your daily crossroad

 

Truth in Love

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4:15-16)
 
When I read this it caused me stop and reflect and think on this very subject, what can I do differently through the strength of Christ and for His glory in truth and love?
 
Contrary to the popular cultural beliefs of our time, scripture does not teach the church to ignore reality and to operate our bodies based solely on our feelings and desires. When an arm wants to be the neck or the elbow wants to be the knee, we cannot say ‘Sure, elbow, you’re really a knee because that’s how you feel.’ We speak the truth, in gracious love, and help one another to properly identify our roles and functions in the body of Christ. Some people are simply not cut out to be the hands. They aren’t strong enough and can’t get a grip. But they are sturdy and protective enough to be a rib surrounding the heart and they are desperately needed to serve in that function.

We also need to speak truth in love to each other when certain parts of the body are failing to thrive. If the arms are too weak to lift or the legs too stiff to walk, we cannot ignore these broken parts, but must point out the weakness and act in love to help support that struggling part of the Body until they can fully function once again.

If the Body of Christ is too busy people-pleasing to point out areas of weakness in itself, it will quickly come to a grinding halt and fail to serve the Head. We often think we are doing each other a service by holding our tongues and not sharing the insight the Lord has given us into areas of weakness in one another. We are afraid to stir the pot or to hurt feelings. But when we speak truth in love, we can constructively criticize. We can rebuild alongside one another, making an even stronger body as it collectively supports itself in the strength of Christ and for His glory.

The Body of Christ must simultaneously serve its own parts in order to properly serve the head of our church- Christ. The horizontal relationships within the church must be constructive for the vertical relationship with the Lord to be flourishing. We cannot serve our heavenly Father if we are tearing down His children. The head is not served by the body when it’s too busy kicking itself. We are to nurture our brothers and sisters in Christ. When we do so, the whole body grows and matures in health and we all benefit from a healthy body capable of loving and serving our head, King Jesus.
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
 
Today’s Reading is Ephesians 4


Surrender

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)

I recently read, Surrendering our first instinct, which is what we want or what will best suit us in this life is probably one of the hardest things to master. How often have we been defeated by a bad habit, a lousy attitude, or a wrong mindset? We make promises to improve. We ask someone to hold us accountable. But deep inside, we know that we don’t have the will or the ability to change. We can talk, we can plan, we can read self-help books, but we still find it difficult to overcome and control many of the things that are inside us!

Thankfully, God knows our weakness, and He also knows the remedy! The Bible says, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Gal. 5:22–23). The only way to gain self-control is by allowing the Holy Spirit to have free rain in our lives.

In other words, our key focus is not effort but surrender—to live moment by moment submissively trusting in the Lord rather than in self. Paul says this is what it means to “walk in the Spirit” (v. 16).

Are you ready for a change? You can change, for God is in you. As you surrender control to Him, He will help you bear the fruit of His likeness.

I am in need, Lord, of Your power so that I might change and grow. I surrender myself to You. Please help me to understand how to be submissive to You that I might be filled with Your Spirit. Amen.
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
 
Today’s Reading is Galatians 5:16-25


A Prayer To Forgive Others

I recently read a prayer and it blessed me so much, I felt I needed to share it today. I pray it blesses someone as much as it did me. The prayer is called A Prayer To Forgive Others. 
 
Dear God, Today I choose to forgive. Your Word teaches me to forgive others. Like You have forgiven me. 
 
Teach me to make peace with my pain, and give me the strength to let it go. Today I choose to lay down bitterness, rage, anger, slander and malice. I ask You to give me peace, compassion, kindness and understanding in its place. 
 
Give me the grace to forgive everyone who has hurt me, knowingly or unaware. Give me the strength to let go of every situation and memory weighing me down. 
 
Guard my heart against offenses: past, present and future. And teach me to walk in grace and mercy every day. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
 
Todays Readings are Ephesians 4:31-32, Colossians 3:13, Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 18:21-22
 
 


God Hears our Prayers

Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress. (Psalm 71:3)
 
When encountering terrible threats, David asked God for help. He wanted to be assured of God’s nearness as he faced enemies in battle. In a heartfelt petition David said, “Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort . . . . O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help” (Ps. 71:3, 12).
 
