Revelations On The Road

I've Moved!

2008-01-01T12:15:00.000-05:00

I did something during Christmas that I had wanted to do for a long time; I purchased some web space, a domain name, and moved my blog to another location. It is now a Wordpress blog hosted by Bluehost. All this was done with the help and urging of son #3 who is into this kind of thing himself. I still have some tweaking and updating to do, but you will now find Revelations On The Road, (which changed to Revelations From The Road), at: roadrevelations.org.

If you have any suggestions or comments, please make them. Be blessed and have a great 2008!

Bill

Heap Of Trouble

2007-12-26T14:32:00.000-05:00

Given December 22, 2007
Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world, you will have trouble", and we can all agree this is true. We all have trouble of different kinds and magnitudes. I heard something the other day that made me think of troubles in a different way.

What if....a decree went out in your community to create a Heap of Troubles. This would be a voluntary thing and anyone who wanted to participate could bring their troubles to a pre-determined location and pile them up. This would go on for one week and, at the end of the week, all the troubles heaped up there would be divided into equal parts according to the number of people who had participated. These equal-sized troubles would then be re-distributed to all those involved. What do you think? Would you participate?

I can see a man with an armful of "troubles" coming up to the heap. As he begins to toss his problems onto the pile, another guy backs his pickup truck loaded with his troubles up to the pile. The first guy thinks, "Well, maybe my troubles aren't so bad after all." Do you get the point?

Many times, we think we have troubles and problems until we see someone else's. Then ours don't seem so bad. But, you know, God DOES have a program like this. He DOES want us to bring our troubles to Him and leave them there. But the good news is that they won't get re-distributed back to us. God will take care of them all! "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7". Now, notice that, "due time" part. Most of the time, we'll still have to deal with the results of our bad decisions but God will be right there with us to take us through. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me. Psalms 23:4".

Do you have any troubles? Toss them onto God's heap then let Him direct your paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.

You Da Man!

2007-12-18T13:16:00.000-05:00

Given December 16, 2007
This post is for men but I suppose it applies to women who are the head of their family as well. For you women who are responsible for your family, entitle this, "You Da Gal!"

I'm realizing, more and more, that a lot of people depend on my prayers. Certainly my family; wife, four boys, two daughters-in-law, four grandkids, mother, brother, his family, etc. Then there's my church where I'm a deacon and unofficial prayer coordinator. A lot of people look to me to be faithful in prayer and many don't even realize I'm praying for them every day. If I mess up, it could affect a lot of people.

I'm reminded of some guys in the Bible who messed up. Achan, Joshua 7, who brought back some spoils from battle against God's command. Not only did Achan get stoned, but his whole family too! And what about the guys who accused Daniel and had him thrown in the lion's den? When God delivered Daniel, the accusers were thrown in...and their families, Daniel 6:24.

On the other hand, we can read of some men who did good and their families were blessed. Cornelius, Acts 10, was a devout man and so was his family. He obeyed God and called Peter to come to his house and tell them the Good News. Cornelius called his whole family and friends together and when they heard the Word, the Holy Ghost fell on all of them! Of course, Joshua said, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD". Joshua 24:15.

And finally, it's recorded in Exodus 12:21-23 how the elders of the Israelite families called their own into the house, at the direction of Moses, and applied the blood of a lamb to their door posts. They and their families were saved when the destroyer came by. What if they had not listened, were doing something else, or forgot?

Guys and gals, a lot of people are depending on us so let's stay pure, stay in the Word, and be ready to act in faith and authority when needed. Be blessed!

Increase Our Faith

2007-12-08T16:01:00.000-05:00

Given November 14, 2007
First, I apologize for not writing for over a week. I was attending a state technology conference for most of the week and was unable to find the time. So, I will catch up beginning today.

After Jesus had told his guys to forgive somebody seven times as day, they said, "Lord, increase our faith", Luke 17:5. That seemed a pretty tall order for those guys and they realized they needed more faith to do that. But Jesus began telling them that all they needed was faith as small as a mustard seed. They didn't need any super faith, they had what they needed and we do too.

But, it made me think about seeds....if we have a seed that we want to produce a plant, we don't take it to Jesus and ask Him to give us the increase. No, we plant it, water it, and do the things that we know will cause it to grow and increase. The law of seed-time-harvest is already in place, we just have to operate in it.

I think it's the same with our faith. We all have a measure of it, (the seed), so we have to develop it with prayer, the Word, and exercising it. When we do those things, our faith will increase and we'll be able to do great and mighty things through God who gives the increase by His plan according to Christ Jesus. Be blessed!

Shining Light

2007-11-28T17:40:00.000-05:00

Given November 28, 2007
During my morning devotion time, I was thinking about Christians being the "light of the world", Matthew 5:14. I realized that we, as Christians, are supposed to shine wherever we go but that's not always the case. So how do we increase our luminance?

One way is to realize we have a gift of fire within us and we have to stir it up, "For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 2 Timothy 1:6". Paul told Timothy to stir up his own gift into a shining flame that others could see and be drawn to. We do this by prayer, saying positive things, hanging out with Jesus, joining with others of like mind, listening to uplifting music, being reminded that we are stronger than the enemy and of past victories, and staying in the Word.

Then I got a vision of another way to light our fire. Think of a football coach giving a pep talk to his team before the big game or high school students whipped into a frenzy at a pep rally. With that thought in mind, I saw my pastor before a crowd of thousands in front of our church. He was stirring up the crowd with the encouraging and edifying Word of God. Soon, out over the crowd, one started to shine, then another, then five, then ten until the whole crowd was shining brightly. The light could be seen for miles like it is with a football stadium at night.

Then the people started leaving and going up the road to their neighborhoods and homes, lights brightly shining as they went. What a picture! It's like the end of the movie "Field Of Dreams" where you saw the car lights coming to the field in the dark. And these well-lit Christians would now be shining the light of God wherever they went. Oh, what a difference we could make in our communities if we all were bright, shining lights!

Thank You For The Harvest

2007-11-22T14:03:00.000-05:00

Given August 8, 2007
As we gather today to celebrate those things for which we are thankful, I'm reminded of where the harvest comes from; the seed. "And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:12". The things we are harvesting today come from the seeds we've planted in the past. If you're not seeing the kind of harvest you want, or in the amount you want, try planting different or more seed.

This summer, after planting some bean seeds, I harvested a bumper crop. I love to count things, so I counted the bean pods I got off of several plants. You know I got 27 bean pods from one plant with about 8 beans in each pod. That's 216 bean seeds that came from the one I planted! Now that's a good return! I had planted a bunch of seeds so I got a bountiful return. "But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 2 Corinthians 9:6". And, since I wanted beans, I planted bean seeds. I sowed according to what I wanted to harvest.

But I didn't just let the seeds sit there. No, I watered them, got the weeds out, kept the soil loose around them because I wanted the best harvest I could get. And it took awhile. But I had faith that the process would work. It works the same way in the Spiritual realm. You get what you sow and in the amount you sow it. "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Luke 6:38".

As we give thanks today for what God has done for us and the things He has given to us, realize it comes from this principle of seed-time-harvest; plant the seed, give it some time, reap the harvest. You know, we should be out looking for opportunities to plant into the Kingdom of God in many areas of our lives and expecting, by faith, a bountiful return.

Be blessed!

Our Needs - Part 2

2007-11-16T08:20:00.000-05:00

Given November 9, 2007
Yesterday, I wrote about the most important need in God's eyes...to focus on Him. That same morning, He showed me another view of the "prayer need" exchange.

When I go to God with my list of prayer needs, it's like me as a kid going to my Daddy with all these things I need. "Daddy, I've got this need, this needs to be paid, I need help doing this, I have this pain, that needs to be taken care of, this is broken, my friend needs your help........". Then my Daddy says to me,"Son, I'll take care of it. Just turn it all over to me. I've got unlimited resources and power, I'll handle it all. I love you so just give it to me and don't worry about it!" "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Matthew 6:25".

That's comforting. God is telling me to just hand it all over to Him and don't think any more about. Then we can spend quality time together just "walking in the garden in the cool of the day", Genesis 3:8. That's what He wanted all along anyway.

Our Needs - Part 1

2007-11-15T12:56:00.000-05:00

Given November 9, 2007
This morning, as I looked at all the prayer needs on my list and was asking God to meet every need, I asked Him what was the greatest need. I've got names listed for salvation, healing, and for various other needs. I wanted to know which ones God saw as greater than some of the others. Which ones were my perceived needs and which ones were needs God saw as important. His answer was this, "The greatest need is for you all to totally commit and submit to Me."

I was then reminded of the verse: "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7". Peter was telling us to toss all our needs over to Jesus and He'd take care of them because He loves us. And, going back to what the Lord told me that morning, if we'll not focus on those needs and totally commit and submit to Him, they'll all be taken care of anyway! "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:33". So what is the greatest need in our lives? To focus entirely on Jesus and living a Christ-like life and we'll find those needs just sort of fade away. Hey, we might even find ourselves walking on water! Matthew 14:29.

Just A Man

2007-11-08T08:44:00.000-05:00

Given November 8, 2007
Many great things have been done by people who were just ordinary folks. I was reminded of one recently and the Holy Spirit brought him to mind again during my devotion time this morning. He is Ananias.

In Acts 9, we read the story of Saul's conversion to Paul. The Spirit of Jesus knocked Saul off his donkey, blinded him, then told him to get up and go into the city of Damascus and wait for further instructions. He waited there three days, (Acts 9: 1-9).

In the mean time, here's this believer Ananias, a regular guy, who was going about his daily business and the Lord called him in a vision. Ananias answered and Jesus told him to go pray for this guy who'd been throwing Christians in jail. He gave him the guy's name and the address where he was staying. Ananias was a little hesitant about confronting this bad dude, (aren't we just like that?), but the Lord said "Go" and Ananias went, (Acts 9: 10-17).

Here's the point: God had a plan, Ananias was chosen to perform a task in that plan, he did it, and went back to his regular life. We don't hear of him again. The Lord called, Ananias obeyed, God's plan was implemented, and the world was changed! Just for the obedience of one regular guy!

I'm sure Ananias didn't realize the impact his obedience would have. He probably went back to his wife and said something like, "Honey, you won't believe what just happened over on Straight Street". Indeed. But, what if Ananias had not obeyed? Would God have chosen someone else? But because he did obey, I imagine he and his family enjoyed overflowing blessings even though we didn't hear about it.

We are just regular people too and God could call us, (and probably has), to do something for Him. Notice, He didn't just call some bum off the street in Damascus; He called a believer. I want to be ready when God calls me. How about you?

I'm Blessed!

2007-11-05T20:48:00.000-05:00

Given October 24, 2007
I've been reading and hearing a lot lately about who I am, what I have, and what I can do as a born-again Christian. The Bible is full of promises made to me, as a believer, that can impact my life and those around me. I'm saved by faith, Ephesians 2:8, I'm a child of God, John 3:1, I have authority over the devil, Luke 10:19, I'm healed, Isaiah 53:5, I can do all things, Philippians 4:13, just to mention a few.

But there's one promise God has directed me to go a little farther in than just knowing it and declaring it over myself. How many times a day do you meet somebody, say hello, and then they ask, "How are you?" For me, it's all the time! My answer for years has been, "Great!" or "Wonderful!". I just didn't want to say, "Fine."; that didn't tell how I really am as a Christian. I'm better than fine!

On this day I read Ephesians 1:3 which said, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ". That verse says God HAS blessed me, He's already done it, so I'm blessed! All the time, I'm blessed! So, God directed me, when someone asked me how I was, to say, "I'm blessed!" And that's what I've been saying for a few weeks now.

About half the people I say that to do a double-take and make a comment about what I said. It's a witness! Sometimes I say, "I'm blessed and so are you." It's the truth. We are all blessed and I'm enjoying telling people about it and seeing God get the glory! How are you?

Slippery Road

2007-10-30T10:17:00.001-04:00

Given October 29, 2007
While walking back to my truck from my Monday night class last night, I was talking to God about the times I mess up. You all mess up too, don't you? Well, I do sometimes and I was asking God why I slip and fall occasionally. His answer was simple and one, that if someone else would have said it to me, I would have said, "Well, duh!".

God's answer was, "You slip and fall because you choose to walk on a slippery road.". I had to say, "Yeah, that's right.". The times when I slip and fall are the times when I venture into areas that I know are slippery. The slippery surface doesn't just suddenly appear in front of me, unavoidable. I usually make a choice to go there or not, to think something or not, say something or not, or to do something or not. My choice!

God has told me from His Word, "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, Isaiah 30:21". God constantly tells me which way to go but it's MY choice whether to follow His path or go off on my own. " In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6". When I wander off the path, I'm onto slippery ground and will probably slip and fall.

But, because He loves me so much which I don't really understand why, God is always there on the right path waiting to take me back and continue the journey. But again, it's MY choice whether to repent and get back on track or not. With God's help, I will not set foot on those slippery surfaces today. Amen?

Rain For All

2007-10-29T09:13:00.000-04:00

Given October 27, 2007
"That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. Matthew 5:45". God's sun shines on everyone and His rain falls on all as well. Here's what I was shown on this scripture today: For instance, if I pray for rain for my crops, it will also rain on my neighbor's garden too. They will be blessed because of God's favor toward me.

