The Daily Blueprint ~ Thursday ~ 9/4/08

The Word:

Meaning In Life: the study of Ecclesiastes
part 3

Ecclesiastes 1:9-10
The thing that has been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is nothing new under the sun. Is there anything that there is that it may be said, See, this is new? it has been already of old time, which was before us.

The world of Fashion is one place where you can see there is nothing new under the sun - if you don't like the current styles -wait a little while and what was once old will come back as new again - from Bell Bottom Jeans to mini skirts - to faux mink coats - its all been done before - retro is the key word these days - there are several cars now that have a retro look from the Vw Beetle to the new Mustang and new Camaro - as well as the new Dodge Challenger - these looks have been around before -just look at the latest movies -most a remakes of what came before -in these examples even things that seem new - are not really new - and the trial you may be going through now is nothing new to humanity - the Word says that God makes all things new - when He saves us - we become New Creations - so there is something new in the world if you are His! Politics -racism - hate has been around forever - at least as long as human beings have been around - again in God says that HE will do a new thing - He will put HIS Spirit in the saved the redeemed! HE will take something old as rags and make it brand new -in this world there really is nothing new under the sun - when we leave this place one day - the struggle will continue - we need to look to God to have newness in our lives- nothing on Earth will last - it won't stay so called new for long - but if you want something new -ask GOD for a new heart! HE will give you one - all you must do is ask and trust HIM as your LORD and SAVIOR! amen!

The Final Word:
Nothing here will last forever - It was meant to - but then the fall took all that away - JESUS thankfully has given us HIS blood to bring us into HIS Kingdom! PRAISE BE TO GOD!
CHRIST will take an old heart of sin and make it brand new!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 9/4/08-
WHAT YOU DEAL WITH IS NOTHING NEW

The Daily Blueprint ~ Wednesday ~ 9/3/08

The Word:

Meaning In Life: the study of Ecclesiastes
part 2

Ecclesiastes 1:8
All things are full of labor; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing...

Let me ask everyone a question - are you satisfied with your life? Are you full of the joy of the Lord or has the enemy come in and stolen the joy of your salvation - the Word of God says that all things done for our own glory is vain - worthless -like chasing after the wind - if our focus is ourselves and not God - we will not be able to walk the walk in Christ - we must be willing to lay down our lives for the cause of Christ -this will bring meaning to your life - but it must come out of a relationship with Christ- we must have that figured out before we can help anyone else- we must live the gospel before we can preach it - and our lives will be the loudest witness either for Jesus or against Him - many out in the world are chasing after the fleeting things - not those which last - many of us without knowing -are following our way instead of God's way - its easy to do - especially in this day and age where relativity is now the accepted belief system - the truth is you will never find true and lasting joy apart from Jesus Christ - you can look many places and do many things -but they will all leave you empty and never satisfied -we must drink of the Living Water - to be filled and never thirst again -
What does you life mean? Where do you get your meaning from? Who are you trying to please? If the answer to these questions is anything other then Jesus - then its time to take a good look at your life and see why you do what you - God wants to use you today - trust in the LORD and lean on HIS understanding and not your own - HE is mighty to save! Amen!

The Final Word:
When you leave this world -what will you leave behind?
This life is not ours to live - but it belongs to CHRIST who bought us at a very high price -His very life!
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CHRIST brings us true and lasting joy that lasts forever!
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- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 9/3/08-
RESTORE TO US THE JOY OF OUR SALVATION, LORD!

The Daily Blueprint ~ Tuesday ~ 9/2/08

The Word:

Meaning In Life: the study of Ecclesiastes
part 1

Ecclesiastes 1:3-4
What does it profit a man of all of his labor which he takes under the sun? One generation passes away, and another generation comes: but the earth abides forever.

Today I begin a new series - I will do this series every other week - on the weeks I don't do this - I will just do open word - I will just do various devotionals on various topics - another words go where the LORD leads me-
This current series will ask and attempt to answer the age old question -what are we here for....and now without further adieu - here it is........

This world in which we live in is full of questions - one of the most popular is the meaning of life - some feel its getting all you can now - and worry about the consequences later - another school of thought is to get as much education as you can and get that all elusive high paying and high pressure job - still others feel that its showing their worldly power through politics or still others the meaning of life is just pleasure for themselves at any cost - all this is just toil under the sun says the author of Ecclesiates. We can do many things to find meaning in our lives - but in the end -what is left behind - if we are not spreading the gospel to the lost and dying world around us -our mission here is not complete - Jesus came and died for us - He took our sins away the effects are now gone from a spiritual standpoint, there are still consequences for our actions though. All we have and all we all belongs to God - He made us - He saved us and He wants a relationship with us! The meaning of life should be bringing glory to God our Father! We must be about our Father's business - we need to be willing to train up the next generation -we must be willing to plug into Christ so that through us the world will see HIM! What does it profit to gain the whole world but lose our soul? This is a great question -think about this today! Life does not have to meaningless - Christ is our meaning!

The Final Word:
If you are not living for CHRIST - then you really are not living!

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CHRIST came to bring us life - abundant life at that!

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- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 9/2/08-
CHRIST GAVE HIS LIFE - WHAT HAVE YOU GIVEN?

The Daily Blueprint /Sunday/ 8-31-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 20 - Final

Isaiah 1:17
Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, please the case of the widow.

Today I will rap up this series on the poor - its been a blessing to do - its stepped on my toes several times- I was just praying for God to show me how to be more like Him - when we are not faithful HE remains faithful - when we blow it - He is still there to pick us up from the dirt - maybe these words will help you today to realize that God never wants us to be bogged down in the failures of the past - the past is gone - so if you have not helped the poor - today is a new day - you can begin today - God is really moving in my heart for the poor these days - but as ive said before - its not the physically poor that need our help - it may be those who are well feed - maybe those who seem to have it all - and yet struggle - those who have a Dad but they have little to do with them - the child who is always made fun of because he is different -those are poor - those are those in need- the widowed - how hard must it be for those who have lost their mate through death - or those who have lost a loved one to drugs or alcohol - maybe you know someone who has gone through the death of a child or a loved one - maybe someone who has gone through a divorce -those God has called us to help as well - so whatever you do - ask God -whatever you do - remember you are doing for HIS glory for the audience of One - not for others and not to earn your way - that's already been paid for - how it must hurt God to say we must earn what His Son already paid for - and once He redeems you - there is no fear of losing your relationship with Him -some feel its based on the deeds you do, not what JESUS did - HE PAID IT ALL!

I hope you have enjoyed this series - Id love some feedback -so drop me a line - Please I plead with you all to do something for someone else - get your focus off yourself and seek hard after God - there are many in need around you today - be JESUS to them!

The Final Word:
HELP YOUR FELLOW MAN FOR GOD'S GLORY!
CHRIST shows us what it means to have compassion!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/31/08-
IS GOD CALLING YOU TO HELP TODAY?

THE DAILY BLUEPRINT FOR 8-30-08

SPECIAL EDITION - THE POOR - THEIR NEEDS - OUR RESPONCE-
-------Day 19-------

James 2:15-16
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes, and daily food. If one of you say to them, "Go I wish you well: keep warm and well fed." but does nothing about his phyical needs, what good is it?

Today's verse does not leave any room for walking away from a brother or sister in need - to me this is all about those of the Church -those who know Christ and have needs -we as a part of the body should supply for the needs of others -this is one purpose of some mission trips - the one I took this past June showed me what it means to help other brother and sisters in need -and while we don't speak the same earthly language - we have more in common then we think - when someone is in need - James says we should help them - nice talk or saying you will pray for them is not enough - we need to met their need the best way we can - the whole point of this series is to remind everyone that there are many in need around us each day that need to see God in us - we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus - why do we do good things? What's the reason for what we do? Its the hope of Jesus - It not about gaining or earning salvation instead its about worship of our Lord -when we begin to do things not because we have too but because we want too - that's a change that God can cause to happen in your heart - when you begin to help those in need - you will find it becomes adictive - but its a good adiction!
Lets not leave those in need behind while we do what we can to met our needs and those of our familes - God has called us to lend a hand to those in need - lets obey HIM! If you see a need - seek God and see what He wants you to do - then do it! Amen! Lets remember HE is the LORD and we are HIS servants! yeah!
one final word:
We can be the warmth or fullness of Jesus to someone - lets be His hands and feet!
Daily Blueprint 8-30-08
Let God have your eyes so you can see the needs around you -
Brandon Heath sings about this is his song - Give Me Your Eyes!