We aren’t promised deliverance from every difficult situation we face. But we can be confident that God hears our prayers and will walk alongside us through everything.
 
God knows exactly what we have need of before we even ask so don’t be afraid to take everything to God in prayer. He isn’t surprised by what takes place in our lives, nothing is hidden from God. He waits patiently for you to take all your cares to him in prayer. He is present, patiently waiting for you and I to come to Him in prayer. He is our refuge and strength, our strong tour and He longs to have a daily relationship with you and I, that relationship can only be cultivated through prayer. Let’s do our part today and go to Him in prayer and remember, it’s in those moments that He seems so quiet that He is speaking the loudest, we just have to stop and take the time to pray then wait patiently and listen. He is longing to take our hands and lead us, it’s up to us to take His hand in prayer and trust Him to make a way. 
 
Remember this when you pray. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
 
Whatever comes my way, please come near to me, Lord, to help. I cannot make it through anything without You. Thank You, Amen.

Have a wonderful day in The Lord!

Today’s Reading is Psalm 71:1-12



God’s Love

In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. (1 John 4:9)

I recently read about how God’s love is certainly at the heart of the mission and message of Jesus. In his earlier gospel account, John recorded the words, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

The apostle Paul tells us that God’s love is at the core of how we live, and he reminds us that “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:38–39).

God’s love is so strong, available, and stabilizing that we can confidently step into each day knowing that the good things are gifts from His hand and the challenges can be faced in His strength. For all of life, His love is what matters most.

Thank You, O Lord, that Your love is rich and pure, measureless and strong! I ask that you hold my hand on this journey called life. May I rest assured in knowing all my challenges can be faced in Your strength and Yours alone. Your love stands when all else has fallen. Amen.

Have a wonderful day in The Lord!

Today’s Reading is 1 John 4:7-19



Words

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29)

Saying only what is helpful to others would be transformative for many of us. Speaking what is helpful doesn’t mean only saying things that make others feel good. It will sometimes mean speaking hard truths in love and constructively criticizing others for their own good and for the glory of God. Building human beings up, much like construction of any type, takes hard work, sweat and tears. It’s not all easy compliments and flattery. Building up our brothers and sisters requires a strong foundation of truth and love and a desire to see the other grow in the Lord.

What may build up one person could tear down another. We cannot make sweeping declarations and assume that our words are beneficial for all. The saying, ‘there’s a time and a place’ exists for a good reason. When, how and even where we speak to someone can dramatically change how our words are received and their end effect. If I criticize someone in front of others at their birthday party, it doesn’t matter how true and constructive my words are because I’ve humiliated them and ruined a special time. But if I take that person aside on a different day and speak to them privately, my words could encourage and ultimately build them up.
 
Will it benefit those listening? Ask yourself that every time you’re about to open your mouth in the coming days. It will dramatically alter your conversations. If I’m asking myself that question before opening my mouth, I’m going to have to change the sound of frustration in my voice when I talk to my children, I’m going to have to complain less about others. I’m going to have to soften criticism by pairing it with encouragement. And I’m probably going to end up sharing the gospel a lot more. Because really, what could benefit those listening more than hearing about a Savior who offers the words of eternal life to those whose tongues have known only destruction? Talking about our Jesus will always benefit our listeners and it will equally benefit our own hearts. The infallible redeemer is the ultimate subject of wholesome, helpful and beneficial talk and hearing about Him is the only thing that fits according to all our needs.
 
Heavenly Father, help us to be mindful of our words today, help us to realize there truly is a time and place for everything to be said. It’s not what you say it’s how and when you say it. Use me today to make a difference in my children’s lives and those I come in contact with just by how, what and when I speak. Amen. 
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
 
Today’s Reading is 1 Chronicles 29:14-19
 


Opportunities

She hath done what she could . . .(Mark 14:8)

During the week in which Christ would be killed, Mary of Bethany anointed Him with expensive perfume (John 12:3; Mark 14:3). Some of those present were appalled, but Jesus applauded her. “Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me,” He said. “She hath done what she could. She is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying” (Mark 14:6–8).