In addition, if my unjust neighbors know that I am one of "the children of your Father which is in heaven", because I've stepped out of my comfort zone and reached out to them, they are more likely to hear what I have to say. If I show God's love and help them when they're in need, that will open the door a little wider the next time. When this situation develops, God will give me what I need to reach them. Maybe they won't let Him in but thy will me and God will supply me and use me as the "go-between" to get His message to them.

Here's the point: always show the love of God to your neighbors no matter how bad they are and they will see your good deeds and soften up to the Gospel. "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16". Do this and God will supply you with whatever resources you need to get the Word to them. But it starts with living the Christ-like life before them.

Raise The Standard

2007-10-23T20:49:00.000-04:00

Given October 19, 2007
There are lots of things wrong in our country, no doubt. We can read the paper, watch TV, or look on the magazine rack at the grocery store and see the influence of evil everywhere. It seems there is a flood of lawlessness growing stronger every day. Who will stand up for what is right?

"When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. Isaiah 59:19". I heard this scripture today and it reminded me of the men and women through the years who have taken a stand against spiritual wickedness in high places. Many will complain about the problems but few will do anything about them. But when someone does stand up for what's right, others are more willing to get in line behind them.

We, as Christians, should be the ones taking the stand, stepping out from between the pews and encouraging others to join in. If we don't, our freedoms will slowly and methodically be taken away. We can all agree that the enemy is coming in like a flood so why isn't God raising a standard against him? The revelation for today is that Isaiah 59:19 says, "the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard". Where is the Spirit of the Lord today? He's in us!

We, as Spirit-filled Christians, are the ones who must raise up the standard of righteousness in the face of the flood and turn this country back to God. Just like in facing a natural flood, we will get wet, dirty, maybe injured, maybe even drowned but when we make the commitment, others will get behind us. Someone has to step out and raise that standard high! Will it be you?

Faith AND Patience

2007-10-16T09:24:00.000-04:00

Given October 16, 2007
Faith and patience. The Bible says we all have a measure of faith, Romans 12:3, and patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit. We, however, think of patience as something we need to help us endure a trial or wait out some hard time. And maybe that's true to a point. But I've gotten another view of faith and patience.

When we pray, we are to pray in faith, nothing wavering, "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. James 1:6". That means that no matter how things look or feel, after we've prayed, we don't waver or doubt the Word of God for our situation. Sometimes our answer comes quickly and we rejoice but what about the times when we don't readily see the answer. What about those times when we wait and wait but it seems God is silent. That's where patience comes in!

Remember Daniel? He prayed for an explanation to a vision he'd had concerning the people and the answer didn't come right away. He prayed and fasted for three weeks! He didn't give up but exercised patience in the matter. Then, after three weeks, he heard from an angel, "Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, Daniel 10:12-14".

Since the first day Daniel prayed, his prayer was heard and the angel was dispatched according to his words. But there was resistance in the heavenlies and Satan tried to mess things up. What if Daniel had quit? What if he'd said, "Ah, just forget it!"? His words would have canceled the answer. Daniel used patience and kept with it, fervently continuing in prayer until the answer came. He mixed his faith with patience and got his answer. We need to do the same.

The Filth Of Sin

2007-10-11T19:23:00.000-04:00

Given August 21, 2007
What if, when you sinned, it showed? When you told a lie, gossiped, lost your temper, looked at something you shouldn't, what if you were instantly covered with filth for all to see? That would be bad, wouldn't it? It's there you know. God sees it. "For though you wash yourself with lye and use much soap, yet your iniquity and guilt are still [upon you; you are] spotted, dirty, and stained before Me, says the Lord. Jeremiah 2:22 AMP".

Do we think God's going to send us on a mission for Him looking like that? Of course not! He's looking for those who are spotless to send into the world as His ambassadors. "He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend. Proverbs 22:11". And, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16. We must stand out, look different in the crowd of the world to bring glory to our Heavenly Father. We can't do that covered with the filth of sin.

I mentioned earlier that God sees our sin. Well, He only sees sin we haven't repented of and asked forgiveness for. When we mess up, we must admit it instantly and ask Him for forgiveness. Then we will no longer wear the filth of sin. "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Hebrews 8:12. And, "as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us". Psalms 113:12. Man, it feels good to be clean.

Show Your Faith

2007-10-04T09:22:00.002-04:00

Given September 7, 2007
"When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. Mark 2:5". Remember this story? The friends of the sick guy went to the trouble of making a hole in the roof to get their buddy to Jesus, and Jesus noticed their faith. We have to ask ourselves, 'How does Jesus see our faith?'.

He's given us all a measure of faith, Romans 12:3 , so we all have some, right? I think we need to exercise our faith and increase it so it will be visible. Just like our muscles...we all have muscles but those who regularly exercise them cause them to grow and people will notice. Have you ever seen a muscular guy and thought, "You can tell he works out!". It's the same with our faith. We should exercise our faith by learning who we are, what we have, and what we can do from the Word of God then practising it in public.

I know it's misguided but almost every day we see the radical Islamist's faith. Determine in your heart to not be a "Sunday morning only" Christian but show your faith wherever you go. The Bible says signs and wonders will follow you, Mark 16:20.

God's To-Do List

2007-09-27T08:42:00.000-04:00

Given August 2, 2007
As you've prayed, has God told you anything He wants you to do? Have you gotten impressions of something you feel you need to do? Maybe someone you feel you should go see? Well, I sure have. I've begun to write these things down and describe them as, "God's to-do list". Things He wants me to do.

Now, I'm also praying for God to do some things for me. And I know He's got some wonderful things planned so why haven't they come to pass? This is how God described it to me: It's like a teenager who asks his father, "Can I have the car Dad?" And the dad replys, "Have you cleaned your room yet, like I asked? You can't have the car until you clean your room."

God won't do what He's got planned for me until I do my part and do what He's already asked me to do. It's an obedience thing. "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:22". Yes, I want to be a good kid and do what my Father asks and, I know, He'll be real good to me when I do. What has God asked you to do?

Talk, Walk, Talk

2007-09-21T20:23:00.000-04:00

Given August 22, 2007
I'm sure you've heard the expression, "You gotta walk the talk!" See what you think about this: You can talk it after you walk it, but you have to talk it before you walk it, to see it. Man, does that statement make you squint your eyes and shake your head? Well, let me try to explain what it means.

It is said in Romans 4:17 that God, "calls things that are not as though they were." God told Abraham that He had made him the father of many nations. Abraham believed God and, I imagine, he went around saying, "I'm the father of many nations.", even though he was a hundred and his wife was barren. He was talking it BEFORE he saw it or walked it. He kept on talking it until he saw it, which was his son Issac. Then, after he'd talked it, and saw it, he could then walk it.

Abraham talked and walked by faith at first, saw his faith come to life in Issac, then he could put his arm around the boy and talk it some more. Then, I imagine, he said something like, "Look what the Lord has done!"

"It is written: 'I believed; therefore I have spoken.' With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak. 2 Corinthians 4:13". If we speak the promises of God, believe what we say, and walk in it, then we can talk about it afterward and give God the glory!

All Your Ways

2007-09-14T08:15:00.000-04:00

Given August 2, 2007
In Proverbs 3:6 it says, "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight". In all your ways...what does that mean? What are your ways? I think my ways are everything I think, say, and do during the day. That's a lot of things!

I acknowledge God during my morning prayer and devotion time and in church, sure, but what about when I go to the grocery store. What about when I'm in a meeting and the boss disagrees, or eating in a restaurant? How about when I'm doing some work around the house and what if I hit my finger with the hammer.....do I honor God then? Uh Oh!

God is looking for a few who will acknowledge Him in everything and, I believe, He's got a wonderful promotion waiting for those who prove to be faithful.

I was mowing the church grass, BY MYSELF, one week, no one showed up to help, and after about three hours, I was getting pretty fed up. I'd see church people pass in their cars, wave, and go on about their business. I was griping to myself, "Yeah, watch them wave. Why don't they get over here and help me!" Whaaa, whaaa, whaaa. At that instant, God spoke in my spirit and said, "Bill, are you mowing this grass for yourself or for Me?" Oh man, the ton of bricks fell! I was instantly reminded of Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."

Lesson learned! I repented, asked forgiveness, and spent the next hour and a half mowing in joy and peace. Whatever you do, acknowledge God, do it for Him, and He'll direct you.

Bill I Know

2007-09-06T09:46:00.000-04:00

Given September 5, 2007
During the closing prayer at church last night, our pastor made mention of us, as believers, being able to cast out devils, speak with other tongues, and lay hands on the sick and see them recover, Mark 16:17-18. It reminded me that we should be taking more control over things in the earth than we are.

The verse in Acts 19 came to mind where seven sons of Sceva tried to cast out a devil using Jesus' and Paul's credentials and got whuped, (a southwest Virginia term). The evil spirit said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? Acts 19:15". As a believer, I want to be known by the evil spirits and have them say, "Uh oh, there's that Dotson guy. Don't mess with him, let's get outta here."

Do we really believe we can get to that point? What did Jesus say? "Verily, 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. John 14:12". He that believes, those who believe...

I heard it said by a famous preacher regarding Mark 16, "These signs shall follow those who believe that these signs shall follow them." We've got to believe! Jesus I know, Paul I know, and Bill I know. May it be so Lord.

The 3-Strand Cord

2007-08-31T09:54:00.000-04:00

Given July 30, 2007
We've been hearing a series of teachings at church on the power of our words and it has been very enlightening. The things we say every day have an impact on our lives. There is a relationship between our words, the Word of God, and our faith. The following image shows what I mean:
The Bible says, "A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT". Do you see this? God's Word is absolute truth, our words must line up with that truth, and be woven in with our faith. Look at that cord, it cannot be easily broken, if at all.

For whatever situation you're praying about, find out what God's Word says about it, agree with that, add your faith, (unwavering, James 1:6), and speak words of victory and see it come to pass!

Come To Jesus

2007-08-27T16:08:00.000-04:00

Given June 7, 2007
Come to Jesus. This is an invitation that has gone out to all. People who are not "churched" or haven't been brought up in church may not know all that it means. We've heard that there is salvation; we get to go to Heaven, that's the main thing. There's forgivness, some blessings and many other "benefits" we may not know about.

Jesus said about entering into life, "But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:14". I guess that's because the other road, the one to destruction, is wide, easily traveled, and has tempting billboards along the way. God gave me a vision about that small gate on this day.

I go to technology conferences in a certain classy hotel occasionally and I remembered a small, unobtrusive door down a side hall of this hotel. It's not very inviting but when you open it and go in...you are in the gigantic ballroom! That plain little door leads to a fancy ballroom with an abundance of opportunities.

The door to life is the same way. If we get on the narrow path and go through the plain little door, what we'll find on the inside is fabulous. And Jesus will be in there waiting to greet us.

You Are God

2007-08-23T14:06:00.000-04:00

Given August 23, 2007
During morning prayer, I was asking God what lies ahead for me. I want to know what He's got planned for me in the near future. I've been asking this for awhile and am getting the message that I'm not quite ready yet and must keep learning and doing what I already know. In my spirit, I heard God say to me, "Keep doing the little things. Minister to individuals." I remembered this verse, "His lord said unto him, `Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:21".

I thought, "It's not about me, it's about God; it's what's important to God and everything is on His schedule." I prayed, "Thank you God, you are supreme, you are almighty." Then I said, "You are, and I'm not. What He replied brought me to tears. He said, "You ARE too. Get up here Son."

The Bible says, "And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:6". I was reminded that God is my Father and I'm His boy. I have an inheritance and am a co-heir with Jesus. I will continue to do the little things and be patient for what my father's got waiting for me. What a family!

Stumbling Block

2007-08-20T09:16:00.000-04:00

Given August 15, 2007
First, I'd like to apologize to any who've noticed I've not posted in awhile. Adjusting to retirement has had me extremely busy but I hope to be back to regular posting now.

I pray each morning for the Ministering Angels, (Psalms 91:11, Matthew 4:11, Hebrews 1:14), to give me and my family direction around dangerous obstacles. Recently, I took a load of tree limbs to the dump and one small log fell out of my truck onto the road. Cars were slowing down and maneuvering around the obstacle so as not to hit it and possibly damaging their car. If someone had not noticed the log, they may have had trouble.

It made me think that that small log would be a big problem to someone on a bicycle but nothing to a large truck. The obstacles the devil drops in our path can affect us in different ways. The key is what we're driving, so to speak. It's the condition of our lives that make the difference. Luke 10:19 says we can "trample on serpents and scorpions" and "nothing shall by any means harm us". If we're prayed up and strong, a little log thrown in our path by the devil will be nothing to us; we can trample it!

I remember when I drove a school bus and, around Halloween, kids on my road would put logs and debris in the road as a roadblock for a prank. If I was driving my small car, I'd have to get out, remove the debris, and go on as the kids laughed from their hiding place in the bushes. But when I was driving the big bus, I'd just run right over it and go on to the disgust of the perpetrators.

When the devil puts something in my path to deter me from what God's called me to do, I want to be in the big vehicle and run right over Satan's plans. It drives him crazy!

