S - Genesis 50:19 But Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. 21 No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.
O - After Jacob died, Joseph's brothers became afraid because they thought that Joseph would now punish them for how they treated him all those year ago not that their father was gone. These verses verses show Joseph's response and the fact that he had truly forgiven them and wouldn't harm them in any way. Even though their must have been times that Joseph was angry with how they treated him, he chose to forgive them and to treat them with love.
A - There have been and will be times that people have treated me wrongly. I have a choice just as Joseph had; to fogive or to not forgive. Regardless of how an event or mistreatment made me feel, this is still my choice. I may feel pain or anger but the choice to forgive or not is still there. I can do little about the feeling that I receive from whatever may happen to me but I can choose to forgive and let go of any bitterness that may be swelling up inside of me and let that go. Joseph gave me a great example to follow as did Jesus when He forgave the soldiers when He was dying on the cross. I will choose to forgive always, even though there may be feeling that are hurt, I choose to let go and forgive.
P - God, I come to you today to ask for your forgiveness for all that I have done wrong in my life. I thank you for your forgiveness and the perfect example of forgivenees that you have shown me through your son Jesus Christ. I pray that you give me the strength, wisdom, and courage to see all situations and to better understand what is happening and to quickly forgive those that may do something wrong against me. I also pray for your protection and for healing today for my family and for me. Thank you for your angels watching over the travel that my family is undertaking today and keeping them safe. I also ask that you watch over this little girl and that you supernaturally heal her and let her tounge, stomach, and intestines work perfectly. I thank you for the favor that you are shining on Christa and I when these working are trying to find a home for this girl. Continue to bring a light on us and guide these workers to think about us and place a desire in them to place her with us. I thank you Heavenly Father for all that you do and all that you continue to do. Praise God!
Soap Suds
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Prepare for Difficulties - Genesis 47
S - Genesis 47:18 But that year ended, and the next year they came again and said, “We cannot hide the truth from you, my lord. Our money is gone, and all our livestock and cattle are yours. We have nothing left to give but our bodies and our land. 19 Why should we die before your very eyes? Buy us and our land in exchange for food; we offer our land and ourselves as slaves for Pharaoh. Just give us grain so we may live and not die, and so the land does not become empty and desolate.”
O - The Egyptians had run out of food, money and livestock and the only thing left that that had was their land and their bodies. In order to continue living they needed to sell both of these to get enough food to live. If these same people would have prepared, as Joseph had perpared Egypt for the famine, these same people would not have had to sell everything and become Pharoah's servants.
A - There are bound to be very trying times in my life in the future. However, I have the ability today to start planning and saving for these situations. God has blessed me more than I can even comprehend, so now I have the responsibility to take care of these blessings. Other challenges may not be financial, but relational or spiritual. For these, I need to stay focused on God and remain in His word so that I have His strength and wisdom in me to help me through these difficulties.
P - God, I pray for your wisdom and strength today to really know you and understand you and to be always near you. You are the reason that I am who I am and I have what I have and for that I am forever grateful. I ask that you would never leave me and that your hand would guide me throughout life. I pray for your protection over myself and my family and also for healthy bodies and minds. I also pray a blessing over this little girl today and pray that her tongue would work properly and would astound the doctors and nurses. I ask that your favor be on us and that these social workers are drawn to us to raise this little girl. I praise you and honor you today and everyday, Lord!
O - The Egyptians had run out of food, money and livestock and the only thing left that that had was their land and their bodies. In order to continue living they needed to sell both of these to get enough food to live. If these same people would have prepared, as Joseph had perpared Egypt for the famine, these same people would not have had to sell everything and become Pharoah's servants.
A - There are bound to be very trying times in my life in the future. However, I have the ability today to start planning and saving for these situations. God has blessed me more than I can even comprehend, so now I have the responsibility to take care of these blessings. Other challenges may not be financial, but relational or spiritual. For these, I need to stay focused on God and remain in His word so that I have His strength and wisdom in me to help me through these difficulties.
P - God, I pray for your wisdom and strength today to really know you and understand you and to be always near you. You are the reason that I am who I am and I have what I have and for that I am forever grateful. I ask that you would never leave me and that your hand would guide me throughout life. I pray for your protection over myself and my family and also for healthy bodies and minds. I also pray a blessing over this little girl today and pray that her tongue would work properly and would astound the doctors and nurses. I ask that your favor be on us and that these social workers are drawn to us to raise this little girl. I praise you and honor you today and everyday, Lord!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Do Three Things - Genesis 45
S - Genesis 45:17 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘This is what you must do: Load your pack animals, and hurry back to the land of Canaan. 18 Then get your father and all of your families, and return here to me. I will give you the very best land in Egypt, and you will eat from the best that the land produces.’”
O - Because of Joseph and his willingness to do a few things, his entire family and their households were to become blessed by the Pharoah of Egypt. Joseph did these three things continually which led to this. First, he never stopped following and trusting in God. Even though things looked pretty bad when he was in prison and he was all but forgotten, he never gave up on God. Second, he was honest. In Potipher's house he was put in charge of everything and when Potipher's wife tried to seduce Joseph, He said that he couldn't do this to his master as he was in charge of everything and couldn't do this to him. And third, he was faithful to God and shared where his true strength came from when given the opportunity. Before he interpretted Pharoah's dream he said that he couldn't do it but God would do this. If he was this bold in front of one of the most powerful persons in the world at that time, I can only imagine that he was this bold in sharing where his strength came from with others.
A - I too can do these three things; continually follow and trust God, by honest, and share God with others. I know that when I do these three very simple things God will bless me and my family as well. God is the same today as He was then and will continue to be the same in the future. He doesn't have favorites and will bless those that follow Him and do his will. I choose today to step out and do these three things every single day. Not so that I will be blessed, but as a small way to show my thanks for all that He has done for me.
P - God, I thank you so very much for all that you has done for me and the blessings that you have showered down on my family and me over the years. I pray for wisdom and strength to go about my day today in a way that pleases you and bring glory and honor to you. Help me to be the man that you have called me to be and to done the things that you have called me to do. I pray that you will continue to protect and bless me and my family and that you would continue to keep my family save and healthy as they are away from me. I love you Heavenly Father!
