because He is so disappointed in the way I act.
If these examples represent your thoughts, then no wonder you get discouraged or feel condemned! Remember, you become what you think. Think discouraging thoughts, and you will get discouraged. Think condemning thoughts, and you will come under condemnation. Change your thinking and be set free!
Instead of thinking negatively, think more like this: Well, things are going a little slowly, but, thank God, I am making some progress, I am sure glad I'm on the right path that will lead me to freedom. I had a rough day yesterday. I chose wrong thinking all day long. Father, forgive me, and help me to keep on keeping on. I made a mistake, but at least that is one mistake I won't have to make again. This is a new day. You love me, Lord. Your mercy is new every morning. I refuse to be discouraged. I refuse to be condemned. Father, the Bible says that You do not condemn me. You sent Jesus to die for me. I'll be fine-today will be a great day. I ask You to help me choose right thoughts today.
I am sure you can already feel the victory in this type of cheerful, positive, God-like thinking. Practice this type of thinking today!
Page 857
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
FEATURING NOTES AND COMMENTARY BY: Joyce Meyer
And please all ways remember God love you!
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
God Speaks Comfort and Consolation
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement).
(2 Corinthians 1:3)
We all desire to be accepted, not rejected. I hate the lonely, isolated feeling and emotional pain that come from feeling rejected, yet I experienced it for many years, not knowing I could do anything about it. Thank God, all that has changed!
Several years ago, something happened that brought back those old pains of rejection. I reached out to someone who had hurt me greatly during my childhood. Instead of an apology, I was blamed for something that wasn't my fault and received a clear message that this person had no interest whatsoever in me.
I wanted to hide and feel sorry for myself, but instead I immediately asked God for the comfort of the Holy Spirit. I asked Him to heal my wounded emotions and enable me to handle the situation as Jesus would have. As I continued to lean on God, I felt a warmth come over me, almost as though soothing oil was being poured over my wounds.
I asked God to forgive the person who had hurt me, and He brought to my mind the saying, "Hurting people hurt people." His intimate, personal response brought healing to my wounded spirit.
God is the source of all comfort, consolation, and encouragement. Please, do everything you can to develop and maintain an intimate relationship with Him because that is the context within which you will be able to hear His voice, receive His comfort and healing, and be strengthened by His encouragement and care.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God knows how important it is to comforted; He sent you the Holy Spirit to do just that.
Page 338
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you so much, please just love Him back.
(2 Corinthians 1:3)
We all desire to be accepted, not rejected. I hate the lonely, isolated feeling and emotional pain that come from feeling rejected, yet I experienced it for many years, not knowing I could do anything about it. Thank God, all that has changed!
Several years ago, something happened that brought back those old pains of rejection. I reached out to someone who had hurt me greatly during my childhood. Instead of an apology, I was blamed for something that wasn't my fault and received a clear message that this person had no interest whatsoever in me.
I wanted to hide and feel sorry for myself, but instead I immediately asked God for the comfort of the Holy Spirit. I asked Him to heal my wounded emotions and enable me to handle the situation as Jesus would have. As I continued to lean on God, I felt a warmth come over me, almost as though soothing oil was being poured over my wounds.
I asked God to forgive the person who had hurt me, and He brought to my mind the saying, "Hurting people hurt people." His intimate, personal response brought healing to my wounded spirit.
God is the source of all comfort, consolation, and encouragement. Please, do everything you can to develop and maintain an intimate relationship with Him because that is the context within which you will be able to hear His voice, receive His comfort and healing, and be strengthened by His encouragement and care.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God knows how important it is to comforted; He sent you the Holy Spirit to do just that.
Page 338
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you so much, please just love Him back.
Friday, November 30, 2012
You Are Precious to God
Now on the final and most important day of the Feast, Jesus stood, and He cried in a loud voice, If any man is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink!
(-John 7:37)
You are precious and valuable, and God has a plan to manifest His goodness and kindness through what He wants to do to you. It does not matter what you have done or what has been done to you-the past remains in the past. God has a great future for you. You can have a wonderful life, fut you have to receive it. You have to agree and say, "That is for me."
Jesus cried out to tell us that He has what we need: "Now on the final and most important day of the Feast, Jesus stood, and He cried in a loud voice. If any man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink!" (John 7:37), What you cannot do for yourself, God has already done for you. He invites you now to come and receive it, to drink it, to take it into yourself. You do that by believing it is for you.
To drink is defined as "to take in or receive avidly"; "to receive into one's consciousness." Remember that Jesus said, "Now ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete." (John 16:24) If you ask and receive, then your joy will be full.
How are we going to impress a depressed world if we believers are as depressed as those who are without Christ? God wants His people to show forth the glory of His kindness upon them. As we receive God's provision, our joy will be complete, which is the way the church is supposed to be.
Act as a receptacle for God's blessings. Take in what Jesus has paid for with His own life to provide for you. Study the Word so that you will be sure of His promises. Pray to Him, saying, "Here I am, Lord. Pour it on. I receive the fullness of whatever you Holy Spirit has for me."
Page 335
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please do not ever forget that God loves you.
(-John 7:37)
You are precious and valuable, and God has a plan to manifest His goodness and kindness through what He wants to do to you. It does not matter what you have done or what has been done to you-the past remains in the past. God has a great future for you. You can have a wonderful life, fut you have to receive it. You have to agree and say, "That is for me."
Jesus cried out to tell us that He has what we need: "Now on the final and most important day of the Feast, Jesus stood, and He cried in a loud voice. If any man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink!" (John 7:37), What you cannot do for yourself, God has already done for you. He invites you now to come and receive it, to drink it, to take it into yourself. You do that by believing it is for you.
To drink is defined as "to take in or receive avidly"; "to receive into one's consciousness." Remember that Jesus said, "Now ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete." (John 16:24) If you ask and receive, then your joy will be full.
How are we going to impress a depressed world if we believers are as depressed as those who are without Christ? God wants His people to show forth the glory of His kindness upon them. As we receive God's provision, our joy will be complete, which is the way the church is supposed to be.
Act as a receptacle for God's blessings. Take in what Jesus has paid for with His own life to provide for you. Study the Word so that you will be sure of His promises. Pray to Him, saying, "Here I am, Lord. Pour it on. I receive the fullness of whatever you Holy Spirit has for me."
Page 335
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please do not ever forget that God loves you.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Wait on Him
Those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall left their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up close to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.
(-Isaiah 40:31)
Isaiah teaches us to wait for the Lord when we know our strength needs to be renewed. Waiting for God means spending time with Him in His Word and His presence. There are certain people we can draw strength from just by being around them. Their very presence, the way they talk and approach life, seems to make us feel better when we are discouraged of feeling down in any way. Likewise, there are others who can always make us feel worse. They have a way of putting a negative edge on everything.
When you and I need to be strengthened, we should spend time with God and with people filled with His Spirit. Spending time in God's presence is like sitting in a room filled with sweet-smelling perfume. If we sit there long enough, we take the fragrance with us when we leave. It will be in our clothing, in our hair, and even in our very skin.
Moses was a man of prayer. He spent a great deal of time fellowshiping with and talking to God. He knew that if God did not help him, he would fail miserably. Because of Moses' faithfulness to seek God, he was given an assuring message: "And the Lord said, My Presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest." (Exodus 33:14)
Page 255
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
God loves you!
(-Isaiah 40:31)
Isaiah teaches us to wait for the Lord when we know our strength needs to be renewed. Waiting for God means spending time with Him in His Word and His presence. There are certain people we can draw strength from just by being around them. Their very presence, the way they talk and approach life, seems to make us feel better when we are discouraged of feeling down in any way. Likewise, there are others who can always make us feel worse. They have a way of putting a negative edge on everything.
When you and I need to be strengthened, we should spend time with God and with people filled with His Spirit. Spending time in God's presence is like sitting in a room filled with sweet-smelling perfume. If we sit there long enough, we take the fragrance with us when we leave. It will be in our clothing, in our hair, and even in our very skin.
Moses was a man of prayer. He spent a great deal of time fellowshiping with and talking to God. He knew that if God did not help him, he would fail miserably. Because of Moses' faithfulness to seek God, he was given an assuring message: "And the Lord said, My Presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest." (Exodus 33:14)
Page 255
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
God loves you!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
The Spirit of Love
No man has at any time [yet] seen God. But if we love one another, God abides (lives and remains) in us and His love (that love which is essentially His) is brought to completion (to its full maturity, runs its full course, is perfected) in us!
(1 John 4:12)
We cannot give away what we don't have. Trying to love others is useless if we have never received God's love for ourselves. We should love ourselves in a balanced way, not a selfish, self-centered way. I teach that we should love ourselves, not be in love with ourselves.
To love yourself, you simply need to believe in the love God has for you; know that it is everlasting, unchangeable, and unconditional. Let His love affirm you and make you feel secure, but don't begin to think of yourself more highly than you should (see Romans 12:3). Loving ourselves does not mean we love all of our behavior; it means that we love and accept the unique person God has created us to be.
I believe loving ourselves in a balance way is what prepares us to let love flow through us to others. Without receiving God's love for ourselves in a healthy, appropriate way, we may have feelings of affection or respect for others, a humanistic type of love; but we certainly cannot love people unconditionally unless god Himself inspires and provokes that love.
The Holy Spirit purifies our hearts so we can allow the sincere love of God to flow through us (see 1 Peter 1:22) to others. This is part of being filled with the Spirit.
God wants us to express love to others. When we think of others and how we can bless them, we keep ourselves filled with the Holy Spirit, Who is the Spirit of Love.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: You have something wonderful to give to the world today-the love of God that is in you.
Page 299
hearing from God each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please all ways remember God loves you.
(1 John 4:12)
We cannot give away what we don't have. Trying to love others is useless if we have never received God's love for ourselves. We should love ourselves in a balanced way, not a selfish, self-centered way. I teach that we should love ourselves, not be in love with ourselves.
To love yourself, you simply need to believe in the love God has for you; know that it is everlasting, unchangeable, and unconditional. Let His love affirm you and make you feel secure, but don't begin to think of yourself more highly than you should (see Romans 12:3). Loving ourselves does not mean we love all of our behavior; it means that we love and accept the unique person God has created us to be.
I believe loving ourselves in a balance way is what prepares us to let love flow through us to others. Without receiving God's love for ourselves in a healthy, appropriate way, we may have feelings of affection or respect for others, a humanistic type of love; but we certainly cannot love people unconditionally unless god Himself inspires and provokes that love.
The Holy Spirit purifies our hearts so we can allow the sincere love of God to flow through us (see 1 Peter 1:22) to others. This is part of being filled with the Spirit.
God wants us to express love to others. When we think of others and how we can bless them, we keep ourselves filled with the Holy Spirit, Who is the Spirit of Love.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: You have something wonderful to give to the world today-the love of God that is in you.
Page 299
hearing from God each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please all ways remember God loves you.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Confusion Is Not from God
For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.
(-1 Corinthians 14:33 (KJV)
I was holding a meeting in Kansas City, and it came to my heart to ask the audience how many of them were confused. There were about 300 people at the meeting, and from what I could tell, 298 of them raised their hands. And m;y husband was one of the two who didn't raise a hand. I can tell you that Dave has never been confused in his life because he doesn't worry. He doesn't try to figure out anything. He is not interested in having all the answers to everything, because he trusts God.
When you trust God, you can relax and enjoy life. You don't have to go through life worrying and trying to figure out how to solve all you problems. Think about all the things you have worried about in your life and how they have all worked out. That ought to help you realize that worry and reasoning are a waste of time and energy. Stop worrying. Stop complicating your life by trying to figure out everything. Just admit that you don't know, that you are not able, that you need God. Then go on living, and enjoy life while God is giving you the answers.