“She hath done what she could.” Christ’s words take the pressure off. Our world is full of broken, hurting people. But we don’t have to worry about what we can’t do only what we can do. The rest is in His capable hands. 
 
There are rare moments that come into our lives, when we have the opportunity to do something that can only be done in that one moment. Mary believed, understood, and acted on what Jesus had been saying, seizing that moment to offer the gift of anointing His body for burial, a moment in time that would not come again.
 
Lord, show us how we can show Your love to others. May we not miss any opportunities to serve You this day. May You give us spiritual sensitivity to grasp the moment and may we be in a place where we are ready and waiting for that opportunity and willing to serve in the moment. I don’t want to miss my opportunity today. Amen..
 
Today’s Reading is Mark 14:3-9

Have a wonderful day in The Lord!



God’s Gift

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

God has given us more than we deserve through Christ. We deserve death because of our sin (Rom. 3:23). Yet, “while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (5:8). We were unworthy, yet Jesus—sinless and holy—gave up His life so we could escape the penalty for our sin and one day live forever in heaven.

Eternal life is a gift from God. It’s not something we earn by working for it. We are saved by God’s grace, through faith in Christ (Eph. 2:8–9).

Dear God, Your undeserved favor has made it possible for us to be saved from our sin. You have shown us amazing grace. Thank You for the gift You gave. Use me to tell others about You and what You have done. Amen.
 
Today’s Reading is Romans 5:6-15
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!


Eternity

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
(2 Corinthians 4:18)

Our short lives here are sowing times so we must sow while we can. For a time is coming when the chance to store up treasure in heaven will pass. A time is coming when you and I will no longer be able to witness the truth and love of Christ to those still lost. Now is the time to sow into eternity.

Our hours on earth are the time we’re given to plant the seeds we and others will reap for eternity. We must look for ways to impact eternity in this common, ordinary day full of laundry and to do lists.

There are those lost and dieing and it is our responsibility as pilgrims passing through to impact lives daily and to leave an imprint. One day we will all face eternity, it’s not a matter of if but when and we are called to save those who are lost. You may be thinking, how can I make a difference, by showing the love of Christ to those you come in contact with, even in the moments when you may not want to show love, look beyond that and be eternity minded. Sometimes even when someone isn’t being kind or showing love that’s exactly what they need is love. You can impact someones life for eternity by showing them the love of Christ. I would recommend thinking, how would Christ handle this situation? With love. 

Dear Lord, give me eyes to see the unseen today. Help me discern what is temporary and what is eternal, and handle both with eternity in mind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
Today’s Reading is 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!


Prayer

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. (Ephesians 6:18)
 
God wants to be the center of your life: the center of your conversation, the center of your entertainment, and the center of your relationships. Prayer keeps Him in the center of all you do. We must equip ourselves every single day by spending time in prayer. When we turn to God in prayer, we discover that God is faithful in unexpected ways!
 
You may be thinking, how do I pray, the bible gives instruction, pray ye, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 
 
Start your day out with The Lords Prayer, it takes seconds to say The Lords Prayer and it will change your day and your life forever if you will choose to make time to meet the master. He is waiting. 
 
Heavenly Father, time spent in prayer is never wasted may we find that to be true as we draw closer to you. Help us to see that prayer is the best armor against all trials, prayer changes everything. Amen.
 
Today’s Reading is Philippians 4:4-7
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!


Trophies of Grace

But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7)
 
On more than one occasion as a little kid, I was sent to my father for a spanking. I have two distinct memories of different moments in my spanking history.

In the first, I was feeling ultra-rebellious. I hadn’t just disobeyed. I disobeyed with flare. I was defending my sin and staring my father in the eyes arguing with him over who was really right. During those kinds of confrontations, I usually racked up an additional two or three spankings on top of the one I’d been sent to him for. I can still feel the sting of those spankings and my heart still remembers the angry defiance I felt as my retribution was handed out. I remember it sadly. I wasn’t a sweet little girl in those moments. I was ugly, rebellious and criminal. Justice was served and it wasn’t pretty.

