We absolutely must pray for those affected by Hurricane Katrina. This storm has left a tremendous wake of death and destruction. I'm not one much to watch the news but I do listen to the news highlights om the radio a lot. And last night I listened to the Dr Albert Mohler show on KKHT 100.7 FM RADIO. Dr Mohler's show was all about the Storm.
Check out Dr Mohler's Blog by clicking here. He has written a good article explaining this storm from a Christian world view.
Let's pray about this. Pray for those who have suffered loss of friends, family, or possessions. Pray for those who are unsaved. This experience undoubtedly has many questioning if there is an eternity and what will happen to them in eternity.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord I just want to acknowledge what a powerful, awesome God You are. What an omnipotent, omnipresent God You are. Lord we have witnessed an awesome display of weather in the past 48 hours. There has been much death and destruction. Father I pray to know Your will in all this.
Was this a judgment for some, a calling home for others? Was this to get some people's attention...? Was this an opportunity for believers to act as Your hands and feet...? I think it was all that and and probably a whole lot more.
One thing I know is that I've been called to prayer. And I pray that many others will join me. Father I pray blessings on those who have suffered physically from this devastating storm. I pray for those who may have lost everything they owned. At least they have their lives. And let their lives be turned to You, Lord.
Lord, I thank You that the Texas Gulf Coast was spared this devastation. I thank You for the good life that I have and my family enjoys. Lord regarding Hurricane Katrina I'm just going to let You be God. I give it to You, Father. Into your Holy Hands.
Lord I love You. And I pray these things in Jesus' Name. Amen
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Sunday Devotional: 1 Timothy 4
Train Yourself up in Godliness, for while bodily training is of some value, Godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also the life to come. 1 Timothy 4
In this passage Timothy is encouraging others to be diligent in their 'spiritual workouts'. He says that while it is important to get a physical workout too, a Godly (spiritual) workout is more beneficial because it enhances both our physical life here now, and for our eternal life afterward. I've been praying lately for more of a hunger and a thirst to know our Lord better. I want to walk closer with Him and be an example to my family and the community. This verse was the bible verse from a daily email I get from beliefnet. It was just what I needed this morning, because I need a workout in more ways than one...
What is a Godly Workout...? For me it's reading some scripture. Then Meditating on that scripture. Then Praying. Perhaps I'll write down my prayers. I like to keep a prayer log. (as you see here). Sometimes my spiritual workout consists of listening to teaching sermons on CD's or the radio.
But I want more passion for this. I want to dive into the Word of God the way I dive into a fiction Novel. I want to have the same passion for God's word that I had for tennis when I was growing up as a young man. If I'd have studied the bible the way I trained for tournaments as a youth then I'd be a Seminary professor right now. My problem is that I'm inconsistent.
I want to be more plugged in to God and I believe that God wants that for my life, but I can't seem to consistently get my act together. All I can do is humbly give this request to the Lord and ask that he send the Holy spirit to anoint me, to bless me in that regard.
Oh, by the way... That verse has significant meaning to me because I desperately need a physical workout, too. Right now I'm the heaviest I've ever been in my life. And my quality of life is suffering. I know that this is not God's will for me. He showed me a prime example of obesity with my dad's life. I know it is God's calling for me to lose that weight and be healthy and strong and lead. Perhaps God allowed me to get so overweight so that he might be glorified in my losing that weight and regaining my physique of 10 years ago... I don't know, but that sounds good to me. And when it does happen I'm definitely going to give God all the GLORY!
So this morning my prayer is twofold... I'm praying for both spiritual and physical discipline. I know that I can't do it on my own, yet I can do anything through Christ...!
Dear Lord,
Father just thank You for sustaining me. Thank You for speaking to me through Your Word and through circumstances in my life. Thank You for the encouragement of Churches like Willowbrook Church and Metropolitan Baptist. Thank You for great bible teachers on the radio like Dr Charles Stanley, Dr RC Sproul, Dr Ed Young and Charles Swindoll, to name just a few.
Lord, I realize how blessed I am to be in this age, this era. I believe this is a crucial, pivotal time in the history of the world. I believe that You placed me here at this particular time, in this particular place for a specific reason. I want to be right of the middle of Your will effecting changes and making an impact for Your Kingdom. I want to be Your Salt and Light. Help me to effect Godly Changes for this Worldly World. But I think that in order to do that I must start by working on myself and my family, first. My Wife and children are my first priority. They are my primary divine responsibility. I must begin walking the walk at home more consistently before I can effectively venture out into the world.
Oh Father I can't do that without Your Divine Grace. I need Your help, Lord. I need spiritual discipline. I need physical discipline. So Father God, I just fall flat forward on my face and seek You. Deliver me from my mediocrity and help me to pursue Excellence. Help me to walk closer with Thee. Help me to change this community be raising up a Godly family and living a God honoring life before man.