His Workmanship

2007-08-05T14:32:00.000-04:00

Given August 1, 2007
I was driving through town around noon on this day and noticed a worker eating his lunch next to some beautiful stone work. I had seen this stone wall in progress and some similar projects in other parts of town but never knew who was responsible for building them. Now, I saw this guy sitting there and knew these attractive stone facades were his workmanship. I had the feeling God was about to reveal something to me. So I asked, "God, what are you trying to show me here?"

He said, "You've admired these stone walls around town and wondered who's work it was. If you see some shoddy work, you wonder who's responsible for that mess too. Today, you saw the man responsible for the beautiful work and realize his workmanship reflects on him. Bill, you are My workmanship. How you look and act, whether good or bad, reflects on Me.

Wow! "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10". I am God's workmanship and so are you. People are looking, noticing, forming opinions and I want them to say, "Nice work", and God get the credit for what He made. Think about it when you're "on display".

"I've Already Done It"

2007-08-01T08:27:00.000-04:00

Given August 1, 2007
During my prayer time this morning, God reminded me of something that is probably obvious but I needed to be reminded of it again. As I was going down my prayer list of needs, I asked God to bless the people and thus, the church financially. He said, "I already have." I had to say, "Oh yeah, you have haven't you."

Then I looked back over my prayer list and realized that many of the other things on there He had already made provision for. The problem is we hadn't received them yet. As far as financial blessing goes, God says, "Give and it shall be given unto you...Luke 6:38". The key is for us to be cheerful and extravagant givers. If we do that, God's plan, which is already in place, will work!

And, it's the same with many other needs or requests we have; salvation for loved ones, healing, wisdom, etc.. God has already done His part and, if we want results, we have to do our part. "So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11". That's good news!

So, God reminded me today and I pass it on to you. He's already done His part, let's do ours and see His purposes fulfilled in the earth.

Willing And Obedient

2007-07-29T14:08:00.000-04:00

Given February 22, 2007
I remember the story of an active little boy in church who wouldn't sit still. After several "requests" from his mother, which went unheeded, he got a pinch and was made to sit down. The boy glared at his mom and whispered, "I may be sitting on the outside but, on the inside, I'm standing up!"

Aren't we like that with Father God sometime? We'll do something we know we should, we're obedient, but are we willing on the inside? The Bible says, "If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: Isaiah 1:19". Willing AND obedient. In that case, we do what God desires and we WANT to do it. Do you think that would please Him? I do.

As a father, I remember times when one of my boys would do a chore I'd asked, like pick beans or something, but they wouldn't be too happy about. They did it begrudgingly and without their best effort. On the other hand, there were times when they would say, "Sure Paw, I'd be glad to!" Now, which one do you think made me the happiest and more inclined to reward them?

I want to be like the latter with God my Father.

Cast Your Care

2007-07-20T22:15:00.000-04:00

Given July 17, 2007
We live in a world with troubles, don't we? Every day, news stories chronicle trouble somewhere and even if it's not too bad, it's still something we may have concern over. But that's just the way it is. Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble. John 16:33", but He ended that statement by assuring us, "But take heart! I have overcome the world." He's already taken care if it. So why do we still have "care" over these things?

So, if we're in the middle of trouble, and Jesus has overcome it already, we shouldn't worry about at all. We can, (and that's important), we CAN toss the anxiety of it over to Jesus and sit back and let Him handle it. "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7". We have the choice of letting Jesus take care of it or trying to do it ourselves. Here's one way of looking at it. When Satan comes knocking on your door, just say, "Jesus, will you get that please?"

I Can't Stands No More

2007-07-15T15:11:00.000-04:00

Given July 15 , 2007
I heard something at church this morning that was a different kind of revelation. I was getting an update from a guy who has been in a great battle over his health. I posted about it here. He told me of a vision he had.

He said he felt like Popeye who was getting beaten up by Brutus, (the devil), and was in his clutches. At the last minute, Popeye says, "That's all I can stands, I can't stands no more!", pulls out his can of spinach, eats it, gains strength, and pulverizes Brutus. My friend said, this week, he was at the point where he "couldn't stands no more". He said Jesus was his "spinach" and he was tired of getting beat up. "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luke 10:19". It was encouraging for me to hear him and his wife talk like this. Speaking the Word of God is very important no matter what the circumstances look like.

We have the power and authority to use the name of Jesus to put Brutus in his place. My friend is going to make it!

Something To Look Forward To

2007-07-12T09:25:00.000-04:00

Given June 4, 2007
Think about a time in your life when you had something big coming up. I remember vacations as a kid. Man, the closer it'd get to the day we'd leave, the exciteder (is that a word?) I'd get. I looked forward to getting up early, getting in the car, and starting on our adventure. Even now, I find that if I have something to look forward to each week or each day, I can put up with the daily grind much better. When pressure, stress, or negative thoughts try to come on me, I just think about the good that's coming up. " By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2".

There are those who might say, "Well, it's so bad for me right now there's nothing good in my life and no hope for the future." Not so! God has a plan for each of us. "For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. Jeremiah 29:11 Amplified Bible". Wow, is that something to look forward to? Spend time with God and let Him show you how to get in to this plan. He'll show you how to overcome the bad and see some good out there.

We must not walk backwards into the future; longing for what's behind, but looking forward to what's ahead, even though we can't see it yet. Remember the Hebrew nation? "If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. Hebrews 11: 15-16". Now let's see...what do I have coming up?

Optimist or Pessimist

2007-07-06T09:40:00.000-04:00

Given June 25, 2007
I heard a story on this day about a fisherman who took a skillet with him on a fishing trip. He was planning on catching some fish. He was optimistic. Probably, he had caught fish before and believed he would again.

The kingdom of God works that way as well. When we are praying or believing for something, how do we act; what do we say? If we really believe the Word of God as displayed in the Bible, we will behave and speak in a certain way; you might say we'll be optimistic. Are you praying for a job...? thank God for it and begin doing, James 1:22, things related to your new job. Are you sick...? thank God for your healing and begin speaking those things that are not as though they were, Romans 4:17.

I won't say too much about being pessimistic but, if you listen, you'll hear Christian brothers and sisters, and even ourselves, talking this way often. Watch out and don't do this. Believe what God says, act on it, speak it and see it come to pass, "Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Mark 11:24". Don't pay any attention to the lies and temptations of the devil.

The daughter of a friend I worked with was praying for a new job. The next week at church, she gave a tithe on the salary of the new job. You know what happened, she got the job! Is that optimism, (faith), or what?

Truth or Fact?

2007-07-02T10:23:00.000-04:00

Given January 13, 2007
We've all heard the expression, "Tell it like it is", and that's supposed to be a good thing. Tell the truth, don't sugar-coat it, be honest. Well, let's look at what is truth and what is fact.

Christians believe, or we should believe, that the Words of God are absolute truth. Right? However, in this world, there are certain facts that are evident. I'll use sickness as an example. It is a fact that there could be cancer cells in your body. The medical tests, PET scans, etc. would show this. But, the Word of God says, "and with His stripes we are healed, Isaiah 53:5", which is truth. So, what's real, the facts or the truth?

I submit to you that the Bible is the ultimate truth and our words can change the facts. "Yet we have the same spirit of faith as he had who wrote, I have believed, and therefore have I spoken. We too believe, and therefore we speak, 2 Corinthians 4:13, Amplified Version". I've heard testimonies galore and have experienced it in my own body that our words, based on our faith, can change the facts. If we believe God's Word is true, we must speak it without doubt or fear and see it come to pass.

Moses told Pharaoh, "Be it according to thy word...Exodus 8:10" when Pharaoh said get rid of the frogs tomorrow. Abraham practiced this when he did as God did and, "...spoke those things that were not as though they were, Romans 4:17". We can do it too. You can have what you say, so don't keep saying what you have. Think about it.

Truth or fact? Find out what God's Word says about your situation and speak His words over it. You can change fact by speaking the truth! Tell it like God says it is and don't give up!

I Doubt It

2007-06-19T18:45:00.000-04:00

Given November 7, 2006
Have you ever met a person who was negative? Boy, I have! They complain about everything, speak gloom & doom, and find fault in the best of situations. "Hey, is it going to be a good day?" - "I doubt it." "Are you going to get that job?" - "I doubt it." There's not much faith there, if any, and they don't receive much from God.

Jesus said, (paraphrased), "...whosoever shall say... and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe ... he shall have whatsoever he saith. Mark 11:23". Believing or doubting is important to our prayers being answered. If we believe what the Word of God says about our situation and don't consider that there is another alternative, Jesus said, we will have what we say; what we pray.

But if we are not fully persuaded as Abraham was, we'll be like this guy: "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. James 1: 6-8".

"Are you going to get well?" - "Yes, by His stripes I'm healed!". "Are you going to Heaven?" - Yes, whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved". "Aren't you in some trouble?" - "Yeah but God told me He'd be with me in trouble; and He'd deliver me". There's no doubt about it!

Dream Big

2007-06-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

Given June 2, 2007

While traveling to an out-of-town wedding recently, I noticed a sign on a mobile home sales lot. The sign said, "Come in and find your dream home." That set me to thinking. Now, there's nothing wrong with living in a mobile home; I purchased and lived in one myself for several years. They are good, basic, living quarters for those on a limited budget, as we were.

But a "dream home"? I think that says something about our dreams. "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. Ephesians 3:20". One of the greatest limitations to our lives is who we think we are and what we think we can accomplish. The enemy puts thought of mediocrity in our minds and if we don't push beyond that, we will never rise to what God has planned for us. We need to dream big, imagine unthinkable accomplishments, and not limit God by our small thinking.

Jesus said, "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10". While you're living in that mobile home, working in a low-paying job, or quietly serving God, dream of a big house on a hill, a job where you can have enough for yourself and others, or have a major spiritual impact on others. And by faith, thank God for it! He loves a big dreamer; just ask Joseph, Genesis 41:41-43.

Prayer Reminder

2007-06-05T17:43:00.000-04:00

Given June 2, 2007
There is a friend who goes to my church who has been through, and continues to go through, a very rough time medically. He has several medical problems and we have been praying for him a lot. God is at work in his life, we know that. "for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 3:5".

This friend drives a yellow car and every time I see a yellow car, I think of him. The Holy Spirit quickened me that I should pray for him whenever I see a yellow car. So I do; probably 10-15 times a day, when I see a yellow car. It's just a short prayer but there are a lot of yellow cars.

The revelation is that this can work for anyone or anything we need to pray for. In your mind, think of someone or some situation you need to pray for and assign a visual or other reminder to it. A lost loved one - when you see a red roof, a situation you need favor in - when you see a medicine commercial on TV, someone who needs healing - when you send an email. Your daily routine dictates what you see often and you do want to pray often. "Being glad in hope, quiet in trouble, at all times given to prayer. Hebrews 2:12". There's a yellow car, "Freddy, be healed in Jesus name!"

Life Timeline

2007-05-31T07:35:00.000-04:00

Given May 1, 2007
I am responsible for the prayer chains at church and lead the morning prayer on Sundays. Every week we have numerous prayer requests for people who are sick and some of them are elderly and near death. "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. Hebrews 9:27". This is talking about our mortal bodies; our bodies will die but who we really are, our spirits, will live forever.

In my devotional on this beautiful morning, I read a statement that was a revelation to me. It said about people who are near physical death, "Give them courage and hope as they face the roughest part of their physical journey on their way to the best part of their spititual journey." If we see our life as a timeline beginning at birth and never ending, death is way to the left and the good part stretches out to infinity! If they're saved, they need to look forward and not back.

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thesselonians 4:16-18".

Who's In Charge Here?

2007-05-23T07:38:00.000-04:00

Given January 18, 2007

I’ve heard it said that we are a spirit, we have a soul, and we live in a body. Our spirits will live forever and is really who we are. Our soul is made up of our mind, our will, and our emotions which all have something to do with how our spirit and body operates. And, our body is just the vehicle we need to get around and interact with others here on earth. As we all know however, the right part of us is not always calling the shots.

In order for us to live Christ-like lives and operate as effective servants of God here on earth, we have to consciously and purposely dictate which part of us is in charge. If we do nothing, our flesh – our earthly nature – will take over by default.

So how do we do that? We have to build up our spirit with the Word of God, and I don’t mean a little dose every now and then. “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:2”. This has to be an every day thing very similar to what an athlete goes through to attain top physical condition. It’s hard but it’s worth it!

Be assured, our sinful nature just won’t step out of the way and let our spirit take over; not at first. But, as we build up our spirit with the Word, change the way we think, and the way we talk, our flesh will have to take a back seat and let the spirit drive. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8”.

Let’s get to work!

Switch On The Light

2007-05-20T22:11:00.000-04:00

Given May 11, 2007
During my morning prayer time on this day, I got a vision of what it might be like for those who are not saved. I was praying for several of those on my prayer list who I knew were, "wandering in darkness". I prayed for God to let them see the light.

I saw them in a dark room. They were wandering around, bumping into things, tripping over things, and there was an evil laughing in the room. But then, on the other side of the room, a small light appeared! The one in darkness saw it and moved toward it. The evil laughing one, the devil, instantly got worried because he knew what would happen if the person got to the light. But he couldn't do anything about it except to lie and try to convince tghem to not pay any attention to it. As they got closer to the light, it intensified and the way out was revealed.

