Nuggets for the Spiritual Journey
A nugget…what’s the first thing that comes to mind? To me it is a McDonald’s chicken nugget, compressed pieces of miscellaneous meat shaped into a roundish form. To some, a small piece of gold may come to mind or a piece of advice given by someone.
We hope that you will enjoy our miscellaneous meat, our filler, our valuable pieces of counsel shared within the pages of this book. C’mon, don’t be a nugget hater, dive in and see what we have to offer. Let God reveal simple truths to you through your fellow brothers and sisters.
May God bless you greatly –
Bishop Ricky & Jeannie Sinclair
Choose Life Day 1
“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!”
Deuteronomy 30:19
The most important choice any person will make is not their mate, their career, their place to live or to have children. The most important decision that affects all of us is our eternal destiny. God has given us the right to choose – life or death. Through the death, burial and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, God made a way for each of us to receive eternal life. God is not some mean monster who wants to send people to hell, but a loving compassionate Father who wants the best for us. The choice is ours. Will you choose to live a life of abundant joy, peace and purpose? You can make that decision right now! Sincerely pray this simple prayer:
Dear God, I know that You love me and that You have given Your only Son for me. Please forgive me for every sin in my life. I receive your love and forgiveness. I receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to choose Life! Amen.
Pastor Paul Pierce
Day 2 Do Your Best
Colossians 3:23-24
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
When we are struggling with something I believe that 99% of the time it is because we forget Who it is we serve! It is all about Jesus. And how great is His reward? There is really nothing to compare. So everything we do we should do it heartily to the Lord. I remember when I was a child, my dad taught me to do the very best job I could, no matter the circumstances. So even if I wasn’t getting paid for a job, if I was scrubbing toilets or scrubbing behinds, I have always tried to do my very best. I am thankful for this life lesson. Now that I know whatever it is I do, can bring glory to God it sure makes the not so perfect circumstances much easier to put up with. I don’t know about you, but I would do ANYTHING for Jesus!
Kathy Rogillio
Trust and Obey Day 3
“Then I will take away your stubbornness and make you eager to be completely faithful to me. You will want to obey me and all my laws and teachings. You will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Ezekiel 11:19-20
That is aold hymn that packs an astounding truth. This verse explains that God is going to take away our stubbornness …if you want Him to. You see, if we will get back out of His way and not be so hard-headed, He is going to grace us with the hunger, the passion, the very unction, to truly obey Him. He said we will want to obey Him! Is that great or what? Lord Jesus, teach me to be eager in my faithfulness so that my obedience will be a sweet smelling aroma to You.
“Our happiness is directly linked to our obedience of God.”
Pastor Tim Pierce
Day 4 Leap of Faith
“So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.”
Galatians 3:9
Abraham followed the orders of God without question. He was ordered to leave everything behind and go to a place he’d never been. He was ordered to sacrifice his son, and he would have done it if God hadn’t intervened. God was testing the faith of Abraham. Abraham didn’t know God’s entire plan for his descendants. He only knew the little bit that God made available. It didn’t matter. Abraham did NOT question God. He was faithful to God.
“Faith is taking the first step, even when you can’t see the whole staircase.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
God has a plan for your life. Even though you can’t see his whole plan, He gives you a glimpse. Be like Abraham and don’t question God’s motives. Take a leap of faith in the right direction and surely the gates to the Kingdom of Heaven will be open to you.
Brandon Martin
Trials and Temptations Day 5
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”
James 1:2-3
Even though times may get difficult, know that everything happens for a reason. I am a firm believer in the old saying, “What does not kill you will only make you stronger.” I feel that when you aren’t going through any type of trial or tribulation is when you truly have a problem. I say this because life is about change. Life is a process; either you’re growing or you’re dying. When you no longer have a current struggle and God is no longer testing your faith, you should really begin to worry because if you are a Christian walking strong in your journey with Christ, Satan will throw any and every obstacle in your path to try to make you stumble and fall. Keep strong and know that God is own your side. You should be happy that you have tests of your faith in life because this means you are still in the growing process and not on your way out. So take joy in life’s struggles.
Jacob Roberts
Day 6 God Has a Plan
“And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings.”
Acts 17:26
This verse teaches us that God had ordained everything from the foundation of the world. He made, of one blood, all nations of men. The Lord determined the times before…He appointed them. This tells us that the Lord has placed gifts and abilities in us that they may be used for God’s battle when He needs it. He had also ordained the boundaries of our habitation, which is where we would be living. What this means to me, is that God has us right here, right now, for a reason. We are living wherever we are for a reason, as preparation for what God wants to use us for in His perfect will for us. God wants to bring us to a place commanded blessings in our lives and He wants to use willing, teachable people. Remember to always pray for God’s will to be done and not ours. Remember that God doesn’t make mistakes, but He will test our faith.
