Sunday, March 25, 2012
Interview with Author Lisa Grace
To view the interview with Author Lisa Grace on her ANGEL series and enter the giveaway go to Inspirational Impactful Reading
Friday, March 23, 2012
debi o'neille, writing against the wind: Author Holly Michael on Ghostwriting
debi o'neille, writing against the wind: Author Holly Michael on Ghostwriting: I began ghostwriting immediately after I quit writing. That’s right. When rejection letters, numbering in the hundreds, angered me into av...
This Week
I apologize for not posting as scheduled this week. It has been one of those weeks where everything seems to merge together into one. Have you ever had one of those? You have a list and a plan of what needs to be done, how when and where. The only thing is nothing goes as planned because the natural effect of life takes over. The reality that plans are good but they are not always set in stone.
I'm the person whose plans are made to guide me throughout the day and when that goes array it's a bit hard to handle. So this week I have been trying to put in place everything that was knocked out of place. I'm happy to say everything is working out quite well.
Please join me on Monday for the interview with author Lisa Grace. She will be talking about her Angel Series which has been titled "The Christian Alternative" to the Twilight Series. Her Angel Series has also been optioned by Motion Picture Pro and is being fast-tracked into pre-production. I will also be hosting a giveaway of her book "Angel in the Storm" book 2 in the Angel Series.
I'm the person whose plans are made to guide me throughout the day and when that goes array it's a bit hard to handle. So this week I have been trying to put in place everything that was knocked out of place. I'm happy to say everything is working out quite well.
Please join me on Monday for the interview with author Lisa Grace. She will be talking about her Angel Series which has been titled "The Christian Alternative" to the Twilight Series. Her Angel Series has also been optioned by Motion Picture Pro and is being fast-tracked into pre-production. I will also be hosting a giveaway of her book "Angel in the Storm" book 2 in the Angel Series.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Interview with Author Zari Banks
Zari Banks
You know Zari there are so many people who love devotionals, tell me how a simple devotional can change or impact someone’s very day?
Focus is so important to God. That’s why He provided reminders for us throughout His word. Devotionals help us to focus our prayer time even if only for 7 minutes a day … and that focus in prayer and on God gives us power.
In prayer not many write down their prayers. It is a cry or praise we lay before God and that’s usually it. What was the reason for writing down your prayers?
I’ve written my prayers for several years. I probably began writing my prayers because I write down everything. Seriously everything. I write out my day including 7:45 (or whatever time) wake up, get dressed. And, I’ve always journaled. Even now when I’m not writing books, I have a list of 10 prayer requests that I take to the Lord every day.
What was the inspiration/testimony behind O Lord Hear My Cry: A Psalm Devotional?
O Lord, Hear My Cry was an answer to prayer itself. In the fall of 2010 I planned to relocate my son and myself to my hometown in Washington State. I was laid off from my school district in May 2009 and I was beginning to worry about our future in Arizona. I had been supporting us on savings and a part-time job at my church for a while but I knew that wasn’t going to work for long term. So going home to get back on feet made sense to me. I was thinking it would be a temporary solution because my family owns a businesses and I could work multiple jobs with fewer expenses and flexibility of schedule. Well, my ex took me to court to stop me from relocating with our son and requested temporary custody and the judge awarded it to him. He’d only spent roughly 4 days a month with our son since he was 18 months old, and he was nine at the time. I was devastated.
On March 2, 2011 I had to drop my son at his dad’s and he was crying and I was crying. Then I drove away and got as far as a library parking lot. I sat in my car screaming at God from the top of my lungs and asking Him to either kill me or rescue me because I couldn’t handle it. Just a few days before one of my mentors had emailed me Jeremiah 33:3 [AMP Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize, have knowledge of and understand).] and said he was praying for me. So, I was yelling – probably appearing insane to passersby – you promised to answer if I call out to you so answer now.
God said, “Read the Psalms.” Nothing else.
That may not seem like rescue to some, but as I read through the Psalms with a new focus – with the intent of finding the message God was giving me – I was changed. I was ushered into a real and raw relationship with Christ. And, what I discovered in the Psalms is that my struggle wasn’t new to God and neither was my restoration. He was prophesying my victory.
What scripture speaks to your heart the most?
My life verse is Proverbs 3:5-6 (my remix): Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don’t depend on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He’ll make your path so straight you couldn’t possibly miss it.
A Spiritual Powerhouse is what many Christians seek to be, what advice can you give to prepare one for a journey such as this?
Oh, my, God bless you. If you ask for that He’ll faithfully make it happen. But, be ready for the pit of a lifetime. Being a Spiritual Powerhouse is dying to self to the point that you no longer consider breathing without asking God if it’s OK with Him. It’s not that final perfection, but it’s trusting God above and beyond anything our finite minds can construct, and that’s frightening and exciting at the same time.
I know myself for one am very impacted by not only the word of God, devotionals and the such but also through music; what worship song just puts you in that place which voids out everything else around you and focuses you in on our Creator.
I don’t know that I have one favorite worship song. I love music and almost always have it on. Lately I’ve found myself just repeatedly singing, “I love you, Lord,” to no particular tune and probably in the most hideous tone an ear ever heard, but my heart is filled with gratitude for everything He’s doing in my life.