Page 309
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please remember God loves you.
(-1 Corinthians 14:33 (KJV)
I was holding a meeting in Kansas City, and it came to my heart to ask the audience how many of them were confused. There were about 300 people at the meeting, and from what I could tell, 298 of them raised their hands. And m;y husband was one of the two who didn't raise a hand. I can tell you that Dave has never been confused in his life because he doesn't worry. He doesn't try to figure out anything. He is not interested in having all the answers to everything, because he trusts God.
When you trust God, you can relax and enjoy life. You don't have to go through life worrying and trying to figure out how to solve all you problems. Think about all the things you have worried about in your life and how they have all worked out. That ought to help you realize that worry and reasoning are a waste of time and energy. Stop worrying. Stop complicating your life by trying to figure out everything. Just admit that you don't know, that you are not able, that you need God. Then go on living, and enjoy life while God is giving you the answers.
Page 309
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please remember God loves you.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Mind, Will, and Emotions
We have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart.
(1 Corinthians 2:16)
When we invite Jess to come into our hearts, the Holy Spirit makes His home in us. From that position in our hearts, which are the very centers of our beings, the Holy Spirit begins a purifying work in our souls (our minds, wills, and emotions).
Our minds tell us what we think, not what god thinks. The Holy Spirit is working in us to change that. We have to learn how to think in agreement with God, how to be vessels for God to think through. Old thoughts must be purified from us, and new thoughts-thoughts from God-must become part of our thinking.
Our emotions tell us how we feel, not how God feels about situations, people, and the decisions we make. According to Psalm 7:9, God tests and tries our emotions. He works with us until we are not moved by human emotion alone, but by His Spirit.
Our wills tell us what we want, not what God wants. The will over rides emotions and even thoughts. We can use it to do the right thing even when we don't feel like doing it. We have a free will, and God will not force us to do anything. He leads us by His Spirit into what He knows will be good for us, but the final decisions are ours to make. God wants us to regularly make decisions that are in agreement with His will, not our wills.
As these three areas of our lives-mind, will, and emotions-come under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the leadership of the Holy Spirit, we will become increasingly mature as believers.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: You can manage your emotions instead of letting them manage you.
Page 319
hearing from God each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember that God loves you.
(1 Corinthians 2:16)
When we invite Jess to come into our hearts, the Holy Spirit makes His home in us. From that position in our hearts, which are the very centers of our beings, the Holy Spirit begins a purifying work in our souls (our minds, wills, and emotions).
Our minds tell us what we think, not what god thinks. The Holy Spirit is working in us to change that. We have to learn how to think in agreement with God, how to be vessels for God to think through. Old thoughts must be purified from us, and new thoughts-thoughts from God-must become part of our thinking.
Our emotions tell us how we feel, not how God feels about situations, people, and the decisions we make. According to Psalm 7:9, God tests and tries our emotions. He works with us until we are not moved by human emotion alone, but by His Spirit.
Our wills tell us what we want, not what God wants. The will over rides emotions and even thoughts. We can use it to do the right thing even when we don't feel like doing it. We have a free will, and God will not force us to do anything. He leads us by His Spirit into what He knows will be good for us, but the final decisions are ours to make. God wants us to regularly make decisions that are in agreement with His will, not our wills.
As these three areas of our lives-mind, will, and emotions-come under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the leadership of the Holy Spirit, we will become increasingly mature as believers.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: You can manage your emotions instead of letting them manage you.
Page 319
hearing from God each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember that God loves you.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
God's Ways Are Not Our Ways
My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.
(-Isaiah 55:8 (NIV)
I have discovered that God often seems unreasonable. What He chooses to do does not always make sense to us. It does not always fit into our balance of reason. We have a tendency to want things to make sense, but God wants us to learn to be led by our trust and not by our understanding. We should thank God that His ways are not our ways. My life would have turned out badly if God had given me my way in many situations. It is wise for us to pray, "Your will be done, Lord, not mine."
I often tell the Lord what I would like to have, but follow it up with, "However, if You know it is not right for me, please don't give it ti me." His thoughts are above our thoughts. He sees the end from the beginning. All His ways are right and sure. In the natural we can think something makes sense, but it may not be what god wants at all.
Page 318
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please remember God loves you.
(-Isaiah 55:8 (NIV)
I have discovered that God often seems unreasonable. What He chooses to do does not always make sense to us. It does not always fit into our balance of reason. We have a tendency to want things to make sense, but God wants us to learn to be led by our trust and not by our understanding. We should thank God that His ways are not our ways. My life would have turned out badly if God had given me my way in many situations. It is wise for us to pray, "Your will be done, Lord, not mine."
I often tell the Lord what I would like to have, but follow it up with, "However, if You know it is not right for me, please don't give it ti me." His thoughts are above our thoughts. He sees the end from the beginning. All His ways are right and sure. In the natural we can think something makes sense, but it may not be what god wants at all.
Page 318
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please remember God loves you.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Spiritual Nourishment
I tell you, do not be anxious and troubled [with cares] about your life, as to what you will [have to ] eat; or about your body, as to what you will [have to ] wear. For life is more than food, and the body [more] than clothes.
(-Luke 12:22-23)
If you have a rich spiritual life, you'll already be satisfied with the moment, the day, the year. We all have these moments at times. You wander through a summer field of fireflies and suddenly feel still and awed at the beauty of it all. You hold your new son or grandson on your lap and feel a great spiritual bond of love all around you. You're sitting in a pew Sunday morning and the light comes through the stained glass and fills your heart with joy. The moment is complete in itself. You don't think, My heart is full of joy, and boy, do I wish I had a slice of chocolate cake in my hand!
You can know the complete fulfillment of spiritual nourishment and know that if you can experience it regularly, you'll have no problem eating and drinking only what you need. In fact, we should all feel those transcendent moments more often than we do. I believe they are essential to physical, emotional, and spiritual health. And I think we spend too little time trying to achieve them and too much time meditation on our problems. Whether it's in therapy, at home, or with friends over coffee, if we stew in our own problems all the time, they are only going to be with us that much more.
Get your mind off the problems, and spend more time meditating on the one, true solution-God's love. Our problems in life-and there will be problems-should drive us to God, not away from Him. Jonah tried running from his duty to the Lord by sailing to a remote destination, and look what happened to him! Don't follow Jonah's path. Run to God! He won't just help you find the solutions to your spiritual hunger; He is the solution.
Page 317
New Day New You
366 devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please always remember God loves you.
(-Luke 12:22-23)
If you have a rich spiritual life, you'll already be satisfied with the moment, the day, the year. We all have these moments at times. You wander through a summer field of fireflies and suddenly feel still and awed at the beauty of it all. You hold your new son or grandson on your lap and feel a great spiritual bond of love all around you. You're sitting in a pew Sunday morning and the light comes through the stained glass and fills your heart with joy. The moment is complete in itself. You don't think, My heart is full of joy, and boy, do I wish I had a slice of chocolate cake in my hand!
You can know the complete fulfillment of spiritual nourishment and know that if you can experience it regularly, you'll have no problem eating and drinking only what you need. In fact, we should all feel those transcendent moments more often than we do. I believe they are essential to physical, emotional, and spiritual health. And I think we spend too little time trying to achieve them and too much time meditation on our problems. Whether it's in therapy, at home, or with friends over coffee, if we stew in our own problems all the time, they are only going to be with us that much more.
Get your mind off the problems, and spend more time meditating on the one, true solution-God's love. Our problems in life-and there will be problems-should drive us to God, not away from Him. Jonah tried running from his duty to the Lord by sailing to a remote destination, and look what happened to him! Don't follow Jonah's path. Run to God! He won't just help you find the solutions to your spiritual hunger; He is the solution.
Page 317
New Day New You
366 devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please always remember God loves you.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
When Life Gets Difficult
The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.
(Exodus 13:21,22)
Sometimes God leads us the hard way instead of the easy way because He is doing a special work in us. How will we ever learn to lean on Him if everything in our lives is easy enough for us to handle by our selves? God led the children of Israel the long, difficult way through the wilderness to prepare them for the battles they would face in possessing the Promised Land. He was concerned that when they saw the enemy they might run back to Egypt and become enslaved again in their former bandage. God wanted to teach them Who He was and that they could depend on Him to fight their battles.
Many of us think that when we enter into our Promised Land we will have not more spiritual battles. Not so! After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River and went in to possess the land of promise, the fought one battle after another. But as they learned to fight in God's strength and under His direction, they won their battles.
If you know God has asked you to do something, do not back down just because it gets hard. When things get tough, spend more time with Him, lean more on Him and receive more grace from Him. Realize the grace comes at no cost to you; GRACE IS THE POWER OF GOD working in you and through you to do those things you cannot do. As you face challenges in your life, beware of thoughts that say, I can't do this; it's just too hard. Do not let your mind give up! Satan knows that if he can defeat you in your mind, he can defeat you in your experience. That is why it is so important not to lose heart and not to grow weary or faint. You can be sure that wherever God leads you, He is able to keep you. He never will allow more to come on you than you can bear (see 1 Corinthians 10:13). You do not have to live in a constant struggle if you learn to continually lean on Him for the strength you need.
Page 108
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Notes And Commentary By Joyce Meyer
And all ways remember God loves you.
(Exodus 13:21,22)
Sometimes God leads us the hard way instead of the easy way because He is doing a special work in us. How will we ever learn to lean on Him if everything in our lives is easy enough for us to handle by our selves? God led the children of Israel the long, difficult way through the wilderness to prepare them for the battles they would face in possessing the Promised Land. He was concerned that when they saw the enemy they might run back to Egypt and become enslaved again in their former bandage. God wanted to teach them Who He was and that they could depend on Him to fight their battles.
Many of us think that when we enter into our Promised Land we will have not more spiritual battles. Not so! After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River and went in to possess the land of promise, the fought one battle after another. But as they learned to fight in God's strength and under His direction, they won their battles.
If you know God has asked you to do something, do not back down just because it gets hard. When things get tough, spend more time with Him, lean more on Him and receive more grace from Him. Realize the grace comes at no cost to you; GRACE IS THE POWER OF GOD working in you and through you to do those things you cannot do. As you face challenges in your life, beware of thoughts that say, I can't do this; it's just too hard. Do not let your mind give up! Satan knows that if he can defeat you in your mind, he can defeat you in your experience. That is why it is so important not to lose heart and not to grow weary or faint. You can be sure that wherever God leads you, He is able to keep you. He never will allow more to come on you than you can bear (see 1 Corinthians 10:13). You do not have to live in a constant struggle if you learn to continually lean on Him for the strength you need.
Page 108
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Notes And Commentary By Joyce Meyer
And all ways remember God loves you.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Does Your Faith Work?
[If we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love.
(Galatians 5:6)
Many people think great faith is the number one sign of spiritual maturity, but I believe the truest test of spiritual maturity is walking in love. Our love walk energizes our faith. We cannot have a good relationship with God without having faith in God, but love demonstrates, empowers, and expresses our faith. If we truly love God and have faith in Him, we will also love people.
Today's verse teaches us that faith works through love, and love is not talk or theory; it's action. In fact, the Bible says that we cannot be walking in love if we see a brother in need, have what it takes to meet his need, and will not help him (see 1 John 3:17).
