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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Tonight's Cheat Meal

My family eats healthy about 95% of the time. Every now and then, we have a cheat meal. I decided to treat them with one tonight. I made BBQ ribs with my homemade sauce, garlic cheese biscuits, corn on the cob, side salad, and mac n cheese. I also made a sour cream pound cake but it's in the oven. Q

Sunday, April 19, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 21)

For our final day, I wanted to post John 21 in it's entirety. Q

1After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.

2There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.

3Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.

4But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.

5Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.

6And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.

7Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

8And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.

9As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.

10Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.

11Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.

12Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.

13Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.

14This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.

15So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

16He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

17He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

18Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdest thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.

19This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.

20Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?

21Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?

22Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.

23Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?

24This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.

25And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.

Saturday, April 18, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 20)

Hey everyone. These are our key scriptures for day 20. I will add my notes to 19, 20, and 21 on Monday. I finished my semester of classes today and God is so good. I will also have a recap along with some info on how to keep going. I apologize for this not going as smoothly as I would like. But in all things I give God glory because I was obedient to Him in regards to starting this. I also learned a lot as well which will help me in the future. Take care. Q

5And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.
6Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.
In the Jewish religion, if a person eats a meal and it was good, they would fold their napkins neatly and place it on the table. When Peter looked in, he didn't see a rush job. The napkin that was on Jesus' head was not with the rest of the linens and was lying neatly itself. That was Jesus sign that His job was finished and it was good.


11But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
12And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
13And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my LORD, and I know not where they have laid him.
14And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
15Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.
16Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.
17Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
It was only fitting that the person who carried the word (Jesus) and first saw the word (Jesus) when He entered the world would be one of the first to see Him alive after dying.

19Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
20And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD.
21Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

27Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
28And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God.
29Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
30And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:
31But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
Don't feel left out if no one else knows your name because God does. He was talking about us in these bolded scriptures. We are the ones who didn't see but yet we believe in Christ. God not only knows our name but our name is now written in the Lambs book of Life. We are now known as God's children and when we go to enter the Pearly gates, we won't enter as thieves but as rightful residents of the Kingdom of heaven.
Tonight in your journal, I want you to write your name. We all have been talked about and called names that don't belong to us. So tonight, I want you to write new names for yourself. Write Victory, Overcomer, Child of the Most High. Q

Friday, April 17, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 19)

Praise the Lord everyone. Here are our scriptures:
1Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him.
2And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe,
3And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands.

4Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.
They did all those things to Him but yet they found no fault in Him.

9And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.
10Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?
11Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
To be a fly on the wall when Jesus said this to Pilate. You can't kill what's already dead. Jesus had already resolved to die for the world so it was out of Pilate's hands. He was simply an agent used to help bring glory to the Lord.

16Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.
17And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:
18Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.
19And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.
20This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin.
21Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews.
22Pilate answered, What I have written I have written.
23Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.
24They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

28After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.
29Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.
30When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

33But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs:
34But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
35And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe.
36For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken.
37And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced.

39And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight.
40Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.
41Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.
42There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.
Jesus didn't die an easy death. He was beaten and suffered greatly all for us. That alone should have each and every one of us doing all we can to serve Him and to do what pleases Him. Tonight in your journals I want you to began to prepare yourself for a fast. We've focused on praying, and reading the word and now it is time to deny your flesh and let it suffer a little like the Lord did for us. Write out the type of fast, you will do, the duration, and a day. It will be up to you to follow through with it on your own time. It's about you and spending time with the Lord. Be blessed. Q


May God bless the readers, hearers, and doers of His word. Q

Thursday, April 16, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 18)

Hello everyone. Here are our scriptures for today:
3Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.
4Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye?
5They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them.
6As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.
One of the Bishops always jokes about someone getting a little taste of "I am He." He is referring to this scripture right here. Remember how Jesus keep speaking of being glorified? Then go with me to Exodus 33:19And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.
20And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
God was speaking to Moses because Moses wanted to see God. But God's glory is so great that Moses' flesh would not be able to withstand it and it would have killed Him.
The guards got a little taste of God's glory when Jesus said, "I am He." That was God the father coming through because remember God told Moses when they ask who sent you, say I am sent me. God's word doesn't return to Him void. Just think, they only got a little taste and it knocked them down. That's how powerful our God is!!!

17Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this man's disciples? He saith, I am not.

19The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.
20Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.
21Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said.
22And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so?
23Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?
This was the same priest in John 11:49-51 that spoke of one man die for the people than the whole nation perishing. Jesus felt no need to repeat what He has said. They all have heard it as well. But yet they struck Him. He was an innocent man not deserving of this treatment.

25And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it, and said, I am not.
26One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him?
27Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crew

I can't imagine how Peter felt at the moment he heard the cock crow. At that moment, I am sure he remembered what Jesus had said about him. I know he loved Jesus but he was scared. He had just seen his Lord taken and was afraid he was next. Peter is not alone because we too have denied the Lord in our lives. We deny Him when we sin, when we don't trust Him, and when we have fear of the things of this world. We must not be like Peter and fear being killed for testifying of our Lord. But we must be willing to lay down our earthly lives if need be. Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

36Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.
37Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
38Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.
39But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?
40Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.
At any moment, Jesus could have waved His hand and a host of angels would have shown up and slayed each and every one of the guards that held Him. But He had a job to do. He was sent so we could live. He had a kingdom and a home and it was time for Him to go back and prepare it for us. Pilate himself, testified to the truth of Christ by saying he finds not fault in Him at all. He said what we all know to be true. But yet Jesus still died. They saved Barabbas a robber and a murderer. Some of the people who cried out were the same ones who were praising Him in Chapter 12.
Tonight in your journals, write down how it makes you feel knowing our Savior was innocent and died for us who aren't. But I don't want you to focus on the sadness but instead think about how much love He has for us. Let that be on your mind as you pray tonight, and just thank Him for loving us even when we like Peter denied Him. Be happy knowing you have a truly loving God that not only says it, but shows is and embodies it. Because God is love!!



May God bless the readers of His word. Q

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 17)

1These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:

2As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

3And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

4I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.

5And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

6I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

7Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee.

8For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.

9I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.

10And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.

11And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

12While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

13And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

14I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

15I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

16They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

17Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

18As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

19And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

20Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

21That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

22And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

23I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

24Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

25O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.

26And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.
Today as I read John 17, I was overcome with emotion. I wanted to pick out some key scriptures, but I couldn't. All of it just touched me. I just thought about Jesus and what He had to be feeling and how much He loved us. We have been studying the Tabernacle in bible study. If you guys look over it, you will see how it points to Jesus, and how much it took just for God's people to connect to Him. So if you understand all that went on, you will appreciate so much more what Jesus did for us. We don't have to go to the Tabernacle, and give sacrifices and do all the things they had too. We have the comforter with in us, and Jesus in heaven interceding on our behalf. In verse 16, Jesus says we are not of this world either. Always remember we have a spirit. Our original home and birthplace is in heaven with the Lord. God created us. We are just temporary aliens sent here to do a job. But ultimately we are to return home once again when the Lord comes for us.

This time in the word has really blessed me ladies. I have so much more to write but my intent wasn't to be the lead but to be the vessel. I am encouraged when I read your thoughts and what you've gotten out of the word because it is confirmation for me as well. I have been taking a lot of notes in bible study and when it is complete, I want to share with you what I've learned about the Tabernacle. I know it is going to bless you all as much as it's blessed me. Tonight in your journals, I want you to write down what Jesus means to you. We've seen in John 17 how Jesus feels about us and His task He was sent to do and I want you to do the same. We only have a few more days left everyone. Keep praying every morning and night, writing in your journals, and reading the word of God. Those are 2 awesome habits that I pray you will continue with Much love. Q

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Happy Birthday to my Mommy!!!

My mom turned 50 today. We have this weird relationship. When we are together, we fight like cats and dogs. But we speak several times a week on the phone like old friends. Although we have had our ups and downs, I wouldn't trade her for the world. Mom, I love you and I thank God for blessing me with you. Here's to 50 more years!!! Q

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 16)

I will post my notes on days 15 and 16 later today. We are almost done!! See how quickly that time went by? Q
7Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
8And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9Of sin, because they believe not on me;
10Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
11Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
This is right on time because at this point in history, the disciples were waiting for the Comforter to arrive. The Comforter came for us so through Him, we will reprove or scold and help correct the world.

17Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?
18They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith.
19Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?
20Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
God is not confined by time like we are. A day to him is like a thousand years. For some, it may seem like a long time since Jesus left until he reappears but understand, we will be with Him for ETERNITY. Yes we will suffer a little serving the Lord. Even now it seems as though the people of God are constantly under attack. But know that weeping may endure for a night but joy will come in the morning!!!!

23And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.
24Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.
Many of us have not because we ask not. We are the children of the most High and we should want for nothing. I am not just talking about things either. We need to ask Him to heal us, to give us guidance, and to remove doubt from our minds!!!

32Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.
33These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Easter pics

I am having serious computer issues and firefox crashed once. But here they are. Q



21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 15)

I am having some computer issues at home still so I will post both days tomorrow. God bless. Q

Edited: Here is day 15:
1I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
2Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
3Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
All we have, comes from Christ. He is the source. It is through Him that we are able to have power. In this analogy, we are the branches. If you understand your role in the Kingdom, you will also understand that God the Father, the husbandman will sometimes have to prune us. He will get rid of the things that are hindering us from bearing fruit, like bugs (sin), pruning (getting rid of bad relationships), and dead leaves (doubt). Yes it is sometimes painful to endure but understand it's for our good. We are like organic gardening. Doing so requires special attention, care and, extra work but the end result is so much better. The fruit is pure, unadulterated, and not full of things that can harm you. Our fruit will be good for those who eat of it because it starts with the best source, Christ.

11These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
12This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
13Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
15Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
16Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
17These things I command you, that ye love one another.
18If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
19If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
The thing that stands out to me throughout scripture is how complete the Lord is. He uses words like full, all, everything, words of completion. He doesn't half step. He doesn't give us a little joy but full joy. He doesn't make some things new but ALL things new. Three times, Jesus mentions the word friend. I thought a little about that word and how wonderful it is that He calls us friend. But how good of a friend have we been to Him? We seek to serve and to please Him but yet we don't show love to those He loves that we see each and every day. If we love Jesus and calls Him a friend, then we should show it to His other friends as well. He loves all of us equally and if we all love Him, we should love each other. We need to be the change the world needs. It has to start with us, the ones Jesus chose.


26But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
27And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.
When was the last time you testified to the goodness of the Lord? Not just to others but to yourself. It's important to always give a testimony to God's grace in your life and to thank Him for it. Tonight in your journals write down a testimony to the Lord and thank Him for it. It can be whatever He has done, like wake you up this morning, or blessed you to be in your right mind. Just give the Lord some glory!!! Q

Sunday, April 12, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 14)

Happy Resurrection Sunday everyone. Please read all of John 14 if you haven't. If you guys are ike me, today has been super busy. So I won't post much. But tomorrow, we are back on. We should all be caught up by then and ready to go farther in our walk. Much love. Q
1Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
These verses speak to why we must always press on. Yes we are working hard for the Lord now but know Jesus is making preparations for us to reap the rewards for eternity!

12Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.
13And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
14If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
15If ye love me, keep my commandments.
16And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
17Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
18I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
Yes we will. There is nothing too hard for God. Within us in the truth of God's word. That's why scripture says man, cannot live by bread alone. We digest the word of God and it gives us life, everlasting life.

23Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
24He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.
25These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.
26But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
27Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
There are many instances in the scripture where it mentions the disciples remembering the things Jesus told them. That's why in the beginning of this course, I had you guys write down some of the promises and things you are believing God for. God covered all of the bases for us. Not only did He die and give us life but He left us the Holy Spirit to help guide us until Jesus comes back for us. We need not be afraid because the Lord is on our side. Jesus left us His peace. A peace that passes all (worldly) understandings. We can have joy in times of sorror and faith in times of doubt. To man it may seem like we are delusional but we know that God is in control. We are seeing stuff like that right now with the economic situation. I encourage all of you to not worry because God is doing a great thing for His people. Allow Him to move and in the process move you to where you need to be. We are going to come out victorious when it's all said and done, as long as we trust Him.
Today I simply want you to write this in your journal, I will trust in the Lord.
Be blessed. Q

Saturday, April 11, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 13)

I will post my thoughts to this one and Day 12 later. I should be back on track after tomorrow. I've been busy with Easter prepping. Hope you all are having a blessed day. Q

4He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
5After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
6Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?
7Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.
8Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
9Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.
14If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
15For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
16Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
Washing the disciples feet was showing how humble and willing to serve Jesus is. We are to be the same. It also signified the washing of our souls (the soles of the feet) when we accepted Jesus as our savior. We should never get so high that we can't take the time to be a blessing to each other. Just like we do right here on this forum by sharing and praying for each other. What an awesome example we have in Christ.

31Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
32If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him.
33Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you.
34A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
34 and 35 are 2 more verses to have highlighted. In a few sentences, Jesus once again tells us who serve Him, how to treat each other. Just like Jesus was our example, we are to be examples for the word. We need to show the love of Christ because people are watching. If we act like the world then they have no reason to follow our Lord. But if we show them a better way, they will come running, asking, what must I do to be saved.
Today in your journal, I want you to think about the people in your life that you know need Christ. I want you to write their names down so you can pray for them. Every time you are around them, talk with them, or see them, show them the love of Christ with a smile, a kind word, or some gesture. Continue to pray and watch God make that seed of love planted in them grow. Q

Friday, April 10, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 12)

Good Friday everyone. I am knee deep in Easter preparations but here are our scriptures for today:

3Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.
4Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him,
5Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?
6This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.
7Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.
8For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.
Jesus knew His body would not be prepared for burial in the traditional way. So Mary was doing it for Him before He passes. He also gives us a good word about money. Now money is a good thing of course and God wants us to be prosperous. But we shouldn't put it over the important things in life like people, and esp serving the Lord.

12On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,
13Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.
14And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written,
15Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt.
16These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him.
The same people that cried out praising Him, would be some of the same ones calling for His death.

20And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:
21The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
22Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus.
23And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
24Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
25He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
26If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Jesus was not just speaking about Himself, but us as well. We have to die to our flesh and then God is able to do more with us. The bible says, "greater is He that is in thee than He that is in the world." Where this world and the things of it like a loose fitting garment. When God calls, be ready to give it all up and follow Him.

31Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
32And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
33This he said, signifying what death he should die.
Another verse to have highlighted!!! Jesus was lifted up on the cross and died. Because of it, He was able to save the world.

43For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
44Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.
45And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.
46I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
47And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
48He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.
49For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
50And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
So many of us are like verse 43. We get so used to this world that we focus more on what man says and not what God says. Don't lose your focus. Jesus' light is within us. So don't let it go dim by straying from the source. Let your light shine and help those who are in darkness know they can have everlasting life in Christ. In your journals tonight, write down ways you can let your light shine and get moving. Be blessed. Q

Thursday, April 09, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 11)

Good morning to some and good afternoon to others. I love coming here everyday and sharing with you guys. These past 11 days have blessed me so much and I hope it has done the same for you. Here are our scriptures for today:

3Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
4When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.
Jesus was going to use Lazarus' death to show His true power by doing something no one else could ever do. Lazarus' death would glorify the Lord but also set the stage for what Jesus was about to do as well.

9Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.
10But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.
11These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.
17Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.
Jesus was in no hurry at first while Lazarus was sick. After he died, Jesus arrived days later for a reason. It is one thing to raise someone up a few hours after they had passed but after 4 days!!! Jesus is the light of the world and His light should be in us less we stumble.

22But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.
23Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
25Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
26And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
Verse 26 is so awesome. Everything we want, we have in Jesus. He has our life and He will save us and keep us from dying the ultimate death of being apart from the Lord for eternity.

34And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.
35Jesus wept.
36Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!
Many people have speculated as to why Jesus wept. Some even use it to question His Godliness. But to me, it is truly profound. You see Jesus was always doing things for a reason. It was here at this moment, He was showing us His humanity. Even though He knew Lazarus would rise again, He still allowed Himself to grieve just for a moment. Not only for Lazarus but for all those who died without Him, and for what He was about to experience as well. We can go to Him truly knowing we serve a God that understands us. He knows what it's like to be betrayed by someone you love. He knows what it's like to be talked about and ridiculed. But most importantly, He knows what it's like to forgive those same people and still be able to love them. So if you need to cry, go ahead and get it out. But then wipe your tears and get back to doing what God called you to do, just like Jesus did.

39Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.
40Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
41Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
42And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
43And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
44And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
45Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.
The word of God says that man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Jesus spoke, and Lazarus lived. Speak the word of God over those situations that seem dead in your life and watch Him raise them up as well. Some of us have dreams that have died. Some of us have family relationships that have been torn and destroyed. Even if it has been years and it is dead and stinking, and seems like it is beyond repair, trust God. Whatever it is, speak God's word over it!!!