What do you want people to take most from reading O Lord Hear My Cry: A Psalm Devotional?
I want people to earnestly seek God and believe Him. Every heartache, triumph, disappointment and hope I’ve ever experienced is recorded right in the Psalms … years before I was even thought of on this earth. That amazes me. What I went through and am going through isn’t new to God. But, I couldn’t believe it mind, heart, body, soul, spirit until I was broken beyond human repair. You know how people either believe or deny God in crisis? Well, my prayer is that they so cling to Him that they enter into spiritual synchronicity with Him and live in faith-driven victory.
Signed copies are available on my hub: http://zwriteswords.weebly.com/
Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Lord-Hear-My-Cry-Devotional/dp/0615524265/
BN.com: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/o-lord-hear-my-cry-by-zari-banks?keyword=o+lord+hear+my+cry+by+zari+banks&store=allproducts
I love connecting with people on a more personal level, so tell me what you really enjoy doing in your spare time and why you enjoy it so much?
I love to read, and my love language is quality time so I love being with friends and family. And, regardless of what anyone may tell you, eating really is pastime. If you could I would love for you to pray for all those right now on the battlefield in the midst of spiritual warfare.
Holy Spirit, I love you and I praise you for allowing me to come into your presence. Draw near to me as I draw to near you. I praise you because you promise that I can come boldly before the throne of grace and lift up those who are being attacked by the enemy. Fall fresh on them and give them supernatural wisdom and understanding for this time. Give them a vision of the battlefield and give them the courage and knowledge to take authority in Jesus’ name. Your word says that anything I bind on earth is already bound in heaven and anything I loose on earth is already loosed in heaven. I praise you because every word of God proves true. I bind every enemy that’s coming against these readers in the Name of Jesus and I loose deliverance, health, restoration and divine wisdom into their lives right now. Prepare their hearts to receive and expect the miraculous from you, Lord. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer in Jesus’ Name. Amen
"O Lord Hear My Cry: A Psalm Devotional"
Friday, March 16, 2012
Understanding God's Forgiveness
One thing I know is how hard it is to accept forgiveness when you feel you are so unworthy. So how does one get pass this with God? As mere humans we do or say something that may be offensive and we feel sorry later and apologize; hoping the individual will forgive us we do things to earn their favor once again. God on the other hand is holy and there is no sin in Him. He offers us a gift in exchange for our sin. This gift is eternal life through belief in His one and only Son Jesus Christ.
So in essence we are sinners in need of salvation and all we must do to receive it is believe everything concerning God through Jesus Christ. We all need to understand that love and forgiveness from God is not based on us doing good things to make Him forgive or love us it is simply belief and faith in what you cannot see. You cannot see your sins being wiped away but a true belief in what Christ has done for you will cause you to feel and know they have been wiped away.
Unworthy, yes we all are unworthy yet in God's great compassion and love He counts those worthy of forgiveness through Jesus Christ. It is just that simple. There is no trick, no hidden secret. The gift of God comes without burden or demand. It instead is choice of peace and eternal salvation. The question posed to you today is which do you prefer peace and eternal salvation or a feeling of unworthiness?
Here are a couple steps backed by scripture that will help you to receive the forgiveness and abide in the love that God has for you:
Admit you are a sinner: Romans 3:23 (NIV) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Realize that without salvation you will die: Romans 6:23 (NIV) “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Confess your sin: 1 John 1:9 (NIV) “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Repent of your sins and turn from them: Luke 13:3 (NIV) “I tell you, unless you repent, you too, will all perish.” Acts 2:38 (NIV) “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.
Accept the gift of grace: Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sin: Romans 5:8 (NIV) “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this; While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” John 3:16 (NIV) “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perished but have eternal life.”
Confess with your mouth: Romans 10:9-10 (NIV) “If you declare with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” Romans 5:1 (NIV) “Now since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God.”
Prayer: Father I come before you now knowing that I am unworthy but through Jesus your Son I have found redemption, forgiveness and can abide in your love all my days. I am so grateful for your sacrifice and the peace it brings in my heart and mind. I trust you with my life. I surrender all I have to you knowing that you have amazing plans for me beyond my imagination. Help me to be a light to others and stand strong in the faith that comes from you in Jesus' precious name. Amen.
So in essence we are sinners in need of salvation and all we must do to receive it is believe everything concerning God through Jesus Christ. We all need to understand that love and forgiveness from God is not based on us doing good things to make Him forgive or love us it is simply belief and faith in what you cannot see. You cannot see your sins being wiped away but a true belief in what Christ has done for you will cause you to feel and know they have been wiped away.
Unworthy, yes we all are unworthy yet in God's great compassion and love He counts those worthy of forgiveness through Jesus Christ. It is just that simple. There is no trick, no hidden secret. The gift of God comes without burden or demand. It instead is choice of peace and eternal salvation. The question posed to you today is which do you prefer peace and eternal salvation or a feeling of unworthiness?