Lord I do Love You. You are my Savior and my King. I bow down before You in Praise and Worship. My life is about serving You, Jesus. And Lord I pray these things in Your Sweet, Divine, Precious, Holy Name,
Amen.
In this passage Timothy is encouraging others to be diligent in their 'spiritual workouts'. He says that while it is important to get a physical workout too, a Godly (spiritual) workout is more beneficial because it enhances both our physical life here now, and for our eternal life afterward. I've been praying lately for more of a hunger and a thirst to know our Lord better. I want to walk closer with Him and be an example to my family and the community. This verse was the bible verse from a daily email I get from beliefnet. It was just what I needed this morning, because I need a workout in more ways than one...
What is a Godly Workout...? For me it's reading some scripture. Then Meditating on that scripture. Then Praying. Perhaps I'll write down my prayers. I like to keep a prayer log. (as you see here). Sometimes my spiritual workout consists of listening to teaching sermons on CD's or the radio.
But I want more passion for this. I want to dive into the Word of God the way I dive into a fiction Novel. I want to have the same passion for God's word that I had for tennis when I was growing up as a young man. If I'd have studied the bible the way I trained for tournaments as a youth then I'd be a Seminary professor right now. My problem is that I'm inconsistent.
I want to be more plugged in to God and I believe that God wants that for my life, but I can't seem to consistently get my act together. All I can do is humbly give this request to the Lord and ask that he send the Holy spirit to anoint me, to bless me in that regard.
Oh, by the way... That verse has significant meaning to me because I desperately need a physical workout, too. Right now I'm the heaviest I've ever been in my life. And my quality of life is suffering. I know that this is not God's will for me. He showed me a prime example of obesity with my dad's life. I know it is God's calling for me to lose that weight and be healthy and strong and lead. Perhaps God allowed me to get so overweight so that he might be glorified in my losing that weight and regaining my physique of 10 years ago... I don't know, but that sounds good to me. And when it does happen I'm definitely going to give God all the GLORY!
So this morning my prayer is twofold... I'm praying for both spiritual and physical discipline. I know that I can't do it on my own, yet I can do anything through Christ...!
Dear Lord,
Father just thank You for sustaining me. Thank You for speaking to me through Your Word and through circumstances in my life. Thank You for the encouragement of Churches like Willowbrook Church and Metropolitan Baptist. Thank You for great bible teachers on the radio like Dr Charles Stanley, Dr RC Sproul, Dr Ed Young and Charles Swindoll, to name just a few.
Lord, I realize how blessed I am to be in this age, this era. I believe this is a crucial, pivotal time in the history of the world. I believe that You placed me here at this particular time, in this particular place for a specific reason. I want to be right of the middle of Your will effecting changes and making an impact for Your Kingdom. I want to be Your Salt and Light. Help me to effect Godly Changes for this Worldly World. But I think that in order to do that I must start by working on myself and my family, first. My Wife and children are my first priority. They are my primary divine responsibility. I must begin walking the walk at home more consistently before I can effectively venture out into the world.
Oh Father I can't do that without Your Divine Grace. I need Your help, Lord. I need spiritual discipline. I need physical discipline. So Father God, I just fall flat forward on my face and seek You. Deliver me from my mediocrity and help me to pursue Excellence. Help me to walk closer with Thee. Help me to change this community be raising up a Godly family and living a God honoring life before man.
Lord I do Love You. You are my Savior and my King. I bow down before You in Praise and Worship. My life is about serving You, Jesus. And Lord I pray these things in Your Sweet, Divine, Precious, Holy Name,
Amen.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Day of Thanks: TGIF
Well, it's Friday. I try to not petition on Fridays. Instead, I try to take the term 'Thank God it's Friday' to the next level and just count my blessings and stand in awe of our wonderful Lord and Savior. Today my son is one month and one day old. He is a healthy, happy boy...! That pretty much tops my list in the thanks department right now. Since the birth of baby Elijah my life has unequivocally changed for the better.
My wife Monica and I have been showered in prayer, gifts, and many selfless acts of service by my many tennis students and friends. The hand of God is has never been more apparent in our lives than most recently. Monica's sweet parents and my beloved sister Becky have been invaluable in their grace, love, and kindness and service this past month.
God has blessed my business tremendously with many new students this fall. Even the relationship with my younger brother is much improved. In fact, it's the best it's been in years...!
All I can say to all that is to God be the Glory...! Nothing I have or have done is of my own doing. It's all God. The moment I try to take credit for something is the moment that God may remove his blessings. Way back when I lived in the flesh I thought it was all about ME. It used to be the Sam Chadwell show. Now I know better.
