Tag Archives: grace

LIFE GOES BETTER WITH CHRIST!

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

THURSDAYS’ PRAYERS!

prayn-and-fasting-pic

 

SELAH Daily Devotions!

GOOD MORNING FAMILY! GOTTA MOMENT? GREAT GOD ALMIGHTY!

We’re so glad that you’ve joined us in our Weekly Thursdays’ Corporate Fasting and Prayer! What an awesome honor and privilege our Heavenly Father has allowed us to leave the daily grind of chaotic drama and slip into His Presence, finding treasures of unspeakable solace that this world knows not of! Shall we enter in together?

Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me! Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me! Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me! Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me… Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us! Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us! Melt us, mold us, fill us, use us, Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us! Lord, I hear of showers of blessings, Thou art scatt’ring full and free! Showers of thristy souls refreshing! Let some drops now fall on me! Even me, Lord, even me! Even me, Lord, even me! Let some drops; Let some drops! Let some drops, now fall on me! Even me, Lord! Even…me!

 

Our Father and our God, here we come again! We come into Your Presence delighted by the earnest expectation that in Your Presence is The Fullness of Joy; at Your Right Hand are pleasure forevermore! We wanna say Thankya for being A Great God! We Thankya for being a Mighty God! We Thankya for being a Good God! Thanka for Loving us so! We Thankya for being our Creator and our God! We Thankya for being the Source and Sustainer of every living creature! None else is Worthy! None else to compare, none else to worship; none else to Save us! None else to Deliver us! None else to Heal us! None else to Keep us! For You ALONE ARE GOD!

Abba Father, we Thankya for waking us up one more today to enjoy the freshness of Your Amazing Grace, Tender Mercy and Lovingkindness and Compassionate Care! We acknowledge that it’s because of Your Faithfulness that we were able to sleep thru last nite and it’s this same Blessedness that will shield, strengthen, comfort and carry us throughout this day! There’s absolutely no doubt that nothing we did or ever could do that would make us deserving of so GREAT A SALVATION! For this cause we bow, in Holy reverence before Your Throne of Majesty! For You Are The Eternal King of Kings and Lord of Lords forever and ever! Amen!

Heavenly Father, we pause now, to say Thankya for sending Your Son Jesus to die for us, paying the price to free us from eternal death and hell, forgiving us,  enabling us to be reconciled, engrafted into Your Kingdom as adopted sons and daughters, inheritors of the same rights, privileges and benefits as Your First Begotten, Lord Jesus!

Precious Lord, we will be eternally grateful for Your Unconditional Love that continuously permits You to look beyond our frail, flawed, fickled and sin-lusting flesh to forgive us, cleanse us in The Precious Blood of Jesus, restore us to a right-relationship and planting us firmly in Your Word provide everything that we will ever need pertaining to life and godliness in this world and the world to come!

Jesus, we know that You already know everything about every single one of us, because You are Omniscient and Omnipresent, but because You walked among us, allowing Yourself to be tempted at all point as we are, You learned what we experience in these earthly tabernacles and therefore You can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities! As our Great High Priest, You are uniqely qualified to intercede on our behalf; continuously searching and conveying the thoughts, intents, emotions and physical weaknesses that we’re often unable to articulate to The Father of All Grace, Compassion and Comfort! We Thankya Lord, for being our Very Present Help!

Sweet Jesus, while we try to please You by trusting in Your Word, You know that sometimes, it’s difficult to over-ride the noise of the pestilence, the chaos of uncertainty and the pain of condemnation, guilt, and shame that seems to lure us into the valleys shadowed with danger, fear, anger, bitterness, anxiety, hopelessness and self-doubt! That’s why we gladly run to You, daily, to find the refuge, peace, restoration that You have prepared for any who would come to You in hope-filled assurance that You will never deny Your Word!

Heavenly Father, we’re forever blessing You for continuing to renew our strength, understanding and power as we open our hearts to You,  depending and relying only on You. And as we yield our being before you, we pray for those who are unsaved, we’re believing You to ignite a spirit of Godly-repentance that they may say “Sincere YES” in their heart and mind that they will have a desire to come running to You today and receive You as their personal Savior and Lord!