The Daily Blueprint /Thursday/ 8-28-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 18

1st John 3:17-18
If anyone has material possessions and he sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear Children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth!

If you have clothes on your back and change some place at home - you are richer then most people of this world - go a little further and if you own a house -rent an apartment and drive a car - you are among the top 10% of the world's riches - the fact is here in America must of us don't know what it is really like to go hungry - I had a time in my life though brief where I didn't know where my next meal would come from -this taught me to never take for granted eating again - with this came my need to eat quickly -I am still a very fast eater - just a habit now - but I am well feed -well clothed and though my truck is 10 years old - it still runs good with a little TLC-
We in American have it good - most of us sadly don't realize how good we have it - I know once a day I see someone on the street in need of money - some of these people really need the money for food - but others use it for bad things - but when we give - we have to give as Jesus would give -today's verse says that if we ignore the needs of the poor - how can the love of God be in us - as Ive been saying faith is an action word -its James that says faith without works is dead - its not that these works we have been called to do bring us glory or open heaven to us - but we do it out of a pure heart that wants to worship and obey the call of God - the truth is its not just about money -there are those around us who are poor in other ways - maybe they don't have a father who shows them any affection - you can be a part time dad for whatever time God allows - maybe someone is hurting deeply but you don't know what to do - just trust God and love them the best way you can-
believe me the rewards far exceed the sacrifice! We cannot ignore the poor and expect the need to be met - we have been given so much -
lets use it all for God's glory - lets help the poor among us - lets not turn away from the needs around us - as Phil Collins sang in the late 1980's - its just another day in paradise for us - but the world around us has needs we are called to help meet!

The Final Word:
The poor need you and me - God is calling us to help - lend a hand where you can - it only takes a willing heart - and an open hand!
CHRIST loves us all - no matter what!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/28/08-
Serve Jesus by serving the poor!

The Daily Blueprint /Wednesday/ 8-27-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 17

Psalm 41:1
Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble!

The LORD is on the lookout for those who will regard the weak and poor - those who are willing to sacrifice from their plenty to help give to those with less - its our mission as Christ followers to show His love at all times -there is never a time we can take the day off from being a Christ follower - to be sure there are times when we just don't feel like doing what God has called us to do - I believe that its sin if we allow that to prevent us from doing the work He has called us to do - if we would regard the poor - the weak - then God promises to take care of us - not that this means we won't struggle -there are days when a look into my bank account shows lack of funds - but its ok - God owns the cattle on a thousand hills and more - He owns it all - its all on loan to us - when we leave this place we have to give it back - I admit ive been consumed by possessions - if any of you have bought a new house -you now how hard it is not to think its more then it is - after signing your life away - you walk in and enjoy the fresh and new surroundings - only years later you see the ware and tear - we all spend a great deal of time caring for our homes- not that there is anything wrong with that - but if we are not careful - it takes too much of our focus - we begin to feel this ours or we earned it -but the truth is it all belongs to God -and greater still are those HE created that have real needs that are life or death - there are many hurting around us - many with a need of a simple smile or hug - if we look we will see the poor that are in need and we would give ourselves away for them - the purpose of this series is not only to tell you what's out there but to get out and help - faith is an action word! We are to be God's hands and feet -let's walk HIS way today!

The Final Word:
God gave us plenty so we can share it with others!
CHRIST is our abundance - our sustenance!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/27/08-
We often forget Phillipians 4:19 - we forget we can do ALL things through CHRIST who give us strength!

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The Daily Blueprint /Monday/ 8-25-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 16

Psalm 140:12
I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy!

Jesus Christ cares for the poor - He cares for those caught in sin - drug abuse, HE cares for those that no one else cares for - and as His children we are called to do the same - we are to love others - not judge them -we are to reach out to those with less and give them out of our excess - we all have too much while others around us don't have enough -It pleases God when we help those in need- and in essence we are helping Him - God cares - that's the truth - many wonder where He is if He cares - that question was answered over 2,000 years ago when God sent His Son to die for our sin - when He suffered for sins He never committed - the Word of God says that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself - Jesus came on a rescue mission to save the spiritually poor - in the same we are called to help those with physical - emotional and mental needs - God will give us the power by which to do these things - if we try on our own - it won't work out the best way - God cares -that's today's message- He has not left us alone - He is not far away - He is right here with you today - He loves you with a love that never ends - He loves you and those around you - He looks at all of us the same - Is there anyone you know who needs help today - maybe just a smile or a kind word - it really does not take much - we have the greatest example of helping the poor in Christ and what He did - we are to do the same things!

The Final Word:
The facts are God sees the needs of this world - and He has sent us into the fields to do HIS work-what greater call is there on our lives then to serve the Most High God? What more can we ever hope to do with our lives then reach out to others in HIS name!?! Lets remember He is the master and we are His servants! Not the other way around!
CHRIST Fills the needs of those in need!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/25/08-
BE LIKE CHRIST, JUST DO IT

THE DAILY BLUEPRINT FOR 8-23-08

SPECIAL EDITION - THE POOR - THEIR NEEDS - OUR RESPONCE-
-------Day 15-------

PSALM 82:3-4
Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed . Rescue the weak and needy.....

Do you feel the call of God on your life to help the needy and the poor? Has God placed in your heart the drive to help those with real needs today? Or have you contiuned on not caring about those around you who have needs - many times we get so busy with our problems and our lives that we forget to help those we come across - to be sure we cannot help everyone - but we can help someone - when God gets a hold of your heart - you will naturally care for the poor and needy around you - they have needs that God has called on us to met - its not always easy to help someone in need but when you do you will be honoring God! God calls us to defend the rights of the poor and the oppress - we are to stand up for those who are unable to stand on their own -we are to be advocates for the poor - we are to bring Jesus to them in a real way - not with words or pamlphets -not that there is anything wrong with either of those -but we need to show them through our actions! There are examples in the Word that show us we should care for the poor - we should do more then to say we are praying for them -we are called upon to met their needs - the truth is we cannot do this apart from our Savior - and God didn't make us that way - He wants us to depend on Him and Him alone - not on our talents or what's in our wallets - we must be willing to go that extra mile for the needy and poor around us -we must show them Jesus! We are to do more then just know Jesus - we must live like He would live - allowing HIM to live through us!

one final word:
We accomplish more by doing then by saying!

Daily Blueprint 8-23-08
God wants us to be HIS hands and feet- you may be the only view of Jesus the poor will see!

THE DAILY BLUEPRINT FOR 8-23-08

SPECIAL EDITION - THE POOR - THEIR NEEDS - OUR RESPONCE-
-------Day 15-------

PSALM 82:3-4
Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed . Rescue the weak and needy.....

Do you feel the call of God on your life to help the needy and the poor? Has God placed in your heart the drive to help those with real needs today? Or have you contiuned on not caring about those around you who have needs - many times we get so busy with our problems and our lives that we forget to help those we come across - to be sure we cannot help everyone - but we can help someone - when God gets a hold of your heart - you will naturally care for the poor and needy around you - they have needs that God has called on us to met - its not always easy to help someone in need but when you do you will be honoring God! God calls us to defend the rights of the poor and the oppress - we are to stand up for those who are unable to stand on their own -we are to be advocates for the poor - we are to bring Jesus to them in a real way - not with words or pamlphets -not that there is anything wrong with either of those -but we need to show them through our actions! There are examples in the Word that show us we should care for the poor - we should do more then to say we are praying for them -we are called upon to met their needs - the truth is we cannot do this apart from our Savior - and God didn't make us that way - He wants us to depend on Him and Him alone - not on our talents or what's in our wallets - we must be willing to go that extra mile for the needy and poor around us -we must show them Jesus! We are to do more then just know Jesus - we must live like He would live - allowing HIM to live through us!

one final word:
We accomplish more by doing then by saying!

Daily Blueprint 8-23-08
God wants us to be HIS hands and feet- you may be the only view of Jesus the poor will see!

The Daily Blueprint /Thursday/ 8-21-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 14

1st Corinthians 13:3
If I give all I have to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing!