49And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all,
50Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
51And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;
52And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad.
This sums up what Jesus did. One man died so all could live. He died not just for the Jews, but for you and I as well. He died, so we could live. Q

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 10)

I apologize for not doing my summary and having this up earlier. I am dealing with some computer issues and preparing for holy week activities for this week. You should continue to read the daily chapter, pray every morning and evening and writing in your journal your thoughts about the scripture. Here are the key verses for today. I will post more later on day 9 and 10. Be blessed. Q

1Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
2But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
3To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
4And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
5And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
There is only one way to the father and that's through the son. Don't be fooled into thinking there is another way because their isn't. Don't listen to the world and the father of this world, the devil. Listen to God and God alone. He is our shepherd. That means he leads us, guides us, cares for us and protects us from the wolf.


9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
12But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
If you don't have verse ten highlighted, you should do it now. It clearly states the devil's agenda for our lives. Don't ever forget it when dealing with him. Jesus like a good shepherd, gave His life for us, His sheep. Just like in Psalm 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. Do you see how Jesus once again connects back to the old testament? He is showing us who He is and that He is the same God and changes not.

16And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
17Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.
18No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
Jesus had all power in His hands. At any moment, He could have escaped and avoided death. But he willingly laid down His life, for us, His sheep. He not only laid it down, but He reclaimed it again and lives today. No one can kill Him because He is God.

24Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.
25Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me.
26But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.
27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
28And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
29My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
30I and my Father are one.
No man is able to pluck us out of the hands of the Father but know we have free will and we can let go of the Father's hand. Just like the song, hold to God's unchanging hand. Some of us get caught up and like sheep, we began to wander. Before we know it, we have drifted away from our shepherd and our protection. We turn away and refuse to follow His voice. If you miss heaven and make hell, it will because of YOUR actions alone. No one else can make the choice to serve the Lord for you. You have to do it for yourself.

37If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
38But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.
39Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand,
40And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode.
41And many resorted unto him, and said, John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true.
42And many believed on him there.
John did no miracles but many believed him. John believed in Christ, who performed many miracles and is still doing them through us everyday. So if they believed John, they should have believed in Christ. Thank God for those many who believed and continue to do so, including us.

Tonight, I want you to look at Psalm 23 and write out how it connects to what we have read in this chapter in your journal. Be blessed ladies. Q

Tuesday, April 07, 2009

21 days To a closer walk with Thee (Day 9)

Good morning. We are almost halfway there. You still have time to join in. I pray this has blessed you as much as it has blessed me. Here are our verses for today:
1And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
2And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
3Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
4I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
There goes that word work. Yall know how much I love that. This guy was born blind just so Jesus could come and heal him. And just like before, Jesus did the work He was sent to do and healed him.

14And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
15Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
16Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
They tried to accuse Jesus because of the miracle He performed on the sabbath. But Jesus is the creator of the sabbath. They would have rather this man remained blind. Some were confused because although they felt he disobeyed the sabbath, what He did was a great thing. God does not give honor when someone goes against His will. Jesus would not have done this, if it was in fact a sin. Jesus could not, would not, and didn't sin.


29We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.
30The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes.
31Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.
32Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.
33If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.
34They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
The man who was once blind was speaking up for Jesus. He is saying no one, not even Moses, or Abraham has ever been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. In that time, being born blind was considered a result of sin. It was God's punishment. If that is the case, then only someone who God appoints would be able to reverse the so called punishment. The only person capable of doing that, is God Himself. But they cast him out as well because they believe he was born in sin. We all are born to sin.

35Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
36He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
37And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.
38And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.
39And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
40And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?
41Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.
By healing this man who was once blind, the man became a believer. However those who don't believe and only see from their point of view, will continue to remain in sin. We too were once blind, but now we see. By believing in Christ, we are free from sin. Q

Have a blessed day. Q

Monday, April 06, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 8)

Good morning!!! Today's focus verses are:

4They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.
5Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?
6This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.
7So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
8And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.
9And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
10When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
11She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
12Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Jesus treated her the same as He did the man in chapter 5. There was no need to condemn her. Instead he wanted to redeem her so she would sin no more and tell others about how Jesus saves. The men who accused her didn't really care about obeying law. Because if they did, they would not have sinned in their lives either. They were using her as a way to trap Jesus. But what they didn't understand was Jesus came to fulfill the law and in doing so give life and to bring light to this dark world.