O - Because of Joseph and his willingness to do a few things, his entire family and their households were to become blessed by the Pharoah of Egypt. Joseph did these three things continually which led to this. First, he never stopped following and trusting in God. Even though things looked pretty bad when he was in prison and he was all but forgotten, he never gave up on God. Second, he was honest. In Potipher's house he was put in charge of everything and when Potipher's wife tried to seduce Joseph, He said that he couldn't do this to his master as he was in charge of everything and couldn't do this to him. And third, he was faithful to God and shared where his true strength came from when given the opportunity. Before he interpretted Pharoah's dream he said that he couldn't do it but God would do this. If he was this bold in front of one of the most powerful persons in the world at that time, I can only imagine that he was this bold in sharing where his strength came from with others.
A - I too can do these three things; continually follow and trust God, by honest, and share God with others. I know that when I do these three very simple things God will bless me and my family as well. God is the same today as He was then and will continue to be the same in the future. He doesn't have favorites and will bless those that follow Him and do his will. I choose today to step out and do these three things every single day. Not so that I will be blessed, but as a small way to show my thanks for all that He has done for me.
P - God, I thank you so very much for all that you has done for me and the blessings that you have showered down on my family and me over the years. I pray for wisdom and strength to go about my day today in a way that pleases you and bring glory and honor to you. Help me to be the man that you have called me to be and to done the things that you have called me to do. I pray that you will continue to protect and bless me and my family and that you would continue to keep my family save and healthy as they are away from me. I love you Heavenly Father!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Sacrificing Love - Genesis 44
S - Genesis 44:33 “So please, my lord, let me stay here as a slave instead of the boy, and let the boy return with his brothers.
O - Judah is begging Joseph to take him to be his slave instead of Benjamin. This is the sacrifice that he is willing to make for his brother and father; laying down his life for them.
A - I need to continue focusing on John 15:13 "There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." and this passage above. The love that I need to focus giving Christa and my children is the sacrificing love that Judah is showing here and the Jesus ultimately gave when dying on the cross for us. I owe it to them as their father and husband and I owe it to God as he has instructed me to be that type of father and husband. Also, I owe it to God, as He has said do this to the least of them and you will be doing it to me. I want nothing more than to live a life pleasing to Him.
P - God, you are great and you are the perfect example of love; amazing, sacrificing love. I come to you today to ask for your protection over my wife and children as they are away from me. I pray that you give them joy and peace and patience. Please bless them and also me as we go about our day. I ask for your favor as the county starts talking again today about this little girl and that our names are difficult for them to dismiss and that all the walls would be broken done and any roadblocks would be removed quickly. I praise you Heavenly Father! I love you.
O - Judah is begging Joseph to take him to be his slave instead of Benjamin. This is the sacrifice that he is willing to make for his brother and father; laying down his life for them.
A - I need to continue focusing on John 15:13 "There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." and this passage above. The love that I need to focus giving Christa and my children is the sacrificing love that Judah is showing here and the Jesus ultimately gave when dying on the cross for us. I owe it to them as their father and husband and I owe it to God as he has instructed me to be that type of father and husband. Also, I owe it to God, as He has said do this to the least of them and you will be doing it to me. I want nothing more than to live a life pleasing to Him.
P - God, you are great and you are the perfect example of love; amazing, sacrificing love. I come to you today to ask for your protection over my wife and children as they are away from me. I pray that you give them joy and peace and patience. Please bless them and also me as we go about our day. I ask for your favor as the county starts talking again today about this little girl and that our names are difficult for them to dismiss and that all the walls would be broken done and any roadblocks would be removed quickly. I praise you Heavenly Father! I love you.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
People May Despise Me - Genesis 43
S - Genesis 43:32 The waiters served Joseph at his own table, and his brothers were served at a separate table. The Egyptians who ate with Joseph sat at their own table, because Egyptians despise Hebrews and refuse to eat with them.
O- I find this very odd that Joseph ate at his own table because the Egyptians despised Hebrews, but Joseph, being a Hebrew, held the second highest position in all of Egypt. Pharoah most have been extremely impressed in Joseph being able to interpret his dream and also in coming up with the plan that would not only save Egypt but put them in a place where every nation would come to for help through this famine. This shows me that God's favor was on Joseph but evenstill there were definitely people that did not like him.
A - I have this same favor on me that Joseph had because I have been reborn in Christ Jesus. Joseph didn't hide that he was a Hebrew and I don't need to hide that I'm a 100% committed Christian either. However, I know that in doing so there will be others that do not like me or even despise me, but I don't need to live for them but only for God! Have your way with me God!
P - God I come to you this morning and I kneel down before you and praise your holy name. I give my life to you and ask you to have your way with me. I pray that you will look over my family and my wife as they are physically apart from me and I pray that you would protect them and give them health. God, you are amazing and awesome and I just want to be near you every single day.
O- I find this very odd that Joseph ate at his own table because the Egyptians despised Hebrews, but Joseph, being a Hebrew, held the second highest position in all of Egypt. Pharoah most have been extremely impressed in Joseph being able to interpret his dream and also in coming up with the plan that would not only save Egypt but put them in a place where every nation would come to for help through this famine. This shows me that God's favor was on Joseph but evenstill there were definitely people that did not like him.
A - I have this same favor on me that Joseph had because I have been reborn in Christ Jesus. Joseph didn't hide that he was a Hebrew and I don't need to hide that I'm a 100% committed Christian either. However, I know that in doing so there will be others that do not like me or even despise me, but I don't need to live for them but only for God! Have your way with me God!
P - God I come to you this morning and I kneel down before you and praise your holy name. I give my life to you and ask you to have your way with me. I pray that you will look over my family and my wife as they are physically apart from me and I pray that you would protect them and give them health. God, you are amazing and awesome and I just want to be near you every single day.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
God's Promises Do Come True - Genesis 42
S - Genesis 42:9 And he remembered the dreams he’d had about them many years before.
