“…in Your presence there is fullness of joy.”
Psalm 16:11 (NKJV)

MAY 29 - Heaven and earth would never be the same. A broad smile illuminated the Father’s face; innumerable angels sang their melodious tunes, rejoicing as if frenzied, celebrating without bounds. Joy caused the stars to sparkle with a supernatural glitter, conveying great joy to shepherds who tended their herds each night. The presence of God finally came, bringing unspeakable, unquenchable joy.

Joy seems hard to come by for many people today. Why is that? I have discovered only one answer – neglect of time in God’s presence. The Bible tells us, “The joy of the Lord is our strength.” If the devil can steal your joy, he can defeat you. We cannot fight the enemy without divinely-empowered strength.

I have taught this principle over the years – “Satan cannot destroy you; he can only distract you.” Satan eternally attempts to get believers to look at their circumstances. Whenever we look at our circumstances, joy begins to evaporate from our very midst, like puddles on a blistering hot day.

Joy only comes by having our focus on God’s Word and in His presence. If you want to overcome the enemy, begin to worship God and mediate on His Word day and night. As you do, joy rises within you, and no devil in hell is able to defeat you!

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that my feet are firmly planted on the Rock, Jesus Christ. In Your presence is fullness of joy. I refuse to be distracted by circumstances around me. I am strong because I have Your joy and I passionately pursue Your presence.

Family Scripture Reading

Jude

Featured Resource

The New You - CD

Have you accepted your new identity in Christ or do you continually deal with shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. The thoughts we identify with, whether good or bad, sculpt our destiny. Envision the marvelous transformation that would take place if we learned how to walk in our true identity. Imagine what life would be like if you were able to confidently identify with Christ instead of your old sin nature – nothing but victory, joy, and fulfillment. If you desire to learn the keys to walk in your new identity, this series is for you!

Posted under God's Presence

“Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,
and to give His life a ransom for many.”
Matthew 20:28 (NLT)

APRIL 10 - Over the years, I have seen far too many people exploit other people in the name of God. We must never misuse other people for our own self-seeking benefit. When two individuals enter a relationship
with the sole thought of giving, they both end up as receivers. What I personally plan to bring to any relationship is give/give, not give/take. When the other person enters the relationship sharing an equivalent
duty and responsibility to give/give, the benefits for both of us are as abundant as stars in the sky!

This reciprocity, this interdependence and complementary exchange, becomes impossible if you enter relationship with someone who regularly uses others.

Regretfully, our society is filled with depraved individuals who make it their exclusive aim to merely use their relationships to feed their own greed and perverted lusts. Israel’s prophets consistently warned the nation’s women of the excessive usage of cosmetics, recognizing the moral perils of exaggerated looks through imitation of their heathen counterparts. Manipulation of such immodest usage could have negatively flawed their character in a moment’s time. But your character is refined when you learn to use principle, and not people.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that as the Son of Man came to serve, I posture as a servant in all my relationships. I not only look out for my own interest but the interest of others as well.

Audio Confession: Day 10

Family Scripture Reading

Songs 3

Featured Resource

Building A Heart Of Love Vol. One - CD

5 CDs

Posted under Character