Tag Archives: GOD

Priorities

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As I’ve gotten older, I’ve done an assessment of my life, evaluated the choices I’ve made, and prioritized what is important and what is not. What I’ve realized is that there are only three (3) things that matter most in this world. My spiritual life (my relationship with GOD), my family (including those friends who are like family) and my health! Without GOD, I am nothing. Without my family, I wouldn’t be here and without my health, I wouldn’t be able to give this life my all!

I was recently speaking with a friend who had gotten laid off from their job. They indicated that although resources are necessary, a job is expendable. If GOD saw fit for this season of that job to be over, He has something much greater in store. My friend continued by explaining that since leaving the job, there blood pressure had gone down and they were able to do more to help others, which they had not had time to do in the past.

As I reflected on our discussion, I realized that it’s necessary for us to prioritize our life.   We can get so caught up in chasing fortune, fame, and other people that we neglect what matters most.  How often do you spend communing with GOD? How often do you take time to spend with your loved ones? Have you had a physical lately to assess your health? What has consumed your time away from what is most important? Today, I encourage you to reevaluate your priorities. Its time for you to assess what areas of your life have been neglected as a result of you making other things and people a priority.

Scripture: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (Luke 12:34 ESV)

Thought of the day: Reevaluate your priorities and dedicate time to the things and people that matter the most.  If you are the neglected person, make time for yourself. Your body will thank you for it!

Have a Winning Wednesday!

Right Or Wrong

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Right versus wrong, good versus evil, positive versus negative; however you phrase it, the decisions we make will affect our lives in one way or another. Life is full of choices. We make decisions to do right or to do wrong. When I was growing up, my mom used to tell me, “if people knew better, they would do better.” For the longest time, I believed that, until I realized that that theory only applies to children. The bible says, “When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.” (1 Corinthians 13:11 NLT) Often times, we do know better, but we make the choice to do wrong instead of right.  Sometimes, the wrong choices we make not only impact us, but they impact those around us.

What makes us choose one path over another? Is it greed, is it weakness of our mind and body, is it selfishness, is it temptation, or is it something about doing wrong that gives us some sort of gratification that we don’t get from doing right? Shouldn’t wrong doing cause some sort of guilt within us? I’ll never understand the evil ways of others who intentionally choose to hurt themselves and loved ones. One thing is true, at one time or another, we have all chosen evil versus good. Examples: You could have chosen to walk away from that argument, but instead you decided to lash out on the person who said something inappropriate to you; You could have chosen to walk away from the relationship that you were not completely committed too, but instead you chose to lie and cheat until you got caught; Knowing that the doctor told you your blood pressure is too high and you need to change your eating habits, you could have chosen baked chicken instead of fried chicken; You could have stayed at work late to make up your time for being tardy to work, but instead you left work on time and cheated your boss; You could have slowed down your car to let another car get in front of you, but instead you decided to speed up and make the other party wait for an opening. Yes, we have all made bad choices in our life! Personally, from tine to time, I deal with an internal battle when deciding to do right or wrong. The conviction can be pretty heavy, depending on the circumstances. Whether its something simple as ordering a salad instead of the combo meal or considering engaging in something that is morally wrong. Although I know the right decision to make, sometimes I contemplate doing wrong. Ultimately, I want my behaviors to be favorable in the sight of GOD, but there are times when I have to ask for GOD’s forgiveness of my sins.

I believe that we all have some sort of internal conflict within ourselves when we are deciding to do right versus wrong. Today’s motivation is meant to make you think about the choices you have made. Although you may favor doing wrong, think about how your actions have not only impacted you, but others as well. Starting today, decide to do right versus wrong. When the two angels sit on your shoulder persuading you one way or another, choose to do right! GOD will bless you and you will have peace of mind.

Scriptures:

-Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. (James 4:17 NLT)

-And then he added, “It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s hear come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you.” (Mark 7:20-23 NLT)

-Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you…(Matthew 7:12)

Have A Thoughtful Tuesday!!

Don’t Be Afraid To Fly

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What is holding you back from reaching your fullest potential? Has fear, rejection, negative people, or just the thoughts in your head hindered you from moving towards greatness? Today, I’m here to let you know, DON’T BE AFRAID TO FLY!! No matter the hurts, disappointments or failures you may have experienced in your life, it doesn’t mean that you can’t recover from those pitfalls and soar! Its time to stop believing that you are not capable or competent enough to do great things!!  There is nothing wrong with you!

