God Will Use You Day 1
“Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”
Exodus 4:12
God is so great and one of the things I love about Him is that He is not picky. He will use anyone; we just have to be a willing vessel and allow Him to work through us. He will help us! It really takes the pressure off if we can just realize that He knows all about us and all of our limitations. It doesn’t matter, there is not a single excuse that you can think of that will disqualify you from doing Kingdom business. God will teach us, guide us, lead us and even give us the words to say. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. God is so able to take care of all of the details, we just need to trust Him and go for it!
Kathy Rogillio
Day 2 Been With Jesus?
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.”
Acts 4:13
It is truly a wonder how many of us at one time thought we had it all figured out; that we knew it all. Once we meet the Creator of the heavens and earth we see that we didn’t really have the teachings, capabilities or know-how that we wished we had. Oh! But when we have been with Jesus! Something happens, to the point of others marveling at the powerful change taking place. Those who have been with Jesus are the ones who shake the place and boldly change the world around them. Those who have been with Jesus are the ones who influence the world, and are not influenced by the world.
Remember, God calls us to COMMITMENT, not COMFORT. Pray that people will marvel and take knowledge that you have been with Jesus.
Pastor Damon Baudoin
The Attitude That Overcomes Day 3
“Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening.”
Acts 16:25
Have you ever found yourself in trouble for no reason? Paul and Silas were in prison because of the gospel. There was no sin in their life but there was trouble. Challenges like these come to test our faith, to give us a new revelation of God’s character, because of enemy attacks, for God’s glory or because of personal disobedience.
Some believe, if you have trouble, there must be sin in your life or that God has to “take you down a notch.” Trials and trouble are part of life. Everyone goes through something sooner or later. It’s not what happens to you that will determine your destiny, but how you choose to respond to what happens. Paul and Silas made a choice. In their darkest hour, when they were hurting and in bondage, they began to praise God. In spite of their circumstances, they had an attitude of gratitude and rejoicing. How’s your attitude?
Pastor Paul Pierce
Day 4 God Knows
“…for I know the inclination of their behavior today, even before I have brought them to the land of which I swore to give them.”
Deuteronomy 31:21
Despite the fact that God knows what we will do even before we do it, He still loves us. Even though He knows that today I might tell a lie or that tomorrow I might yell at my children in anger, He still desires to show forth His mercy and patience toward. He wants the very best for me even though I don‘t deserve it. That’s not to say that I will intentionally practice sin, but even the best of us are still human and prone to error.
Just like my salvation, my blessings are not based on what I do for the Lord; they are based on where my heart is with God. How well I behave, how much money I give, or how much I volunteer in the church are outward signs of the appreciation and gratefulness of my heart toward awesome God who loves me and who always keeps His promises. Give God glory for all the incredible things He’s done for you!
Marion Horta
Lifted Up Day 5
“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
Proverbs 18:10
Just the mention of the name of Jesus provides us with a strong fortress.
David found the name of the Lord to be a strong fortress when facing his enemies. He spoke to the Lord in words of a song on the day that the Lord delivered him from the hand of Saul. He said, “When I called on You, You saved me from violence; the hand of my enemies. You are worthy to be praised. The Lord is my Rock, my escape from Saul and my Fortress [strong tower] in the wilderness, and my Deliverer, my God, my Rock; in You, did I take refuge. You are my Shield and the Horn of my salvation; my Stronghold and my Refuge, my Savior-”
The name of the Lord protects, not only by strength, but by height. The righteous man is safe, “lifted up out of reach.” Selah!
Judy Rogillio
Day 6 He Tastes Better
“O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”
Psalm 34:8
The Lord gave me an awesome revelation of how good He really tastes to us. He told me to think of one of my favorite foods. My mind went immediately to seafood fettuccini with shrimp and crawfish. While meditating on this, I was remembering how awesomely delicious, delectable and delightful a plateful of this would be with seasoned shrimp and crawfish oozing and dripping with mouth-watering cheese.
My senses were heightened, my pleasures were rising and the intensity of desire for it overtook all my emotions and thoughts. The Lord showed me that He tastes even better than our favorite foods. If we spend enough time with Him we should desire Him and His Word much more than we desire our most favorite food. He wants our desire for Him to be even greater. The memory of that food is planted on our mind forever. So should it be even greater for the Lord.
Linda Stradley
The Lord longs To Be Gracious Day 7
…He will be very gracious to you at the sound of your cry; When He hears it, He will answer you. And though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers.
Isaiah 30:15, 18-21
We must trust God through the trials of life to help us to be strong. I see the teachers in these verses to be the trials we’ve gone through and trusted the Lord through. Once we go through our trials, our teachers will not hide, we will see them. Sometimes we have a tendency to try to figure it all out, which is tiring. Ultimately God is in control and knows the end result. To trust Him through trials would bring the goal that He desires for us. If we run away or try to bring ourselves out of a trial too quickly, we will have to do it again at a later date until we pass the test. This leads us to a closer walk with Him and we can truly know the way.
It really is a fight of faith to go through the trials of life and to believe and hope in God. He will see you through. He is faithful. The battle is not yours, it’s the Lord’s!