Kyle Engels
Train a Child Day 7
“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”
Proverbs 22:6
During the course of our lives we will be faced with the great challenge of rearing our children to be everything that God wants them to be. We face a great challenge because Satan desires for them to be influenced to his ways. It takes time to understand exactly how God wants us to motivate our children and the discipline to carry it through.
“Spare the rod and spoil the child” is often quoted as a means to keep our children in line. True, it is an important part of helping our children along the path of life, but the book of Proverbs is an important reflection of a special relationship of love between a father and son. It is a book of encouragement and wisdom that, if followed, will give us great strength for the journey that we will have to travel with our children.
Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon
Day 8 Get on the Right Path
“Consider well the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established and ordered aright.”
Proverbs 4:26
Once you’ve determined that you’re going to make God’s way your way, don’t get away from it. Make compromise a thing of the past. The easiest time to stray from the path is when you come under pressure. Tithing and honoring God with your substance is following the path of God. When you fail to do these things because of financial pressure then you have strayed from the path. This is the main reason why the majority of the body of Christ still struggles financially today. “Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness.” Psalm 65:11 Fatness is translated into English as prosperity and abundance. Get on that path and determine to stay on it.
Shirley Tullier
Touched by God Day 9
“And Saul also went home to Gibeah; and there went with him a band of men, whose hearts God had touched.”
1 Samuel 10:26
Think about the first time you won a race or reached your highest goal. You were on cloud nine. What did you do after reaching the mountaintop experience? Were you able to see that on every mountaintop there is another view of the next challenge? Above your greatest accomplishment rises one greater! Life has tons of challenges that can pull us down and cause us to quit. But there’s something different about those whose hearts have been touched by God. God’s touch resembles a lit match touching gas or a bolt of lightening striking an oil tanker. God’s touch does more than start something; He empowers His children with miracles, signs and wonders.
Pray for God to touch your heart and to surround yourself with people whose hearts have been touched by God and watch an explosion that shatters the status quo with creativity and change.
Pastor Damon Baudoin
Day 10 When You Sin
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us of our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9
Sin is deadly. Sin opens the door to the devil. But none of us are immune to falling into sin. What should we do then? If you sin, immediately confess it to God. Don’t make excuses. You don’t need to beg God to forgive you because He is a forgiver and has already paid the price so all sin can be forgiven. You confess it to get rid of the sin and its effects on you.
Nikki V. Langlois
Spiritual Gifts Day 11
“…to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy…”
1 Corinthians 12:10
As I was preparing to receive my firstborn into my arms for the very first time, my heart was bursting with love and a newfound devotion to motherhood. As I gazed upon my daughter, I couldn’t wait to open the blanket so I could see this perfect little baby. Was I proud? You bet! After I had admired my little girl for awhile, I was startled to hear the woman in the bed next to me ask if she could please hold my baby. There was something so trusting and beautiful about this woman. I was surprised to hear myself say, “Of course you can.”
After awhile, the woman looked at me and said, “Your baby is special. She is going to do something wonderful one day, something to honor and please God.” I was so stunned I couldn’t even answer her. After she handed my baby back to me I looked into this child’s eyes and just knew my roommate was right. I was finally able to say, “Thank you.” Now I can only say thank God for my little miracle – Sister Jeannie Sinclair is doing something to honor and please God!
Patricia Cantu
Day 12 Choose to Stand
“Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego replied to the king, ‘O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to give you an answer concerning this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.’”
Daniel 3:17, 18
Many would call this statement an act of defiance. It really is a declaration of faith and conviction. These three young friends of Daniel were being forced to participate in idolatry. The image set up for worship was a direct contradiction to the teachings of their parents. Even though their parents were not present, these three young men understood that the eyes of the Lord see all. The faith of the parents had to become the faith of the children. In the face of terrible persecution, God’s young men made a choice. As the fires blazed these mighty young men made a stand for God and righteousness.
Pastor Paul Pierce
No Other Friend Day 13
“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
1 Peter 5: 7
What a great God we serve. He is our Teacher, Leader, Creator and Master, but most of all He said that he is our Friend. No matter the problem we can go to Him and He promises that He will never leave nor forsake us. You can believe Him because He is not a man that He should lie. So cast all your cares on Him for He really does care for your every concern.
Lord Jesus today I lay every care at your feet because the burdens are much too big to bear. Today I accept Your friendship and intercession on my behalf and may You receive all the glory. Amen.
Pastor Tim Pierce
Day 14 It Don’t Take Much…
In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul found how to be content in life, whether he had much or little, he knew that “he could do all things through Christ.” And again in I Timothy 6:6-10, he talks about the reality that we came into this world with nothing and we’ll leave the same way, that we need to be content to have food to eat and clothes on our back.
I’ve lived in a six bedroom house, had spare vehicles and so much money in the bank that I didn’t have to keep a balance in my checkbook, however, I’ve also lived off of moon pies and potato chips, slept on other people’s floors and had to walk or catch a ride to get somewhere.
