Take Challenges One Day at a Time
I strongly urge you to face your challenges one day at a time. Looking too far down the road only tends to overwhelm us. Trusting God requires that we believe He gives us our 'daily bread'; that is, we receive what we need as we need it and usually not before.
Sometimes challenges can seem impossible and overwhelming, but God is always with us. We just need to be courageous and receive the strength He gives us. Without thinking too far in advance, we can set our minds to quickly and efficiently do the task before us today.
This principle applies to many other areas of life, getting out of debt, cleaning and organizing your house, solving marriage problems, disciplining your children, being on time for work or completing a project. Whatever you need to do in life, you can do it.
Remember, Philippians 4:13 says you are ready for anything and equal to anything because God gives you strength. Nothing is too much for you when He is on your side.
Prayer Starter: God, even when the challenges before me seem impossible, I know that I can tackle them one day at a time because You are with me. I receive Your strength today.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Pursue the Excellence of Daniel
Daniel is a man in the Bible who is described as having an 'excellent spirit.' He lived to glorify God with his life, no matter what it cost him.
Daniel loved God and was unwavering in his commitment to serve Him. As a result, God gave him favor with the king, which led to his promotion over the other leaders in the land. But his commitment to God was tested.
The leaders didn't like that the king favored Daniel. So they manipulated the king to sign a decree that prohibited anyone from praying to any god other than the king for 30 days. Violating the decree meant being thrown into a den of lions.
Daniel didn't cave in to this decree, he was more concerned about keeping his commitment to God. If you know the story, you know God protected him and was glorified in the end.
I want to encourage you to live with that same excellent spirit. Be determined to really live for God. As you do, you'll fulfill your true purpose and glorify God in everything you do, just like Daniel.
Prayer Starter: Lord, I commit myself to a life of excellence, just like Daniel. Instill an 'excellent spirit' in me, so that I may serve You unwaveringly in all that I do.
Daniel is a man in the Bible who is described as having an 'excellent spirit.' He lived to glorify God with his life, no matter what it cost him.
Daniel loved God and was unwavering in his commitment to serve Him. As a result, God gave him favor with the king, which led to his promotion over the other leaders in the land. But his commitment to God was tested.
The leaders didn't like that the king favored Daniel. So they manipulated the king to sign a decree that prohibited anyone from praying to any god other than the king for 30 days. Violating the decree meant being thrown into a den of lions.
Daniel didn't cave in to this decree, he was more concerned about keeping his commitment to God. If you know the story, you know God protected him and was glorified in the end.
I want to encourage you to live with that same excellent spirit. Be determined to really live for God. As you do, you'll fulfill your true purpose and glorify God in everything you do, just like Daniel.
Prayer Starter: Lord, I commit myself to a life of excellence, just like Daniel. Instill an 'excellent spirit' in me, so that I may serve You unwaveringly in all that I do.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Godly Motives
Years ago when we were struggling financially, I grew tired of believing for a breakthrough and broke down before the Lord. I cried about it for a while and then, by the grace of God, I made a decision and declared: 'God, I am going to tithe and give offerings until the day I die, whether I ever see anything come from it or not!'
I believe with all my heart this was a test for me to see why I was really giving. The Lord wanted to reveal whether I had the right, godly motives. If I had been sure of reward, I may have only selfishly given to get something out of God.
There's been a lot of teaching and preaching that says, 'Do this and you'll get that.' But what about having a pure heart that says, 'I want to do the right thing just because it's right and it glorifies God'?
I urge you to test your motives today and make sure they're not self-centered. Make a wholehearted commitment to serve God for the right reasons.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, search my heart and expose my true motives and intentions today. If they are not godly in any area, point them out to me and help me to change.
Years ago when we were struggling financially, I grew tired of believing for a breakthrough and broke down before the Lord. I cried about it for a while and then, by the grace of God, I made a decision and declared: 'God, I am going to tithe and give offerings until the day I die, whether I ever see anything come from it or not!'
I believe with all my heart this was a test for me to see why I was really giving. The Lord wanted to reveal whether I had the right, godly motives. If I had been sure of reward, I may have only selfishly given to get something out of God.
There's been a lot of teaching and preaching that says, 'Do this and you'll get that.' But what about having a pure heart that says, 'I want to do the right thing just because it's right and it glorifies God'?
I urge you to test your motives today and make sure they're not self-centered. Make a wholehearted commitment to serve God for the right reasons.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, search my heart and expose my true motives and intentions today. If they are not godly in any area, point them out to me and help me to change.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Thought of the Day
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone ... I'm thankful today and every other day. Blessed and Highly Favored.
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Narrow Is the Road
Following God means walking the 'narrow road.' It means facing adversity. Here are several things I've learned that help me to keep going:
1. God's Word is a border for my life. As long as I stay within the guidelines laid out in Scripture, I'll have what I need to do what I need to do. God is faithful and true to His Word.
