Joyce

No Gender Restrictions

They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included. Also, Jesus’ mother, Mary, and his brothers. Acts 1:14 Luke doesn’t miss a beat in his detailed account of Jesus’ life to Theophilus. He is trying to convince him that Jesus was not only the Son of God, but thatContinue reading “No Gender Restrictions”

No Hidden Agendas

…..we and the Message are free of error, mixed motives, or hidden agendas. We never used words to butter you up. No one knows that better than you. And God knows we never used words as a smoke screen to take advantage of you. I Thessalonians 2:5 The Message Apparently Paul took heed to Jesus wordsContinue reading “No Hidden Agendas”

Our God Solves Mysteries

When Daniel finished, King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face in awe before Daniel. He ordered the offering of sacrifices and burning of incense in Daniel’s honor. He said to Daniel, “Your God is beyond question the God of all gods, the Master of all kings. And he solves all mysteries, I know, because you’ve solvedContinue reading “Our God Solves Mysteries”

You Are the Message

The news of your faith in God is out. We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message! 1 Thessalonians 1:7 Paul was bragging about the Thessalonians converts who had accepted the Word and stood firm in their faith. The world around them could see the change and news spread of their radiant faith. Those words,Continue reading “You Are the Message”

Uncontaminated Love

The whole point of what we’re urging is simply love—love uncontaminated by self-interest and counterfeit faith, a life open to God. 1 Timothy 1:5 Paul continues to urge his followers to follow Jesus with uncontaminated love. Paul, who was so full of hatred before he met Jesus, is now stuck on the theme of love. LoveContinue reading “Uncontaminated Love”

Commitment-Contentment-Courage

Deuteronomy 6:6 -And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. (NLT) Philippians 4:11 – for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. (NIV)Joshua 1:9 -This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”Continue reading “Commitment-Contentment-Courage”

Do Not Be Intimidated

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 This theme runs throughout the book of Joshua and these verses are some of the most encouraging in scripture. obey Me and be strong. I will never abandonContinue reading “Do Not Be Intimidated”

Forget and Anticipate

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past See, I am doing a new thing!…Isa 43:18 Thank You for this passage, Lord. Oh, how I want to forget all the things that have affected me negatively in my past. All those things that have created insecurity, unfounded fears, poor self-image, distrust and unworthiness. I am so gladContinue reading “Forget and Anticipate”

Merry Thanksmas

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 Today is a day of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Today as we take down the tree and put away the Christmas ornaments and nativities, I will be shedding tears of joy, not only forContinue reading “Merry Thanksmas”

Baptism of the Spirit

16-17 The moment Jesus came up out of the baptismal waters, the skies opened up and he saw God’s Spirit—it looked like a dove—descending and landing on him. And along with the Spirit, a voice: “This is my Son, chosen and marked by my love, delight of my life.” Matthew 3:17-18 Jesus needed John to baptizeContinue reading “Baptism of the Spirit”