So often we watch television or admire others who are doing amazing things and we think that we can’t do what they are doing. That’s not true!! You can achieve anything you set your mind too! The Bible says, “life and death are in the power of the tongue.” Stop speaking defeat to yourself and don’t allow others to speak defeat into your life!! Most people stand in their own way of getting ahead. They are either not willing to do what it takes, they make excuses, or they automatically accept defeat. I’m here to tell you that you are already great and your success is waiting on you!

Here are a few tips to get you started:

1)   You must first decide that you are ready, willing and able to do what it takes to get to the top!

2)   Pray for guidance and direction. Trust me, GOD will order your footsteps

3)   Develop a strategy.  How will you accomplish this goal?  Do some research and personal interviews to help give you a framework.

4)   Put your plan in motion.

5)   Stay focused and be disciplined. Don’t let fear, nay sayers, or distractions prohibit you from forging ahead.

Now that I’ve given you a few pointers to help you with your goal, its time for you to get to work.  Nothing beats a failure, but a try. You don’t have anything to lose but you can’t win if you don’t begin. Don’t be afraid to fly.  Its time to step out on faith. Say to yourself, “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me! I am more than a conquer”!!  Be an example for others that with hard work, determination, and dedication, anything is possible.

Scripture :

For GOD hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. ( 2 Timothy 1:7)

Have a Motivated Monday!

The Great Motivator

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Today, our guest blogger is Mr. Ken Myers. A little about Mr. Myers: Ken Myers is the founder of http://www.longhornleads.com/ & has learned over the years the importance of focusing on what the customer is looking for and literally serving it to them. He doesn’t try to create a need, instead he tries to satisfy the existing demand for information on products and services.

Enjoy!

Things have been very hectic at my house as of late. My dear mother has gone through two major surgeries at seventy-seven and has gone her whole life being practically surgery free. She also is very rarely ill so this is a huge event in all of our lives. Not only is this going on but things have not been going great with my only boy. He is twenty years old and he got himself into some trouble about a year ago. We spent several months in court and he is now on probation with visits to his probation officer once a month. Needless to say this has been heart breaking.

I am so thankful that I know that our precious heavenly Father is in charge of this world of ours and that, “… we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NIV) Because without this knowledge that has been engrained in my heart and mind I have felt at times that I would not make it through another day in these past few months. The word of God and prayer have empowered me to keep going. Trusting in the Lord and “fixing our (my)eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

The word of God is the greatest motivator that I know. I have often wondered what people do that do not know the Lord when times get rough in their lives. Where does their comfort come from? When my son began to go outside of the boundaries of what we had taught him all his life I was absolutely terrified and filled with fear. That fear consumed me and my emotions were reeling every time he walked out the door. When I heard a siren my heart would literally hurt and I felt as if I could not breathe. I was praying and reading the word of God but I could not make any sense out of what was going on. I realized through this experience (that my Lord allowed)it seemed while everything was within my control I trusted the Lord but when things were outside of my ability to control I actually did not really trust Him at all.

Our God is so awesome and He loves us so much that He allows these things to come into our lives to reveal to us our true hearts, not to Him, but to ourselves. He knew what I needed and He set up the circumstances perfectly to do a work in my life and in my son’s as well. He had to show me where I lacked faith because I could not see. It did not happen overnight, the Lord and I spent many tearful nights together. I realized, just as my dear Mother has been under the surgeons hands to repair her heart so have I. My precious Lord opened up my heart and it was very painful but He repaired it and made it whole again, better than before! And all the way through the procedure He was right by my side, comforting and consoling. He taught me to lay my son down before His throne and surrender him to the one who can actually change hearts. I was completely helpless and in terror and He knew the only way to help me was to open up and reveal the truth about the condition of my heart to me. What a blessed Savior!

The Lord also allowed my son (His really) to get caught early on in his sin to do great works in his life. He has trouble with structure, self control, work, and perseverance. He has been in and out of work and school since he graduated high school which was truly an act of God on its own, as the last two years of high school we had to fight to keep him going. But our God always hears the prayers of His children and works in mysteriously beautiful ways. There were so many times as I was down on my knees that He had to reveal to me that this was as much for me as it was for my son. As painful as it is when you are going through these trials the joy is just as great when you reach the other side. The strength that you come out of the trial with is a feeling you have never known. When you think you have it all together and the Lord reveals to you through His holy word and His Spirit where you are falling short it is nothing short of miraculous.