2. I have to be willing to finish what I start. God uses committed people who aren't led by emotion. It's easy to be excited in the beginning when something is new, but the ones who cross the finish line are the ones who hang in there when no one else is excited anymore.
3. When no one is there to help me, I get to know Jesus really well. The narrow road of living for God and not conforming to the ways of the world is often lonely. But the trade-off of gaining real intimacy with Christ is worth more than anything you could ever get from the world.
I believe these truths can help you like they've helped me. Always remember that even though there will be opposition, the rewards of walking the narrow path are absolutely worth it.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I desire to walk the narrow path - the way of life in Christ. Keep me within Your boundaries and show me how to live so that I can persevere to the end.
Following God means walking the 'narrow road.' It means facing adversity. Here are several things I've learned that help me to keep going:
1. God's Word is a border for my life. As long as I stay within the guidelines laid out in Scripture, I'll have what I need to do what I need to do. God is faithful and true to His Word.
2. I have to be willing to finish what I start. God uses committed people who aren't led by emotion. It's easy to be excited in the beginning when something is new, but the ones who cross the finish line are the ones who hang in there when no one else is excited anymore.
3. When no one is there to help me, I get to know Jesus really well. The narrow road of living for God and not conforming to the ways of the world is often lonely. But the trade-off of gaining real intimacy with Christ is worth more than anything you could ever get from the world.
I believe these truths can help you like they've helped me. Always remember that even though there will be opposition, the rewards of walking the narrow path are absolutely worth it.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I desire to walk the narrow path - the way of life in Christ. Keep me within Your boundaries and show me how to live so that I can persevere to the end.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Must have ...
So ... Sephora has this amazing eye collection that I'm dying to have. Its priced at $49.50 (value is $370.00) Peep the product below. I'm hoping that someone is so generous to purchase this for me as a Christmas gift ;). Or just maybe I'll treat myself.
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Call God 'Abba'
Fear can be a powerful influence in our lives. It's really just the enemy's perversion of faith. He says to us: 'Believe what I'm telling you. This is not going to work. Your prayers aren't any good. You don't have right standing with God. You are a failure.'
Fear always tells you what you're not, what you don't have, what you can't do and what you'll never be. But Romans 8:15 says that you are a child of God who can call Him "Abba Father."
The word Abba was a term little children used in addressing their fathers. It would be similar to our word Daddy. It is less formal than Father and denotes a comfortable closeness between a child and his or her father.
Jesus said we could call God 'Abba' because He had delivered us from all fear. He will always take care of His beloved children, and we can approach Him without fear of rejection. When we run to Him with any problem or pain, He's waiting with open arms to comfort and encourage us.
Prayer Starter: Abba Father, I know that You will take care of me, Your beloved child. You alone can deliver me from all fear, so I run to Your open arms.
Fear can be a powerful influence in our lives. It's really just the enemy's perversion of faith. He says to us: 'Believe what I'm telling you. This is not going to work. Your prayers aren't any good. You don't have right standing with God. You are a failure.'
Fear always tells you what you're not, what you don't have, what you can't do and what you'll never be. But Romans 8:15 says that you are a child of God who can call Him "Abba Father."
The word Abba was a term little children used in addressing their fathers. It would be similar to our word Daddy. It is less formal than Father and denotes a comfortable closeness between a child and his or her father.
Jesus said we could call God 'Abba' because He had delivered us from all fear. He will always take care of His beloved children, and we can approach Him without fear of rejection. When we run to Him with any problem or pain, He's waiting with open arms to comfort and encourage us.
Prayer Starter: Abba Father, I know that You will take care of me, Your beloved child. You alone can deliver me from all fear, so I run to Your open arms.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Let Your Light Shine
Famed philosopher and orator Edmund Burke once said, 'All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.' It's true. Doing nothing is easy, but it's also dangerous. Where there is no opposition to evil, evil will multiply.
We all fall into the trap of complaining about the things that are wrong. But complaining does nothing except discourage us even more. It changes nothing because there is no positive power in it.
Imagine what a mess the world would be if all God did was complain about everything that has gone wrong since He created it. But the Father doesn't complain. He continues to be good and work for justice. Evil is powerful, but good is more powerful.
We need to stop and realize that God has chosen to work on this earth through His children, you and me. His light is inside us and we can't afford to do nothing. We must let our light shine, no matter what, as we live our lives doing good in His name.
Prayer Starter: Lord, it's very easy to sit back and do nothing, but it's so much better to actively let Your light shine. Help me stand in opposition to evil, and act on Your goodness every chance I get.
Famed philosopher and orator Edmund Burke once said, 'All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.' It's true. Doing nothing is easy, but it's also dangerous. Where there is no opposition to evil, evil will multiply.
