Category Archives: encourage

A PERSONAL KEEPER!

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A PERSONAL KEEPER

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help…The lord is your keeper; The lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, Nor the moon by night. The lord will protect you from all evil…

PSALM 121:1; 5-7

 

If there’s one word that historians will attribute to cumulate this 21st Century Age it’s mostly likely be ‘grind’! #ijs! Ever notice how the millennials are always busy trying to get somewhere to do so much? I suppose that’s what being ‘goal oriented’ means, huh? Problem is that you miss so much of life on your way to getting to what you’re getting to! Gone are the days when folk looked forward to just relaxing! Seriously!

According to the scripture text, the pilgrims of old strived to meet the same needs and desires that we have, however, unlike the ‘fast-and- furious-go-get-it-for-myself’ mentality of today’s contemporaries, they recognized the value of preparing for personal encounters with the Only One Who could assure them of attaining  ultimate eternal success! As they ascended the pathways en route to the Temple, they geared-up their hearts and minds to enter into His Presence with songs of praise and adoration! I can hear ya nah! ‘AIN’T NOBODY GOT TIME 4 DAT!’ Really?

Chances are, the reason you’re still struggling to reach the epitome of ‘higher ground’ is because You still think you can do it all on your own! But God never intended man to do life independent of GODSELF! The saints of ol’ understood that without Him, I can do nothing!  Jesus is The Master Architect of man’s destiny! The heart of a man plans his way, but God establishes his steps! (Proverbs 16:9)

It’s been said that backndaday, the landscape of the hillsides were laden with numerous gods, in order not to exclude anyone from their individual right to put their trust in their personal preference, regardless of the inevitable hoping for help that would never come! Sounds uncomfortably  familiar, huh? Yet, there were a remnant of believers who lifted up their eyes, gazing towards Jerusalem, focusing all of their faith-filled prayers to The True and Living Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all Life, Jehovah! 

“He made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. He keeps every promise forever.” Psalm 146:6

Many choose to deny the reality that there is a real devil who’s committed (for lack of a better term) to his 3-fold mission; strategically designed to impede the progress of God’s elect with a myriad of tests and trials, threatenening to demolish all hope of ever successfully achieving your goals and fulfilling your God-ordained purpose and destiny!  Nevertheless, when the inevitable happens, they’re confronted with these questions,  “What, NOW?”, “Where do I look? Who do I turn to?”  My Beloved, may I submit for your most earnest consideration, “If it’s not JESUS then you’re on treading on some very slippery ground!”

In case there’s any doubters left among the naive or  insurrectionists, we’re living in those times that Big Mama ‘nem called ‘the last of the last days’! Check the social media newsfeed! Reads like the Bible Prophecy materializing in real-time!  Hence, it behoves us to remember that God does not have ‘grand-children’! So, Mama might have, Daddy might have, BUT GOD BLESS THE CHILD WHO HAS ITS OWN PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS! #IJS

By the way, don’t be in such of a hurry? Remember, how long He waited on you? What we generally think are delays are actually God’s mercy and grace allowing us the space for our faith to mature, converting our perspective to align with heaven and preparing us to live eternally in HIS PRESENCE! #GOAL!
In the meantime, stop complaining and doubting God! TRUST2KNO, EVERYTHING that you’ve gone through was divinely orchestrated to prepare you for what you never believed possible!

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

This is the confidence of the faithful and obedient followers of Christ, wherever we are GOD IS! Standing in the shadow of the Almighty, our trust is firmly fixed in The ETERNAL GOD who is always aware of everything that concerns us, the Source of all our strength and able to keep us from all evil…FOREVER! 

Uuuuhhhh, #Didjaheardat? Awemaazing!

NOW RELAX! JESUS IS YOUR PERSONAL KEEPER!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

 

 

 

HOLY WAR!

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HOLY WAR

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s. 2 Chronicles 20:15

..”for nothing restrains the Lord from saving by many or by few” 1 Samuel 14:6b

 

In The 3rd Chapter of The Book of Ecclesiastics The Preacher, Solomon, offers his observations on the purpose of times and seasons that God appoints throughout our journey in an attempt to answer the age old question of humanity, “Why am I here?”  Reflecting back, I recognize that my time on Terra Firma continues to swiftly transition through certain uncertainties, predictable resistance and uncommon clarity, leaving me totally dependent upon my Creator!