At this time in my life, I live in a three bedroom mobile home in a rented slot in a park. I drive a Kia and I fight to get through each month financially, but it’s all good. I continue to serve, tithe, live and love and I am content. What more is there to this physical life? You can only drive one car at a time. You can only sleep in one house at a time. It’s nice to have extra “stuff” but the “stuff” ain’t what it takes to make you happy. That can only come from peace on the inside and that peace is found in Jesus. <><
Jeannie Sinclair
Things Are Looking Up Day 15
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”
James 1:2-3 (NKJV)
“Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us.”
2 Corinthians 1:9 (NKJV)
Through my life I have experienced many trials and gone through many hard times. Going through a six month rehab program is definitely up there on the list. These scriptures really help me through these hard times. The second scripture speaks directly to me. For so long I tried to beat this addiction by myself and it got me nowhere. As soon as I turned it over to God, things started to look up. It is so hard to be joyful when I’m going through hard times, but it’s so true that trials produce perseverance and build character. As long as I trust in God He will give me His joy and if I have the joy of the Lord then nothing can get me down.
Jordan Hicks
Day 16 What’s In a Name?
“There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!’ And God granted him his request.”
1 Chronicles 4:9-10
When we are born our parents pick our names and our names shape our temperament and destiny. Then people try to change our name. Some of us get called not by our right name but by the labels that people put on us. When we accept the Lord Jesus Christ in our lives, God changes our names, spiritually that is. Jabez knew God and believed in Him. He knew that God would bless Him if he just cried out to Him. What does your name mean to you? Are you representing your name or are you letting people label you? God has more in store for you than the labels which were given to you. Allow God to be the One to change your name.
Marta Garcia
Prayer Changes Things Day 17
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14
Is it possible to change a wholeby the prayers of a few people?Yes, it is.If one bad person like Hitler, who was possessed by Satan, could change Germany for the worse, then you can be sure that a group of men and women with God’s power resting on them can change a nation for the better.No nation is so far gone that God can’t change it.God said “If My people which are called by Myname…” God didn’t say it would take everybody in the nation to get things turned around.He said, “If My people.”God said our job is to PRAY and to BELIEVE that He will do what He says.
Shirley Tullier
Day 18 Come to Me…
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28
You have a great partner in life – Jesus Christ, a 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 mountain top 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 compared 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 to do.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
Humble Yourself Day 19
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:6-7
This verse tells us three things we need to know. First, humble yourself under God’s mighty hand. If we can’t humble ourselves, we can’t learn or receive anything God or anyone else has that might help us.
Next, He may lift you up in due time. That means His time, not ours. When God lifts us up, it is permanent, not a temporary thing or something that anyone else can undo. When God does something in His time, whatever it is, it will not fail.
Lastly, He cares so much for us that He wants to take all of our troubles, burdens, fears and all that we worry about. His Word says that He will take care of ALL of our worries. Because He loves us so much, He doesn’t want us to worry about anything. He says He will take care of it, if we let Him.
Al Hart
Day 20 Attentive to His Call
“Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. ‘Let me kiss my father and mother good-by,’ he said, ‘and then I will come with you.’ ‘Go back,’ Elijah replied. ‘What have I done to you?’ So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his attendant.”
1 Kings 19:20-21
As you can see Elisha was faithfully working in the natural realm, while his spirit was also chomping at the bit. God primarily calls those that are active. Elisha led by example, not merely by command, even when leading servants of his own household. Due to his servant-like attitude in the natural realm, God called him to activity in the spiritual realm. God was calling Elisha to service, not Elijah. The decision was his and his alone. Before he went to service, Elisha burnt all the ties to his natural realm which would force him to trust only in the spiritual realm. No back-up plan. Sheer trust in God’s calling. What are you willing to give up to be attentive to the call of God?
Pastor Damon Baudoin
Gold, Silver or Trash Day 21
“In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.”
2 Timothy 2:20-21
God has given every one of us a special gift or talent. It is up to us how to use it. Some of us present it back to God as gold or silver, lifting them up to Him through service for Him. Others do nothing with His gifts. They let them waste away as garbage. God has placed a desire in our heart. Sometimes we may feel as if we let God down by not using a gift He has blessed us with, but if we just get that “silver platter” and clean the tarnish off, we can once again begin using it to serve God again.
Kathy Galloway
Day 22 God Will Make a Way
“Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
2 Timothy 2:22
Thank God He does not want us to entertain the desires of a foolish man’s heart. God wants us to flee the youthful lusts of the flesh. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “God will leave you a way to escape the temptations of the flesh.” If we are to flee, we are to run away from that which has become too much for our flesh to bear.
When you run away, you must run to those that are made righteous by the blood of Jesus Christ. Follow those that walk by faith, so they may be godly examples for you.
I have come to Baker from Alexandria. Baker has been my escape from the temptations of my flesh. I am now pursuing righteousness, faith, love and peace.
