Has the world gone completely insane? Are we spinning out of control? Like a box of chocolates, when you wake up tomorrow you never know what you’re going to get. Things are crazier with each passing day.

So what are we to do? How can we ensure that we’re doing the right things in the midst of the chaos?

While this is nowhere near exhaustive and the topic alone could be discussed for months, here are some practical tips to leverage during such challenging times.

Image courtesy of: danmachold

Practical Tips For Navigating These Crazy Times

I call you blessed!

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. Thank you for the supernatural wisdom and revelation that only comes from you. Draw us closer to you Lord. Fill us now with your Holy Spirit. Let us see clearly the hidden enemy among us. Give no power to the dark forces of evil in this world. We declare your light and truth and power over every aspect of our lives as we seek to please you and to do your Will. Thank you for opening our eyes to the lies and deception of this world. Thank you for washing us clean and making us new. Fill our hearts with your love. And we thank you for the life and breath that you have given us. We honor you with out time and our talents. Give us this day our daily bread, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. In Jesus mighty name. Amen.

The post Practical Tips For Navigating These Crazy Times appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Image courtesy of: gfdnova1

• “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1

God Is The Beginning
Everything came from God. Nothing came before God. God was first, and everything came from Him. God created everything. And to this day, everything we have comes from God. And God created us. God is the ultimate creator.

God Created Man – In His Own Image
How good is it to be alive? How good is our God that saw fit to create not only mankind, but to create the one and only person that is you? We are unique and wonderfully made, and beautiful and perfect in God’s eyes. There is only one of us. For God to take the time to create us, we must be precious, relevant, and loved.

• “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” – Genesis 2:7

We Were Created In God’s Image
Even more so, how great is it knowing that God put us first, above all other creatures on earth. Just as God was and always is first, God put us first too. As we were made in Gods image, he did not put us here to be last. God put us over all living things on the earth. We are first, not last. We are the head and not the tail. And since God lives in us by the gift of the Holy Spirit, we can do all things through Christ who is our strength.

• “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” – Genesis 1:27

God Did Not Create Us To Be Alone
God made us to be in partnership with each other. God created man and woman to be together. He created us to be fruitful and multiply. We know there is power in numbers and in a community of believers. Further, our God is an abundant God who put the spirit of creation in us. We just need to tap into this creation power which comes from God in us.

• “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'” – Genesis 2:18
• “Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.” – Genesis 2:22

How This Matters in Your Life This Year
If this is the year that you finally want to break through the things that are holding you back, then this is the year that you need to surrender to God. This is the year that we need to tap into the awesome love and power of God. This is the year where we need to stop limiting the power of God because we are too busy trusting in our own power. This is the year where we get over ourselves and give honor to the one who created us. This is the year that we start putting God first – where he belongs. This is the year that we need to start getting out of the way of ourselves.

• “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7
• “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10

How To Break Through This Year
What problems are you facing this year? Do you need to breakthrough? Align yourself with the all-powerful almighty God who can do all things, and who has never lost a battle. If we want to break through this year, we need to seek God each and every day. We need to make this the most important daily habit, and the first thing on our daily. God need to be the first thought in our mind and utterance from our lips. We have to immediately turn to God before the cares of the day sweep us away. If you want to win each day, put God first. Let God prepare you for battle. Let God equip you with everything that you need.

• “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33

The Importance Of Habits
Everywhere you look today it seems like there is another blog post or article on daily habits. That’s because of how our daily habits are so closely tied to our desired outcomes. There is no argument that can reasonably and consistently contradict the fact that if you want to change your life, you have to change your habits. If we want to be in better shape we have to change our daily habits for eating and exercise. If we want to improve our minds, we have to read more often and be more selective in what we read. Everything that we want to improve can be changed with better habits. And if we want to exponentially multiply our results, we can do nothing better than to tap into the ultimate power of God.