O - God gave Joseph two dreams about his family coming to him and bowing down before him. Many years later this finally came to pass and Joseph was reminded of the dream. No matter the timing, God can not lie and what He says to us will be fulfilled.
A - I can rest assured that God will do as he has said to me, no matter how long it may take. God is truth and everything, yes everything, He says WILL happen. I can take it to the bank. I place my trust and belief in Him. There is no reason to waiver when I test the spirit and know that it is Him.
P - God, I come to you this morning and pray that you protect my wife and children as they are away from me. Keep them under your care and guide and protect them to their destination. I pray that you would look on my family and me with favor and that all that is happening with this little girl turns out perfectly and that your will is done and that we then have a story to tell overs of your goodness. I pray a hedge of protection over this little girl and over my family and over me. I praise you Heavenly Father. Thank you for all that you have done for us and continue to do every single day.
O - God gave Joseph two dreams about his family coming to him and bowing down before him. Many years later this finally came to pass and Joseph was reminded of the dream. No matter the timing, God can not lie and what He says to us will be fulfilled.
A - I can rest assured that God will do as he has said to me, no matter how long it may take. God is truth and everything, yes everything, He says WILL happen. I can take it to the bank. I place my trust and belief in Him. There is no reason to waiver when I test the spirit and know that it is Him.
P - God, I come to you this morning and pray that you protect my wife and children as they are away from me. Keep them under your care and guide and protect them to their destination. I pray that you would look on my family and me with favor and that all that is happening with this little girl turns out perfectly and that your will is done and that we then have a story to tell overs of your goodness. I pray a hedge of protection over this little girl and over my family and over me. I praise you Heavenly Father. Thank you for all that you have done for us and continue to do every single day.
Friday, February 22, 2013
Continue to Give God the Credit - Genesis 41
S - Genesis 41:16 “It is beyond my power to do this,” Joseph replied. “But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease.”
O - Again Joseph has the chance to interpret a dream, this time Pharaoh's dream, and again he says boldly that he does not have the power or wisdom to interpret any dream but it is only God that does this through him.
A - Is it enough for me just once to proclaim that it's God's work in my life that gave me the power and wisdom to accomplish something? No! I should almost more boldy and confidently exclaim that it is God, not me, the second and third and fourth and so on so that others are so confident that I'm going to say that that they will start to really listen and accept God through this.
P - God, You and you alone are able to accomplish huge things. I give my life to you to use in a way that is pleasing to you. Work great things through my life and help me to stay the person that you have created me to be and commanded me to be even when accolades and praise are heaped on for what you have accomplished through me. Give me the strength and courage to stand up for you when being attacked, but as importantly and maybe even more difficultly, when things are going so very well. I praise you Lord and I want to be with you always. I pray for blessings and favor over myself and my family today and make us stand out to those that are choosing the home for this little girl.
O - Again Joseph has the chance to interpret a dream, this time Pharaoh's dream, and again he says boldly that he does not have the power or wisdom to interpret any dream but it is only God that does this through him.
A - Is it enough for me just once to proclaim that it's God's work in my life that gave me the power and wisdom to accomplish something? No! I should almost more boldy and confidently exclaim that it is God, not me, the second and third and fourth and so on so that others are so confident that I'm going to say that that they will start to really listen and accept God through this.
P - God, You and you alone are able to accomplish huge things. I give my life to you to use in a way that is pleasing to you. Work great things through my life and help me to stay the person that you have created me to be and commanded me to be even when accolades and praise are heaped on for what you have accomplished through me. Give me the strength and courage to stand up for you when being attacked, but as importantly and maybe even more difficultly, when things are going so very well. I praise you Lord and I want to be with you always. I pray for blessings and favor over myself and my family today and make us stand out to those that are choosing the home for this little girl.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Recognizing Who Blessed Me - Genesis 40
S - Genesis 40:8 “Interpreting dreams is God’s business,” Joseph replied. “Go ahead and tell me your dreams.”
O - Joseph was still in prison and was in charge of the Pharoah's cub-bearer and baker, who were also in prison. One day they both had a dream and they were upset because no one could interpret the dream for them. When Joseph asked them why they were upset, they told him and the verse above is his response. Joseph not only realized, but clearly communicated this to others, that he was not the one that had the ability but it was God.
A - When people recognize my abilities or work that I have done for them, do I take credit or do I give God the credit. It is only because of the blessings that he has given me that I am able to do the things that I do. I need to continually remind and focus on this so that I don't have an ego issue and boast to those around me. God is truly the only reason why I am at where I am today; he is the source of every blessing.
P - God, I thank and praise you for all that you have done and for all that you have blessed me and my family with. Help me to always remember and exclaim this to others so that they know truly where my strength comes from. I pray today for an extra coat of protection. I pray that your will be done with this little girl and her mother. I surrender my preconceived thoughts of how my life would look and I give you my life to do with it as you please. You have told us to take care of the orphans and widows and that the way we care after them would be as we are caring for you so we step out to care for your precious gift of this girl. I pray that you would work out all of the details and provide us with the resources to take care of this girl, if she is ours to raise, and also enough resources to take care of our existing family. Lord, I need your help and you blessings today more than ever. I pray for this mother and for this little girl. Bless both of them regardless of the ruling in court today and give both of them the comfort and peace that they can only get from you and your perfect love.
O - Joseph was still in prison and was in charge of the Pharoah's cub-bearer and baker, who were also in prison. One day they both had a dream and they were upset because no one could interpret the dream for them. When Joseph asked them why they were upset, they told him and the verse above is his response. Joseph not only realized, but clearly communicated this to others, that he was not the one that had the ability but it was God.
A - When people recognize my abilities or work that I have done for them, do I take credit or do I give God the credit. It is only because of the blessings that he has given me that I am able to do the things that I do. I need to continually remind and focus on this so that I don't have an ego issue and boast to those around me. God is truly the only reason why I am at where I am today; he is the source of every blessing.