Brandon Miller
Race With Joy Day 23
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:24
When we remember where we are going, Who our God is and what His purposes are, we have joy. When we keepin our sights, God on our minds and Jesus in our hearts, we have joy.the Spirit of the Lord is on us, in us and moving through us, who or what can steal our joy for more than a moment?
What joy it is whentheshare Jesusothers, a joy that is alive as He is alive in us. God is alive in word, in song, and in deed! your sights on Him and race with joy to win.
Pastor Danny Rogillio
Day 24 Walk in the Same Way
“Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, so walk in Him…”
Colossians 2:6
The Christian life is described as a walk. Walking is a consistent, constant, repetitive action that results in motion. Our Christian life should be consistent and constant. We serve God every day, not just on Sundays.
This verse says we walk in the same way we received Christ Jesus as Lord. How did we receive Him? The Bible says we are “saved by grace through faith.” Grace is God’s power that saves us. It works in our life through faith. Faith is the pipeline to receive God’s grace. We don’t deserve God’s love and forgiveness but He gave it. We must choose to receive it by believing and trusting Him. That is faith.
This sounds simple because it is. Everyday make a new commitment to walk in Him. Trust God for all of your needs and the power to overcome the flesh, the world and the devil. Receive His power for life as you trust Him constantly and consistently.
Pastor Paul Pierce
Yoked Together Day 25
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
We live in a world of nerve-jangling noise, fast pace, frantic activity and endless demands. Yet we yearn for the rest the Lord talks about. The Lord is not talking about being free from circumstances but resting in Him during those circumstances and feeling the rest only He can give us. Do not be burdened with the things of this world that are only temporary. Rest in Him and think about how to be humble like Him. The yoke the Lord puts upon us is easy. When we do the things He asks of us, we find the burden is light.
When we give our lives to Jesus, we are “yoked” together with Him. He does the pulling and we follow and learn, thereby finding real joy, purpose and rest.
Brandy Baudoin
Day 26 Delivered
“I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”
Psalm 34:4
I was running lost, doing what I wanted to do and not even doing that well. I was a bad husband, father and friend. I was living in darkness doing what Satan wanted me to do until a voice (my Lord, Jesus Christ) said to me, “Draw close to Me and I will draw close to thee.” So, I fell down on my knees and said to my Father, “Forgive me of my sins. Take away my evil thoughts. Set me free from my addictions.” He heard my cry and He also gave me something more because He’s an awesome, loving, kind, wonderful God. That’s why I can rejoice and say how great our God is.
Thank You, Father, because You saved me. Amen.
Brian Watson
Being Accepted Day 27
“Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.”
Romans 15:7
All of us long to be accepted by others. We may say, “I don’t care what others think about me,” but on the inside we all yearn for intimacy and affection. This yearning is especially true in our relationships with our parents. Gaining or missing out on parental approval has a tremendous affect on people. In fact, what takes place in our relationship with our parents can greatly affect our present and future relationships with others, as well as our relationship with God. Most children who lack or miss out on the feeling of approval from a parent end up on a life-long search for acceptance. If you are a parent, learn how to bless your child with praise and acceptance. The best defense against a child longing and then receiving wrong acceptance is to provide him or her with true acceptance. With this, you can greatly reduce the chances that he or she will seek acceptance in the arms of a cult or with someone in an unhealthy, immoral relationship. Love your children with the love of Christ and accept them as He accepts you.
April Mayers
Day 28 By Your Side
“For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”
Hebrews 13:5
Not too long ago, my daughter, Isabel, had a stomach virus. I was frustrated because there was nothing I could do for her except rub her back and hold back her hair as she was sick. I vented my frustration and Isabel, in her innocence, told me, “It’s okay, Mommy. I just feel better when you’re near.” Her statement prompted me to think about my walk with Jesus. Like everyone else, I go through trials, some worse than others. I believe there are things I have to go through that build my character or teach me something. These tests would not be effective if someone came and rescued me from them. Even though I may have to pass a test by myself, I just feel better knowing that Jesus is right there with me.
Marion Horta
Until Eternity Day 29
“It wasn’t so long ago that we ourselves were stupid and stubborn, dupes of sin, ordered every which way by our glands, going around with a chip on our shoulder, hated and hating back. But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God’s gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there’s more life to come—an eternity of life!”
Titus 3:3-8
I meet a lot of people at Miracle Place Church. In getting to know them, I learn about their background. Sometimes we compare backgrounds but the bottom line is this, whether we come from a church background or a background of drugs and alcohol, sin is sin. God doesn’t see little white lies or great big sins. When we are washed in His blood, we are new. No matter what background we are from, we are all now one family – a family with an eternity of life to look forward to.
Kathy Galloway
Day 30 Thank You Jesus
“Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified.”
