God's Love & Direction

Welcome - Last week whilst upgrading my computer I lost my address book - if in the past you have been on my mailing list for updates & not heard recently I apologise - if you would like to continue with updates & encouragements please contact me at email: prayer@swpwarriors.com
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Scripture To Reflect:

"God's Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. God's love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out." 1 Cor 13:4-6 (Living Bible)
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Lead Me On (Author Unknown)

In her book, A Slow and Certain Light, former missionary to South America, Elizabeth Elliot, tells of a time when she was approached by two young, inexperienced adventurers. The two were loaded down with expensive equipment and a zeal for the future. However, rather than ask for advice from Mrs. Elliot, who knew the jungle well, the adventurers simply wanted to know a couple of phrases to converse with the Indians. Mrs. Elliot writes, "Sometimes we come to God as the two adventurers came to me - confident and, we think, well-informed and well-equipped. But has it occurred to us that with all our accumulation of stuff, something is missing?" What we really need on our "adventures" in life is the Guide, Himself. All our "stuff" will not get us very far through the maze of life's jungle.

Take a minute to read and meditate on Psalm 143:8-10 (NIV):

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground."

What are two areas in which you are going to need the Lord's leading in the next month? Now ask Him for direction and help in those two areas.
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God's Power

SpiritFire: Life to Our Bones, by Phil Ware

Thirty years old! I can remember the mixed emotions when I reached that milestone birthday many years ago. (In fact, it was such a milestone that I have decided to re-celebrate my thirtieth birthday 25 more times since then!) My mixed emotions were nothing compared to those of Ezekiel. He had trained all of his life to enter into service as a priest in the Temple in Jerusalem. Yet when Ezekiel turned thirty, he found himself as a forced refugee in a foreign land with the unbelievably hard and unwanted task of prophesying destruction on the city of Jerusalem and the Temple of God in which he longed to serve the Holy One.

For seven years, Ezekiel gave his grave warnings of destruction, and then his words of prophecy came true. All that Ezekiel grew up believing he was born to do and the place in which he was to do it were now destroyed. His fellow Jews shared the shock and sorrow that Ezekiel felt as many of them were dragged away into their forced captivity. Shock and sorrow soon turned to anger, desperation, and despair. Their homeland and all that was precious about it lay in ruins. Hopelessness settled into the hearts of God's people.

Then, in the time of greatest hopelessness and despair, God sent Ezekiel a strange vision about a field full of many dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14). God had Ezekiel prophesy to these bleached and lifeless bones, and they came together into skeletons, then connective tissue, and then skin covered them. But, they were lifeless because there was no Breath of God in them. Then Ezekiel spoke and God sent his Breath, his Holy Spirit, into these lifeless forms and they lived.

God explained to Ezekiel just what the vision meant in these words:

Then he said to me: "Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They say, 'Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.' Therefore prophesy and say to them: 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel. Then you, my people, will know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and bring you up from them. I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD'" (Ezekiel 37:11-14 TNIV).

The power of God to bring new life to his people comes from the Holy Spirit, the Breath of Heaven that the Father sends to bring new life to his people. This is the power that raised Jesus from the dead and is available to us as his followers (Ephesians 1:15-21).

In the middle of our darkest nights of hopeless despair, God can send the Holy Spirit to bring fresh hope and new life to renew and empower us, his people.

This power took the rag tag bunch of apostles who had let Jesus down so many times in his earthly ministry, and used them to change their world. This power, this heavenly wind, empowered them to be witnesses to Jesus all over their world (Acts 1:1-8). In the face of threats and persecution, as they prayed, the followers of Jesus were filled with the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus (Acts 4:31) trusting in Jesus' promise that God's heavenly Breath would give them strength and words to say in such difficult times (Luke 12:8-12). And this power, the Holy Spirit who lives inside each follower of Jesus and can do in us what is beyond our power to imagine, is available if we are willing to pray for each other to receive him (Ephesians 3:14-21).

So what's the point?

The Holy Spirit is God's presence within us, God's power for us, and God's strength given to us. We must be passionate about praying for our family, our friends in Jesus, our congregation, and brothers and sisters in Christ all over the world to have God send his Breath to enter and empower us. Rather than just seeing the Holy Spirit as a gift for us personally, we must remember that this blessing is one we must pray for each other and the community of Christ. Imagine what would happen if the followers of Jesus, all over the world, began to pray for each other the prayer Paul prayed so long ago!