Patti Rodgers
Day 8 Love Defined
1 Corinthians 13:4-8
When asked to define love, most Christians will refer to 1 Corinthians 13, “the love chapter” as it has been called. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Paul defines love by giving examples of the outward results of walking in love. These examples include patience, kindness, and a list of phrases that add up to selflessness. Selflessness, just like love, is an intentional attitude. Love is therefore an act of will, not an accident or a feeling. In order to live up to this definition of love, we must choose to love. I don’t know of anyone who is “patient” or “kind” by accident. With knowledge of what love is, it is our responsibility to put love into action.
Now Father, I ask that You fill me with Your love. Teach me to put love into action in my life. I choose now to walk in love and to live with an attitude of love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Pastor David D. Hayes
A Tool or a Trap? Day 9
“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’”
Matthew 19:21
This young guy told Jesus that he had lived his life completely for God and had obeyed all of the commandments. And he probably did do a fair job in life of being a good person; however, God is more concerned about the condition of our hearts rather than our outer conduct. Even good people need salvation.
Jesus used the young man’s money to show him where he truly was spiritually. How about you? Is your heart right with God? Is money a tool or a trap? Are you being led by the Master or the MasterCard?
Jeannie Sinclair
Day 10 Do Good
“Trust in the Lord and do good;”
Psalm 37:3
As we travel through life, we are promised trials and tribulations. Satan and his minions are committed to destroying us, and even though he (Satan) knows the final outcome, he wants to steal as many souls away from God as he can. Our fleshly lust and the world are able partners in helping Satan pursue us.”We envy the arrogant when we see the prosperity of the wicked.” (Psalm 73:3).
Everyday we see successful people (by worldly standards) who flaunt wicked behavior such as lust, greed, envy and violence, openly, without shame. David also had trouble with this until, “I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.” (Psalm 73:17).We can only tame our fleshly lustsin nature by staying focused on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, and trusting in Him. Then we will experience the rest of Psalm 37:3 where we will “dwell in the land and enjoy safe pastures.”
Jim Turner
His Word is True Day 11
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.
2 Corinthians 1:20
I have been serving the Lord for almost 16 years and one of the greatest days I can remember is when I realized that His Word was real in my life; that His promises to ME, the ones I had been believing in were coming true in MY life! I guess I was just going right along, not really paying attention, and He spoke to me and said, “Hey do you know that I am doing what I said I would do in your life?” I had a ‘WOW’ moment because it was true. I knew it was true! I am a new creation, old things are passed away! God is doing what He said He would do! How great is that?
Kathy Rogillio
Day 12 Restoration
“Then I went down to the potter’s house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.”
Jeremiah 18:3-4
Restoration means to bring back to its former condition. When you take furniture to a restorer, they strip off the old and work with the piece until it’s like new again, in all its glory as it was created to be. Restoration, where does it begin? Only in the Master’s Hand can you again come forth to be all He created you to be!
What can He restore you to? Fellowship with the Father, the joy of salvation, a sound mind, health, the ability to love others as Christ loved you and to receive love from others. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but power, love and a sound mind.
Is there a need? Jesus is waiting with outstretched hands to begin a work of restoration.
Beverly Oulman
Good Doctrine Day 13
“Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.”
Isaiah 28:9
Why are some afraid of the word “doctrine”? Why do some people never seem to grow spiritually? Are you satisfied with where you are in your walk with Christ? Have you reached a plateau, or a level where you seem to be stagnant, immobile or stationary? Can a baby learn to run overnight? What is God’s design? Doesn’t a baby drink milk first and get nourished? Doesn’t he grow stronger and learn to eat solid food? And, doesn’t he learn to crawl, walk and eventually run? And finally, as a grown man, doesn’t he teach a young one to go through the same cycle?
Therefore, arise, and let the hunger for the Word of God be ignited in you, so that you might grow in the knowledge of the Lord and in turn teach others to follow His ways! “For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law” – Proverbs 4:2.
Fernando Chacon
Day 14 He is There
“Seek the LORD while he may be found;”
Isaiah 55:6
Call on Him while He is near. We should never think that the Lord is not around when we need Him. He is always there. He said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” It’s good to know that we have a friend like Jesus around all the time, leading and guiding us in our everyday life. We need to turn to the Lord and call out to Him while He’s still ready to help us.
Pastor Charles Ray Byrd
Faith Muscle Day 15
“Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! It will be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that very hour.”
Matthew 8:13
In this verse you could substitute “had faith” for “believed”.Jesus is giving an example where this centurion, or Roman soldier, believed or had faith that Jesus could heal his beloved servant. (Note that this guy is not a Jew. Jesus loves us all.)All throughout the Bible, God meets people where their faith is and He is still doing this today. Admittedly, it is difficult for a new Christian to believe God for miracles but it is of the utmost importance that we “practice” our faith every day.We need to work that “faith muscle” every single day by staying in God’s Word and trusting in Him.The more we “exercise” the more confident we are in God’s ability to work miracles in our lives.He will then take us to another level of faith where we can witness even more of God’s love and power.Then as we grow stronger and other believers see more evidence of our faith, their faith grows stronger. Then God takes the whole group or Church to another level together. So believers, go exercise!