P - God, I thank and praise you for all that you have done and for all that you have blessed me and my family with. Help me to always remember and exclaim this to others so that they know truly where my strength comes from. I pray today for an extra coat of protection. I pray that your will be done with this little girl and her mother. I surrender my preconceived thoughts of how my life would look and I give you my life to do with it as you please. You have told us to take care of the orphans and widows and that the way we care after them would be as we are caring for you so we step out to care for your precious gift of this girl. I pray that you would work out all of the details and provide us with the resources to take care of this girl, if she is ours to raise, and also enough resources to take care of our existing family. Lord, I need your help and you blessings today more than ever. I pray for this mother and for this little girl. Bless both of them regardless of the ruling in court today and give both of them the comfort and peace that they can only get from you and your perfect love.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
God is With Me - Genesis 39
S - Genesis 39:23 The Lord was with him and caused everything he did to succeed.
O - The Lord was with Joseph and everything he did succeeded because of the Lord being with Him. Even when his life looked lost and he was sold into slavery, God was with him. Even when he was falsely accused and thrown into prison, God was with him.
A - I need to always be aware of this; even if something "bad" happens, God can and will be with me and that incident may end up blessing me and causing me to succeed. God know the plans he has for me. Plans to prosper me and give me hope and a future. I will trust in Him and seek Him deligently; more than anything else in this world.
P - God, I come to you today asking for your presence every single second. I know that without you I am just wandering around and hoping to succeed but with you,you will put the wind beneath my wings and help me soar. I pray that you will never leave me and my family and that I can help instill this same desire to my entire family. I pray a blessing and protection over my family and me today as we start this day.
O - The Lord was with Joseph and everything he did succeeded because of the Lord being with Him. Even when his life looked lost and he was sold into slavery, God was with him. Even when he was falsely accused and thrown into prison, God was with him.
A - I need to always be aware of this; even if something "bad" happens, God can and will be with me and that incident may end up blessing me and causing me to succeed. God know the plans he has for me. Plans to prosper me and give me hope and a future. I will trust in Him and seek Him deligently; more than anything else in this world.
P - God, I come to you today asking for your presence every single second. I know that without you I am just wandering around and hoping to succeed but with you,you will put the wind beneath my wings and help me soar. I pray that you will never leave me and my family and that I can help instill this same desire to my entire family. I pray a blessing and protection over my family and me today as we start this day.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Build Relationships with All of My Children - Genesis 37
S - Genesis 37:3 Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children because Joseph had been born to him in his old age. So one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph—a beautiful robe. 4 But his brothers hated Joseph because their father loved him more than the rest of them. They couldn’t say a kind word to him.
O - Jacob loved Joseph more than his other children and showed this love openly, even in front of the other children. Because of this, the other brothers are reported to have hated Joseph. Jacob did no service to either Joseph or his other sons by favoring one son or another.
A - There are times that I spend more time with one of my children over others and I always need to be aware of this so as to not hurt the one perceiving injustice and not to hurt the one being favored. May times this may be unintentional to show a favoritism but I always need to be aware of how my actions are being perceived. I also just need to take time out of my life and spend the time with my children, especially those that don't require it. My job is to have a loving relationship with each and every one of them so that they want to be around me and experience the same love that the Father gives them.
P - God, I pray that you would help me today and everyday to be the father that you are for me. I desperately want to be the kind of father that my children need and desire and to show them an example that they too can pass on to their children. I love you Lord and thank you for always being there for me and for fathering me every single day of my life. I pray a blessing over myself and my family and I pray for protection and good health.
O - Jacob loved Joseph more than his other children and showed this love openly, even in front of the other children. Because of this, the other brothers are reported to have hated Joseph. Jacob did no service to either Joseph or his other sons by favoring one son or another.
A - There are times that I spend more time with one of my children over others and I always need to be aware of this so as to not hurt the one perceiving injustice and not to hurt the one being favored. May times this may be unintentional to show a favoritism but I always need to be aware of how my actions are being perceived. I also just need to take time out of my life and spend the time with my children, especially those that don't require it. My job is to have a loving relationship with each and every one of them so that they want to be around me and experience the same love that the Father gives them.
P - God, I pray that you would help me today and everyday to be the father that you are for me. I desperately want to be the kind of father that my children need and desire and to show them an example that they too can pass on to their children. I love you Lord and thank you for always being there for me and for fathering me every single day of my life. I pray a blessing over myself and my family and I pray for protection and good health.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Serve My Wife and Children - Genesis 33
S - Genesis 33:13 But Jacob replied, “You can see, my lord, that some of the children are very young, and the flocks and herds have their young, too. If they are driven too hard, even for one day, all the animals could die. 14 Please, my lord, go ahead of your servant. We will follow slowly, at a pace that is comfortable for the livestock and the children. I will meet you at Seir.”
O - Jacob met Esau and Esau greeted him warmly and offered to go ahead of them and protect them. Jacob refused this offer though and mentioned that the children and livestock may not be able to go at a faster pace. Jacob was thinking of his children and knew what they could handle.
A - I sometimes drive and push my children to do more than they may be able to do. Instead of treating them like an adult, when they are young, and expecting them to be and act like me, I need to be aware that they are still children and that I may need to help or guide them as they are learning. I also need to be aware of the fact that Christa may not be able to do all of the physical things that I may ask of her. I need to be the husband and father that can carry the heavy load for my wife and children.
P - God, I pray that you give me your eyes for my wife and children and treat them with love and respoect and to protect and serve them every single day. I pray that you would give me a spirit of selflessness and of a cheerful heart and mind when I serve. I pray for your protection and blessing over my house and everyone and thing inside of it. I love you God!
O - Jacob met Esau and Esau greeted him warmly and offered to go ahead of them and protect them. Jacob refused this offer though and mentioned that the children and livestock may not be able to go at a faster pace. Jacob was thinking of his children and knew what they could handle.
A - I sometimes drive and push my children to do more than they may be able to do. Instead of treating them like an adult, when they are young, and expecting them to be and act like me, I need to be aware that they are still children and that I may need to help or guide them as they are learning. I also need to be aware of the fact that Christa may not be able to do all of the physical things that I may ask of her. I need to be the husband and father that can carry the heavy load for my wife and children.