We all fall into the trap of complaining about the things that are wrong. But complaining does nothing except discourage us even more. It changes nothing because there is no positive power in it.
Imagine what a mess the world would be if all God did was complain about everything that has gone wrong since He created it. But the Father doesn't complain. He continues to be good and work for justice. Evil is powerful, but good is more powerful.
We need to stop and realize that God has chosen to work on this earth through His children, you and me. His light is inside us and we can't afford to do nothing. We must let our light shine, no matter what, as we live our lives doing good in His name.
Prayer Starter: Lord, it's very easy to sit back and do nothing, but it's so much better to actively let Your light shine. Help me stand in opposition to evil, and act on Your goodness every chance I get.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
God's Love Isn't Based on Feelings
It's impossible for human love to be unconditional, like God's love. But as believers in Jesus Christ, we have the love of God in us. We can let that love flow freely, without conditions. Our love fails, but God's does not. Our love comes to an end, but God's does not.
Sometimes I find that although I can't love a person in my own strength, I am able to with God's love. The true love of God doesn't depend on feelings, it's based on a decision. It's not based on whether or not that person deserves it. And it is absolutely freeing to be able to love people without stopping to ask if they deserve it.
Human love depends on feelings. It loves people because they have been good to us or they loved us first. That kind of love comes and goes.
God's love is totally different. It isn't based on anything except God Himself. When we receive Christ as our Savior, the love of God is poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Pour out God's love to others today.
Prayer Starter: God, my love may run out, but Yours never will. I will continue to draw on Your endless love so that I can give it out to others, without being concerned about whether they deserve it or not.
It's impossible for human love to be unconditional, like God's love. But as believers in Jesus Christ, we have the love of God in us. We can let that love flow freely, without conditions. Our love fails, but God's does not. Our love comes to an end, but God's does not.
Sometimes I find that although I can't love a person in my own strength, I am able to with God's love. The true love of God doesn't depend on feelings, it's based on a decision. It's not based on whether or not that person deserves it. And it is absolutely freeing to be able to love people without stopping to ask if they deserve it.
Human love depends on feelings. It loves people because they have been good to us or they loved us first. That kind of love comes and goes.
God's love is totally different. It isn't based on anything except God Himself. When we receive Christ as our Savior, the love of God is poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Pour out God's love to others today.
Prayer Starter: God, my love may run out, but Yours never will. I will continue to draw on Your endless love so that I can give it out to others, without being concerned about whether they deserve it or not.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Giving Must Cost You Something
I believe that in God's economy, nothing cheap is worth having. God gave His only Son to free us, and while we can never equal that sacrifice, we must give back to Him in a way that means something. King David said he would not give God something that cost him nothing. And I have learned that true giving is not giving until I can feel it.
Giving away the clothes and household items I'm finished with may be a nice gesture, but it doesn't equal real giving. Real giving occurs when I give somebody something that I want to keep.
I'm sure you've had those testing times when God asks you to give away something you like. But when you consider how He gave His only Son for us because of His love for us, doesn't that make you want to give of yourself too?
The simple truth is this: We must give to be happy, and giving is not true giving if it doesn't cost us something.
Prayer Starter: God, I want my giving to be meaningful. Tell me what and when You want me to give to help or just bless someone else. I want to give to others like You have given Your love to me.
I believe that in God's economy, nothing cheap is worth having. God gave His only Son to free us, and while we can never equal that sacrifice, we must give back to Him in a way that means something. King David said he would not give God something that cost him nothing. And I have learned that true giving is not giving until I can feel it.
Giving away the clothes and household items I'm finished with may be a nice gesture, but it doesn't equal real giving. Real giving occurs when I give somebody something that I want to keep.
I'm sure you've had those testing times when God asks you to give away something you like. But when you consider how He gave His only Son for us because of His love for us, doesn't that make you want to give of yourself too?
The simple truth is this: We must give to be happy, and giving is not true giving if it doesn't cost us something.
Prayer Starter: God, I want my giving to be meaningful. Tell me what and when You want me to give to help or just bless someone else. I want to give to others like You have given Your love to me.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Daily Devotional From Joyce Meyer
The Nature of God's Love
Sometimes when life gets discouraging, the best thing we can do is remind ourselves of the nature of God's love.
One of the most beautiful things the Bible says is that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (see Romans 5:8). He did not wait for us to deserve His love. He loves us unconditionally. To be honest, that's hard for many of us to comprehend because we are so accustomed to having to earn everything in life.
Because of His great, wonderful and intense love for us, God poured His life out for us freely. That is revolutionary love, real, revolutionary love that gives itself away because it can never be satisfied doing anything less.
It is God's unconditional love that draws us to Him, His amazing grace that erases our sin, and His powerful sacrifice that makes a way for us to enter His presence. His love will never quit, never give up, and never leave you. Whenever you feel down or depressed, remember the great love that God has for you
Prayer Starter: God, Your love overwhelms me. Even when I don't feel like it, I know that Your love never quits. You gave Your all for me, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that You love me.