Lord, we’re believing You to put a “Committed YES” in the hearts and minds of every backslider today that this will be their day to come back to You and come back to YOUR church where they will be nurtured in The Way of of Holiness, empowered to live the rest of their lives as beacons of Hope to a lost and dying world!

Father, we’re praying that You will touch our brother, touch our sister who has been afflicted by all manner of sickness and disease, including the spirit of cancer, kidney failure, high blood pressure, low blood pressure and rebuke and cast it out at the root, for Your Name Sake! We come into agreement with your Word and declare 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! And as You are strengthening these, we ask that you also invigorate, encourage and replenish the spirits, minds and bodies of those who are charged to care for their loved ones!

Precious Lord, as always, we pray for every believer who is yet holding on to Your Hand by faith today, trusting that You will release Divine power, Supernatural strength, consolation, health, provision, restoration in marriages, prosperity and protection. We pray also Father, that You preserve us thru every test that You have Sovereignly summoned us to go thru and keep us constantly aware of YOUR PRESENCE, convicted and fully-confident that Your appointed time, You shall bring us out wholly restored, renewed, refreshed and with every reward as You have promised in Your Word.

Abba Father, we lift up our children, our children’s children and by faith, canceling every scheme that Satan desires to inflict upon them, committing them into Your Providential care! We realize that You have a plan and purpose for their lives too and we have the blessed assurance that every one of their steps and stops are being ordered by Your eyes!

Father, stir up the hearts and minds of those who are professing Your Name ! Give them a fresh anointing that will cause them to seek Your Face for an even greater personal, intimate relationship with their Creator God through fellowship of Holy Spirit that they might prove what is the good, perfect and acceptable will of The Lord Jesus!

Father we lift up every spiritual leader, asking an immediate manifestation of that special miracle for each and every one of them who are yet standing on the wall proclaiming Your Word under the conviction and anointing of Holy Spirit. Jesus, we’re trusting and believing that you will Grace them to be the examples in their homes, churches and community that will cause everyone who comes into contact with them to fall in love with You, trust wholly in and commit to live the rest of their lives serving You!

Knowing that You Sovereignly Rule and Reign over the affairs of mankind, we’re praying and thanking You for the government/legislative/judicial/armed forces/public service employee/ health-care providers/educational system and corporate leaders of our nation and this world! Heavenly Father, we’re praying that You will visit them in the night seasons with dreams and visions, warning them that He who is pregnant with evil and conceives trouble gives birth to disillusionment. He who digs a hole and scoops it out will fall into the pit he has made. The trouble he causes recoils on himself and his violent schemes will come down on his own head!

We’re asking that You endow the hearts of the saints with a peace that surpasses all understanding and the confident expectation that our times are in Your Hands! Regardless of the deceitfulness of this world, You have promised to protect, provide and preserve the righteous who trust and obey Your Word! Give us a sign of Your Goodness, that our enemies may see it and be put to shame. For You, Who searches minds and hearts will continue to shield, help, comfort and save those whose hearts are upright before You!

Father, we believe that every demonic-induced spirit of temptation, addiction, oppression, depression, rejection, self-hate, suicide, fear and failure is already defeated by Your Anointing and that the Spirit of Love, Power and Sound-mindness is being released now, in Jesus Name!

Father, we now rejoice in confidence and quietness, trusting wholly that all workers of iniquity are trembling and suddenly departing in shameful defeat! We praise You, confidently assured that You have heard the voice of our weeping, our supplications and received our prayers as sweet savor coming up before Your Sovereign Throne of Grace and Mercy, You will not withhold Your Mercy from us and Your Love and Your Truth is a wall around us!

Abba Father, we revere, honor and praise You now, for we trust and believe that In The Exalted Name of Jesus it is done! Amen 3X and IT IS SO!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

 

 

 

 

 

GOD DID IT!

 

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, againEvvrrr 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!

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!

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

WHAT! NO MERCY?

WHAA, NO MERCY

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

And when Moses saw that the people were naked; (for Aaron had made them naked unto their shame among their enemies:) Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord’s side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him. And he said unto them, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side, and go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbour… Exodus 32:25-27

 

Does anybody remember the movie ‘The Ten Commandments’ staring Charleston Heston as Moses? It’s been dubbed “Hollywood’s version” of God’s miraculous deliverance of the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, through the wilderness and into the Promised Land of Canaan. From the Biblical perspective, once again we see God extending awemazingly unmerited Lovingkindness and Grace to His rebellious disobedient people.