Trey Hereford
Day 16 Authority
“I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Matthew 18:18
As children of God we walk in authority. Part of that authority is the words that we speak. You have the authority to bind the things of Satan and darkness from your life and the lives of other people. That includes sickness, depression, confusion, poverty, conflict or any aspect of darkness that might befall you.
You also have the authority to loose the blessings of the Lord into everything. These blessings include everything that is good; like wealth, radiant health, joy, love, happiness, peace, success and fulfillment.
As you travel the journey of life and you feel that times have gotten so tough that you feel desperate, reach into the core of your being by speaking the words that will bind that feeling and loose the joy and power of the Holy Spirit.
I challenge you to try this and see the Power of God change your life.
Susan Martin
Respect God Day 17
“You and your fighting men should march around the town once a day for six days. Seven priests will walk ahead of the Ark, each carrying a ram’s horn. On the seventh day you are to march around the town seven times, with the priests blowing the horns.”
Joshua 6:3-4
Joshua and his army were preparing to defeat Jericho; but instead of using their weapons, God instructed them to march around the city. This sounds kind of crazy, doesn’t it? How in the world can you conquer a city without fighting?
Many times God will tell us to do something that we don’t understand. We have to realize that God’s ways are not the world’s ways. He tells us to love those who hate us and that to be rich, we must first become poor. This contradicts what the world and our flesh tell us. But by respecting God and following His commands, we not only give Him glory, we are rewarded by our obedience.
Marion Horta
Day 18 A Great Partner
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28
You now have a great partner in life. Jesus Christ, an humble Savior, Friend, Healer, Provider and Teacher. Yet, He is not soft. He is always the same and is calling you to come to Him. You will experience awesome times when you come to Him on the mountaintop and you will experience those times deep in the valley where character is built. Jesus does not offer a life of luxurious ease but the life that He does offer remains easy to the grinding alternative. In desperate times you can come to Him and He is there, faithful to help you through. Our Lord thoroughly furnishes each of His soldiers for His work, and places before each the task He has for them. The desire that you feel for Him can only come from Him and His Spirit. If you are moving toward God, it’s because He is moving toward you. “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” (John 6:44) If you want Him, He is looking for you. Come.
Linda Burris
Only Believe Day 19
Jesus said unto him, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”
Mark 9:23
When I had my open-heart surgery, I held on to the belief that everything was going to be all right. It was! The operation was successful and I walked away in victory. Recently, my wife had open-heart surgery. She maintained the same faith and walked away in victory.
There have been a number of incidents like those that have helped to bolster my faith over the years. Each time I witnessed them, it was like a shot of power in my life. I realized how good and powerful God is.
Part of the foundation of Christianity is our faith. Without faith we can’t walk in the power that God has given us. We are often faced with the daily problems of the world, and sometimes feel defeated because we tend to look through fleshly eyes. God has instructed us to give. When we do so in faith, our blessings return to us in ways other than financially and we become a powerful building block in the foundation of the church.
Noah Crockett
Day 20 Protect Your House
“The thief does not come except to steal, to kill, and to destroy.I have come that they may have life, and …have it more abundantly.”
John 10:10
How protected is your home?Authorities educate us on protecting our houses.We’re told to make sure there’s movement, have well-lit houses and secure doors with good locks.These protect our houses.
So it is with spiritual houses. This scripture warns of”the thief,” Satan, and his plans to steal, kill and destroy us.Have you taken necessary steps to protect your spiritual house?Is the light of Jesus shining in you so the thief and the world knows He resides there? What about God’s holiness and the Holy Spirit? Are they present? The thief wants that stolen, killed and destroyed. He knows “without holiness, no man shall see God.”Is your house sealed with the blood of Jesus? Just as a thief cannot enter a secured lock, he cannot cross doorposts covered with the blood of Jesus. Jesus says, “I come that they may have life, and …have it more abundantly.”Is your house protected?
Debra Adams
I Shall Not Want Day 21
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1
David opened this psalm by declaring the Lord (The Self Existent or Eternal One) as his Shepherd (friend, companion or associate). Because The Self Existent One is my friend, I shall not want. In Genesis 22:1-14, Abraham was told by God to take his son to the land of Moriah and offer (present or give) Isaac for a burnt offering upon the mountains. Now, when the altar was built, Abraham took Isaac and laid him upon the altar. Isaac asked his father where the lamb was. Abraham’s answer to Isaac was that God Himself would provide a lamb (Jehovah-jireh). When you give your best, God will reveal His best to you. Selah.
Pastor Isiah Davenport
Day 22 Trust God
“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.”
Hebrews 10:23
This scripture takes me back to when Jesus was in the garden. He knew what horrible pain and humiliation He would have to endure in order for His Father’s Will to be done through His life here on earth. Jesus says in Matthew 26:42, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” If Jesus had not trusted His Father with His whole life, we would surely be doomed. Just imagine no life, but death; and no light, but darkness. When Jesus prayed, “Let your will be done”, he meant it. Jesus trusted God’s promise to Him and drank of His cup, knowing all that would have to come to pass. And without sinning one time, Jesus carried out what His Father had asked of Him. His obedience and trust got Him a seat at the right hand of the Heavenly Father. Trust God and all His promises, with Jesus as your hope, and your journey here on earth will not only glorify God, but will be rewarding and fulfilling to you and those watching.
