LETS JUST KISS AND SAY GOOD-BYE

By T.D. Jakes

When I thought of the lyrics of the song it made me wonder about a kiss. 'I had to meet you here today. There's just so many things to say. Please don't stop me till I'm through, this is something I hate to do. We've been meeting here so long.....etc....Please darling don't you cry, Let's just kiss and say good-bye! Powerful lyrics. But why a kiss? A kiss is a term of endearment. A kiss is something that is the seal of approval. Us guys always felt that getting the first kiss from a young lady was the start of something. A kiss is usually how you greet your wife. A kiss is how you say good night to your children. A kiss is what you share when you want to let a person know that you love them! So why in Luke 22:47 did Judas betray Jesus with a kiss? This gives a whole new meaning for a kiss! Jesus had 12 friends that we know as disciples. He chose his disciples Himself. The bible says that he knew one of them was the devil. So for 3 years of Jesus' life he walked, talked, and had breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a man that he knew would betray Him. Some may wonder, why didn't Jesus expose Judas for what he was? Why did Jesus allow Judas to continue on with Him? The answer is simple. Jesus knew that prophecy had to be fulfilled. He knew he had an ultimate purpose in life. So in order to fulfill the promise, Jesus had to let someone he didn't necessarily care for as a person tag along to keep Himself focused on the purpose. Here goes....Get ready to SHOUT! There are people in your life that are there only to bother you. These people are in your life to keep you on your knees. These people are in your life because they are a part of the problem and the solution. These same people will help catapult you to your destiny! When Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, he opened our eyes to the fact that a kiss is not always what we intend it to be. Be careful who you let put their lips on you. When I say lips it's not always in the kissing form. Be careful of who speaks well of you. Be careful of who always has an answer. Be careful of the ones that seem to like you but it's just something about them that you just can't put your finger on. Everyone in your life is not meant to stay in your life. Let's just kiss and say good bye. You can't carry everyone with you. There are some places that God wants you to go that only you can go. Learn to love, leave, and live your life as God intended! Next time you're betrayed by someone you THOUGHT was a friend, just remember 'Let's Just Kiss and Say Good Bye! Jesus already knew the betrayal was on the way. So get over it, step on it, but don't live your life wondering 'why'

BECAUSE I WANT TO

July 17, 2008

Why did I give My life that you might walk in a newness of life? Why did I sacrifice all that you might be saved from the wiles of the devil, that you might walk in victory? Why did I send My Spirit to empower and energize you deep within? Why do I in this day bring forth manifestations of My grace for all to see, offering to whomsoever will come the opportunity to walk in this grace, this wonder of the hour? I did it because I want to. I wanted to do all that I did in the past and I want to do all that I am bringing forth. Why do I want to? I do it out of a heart of love, beloved - out of a heart filled with holy love and compassion for a lost and dying world. That is why I have done all the major feats that I have done in the world, and that is why I still do those feats for the world to see and know the one true God.

Does the whole world clasp onto My truth? Does the whole world recognize My gift to them? No! Certainly not! But I do it anyway in the hope of winning as many as will come into My truth.

I want to bless the whole world. I want to leave no one out of what I am doing in this hour. I want all to come to the knowledge of My truth. Will you, beloved, be a living example of the love of your God? Will you bear testimony to My grace toward mankind? You say that you will, but do not quite know how to go about it. I tell you, beloved, that I can do wonders with a willing heart and I will do wonders with yours. Trust Me to perform through your surrendered heart. Trust Me to show Myself mighty to your fellowman through you. I will do it, dear one. I can and will do it. Trust Me. Rely on Me. I can and will show Myself mighty in this coming hour of wonder, and you will see that the Beloved reigns supreme in your life. He is the Author of your life and He will complete all that He has promised.

Simply put, I love you with an undying love and I will manifest My grace through you, showing one and all My majesty and power. Watch and see, beloved. You just watch and see!!!

From the Father's Heart

Press Towards the Promise

Today's Scripture
“Imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Are you facing a challenge today that seems overwhelming? Through faith and patience, you will see God’s promises come to pass in your life. Understand that the enemy always fights the hardest when he knows you are closest to your breakthrough. He’d leave you alone if he thought you were going to live in mediocrity. If you keep pressing on toward your promise, through faith and patience, you will get there. Don’t be like the Israelites in the Old Testament who were right next to their promised land when they talked themselves out of it. They said, “There are giants in the land. It’s too difficult.” No, don’t look at the obstacles in your life today; lift up your eyes because you serve Almighty God. Follow the example of Abraham who believed God even when his circumstances looked impossible. Remember, God rewards the people who seek after Him. Stand in faith and keep believing because God will take you places that you never dreamed. As you press toward the promise, you will see God’s hand of blessing in your life and live in the victory He has prepared for you.
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, I come to You today choosing to believe Your promises. Fill me with Your faith and patience to press through to victory. I give You all the glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

MY HEART YEARNS

"My heart yearns to commune with my people as a voice of one crying in their wilderness. There's a place in my heart for each of my children that no other child can fill. Each one is special and unique and that place in me is tailor made just for them. You are not a people without hope. You are prisoners of my hope. You will not be like the world without hope, hopeless, hope deferred. Come and turn to me my people, that I may heal you! You are not forgotten"! I have seen your pain and heard your cries. I have come to bring you answers!!"