Now! Here’s where the TRUE story becomes a bit disconcerting! The Very Same God who brought them up out from under the cruelty of their Egyptian task masters, giving them a binding Covenant from His Own Hand, laying out in explicit details how His people were to be a holy, distinct, separated people envied by all other nations because of their unique relationship with The One True God, apparently flips the script; turning on the very same people that He’d personally chosen for Himself! But as you delve a little deeper, you see that other side of God’s Righteousness that we tend to close our eyes to—Justice! The Nerve of GOD, huh?

Evidently, there’s an inherent proclivity of our provocable flesh to profoundly resist accountability! IF it seems right and feels right, then just do it! But that type of logic fails to take into account the Sovereignty of our CREATOR GOD! Therefore, HE alone has the Power and Authority to establish the ways of man’s life. (Ref. Psalm 100:3) WE got some nerve!

Unfortunately, like our progenitors, The Israelites, we too have discovered that while, God allows us freedom of choice, when it comes to consequences of our decisions, we have no say so! The otherwise Loving, Caring, Benevolent Father of All Grace and Comfort has subjected GODSELF to His Word! In essence, sooner or later, all sinfulness must be reckoned with Justly , without partiality! HENCE, there is such a thing as frustrating GRACE!

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:11-14)

The lines are being drawn daily, WHO’S ON THE LORD’S SIDE?

I know it’s extremely uncomfortable to speak of such things for many and sociably inappropriate for others, huh? Nevertheless, it’s TRUTH! GOD HAS ORDERED A DAY OF RECKONING for all mankind! DON’T GET CAUGHT WITH YOUR WORK UNDONE!

Make your reservations for Eternal Life before the expiration date!

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. John 3:16-17

Precious one, believe it or not, that Ol’ Ship of Zion is movin’ closer and closer! R U ready to board?

IF YOU ARE STILL ALIVE, THAT’S CONFIRMATION THAT THE OFFER IS STILL AVAILABLE…MERCY!

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

NON-NEGOTIABLE

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 NOTultimately, The Word of God is NON-NEGOTIABLE!  #WOW #Didjaheardat?

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!

Ann Caffee

 

AIN’T DAT GOOD NEWS?

AIN'T DAT GOOD NEWS 3

SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

Mornin Yall! Have I evvrr got some good news 4 u! No, seriously, check this out!

So we are Christ’s Ambassadors; God is making His appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “COME BACK TO GOD!” For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 
WHOAAHHH! Didjaheardat?

That’s the Gospel of Jesus Christ! God has made a way for us to be saved from the just penalty of our sin 4 evvvrrrr! I mean, once and for all! I know, sounds too good to be true, BUT IT IS! 

Beloved, Jesus took our place and now all that is required for us to come back into right relationship to God is prayerfully confessing with our mouths…AND True hearts“FATHER I DO! I need a Savior… try as I might, I can’t save myself or live good enough to deserve Your forgiveness; but at Your Word, I humbly receive the sacrifice of JESUS, in my stead. With all of my heart, I now ask You to forgive me for my sin and make me Your child forever!” In Jesus Name! Amen 3x!”

Now precious one, if you sincerely believe that Jesus is The Son of God, Who loved you so much, that He freely shed His Blood, went thru HELL and three days later was resurrected from the dead, to ransom you back from the clutches of the Kingdom of Darkness, Death and Destruction, then guess what? IT’S A DONE DEAL!

TRUST2KNO, U R SAVED! WELL, DO U?

Unless you were born late last nite, or jus arrived on planet Earth, early this morning, you already know it’s getting darker and darker out there! #ijs! If you never needed God before, you sho nuff need HIM now, huh? Now ain’t you glad that the offer’s still on the table? Yesssirreee!  DATZ GOOD NEWS!!!

As one who’s eternally grateful to have seen Him do it in my own life, I beg of you, please confess this prayer 2 God 2 day! K? #CARE2SHARE …AWEMAAZING??? NOW THAT’S SOME REALLY GOOD NEWS! WELL…WHACHAWAITN4?