17It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true.
18I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.
Deut 17:6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.
The only people that a truly able to bear witness to Christ are in heaven. So those on earth that set out to accuse Him were bearing false witnesses. Jesus was an innocent man. On the flip side, Jesus knew He came to die so in essence He was putting Himself on death row not because He was guilty but because we were and without the shedding of blood, there remains no remission for sin.


28Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.
29And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.
30As he spake these words, many believed on him.
31Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
33They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
34Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
35And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed
Jesus speaks as Himself being lifted up on the cross and when He finally returns to heaven. It is then, after His death that many will understand what He said to be true. My Pastor once preached a sermon titled, "I quit before I got paid." He took it from Romans 6:23 for the wages of sin is death. When you work for sin and it's father the devil, you are a slave to it but the only pay you will receive in the end, is death. But when you decide to quit and work for Jesus, you are truly free.

42Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.
43Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.
44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
All I can is just wave my hand at this one. Jesus BROKE it down and made it plain. He straight called the devil out and made it clear he is not to be trusted.

54Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:
55Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying.
56Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.
57Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?
58Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
59Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
Exodus 3:14God also said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites:'I AM has sent me to you.'"
Remember when God said this to Moses? Well Jesus and God is one and the same. His role was not to come and have man praise Him but He knew His ultimate honor would come from God the father for completed His task. That is our goal as well. We all look forward to the day when God looks at us and says, "well done." In your journals tonight, just write how God blessed you today. Then I want you to read it and see how much God really loves you. Have a blessed evening. Q

Sunday, April 05, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 7)

Because today is Sunday and a lot of us have been in the word in our home churches. I am only going to post a couple of verses. This does not let you off the hook from studying the Chapter today though.

16Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
17If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
18He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

37In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
38He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
39(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
40Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.

What stood out to me in these key scriptures is the word glory. I went to dictionary.com and found these descriptions for the word glorify:
1. To give glory, honor, or high praise to; exalt.
2. To cause to be or seem more glorious or excellent than is actually the case: Your descriptions have glorified an average house into a mansion.
3. To give glory to, especially through worship.

This was a critical time in Jesus' life. He knew His time to die for us was about to come. He knew those who claimed to love Him would turn their backs on Him even after all they had seen Him do and say. Too many men do things for their own glory but Jesus was doing it all for the glory of the Father who sent Him. He pressed on because He knew in death, He would have greater glory. We are living witnesses to that. We didn't live when Jesus walked the earth but yet we believe Him and worship Him. So what does this mean for us? It means that we too will have greater glory once we die. Not the physical death but the spiritual death we go through when we give our lives to Christ. But the glory won't be our own but done in the name of our Savior and in doing so we are the righteous of the Lord. We become more excellent than we ever were when we die to our old selves and become who Christ has called us to be. Praise Him and give God some glory!!!
Tonight in your journal, I want you to sum up how your week went. Think about the things that worked well and those things you would like to work on. Make a pledge to give God even more glory by getting rid of any distractions that may have been hindrances this past week. One week down in the name of the Father and 2 more to go. Be blessed. Q

Saturday, April 04, 2009

Todays braid out

I washed my hair last night. I did about 10 braids in my hair and let it dry overnight. Today I wore a nice little braid out. My shirt was yellow so of course I had a rock a matching flower. Neicy Nash ain't got nothing on me!!! Q


21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 6) Discussion

9There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
10And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.
11And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.
12When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.
13Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
14Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.
15When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.
There were five thousand men but that didn't include the women and children. How awesome that must have been to seen all those people waiting to hear from the Lord. Once again His disciples have yet to just trust because they didn't understand how Jesus would be able to feed all of those people with so little. Not only was everyone fed, but there was food left over. We serve a God of more than enough. The bible says that God will open up the windows of heaven and pour out blessings that there won't be room enough to receive it. God makes us whole. He provides for us like no one else can.

19So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.
20But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.
21Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.