By: Yolanda Ravenel

Hope

Spirit of Prophecy Bulletin
Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns -- May 30, 2008: The enemy has sent deception against you, My people, to undermine your hope. Refuse to allow fear or unbelief to weaken your firm foundation of faith. When in doubt, return to the truth of My word and renew yourself in spiritual reality. I am your very present help in times of trouble, and I am with you to uphold you and bring you through this time of trouble in great victory, says the Lord. Stand strong, be courageous, and do not be afraid. Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms; He will thrust out the enemy from before you, and will say, 'Destroy!'

Seeing Adversity The Right Way

Anytime God is about to take you to a new level you’re going to face opposition. There will be new battles to fight and new obstacles to overcome. It’s easy to get discouraged and think, “Why is this happening?” But we have to change our thinking and focus on the fact that on the other side of those challenges is a new level of victory—a new level of success. David would only be known as a shepherd boy if it weren’t for Goliath. David’s enemy became the tool that God used to promote him. And God will do the same in your life today. He’ll use those challenges and difficulties in your life to catapult you towards success! If you are going through a hard time today, if things look impossible, don’t give up now. Change your perspective and believe that God is working behind the scenes. Put a smile on your face and stand in confidence knowing that you are a child of the Most High God. When all is said and done, you’re not just going to come out of that difficulty, but you’re coming out stronger, wiser, and better than you were before! That problem is going to be the catalyst for God to open supernatural doors of opportunity for you! Stand strong in the Lord today and trust that what the enemy meant for your harm, God will turn around and use to your advantage. He’ll take you places you never dreamed and cause you to rise higher and higher in every area of your life!

When God Puts You On Hold

When God Puts You On Hold

Bishop E. Earl Jenkins

"Wait for the Lord; Be Strong..." PSALM 27:14 NRS

If you're a seasoned air traveler, chances are you're familiar with the term "holding pattern." That's when your plane is unable to land because of unfavorable ground conditions. Generally the pilot announces that he's been told to maintain a holding pattern pending an update from the control tower. It happens regularly, so planes have to carry enough fuel to stay airborne till they can land safely. The Bible says, "Wait for the Lord; be strong...let your heart take courage." When God puts you in a holding pattern it's not just a question of having enough faith to receive His promise, it's also a matter of having enough "spiritual staying power" to stay airborne until it comes to pass. That's why you need to carry enough spiritual fuel to handle delays and wait for clearance.The Bible refers to the Holy Spirit, "a rushing mighty wind" (Acts 2:2). After God had delayed Noah long enough to accomplish His purpose, "He sent a wind" (Ge 8:1 NIV). Anytime a wind comes from the presence of God it blows away all hindrances and obstacles, it dries the ground under your feet so you can move ahead. It demolishes the spirit of fear and heaviness that makes you want to quit. David asked God, "What is man that you are mindful of him?" (Ps 8:4 NIV). Even in times of frustration and waiting, God is still thinking about you and working everything out for your good. His delays aren't denials. So, when you sense a divine breeze in your spirit, rejoice, it's a sign that He's clearing you to land and good things are about to happen!

"Wait for the Lord; Be Strong..." PSALM 27:14 NRS If you're a seasoned air traveler, chances are you're familiar with the term "holding pattern." That's when your plane is unable to land because of unfavorable ground conditions. Generally the pilot announces that he's been told to maintain a holding pattern pending an update from the control tower. It happens regularly, so planes have to carry enough fuel to stay airborne till they can land safely. The Bible says, "Wait for the Lord; be strong...let your heart take courage." When God puts you in a holding pattern it's not just a question of having enough faith to receive His promise, it's also a matter of having enough "spiritual staying power" to stay airborne until it comes to pass. That's why you need to carry enough spiritual fuel to handle delays and wait for clearance.The Bible refers to the Holy Spirit, "a rushing mighty wind" (Acts 2:2). After God had delayed Noah long enough to accomplish His purpose, "He sent a wind" (Ge 8:1 NIV). Anytime a wind comes from the presence of God it blows away all hindrances and obstacles, it dries the ground under your feet so you can move ahead. It demolishes the spirit of fear and heaviness that makes you want to quit. David asked God, "What is man that you are mindful of him?" (Ps 8:4 NIV). Even in times of frustration and waiting, God is still thinking about you and working everything out for your good. His delays aren't denials. So, when you sense a divine breeze in your spirit, rejoice, it's a sign that He's clearing you to land and good things are about to happen!

"Embedded somewhere, in each act of betrayal, is the purpose of God waiting to be discovered."