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!

 

 

 

THURSDAYS’ PRAYERS!

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SELAH Daily Devotions!

 

Good morning Family! GOTTA MOMENT? Ooh Glorraa!

Welcome to one more new day! We’re so excited that you’ve joined us in our Weekly Thursdays’ Corporate Fasting & Prayer! We appreciate every opportunity that God allows us to entreat The Presence of our Great High Priest to pour out our hearts desires, petitions and supplications with Thanksgiving. We appreciatively acknowledge that our Heavenly Father delights in our embracing Him in earnest expectation, confident that He Reigns Forever by His Power and is willing and able to save and deliver us from any of life’s maladies! Shall we enter in?

My Hallelujah Belongs 2 U! My Hallelujah Belongs 2 U! MY HALLELUJAH BELONGS 2 U! U Deserve IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! All of The Praises Belongs 2 U! ALL OF THE PRAISES BELONGS 2 U! ALL OF THE PRAISES BELONGS 2 U! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! ALL OF THE GLORRAA BELONGS 2 U! ALL OF THE GLORRAA BELONGS 2 U! ALL OF THE GLORRAA BELONGS 2 U! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT! U DESERVE IT!

 

Our Father and our God! Creator of Heaven and Earth, once again, we come before You humbled by Your Loving-Kindness, Grace and Mercy! We’re eternally grateful for one more opportunity to behold The Glory of Your Majestic Presence! We know that it’s only Your Wisdom and Strength that has allowed us to be alive today! We thank You for revealing to us such wondrous treasures that were hidden from our understanding, when we walked surrounded by darkness, as dead men in the earth and without a God on our side! For this cause we bow in humble awe!

Abba Father, we come with joy-filled hearts, upstretched hands and lips forever magnifying and adoring You! Oh, how awesome are Your works amongst the children of men! For it is You Who preserve our lives and keep our feet from slipping!

Daddy, we thank You, for even knowing our frame, Your Faithful Compassion continuously allows You to look beyond our human frailties, faults, failures and iniquities seeing yet You minister to all of our need and even bless us with the desires of our hearts, as You see fit! We honor and praise You today, from a heart open to, depending and relying solely on You for renewed power, strength and understanding to apply Your righteous statues to our lives that we may enjoy the abundant lives that You have predestined for us now and forever!

Abba Father, kneeling our hearts before You, we ask You to forgive us for every act that we have committed, willfully and unwillfully, every word spoken or thought that was not pleasing in Your sight, causing grief to Holy Spirit! We believe, according to Your Promise that as we confess and repent from a heart of sincerity, that You are Faithful and Just to forgive us, remove our sins from us, casting them into the Sea of Your Selective Forgetfulness, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness through The Word and the Blood!

Lord Jesus, help us to rest assured that YOU ARE SOVEREIGN and always in absolute control of all things. In light of the continuous influx of profound arrogance,  the deceitfulness of ungodly-mankind, legalized immorality perpetrated upon Your people from ‘the powers that be’, and the revolting of the heavens, winds, earth and seas erupting all around us, encourage our hearts to cling to TRUTH! Bless us to find and affirm that Your Grace is sufficient to keep us saved, safe and sane! Father, in times when we find ourselves swallowed up in the cares of this world and overwhelmed by sadden hearts and wearied spirits, please convict and strengthen our hearts that we may never fail to express our gratitude for Your Faithfulness to keep every covenant-promise You’ve ever decreed over those who place our personal faith in You! You are Good and Your Mercy endures Forever!

We Thank You, Jesus for hiding Your Beloved under The BLOOD! And as You provided Light and Provision for Your people in Goshen, even as we endure these days of imminent terror, tragedy, chaos and destruction, we know that the safest place in this whole world is in YOUR perfect will! Therefore, we trust that no weapon that is formed against us shall prosper and every tongue that rises up again your children, thou shall condemn!

Lord, we pray for every one who is going thru a season of sorrow and grief at the lost of a loved one, those who are being victimized by institutionalized racism and systemic intimidation, Spirits of fear, rejection, disappointment and failure, divorce, lost of employment, bankruptcy and illegal foreclosures! We plead the Blood of Jesus over every demonic thought and prohibit demonic-induced assignments, spirits of anxiety, oppression, depression and confusion, because we know that You are not the author of these satanic thoughts and feelings, but You have given us who have put our personal trust in Your Son Jesus, Your Righteousness, a Spirit of Love, Peace, Joy and a Sound Mind!