Jesus also said all the law and all the prophets are summed up in love when He declared: " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself'. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 22:37-40 NKJV). Jesus gave these words to people asking which commandment was most important. They basically said to Him: "Just give us the bottom line, Jesus." He replied: "Okay. You want the bottom line? You want to fully obey all the law and all the prophets? Then love Me and love people." It's that simple. Jesus let people know that walking in love is the key to living a life that is pleasing to Him. Trying to walk in faith without love is like a having a flashlight with no battery. We must be sure that we keep our love battery charged at all times. Otherwise our faith will not work!
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God is love and the ore we know Him, the more we will love others.
Page 312
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By Joyce Meyer
Please always remember God loves you.
(Galatians 5:6)
Many people think great faith is the number one sign of spiritual maturity, but I believe the truest test of spiritual maturity is walking in love. Our love walk energizes our faith. We cannot have a good relationship with God without having faith in God, but love demonstrates, empowers, and expresses our faith. If we truly love God and have faith in Him, we will also love people.
Today's verse teaches us that faith works through love, and love is not talk or theory; it's action. In fact, the Bible says that we cannot be walking in love if we see a brother in need, have what it takes to meet his need, and will not help him (see 1 John 3:17).
Jesus also said all the law and all the prophets are summed up in love when He declared: " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself'. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 22:37-40 NKJV). Jesus gave these words to people asking which commandment was most important. They basically said to Him: "Just give us the bottom line, Jesus." He replied: "Okay. You want the bottom line? You want to fully obey all the law and all the prophets? Then love Me and love people." It's that simple. Jesus let people know that walking in love is the key to living a life that is pleasing to Him. Trying to walk in faith without love is like a having a flashlight with no battery. We must be sure that we keep our love battery charged at all times. Otherwise our faith will not work!
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God is love and the ore we know Him, the more we will love others.
Page 312
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By Joyce Meyer
Please always remember God loves you.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
You Are Responsible for Your Own Life
Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only.
(-James 1:22 (KJV)
One of the biggest problems in society today is that people don't want to take responsibility for their lives. They want quick fixes. Society has trained them to believe that if they have problems, somebody else is responsible. Their parents are responsible. Their spouses are responsible. Their schools or employers are responsible. The company that made the cigarettes or vehicle or junk food is responsible.
I'm not saying you are responsible for the current state of your life. Lots of uncontrollable events occur in our lives. Sometimes we do get very bad messages in childhood. Sometimes we have bad people in our lives who hurt us. The situation you find yourself in may or may not be your fault. But it is your fault if you take it lying down! You do not have to stay in that bad situation. You get to make a choice. And that choice is 100 percent yours.
No matter how you got to where you find yourself today, don't let it be an excuse to stay there. I had many excuses and reasons for my poor health, bad attitude, and unbalanced life. As long as I offered excuses, I never made progress.
The time has come to be very honest with yourself and with God. When you have a moment of privacy, take a deep breath, clear you head, and repeat this phrase: "I am responsible for my own life. No one can take charge of it but me. If I am unhappy or unhealthy, I know I have the power to change that. I have all the help and knowledge I need; and with God's hand today, I start becoming the person of excellence I have always known I could be."
Page 312
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please remember God loves you.
(-James 1:22 (KJV)
One of the biggest problems in society today is that people don't want to take responsibility for their lives. They want quick fixes. Society has trained them to believe that if they have problems, somebody else is responsible. Their parents are responsible. Their spouses are responsible. Their schools or employers are responsible. The company that made the cigarettes or vehicle or junk food is responsible.
I'm not saying you are responsible for the current state of your life. Lots of uncontrollable events occur in our lives. Sometimes we do get very bad messages in childhood. Sometimes we have bad people in our lives who hurt us. The situation you find yourself in may or may not be your fault. But it is your fault if you take it lying down! You do not have to stay in that bad situation. You get to make a choice. And that choice is 100 percent yours.
No matter how you got to where you find yourself today, don't let it be an excuse to stay there. I had many excuses and reasons for my poor health, bad attitude, and unbalanced life. As long as I offered excuses, I never made progress.
The time has come to be very honest with yourself and with God. When you have a moment of privacy, take a deep breath, clear you head, and repeat this phrase: "I am responsible for my own life. No one can take charge of it but me. If I am unhappy or unhealthy, I know I have the power to change that. I have all the help and knowledge I need; and with God's hand today, I start becoming the person of excellence I have always known I could be."
Page 312
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please remember God loves you.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Meditation Produces Success
The Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
(-Joshua 1:8)
Most people do not delve into the Word of God very deeply. As a result, they get confused about why they are not powerful Christians living victorious lives. The truth is that most of them really don't put much effort of their own into the study of the Word. They may go out and hear others teach and preach the Word. They may listen to sermon tapes or read the Bible occasionally, but they are not really dedicated to making the Word a major part of the their lives, including spending time thinking about it.
The flesh is basically lazy, and many people want to get something for nothing (with no effort on their part); however, that really is not the way it works. A person will get out of the Word what he is willing to put into it.
If you want to be a success and prosper in all your dealings, the Bible says you must meditate on the Word of God day and night. How much time do you spend thinking about the Word of God? If you are having problems in any area of your life, an honest answer to this question may disclose the reason why.
Page 311
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
How much time do you spend thinking about the Word of God? The Bible says that if you want to find wise answers to your problems and be successful and prosperous in all your dealings, you need to meditate on the Word of God day and night
(see Joshua 1:8).
For most of my life, I did not think about what I was thinking about. I simply thought whatever crossed my mind because I did not know that Satan could inject thoughts into my brain. Most of my thoughts were either lies from Satan or just plain nonsense-things that wasted my time because they were not truly important. The devil was controlling my life because he was controlling my thoughts. Meditate on God's Word and you can push back the enemy. When you fill your mind with God's truth, you will find that your thoughts are thoughts of truth, freedom, victory, and peace.
(Life Point) page 334
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Note and Commentary By: Joyce Meyer
Please aways remember God loves you, and He would love if you loved Him back.
(-Joshua 1:8)
Most people do not delve into the Word of God very deeply. As a result, they get confused about why they are not powerful Christians living victorious lives. The truth is that most of them really don't put much effort of their own into the study of the Word. They may go out and hear others teach and preach the Word. They may listen to sermon tapes or read the Bible occasionally, but they are not really dedicated to making the Word a major part of the their lives, including spending time thinking about it.
The flesh is basically lazy, and many people want to get something for nothing (with no effort on their part); however, that really is not the way it works. A person will get out of the Word what he is willing to put into it.
If you want to be a success and prosper in all your dealings, the Bible says you must meditate on the Word of God day and night. How much time do you spend thinking about the Word of God? If you are having problems in any area of your life, an honest answer to this question may disclose the reason why.
Page 311
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
How much time do you spend thinking about the Word of God? The Bible says that if you want to find wise answers to your problems and be successful and prosperous in all your dealings, you need to meditate on the Word of God day and night
(see Joshua 1:8).
For most of my life, I did not think about what I was thinking about. I simply thought whatever crossed my mind because I did not know that Satan could inject thoughts into my brain. Most of my thoughts were either lies from Satan or just plain nonsense-things that wasted my time because they were not truly important. The devil was controlling my life because he was controlling my thoughts. Meditate on God's Word and you can push back the enemy. When you fill your mind with God's truth, you will find that your thoughts are thoughts of truth, freedom, victory, and peace.
(Life Point) page 334
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Note and Commentary By: Joyce Meyer
Please aways remember God loves you, and He would love if you loved Him back.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Led by the Spirit
If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. [If by the Holy Spirit we have our life in God, let us go forward walking in line, our conduct controlled by the Spirit.]
(Galatians 5:25)
Today's verse speaks of living and walking by the Spirit, which are the same as being led by the Spirit. There are many things available to lead us-people, the devil, the flesh (our own bodies, minds, wills, or emotions), or the Holy Spirit. There are many voices in the world that speak to us, and often several that do so at the same time. It is imperative that we learn how to be led by the Holy Spirit. Remember: He is the One Who knows the will of God and Who is sent to dwell in each of us to aid us in being all God has designed us to be and to have all He wants us to have.
The Holy Spirit lives in us to help us. His help may not always be welcome at first, but, thank God, He is persistent and will not give up on us. We should lift up our entire lives daily and say with all our might, "Holy Spirit, You are welcome in every area of my life!"
When you welcome the Holy Spirit in every area of your life, He will come. He will speak to you, guide you, correct you, help you, empower you, and lead you. Other forces may try to lead you, but the Holy Spirit gives you power to resist them and enables you to follow Him.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Ask yourself who is leading your life. Is it you, other people, emotions, the lies of Satan, or the Holy Spirit?
Page 308
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please always remember God loves you.
(Galatians 5:25)
Today's verse speaks of living and walking by the Spirit, which are the same as being led by the Spirit. There are many things available to lead us-people, the devil, the flesh (our own bodies, minds, wills, or emotions), or the Holy Spirit. There are many voices in the world that speak to us, and often several that do so at the same time. It is imperative that we learn how to be led by the Holy Spirit. Remember: He is the One Who knows the will of God and Who is sent to dwell in each of us to aid us in being all God has designed us to be and to have all He wants us to have.
The Holy Spirit lives in us to help us. His help may not always be welcome at first, but, thank God, He is persistent and will not give up on us. We should lift up our entire lives daily and say with all our might, "Holy Spirit, You are welcome in every area of my life!"
When you welcome the Holy Spirit in every area of your life, He will come. He will speak to you, guide you, correct you, help you, empower you, and lead you. Other forces may try to lead you, but the Holy Spirit gives you power to resist them and enables you to follow Him.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Ask yourself who is leading your life. Is it you, other people, emotions, the lies of Satan, or the Holy Spirit?
Page 308
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please always remember God loves you.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Forgiveness Is Essential
Whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that you Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop.
(Mark 11:25)
If we want to hear from God, we simply must have clean hearts when we approach Him-and one sure way to be clean before Him is to make sure that we have forgiven everyone who has hurt or offended us. Forgiveness is not easy, but it is a prerequisite for effective prayer, as we read in today's verse.
Although Jesus' disciples were familiar with His teachings on forgiveness, they still found it a challenge. Peter asked Him one day, "Lord, how many times may my brother sin against me and I forgive him and let it go? [As many as] up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21). Jesus essentially said: "No. How about seventy times seven?" The number "seven" represents completion or perfection, so all Jesus was really saying was: "Don't place any limits on forgiveness; just keep on doing it."
When we forgive, we are being Christlike; we are action as God acts-because He is a forgiving God. Forgiveness is manifested mercy; it is love in action-not love based on a feeling, but love based on decision, and intentional choice to obey God. In fact, I believe forgiveness is the highest form of love. Forgiveness and love go hand in hand and expressing them honors and glorifies God, puts us in agreement with Him, and causes us to obey His Word-which helps us hear His voice.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Be sure you forgive quickly, frequently, and completely.
Page 264
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please remember God loves you.
(Mark 11:25)
If we want to hear from God, we simply must have clean hearts when we approach Him-and one sure way to be clean before Him is to make sure that we have forgiven everyone who has hurt or offended us. Forgiveness is not easy, but it is a prerequisite for effective prayer, as we read in today's verse.
Although Jesus' disciples were familiar with His teachings on forgiveness, they still found it a challenge. Peter asked Him one day, "Lord, how many times may my brother sin against me and I forgive him and let it go? [As many as] up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21). Jesus essentially said: "No. How about seventy times seven?" The number "seven" represents completion or perfection, so all Jesus was really saying was: "Don't place any limits on forgiveness; just keep on doing it."