Here are a couple steps backed by scripture that will help you to receive the forgiveness and abide in the love that God has for you:
Prayer: Father I come before you now knowing that I am unworthy but through Jesus your Son I have found redemption, forgiveness and can abide in your love all my days. I am so grateful for your sacrifice and the peace it brings in my heart and mind. I trust you with my life. I surrender all I have to you knowing that you have amazing plans for me beyond my imagination. Help me to be a light to others and stand strong in the faith that comes from you in Jesus' precious name. Amen.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Upcoming Interviews
Please join me in welcoming Zari Banks March 19, 2012 on her tour for O Lord Hear My Cry: A Psalm Devotional
Zari Banks is an amazing woman with a testimony of loss, healing and redemption that will encourage and strengthen you in the area of Spiritual Warfare.
You don't want to miss her amazing testimony. We are all in the middle of a spiritual war that is going on. Learn beforehand how to be prepared instead of learning in the middle of the battle.
There will be a free giveaway of her book.
Please join me in Welcoming Lisa Grace on March 26, 2012 in promotion of her Angel Series.
Lisa Grace has completed two books in her Angel Series; Book 1 Angel in the Shadows and Book 2 Angel in the Storm. The Angel Series has been featured on AOL's top ten most challenged List. The Angel Series has also been named the Christian Alternative to the Twilight Series. The Angel Series has been optioned by Motion Pro Studios and is being fast-tracked into pre-production.
You don't want to miss Lisa sharing her experience with writing the series, her success and the movie deal.
I will also be hosting a giveaway of Book 2 Angel in the Storm.
Zari Banks is an amazing woman with a testimony of loss, healing and redemption that will encourage and strengthen you in the area of Spiritual Warfare.
You don't want to miss her amazing testimony. We are all in the middle of a spiritual war that is going on. Learn beforehand how to be prepared instead of learning in the middle of the battle.
There will be a free giveaway of her book.
Please join me in Welcoming Lisa Grace on March 26, 2012 in promotion of her Angel Series.
Lisa Grace has completed two books in her Angel Series; Book 1 Angel in the Shadows and Book 2 Angel in the Storm. The Angel Series has been featured on AOL's top ten most challenged List. The Angel Series has also been named the Christian Alternative to the Twilight Series. The Angel Series has been optioned by Motion Pro Studios and is being fast-tracked into pre-production.
You don't want to miss Lisa sharing her experience with writing the series, her success and the movie deal.
I will also be hosting a giveaway of Book 2 Angel in the Storm.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Angel in the Shadows by Lisa Grace Book Excerpt
"Megan, when you look at me, what do you see?" "You glow." I can't look at him as I say this ; it sounds so strange.
"Do you see anyone else who a -- glows?"
I look out at the lake, everything is so beautiful, "No."
I voice the only explanation I can think of that isn't supernatural, "Mr. Z. is there something wrong with you? Are you dying?" Tears are welling up in my eyes. I take a deep breath and will myself not to get emotional. That must be the reason. Nothing else makes sense.
He chuckles, "No. But let me ask the questions. You'll get your chance in a minute. When did you first notice?"
"Last year."
"Have you told anyone, discussed this with anyone?"
"No. Except last year, when we were around the campfire, I mentioned you look like an angel. The kids teased me so I never mentioned it again."
"Am I shining now?"
I look up at him. He's looking at me, waiting for an answer, "Yes."
Now I'm getting scared. I'm afraid of what Mr. Z. is going to say next. I sense my world is changing, the same way water becomes an ice cube. It's still H2O, in a different form.
"Well you're right; you're not imagining things. Some people I can't hide from. Those that have the gift. Like you." He looks me in the eye.
"Megan -- what do you think I am?"
I can't breathe. This is the moment where I expand. I whisper, "An angel."
"My name is Zadok."
Suddenly, his brightness arises. I see wings. I see his glory. He is beautiful. He is air. He is real. I am small and earthy next to this heavenly angel. Zadok cloaks himself once again in his human form. Unbelievably, no one else in camp seems to have noticed. I am changed. I am more. I am afraid.
"Megan, I am a messenger of God. I'm here to do what He wants. You have the gift of seeing spiritual beings, that's why you can see me. If you can see me, you will also be able to see others. The good, and the bad."
"Others? The bad?" I'm still in shock. I can't think.
"It's in the Bible, Megan. We're in there. We are at war with the forces of darkness, even on a beautiful day like today. When the evil ones notice you, and they will, you and your loved ones are going to be targets. You need to be prepared. They will come after you. You are in danger. You have eight days to ask me questions.; you have the responsibility of free will. You can choose to fight evil or join the devil and his angels."
"Do you see anyone else who a -- glows?"
I look out at the lake, everything is so beautiful, "No."
I voice the only explanation I can think of that isn't supernatural, "Mr. Z. is there something wrong with you? Are you dying?" Tears are welling up in my eyes. I take a deep breath and will myself not to get emotional. That must be the reason. Nothing else makes sense.
He chuckles, "No. But let me ask the questions. You'll get your chance in a minute. When did you first notice?"
"Last year."
"Have you told anyone, discussed this with anyone?"
"No. Except last year, when we were around the campfire, I mentioned you look like an angel. The kids teased me so I never mentioned it again."
"Am I shining now?"