Sweet Holy Spirit, because no man can come to the Father except You draw them, we interceded on behalf of every unsaved soul, asking You to quicken The Spirit of Godly-repentance in their heart and in their mind that they will come crying out to You, confessing with their mouths a “SINCERE YES” , accepting Your Grace Gift and are now receiving You as their personal Savior and Lord of their lives from this day forward! We’re believing, declaring and decreeing, that You are directing their footsteps, placing and settling them into a local church home where they are nurtured and encouraged to live holy, acceptable and committed to faithful obedience to Your Word!

Sweet Jesus, we ask You reclaim every soul that has turned their back and walked away from Your Will! Put a new “COMMITTED YES” in their heart, mind and soul and let today be the day that they come back to You and come back to The Body of Christ where they will submit their lives to the sound teachings of Your Word, learn to love and live their lives denying the lust of their flesh, walking daily to please and Glorify You to this lost, dark and dying world!

Father, as we pray, we believe that You will touch our brother, touch our sister whose body has been afflicted by all manner of sickness and disease, rebuke and casting it out at the root, for Your Name Sake! Heavenly Father, You are Alpha and Omega, the same yesterday, today and forever! Even as You walked in this earth healing all who were sick, feeble, lame we know that You’re Well Able to do the same right now! Lord Jesus, 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!

Lord, we pray that You will save, heal and deliver speedily by Your Mighty Hand, all those who are crying out to you, seeking Your Face at the very moment! Give us to know that because we belong to You, we are never too far that You can’t see us, reach us, and shield us from anything that the devil would rail against us. Help us to understand that Your Name, Jesus is a Strong Tower, and those that You hve declared the righteous run into it and are saved. Open up our minds and our hearts, filling us with Your Assurance, and confidence that at The Name of Jesus, every knee must bow and every tongue confess that You are Lord!

Abba Father, grace Your children with hope-filled trust that because You have committed Your Word towards us, no weapon that’s formed us shall ever prosper and except You allow it, no trouble, test or trial can come near us. Therefore, we are fully persuaded of Your Providential Presence and Power to turn everything around to work in our favor, to bring about exuberant testimonies and praizes of Your Eternal Magnificence, Honor and Glory!

Heavenly Father,  we pray, according to Your Will, lifting up the leaders of our nation, government, corporate, judicial, education, financial institutions and our churches! We’re asking that You touch their minds and hearts, visit them in the night, speak to them in dreams and visions and let them know that You Who Sit Enthroned Above the Heavens is keeping record of the deeds of every man’s heart and will reward accordingly!

Father, we’re trusting You to release a sudden downpour of Divine Favor upon each and every one of Your children who are challenged by seemingly time-sensitive situations such as marital relationships, wayward children, loneliness, financial, employment and promotion issues, approvals of student/car/home loans! Assure them that YOU are Jehovah Jareh, who shall supply all of their need according to Your Riches in Glory!

Father, we declare and decree that every demonic-induced spirit of addiction, perversion, poverty, doubt, failure, inadequacy and fear is defeated NOW because of Your Anointing and that the Spirit of Love, Power, Wisdom, Purpose and Prosperity is being released into every area of the lives of Your people now, in Jesus Name!

Lord Jesus, as we close our prayer, we confidently await Your Salvation in peace and quietness, rejoicing in hope and trusting wholly that all workers of iniquity are trembling, suddenly departing in shameful defeat, recognizing that 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, as Your Face shines upon us, we shout with joy unto The One to Whom EVERY MAN will bow in obedient reverence, The Hope of all the Ages!

Father, believing that IT IS DONE, In The Exalted Name of Jesus we offer up this prayer, IN JESUS NAME! Alleleujah! Amen 3X!

Now every child of God who is standing in agreement with this prayer, GO TELL SOMEBODY THAT JESUS LOVES YOU, YOU & YOU! #FRONTLINEMINISTRY

SELAH!

Pause, Ponder, Pray & Praiz!