Sometimes when life gets discouraging, the best thing we can do is remind ourselves of the nature of God's love.
One of the most beautiful things the Bible says is that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (see Romans 5:8). He did not wait for us to deserve His love. He loves us unconditionally. To be honest, that's hard for many of us to comprehend because we are so accustomed to having to earn everything in life.
Because of His great, wonderful and intense love for us, God poured His life out for us freely. That is revolutionary love, real, revolutionary love that gives itself away because it can never be satisfied doing anything less.
It is God's unconditional love that draws us to Him, His amazing grace that erases our sin, and His powerful sacrifice that makes a way for us to enter His presence. His love will never quit, never give up, and never leave you. Whenever you feel down or depressed, remember the great love that God has for you
Prayer Starter: God, Your love overwhelms me. Even when I don't feel like it, I know that Your love never quits. You gave Your all for me, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that You love me.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Learn to Forgive Like Jesus
I once heard about a teenager who was drinking and caused an accident that killed a man's wife and child. The man knew God wanted him to forgive the young man who caused the accident, and through much prayer he was able to let the love of God flow through him.
That man knew how to forgive like Jesus. He understood that this young man was also hurt himself and needed healing.
When people hurt us, we should learn to look at what people have done to themselves instead of just looking at what they have done to us. Usually, when a person hurts someone else, he's probably hurting himself at least as much and is suffering some fallout as a result. That's why, as He hung on the cross in agony, Jesus said of His murderers, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.'
That's incredible forgiveness. Let that inspire you today. We all need to seek to forgive like Jesus.
Prayer Starter: Lord, when people hurt me, help me to see past my own pain and see their pain. Help me to love and forgive like Jesus.
I once heard about a teenager who was drinking and caused an accident that killed a man's wife and child. The man knew God wanted him to forgive the young man who caused the accident, and through much prayer he was able to let the love of God flow through him.
That man knew how to forgive like Jesus. He understood that this young man was also hurt himself and needed healing.
When people hurt us, we should learn to look at what people have done to themselves instead of just looking at what they have done to us. Usually, when a person hurts someone else, he's probably hurting himself at least as much and is suffering some fallout as a result. That's why, as He hung on the cross in agony, Jesus said of His murderers, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.'
That's incredible forgiveness. Let that inspire you today. We all need to seek to forgive like Jesus.
Prayer Starter: Lord, when people hurt me, help me to see past my own pain and see their pain. Help me to love and forgive like Jesus.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Let People Know They're Infinitely Valuable
I have discovered that most people we meet or come in contact with in our everyday lives don't have a sense of their infinite value as children of God. I think the devil works very hard to make people feel devalued and worthless, but we can neutralize the effect of his lies and insinuations by building up, encouraging and edifying people.
One way to do this is with a sincere compliment, which is one of the most valuable gifts in this world. Offering a sincere compliment may seem like a small thing, but it gives tremendous strength to people who feel insecure or like they don't matter much.
I believe in having goals, and as I was working with God to develop good habits in the area of encouraging others, I challenged myself to compliment at least three people each day. I recommend that you do something similar to help you become an aggressive encourager.
The Bible says that God adopts as His children those who feel abandoned. Let's find those people and strive to build them up, making them feel valuable. Let's let them know that God loves them.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, show me the people who don't know that God loves them as His own children. Bring me across their path so that I can encourage them and make them feel valuable.
I have discovered that most people we meet or come in contact with in our everyday lives don't have a sense of their infinite value as children of God. I think the devil works very hard to make people feel devalued and worthless, but we can neutralize the effect of his lies and insinuations by building up, encouraging and edifying people.
One way to do this is with a sincere compliment, which is one of the most valuable gifts in this world. Offering a sincere compliment may seem like a small thing, but it gives tremendous strength to people who feel insecure or like they don't matter much.
I believe in having goals, and as I was working with God to develop good habits in the area of encouraging others, I challenged myself to compliment at least three people each day. I recommend that you do something similar to help you become an aggressive encourager.
The Bible says that God adopts as His children those who feel abandoned. Let's find those people and strive to build them up, making them feel valuable. Let's let them know that God loves them.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, show me the people who don't know that God loves them as His own children. Bring me across their path so that I can encourage them and make them feel valuable.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Take Down the 'Do Not Disturb' Sign
I frequently stay in hotels during my ministry travels. When I am in my room, I usually put the 'Do Not Disturb' sign on the door so nobody will bother me. Hanging this sign on my hotel room door is acceptable. But putting it on my life isn't.
Have you ever noticed that God doesn't always do things on our timetable or in ways that are convenient for us? Paul told Timothy that as a servant of God and a minister of the Gospel, he needed to fulfill his duties whether it was convenient for him or not.