The Holy Writ alerts us to the inevitable reality that there is a Devil on the loose, who has dedicated himself to fulfilling his #1 Mission: to steal, kill and destroy the peace, comfort, joy and hope of everyone who has been created in the image of God!  Hence, Beloved, contrary to this contemporized Millennuim psyche, there’s a war going on! Therefore, as The Apostle Peter advised, we should expect to be tempted by tests, trials, trouble, trauma and tragedy! (Ref. 1 Peter 4:12-13)

However, along with this ominous warning, our Heavenly Father also gives us His Eternal Assurance, “And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8

Unfortunately, most of our attacks come from unseen forces! Satan has become quite proficient in throwing rocks and hiding his hands. Then he sits back relishing the chaos, confusion, havoc and vengence that we wreak upon one another. Notwithstanding, God has equipped, those who elect to walk by faith, with a Spirit of Discernment that forges beyond the natural, piercing into the real of the SUPERNATURAL!  Armed and readied  with weapons that are not carnal, but mighty through God, enables us to triumphantly invade and eradicate the forces of evil every time! (Ref. 2 Corinthians 10:4; Romans 8:37)

Just knowing that we’re encompassed about by enemy forces is not always enough, you gotta know when to hold ’em, and when to fold ’em, huh? In order to be successful in your conquest, it is vital that you remain strategically positioned to hear the instructions of The Captain of The Lord’s Host. TruthBtold, while God teaches our hands to war, some battles are not meant for us to fight! #Seriously!

Just like King Jehoshaphat, when we’re challenged by demonic intimidations, we must resist out flesh’s pressure to bow down to our fears and take matters into our own hands! But rather our response should be to immediately turn our face toward our Master in fervent prayer and worship! By making prayer your daily regiment, we build up our most holy faith. When the enemy comes upon us suddenly, instead of retreating to imminent defeat and surrendering to hopelessness and despair, we automatically fire up our faith in the Trustworthiness of The Power and Promises of God! God prefers Faithfulness above sacrafice!

Strapped in unwavering holy confidence that Greater is He who is in us than anything that stands against us, we boldly march towards adversity, trusting that our God will turn it around in our favor and make it work together for our highest good and His Greatest Glory! (Ref.  1 John 4:4; Romans 8:28)

Prayer and Praiz are the believers emblems, signifing that our hope rests in God and not in ourselves, ordaining The Strength of God to move, intervening on our behalf sending terror throughtout the enemies camp! 

Didjaheardat? When YOU REALLY BELIEVE GOD, IT JUS CONFUSES HELL! LOL! #HOLYWAR!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

STILL SAY YES?

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STILL SAY YES

SELAH Daily Devotions!

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 2 Corinthians 1:20

For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. Hebrews 4:2

 

WOW!

Just thinking about backndaday, when the Saints gathered on Sunday afternoon for Holy Convocation! Talkin’ about The Grand Ole Church of God In Christ. I’m here to tell ya, did we ever have some sho nuff churrch huh? I remember how I felt when the Elder would approach the pulpit and begin bellowing out our International COGIC Anthem, “YES LORD!” Still not sure whether it was meant to call the church to order, calm the shoutin saints down, to take up the offering or what. But what I do know is that just hearing those words that were first uttered from the mouth of our Founder, Charles H. Mason, always took our worship into another dimension of God’s Presence!

Unfortunately, you don’t hear that song sang much anymore. At least not in the same manner, huh? Don’t shout me down now! #ijs

 

The Holy Spirit just said, ‘that’s because My people aren’t saying ‘YES’ to Me that much anymore!’ OMG! Honestly, that really doesn’t suprise me! There’s so much noisey chatter going around the Christian Community these day, folk aren’t sure what’s of God and what’s not! One side of the church is saying, “It’s a new day and we’re no longer under The Law, we’re under Grace”! The other side is saying, “If you don’t have a new house, drive a certain car, live in a certain zip code, the favor of God is not on your life because you don’t have enuff faith!” And hardly anybody is preaching what God expects of those who claim His Son as Lord and Savior! (Ref. Micah 6:8)
We’re living in a day-n-time when every man wants to do what seems right in their own eyes. If we don’t like what that preacher’s preaching, we can keep driving until we find one that affirms and validates what we want to do, right? To make the transition easier, we can even search the internet until we find one that suits our lifestyle and  THEN there’s always e-church!

Problem is, while times have changed, The Word of God HASN’T! IT IS ETERNAL!!

While the world is busy colluding, electing, legislating and flaunting their rebellious unrighteousness, rest assured, it’s virtually impossible for mere man to dismiss the boundaries and rules for living that God has established! JESUS IS LORD!