God could have given me any life he wanted to. But he gave me this one. And boy am I grateful. The Love of God is deep, high, long, and wide...! Thank You for Your Unending, Enduring Love, Jesus.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord Jesus Thank You for Loving me and blessing my life the way You have. Thank You for Your Salvation, Lord. Nothing would matter right now if You hadn't died on that hill two thousand years ago. That is the most precious gift I have ever received.
And I recognize that this life You have given me comes with much responsibility. Thank You for trusting me with raising Connor and Elijah. Thank You for allowing me to Shepherd my family. Lord thank You for my sweet wife Monica who loves me and takes care of me as a good wife should. She's the BEST...!
Father, I do feel that I'm right in the center of Your Will for my Life. There's such peace in my life right now. Thank You Lord. You know I just want to serve You and be about Your business. Thank You for the gift of Prayer. Thank You for the gift of Encouragement.
Thank You for this Day, Lord. -Thank God it's Friday...!
Lord I love You. As Rich Mullins always said: You're an Awesome God...! And in Jesus' Holy Name I Pray, Amen.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Prayer for Willowbrook Church
This morning I drove past Willowbrook Church on the way to take Connor to school and noticed the Church Marquee board again and when I got home I looked up their website on the internet.
Their address is http://willowbrookchurch.net It looks like a very nice church. I like their site. I already have a church home but I appreciate what Willowbrook Church is doing to win souls for the Kingdom. Their witness is an encouragement to me. This morning I feel compelled to pray for them.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord I just want to thank You for this church. Willowbrook Church is working hard to minister to the surrounding community. I pray that You bless it's efforts. I lift up the pastoral and lay staff and their families this morning. Bless them, Lord. Keep them safe and prosperous. Give Pastor Steve and Marti Divine Wisdom in shepherding their flock. Inspire Pastor Nick and Angela as they lead the youth. I pray that their hearts are on fire for You Lord and that their enthusiasm is contagious among the youth they minister to. Bless Keith and Kelli in the Worship and Nursery Ministry too, Lord. I've served in both the music and nursery ministries myself in other churches, Lord. So my heart goes out to all those in these ministries.
Father, I also want to lift up Sally who handles the church office. I pray for her gift of adminstration and that her talent for organization is a blessing to the church. Every church needs a good office staff.
Lord Jesus, I lift up these church leaders and I just pray that Willowbrook Church continues to be a light and pillar to the community. Lord, You are an awesome God and loving Father. You always give Your people what they need. I really needed that message on the church sign a few days ago. Thank You, Jesus.
I love You Lord and I give this day to You. Forgive my trespasses oh Lord, and help me to avoid temptation in the future. I want to live a God Honoring Life...! I want to be right in the center of Your Will, My King. I know I owe everything to You. My life is not my own. I belong to YOU, Father.
In Jesus' Name I Pray, Amen.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Is Prayer Your Steering Wheel...?
Originally when I started this blog it was devoted entirely to prayer and to just encouraging others to pray. Now it mostly alternates between intercessory prayer and my own spiritual thoughts which vary from day to day depending on my studies and the various sermons I listen to each day.
Today I saw a sign on a church marquee board that asked the poignant question:
Is prayer your steering wheel, or your spare tire...?
Wow...! Boy did that hit me right between the eyes...! We only use the spare tire on our vehicles when we have a flat. For me, that's not very often. I've only had one flat in the past 10 years. But I do use my steering wheel every time I get in my car.
Another way to look at it is this: We only use our spare tire when something goes wrong and we're stranded. Is that how we treat prayer...? Well, I definitely used to be like that. Once upon a time I only called upon God when I needed a favor. Now, I've learned to walk much closer than that. But still, there's always room for growth and improvement. We can always walk closer with God. And fervant, heartfelt prayer along with a close study of God's Word are the best means to get us into a closer relationship with HIM.
I'm very grateful to that church for it's message. I hope and pray that the message impacts many others to enter into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ .
Dear Lord,
Thank You Father for speaking to me today. You are an Awesome God who truly loves His children. Than You for Blessing Me, Lord.
Keep on giving me a hunger and thirst for more of You, Lord. Keep the messages and encouragement coming. I pray that my post this morning is a blessing and an encouragement to someone needing to hear from You today, Father. Someone I may not even know or have ever heard of.
Father God I love You. I give this day to You my King. Light my path. Show me the way. I am Your servant, Lord.
In Jesus' Name I Pray,
Amen
Today I saw a sign on a church marquee board that asked the poignant question:
Is prayer your steering wheel, or your spare tire...?
Wow...! Boy did that hit me right between the eyes...! We only use the spare tire on our vehicles when we have a flat. For me, that's not very often. I've only had one flat in the past 10 years. But I do use my steering wheel every time I get in my car.
