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LIFE GOES BETTER WITH CHRIST!

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LIFE GOES BETTER WITH CHRIST

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living? Psalm 56:12-13

 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. Ecclesiastes 9:11

 

The Bible is so real that it’s difficult to understand how too many yet consider it irrelevant to today’s contemporary society. Amassed within 66 Books, 929 chapters in the Old Testament and 260 chapters in the New Testament, GOD has captured every aspect of the human experience from eternity past, eternity present and eternity future!

Unlike many of my readers, I wasn’t born on the left-hand-back-pew of the church! In fact, I wasn’t even raised in a so-called Christian environment. Hence, I’ve lived on both sides of the Cross; therefore I’ve experienced both ends of the sin spectrum. I said all that to say,  unequivocably,  I truely believe  in the miraculous, uncomparable , incomprehensible depth and breath of God’s Grace and Mercy to transform the life of the  most ungodly into the sanctified! 

Sometimes, life comes at us fast and hits you hard! Nevertheless, how we respond to the unexpected, is ultimately a matter of perspective! King Solomon, dubbed as the wisest man in the known world, having been set-up from birth to inherit God’s riches blessings, decided to turn away from following in the footsteps of  his Father David, preferring to fulfill his fleshy lusts, eventually found himself plunging headlong into the endless pit of  darkness, desperation and dispair!

While Salvation does not guarantee automatic exemption from experiening test, trials or tragedy, as followers of Christ, we have this assurance, absolutely nothing happens that ever takes GOD by surprise!

He knows our endings from the beginning! Not one smile is ever unnoticed nor is one tear ever undocumented. (Ref. Psalm 56:8) Nothing that you’ve been thru; nothing you might be going through now escapes His Watch!  God doesn’t promise that every day will be a stroll in the park on a sunny day dancing through flowery beds of ease, but it behooves us to be content, confident that “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Ref. Hebrews 13:5)

As you voyage through The Scriptures, you’ll discover that God’s servants were tempted, tested and tried by the same tactics and schemes that we are; all launched by our common diabolical enemy, Satan. Nevertheless, they persevered and prevailed with the help of self-same Good Shepherd that’s available to you and me.

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Hebrews 13:8

GOD has promised to supply everything we will ever need to overcome and conquer every and any thing that attempts to resist or prevent the absolute fulfillment of every vow that He’s spoken over our lives. Don’t allow fear to limit your expectations of what GOD has prepared for you!

Don’t let your past cause you to doubt or settle for less than He’s promised! Take care that your steps don’t become slack lingering too long in what’s behind. Keep moving forward; remembering what God has for you is always in front of you!

While Life continues to be a journey into unchartered territories, keep walking; fully persuaded that you are never alone.  Yes! There will be some valleys to tread, some mountains to climb, some twists and turns to meander and some dead-ends to re-calculate from. Nevertheless, I encourage you to keep your hand in HIS HAND, confidently trusting in The Master of all Life; knowing that what’s ahead of you is always greater than anywhere you’ve been! IN THE END YOU WIN!

BELOVED, JUST KEEP WALKING, LOVING, LEARNING, LEANING AND LIVING! …LIFE GOES BETTER WITH CHRIST!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

GOD DID IT!

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GOD DID IT.1

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

And thinkest thou this O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgement of God? Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness, and forebearance and long-suffering; not kowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? Romans 2:3-4

 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?  I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. Romans 7:24-25

 

A while ago, I heard a preacher confessing that at one time he was an avid believer and willing partaker of one of the greatest lies that Satan has perpetrated. As he went on to talk about his early perception of God, I began reflecting back on the  B.C. (Before Christ) in my own personal life, I humbly concluded, “You ain’t by yourself preacha!” If we would be honest, for real, a whole lot of us would have to raise both our hands and say “Amen 3X, Preacha!”

How many of you once believed that somewhere, way out there, there was a Great Big Ol’ Angry God, watching and recording every single thing you did? And when you had accumulated that mystical, unknown number of sins, His Hand of Wrath would suddenly appear from heaven, striking you down with a big sledge hammer, crush you and fling your po’ soul straight into the devil’s hell! Oh, C’mon nah; don’t play me like you never…

Perhaps you were with that other group—the self-righteous, who ascribe to the lie that when they get themselves together, they fully intend to start going to church but they’re not going to be no hypocrite, like all them other folk. They’re gonna be real about serving God! And we all know how that’s gonna turn out, huh?