As you read the following list of names, what would they have in common: Benedict Arnold, Alger Hiss, Ethel and Julius Rosenberg and Judas Iscariot. They were all traitors or betrayers. The words "betray" and "traitor" each come from the same Latin word. This word means to "lead someone to their enemy by treachery." A traitor is someone who betrays a trust

One of the most graphic betrayals in human history took place during the Last Supper. Judas betrayed Jesus in the midst of a very intimate setting. If you are familiar with the section of Scripture, you know that Jesus is taking time with His disciples to give them His last instructions before His arrest and crucifixion. Luke's account of the Last Supper reveals just how deep this betrayal was when Luke describes the betrayer as "one who sits among us as a friend." Betrayal hurts because it takes us by surprise. The Last Supper was an intimate and safe environment. We don't expect betrayal to happen in that context. In John 13 the disciples asked, "Who's He talking about?" in reference to the identity of the betrayer. It didn't make sense to the disciples that a betrayer was in their midst.Long-term relationships are places where we assume we will experience intimacy and safety. In these relationships we can let our guard down and be ourselves. This is why it is so painful and difficult to recover from this kind of betrayal. One of the deepest wounds of betrayal is that many times it takes us by surprise. Even when it is happening we are not sure we understand fully what is taking place. The disciples didn't understand either. In Matthew's account of the Lord's betrayal the disciples asked as a group, "Is it me?" Even Judas asked this question fully knowing that he was the betrayer. Judas was a deceiver. He was so good in this role that he would steal from the ministry fund and no one had a clue. Judas was the one who criticized Mary for pouring the anointing oil on Jesus. He had plans for that valuable oil. Judas did not become a full-blown betrayer in a single day. He got to that place by living a life of step-by-step and day-by-day compromise.Betrayal can come in many forms. It can be a spouse who betrays a marriage bed. It can be an employee who steals company funds that were entrusted to him. It can happen to a child who is abused by someone who should have protected them. It can be a friend who betrays a confidence and shares a secret.In order to deal with betrayal we have to understand one important truth -- embedded somewhere, in each act of betrayal, is the purpose of God waiting to be discovered. Without the hope of this discovery, we will be devastated by the betrayal and stop living and engaging life as God intended. God is never taken by surprise with betrayal. His plan for our lives and ministries is never derailed by betrayal. God's plan for our lives only becomes derailed when we let the effects of betrayal rule and reign in our lives.

The Betrayer and the Betrayed

There are two groups of people who are affected by betrayal--the betrayer and the betrayed. If you are the betrayer, you need to know that the sin of betrayal plans to take you somewhere. For Judas, John 13:30 tells us that betrayal took him "out into the night." Betrayal will reposition you into a dark place. The only way back into a lighted place is through confession and repentance. Confession is agreeing with God that something is sin and repentance is that shift in our thinking that produces a new direction for our life.If you have betrayed someone and have truly repented, the moment you confessed your sin to God, you were taken out of that dark place and put back into the light. It may not feel like it though. In the natural you may have to live with the label of betrayer the rest of your life in certain circles of fellowship, but to God you have been relabeled and repositioned. Restored betrayers need to listen to God more than the words of those they have wronged. The pain of betrayal can shout loud and hurtful things at a restored betrayer. Words that flow out of hurt and sorrow are not what define us--only God defines us. For the victims of betrayal, the spirit of vengeance that wants to attach itself to you will try to lure you into the betrayer's dark place. For the victims of betrayal there is a strong desire to see the betrayer punished. Vengeance wants a piece of someone. Hell wants to help you tailor a plan to punish your betrayer. Darkness wants to lure you into the hardness of heart where an unwillingness to forgive exists. You don't have to go there. The choice is yours to make.What can you as a victim of betrayal do? You can bring that betrayal to Jesus and give it to Him. Let Him own it. Tell Him how much it hurts. He knows the pain of betrayal. Confess your plans of vengeance, punishment and separation. You are the only one who can make the choice about which direction your life will take. Will you follow the pain of betrayal into a dark place or will you follow the Spirit's leading into the light of God's mercy and grace? Betrayal will lead you somewhere. The choice is yours. The victory over betrayal is found in the response of the betrayed.

Surviving Betrayal with Praise

In one season of our ministry, my wife Jan and I had been terribly wronged by another believer. I remember the night we got the phone call telling us what this person was doing and saying about us publicly. We were hundreds of miles away. We felt helpless. We had entrusted this person with the lives of people we dearly loved. The words of betrayal wounded us deeply. I remember hanging up the phone that night and taking Jan by the hand and saying, "We need to pray." We got down on our knees and began to tell God all the pain we felt in that moment. It felt like our lives were caving in on us. It felt like someone had impaled us with a poisoned spear. Our guts ached. In one of those moments of supernatural impartation God gave us one of the greatest spiritual survival gifts we had ever received. He gave us the gift of praise and blessing in the face of betrayal. As we continued to pray, our prayers shifted into praise. We began to praise God for who He is. We thanked Him for this opportunity to trust Him in our helplessness. We thanked Jesus for this hurtful moment because it was taking us deeper into our dependence on Him. Then we began to bless our betrayer. Over the next few months more phone calls would come from confused saints about how this person continued to say horrible things about our lives and ministry. Every time we thought of our betrayer we made the choice to bless instead of curse. This went on for eight years! I remember the night we were invited over to our betrayer's home for dinner and, after eight years, he asked for our forgiveness. With great joy I was able to look him in the eye and tell him that we forgave him eight years ago and had spent the last eight years blessing him.How we choose to respond to the pain of betrayal will determine the direction our lives and ministries will take. Betrayal can be a beginning or it can be an end. There are many gifted and called saints who have been betrayed, but are now lying in the enemy's gutter of bitterness and it is breaking the Father's heart. God is calling both the betrayers and the betrayed out of the dark places where the pain and sorrow of betrayal has led them. He is calling people out with His voice of hope and restoration. If you have suffered through a place of betrayal, now is the time to begin to follow His voice. In the end, you will experience the same resurrection power and new life that followed the Lord in His betrayal. Remember: Embedded somewhere, in each act of betrayal, is the purpose of God waiting to be discovered.