Another way to look at it is this: We only use our spare tire when something goes wrong and we're stranded. Is that how we treat prayer...? Well, I definitely used to be like that. Once upon a time I only called upon God when I needed a favor. Now, I've learned to walk much closer than that. But still, there's always room for growth and improvement. We can always walk closer with God. And fervant, heartfelt prayer along with a close study of God's Word are the best means to get us into a closer relationship with HIM.
I'm very grateful to that church for it's message. I hope and pray that the message impacts many others to enter into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ .
Dear Lord,
Thank You Father for speaking to me today. You are an Awesome God who truly loves His children. Than You for Blessing Me, Lord.
Keep on giving me a hunger and thirst for more of You, Lord. Keep the messages and encouragement coming. I pray that my post this morning is a blessing and an encouragement to someone needing to hear from You today, Father. Someone I may not even know or have ever heard of.
Father God I love You. I give this day to You my King. Light my path. Show me the way. I am Your servant, Lord.
In Jesus' Name I Pray,
Amen
Monday, August 22, 2005
What are we here for...?
I listened to a sermon from Dr Ed Young of Houston's Second Baptist Church this morning as I was driving home from taking Connor to school. In one segment of his sermon he very passionately stated that God didn't put us here on the earth just to breathe air, eat, take up space and have a good time. We're here to do His work.
That started me thinking, how much of my day is 'About the Lord's Work...?'
Currently: -Just a few minutes in the morning and a few minutes scattered here and there throughout the day...!
Aaugh...! Sometimes I just disgust myself when I realize how self absorbed I can be.
Certainly, I've come to the realization that I'm called to be a daddy: A father to Elijah and a step-father to Connor. Of course, I consider that to be the Lord's Work, but I'm feeling deeper convictions to present a stronger witness to those around me. Not just with my lifestyle, but actually sharing the gospel with others.
I think that all Christians are called to share the gospel in some way or another. The key is to find out what particular method suits you and is most effective.
Well, Dr Young's sermon awakened me a bit this morning. I think I'm basically just breathing air and taking up space right now. I absolutely must get out of that rut...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, I know you have called me to do many things for You and the Kingdom. I don't feel I'm doing my fair share. Help me Lord. Help me to realize my potential in You. Give me a thirst and a hunger for Your Word. Let my enthusiasm be contagious and spread to those around me...
Father, help me to recognize opportunities to serve. I am so blessed, Lord. You have blessed me so tremendously. I just want to give back to You. Take my life, Lord and mold it the way You want. I am a surrendered man.
Thank You for my sweet wife and family. I just lift them up to you this morning.
Father God I love You, and in Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.
That started me thinking, how much of my day is 'About the Lord's Work...?'
Currently: -Just a few minutes in the morning and a few minutes scattered here and there throughout the day...!
Aaugh...! Sometimes I just disgust myself when I realize how self absorbed I can be.
Certainly, I've come to the realization that I'm called to be a daddy: A father to Elijah and a step-father to Connor. Of course, I consider that to be the Lord's Work, but I'm feeling deeper convictions to present a stronger witness to those around me. Not just with my lifestyle, but actually sharing the gospel with others.
I think that all Christians are called to share the gospel in some way or another. The key is to find out what particular method suits you and is most effective.
Well, Dr Young's sermon awakened me a bit this morning. I think I'm basically just breathing air and taking up space right now. I absolutely must get out of that rut...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, I know you have called me to do many things for You and the Kingdom. I don't feel I'm doing my fair share. Help me Lord. Help me to realize my potential in You. Give me a thirst and a hunger for Your Word. Let my enthusiasm be contagious and spread to those around me...
Father, help me to recognize opportunities to serve. I am so blessed, Lord. You have blessed me so tremendously. I just want to give back to You. Take my life, Lord and mold it the way You want. I am a surrendered man.
Thank You for my sweet wife and family. I just lift them up to you this morning.
Father God I love You, and in Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
My Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
I sense Your trying to get my attention in many areas. I am aware that I need to kick my witnessing into a higher gear. I am constantly missing opportunities to share the gospel. I know that I desperately need to lose weight. You didn't call me to be out of shape and I certainly don't want to end up like my earthly father. And, I'm still trying to get a handle on this insane schedule of mine.
Lord, You have given me so many blessings, so many gifts, yet I really can't fully enjoy them in my current physical and emotional state. Help me, Lord.
Help me become the man You want me to be. Help me to be in You will, Sweet Jesus. Help me to be a true blessing to my family, and to the community. Let my light shine brightly.