Matthew 27:26
Jesus endured unbelievable pain and torture for us. He suffered for an unworthy sinner like me who is undeserving of such agape love. Jesus’ flesh was torn from His body by Romans filled with hatred towards Him, using a tool called a scourge. This tool consisted of a wooden handle with 12 or so leather straps. At the end of each strap were broken pieces of bone or metal that were designed to rip open flesh. This scourge was used on the body of Christ 39 times causing 468 stripes. Isaiah 52:14 says that Jesus’ body was marred more that of any other man. With blood, sweat, pain and tears Christ paid a price I could not – death by crucifixion – that I might live and be healed from disease and addiction. For Isaiah 53:5 says, “For by His stripes we are healed.” Thank you Jesus!
Mark Smith
A Strong Tower Day 31
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
Proverbs 18:10
When Satan brings things against you, when you think you are all alone, when you are beat down and discouraged, just remember to call upon the Lord. When you speak the name of Jesus, all demons will flee. Evil can’t be in the presence of righteousness. When life’s storms come, when you struggle just to make it, run to the tower. Bask in the security and safety of the Lord. Lean on Him. He is Almighty. He calms the storms. He will wrap you in His love. He sends His peace.
Lord, thank You for always being there for me. Thank You for being a strong tower in my life. Thank You for calming the storms and keeping me safe. I’m weak but I know You are strong. Thank you, Lord, for loving me. Thank You for giving Your life for me. Amen.
Susan Martin
Day 32 Love Your Enemies
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
Luke 6:35-36
Have you ever heard of the saying, “I can forgive but I can’t forget?” This is just another way of saying, “I will not forgive.” When I am having a hard time forgiving someone, I just pray, “Lord, remind me of how many times You have forgiven me. Amen.”
Vickie Langlois
Keep It Hot! Day 33
“For this reason I remind you to fan into the flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”
2 Timothy 1:6
If any of you have been serving in the ministry for any length of time, you know what it means for your fire to die out. Even though fires can and sometimes will die out, this scripture tells us how to fan the flame and stir it up. Dying fires can be stoked, punched, or added to “stir up” and soon they become a full flame again. Just like a fire needs plenty of oxygen to build up, we too need to stay where the spirit of God can get into our deepest embers and stoke us up. We must add more wood to the fire before it gets too low, inefficient and cold. We must add the Word of God to our daily chores in order to keep the flame going hot and the house comfortable for the ones we love. “Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11
Pastor Damon Baudoin
Day 34 You Are Loved
“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
Joshua 1:8
The battlefield is in the mind. By meditating on God’s Word, we can change the way we think. As a man thinks, so he is. See yourself the way God sees you. Think on, ponder and meditate on who God says you are and who He created you to be. Do not listen to Satan’s lies. He cannot tell the truth. The truth is not in him.
Get a revelation of how special and loved you are by God: It is only when you realize how much God loves you that your confidence and faith rises up and pleases God.
Doris Moore
Honesty is the Best Policy Day 35
“The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.”
Proverbs 10:9
It doesn’t matter what version of the Bible you read, integrity will be found multiple times. What is integrity? Integrity is defined as: firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values; incorruptibility. I think integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is looking. It is the words and actions of a person that define them as individuals. When you are honest about the mistakes you’ve made, it’s easier to be forgiven. That’s what repenting is all about. We are all judged for the things we say and do. Don’t leave a lasting impression of immorality. God honors those who have integrity.
“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.” Revelations 20:12
Brandon Martin
Day 36 Possess the Land
“Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 1:21
God told Israel, “Here’s your land, the land that I’ve promised; it is yours for the taking.” He didn’t say sit back and wait for it to come to you. In fact, He said, “Go up and possess it.”
Possess means to seize; to gain; to obtain the occupation of; to have power over. Israel had to aggressively take possession of their promised land. The same goes for us today. God has promised us joy, peace, health, dominion and a more abundant life. It is your part to take authority and evict anything that is illegally occupying your promised land.
“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:19
Make the choice today to rise up and take possession of what God has already given you, your promised land.
Pastor John Mayers
The Cost of Freedom Day 37
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
Galatians 5:1
Freedom is not free.To know freedom we must count the cost. One only has to stand at Normandy Beach and begin to count the number of crosses that are casting shadows over the graves.The amount of blood shed there was enough to turn the water red for miles.Our nation’s freedom and many other nations’ freedom were purchased with this blood.
The blood shed at Calvary cost the death of God Himself. The shed blood of Jesus Christ freed humanity from the bondage of sin and death.His shed blood purchased our spiritual freedom and can never be taken away.
Kenney Burris
Day 38 All Things to All Men
“To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”
1 Corinthians 9:21-23
In our journey along the path of life, we will need to maintain the flexibility to reach people on all levels and in all walks of life. The apostle Paul gave us a great example in the above scripture. So, why is it that we, as Christians, have a problem associating with people who are not like us?
It takes a special love to become all things to all men and women so that we can win some of them to the Lord. Become the example that Paul demonstrated and watch the world around us change for the sake of the Gospel.
Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon
Overlook an Offense Day 39
“A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.”
Proverbs 19:11
There are times in our lives that we are offended. When those times happen we usually get offended and we leave and we never come back. Most of the time the other person doesn’t even know that they have offended us. The other person may not even know why we are mad or why we stop coming by. They may not have any idea why we are offended. If we were to use wisdom and not get offended, then our lives would be better. We wouldn’t get upset. We wouldn’t give Satan a foothold in our lives. When we get offended Satan, works on that offense. He plants doubt and dismay in us. He has us believing anything. Then he starts working on other areas in our lives. If we remember that we don’t know what the other person is going through at that very time and shake off the offense, we will be fighting Satan. Satan wants to come between God’s people. When we overlook the offense Satan moves on to the next person. To over look the offense is to your glory because Jesus and the angels of heaven laugh at Satan and his demons…. and so can you.
Susan Martin
Day 40 Free
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
Matthew 6:33
Sometimes in life I go through trials. Circumstances can be very hard to control. When I first accepted Christ into my heart, I wanted to be free from addictions. I wanted to have my children live with me, I wanted a home, a wife, a normal life. God showed me, through this verse, that in order for me to receive things I had to put God first. That meant everything else had to be let go. At first it was hard to forget about the things I wanted but as I devoted my life to God, I started getting free of my addictions.
Cheyne Nunez
Time to Refresh Day 41
“Those who feel tired and worn out will find new life and energy.”
Jeremiah 31:25
Are you dragging around, always saying I’m tired, I just can’t go any more? Well then, this verse is just for you. Have you ever noticed that most of the time when we say, “I’m busy, busy, busy,” we are not operating in the rest of God. He said we will find new life and new energy. It really starts with a good confession and that is the key to living a refreshed vibrant life.
Lord Jesus, today I confess that I am refreshed, renewed by Your power working in me. Today Lord, I will be alert, awakened and vibrant so that my joy may be complete and a sign to those around me that I will live and not die. Devil, pack your bags because I choose life! Amen
Pastor Tim Pierce
Day 42 Visit From a Friend
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13
A friend of mine came to visit me today. His radiant face showed only peace. With Him came love and contentment and all my worries seemed to cease. He began to speak of His great victory over the many hard roads He had trod and, as He gave me reassurance, I knew my friend was the Son of God. I felt so ashamed of myself for complaining. In comparison, my troubles and trials seemed so insignificant. I wept as I recalled His pain and suffering had all been caused by me and you.
Sue Neames
Thanks for Saving my Children Day 43
Isaiah 54:13
Don’t waste time worrying about your children; instead start saying, “Thank God, our children are not going to hell. Thank God they are taught of the Lord and great is their peace!”Instead of pacing the floor and worrying about the problem, walk the floor and praise God for the solution.
If your kids are headed for trouble ~ starts believing! Get the Word working in their lives.Bind the devil and tell him he can’t have them.Then speak out Matthew 9:38 and pray the Lord of the harvest will send out laborers into the field who can reach your children.God knows who they’ll listen to and He knows how to bring those people into your children’s lives at just the right time.
Shirley Tullier
Day 44 Our Warriors
“Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”
Hebrews 1:14
We live in a world that is dominated with challenges. Some of those challenges make us and some of them can break us. It all depends on what we think about ourselves and how we learn to rely on the ministering spirits that God has given to us to command.
There are several key factors that are important to our success in life. First is the belief that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and that His death was for our salvation. Second, we need to have faith and a belief that what is written in the Bible is true. Third, we have to speak and think those things that are not, as though they are. Fourth, we must do the works necessary to accomplish the task. Fifth, we must hold the spirit of love in our heart so that it will radiate through all of our actions. Finally, we must pray, unceasingly, thus allowing our ministering spirits to be directed to do the work they were created to do.
Pastor Ashanti WitherspoonFailure or Faithful Day 45
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove themselves faithful.”
1 Corinthians 4:2
Isn’t it weird that so many of us know that we or others have great potential to make a difference in the world? We seem to believe that having the potential is the climax of our worth or existence, but potential actually means “existing in possibility, though not in actuality; inherent capability of doing nothing.” In other words, potential is meaningless without action! Thomas Edison and Babe Ruth undoubtedly had great potential, but their names wouldn’t be at all familiar if they had not put action to their potential. Many of us are fearful of failing and do nothing. Our potential is only limited by what we believe we cannot do! Thomas Edison had over 10,000 failures, but had over 1,000 inventions.
The Life Application Bible says, “Now the most important thing about a servant is that he does what his master tells him.” The world will measure you by your success, but God will measure you by your faithfulness. If you are faithful… you will succeed!