We can do many good things with our lives - We can serve the poor - we can help those with needs we see each day we live. We can offer to sacrifice ourselves for the needs of those around us - but without love - its all in vain - we need to be sure we do what we do for the right reasons - if we do what we do to earn God's favor - we have missed the whole reason we should do what we do - its about bringing God glory - you see we are His representatives to the world around us - what the world needs is love - love is what God calls us to do with those we come in contact with - we should be about the Father's business of loving others - after all God loves us and the people He has called on us to help- God could met the needs of everyone - but He has chosen to use us - what a privilege to be used by God to do His work - the poor need help- many are desperate - many have not eaten anything in quite some time and its difficult to met the needs - but with Love from God - we can do all things - Christ gives us the strength to do the work He has called us to do - we must be all about love- for its through the Love GOD has shown us through His Son that make it possible for us to love others. God has a mission for each of us - we need to seek His face and do as He says - and always be motivated by Love and that alone -not personal gain or so we can feel better about ourselves -its so we can actively worship God with not only our mouths but our whole selves! Amen!

The Final Word:
Many people do good things so they can feel good -
we should do good things because we love GOD!

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CHRIST shows us what real live compassion is!

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- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/21/08
To have compassion on others -we must be willing to share in their pain and suffering -

The Daily Blueprint /Wednesday/ 8-20-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 13

Luke 14:13
...But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind...

Our attitude towards the poor should be the same as Jesus' , we must be willing to love the unlovable - the marginalized - those without possessions - those with needs -the need is overwhelming - but God is faithful and He has called many to help in this cause -its not just one part of the Body of Christ though that should be helping the poor -we all should - its not the easiest job - but it's rewards are very great! Just to be used by God to change even one life can be life changing for those He has called - helping the poor is not about what we can do for them - but what God can do through us to help them - its not on our shoulders -its on the mighty shoulders of Almighty God! He will show you if you ask Him - there are needs that present themselves everyday - I love today's verse- because when I think of a party - I want to invite my best friends -I want to invite my family - but when it comes to the homeless and poor I am not so sure in my flesh I would invite them - but Jesus says we should - We should not be a respecter of persons since God is not - He loves us all the same and we all must come to Him the same way - through the blood of Jesus - God has given us all we have - we have not "earned" a thing - its all given - we have nothing that we got without God's help - the poor need you today - their problems and needs won't go away overnight - still God has a special plan for each of us - we all have a purpose - sometimes we just don't know where to begin - I believe we should invite those who have needs into our lives - just like Jesus says to invite them to a banquet - allow God to use to you feed their needs - and by doing so you will receive so much more - its not about doing good works so good things happen to us - its about honoring God - so when you have a party -why not invite those you didn't plan on - so that you can minister to them -believe me this is a hard call - its not easy - but Jesus never said it would be!

The Final Word:
We should be imitators of Jesus - we should be doing what He does!
CHRIST loves all!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/20/08
There is no job to big when you allow GOD to do it in you!

The Daily Blueprint /Tueday/ 8-19-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 12

Micah 6:8
He has showed you, oh man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God!

The word in today's verse I want to focus on is Mercy - God says we are to love Mercy - for in one sense - Mercy has been given to all of us in the blood of Jesus - We are not getting what we do deserve and God is withholding the penalty of our sin so long as we put our trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness of our sin - sin is the reason for death -sin is the reason for so many broken and unhappy lives in the world today - sin is the reason for all bad in this world- God could end this world at any time - He could and would be righteous to do so - we don't deserve His mercy at all -we deserve hell - sometimes people want to soften those words - but I feel we have to tell the truth - hell is real - and if you don't know Christ your sins won't be forgiven and that's bad - loving Mercy is part of what our new make up should be - we should be merciful to others -its very hard with our human nature - this also relates to the poor around us - to be sure many of them got to the place they are because of many wrong choices - but some due to mental illness or something that we not the fault - the fact are we live in a fallen world and sin runs rampant in this place. The poor will always be with us so long as the world is here - the poor have desperate needs - and God has called on us to met those needs -the task at hand is large - and we must go to God with our requests - and to see just who we should help, God loves those who are poor - just as much as HE loves those that are rich - in the scheme of things poverty is not a lack of money - but a lack of opportunity -
there are those walking the streets tonight that used to have a successful marriage - or job - but now have lost it all -let's bring them Jesus so that they too can share in the hope that we have!

The Final Word:
Our lives should be all about love!
CHRIST showed us love by dying on the cross....
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/19/08
ONLY GOD IS LOVE!

The Daily Blueprint /Monday/ 8-18-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 11

Jeremiah 22:16
He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know Me? declares the Lord

If we know Jesus then our lives ought to reflect what we are inside - there are times however when who we are gets lost in the day to day trials of life - we tend to lose focus and if we are not careful we can fall prey to negativity that does nothing more then drain the power of Jesus in our lives - we can say all day we know Him but if our lives are no different and He cannot be seen in our lives- we may want to sit down and pray and seek His face to be sure we really do belong to Him - I am in no way saying for you to question your salvation but to just reflect to see if you are allowing Jesus Christ to live in you and through you - when we come to know Him - He takes up residence in our hearts -now you can still go your own way but there will be no joy in that - today's verse talks about the fact that our Savior met the needs of the poor around Him - He loved them and spent a great deal of time on earth with them - He often said that those who are sick have need a a doctor - but those that are well don't - He loves everyone for He made them all - We too must follow the lead of Jesus - We must be willing to love those that we simply don't like -we must be about love - love for our fellowman and above all love for our Lord - Do as Jesus commands you - not what a man says for you to do - there is no power in doing what man says - but all power in doing just as Christ did - are there poor and needy people that you know that need some help? Ask Jesus where He wants you to work and then work - its that simple - lets make sure we know Christ before we lead others to Him - for without His Spirit -we cannot do a single thing!

The Final Word:
I am often perplexed when met with a need - I often see people broken down on the side of the road - this seems to be common no matter what part of the US you live in - many times I have stopped - but other times I have not - when these present themselves - we must be willing to do what the Lord tell us to do - this requires us to actually carry on a conversation with Him - He will never lead you wrong! Trust in HIM above all!
CHRIST came to save the lost - to heal the sick - and help the poor!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/18/08
You can make a difference in someone's life today!

The Daily Blueprint /Thursday/ 8-14-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 10

Proverbs 14:31
He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God!

God's word is strong on helping the poor and it is also strong toward those who won't help those in need - This verse today says that those who don't help the poor show contempt for God - for He made us and everything around us - nothing belongs to us - we are simply here now - but will one day be going home - we must be willing to reach out to those in need- we need to do more then talk or just tell someone we are praying for them - Prayer is a good start - but we need to move once we hear the voice of God tell us to move -too much of the time we spend far too much time trying to do good instead of doing it - we have been given each day as a gift - this day is on loan to you -we each get 24 hours - and we have a free will to choice in some aspects how we will spend it - look for ways to help your fellow man today - look for ways that God can use you - the task at hand won't be easy - you will face many trials on the way to obeying God - He will empower you with HIS Spirit and will give you the power you need to do what He wants you to do - Do you feel the call of God on your life? Maybe there is someone He has put in your life for the only reason that you help them - I know the needs are great - but our God is greater - let's be more willing to allow God to use us!

The Final Word:
Many times we don't hear God - its not because HE is not speaking - its becasue we have not been listening close enough - God made us for His purpose - what is it that God is calling you to do? We are all a part of the Boby of Christ -we have differnt jobs but the same purpose - to give God glory, to love Him and others... that's it!
CHRIST showed us what it means to lay your life down for others!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/14/08
Today is a gift - yesterday is gone - and tomorrow is not yet here!

The Daily Blueprint /Wednesday/ 8-13-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 9

Proverbs 19:17
He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward him for what he has done.

The life we now live does not belong to us at all - it all belongs to God - once we have known Christ- we get a clearer picture of this - we are called to be living sacrifices - this means putting aside what we want for the larger good - I admit this is not an easy task - the world in which we live is all about the flesh - about the pleasure that is here for the taking - there has a gradual shift from morality to immorality in this world -what was taboo 20 years ago is now mainstream - kids are being taught how to be selfish at an earlier and earlier age - (not that any of us even needed help!) Now affairs are hardly blinked at - and marriages not lasting long is not a surprise anymore -and it seems like we allow filth to enter into our lives day by day - there is but one thing that can be done to fix this - its a complete surrender to Jesus Christ - many of us have enough JESUS to save us - but not enough to make us holy!
We must be about our Father's business - the time is now - one verse (I don't know the address) but it says that we must work while it is day - for the night is coming and no man can work - this day has been given to you by God - He wants us to use it all for His glory - what would be better then having used up your life glorifying Jesus!? We are called to help those around us - the poor -the needy - the young - and when we do as God leads us to do - He will then reward us - what an awesome God we serve - He gives us all we have and then asks us and leads us to help others and He turns around and blesses us! Maybe you don't feel comfortable helping the poor - start out small - and always put your trust in Jesus allowing Him to work though you - you can change the life for one person - do as God leads you! Help those who the world has rejected and receive God's blessing!