• “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” – 2 Corinthians 10:5

Top Two Daily Habits To Break Through This Year
To follow are the top two daily habits to help you breakthrough this coming year:

Daily Habit 1 – Start Each Day With A Grateful Heart
As soon as you begin to stir in the morning, as soon as you realize that you are awake and need to get out of bed, turn your thoughts to the One who gave you life. Even before your eyes are open, thank God for allowing you to have another day to live and breath on this earth. Thank God for rest and peace, and for all of his goodness. And ask God to direct your steps for this day.

• “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34

Daily Habit 2 – Daily Scripture Reading
Early each morning, first thing, before you grab your cell phone, grab the Word of God. Before you run to the phone, run to the throne. Why would you make the news of the world more important than the One who gave you life and the air that you breath? The Word of God is more powerful than anything that you and I can comprehend. Reading the Word of God and speaking it into and over our lives has more power and authority than we can ever comprehend on this earth. This year let us commit to the number one personal growth and development program and habit known to man – the daily reading of the Word of God.

• “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Surround Yourself With A Community Of Believers
Additionally let us realize that we are not on this journey alone. Surround yourself with people who are committed to pursuing God too, and who you can walk through life together leaning on each other and lifting each other up. Additionally important, it is critical to surround yourself with those who deeply understand the Word of God and are mature in their faith. Usually these people are pretty easy to find as they are often elders in the church. They are often the ones who have been through life and have wisdom from experience in walking with God. You can tell those who are good to align with because they are the ones who are always in a good mood no matter the circumstances.

• “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14

Trust God
Realize there Is a powerful God who loves you and is always there for you. God is everything, and can do anything. Do you think that anything that we need is too big for our God? Do you think that God who created the heavens and the earth and everything in it including us is sitting there scratching his head, trying to figure out what happened or what to do? No way. God is never surprised. He is never stumped. There is nothing that he cannot do. God can do all things, and is worthy of being trusted. God is worth it.

• “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Doubt And The Argument Against God
The book of Genesis and the topic of the beginning of the world tends to challenge Christians and non-Christians alike. But the fact remains that none of us were here at the creation of the world. So everything we believe has to come from somewhere. We can choose to believe theories on the subject, developed by man. But if there is one thing that history teaches us, it is that man’s theories are limited, flawed, and continually changing and evolving. But God’s Word is constant and unchanging.  And the more that man learns, the more that we continue to realize that the Word of God is truth.

• “Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:20-22

Know God For Yourself
If you want to know the truth, and not just believe what others say, then I invite you to read the bible for yourself. Only then will you be able to say for yourself, and know in your own mind, what is worthy and true. You can’t discount the bible as truth if you have not taken the time to read it from cover to cover. And like any subject, you have to come with an open mind that is truly open to learning.

• “Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.” – 2 Corinthians 4:2

Commit To Reading The Bible Cover To Cover This Year
The entire bible can be read easily in 1 year in just 15 minutes per day. It is super easy, all you have to do is sign up for our email list and we will send you the scripture every day to read. We will make it super easy for you, all you have to do is open the email, click the link, and read the scripture. Don’t like to read? We will even include a link where you can have the daily scripture read to you.

• “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.” – Psalm 37:5

You Are Not Alone
This daily reading plan is the same plan that I and many others follow each year. So you are not alone in this journey. We will walk through the bible together, one day at a time. You don’t have to eat it all at once. All you have to do to eat the elephant is take one small bite at a time each day. You can do it.

• “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20

This is Your Year
This is your time to take back what the enemy has stolen from you. It is time to take back your peace, your joy, your hope, your faith, your lives. Put God first this year. This is the year to commit to reading the bible. You can do it. Only 15 minutes per day can change your life!

• “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2

Sign up for the daily email now to get the daily scripture personally delivered to you each day.

Wishing you a prosperous new year, a new level of wisdom, peace, and fulfillment in your lives!

I call you blessed!