 Saints,  I know, sometimes, we’d prefer to not acknowledge it, HOWEVRRR…there’s another side of God’s Holiness that the world (and even some church folk) has completely rejected! ‘The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath” (Nahum 1:2)

Hence, while it may seem as if God has turned His face away from this world and is allowing everything to fall apart, The Sovereign Creator God wants us to know that everything is falling right in place! Anybody remember, Goshen? “They saw not one another, neither rose any from his place for three days: but all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.” Exodus 10:23

There’s no denying, the Adversary is working double-over-time attempting to persuade the Saints to give up all hope of anything getting better! But God says, there’s an appointed time and a purpose for all things! (Ref. Eccl. 3:1) TRUST2KNO, Satan ain’t running nothing! It is GOD who sits enthroned above the circle of the earth and He has and never will relinquish HIS POWER TO ANYONE OR ANYTHING! 

What does God want us to do? It’s simple, walk with HIM! Trust HIM, agree with HIM! Regardless of how the circumstantial evidence appears to contradict The Promises, have faith in The Immutable Word of God! (Ref. Proverbs 3:5-6)

Beloved, keep getting up in the morning, set your face toward JESUS and just keep right on saying ‘YES LORD’! #Didjaheardat?

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

 

MEMORIES, huh?

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MEMORIES, HUH

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

When He slew them, then they sought Him; and they returned and inquired early after God. And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their Redeemer. Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their tongues. For their heart was not right with Him, neither were they steadfast in His covenant. But He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity and destroyed them not; yeah, many a time turned He his anger away and did not stir up all His wrath. For He remembered that they were but flesh, a wind passeth away, and cometh not again. Psalm 78:34-39

 

A few years back, (but who’s counting, huh?) Barbara Strissand recorded a hit song entitled ‘Memories’. This song pricked the hearts of all of us! Hence, we all have memories of days gone by that lure us back to the way we were. For some of us, when certain ticker-tapes of past personal experiences cross our minds, immediately we smile. Other flash-backs cause our hearts to flutter, skipping a beat… or two, remembering when. And then there are those special ones that yet…still prompt silent tears to crease our cheeks. Memories, huh? Some are fading and some, we only wish we could forget.

Like all of us, I indeed cling to God’s promises to keep my mind focused, sharp and sound. That being my faith stance, I must confess that—every now and then—I have to cash in what my kids call, one of my ‘senior moments’ vouchers. Now don’t look at me in that tone of voice. Can we be for real? I believe we all suffer a bout of ‘Spiritual Alzheimer’s’—every now and then.

Today’s scripture text recalls how the Israelites’ sporadic attacks of ‘forgetfulness’ provoked God’s wrath as He carried them through the wilderness. Now don’t be so hard on them. Truth be told, any one of us, drapped in this fickle-frail-flesh-frame, are just as prone to spiritual amnesia when it comes to recollecting the Wondrous works of God!

Time and time again, God has proven Himself a Faithful Provider, A Way-Out- of -No-Way, our Rock-in-A-Weary-Land, A Shelter-in our-Storm, A Strong Protector, Committed Redeemer and Eternal Hope of our Salvation.  HOWEVERRRR, in spite of our own personal memories of all that God has already done, the moment we’re faced with a new challenge, does our response reflect a confident trust in our Compassionate Merciful God of All Grace? Or do we suddenly forget to remember that if He Did It Before, He’ll Do It Again? Probably not, huh?  #ijs…

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8

BUT! THANKS BE 2 GOD! EVEN WHEN WE 4GET…GOD ALWAYS REMEMBERS…PRECIOUS MEMORIES, huh?

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

A LISTENING GOD

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A LISTENING GOD

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything, according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him. 1 John 5:14-15  KJV

My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God’s Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life, the reality and not the illusion. And how bold and free we then become in his presence, freely asking according to his will, sure that he’s listening. And if we’re confident that he’s listening, we know that what we’ve asked for is as good as ours. 1 John 5:13-15 THE MESSAGE

 

Ever found yourself at the end of your rope? That’s silly; of course you have! We’ve all been there! But did you ever think that that’s exactly where GOD wants you? Probably NOT, huh?

According to 21st Century world view, we’ve been led to believe that you, as the master of your own life, will never face a challenge that you can’t get past. After all you’re an intellectually stimulated, highly educated, acutely sophisticated and exceptionally self-disciplined/self-sufficient individual, right? Wrong!