I have sat and watched with wonder what the Lord is doing in my son’s life. The terms of probation state that he do thirty hours of community service, take a defensive driving course, work or go to college full time, pay his fees, take drug classes, and get tested for drugs on a regular basis. I had been praying that the Lord would be self control and perseverance through my son and that “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you (my son) with power through his Spirit in your inner being,…” Ephesians 3:16 (NIV) Since I did not have the leverage with my son to produce these traits the Lord saw fit to get the courts to enforce it. I prayed and still praythat He would not allow the world and the laws of this world to punish my son but that He would humble my son’s heart before Him. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” 1 Peter 5:6 (NIV) I do not want to see my son hardened by the world but instead that, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26 (NIV)

Our heavenly Father is not out to punish us, what he wants for us is to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18 (NIV) He always wants what is best for us and He loves us so very much. Sometimes I sit in disbelief at how very much He loves us. This is clearly seen in the scriptures. “4 “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-7 (NAS) Hallelujah!

The Lord spoke the world into being, He is the word and came down in the flesh to save us which is stated so beautifully in the scriptures in John chapter one. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5 (NIV) And if we really believe this to be true why do we doubt? I do not know, but we do, but His love never fails. He never leaves us or forsakes us and no one can snatch us out of the Fathers hand.

The word of God is powerful; I have learned to pray the word over all the situations that arise in my life. The prayer the Lord has given me to pray over my family as of late is one that Paul prayed for the Ephesian believers. “For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His mightwhich He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.” Ephesians 1:15-23 (NAS)

The word of God changes lives, He listens to our prayers, and there is no greater motivation that you can find in this world. To be a child of the King and to be saved by His grace upon grace is a precious gift that is offered to all but accepted by few. I praise God that He has saved me and works miracles every day in my life. He inhabits the praise of His people and He is just waiting for you to ask Him.  “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:7-11 (NIV)

Why Am I Here?

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On this thankful Thursday, I’m grateful for the gifts that GOD has blessed me with. Each of us has been blessed with a gift or a talent. It is said that your passion is something that you enjoy doing and it comes naturally. Have you identified your passion? Do you know your purpose in life? Think about what it is that you really enjoy doing and that’s probably your purpose in life.  The bible says, “A man’s gifts make room for him and brings him before the great.” (Proverbs 18:6) Think back over your life and assess, what have you done over the years that has given you a sense of fulfillment.

I recently asked myself, “Would I consider myself a writer and a speaker?” I know that my passion and purpose is motivating and encouraging others. As I reflected on this gift, I began to remember my younger days and how writing and speaking have always been a part of my life. Every 2nd Sunday at my church was Youth Sunday. The youth choir would sing and sometimes, the Pastor would allow one of the youth to speak for the morning service. I still have the VHS tape where I spoke at my church on the subject of “Being Real”. During my high school years, I used to write letters to GOD. It was really journaling, but I found it to be the best way for me to express myself. I would write about happy and sad times of my life. As I moved on to college, I continued to write journal entries, but I also began writing encouraging messages, but I would only forward them to family and friends. I gained a lot of experience in public speaking by providing presentations in class. Once I graduated from college, I began sending motivational text messages or MM as they were often referred to.  I also continued to gain speaking experience by being a teacher, conducting briefings and doing professional presentations. A year ago, I started Michelle’s Motivation. WOW! The scriptures are true, “your gift makes room for you.”

Today, I encourage you to ask yourself, “What is it that you do that brings you joy?” Is it writing, running, playing an instrument, cooking, spending time with elderly, or being an assistant? Whatever it is that you do that brings you a sense of purpose, continue in that direction. You will be amazed how your gifts and talents will open the window of opportunity for your future!

Have a Thankful Thursday!

New Mercies

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Scripture:

-Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. (Lamentations 3:23)

-If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

I started today’s motivation off with scripture because it reminds us of GOD’s faithfulness toward us. His mercies are new every morning. Have you ever done something that made you feel extremely guilty? Maybe you told a lie, you stole something or maybe you feel guilty for not following through on something you said you would do for a family member/friend. The guilt of our sins can overwhelm us and make us have regrets. But, GOD’s mercies are new every morning! He forgives us if we ask!