Jesus said, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12". I pray that all those on my list and others "in darkness" will see the light and go to it like moths to the porch light on a summer night. I also pray that the light of Jesus will shine brightly in me so others will see and be attracted to Jesus.

His Stripes

2007-05-11T06:58:00.000-04:00

Given May 11, 2007
Jesus suffered extraordinary pain, injury, humiliation, and sickness for us. "That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses. Matthew 8:17." All the sickesses and injuries we have today, Jesus took on Himself. He took them on and into His body so we wouldn't have to. Isn't it the same as Him taking our sin on His body that we could live free of sin? I think it is.

When we have a headache, we can think of the thorns stabbing Him in His scalp. When we have skin problems or back pain, we can think of the whipping Jesus took on His back. He was stabbed in the side, punched, kicked, had internal injuries, trouble breathing on the cross, He got really weak, and had unimaginable pain. Anything we have or feel in our bodies, Jesus paid the price for it.

Isaiah and Peter both said it: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5", and "Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 1 peter 2:24". We were and we are!

Who Are You Talking To?

2007-05-07T21:42:00.000-04:00

Given March 13, 2007
Jesus spoke to a lot of people; God the Father, his diciples and followers, his family, the religious rulers and all the people who came to see him. But did you know that Jesus spoke to non-human things too?

Jesus spoke to evil spirits, Mark 5:8; wind and waves, Mark 4:39; trees, Matthew 21:19; and fevers, Luke 4:39. And you know, every one of these listened to Him and heard Him. Do wind, waves, trees, and fevers have ears? I don't know but they heard and obeyed!

The important thing for us, as believers, to realize here is this; "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. John 14:12". Jesus said that. Do we have faith in Him? Are trees listening to us? Are we even talking to people, and are they listening? Think about it......

Walk This Way

2007-05-05T09:13:00.000-04:00

Given May 2, 2007
God has provided a way for each of us. I wrote about this recently relating to some erroneous advice I'd given my boys about their future and recently God showed me another way to look at it.

Isaiah 30:21 says, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it"." So, I get the picture of a path laid before me, it's a good road and I can see pretty far up ahead. That's not too hard to follow especially if God is behind me encouraging me to go on.

But, what about when the way ahead is really foggy and you can't see where you're going? You're almost walking blindly into who knows what. That's where trust and faith comes in. We don't need to see where we're going if God has planned our journey and is behind us telling us to keep moving. God told Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you. Genesis 12:1". Abram didn't know where he was going but he trusted God to know what was best for him and his family. We must do the same. If we trust God and keep moving, eventually the fog will disipate and the path will be clear. Besides, there may be distractions along the path God doesn't want us to see.

I will be entering into the ranks of the retired soon and I was sort of whining to God in prayer recently about Him not telling me yet what He's got planned for me. The scripture above immediately came to mind along with the phrase, "You'll know when we get there." Okay!

Under New Management

2007-04-26T21:31:00.000-04:00

Given April 24, 2007
As I was doing my walking this day and listening to some teaching, the speaker made a comment about getting saved that made me think. When we get saved, our spirit is reborn, right? "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17". But our flesh; our bodies and minds are still the same old mess. We have to, through a conscious effort, begin to remake our flesh and re-train our minds to get in line with our new Spirit. This is not an automatic deal like some people think.

I likened it to someone who buys an old store building. The old tenant is out and the new owner is in but the building doesn't just change because it has a new owner. No, the owner has to decide on a plan to fix the place up. He has to repair any damage, apply some fresh paint, add updated equipment, and maybe even change the type of structure it formerly was. How ridiculous it would be to expect the outside to change just because the inside has a new owner.

When we get saved, we're under new management inside but we have to work on changing the outside and the things that come out of us. The goal should be to strengthen the Spirit within until it takes over and controls the old flesh. "For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Romans 8:13". Then we'll be victorious on a regular basis.

Be What You're Meant To Be

2007-04-21T17:53:00.000-04:00

Given April 10, 2007
I realized something on this day that I had been saying wrong for years. My wife and I have four wonderful sons and all of them did very well in school. I told each them that, because of their intellectual ability, they could be anything they wanted to be. No occupation or dream was out of their reach. Sounds like pretty good advice.

However, after hearing a teaching on God's plan for each of us, I realized what I'd been telling them and others was in error. "In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will. Ephesians 1:11". God has a plan for each one of us. Even before we were born, God had our lives planned out but He gave us a free will; we can do our own thing or seek His plan.

That's where I've been in error with what I told my boys. God has blessed them, and us too, with many blessings which are to be used to accomplsh His will in the earth. So, it's not, "You can be anything you want to be." but, "Discover what God wants you to be and be that". God will help us be what He wants us to be but if we leave God out of it, we're on our own! "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, Isaiah 30:21". We each have unique talents and abilities and they fit in perfectly with some vocation or assignment. We should all pray, meditate on the Word, listen to the Holy Spirit and be what we're meant to be.

My Space

2007-04-14T15:17:00.000-04:00

Given April 14, 2007
No, this is not a post about the popular social networking site. It's about the space you have responsibility for. Everyone who is of age, has "your space" that you're in control of and your responsibility for that space changes and expands as you get older...maybe.

In I Timothy, the qualifications of a church leader are listed and one of them is: "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) I Timothy 3:4-5". These men, and it's the same for all men whether applying for church leadership or not, should have dominion and control over their house, or space. I, as head of my house, have responsibility for my space and everything in it. That includes my wife, kids, grandkids, (when they're at my house), all my stuff and my property. I don't have control of the nation but I do have authority in my space.

Some people have authority over bigger areas. "So the Lord established Jehoshaphat’s control over the kingdom of Judah. All the people of Judah brought gifts to Jehoshaphat, so he became very wealthy and highly esteemed. 2 Chronicles 17:5". Before you can be given dominion like that, however, you must be tested and proven. God is not going to give me control over my state just because I ask for it and claim it. I would have to prepare, be tested and proven in smaller areas.

But, I have been given control over my space and I have the authority to kick the devil off my property and out of my affairs in the name of Jesus. Take your God-given control in relation to your space and God will be pleased, (not to mention your family).

God Uses People

2007-04-07T21:29:00.000-04:00

Given November 9, 2004
Do you remember the story of Paul on the road to Damascus? He was knocked off his donkey by a great light and heard the voice of Jesus telling him to go to Damascus and wait to be told what to do next. At the same time, Jesus called to a disciple in Damascus, Ananias, and gave him a very frightening task: "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight. Acts 9:11-12".

Ananias protested at first because of Saul's reputation for doing harm to the saints. But when Jesus said, "Go." in verse 15, Ananias went and did what he was told. Think how awesome this was. Jesus chose a believer, sent him on a dangerous, (he thought), mission, he called Saul "brother", laid hands on him and Saul was healed and filled with the Holy Spirit! What an important assignment for Ananias.

The rest, as they say, is history. But don't you think Ananias was blessed for being obedient? And if he had not been, Jesus would probably have chosen someone else. But he was obedient in the face of uncertainty and I can imagine, as he heard reports of the work Paul was doing, he realized how blessed he was for Jesus to have chosen him.

You know, Jesus might just send you or me on some important mission. First, are we, "... a devout observer of the law and highly respected by all the Jews living there. Acts 22:12" as Ananias was. Second, will we be willing to go. Who knows what future great preacher Jesus may send us to minister to; or maybe it will be a down-and-out bum on the street who needs a kind word and something to eat. God uses people to serve His people.

If My People

2007-04-05T10:19:00.000-04:00

Given April 5, 2007
Our world is in bad shape. We see chaos and every evil thing all around us. I heard recently some teachers in the United Kingdom are not teaching about the holocaust for fear of offending muslims. A mock hostage drill at a New Jersey high school portrayed conservative Christians as terrorists. Do these type of stories scare you? Do we just sit back and shake our heads helplessly? Is there anything we can do?

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14". Yes, it's up to US, God's people!

If Christians would get out of the pew, set aside their denominational differences, join in repentance and prayer, and seek God, we cold turn this thing around. And don't you think politicians would take notice. For example, if ALL Christians would unify and demand that scripture verses be placed on cereal boxes, eager to please politicians would give in and do it! The way it is now, a small, but very pushy, portion of the population is dictating what goes on.

God told Solomon if he would, "do all I have said and follow My commands" he and his kingdom would be blessed. That's what we need to do before we lose even more of our freedoms.

Get involved in the political process. Study the candidates to see what they stand for. Don't listen to what they say because they'll say anything to get elected. Study the way they've voted in the past and support the men and women who more closley believe and act as you do. The future of our country depends on us, God's people.

Believe and Confess

2007-04-01T16:30:00.000-04:00

Given August 4, 2003
The Bible tells us there's two steps to salvation, confessing and believing. "That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9". It sounds pretty simple, doesn't it? Well, it is. But there's more to it.

We are to, "believe in our heart"; that's different than believing in our mind. To believe something in our mind requires that we see it, can feel it, or have evidence of it. To believe in our heart involves believing wihtout any of those things. Wouldn't that be a definition of faith? So, most of us believe we're saved and have no problem with "confessing" or telling others about it. But what about the other things God has provided for us through Jesus?

He's provided deliverance from many things that oppress us, and all we really have to do to receive them is to believe it and confess it. Believe it because you've studied the Word and found it there; search the Word and find out what it says about your need. Then, confess it and keep on confessing it even when things don't look or feel good. Keep on believing and confessing and it will come to pass.

Listen More, Talk Less

2007-03-26T08:05:00.000-04:00

Given March 6, 2007
I get to be around a lot of smart people in the course of the many activities I'm involved in. My work puts me in contact with important people in education and technology, sometimes I'm with state and nationally known political figures, and frequently I'm around giants in the faith. One thing they all have in common is that they know more than me. They are experts in their fields and I listen to them a lot.

Now think about prayer. In prayer, we're talking with someone who know a lot, wouldn't you say? God knows exactly what we need and wants to get that information to us for our good. But think about it; how much talking do we do in prayer and how much do we listen?

We are conversing with the one who knows everything and we spend most of the time talking! How backwards is that? "If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you. Exodus 15:26." Listen!

I know, it's hard to do; to be quiet and just listen but you'll be amazed at what God will reveal to you when you do. Try it the next time you pray. It will be uncomfortable for awhile but be patient and you'll hear that "still, small voice", 1 Kings 19:12.

Spiritual Pep Talk

2007-03-15T21:50:00.000-04:00

Given April 3, 2005

Being a former athlete and coach, I've been involved in many a pep talk. They're designed to, well... pep you up, and get you ready for the game. A good coach can really inspire you to go out there, do your best, and be confident you can defeat your opponent. Right?

I've discovered I can do the same thing to myself as I get ready to face each day. I give myself a spiritual pep talk from the Word of God as soon as my feet hit the floor in the morning! And, sometimes during the day as well. It goes something like this:

I am a child of God. 1 John 3: 2
I’m an heir of God and joint heir with Christ. Romans 8: 16-17
He has made me a king and a priest. Revelation. 5:10
I look like God. Genesis 1:26
The Spirit of God dwells in me. 1 Corinthians 3: 16
I am more than a conqueror through Him who loved me. Romans 8: 37
He who is in me is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4: 4
I’m the head and not the tail; above only, and not be beneath. Deuteronomy 28: 13
By His stripes I am healed. Isaiah 53: 5
I am His workmanship. Ephesians 2: 10
I have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2: 16
Behold, I have authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means harm me. Luke 10: 19
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4;13
My God shall supply all my need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philipians 4:19
The joy of the Lord is my strength. Nehemiah 8:10

By the time I get downstairs, I'm fired up and ready to meet whatever the day brings. Memorize some of these verses or find your own and try it yourself. You'll "scripture" yourself happy, confident, and powerful!

Strength, Shield, Refuge

2007-03-13T22:10:00.000-04:00

Given March 11, 2007
We had a guest worship leader and speaker at our church this Sunday, Chet Caudill, who is the Director of Youth Ministries for the Appalachian District of the Assemblies of God. He was great! One of the songs he led us in created a vision in my mind; a revelation if you will.

The lyrics said, "Lord you are my strength, Lord you are my shield, Lord you are my refuge in my time of need". When I sang those words, the vision I got was this: I saw a believer in the midst of battle and sometims, God gives us Strength to fight and stand against the enemy. Sometimes He gives us a Shield to protect ourselves in the battle. And other times God sends us to a place of Refuge where we have total protection from the battle. "He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me. Psalm 144:2". Wow!

The next time you feel yourself in the middle of a battle, see yourself in one of these ways, or all of them. We ARE victorious, you know!

So, What' The Problem?

2007-03-10T10:26:00.000-05:00

Given February 10, 2007

Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33". Yes, we'll have trouble if we live in this world so there's no getting away from that and we know where this trouble comes from; the devil, the prince of this world.

However, there's a couple of truths that make me feel a lot better about the situation. In Genesis, we find that we look like God; we're made like Him, "Then God said, let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. Genesis 1:26". So, we look like God and we're supposed to rule over all the earth. Now, of course, Adam and Eve gave that rule over to Satan but Jesus got it back for us.