As you’ve probably figured out by now, this human experience (we call life} is plagued with sporatic incidental  ‘try as you may, you still don’t know how to fix this mess’, huh? But then again, it’s GOD Who sets it up, jus like dat? He never intended us to live life independent of GODSELF! Where do you think fellowship began? That’s exactly right; like everything else, in the mind of God!

Unfortunately, GOD knows that except we have these “impossible” situational intrusions, you know that thing that seems to just pop-up outta no where blocking our path, there’s a high probability that some of us wouldn’t even think we needed GOD! Don’t forget GOD knows your heart! So don’t even try to wiggle your way out of this Truth!

Every so often, we find ourselves smack-dab-in-the-middle of time-sensitive circumstances where you just need one somebody to talk it over with. Even if they can’t change your situation, right? So you call your Mama and your Daddy, your BFF, your Dawg and errrbody else you can think of; hoping, that if somebody just listened, it would ease the pain, frustration and helplessness jus enough to bring a bleep of clarity. Or, perhaps make you feel like at least they care! But then again, can you really trust them to not put your business out there on social media blast or even worst, alter their impression of you? #WOW!

Beloved, we have this confidence! God is never shocked by anything and He knows everything! And to top that, whenever we call Him, He shows up! And whenever He shows up, He’s never empty-handed. He has all the answers that you and I will ever need in this lifetime and the world to come. 

TRUTHBTOLD, at the end of the day, who else can you REALLY REALLY depend on BUT Jesus? C’mon nah, U already know what I’m talking about… that thing, that situation, that person who’s got your heart so troubled, k? Well, stop procrastinating and start talking to JESUS! HE’S ALWAYS WAITING!

C’mon Now! Bow your head (pride) and your heart (shame) and like them Ol’ Skool Mothers said, ‘Jus take it to The Lawd in pray’r’!

TRUST2KNO, GOD IS GRACIOUS AND HE SPECIALIZES IN MAKING WRONG THINGS RIGHT! OUR HEAVENLY FATHER LISTENS!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

Can You Hear Me Now???

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CAN U HEAR ME NOW2

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace, to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood. Galatians 1:15-16

 

In today’s scripture text, we hear the testimonial of The Apostle Paul in response to The Lord’s prompting to go spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. And we all know how that turned out, huh? GGGGLLLLORRRRRAAA 2 GOD! However, what stands out to me, is what Paul didn’t do!

The Apostle didn’t wait to get an Executive Order from The White House nor a congregational consensus before stepping out in faith. Instead of asking anybody what they thought about it, relying solely on his personal relationship with His Savior. Feeling no need for further validation, The Apostle Paul immediately obeyed God’s instructions!

How about you? When you’ve heard from God, what’s your initial response? Before you move, do you have to survey the opinions of your family and friends? Does the fear of failure, embarrassment, humiliation or retaliation cause you to stagger at God’s Word? Are you willing to take a leap of faith and just do what you believe God is asking of you?

As believers, we’re sometimes reluctant to move out on a WORD FROM GOD. Not so much because we’re not trusting God, but more often than not, it’s because of a spirit of difiance deeply rooted in the lack of self-confidence in our own ability. Ooops…#noshedidn’t! Yall kno she did!

In an attempt to re-assure ourselves that we’re in God’s will, like Gideon, we’ll ask God for a sign and come up with some kinda obtuse fleece as further proof that it is actually God speaking. (Ref.Judges 6) Particularly, when it’s something that causes us to move beyond the boundaries of our comfort zone! And while God so graciously granted Gideon’s request, twice, as believers, we must recognize that God often tests our trust and confidence by commissioning us to do what seems impossible!

Precious ones, that’s what our life in Christ is about. God doesn’t require us to walk by signs, but by hope-filled trust that whatever He asks us to do, by His Grace, we are well able to perform.

The Bible says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:” John 10:27. As we entreat His Presence daily in prayer, seeking Divine assistance, inquiring direction thru diligent study and meditation of His Word, we learn to distinguish His Voice from the chatter emanating from the world! That’s how HE teaches you what He wants of you!

That’s why it’s so important to build an intimate relationship with your Heavenly Father and not just show up at The Throne Room for emergency visits! God really cares about you! He is not a dead-beat Dad nor is He willing to settle for weekend visitations! God wants to be actively involved in every aspect of your life, every day!

The closer you get to JESUS the clearer He speaks and the sweeter His Voice becomes! #Didjaheardat?