I doubt Timothy was nearly as addicted to convenience as we are today. But if he needed to hear that, then I'm sure we need to hear it frequently.
It's so easy to put a "Do Not Disturb" sign over our hearts for fear that God's call will inconvenience us, but we miss out on so many great opportunities when we do this. We need to remember that whatever God asks us to do, it's always worth any inconvenience or difficulty we face in the process. And He will always make a way for us to accomplish His will when we are obedient to Him.
Prayer Starter: God, I choose today to take down the 'Do Not Disturb' sign over my heart. Even if it inconveniences me, I want to obey You and do what You ask me to do.
I frequently stay in hotels during my ministry travels. When I am in my room, I usually put the 'Do Not Disturb' sign on the door so nobody will bother me. Hanging this sign on my hotel room door is acceptable. But putting it on my life isn't.
Have you ever noticed that God doesn't always do things on our timetable or in ways that are convenient for us? Paul told Timothy that as a servant of God and a minister of the Gospel, he needed to fulfill his duties whether it was convenient for him or not.
I doubt Timothy was nearly as addicted to convenience as we are today. But if he needed to hear that, then I'm sure we need to hear it frequently.
It's so easy to put a "Do Not Disturb" sign over our hearts for fear that God's call will inconvenience us, but we miss out on so many great opportunities when we do this. We need to remember that whatever God asks us to do, it's always worth any inconvenience or difficulty we face in the process. And He will always make a way for us to accomplish His will when we are obedient to Him.
Prayer Starter: God, I choose today to take down the 'Do Not Disturb' sign over my heart. Even if it inconveniences me, I want to obey You and do what You ask me to do.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
More Than Conquerors
God gives us dreams for the future, but sometimes those dreams can seem impossible. That's when fear starts to set in.
If you are determined to never give up on your dream, then you have to take chances, you have to be courageous. And you need to understand that courage is not the absence of fear; it is pressing forward when you feel afraid. So when you face situations that threaten or intimidate you, you do not need to pray as much for the fear to go away as for boldness and courage so you can move ahead in spite of the fear.
The spirit of fear will always try to keep you from going forward. The enemy has used fear for centuries to try to stop people, and he is not going to change his strategy now. But you can defeat fear, because you are more than a conqueror through Him who loves us.
I want to encourage you to be determined to face fear when it comes against you. Stand firm, trusting God and knowing He is always with you.
Prayer Starter: God, even though I might feel afraid, I believe Your Word, which says that I am more than a conqueror. I can accomplish every dream You've given me because You love me and give me the victory.
God gives us dreams for the future, but sometimes those dreams can seem impossible. That's when fear starts to set in.
If you are determined to never give up on your dream, then you have to take chances, you have to be courageous. And you need to understand that courage is not the absence of fear; it is pressing forward when you feel afraid. So when you face situations that threaten or intimidate you, you do not need to pray as much for the fear to go away as for boldness and courage so you can move ahead in spite of the fear.
The spirit of fear will always try to keep you from going forward. The enemy has used fear for centuries to try to stop people, and he is not going to change his strategy now. But you can defeat fear, because you are more than a conqueror through Him who loves us.
I want to encourage you to be determined to face fear when it comes against you. Stand firm, trusting God and knowing He is always with you.
Prayer Starter: God, even though I might feel afraid, I believe Your Word, which says that I am more than a conqueror. I can accomplish every dream You've given me because You love me and give me the victory.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Understanding Our Emotions
I talk a lot about how we need to follow the Spirit, not our emotions. However, I find that a lot of people don't even understand how our emotions operate in the first place.
Emotions are in the realm of the soul. Our soul is the intangible area between our spirit, the place where God lives, and our physical body. It is made up of our mind, will and emotions, it tells us what we think, what we want and how we feel. Of these three areas of the soul, it's our feelings that get stirred up the fastest.
In other words, our God-given inner voice of insight and understanding become easily drowned out by the cries of our emotions.
The Bible says that this kind of fleshly life doesn't please God. This doesn't mean that God doesn't love us. What it does mean is that He is not satisfied with nor will He accept fleshly behavior.
However, once you understand how negative emotions work, you can combat them. Our souls may be strong, but our spirits can be stronger if we strengthen them. Get in the Word today, and give your spirit the strength to overcome your emotions.
Prayer Starter: God, I don't want to let my emotions overpower my spirit. As I spend time with You and read Your Word, give me the power I need to be led by the Spirit, not just how I feel.
I talk a lot about how we need to follow the Spirit, not our emotions. However, I find that a lot of people don't even understand how our emotions operate in the first place.
Emotions are in the realm of the soul. Our soul is the intangible area between our spirit, the place where God lives, and our physical body. It is made up of our mind, will and emotions, it tells us what we think, what we want and how we feel. Of these three areas of the soul, it's our feelings that get stirred up the fastest.