Truth be told, this  sin-thing started way before any of us were born! Because of our original progenitor’s high treason against the Righteous instructions given by The Creator of Life, we are all born naughty by nature! Thus, every human born into the earth since our fore-parents’ willful rebellion is corrupted by an innate disorder called iniquity! Now, don’t look at me with that self-righteous attitude! (Ref. Ps. 51:5) 

But, it goes deeper! The Glory of Innocence that once covered Adam and us had now been disrupted by sin, exposing us to evil, guilt, shame and fear! That precious intimacy with God that man once enjoyed in Paradise was violently yanked from him plunging all of creation into gross darkness and utter chaos! And as they say, the rest is history, huh?

Now, just think about all those times GOD could’ve, should’ve, BUT didn’t serve you your just desserts! Remember all those unfulfilled promises you made (lies) just before GOD delivered you, again?  Evvrrr wonder, how many times God chose to withhold justice prefering to dispense Grace and Mercy towards us? WOW! Haven’t got a clue, huh? Neither do I! #ijs

Can we be for real? You and I will never, ever be good enough to remotely qualify as ‘acceptable’ to a HOLY GOD—SO….get over you! God already knew that we’d fall short numerous times, BEFORE AND AFTER WE RECEIVED JESUS!  That’s why, before we were even formed in our mother’s womb, God’s plan of Salvation was already established!

Ephesians 2:8 declares, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:”! Didjaheardat? God never left it up to us! Salvation is God’s free gift.

That’s the GOSPEL! It’s called GRACE, YALL! And guess what?  This offer is still available to WHOSOEVER will humble themselves before God, acknowledge themselves as sinners who have no other Hope for Salvation but JESUS and accept His Amazingly-Gracious-Merciful GIFT OF FORGIVENESS!

NOW, don’t get it twisted! There is such a thing as frustrating the GRACE OF GOD! Hence, it behooves each of us to make a sincere concerted effort to daily live our lives doing those things that are pleasing to GOD! Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? GOD FORBID. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? (Ref. Romans 6:1-2)

I KNOW THIS SOUNDS 2 good 2 be true!  YET, IT IS! GOD ALREADY DID EVERYTHING NEEDED 2 SAVE ANY ONE OF US! THAT’S JUS HOW GOOD GOD IS! NOW??? WHAT’S UR EXCUSE, huh?

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

STUPEFYING!

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STUPEFYING

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father’s sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually. And he bowed himself, and said, What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am? 2 Samuel 9:7-8
“Why me?”
 
How many times have we found ourselves spurting these words out of our mouths? Whether out of a sense of cynical-rhetorical contemptuousness or an overwhelming comeback to the lusciousness of God’s unexpected favoritism, we can all identify with Mephibosheth’s response to King David. (Ref. 2 Samuel 9) Especially, since none of us can honestly claim that we deserve to be so blessed in the first place, huh? Truthfully, any good that we do is generally accidental! So, as far as standing up to the standards of GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS, we’re all lame in both feet! (Ref. Romans 3:23) Can I get a holy Hallelujah and three AMENS?
 
But that’s the whole point! It’s the Wonder of God’s unmerited goodness that sets us apart from the rest of the world!
 
Knowing us from the inside-out, not just what you did–but why,  your Heavenly Father blessed you anyway! Despite all the justifiable circumstantial evidence to support our accuser’s objections, The Eternal Judge over-rules them, dismissing the case, covers you in HIS Royal Robe of Righteousness, leaving them (and sometimes even us) scratching their heads, dumbfounded and paralyzed uttering in amazement “What jus happened?” 
 
Creation clearly demonstrates God’s propensity for details. Behold, how marvelously God pieces the individual segments of our lives to fit perfectly jointed together for our highest good and His Greatest Glory! (Ref. Romans 8:28) His Handiwork, often mysteriously hidden behind the clouds, weaving the highs and the lows, the strides and the falls, the haves and the have nots, lovingly bonding the momentary to the eternal, paints a collage that captivates the attention of that passerby to stop and ponder; taking much needed periods of reflection, introspection, covetously inquires “Why not me?”
 