My Hope For You
My hope for you is that this is the year that you get to know the love of God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I pray that you get to know him so well that you learn for yourself that he is true, and he is worthy of all your love and trust. And I pray that you know this love so well that you want nothing more than to draw closer to him, and to seek him first each day. And I pray that you reflect on your daily influences and make every effort to surround yourself with other believers who can lift you up, encourage you, and guide you along the path with Jesus, and are there to stand with you and for you when you are tempted by worldly desires. I pray that you have people in your lives each day who will help you fight off bad thoughts and feelings, and every urge and evil temptation. And I pray that God will protect you and give you exactly what you need. And I pray that your heart is so full of the love of God that you want nothing more than to seek him first each and every morning.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. Thank you for continuing to reveal yourself to us each day. Thank you for opening our eyes to the lies and deception of this world. Thank you for washing us clean and making us new. Thank you for drawing us closer and closer to you each day. Thank you for removing the scales from our eyes so that we can see you clearly, and so that we see who we are your children who you deeply love. Thank you for creating us in your image, for a special purpose, beautiful and wonderful in your sight. We praise you now, and give you all the honor and glory, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: Genesis 1,2; Luke 1

Additional Scriptures for Reference:

• “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17
• “I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
• “Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” – 1 Corinthians 3:16
• “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23

The post The Top Two Habits You Need For Break Through This Year appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Maybe you can relate. Did you have some things hoped for that didn’t come to pass this past year?  It can be very easy to get disappointed or frustrated when our dreams and hopes are not aligned with God’s Will or with his timing.

Scripture:
“This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.” – Revelation 14:12

Image courtesy of: Adi ALGhanem

Observation/Application: 
Notice that we are not just called to patience alone. And we are not just called to endurance. Rather, we are called to patient endurance. That means that we are called to be patient while we endure.

Notice is doesn’t say that it is necessarily going to be easy either. We don’t need endurance for something that is easy. And during this difficult time we are going to have to be patient and trust God more than ever.

We may not see painful situations relieved instantly. We may not always get prayers answered how and when we want them answered. Maybe we are not getting what we want and we think God is not listening or working on our behalf.

But God is always working on our behalf even if we don’t see him doing so. That is why we have to walk by faith and not by sight. Walking by faith requires us to walk in agreement with the Word of God even when everything that we see and hear, and all evidence in the flesh tells us otherwise. God will provide, for our God is faithful.

• “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
• “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6

You may be familiar with the lyrics made famous by the Rolling Stones, “You can’t always get what you want. But if you try sometimes you just might find that you get what you need.” Whether you are a Rolling Stones fan or not, there is some great truth in this life to these words for believers. God is with us, and he will always provide what we need.

Maybe you are praying for something and your prayers have not been answered yet. Maybe you are seeing evil wicked people being blessed in the flesh. Maybe you are seeing those with dark hearts cheating and stealing from others and getting away with it. Maybe you are upset with the fussing and fighting, lies and deceit in the government and in all the media. Or maybe you just see folks who are taking advantage of others when they are down or desperate, and this isn’t sitting well with you.

Now more than ever followers of Jesus Christ need to hear and heed the words found in revelation for patient endurance. Now more than ever do we need to seek the Lord our God. Now more than ever do we need to draw close to his love and mercy. Now more than ever do we need to walk in his ways and not let darkness overtake us. For God is love and light. And when we find ourselves frustrated, mad, upset, worried, fearful, anxious, or any other feeling or emotion that is creeping in on our peace, that is when we need to lay ourselves down at the feet of Jesus and cry out to him all the more for his love, his mercy, and his grace.

• “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7

There is no better day than today to lay yourself down at the feet of Jesus, ask him to be your Lord and Savior, and to guide your steps. In him you will find rest, and hope, and peace.

I call you blessed. 