P - God, I pray that you give me your eyes for my wife and children and treat them with love and respoect and to protect and serve them every single day. I pray that you would give me a spirit of selflessness and of a cheerful heart and mind when I serve. I pray for your protection and blessing over my house and everyone and thing inside of it. I love you God!
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Hearing From God - Genesis 31
S - Genesis 31:2 And Jacob began to notice a change in Laban’s attitude toward him. 3 Then the Lord said to Jacob, “Return to the land of your father and grandfather and to your relatives there, and I will be with you.”
O - Labon's sons started complaining about Jacob and that he was robbing Labon. At this Jacob perceived that Labon's attitude changed toward him and then he heard from God. God told him to go back to his land and He would be with him.
A - In life, God doesn't always speak to me before I'm in the proper place to hear and receive His word. I need to be aware and perceive things that are in the physical and the spiritual and ALWAYS be ready to hear from God. He WILL speak and I WILL hear Him.
P - God, I pray for your wisdom and understanding in all areas of my life. I ask for your direct word to guide and protect me and my family through life. I praise you for all the wonderful things you have and continue to do for us and I stand in faith that my family and I are protected and that we will always have you in our lives and that you will prosper us and guide my children to have a life that is good and productive for your kingdom. I praise you today.
O - Labon's sons started complaining about Jacob and that he was robbing Labon. At this Jacob perceived that Labon's attitude changed toward him and then he heard from God. God told him to go back to his land and He would be with him.
A - In life, God doesn't always speak to me before I'm in the proper place to hear and receive His word. I need to be aware and perceive things that are in the physical and the spiritual and ALWAYS be ready to hear from God. He WILL speak and I WILL hear Him.
P - God, I pray for your wisdom and understanding in all areas of my life. I ask for your direct word to guide and protect me and my family through life. I praise you for all the wonderful things you have and continue to do for us and I stand in faith that my family and I are protected and that we will always have you in our lives and that you will prosper us and guide my children to have a life that is good and productive for your kingdom. I praise you today.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Family is Important - Genesis 29
S - Genesis 29:14 Laban exclaimed, “You really are my own flesh and blood!”
O - When Jacob came to Labon and explained that he was really his nephew, this verse was Labon's response. There was truly something special about family and Labon was thrilled to meet and have his nephew there with him.
A - This should be the standard that I have toward family, outside of my wife and children, as well. I need to not only have an attitude of duty or "because it's the right thing to do" attitude when it comes to family but I should cherish the family that God has given me and learn to really "love" those in my life.
P - God, you are the provider of my family and have placed me in the family that you knew I needed. I thank you for them and I ask for your love and you eyes towards them. Help me to really cherish them and to show my immediate family what it means to be a memeber of a family and why it is so important. You have shown what it means best to be a family and a father, help me to be this same example. I love you Lord. I desire your presence and your peace every single day. Help me today to be the man that you want me to be and to provide for and protect my family. Thank you for the love of my life in my wife. I pray that you give her peace and health, especially of this time of bringing another child into this world.
O - When Jacob came to Labon and explained that he was really his nephew, this verse was Labon's response. There was truly something special about family and Labon was thrilled to meet and have his nephew there with him.
A - This should be the standard that I have toward family, outside of my wife and children, as well. I need to not only have an attitude of duty or "because it's the right thing to do" attitude when it comes to family but I should cherish the family that God has given me and learn to really "love" those in my life.
P - God, you are the provider of my family and have placed me in the family that you knew I needed. I thank you for them and I ask for your love and you eyes towards them. Help me to really cherish them and to show my immediate family what it means to be a memeber of a family and why it is so important. You have shown what it means best to be a family and a father, help me to be this same example. I love you Lord. I desire your presence and your peace every single day. Help me today to be the man that you want me to be and to provide for and protect my family. Thank you for the love of my life in my wife. I pray that you give her peace and health, especially of this time of bringing another child into this world.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
God Will Protect and Bless - Genesis 28
S - Genesis 28:15 What’s more, I am with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. One day I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have finished giving you everything I have promised you.
O - This is part of the promise that God made to Jacob when he was going to Labon's house to flee his brother. God promised to protect Jacob and to never leave him until everything that He promised to Him was completed.
A - God has also promised to protect me and to provide for me. What an awesome God He is to provide and protect for me as well! There are many promises that God has made throughout the Bible and He is unable to break these promises. This is so wonderful because, as He said here, He will not leave me until He has finished giving me everything that He has promised me. He will not only provide and protect me, but He will also bless my family and me and bless us abundantly.
P - God, You truly are the giver of life and of all that is good and just. I thank you for all that you have done for me and continue to do and I pray that you would continue to bless and protect my family and me. I also pray today that you help me to be the man, father, and husband that Christa and my children and everyone else in my life need desperately. Forgive me for the sins I can committed against you and them when I have treated them without love and respect. Help me to be the bigger man in every situation and to let go of my pride or ego and spot the vicious circle that sometimes happens in my relationships. Lord, I also pray that my wife is kept healthy and strong during this time and that everything develops perfectly. I love you Heavenly Father!
O - This is part of the promise that God made to Jacob when he was going to Labon's house to flee his brother. God promised to protect Jacob and to never leave him until everything that He promised to Him was completed.
A - God has also promised to protect me and to provide for me. What an awesome God He is to provide and protect for me as well! There are many promises that God has made throughout the Bible and He is unable to break these promises. This is so wonderful because, as He said here, He will not leave me until He has finished giving me everything that He has promised me. He will not only provide and protect me, but He will also bless my family and me and bless us abundantly.
P - God, You truly are the giver of life and of all that is good and just. I thank you for all that you have done for me and continue to do and I pray that you would continue to bless and protect my family and me. I also pray today that you help me to be the man, father, and husband that Christa and my children and everyone else in my life need desperately. Forgive me for the sins I can committed against you and them when I have treated them without love and respect. Help me to be the bigger man in every situation and to let go of my pride or ego and spot the vicious circle that sometimes happens in my relationships. Lord, I also pray that my wife is kept healthy and strong during this time and that everything develops perfectly. I love you Heavenly Father!