THANK GOD for that day when, like Mephibosheth, we finally get it! Casting off fear, we fall prostrate before our Benevolent Faithful King in humble obedience, with everlasting joy, declaring “For you O Lord are my Everlasting Hope!” (Ref. Psalm 16:5)

GOD SO LOVED…ME?  I KNOW IT MAKES NO SENSE, BUT…YES HE DOES!  AND HE ALWAYS WILL! #DIDJAGETIT???
 
SOOOO…WITH ABUNDANT JOY WE GRATEFULLY  SUCCUMB TO THE WONDER OF OUR GOD!  STUPEFYING, huh? #ijs #WOW!
 
SELAH!
 
Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!”
 
Ann Caffee

A BURNING BUSH!

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A BURNING BUSH 1

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

 

And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush and he looked, and behold, the bush burned with fire and, the bush was not consumed. Exodus 3:2

 

Moses probably began this day just as he’d began many others. The scripture says, he was doing what he’d normally do; taking care of his father-in-law, Jethro’s, sheep when his day abruptly takes a turn from the mundane to the extremely unusual. Anybody ever been there?

They say, that there’s nothing unusual about finding a bush in the desert, yet it would certainly make anyone stop to ponder, at least momentarily, huh? The scripture said as Moses looked, he noticed that the bush was burning, but it was not consumed. Not only did the fire not burn the bush up, but then the burning bush began to talk.

Wow! God really knows how to get your attention!

Sometimes we’re so pre-occupied with the demands of our 21st Century lifestyles that we miss those Divinely-orchestrated Interruptions.  Oh, l  get it, we’re so purpose driven now – that we can’t dare to spare a moment. After all, time is money, right? Amazingly, our society has become so consumed with pursuing our desires, goals, getting our degrees, larger houses, cars, and yes even our families that somehow, we never seem to include God in our time-lines. I mean, really? Ever heard that saying,‘you got what you wanted but you lost what you had’?

I believe, that sometimes God will interrupt our active lives and draw us to the backside of a mountain into a desert place, just to get your undivided attention. In other words, sometimes God starts some bush fires! #ijs!!!

Remember, that situation that seemed to jus pop off out of nowhere and now all of a sudden it’s burning out of control, threatening your peace, your joy, even disturbing your well being. And let’s not forget about that family-drama? I mean, as soon as you think you got it under control, something flares up on your job. The bushes just keep on burning. Could God possibly be trying to tell you something?

Remember how sweet life was, bacndaday? You know, when America was Great!  My…my… my, how times have changed, huh?  As the ol’ folk used to say, ‘Who knew that there’d be days like this!’ Surely, we’re living in the last of the last days, huh?  

Glancing around, it looks like this whole world has turned upside down! What used to be right, is now called wrong, what used to be in is now out and ain’t nobody got time to seek God for His opinion of nothing no more!  Nevertheless, God’s Faithful Compassion refuses to be intimidated by our negligence! #DIDJAHEARDAT?

Remember, God was there, waiting for Moses all along, but it was not until Moses turned aside, did God reveal GODself! The next time you find yourself ambushed by bush fires, instead of pitchin’ a hissy-fit, murmuring. complaining and blaming God, take a moment and seek the face of God.  Hence, He knows what’s up the road and we don’t!

TRUST2KNO, GOD’S NOT ONE TO BE IGNORED! HE’S — A CONSUMING FIRE!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

THURSDAYS’ PRAYERS!

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prayn-and-fasting-pic

 

GOOD MORNING PRECIOUS SAINTS OF THE MOST HIGH! GOTTA MOMENT? AWESOME!

I am excited that you’ve decided to join us once again in our weekly Thursdays’ Corporate Prayer and Fasting! We are eternally grateful that God has extended His Scepter towards whosoever will entreat His Presence with our praise, petitions and supplications find Grace & Mercy, Wisdom and Understanding to withstand these last and evil days! SHALL WE GO IN…

Welcome Holy Spirit! We are IN YOUR PRESENCE! Fill us with Your POWER, LIVE INSIDE OF ME! YOU’RE MY LIVING WATER! NEVER-ENDING FOUNTAIN; COMFORTER & COUNSELOR; TAKE COMPLETE CONTROL…HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD! SING WITH ME HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD; FOR ALL 2 C HOW GREAT, HOW GREAT…IS OUR GOD!

Our Father and Our God, we come before You, once again, with our hands lifted up and our hearts tuned heavenward, giving Glory and Honor to You! For You Alone are Worthy of all praise! There is none like You, neither will there ever be! For You Alone are Holy and Righteous!