I look up at him. He's looking at me, waiting for an answer, "Yes."
Now I'm getting scared. I'm afraid of what Mr. Z. is going to say next. I sense my world is changing, the same way water becomes an ice cube. It's still H2O, in a different form.
"Well you're right; you're not imagining things. Some people I can't hide from. Those that have the gift. Like you." He looks me in the eye.
"Megan -- what do you think I am?"
I can't breathe. This is the moment where I expand. I whisper, "An angel."
"My name is Zadok."
Suddenly, his brightness arises. I see wings. I see his glory. He is beautiful. He is air. He is real. I am small and earthy next to this heavenly angel. Zadok cloaks himself once again in his human form. Unbelievably, no one else in camp seems to have noticed. I am changed. I am more. I am afraid.
"Megan, I am a messenger of God. I'm here to do what He wants. You have the gift of seeing spiritual beings, that's why you can see me. If you can see me, you will also be able to see others. The good, and the bad."
"Others? The bad?" I'm still in shock. I can't think.
"It's in the Bible, Megan. We're in there. We are at war with the forces of darkness, even on a beautiful day like today. When the evil ones notice you, and they will, you and your loved ones are going to be targets. You need to be prepared. They will come after you. You are in danger. You have eight days to ask me questions.; you have the responsibility of free will. You can choose to fight evil or join the devil and his angels."
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Tuesday Word of Inspiration
One of the things I count over and over again in my head is just how blessed I am to be able to read and meditate on God's word in freedom each day. I am so grateful that I get to maintain a blog which uplifts the name of God and draws people to Himself.
God's word is full of wisdom and instruction. In my daily activities with my writing, being a wife and a mother I need God's wisdom to "deal" but even more so to tackle and overcome those situations that are sometimes above my head. I have learned when things are above my head I must look up not to the problem but past it to God who has the answer to every problem.
In looking up to God I sometimes find that the problem may exist because I did not use wisdom in a certain situation and tried to "deal" on my own. Therefore the problem mounted to a greater issue. I find myself in that case going back to the word of God which is where I should have started at the first and following his lead. Sometimes in life we can get so busy that step out from underneath God's instruction because we need to make something happen now. God's timing is perfect everything He ordains is set to bring about His Glory. I believe that the more we take this concept in the more we will walk in wisdom and not in hurriedness.
Proverbs 7: 15 (KJV)
(15) Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.
Proverbs 8: 34 (KJV)
(34) Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors
Proverbs 11:27 (KJV)
(27) He that diligently seeketh good procureth favor; but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come to him
Prayer: Father I am so thankful that we are able to come to you with every situation good or bad in our life. I am thankful that you have not left us alone but have given us the power of your Holy Spirit. I pray that I trust you with everything and look to you not the problems in my life. You created me and know all things that will work together for my good. I live in surrender to you today bringing all things to you and living in patience and prayer through the power of the Holy Spirit to see your mighty hand bring everything together in my life. I am so thankful for your sacrifice of love for me. Enable me today through the power of the Holy Spirit to walk and live in wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Meditation: Proverbs 8: 34 (KJV)
(34) Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors
God's word is full of wisdom and instruction. In my daily activities with my writing, being a wife and a mother I need God's wisdom to "deal" but even more so to tackle and overcome those situations that are sometimes above my head. I have learned when things are above my head I must look up not to the problem but past it to God who has the answer to every problem.
In looking up to God I sometimes find that the problem may exist because I did not use wisdom in a certain situation and tried to "deal" on my own. Therefore the problem mounted to a greater issue. I find myself in that case going back to the word of God which is where I should have started at the first and following his lead. Sometimes in life we can get so busy that step out from underneath God's instruction because we need to make something happen now. God's timing is perfect everything He ordains is set to bring about His Glory. I believe that the more we take this concept in the more we will walk in wisdom and not in hurriedness.
Proverbs 7: 15 (KJV)
(15) Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.
Proverbs 8: 34 (KJV)
(34) Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors
Proverbs 11:27 (KJV)
(27) He that diligently seeketh good procureth favor; but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come to him
Prayer: Father I am so thankful that we are able to come to you with every situation good or bad in our life. I am thankful that you have not left us alone but have given us the power of your Holy Spirit. I pray that I trust you with everything and look to you not the problems in my life. You created me and know all things that will work together for my good. I live in surrender to you today bringing all things to you and living in patience and prayer through the power of the Holy Spirit to see your mighty hand bring everything together in my life. I am so thankful for your sacrifice of love for me. Enable me today through the power of the Holy Spirit to walk and live in wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Meditation: Proverbs 8: 34 (KJV)
(34) Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors
Monday, March 12, 2012
Angel in the Storm Review and Book Giveaway
“The difference between vampires and angels? Angels are real.” This very slogan is what drew me to pick up “Angel in the Shadows,” the first book in the Angel Series. I am not one keen on reading about incidents of the supernatural in the form of a story. I usually stick with the testaments of real life events. As I began to read the book and the story unfolded I was not able to put it down. I found myself captivated by the world of angels and demons which are present among us every day. Lisa Grace with her gift of storytelling has given us a glimpse into the world of the supernatural without diminishing the foundational truth of Christ and His design for our lives.