April Mayers
Blessed Assurance Day 23
“In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so I would have told you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
John 14: 2-3
My mother passed away at the age of 91. Shortly before she died, I had read this scripture to her. She knew Christ would take her to be with Him. When she passed away it was a great comfort to me to know that she was happy and in the arms of her dear Savior. I also knew we would be together again when Jesus came for me.
I hope you have this same assurance in Jesus that He will return for you one day and you will spend eternity with Him. If not, please accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior today. This is the most important decision you will ever make.
Rosa Turner
Day 24 Dominion of Faith
“God has dealt to every man a measure of faith”
Romans 12:3
No one can say they don’t have faith because the Bible says, “God has given every man a measure of faith.” We exhibit faith in humans, animals, cars, chairs and the service they provide us, yet we doubt God, even though His word says: “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 “Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6 “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:17
These are declarations of great magnitude. They mean that every facet of life – physical, material and spiritual must be brought under the dominion of faith. God tests us in all these areas until we have conquered all fears and dependence upon people, things and means and can put complete confidence (faith) in Him and His ability to do and supply ALL things. Our five senses are like the intercom system inside the body, but faith is the wireless connection with the source of ALL POWER and ALL KNOWLEDGE!
Ruth Marie Johnson
Hard Work Day 25
“Hard workers have plenty of food; playing around brings poverty.”
Proverbs 28:19
God expects us to do our part. Christians are commanded to work hard at whatever they do. Colossians 3:23 says to work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, just as though you were working for the Lord. Proverbs 12:11 says hard work means prosperity; only fools idle away their time. The Bible consistently teaches that hard work brings prosperity and success. Proverbs 6:6-11 says a little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest and poverty will pounce on you like a bandit. No matter how hard we work, though, we cannot save ourselves. We are saved only by the blood of Jesus.
When we have everything we need and are prosperous, it is easy to become complacent. Dear God, help us to remember You in good times and bad.
Lois Mautner
Day 26 Safety through Submission
“For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.”
Proverbs 6:23
I don’t know about you, but I have produced my share of rebellion through the years. I didn’t do well with commandments, laws and reproof. I had many a hard time because of it.
Thank God for His mercy. For years I couldn’t understand the concept of safety under authority. I felt that I knew what was best for me; how dare someone try to tell me different. How blind and how ignorant I have been. The laws and correction were there to help me; to light my path so that I wouldn’t stumble.
Instead of looking at rules as a prison fence keeping us in, look at it as a beautiful hedge that God has placed around us to keep the bad out. “But it’s hard to submit,” you may say and I must agree. But as you humble yourself, God will lift you up and bring you to places the hardheaded will never see.
Jeannie Sinclair
Learn to Give Day 27
“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.”
Proverbs 11:24
I remember watching my children playing when they were toddlers. More than once I witnessed one of them attempt to pick up a small toy while the other one, clutching the toy, screamed, “No. Mine!” I guess we’ve all seen that before. It is very common among children. Unfortunately, I have reacted in a similar way as an adult when asked to give sacrificially. There have been times when I had an unction in my spirit to give and my reply was, “No. Mine!” I was the one this proverb speaks of, who only suffered want.
Father I pray that you would change my heart. Give me a revelation of this kind of giving. Teach me how to give what I have so that I may gain what I do not. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor David D. Hayes
Day 28 Think and Pray
“He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.”
Proverbs 13:3
“Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.” James 3:5
I must think before I speak an unkind word that will hurt anyone.
If I control my tongue today, I’ll have no regrets when tomorrow comes.
I must think before I repeat the gossip that I’ve heard.
If I can’t say something nice, I dare not speak a word.
I must think before I judge what other people do.
For the way I judge, I’m sure, God will judge me that way, too.
So I must think and pray, before I speak and I’ll be sure there is no way I’ll hurt anyone with what I say.
Sue Yglesias Neames
He is Defeated Day 29
“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
Revelation 20:10
I like to remind Satan of this verse, because he is defeated! If I say left, you say right; I say up; you say down, but if I say God, don’t say Satan. You see Satan is in no way equally opposite to God. Remember 1 John 4:4, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” The devil will try to trick you into many temptations but as long as Christ dwells in you, he really has no power against you. The only way the devil can defeat you, is if you allow him to. So the next time Satan, Lucifer, the devil, the father of lies comes your way, remind him. Just say “R E V 20 10.”
Pastor Danny Rogillio
Day 30 Seek Him
“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.”
Proverbs 8:17
Proverbs 8 is speaking of wisdom. The only way to gain wisdom is to seek it. You can do this by reading books, taking classes or hanging around people who have more experience and wisdom than you.
This also applies to your relationship with Jesus. You can’t develop an intimate relationship with Him by going to church just once a week. You CAN accomplish this by reading God’s Word daily, praying or learning from someone who has more experience being a Christian. Another way you can get closer to the Lord is by being a servant. By being a servant, you will be a person after God’s own heart.
Diligently seek the Lord in places you never thought to look…the nursery, Children’s Church, the home of a sick acquaintance…I guarantee you will find Him there.