When we forgive, we are being Christlike; we are action as God acts-because He is a forgiving God. Forgiveness is manifested mercy; it is love in action-not love based on a feeling, but love based on decision, and intentional choice to obey God. In fact, I believe forgiveness is the highest form of love. Forgiveness and love go hand in hand and expressing them honors and glorifies God, puts us in agreement with Him, and causes us to obey His Word-which helps us hear His voice.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Be sure you forgive quickly, frequently, and completely.
Page 264
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please remember God loves you.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
The Foundation of Happiness
All has been heard; the end of the matter is: Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that His is] and keep His commandments, for this is the whole of mean [the full, original purpose of His creation, ... the foundation of all happiness ...] and the whole [duty] for every man.
(Ecclesiastes 12:13)
The writer of Ecclesiastes was a man who literally tried everything to be happy. He restrained himself from no earthly pleasure. Anything his eyes desired, he took. He ate, drank, and made merry. He had tremendous knowledge, wisdom, and respect, yet he hated life. Everything began to appear useless to him. He tried to figure out what life was all about and became more and more confused.
Finally, he realized what his problem had been all along. He had not been obeying God's commandments. He was unhappy because of it and made the statement that the foundation of all happiness is obedience.
There are many, many, sad, grieved individuals walking around blaming their unhappy lives on people and circumstances, failing to realize the the reason for their dissatisfaction is their disobedience toward God.
I believe you want to be happy. The key to happiness is obeying God. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says that obedience is "the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstance." That means that anything out of order or harmony got that way through disobedience and only obedience can bring it back into harmony. Every time we obey God, something in our lives improves.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Set you mind to obey God in all things and your joy will increase
Page 304
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you. Just go to Him any time and talk to God about any thing He is right there waiting to hear your voice call out to Him.
(Ecclesiastes 12:13)
The writer of Ecclesiastes was a man who literally tried everything to be happy. He restrained himself from no earthly pleasure. Anything his eyes desired, he took. He ate, drank, and made merry. He had tremendous knowledge, wisdom, and respect, yet he hated life. Everything began to appear useless to him. He tried to figure out what life was all about and became more and more confused.
Finally, he realized what his problem had been all along. He had not been obeying God's commandments. He was unhappy because of it and made the statement that the foundation of all happiness is obedience.
There are many, many, sad, grieved individuals walking around blaming their unhappy lives on people and circumstances, failing to realize the the reason for their dissatisfaction is their disobedience toward God.
I believe you want to be happy. The key to happiness is obeying God. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says that obedience is "the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstance." That means that anything out of order or harmony got that way through disobedience and only obedience can bring it back into harmony. Every time we obey God, something in our lives improves.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Set you mind to obey God in all things and your joy will increase
Page 304
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you. Just go to Him any time and talk to God about any thing He is right there waiting to hear your voice call out to Him.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Fill Up Your Love Tank
May Christ through you faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His Permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love.
(-Ephesians 3:17)
Each one of us is born with a "love tank," and if our tank is empty, we are in trouble. We need to start receiving love from the moment we are born and continue receiving it -and giving it out -until the day we die. Sometimes Satan manages to arrange things so that instead of receiving love, we receive abuse. If that abuse continues, we become love starved and warped, so that we are unable to maintain healthy relationships.
Many people develop addictive behaviors of different types. If they can't get good feelings from within themselves, they look for them on the outside. One of the things we must understand is that people have to have a certain number of good feelings. We are all created to have a good feelings about ourselves, We cannot go around hurting, being wounded, and feeling bad all the time. We are just not designed to live that way.
To find those good feelings, many people turn to sex, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, food, money, power, gambling, work, television, sports, and many other addictive things. They are simply trying to get those good feelings they are missing from within themselves and their relationships.
The good news is that whatever may have happened to us in the past, whatever we may have been deprived of, we can get it from the Lord. He is our Shepherd, so we shall not want (see Psalm 23:1). He has promised not to withhold any good thing from us (see Psalm 84:11).
If we did not get enough love when we were growing up, or if we are not getting enough love now, we don't have to go through the rest of our lives with an empty "love tank." Even if there is not one other human being on this earth who loves us, we are still loved by God, and we can become rooted and grounded in His love.
Page 302
New Day New You
36 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please always remember God loves you so very much, and He wants and needs you to just love Him back.
(-Ephesians 3:17)
Each one of us is born with a "love tank," and if our tank is empty, we are in trouble. We need to start receiving love from the moment we are born and continue receiving it -and giving it out -until the day we die. Sometimes Satan manages to arrange things so that instead of receiving love, we receive abuse. If that abuse continues, we become love starved and warped, so that we are unable to maintain healthy relationships.
Many people develop addictive behaviors of different types. If they can't get good feelings from within themselves, they look for them on the outside. One of the things we must understand is that people have to have a certain number of good feelings. We are all created to have a good feelings about ourselves, We cannot go around hurting, being wounded, and feeling bad all the time. We are just not designed to live that way.
To find those good feelings, many people turn to sex, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, food, money, power, gambling, work, television, sports, and many other addictive things. They are simply trying to get those good feelings they are missing from within themselves and their relationships.
The good news is that whatever may have happened to us in the past, whatever we may have been deprived of, we can get it from the Lord. He is our Shepherd, so we shall not want (see Psalm 23:1). He has promised not to withhold any good thing from us (see Psalm 84:11).
If we did not get enough love when we were growing up, or if we are not getting enough love now, we don't have to go through the rest of our lives with an empty "love tank." Even if there is not one other human being on this earth who loves us, we are still loved by God, and we can become rooted and grounded in His love.
Page 302
New Day New You
36 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please always remember God loves you so very much, and He wants and needs you to just love Him back.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].
(Ephesians 2:10)
Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are God's own handiwork. He created us with His own hands. We human beings got messed up along the way, so we were re-created in Christ Jesus. We had to be born again spiritually so we could go ahead and do the good works that God preplanned for us before Satan tried to ruin us.
Just because you and I have made mistakes or have trouble in our lives, does not mean that God's plan has changed. It is still there. All we have to do is get back in it by trusting and obeying Him.
Life Point
Page 1932
The Everyday Life Bible
The power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Notes And Commentary By
(Ephesians 2:10)
Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are God's own handiwork. He created us with His own hands. We human beings got messed up along the way, so we were re-created in Christ Jesus. We had to be born again spiritually so we could go ahead and do the good works that God preplanned for us before Satan tried to ruin us.
Just because you and I have made mistakes or have trouble in our lives, does not mean that God's plan has changed. It is still there. All we have to do is get back in it by trusting and obeying Him.
Life Point
Page 1932
The Everyday Life Bible
The power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Notes And Commentary By
Friday, October 26, 2012
Getting Past Your Past
For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.
(Jeremiah 29:11)
A lot of people let the past dictate their future. Don't do that! Get past your past. We all have a past, but we all have a future. The Bible teaches us in Ephesians 2:10 that we are re-created in Christ Jesus so we might do the good works He planned beforehand for us and live the good life He prearranged and made ready for us. The word re-created indicates we were created, messed up, and in need of repair.
In Jeremiah 18:1-4 we re of the potter who had to remake his vessel because it had been marred. That is a picture of us in the hands of the Lord, the Master Potter. We are said to be new creatures when we enter into a relationship with Christ. Old things pass away. We have an opportunity for a new beginning. We become new spiritual clay for the Holy Spirit to work with. God makes arrangements for each of us to have a fresh start, but we must be willing to let go of the past and go on. We make a way for the new by believing what god says about it.
Don't let your past failures leave you hopeless about your future success. Your future has no room in it for the failures of the past. As I have stated, just because you have failed at some things does not make you a failure. Whatever Satan has stolen through deception, God will restore doubled, if you are willing to press forward, forgetting the past. You have to let go in order to go on!
Page 300
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
(Jeremiah 29:11)
A lot of people let the past dictate their future. Don't do that! Get past your past. We all have a past, but we all have a future. The Bible teaches us in Ephesians 2:10 that we are re-created in Christ Jesus so we might do the good works He planned beforehand for us and live the good life He prearranged and made ready for us. The word re-created indicates we were created, messed up, and in need of repair.
In Jeremiah 18:1-4 we re of the potter who had to remake his vessel because it had been marred. That is a picture of us in the hands of the Lord, the Master Potter. We are said to be new creatures when we enter into a relationship with Christ. Old things pass away. We have an opportunity for a new beginning. We become new spiritual clay for the Holy Spirit to work with. God makes arrangements for each of us to have a fresh start, but we must be willing to let go of the past and go on. We make a way for the new by believing what god says about it.
Don't let your past failures leave you hopeless about your future success. Your future has no room in it for the failures of the past. As I have stated, just because you have failed at some things does not make you a failure. Whatever Satan has stolen through deception, God will restore doubled, if you are willing to press forward, forgetting the past. You have to let go in order to go on!
Page 300
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
THE EVERYDAY LIFE BIBLE AMPLIFIED VERSION
THE WORD which came to Jeremiah from the Lord:
Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words.
Then I went down to the potter's house, and behold, he was working at the wheel.
And the vessel that he was making from clay was spoiled in the hand of the potter; so he made it over, reworking it into another vessel as it seemed good to the potter to make it.
(Jeremiah 18:1-4)
In Jeremiah 18:1-4 we read of the potter who had to remake his vessel because it had been marred. That is a picture of us in the hands of the Lord, the Master Potter.
When we enter into a relationship with Christ, the Bible tells us that we become new creations (see II Corinthians 5:17). Old things have passed away, and we are given an opportunity for a new beginning. We become new spiritual clay for the Holy Spirit to work with. I believe that He is shaping you into a beautiful vessel, perfectly designed for the great purposes He has for your life.
Life Point
page 1177
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Notes And Commentary By
Joyce Meyer
Please give yourself completely to the Lord, love Him with all you whole heart, trust in God, He will never lead you wrong. God loves you.
Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words.
Then I went down to the potter's house, and behold, he was working at the wheel.
And the vessel that he was making from clay was spoiled in the hand of the potter; so he made it over, reworking it into another vessel as it seemed good to the potter to make it.
(Jeremiah 18:1-4)
In Jeremiah 18:1-4 we read of the potter who had to remake his vessel because it had been marred. That is a picture of us in the hands of the Lord, the Master Potter.
When we enter into a relationship with Christ, the Bible tells us that we become new creations (see II Corinthians 5:17). Old things have passed away, and we are given an opportunity for a new beginning. We become new spiritual clay for the Holy Spirit to work with. I believe that He is shaping you into a beautiful vessel, perfectly designed for the great purposes He has for your life.
Life Point
page 1177
The Everyday Life Bible
The Power of God's Word for Everyday Living
Amplified Version
Featuring Notes And Commentary By
Joyce Meyer
Please give yourself completely to the Lord, love Him with all you whole heart, trust in God, He will never lead you wrong. God loves you.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
We All Work Together
As in one physical body we have many parts...and all of these parts do not have the same function or use, so we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another].
(Romans 12:4-5)
Today's verses teach us about the diversity of gifts given to individuals. We are all parts of one body in Christ, and He is the Head. In the physical realm, all body parts must relate to the head if everything is to be in good working order. The various parts of the physical body word together; they are not jealous or competitive. The hands help the feet put their shoes on. The feet take the body wherever it needs to go. The mouth does the talking for the rest of the body. There are many parts to the body; they don't all have the same function, but they all work together for one combined purpose. The spiritual body of Christ should work the same way. That is why the Holy Spirit used the example of the physical body when He inspired Paul to write the book of Romans.