In other words, our God-given inner voice of insight and understanding become easily drowned out by the cries of our emotions.
The Bible says that this kind of fleshly life doesn't please God. This doesn't mean that God doesn't love us. What it does mean is that He is not satisfied with nor will He accept fleshly behavior.
However, once you understand how negative emotions work, you can combat them. Our souls may be strong, but our spirits can be stronger if we strengthen them. Get in the Word today, and give your spirit the strength to overcome your emotions.
Prayer Starter: God, I don't want to let my emotions overpower my spirit. As I spend time with You and read Your Word, give me the power I need to be led by the Spirit, not just how I feel.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Settle the Dispute
To be successful in accomplishing God's will for our lives, we must have determination. One definition of determine is 'to settle a dispute by an authoritative decision or a pronouncement.' This definition encourages me because I make 'pronouncements' often as a way of building my determination in certain areas.
Sometimes the best way to overcome the temptation to give up is to say to yourself: 'Oh, no you don't! Stop your whining and straighten up right this minute!'
Galatians 5:17 tells us that the flesh and the spirit don't get along. Remember, the definition of determine carries the idea of settling a dispute. This is important because if you are going to commit to anything, you will have to settle the never-ending dispute between your flesh and your spirit.
You may not always want to make the effort to be determined, but don't give up or you'll be outside of God's will. Find the discipline today to make 'pronouncements,' encouraging yourself to stay determined and settle the dispute between your spirit and flesh as you follow God's plan.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I want to settle the dispute between my flesh and spirit, and I can't do it without determination. Strengthen me and give me the right pronouncements to ensure that I never give up.
To be successful in accomplishing God's will for our lives, we must have determination. One definition of determine is 'to settle a dispute by an authoritative decision or a pronouncement.' This definition encourages me because I make 'pronouncements' often as a way of building my determination in certain areas.
Sometimes the best way to overcome the temptation to give up is to say to yourself: 'Oh, no you don't! Stop your whining and straighten up right this minute!'
Galatians 5:17 tells us that the flesh and the spirit don't get along. Remember, the definition of determine carries the idea of settling a dispute. This is important because if you are going to commit to anything, you will have to settle the never-ending dispute between your flesh and your spirit.
You may not always want to make the effort to be determined, but don't give up or you'll be outside of God's will. Find the discipline today to make 'pronouncements,' encouraging yourself to stay determined and settle the dispute between your spirit and flesh as you follow God's plan.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I want to settle the dispute between my flesh and spirit, and I can't do it without determination. Strengthen me and give me the right pronouncements to ensure that I never give up.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Thoughts and Words Are Intimately Connected
Proverbs 16:23-24 shows us that our thoughts and words are intimately connected. They are like bone and marrow, so close, it is hard to divide them (see Hebrews 4:12). Because of this, it's important that we have pleasant thoughts so we can also have pleasant words.
Our thoughts are silent words that only we and the Lord hear, but those words affect our inner man, our health, our joy and our attitude. The things we think about often come out of our mouths and sometimes make us look foolish, but if we live God's way, our thoughts and words can make our lives more enjoyable.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that you can let your thought life run in any worldly direction and then 'fake it' by speaking godly words. Either both are pleasing or both are negative and sinful. There is no middle ground.
Begin to operate in the mind of Christ, and you will step into a whole new realm of living. As you spend time letting Him adjust your thinking, you won't have to think about speaking pleasant words. It will just happen naturally!
Prayer Starter: God, I realize that my thoughts and words are connected. I don't want to try and 'fake' on the outside what isn't real inside. Please adjust my thoughts so that I can speak pleasant, godly words.
Proverbs 16:23-24 shows us that our thoughts and words are intimately connected. They are like bone and marrow, so close, it is hard to divide them (see Hebrews 4:12). Because of this, it's important that we have pleasant thoughts so we can also have pleasant words.
Our thoughts are silent words that only we and the Lord hear, but those words affect our inner man, our health, our joy and our attitude. The things we think about often come out of our mouths and sometimes make us look foolish, but if we live God's way, our thoughts and words can make our lives more enjoyable.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that you can let your thought life run in any worldly direction and then 'fake it' by speaking godly words. Either both are pleasing or both are negative and sinful. There is no middle ground.
Begin to operate in the mind of Christ, and you will step into a whole new realm of living. As you spend time letting Him adjust your thinking, you won't have to think about speaking pleasant words. It will just happen naturally!
Prayer Starter: God, I realize that my thoughts and words are connected. I don't want to try and 'fake' on the outside what isn't real inside. Please adjust my thoughts so that I can speak pleasant, godly words.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Understanding Human Nature
One time after I had been involved in a disappointing church situation, God brought John 2:24-25 to my attention. It speaks of Jesus' relationship with His disciples.