Marion Horta
Peace and Growth Day 31
“Then had the churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.”
Acts 9:31
With Paul’s boldness to preach and the protection of the other believers, this great relationship spawned which caused God’s favor to come down and the believers would grow in strength and numbers. MPC would be ineffective if we didn’t have as many different ministries under the covering of the church. On any given day you can find the body of MPC going in three to four different directions, but all ultimately have the heart of God and the vision of the Shepherd. Notice that the scripture states three different locations and culture but there was peace and favor which caused growth. I noticed over the years that it is contradicting to bring in the harvest when our laborers aren’t trained by the storehouse. In order for each ministry to function properly, each one needs to be in total agreement with the leader and this is what causes PEACE and GROWTH.
Pastor Damon Baudoin
Day 32 Listen Up
“That we may be able to comfort those in trouble, by the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”
2 Corinthians 1:4
Many Christians are going through trials and they feel like they are barely hanging on. How can we comfort others – especially the ones we don’t know well? Many hurting Christians won’t tell you how bad they are hurting, but may mention something that gives you a clue. For example, someone might say, “My husband has been out of work for months and he has a job interview.” Now you know what this family is going through. Take time to call that person to see if her husband got the job. Maybe you cannot remember to call people that you’re not close friends with. After you’re finished with your conversation write yourself a note to call them and put the note in a place where you will see it. When you make the phone call, the person you are calling will sense your care and concern for their situation. You will be comforting someone who may be having a hard time.
Sheila Jackson
Don’t Grumble Day 33
“But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses.”
Exodus 17:3
The Israelites murmured continually. Their suffering in Egypt had been of a different nature; now they complained about the lack of water. Their despair is evident in the fact that they are ready to stone Moses. They had stopped trusting God and were looking to Moses as their source and provider.
No matter what trial we face, Jesus is our Provider, Source, Supply and Surplus. He is the Living Water that satisfies our thirst. Selah!
Judy Rogillio
Day 34 See the Finish Line
“…since we are surrounded by a crowd of witnesses… let us run with endurance…keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus…”
Hebrews 12:1, 2
Jesus demonstrated the greatest commitment of all. He came to earth with a purpose to do His Father’s will. He knew the difficulties He faced. He knew the cost before the time came for Him to pay it. In spite of all this, He finished His race.
It is important to see the end from the beginning. No invention or sculpture just happens without a purpose and plan. Runners have to see themselves crossing the finish line before the race even starts.
Our Christian life is pictured as a race, with crowds of those who have finished cheering us on. The finish line is before us but sometimes it gets hard. Jesus finished His race because He saw through the end to the joy on the other side. That joy was you and me in God’s presence. Don’t look at the obstacles. See through to the end, to the joy before you – heaven and God.
Pastor Paul Pierce
Spend Time with Him Day 35
“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.”
Hosea 10:12
God desires us to stop thinking about just material things in relation to sowing and reaping. He wants us to sow time with Him. Sow prayers for others instead of whining about our own problems. We reap time with God and get to know Him better. This helps to renew our minds. As we seek Him first, He will provide all the material things in life.
Sowing time with God reaps mercy, knowledge, closeness, more of His anointing, more spiritual gifts, preparation for stepping out in ministry, favor with God and man and things you cannot even imagine yet.
The more time you spend with Him, the more you get familiar with hearing from Him. You will be adding to your rewards in heaven which far outweigh rewards on earth.
Linda Stradley
Day 36 We Must Resist
“Therefore submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
James 4:7
If we were to ask ourselves the question, “to submit or not to submit,” the answer would surely be blessing or cursing, life or death.
Submit means to yield, resign or surrender to the power, will or authority of another. Submission is the acknowledgement of inferiority or dependence; humble or suppliant behavior. This is the posture deserving our King. A King of power and might, of awe and wonder. A King of mercy and grace. This posture keeps us at the King’s feet where we find the King’s favor.
The definition of resist is to stand against; to withstand; hence, to act in opposition, or to oppose. We must resist/oppose Satan, not yielding to the thoughts, desires and temptations of the world which are the weapons of his warfare. Remember the enemy is looking for a way in of least resistance. We must resist, we must put on the whole armor of God, that we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. When we submit/surrender to God and resist the devil there is a promise of victory in Christ Jesus that our adversary the devil will flee/retreat from us. THAT IS THE WORD OF GOD.
Pastor John Mayers
Part of God’s Plan Day 37
“But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings…”
1 Peter 4:13
”I’m a faithful servant of God, how could this happen to me?” It’s the same question asked by the parents of a handicapped child, a young widow or the pastor who is falsely accused by a jealous church member. How can a seemingly loving God sit by in silence?
When we look at our sufferings in comparison to the sufferings of Christ, the picture seems so much clearer. Jesus endured the harshest injustice and yet God the Father turned away. Jesus asked the same question we so often ask, “Father, why have you forsaken me?” God forsook Jesus so we could be reconciled to him, in love, through repentance. There was a reason for the suffering and the pain.
Even though it is difficult to understand, our reward is far greater than we can presently see. Our trials are not random; they are part of His divine plan.