WHEN YOU KNOW HIM, YOU WILL KNOW HIS WILL! WHEN YOU KNOW HIS WILL, YOU DON’T NEED TO CONFER WITH ANYBODY…BUT U GOTTA KNOW GOD’S VOICE4urself! #canuhearMEnow!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

NON-NEGOTIABLE

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NON-NEGOTIABLE2

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom you will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15

 

Who nu? Dictionary.com would have so many different definitions of the word ‘DEBATE’!

So, I’ve decided to add my compilation synopsis to the list. Here goes:

“To engage in formal/informal discussion, argumentation or disputation with another person or group, to deliberate upon, to consider and/or to contend for or over opposing viewpoints, in which the affirmative and negatives side of a proposition are advocated by opposing speakers”

Now, ain’t that a mouth-full? No wonder there’s seems to be no end to the perplexity of issues up for debate, huh?

The ancient Grecians were famous for their fascination with prolific debating practices. There’s still open-ending discussions regarding whether the art of Grecian debate played a significant role in developing today’s American society… or not. Apparently, while many antiquities of social traditions are extinct, the debate goes on and on!

One might ascertain that Humanity’s Inalienable Right to freely express his/her own opinions and to make choices regarding issues they presume relevant, sets us above all other creation, or not!

This concept of “either /or” has existed since the Garden of Eden. God allowed Adam to exercise his freedom of choice giving him access to a garden variety of luscious fruit to select from, with the exception of one particular tree; The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. (Ref. Genesis 2:17) And we all know how that worked out! Huh?

Temptation makes it extremely difficult to resist engaging in some form of debate. Does chocolate taste better than vanilla? Are Marines better equipped than The Navy Seals? Is marriage better than remaining single? Creation vs. Evolution?

Logic leads us to this conclusion. Even though we do have the freedom and power to choose our actions, when it comes to the consequences of our decisions, it’s completely out of our hands. God’s Sovereignty over His Creation is NOT UP FOR DEBATE! Hence, there are some decisions that command intentional consciencous reflection, consultation and evaluation because the aftermath of an erroneous selection is irrevocable!

Unfortunately, this often doesn’t sit well with some. Many a disillusioned soul has taken issue to this kind of ‘authoritative manipulation’ resulting in habitual sinful rebellion. But! God looks down from His Throne and laughs at this foolish obstinacy! (Ref. Psalm 2:4)

The Great Debate continues to infiltrate various sects of society. Hence, Absolutes vs. No Absolutes! Either you are male or female, saved or lost, spiritual or religious, Calvinism vs. Arminianism? Does God exist or not? Is there One God or many? Is Jesus Lord of all or not at all? Apparently, there will always be those who disagree with with our preferences, yet there’s no denying that these tough issues warrant careful deliberation! 

Amazingly,  the Graciousness of a Holy God still allows man the power of choice to either bow now or bow later! #ijs

Beloved, may I submit for your consideration, BEFORE YOU RESPOND, TAKE A MOMENT TO PAUSE AND PONDER! AFTER ALL, THE CONSEQUENCES ARE ETERNAL! IT’S EITHER HEAVEN OR HELL! BELIEVE it or NOT, ultimately, The Word of God is NON-NEGOTIABLE!  #WOW #Didjaheardat?

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

ROCK STEADY, BABY!

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ROCK STEADY 4

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever. Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.  Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy endureth for ever. Let them now that fear the Lord say, that his mercy endureth for ever.

I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place.

The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? The Lord taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. Psalm 118:1-8

 

Unless you were born late last night or just landed on Planet Earth early this morning, you’ve probably already recognized that real-life comes at you hard and fast! It matters not whether you’ve been walking with Jesus for a long time or just recently made a decision to follow Christ! Truthfully, none of us are excluded from life’s faith-stresses aka test and trials! In fact, The Holy Writ is ladened with numerous accountings to alert even the most sincerest of faith-talking-faith-walking-Christians among us, to expect trying times to pop-up when you least expect them!

The Apostle Paul describes life as a race, and we soon discover that it’s not a sprint, but a marathon! However, unlike The Boston Marathon, God doesn’t usually let us in on the specifics that we’ll encounter along the way that could potentially hinder, even derail our progress, ultimately keeping us from finishing our course.

Perhaps, it’s because the Omniscient One knows that if we had foreknowledge, most of us would re-calculate our journey to suit own will, or worst yet, start looking to external resources, other than GOD, to be our help!

Yes! We all experience those seasons when it feels like our lives are being torpedoed by Satan’s inferno darts, coupled with the tolls of living in this fallen world, even to the point where our own flesh turns against us and we ‘re almost persuaded that GOD has obviously just abandoned us in the valley of the shadows of death, hopelessly desperate to fend for ourselves, huh?