The Final Word:
When people hear the world blessing they often think of good things- while this is true - a blessing from God may not always look good from our worldly viewpoint - so don't give money expecting God to give you money in return - He will always give us something better then we give - you cannot out give God! Amen!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHRIST came to save that which was lost -
be found in HIM today!

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- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/13/08
The poor are here for us to help!

The Daily Blueprint /Tuesday/ 8-12-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 8

Mark 10:14
When Jesus saw this (The disciples trying to keep the kids from Jesus) He was indignant! He said to them, "Let the children come to Me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these..."

Today's verse is one that Dr.Wess Stafford of Compassion International always uses to tell others of the need to help the children of our world - he says that children are the ones who suffer most when there are problems. Its the children that are the people of tomorrow- and they need help - many are suffering at the hands of poverty - Jesus has called us to reach out to those in need - and not to hinder them - the disciples where not trying to mean I don't believe -they thought it was more important for Jesus to rest then for Him to be bothered by some rug-rats - but Jesus saw it differently - He saw their need and His love for them compelled Jesus to reach out to them - to touch then with His holy hands of love and develop a personal relationship with each child that came to Him - you see Jesus never turned away anyone - no matter where they fit into society - He loves all people - HE does not divide them the same way we do - many times adults think of kids are second class citizens but Jesus didn't take that view and neither should we - I don't have any natural children - but yet God has called me to help the children in my life -those at church - those that God places in my path - to reach out to them - many of them just need a little love and attention - where is God calling you? Maybe its to sponcer a child in need in a far off land - Maybe its to be a big brother or sister to a child in your town - maybe its to become a Youth minister or to work with Awana or some other facet of need - the point Jesus has made is that we should love them and help them and in doing so we serve Jesus Himself - so don't hinder the children in your life -but let them come to JESUS - for He is all they really need -be Jesus to a child today - love them in HIS name!

The Final Word:
To sponcer a child through Compassion - visit www.compassion.com
through Mission of Mercy - visit www.missionofmercy.org
or through World Vision - visit www.worldvision.org
Help a child in need today!
CHRIST held the children in His arms of love and hope!

- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/12/08
Jesus says we must come to Him like a child!
Let's bring as many children to Him as we can!

The Daily Blueprint /Monday/ 8-11-08

The Word: The Poor: Their needs, Our Response

Day 7

Mark 9:37

Whoever welcomes one of these little children in My name welcomes Me, and whoever welcomes me does not welcome Me but He who sent Me!

The call Jesus has on the life of His followers is to imitate Him - this was said twice yesterday in two different settings- God wants us to be conformed into the image of His Son - but to do this - we cannot try hard enough - or have the best intentions - we must surrender and then submit to God before He can begin to use us - we must be willing to do the hard things- things that are inconvenient - things that we really don't want to do but are willing to do just out of the shear fact that Jesus is worthy of our worship - If we welcome someone in out lives with real difficult needs - and we depend on the grace of God - we welcome Jesus - What we do to the least of these -we do to Him -this message is presented over and over in the new testament - Jesus is our example -He loved everyone He came in contact with - sometimes He had to speak the truth that the receiver didn't want to hear - sometimes He had to drive out those who used His house as a den of robbers instead of the house of prayer it is! We must be willing to help those that on our own we cannot help - we must trust in the grace God has given us to help those around us -we can try and do it in our power - but we won't be doing anything that will last -whatever we do - we must do it for God's glory - those with needs are around us each day - we must be willing to help them - and in doing so -we are serving our Lord Jesus! The Final Word:What is the reason we do what we do? What is the reason for our Hope?Think about that.CHRIST came to show us the way to the Father-

LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/11/08

What needs need fulfilling in your corner of the world?

THE DAILY BLUEPRINT FOR 8-9-08

SPECIAL EDITION - THE POOR - THEIR NEEDS - OUR RESPONCE

--------Day 6-------

Matthew 25:44-46...

They also will say, "Lord when did we see you hungry or thisty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help You?" Jesus will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatsoever you did not do for the least of these you did not do for Me." Then they will go away to eternal punishment, the righteous to eternal life...

These verse from Matthew are very harsh but to the point - Jesus does not mence words at all - He says that if we don't help the poor - its like saying no to His request for Help- what an odd thing to say - because many of us would respond in the same way by saying -when did we see you poor - sick - in need? Jesus knows our hearts and He knows since HE created everything -what makes us tick - He knows that its human nature NOT to help those in need - just the other day I was driving down the road and I saw a stalled car in the middle of the road on the island -Id love to tell everyone I stopped and helped them and got blessed by it - but the turth is I didn't stop- well that was until God kind convicted me - He said to go back - I did as God said this time and I found the car on the side with some other guys helping them - Jesus was saying that we should help all those we come across - and in doing so we help Him - many times its fear or its the risk of our comfort that causes us to turn away from those in need - the end of these verses sure seems harsh to me but I believe what Jesus is saying that when we have His Spirit inside us we will help those in need- that's the differnace between us and those without Christ -we help out of worship - that should ALWAYS be our motivation - not rewards -lets help those that Jesus sends our way - and in doing so you will be helping Jesus Himself! Amen!? one final word:The words in God's word seems to be action words - its not enough to read it - it's not enough to wish you brother in need well - what is enough is actually physically - mentally or emtionally helping those in need -so stop sitting here and go where GOD calls you to go!

Daily Blueprint 8-9-08

JESUS says the poor will always be with us -good thing JESUS also will always be with us!

the following is in response to one of the devotionals from last week-these words mean so much! Allow God to use them to show you His mercy - His grace in the poor around us! Kathleen writes: =-) The verse you used for today is a good one for mission work and helping those in need. I have another thought about this Scripture, from my experiences in Baja. Where it says "At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality! ". Each time we go to Baja we bring clothes and medical supplies and school supplies and many "things" that the people need. We bring of our plenty to supply what they need. And every time, at the end of our week, I go home filled with a renewed and strengthened spirit, a sort of "recharge" of my spiritual batteries, and a realignment of my priorities! That is the people of Camalu's plenty that supplies my need! Their life is simple and their daily struggles are for basic necessities of living, but in that, their lives are not cluttered with all the material things we often let control our lives. They don't fret over what's for dinner, they are happy to have something to eat for dinner! They are very family oriented and spend a lot of time with their children and helping their neighbors. It seems that without a lot of material things filling their lives and taking their time and attention, their simple lives are filled with God and family! Being with them and working with them is a wakeup call for me. I don't think that means we necessarily need to get rid of all the things we have, because God has blessed us greatly. But we need to be very careful not to put these things ahead of God and to thank Him daily for the many blessings He has bestowed on us. We need to seek His Will in how to use these blessings - this plenty - to help others. And watch carefully as we go through our lives to be aware of "plenty" that others may have and give to is that we may not recognize as plenty! God is so Good and His Plan and Creation is awesome and marvelous.We are blessed! Love,Kathleen

The Daily Blueprint /Thursday/ 8-7-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 5

2nd Corinthians 8:3,14
For I testify that they gave as much as they where able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own... At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality!

God's message that inspired Paul was this - that our plenty will supply for the needs of those without - many times we overlook the blessings God has given us - we tend to think what we have belongs to us - but it really does not - its all belongs to God - its all from God and it all goes back to God -
without Him - there would be nothing! God sees us all as equal - although man may rate people - God gets the final say - and what He says is always true - for God cannot lie! He wants His children to share - He wants us to love each other -and He longs for the lost to be saved - that's the whole point after all - the saving of many for the glory of God -
one way this is displayed is helping those in need -
I want to continue to pound this message this month -
I pray that some of you have looked at where you can help -
and I hope some of you are doing things that don't come naturally - so that God gets all the glory - from birth we are taught many things -some are very good while others not so good - one thing we seem to be saying is to be self-sufficient - do what you can do and then ask God - this is not the way it should be at all - the same goes with helping the needy - lets never get to a place where we feel we are better then those we help - once pride slips in - the gospel message is removed - for those we help will no longer see Jesus in our actions - we must spend much time in prayer and seek what God will have us do - there are needs around us everyday - join in the fight against poverty - spread the gospel through your love of His people!