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. We are so grateful for all that you have done for us, and all that you continue to do on our behalf. We seek you now. We seek you first. And we thank you for the revelation that you reveal to us continually through your Holy Spirit. We thank you now for all that you have blessed us with. And we thank you for strength, and courage, and love, and peace that rules in our hearts, shines like a beacon in the night, and washes away the darkness. We know the plans that you have for us, plans to prosper and not to be harmed, plans to give us hope and a future. We thank you for all of this, and more. We give you all the honor and glory and praise, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: Revelation 10-14

Image courtesy of: mustafaaydinol

Additional Scripture Reference: 

• “And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.” – Thessalonians 5:14
• “He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life.” – Romans 2:6
• “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” – James 5:7-8
• “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus.” – Romans 15:4-5
• “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” – Revelation 2:10
• “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12
• “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” – Luke 16:10
• “May the Lord repay every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness, for the Lord delivered you into my hand today, but I would not stretch out my hand against the Lord’s anointed.” – 1 Samuel 26:23
• “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” – 2 Chronicles 16:9
• “Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men.” – Psalms 12:1
• “A faithful man will abound with blessings.” – Proverbs 28:20
• “His lord said to him, Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” – Matthew 25:21
• “If you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own?” – Luke 16:12
• “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2

The post Patient Endurance appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Image courtesy of: expansion1234

Scripture: 
“As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” – 1 Peter 2:4,5

Observation/Application: 
First and foremost, you must understand who you are. You are a child of the most high God. There is only one you. You were created from the dust of the earth in God’s image, and God himself breathed life into your lungs.  And there is only one you, truly unique and put here for a special purpose.

What is also critical to understand is what God’s Word says about you as his chosen. Here are some biblical and scriptural truths that you can count on with 100% certainty:

• You may have been overlooked by someone in the world, but you have not been overlooked by God.
• You may have been passed by for that promotion, but God has a far greater promotion ready for you.
• You may have been forgotten about, but God has not forgotten about you.
• You may have  been left behind and abandoned by someone in this world, but God will never leave you or forsake you.
• You may have been rejected, but God has not rejected you. In fact, he has CHOSEN you.

Just a few (of many) scriptural references:

• “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
• “I have chosen and not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
• “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14

Whatever it is that you are facing today, know that the Lord is with you. There is no problem that is too big for God, the Creator of the heaven and the earth and everything in it.

And you can be confident in knowing that he sees you and He loves you. And he is right here for you all the time, ready to embrace you, welcome you home, and hold you in his loving arms and place his hedge of protection around you. All you need to do is turn to him and he will care for you, and will supply all of your needs.

• “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

Put in terms more common today… stay calm and let God. Take a deep breath. Chill. Trust in the Lord. Stand up tall. Walk confidently ahead knowing that God is with you, always.

I call you blessed.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father thank you for your Word today. Thank you for finding me, in the middle of the mess, and answering me when I called out to you. Thank you for revealing your goodness to me. Let my life be a light in the dark, a house on the hill that glorifies you. We thank you for the confidence and strength and courage to walk through the tough times Lord. We thank you for keeping us cool in the fire. We seek you first today and each day. Thank you for all of our gifts, and for using them to bring others to know you. Continue to draw us closer to you each day. Give us rest and peace, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: 1 Peter 1-5

The post Living Stones – You Are Chosen appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Image courtesy of: Steve Aynes Images

Scripture: 
“The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” – 1 Timothy 1:5

Observation/Application: 
That being said, let us never discount the power of the mind and controlling our thoughts. It is important to train our mind and our thoughts in all things The temptations of the devil and this world are strong and unless we are aware and diligent, we will think like an untrained child. And like a child, we will be overtaken by that which is stronger.

If we are to overcome the forces of evil in this world, we cannot expect to overcome it as an untrained child. We need to train like a fighter, each and every day working on ourselves and devoting ourselves to training in righteousness and goodness, and devoting ourselves to the Lord, seeking his wisdom and direction and strength. We are to humbly submit ourselves and our lives fully to the Lord. We have to be all-in.

We can’t fake being “all-in”. Just like your friends, your spouse, and your boss knows it, so does God. Above everyone else, God knows your heart. So let us humbly and passionately seek the Lord. As we plant those seeds in our lives, we can be confident that those seeds will sprout and take root. And if we nourish these habits consistently over time, these plants will develop and strengthen like trees that do not sway to and fro. And over time, these trees will bear fruit in the Spirit which is all good things that come from God.