It plainly says that Jesus did not trust Himself to them. While He gave Himself to them relationally and lived life with them, He knew that they were not perfect. He understood human nature and He did not trust Himself to them in an unbalanced way.
This made me realize that I had placed my trust in people at church that should only belong to God and had set myself up for disappointment.
We can go only so far in any human relationship. If we go beyond godly wisdom, we will likely be hurt. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that some people will never hurt us, only to be disappointed when they don't live up to those standards. No one's perfect.
The good news is that God is perfect and will not disappoint. He is always loving and good. Don't give trust to people that belongs to God, but rather, give yourself completely to Him. He alone is trustworthy.
Prayer Starter: God, no human is perfect, but You are. I won't give the kind of trust to people that only belongs to You. You will not disappoint. I find comfort today in Your perfection.
One time after I had been involved in a disappointing church situation, God brought John 2:24-25 to my attention. It speaks of Jesus' relationship with His disciples.
It plainly says that Jesus did not trust Himself to them. While He gave Himself to them relationally and lived life with them, He knew that they were not perfect. He understood human nature and He did not trust Himself to them in an unbalanced way.
This made me realize that I had placed my trust in people at church that should only belong to God and had set myself up for disappointment.
We can go only so far in any human relationship. If we go beyond godly wisdom, we will likely be hurt. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that some people will never hurt us, only to be disappointed when they don't live up to those standards. No one's perfect.
The good news is that God is perfect and will not disappoint. He is always loving and good. Don't give trust to people that belongs to God, but rather, give yourself completely to Him. He alone is trustworthy.
Prayer Starter: God, no human is perfect, but You are. I won't give the kind of trust to people that only belongs to You. You will not disappoint. I find comfort today in Your perfection.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Carnal Christians and Spiritual Christians
There are two kinds of Christians, and you have to choose which one you will be. Will you be a carnal Christian or a spiritual Christian?
A carnal Christian is a people-pleaser who cares more about what people think than about obeying God. They are immature, operating out of their emotions and doing whatever they feel like saying and doing. They are usually in strife, discontent, easily offended and lacking peace.
There are far too many Christians living this way today. But you can be different.
You can be a spiritual Christian who diligently follows after the desires of the Spirit. You can be that Christian who will feed their spirit with the Word every day. You can be the Christian who will let God into every area of your life, not just church on Sundays.
I urge you today to make a full-time commitment to follow Christ. Let the Lord into everything you do. Walk with integrity, humility and peace. Get along with others. Display the fruit of a spiritual Christian and enjoy the favor of God.
Make the choice today. Will you be a carnal Christian or a spiritual Christian?
Prayer Starter: God, I don't want to be a carnal Christian, always led by the flesh. Instead, I want to be led by the Holy Spirit, living a life that pleases You. I choose today to be a spiritual Christian, not a carnal one.
There are two kinds of Christians, and you have to choose which one you will be. Will you be a carnal Christian or a spiritual Christian?
A carnal Christian is a people-pleaser who cares more about what people think than about obeying God. They are immature, operating out of their emotions and doing whatever they feel like saying and doing. They are usually in strife, discontent, easily offended and lacking peace.
There are far too many Christians living this way today. But you can be different.
You can be a spiritual Christian who diligently follows after the desires of the Spirit. You can be that Christian who will feed their spirit with the Word every day. You can be the Christian who will let God into every area of your life, not just church on Sundays.
I urge you today to make a full-time commitment to follow Christ. Let the Lord into everything you do. Walk with integrity, humility and peace. Get along with others. Display the fruit of a spiritual Christian and enjoy the favor of God.
Make the choice today. Will you be a carnal Christian or a spiritual Christian?
Prayer Starter: God, I don't want to be a carnal Christian, always led by the flesh. Instead, I want to be led by the Holy Spirit, living a life that pleases You. I choose today to be a spiritual Christian, not a carnal one.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Be Suspicious of Suspicion
First Corinthians 13:7 gives us a clear picture of what it means to really love people. I can honestly say that obedience to this Scripture has always been a challenge for me.
I was brought up to be suspicious and to distrust everyone, but meditating on the characteristics of love and realizing that love always believes the best has helped me to develop a new mindset.
Suspicion works against the very qualities necessary for godly relationships. Trust and faith bring joy to life and help relationships grow to their maximum potential, but suspicion cripples a relationship and usually destroys it.
Now, it's true that people aren't perfect, and sometimes our trust can be taken advantage of, but overall, the benefits of always seeing the best in people will far outweigh any negative experiences.
If you struggle with suspicion, remember today that we have the wonderful Holy Spirit in us to remind us when our thoughts are going in the wrong direction. Let's ask Him to turn our suspicious thoughts into thoughts of love.
Prayer Starter: God, I understand now that always distrusting and being suspicious of others is damaging to my relationships. Show me how to open my heart to others and to believe the best in ever circumstance.