Lord I love You. I surrender to You, My King. I am your servant. In Jesus' Name I Pray,
Amen/
I sense Your trying to get my attention in many areas. I am aware that I need to kick my witnessing into a higher gear. I am constantly missing opportunities to share the gospel. I know that I desperately need to lose weight. You didn't call me to be out of shape and I certainly don't want to end up like my earthly father. And, I'm still trying to get a handle on this insane schedule of mine.
Lord, You have given me so many blessings, so many gifts, yet I really can't fully enjoy them in my current physical and emotional state. Help me, Lord.
Help me become the man You want me to be. Help me to be in You will, Sweet Jesus. Help me to be a true blessing to my family, and to the community. Let my light shine brightly.
Lord I love You. I surrender to You, My King. I am your servant. In Jesus' Name I Pray,
Amen/
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Prayer For My Family
Connor has a big day today. It's his first junior high football game...! Monica has been having some mysterious pain in her chest. Elijah has been a little cranky lately. Becky has been dealing with domestic issues from New York. My Younger Brother is having major career issues. My older brother Stan won't even communicate with the family any more.
Over all none of these are life and death issues. But these are my prayer requests non the less.
For myself, I need the Holy Spirit to breathe into me more discipline and a stronger desire to read and study the bible.
Dear Lord, I've been away too long from my devotional time. I'm sorry. I know that's not God-Honoring. I want to honor You in all I do and I know it's important to honor you with the first fruits of my finances and my time. With You help dear Lord I'll do better.
Today I want to seek Your forgiveness and lift up my family. Father I especially pray for those in my family who aren't saved. Let them come to know You, Lord.
Jesus, You have been so good to me. And I am just not worthy of Your blessings. But I gladly accept your gifts and will try harder to honor you.
I love You Lord, and I give my life to You. In Your Precious Holy Name I Pray...
Amen
Over all none of these are life and death issues. But these are my prayer requests non the less.
For myself, I need the Holy Spirit to breathe into me more discipline and a stronger desire to read and study the bible.
Dear Lord, I've been away too long from my devotional time. I'm sorry. I know that's not God-Honoring. I want to honor You in all I do and I know it's important to honor you with the first fruits of my finances and my time. With You help dear Lord I'll do better.
Today I want to seek Your forgiveness and lift up my family. Father I especially pray for those in my family who aren't saved. Let them come to know You, Lord.
Jesus, You have been so good to me. And I am just not worthy of Your blessings. But I gladly accept your gifts and will try harder to honor you.
I love You Lord, and I give my life to You. In Your Precious Holy Name I Pray...
Amen
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Prayer for Teachers
Dear Heavenly Father,
This week and next week kids and teachers are going back to school from their summer break. I want to lift up everyone involved in the school system today, but especially the teachers.
Teachers are such special people. I believe teaching is about the most important job in the world. Teachers have an opportunity to impact children in a great way. Teachers shape the hearts and minds of the next generation. Teachers shape the world. I pray for the hearts of teachers everywhere.
Lord, I pray You call Godly men and women to be teachers. I pray for teachers who don't know You that they will find You and teach a world view that reflects a Godly Character.
Lord I pray this in Your Son's Name, Jesus Christ. Amen.
This week and next week kids and teachers are going back to school from their summer break. I want to lift up everyone involved in the school system today, but especially the teachers.
Teachers are such special people. I believe teaching is about the most important job in the world. Teachers have an opportunity to impact children in a great way. Teachers shape the hearts and minds of the next generation. Teachers shape the world. I pray for the hearts of teachers everywhere.
Lord, I pray You call Godly men and women to be teachers. I pray for teachers who don't know You that they will find You and teach a world view that reflects a Godly Character.
Lord I pray this in Your Son's Name, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Prayer for the Space Shuttle
Dear Heavenly Father,
I join countless others in prayer this morning hoping for a safe return for our astronauts. Bless these men, women and their families, Lord. Get them home safe and sound. I give You all the glory that we are in space in the first place. Everything we accomplish is of You.
Lord, it's thanks You that we are in space at all. Father God You are in charge. Omnipotent, Mighty, and Awesome God. We worship You and give You praise.
In Jesus Name I pray,
Amen.
I join countless others in prayer this morning hoping for a safe return for our astronauts. Bless these men, women and their families, Lord. Get them home safe and sound. I give You all the glory that we are in space in the first place. Everything we accomplish is of You.
Lord, it's thanks You that we are in space at all. Father God You are in charge. Omnipotent, Mighty, and Awesome God. We worship You and give You praise.
In Jesus Name I pray,
Amen.
Monday, August 08, 2005
Prayer for the Week
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord I just praise You and Thank You for the life of little baby Elijah. And thank You for giving him a wonderful mommy to love him and care for him (and me). God, You are So Good...!