Angel in the Shadows is about a young girl named Megan who has the ability to see angels and demons. Megan discovers this ability while away at a Christian Youth Camp. Megan did not ask for the ability to see into the world of the supernatural it was a gift given to her by God. We are chosen by God to have certain gifts we do not chose but are chosen and so here was Megan chosen to see what others could not.
Megan’s entire world turned upside down when she came face to face with the demon Angel Judas. Megan becomes involved in a dangerous game of cat and mouse as she maneuvers to keep from falling into Judas’ traps. She realizes that only through the strength in her faith and reliance on Christ would she be able to defeat the subtle deceptions and outright destructions Judas was causing. Megan would not be alone in her venture against Judas. She has the help of an angel named Johnny as well as many of her friends who stood with her in the fight to stop Judas.
“Angel in the Shadows” is geared towards young teen adults, but is a great read for adults as well. The book deals with issues such as premarital sex, self-esteem, drugs, faith in Christ and the reality of the spiritual world around us.
Lisa Grace has taken into careful account to not only embed scripture into the core of the book but the entire plan of salvation is there. This is an amazing read for young teens facing the pressures and temptations that are set before them each day. Lisa Grace has shown through her character Megan the strength in standing for what is right even if you have to stand alone. The reality is that our God never leaves us alone even when we think we are.
I absolutely love the message in this book. Lisa Grace has hit the target mark with this series combining entertainment and truth all in one neat little package. This is not just a story but an equipping knowledge using the foundational elements of faith and strength in God as the only way to defeat the power of evil. The Angel Series is a top recommend on my list for everyone’s shelf.
Angels in the Shadows Book 1 in the series and Angel in the Storm book 2 in the series has been optioned by Motion Picture Pro Studios. Both books have been fast-tracked into pre-production. Angel in the Shadows has also been listed on AOL’s top ten most challenged book list. For more information on Lisa Grace and her Angel Series visit her at www.lisagracebooks.com
For a chance to win a free copy of the book Angel in the Shadows enter the giveaway using the form above.
For a chance to win a free copy of the book Angel in the Shadows enter the giveaway using the form above.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Resolve to be Holy
Today's Nugget Lesson is taken from the book of Daniel.
(NIV) Daniel 1:8,9,12,15,17,19
(8) But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
(9) Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel,
(12) Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.
(15) At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food
(17) To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.
(19) The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service.
To give you a little back story I'll back up a couple of verses. Jerusalem was besieged by Babylon. The king of Babylon ordered to have some of the Israelites from the royal families and nobility brought in to be taught and trained in the ways of the land. In this way they would be able to enter the king's service. In order to do this the Israelites would have to eat and drink what was not lawful for them to eat or drink.
Daniel's response was one of resolve (to reach a firm decision). This decision he made would not be a popular one as many others were partaking in the food as well as the reality he was no longer in a land that respected his beliefs or traditions. To make such a stand requires boldness, courage and confidence. This kind of confidence was not found in himself but in the one whom he served; the one he chose not to defile himself for. Daniel's resolve was pleasing to God so God gave him favor there. Daniel asked the official to test he and his friends for ten days and to see how they fared on vegetables and water. At the end of the ten days Daniel and his friends were healthier than the rest.
As believers in Christ we are called to be holy just as Christ is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). The calling is not only for when we are in church, at home, around our Christian friends but everywhere. We live in a world that is not friendly toward the will and promises of God. We must stand firm and resolve not to defile ourselves with worldly pleasures as they pass before us each day. In order to do this we must keep our eyes, hearts and minds in the word. Stay away from television shows that do not uphold the values God has set in place for our lives, refrain from speaking when you have nothing encouraging or uplifting to say, do not sit in the midst of gossip, dirty or vulgar talk or jokes, pray constantly in the spirit, read God's word everyday and allow his words to dwell in your innermost being through meditation, love one another in Christ, flee from evil when you recognize it.
Daniel was no different from us. He was a human individual who made a choice to be faithful to his God no matter what was going on around him. God gave him not only favor but knowledge and understanding of all kinds. How I would love to have favor, knowledge and understanding of all kinds. I can and so can you by walking in the way God has commanded us.
THE CHALLENGE: I would like for you to join with me in a ten day challenge just as Daniel did and abstain from all things that do not uplift God. This includes television shows, friends, associates, habits, etc. Let us replace these things with reading God's word constantly, sharing with others, living in love and pray in the Spirit.
PRAYER: God my Father in heaven I love you and I come to you thanking you for all that you have done for me and will do. I know that you have a purpose and plan for my life and I know that as I continue to seek you through prayer and the word enabled by the power of the Spirit you will reveal that plan to me. I come before you now surrendering all to you. Help me to flee from evil and to remain in your will. Move my heart and mind to put you above all others keeping my eyes on you. Strengthen me now Lord as I resolve to follow you in holiness. Thank you Father in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
(NIV) Daniel 1:8,9,12,15,17,19
(8) But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
(9) Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel,
(12) Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.
(15) At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food
(17) To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.
(19) The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service.