Garris Elkins

Living Waters Church

Leaving and Cleaving

Ephesians 5:31

The first female mentioned in the Bible was created without a childhood or an example to define her role and her relationship to her husband. The first female was full-grown woman, fashioned while Adam was asleep. She was God's gift to him. I believe it would be better if we still allowed God to bring us what He has for us.

When God wanted to be praised, He created man in His own likeness or image. Likewise, God gave man someone like himself. Adam called her "womb-man" or woman. Like the Church of Christ, Eve was his body and his bride. They were made of the same material. Adam said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh" (Genesis 2:23). He says nothing of her size or body build or hair color. These superficial components are like placing a product in an attractive container. The packaging may get the consumer to try the product, but only the product itself will keep the consumer coming back for more.

When you find a person with whom you are compatible, there is a bonding that consummates marriage and it has nothing to do with sex. Let's face it, everyone you meet isn't bone of your bones. It is important that you do not allow anyone to manipulate you into choosing someone with whom you have on bond. Every woman must pray and discern if this man is the one she could cleave to for the rest of her life.

The Bible says, "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined [cleave] to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh" (Ephesians 5:31). The term cleave is translated from a Hebrew word that means "to cling or adhere to; to catch by pursuit or follow close after." There is a great need in most of our lives to cleave, to feel that this is where we belong. It is sad to realize that our society has become so promiscuous that many have mistaken the thrill of a weekend fling for the knitting together of two thirsty hearts at the oasis of a loving commitment.

The secret to cleaving is leaving. If you enter into marriage and still leave other options open, whether mental, emotional, or physical, your marriage will never work. When the tugging of adversity tries the bonds of your matrimony, you will fall apart. You must leave everyone else and cleave to your husband. It is unhealthy to cleave to someone other than your spouse for support. No other friendship, however wholesome, should have more infuence over you than your spouse. Some of you could save your marriages if you would leave some of these extramarital ties and cleave to your companion!

T.D. Jakes

Let It Go!

LET IT GO….TD JAKES

There are people who can walk away from you.

And hear me when I tell you this!

When people can walk away from you: let them walk.

I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you,loving you, calling you,

caring about you, coming to see you,staying attached to you.

I mean hang up the phone.

When people can walk away from you let them walk.

Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left.

People leave you because they are not joined to you.

And if they are not joined to you, you can' t make them stay.
Let them go.

And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person,it just means that their part in the story is over.

And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead.

You've got to know when it's dead.

You've got to know when it's over.

Let me tell you something I've got the gift of good-bye.

It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye.

It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give it to me.

And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it.

Stop begging people to stay.

Let them go!!

If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to ..LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to past hurts and pains ...LET IT GO!!!

If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth...LET IT GO!!!

If someone has angered you ...LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge ..LET IT GO!!!

If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction ...LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents ...LET IT GO!!!

If you have a bad attitude...LET IT GO!!!

If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better...LET IT GO!!!

If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him...LET IT GO!!!

If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship....LET IT GO!!!

If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves..LET IT GO!!!

If you're feeling depressed and stressed . LET IT GO!!!

If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handlingyourself and God is saying 'take your hands off of it,' then you need to...LET IT GO!!!

Let the past be the past. Forget the former things. GOD is doing a new thing for 2008 !!! LET IT GO!!!

Get Right or Get Left .. think about it, and then LET IT GO!!!

BECAUSE

By Bishop T.D. Jakes

Just because someone may not have realized what a gold mine you are, doesn't mean you shine any less.

Just because someone may not have realized that you can't be topped, doesn't stop you from being the best.

Just because no one has come along to share your life, doesn't mean that day isn't coming.

Just because no one has made this race worthwhile, doesn't give you permission to stop running.

Just because no one has realized how much of an awesome woman you are, doesn't mean they can affect your femininity.

Just because no one has shown up who can love you ON YOUR LEVEL, doesn't mean you have to sink to theirs.

Just because you deserve the very best there is, doesn't mean that life is always fair.

Just because God is still preparing your King, doesn't mean that you're not already a Queen.

Just because your situation doesn't seem to be progressing right now, doesn't mean you need to change a thing.

Keep shining, Keep running, Keep hoping, Keep praying, Keep being exactly what you are already - COMPLETE!

Be Blessed.