Father I pray for Monica this morning. I pray that she and the baby get on a synchronized schedule and they both get the rest they need and deserve. Jesus, I pray for my own rest as well. I'm way behind on my sleep. I just pray for your intervention in that area, too. Help me to stay awake and alert while I'm driving today. Allow me a nap after my lessons this morning and then dive into the rest of my day with enthusiasm.
Lord I want to be a blessing to some one today. I want to glorify You in all I say and do. Lord guard my thoughts. Season my words. Help me to be extra -encouraging today. Help me reach someone with Your God news today. Don't allow me to miss a witnessing opportunity.
Father I love You. And I do give this day to You, my King. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Components of Faith
today's message comes from a Dr Charles Stanley Sermon.
Do You remember the story of David the Shepard Boy against Goliath, the Philistine Giant...? Trusting God's power to deliver , David was victorious over a seemingly invincible opponent.
We too will face trials that are bigger than we are. The Lord wants to build conquering faith in us so that we, like David, can overcome.
We must recognize the battles true nature. In the lives of Believers, every single issue is a spiritual incident. Divides struggle in the physical realm was against Goliath, but the real battle was spiritual. (Ephesians 6:12)
What 'Goliath' is standing before You now?
Remember that in Christ we can overcome...! 1 John 5:4
Do You remember the story of David the Shepard Boy against Goliath, the Philistine Giant...? Trusting God's power to deliver , David was victorious over a seemingly invincible opponent.
We too will face trials that are bigger than we are. The Lord wants to build conquering faith in us so that we, like David, can overcome.
We must recognize the battles true nature. In the lives of Believers, every single issue is a spiritual incident. Divides struggle in the physical realm was against Goliath, but the real battle was spiritual. (Ephesians 6:12)
What 'Goliath' is standing before You now?
Remember that in Christ we can overcome...! 1 John 5:4
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Finding the Time and Place
I was reading an article by Adrian Rogers first thing this morning and he reminded me of several important ingredients to a persons daily devotional. Here are a couple of them...
First of all, He said to find the proper place. We should have a time and a location where we like to pray. It can be anywhere. I like to have my devotionals early in the morning to start my day off right. My favorite place to pray is in my office at home. Many times my prayer time happens when I'm driving to work. That's less optimal because I have to concentrate on my driving and I don't like to divide my time that should be 100% devoted to God with anything else. I feel that I owe it to God to get up early and spend some time with Him.
Next, Doctor Rogers wrote about preparation. He said it's best to start out reading the word of God. Make sure that You have an easy to read version of the bible! Dr Rogers said reading the bible is the key ingredient to a successful quiet time with God. God wants to hear from us, but it's more important that we hear from Him. And his truth is revealed in His Holy Word. God does in fact, know everything. He knows or wants and desires. He knows our needs. He knows what we're going to pray for.
I hadn't given that much thought to the preparation of my quiet time. And I definitely don't make it a point to read scripture every time before I pray. That was a great article. It had 3 other points to make about one's quiet time, but these two are enough for today's post. I'll follow up with more of Doctor Adrian Roger's perspectives on quiet time and devotionals tomorrow.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Oh Great and Wonderful, Marvelous God... Victorious God... My Lord and Savior....! I love You Lord. I lift up Your Holy Name. Thank You Father for the inspiring words of Your faithful servant Dr Adrian Rogers. I pray that You bless him, his family and his ministry.
Lord, I want my quiet time to be as God- honoring as possible. I have been leaving out some key ingredients that has kept me from totally connecting with You. Help me in the area of bible study and the discipline of carving out time to spend in Your Word. I want to know You, Lord. I want to walk close with You. I want my life to evidence that You are my Lord God and Personal Savior.
I pray for peace. I pray for patience. I pray for understanding. I pray that my witness for Your Kingdom be especially strong today. Season my words and actions to be salt and light. Help me to recognize every opportunity that comes before me today.
Thank You for my family. I love, honor and cherish them. They are just a few of the many precious gifts You have given me. Lord, bless my son Elijah that he grow up strong in You. Help Monica and I be the Godly parents You've called us to be.
Father God I just give this day to You. In Jesus' Name I Pray, Amen.
First of all, He said to find the proper place. We should have a time and a location where we like to pray. It can be anywhere. I like to have my devotionals early in the morning to start my day off right. My favorite place to pray is in my office at home. Many times my prayer time happens when I'm driving to work. That's less optimal because I have to concentrate on my driving and I don't like to divide my time that should be 100% devoted to God with anything else. I feel that I owe it to God to get up early and spend some time with Him.
