For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.  For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:6-7 At a recent prayer group, a participant mentioned that many believers do not understand, let alone access, the immense power of God that is within them to use for His purposes. I realized that this year’s journal, Christ in Me, is full of instruction on that very topic and sadly, I will admit that I do not access or use the power of God within me as…

Lord, give me the Strength to Stand

Remember who you are, what you stand for and who you represent. Everyday there are choices to be made that will either take you to a place of worry and despair or that will ground you in confidence as you rest in the promises of God.   Having strength to stand comes from knowing and believing in your identity in Christ.  You are His.  His precious daughter whom He redeemed because of His immense love for you.  Created with purpose and chosen to represent Him to the world. Knowing who you are in Christ unleashes the power of God within you to stand firm in the face of adversity with the…

And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. This hope does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5  Endurance is the ability to hang on when it would be easier to let go.  It’s what helps you get through the trials of life without compromise or wavering and it’s what helps you finish well the race marked out before you. Your race, your unique plan and purpose designed by God, will take you through mountain…

Lord, help me to Resist Sin & Temptation

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”  Matthew 4:4 Temptations surround you whether they are external like extra servings of your favorite food, bargains on the sales rack, physical pleasures and spending too much time on social media. Or they may be internal such as worry, greed, envy, fear or vengeful and negative thoughts.  At times they seem relentless which only makes them harder to resist.   Some are fueled by the enemy who roams around looking for ways to devour and deceive you, while others come from your own evil desires.  Your desire to…

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13 Over the last several weeks I have been experiencing a much needed time out with God. In this time He has graciously made me aware of the many issues that I need to address and with each one, He has also shown me what I need to do in order to make the necessary changes in my mind, heart, attitude and actions. There have been many tears, confessions, moments of repentance and forgiveness as well as joyful outbursts of…

Lord, I want to be Healed