But, The Psalmist, David, having personally triumphantly trampled through turbulent terrains many times, extends to us this olive-branch of hope-filled-encouragement, don’t give up! Despite of what it looks like, never stop trusting God!

Why? Because David knew what Satan never wants us to know, that no matter what the enemy throws at you, we have a Forever Faithful Refuge on our side and HIS NAME IS JESUS!

The next time (and there will be a next time), the enemy tries to convince you that it’s over, defeat is imminent, there’s no place to run, no place to hide, everything you once stood on has now turned to sinking sand, TRUST2KNO, God Alone is your Impregnable Mountain of Righteousness!

Beloved, when darkness surrounds you, hiding HIS Face, press on; trusting HIS Heart to do whatever is necessary to keep you safely tucked in HIS Providential Care every minute of every day! 

If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 1 John 3:20

Didjaheardat?

Don’t be afraid, little children! Remember, if Jehovah allows you to go to it, it means that He’s already gone before you, preparing Divinely designated rest areas along the road to comfort, renew and energize our spirit and soul!

GOD’S LOVE REMAINS—ROCK STEADY, BABY!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

A SAFE PLACE!

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A SAFE PLACE 3

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved”…In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah….God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. Psalm 62:1-2, 7-8, 11

 The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. Nahum 1:7

 

“Everyday is not the same!” These were the words from a faithful friend to me to encourage me at a time when I found myself drowning in raging waters, attempting to maneuver my way through the valley overshadowed by Dred and Death! In retrospect, I’m almost tempted to say, “Sir, is dat ever an understatement!”

Who knu?  I never would’ve dare to imagine that one day, I’d be the one offering these same words to fellow sojourners along my path as a breath of refreshing wind to wayfaring souls hoping to console their storm-wearied hearts to keep moving, keep trusting, keep believing because NOW IS NOT FOREVER and GOD IS TOO FAITHFUL FOR YOU TO GIVE UP NOW! GOD IS Awemaazin, huh?

My sincere prayer is that the treasured words of today’s text,  inspired by Holy Spirit, serve as a compass leading you to The True Source of Comfort and Peace as they remind us of The Eternal Truth and Faithfulness of every Word that proceeds out of God’s Mouth! 

The sum of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting. Psalm 119:160

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11

Beloved, only God knows what challenges you are facing at this writing, yet I hear the Saints of ol’ saanging ‘I Go To The Rock!’ It was those soul-stirring songs that taught us that when the cares of this ol’ world overwhelm us, there is an escape, a safe house that we can run into and be saved from the threatening terror! Hence, we can run to the Mountain That is Higher than you and I!

My precious one, can we pray?

“Heavenly Father, here we are again bowing at The Throne of Your Mercy! We’re so grateful for the honor and privilege to come boldly, knowing that You hear and answer every petition, supplication and inquiry we place before You.

We’re praying for the strength of The people of God, that we might be encouraged to stand strong, continue lifting up The Blood Stained Banner of our Lord and Savior. Trusting confidently that He Who Rules and Reigns above The Heavens, is in ABSOLUTE CONTROL of the affairs of all mankind! We’re praying for the leaders of our country, fully persuaded that their hearts remain in God’s Hand, confident that The Omniscient Father never sleeps nor slumbers, is never taken by surprise, neither does He ever need to repent! EVERYTHING HE HAS PROMISED, HE WILL PERFORM!

We’re praying for our children, every parent who has been charged to instruct and rear them up in the fear and admonition of THE LORD will submit to the leading of Holy Spirit, walk upright before them that they may see our faith and commitment to THE GOD OF ALL HOPE!

We’re praying for those who are yet in darkness, being deceived by Satan into rejecting The Saving Grace of The Lord Jesus Christ will be snatched from the snares of sinfulness and repent before GOD, seeking forgiveness and salvation. We’re believing that the hearts of the backsliders will be pricked by The Spirit of The Living God so that they will make a decision to return to Jesus TODAY!

We’re praying for the comfort of those who are dealing with grief, depression, loneliness, fear, addictions, confusion, overwhelmed by financial commitments, sickness and diseases. We’re believing that the angels of the Lord are being sent to their sides to minister help, health and hope at this very moment.

We’re rejoicing in reality that the companionship of The Lord of All Comfort, Joy and Peace is never too far away and that HE can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities.

We’re eternally grateful, Father, that regardless of what each day brings, YOU OH GOD REMAIN THE SAME, YESTERDAY, TODAY AND FOREVER FAITHFUL to protect and provide everthing we ever need.