Next, Doctor Rogers wrote about preparation. He said it's best to start out reading the word of God. Make sure that You have an easy to read version of the bible! Dr Rogers said reading the bible is the key ingredient to a successful quiet time with God. God wants to hear from us, but it's more important that we hear from Him. And his truth is revealed in His Holy Word. God does in fact, know everything. He knows or wants and desires. He knows our needs. He knows what we're going to pray for.
I hadn't given that much thought to the preparation of my quiet time. And I definitely don't make it a point to read scripture every time before I pray. That was a great article. It had 3 other points to make about one's quiet time, but these two are enough for today's post. I'll follow up with more of Doctor Adrian Roger's perspectives on quiet time and devotionals tomorrow.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Oh Great and Wonderful, Marvelous God... Victorious God... My Lord and Savior....! I love You Lord. I lift up Your Holy Name. Thank You Father for the inspiring words of Your faithful servant Dr Adrian Rogers. I pray that You bless him, his family and his ministry.
Lord, I want my quiet time to be as God- honoring as possible. I have been leaving out some key ingredients that has kept me from totally connecting with You. Help me in the area of bible study and the discipline of carving out time to spend in Your Word. I want to know You, Lord. I want to walk close with You. I want my life to evidence that You are my Lord God and Personal Savior.
I pray for peace. I pray for patience. I pray for understanding. I pray that my witness for Your Kingdom be especially strong today. Season my words and actions to be salt and light. Help me to recognize every opportunity that comes before me today.
Thank You for my family. I love, honor and cherish them. They are just a few of the many precious gifts You have given me. Lord, bless my son Elijah that he grow up strong in You. Help Monica and I be the Godly parents You've called us to be.
Father God I just give this day to You. In Jesus' Name I Pray, Amen.
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Watch Out For Busy-Ness
I've got to be careful of overcrowding my plate again. I've struggled with doing too much for a long time. (years). By 'too much' I mean spending the majority of my time on things that don't really matter to the kingdom of God.
I especially want to pay attention to how I spend my time now that I have a little baby. I don't want to be like my dad was... It seemed he was off working all the time. He made a living for the family, but he had no quality of life. And I pretty much grew up without a dad... Is that a double, or a triple negative...?
I try to tell myself these are extraordinary circumstances, unusual times... (-And they are) But when I have to get up at 3 AM to get all my work done and I'm still stressed... Well I say that's a Satanic Attack...! -And to be avoided.
The Enemy loves to steal our Joy and Peace by making us too busy. We get so wrapped up in living that we forget the One who gave us Life...! And that's what Satan wants. Do any of you remember one of my first journal posts several years ago about 'Busyness'. The word 'B-U-S-Y' stands for Being Under Satan's Yoke. Ha... That's Me. But I don't want that to be me.
I truly believe that God has called me to be an intercessor for others. But I have not interceded much for anyone lately. -Too Busy...
What's happened here...? Where are my priorities?
How about this... God First... Others Second... Myself Last... That's the perspective I need to adopt once again...!
Dear Heavenly Father...
Lord, once again I find myself too busy. Help me escape that enemy's snare. I want to be focused and stay focused on You, Lord. Don't let me get bogged down in the details of life. Help me to manage my schedule better. Help me to say NO and not take on more work than I should. I just want to walk closely with You, Lord. I want to dive into Your word like I dive into a fiction novel.
Father God, You have entrusted me with so many precious gifts... I will not squander them. Help me to be the man of God You've called me to be, Help me to stand up for what is right and true and just at all times. Let me not miss witnessing opportunities. Let my whole life be about my walk with You, Jesus.
Lord, I will not give in to 'busy-ness' again...! The enemy will no longer triumph over me. I will hold my thoughts captive for You, Lord. I will watch my words and actions, too. I will stay focused on the Divine Prize... And I will lead my family along the Path of Righteousness...! There is no room for the Evil One in this House...!
I give this day to You Jesus...! I am fired up to influence the world for Your Kingdom. No, Busyness SHALL NOT Prevail Today...!
I love You Lord... And I am ever grateful for Your precious gifts... My life, my family, and the gift of Eternal Salvation. Praise You, Jesus...!
In Your Holy Name I Pray,
Amen.
I especially want to pay attention to how I spend my time now that I have a little baby. I don't want to be like my dad was... It seemed he was off working all the time. He made a living for the family, but he had no quality of life. And I pretty much grew up without a dad... Is that a double, or a triple negative...?
I try to tell myself these are extraordinary circumstances, unusual times... (-And they are) But when I have to get up at 3 AM to get all my work done and I'm still stressed... Well I say that's a Satanic Attack...! -And to be avoided.
The Enemy loves to steal our Joy and Peace by making us too busy. We get so wrapped up in living that we forget the One who gave us Life...! And that's what Satan wants. Do any of you remember one of my first journal posts several years ago about 'Busyness'. The word 'B-U-S-Y' stands for Being Under Satan's Yoke. Ha... That's Me. But I don't want that to be me.