We bless You for revealing GODSELF to all who will call upon Your Name! We bless You for that day You opened the eyes of our understanding allowing us to behold The Light of Your Glory in the Face of Your Only Begotten Son, Jesus enabling us to accept His Life, Death, Burial & Resurrection as Substitutionary Atonement for our sin! We’re eternally grateful for Jesus’ Loving Obedience that caused Him to endure the suffering, despising the shame of Calvary’s Cross that we might be delivered, redeemed, vindicated, adopted to inherit the rich benefits of The Kingdom of God! For this cause we bow our hearts and our heads, in humble reverence crying out, Hallelujah to The Lamb of God!

We bless You Holy Father, for by Your Own Hand You have bought us unto GODSELF! For it is IN YOU that we live, move and have our very being! You are the Source and Sustainer Who Satisfies all life! We know that no man is justified by his own works but by faith IN THE LORD JESUS CHRIST alone are we saved! We bless You Holy Spirit for abiding in us, leading, guiding, enabling all who have placed our personal trust in Jesus to live our lives everyday, yielding to The Spirit of Truth, which is able to transform us from Grace to Grace, perfecting us that we might exemplify Your Divine Nature to this lost and dying world!

Sweet Jesus, You are The WORD PERSONIFIED! We bless You for teaching us how to walk upright, enduring the mockery of those who despise and reject Truth! Your unconditional Love, Kindness and forgiveness towards us, while we were yet sinners, provokes us to love and forgive others who offend us, knowing not what they do. We bless You for Your Patience and Compassion that yet allows You to look at us through Blood-Stained Eyes, remembering our human frailty—EVEN SINCE WE’VE BELIEVED—and so graciously offering us mercy instead of justice, washing us in The Precious Blood of Jesus, cleansing us from all unrighteousness and restoring our peaceful fellowship with You, as we quickly repent by confessing our sin against You!

For this cause, we gladly present our spirit, soul and body as a living holy sacrifice to be used for Your Greatest Glory!

Precious Lord, because no man can come to the Father except you draw them, we intercede on behalf of every unsaved soul, please quicken the Spirit of Godly-repentance in their heart and in their mind that they will come to you today confessing a“Sincere Yes” to your Amazing Gift of Grace and receive You as their personal Lord and Savior! We’re believing that You will Divinely orchestrate their footsteps settleling them into a local church home today.

Lord, we ask You to put a new “Committed YES” in the heart and mind of every backslider! Let today be the day that they come back to You and come back to YOUR church where they will  fully submit their lives to the sound teachings of Your Word, and learn to love Your Word and live their lives walking in holiness in order to please You First!

Father, we pray that You will touch our brother, touch our sister whose body has been afflicted by sickness and disease, especially the spirit of cancer, kidney disease, heart/lung disease, dementia, sickle-cell, MS, Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis and rebuke and cast it out at the root, for Your Name Sake. Heavenly Father, You have decreed that You are Alpha and Omega, the same yesterday, today and forever! Therefore, even as You walked this earth healing all who were sick, feeble, lame we know that You’re Well Able to do the same right now! Your Word declares 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! Amen 3x!

Dear Lord, we’re believing for every believer who is yet holding on to Your Hand by faith today, that You will release Divine power, Supernatural Strength and Health, Wholeness, Provision, Prosperity and Protection! We’re trusting that You will preserve each and everyone of us thru the tests that we must go thru keeping us constantly aware of YOUR PRESENCE and fully-confident that at the appointed time, You, will bring us out wholly restored, renewed, refreshed and with the reward as You have promised in Your Holy Word!

Lord Jesus, we pray according to Your Will, for the leaders of our nation, corporate, judicial, education, financial institutions and our churches! We’re asking that You touch the minds and hearts, that You speak to them in the nighttime with dreams and visions! Let them know that You Who Sit Enthroned Above the Heavens is OMNSCIENT and keep records of the deeds of every man’s heart and will reward accordingly!

Abba, we ask that You encourage and comfort the souls of Your Elect who are overwhelmed with fear, doubt and worry because of the things that are going on in our personal lives and in this ungodly world systems! Send Assurance that we are never alone, and never without Your Very Present Help!