The Final Word:
Our Mission: To love others by helping with their needs -
The outcome: totally up to God and not us!
Listen and obey! That's it!
CHRIST gives us so much so we can share!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/7/08
What we have is not ours - it all belongs to GOD!

The Daily Blueprint /Wednesday/ 8-6-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 4

1st Timothy 6:17-18
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.

Do you realize we are among the richest in this world - its hard to believe I know when you look at your bills - or see your the cost of everything rising around us - its hard to believe we are rich - it all has to do with what you see - sometimes we get caught in our own little world forgetting there are those that have very little - one way to have your eyes opened up is to go on a mission trip - I took my first one on Memorial Day weekend down to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and my second about a month later to Baja Mexico - these people have so very little in way of possessions - but they have joy like I have not seen among us -we must make the connection that stuff does not make us better off -we all need the same God for the same reason - apart from Him we are nothing at all - going on a mission trip is not about you at all - its about spreading the gospel of our Lord Jesus - its about getting out of our comfort zones and getting out there and serving our Lord - its about helping those in need - the whole idea of helping the poor is not to make the rich in this world - but in the one to come - the idea is to show the love of Jesus to these people and in return Jesus will use you to do it. We must not get caught up in what we have compared to what they have - they don't miss what they have never had - we can be the hands and feet of Jesus-
for more info on going on a mission trip - please visit one of these sights below - you can make a differance in the lives of the poor - it just takes one step - a step of faith - and a leap of action!

www.perlingtonms.com

http://bajamissions.us/

The Final Word:
When you help others you end up helping yourself - you cannot out give God!
CHRIST dwells in us to live out of us!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/6/08
Go where God leads - one foot in front of the other - one step at a time

The Daily Blueprint /Tuesday/ 8-5-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 3

Galatians 2:10
Only they would that we should remember the poor, the same which I also was forward to do.

Paul says it simply - that we should remember the poor - another words we should not get wrap up in our own little world with our own problems leaving out those who need us the most -we must be willing to go - simply put -we must be willing to forsake what we want to do to help those who have many needs that God has called us to try and fill - remembering the poor means to remember what they mean to God - for He made all people - and He loves all people the same -what impresses people does not impress Him -for He looks on our hearts- that's one issue we all have - sometimes we rush to judgment and refuse to help the poor around us because we feel they got themselves into this predicament and we are therefore excused from helping as the Lord lead us - this is not pleasing to God - He wants His people to be known by their love - what are you doing in your life right now to show the love of Jesus in a vivid way? Lets be challenged by what Paul was inspired by God to write - that we must remember the poor - James says that religion that is pure and undefiled is that which causes people to visit the poor and the widowed in their time of need - the orphans as well.
We must be willing to get out of our comfort zones - and by this I mean the four walls of the church - we must be willing to get out off the pew and do -
we spend far too much time talking about what we need to do and not enough time actually doing it - again I am preaching to myself as well - Its not easy helping the poor - but God commands it - we must be willing to be a vessel that He can use - its not up to us but the indwelling Spirit of God that leads us to do what we should do - let's remember the poor -always.

The Final Word:
We can say we love others - but what are our actions saying?
CHRIST commands us to help the poor!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/5/08
It's not money that makes a person - it's God!

The Daily Blueprint /Monday/ 8-4-08

The Word:

The Poor: Their needs, Our Response
Day 2

2nd Corinthians 9:10-15
Now he that ministers seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness...

In today's verse it talks about the seed given to the sower - I believe God wants us to take from this the fact that we all are connected -we all have some gift God has given us that He wants us to use for His glory - He has a message for us - we are to help those He has placed in our lives - there is not one person we come across in our daily lives that does not have some type of need- our mission from God is to help those around us - to love them as Christ loves us - this includes the poor - sadly most of the poor are forgotten - looked over -and thought of us less then those of us with plenty - but this is not the attitude of God - He loves the downtrodden - He loves those whom the world has given up on - He loves the homeless and those we all seem to want to avoid - we must face the facts that the poor will always be with us - until that day Jesus calls this world to end - until that time -we will have those who have physical needs -those who have nothing while we have so much - God didn't give us what we have so that we could hoard it and keep it to ourselves - He wants us to use what He has given us - and the truth is that we have nothing that was not given to us - our very lives are a gift from God - how can so many of us just take that for granted - God has a mission for us - each of us - have you prayed about what God wants you to do - where does He want you to go - the needs are all around us -
let God use you today - be seed that can plant the gospel in the hearts of those in need- lets show Christ like love to those who have been passed over by a world that is too focused on personal comfort and pleasure and less on following the lead JESUS set forth for us -all you need to do is read the gospel accounts to see what God thinks of the poor - He wants us to be His hands and feet- if you won't answer the call - He will find someone else to do what others have refused to do - its all about HIM!
The seed is from God and the field is from Him as well-
lets plant and allow God to water the seed and grow up in righteousness!

one final word:
God loves everyone -even those we have found it hard to love - God loves the poor - those we sometimes don't even see in our busy lives-
let's pray that God give us His eyes -
(thanks to Brandon Heath and his song - "Give me Your eyes"
for the inspiration for one final word today....
CHRIST wants to be glorified in our lives- let's allow Him to do it!
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 8/4/08
The need is great but GOD is greater!

THE DAILY BLUEPRINT FOR 8-3-08
SPECIAL EDITION - THE POOR - THEIR NEEDS - OUR RESPONCE-
-------Day 1-------

2nd Corinthians 8:2-4
How that in a great trial of afflction the abundance of their joy and their deep proverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality..for to their power , I bear record, yea, beyond their power they were willing themselves; praying us with much entreaty that we would recieve the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints!

Today begins a new series on the poor -
Through much prayer and reflection -
along with going through a massive trial in my life this year - and going on my first Mission Trip - has really opened my eyes to the real need in the world for the hope of Jesus Christ- In Baja Mexico - I learned that many only make $2 a day - and their are so desepertly poor - and yet they are full of joy - many don't know what they are missing -
We all can do something - it does not take much - we all have been given all we have and God wants us to share some with others -its not a great scarifice for us - but the dividens are well worth it - the surprsing thing about the poor is their joy - their willingness to give to us who have much - I found this on the mission trip -and in the letters from my sponcered children - The poor want to feel needed- viladed - what they don't need is for us to feel sorry for them - but instead to love them as equals - what they have and what money they make does not define them -

God's challange is for us to help those in need - we become His hands and feet when we help those in need -and the funny thing is we end up getting more then we gave -
there are opperunties all around us each and every day - I hope during this month to present you some options of what you can do -
they can be as simple as teaching children the gospel - working in the nursery -
helping at the local rescue mission - sponcering a child in a far off land -
helping at the food bank - any of number of ways to help those in need-
The whole point is to get our minds off oursleves and our so called problems and help the poor around us - I know its been a hard year -with fuel prices and all prices going up -
but lets not forget God made it all and owns it all -
we have a responsablity to help those in need-
Jesus said when we help them -we are doing the same for Jesus-
So go where HE calls you - do whatever He wants you to do -
and together we can lend a hand - give a smile - change a life-
and it could be our lives that are the most changed-

The poor have needs - but they give us so much back!

JESUS SAID THAT THE POOR WOULD ALWAYS BE WITH US -
Lets help them - love them - bless them!and JESUS will do the same to us!AMEN!

Look for a month of devotionals that deal with the poor - those in need-
and those who don't know JESUS -
be JESUS to someone today!its up to you
but the power comes from GOD!

one final word:
The Poor need us as much as we need them.

Daily Blueprint 8-3-08
Do what JESUS would do....help the poor
LIVIN IN THE WORD & PRAYER MINISTRIESGOD'S Word is the Blueprint for a life lived for CHRISTEmail: INTHEWORD2004@aol.com Blog site: http://livinintheword.blogspot.com/

The Daily Blueprint / Monday / 7-28-08

THE WORD:

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 14

Psalm 2:8
Ask of Me, and I shall give you the heathen for your inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for your possession.

This verse does not seem to make much sense to me to be honest -it is my guess that it seems like God is saying that if we want to follow after this world He will give us over to it - this is what I get from it - God wants what's best for us - but He won't stand in the way of what we want - He wants pure and true worship - not forced worship - He wants us to love Him because of who HE is - not for what He does or can do -
He wants guarantee people who love Him with not only words but with action -there are many who can say all the right things but when it comes down to it - where is their heart- why do they do what they do -what is their motivation!? Doing good is not enough - its not the end all - it is done to honor God not earn favor with Him! What we do is not as important as why we do what we do. God wants all of us - but is not willing to share us with anyone - He alone is worthy of our Praise and Adoration! Amen!