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Live a Life of Honesty and Integrity - Genesis 27
S - Genesis 27:24 “But are you really my son Esau?” he asked.
“Yes, I am,” Jacob replied.
O - This is from the story of Jacob stealing the blessing from Esau. This portion is the second time that Isaac has questioned whether this is Jacob or Esau and this is the second time that Jacob lied to his father. The reason that he was lying was so that he would receive the blessing but this would end up being a defining moment in his life that caused a huge amount of stress, hatred, and fear.
A - When I am tempted to lie or deceive, I need to always remember that God is truth and because of this any lie is therefore contrary to God and is a sin against Him. In addition to that, I need to always remember that there are consequences that I will live for throughout the remainder of my life. Is this one little instance worthy of me having stress, fear and potentially hatred for the remainder of my life? I don't think so. I pledge to live a life 100% full of integrity and honesty. There is no such thing as a little lie or a white lie. I am a man of honesty and integrity.
P - God, I come to you today to ask for your forgiveness for those times that I have not been honest or full of integrity. I pray for your forgiveness. I also pray to you today for your help in always living a life of honesty and integrity. I know that without you I am not capable of doing this and I pray that you will be with me, give me strength, and give me wisdom to live this way. Help me to be an example to my children and to engage with them in teaching them this same truth. I praise you today Lord and ask that you bless my family and me.
“Yes, I am,” Jacob replied.
O - This is from the story of Jacob stealing the blessing from Esau. This portion is the second time that Isaac has questioned whether this is Jacob or Esau and this is the second time that Jacob lied to his father. The reason that he was lying was so that he would receive the blessing but this would end up being a defining moment in his life that caused a huge amount of stress, hatred, and fear.
A - When I am tempted to lie or deceive, I need to always remember that God is truth and because of this any lie is therefore contrary to God and is a sin against Him. In addition to that, I need to always remember that there are consequences that I will live for throughout the remainder of my life. Is this one little instance worthy of me having stress, fear and potentially hatred for the remainder of my life? I don't think so. I pledge to live a life 100% full of integrity and honesty. There is no such thing as a little lie or a white lie. I am a man of honesty and integrity.
P - God, I come to you today to ask for your forgiveness for those times that I have not been honest or full of integrity. I pray for your forgiveness. I also pray to you today for your help in always living a life of honesty and integrity. I know that without you I am not capable of doing this and I pray that you will be with me, give me strength, and give me wisdom to live this way. Help me to be an example to my children and to engage with them in teaching them this same truth. I praise you today Lord and ask that you bless my family and me.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
A Loving Marriage - Genesis 24
S - Genesis 24:67 And Isaac brought Rebekah into his mother Sarah’s tent, and she became his wife. He loved her deeply, and she was a special comfort to him after the death of his mother.
O - Rebekah was brought from her home to be the wife of Isaac. This verse sums up their marriage relationship. Isaac loved her deeply and Rebelah was a special comfort to Isaac.
A - This is the example of a lovely marriage. I want to show Christa that I love her deeply; the way that she wants and needs to be loved. Outside of God, she is the most important person in my life and I want to show her that daily. In addition to her feely loved, I will also be giving my children an example of what a marriage should look like so that they too can have a Godly marriage.
P - God, I praise you this morning for all that you have done for me and for always being with me and my marriage and my family. I pray that you would help me to be the man, husband, and father that Christa and my children so deperately need and want. I ask that your hand be on our marriage and that your hand would be on our family and that both would be tremendously blessed. I want to serve, honor, and love you every single day of my life, Lord! Thank you.
O - Rebekah was brought from her home to be the wife of Isaac. This verse sums up their marriage relationship. Isaac loved her deeply and Rebelah was a special comfort to Isaac.
A - This is the example of a lovely marriage. I want to show Christa that I love her deeply; the way that she wants and needs to be loved. Outside of God, she is the most important person in my life and I want to show her that daily. In addition to her feely loved, I will also be giving my children an example of what a marriage should look like so that they too can have a Godly marriage.
P - God, I praise you this morning for all that you have done for me and for always being with me and my marriage and my family. I pray that you would help me to be the man, husband, and father that Christa and my children so deperately need and want. I ask that your hand be on our marriage and that your hand would be on our family and that both would be tremendously blessed. I want to serve, honor, and love you every single day of my life, Lord! Thank you.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Trust God - Genesis 22
S - Genesis 22:5 “Stay here with the donkey,” Abraham told the servants. “The boy and I will travel a little farther. We will worship there, and then we will come right back.”
O - This is the story of Abraham being told to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham prepared for the journey and brought everything that was necessary for the offering. When he left the servants, the last thing that he said was "WE will come right back". I read this to mean that Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son but was either hopeful or knew deep down that God wouldn't make him kill his only son. I think that Abraham was convinced the God was a good God and that He wouldn't make him hurt his son and also that He had already promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the sand on the seashore.
A - Am I willing to follow God to the same level that Abraham was? Do I know and believe that God will bless me and that He has a plan for me? I will choose to believe that God is for me in all cases and that He is always with me and that He will protect me. There are so many verses throughout the Bible that show me God's love for me and that He has promised to bless and protect me and my family. God doesn't lie. God has promised and I 100% trust in His promises.
P - God, I come to you today and thank you for all that you have done in my life and in the lives of my family. I praise you today and give you honor for all that you have done for me and for the sacrifice that you were willing to give for me with your Son. Thank you for always being with me and for promising that you will protect me and provide for me. I pray that you would help me to live my life in a way that is pleasing to you and that it shows that I trust you always and that others can see your goodness through my life.
O - This is the story of Abraham being told to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham prepared for the journey and brought everything that was necessary for the offering. When he left the servants, the last thing that he said was "WE will come right back". I read this to mean that Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son but was either hopeful or knew deep down that God wouldn't make him kill his only son. I think that Abraham was convinced the God was a good God and that He wouldn't make him hurt his son and also that He had already promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the sand on the seashore.