ABBA FATHER, we’re thanking You now for Your Compassionate Loving Kindness, Tender Mercies and Unconditional Love that never leaves us nor forsakes those who place their personal trust in JESUS ALONE! THE SOLID ROCK!

We’re asking these things, recognizing that it’s because of The Majestic Name of Jesus that we yet rest assured in Hope, earnestly anticipating that it shall be so. In Jesus Name. AMEN 3X

LORD, AS YOU STAND BY ME, I’M IN MY SAFE PLACE!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

THURSDAYS’ PRAYERS!

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SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

Good morning Precious Saints of The Most High God! GOTTA MOMENT? AWESOME!

Once again,  we’re so excited that you have joined us in our Weekly Thursdays’ Day of Corporate Fasting and Prayer! The Bible tells us that some things can only be released through effective fervent fasting and prayer. In deed we must all agree that we need to pray more NOW THAN EVER BEFORE! Let’s enter into The Majestic Throne Room of The Lord and Creator of Life!

HE’s sweet I know, Jesus is sweet I know! Storm clouds may rise; strong winds may blow! But, I’ll tell the world, wherever I go, that I’ve found my Savior…and HE’S SWEET I KNOW! OOOHH SWEET WONDER! OOOOHHH SWEET WONDER! JESUS! THE SON OF GOD! I really love the Lorrrddd…I REALLY LOVE THE LORD! U DON’T KNOW WHAT HE’S DONE FOR ME! HE GAVE ME THE VICTORYYYY! I LUV HIM! I LUV HIMMMM!   I REALLY LLLUUUUVVVVVV THE LORD! 

WE’RE PRAYING, TRUSTING, BELIEVING & DECLARING….

Abba Father, we come before You today, not in our own righteousness but in the Magnificent, All Powerful Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus! As we come clothed in humble obedience, we’re rejoicing, praising and thanking You for blessing us to see this brand new day. We’re sooo grateful Heavenly Father for one more opportunity to embrace and enjoy the Abundance of Your Faithfulness, Mercy, Your Grace, Your Power and Your Peace!

Daddy, we thank You for being The Lord of our Salvation, Deliverance, Hope, Breakthrough and Provision. We’re eternally thankful that because You know our frame, Your faithfulness and compassion allows You to look beyond our human frailties, faults and iniquities! Therefore, as we seek Your forgiveness, we’re convinced that You, knowing our hearts ,will continue to supply and minister to all of our need!

We praise You today Lord, for renewing our strength, encouraging our hearts, enlightening our understanding. We recognize that You alone are able to search the secret things, and even when our hearts condemn us, Your Lovingkindness is greater than our broken and contrite spirits! As we come to the end of ourselves, we draw near to You, repenting, open, relying and depending wholly on the Faithfulness of Your Word!

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that no man can come to You except You draw them! Therefore, as we intercede on behalf of every unsaved soul, we’re asking that as Your eyes continue to search the hearts of mankind, quicken our hearts and minds with the Spirit of Godly-repentance that all will cry out to You, professing a ‘SINCERE YES LORD’ to your Mercy and Grace and receive You as personal Lord and Savior today. As you draw them near to You, Father we’re believing that You will save them because it’s not Your Will that any should perish, but that all would run to receive Your Saving Grace! Father, as You pick them up, we’re believing that You’re directing their footsteps to a local Church home where they will be settled, nourished, and taught how to live out their lives pleasing and glorifying You!

Abba Father, we pray for every backslider who has walked away from the fold for whatever reason! Your Word assures us that You have never issued a divorce decree from any who has come into covenant relationship with You. We ask that Holy Spirit prick the heart and mind of those who have fallen prey to the Accuser’s lie right now. Let them know that You’re looking, waiting with Your arms open wide to receive them in joyful celebration as they return to Your Kingdom! Lord, plant a ‘commited Yes’ into their hearts and minds that restores and empowers them to be a Faithful witness to a lost and dying wold, In Jesus Name! Amen 3X!

Sweet Jesus, touch our brother, touch our sister whose body has been afflicted by all manner of sickness and disease, especially the spirit of cancer, heart, kidney, lung, liver, bone disease, scoliosis, HIV/AIDS, drug and alcohol addictions, mental oppression and depression, Alzheimer, dementia, Autism, strokes, high/low blood pressure! Lord, Your Word has taught us that if we can have it, You can HEAL IT! Lord, we know that You are the same GOD who walked the shores of Galilee and have the same Power today to rebuke and cast it out at the root, for Your Name Sake! Lord, we come into agreement with Your Word declaring that Your stripes have redeemed and healed us and we’re yet standing on your promises that the prayer of faith shall save the sick and raise them up, In Jesus Name!