I truly believe that God has called me to be an intercessor for others. But I have not interceded much for anyone lately. -Too Busy...
What's happened here...? Where are my priorities?
How about this... God First... Others Second... Myself Last... That's the perspective I need to adopt once again...!
Dear Heavenly Father...
Lord, once again I find myself too busy. Help me escape that enemy's snare. I want to be focused and stay focused on You, Lord. Don't let me get bogged down in the details of life. Help me to manage my schedule better. Help me to say NO and not take on more work than I should. I just want to walk closely with You, Lord. I want to dive into Your word like I dive into a fiction novel.
Father God, You have entrusted me with so many precious gifts... I will not squander them. Help me to be the man of God You've called me to be, Help me to stand up for what is right and true and just at all times. Let me not miss witnessing opportunities. Let my whole life be about my walk with You, Jesus.
Lord, I will not give in to 'busy-ness' again...! The enemy will no longer triumph over me. I will hold my thoughts captive for You, Lord. I will watch my words and actions, too. I will stay focused on the Divine Prize... And I will lead my family along the Path of Righteousness...! There is no room for the Evil One in this House...!
I give this day to You Jesus...! I am fired up to influence the world for Your Kingdom. No, Busyness SHALL NOT Prevail Today...!
I love You Lord... And I am ever grateful for Your precious gifts... My life, my family, and the gift of Eternal Salvation. Praise You, Jesus...!
In Your Holy Name I Pray,
Amen.
Monday, August 01, 2005
As I Was In The Delivery Room...
I did a whole lot of praying the day of Elijah's birth. Monica and I got to the delivery room a little after 5:30 AM. They induced labor around 7 AM and she had baby Elijah at 5:04 PM...! Up until the delivery Monica was in extreme pain. She was hurting very badly. I prayed constantly during that time. When Elijah was coming out Monica screamed some incredible screams. Right at that moment I wondered what it was like for Mary, the Mother of God when she delivered Jesus. Did Mary Scream...? Who cut the cord...? Who cleaned up the baby...? Did Joseph do that...? Baby Elijah Chadwell was born in the comfort of Memorial Herman Hospital... Baby Jesus was born in a stable....
How did Joseph feel..? What emotion was he experiencing...? Hmmm.... These are questions that make you think.
It was an incredible experience for me to see the birth of my son. I was scared, nervous, and didn't want to be there at first. I asked Monica what happened to the days when the daddys waited outside in the waiting room...? She said those were the 'olden days'...
Well, let me just say that I am glad I was there. It was truly a life changing experience...!
Dear Heavenly Father...
What a Mighty God You are... Thank You Jesus for the life of my Son, Elijah. What a blessing he is to Monica and I...! Every little experience is so precious. I see people in a different light now. Everyone was a little baby once. I see my own mom in a different light now. She went through pain with me... She nursed me.... She raised me the best she could. She made many sacrifices for me when I was a baby and while I was growing up...
Thank You Lord for making me a daddy. And Thanks for such as awesome Mom for Elijah... Monica is a wonderful mother...! I pray for my baby and my family this morning, Lord. Anoint us to be a Godly family, and a light to this dark and weary world.
I love You Lord. You have been so good to me. And I don't deserve a bit of that goodness. I am weak and wretched. I am nothing apart from you. I submit. I surrender. I only want to be a man of God and do Your will, My King. Bless me Lord. Bless this family.
I pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen
How did Joseph feel..? What emotion was he experiencing...? Hmmm.... These are questions that make you think.
It was an incredible experience for me to see the birth of my son. I was scared, nervous, and didn't want to be there at first. I asked Monica what happened to the days when the daddys waited outside in the waiting room...? She said those were the 'olden days'...
Well, let me just say that I am glad I was there. It was truly a life changing experience...!
Dear Heavenly Father...
What a Mighty God You are... Thank You Jesus for the life of my Son, Elijah. What a blessing he is to Monica and I...! Every little experience is so precious. I see people in a different light now. Everyone was a little baby once. I see my own mom in a different light now. She went through pain with me... She nursed me.... She raised me the best she could. She made many sacrifices for me when I was a baby and while I was growing up...
Thank You Lord for making me a daddy. And Thanks for such as awesome Mom for Elijah... Monica is a wonderful mother...! I pray for my baby and my family this morning, Lord. Anoint us to be a Godly family, and a light to this dark and weary world.
I love You Lord. You have been so good to me. And I don't deserve a bit of that goodness. I am weak and wretched. I am nothing apart from you. I submit. I surrender. I only want to be a man of God and do Your will, My King. Bless me Lord. Bless this family.
I pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen
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