The Bible also tells us that the Spirit of God lives, abides, dwells in us. "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Romans 8:11". That's awesome! The most powerful entity in the universe lives in me!

So, what's the problem? Why are we still having to put up with so much stuff from the devil? Jesus said we'd have trouble here but because we look like God and His Spirit is in us, we don't have to put up with it! Let's start realizing who we are, what we have and what we can do and put the devil in his place; under our feet, Psalm 8:6.

"Our Assignment"

2007-03-04T16:43:00.000-05:00

Given February 28, 2007

"Open our eyes to the assignment you've given us." This was my prayer on this morning during devotion time. Here's how it came about.

I saw a group of new soldiers gathered before the general. They were asking him for all the rewards and benefits of being a soldier and he was about to give them their orders. He aknowledged the benefits but said, "Now men, it's time to go into battle."

They were shocked and suprized! They were saying, "What do you mean? We have to fight to get the rewards?" They hadn't signed up for that; they didn't understand.

God made me aware that we, as Christians, are like that. We, "sign up" to be a Christian, go to church, and expect all these rewards and benefits to just come our way. We don't realize that sometime we have to fight for the cause. Many churches are preaching the benefits and not mentioning the fight. "And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God. Deuteronomy 28:2". Part of what the Lord is saying that we are to hearken to is to be strong, believe and not doubt, use the authority and name of Jesus, and go fight the enemy. God told Joshua, "Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:7".

"Open our eyes, Lord, to the assignment you've given us." May we all see what's involved in being a Christian Soldier.

Pray Or Say

2007-02-21T21:51:00.000-05:00

Given February 19, 2007

I've been listening to some teaching lately on prayer and heard something I'd not noticed before, a revelation, if you will. Jesus is the authority on prayer, wouldn't you say? Sometimes He would pray to the Father and sometimes He would speak to the problem. Look at this.

In the famous pattern of prayer, "The Lord's Prayer" as we call it, Jesus said to pray like this; "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Matthew 6:9". Jesus said to pray to the Father. Then in "John 14:13, And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father." Jesus is saying here to pray to the Father, asking, and pray in His name. So that's what we should do, right?

Then in "Luke 4:39, And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her:" He didn't pray, He spoke to the fever and it obeyed. In many other places Jesus spoke to people, "take up your bed and walk, Matthew 9:6", demons, "And he said unto them, Go. Matthew 8:32", and fig trees, "and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away. Matthew 21:19". All Jesus had to do was say the word and it was done. Now, aren't we supposed to do what Jesus did; and even more?!

This has given me a different outlook on prayer and my responsibility in the body of Christ. Sometimes I need to pray to the Father in Jesus' name and believe and not doubt and other times I can speak to a need and expect it to yeild to the Authority in me. Pray or say.

How Ya Doin' Dad?

2007-02-12T22:31:00.000-05:00

Given December 7, 2006
God is dealing with me from several sources lately about the time I spend with Him. We know God wants to spend time with His creation; He walked in the garden "looking" for Adam and Eve, He brought the Israelites out of Egypt to fellowship with Him in the wilderness, He wants to spend time with you and I as His children.

I've got four wonderful boys and I think how sad I'd be if all they ever did when they came around was to tell me their problems and ask me for stuff. But isn't that the way we do God much of the time? We'll run over our list of needs then say, "Goodbye, gotta go." And God is saying, "Hey Son, wait a minute. I wanted to talk to you and tell you some things." Oh man, do we ever need to repent!

He wants us to come in to Him and just say, "Good morning Father, how 'ya doin'? Oh, sorry, you're always doing good, aren't you? I just wanted to spend some time with you today. You know Dad, I love you."

"By 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. Hebrews 11:5". That comes from spending quality time with God. I want to do more of that.

The Check's In The Mail

2007-02-06T22:16:00.000-05:00

Given February 3, 2007

How many times have you heard the statement, “The check’s in the mail”? It’s become sort of a joke implying that something is promised to you and you doubt it’s going to happen. Sometimes people make promises to us then don’t follow through OR we make promises with good intentions but we forget or put it off…you know.

If someone says they’re going to do something for you and you don’t believe it or don’t have faith in that person, you won’t get too worked up about it. But, if you do believe it and trust that person, you’ll be excited and looking forward to it arriving. Even though you don’t see it, you have faith it’s on the way and you’re happy.

Well, that’s a description of how it is with God. If we have faith in Him and His promises to us, we’ll be excited about what’s coming even though we don’t see it. We trust Him and know He won’t let us down. “For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. 2 Corinthians 1:20”. However, if we don’t have faith, even though we’ve asked, we’ll still be sad and down in our circumstances.

Think about it; what’s your attitude about what you’ve prayed for? Are you excitedly expecting it or are you still depressed and doubting? If it’s in line with the Word of God, then “the check’s in the mail” and you can count on it!

The Closed Door

2007-02-01T21:01:00.000-05:00

Given March 2, 2006

We hear often about how God speaks to His people. He speaks through His Word, through other people, in our spirit, and some say they’ve actually heard the audible voice of God, (Moses was one of these). But have you ever heard of God speaking to anyone through a slamming door? Well, lemme tell you about it.

Last year, I was struggling with some decisions and didn’t know whether or not to pursue, what I thought, was an opportunity. I was soon to retire from public education and had two or three options for post-retirement work. I'd been promoting myself for one of those opportunities but just didn’t feel right about it. You know how it is.

The Bible says God will open and close doors, “…I am the one who is holy and true, and I have the keys that belonged to David. When I open a door, no one can close it. And when I close a door, no one can open it. Listen to what I say. Revelation 3:7 CEV”. As I was going to work this morning and walking through the door of my building, I just blurted out to God, “God, if you don’t want me to pursue that job, just shut the door!”

Well, just as the words left my mouth, I heard the heavy metal door I had just walked through, slam shut behind me! Oh man, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I said, “Ok God, I get the message.” God had just spoken to me through a slamming door!

And you know it was, of course, the right decision. I stopped pursuing that avenue and felt at peace about it. But God spoke to my spirit later that if He wanted me to have that job, I’d have it. But I wasn’t to mess things up by trying to do it myself. Great advice.

Christianity Lite

2007-01-28T21:37:00.000-05:00

Given January 22, 2007
Living the Christian life is a rewarding thing. God is so good and He loves us so much, we can't even begin to imagine what it could be like, " Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20". Notice that I said what it could be like. Most Christians aren't experiencing the life they could be or working for the Kingdom of God in the power that's available. Why is that?

I think it has something to do with the "lite" form of Christianity. Most Christians have heard the plan of salvation, said "yes", accepted the benefits, but are uninformed as to the hard parts; the parts that take daily work and sacrifice. "...having a form of godliness but denying its power. 2 Timothy 3:5".

If we want to be the best we can be in God, we must be willing to pay the full price for it, not the bargain price! Too many churches are offering the lite version of the Gospel, the one that tickles the ears of the congregation but does not urge them to change. To be fully used by God, we must count the cost and step up and say, "Here I am God, use me. Your will not mine." "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Luke 14:28". It doesn't take much just to be on the team but it takes a lot to get in the game and make a difference.

It Is Good, 300 X 3

2007-01-21T19:57:00.000-05:00

Given January 18, 2007
God likes us. We're His creation, made in His image, and He thinks we're cool. Granted, He doesn't like everything we do but He likes us. During creation, at the end of the sixth day, "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. Genesis 1:31". I can imagine God looking at man He'd created, nodding His head, and saying, "That's good; that's very good!"

Now we know Adam and Eve gave sin a place in the earth and we were all born into sin after that. But, God sent Jesus to take our punishment and gave us the chance to be, "born again". I can now imagine when you and I got born again, God standing there nodding His head and again saying, "That's good".

But then, we sin and lose that close relationship with Him and it saddens Him. But He's provided a way for us to get back in fellowship with Him; repentance and forgivenness. So, when we realize we've sinned, we go to Him with a repentant heart and ask forgiveness, and He loveingly takes us back. I can imagine Him embracing us, nodding His head, and saying once again, "That's good".

Jesus told His disciples when they asked Him how many times they had to forgive their brother when he had sinned against them, "Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, until seven times: but, until seventy times seven. Matthew 18:22". He meant as many times as it takes. And in this revelation, God is not just saying to us, "It's good" three times but 300 times 3; as many times as it takes. Aren't you glad for that?

Bring A Big Pot

2007-01-13T19:51:00.000-05:00

Given January 8, 2007
One day in a land far away, (maybe not so far), the King asks his servants to come to the palace to receive some blessings. He asks the people to bring a container to carry the blessings home in.

One family hears the good news and says, “We’ve got some really big needs so let’s take the biggest pot we have in the cupboard so we can take care of our family.” They go to the palace and get a pot full of blessings.

Another family hears the same news and says, “Sure we’ve got some needs but our neighbors are all worse off than we are, let’s take the truck so we can help them out.” They go to the palace and get a truck full of blessings and distribute them in their neighborhood. They kept the leftovers for themselves.

The next day, a big tractor trailer pulls up to their house stuffed full of blessings. They said, “What’s this? We got our blessings yesterday from the King at the palace.” The driver says, “Yeah, we know. But the King noticed how you gave your blessings to your neighbors and wanted to bless you some more. Where do you want us to put this?”

The only limit to our receiving blessings is the size of our pot. “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38”.

And, the King notices what we do in secret and rewards us in public. “…and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. Matthew 6:6”.

Let's check the size of our giving pots.

Confirmation

2007-01-10T07:02:00.000-05:00

Given January 8, 2007
I’m in the last few months before early retirement and I was lamenting, during my morning prayer, how I was confused and unsettled in my life about what I’m supposed to do. I know God has something planned for me but He’s not let me in on it or I’ve not seen what He’s trying to show me.

As I sorta whined about it, the Holy Spirit simply said, “Well, spend more time with me and you’ll see clearly.” I accepted that and realized the answers to all my questions can be found in the presence of Jesus.

When I got to the office and looked at my daily scripture calendar, the verse grabbed me! It was Isaiah 26:3, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” The devotion said, “You can have peace despite the storms. Stay close to Jesus Christ. Read God’s Word. Pray.

That’s what we know as confirmation! Now, it’s my choice to act on it.

The Secret To Success

2007-01-06T21:55:00.000-05:00

Given January 5, 2007
This....is all there is to it.

"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8".

If you want success, there you go!

How Do They Know?

2007-01-04T20:10:00.000-05:00

Given November 23, 2006
Well, the New Year reflections and resolutions have been made and I'm four days into it now. I want 2007 to be the best year ever for me and my family, don't you? I want to be a blessing and be blessed. I want everyone around to know I'm a child of God and for God to be proud of me, AND for Him to get the credit. But, how's that going to happen?

God get's glory when we bear fruit and are healthy and prosperous and we proclaim that He is responsible for it. "The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel. Matthew 15:31". When people see what God has done in us, it'll look good on Him.

I think sometimes, how would people know I'm a Christian. When you're at Walmart or somewhere and see all those people, how do you know which ones are Christians? In 2007, I want more people to know about me. "This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. John 15:8". That's it; SHOWING yourselves to be His disciples. Praying over your meals in the restaurant and giving a big tip, being extra nice to the checkout girl, smiling at people, being Christlike in difficult situations, offering to pray for someone's need-right then and there......

If this is something you'd like to join me in doing in 2007, why not comment on some other ways we can give God glory. Amen!

Reflections On Christmas

2006-12-30T16:39:00.000-05:00

Special Edition
It was a very different Christmas at the Dotson house this year.

We have four boys; two married, one in China, and one still in college. In past years, Christmas morning consisted of the boys having to be jostled out of bed to come downstairs to see what was under the tree for them. (When my brother and I were little, our parents couldn't keep us in bed!) Not so this year.

With the two married boys at home celebrating with their own families and son #3 in China, it was just Mom and me and son #4 who was sleeping pretty soundly. So the wife and I headed off to the house of grandson #1, (son #2 & wife). We had some gifts for them and spent and hour or so there.

Then we headed across town to grandaughter #1 and grandson #2, (son #1 & wife) and spent some time with them. Pretty neat stuff! At around 1:00 P.M., we arrived home to find son #4 still asleep! So we hollered for him to come down and we opened our Christmas gifts while I took pictures of everything. It took about 15 minutes. A far cry from the way it used to be. And, you know, it was sorta sad. Things are changing.

Later in the day, son #1 and #2 came over with their gifts for us and we went through it all again. We had a house full then, like in the old days, with little kids running around full of excitement. We all agreed we had spent too much and vowed to do something different next year. In 2007, son #3 will be home for Christmas and we'll have all four boys, wives, grandkids and everyone all together again. Family is a good thing.

It reminds me, however, that many families haven't been so blessed as the Dotsons are and we need to remember them. Sure, we donate to several charaties, buy Angel Tree angels, and help out wherever we can but there must be more.

Jesus is the best gift anyone could receive and He can be given all year long! Let us think about our fellow man all during the year and do more to give the gift of Jesus and His love. Here's wishing you and yours a prosperous, healthy, safe and blessed 2007.