Lord, as we lift up every believer who is experiencing grief, anxiety and weariness, those who have been victimized by senseless killings, those who are caretakers of ailing loved ones, those who are struggling to remain hopeful as they sit at the bedsides of those whom the doctors have gone as far as they know, yet today they’re determined to hold on to Your Hand by faith today! Father, we ask that You remember our brothers and sisters whose lives have been ripped apart by storms, floods, earthquakes, fires and  mudslides; both naturally and spiritually!

Abba Father, we declare and agree that as we are yet praying, You are releasing Divine Power, Supernatural strength, Health, Provision, Prosperity and Protection. We Thankya Father, that as You preserve them thru the tests, keep them constantly aware of YOUR PRESENCE, and fully-confident that while weeping may endure for a nite, unspeakable joy does come in the morning! Holy Spirit, comfort us with Your Peace that passes all understanding, convincing every wounded -wearied souls that at the appointed time, You shall bring them out wholly restored, renewed, refreshed and with the reward as You have promised them in Your Word.

Father, we lift up our children, our children’s children; by faith we cancel every scheme that Satan desires to inflict upon them, as we’re committing them into Your Providential Care and Protection, we release a Spirit of Truth and Excellence upon their spirit, souls, minds and bodies! In Jesus Name, Amen 3x! We  gratefully acknowledge that You have a plan and purpose for their lives too’ therefore, we have the Blessed Assurance that even when we can’t see them, their steps are being ordered by Your eyes!

Holy Spirit, we thank You for an outpouring of Your Divine Favor upon each and every one of your children who are seeking employment, promotion, prompt approval for student/car/home loans and assure them that YOU are, Jehovah Jareh, who shall supply all of their need according to Your Riches in Glory!

Abba Father, stir up the hearts and minds of those who are professing Your Name that they will have a desire for an even greater personal, intimate relationship with The Redeemer of Souls, through fellowship of Holy Spirit that they might prove what is the good, perfect and acceptable will of The Lord Jesus!

Heavenly Father, we lift up the government/legislative leaders of every nation of this world, judicial, corporate, education, financial, food service, public service and health care institutional leaders! We’re asking that You touch their minds and hearts, speak to them in dreams and visions letting them know that You Who Sit Sovereignly Enthroned Above the Heavens are keeping record of the deeds of every man’s heart and will reward accordingly! We believe that because their hearts are in Your Hands, they are being continuously opened to hear and obey Your Will! Lord Jesus, we’re standing on Your Word as decreed that The government of this world shall rest upon Your shoulders because You are The Eternal King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Abba, we lift up every Bishop, Pastor, Overseer, Apostle, Evangelist, Minister, Missionary, Preacher and Teacher. Undergird them with Your Anointing and conviction to carry out their assignment, under the direction of Holy Spirit. Cover them as they go in and out amongst Your people and those who would seek to discredit, hinder and even destroy their faith, faithfulness and ministry,You have ordained. Grace them to be the holy humble examples in their homes, marketplace, communities and churches that will cause those who are in their sphere of influence to fall deeply in love with JESUS, and the people of God, fully committed to love, trust and live everyday of life serving and glorifying You, Our Heavenly Father!

Abba Father, we decree that every demonic-induced spirit of fear, failure, rejection, hopelessness and disappointment is defeated by Your Anointing and that the Spirit of Love, Power and Soberness is being released now, in Jesus Name! We’re declaring and trusting that each morning Your children will awaken empowered with assuring Grace to accomplish every assignment and sleep peacefully every nite, confident of brand new hope-filled tomorrows!

Father, we wait in confidence and quietness, rejoicing in hope and trusting wholly that all workers of iniquity are trembling and suddenly departing in shame, turning away from Your people, terrorized because You have heard the voice of our weeping, our supplications and received our prayer as a sweet savor coming up before Your Sovereign Throne of Grace and Mercy!

Heavenly Father, we close this prayer with a THANKYA JESUS AND A HOLY HALLELUJAHH 2 YAH, BELIEVING THAT IT IS DONE! In The Exalted Name of Jesus! Amen 3x and IT IS SO!

Now every child of God who is standing in agreement with this prayer, GO TELL SOMEBODY THAT ‘JESUS LOVES, STILL SAVES & CARES 4 YOU!’

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!