Proverbs 1:15
My Son, walk not in the way of them; refrain your foot from their path...

God says we must not even put our feet on the path of the wicked -we must not follow after the world around us but after God alone - if we are willing to put our feet in the wrong place - we are not far from going completely the wrong way - we must be willing to walk the way of God not the way of the wicked - this road is not the easy way - its hard to deny self and follow Christ but its the best life - no other life has such freedom - such peace and such joy- but Jesus Himself said we would have trials in this life -we would be hard pressed but not destroyed -we would suffer at the hands of the world - but in the end we will counted as His children - no matter what happens on this side of eternity -we must be willing to deny ourselves and follow Christ - lets keep our feet from the path of the wicked - rejoice in Christ!

footnote: The only One we should follow is JESUS!
CHRIST keeps us on the right path of life!

It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

Want to avoid burning? Use Son block.
unknown location - submitted by Kathleen J
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/28/08
IF YOU NEED DIRECTION IN YOUR LIFE - FOLLOW JESUS!

The Daily Blueprint / Thursday / 7-24-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 13

Psalm 2:7
I Will declare the decree: the Lord has said unto me, You are My Son; this day I have begotten You...

The words of this Psalm is quoted elsewhere in God's Word - I believe when Jesus was being baptized in the Jordan -God said these words - Jesus is the Son of God - no matter how much people will debate that - the truth remains true no matter what people try and say about it -
Jesus is God's only Son - for John 3:16 Says that God so loved the world that He gave...HIS ONLY SON...so that those who believe in Him shall not parish by have eternal life - its a limited deal - apart from Christ there is no salvation - without His scarfice we would be without hope - Praise GOD for this indiscriable gift -says Paul - We must be willing to go to the ends of the earth with the message of God's unending love for the people of this world - Jesus is The Son of God -
You can bank your whole eternity on that! Amen!

Proverbs 1:14
Cast in your lot among us, let us all have one purse...

Those who don't know God will try various methods to live thier lives by - some will turn to the occult - card readers (I don't mean what you have on your computers that read cards) I mean those who base their whole life on luck - on the roll of the dice - when Jesus was being murdered on the cross the soldiers there cast lots to see who would get His clothes - today people live their lives based on horoscopes or psyics - beliving it to be harmless fun - the enemy uses these things to take God's children away - some may say such a statement is way overboard - but its the truth - satan is stuble and he will destroy as many lives as he can - he will tear apart marriages and sadly many unknowingly let satan into their lives and from there it all goes south - we must stand up against the foe of our souls in the power of JESUS - The false gods of this world will one day be banshed forever and the King of Kings will take His rightful place as ruler and King!
Praise God!

footnote: where is your faith today? Is it on JESUS or on yourself?
CHRIST died so we could live - we die to self so we can be saved!

Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Coming tomorrow - another Friday flashback -

Coming Saturday - Livin in Prayer - lets go to GOD in prayer .
COMING NEXT MONTH
THE POOR: THEIR NEEDS & OUR CALLING
a month of devotionals dedicated to our response
to the needs of those around us in Jesus' Name
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

Send in your Church Sign today!

- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/24/08
God sent JESUS to save the world.

The Daily Blueprint / Wednesday / 7-23-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 12

Psalm 2:6
Yet I have set my King upon My Holy Hill of Zion.

Today's Psalm passage is interesting to me - Jesus is known as the King of the Jews but also the King of kings - God the Father has set His King upon the Holy Hill of Zion - to me I believe this points to Jesus the Christ - He was killed on a hill for us - He laid His life down on the hill of Calvary - He came willingly and left in the just the same - the Word says like a Lamb going to the slaughter - Jesus could have fought His captives and won - no one could hold Him back - He had to be willing - God placed all authority on Jesus - He was proud of His Son!
Jesus died on a hill but rose again - and then later accended to heaven on a hill - Jesus always went on the mountain to pray - you could call it a hill - some say that hills bring us closer to God the Father - but I believe the point was Jesus got away from everything and everyone to a solitary place - we need to do the same thing - how long has it been since you got away from it all and just listened to the still voice of God?
For me its been far too long! Look for ways this day to separate from everyone and everything - come apart and sit at the feet of Jesus!

Proverbs 1:13
We shall find all precious substance, we shall all fill our houses with spoil....

Ah - here we go - this excites the world- wealth - money - power - this is what the world around us craves - fame is also another thing that appeals to our flesh - the world is all about its own glory - its all about self - this is opposite of the example Jesus has left us - He didn't put His trust in man - why? Because HE knew what was in the heart of man - and things my friends have not changed in 2000 or more years -greed is the name of the game - in the cooperate world its step on as many people as you can on the way up and don't worry about that sudden fall - the world says to have it your way - its all about you - the ads you see daily say its all about you - so it must be true? This is not the truth - God's way is always best - this is not our home and I am seeing just how worthless the things of this ol world are compared to the glory that is to follow! Lets keep our eyes focused on Heaven but realize we live in a real world -with real issues that matter - lets fight the good fight of faith - know Jesus is with us! Amen!

footnote: Jesus is set apart - Holy -
we are His people and must follow HIS lead..
CHRIST brought victory out of what seemed defeat!

Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for Michael - unspoken request for today -details to follow...
COMING NEXT MONTH
THE POOR: THEIR NEEDS & OUR CALLING
a month of devotionals dedicated to our response
to the needs of those around us in Jesus' Name
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

When under a heavy load: Bend at the knees!
Huntsville (Five Points) Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/23/08
Bow at the feet of JESUS - HE is our King!

The Daily Blueprint / Tuesday / 7-22-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 11

Psalm 2:5
Then shall He speak to them in His wrath, and trouble (vex) them in His great (sore) displeasure...

God hates sin - period - I had a debate with someone last night about sin - they said that a certain lifestyle was nothing more then an alternative to what God says - they made it seem like that it was ok to bend the rules a little here and there and if no one is getting hurt then it must be ok - this is a scary place to be at if you ask me - sin is sin - that's true - God sent Jesus to die because of sin -that's how strongly He feels about sin -some feel that since our sins are forgiven we can do whatever we want and no consequences - I know JESUS Paid the price for our sin and this brings us to heaven one day - as a glorified child of God - but to go on sinning just because it will be forgiven is foolish and does not honor God at all - as I continued to talk to this person -they got more angry at me as I went on - but all I was doing was stating that God hates sin - He does - but praise HIM that HE brought Jesus down from heaven to bore our sins and give us salvation - lets never take a light view of sin - God hates sin - but He loves the sinners - and I am very thankful for that - again I am a sinner saved -that's it - nothing more! Our sins will send us to hell if it were not for Jesus and His blood poured out for us! Amen and Praise God!

Proverbs 1:12
...let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole. as those that go down into the pit:....

Today's selection continues from the one presented last night - its not surprising to anyone these days - that this world is evil - if you let your guard down - prepare for being taken advantage of - Identity theft is a popular way for those who don't have to have instantly - to say we are someone we are not is evil - its a lie and its not the truth - if we follow the crowd we might just join is such things without originally wanting too - we must be careful - we must not be taken away by foolishness into a life of sin -we must always stand our ground against sin - even if our sins are forgiven -they still cost us very much- here and now there is a price that will have to be paid - so be watchful of those who try and tempt you and get you to do something you know in your heart of hearts is wrong - be strong in the Lord and He will deliver you!You can still count on God - that will never change - be watchful and when evil goes East - go West Young Man! (thanks to Michael W. Smith!) this was one of his songs in the late 1980's...check it out!

footnote: God is never wrong - He has never been defeated - and never will - He is always there and will always be there - period!
CHRIST brought us life through His death

Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for Michael - unspoken request for tomorrow - details to follow.
COMING NEXT MONTH
THE POOR: THEIR NEEDS & OUR CALLING
a month of devotionals dedicated to our response
to the needs of those around us in Jesus' Name
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

When under a heavy load: Bend at the knees!
Huntsville (Five Points) Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/22/08
Live what you know for God's glory!

The Daily Blueprint / Monday / 7-21-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 10

Psalm 2:4
He that sits in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.