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge -- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen (Ephesians 3:14-21).

Yes, so many all over the world praying such a prayer could bring much more than renewal to the Church of Jesus; in response to our prayer, God would bring new life and fresh power to our weary hearts and dry lifeless bones and new life to our world lost in darkness!

I encourage you to write out a morning or evening prayer that helps you pray for God's power to be released into the lives of those you love through the Holy Spirit.
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His Power Within Us!

VERSE: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. -- Ephesians 3:20-21

THOUGHT: While the focus of this passage is on God, "The One Who is Able . to him be glory ..." I want to draw your attention to one other key phrase in this passage -- "his power that is at work within us."

Paul has earlier prayed that God would "strengthen you [the Ephesians and us] with power through his Spirit in your inner being" (Ephesians 3:16). While the Holy Spirit is far more than just God's power, the Spirit clearly does live in us to bring us God's power!

As we journey through this year, each day we will spend a little time reminding ourselves of God's personal presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's presence is a powerful blessing that empowers us and transforms us. Let's never forget that we are not only saved by grace, but that we are also empowered by this gracious gift of the Holy Spirit within us!

PRAYER: Oh Almighty God, I am humbled that you love me and have chosen to place your powerful presence within me. Please strengthen me with might by your Spirit within me. Mold me and transform me so that the presence of the Holy Spirit shows up in ways that remind people of Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.
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Turn Loose God's Power

VERSE: For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being ...Ephesians 3:14-16

THOUGHT: One of the best gifts we can give those we love is to pray for them. One of the most important prayers we can pray for other believers is the one Paul prays here. We can pray for those we love to be strengthened by God's Spirit! Not only can we pray this prayer for them, we can let them know that we are praying this prayer for them. Why not copy the prayer Paul prayed above and send it to a believing friend or family member and let them know that you have prayed this prayer for them today!

PRAYER: Father in heaven, I believe you are all powerful and that I cannot begin to understand your glory and might. I am humbled that you make that power available to me, and within me, through the Holy Spirit. Dear Father, there are those I love that I pray that you will bless with your power. Please strengthen them with your power in their inner being. Please help them be aware of your presence in their lives through the Holy Spirit. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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Are We Asking?

VERSE: "If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" - Luke 11:13

THOUGHT: James told early followers of Jesus that they lacked many things in their spiritual walk with the Lord because they did not ask for them (James 3:1-3). So often we fail to have the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives because we don't ask for the Spirit. God longs for us to request the Spirit's presence and power, but the Father is not going to force the Spirit's influence into our lives. He wants us to request the Spirit and to submit to the Spirit's leading and direction in our lives. So let's ask the Father for the Spirit!

PRAYER: Almighty God, my loving Father, I thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit given to me when I came to Jesus. Yet, dear Father, as I face the challenges of temptation, deal with grief and loss, face challenges that are overwhelming to me, and seek to bless your children, I confess that I need the power and presence of your Holy Spirit in my life. Please fill me with Your Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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Out of Chaos

VERSE: The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Gen 1:2

THOUGHT: In the very first chapter of the Bible, we are taken to the chaos before time began. In the formless and dark void of a universe prior to creation, we find the Spirit of God hovering over the chaos waiting for God to speak His creative word. This creative word set the power of the Spirit into creative work, ordering and making our universe and our world within it. Yet isn't it so sadly ironic that in the chaos of our lives we so seldom cry out to God and ask for His Holy Spirit to come into our lives and bring the Lord's creative order? Let's ask for God's Spirit, hovering above our messes, to enter into our world and lead us to where we need to be and to bring the Father the glory He deserves!

PRAYER: O Sovereign God, I confess that I cannot order and control my life. I surrender to Your grace and ask for Your Holy Spirit to enter my world and bring Your gracious and creative order and form Your holy character and compassion in me. In the name of Your Son and my Savior, I pray. Amen.
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Grace Even in the Asking

VERSE: In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God. Rom 8:26-27

THOUGHT: How do we ask for the Holy Spirit? How do pray when we don't know what to say? Paul tells the followers of Jesus in Rome that the Holy Spirit helps intercede for us, even to the point of articulating to God what we can't put into words! Not only that, but when we point our hearts and requests and thanksgivings to God, the Holy Spirit cleans up our prayers and makes them in line with the will of God! Even in asking for the Spirit to be at work in our lives, the Holy Spirit goes to work for us in and through our prayers!