The God of Justice

The God of Justice

Today's Scripture:
“Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him! (Isaiah 30:18 NIV)”.
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Sometimes, unfair things happen. A relationship doesn't work out, or a friend betrays us. Maybe you worked really hard, but you didn't get the position you deserved. Life is not always fair. The good news is that even though life is not always fair, we serve a God who is fair. He is a God of justice. He sees every wrong that's ever been done to you. He sees every person that's ever hurt you, every unfair situation. If you will stay in faith and not get bitter, God has promised He will pay you back for every injustice that's ever been done to you. He said He would take what was meant for your harm, and He'll turn it around and use it to your advantage. And the great thing about God is if you keep the right attitude, if you'll wait for Him, He'll not only bring you out, He'll bring you out better off than you were before! God wants to make the enemy pay for bringing that trouble into your life. Be encouraged today that God is for you! He is working behind the scenes on your behalf. Praise Him and thank Him for showing His justice in your life today!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your justice in my life. Thank You for working behind the scenes on my behalf. I choose to trust You today. I choose to release every person who has wronged me. Help me to forgive so that I can open the door for You to work in my life today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Victoria and Joel Osteen

Jesus Calls the Cripple

When Jesus encountered the infirm woman of Luke 13, He called out to her. There may have been many fine women present that day, but the Lord didn't call them forward. He reached around all of them and found that crippled woman in the back. he called forth the wounded, hurting woman with a past. He issued the Spirit's call to the one whose value and self-esteem had been destroyed by the intrusion of vicious circumstances.

The infirm woman must have thought, "He wants me. He wants me. I'm frayed and worn, but He wants me. I have been through trouble. I have been through trauma, but He wants me!" She may have thought no one would ever want her again. But Jesus wanted her. He had a plan.

She may have known that it would take a while to put her life back together. She had many things to over come. She was handicapped. She was probably filled with insecurities. Yet Jesus still called her forward to receive His touch.

If you can identify with the feelings of this infirm woman, then know that He's waiting on you because He wants you. He sees your struggle and He knows all about your pain. He knows what happened to you eighteen years ago and ten years ago and last week. With patience He waits for you as the father waited for the prodigal son (see Luke 15:11-32). Jesus says to the hurting and the crippled, "I want you enough to wait for you to hobble your way back home."

Now God says, "I'm going to deliver you and heal you. I'm going to renew and release you. I'm going to tell you who you are. I'm ready to reveal to you why you had to go through what you did to become what you will become." He says, "I'm going to tell you a secret, something just between you and me. No one else knows. Your boyfriend doesn't know. Your first husband doesn't know. Your father, uncle, brother, or whoever abused you doesn't know. This is the secret: You're the daughter of a king. Your Father is the King."

When that woman came to Jesus, He proclaimed her freedom. Now she stands erect for the first time in eighteen years. When you come to Jesus, He will cause you to stand in His strength. You will know how important you are to Him. Part of your recovery is to learn how to stand up and live in the "now" of today instead of the "then" of yesterday.

I proclaim victory to the abused: You will recover the loss you suffered at the hands of your abuser. You will get back every stolen item. You will reclaim your self-esteem, your self-respect, your integrity. there is a healing going into your spirit right now. I speak life to you. I speak deliverance to you. I speak restoration to you. All in the might name of Jesus-the invincible, all-powerful, everlasting name of Jesus!

Holy Bible

Woman Thou Art Loosed!

Edition

T.D. Jakes

Trusting God in the Tough Times

Trusting God in the Tough Times

Today's Scripture
“Trust the Lord completely; don't ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success” Proverbs 3:5-6 (TLB).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We all face tough times that challenge everything we believe. And we often have the hardest time seeing God's hand when we're in difficult situations - because we just don't understand what He is doing. But the exhilarating thing is that God uses tough times to show us His favor and blessing. It may not feel comfortable at first, but seek God's face all the more when you're struggling. When you ask Him, He will give you everything you could possibly ever need to make it through the trying times. And He will give you special eyes to see Him through all of your hardships. Your human understanding will fall short, so just give God full control and watch the blessings flow.
A Prayer for Today
God, give me the eyes to see Your face in the midst of my troubles. Thank You for never leaving me and for giving me what I need to persevere through my roughest days. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Word with Joel & Victoria Osteen

God is at Work for You

God is at Work for You
Today's Scripture
“I know what I am planning for you,” says the Lord. “I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future” Jeremiah 29:11 (NCV).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Too often, we think God is just out there - watching and waiting for us to get things right. God is a big God, but He loves you and He wants to help bring the best things possible into your life. God is at work in your life each and every day, blessing you and preparing you for great and wonderful things that you can’t even imagine! Your entire perspective will radically change when you realize God is in your everyday experiences. Even when we are not completely faithful to Him, He is always faithful to us! Make God your hope and rely solely on Him, and He’ll faithfully work things out that will bless you, protect you and encourage you!
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You for always having my best in mind. I know that You love me and want the best for Your children. Help me to be faithful to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Read another Word with Joel & Victoria

Today's Scripture
“Because of your faith it will happen.” (Matthew 9:29)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Most believers just don’t expect enough from God. God can do all things at any time, but many of His own followers put Him in a box and try to close Him in. Don’t do that to God, because He is too big and too great to fit in your box or anyplace else. Stay away from phrases like, “I wish I was as happy as I was before,” or “If I could just get a job like the one I used to have.” God doesn’t want to bring you out just like you were before. He wants to bring you out better than you were before! He wants to move you forward and grow you in His blessings. God’s desire is to increase you and make you stronger, happier and healthier. God loves you with an unconditional, unending love. You have all that you need to live the abundant life that Jesus promised!
A Prayer for Today
God, I know that I can expect the best from You. Thank You for being willing to give me even greater things than I can ask or imagine. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Scripture Focus (KJV):