When we attempt to function in any way other than the way God has created and assigned us to function, we end up with pressure in our lives. But when we do what God has designed us to do, we experience joy, satisfaction, and great reward. We need to work with the Holy Spirit to discover what our unique, customized destiny is, and then do everything we can do to fulfill it. When God has gifted or enabled you to do something you will be good at it, so find something you are good at and start doing it.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: If you want to be used by God, then find a need and meet it.
Page 296
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And remember God loves you very much.
(Romans 12:4-5)
Today's verses teach us about the diversity of gifts given to individuals. We are all parts of one body in Christ, and He is the Head. In the physical realm, all body parts must relate to the head if everything is to be in good working order. The various parts of the physical body word together; they are not jealous or competitive. The hands help the feet put their shoes on. The feet take the body wherever it needs to go. The mouth does the talking for the rest of the body. There are many parts to the body; they don't all have the same function, but they all work together for one combined purpose. The spiritual body of Christ should work the same way. That is why the Holy Spirit used the example of the physical body when He inspired Paul to write the book of Romans.
When we attempt to function in any way other than the way God has created and assigned us to function, we end up with pressure in our lives. But when we do what God has designed us to do, we experience joy, satisfaction, and great reward. We need to work with the Holy Spirit to discover what our unique, customized destiny is, and then do everything we can do to fulfill it. When God has gifted or enabled you to do something you will be good at it, so find something you are good at and start doing it.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: If you want to be used by God, then find a need and meet it.
Page 296
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And remember God loves you very much.
Friday, October 19, 2012
The Holy Spirit Is a Gentleman
To the end that through [their receiving] Christ Jesus, the blessing [promised] to Abraham might come upon the Gentiles, so that we through faith might [all] receive [the realization of ] the promise of the [Holy] Spirit.
(Galatians 3:14)
In this book, I have written a great deal about the Holy Spirit and about being filled with the Spirit, and I want to make sure you have an opportunity to know the Holy Spirit in this way as you journey through these pages.
The Holy Spirit is a gentleman. He will not force Himself into you life in His fullness uninvited. He will fill you, but only if you ask Him to do so. In Luke 11:13, Jesus promises that God will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. And James 4:2 tells us that the reason we do not have certain things is that we do not ask for them.
I encourage you to go boldly before God and daily ask Him to fill you with the Holy Spirit. Ask expecting to receive. Don't be double-minded or allow doubt to fill your heart, but ask in faith. Believe you receive, and thank God that He lives in you. God is not a man, that He should lie (see Numbers 23:19). He is faithful to fulfill His Word whenever anyone steps out on it in faith, so ask and receive that you joy might be full (see John 16:24).
Today's verse says that we receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Gifts cannot be forced on anyone; they must be offered by the giver and then received by those to whom they are offered. God makes the offer of His Spirit, so all you need to do is relax and receive by faith.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Never be shy about asking and continuing to ask God to meet all of your needs.
Page 292
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please always say it to yourself and believe it by faith (God loves me and I love Him), (God loves me, God love me!, God love me and I love Him). Just say it all the time, plant it in your heart, and know in your heart that God loves you, and do not let any one of no body in this world tell you different.
(Galatians 3:14)
In this book, I have written a great deal about the Holy Spirit and about being filled with the Spirit, and I want to make sure you have an opportunity to know the Holy Spirit in this way as you journey through these pages.
The Holy Spirit is a gentleman. He will not force Himself into you life in His fullness uninvited. He will fill you, but only if you ask Him to do so. In Luke 11:13, Jesus promises that God will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. And James 4:2 tells us that the reason we do not have certain things is that we do not ask for them.
I encourage you to go boldly before God and daily ask Him to fill you with the Holy Spirit. Ask expecting to receive. Don't be double-minded or allow doubt to fill your heart, but ask in faith. Believe you receive, and thank God that He lives in you. God is not a man, that He should lie (see Numbers 23:19). He is faithful to fulfill His Word whenever anyone steps out on it in faith, so ask and receive that you joy might be full (see John 16:24).
Today's verse says that we receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Gifts cannot be forced on anyone; they must be offered by the giver and then received by those to whom they are offered. God makes the offer of His Spirit, so all you need to do is relax and receive by faith.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Never be shy about asking and continuing to ask God to meet all of your needs.
Page 292
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please always say it to yourself and believe it by faith (God loves me and I love Him), (God loves me, God love me!, God love me and I love Him). Just say it all the time, plant it in your heart, and know in your heart that God loves you, and do not let any one of no body in this world tell you different.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Out of the Spirit, Not the Head
[For being as he is] a man of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), [he is] unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything [he thinks, feels, decides].
-(James 1:8)
You and I have two huge vats of information within us. One is carnal information that comes off the top of our head. The other is spiritual information which wells up out of our hearts. One is muddy, polluted water, and the other is clean drinking water. It is up to us to decide which sources we are going to drink from. Some people try to drink from both sources. That's what the Bible calls being double-minded.
do you know what it means to be double-minded? It means that your mind is trying to tell you one thing, and your spirit is trying to tell you just the opposite. Instead of saying, "I'm not going to believe that because it's a lie," you get caught in a cross fire, going back and forth between the two thoughts.
If you and I are ever going to live the happy, victorious, and successful Christian life the Lord wills for us, we are going to have to decide which fountain of information we are going to drink from. We are going to have to learn to live out of our spirits and not out of our heads.
Page 291
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please please always remember God loves you, and He is always there if you need Him, all you have to do is just call out to Him and ask Him for the help you need.
-(James 1:8)
You and I have two huge vats of information within us. One is carnal information that comes off the top of our head. The other is spiritual information which wells up out of our hearts. One is muddy, polluted water, and the other is clean drinking water. It is up to us to decide which sources we are going to drink from. Some people try to drink from both sources. That's what the Bible calls being double-minded.
do you know what it means to be double-minded? It means that your mind is trying to tell you one thing, and your spirit is trying to tell you just the opposite. Instead of saying, "I'm not going to believe that because it's a lie," you get caught in a cross fire, going back and forth between the two thoughts.
If you and I are ever going to live the happy, victorious, and successful Christian life the Lord wills for us, we are going to have to decide which fountain of information we are going to drink from. We are going to have to learn to live out of our spirits and not out of our heads.
Page 291
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please please always remember God loves you, and He is always there if you need Him, all you have to do is just call out to Him and ask Him for the help you need.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
The Answer Is Not in the Stars
Turn not to those [mediums] who have familiar spirits or to wizards; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God.
(Leviticus 19:31)
As believers, we have access to God and to the spiritual realm. We can hear God's voice and receive direction from Him. Many people want spiritual guidance, but not everyone seeks it from God.
Many people worldwide seek advice and direction from the stars, psychics, fortune-tellers, and other such things and people. This is wrong and offensive to God. Satan deceives a lot of people through this avenue. People are searching for direction and soultions for their lives, but sadly they have not been taught that God will provide it. My purpose in witing today's devotional is to let you know that God wants to be your source of information. He wants to give you daily guidance for your life through His Word and His Spirit.
I once worked with a woman who was deeply involved in astrology. She consulted the stars before making any decisions. She even checked with the alignment of the stars to see what day she should get her hair cut. Why should we consult the stars when we can consult God, Who made the stars?
If you are involved in seeking guidance or direction from any source besides God, I urge you to repent, turn to Him, and ask the Holy Spirit to be your only guide in life from now on.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Seek information and guidance from God alone.
Page 289
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please always remember that God loves you so very much, He just would love you to love Him back.
(Leviticus 19:31)
As believers, we have access to God and to the spiritual realm. We can hear God's voice and receive direction from Him. Many people want spiritual guidance, but not everyone seeks it from God.
Many people worldwide seek advice and direction from the stars, psychics, fortune-tellers, and other such things and people. This is wrong and offensive to God. Satan deceives a lot of people through this avenue. People are searching for direction and soultions for their lives, but sadly they have not been taught that God will provide it. My purpose in witing today's devotional is to let you know that God wants to be your source of information. He wants to give you daily guidance for your life through His Word and His Spirit.
I once worked with a woman who was deeply involved in astrology. She consulted the stars before making any decisions. She even checked with the alignment of the stars to see what day she should get her hair cut. Why should we consult the stars when we can consult God, Who made the stars?
If you are involved in seeking guidance or direction from any source besides God, I urge you to repent, turn to Him, and ask the Holy Spirit to be your only guide in life from now on.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Seek information and guidance from God alone.
Page 289
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please always remember that God loves you so very much, He just would love you to love Him back.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Open the Door
Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears and listens to and heeds My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will eat with him, and he [will eat] with Me.
(Revelation 3:20)
As I opened the door of my heart to the fullness of the Holy Spirit's ministry in my life, He began to speak to me and deal with me about every area of my life; there was nothing He was not involved in. I liked it, but I didn't like it, if you know what I mean.
God spoke to me about how I talked to people and about them. He spoke about how I spent my money, how I dressed, who my friends were, and what I did for entertainment. He talked to me about my thoughts and my attitudes. I realized He knew my deepest secrets and that nothing was hidden from Him. He was no longer in the "Sunday morning room" of my life, but it seemed as though He was running the entire house! I never knew when He might begin to speak to me about something in my life. As I mentioned, it was exciting, but it was also challenging because I knew His speaking to me would lead to many changes in my life.
We all want change in certain areas, but when it comes, it can be frightening. We often want our lives to change, but not our lifestyles. We my not like what we have in life, but we wonder if it may be better than the alternatives. We can become anxious or even afraid of losing control over our lives and allowing Someone we cannot see to take over.
To hear and obey the voice of God as He works in our lives means living for His pleasure and glory, not our own. We may be nervous of apprehensive about opening the doors of every area of our lives to Him but I guarantee that it is worth it.
GOD'S WORDS FOR YOU TODAY: Invite God into every area of your life.
Page 285
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please remember and never ever forget that God loved you first and He loves you with all His Heart. And also remember God wants you to love Him back.
(Revelation 3:20)
As I opened the door of my heart to the fullness of the Holy Spirit's ministry in my life, He began to speak to me and deal with me about every area of my life; there was nothing He was not involved in. I liked it, but I didn't like it, if you know what I mean.
God spoke to me about how I talked to people and about them. He spoke about how I spent my money, how I dressed, who my friends were, and what I did for entertainment. He talked to me about my thoughts and my attitudes. I realized He knew my deepest secrets and that nothing was hidden from Him. He was no longer in the "Sunday morning room" of my life, but it seemed as though He was running the entire house! I never knew when He might begin to speak to me about something in my life. As I mentioned, it was exciting, but it was also challenging because I knew His speaking to me would lead to many changes in my life.
We all want change in certain areas, but when it comes, it can be frightening. We often want our lives to change, but not our lifestyles. We my not like what we have in life, but we wonder if it may be better than the alternatives. We can become anxious or even afraid of losing control over our lives and allowing Someone we cannot see to take over.
To hear and obey the voice of God as He works in our lives means living for His pleasure and glory, not our own. We may be nervous of apprehensive about opening the doors of every area of our lives to Him but I guarantee that it is worth it.
GOD'S WORDS FOR YOU TODAY: Invite God into every area of your life.
Page 285
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please remember and never ever forget that God loved you first and He loves you with all His Heart. And also remember God wants you to love Him back.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Speak as God Speaks
But avoid all empty (vain, useless, idle) talk, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.
(2 Timothy 2:16)
Avoid all empty, idle, vain, and useless talk. Instead, learn to speak as God speaks. It is the Word of God, spoken in truth and love from your lips, that will return to Him after accomplishing His will and purpose. But in order to speak that Word in truth and love, your heart must be right before the Lord, for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks-for good or for evil. You are bound by your word, by your declarations.