40And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.
41The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven.
42And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?
43Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves.
44No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.
They knew the story of Jesus' parents. They was questioning how He could be who He said he was when they knew Mary and Joseph as His parents. They were regular people like them so how could He be so special? Jesus made it plain that He is the only way to the father.

47Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
48I am that bread of life.
49Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.
50This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.
51I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
This is why it's important to study the word of God daily. Knowing His word helps you to understand His will for your life. It also helps you to think like God and not like man who is carnal and can believe what seems logical. But God goes against the grain and He can do things we can't even imagine. We live not just because of the food we eat but from the living word of God. Those who ate the manna which also came from heaven, were no longer alive. That's because it takes more to sustain life. Remember we are spirits and our spirit man must be fed daily along with our physical bodies. That's why the word says to taste and see that the Lord is good. His word is good to and for our spirit man. It was Jesus flesh that took on our faults and the beatings that should have been ours. It was His blood that was shed and washed us white as snow and gives us strength from day to day.

64But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.
65And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.
66From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.
67Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?
68Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.
69And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.
70Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?
71He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.
Reading this broke my heart and brought tears to my eyes. After all they have seen Jesus do, some people still didn't believe and decided to walk away from Him. But Jesus yet and still died for them too. The twelve that remained are those that He knew would be there from the beginning. If you look in the old testament, the 12 are spoken of and mentioned even when you look at the building of the tabernacle and the items it held. (We will probably discuss this later.) Understand that serving God requires a lot. There are a lot of things we will have to give up in order to serve Him. Some of us will even have people we love, turn their backs on us. Philippians 3:8-9 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
No matter what or who you lose by serving Christ, know you ultimately win because you have eternal life because of Him. Tonight I want you write down all the things you have gained from serving Christ. I have gained true friendships. I gained forgiveness for my sins and unspeakable joy. Write them down and reflect on the positive and smile knowing there is far greater things to come from serving Him. Be blessed. Q

21 Days to a Closer walk with Thee (Day 6)

Good morning. Whew goodness today has been one of those days but God is good. Here are the verses for today:
9There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
10And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.
11And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.
12When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.
13Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
14Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.
15When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.

19So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.
20But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.
21Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.

40And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.
41The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven.
42And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?
43Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves.
44No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

47Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
48I am that bread of life.
49Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.
50This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.
51I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

64But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.
65And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.
66From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.
67Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?
68Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.
69And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.
70Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?
71He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.

May God bless the readers of His word. Q

Friday, April 03, 2009

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 5) Discussion added

Good morning. I am smiling right now as I post this discussion because I know God is moving in a powerful way in our lives. This chapter is close to my heart because my church's name was taken from it. Here are our key scriptures for today:
2Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.

5And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.
6When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?
7The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.
8Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.
9And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.

16And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
17But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.
18Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
19Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.
20For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.
21For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.
22For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
23That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.
24Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
25Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
26For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
27And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.
I know this is a lot. Jesus is challenging the Jews who are trying to condemn Him for healing this man on the Sabbath and for calling Himself God. Once again Jesus mentions work. He tells them He is working just like God the father works everyday. But He is doing the work of saving souls, healing people and giving them life. He knew His time to die was coming. Here He lays it out on the table about who He really is. He makes it very plain for them. But remember, when He is captured, He doesn't speak or say anything about Himself.

32There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.
33Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.
We too are now witnesses for Christ. John is mentioned because at the time, He was the main preacher of the gospel. Folks looked up to him and listened to him. But even John himself says Jesus is the one who has come to save the world.

36But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.
37And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape.
All I can say is, if God is for you, who can be against you. Jesus takes it a step further and says there is someone who is greater than John who will stand for me. I know there have been times in my life when I felt everyone let me down. But no matter what, God knows, and He has the final say.

43I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
44How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
45Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.
46For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me; for he wrote of me.
47But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Unfortunately, not much has changed since Jesus walked the earth. Christians are persecuted everyday for doing the will of the Father. But yet men who don't count God's way as holy are lifted up everyday. Jesus speaks of Moses being an accuser because the Jews in that day had strayed away from how God wanted them to be and because Moses also spoke of and believes in Christ. So by not believing in Christ, they were in essence going against Moses as well. It's a shame that it took Jesus mentioning people who are considered "popular" in order to get their attention. Jesus was bold and did not back down. Tonight, when you pray, I want you to pray for the boldness to stand for the Lord no matter what. Think about the areas in your walk where you need strength or boldness. Write them down in your journal and search for scriptures that will encourage that boldness. Pray over them and walk boldly in the Lord. Be blessed. Q