PRAYER: Precious God, Almighty Father, words cannot express the depth of my appreciation for your gift of the Holy Spirit. Even when I don't know how to pray or what to say, I know the Spirit is there with me, sharing my heart with you in ways that are pleasing to you! Thank you for this grace and the Gift that makes it possible. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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Source - Used with permission from "Heartlight" http://www.heartlight.org (Jan 1 - Jan 5 2010) - Please note 'The SpiritFire daily devotional' written by Phil Ware is part of a new year long devotional walk focused on the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives - You can subscribe - It's FREE! Just send a blank email to: join-spiritfire@maillists.heartlight.org

God's Grace

"Grace is Enough" (Lorraine Ezell)

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:9

For the last couple of days I have had a chorus playing over and over in my thoughts. The words that I keep hearing are- "Your grace is enough; Your grace is enough for me". I am so glad for God's grace; it is enough for whatever we may be going through.

This morning, I don't know what you are facing- tragedy, problems in a relationship, unruly children, a demanding boss, financial stress or any one of a million other situations- but I want to remind you that "God's Grace is Enough"! That means that grace is all you need to make it through.

It has been said that if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. He brings you through it by His grace.

Grace is the vessel that will carry you through the most difficult trial. It will reach into the lowest valley. It will shine as the noonday sun in the darkest area. It will conqueror the strongest adversary. It will bring down the tallest giant. It is a bridge of hope for the hopeless, the light at the end of the tunnel, a shelter in the time of storm. It brings a peace that passes understanding. It gives strength to run through a troop and leap over a wall. It defeats the power and stronghold the enemy thought he had over you. It causes you to rejoice when you see nothing to rejoice about and gives you the ability to give thanks in all things.

Are you trying to find an answer this morning or a way of escape? Are you trying to find a solution? Are you trying to find a "way out"? Sometimes your answer and what you need is grace. Like the Lord said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient".

Have a great day. His grace is enough-- it's all we need, regardless of the situation.
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God's Grace - Lavished Upon Us!

Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we're a free people - free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth. Eph 1:7-10 The Message

7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8 that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. Eph 1:7-10 NIV

A Love Letter From God's Word

The message below was sent to me by many who say they have found it encouraging because it is words straight from the bible. Fact it is based on Scripture; put together by Kathryn Taylor, The King's High Way Ministries, www.kingshighway.org

Please note: The numbers you encounter correspond with the Scripture references which are listed at the end. If you're facing a tough time right now, I pray this will encourage you. This can be viewed as a as a PDF file in your Internet Browser.

Just copy & paste this link into your browser: http://www.laughandlift.com/members/resources/ALoveLetterFromGod.pdf
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A LOVE LETTER FROM GOD

My Dearest, Most Beloved Child,

"I have loved you with an everlasting love. I have drawn you with loving kindness to myself.' 1

Do you not know that I created your inmost being? I knit you together in your mother's womb. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. 2 See, I have even engraved you on the palms of my hands." 3 These nail scars are for you. "Fear not", my beloved, no matter what circumstances trouble you, "for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine. Since you are precious and honored in my sight and because I love you, do not be afraid, for I am with you." 4

"You are my servant; I have chosen you and not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I have promised a bruised reed I will not break and a smoldering wick I will not snuff out, so I will strengthen you and help you," my beloved, "I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." 5 & 6

If you are feeling confused, overwhelmed, maybe even hopeless today, and are in need of my wisdom, "Call to me and I will answer youand tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. 7 And "I will put my law in your mind and write it on your heart." 8 "I will teach you my ways", my love, "so that you may walk in my truth." "I will give you," simply for the asking, "an undivided heart that you may fear my name." 9 "Stand at the crossroads and look, ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your soul." 10

I am calling you and saying, "Come to me, you who are weary and heavy-burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light and you will find rest for your soul." 11 Remember beloved, "I am the Lord who comforts his people and I will have compassion on my afflicted ones." 12

"Those who hope in me will not be disappointed," 13 and "I will repay you," my precious one, "for the years the locust have devoured." 14 Therefore, "be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made know to (ME), and the peace that only I can give, which passes all understanding, will guard your heart and your mind." 15

And remember, "I your God am not a man that I should lie, nor a son of man that I should change my mind. Do I speak and then not act? Do I promise and then not fulfill?" 16 Even though right now my beloved, my precious child, you may see no immediate answers to your prayers and cries to me, again, remember,