You are also judged by them. Watchman Nee once said, "If you listen to a person, you can detect by their words the spirit that is coming forth from them." That is why it is so important to place a guard upon your lips so that what issues forth from them is not only truthful but also kind and positive and edifying and in line with the will of God.
You can change your action and behavior, but to do so you must first change your thoughts and words. And to do that, you need to help of the indwelling Spirit of God. If you truly want your life to be totally different, then submit yourself to the Lord and in humility ask Him to transform you into the image and nature of His Son Jesus Christ. He is doing that for me; and if He can do it for me, He can-and will-do it for you too.
Page 284
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please always remember God loves you. Say to yourself all the time, God loves me and I know it, God loves me and I know it, God loves me and I know it.
(2 Timothy 2:16)
Avoid all empty, idle, vain, and useless talk. Instead, learn to speak as God speaks. It is the Word of God, spoken in truth and love from your lips, that will return to Him after accomplishing His will and purpose. But in order to speak that Word in truth and love, your heart must be right before the Lord, for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks-for good or for evil. You are bound by your word, by your declarations.
You are also judged by them. Watchman Nee once said, "If you listen to a person, you can detect by their words the spirit that is coming forth from them." That is why it is so important to place a guard upon your lips so that what issues forth from them is not only truthful but also kind and positive and edifying and in line with the will of God.
You can change your action and behavior, but to do so you must first change your thoughts and words. And to do that, you need to help of the indwelling Spirit of God. If you truly want your life to be totally different, then submit yourself to the Lord and in humility ask Him to transform you into the image and nature of His Son Jesus Christ. He is doing that for me; and if He can do it for me, He can-and will-do it for you too.
Page 284
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
And please always remember God loves you. Say to yourself all the time, God loves me and I know it, God loves me and I know it, God loves me and I know it.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
The "Holy Thing"
The angel said to her, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you [like a shining cloud]; and so the holy (pure, sinless) Thing (Offspring) which shall be born of you will be called the Son of God.
(Luke 1:35)
The Virgin Mary became pregnant by the working of the Holy Spirit, Who came upon her and, according to today's verse, planted in her womb a "holy Thing." The Spirit of Holiness was planted in her as a Seed. In her womb the Seed grew into the Son of God and the Son of Man, Who was necessary to deliver people from their sins.
When we are born again, a similar dynamic takes place in us. The "holy Thing," the Spirit of Holiness, is planted in us as a Seed. As we water that Seed with God's Word and keep the "weeds of worldliness"from choking it out, it will grow into a giant tree of righteousness, "the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified" (Isaiah 61:3).
God's Word teaches us to pursue holiness (see Hebrews 12:14). When we set our hearts on this pursuit, the Spirit of Holiness helps us. If we want to be holy, we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit and permit Him to speak to us, correct us, guide us, and help us in every area of our lives.
Never forget that a "holy Thin" lives inside of you. Water that seed with God's Word and let the Holy Spirit speak to you and teach you how to help it grow.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: The Holy Spirit desires to be your close companion as He teaches and instructs you in holiness.
Page 282
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please always remember God loves you. Say it to yourself all the time (God love me!)
(Luke 1:35)
The Virgin Mary became pregnant by the working of the Holy Spirit, Who came upon her and, according to today's verse, planted in her womb a "holy Thing." The Spirit of Holiness was planted in her as a Seed. In her womb the Seed grew into the Son of God and the Son of Man, Who was necessary to deliver people from their sins.
When we are born again, a similar dynamic takes place in us. The "holy Thing," the Spirit of Holiness, is planted in us as a Seed. As we water that Seed with God's Word and keep the "weeds of worldliness"from choking it out, it will grow into a giant tree of righteousness, "the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified" (Isaiah 61:3).
God's Word teaches us to pursue holiness (see Hebrews 12:14). When we set our hearts on this pursuit, the Spirit of Holiness helps us. If we want to be holy, we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit and permit Him to speak to us, correct us, guide us, and help us in every area of our lives.
Never forget that a "holy Thin" lives inside of you. Water that seed with God's Word and let the Holy Spirit speak to you and teach you how to help it grow.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: The Holy Spirit desires to be your close companion as He teaches and instructs you in holiness.
Page 282
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please always remember God loves you. Say it to yourself all the time (God love me!)
Monday, October 8, 2012
Good Words
Speak out to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, offering praise with voices [and instruments] and making melody with all your heart to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:19)
The King James Version translates today's verse: "Speaking to your selves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." I like to apply this Scripture both ways. The way I speak to myself is important, and the way I speak to others is important, too.
It is easy to fall into the trap of talking about negative things, problems, disappointments, and struggles. But none of that helps us stay filled with the Sprit and none of that reflects what the Holy Spirit wants to speak to us because He is not negative in any way. Even when He speaks to us about a problem, He speaks to bring a solution; He does so to bring us comfort and strength. The more we think and talk about our problems, the weaker we become, but we are strengthened as we talk and think about Jesus and His promises to us.
Life is not always easy; we all face difficulties at times. God has filled us with His Spirit to enable us to do difficult things with ease. When you are going through a hard time, keep you ear tuned in to the voice of God. Speak the positive things God say to you through His Word and through the voice of His voice of His Spirit in your heart. We all feed on our own words so it is very important to speak good words that are full of life.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Choose your words wisely today, for they have the power of life or death.
Page 280
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please always remember that God love you with all His Heart!
The King James Version translates today's verse: "Speaking to your selves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." I like to apply this Scripture both ways. The way I speak to myself is important, and the way I speak to others is important, too.
It is easy to fall into the trap of talking about negative things, problems, disappointments, and struggles. But none of that helps us stay filled with the Sprit and none of that reflects what the Holy Spirit wants to speak to us because He is not negative in any way. Even when He speaks to us about a problem, He speaks to bring a solution; He does so to bring us comfort and strength. The more we think and talk about our problems, the weaker we become, but we are strengthened as we talk and think about Jesus and His promises to us.
Life is not always easy; we all face difficulties at times. God has filled us with His Spirit to enable us to do difficult things with ease. When you are going through a hard time, keep you ear tuned in to the voice of God. Speak the positive things God say to you through His Word and through the voice of His voice of His Spirit in your heart. We all feed on our own words so it is very important to speak good words that are full of life.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Choose your words wisely today, for they have the power of life or death.
Page 280
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And please always remember that God love you with all His Heart!
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Your Father Wants to Talk to You
[The Spirit which] you have received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father!
(Romans 8:15)
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Adoption. This means that by the power of the Holy Spirit we are actually part of God's family. We were once sinners serving the devil, but God redeemed us, purchased us with the blood of His Son, and calls us His own beloved sons and daughters.
Adoption is amazing! Someone who wants a child purposely chooses one and takes them as their own to love and care for. In some instances, this can be even better than being born into a family because when children are born into a family, they are not always wanted. Sometimes their birth results from choices their parents regret. But when children are adopted, they are wanted, specifically picked out, and chosen on purpose.
When we choose to put our faith in Jesus Christ, the new birth brings us into the family of God. He becomes our Father; we become heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (see Romans 8:16 - 17). He treats us as a loving, perfect Father. A good father is not silent toward his children. He does many things for them, just as God does for us, including speaking to them to tell them how much he loves them, instructing them, guiding them, warning them, affirming them, and encouraging them. You belong to God; He has adopted you and is now your Father; and He wants to speak to you today. If you have had the painful experience of being rejected or abandoned by you natural parents, let me remind you that God adopts you and takes you ans His own child (see Psalm 27:10).
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God thinks you are special. He has chosen you to be His own child.
Page 279
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you so much, just seek Him so you can find out how much He really loves you.
(Romans 8:15)
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Adoption. This means that by the power of the Holy Spirit we are actually part of God's family. We were once sinners serving the devil, but God redeemed us, purchased us with the blood of His Son, and calls us His own beloved sons and daughters.
Adoption is amazing! Someone who wants a child purposely chooses one and takes them as their own to love and care for. In some instances, this can be even better than being born into a family because when children are born into a family, they are not always wanted. Sometimes their birth results from choices their parents regret. But when children are adopted, they are wanted, specifically picked out, and chosen on purpose.
When we choose to put our faith in Jesus Christ, the new birth brings us into the family of God. He becomes our Father; we become heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (see Romans 8:16 - 17). He treats us as a loving, perfect Father. A good father is not silent toward his children. He does many things for them, just as God does for us, including speaking to them to tell them how much he loves them, instructing them, guiding them, warning them, affirming them, and encouraging them. You belong to God; He has adopted you and is now your Father; and He wants to speak to you today. If you have had the painful experience of being rejected or abandoned by you natural parents, let me remind you that God adopts you and takes you ans His own child (see Psalm 27:10).
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God thinks you are special. He has chosen you to be His own child.
Page 279
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please all ways remember God loves you so much, just seek Him so you can find out how much He really loves you.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Manifesting Your Reality
For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix you minds on them].
(Philippians 4:8)
Manifesting your reality" sounds like something from a contemporary self-help course, but the concept comes straight out of the JBible: "As he thinks in his heart, so is he." (Proverbs 23:7) I like to say it like this "Where the mind goes, the man follows."
Positive thoughts are the precursors to a positive life. On the other hand, our lives can be made miserable by anxious thoughts and negative expectations. We usually think our problems are the thing ruining our life, but usually it is our attitude toward them that does the ruining.
We all encounter people who have a great attitude despite being in trying circumstances. We also encounter those who have money and privilege to burn, yet they murmur and complain, are negative and critical, and are filled with self-pity and resentment. We have more to do with how our lives turn out than we like to admit. Learning how to think right is mandatory for good health.
Thoughts affect emotions, and they both affect the body. In order for you to be whole, you must maintain a healthy mind. Make a decision right now that your are going to have a healthy mind. Renewing your mind will take some time and effort. You must learn new, positive ways to think, but reading God's Word can help you do just that.
Page 272
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Every Day Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
(Philippians 4:8)
Manifesting your reality" sounds like something from a contemporary self-help course, but the concept comes straight out of the JBible: "As he thinks in his heart, so is he." (Proverbs 23:7) I like to say it like this "Where the mind goes, the man follows."
Positive thoughts are the precursors to a positive life. On the other hand, our lives can be made miserable by anxious thoughts and negative expectations. We usually think our problems are the thing ruining our life, but usually it is our attitude toward them that does the ruining.
We all encounter people who have a great attitude despite being in trying circumstances. We also encounter those who have money and privilege to burn, yet they murmur and complain, are negative and critical, and are filled with self-pity and resentment. We have more to do with how our lives turn out than we like to admit. Learning how to think right is mandatory for good health.
Thoughts affect emotions, and they both affect the body. In order for you to be whole, you must maintain a healthy mind. Make a decision right now that your are going to have a healthy mind. Renewing your mind will take some time and effort. You must learn new, positive ways to think, but reading God's Word can help you do just that.
Page 272
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Every Day Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Friday, September 28, 2012
A Delay Is Not a Denial
My times are in Your hands, deliver me from the hands of my foes and those who pursue me and persecute me.
(Psalm 31:15)
When we pray, we don't always get answers right away. Sometimes we have to wait a long time, but that does not necessarily mean that God is saying no to our request. It is very important to trust God's timing in all matters concerning ourselves and our lives. Perhaps you have been waiting a long time for a breakthrough in something you have prayed about and the silence of God has brought confusion into your life. Please remember that God is not the author of confusion. He wants you to trust Him, not be confused.