Pastor Damon Baudoin
Day 46 Shut the Door
“My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”
1 John 2:1
Jesus is on your side. He died to save (deliver) sinners. Do not let sin separate you from the Lord and His love. Run to Him and be cleansed. Stay close to Him and receive His help to enable you to not sin.
step taken that is not out of love gives an opportunity for the devil in your life. But God does not turn against you. He died for sinners. He purposely made provision so you can be cleansed from sin. 1 John 1:9 was written to Christians: so when you do miss it, confess it– and by faith– immediately receive your cleansing and freedom from all unrighteousness. That shuts the door on the devil. Say this, “God has made provision for me to be cleansed from sin.”
Nikki V. Langlois
Live Righteously Day 47
“By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward.”
Hebrews 11:24-26
Moses life was filled with difficult choices. As a young boy, he was raised by Pharaoh’s daughter – the same Pharaoh responsible for killing Israelite boys before they could become a threat. God’s miraculous plan for Moses put him in a position of great privilege and power in Pharaoh’s palace.
One day, Moses was faced with a choice. Would he sit idly by while his own blood suffered or would he stand with God’s people? He was on a collision course with those responsible for raising him. He could have chosen to ignore what he saw and continue to enjoy the ease of power and wealth. He made the right choice.
Everyday we are faced with the same choice. Will we stand up for righteousness or go along with the world? We must face this difficult choice with conviction and courage.
Pastor Paul Pierce
Day 48 Don’t Give Up
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Galatians 6:9
Have you ever noticed that when the Lord told the discouraged fishermen to cast their nets again, it was right in that same old place where they had been working all night and had caught nothing? If we could only go off to some new place every time we get discouraged, trying again would be an easier thing. If we could be somebody else, or go somewhere else or do something else, it might not be so hard to have fresh faith and courage. But it is the same old net in the same old pond for most of us. The old temptations are to be overcome; the old faults to be conquered and the old trials and discouragements which we failed yesterday must be faced again today. We must win success where we are if we are to win it at all. It is the Master Himself who, after all these toilsome, disheartening efforts that we call failures, bid us, “Try again.”
Pastor Rip Rittell
The Path of Life Day 49
“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
Psalm 16:11
Sometimes the path that we choose for ourselves is different from what the Lord would choose for us. A missionary once said that God doesn’t put people together, he puts ministries together. I feel that my husband and I flow well together, but…
We met as teenagers and we weren’t the best influence for each other. He ended up doing four years in prison. We both changed tremendously. When he was released, I felt like I was in an arranged marriage with a stranger that I was obliged to stay with. Well, it’s a terrible mentality to have because you feel trapped. I felt that way for years until I decided that I wasn’t going anywhere and I needed to accept that this was God’s best for me. Where would I be if I had taken another route? How would Miracle Place Church be without me? What about the lives that I’ve been able to impact? All of these things keep my mind right. There’s always more than ourselves to think about when living for God. It’s not always easy and it’s not always “fair,” but God is faithful and, in the long run, His way is always perfect.
Jeannie Sinclair
Day 50 Out the Box
As a kid, I remember the excitement when we got a new washing machine. You see, it wasn’t the washing machine that excited me but the box it came in. This apparatus, for all intents and purposes, was used to package and secure the item being shipped. But to a child’s imagination, it was much more than that; it was a spaceship, a boat, a race car, a house or Batman’s cave. Later, it became a garbage can, as Momma became tired of the clutter and threw it out.
Nowadays, kids’ imaginations have been lost to iPod Nanos, Xbox 360 and Playstations. Kids’ minds have been transformed from an oasis of imagination to a desert of thoughts. As I read through the scriptures, I have noticed that Jesus would consistently instruct us to become like little children (Matthew 18:3). When you really grab hold of what He is asking of us, you will see this: children are dependent, they have creative minds, they are forgiving and they have tremendous faith.
Let your imagination run wild today and show the creativity of the Creator’s creation. Think “out the box!” Go ‘head! You big ol’ kid!
Keith Richard
Speak the Word Day 51
“The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.”
Mathew 8:8
When we need direction, when we need an answer, when we don’t know what to do, we look for a word. We don’t need a word; we need “The Word.” We need the right Word for our situation. The centurion knew to ask for the Word from the Lord and the Word would heal his servant. How many times do we ask someone for a word of comfort? Man will give you a word, and the wisdom of this world will give you a word. But the real true Word for healing, comfort, strength and all that you need is in “The Word” of God. Do you need to hear a Word? Then go to the right source – God. Look at Job, for instance. Job’s friends each had a word for him about his situation but until Job went to the right source (which is God), he was not healed. If you need a “Word” today go straight to the right source God.
Marta Garcia
Day 52 The Power of Jesus
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13
I am powerless in this life. Left to my own devices I am a drug addict, liar, thief, manipulator, fornicator, hypocrite and louse. However, through my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ I am delivered, redeemed, set free and renewed. I can face my addictions in Jesus’ name. I am loosed from bondage by God Almighty. I am washed free of my sins by the blood of the most righteous Lamb. I am a new creation of the most Holy Spirit. Jesus died for me and He has empowered me to do great things for His glory. The power of this scripture and His great works give me exactly what I need to move forward in my search for a closer relationship with Him.