Just as we know the motivations of those around us, let us search out inner most self for our motivations. Why do we make the choices that we make? Why are we doing what it is that we are doing? Are we paying attention to that which God has called us? Or are we allowing this winds and storms around us blow us around like a small seedling among the rocks. Let us seek good soil which are the foundation upon which we stand in the Lord Jesus Christ. And as our plant matures in faith let us not be choked out by weeds and thorns. For a good crop will come when we our efforts are not diluted by other plants stealing our nutrients, our sunlight, and our fruit.

As we step into today, let us walk in love. Let our hearts be pure as we seek the Lord in all that we do. Let us be diligent in our efforts, and not take for granted the gifts that God has given us, that our talents will be nurtured and developed and used for the glory of God. And let us be strong as the winds and storms try to blow us over and tear out our roots. Stay firmly planted in the Lord. And at all times and in all circumstances, let us pray with a sincere faith.

I call you blessed.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word this beautiful day. For this is the day that you have made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Help us to seek you first today and every day. We open our hearts and our minds to you Lord. We thank you now that your Spirit is at work in us and that all forces of the enemy are being destroyed. for We thank you that your strength and power is flowing through our veins, and that your wisdom is flowing through our minds and removing any obstacles that we face or chains that try to bind us and hold us back. For you are a good God. And we know that all things are possible through you. And we thank you right now for the freedom, for the healing, and for the love and peace that is coming upon us. We thank you for the strength and passion that comes from you Lord that allows us to train ourselves like a fighter. Help us to not take a single day for granted. Motivate us when we are weak. Pick us up when we fall, and get us back into the game. For what you created in us is good and pure and perfect. Help us to wash clean all of the things that are not good and pure and holy. You know the desires of our hearts Lord, and we thank you for fulfilling the desires of our hearts. We give you all the honor and glory and praise, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: 1 Timothy 1-4

Image courtesy of: tswartz

The post Understanding Inner Motivations appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Scripture: 
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33 

Observation/Application: 
If we spend too much time around a skunk, we will start smelling like a skunk. We will start thinking like a skunk, behaving like a skunk, and looking like a skunk. But if we spend time with those who are more successful than us and will challenge us and help make us better, those who shine, then we soon will shine too.

Image courtesy of: Petroglyph

That is why it is so important to surround ourselves with others of faith, those who will speak life and encouragement into our lives – those who will help fill us with the Word of God.

But what happens when we are in a situation where we cannot choose those who surround us? This might happen at work where we are put into a position that is right in the middle of a hornets nest and extreme negativity. It might even happen to be extended family. Bottom line, what can we do when we are surrounded by bad company. Sure we might always have the option of leaving, but sometimes we cannot change the situation immediately. Even more, maybe God is calling us to be the one to deal with the situation. After all, God calls us to be the light in the darkness.

At these times, it is more critical than ever that we continually wash ourselves clean with the Word of God. It is so important to remember our friend the skunk and what happens when we hang out with him. We are going to stink and have to wash ourselves clean each and every day. And so it is in taking care of minds and our Spirit. We are going to have to continually wash ourselves clean with God’s Word. Let us be reminded of a wonderful scripture in Romans:

• “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2

Let us never underestimate of take for granted the power of God’s Word. Let us focus on it all the more each and every day. And when we are in the middle of the hornets nest, fallen into the pit of vipers, or surrounded by skunks, let us cling all the more to the truth and power that is in Christ Jesus. If God is for us, who can be against us? For we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

I call you blessed.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. Thank you for washing us cleaning and making us new. Thank you for transforming our mind, our thoughts, our decisions, and our actions. Clean us from the inside out. Free our minds from the bondage of sin and death. Help us to rise above our situations and to be wise when we are to leave or when we are to stay. For we know that all things are possible through you. We know that no problem is too big for our God. We seek you each and every day, and give you our hearts and our minds and our thoughts. We place our cares upon you Lord. We surrender fully to you. We thank you today for your Promises, and all that you are continuing to do on our behalf. For we know there is power and victory in your name. We know that there is peace in your name. We know that there is joy in your name. We give you all the honor and glory and praise, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: Psalm 149; 1 Corinthians 15,16