Many delays are "divine delays." They are designed by God to do a work in us that needs to be done. If we continue serving God faithfully even during times of darkness we develop strong godly character. Think of Joseph, who waited thirteen years to see the answer to his prayers; or Abraham, who waited twenty years. If they had given up they would never have enjoyed the reward of their trust in God. God may not be early, but He won't be late. most things worth having usually take longer than we thought they would, and are more difficult than we think we can endure. But, God does know exactly what He is doing and He wants you to trust His timing.
God promises to deliver us from our enemies, but while we are waiting we need to pray for them and be a blessing to as many people as we possibly can be. God is working while you are waiting.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Learn to wait peacefully or a lot of your life may be miserable.
Page 271
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please always remember God loves you very much and you are very important to Him.
(Psalm 31:15)
When we pray, we don't always get answers right away. Sometimes we have to wait a long time, but that does not necessarily mean that God is saying no to our request. It is very important to trust God's timing in all matters concerning ourselves and our lives. Perhaps you have been waiting a long time for a breakthrough in something you have prayed about and the silence of God has brought confusion into your life. Please remember that God is not the author of confusion. He wants you to trust Him, not be confused.
Many delays are "divine delays." They are designed by God to do a work in us that needs to be done. If we continue serving God faithfully even during times of darkness we develop strong godly character. Think of Joseph, who waited thirteen years to see the answer to his prayers; or Abraham, who waited twenty years. If they had given up they would never have enjoyed the reward of their trust in God. God may not be early, but He won't be late. most things worth having usually take longer than we thought they would, and are more difficult than we think we can endure. But, God does know exactly what He is doing and He wants you to trust His timing.
God promises to deliver us from our enemies, but while we are waiting we need to pray for them and be a blessing to as many people as we possibly can be. God is working while you are waiting.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Learn to wait peacefully or a lot of your life may be miserable.
Page 271
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please always remember God loves you very much and you are very important to Him.
Monday, September 24, 2012
God Has Your Answers
May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jocob set you up on high [and defend you].
(Psalm 20:1)
If you have ever been in a relationship, tried to manage your money, held a job, tried to discover and fulfill God's purpose for your life, or tried to grow spiritually-then you have probably encountered some problems. Problems are a part of life and when you get rid of one problem, you will most likely have another one right behind it! That is true for all of us and even though we can develop and mature in our abilities to confront, endure, be steadfast, and live in victor, we will always be contending with one problem or another.
Only God has the solutions to life's problems, and the best thing we can do with our problems is to give them to Him. We need to quit rehearsing them in our minds, quit talking about them, quit fretting over them, and siply release the pressures and the problem of life to God and let Him work everything out. If we will learn to commit our stresses and situations to God, we will enjoy our lives more, we will be more fun to be around, and we will be happier and more relaxed.
God can do more in one moment than we can do in a lifetime of striving and struggle. He can speak to you in an instant and turn a situation around completely; one word from Him can solve everything. Nothing is too big for God to accomplish, and nothing is too small for Him to be concerned about. He cares about everything that concerns you, so give you problems to Him and let Him give you the solutuions you need.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Give God you problems and allow Him to give you solutions.
Page 253
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And Please aways Remember God loves you.
(Psalm 20:1)
If you have ever been in a relationship, tried to manage your money, held a job, tried to discover and fulfill God's purpose for your life, or tried to grow spiritually-then you have probably encountered some problems. Problems are a part of life and when you get rid of one problem, you will most likely have another one right behind it! That is true for all of us and even though we can develop and mature in our abilities to confront, endure, be steadfast, and live in victor, we will always be contending with one problem or another.
Only God has the solutions to life's problems, and the best thing we can do with our problems is to give them to Him. We need to quit rehearsing them in our minds, quit talking about them, quit fretting over them, and siply release the pressures and the problem of life to God and let Him work everything out. If we will learn to commit our stresses and situations to God, we will enjoy our lives more, we will be more fun to be around, and we will be happier and more relaxed.
God can do more in one moment than we can do in a lifetime of striving and struggle. He can speak to you in an instant and turn a situation around completely; one word from Him can solve everything. Nothing is too big for God to accomplish, and nothing is too small for Him to be concerned about. He cares about everything that concerns you, so give you problems to Him and let Him give you the solutuions you need.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: Give God you problems and allow Him to give you solutions.
Page 253
Hearing from God Each Morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
And Please aways Remember God loves you.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Pray at All Times
Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people).
(-Ephesians 6:18)
In Ephesians 6:10-17, the apostle Paul talks about the armor of God and how we are to use it and the weapon of the Word to engage in spiritual warfare. After each piece has been listed, in verse eighteen Paul sums up his message by saying, "Pray at all times." How often are we to pray? At all times.
What does that mean? Does it mean that when we are out doing the grocery shopping and God puts it on our heart to pray we are to drop to our knees right there in the middle of the supermarket aisle? I often kneel be my bed and pray. There are other times when I feel led by God to lie down, face to the floor, before Him and pray. We have to be careful not to confuse physical posture with prayer. We can also pray silently in the supermarket as we are walking down the aisles.
In the different seasons of life we are able to pray in different ways. A young mother with three or four little children, for example, is going to have to structure her prayer life differently from that of a grandmother whose family is all grown up and out of the house.
If we become to "religious" about prayer, thinking we must do it one way or the other because that is how someone else does it, we will bring condemnation on ourselves. The important thing about prayer is not the posture of the time or place but learning to pray in faith-at all times, unceasingly. Anytime the desire or need arises-pray!
Page 254
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
(-Ephesians 6:18)
In Ephesians 6:10-17, the apostle Paul talks about the armor of God and how we are to use it and the weapon of the Word to engage in spiritual warfare. After each piece has been listed, in verse eighteen Paul sums up his message by saying, "Pray at all times." How often are we to pray? At all times.
What does that mean? Does it mean that when we are out doing the grocery shopping and God puts it on our heart to pray we are to drop to our knees right there in the middle of the supermarket aisle? I often kneel be my bed and pray. There are other times when I feel led by God to lie down, face to the floor, before Him and pray. We have to be careful not to confuse physical posture with prayer. We can also pray silently in the supermarket as we are walking down the aisles.
In the different seasons of life we are able to pray in different ways. A young mother with three or four little children, for example, is going to have to structure her prayer life differently from that of a grandmother whose family is all grown up and out of the house.
If we become to "religious" about prayer, thinking we must do it one way or the other because that is how someone else does it, we will bring condemnation on ourselves. The important thing about prayer is not the posture of the time or place but learning to pray in faith-at all times, unceasingly. Anytime the desire or need arises-pray!
Page 254
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Be Content
Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have.
Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV)
Contentment is a decision to be happy with what you already have. But I am convinced most people are not truly content. Unbelievers certainly aren't content, whether they realize it or not, but it is very sad how many believers have not learned to be truly content in their circumstances. I wonder how many people can truthfully say, "I'm happy with my life. I love my spouse and my family. I like my job. I'm satisfied with my house and my car. There are things I want God to do for me, but I am content to wait until He does them in His timing. I do not covet anything that belongs to my neighbor. I am not jealous of anyone else or envious of what others have. If God gave it to them, then I want them to enjoy it."
I believe God actually tests us in this way. Until we can pass His "I-am-happy-for-you-because-you-are-blessed" test, we are never going to have any more than what we have right now. Yes, God wants us to prosper in every way. He wants people to see His goodness and how will He takes care of us. But we must desire God more than we desire His blessings. So He tests us to make sure this is the case before He releases greater material blessings into our lives.
Page 259
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life.
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please do not ever, ever, forget that God loves you!
Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV)
Contentment is a decision to be happy with what you already have. But I am convinced most people are not truly content. Unbelievers certainly aren't content, whether they realize it or not, but it is very sad how many believers have not learned to be truly content in their circumstances. I wonder how many people can truthfully say, "I'm happy with my life. I love my spouse and my family. I like my job. I'm satisfied with my house and my car. There are things I want God to do for me, but I am content to wait until He does them in His timing. I do not covet anything that belongs to my neighbor. I am not jealous of anyone else or envious of what others have. If God gave it to them, then I want them to enjoy it."
I believe God actually tests us in this way. Until we can pass His "I-am-happy-for-you-because-you-are-blessed" test, we are never going to have any more than what we have right now. Yes, God wants us to prosper in every way. He wants people to see His goodness and how will He takes care of us. But we must desire God more than we desire His blessings. So He tests us to make sure this is the case before He releases greater material blessings into our lives.
Page 259
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life.
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please do not ever, ever, forget that God loves you!
Friday, September 14, 2012
Receive Stregth from Prayer
Bring in an agony [of mind], He prayed [all the ] more earnestly and intently, and His sweat became like great clots of blood dropping down upon the ground.
(Luke 22:44)
When the time was close for Jesus to go to the cross, He endured a great struggle in His mind and emotions. He needed God's strength to go through with God's will just like we do at times. He prayed and received that strength. The Bible states that as He prayed angels came and ministered to Him.
Never just assume that what God is asking you to do is too difficult. If you are willing to do the will of God and you ask God to strength you, He will. Don't waste words telling God and others how impossible your task is. Use that same energy asking God to give you courage, determination, and strength. I think it is a beautiful thing to witness when God joins in partnership with an individual and enables him or her to do impossible things.
Many things are impossible with man by himself, but with God all things are possible. Perhaps you are facing a crisis or a difficulty right now; if you are, then I ask you to remember the struggle that Jesus went through in the garden. He felt such pressure that His sweat became blood. Surely if He could do what He did through God's strength, then you can gain a victory also through prayer.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God never gives you anything to do that is beyond your ability with Him by your side.
Page 257
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please alway remember God loves you very much.
(Luke 22:44)
When the time was close for Jesus to go to the cross, He endured a great struggle in His mind and emotions. He needed God's strength to go through with God's will just like we do at times. He prayed and received that strength. The Bible states that as He prayed angels came and ministered to Him.
Never just assume that what God is asking you to do is too difficult. If you are willing to do the will of God and you ask God to strength you, He will. Don't waste words telling God and others how impossible your task is. Use that same energy asking God to give you courage, determination, and strength. I think it is a beautiful thing to witness when God joins in partnership with an individual and enables him or her to do impossible things.
Many things are impossible with man by himself, but with God all things are possible. Perhaps you are facing a crisis or a difficulty right now; if you are, then I ask you to remember the struggle that Jesus went through in the garden. He felt such pressure that His sweat became blood. Surely if He could do what He did through God's strength, then you can gain a victory also through prayer.
GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY: God never gives you anything to do that is beyond your ability with Him by your side.
Page 257
hearing from GOD each morning
365 Daily Devotions
By: Joyce Meyer
Please alway remember God loves you very much.
Monday, September 10, 2012
You Trusting or Worring
Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
What do you let your mind do when you have problems? Do you try to figure things out instead of leaving them in God's capable hands?
There is the mind of the flesh, which is wrong thinking based on your thoughts and reasoning. And there is the mind of the Spirit, which is right thinking based on the Word of God and the inner promptings of the Holy Spirit. Confusion, frustration, and anxiety are the products of operating in the mind of the flesh. Joy is the product of the Spirit and of following the leading of the Spirit in prayer and fellowship with God.
If you operate in the mind of the Spirit, you can have the peace of God, which passeth all understanding," and you can have "joy unspeakable" and be "full of glory" right in the middle of terrible trials and tribulations (see Philippians 4:7; 1 Peter 1:8 KJV). The peace "which passeth all understanding" and "joy unspeakable" are types of peace and joy that don't make any sense. In other words, when you have these types of peace and joy within, you are happy just because you know that God is. He is able to "direct and make straight and plain your paths" in an exceedingly abundantly above all -you-can-ask-or-think way. You don't have to try to change yourself or anyone else-and that makes you happy.