I had to look up the world derision - and when I did I found out what it meant - this is the defintion: Contempt or ridicule! I have never claimed to be a wordsmith - so bear with me! To me this verse just shows us how confident God is - what does He do when people think they can take Him down? He laughs -but He knows there is no one as powerful as He is - He ridicules those who make an attempt to destory God's plans - He is so confident that He never has to worry - What HE desires will come to pass - we can either work with Him or against Him - but bear in mind the path of least resistance is to with Him not against Him - how prideful it is to think we could ever tell God what to do!
Some people think prayer is just that - telling God what to do - but its not really - its more listening to God and obeying His plan that He has set in place long before we ever came on the scene!
God is confident! if you want to battle against Him -be ready for Him to laugh in your face! He is God and there is none like Him!
He loves you but will laugh at your plans! =-)

Proverbs 1:11
If they say, come with us, let us lay and wait for blood, let us lurk for the innocent without cause...

This verse describes satan to a tee - its acurate when it says that the enemy lays in wait for blood - and he attacks without cause - he wants to take away our faith and will use any number of tactics that get that accomplished - those without Christ will try and intice us to follow them - when we are living for Christ -the world wants to take our faith away - if we make a stand for what is right -we can be riduculed - we could even lose our very lives - but the price to be paid is with it - when we boldy stand up to those in oppestion to God's will with a steadfast no! We don't have to go where those of this world go -we don't have to chase after the things of this world because in CHRIST we have all we need- so next time they want you to go with them! Just say no!

footnote: God is alone at the top - none above Him -
He is the Alpha and Omega!
CHRIST longs for us to surrender -
lets lift the white flag over our lives!

Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for those who have lost loved ones this month - pray for restoration for seveal people I know who are having marriage problems- thank you.

Also Sue is returning to work after being out six months -she had a stoke but is doing better.
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

When under a heavy load: Bend at the knees!
Huntsville (Five Points) Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/218 -
GOD IS IN CONTROL - WHAT A RELIEF!
COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL DAILY PRAYER REQUEST:
Praise the LORD- four children were sponcered at the concert me and my brother-in-law worked on Saturday - thanks for your prayers!

Pray for God's strength and protection for Heidy, a field-based facilitator in Indoenesia, while she is on her three month pregancy leave....thanks.
www.compassion.com
If you would like more info on Compassion's Child Sponsorship - please visit Compassion.com
Thanks! Please consider sponsoring a child! You will not regret it! Thank you!

In response to the Great Commission, Compassion International exists as an advocate for children, to release them from their spiritual, economic, and physically poverty and enable them to become responsible and fulfilled Christian adults.
PRAYER POINT from Samaritan's Purse......

THIS WEEKS FOCUS: CHINA

PRAYER NEEDS:
Pray for the Millions of earthquake surivors as they struggle to rebuild their lives.
Pray for Chinese Christians as they work to demonstrate the love of Christ to their fellow countrymen.
Pray for God to give SP the opportunities and recourses to work alongside the Chinese Church in ministering to the surivors. Thanks!

THANK YOU FOR PRAYING FOR CHINA

GET IN TOUCH WITH SAMARITAN'S PURSE: www.samaritanspurse.org

COVERING THE WORLD WITH PRAYER.......

LIVIN IN THE WORD MINISTRIES
God's Word is the blueprint for a life lived for Christ

The Daily Blueprint / Thursday / 7-17-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 9

Psalm 2:3
....Let us break their bands of asunder, and cast away their cords from us...

Today's verse leaves off from yesterday's - here there are people wanting to pillage and destroy someone else - take their possessions and keep it for themselves - the put some unsuspecting person asunder - this talks of those who are out for blood - out to satisfy themselves at any cost -and if anyone should get in their way or prevent them from having what they want - they won't think twice about ending the lives of those who won't give into them - there are a great many power hungry people that when they begin to obtain power - they begin to take over - they don't want anyone to tell them what to do -they don't want to have to submit to anyone but themselves - they are self seekers - looking out for number 1 is their creed - no love is found in their lives and they may have the whole world but yet lose their soul - see this world is upside down - in God's eyes -the first will be last and the last first -those who seek to save their lives will lose them - but those who submit to God will be blessed...lets live a blessed life!

Proverbs 1:10
My son is sinners entice you, don't consent to it.

In the world around us - temptation is everywhere - all you have to do is flip on the TV or the radio and there it is in our face - the entertainment that is available today will ruin many people's lives- the enemy works in subtle ways - most times we don't even see what he is doing to us through us - its so sad that we live in a world and country that looks down on morals - looks down on the law of God - and believes that if the good outweighs the bad - we get to go into God's kingdom - the God that many of them don't even believe in - my point is sinners will be here as long as the world keeps spinning - so we must get used to the constant bombardment of messages that say its ok to have sex outside of marriage - that its ok to go out and drink and party your live way - that its ok to just make up for the bad by doing good - that its ok to take a human life that has not had a chance to live - I know this is very graphic and in your face -as it should be - the enemy wants to brush stuff under the rug - he wants to make what's wrong seem right and what's right seem wrong! Be careful- don't let others cause you to sin - don't give into their advances - live in Christ and He will live in you.
Don't give in to those who want you to get caught in their sin.

footnote: There is evil in this world - that's bad - but GOD is good!
CHRIST forgives our sin but also gives us strength to not sin!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
LOOK FOR A FLASHBACK FRIDAY & LIVIN IN PRAYER SATURDAY!
SEND IN YOUR PRAISES & PRAYER REQUESTS - THANKS! Daniel<><
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

Learn from the mistakes of others...
Moores Mill, Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/17/08 -
God is more good then the world is bad!

The Daily Blueprint / Wednesday / 7-16-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 8

Psalm 2:2
The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and against His anointed...

Today's verse is another reminder that we live in a world of sin and of evil - actually just looking at the news or on the web - its in our face daily - one problem we begin to face is our desensitize toward all that is going on around us on this planet - taken the wrong way it can cause us to doubt God - but when we fail to see this world for what it is - we cheapen the grace of God - to see what state this world is in today and know that there is a God in heaven who loves us is much differnt from the world's responce - they who don't know God still blame Him - how odd! - its only by God's living Spirit within us - its only by the Holy Spirit's revealing that we know Christ - we need to keep our eyes focused on God and not the problems and evils around us -they can consume us if we allow them to - the kings of this world - those who oppose and oppress the Gospel - are out for blood - they want to kill every bit of Jesus in us - but God won't allow that to happen - remember we are in a world full of sin and evil - we should not be surprised by what we read on the front page of the paper or on the web - lets love JESUS through it all and the reward will be ours through the shed blood of the Lamb!

Proverbs 1:9
For they shall be an ornament of grace around your head, and chains around your neck..

I love the visual of this verse - the instructions that we receive from our parents should be like a hat on our head and chains around our neck - to me it means that we need to live in such a way that there is a hat on our head and chains around our neck - they are there even when those around us cannot see them - but it should always remain with us -we should never get too old or too wise for advise - because without seeing it from another perspective -we won't see the whole picture but just a part - God created us from relationships - with Him and with others around us - He did not make us to live alone -
This verse reminds me of a song from The Small Town Poets - Garment of Grace - this is what Christ brought from us - trading our unrighteous rags for HIS righteous clothing - we are brand new once we put on His clothes! Lets ware the robe of Righteousness so that the world can see JESUS in us! Lets put that on and serve others in HIS name!

footnote: Today's Psalm tells us of those who are enemies to the Cross of Christ -Proverbs tells us to listen to our parents and to tie what we lean around our neck and upon our head -together they paint a picture of what we are to do in Christ's name - love those who are lost -help those who are burdened - and live for Christ in all we do!
CHRIST DIED - AND YET ROSE AGAIN!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for Chalmus – my boss’ husband –he now back at work -thanks for praying!
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

We are either bridges of encouragment or barriers from it
(unknown location)
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/16/08 -
Read the WORD - Breathe in the WORD and Live the WORD!

The Daily Blueprint / Tuesday / 7-15-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 7

Psalm 2:1
Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?

Today's Psalm asks the question why do the heathen rage - those who don't know Christ as Savior - rage against God - they don't consciously think about it I don't believe -they simply ignore His pleads - they claim they don't want to have the peace that comes from knowing Christ - many claim they are doing just fine and that they don't need anything from anyone - the world around us is lost - most of us have awaken to that fact - just look at our Nation - she once was tied to God's Word like no other nation before her - and yet now - many want to wipe away the truth of our history and replace it with vain things - many desire riches of this world - instead of the riches of God - as the Word says -what does it profit to gain the whole world but lose your soul - the answer is its of no profit to lose your soul - for that is all that will live on - while the world wastes away on vain stories that are not of the truth - we who have the truth - must work to get the message out -we must be willing to fight the fight of faith -the very fight of our lives..lets get out there and fight - through God's divine power - allowing His will to be done. Amen

Proverbs 1:8
My son, hear the instruction of your Father, and forsake not the law of your Mother:....