Kathy Firmin
Day 38 A Way of Escape
“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13
This was the very first verse I memorized when I was radically saved and set free from drugs, alcohol and a myriad of other things in 1978. As I walked through months and years of sobriety, that verse was what kept me from falling into temptation.
God’s word tell us that temptation will be common but that He is faithful and won’t allow us to be tempted beyond what we’re able to stand. With the temptation, He WILL provide the way of escape so that we can bear (endure) it.
When I walked through temptation and applied this scripture, He never failed and would reveal my escape! Even when I didn’t, He was still right there even though my hard heart wouldn’t acknowledge Him.
If you’re being tempted, just look around! Your way of escape is right there; you just have to be looking for it! There will always be a way out of that situation, just keep your eyes open.
Ann Brent
Shine Day 39
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Romans 12:2
There is a popular song on the radio called “Shine.” The songs lyrics are a true revelation.
“Shine, make them wonder whatcha got, make them wish that they were not, on the outside looking bored, shine, let it shine before all men, let them see good works and then, let them glorify the Lord.”
As I listened to this song, it occurred to me that this is what a true Christian is supposed to do. We, as the body of Christ, are supposed to let Christ shine through us into the world. As I thought about this, I realized the true definition of the word Christian: Christ in a Nation.
Donna Rodgers
Day 40 Jesus in You
“Arise; shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth and deep darkness the people; But the LORD will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you.”
Isaiah 60:1-2
In this day it is so important for us to shine. There is a deep darkness all over the earth. Sometimes we are the only Jesus people see. That is why we must walk in love. Have you ever had someone say to you, “Don’t I know you? Have we met before?” or “Do you have a sister or brother?” I have had that happen many times, and they always seem to be so sure. I would and help them figure it out even though I knew that I didn’t know them. Then one day I thought, “Wouldn’t it be great if it was the Lord they see and recognize in me?” His Word says that His glory will be seen upon us!
Kathy Rogillio
Death to Life Day 41
“And you hath he made alive who were dead in trespasses and sins.”
Ephesians 2:1
Praise God when Jesus died on the cross He paid our sin debt in full. All of our trespasses and sins were laid on Him and nailed to the cross at Calvary.
When we ask Jesus to come into our hearts He changes us instantly and we pass spiritually, from death to life. We are made ALIVE. Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Behold now is the accepted time. Now is the day of salvation.
Marion Sturdivant
Day 42 Do It Now
“If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.”
Ecclesiastes 11:4
Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 deals with being generous and diligent. When reading verse 4, it spoke out, not only boldly but simply, so simply a child could understand. If we wait for the perfect opportunity, it will never come. Once we put ourselves in the picture, it becomes imperfect. We need to not only learn to wait on the Lord, but to proceed when the Lord tells us. If He sends us something, a chance to minister to someone, to bless someone or to pray for someone, don’t “make a note to take care of it later when it is more convenient.” Later never comes. DO IT NOW.
Kathy Galloway
Character Day 43
God is looking for people with character. Character has a root word that means statue or fixed predictable image. Fixed meaning it is always there doing the same thing. It does not go anywhere, it is fixed. Predictable means it does not move; it will always be doing what it is supposed to be doing. You can count on it to be doing just that. Image means it is put in the center of a city or somewhere very visible to be on display. It is for everyone to look at.
Romans 5:1–5 says that we would rejoice in the coming of the Glory of the Lord (sharing it with Him) and we should also rejoice in tribulations and fiery trials knowing that it produces perseverance, character and hope. Hope does not disappoint. There are a lot of people with spiritual gifts and talents but no character.
So when trials and tribulations come, instead of rebuking them, let’s rejoice.
Greg Keller
Day 44 Put Them Away
“And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, “If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.” Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only.”
1 Samuel 7:3-4
Many believers need to return to the Lord and serve Him with everything within them. I believe we are to live a vicarious life as a Christian; someone that serves out of instinct instead of being delegated. One great way to escape the hand of the devourer is to put away the strange gods. Strange gods are the things that unproductively consume your time, when deep in your spirit you know it’s pulling you away from intimacy with your Creator. I challenge you to prepare your hearts unto the Lord and serve Him ONLY.
Pastor Damon Baudoin
What’s Love Got To Do With It? Day 45
I’m sure you’ve all heard the song that asks that question. Jesus said the answer is “everything!”
The word LOVE is grossly overused in the English language. We love our children, our spouse and our parents. We love the buffet after church. We love to shop, to play golf and to cheer for our favorite team. With so many uses for love, there’s no wonder that we struggle with loving one another. How can you LOVE if you don’t really know what love means?
Love is not just a command; it is the command. When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus said, “You shall love…no other commandment is greater.” (Mark 12:28-31). It is paramount that as Christians we should fully understand what love is so that we may demonstrate love to one another and abide in love.
Father, open the eyes of our understanding so that we may learn to love one another even as Christ loved the church. In Jesus’ Name!
Pastor David D. Hayes
Day 46 Signs Accompanying
“These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons…”
Mark 16:17
As Peter and John went to the Temple to pray, they were approached by a lame man lying at the Temple gate. The man asked them for some money, expecting a gift. But Peter said, “We don’t have any money for you! But what we do have, we will gladly give! I command you in the name of Jesus Christ, walk!” Then, Peter took the man by the hand and pulled him to his feet. As he did, the man’s feet and ankle-bones were healed and he began walking, leaping and praising God.