A - Am I willing to follow God to the same level that Abraham was? Do I know and believe that God will bless me and that He has a plan for me? I will choose to believe that God is for me in all cases and that He is always with me and that He will protect me. There are so many verses throughout the Bible that show me God's love for me and that He has promised to bless and protect me and my family. God doesn't lie. God has promised and I 100% trust in His promises.
P - God, I come to you today and thank you for all that you have done in my life and in the lives of my family. I praise you today and give you honor for all that you have done for me and for the sacrifice that you were willing to give for me with your Son. Thank you for always being with me and for promising that you will protect me and provide for me. I pray that you would help me to live my life in a way that is pleasing to you and that it shows that I trust you always and that others can see your goodness through my life.
Friday, February 8, 2013
God is Always My God - Genesis 17
S - Genesis 17:7 “I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants[b] after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you.
O - God is talking with Abraham about the descendants that he would soon have how he would love him and his descendants forever. God will always be their God. However, after Jesus came to the earth and died, this covenant was also extended to the Gentiles that believed in Him.
A - Because of this verse and then the fact that Jesus came and died on the cross and this covenant was extended to all those that believe in Him, I can rest assured that God will be my God forever and ever. This is very important for me to remember as He has said that being God he is all-knowing, ever-present, and all-powerful; so He'll always be with me and available for me to talk with and He has all the power in the world to bless and protect me. Praise God! What a wonderful covenant that He has made with me!
P - Heavenly Father, I praise you and thank you for the covenant that you have created with me. I pray that you will help me to fulfill my side of the covenant with you in believing and trusting in you with EVERY situation that I may be facing. Guide me and help me fulfill the desires and plans you have set out for me today and everyday. And help me to be the man, husband, and father that all those around me so desperately need me to be. I stand before you today in awe and am so very thankful that you are my God and that I can spend time with you. Thank you!
O - God is talking with Abraham about the descendants that he would soon have how he would love him and his descendants forever. God will always be their God. However, after Jesus came to the earth and died, this covenant was also extended to the Gentiles that believed in Him.
A - Because of this verse and then the fact that Jesus came and died on the cross and this covenant was extended to all those that believe in Him, I can rest assured that God will be my God forever and ever. This is very important for me to remember as He has said that being God he is all-knowing, ever-present, and all-powerful; so He'll always be with me and available for me to talk with and He has all the power in the world to bless and protect me. Praise God! What a wonderful covenant that He has made with me!
P - Heavenly Father, I praise you and thank you for the covenant that you have created with me. I pray that you will help me to fulfill my side of the covenant with you in believing and trusting in you with EVERY situation that I may be facing. Guide me and help me fulfill the desires and plans you have set out for me today and everyday. And help me to be the man, husband, and father that all those around me so desperately need me to be. I stand before you today in awe and am so very thankful that you are my God and that I can spend time with you. Thank you!
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Seek and Worship God First - Genesis 13
S - Genesis 13:14 After Lot had gone, the Lord said to Abram, “Look as far as you can see in every direction—north and south, east and west. 15 I am giving all this land, as far as you can see, to you and your descendants[a] as a permanent possession. 18 So Abram moved his camp to Hebron and settled near the oak grove belonging to Mamre. There he built another altar to the Lord.
O - Here, God promises Abram all the land that he can see and that his descendents will possess it for all of time. The last verse selected here says that Abram built another altat to the Lord. It mentioned earlier in the chapter that Abram worshipped God at the alter again. I believe there is a correlation with Abram being blessed and promised the land as far as he could see and the fact that he was worshipping God wherever he went. He would also build an alter, which is a very visible and undeniable desplay of the love he had for God.
A - I am first and foremost supposed to love, honor, praise, and associate with God. That is why we were created in the first place. Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, and mind. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. This verse is a direct display of this truth. I don't need to be solely focused on providing for my family. If this is all that I do, I will struggle in doing this for the remainder of my life. I need to seek Him first; worship Him and commune with Him and then, and only then, will all that I need be giving to me. I need to stand up ALWAYS for what is right and display what and who I follow and serve. God is good and I desire to be with Him and show others of this desire so that they too can have this same sense of peace that only God can provide.
P - God, I look to you today and I desire more than anything to be close to you and to hear you in everything that is happening in my life. I need you and want to stand up for you and worship you in everything I say and do. I pray that you would guide me and specifically that you would guide me through the adoption journey that we are on and trying to understand where we are to go next. Please speak very clearly to me and give me the wisdom and comfort in knowing we are doing what you want for our lives. I pray healing and blessings over my entire house and family today. Keep us safe. I love you Heavenly Father and I desire with all of my heart to show this love every single minute of the day.
O - Here, God promises Abram all the land that he can see and that his descendents will possess it for all of time. The last verse selected here says that Abram built another altat to the Lord. It mentioned earlier in the chapter that Abram worshipped God at the alter again. I believe there is a correlation with Abram being blessed and promised the land as far as he could see and the fact that he was worshipping God wherever he went. He would also build an alter, which is a very visible and undeniable desplay of the love he had for God.
A - I am first and foremost supposed to love, honor, praise, and associate with God. That is why we were created in the first place. Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, and mind. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. This verse is a direct display of this truth. I don't need to be solely focused on providing for my family. If this is all that I do, I will struggle in doing this for the remainder of my life. I need to seek Him first; worship Him and commune with Him and then, and only then, will all that I need be giving to me. I need to stand up ALWAYS for what is right and display what and who I follow and serve. God is good and I desire to be with Him and show others of this desire so that they too can have this same sense of peace that only God can provide.
P - God, I look to you today and I desire more than anything to be close to you and to hear you in everything that is happening in my life. I need you and want to stand up for you and worship you in everything I say and do. I pray that you would guide me and specifically that you would guide me through the adoption journey that we are on and trying to understand where we are to go next. Please speak very clearly to me and give me the wisdom and comfort in knowing we are doing what you want for our lives. I pray healing and blessings over my entire house and family today. Keep us safe. I love you Heavenly Father and I desire with all of my heart to show this love every single minute of the day.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Follow God - Genesis 12
S - Genesis 12:1 The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. 4 So Abram departed as the Lord had instructed, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran.