We are to listen to our parents even when we feel their rules are old fashioned or if we don't want to obey them - we must do as God tells us to do and honor them - now we may not always agree with them - but God says to honor them - I will even go as far to say we must honor them even when they fail us - even when the let us down - as I see it we must respect them so we can respect God - if we struggle to do this -maybe we need to look at our lives and see what is in our hearts - our parents where used to bring us into the world- and we will always be their children - no matter how old we get -or how much they may have messed up - many of your are of single parent upbringing - that's very sad - but I too was that way growing up - but God saw me through and has given me compassion for those who also have struggled through life without both parents - remember God is the Father of the Fatherless - just the other day God showed me that even if I don't have any physical children - I can be a Father-figure to those who God places in my path - I can love them - and show them that God loves them - let God use you today - be wise -listen to your parents!

footnote: whatever you do - always listen to God first! amen!~
CHRIST shows us the way - we must following Him in it!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for Chalmus – my boss’ husband –he is currently in the hosptial and needs healingFrom a heart condition –thank you for praying - Daniel
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

CHURCH SIGN
from Mentone Alabama
GET RIGHT
or GET LEFT
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/15/08 -
God's Word is alive -allow it to change your heart!

The Daily Blueprint / Friday / 7-11-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 6

Psalm 1:6
For the Lord knows the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Simply put -this is what God thinks of people - there are two groups - those who know Christ and those who He longs to know Christ -God does not send anyone to hell- they go by their own choice - God loves everyone for He made all people -there is not a single person God does not love - That is His nature - but with all the love HE has - He is also righteous - and He must punish sin - and those who don't walk with Him have no choice to live in sin - unless they change and seek after Him - for the Holy Spirit is drawing them -they all have a choice - God gave us His Son to take away the penalty of sin - and because of His precious blood we now live forever- sin is no longer our ruler - God is.
Lets live righteously not for ourselves but for those who are watching us - our lives should bring God glory!

Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Today's verse says that the beginning of knowledge is the fear of the Lord- that's what we all need to do in our lives- fear God - many times many people don't understand what it means to fear God - simply it means to submit to Him and obey Him - even when its hard to do so - we must be willing to have enough wisdom to know that God is good and that HE loves us - therefore we should fear Him - for He has the power to shut this world down in an instant - He made us and He can unmake us quickly - lets honor and fear the LORD for HIS righteousness goes higher then the highest mountain and His love for us brought Him all the way down to us! Praise JESUS!

footnote: God is Love but HE is also Righteous!
CHRIST shows us what it means to submit to the Father!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for Paul R's Mom - she was sent to the ER yesterday and may have had a heart attack - more info tomorrow-
LIVIN IN PRAYER RUNS TOMORROW! Send in your Praises and Prayer requests!
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

We are not saved by good works - but for good works...
-Union Grove , Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/11/08 -
Either follow this world or follow Christ-
You cannot do both!

The Daily Blueprint / Thursday / 7-10-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 5

Psalm 1:5
Therefore the ungodly will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

Today's Psalm gives us the facts- the unrightous will not stand in the day of judgment - they may be having a great time right now - but all sin costs - it cost lives - sin causes death - those who deny Christ and won't accept them as their Savior - will have a bad day on that day when Christ returns - this is not something we should rejoice in but instead we should have compassion on those who are lost around us - we may be the only Bible they see - we may be the only glimpse of Jesus they will ever see - sin may be fun for a season - but the price to be paid is never worth whatever temporary pleasure may be derived from that sin - the cost of sin is great -so great that JESUS had to die for it - He paid our price - praise HIM for that and pray for those who don't know Christ - do whatever God leads you to do - and do it with all you have! Allow God to use you today!

Proverbs 1:6
To understand a Proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

Again today Proverbs talks about the purpose of the book itself - these words are from the very wise of God - and along with the right way to do whatever it is - there is also a wrong way - and with every good point - there is a sadly bad point to go along with it - all throughout this great book of wisdom -we see this pattern - I believe this verse says dark sayings because when the person the writer was talking about sinned against God there were grave consequences -they may see tough at times that's because they are - but we do serve a Righteous God and He expects perfection - the truth of the matter is none of us met the mark - none of us can live it right all the time - thus we needed Jesus to save us - then again if you live as the book of Proverbs requests your life will be blessed - but please note - what we perceive as blessings may not be what God had in mind - He blesses us His way - not the way we want to be blessed! Live the life for Christ our LORD!

footnote: Sin will never bring blessings to our lives - but trusting and obeying the LORD JESUS will!
CHRIST bring us back to life from sure death!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
Pray for those who don't know JESUS that they will be saved!
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

The more dirty the pages of our Bible are, the cleaner our lives will be.
-Lexington Kentucky
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/10/08 -
When CHRIST speaks - we must listen!

The Daily Blueprint / Wednesday / 7-9-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 4

Psalm 1:4
The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind drives away.

Today's Psalm selection shifts gears and now describes someone who is not following after God -someone who by actions or words denies that God even exists - this person will be lead astray by any and every doctrine that is not true that comes along - and thus are blow like leaves in the wind - no real direction - no real meaning - just drifting along - doing what only pleases themselves -without any though to the God of creation that made them and gave them life - I have to admit I do know people who just drift along with no purpose -no life that I can see - only in CHRIST do we have real life -we can chase after the things of the world if we want too - but the end is worthless - what does it profit to gain it all but lose your soul? Pray for those who don't know Christ and let your life minister to them! Don't get lost in the wind!

Proverbs 1:5
A wise man will hear and increase in learning; and a man of understanding shall attain to wise counsels...

What we hear is not as important as how we apply what we hear - if we spend all our time just listening but not acting upon what we have learned -we are just wasting our time - we must consult God's word to life the life He has called us to live - the Word and Prayer will bring us to a fuller understanding of just who God is. Another good use of God's Word is when you have a very important decision to make - you can consult His word and find the answer there as God reveals it through His Spirit - apart from that there is no real understanding - just like the Psalm for today - don't be moved in the wind but be moved instead by God's Divine Spirit! Listen - Learn and then apply!

footnote: With our roots deep into God - we won't be carried away by the wind of this world- but will be moved by the Holy Spirit.
CHRIST taught us who He is through HIS word!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
John R (of Ga) had successful surgery to remove cancer yesterday!
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

Going the extra mile is never crowded
-Huntsville Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/9/08 -
Watch - Wait - Wonder - but learn through it all

The Daily Blueprint / Wednesday / 7-9-08

Psalms & Proverbs - Day 4

Psalm 1:4
The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind drives away.

Today's Psalm selection shifts gears and now describes someone who is not following after God -someone who by actions or words denies that God even exists - this person will be lead astray by any and every doctrine that is not true that comes along - and thus are blow like leaves in the wind - no real direction - no real meaning - just drifting along - doing what only pleases themselves -without any though to the God of creation that made them and gave them life - I have to admit I do know people who just drift along with no purpose -no life that I can see - only in CHRIST do we have real life -we can chase after the things of the world if we want too - but the end is worthless - what does it profit to gain it all but lose your soul? Pray for those who don't know Christ and let your life minister to them! Don't get lost in the wind!

Proverbs 1:5
A wise man will hear and increase in learning; and a man of understanding shall attain to wise counsels...

What we hear is not as important as how we apply what we hear - if we spend all our time just listening but not acting upon what we have learned -we are just wasting our time - we must consult God's word to life the life He has called us to live - the Word and Prayer will bring us to a fuller understanding of just who God is. Another good use of God's Word is when you have a very important decision to make - you can consult His word and find the answer there as God reveals it through His Spirit - apart from that there is no real understanding - just like the Psalm for today - don't be moved in the wind but be moved instead by God's Divine Spirit! Listen - Learn and then apply!

footnote: With our roots deep into God - we won't be carried away by the wind of this world- but will be moved by the Holy Spirit.
CHRIST taught us who He is through HIS word!
Praises, Prayers & Previews:
John R (of Ga) had successful surgery to remove cancer yesterday!
It's time once again for the traveling church signs-
send in yours today and happy travels!

Going the extra mile is never crowded
-Huntsville Alabama
- LIVIN IN THE WORD - 7/9/08 -
Watch - Wait - Wonder - but learn through it all