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken, and my covenant of peace will not be removed." 17 Trust me in this my dearest one, "For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." 18 And you will keep calling to me and praying to me and I will listen to you. "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." 19 "Lean not unto your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge (ME) and I will direct your path." 20

And yes, my child, I do know the waves may seem awfully high right now, and the fire may feel unbearably hot, but "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you," just as I have always been, and "when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you", no matter what your flesh or the enemy of your soul tries to tell you. And "when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." 21 But just like the Hebrew children who were in the furnace and the cords that bound them were burned away, so will the cords that bind you be burned away "And if you hold to my teaching you truly are my disciple. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." 22

If you're in bondage to your past, to your sins and failures, or if you're bound up in un-forgiveness or bitterness to those who have hurt you, hear my word to you my beloved: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." 23

"I, even I, Jesus, am He who blots out your iniquities, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more." 24 And, as I have forgiven

your sins, even so, you must also forgive those who have sinned against you. Did I not say from the cross to those who pierced me, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do?"

I hung on that cross just for you my beloved. So you too must forgive. I gave my body to be tortured—just for you. I suffered—just

for you. When they beat me and ripped away my flesh from my bones, Iwas thinking of you. When they plucked out my beard and tore my face away with it, I submitted to it for you. I was stripped naked for you. Spit on for you. Insulted and humiliated for you. I let them drive nails into my wrists and when the nail hit the nerve and sent swooning pain clear to my spine, I was thinking of you.

Thinking of you, because I love you. And, when taking on all the sins of the world, including yours my child, the Father in his holiness had to turn away so that I cried out, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" 25, I did it all for you. I was forsaken by the Father, so you wouldn't have to be. And I did it for you, because I love you!

That's why when you think of me loving you, let me remind you that, "man looks at the outward appearance, but (I, your Lord) look at your heart." 26 And though you've gone through sorrows and I have tested you, you will come forth as gold." 27

"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." 28 "And I will bestow on you a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. You will be called an oak of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of (MY) splendor." 29

"I will keep you in perfect peace as your mind is steadfast and trusting in me. 30 I am the Lord, your Rock eternal." 31 Nothing isimpossible for me, 32 and I will provide all your needs according to my glorious riches" 33, and especially your need for love.

My child, if you will offer me your body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable 34, and walk with me bearing your cross of death to self daily, 35 I will fill you with the "fruit of my Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol." 36 Then, you will be able to love me in return and love your neighbor here on earth, just as I have commanded you.

I can't wait to show you the delights of My Kingdom precious one. You have so much to look forward to. In fact, it is true, that "no eyehas seen, nor ear has heard, nor has it even entered into the heart of man, all that I have prepared for those who love me." 37

It won't be much longer now. So "be still and know that I am God." 38 And take comfort in knowing that even at this very moment I ampreparing a place just for you in my holy city. I will come again, and I will take you to be with me where I am for eternity. I will do it just as I promised, my beloved. And I will do it just because I love you.

Your loving God and Savior, JESUS

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SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES

1. Jeremiah 31:3 2. Psalm 139:13-14 3. Isaiah 49:16 4. Isaiah 43:1c, 43:4a, 43:5a 5. Isaiah 41:9b, 41:10 6. Jeremiah 33:3

7. Jeremiah 31:33b 8. Psalm 86:11a 9. Psalm 86:11b 10. Jeremiah 6:16a 11. Matthew 11:28-30 12. Isaiah 49:13b 13. Isaiah 49:23c

14. Joel 2:25 15. Philippians 4:6-7 16. Numbers 23:19 17. Isaiah 54:10 18. Jeremiah 29:11 19. Jeremiah 29:12-13 20. Proverbs 3:5-6

21. Isaiah 43:1b-2 22. John 8:31-3 23. Isaiah 43:18-19 24. Isaiah 43:25 25. Matthew 27:46 26. 1 Samuel 16:7b 27. Job 23:10

28. Psalm 30:5 29. Isaiah 61:3 30. Isaiah 26:3 31. Isaiah 26:4 32. Luke 1:37 33. Philippians 4:19 34. Romans 12:1 35. Luke 9:23

36. Galatians 5:22 37. 1 Corinthians 2:9 38. Psalm 46:10a

Prayers To Pray Using scripture:

Many ask for prayers to pray when they are having trouble finding words - I recommend finding a scripture related to the situation then speaking it out. Please find below a collection already prepared for you of scriptures & prayers to speak out & pray that can assist in many different areas of need:

If you have trouble printing these out write to me email: prayer@swpwarriors.com & I will send you a copy. More affirmations can be found in 'Prayer Reflections' May 2007 Archive (link to this can be found at top of page on right side. Be blessed today!
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Scripture Verses and Prayers:

ABUSE

Psalms 147:3 - He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.

