Monthly Archives: October 2018

Surrendering the Next Shopping Spree!

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“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6)

As I prepare my heart and mind for the upcoming Holiday season, I want to drink more of your living water, be refreshed and be led by the Holy Spirit (John 4:10).

In today’s world, I am easily distracted by online shopping!

“Lord, I have been thoughtless once again over financial decisions. Please forgive me” 

You then gently whispered, “I have the right to do anything,” you say —- but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything —but not everything is constructive.” 1 Corinthians 10:23

When I glance at my smartphone, I view all sorts of time-sensitive bundles and discounts. I even receive text messages on upcoming deals and exclusives from my favorite shops.

In less than a minute, I am able to select a vibrant color and/or suitable size on a clothing item or a trendy font for a monogrammed tote. By just clicking ‘send to cart’, the item can be fully paid for and be delivered in a matter of days. The free shipping alleviates the buyer’s remorse. The expedited delivery excites me to no end!

Yes, I’ve been careless with money, have recently disregarded the home budget and overlooked future, critical expenses! There is nothing I can hide from you. The struggle is real, Lord. I need the Holy Spirit to intercede on my behalf.

704D80FF-77B9-402D-8627-5360E1EE2B62Photo courtesy: Rawpixel @ Splasher.

I want to be mindful of how I spend every dollar I earn. I need more of you, Jesus, and less from today’s cyber world.

I am surrendering my heart this morning for the first time after wrestling with shopping urges for decades.

Change the desires of my heart, and teach me valuable lessons along the way. I want to be more mindful of sound financial decisions. I don’t want to incur debt. Decrease my worldly desires one day at a time!

I am ready to surrender shopping sprees. I’ve realized I am powerless over frivolous spending. I am saying “YES” to a monthly budget.

I want to think clearly and objectively before every purchase. Do I truly need the item?  Or can I wait for another month?

Help me make wiser choices during the upcoming Holiday season.

Thanks for steady employment, financial stability and a fulfilling career.

I believe in the power of Christ so transform my finances one day at a time.

In Jesus’ name, I pray Amen.

Not today, Satan!

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“Here’s my life motto, the truth I live by I will guard my ways for all my days. I will speak only what is right, guarding what I speak. Like a watchman guards against an attack of the enemy, I’ll guard and muzzle my mouth when the wicked are around me. I will remain silent and will not grumble or speak out of my disappointment… !” Psalms 39:1-2 TPT

Lord,

I am disturbed at times when I encounter mean-spirited people in the community.

Help me overlook people’s evil intentions and immediately forgive them. Give me the inner strength and a pure heart to pray for the renewal of their minds, and for their hearts to be softened and souls to be refreshed!

I cannot change their hidden agendas or actions but I definitely can change my reaction.  Lord, help me think of what’s noble, trustworthy, admirable and sing praises to you all day long.

I will stand firmly on your Truth and boldly cry out “NOT today, Satan!”

The Truth reminds me… “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12 NIV 

I know the spiritual warfare is real and it’s an on-going struggle. I know this well!

Help me withstand both non-verbal and verbal darts when these are heading my way…

The enemy likes to distract us away from His Kingdom work. The enemy is sure crafty and subtle yet destructive.

I still don’t like when others highlight one’s character flaws…when the wicked humiliate others in front of an audience, valuable time is wasted. The truth reminds me how fearfully and wonderfully we are all made (Psalm 139:14).

“Not today, Satan!”

Last Friday, I witnessed someone rolled her eyes when she heard my name for the presentation! Thank you for supplying the strength and the ability to move forward with a successful team presentation. You are always my strength and defense (Exodus 15:2).

“Not today, Satan!”

Yesterday, I heard others laugh when I incorrectly misused a legal term! The enemy uses mockery as a distracting strategy. Thank you for allowing me to successfully complete the task at hand and did not stumble thru the decision-making process. You kept me safe (Psalm 140:4).

“Not today, Satan!”

Jesus was the most influential, servant leader yet he was ridiculed, mocked, tortured and eventually crucified by His enemies. I may very well be scrutinized, mocked and even tortured in the midst of controversial, heated discussion and tough decision-making proceedings, but I will have victory in Christ today and always (Psalm 20:6).

At the end of the decision-making process, help me remain objective and professional in order to render the best decision on the best interest of a child.

Forgive me if I have an ounce or two of unforgiveness or bitterness in my heart this morning.

Help me grow to be an influential servant leader so I may serve children and their families for years to come regardless of the enemy’s creative diversion.

In Christ’s strength, I will lead courageously.

So, “I am saying YES. YES. YES to Jesus.”

In the name of Jesus, I pray.

Amen

Photo courtesy: Jennifer Marvin @ Splasher

God of Second Chances!

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Father,

Thank you for being unwavering in a world that is constantly changing and evolving.

You are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8).

You have yet to disappoint me, Lord!

Please forgive all of my unrealistic expectations and insane demands.

You are the Greatest Teacher whose patience never runs out.

No matter how stubborn I have been in the past…you have nudged me in the best direction and waited fervently for me to grasp a lesson or two along the way.

“For the Scriptures encourage us with these words: “Everyone who believes in him will never be disappointed.””
‭‭Romans‬ ‭10:11‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Photo Courtesy: Jordi at Splasher.

When I left home at a young age, you softened my dad’s heart so he would welcome me back  home with open arms. I now cherish unforgettable moments with my dysfunctional  family, the hidden treasures in family traditions and most importantly their  unconditional love!

When I was lost in the wilderness, you adored me and never gave up. I bet you were thrilled when I acknowledged your ways and surrendered my heart. I now value the narrow road filled with inner Joy and Hope!

When I was in imminent threat, you protected me from a head-on collision, and allowed me to walk away without physical injuries… just minor collateral damage! I am now confident of your generous love and protection.

When I left my home town, you opened up new horizons and helped me settle in a foreign country far away from family and friends. I am now much closer to you than ever. Our intimate relationship will be nourished for years to come.

When I left the last employer, you reserved the career opportunity so I may be rehired in less than two months. I now appreciate all the hidden blessings in the midst of chaos, challenges and confusion!

https://youtu.be/6iK-Nq9tla

Help me be still so I may listen to your soft whispers filled with wisdom today and always.

You are my God of ‘second chances.’

in Jesus’ name I praise and I’m forever grateful,

Amen