One of the many differences between GOD and man is GOD is faithful and just to forgive us for our sins. Whereas, man will continue to throw our past in our face and make us relive those regretful moments.  We have all had the “friend” who reminds us of an unfavorable act or behavior. Although you have prayed and asked GOD for forgiveness and emotionally, you have tried to erase it from your mind. There’s always someone who never wants you to forget. With friends like those, who needs enemies?

Today, I remind you that acknowledgment of sin is what GOD requires, and He promises forgiveness in return. There is no need for you to continue to beat yourself up about your past. It is behind you, exactly where you should leave it. If you have offended your brother, ask for there forgiveness and move on. Don’t let it consume you. If GOD be for you, then who can be against you.

Thought of the day: What guilt are you holding over your head? It’s time for you to forgive yourself. If you haven’t already, ask GOD to forgive you and free yourself. It’s time to let it go. GOD has so much more in store for you and the lessons of your past have prepared you for what’s to come.  Go in peace!!

Have a Winning Wednesday!!

Monday Pleasantries

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Happy belated Mother’s day to all of you! I spent the weekend with my mom and family members! It’s such a blessing to have her around and absorb some of the love and nurturing that can only come from a mothers love.  I hope that you too had the opportunity to spend time with loved ones over the weekend. Whether it was your mom or someone that has made an impact in your life, it’s very important to cherish those moments.

It’s Monday!  Most of us dread Monday morning and we anxiously look forward to the return of Friday. However, when Monday comes, instead of pouting, I try to remind myself of all the things I have to be thankful for.  If I am blessed to see Monday, that is something to be thankful for.  Monday is usually the day I return to work, so I have a job that pays my bills. Getting to work in one piece, without any hurt, harm and danger is a blessing. Monday represents another week that I have to get “it” right, physically, spiritually and emotionally.  Monday is the beginning of the week, so its always a great day to begin something new. I could go on and on about the perks associated with Monday’s.

Today, instead of looking at the negativity associated with Monday’s. I want you to reflect on the many blessings that came along with this new day. Perspective is everything. Change your stinking thinking to pleasantries! As the song says, “count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your many blessings, see what GOD has done.”

Have a MOTIVATED MONDAY!!

Acts of Kindness

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Today, I encourage you to do something for someone else. You never know what a person is going through and how your small act of kindness could make the difference in their day. Whether it’s a text message, a “I’m thinking about you” card, or just an invitation to an all expenses paid lunch; the little things mean the most.

The pressures of life can sometimes be overwhelming. During those moments, it’s the little things that put a smile on your face. I recently received a text message from someone that simply said, “Hi Michelle, I hope all is well.” Although I only talk to this person sparingly, the fact that someone was thinking of me really brightened my day.  I reflected on that text message for the remainder of the day and it helped with the emotions I was experiencing.

Scripture:

-Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:10 ESV)

-Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as GOD for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:21 KJV)

Thought of the day: Follow your heart. If GOD places someone on your heart today, reach out to them and let them know that you are thinking about them and praying for them. You never know what a blessing that could be!

HAVE A THOUGHTFUL THURSDAY!

WWJD

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For some reason, I feel in my spirit that today’s blog post should be about forgiveness. I’m not sure who this is for, but I hope it releases you. Forgiveness not only sets the offender free, but it also sets you free.  I recently heard Iyanla Vanzant say, “People you don’t love can’t hurt you.” The worst pain comes from those we love.  At one time or another, we have all been hurt by the actions or words of someone we love and trust. It’s painful when we feel that the offender didn’t love us or respect us enough to not bring pain or hurt to our lives. The wounds that are left can cause us to become bitter and resentful towards the offender if we don’t deal with the hurt. Whether the hurt came from your best friend who has become inconsiderate to your feelings or your family members who don’t support your accomplishments; those behaviors can cause anger and strife in a relationship.