Proverbs 18:20-21 A man's stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; From the produce of his lips he shall be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.
Many times in life we speak words that we literally have to pray ourselves out of. We declare things and we have to pray for God to abort what we've said. God's Spirit is speaking to my heart without question that we are ordered by the sacrifice of Jesus to come out of curse, bondage, and repetitive cycles of our forefather's behavior; whether it was alcoholism, drug abuse, cigarettes, nicotine, tobacco, areas of attitude, abuse, pornography- no matter what it is, break the hold of it! Divorce was one of the curses in my family. All the family; the husbands, the men had been familiar with divorce. It had to break in the Name of Jesus so all my offspring and children that follow will live under an open heaven of blessing so curse will not come upon them. That curse of generations has to be broken. Do you know curse comes upon future generations when you don't fulfill the Word of God? Do you know you can have curse upon your life from your forefathers and not even know it? You think that's just how life is. But it's not! Rise up today in the power of the Spirit. Break forth with the Word of God in your mouth. The curse of generations cancels the attitudes, the emotions. Some believers get diseases passed down from their forefathers. Cancel them in Jesus' Name! Let your light so shine on this earth that the Christ in you created a future for you to walk in; and you will walk in it!

- Dr. Gary V. Whetstone

"Imagine Me"

"Imagine Me"

Imagine me

Loving what I see when the mirror looks at me cause I

I imagine me

In a place of no insecurities

And I'm finally happy cause

I imagine me

Letting go of all of the ones who hurt me

Cause they never did deserve me

Can you imagine me?

Saying no to thoughts that try to control me

Remembering all you told me

Lord, can you imagine me?

Over what my mama said

And healed from what my daddy did

And I wanna live and not read that page again

[Chorus:]Imagine me, being free, trusting you totally finally I can...

Imagine me

I admit it was hard to see

You being in love with someone like me

But finally I can...

Imagine me

Being strong

And not letting people break me down

You won't get that joy this time around

Can you imagine me?

In a world (in a world) where nobody has to live afraid

Because of your love fears gone away

Can you imagine me?

[Bridge:]Letting go of my past

And glad I have another chance

And my heart will dance

'Cause I don't have to read that page again

[Chorus x2]

[Vamp:]Gone, gone, it's gone, all gone

Kirk Franklin

The Restorer of Your Soul

"It is no wonder that God can restore your soul, for He is the Lover of the soul. He can mend the past, the present, and the future. He is the therapist that relieves trauma no matter how it was incurred. Perhaps you have been through a devastating moment. Maybe no one has been able to heal what has been hurt or fill what has been depleted.

There are so many kinds of pain. Some of you have survived the loss of a parent. Some of you have lost children. Some have buried you sons or daughters who died untimely deaths because of AIDS or some other deadly disease. Sadly, some have watched the caskets of their little children lowered in the ground because of a senseless drunk driving accident or drive-by shooting. Some of you are grieving over the death of a relationship. You don't even understand why it died, but you are forced to accept something that you cannot explain.

You have replayed the events like a jury reviews evidence. Accept that your deliberation is pointless. The chance to change the verdict is over. There were moments of rage that bordered on hatred, and then there were the nights of loneliness and the deepest grief you've ever known. Some of you have seen adultery-the saboteur of trust and the executioner of bonding. Some of you have walked into a room and seen an incident that was so shocking you relive it over again. It is one thing to be suspicious, but quite another to have a memory to contend with for the rest of your life. you dream about it and wake up in tears. It reruns before you like an old "B" movie that you have seen too many times before. Some of you are still injured over relationships that crumbled before your eyes.

Perhaps you have been haunted by one of these issues or some other crisis. Have you known what it was like to want someone to rescue you from the pain. Well, my sister let me save you some precious time. Only the Lord can heal deep pain. It does not matter whether your pain comes from a brutal rape kept secret, a fractured promise never fulfilled, or some other gut-wrenching disturbance. He is the Prince of Peace and He rides into the worst situations on the wings of hope. His divine hand over you gives sense to the tragic events that seemed meaningless. He knows how to orchestrate your pain and somehow bring a blessing out of a mess. He is the restorer of you soul."

Author

T.D. Jakes

Live Your Life

"Your words, your dreams, and your thoughts have the power to create conditions in your life.

What you speak about, you can bring about. If you keep saying you can't stand your job, you might lose your job.

If you keep saying you can't stand your body, your body can become sick.

If you keep saying you can't stand your car, your car could be stolen or just stop operating.

If you keep saying you're always broke, guess what? You'll always be broke.

If you keep saying you can't trust a man or trust a woman, you will always find someone in your life to hurt and betray you.

If you keep saying you can't find a job, you will remain unemployed.

If you keep saying you can't find someone to love you or believe in you, our very thoughts will attract more experiences to confirm your beliefs.