To give you a little back story I'll back up a couple of verses. Jerusalem was besieged by Babylon. The king of Babylon ordered to have some of the Israelites from the royal families and nobility brought in to be taught and trained in the ways of the land. In this way they would be able to enter the king's service. In order to do this the Israelites would have to eat and drink what was not lawful for them to eat or drink.
Daniel's response was one of resolve (to reach a firm decision). This decision he made would not be a popular one as many others were partaking in the food as well as the reality he was no longer in a land that respected his beliefs or traditions. To make such a stand requires boldness, courage and confidence. This kind of confidence was not found in himself but in the one whom he served; the one he chose not to defile himself for. Daniel's resolve was pleasing to God so God gave him favor there. Daniel asked the official to test he and his friends for ten days and to see how they fared on vegetables and water. At the end of the ten days Daniel and his friends were healthier than the rest.
As believers in Christ we are called to be holy just as Christ is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). The calling is not only for when we are in church, at home, around our Christian friends but everywhere. We live in a world that is not friendly toward the will and promises of God. We must stand firm and resolve not to defile ourselves with worldly pleasures as they pass before us each day. In order to do this we must keep our eyes, hearts and minds in the word. Stay away from television shows that do not uphold the values God has set in place for our lives, refrain from speaking when you have nothing encouraging or uplifting to say, do not sit in the midst of gossip, dirty or vulgar talk or jokes, pray constantly in the spirit, read God's word everyday and allow his words to dwell in your innermost being through meditation, love one another in Christ, flee from evil when you recognize it.
Daniel was no different from us. He was a human individual who made a choice to be faithful to his God no matter what was going on around him. God gave him not only favor but knowledge and understanding of all kinds. How I would love to have favor, knowledge and understanding of all kinds. I can and so can you by walking in the way God has commanded us.
THE CHALLENGE: I would like for you to join with me in a ten day challenge just as Daniel did and abstain from all things that do not uplift God. This includes television shows, friends, associates, habits, etc. Let us replace these things with reading God's word constantly, sharing with others, living in love and pray in the Spirit.
PRAYER: God my Father in heaven I love you and I come to you thanking you for all that you have done for me and will do. I know that you have a purpose and plan for my life and I know that as I continue to seek you through prayer and the word enabled by the power of the Spirit you will reveal that plan to me. I come before you now surrendering all to you. Help me to flee from evil and to remain in your will. Move my heart and mind to put you above all others keeping my eyes on you. Strengthen me now Lord as I resolve to follow you in holiness. Thank you Father in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
News Updates
CHANCES UPDATE
My inspirational romance entitled CHANCES is in the final editing stages at the moment. I will be submitting the final edit by next week. I have several publishing companies in mind. I know that God will lead me to the right one.
CHANCES is a romance set in the time of today with individuals who experience the pangs of true loss. The message of CHANCES is one of forgiveness, healing and love which will have you in heartfelt emotion all throughout.
UPCOMING INTERVIEWS
March 19, 2012 Zari Banks will be here talking about her book O LORD HEAR MY CRY: A PSALM DEVOTIONAL
Zari Banks is an amazing woman with a testimony of loss, healing and redemption that will encourage and strengthen you in the area of Spiritual Warfare.
You don't want to miss her amazing testimony. We are all in the middle of a spiritual war that is going on. Learn beforehand how to be prepared instead of learning in the middle of the battle.
We will be conducting a free giveaway of her book.
My inspirational romance entitled CHANCES is in the final editing stages at the moment. I will be submitting the final edit by next week. I have several publishing companies in mind. I know that God will lead me to the right one.
CHANCES is a romance set in the time of today with individuals who experience the pangs of true loss. The message of CHANCES is one of forgiveness, healing and love which will have you in heartfelt emotion all throughout.
UPCOMING INTERVIEWS
March 19, 2012 Zari Banks will be here talking about her book O LORD HEAR MY CRY: A PSALM DEVOTIONAL
Zari Banks is an amazing woman with a testimony of loss, healing and redemption that will encourage and strengthen you in the area of Spiritual Warfare.
You don't want to miss her amazing testimony. We are all in the middle of a spiritual war that is going on. Learn beforehand how to be prepared instead of learning in the middle of the battle.
We will be conducting a free giveaway of her book.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
In God's Underground by Richard Wurmbrand
"The first half of my life ended on February 29, 1948. I was walking alone down a street in Bucharest when a black Ford car braked sharply beside me and two men jumped out. They seized my arms and thrust me into the back seat, while a third man beside the driver kept me covered with a pistol. The car sped through the thin traffic of a Sunday evening; the, in a street called Calea Rahova, we turned in through steel gates. I heard them clang behind us.....
I was kept in solitary confinement in this cell for the next two years. I had nothing to read and no writing materials; I had only my thoughts for company, and I was not a meditative man, but a soul that had rarely known quiet. I had God. But had I really lived to serve God-or was it simply my profession?
Did I believe in God? Now the test had come. I was alone. There was no salary to earn, no golden opinions to consider. God offered me only suffering-would I continue to love Him?