These same signs are to accompany the Christian today. The name of Jesus gives authority over all the power of the enemy. Let’s use that powerful name to accomplish all that is set before us to do for Him.
Judy Rogillio
Live in Today Day 47
“So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.”
Matthew 6:34
“Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” James 4:14
It is difficult to live in today. We have a tendency to think about all we’ve been through, where it is that we want to go or things we want to do. If we think all the time about where we’ve been, we will miss out on today. We can live in today by being thankful for the day and letting God have the rest. He is ultimately in control.
“Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31
Let go of yesterday and leave tomorrow to God.
Patti Rodgers
Day 48 A Positive Attitude
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
Philippians 4:4
Having a positive attitude is so important. And why shouldn’t we be positive? After all, we are on the winning side. We have the victory! I love this verse because it reminds me that no matter what, we are to rejoice in the Lord and all He has done for us and all He is going to do. Verse 8 says to think on whatever is true and the truth is, if He never does another thing for me He has saved my soul from an eternity of hell and has given me an eternity of heaven and fellowship with Him. Verse 8 goes on to say that we have to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. The Lord is so wonderful, His creation is so magnificent and He is so worthy of our praise that I will say it again, “Rejoice!”
Kathy Rogillio
Steadfastness Day 49
The book of Nehemiah tells the story of a man who had an uncommon destiny because of his steadfastness, in spite of opposition and weariness. As a servant to a pagan king, Nehemiah had to choose to stand before his master and ask for help with his vision of repairing the broken down walls of Jerusalem. God granted him favor and blessed him with all the materials needed. What a great start!
Once on site in Jerusalem, Nehemiah was faced with opposition from within by those who were afraid. He faced opposition from those who were in control, who wanted to stay in control. He faced opposition from enemies of God. He battled through weariness as he worked, without stopping, for 52 days to complete the vision.
Nehemiah had no great spiritual gifts. He was simply motivated by vision and his desire to glorify God. His steadfastness made his story a part of history. Most history-makers are people like you and me who decide that they will not stop serving God, no matter what happens.
Pastor Paul Pierce
Day 50 For Every Heartbeat
“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Matthew 7:8
Recently I’ve encountered rough terrain in my family. No matter how much I prayed and petitioned God for the thorn in my side to be removed, the situation did not get any better. As it continued, my faith was constantly put to the test. The stinking devil was playing havoc with my head. One morning, as I lay beside my husband praying for this situation, I felt my faith being pricked again. It was then that God spoke to me, “For every heartbeat there is a promise for you.” As I listened to my husband’s heartbeat I began quoting promises. As it turned out, I couldn’t quote the promises fast enough before his next heartbeat. It was in that sweet quiet time God spoke to me and renewed my faith and strength. There are approximately 7,400 promises in the Bible. I encourage you to find the promises you need and quote them until you see them fulfilled in Jesus’ Name.
Donna Rodgers
In the Storm? Day 51
“And he saith unto them, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”
Matthew 8:26
In Matthew 8:22-27 we find a story of a simple boat trip gone bad. As the weather went bad, all peace left the people in the boat. All they could see was the natural. The natural will steal your peace. I recently spoke with a client who had a fire that had gotten too hot in the fireplace. All she could think to do at the time of the fire was to throw water on the fire. The water had little affect except to damage the fireplace, cracking the bricks. As we stood in front of the fireplace, we said a fire extinguisher, baking soda or a bucket of dirt would have put the fire out. In the heat of the storm, will you have the peace to know what to do? Remember the One who can calm the storm!
Pastor Danny Rogillio
Day 52 For Every Heartbeat
“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Matthew 7:8
Recently I’ve encountered rough terrain in my family. No matter how much I prayed and petitioned God for the thorn in my side to be removed, the situation did not get any better. As it continued, my faith was constantly put to the test. The stinking devil was playing havoc with my head. One morning, as I lay beside my husband praying for this situation, I felt my faith being pricked again. It was then that God spoke to me, “For every heartbeat there is a promise for you.” As I listened to my husband’s heartbeat I began quoting promises. As it turned out, I couldn’t quote the promises fast enough before his next heartbeat. It was in that sweet quiet time God spoke to me and renewed my faith and strength. There are approximately 7,400 promises in the Bible. I encourage you to find the promises you need and quote them until you see them fulfilled in Jesus’ Name.
Donna Rodgers
In the Storm? Day 53
“And he saith unto them, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”
Matthew 8:26
In Matthew 8:22-27 we find a story of a simple boat trip gone bad. As the weather went bad, all peace left the people in the boat. All they could see was the natural. The natural will steal your peace. I recently spoke with a client who had a fire that had gotten too hot in the fireplace. All she could think to do at the time of the fire was to throw water on the fire. The water had little affect except to damage the fireplace, cracking the bricks. As we stood in front of the fireplace, we said a fire extinguisher, baking soda or a bucket of dirt would have put the fire out. In the heat of the storm, will you have the peace to know what to do? Remember the One who can calm the storm!
Pastor Danny Rogillio
Day 54 Deliverance is Yours
“At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the Lord.”