In the second, I remember being sad and sorry for my disobedience before my foot crossed over the threshold into my father’s presence. I was already crying. Already asking for forgiveness before he could even speak. I remember the next moments clearly. I stood sobbing, awaiting the blow. My body knew the pain that was coming and I was tense, but more than anything, my little 7-year-old self was heartbroken at my own wrongdoing and I was so ashamed. As I waited for my punishment, I heard my father say my name. I looked up at him and he said ‘I’m not going to spank you.’ I couldn’t believe it. I knew I’d done wrong; he knew I’d done wrong. ‘I’m going to show you grace. Do you understand what that means?’ And just like that, I did. I understood what grace was and I loved it.

Matt Chandler said, “You will be either a picture of God’s justice or a trophy of His grace.” When I think back on these two scenarios of my sin and its consequence, it strikes me that in the first scenario, my memory is mostly of myself, of how naughty and unlovable I was. In the second, I remember my father and his grace and love. The day he showed me grace, he won me over. I became his trophy. The day I received justice did not make for a pretty picture, but it certainly was a picture. It was fair, sad and ugly.

At the end of your life, will others see your persistent defiance, pride and self-sufficiency? Or will they see a tribute to a loving and graceful heavenly Father? Be the purchased and redeemed Bride of Christ. Lose your will to His and shake off your willful independence and lean fully into His grace. It is far, far better to be a testimony to His grace than an example of His justice.

Today’s Reading is Titus 3:4-7
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
 


Freedom

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (John 8:36)
 
Of those who celebrate freedom, how many truly experience it? We as a society enjoy high paying careers, wonderfully large homes and interesting hobbies. But meanwhile our pursuit of happiness has yet to be satisfied. The reason being is many people, despite all the “things” in life they accumulate, remain prisoners internally. Anxiety, depression or fear of loosing those “things” they’ve worked hard to possess consume their lives day in and day out. Liberating circumstances may seem externally but we must learn that freedom must be realized within. 
 
The answer is Jesus Christ. He has come to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound (Isaiah 61:1). When we trust Him as Savior in our lives, the chains holding us back from true joy and happiness are broken. We are free from years of anxiety, depression and fear and we begin to see things from God’s point of view. We truly realize that our needs, desires, and overall well being rest securely in the arms of a loving heavenly father. His name is Jesus, King of Kings, Messiah, Emmanuel, Alpha and Omega the Bread of Life. 
 
Is the weight of anxiety, depression or fear weighing you down? Look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2) and in those moments of overwhelming anxiety, depression and fear, don’t allow the enemy to take hold of your mind, put on the Armor of God, the Helmet of Salvation, because the enemies blows are directed at the believer’s security and assurance in Christ, the enemies job is to make us lose confidence in the love and care of our heavenly Father. 
 
Heavenly Father, Give me your peace that passes all understanding in my heart. Your peace, which alone can set me free from the worries and anxieties that this world offers. Help me to realize that I am free indeed but only when I choose You. Walk with me today, help me to be an example to those around me that my light may shine in a world that is becoming darker. Amen. 
 
Today’s Reading is John 8:31-37
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
 
 


Finding Joy

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (James 1:2-3)
 
The trying of our faith is what God uses to develop our endurance, it has purpose. Understanding this changes how we feel about undergoing it. Finding joy in the midst of trials bears so much fruit. It actually leads us to a place where we are truly mature in Christ and lack nothing. Joy fills in the gaps.

All of us can feel relief and contentment when we have come through a hard time. We can rejoice and praise God for how He has brought us out of it. But the challenge is, how joyful are we in the midst of it?

 
Heavenly Father, help us to look to you for joy in times of difficulty, times of hurt and even in times of sickness. You are the way maker and only You can supply a joy that is unspeakable and full of glory. Fill our hearts and lives today with your unending joy and peace that can only be found in You and You alone. Amen.
 
Thank You for loving me and strengthening me in times of difficulty, in times when joy felt so far away and I felt I couldn’t reach it, You reached down in the midst of my trial, in the midst of my sadness and you restored my joy. He can do the same for you. 
 
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!