Turn your thoughts and conversations around to be more positive and power packed with faith, hope, love and action.

Don't be afraid to believe that you can have what you want and deserve.

Watch your "Thoughts," they become words; Watch your "Words," they become actions; Watch your "Actions," they become habits; Watch your "Habits," they become character; Watch your "Character", for it becomes your "Destiny"

So.......To prevent any obstacles....... GET OUT OF YOUR OWN WAY! Enjoy every minute you live!! Don't be too busy today... Share this inspiring message!"

Author

Unknown

Womb-Man

1 Corinthians 3:16, 17



"When Adam saw Eve for the first time, he called her "womb-man." She would bring forth life. what you need is a seed that you believe is enough to produce an embryo. You must be willing to feed that embryo for it to grow and become visible. When it will not be hidden any longer, it will break forth in life as answered prayer. No matter how hard others try to hold it back, it will break forth.

Put the truth in your spirit and feed it, nurture it, and allow it to grow. Quit telling yourself, "You're too fat, too old, too late, or too ignorant." Stop feeding yourself that garbage. It is unwise to speak against your own body. Women who speak against their bodies open the door for sickness and disease. Speak life to your body. Celebrate who you are. You are the image of God. The Scriptures remind us that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). The truth will allow life to well up within you.

The devil wants you to live in yesterday. He's always telling you what you cannot do or be. His method is to bring up your past and turn your attention backward.

God is calling you to today. He wants to sow desire into the spirit of broken women. Until you have a vision to move ahead, you will always live in yesterday's struggles. The very fact that you have a desire is in itself an indication that better days are coming.

When I was a boy, we had a dog named Pup. Don't let the name fool you, though. He was a mean and ferocious animal. We had him chained in the back of the house to a four-by-four post. The chain was huge. We never imagined that he could possibly tear himself loose from that post. He would chase something just out of his reach, and the chain would snap him back.

One day Pup saw something he really wanted. It was just out of his reach. However, the motivation before him became more important than what was behind him. He pulled that chain to the limit. All at once, instead of drawing him back, the chain broke, and Pup was loose to pursue his prey.

That's what God will do for you. The thing that used to pull you back will snap, and you will be liberated because God has put greatness before you and within you. God is powerful enough to destroy the yoke of the enemy. He is strong enough to deliver what He has put in you, and set you free."


T.D. Jakes
Author

Trusting God

"Trusting God transfroms calamity into testimony. Knowing that He cares too much for you to abuse you and that He is too wise to be wrong causes a wounded heart to serenade the heavens. When we begin to know Him rather than just serve Him, we can trust His vision, His wisdom and His insight."




T.D. Jakes
Woman thou art Loosed Edition

A Resting Place

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can you, except ye abide in me.

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered: and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:4, 6-7 KJV)

A place where Jesus rest

A place where HE has free expression

A place of free access To do whatever HE wants to do
A place where HE can abide

A place where HE finds comfort in staying

Free of turbulence, strife and wars

A quiet place for Jesus to rest

That’s what He‘s looking for

Oh yes, Beloved

And that place is in you

Can HE sit on the throne of your heart and mind (soul)

Can HE find rest in your life?

(Selah)

Mary, Martha, and Lazarus have known

He delighted to stay with them when HE was in town

Our Father seeks a habitation, not only a visitation

Now that Jesus has become your savior, will you let Him be Lord?

Can HE live in your home and prop up HIS feet?

Or will HE always have to contend

With the fear, doubt, unbelief……

The storms, yes the cares of life within

Yes HE wants to chase them away

Far, far away…never to reside again

Because, Christ Jesus, has taken up residence

As His Words abides keeping us from sin

A resting place, where faith, hope, and love are in bloom He has free range in your life

Through each chamber of your heart and mind (soul)

Living in your house through every room

The room that says “WELCOME”, come on in

A place of total surrender and joy

The place that has been softened and the ground fertile

For wonders to explore

The room that says “DETOUR” takes another route

I’m not ready to deal with this right now!

With the busyness of life, the children and meetings,

I don’t have time, there’s fish fry across town

“Ah yes”, “THE SHOWCASE ROOM”, full of me, myself and I

Come in, take a seat, and remove the shoes from off your feet

Don’t touch anything nor move it even a little

Achievements, awards, accolades from both young and old

My reputation had a great cost; I pride myself on this alone

The room that says “CONDEMNED”! Where the enemy speaks lies

Constant shouts from behind this door as he torments you in your mind

Until hope is deferred of vitality or strength seems to be almost dried

“Your worthless, wrong, shameful, guilty, no good, hopeless, abandoned or you can’t do anything right”!

He weaves a cobweb of accusations, by day and by night

Next we have the famous “JUNK ROOM”; no one’s allowed to see

Where we shut the door, lock it up and put away the key

Filled with people and things from our past and present

No ones supposed to know

We hold on tight, why become an idol, “let go, let go, let go”!

Lastly, we come to a door labeled “DO NOT ENTER”!

Where your conscious has become seared or harden sometimes numb from the trials of life

If you let ME in, I’ll heal your pain and remove all the scars

I’ll be your defense, your fortress and shield, your friend and rear guard

A resting place, will you let MY (Word) settle down and rest?