Father, we’re thanking You for an outpouring of Your Divine Favor upon each and every one of your children who are seeking employment, promotion, approval for student/car/home loans! We acknowledge YOU as Jehovah Jareh, Who shall supply all of our need according to Your Riches in Glory!
Father we decree that every demonic-induced spirit of addiction and fear is defeated NOW because of Your Anointing and that the Spirit of Love, Power and Sound-mindness and Purpose is being released in the lives of Your people now, in Jesus Name!

Heavenly Father, as we close our prayer, we bring so many souls before Your throne O God. Those who are broken hearten, trapped by sorrow and grief, feeble in body and spirit, the one at a crossroad of life, the ones addicted to harmful substances, our armed forces, policemen, fire and rescue personnel, nurses, doctors, pastors and leaders, missionaries far and near; our leaders of the world. We’re trusting You to send peace where there is confusion, send love where there is hate, send unity where there is division. Bless the fatherless and motherless. Keep us ALL in your care. These favors we ask in Jesus mighty name!!For we believe that YOU WILL KEEP ALL WHO WANT TO BE KEPT!

Father we wait in confidence and quietness, rejoicing in hope and trusting wholly that all workers of iniquity are trembling and suddenly departing in shameful defeat, 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!

Abba Father, we stand in agreement with You Who hears ours prayers and forgives all our transgressions! Holy Father, because You have chosen to call us ‘MINE’, we shout with exceeding Joy unto The Hope of all the earth, believing that as Your face shines upon us, You are making Your Ways and Salvation known among all nations for You Guide and Rule justly!

Father, we thank You NOW, for WE believe 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 STILL SAVES! HALLELUJAH!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

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

 

NOW IS NOT ALWAYS!

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NOW IS NOT ALWAYS 2

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

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

But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. 1 John 4:4

It’s been acclaimed by some Biblical scholars, that we, the New Millennium 21st Century Church Age, are the generation destined to witness the fulfillment of End-Time Biblical Prophecy!

While I’m certainly not an expert of Eschatology, yet it’s no wide-stretch of the imagination, to speculate that we are INDEED living in times that try and even vex the very souls of the righteous! #CanIgetawitness?

Glancing through 2 Timothy 3:1-7’s description of the perilous times in the earth, it sounds distinctly-uncomfortably-familiar to us who are expectantly awaiting The Second Coming of our Lord, huh?

Much to Satan’s delight, Spirits of Terror, Fear, Apathy and Discouragement have crept into the minds and hearts of the people of God to such a degree that even ‘Seasoned-Saints’ are becoming weary in their well doing. Unfortunately, the wicked don’t appear to be showing any signs of fatigue!

May I submit these words of comfort and encouragement as a reminder to your soul today? “DON’T GET IT TWISTED! THE DEVIL AIN’T RUNNING NOTHING!!!

While it may appear as if this world’s falling apart, from God’s Perspective, EVERYTHING IS FALLING RIGHT IN PLACE!

As my GrandMa Annie used to say, “this world is not our home and I didn’t come here to stay!” We merely sojourning thru this land; ever mindful that GOD has reserved a special place which far exceeds anything we could dare imagine or hope for. That’s HEAVEN, YALL! 

Now I know the ol’ saints would tell ya, “Jus keep your mind on Jesus and He’ll Work it Out!” While this is certainly true, it’s also easier said than done, huh?  But God already knew that! That’s why He sent Holy Spirit to help us overcome our infirmities and empower us to do those things that seem impossible! Hence,  you belong to The Creator and Sustainer of ALL LIFE and since God is for you, it really doesn’t matter who’s against ya! #Didjaheardat? 

Much to the Satan’s dismay, therefore, be it RESOLVED Our Eternal God is yet seated on HIS Throne. HE has not nor will He ever relinquish one iota of HIS GLORY to anyone or anything!

Be it further RESOLVED, that absolutely Nothing that you’ve been thru, Nothing you’re going thru NOW should make you want to tuck tail and turn back to that life that you’ve been delivered from.

 

Beloved, don’t limit your expectations of Our Omnipotent God to your previous experiences! What God has for you is always in front of you! Trust God! Everything that God has planned for your future won’t even fit in your past! (Ref. Jeremiah 29:11-13) OOOOHHHH GGLLOORRRAAAA!!!

OH YEAH, B 4 U EVEN THINK ABOUT GIVING UP…PLEASE CHECK THE BACK OF THE BOOK–YOU WIN! REMEMBER, NOW IS NOT ALWAYS—GREATER IS COMING!

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!