Dennis Marcantel
Miracle of Miracles Day 53
“Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings.”
Romans 16:16
In all my years here on planet Earth I have never seen, nor been a part of such a loving family as is found here at Miracle Place Church. As I walk through the doors, I feel a transformation of my mind, body and soul. Every member gives you a holy hug or kiss – sometimes both! Each and every precious person in this church makes you feel as though you have finally made it home. All your “family” is so eager and happy to see you and embrace you. I have to thank my great Father God for giving me such a loving and gentle family and a place to call home. Thanks be to God for Miracle Place Church!
Patricia Cantu
Day 54 No Spot or Wrinkle
“That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”
Ephesians 5:27
Some time ago, I heard a testimony of a man who had taken a screw from the place where he worked. He got halfway home and the Lord talked to him about it. He said, “Is taking that little screw worth sending your soul to hell? I know it’s not a big object, but you didn’t ask anyone if you could take it – nor does it belong to you. That’s stealing! Does not my commandment say ‘Neither shalt thou steal?’” The man returned the screw. He knew in his heart it was the right thing to do.
“O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” Deuteronomy 5:29
Shirley Tullier
Wrestling? Day 55
“The world and the desires it causes are disappearing. But if we obey God, we will live forever.”
1 John 2: 17
Are you wrestling about what it is you are supposed to be doing? Well read this scripture again… Go ahead; I’ll give you a minute. One of the reasons that life is pulling us in so many different directions is that our plans and desires are in the wrong place. The plans and purposes of God are all wrapped up in His will.If we obey His will, we will win every fight!
Lord Jesus, I pray that today you will help me line up with Your will and divine purpose. Without You, I have already lost the wrestling match. I want to fight in YOUR strength and not my own. Amen.
Pastor Tim Pierce
Day 56 The Golden Rule
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.’”
Mark 12:30-31
When you look in the dictionary to find the meaning of the word love, you’ll see the words benevolence and loyalty. Benevolence means tendency to do good. God wants us all to do good things with our lives. Instead of using negative words toward one another, we should motivate each other to be better people. Showing God loyalty means you have the quality of being unswerving in allegiance to God. You are supposed to hold God and your neighbor dear to your heart. Neighbors are not just the people who live next door to you; they are all other people. You should treat everyone the way you want to be treated. Doing these things will surely put you in grace with God.
Brandon Martin
Playing Favorites Day 57
James 2:1-9
Verse 9 states if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. The word favoritism means to accept or receive and the face of a person. Literally, the idea is that someone who shows favoritism accepts or rejects another person based solely on his or her face. Prejudging a person by their appearance is immature and not favorable with God. We are so prone to make rash conclusions about people based on the color of their hair, skin, their dress, etc. If our God judged us on our outward appearance where would we be? Acts 10:34 “God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.” There is only one cure for discrimination: obeying God’s most basic law to love our neighbor as ourselves. We cannot love God and at the same time look at our fellow human beings with a condescending attitude. We cannot truly be devoted to Jesus and fail to welcome each member of his worldwide family as a brother or sister. God’s people can transform the world when we begin to love others as God loves us.
Brandy Baudoin
Day 58 A Generous Man
“A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.”
Proverbs 22:9
We will be blessed if we share with those who have less. We are blessed by God for giving to the poor. We are also blessed to see that person’s joy just to know that someone cares. God challenges us to give. When we give He repays with much more than we give. We can never out give God.
Have you ever just given because you know that the other person is in need? If you would give just a little God will bless you with a lot. Try this: look around you and give something to someone. It can be anything you own: money, time, clothes or even wisdom. When was the last time you fixed lunch for someone, taken someone to lunch or went to someone and handed them five dollars just because that is the person God put on your heart? Try it and be blessed.
Susan Martin
Division is of the Devil Day 59
“I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.”
Romans 16:17-18
We are living in a period where whirlwinds of change sweep through everyone’s life. The levels of uncertainty experienced by many cause them to believe things that create division and help to build greater obstacle in their paths. A sweet lie, a false smile and a deceitfully encouraging nudge are ushering people further and further into a lifestyle of confusion.
It’s during these times that we are taught to guard our hearts and minds through prayer, fasting and applying the teaching of the Bible to our lives. If it lines up with the Word, it won’t cause division. And if it doesn’t cause division it is leading us in the direction of love.
Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon
Day 60 Good Intentions
“And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.”
2 Corinthians 8:10-11
One of my father’s favorite sayings was, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” What he meant was no matter how well-meaning or noble your objectives are, they amount to nothing if you don’t do anything to follow through with your plans.
As a church, we can attract hundreds of visitors each year and have hundreds saved at altar calls but if we don’t follow-up with these people and get them connected it is all for naught.
Marion Horta