Scripture References From Today’s Reflection: 

• “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: ‘For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:31-39

The post Our Friend The Skunk appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Scripture of the Day: 
“Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives,” – Luke 21:37

Observation/Application: 
And so it is with the body of Christ. We have to recognize that no matter what church we go to, we are all members of the same body. If one church suffers, we all suffer. If one member suffers, we all suffer. How good are we at taking care of each other? How good would we be if the heart stopped beating, or if the lungs stopped processing air?

We need to constantly remind ourselves of this fact. Too often we get so focused on what our church is doing without considering how me might be impacting others. Too often we don’t really know what lies deep in the hearts of the members of our congregations.

It all comes down to connection, and appreciation for each other. It comes down to asking the question, “How Can I Serve You?”.

And this lesson does not only apply in our churches. We can apply this within our homes with our spouse. We can apply this with our kids. We can apply this within our workplaces within our team, and we have the responsibility to make sure it reaches across departments. And we can apply this within our communities as we learn how everything is connected.

Consider the role that you play in wherever you are at in life. What you do impacts those around you. Are you having a positive impact? Or are you draining the life of those around you? Are you part of the solution, or part of the body of complainers? There is no time like the present to be an active member of the body of Christ. Reach out to someone near you and see if there is anything that you can do to help them. When we serve others, as our Lord Jesus served those around him, amazing things happen. For everything that we do in service to others has positive impacts on the entire body. Everything act whether large or small makes a difference.

We all matter, and we all make a difference.

I call you blessed.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. Thank you for helping us see how we are all connected and how we all play a critical role in the body of Christ. Help us to see the unique calling that you have for us, and to move forward in that direction starting right now Lord. Give us a heart to serve others Lord. Help us to see past our silo, and past our selfishness. Create a clean heart in us Lord. Let your Word wash us clean, and make us new. Let your Holy Spirit flow in and through us Lord for the benefit of the body of Christ and for your glory. We thank you for all that you have done for us and that you continue to do on our behalf. We give you all the honor and glory and praise, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: Job 37,38; 1 Corinthians 12 

Image courtesy of: ldifranza

The post How Can I Serve You? appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Some people are deeply compelled to refrain from Halloween, while other Christians are just moderately conflicted. But most folks are simply out in their neighborhoods enjoying time with family, friends, and neighbors.

While God calls each of us to specific activities or fasting, this is an important topic that everyone should not take lightly. Let’s search our hearts and God’s Word.

Scripture of the Day: 
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

Should We Abstain From Halloween?
Most of the population has extremely limited knowledge around the origins of Halloween and other holidays and are just following social traditions. Even fewer are aware and naive to the spiritual battles that surround us each and every day, not to mention a day like Halloween.

Some Christians close their doors to Halloween because dressing up in costumes mimics pagan practices that date back thousands of years. Some even call it the “devil’s holiday”. And while we are called to “be separate and Holy” (Leviticus 20:26), does this mean that we should abstain from Halloween? Further, should we celebrate Halloween and blindly follow the traditions of this world (Mark 7:8). By no means.

Ignoring the Problem Won’t Make It Go Away
The problem with abstaining is that Halloween is not going to go away. Like cancer, the damaging effects of Halloween are only going to increase if we as Christians ignore it, or worse yet, minimize and “gloss over” the problem of the worldly traditions ruling our lives. We are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16). How are we going to let our light shine before others when our lights are off and our doors are closed to our neighbors and community?

Current Alternatives To Halloween Trick Or Treating Traditions
Many churches hold fall festivals as alternatives to Halloween traditions like trick-or-treating. And while this works for those who attend these fall festival alternatives, the majority of the population and community is not impacted. The current alternative is not really having significant kingdom impact in our communities.