Isaiah 40:29-31 - He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength…Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 54:14, 15 - In righteousness you shall be established; you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you. Indeed they shall surely assemble, but not because of Me. Whoever assembles against you shall fall for your sake.

Isaiah 61:3 - … To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus came to heal the broken-hearted and bind their wounds. I ask you to give me strength and hope, beauty for ashes, and joy for mourning. Lord, I ask you to heal me from all past abuse and protect me from
future abuse. Help me to forgive everyone who has hurt me in any way, in Jesus' name.
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ADDICTIONS, SELF

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

John 8:36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

Romans 5:20 …But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more…

Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfil its lusts.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I confess to you that I am in bondage to ____. Lord, I ask for your forgiveness and that you would cleanse me and make me right with you and renew a right spirit within me. I ask for greater strength to resist every temptation and to live righteously for you. I believe I receive that strength and freedom now, in the name of Jesus.
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ADDICTIONS, LOVED ONES

Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?

I John 5:14-15 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

I John 3:8-9 … For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that there is nothing too hard for you. Thank you that Jesus was manifested that He might destroy the works of the devil. Heavenly Father, I ask you to set _______free from every bondage and addiction, in the name of Jesus. Lord, put a desire in their heart for righteousness. Thank you for answering my prayer, in Jesus' name.
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BACKSLIDDEN

Jeremiah 3:22 … I will heal your backslidings.

John 14:15-16 If you love Me, keep My commandments.

Hebrews 8:12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, your Word says that if we confess our sins, you will forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Lord, I ask you to cleanse ______ /or me from all sin in my life. Put right desires in my heart; restore my sensitivity to sin as You see it. Lord, help me/or ________to hunger and thirst after righteousness, in Jesus' name.
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DEATH OF A LOVED ONE

Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

II Corinthians 1:3,4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort , who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Psalms 147:3 He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that you promise comfort to those who mourn. Heavenly Father, we know that you are the God of all comfort. Lord, we ask you to comfort _________and fill them with your peace. Give them the strength they need in this difficult time. We pray that you would surround them with your love. Heal their brokenness and bind their wounds, in Jesus name.
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DEMONIC ACTIVITY

I John 3:8 … For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

Luke 10:19 … I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

II Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ…

John 8:36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

James 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil. Thank you, Lord, that you always cause us to triumph and overcome. In the name of Jesus, I resist every work of the enemy and command the enemy to leave every situation in my life. I declare that I am free of every evil work by the blood of Jesus. Heavenly Father, I pray that your will and peace would be established in this situation, in Jesus' name.
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DEPRESSION

Isaiah 61:3: …To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…

Psalms 145:14 The LORD upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down.

Psalms 34:18 The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.

John 10:10 … I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you lift up those who are bowed down. Lord, I ask that you would lift me up and heal my brokenness. Give me beauty, joy, and praise instead of depression and heaviness. I resist depression, and I thank you for restoring my spirit and showing me how I can obtain that abundant life you have promised, in Jesus' name.
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FAMILY PROBLEMS

Psalms 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, they labour in vain who build it; unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

Isaiah 32:17-18 … And the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places…

Deuteronomy 26:11 So you shall rejoice in every good thing which the LORD your God has given to you and your house…

Prayer: Heavenly Father, by faith we declare Jesus is Lord of this family and no weapon formed against them shall prosper. We come against all strife, discord, division, unforgiveness, anger or ill will, in the name of Jesus. We invite the power of the Holy Spirit to work in their lives. Thank you for establishing peace, harmony and unity into this family. Thank you for showing them how to love one another, as you have loved them, in Jesus' name.
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FEAR

II Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Hebrews 13:6 …The LORD is my helper; I will not fear...

I John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.

John 14:27-28 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that you have not given me a spirit of fear, but of love and power and a sound mind. Lord, I know that fear is not from you. You are the author of peace. I ask you to fill me with your peace. I resist all fear in the name of Jesus. Thank you that I have the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, in Jesus' name.
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FINANCES/PROVISION

Matthew 7:7-9 Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.

Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Psalms 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Luke 12:29-31 … Do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind…your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you say we can come boldly before you to ask for grace and mercy in time of need. You say that whoever asks, receives. Lord, I ask for grace and mercy and that you would meet this financial need, in the name of Jesus. Lord, I ask that you would teach me to prosper, help me to seek your kingdom and receive everything I need, in Jesus' name.
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GENERATIONAL CURSES

Galatians 3:13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree") …

John 10:10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

2 Corinthians 5:19 … God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them…

Jeremiah 31:34 … For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus has redeemed us from the curse. Thank you that you have forgiven my sins and do not count them against me. I accept your forgiveness and acknowledge that Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away my sin and the sin of my family. I thank you that every generational curse is broken in my family, in the name of Jesus.
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BIBLE VERSES FOR HEALING

Jeremiah 32:17 'Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You.

Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.

1 Peter 2:24-25 … Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.

Psalms 107:20 He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus bore our grief, our sufferings and our sorrows, and that His wounds have healed ours. We know that nothing is too hard for you. Heavenly Father, we are praying and believing now for the complete healing and restoration of ___________. Thank you Lord that you sent your Word and healed them, in Jesus' name.
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JOB PROBLEMS

1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace…

Psalms 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

Psalms 55:18 He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me…

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, your Word says you are not the author of confusion but of peace. You say we can cast our cares on you and you will sustain us. Lord, I cast this difficult work situation on you and ask that you would create peace and harmony in this matter. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for working all things together for my good, in Jesus' name.
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MARITAL PROBLEMS

Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?

Psalms 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, They labour in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain.

Luke 1:37 For with God nothing will be impossible.

Isaiah 32:17-18 The work of righteousness will be peace, And the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, In secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places…

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you that you there is nothing too hard for you, and all things are possible to those who believe. In the name of Jesus, we are praying and believing for reconciliation and peace in the marriage of ________. We thank you, Lord, for establishing peace, harmony, and unity in this marriage. We declare _______ and ___________are of one mind, one accord, and one flesh. We ask that you would bless this marriage and show them how to love one another, in Jesus' name..
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SEEKING EMPLOYMENT

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

Psalms 5:12 For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favour You will surround him as with a shield.

James 1:5-6 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting…

Hebrews 11:1-2 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, your Word says that whatsoever things that we pray for if we believe we shall receive them, we will have them in the name of Jesus. Father, I ask you now to set aside a fulfilling job for me and one that will meet my financial needs. I thank you for directing me to the right place and giving me wisdom and favour. Even though I don't see this job now, by faith I am believing it will come, in Jesus' name.
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SALVATION FOR A SPOUSE

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you say whatsoever things that we pray for, if we believe we receive, we shall have it, in the name of Jesus. Heavenly Father, We know it is Your desire is for all men to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. Lord, I am believing now for the salvation of my spouse. I ask that you bring them to knowledge of the truth. Lord, show me how to love them as I wait. I pray this in Jesus' name.
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WISDOM AND GUIDANCE

James 1:5-6 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
John 10:27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.

Psalms 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD…

Psalms 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

Prayer: Lord, you say if we lack knowledge, we can ask and you will give it to us freely. I ask for your wisdom and guidance in my life. I ask that you would reveal your will to me and help me to hear your voice and guide me in the right direction. Thank you for ordering my steps and making them sure, in Jesus' name.

Source: Clear Vision Bible Studies (CVBS) Website: http://www.clearvisionbiblestudies.com/index.html The CVBS website is a project of Berith Bible Ministries Inc. founded in 1986, an independent non-profit organization. The CVBS website is a place for Christian resources and many pages of FREE content to use personally and in your ministry.

No Separation from God's Love!

Reflection Jewel:

For I am certain that nothing can separate us from his love: neither death nor life, neither angels nor other heavenly rulers or powers, neither the present nor the future, neither the world above nor the world below --- there is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39 TEV)
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Deep Waters

I wasn't much more than a half pint kid, certainly I wasn't a teen yet. To the best of my recollection, it seems to me that there were three of us, my father, his friend and me. We were out fishing from a boat. That was a rare treat because mostly we fished from the shore.

I don't remember the location, other than someplace in British Columbia, Canada. We were likely fishing for trout but I don't remember if we caught anything or not.