First Corinthians 13:7 gives us a clear picture of what it means to really love people. I can honestly say that obedience to this Scripture has always been a challenge for me.
I was brought up to be suspicious and to distrust everyone, but meditating on the characteristics of love and realizing that love always believes the best has helped me to develop a new mindset.
Suspicion works against the very qualities necessary for godly relationships. Trust and faith bring joy to life and help relationships grow to their maximum potential, but suspicion cripples a relationship and usually destroys it.
Now, it's true that people aren't perfect, and sometimes our trust can be taken advantage of, but overall, the benefits of always seeing the best in people will far outweigh any negative experiences.
If you struggle with suspicion, remember today that we have the wonderful Holy Spirit in us to remind us when our thoughts are going in the wrong direction. Let's ask Him to turn our suspicious thoughts into thoughts of love.
Prayer Starter: God, I understand now that always distrusting and being suspicious of others is damaging to my relationships. Show me how to open my heart to others and to believe the best in ever circumstance.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Rose-Colored Glasses and Magnifying Glasses
When we think and talk about what is wrong with everyone else, we are usually deceived about our own conduct. Jesus commanded that we not concern ourselves with what is wrong with others when we have so much wrong with ourselves (see Matthew 7:3-5).
The Bible clearly tells us that when we judge others, we often judge them for things that we also do!
I once asked God why we would do something ourselves and think it was perfectly alright but judge someone else who does it. The Lord said, "Joyce, you look at yourself through rose-colored glasses, but you look at everyone else through a magnifying glass."
It's true! We make excuses for our own behavior, but when someone else does the same thing we do, we are often merciless.
I encourage you to reverse the process, assume the best in others, but keep your own life under the magnifying glass. Allow God to deal with you first, and then you will learn the scriptural way of helping others grow.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, instead of examining the lives of others, I want You to help me examine my own life. I know that with Your help, I can correct the issues I have and find the proper way to help others grow as well.
When we think and talk about what is wrong with everyone else, we are usually deceived about our own conduct. Jesus commanded that we not concern ourselves with what is wrong with others when we have so much wrong with ourselves (see Matthew 7:3-5).
The Bible clearly tells us that when we judge others, we often judge them for things that we also do!
I once asked God why we would do something ourselves and think it was perfectly alright but judge someone else who does it. The Lord said, "Joyce, you look at yourself through rose-colored glasses, but you look at everyone else through a magnifying glass."
It's true! We make excuses for our own behavior, but when someone else does the same thing we do, we are often merciless.
I encourage you to reverse the process, assume the best in others, but keep your own life under the magnifying glass. Allow God to deal with you first, and then you will learn the scriptural way of helping others grow.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, instead of examining the lives of others, I want You to help me examine my own life. I know that with Your help, I can correct the issues I have and find the proper way to help others grow as well.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Daily Devotion From Joyce Meyer
Sowing and Reaping
The Scriptures plainly tell us that we will reap what we sow. Literally, this applies to farming and planting crops. It also applies to giving money and being generous. But did you know that this principle also applies to the way we treat others?
We can sow and reap attitudes and words as well as a crops or finances.
The devil loves to keep us busy thinking selfishly, treating loyal friends as unimportant, sowing words of strife in our families, and thinking negative thoughts about bosses, pastors, etc. The devil wants us to sow bad seed in every single relationship.
So many people behave this way and then wonder why people don't like them or treat them the way they want to be treated. The answer is simple, they are reaping what they've sown!
Let me ask you, what are you sowing today? No matter the person, no matter the relationship, sow love, forgiveness, kindness, and patience. You'll find that as you treat others the way God wants you to, you will reap a life filled with encouraging friendships and wonderful, godly relationships.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I want to sow good things and reap good things. Instead of acting selfishly toward others, help me to sow kindness and love in my relationships with all of the people in my life.
The Scriptures plainly tell us that we will reap what we sow. Literally, this applies to farming and planting crops. It also applies to giving money and being generous. But did you know that this principle also applies to the way we treat others?
We can sow and reap attitudes and words as well as a crops or finances.
The devil loves to keep us busy thinking selfishly, treating loyal friends as unimportant, sowing words of strife in our families, and thinking negative thoughts about bosses, pastors, etc. The devil wants us to sow bad seed in every single relationship.
So many people behave this way and then wonder why people don't like them or treat them the way they want to be treated. The answer is simple, they are reaping what they've sown!
Let me ask you, what are you sowing today? No matter the person, no matter the relationship, sow love, forgiveness, kindness, and patience. You'll find that as you treat others the way God wants you to, you will reap a life filled with encouraging friendships and wonderful, godly relationships.
Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I want to sow good things and reap good things. Instead of acting selfishly toward others, help me to sow kindness and love in my relationships with all of the people in my life.
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