It's A Wonderful Life

2006-12-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

Given December 21, 2006
My lovely wife gave me this revelation as we were going shopping on this day. We've all seen the movie "It's A Wonderful Life" and Mrs. D brought up a really good point from it.

Remember at the beginning of the movie you see a view from the Heavens and you hear people's voices praying for George Bailey.
Mr. Gower says, "I owe everything to George Bailey. Help him, dear Father."
Mrs. Bailey says, "Help my son George tonight."
Bert the cop says, "He never thinks about himself, God; that's why he's in trouble."
Wife Mary says, "I love him, dear Lord. Watch over him tonight."
This sounds like intercession to me, what do you think?

These people are asking God to help George Bailey so what does God do? Yes, He sends a goofy angel named Clarence Odbody to help George but who really helps him? It's his family and friends! God uses people to help old George.

In the end, all these people come to George's house bringing money to help George in his time of need. " Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38". George was a giver and people gave into his bosom, (really it was a basket).

I liked one of the lines from the gathering in the Bailey living room spoken by George's brother Harry, "A toast...to my big brother George. The richest man in town!" George thought he was ruined financially and that everyone would be better off if he were dead. But Clarence helped him see the lives he had touched and because of that, he was rich. Clarence's note to George in the end said, "No man is a failure who has friends."

During this Christmas season and beyond, think of those who have given to you, pray for them and help them out if they need it. And, be a giver yourself. "...remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. Acts 20:35".

Week Of Prayer 3

2006-12-20T20:55:00.000-05:00

Special Edition
This is a continuation of testimonies that have come out of our church's prayer focus last week.

A mother told of finally getting to see her grandson Wednesday and her daughter's "hard shell was beginning to crack".

A youth said when things get hard, she usually runs from it. Wednesday night, God "put His arms around me and said everything's going to be alright". She said, "God gave me strength."

A lady said God showed her He would be her enabler. She felt she didn't need to take anti-depressant medication anymore.

One of the prayer leaders exorted us that when we pray, think bigger. Place NO LIMITS on God. He said broken hearts, joy, and hope was being restored. Things were being done in the heavenlies.

A wife asked God to let her "see" something; a vision like others speak of. She saw people standing and coffins were standing with them. God said, "They're dead spiritually." She said, "As we prayed, the coffins broke in pieces and the people's hands went up in intercession."

Another youth told of a situation where she had a hard time forgiving and letting go. The Lord said, "It's going to be alright. Lay it down and let Me handle it."

Our youth pastor said, "Prayer works!" He said he was convicted of not praying enough and that the momentum began building in youth service Thursday. The kids were crying out to God and the worship part of the service was extended. He said, "If we want to see miracles...PRAY."

Our children's pastor said God showed him friendships were under attack. He told of an old lady that comes to the church looking to get scrap cloth to make rugs from. He's building a friendship with her and she's opening up more each time she comes. He said, "People need a friend first, not a preacher."

On Saturday night I saw us, as praying people with our hands up, being like lightening rods conducting the power of God into us for service. As we are vulnerable with our hands up, God uses that position to empower us. And, the devil can't touch us even in that vulernable position.

Our pastor gave us a long list of things he asked God for during prayer, not for himself, but to make him a better person, a better shepherd, a better servant. Things like: "Cleanse me, forgive me, change me, annoint me, fill me, show me, hold me, lead me, speak to me, teach me, sanctify me, grow me, use me, strengthen me, feed me, rebuke me, inspire me, indue me with power, increase me, protect me, restore me, discipline me, free me, purge me, abide with me and in me. AMEN! It has been a powerful week and it's not over yet! "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: Joel 2:28".

Week Of Prayer 2

2006-12-15T07:20:00.000-05:00

Special Edition
The week of prayer emphasis at our church, (see below), has been going great. Many people have been coming out at 6:00 AM each morning and at 7:00 PM to join others in unity to pray for specific needs in our community and in our individual lives. A new passion for prayer has awakened and we all feel something is stirring in the spirit realm.

An estranged adult son who has several problems in his life had a 90 minute visit with his parents. The mother has been involved in the prayer meetings. This is a major breakthrough for this family.

A young father testified that his wife passed her state board exam.

We were praying about our purpose in life this morning; that God would reveal what He has for each of us to do. Most of the people involved in today's prayer are doing several things already, working, in the church. The Holy Spirit reminded us not to get so involved in doing "church work" that we miss our purpose.

Our mid-week service attendance increased by about 70% this week. Something is happening and we expect great things to come about because of our focus on Father God and our communication with Him.

Week Of Prayer

2006-12-11T20:32:00.000-05:00

Special Edition
My church began a Week of Prayer yesterday. At a recent Deacon's meeting, we agreed that the most needed thing in our church was an emphasis on prayer. We want our people to know what prayer is, what it can accomplish, and Who it is directed to. We want to encourage folks to pray and to direct their prayers in specific areas of need in our community.

My posts for the next several days will be related to revelations and testimonies that come out of my and our church's prayers. I know great things are going to happen!

While praying at the church at 6:oo AM this morning, I was asking God to open the Heavens and pour out a blessing on us. God has said, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Malachi 3:10 NLT". I immediately heard God say in my spirit, "It's already open, get in position to receive it."

God is pouring out His Spirit but He's not going to chase us around with it. We've got to be in the place, in Him, to receive. And, that place is at His feet, on His lap, by His side, I'm seeing it now. I pray that our church and yours gets in the receiving place. There's so much He wants to give us.

Compromise

2006-12-07T20:54:00.000-05:00

Given December 7, 2006
As I sat doing my morning devotion the other day, I noticed all the toys in the room and began thinking about my grandkids. They come over, (a 5 year-old girl and two two-year-old wild boys), and we leave them alone to play with those toys. We're nearby and make sure they don't get hurt or that nothing bad happens. They watch Bob The Builder on TV and Noggin on the computer. We all protect them pretty well.

Now, I thought how ridiculous it'd be if the devil came to our door and asked if he could come in and play with the kids; if he could show them some good TV shows or some cool websites. Well, you know the answer. I'd command him to get off my property and slam the door in his face! And, in the name of Jesus, he'd go! Now, you'd think no one would compromise their kids welfare and let the devil in to play with them. But people do it every day.

Children who are allowed to watch TV unattended, who spend hours on the computer unsupervised, teenagers who go where they want to go, do what they want to do, with whoever. It's the same thing! The Bible says, "Neither give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:27". We, as caretakers of the younger generation, must, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6". This is not a issue that's up for compromise.

Your Choice - A or B

2006-11-30T20:34:00.000-05:00

Given October 22, 2006
Do you have trouble getting things done? Does it seem you are not successful in the things you attempt? Are you being frustrated by your lack of accomplishment? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I have the solution for you.

Choose from the following two choices:
A. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13"
B. "I am the vine, ye are the branches: ... for without me ye can do nothing. John 15:5"

With Jesus or without Him, it's your choice: A or B. What'll it be?

The Dotson Code

2006-11-24T21:06:00.000-05:00

Given September 22, 2006
The dictionary defines code as: "Any set of standards set forth and enforced by a local government agency for the protection of public safety, health, etc., as in the structural safety of buildings (building code), health requirements for plumbing, ventilation, etc. (sanitary or health code), and the specifications for fire escapes or exits (fire code)." Or, "Any system or collection of rules and regulations:" Basically, rules to live by. Got it?

The book and recent movie, The DaVinci Code, contains many claims about Christianity's historic origins and theological development. I have not read the book nor seen the movie but I understand many, if not all, of the claims made therein are false. However, I HAVE read the Bible and believe the "claims" made there are absolute truth; rules to live by.

So what is the Dotson Code? It's the same as the Smith Code or Wilson Code; the rules we live by. The Dotson Code is specific for me. God has a plan and purpose for me and His Word reveals my code with the help of The Holy Spirit. "According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Ephesians 1:4".

It's no big secret! God wants me to live according to His Word, (code), and if I do, there are unimaginable blessings and rewards waiting for me in Heaven AND here on earth as well! But, to tap in to all these good things, "you have to know the code", (spoken in my deep, Master voice). "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it...Isaiah 30:21". Or, He might say, "This is the Code, follow it."

Thanksgiving Edition

2006-11-22T15:32:00.000-05:00

November 22, 2006
As we head into the holiday season beginning with Thanksgiving, I thought the other day, "What is the first thing you think of when someone says, Thanksgiving?" I'm sorry to say, for me, I guess it would be... food. Ask yourself that question and ask a few people you know and see what answers you get.

Some may say; football, family, Pilgrims, or turkey. But, as I was convicted to remember, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks. Being thankful for what God has blessed us with. "Yet he filled their houses with good things, Job 22:18". "And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. Deuteronomy 28:2". That's good news, isn't it?

In this country, no matter what we read in the paper and see on the news, WE ARE BLESSED! If you would go to another country and see the way others live, you would know, we're blessed. Our forefathers planned it that way by establishing a nation under God and those of us who believe that, should work to carry out their plan. (It's God's plan, you know.)

I'm thankful to live in a free country where I can worship as I please. I'm thankful for my lovely wife of 36 years and our four wonderful sons who are all saved and very successful. I'm thankful for my four grandchildren, (one unborn), and two daughters-in-law. I'm thankful for a career in education that is ending soon, (retirement), and whatever my next assignment is to be.

But most of all, I'm thankful that God chose me before the foundations of the world to be His son and that I accepted the sacrifice of Jesus some 44 years ago. I'm thankful for what God has done in me and for me, what He's doing and preparing right now, and for what He's got in store for me and my family in the future. It's gonna be good!

The Way Of Deliverance

2006-11-18T20:42:00.000-05:00

Given October 10, 2006
My wife and I were touring Monticello with our first son years ago and he was squeeling, laughing, and being a typical happy one year-old. I know it was beginning to distract the others and we needed to cut our tour short and get out. In addition, there had developed a diaper problem that was noticable as well. The tour guide was sensitive to our need and told us there was a secret door we could take to the outside. We took it!

I was reading in Psalms the other day and, for some reason, thought about that time. "Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. Psalm 91: 1-3, NLT". Sometimes, the devil will come in and try to mess us up with his distractions and temptations. He may be oppressing us and coming against us or our family. But, IF we are living close to God; IF He is our refuge, IF He is leading us on this life tour, then I can see God showing us the "secret door" of escape. I can see God saying, "Psst, Bill, take this door to safety." And out we go.

Then, I can see Him standing there with His arms folded across His chest blocking the way from the accuser. And, the devil won't buck God! The key is abiding in God and His Word abiding in us, (John 15:7).

Are you being tempted, oppressed, even attacked right now? Go to God, abide there, (set up housekeeping), get His Word in you and ask where the secret door is.

Pump It Up!

2006-11-16T21:39:00.000-05:00

Given November 11, 2006
How many times have you been in trouble, gone through a hard time, or just felt the pressure pushing you down? You know, it doesn't have to be something bad; it could just be the many things you've got going on in your life. Too many things. The greater the pressure from the outside, the more deflated you feel. When you feel like you've had more than you can take, (or, hopefully before you get to that point), it's time to rejoice, be patient, and pray.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12". When you feel the pressure, it's time to "pump it up" from the inside! Take time to remember that God's with you; there's hope in that, be patient, and PRAY. This will reinflate you from the inside and push the pressure the other way. Listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying to you. He may be telling you to get rid of some of those things that are causing the pressure. Could it be?

Make Him Proud

2006-11-11T09:34:00.000-05:00

Special Edition - November 11, 2006
Yesterday, my oldest son who had been blogging for the conservative political scene in Virginia for two years at Commonwealth Conservative, hung it up to spend more time with his family. As a father, it makes me proud to know what my boy has accomplished and to read the many positive comments left by his readers.

But it reminds me of my Heavenly Father, too. "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Galations 3:26". I am His boy and I want Him to be proud of me. Sometimes however, I disappoint Him and do or say things He's not pleased with. But He still loves me and is always there to take me back into His loving arms when I realize my mistake and come back repentant.

We all need to strive to make the Father proud of us; to do and say the things that will make Him say, as He said to Jesus, "...This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Matthew 3:17". Make Him proud!

Practice Makes Perfect

2006-11-05T20:04:00.000-05:00

Given October 24, 2006
We've all heard the saying, "Practices makes perfect" and we may have heard it from parents or coaches who were trying to encourage us to do better. But do we ever think we CAN be perfect?

Jesus told us, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48" Would He have told us that if it wasn't possible? The Greek meaning of the word, "perfect", is complete. That seems a little more doable but what does it mean? How can we be, "complete" or "perfect" in our lives?

Here's the revelation I got about this matter. Life on this earth is a process. When we're young, we go through a natural learning and growing process that should take us to some form of completness. We have to go through the process and repeat the steps until we learn the skills. It's the same in sports; we only get good at something when we practice it over and over. It's the same with spiritual things too.

"Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth. 2 Timothy 2:15". Skillfully teaching...you get skill from practice don't you? If we want to fullfill the plan God has for us on earth, to be complete, (perfect), we need to practice! If we want to, "lay hands on the sick and have them recover" Mark 16:18, we need to practice it. Set aside any embarassment you feel and lay on your hands and pray.