You don't have to worry about tomorrow-and that makes you happy. You don't have to worry about yesterday-and that makes you happy. You don't have to know how to do everything-and that makes you happy. All you need to do is know the One who knows. Trying to figure things out will only wear you out. But if you trust God for the answer, you enter His rest.
Page 250
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Always Remember God Love You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Proverbs 3:5-6
What do you let your mind do when you have problems? Do you try to figure things out instead of leaving them in God's capable hands?
There is the mind of the flesh, which is wrong thinking based on your thoughts and reasoning. And there is the mind of the Spirit, which is right thinking based on the Word of God and the inner promptings of the Holy Spirit. Confusion, frustration, and anxiety are the products of operating in the mind of the flesh. Joy is the product of the Spirit and of following the leading of the Spirit in prayer and fellowship with God.
If you operate in the mind of the Spirit, you can have the peace of God, which passeth all understanding," and you can have "joy unspeakable" and be "full of glory" right in the middle of terrible trials and tribulations (see Philippians 4:7; 1 Peter 1:8 KJV). The peace "which passeth all understanding" and "joy unspeakable" are types of peace and joy that don't make any sense. In other words, when you have these types of peace and joy within, you are happy just because you know that God is. He is able to "direct and make straight and plain your paths" in an exceedingly abundantly above all -you-can-ask-or-think way. You don't have to try to change yourself or anyone else-and that makes you happy.
You don't have to worry about tomorrow-and that makes you happy. You don't have to worry about yesterday-and that makes you happy. You don't have to know how to do everything-and that makes you happy. All you need to do is know the One who knows. Trying to figure things out will only wear you out. But if you trust God for the answer, you enter His rest.
Page 250
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Always Remember God Love You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Spending Time with God
Be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides.
(-Ephesians 6:10)
When I first started trying to spend time with God, it was hard for me. I felt silly and self-conscious. I was bored. I would sit and yawn and try not to fall asleep. Like anything worthwhile, sitting quietly in the presence of the Lord takes time to master. You have to keep at it. And it is not something you can learn from someone else. I don't think it is possible to reach another human being to fellowship with God. Why? Because each person is different and has to learn for himself how to communicate with his Creator.
My fellow ship time includes prayer of all kinds (petition, intercession, praise, etc.), reading books that God is using to help me, Bible study, waiting on God, repentance, crying, laughing, receiving revelation. My time with Him is different almost every day.
God has an individual plan for each person. If you will go to Him and submit to Him, He will come into your heart and commune with you. He will teach and guide you in the way you should go. Don't try to do what someone else does or to be what someone else is. Just allow the Lord to show you how you are to fellowship with Him. Then follow as He directs your life, step by step.
Page 249
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Also please always remember God loves you, and you can run to Him any time, He will always be there for you.
(-Ephesians 6:10)
When I first started trying to spend time with God, it was hard for me. I felt silly and self-conscious. I was bored. I would sit and yawn and try not to fall asleep. Like anything worthwhile, sitting quietly in the presence of the Lord takes time to master. You have to keep at it. And it is not something you can learn from someone else. I don't think it is possible to reach another human being to fellowship with God. Why? Because each person is different and has to learn for himself how to communicate with his Creator.
My fellow ship time includes prayer of all kinds (petition, intercession, praise, etc.), reading books that God is using to help me, Bible study, waiting on God, repentance, crying, laughing, receiving revelation. My time with Him is different almost every day.
God has an individual plan for each person. If you will go to Him and submit to Him, He will come into your heart and commune with you. He will teach and guide you in the way you should go. Don't try to do what someone else does or to be what someone else is. Just allow the Lord to show you how you are to fellowship with Him. Then follow as He directs your life, step by step.
Page 249
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Also please always remember God loves you, and you can run to Him any time, He will always be there for you.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
A Personal Relationship
Jesus answered him, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that unless a person is born again (anew, from above), he cannot ever see (know, be acquainted with, and experience) the kingdom of God.
-( John 3:3)
When the Bible says that we must be born again-it doesn't say that we must be religious. We must let Jesus come into our lives and sit on the throne of our hearts to rule and reign over every step we take. When He tells us to go a certain direction, He will also issue to us the power we need to do what He has told us to do. Jesus will never say, "Just do it!" He always gives us the power to do whatever He tells us.
The greatest hindrance to hearing from God is trying to get to Him through works instead of through a personal relationship with Him by being born again and fellowshiping with Him regularly. People can go to church for years and do religious things all their lives without ever knowing Jesus as the Lord of their lives.
It is frightening to realize that there are probably thousands of people sitting in church won't go to heaven. As I often say, "Sitting in a church won't make a person a Christian any more than sitting in a garage will make him a car." In Matthew 7:20-23, the Bible states that there are people who will say in the judgment, "Lord, Lord, have we not done many mighty works in Your name...?" and He will say to them, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who act wickedly [disregarding My commands]." People can be doing good works and yet disregarding God's commands if they are not taking the time to be with Him and hear His instructions.
Page 248
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Also please remember God loves you, and wants to spend time with you, and have a personal relationship with you. So please take the time to get to know God, spend some personal time with Him in His Word, He love you.
-( John 3:3)
When the Bible says that we must be born again-it doesn't say that we must be religious. We must let Jesus come into our lives and sit on the throne of our hearts to rule and reign over every step we take. When He tells us to go a certain direction, He will also issue to us the power we need to do what He has told us to do. Jesus will never say, "Just do it!" He always gives us the power to do whatever He tells us.
The greatest hindrance to hearing from God is trying to get to Him through works instead of through a personal relationship with Him by being born again and fellowshiping with Him regularly. People can go to church for years and do religious things all their lives without ever knowing Jesus as the Lord of their lives.
It is frightening to realize that there are probably thousands of people sitting in church won't go to heaven. As I often say, "Sitting in a church won't make a person a Christian any more than sitting in a garage will make him a car." In Matthew 7:20-23, the Bible states that there are people who will say in the judgment, "Lord, Lord, have we not done many mighty works in Your name...?" and He will say to them, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who act wickedly [disregarding My commands]." People can be doing good works and yet disregarding God's commands if they are not taking the time to be with Him and hear His instructions.
Page 248
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Also please remember God loves you, and wants to spend time with you, and have a personal relationship with you. So please take the time to get to know God, spend some personal time with Him in His Word, He love you.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
God Loves You Perfectly
For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
( -Romans 8:38-39 )
I can talk about the love of God throughout an entire weekend conference, I can demonstrate all the different ways God has proven His love for us, but I cannot force anyone to receive His love. It is a personal choice that each person has to make. Even when we make mistakes and know that we do not deserve the love of God, we must still receive His love in order to enjoy the fullness of what He wants us to have.
The love of God will carry you through to victory when all of the powers and principalities of hell seem to be against you. The love of God will carry you through the storms of life and into a place of calm peace. But you will never be more than a conqueror (see Romans 8:37) if you do not have a revelation of how much you are loved by God.
We have to know that God loves us even during the times when we make mistakes and fail. His love is not restricted to the days when we think we have performed well. We need to be confident of His love, especially when we have trials and when the devil is mocking us with accusations, such as, "Well, you must have done something wrong."
When the accuser comes, we must know that God loves us. Even if we did do something wrong, even if we did open a door for the devil to enter in, eve if we did act in ignorance, God still loves us. God is on our side (see Romans 8:28), and He is going to show us what we need to do to get out of the messes we got ourselves into.
Page 243
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please always remember God loves you.
( -Romans 8:38-39 )
I can talk about the love of God throughout an entire weekend conference, I can demonstrate all the different ways God has proven His love for us, but I cannot force anyone to receive His love. It is a personal choice that each person has to make. Even when we make mistakes and know that we do not deserve the love of God, we must still receive His love in order to enjoy the fullness of what He wants us to have.
The love of God will carry you through to victory when all of the powers and principalities of hell seem to be against you. The love of God will carry you through the storms of life and into a place of calm peace. But you will never be more than a conqueror (see Romans 8:37) if you do not have a revelation of how much you are loved by God.
We have to know that God loves us even during the times when we make mistakes and fail. His love is not restricted to the days when we think we have performed well. We need to be confident of His love, especially when we have trials and when the devil is mocking us with accusations, such as, "Well, you must have done something wrong."
When the accuser comes, we must know that God loves us. Even if we did do something wrong, even if we did open a door for the devil to enter in, eve if we did act in ignorance, God still loves us. God is on our side (see Romans 8:28), and He is going to show us what we need to do to get out of the messes we got ourselves into.
Page 243
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
Please always remember God loves you.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Spiritual Food for Spiritual Hunger
Make no provision for [indulging] the flesh [put a stop to thinking about the evil cravings of your physical nature] to [gratify its] desires (lusts).
-(Romans 13:14)
Food addiction is easy, because food doesn't come with the same stigmas as cigarettes or drugs. Unlike these vices, food has a legitmate-even essential-role in health. Only when it slips into overuse does it become a problem. But it's so easy to get to that point! Food is reliable. Unlike spouses, friends, or great weather, it is always there. But that's the problem. Any time we feel spiritually empty, whether through sadness, depression, or boredom, it's easy to reach for food to fill that void. Soon, we mistake spiritual hunger for physical hunger, and food becomes the immediate answer to any drop in well-being. You know where this leads. The more you try to treat your spiritual longing with food or other feel good stimuli, the greater your soul's cry for spiritual nourishment will be and the greater your disease will become.
Fortunately, there is another source of comfort that is always there when you need it. Unlike bad food or drugs, it doesn't leave you over weight, sick, or lethargic. It's even free. That something is God. He is called the "Father of sympathy" the God of every comfort . . . Who consoles us in very trouble" (see 2 Corinthians 1:3-4). When I hurt, I have learned to run to God first, instead of another person or substance. I'm not saying this is automatic. It took me years to get this straight, and I still sometimes have to remind myself that what I truly need is spiritual nourishment. But learning this habit will do more to keep your mind and body sound and your life on an even keel than anything I know. Your spirit needs nourishment just like your body does. Don't wait until you have a crisis in your life to start feeding it.
Page 241
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
-(Romans 13:14)
Food addiction is easy, because food doesn't come with the same stigmas as cigarettes or drugs. Unlike these vices, food has a legitmate-even essential-role in health. Only when it slips into overuse does it become a problem. But it's so easy to get to that point! Food is reliable. Unlike spouses, friends, or great weather, it is always there. But that's the problem. Any time we feel spiritually empty, whether through sadness, depression, or boredom, it's easy to reach for food to fill that void. Soon, we mistake spiritual hunger for physical hunger, and food becomes the immediate answer to any drop in well-being. You know where this leads. The more you try to treat your spiritual longing with food or other feel good stimuli, the greater your soul's cry for spiritual nourishment will be and the greater your disease will become.
Fortunately, there is another source of comfort that is always there when you need it. Unlike bad food or drugs, it doesn't leave you over weight, sick, or lethargic. It's even free. That something is God. He is called the "Father of sympathy" the God of every comfort . . . Who consoles us in very trouble" (see 2 Corinthians 1:3-4). When I hurt, I have learned to run to God first, instead of another person or substance. I'm not saying this is automatic. It took me years to get this straight, and I still sometimes have to remind myself that what I truly need is spiritual nourishment. But learning this habit will do more to keep your mind and body sound and your life on an even keel than anything I know. Your spirit needs nourishment just like your body does. Don't wait until you have a crisis in your life to start feeding it.
Page 241
New Day New You
366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life
By: Joyce Meyer
#1 New York Times Bestselling author
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