We have all heard the phrase that people are in your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. My mom says I’m one of the most forgiving people that she knows. But sometimes, it takes a while for me to let the hurt go. The pain from loved ones, both friends and family, can really make you question there love for you. What I’ve learned is that, although people can be hurtful and vindictive, it’s not worth the long term results of me holding a grudge. I rarely dismiss people. Relationships are very important to me and I try to ensure that they remain in tact. Yes, I’ve lost a few friends in my life and I have definitely taken a step back from those relationships I have deemed as unhealthy. But when the individual is someone near and dear to my heart, I make every effort to talk out our differences and move forward. I usually ask myself the following questions:

1)   What am I really upset about? Can I even remember?

2)   How has the wrong of that person really affected my life?

3)   Is what that person did to me unforgiveable?

4)   WWJD?

When I analyze the hurt, I realize that although I may be hot and bothered today, dwelling on the situation wont change what has already happened. The hurt may have bruised my heart and caused me to feel a certain way, however, it didn’t stop me from living, breathing and enjoying my life. Because I am a Christian, I know I must forgive. Plus, I think it’s easier to forgive and move on versus being angry and making it awkward every time our paths cross. When it comes to family, you don’t have a choice in the matter, you take what you get and make the best of it. Jealousy and envy are often a part of the package, but you learn to accept the differences and move on.

Today, I encourage you to forgive your offender. Go to them and talk about what has hurt you. Let them know that although you are hurt, you have forgiven them AND apologize to them for whatever your part was that caused the strife in your relationship. YES, I’M SERIOUS, YOU OWE THEM AN APOLOGY TOO!! Why you ask, because, you being the bigger person, you must learn to set the example!  What better way to show your love towards someone then to let them know that not only are you sorry for your part in the destruction of your relationship, but you forgive them and you are willing to work it out or let bygones be bygones.

To solidify today’s post, I leave you with a few scriptures that can help you in your decision making process!

-Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as GOD in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32)

-And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. (Mark 11:25) 

-Then peter came up and said to him, Lord, how often will my brother sin against me and I forgive him? As many as seven times? Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22)

-But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you. (Luke 6:27)

-Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. (Proverbs 17:9)

Thought of the day: Don’t miss the opportunity to rectify a relationship. Even if you feel that the relationship is not worth salvaging, remember that forgiveness is not only for the other person, but it is also for you!

Have a Winning Wednesday!!

No Turning Back

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In Genesis chapter 19, the bible tells the story of Lot and his family (wife and two daughters). GOD had mercy on them and allowed them to flee the city of Sodom and Gomorrah before the entire area was destroyed by fire. The instructions they were given were simple, “Flee the city and don’t look back.” For those of you who know the story, Lot’s wife looked back and she became a pillar of salt. Although GOD was merciful enough to allow them to be set free from their past, there was something about the past that Lot’s wife just couldn’t let go.

Have you ever asked yourself, “Why do I keep dwelling on things that GOD has delivered me from?” He has set you free from broken relationships; He has set you free from the stress of a job; He has set you free from your addictions. GOD has delivered you, but you are constantly reflecting on those days and all of your conversations begin with, “I remember when…” Its time to let it go! The reason why you can’t seem to move ahead is because you for some reason are not willing to let go of the past. You have become so accustomed to the same old same old, subconsciously you don’t want to experience change. You can’t get anything different if you continue to focus on the things that are familiar/comfortable to you.  Its time to get out of your comfort zone and take a leap of faith, trusting that GOD will order your footsteps.

Today is the day! Tuesday, May 7, 2013 is the day that you decide that the past is behind you and there is no turning back! You are moving full speed ahead to your destiny. Don’t worry about those who criticize you and try to recall your past mistakes. Just because they still “remember when” has nothing to do with you. Let them keep reminiscing while you venture off to make new memories. As my mom used to tell me, “They talked about Jesus and He was perfect, what makes you think they won’t talk about you.” Its time to give them something to talk about! A fresh start begins today!

Scripture: No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing; Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus is calling us. (Philippians 3:13-14 NLT)

Thought of the day: No matter what happened in your past, its over! Don’t let anyone continue to hold it over your head. Most importantly, its time for you to stop holding yourself accountable for what GOD has already delivered you from and forgiven you for! Move on! Your future is waiting on you!! In Jesus name, AMEN!

Prayer: GOD, I ask that you give us peace about the things in our past. Let us not continue to dwell on those things, which are behind us, but let us look toward you. When we begin to revert back to our past, let us always remember Lots wife! Thank you GOD for delivering us, forgiving us and setting us free from the things that had us bound. The shackles have been removed and we are free!