If you want to get people saved, practice telling them what God has done for you and invite them to ask Jesus into their heart. If you're tired of the devil messing in your affairs, boldly exercise your authority in Jesus name and tell him to take a hike! Practice, practice, practice. It's the only way we'll be perfect.

If this has meant something to you, let me know in the Comments section below. Be blessed!

Well-Lit Christian

2006-11-02T07:03:00.000-05:00

Given October 25, 2006
During my prayer time on this day, I was praying for several people on my list who need salvation. I pray that they'll be convicted of their sin by the Holy Spirit and drawn to salvation. I pray that they'll see a contrast in their life and the lives of believers around them.

As Christians, we're supposed to, "let our light shine", Matthew 5:16 , so God will be glorified by what we say and do. "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12". Sometimes however, we Christians are not shining so brightly. We may, in fact, be casting a negative light on those around us.

But this morning, I prayed that one particular young lady on my list would be around some, "well-lit believers" that day so she would see a marked difference in them. I don't know where that phrase, "well-lit", came from...well, I guess I do know where it came from. The Holy Spirit is reminding me and all of us believers that we need to "turn up the power" and be bright lights to those in darkness around us. "Neither do [men] light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the stand; and it shineth unto all that are in the house. Matthew 5:15".

And how do we increase our brightness? Get closer to the source of all light, be connected to it, and reflect our Savior and Lord.

But....

2006-10-27T12:16:00.000-04:00

Given October 27, 2006
The Word of God is true and, as Christians, we base our faith on it. However, there are some things in God's Word that we sometimes say, "but...".

How about this? "Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 1 Peter 2:24". "Yes, Jesus, I'm healed by your stripes, but.....".

Or this? "Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Phillipians 4:6, (NLT)". "Yeah, Jesus, I know you said not to worry, but....".

And this? "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Phillipians 4:19". "I know, but I lost my job and we're in a recession, and ....". Are you getting the picture?

There's a period at the end of each of those verses which means, "STOP", no BUTS. We need to stop there and receive what God says. Too many times we've not stopped at that stop sign and gone out into traffic and crashed. Think about it.

If this revelation or any of the past ones have been helpful to you, please leave a comment below. I'd love to hear from you. Be blessed!

Not In My House

2006-10-20T07:14:00.000-04:00

Given October 19, 2006
It was homecoming week at one of the schools I work in and they had hung a banner above the front entrance that stated, "Not In Our House!" A stark warning to their opponent on Friday night that nobody was coming in to their territory and doing them any harm!

When I saw that, it made me think of our opponent, the devil, and how he and his team tries to come into our "house" every day and do us harm. I'm reminded that we have the authority, in Jesus' name, to kick him out! "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luke 10:19".

As Christians, we should be using the tools, knowledge, and skills made available to us to keep the enemy out of our business. The Word of God along with the name of Jesus will do it. "Yes, because God's your refuge, the High God your very own home, Evil can't get close to you, harm can't get through the door. Psalms 91:9-10", (The Message). I say, "Devil, not in my house! In the name of Jesus, GET OUT!" "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7"

Auto Pilot

2006-10-14T09:09:00.000-04:00

Given July 26, 2006
On this bright summer morning during my prayer time, I asked the Holy Spirit to go on "auto pilot" today and control me. The Holy Spirit is always in me and is a pretty powerful person so I figured it'd be good to have Him in control.

The answer I got was, "No, the Boss won't allow that. He wants you in control." And I knew what He meant. The Holy Spirit was given as a helper not a controller; " But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. John 14:20". The Holy Spirit is there to help me live a victorious life not live it for me.

That's the thing about God, He will not force Himself on anyone. He wants us to make the decision to follow Him THEN He will do all these wonderful things for us. And He sent the Holy Spirit to help us; to remind us of what God said and to teach us how to live a righteous life.

If we'll just listen!

Pick Of The Litter

2006-10-14T07:13:00.000-04:00

Given September 27, 2006
One of the schools I work in as an Instructional Technology guy had a poster on a door with a cute puppy and the caption, "Pick of the litter". As I saw that, the "still, small voice" inside me said, "You're the pick of my litter." I thought, "Wow, thank you God!"

That made me perk up to be reminded that God loves ME and He picked ME. "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you. John 15:16". I'm special!

And, as I look at the little kids in that school, I know they're the "pick of the litter" too. "I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, Psalms 139:14". And the teachers, custodians, cooks, and everybody else have been chosen as well. But many of them will never, "bear fruit" because they don't know they're the, "Pick of the litter". I must tell them.

Something To Look Forward To

2006-10-10T20:58:00.000-04:00

Given September 20, 2006
I remember, as a kid, the weeks leading up to our summer vacation. The excitement that would build as my younger brother and I would imagine the wonderful things that were coming. Then, the night before we were to leave, we could hardly sleep. It was the same at Christmas. How grand it was to have something wonderful to look forward to!

You know, I found that, in my present life, if I've got something coming up that is pleasant; something that I can look forward to, it makes the humdrum, even the bad stuff pass more easily. As Christians, don't we have something to look forward to?

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 2: 17-18". The vacations, Christmas, and even the big snow forcast that would cause us to miss shcool, (I still get excited about that), all are temporary. But Heaven and the unimaginable glory that awaits us there is eternal! Now that's something to look forward to!

As I grow older, in my mid-fifties, I notice I'm "looking forward" more than I did when I was younger. I guess that's natural. But it does seem to make this "vapor" of time here on earth more bearable. "For our citizenship is in Heaven, from where we also wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Phillipians 3:20". It's gonna be good!

Pressure Build UP

2006-10-02T07:33:00.000-04:00

Given September 25, 2006

We’ve all felt pressure in our lives. Sometime pressure comes from things we’ve committed to, from too many things we’ve said “yes” to. Pressure can come from family, work, or even church obligations and duties. We can feel pressure that comes from bad choices we’ve made. People in our lives can pressure us and, yes, we put pressure on ourselves to perform to a certain level. This pressure can build up and almost feels like it’s going to cave us in! So how do we handle it when we feel the weight of that pressure bearing down on us? You may be feeling it right now!

Might I suggest you look at it this way. In an airplane, many safeguards are in place to equalize air pressure. If the pressure outside is too great, it causes problems inside. The inside pressure has to be equalized so there's no problems. The pressure inside of you is the Holy Spirit and your faith. If the pressure outside of you is too great, it causes problems inside. You have to equalize the pressure from within.

The Bible says, "But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Jude 1:20". When you feel the pressures of life pressing in on you, build up your faith by praying in the Spirit. Paul told Timothy, "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee...2Timothy 1:6".

Pray in the Spirit, stir up the gift of the Holy Spirit which is in you, increase the "pressure" inside of you and the forces from outside will be overcome!

Give A Testimony

2006-09-23T12:25:00.000-04:00

Given September 21, 2006
I heard something on XM radio the other day that made me think. The speaker was talking about the difference between giving a testimony and being a testimony.

"They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; Revelations 12:11". We're supposed to proclaim the Good News to any who will listen; to speak our testimony. But it's easy to tell something to somebody even if our heart is not right. We can say all the right things and deceive many but there is another, failsafe, way to give our testimony.

"This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. John 15:8". Showing yourselves to be my disciples. It's one thing to say who and what you are but it's entirely another thing to show it. Yes, we can GIVE a testimony but it's more important to BE a testimony. "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16".

To God be the glory!

Lower Yourself

2006-09-18T07:35:00.000-04:00

Given September 6, 2006
The Holy Spirit has been reminding me a lot lately about pride. Pride can be a bad thing. Sure, I’m proud of my family, some of the things I’ve accomplished, and the things I’ve been blessed with but those things can get up there too high for God’s liking. I have to watch out for that. So, I’m not going to brag on my boys right now. “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 11:2”

The other morning in prayer, I was saying, “Lord, I lift You up…”, then I thought, “Who am I to be lifting God up to a higher place? He’s already as high as you can get!” I realized what I needed to do was to lower myself and get in the right position before God. That’s why we bow when we pray. “…Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought… Romans 12:3”.

God is reminding me that I’m to be a servant. And, even in the leadership positions I’m in, I need to be a servant; to think of others above myself and not look down on any of God’s creation. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Phillipians 2: 3-4”. My flesh doesn’t like that but that’s the way it’s gotta be for God to be pleased with me. God will lift me up in due time.

It Was There All The Time

2006-09-11T07:32:00.000-04:00

Given September 5, 2006

A friend related a story to me that she called a testimony. She and her husband had a big bill due and the checking account was a little low. They wanted to pay off this debt completely instead of making small monthly payments on it. My friend had prayed for God to supply the need. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19”.

The next day, she was doing some checking in her bank records and found that they had $3000 more in the account than she thought they had. And guess what the amount was they needed to pay off the dept? You’re right, $3000! She was testifying how God supplied their need, and He did.

I rejoiced with her at this news but shared a thought I had with her. The blessing she and her husband needed was there all the time, they just didn’t know it. And that’s the way it is many times with the things of God. He has provided wonderful blessings for us that we are just not aware of. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20”. God can and has done more for us that we can even imagine! And…it’s by His power that is at work within us! It’s already there!

Now, when we get ahold of that truth and begin putting it to the test…”and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Malachi 3:10”. Study God’s Word and find out what He’s given you and, “go in and possess the land!”

You're The Deciding Witness

2006-09-01T22:11:00.000-04:00

Given March 15, 2003
"One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. Deuteronomy 19:15". One person could not accuse another in olden times and get a conviction. Two witnesses had to agree before the matter could be established.

I get a picture of a scenario that shows what this verse means. Picture yourself standing before a judge sitting behind a high desk. There is a matter before the judge relating to your health. On one side, the devil says you're in poor health. On the other side, the Word of God says, "...with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5". The judge looks at you and says, "This witness says you're sick and this witness says you're healed." I can't decide either way from the mouths of these witnesses. It's your choice, you are the deciding witness. Which one are you going to agree with?"

Could it be that in matters such as this that WE are the deciding witness? The devil is always going to be the witness contrary to the Word of God. God's word is the true witness. Which one are we going to believe? Which one are we going to speak out of our mouth, to confess?

In the scenario, if we say, "I believe the Word of God, I'm healed!" The judge pounds his gavel and declares, "The matter is established. Two witnesses say he's healed, so he's healed. Court dismissed." What does the Word of God say about your situation? Don't listen to the lies of the devil and certainly don't agree with him!

The Born Again Club

2006-08-25T06:43:00.000-04:00

Given August 9, 2006
First of all, I want to apologize for so much time between posts lately. With vacations and the beginning of school, I have been swamped. I hope to do better for those of you who are regular readers.

I heard a comment in church recently that made me think about how things have been done in churches over the years. Our preachers preach rousing sermons about the need for salvation and people will come to the alter in the passion of the moment, say a "magic" prayer, maybe cry, then bask in the love of God and the applause of the congregation. These people have become "born again". But is that all there is to it?

The Bible says, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Matthew 7:21". Saying a prayer at the alter is only the first step of being a Christian just as being born the first time was only the first step in earthly life. There's a whole lot more to it than that. Now, many people do get the "real thing" at the alter and go away changed forever. I'm afraid, however, many go away unchanged thinking that saying that "magic prayer" did it for them eternally. Will that hold up when they stand before the Judgement Throne of God? "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27. And.."Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. Matthew 7:20". They will follow Jesus and you'll be able to tell it by the way they live. They are changed forever.

I'm afraid there will be many who will be shocked at the judgement who thought being in the "Born Again Club" would get them in. "And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:23". We all need to examine our lives, with prayer and maybe fasting, to see if we're where we need to be. If we see, through the Holy Spirit, that we're lacking, we can repent and make amends. Standing before the Judgement Throne of God will not be the time to do this. That will be too late!

Sin Stinks?

2006-08-19T09:14:00.000-04:00

Given August 17, 2006
I was reading the other morning about hidden sin. Most of us have some of this; sins comitted, mistakes made that no one sees or knows about. But we know that God sees them and we know about them. How embarassed or bad we'd feel if everyone knew about those "unseen" sins.

I thought, "What if our unseen sins stunk?" Wouldn't that make a difference in our behavior? What if we were talking with friends and began to gossip about someone when a terrible stink arose from us? Those around us would know and we'd have to repent to "clear the air". And what if you were involved in some kind of sinful addictive behavior? You'd stink all the time! And people would know it!

Israel had turned away from God and He did this very thing to them in the book of Amos: "..and I have made the stink of your camps to come up unto your nostrils: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD. Amos 4:10". We want to be pure and unblemished as we stand before God and we should want the same thing as we stand before men. Im glad our sin doesn't really give off an odor that others can smell but it makes you think, doesn't it? Remember, God sees what we do in private and He can smell it too.

What's On Your Billboard?

2006-08-12T09:30:00.000-04:00

Given August 12, 2006
I spoke this morning at a men's prayer breakfast at a local church and one of the men made a comment that is worthy of repeating. I was speaking on the road of life and how there are distractions on either side trying to draw us away off the road and into sin. I mentioned that you might say there are billboards along the road with tempting ads that are designed to get our eyes off Jesus. The Bible says, " But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed." James 1:14.

