"Favor On So Many Levels"

Based on my July 16, 2013, blog post "There's a Sparrow on My Shoulder" and the message I preached last Sunday, July 28, 2013, at our local church titled "Presence", I received this inspiring e-mail reply:

Hi Pastor Kerry,

     I have been bursting at the seams for days now! After listening to your encounter with the Holy One in South Carolina!. After hearing the whole story, I realized, God had been showing you favor on so many levels, it was mind boggling! I have had these experiences too.
    You know before you went into the hospital, Jesus sent you a sparrow; something you had been caring for and loving unconditionally and studiously watching out for their welfare, as God instructed you to do. So did Jesus, do the same for you.  He knew of your impending situation, he also knew of your loyalty and love for Him, but most of all your trust in Him.
     It's sounds like when your day started, you were  a little unsure of yourself.  Jesus sent the Sparrow ahead of Himself to help you through the day.  When you were praying over the congregation the Lord needed you to rest and calm yourself, the sparrow landed on your shoulder.  He brought peace to you and reassurance that He not only loves you, but you are very important to Him. He trusts you too. And He sees your compassion in everything you do, and your heart is the best place where life flows. I also believe He said "Thank-you my good and faithful servant."
    I hope to hear and share more stories like this so our young can find where hope lives.
Linda

Grateful
P.S. If you'd like to listen to the July 28, 2013 message I preached titled "Presence" you can access the audio file by going to www.abeaconofhope.org and clicking on the "media" banner.

"I Will Advise You..."

Psalm 32:8 (GWT) -- The Lord says,“I will instruct you. I will teach you the way that you should go. I will advise you as My eyes watch over you."

Lord, we pray for wisdom, favor, and influence for your glory. In Jesus' name. Amen

Holiness Unto The LORD!
Grateful

Peace... No Matter What Happens!

During these days of Advent, with Christmas just days away, "Peace" is showing up with renewed emphasis in my prayer life.

Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors.
-- Luke 2:14 (NLT)

May the Lord of peace Himself always give you His peace no matter what happens. The Lord be with you all.
-- 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NLT)

ALL JOY TO THE WORLD! ALL THE BOYS AND GIRLS, NOW!
Grateful

Lord, I Want to Be Truly Humble!

God sets Himself against the proud,
but He shows favor to the humble.
James 4:6b (NLT)

What is your definition of true humility?

What might be the results if you and I were to write down the words above from James 4:6 on a note card and take it around in our pocket, spontaneously and purposefully praying for thirty days:

Lord, I want to be truly humble!
I truly need Your favor in my life!
In the Name of Jesus. Amen.

IF MY PEOPLE... WILL? I WILL! God's Promise in 2 Chron. 7:14.
Grateful

"Help My Unbelief!"

It was just before midnight. Because of snowy roads, I was driving my 22-year-old son to his night shift at the local radio station in my four-wheel-drive. We had a sacred and soul-searching talk about the Lord as we rode. Just before I dropped him off, and in light of our conversation about faith, my son asked: Dad, why do we tend to struggle trusting God concerning the future when He's always been so faithful in the past?

Mark 9:24 (NKJV) -- Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!"

This is my prayer and desire for me and my family, Lord:

For Your present and future favor, we ask!
In Your past and present faithfulness, we bask!

IF MY PEOPLE... WILL? I WILL! God's promise in 2 Chron. 7:14.
Grateful

Old Testament Words of Blessing

I pray these words of blessing from the Old Testament book of Job, chapter 11, verses 17-19, over your life today:

Yes, I pray...
(17) Life will be brighter than noonday,
and darkness will become like morning.
(18) You will be secure, because there is hope;
you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
(19) You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid,
and many will court your favor.

In the name of the One called Wonderful. Amen.

ALL JOY!
Grateful