Slowly, I learned that o the tree of silence hangs the fruit of peace. I began to realize my real personality, and made sure that it belonged to Christ. I found that even here my thoughts and feelings turned to God, and that I could pass night after night in prayer, spiritual exercise and praise. I knew now that I was not play-acting. I BELIEVED."
Richard Wurmbrand began a secret, "underground" ministry both to captive Romanians and to Soviet soldiers in the invasion force following the Communist seizure of Romania in 1945.
Arrested in 1948, he was committed to prison where, according to his testimony before the U.S. Internal Security Subcommittee in May, 1966, he served three years in solitary confinement and five additional years in "mass" cells, during which time he was subjected to medieval tortures. As proof of these tortures, he bared his body above the waist, where committee members viewed more than a dozen of his Communist-inflicted scars.
His wife, Sabina Wurmbrand, was also arrested in 1948 and separately imprisoned for three years, during which time she served as a slave laborer on the never-completed Danube Canal.
Following his 1957 release, Wurmbrand resumed his underground work; rearrested in 1959, he was sentenced to twenty-five years in prison. A general amnesty in 1964 again brought his release and resumption of his underground work. Finally, in 1965, in great danger of a third arrest and imprisonment, he was "ransomed" out of Romania by Christian friends in Norway, who paid $10,000 to the Romanian Communist authorities for his release.
Through the work of The Voice of the Martyrs worldwide, the underground church continues to receive bibles, Christian literature, and relief to families of martyrs
In God's Underground by Richard Wurmbrand can be found at
Amazon
BN Nook
www.persecution.com
I was kept in solitary confinement in this cell for the next two years. I had nothing to read and no writing materials; I had only my thoughts for company, and I was not a meditative man, but a soul that had rarely known quiet. I had God. But had I really lived to serve God-or was it simply my profession?
Did I believe in God? Now the test had come. I was alone. There was no salary to earn, no golden opinions to consider. God offered me only suffering-would I continue to love Him?
Slowly, I learned that o the tree of silence hangs the fruit of peace. I began to realize my real personality, and made sure that it belonged to Christ. I found that even here my thoughts and feelings turned to God, and that I could pass night after night in prayer, spiritual exercise and praise. I knew now that I was not play-acting. I BELIEVED."
Richard Wurmbrand began a secret, "underground" ministry both to captive Romanians and to Soviet soldiers in the invasion force following the Communist seizure of Romania in 1945.
Arrested in 1948, he was committed to prison where, according to his testimony before the U.S. Internal Security Subcommittee in May, 1966, he served three years in solitary confinement and five additional years in "mass" cells, during which time he was subjected to medieval tortures. As proof of these tortures, he bared his body above the waist, where committee members viewed more than a dozen of his Communist-inflicted scars.
His wife, Sabina Wurmbrand, was also arrested in 1948 and separately imprisoned for three years, during which time she served as a slave laborer on the never-completed Danube Canal.
Following his 1957 release, Wurmbrand resumed his underground work; rearrested in 1959, he was sentenced to twenty-five years in prison. A general amnesty in 1964 again brought his release and resumption of his underground work. Finally, in 1965, in great danger of a third arrest and imprisonment, he was "ransomed" out of Romania by Christian friends in Norway, who paid $10,000 to the Romanian Communist authorities for his release.
Through the work of The Voice of the Martyrs worldwide, the underground church continues to receive bibles, Christian literature, and relief to families of martyrs
In God's Underground by Richard Wurmbrand can be found at
Amazon
BN Nook
www.persecution.com
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Tuesday Word of Inspiration
I absolutely love the passage below we are called by God to glorify His name. In the midst of our calling lay victories and treasures for us. God is so gracious that He has not left us to walk alone in the midst of trials, temptations, warnings and even praise. He has freely given us the Holy Spirit whom enables us to move about in boldness and courage so that we may accomplish all that we have been called to do.
God speaks over our lives through the word and through the Spirit; we must hold on to these prophecies and keep them before us; repeat them out loud; dwell on them in our hearts and minds allowing the very essence of the words of God to permeate our identities.
I Thessalonians 5:12-24 (NIV)
"Now we ask you, brothers to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful an he will do it."
Prayer: Father I come before you thanking you for all of Your graces and mercies. I love you for all that you have done for me and through me and will continue to do. I am so grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit which you have given me as guidance and comfort. Strengthen me today to be led uninhibitedly by the power of the Holy Spirit. Reveal to me O Lord the truth of my surroundings and enable me to flee from the evil that I once counted as harmless. Chisel my heart and mind to your will. I surrender all to you.
Meditation: I Thessalonians 5: 19, 22 (NIV)
(19) "Do not put out the Spirit's fire;"
(22) "Avoid every kind of evil."
God speaks over our lives through the word and through the Spirit; we must hold on to these prophecies and keep them before us; repeat them out loud; dwell on them in our hearts and minds allowing the very essence of the words of God to permeate our identities.
I Thessalonians 5:12-24 (NIV)
"Now we ask you, brothers to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful an he will do it."
Prayer: Father I come before you thanking you for all of Your graces and mercies. I love you for all that you have done for me and through me and will continue to do. I am so grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit which you have given me as guidance and comfort. Strengthen me today to be led uninhibitedly by the power of the Holy Spirit. Reveal to me O Lord the truth of my surroundings and enable me to flee from the evil that I once counted as harmless. Chisel my heart and mind to your will. I surrender all to you.