The devil knows what our weaknesses are and he attacks us in those areas. The point made by the guy at the breakfast was that everyone's billboard will be different. And that's right; my billboard will display "ads" related to my weakness but your's will display something to do with your waekness. And it's not always the "big" things like lust, it could be an advertisment for NASCAR, gardening or TV. Whatever takes you away from focusing your eyes on Jesus. Now these things are not evil, (well, lust is of course), but the others I mentioned are not unless you are "drawn away" from Jesus by them.

Think about it. On your road toward Heaven, what are you seeing on the billboards? Whatever it is, you have the power to resist it, say "NO!", and continue in the way.

Will You Help Me?

2006-08-04T07:27:00.000-04:00

Given August 3, 2006

I receive an email quote of the day from Heartlight each morning and on this day the quote made me say, “Wow, that’s right!”, a revelation of something I already knew but made more real to me by what I read.

God is all powerful. We know that and even God himself said it, “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me? Jeremiah 32:27”. God can do anything He wants yet He will not force us into anything. We, as His creation, have a free will to accept Him or to reject Him. He’ll let us go to hell if we choose to. What kind of allegiance is given to one who forces his followers to follow? Not much!

God says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20”. He knocks and stands there but we have to open the door. Then He’ll move.

God summons us to cooperation and we should be honored that He does it that way. Numerous times Jesus asked for help in performing His miracles; Fill the water pots, (John 2:7), Stretch out your hand, (Matthew 12:13), Distribute the loaves, (Luke 9:16). Had these people not participated, the miracle may not have been performed.

Jesus wants to do great and mighty things in our lives. What is He asking you to help Him with today?

Co-exist With The Devil?

2006-07-29T15:08:00.000-04:00

Given July 22, 2006
The night after arriving home from our first cruise, I had two dreams that, I think, God was using to tell me something. See what you think.

In the first, I had a meeting with a powerful man in a black casual shirt. I understood he was the "boss" of an organization and I was moving into his area and was meeting with him to appease him so we could co-exist. He was cordial but tried to get me to join with him and said I could make a lot of money.

The second dream that night showed me coming into a long narrow room where someone else, unseen to me, had a table set up. On this table were many items like this person was displaying them for sale. I was coming in to set up my own table beside theirs but was going out of my way trying not to disturb them, interfere, or take any of their space.

On awakening, I was aware that both these dreams were about the same thing and I felt God was trying to speak to me. The message I got was that, in this world, we have to live with the devil. He is the god of this world, "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. 2 Corinthians 4:4". We shouldn't be trying to appease him or worrying about taking his space. We should be kicking him out of our space! "Neither give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:27"

I also am reminded that we have authority to trample on the devil, (Luke 10:19), and he is supposed to be under our feet! (Romans 16:20). It's a different way to look at it. Yes, we're supposed to be curteous to people we have to co-exist with but not the devil and his cohorts. Whenever Christians learn who they are in Christ, and believe it, the devil will get out of our way! He'll flee from us, (James 4:7).

Going Somewhere?

2006-07-24T22:12:00.000-04:00

Given March 10, 2005

On this day, I was looking out my kitchen window and saw this dog walking up the road. I had seen it before...walking up the road. On occasion, I had seen this old dog about a half mile up the road. It made me wonder, "Does this dog know where it's going or is it just wandering?" Did it think to itself, "Today I'll walk up to Fido's place and gnaw on a bone for awhile."

And, what about birds? When you see them flying by, are they going somewhere specific or just flying? Sometimes I think about crazy things. And sometimes these things have a meaning.

This one makes me think about us. Are we consciously going somewhere? Do we have a plan as we walk the road of life? Or are we just wandering aimlessly along, changing directions according to what we encounter along the way? If we are a follower of Jesus, shouldn't we be going somewhere? "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left. Isaiah 30:21". God is saying to us, "This is the way I want you to go, walk this way and I'll tell you when to turn."

It may seem silly to think we're wandering aimlessly like that dog but...maybe we are. If we're not in tune with the will of God for our lives through studying the Word, praying, and yielding to the Holy Spirit, then we might be wandering. We might be on the right path sometime but off it many other times. "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; Ephesians 4:14."

Think about it when you see a dog walking or a bird flying.

In The World

2006-07-22T21:26:00.000-04:00

Given July 18, 2006

My wife and I, along with our two younger sons, went on our first cruise this week. It was a wonderful experience. We were treated like royalty, the food was great, we had many choices of activities and places to visit, and had some quality time with the boys. However, I was reminded that we were still, "in the world" and many of the activities on board were of the "wordly" variety. You know; drinking, "off color" entertainment, bad language, etc.

I realized I'm not around that stuff very much on a daily basis and I don't like being around it. But that's where the witnessing opportunities are. Jesus didn't screen himself from the "other side" of His society. He got right in there with them but was without sin. He said about His disciples, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, John 17: 15-16".

We are not "of the world" either but we live in the world and have to deal with what's here every day. It would be great to just go live in Heaven but Jesus wants us to be protected from the evil while we're here so we can do the work He's called us to do. And that work can't be done inside our comfort zone.

I also realized that I need strength to resist the temptations the world offers in order to stay strong in the Spirit and do God's work. It's hard living in this world but we've been given the tools of the Spirit to be successful. Let's use 'em!

Your Assignment

2006-07-13T06:13:00.000-04:00

Given July 13, 2006
(Click on the title above for the audio version.)

"Good morning, Mr. Phelps. Your mission, should you choose to accept it..." Do you remember this quote from the Mission Impossible TV show? The agent would listen to this recording, get his instructions, then go out and save the day.

The DVD series we've been watching on Wednesday nights at church talked, this week, about believers being "living stones". And how each one of us has a place in the "temple" made by these stones. It was great! During my prayer time this morning, I was reminded of that and the fact that we all have been given an assignment. "...for many be called, but few chosen. Matthew 20:16", and " Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, 2 Timothy 1:9".

All of us who have been saved has a calling, an assignment, a purpose in the Kingdom of God. I think God is saying to us, (I know He's saying it to me), "Bill, your assignment today, should you choose to accept it, is to live a Godly life, witness for Me, and help anyone who needs it." But it's important to notice the part, "should you choose to accept it". Matthew said many are called but few are chosen. I think WE do the choosing! We have a free will to accept God's assignment or not.

I pray each morning, "God, how may I serve you today?" And most days He'll send someone my way, which is my assignment for that day. Lord, forgive me for the times I've missed it. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. John 15:16". Seems like a pretty good deal to me!

If this revelation has spoken to you or made you think, please leave a comment below.

Strength In Numbers

2006-07-09T15:21:00.000-04:00

Given April 17, 2006 - (Click on the title above for audio version)
We are always in a conflict between good and evil. Our enemy the devil is constantly trying to trip us up, trick us, or somehow hinder or ruin our walk with God. We're in a battle! But, too many times, we try to fight that battle alone.

Now, God has given us the weapons of warfare to defeat the devil and his cohorts but we have to practice using them. We have to know what God's Word says about who we are, what we have and what we can do. So, what are we to do when we need to fight and we're not, "practiced up"?

This revelation gives an answer to that. I saw a line of Christians who were opposing the devil one by one. As the devil came to each one, they would weakly resist, (in my devotional booklet, I wrote, they'd "fight like a girl"). You know, turn their head and slap up and down with their hands at the devil. Of course, he would defeat them easily and go on to the next one in line. They didn't individually have the strength or knowledge to be strong.

But, down the line, some of them got together and decided when the devil came to them, they would join together and resist. They used what weapons they had which complimented each other. When the adversary got to them, he realized they were joined together for battle and he ran away. "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12."

Jesus just spoke a word and demons trembled or fled. He is the ultimate fighter of evil. Most of us aren't there yet. It's good when we can join with other Christians and pool our resources against the common enemy. It's effective. That's why the devil works so hard to keep churches and Christians separated and confined to our church buildings and bound by our denominational beliefs. He knows if we ever get together against him, he's a gonner.

What's Under Your Robe?

2006-07-06T22:15:00.000-04:00

Given March 31, 2006
(Click on the title above for audio version.)
I was listening to a series of messages on the love of the Father and the speaker made a reference to wearing a robe that made me think. When we get saved, there is an exchange made between us and Jesus. (Actually, the exchange was made at the cross.) Jesus gives us His coat of righteousness and takes our coat of sin. Read about that revelation here from my post on January 6, 2006.

I think, sometimes, we put on the "robe of righteousness" but we're still dirty underneath. "Then the Lord said to him, "Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. Luke 11:39". Just like these Pharisees, we look pretty good on the outside; for the people at church or the office or in public. But our family, and some close friends maybe, have seen under that robe and know what's lurking there. And, there may be some "dirt" under there that even our family doesn't know about. But we know. And God knows.......

But the good thing about it is that we can go to the Father, admit we're dirty, and ask Him to clean us up. We can offer Him our empty, dirty cup and He'll clean it out and refill it. Do it now.

Do The Right Thing

2006-07-02T21:34:00.000-04:00

Given July 1, 2006 - (Click on title above for audio version.)
There's a commercial on TV where a man does something nice for a lady and her baby and a bystander notices it. That person later does a good turn for someone else and it's witnessed by another. And it goes on. Each person who sees a good turn being done apparently remembers it and gets involved with helping others themselves. At the end, it says, "When people do the right thing, it's called responsibility. When it's a company....then they tell the name of an insurance company. What a great commercial. It makes me think.

What if.......every Christian did that? Jesus did. "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. Acts 10:38". Jesus went about doing good. How would the world be if we all took the time to do something good for our neighbor. Hey, how much better would our city, town, or neighborhood be if we did that on a regular basis. I know it would make a difference.

Just as in that commercial, you know, people are watching. Let them see Jesus in you.

Son Or Servant?

2006-06-29T08:23:00.000-04:00

Given June 29, 2006
During my devotions this morning, I was thinking about the fact that I am a child of God, "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: Romans 8:16", and also I'm to be a servant, "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: Hebrews 12:28".

I listened to some teaching recently about, "The Father", and am reminded that my relationship with my Heavenly Father is special. Many earthly father-son relationships are such that the son's relationship to the father is more of, "meet my needs and give me what I want and I'll be happy". Not, "Daddy, I love you. What can I do for you today?". But that's the way it should be with us and our Heavenly Father. We should come to him offering to be a servant or with the attitude of a servant. But, you know what He'll do? God will smile, take us up in His arms and say, "Son, you please me. What can I do for you?".

If we come to God with a servant's heart, even though we are His children, it pleases Him and He's more willing to shower us with blessings. I have four sons and they all are wonderful boys. But when they, "do everything right" and are willing to help me, it pleases me and I'm more willing to give them what they want. Another example is the story of the Prodigal Son, Luke 15, who took all that was his as a son, came to his senses, and returned willing to be a servant. That made all the difference.

I pray every day, "Father, how may I serve you today?". It's an attitude. I know I'm a son by birth but I CHOOSE to be a servant. That makes all the difference!

Safe In The Harbor

2006-06-27T08:44:00.000-04:00

Given October 3, 2005
I receive a, "Quote Of The Day" email daily and the one I got this day made me think. The quote was from William Shedd and it stated, "A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for." I thought, "Man, that's like Christians." A Christian in church is safe, (usually), but that's not what Christians are built for.

James 1:22 says, " But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." So many Christians are comfortable in church and want to spend time there but shy away from putting into practice what they learn there. It takes much more committment to go out of the church doors and "do" what the Bible tells us to do. It is uncomfortable, many times, to answer the call and fullfill God's plan for us at the grocery store, on the job, in our families...you know what I mean?

Today, I would encourage you to remember some of the teaching you've received in church and look, really look, for ways to apply it in your daily life. I've heard it said, "You don't have to go out of your way to find people to help each day. There will be plenty of people in your way." Just look for them.

Restoration

2006-06-20T17:46:00.000-04:00

Given June 20, 2006
Driving to work this morning, I was impressed to turn off the XM radio and pray. I found out God wanted to remind me of something and He wants you to know it as well. If you've ever been down or are down now, this will encourage you as it did me.

As we walk with God along the road of life, sometimes we stumble. We don't fall down but God is right there and catches us and helps us get right again. Other times we get ahead of Him, fall behind, or just get off the path and we trip up and do fall down. But, as a child would do, we holler, "Daddy!", and He comes, helps us up, dusts us off and leads us back in the way.

But there may be a time when we really get off the road, responding to a temptation of the flesh, by choice or deception, leave God, and go off on our own. I can see The Father shaking His head and saying, "He's going to get hurt." And, sure enough, God knows, the enemy who tempted us down that road just knocks us down, beats us up, then stands there gloating in our pain!

But....as we lay there in our pain and suffering, if we cry out, "Daddy, help!", He will respond and come to our rescue. He'll kneel down, wipe off the pain and dirt, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3", then turn to our enemies and sternly says, "Get outta here!" And they get scared and flee. Then, lovingly, He picks us up and carries us back to the road and continues carrying us until we're able to stand again. He will restore us! "I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him, Isaiah 57:18"

This vision had me sobbing as I drove because I remember the time when I was laying there in a heap and I cried out to God and He came and restored me! If you've been beaten down by the enemy or even if you've never walked with God, all you have to do is cry out to Him and He WILL come. You can be restored. The Father is waiting to hear your cry.