Are There Hidden Dangers To Halloween?
Outside of the obvious dangers of encouraging demonic activity, there are equally serious and more hidden dangers for Christians on Halloween from those who are conflicted and speaking out against Halloween. One of the biggest hidden dangers for Christians during Halloween is that we become disconnected and we lose sight of loving our neighbors. (Mark 12:31) And a related danger is that our hearts are hardened and turned to judgement and condemnation of others. (Luke 6:37)

Ignoring Answered Prayers
So many Christians pray asking for God to use them. Then, Halloween comes around and hundreds of people come to our doors who we can minster to, and we turn off our lights and abstain from Halloween. We abstain from the very opportunity to connect with hundreds of people who are coming to our front doors in a single night. How many other nights provide us this same opportunity? Even more, many of those coming to our doorstep are the very people who desperately need God’s Word.

What Would Jesus Do?
In consideration of what to do this Halloween, let’s look at the life of Jesus and consider what he did. Jesus went out into the world and shared God’s Word and the good news at every opportunity. He spent time with tax collectors and sinners. He knew that “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” (Luke 5:31)

God’s Word And Our Declaration
This Halloween, let us stand on God’s Word and declare that:

• What the enemy intended for harm, God is going to use it for good, and for the glory of God (Genesis 50:20)
• Each one of us can have an impact in our neighborhoods and communities by sharing the joy and love of Jesus Christ (Galatians 5:22)
• God is looking for everyday Christians who will take a small step of obedience toward the great commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and in sharing the gospel (Mark 16:15)
• God is looking for everyday Christians willing to honor and glorify His name this Halloween (Psalm 96:3)

Matthew 9:37 says, “The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.”

So what can an everyday Christian like myself do?

Sowing Seed of Faith – A Platform For Sharing God’s Word
My prayer for you this Halloween is that you see the opportunity to use this day as a mission and platform for sharing the Word of God. My challenge for you is that you take action this year and join us in the “Handing Out Scripture Challenge”

Handing Out Candy Bag Scriptures
We made up some great scriptures that you can download and print out for free, and hand these out to people who come knocking at your door this Halloween. We do this for every bag of candy that we hand out. It is super easy, welcoming, and fun. Yet it is so powerful. And it is something that every single Christian can prepare in around 30 minutes.

Here’s How Easy It Is: Halloween Candy Bag Scripture Toppers Free Download and Instructions

Kingdom Impact
How many people are going to knock on our front door this Halloween who are lost, depressed, lonely, or otherwise hurting and needing the touch of God? How many scripture seeds can we plant this Halloween that can begin to take root in our neighborhoods and communities?

Saving Lives – Now Is The Time
The end of the calendar year tends to have abnormally traditionally high suicide rates. How many seeds planted could save a life of a child or parent in your community?

And what better seed to sow this Halloween than God’s Word?

Every Word of God matters

Download and hand these scriptures out today

I call you blessed.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. We seek your presence in everything that we do. We want nothing more than to know you, and to walk in your divine purpose, in your divine authority, and in your love. Fill us with all of your Holy Spirit Lord, and all of your goodness. Wash us clean. Make us new. Let your light shine in us so that others will know of your goodness. We thank you Lord that the seeds that we plant today will take root and multiply 100 fold. We thank you for blessing and purpose and your divine intervention. We take authority over the evil forces of this world by the blood of Jesus. We give you all the honor and glory and praise today and forever, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: Job 22; Mark 7,8

Additional Scripture References:

• “What agreement can exist between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.’ ‘Therefore come out from among them and be separate’, says the Lord. ‘Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.'” – 2 Corinthians 6:16-17
• “You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.” – Mark 7:8
• “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,” – Galatians 5:22
• In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:13-16
• “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” – Mark 12:30-31
• “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
• “And he said to them, ‘Go into the world and preach the gospel to every creature.'” – Mark 16:15 
• “Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples” – Psalm 96:3
• “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
• “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
• “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” – Genesis 50:20
• Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. – Proverbs 30:5