Zephaniah 3:20
God’s covenant and His promises are absolute truth. We must seek Him first and continually in everything. He expects us to draw near to Him, in order for Him to draw near to us. Jesus’ resurrection power is able to save, deliver and heal you from all that afflicts you. Whatever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive it, and you shall have it. In order to believe, you must find, study, meditate and confess scriptures regarding the promises that you are seeking.
Jesus came to set the captives free, as He is our great Conqueror and Deliverer. The plan for us to receive salvation, deliverance and healing has already been completed. We have to ask for it and believe, through faith, that we have received it.
Linda Stradley
Think on These Day 55
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Philippians 4:8
Whining is not anointed. Negative people get on our nerves quickly. They never have anything good to say and they usually drain us. They certainly do not please God either. How boring the whining and complaining must sound in God’s ears.
God instructs us to occupy our minds with good things and not to focus on the bad things. God calls us to praise Him and lift our voices in a positive way. When we praise God, we encourage ourselves and those around us. When our thoughts are pleasing to God, our words will be also. We should remember daily to think on these things and in doing so we will give glory and honor to Him who created all good things.
Kathy Firmin
Filled to be Spilled Day 55
“And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.”
Acts 4:31
Be spilled to be filled or be filled to be spilled, that is the question. Many Christians differ in their theology about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. But regardless of theology, all true believers need to be filled with the Holy Spirit… continually, regularly and daily. For the apostles, being filled wasn’t something that just happened once; it was an ongoing process or occurrence that always resulted in a demonstration of love and service to others. We have no need to be newly filled unless we have been poured out. The more we are poured out, the more we are refilled. The measure of our spirituality is not only how much we receive from God, but most importantly it is measured by how much we give.
Pastor Damon Baudoin
Day 56 Don’t Get Stuck
“I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee…”
Acts 26:2
Paul had been falsely accused and imprisoned and was facing King Agrippa – a man who’s family legacy included Herod the Great who ordered all the young male children killed when Jesus was born and Herod Agrippa who beheaded James.Knowing his life was at stake, he spoke out, not of being falsely accused or how badly he was mistreated but rejoicing in the love of God.He used that time to share his testimony.He did not let the problems of his life weigh him down.He seized the moment with joy shared God’s love.How many of us allow our circumstances to rule how we feel?We need to stop allowing our troubles to weigh us down.We have to stop getting “stuck” in the trials we are going through.Stop complaining about what is wrong in your life and start rejoicing by doing as Paul did and “think yourself happy.”
Kathy Galloway
Kids at Christmas-time Day 57
“However, as it is written: No eye has seen, no ear has heard,mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.”
1 Corinthians 2:9
I believe what Jesus is saying in this passage applies NOW. If we are laying our lives down for the Lord and for the glory of God, we have no idea what He has prepared for us or in what capacity we will serve Him. This excites me! I feel like a child at Christmas-time! God has already done far more for me than I could have possibly imagined. I can hardly wait to see what else is coming. This morning I read John 3:8 and I believe God was confirming that because I am born again of His Spirit. There is no telling what He is going to do in my life, but I know if I completely surrender to Him that it is all going to be good. Let’s have child-like faith and excitement about what God has prepared for us.
Kathy Rogillio
Day 58 River of Life
“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:38
During the Feast of Tabernacles celebration the priests brought water, symbolic of the water supplied from the rock in Exodus 17. During the celebration the water was poured out on the altar as an offering to God. At one of these celebrations, Jesus stood and said, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. As the scripture has said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” He was speaking of the Holy Spirit, which they that believe in Him should receive. Jesus was the fulfillment of all that this ceremony typified.
Those who receive the Holy Spirit will themselves become channels of spiritual refreshment for others to drink from. There’s a river of life flowing out of the believer that makes the lame walk, the blind see, opens prison doors and sets the captives free.
Judy Rogillio
God Knew Me! Day 59
“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee…”
Jeremiah 1:5
What an awesome word! No matter what the circumstances of my birth, my God knew me and had a plan for my life. Is that not cool?! It may not mean much to you, but I was an abortion waitin’ to happen. To this day, I have not met my biological father, but I am so grateful that I met my heavenly Father. It has made all the difference in the world concerning my esteem and my outlook on life.
I’m not second rate, lower class or rejected. I’m a child of God, an heir of His kingdom and a joint-heir with Jesus. I have access to all of heaven. I think I’m doing alright for myself in that respect. This world may never provide you with all that you think it should. Step out of the victim mentality and start living. Compared to eternity this life is short. Live it hard, live it loud and live it for God – give Him all you’ve got – He’s worthy!
Jeannie Sinclair
Day 60 When Storms Come
“The wise man built his house upon the rock, the rain came down and the floods came up, the winds blew, and the house on the rock stood fast.”
Matthew 7:25
Jesus used parables or illustrations to make a point. The need to be established in a Bible-believing church is found in Matthew.
Our desire is to be that wise man or woman, to become rooted and grounded in the Word of God, building our life upon His Word, so we have the solid rock (Jesus and His Word) to hang on to.
When the storms of life come, and they do, we shall not lose hope, but stand fast, victorious in Jesus!
Beverly Oulman