O - God told Abram, at 75 years old, to move away from everything he knew and go to a new land that God would show him. This had to be extremely difficult, especially at his age, to pick up everything that he owned and move away on a word from God.
A - No matter how established I may be in a location, a job, a business, a parenting approach, or a spouse approach, if God comes to me and asks me to make a change and follow Him down a different path, will I be as willing to follow as Abram? I surrender my life to God and want to hear from Him daily as to what He wants for my life. I will follow Him.
P - God, you are the creator of everything and all-knowing. I place my trust in you and know that the plans you have for me are to prosper me and give me a hope and a future. I pray that your word be very apparent to me and that I am able to hear and discern it. I want to surrender every area of my life to you, Lord. I pray that you would bless my family and me and give us healing and protection today.
O - God told Abram, at 75 years old, to move away from everything he knew and go to a new land that God would show him. This had to be extremely difficult, especially at his age, to pick up everything that he owned and move away on a word from God.
A - No matter how established I may be in a location, a job, a business, a parenting approach, or a spouse approach, if God comes to me and asks me to make a change and follow Him down a different path, will I be as willing to follow as Abram? I surrender my life to God and want to hear from Him daily as to what He wants for my life. I will follow Him.
P - God, you are the creator of everything and all-knowing. I place my trust in you and know that the plans you have for me are to prosper me and give me a hope and a future. I pray that your word be very apparent to me and that I am able to hear and discern it. I want to surrender every area of my life to you, Lord. I pray that you would bless my family and me and give us healing and protection today.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Be the Man - Genesis 3
S - Genesis 3:6 The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too.
O - When Eve was being tempted by the devil, Adam was there with her as it said "who was with her". Later Adam blames Eve for giving him the fruit, but since he was with her, he had full control to stop everything from happening. Adam, being the leader, should have made this decision instead of having Eve determine the decision.
A - Being the man and leader of the house, I too am the one that is responsible for leading the house. It is my duty to make sure that the path that we are taking is a good path and that it will not lead to difficulties. One of the most important decisions that I am responsible for is the spiritual decisions of my house. I need to stand up and make these decisions so that Christa is not forced into these. She desperately wants me to make these decisions and to lead her and the children as this is what God has set up and when I do this, there is total peace in the house.
P - God, I come to you this morning to ask for your forgiveness for the times that I have shrugged off the leadership duties that you have given me for my family. I ask that you would give me wisdom and discernment to make these decisions in a way that is both good and profitable for my family and me. Help me to have the courage to make these decisions and not to run away from them or pass them off to my wife. I want to show a great example to my children as to how a Godly family works and to instruct them through my words and actions. I pray for healing over my family today and for protection and blessings. I love you Lord!
O - When Eve was being tempted by the devil, Adam was there with her as it said "who was with her". Later Adam blames Eve for giving him the fruit, but since he was with her, he had full control to stop everything from happening. Adam, being the leader, should have made this decision instead of having Eve determine the decision.
A - Being the man and leader of the house, I too am the one that is responsible for leading the house. It is my duty to make sure that the path that we are taking is a good path and that it will not lead to difficulties. One of the most important decisions that I am responsible for is the spiritual decisions of my house. I need to stand up and make these decisions so that Christa is not forced into these. She desperately wants me to make these decisions and to lead her and the children as this is what God has set up and when I do this, there is total peace in the house.
P - God, I come to you this morning to ask for your forgiveness for the times that I have shrugged off the leadership duties that you have given me for my family. I ask that you would give me wisdom and discernment to make these decisions in a way that is both good and profitable for my family and me. Help me to have the courage to make these decisions and not to run away from them or pass them off to my wife. I want to show a great example to my children as to how a Godly family works and to instruct them through my words and actions. I pray for healing over my family today and for protection and blessings. I love you Lord!
Friday, February 1, 2013
Live Wisely - Colossians 4
S - Colossians 4:5 Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.
O - Paul is wrapping up this letter and exhorting the people to do a few certain things. One of which is to live wisely among unbelievers and to make the most of every opportunity.
A - I need to heed this same advise. Living wisely among unbelievers is essential as they are watching me even if I don't think they are. This means that any little misstep or lack of integrity or laziness will be noticed and even more than that, will now be the way they see all believers. Instead, I need to always be focused on living a life that pleases God in everything. By doing this, I don't need to worry about who may be looking, because He is always looking. I will live a life that He can be proud of and that others will see a true Christ follower and desire to have this same Jesus in their heart.
P - God, I come to you this morning to first ask for your forgiveness. I have not always lived in the way that would make you proud and be a great reflection of you to others that don't know you. Help me to not focus on these others and to live a life one way when they are around, but instead to always live the same; a life that always pleases you. I know that I need your help to do this and I let you into the drivers seat of my life. I want you Lord and need you! You are amazing and full of grace and peace. Please help Christa and I as we are trying to make sense of what is happening with our adoption journey and the path that you want us to take. Bless our marriage and our family.
O - Paul is wrapping up this letter and exhorting the people to do a few certain things. One of which is to live wisely among unbelievers and to make the most of every opportunity.
A - I need to heed this same advise. Living wisely among unbelievers is essential as they are watching me even if I don't think they are. This means that any little misstep or lack of integrity or laziness will be noticed and even more than that, will now be the way they see all believers. Instead, I need to always be focused on living a life that pleases God in everything. By doing this, I don't need to worry about who may be looking, because He is always looking. I will live a life that He can be proud of and that others will see a true Christ follower and desire to have this same Jesus in their heart.
P - God, I come to you this morning to first ask for your forgiveness. I have not always lived in the way that would make you proud and be a great reflection of you to others that don't know you. Help me to not focus on these others and to live a life one way when they are around, but instead to always live the same; a life that always pleases you. I know that I need your help to do this and I let you into the drivers seat of my life. I want you Lord and need you! You are amazing and full of grace and peace. Please help Christa and I as we are trying to make sense of what is happening with our adoption journey and the path that you want us to take. Bless our marriage and our family.
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