The post The Everyday Christian’s Practical Guide To Halloween appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Step 1: Download file and print out scriptures here:
Halloween Candy Bag Scripture Toppers Free Download

Step 2: Cut out along outer edge using guidelines for reference (each page has two scriptures/toppers)

Step 3: Fold in half and staple to the treat bag

Pictured Below: Beautiful scripture verse and candy bag final product

God’s Word And Our Declaration
This Halloween, let us stand on God’s Word and declare that:

• What the enemy intended for harm, God is going to use it for good, and for the glory of God (Genesis 50:20)
• Each one of us can have an impact in our neighborhoods and communities by sharing the joy and love of Jesus Christ (Galatians 5:22)
• God is looking for everyday Christians who will take a small step of obedience toward the great commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and in sharing the gospel (Mark 16:15)
• God is looking for everyday Christians willing to honor and glorify His name this Halloween (Psalm 96:3)

Matthew 9:37 says, “The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.” So what can an everyday Christian like myself do?

Sowing Seed of Faith – A Platform For Sharing God’s Word
My prayer for you this Halloween is that you see the opportunity to use this day as a mission and platform for sharing the Word of God. My challenge for you is that you take action this year and join us in the “Handing Out Scripture Challenge”

Handing Out Candy Bag Scriptures
We made up some great scriptures that you can download and print out for free, and hand these out to people who come knocking at your door this Halloween. We do this for every bag of candy that we hand out. It is super easy, welcoming, and fun. Yet it is so powerful. And it is something that every single Christian can prepare in around 30 minutes.

Kingdom Impact
How many people are going to knock on our front door this Halloween who are lost, depressed, lonely, or otherwise hurting and needing the touch of God? How many scripture seeds can we plant this Halloween that can begin to take root in our neighborhoods and communities?

Saving Lives – Now Is The Time
The next few months between now and the end of the year have traditionally high suicide rates. How many seeds planted could save a life of a child or parent in your community?

And what better seed to sow this Halloween than God’s Word?

I call you blessed

The post Halloween Candy Bag Scripture Toppers Free Download and Instructions appeared first on Baptized and Alive.

Image courtesy of: venspired

Scripture of the Day: 
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.” – Acts 10:44

Observation/Application: 
Acts chapter 10 and 11 makes it crystal clear that God accepts all who come to him. That means that no matter what you have done in the past, and no matter what it is that you are doing right now that you think is unforgivable, God still loves you and welcomes you into his love and care. Like the prodigal son who left home only to return home broke and broken, God will welcome you home in his loving arms and celebrate your return.

God desires your heart. God desires your love. God desires you. Come home to him today. Seek the Lord in all that you do. Seek him with all your heart, and you will find him. Don’t expect to find the Lord if you are lukewarm. God wants all of you. Surrender your pride, surrender your fear, surrender your weakness, surrender what you think is your strength. For true strength, love, and power comes through the Lord. For God is love. God is strength. God is power. God is mercy. God is hope. God is everything good.

I call you blessed.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. Thank you for the peace and understanding that only comes through you. Thank you for the love and joy that only comes through you. We surrender our hearts today to you Lord. We earnestly seek you first each day. We seek your presence in everything that we do. We want nothing more than to know you, and to walk in your divine purpose, in your divine authority, and in your love. Fill us with all of your Holy Spirit Lord, and all of your goodness. Wash us clean. Make us new. We surrender fully to you. And we give you all the honor and glory and praise today and forever, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Today’s full reading: Job 5; Psalm 108; Acts 10,11

Additional Scripture References:
“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.'” – Acts 10:35

“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” – 1 John 4:8

“For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power.” 1 Corinthians 4:20

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self – discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:13

But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.” – Deuteronomy 4:29

“I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.” – Proverbs 8:17

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7

“So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Luke 11:9

“I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm— neither hot nor cold— I am about to vomit you out of My mouth! You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked” – Revelations 3:15-17

“I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” – Luke 15:18-24

The post God’s Gift of Grace Is For Everyone appeared first on Baptized and Alive.