Have a great and blessed day everyone!!! Q

Thursday, April 02, 2009

Another flavor perfections meal



Can you tell I am loving my new stuff right now? This meal took about 20 minutes. I grilled some chicken breast, and boiled some fettuccine florentine. I tossed it with 3 T of the alfredo flavor, some mushrooms, broccoli, and viola!!! My kids asked for seconds. I didn't have to use as much but I wanted the flavor to pop. I love how I got the alfredo flavor without a bunch of fatty traditional alfredo sauce. I'm on a roll yall!!! Q

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 4 Discussion)

7There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
8(For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
9Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
10Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

13Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
14But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life
Jesus is the living water and the way to everlasting life.

23But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
24God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
25The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.
26Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
I so agree Beatrice. I love how Jesus dealt with people. Once again another example how we should be. He didn't see her sin but he saw her soul. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own feelings and emotions and we have to look past that and look deeper. There are a lot of hurt people in the world. We need to tell them the truth in love and show them the way, just like Jesus did with this woman. Verse 24 is one everyone should have marked in their bibles!!!! I also encourage you to do some researching into history to understand a lot of what happened during that time and throughout the bible. Has anyone ever wondered why Jesus was born in a manger? There is an answer for that as well and it is fascinating when you do the research behind it. I will share some of that with you as time goes on.
32But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.
33Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat?
34Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.
35Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.
36And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.
Do you see what Jesus said in verse 35? He talks about working. Not just labor like we do everyday but doing the work of God. We should be just like that. There is a work in the kingdom for all of us to do. Some of us are doing it already and others are unsure. So tonight as you pray and write in your journals, think about the work that you would like to do. Write it down and then later pray and see what God has to say to you. He may confirm it or He may lead you another way. Either way we all have a job to do. Above all else, we are to be the light of the world, and the salt of the earth. We need to guide people to Jesus and let them know that if they work for him, in the end, they will reap a reward greater than they could ever imagine. Isn't it good that God loves enough to bless us for our work? He doesn't have to because He has already done enough but since He said He would, all we have to do is believe it and receive it.
49The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.
50Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way.
51And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth.
52Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to amend. And they said unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.
53So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house.
54This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out of Judaea into Galilee.
These verses connects God's word, to our faith. Jesus spoke it that the boy was alive and the father believed it and it came to pass. A lot of folks miss out because we don't exercise our faith in God. We literally block our own blessings because we don't believe and we don't have faith. Stop putting God in a box. No matter what the situation is, know there is nothing too hard for God and with Him all things are possible. I know some of what I am saying sounds like I am repeating myself but I want to get it down into your spirit. I want you to wake up everyday with the peace that passes all understanding because your faith is strong in the Lord. Gal 3:11 "The righteous will live by faith." This also connects with what I was saying about work because the bible also says, "faith without works is dead." You work your faith by exercising it and you exercising it by putting it out before the Lord. This father had enough faith to not only go to Jesus and ask but to also believe His word. He was nowhere near his son to truly know if he was alive but yet, he believed God. He truly was walking back home with faith and not by sight. He exercised it by simply believing and going home knowing his son would live. He didn't beg Jesus to come home with him, he simply trusted and left. Hebrews 11: 5By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Trusting in God pleases Him. Enoch walked with God and trusted God. So much so that he didn't see death!!! Remember when I posted about being the like the moon and seeking God? His word right here says He rewards those that diligently seek Him. We must always seek to be like God, to trust Him, to obey Him, to listen to Him, to worship Him and adore Him. Whatever it is that you need, ask the Lord, hear His voice, exercise your faith and believe God. Be blessed ladies. Q

21 Days to a closer walk with Thee (Day 4)

Good morning everyone. Today's focus scriptures for today are:

7There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
8(For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
9Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
10Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

13Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
14But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life


23But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
24God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
25The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.
26Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

32But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.
33Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat?
34Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.
35Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.
36And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.


49The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.
50Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way.
51And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth.
52Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to amend. And they said unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.
53So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house.
54This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out of Judaea into Galilee.

This is another rich chapter. John is one of my favorite books in the bible. I'll post my thoughts later. Have a blessed day. Q