What I do remember is that the lake was deep. The water was clear and it dropped off sharply right from the shoreline. As I recall, someone said it was over 400 feet deep. It was either an old flooded mine or a crater lake formed from a dormant volcano.

The idea of water of that depth was both terrifying and fascinating. I couldn't comprehend lakes that deep (here in Alberta 30 feet is deep water).

The lake came to mind the other morning as I was reading Scripture.

The Psalmist cries out - Psalm 139:7-12 (NIV)

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

God's love is available no matter where we may hide. Four hundred feet was an incomprehensible to me as a child yet God's love could have found me there. As an adult I know that even the deepest of oceans or the furthest reaches of space are not to far for God.

God's love is larger, more powerful and farther reaching than anything we can imagine. The only way to avoid it is to choose to stay away from it, to reject it.

As a believer when I face time's of struggle I take great comfort in what the Word teaches about the depths of God's love.

Romans 8:37-39 NIV
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

When we belong to Him, nothing can pull us away from His love.

John 10:27-30 NIV
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one."

In the hour of our greatest need when every help seems gone, when hope seems nothing more than an empty promise and we wonder if anyone is hearing our prayers we can take heart.

No matter where we wander, no matter what we have done, if we will simply cry out to Him, He is there. In the darkness of the depths we may not understand His plans but we can take comfort in His love. Grab hold of Him with all you have and know that He will never let you go.

Used with permission: Kevin Cobin (c) 2001-2009 Gleanings From The Word Ministries International

The Meaning of Peace

Reflection Jewels:

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there by any virtue, and if there by any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you." Philippians 4:8, 9

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. (John 14:27)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3
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The Waves

One moment you have shortage. . . The next you have excess. . .

One day you have nothing to do. . . The next you don't have time to get it all done. . .

One day the refrigerator is empty and you are hungry. . . The next you have a half eaten meal in front of you and you are stuffed. . .

One month you've got money to spare and you wonder what to buy .. The next you've got a bounced check. . .

One moment you are full of energy and can't go to sleep. . . The next you are drained and can't get up. . .

One day you are the center of attention. . . The next you wonder if anyone knows you are alive. . .

It's the waves of life. They carry us up and down and all around.

Money, friends, your body, your relationships, your job, and the rest of the list, they all vary. They all go in waves.

It took me a while to really understand the statement, "The Kingdom of Heaven is Within."

No commercial can show you that. Commercials make you believe it's in the jazzy new car or the big screen TV.

Yes, those things can thrill you for a moment, but it's only a wave. After a little while, the thrill is gone.
I have always recognized that if money and things brought happiness, then all rich people with things would be happy.

It ain't so. We easily see how poverty can cause unhappiness, but we are deluded into believing that money solves all things.

Life is full of stuff. I wouldn't trade my life with anyone, it's one of the most blessed that I know, but it's still full of stuff. One thing after another, one challenge after another, one situation after another, day by day, never-ending . . .

It's the waves and there is no stopping them from the outside.

You can only calm the inside, so that like a submarine, you ride deep beneath the waves.

Though a storm is raging, you are at peace.

Most are tossed and turned by waves. Some like the sub, ride deep beneath the daily storms in peace.

Some simply surf the waves and have a lot of fun. Some drown.

You can't stop the waves; it's the nature of the ocean of life.

You can only choose which method you will use to handle them.

You can be tossed like most. You can drown like many.

You can surf and have fun while you can, but even a surfer gets tired and there's nowhere to sleep on a surfboard.

To ride comfortably beneath the waves requires a ship containing breath that is not our own.

That ship. . .. . . is not crowded. Peace - Be Still

Source: "from MountainWings.com"
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The Meaning of Peace - (Author Unknown)

There was once a king who offered a prize to the artist who could paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried.The king looked at all the pictures, but there were only two that he really liked, and he had to choose between them.

One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror for the peaceful towering mountains all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.

The second picture had mountains, too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell, and in which lightening played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all.

But when the king looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest....
a perfect picture of peace.

Which of the pictures won the prize? The king chose the second picture. Do you know why?

"Because," explained the king, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work.

Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace."
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Reflection Jewels:

* Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know." (Jer 33:3 NKJV)

* For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16, 17

* But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Phil 2:7, 8 KJV

* For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 2 Cor 5:21 KJV

* And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Acts 2:21)