Can your Helper, the Holy Spirit, come in and be free to clean all the mess?

He will fill every void with Himself, wisdom, faith, trust, hope, kindness, power, love, peace, and joy

With all that is needed, for I AM your source

After the recreation, renovation, restoration and transformation takes place in your new heart….

Will you let ME outside to play and frolic, with your family, neighbors, friends and the world?

Will I be confined to a box; as I peer through the window of your spirit and soul?

So many times MY Spirit is quenched in what HE wants to say or do

To save, heal, deliver, and transform.

When HE wants to fly and soar through ….you!

In these last days beloved, people are waiting to encounter ME.

How can they if I can’t use you? Will you heed to my call. Can I (Word) come and rest in you that you may truly rest in ME.

In Jesus (Word), is everything you have need of and all that I can, will, and have provided.

Will you enter into faith & patience to inherit MY promises?

Will you cease from all striving to make it work and know that I have already finished the work before the foundations of this world.

Come, I will help you cross over into the promise land (trust & confidence).

Will you speak my Word over your life, family, friends, neighbors and the world?

Where you will receive the fulfillment of all MY promises.

Come, and bring your gifts to Jesus, for you are MY very best!

A place where you and I are one

Come to me, all who are heavy laden,

For I will give….you….rest!

Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. For we who have believed do enter that rest, as He has said: "So I swore in My wrath, 'They shall not enter My rest, although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

Since therefore it remains that some must enter it, and those to whom it was first preached did not enter because of disobedience, again He designates a certain day, saying in David, "Today," after such a long time, as it has been said: "Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts.

For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:1-3, 6-7, 10-16)

In Jesus Name

Author
Yolanda Ravenel
yolandaravenel@msn.com

You are a Star

"A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY.....


STARS DON'T STRUGGLE TO SHINE,

RIVERS DON'T STRUGGLE TO FLOW ALSO YOU WILL NEVER STRUGGLE TO EXCEL IN
LIFE,
BECAUSE YOU DESERVE THE BEST,

HOLD ON TO YOUR DREAM AND IT SHALL BE WELL WITH YOU...

AMEN

THE EYES BEHOLDING THIS MESSAGE SHALL NOT BEHOLD EVIL,

THE HAND THAT WILL SEND THIS MESSAGE TO OTHERS SHALL

NOT LABOUR IN VAIN, THE MOUTH SAYING AMEN TO THIS PRAYER SHALL LAUGH
FOREVER, REMAIN IN GOD'S LOVE.

GOOD MORNING!

YOUR DREAM WILL NOT DIE,

YOUR PLANS WILL NOT FAIL,

YOUR DESTINY WILL NOT BE ABORTED,

THE DESIRE OF YOUR HEART WILL BE GRANTED IN JESUS' NAME.

SAY A BIG AMEN.

MONEY WILL KNOW YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS.

BELIEVE. NO ONE GOES TO THE RIVER
EARLY IN THE MORNING AND BRINGS DIRTY WATER.

AS YOU ARE UP THIS MORNING, MAY YOUR LIFE BE CLEAN, CALM AND CLEAR

LIKE THE EARLY MORNING WATER.

MAY THE GRACE OF THE ALMIGHTY SUPPORT, SUSTAIN AND

SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEEDS ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY. AMEN.

HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN.

"THE WILL OF GOD WILL NEVER TAKE YOU WHERE THE GRACE OF GOD WILL NOT
PROTECT
YOU".

I SEE SOMETHING GOOD HAPPENING TO YOU.

SOMETHING THAT YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING TO EXPERIENCE.

author unknown

Seek The Lord

"When you know who you are, you don't have to struggle to live up to what someone else thinks you're supposed to be. That was Jesus' attitude when He met the woman at the well. As she approached, with her water pot on her shoulder, she was all upset and worried.
Jesus went straight to the heart of her problem. "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst" (John 4:13, 14). Jesus went on to tell her all about herself and her five husbands-things that only God could know.
Like this woman, you may be wounded and upset. This kind of hurt can't be healed through human effort. you must get in the presence of God and let Him fill the voids in your life. Follow God's advice in Deuteronomy 4:29-31 and "Seek the Lord your God." You will not settle it by going from friend to friend. This woman had already tried that. She had gone through five men. The answer is not getting another man. It's getting in touch with The Man-Jesus the Lord.
After she met Jesus, the woman at the well didn't even go back home. She threw down her water pot and ran into the city to tell everyone to come and see the Man who had told her about like. This woman could never have rid herself of the old man until she met the new Man.
When you meet the new, you find the power to say good-bye to the old. You will never be able to break the grip of those former ways on your life until you know Jesus Christ. You must come to Him just as you are. If something has attached itself to you that is not of God, you won't be able to break it in your own strength. "Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you" (James 4:7). Knowing Him will give you the power to break away from the old self and the ties that hold you prisoner to your past.
Jesus satisfies. Everyone else may pacify, but He satisfies. Seek His presence. He meets every need and every yearning. He heals every pain and every affliction. He lifts every burden and every trouble in your life. He's The Man!"

T.D. Jakes
Thou Art Loosed