Meditation: I Thessalonians 5: 19, 22 (NIV)
(19) "Do not put out the Spirit's fire;"
(22) "Avoid every kind of evil."
Monday, March 5, 2012
Tortured For Christ
TORTURED FOR CHRIST is written by Richard Wurmbrand the founder of The Voice of the Martyrs. The Voice of the Martyrs is a non-profit interdenominational Christian organization dedicated to assisting the persecuted church worldwide.
TORTURED FOR CHRIST is an account of Richard Wurmbrand a christian living in the midst of a communist environment. TORTURED FOR CHRIST is not a spectacle of curiosity but an account of the true horrors many Christian's still face in countries of opposition to the faith. Richard Wurmbrand suffered much at the hands of the communist for refusing to denounce his profession of faith in Christ Jesus. He was made to suffer through beatings, brainwashing and tortures of all kinds. He was faced with betrayal and humiliation. Through it all he grew stronger instead of weaker in his faith towards Christ.
Richard Wurmbrand was no extraordinary man with supernatural abilities. He was however a man who believed in the supernatural ability of God to save. Richard Wurmbrand remained in communist prison for a total of fourteen years before being ransomed. This is not a story but a true life account of a man led by the Holy Spirit and pushed to love in order that those very beings who stood laughing, torturing and ridiculing him would come to know Christ.
Richard Wurmbrand's TORTURED FOR CHRIST has become a voice alerting millions to the opposition many Christian's face.
You can obtain a copy of Richard Wurmbrand's TORTURED FOR CHRIST for free at https://etools.ncol.com/a/tfc/bg_vomtfc_persecutioncom-vitals-tfc-flash_346.html
To learn more about The Voice of the Martyrs http://www.persecution.com/public/aboutVOM.aspx?clickfrom=bWFpbl9tZW51
TORTURED FOR CHRIST is an account of Richard Wurmbrand a christian living in the midst of a communist environment. TORTURED FOR CHRIST is not a spectacle of curiosity but an account of the true horrors many Christian's still face in countries of opposition to the faith. Richard Wurmbrand suffered much at the hands of the communist for refusing to denounce his profession of faith in Christ Jesus. He was made to suffer through beatings, brainwashing and tortures of all kinds. He was faced with betrayal and humiliation. Through it all he grew stronger instead of weaker in his faith towards Christ.
Richard Wurmbrand was no extraordinary man with supernatural abilities. He was however a man who believed in the supernatural ability of God to save. Richard Wurmbrand remained in communist prison for a total of fourteen years before being ransomed. This is not a story but a true life account of a man led by the Holy Spirit and pushed to love in order that those very beings who stood laughing, torturing and ridiculing him would come to know Christ.
Richard Wurmbrand's TORTURED FOR CHRIST has become a voice alerting millions to the opposition many Christian's face.
You can obtain a copy of Richard Wurmbrand's TORTURED FOR CHRIST for free at https://etools.ncol.com/a/tfc/bg_vomtfc_persecutioncom-vitals-tfc-flash_346.html
To learn more about The Voice of the Martyrs http://www.persecution.com/public/aboutVOM.aspx?clickfrom=bWFpbl9tZW51
Saturday, March 3, 2012
The Number One Book I Recommend
The number one book I recommend is the Bible. The Bible is not a book that pushes itself on you. It is a book that relates, informs, warns and saves you from what you do not know. In life today we have so many things pulling for our attention that problems and conflicts get pushed back to be dealt with later. The only thing about that is they are not pushed back problems only grow if not dealt with. The Bible teaches us how to deal with and face each and every problem in our life. Why not give it a try?
The Bible comes from our creator. If you created something you know how best it will work and what will cause it to dysfunction. You would instruct the user of your creation on how to handle your precious merchandise so as to get the best benefit. If the user decides not to follow the instructions the merchandise will malfunction. The user will come back to you angry asking why isn't the merchandise working and you would say I gave you the manual with all the instructions, you have everything you need to fix the merchandise. The user will go home pull out the instruction manual and get to work. The work will take time because of the amount of damage done to it.
This is how we live our lives many times. Things go great we are happy, things are bad we are crying out for help and help is not far from our reach. The Bible has a solution to your every need. Pick it up today and start reading it. If you're unsure where to start I along with many others recommend the Book of John in the new testament.
The Bible comes from our creator. If you created something you know how best it will work and what will cause it to dysfunction. You would instruct the user of your creation on how to handle your precious merchandise so as to get the best benefit. If the user decides not to follow the instructions the merchandise will malfunction. The user will come back to you angry asking why isn't the merchandise working and you would say I gave you the manual with all the instructions, you have everything you need to fix the merchandise. The user will go home pull out the instruction manual and get to work. The work will take time because of the amount of damage done to it.
This is how we live our lives many times. Things go great we are happy, things are bad we are crying out for help and help is not far from our reach. The Bible has a solution to your every need. Pick it up today and start reading it. If you're unsure where to start I along with many others recommend the Book of John in the new testament.
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