Today's Prayer

My God, teach me that every trial has a lesson and a gift in disguise, waiting only to be revealed in due time.  Help me to have the patience to wait on the revelation, in Jesus' name, Amen.

It's Christmas Time!

Christmas is a time to celebrate giving.  The reason that we can celebrate Christ-mas is because of Jesus' birth. 

 

Remember God gave the ultimate gift to the world (John 3:16) so don't overspend, go into deep debt, max out your credit cards, or be sad if you can't buy the most expensive gift because it's already been purchase and is still relevant today.   God gave us Jesus!

 

Every tangible gift will eventually fade away, grow old, be forgotten, or perhaps reduce in it's sentimental value but Jesus will always be the same today, tomorrow, and forever more.  He won't fade or grow old or reduce in value.  He shows mercy to us and extends His grace--- even when we don't deserve it.  But because He loves us so much, we get a 2nd chance every day. 

 

God gives us new mercies every day; perhaps we could do that too! Micah 6:8

 

I pray that this will be your season to give love (charity) as you share Jesus with the lost.

 

The Apostle Paul reminds us about this (agape) love in 1 Corinthians 13 (NIV):

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have (Christ) love, I am only  a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 

 

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have (Christ) love, I am nothing. 

 

If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast but do not have (Christ) love, I gain nothing.

 

1 Corinthians 13:13 - And now these three remain: faith, hope and (Christ) love. But the greatest of these is love (Christ).

You're Never Walking Alone

When you are sold out for Jesus, many times you feel like you're walking alone. Yes spending time with the Lord is always a good thing but every now and then, you'd like to have a good road-dog; somebody you can just be real with and not feel that your realness will turn them off or scare them away.  I often wonder how many people would remain in friendships if they were honest about their feelings and dealings...truly honest with others???  'Girl, you look good in that dress'...knowing all along you think she looks a HOT mess in that dress...LOL! But would ya tell her or TALK about her??? Hmmmm...

With so many undercover-haters out there, and so many untrustworthy and disloyal people, it's hard to spend time with others outside of your home.  And you can't share your real feelings about anything without it turning into the latest gossip or "prayer request"...ehem! But -- God knows.  He knows our deepest, most inner thoughts and they are safe with Him. His knows our hearts too...be it real love or false intentions. Now, if you're up to no good, then God will expose that...so you may as well be real about "it", especially with God.  You can't fool Him nor hide from Him.  

 

Now, walking alone does not mean you have to feel lonely because God is always there.  Just call Him...and He'll answer.  Keep in mind, that the next time you feel you are walking alone, remember, God is walking alongside you.  He's Omnipresent! 

 

I have a friend indeed, and His name is Jesus. He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me that I am His own. He loves me and I Thank God I can always count on Him. He won't let me down. He won't leave me nor forsake me and for that I am grateful. 

 

Until next time...be blessed!

Pastor D

Turn the Page and Celebrate!

Turning another year old is a blessing, especially with so much going on in this present world.  As I think about the past year's events, I am so grateful for the many victories that I experienced within that year. God knows we all experience failures in life but when I can celebrate the victories, I do - and will continue to celebrate them.  Thank God for His grace...and mercy!

 

As I turned a new page yesterday, I reflected upon the year that went by so fast, and appreciate all that I'd learned within that year.  I learned that people are not who they appear to be; that people tell more lies than necessary; and that someone in life will always disappoint you; BUT don't let those experiences stop you from reaching your goals or loving your life.  Life is precious so don't waste it on regrets or revenge but spend it on making your life better.  How? By investing in yourself!  Forgive and be free.  Pick up a good self-help book.  Read your Bible. Take some time to study a new language.  Finish that degree. Learn something new. Try a new restaurant. Play more and worry less.  And...please don't text and drive...it can wait.

 

Today, as YOU reflect upon your anniversary year, be it a birthday or any other special day, reflect upon the victories you've celebrated within that year -- even if it's only one...celebrate THAT one. 

 

I am continuing to celebrate my life, my liberties that Jesus paid for, and my continuous pursuits of happiness. My happiness is a result of something happening. I can choose to respond in a positive or negative manner.  I choose to be positively happy...that's the real choice, you know. 

 

My joy -- no one can take because Jesus gave it to me.  My peace (no one has that kind of control over me) so my God gives me that too.  Even in the midst of the storm - He can say peace be still and the storms of life will obey and cease!  My love -- I will share with you but don't take it for granted.  Just because I'm friendly, giving, loving, kind, and understanding - don't mean that I'm oblivious to life and people with false motives.  I can "read" pretty well. :-)

 

Today, I choose to celebrate life (because today is all we have) and pray that you will too. Be blessed today -- and every day give thanks to God, for He is good.

In Him I am,

- Pastor D

Friday's Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for today - I couldn't have done it without YOU!  Thank you for the many blessings you've bestowed upon me and my family. You are an awesome God!

Tonight, I give thanks for knowing that God is truly the strength of my life.  He covers and protects me. He loves me to the point of dying and rising again for me.  Thank You Lord for all that you've done; and if you never do anything more for me, you've done enough.

As I retire for the evening, I will rest in God's grace.  Thank You Lord for allowing me to see another day that was not promised.  I pray that I see many more days of grace in You, through Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior, Amen!

Happy Anniversary Church of the Solid Rock

Wow - 6 years ago, we began our journey as a Body of Christ - a Church for all people who seek to know the Lord personally. 

We began our journey with a Spiritual Revival in 2008.  Then a Wednesday Night Power Hour Worship Service in 2009 and now we've evolved into Sunday Morning Worship Service, a Wednesday Night Bible Study, and Outreach Ministries.  We are still small but Mighty in God!

Each week, I see faces who are eager to worship the Lord and hear the Word of God as we all fellowship in genuine love and unity.  As God expands us to full capacity [in His time], we will continue to do great things for the people of God.  We are walking in the Light of Christ and that's what matters.  We are preaching the Gospel Message and that too matters. But most of all, we are bringing souls to Christ!

A small but intimate church, our God is pleased to see the work begin...and for that I am humbly grateful. Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand." (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the LORD that search all around the world.)  Zechariah 4:10 NLT

Thank you Lord for seeing us through another year in ministry.  I pray that we are always in YOUR season as we operate within our realm of spiritual sphere. 

Happy Anniversary Church of the Solid Rock!  May God bless and keep us!

- Pastor D

An Empty Nest

My airline ticket was a round trip but his ticket was a one-way.  Home feels really empty!  Now I know why it's called an 'Empty' Nest.

As I left my son on campus Saturday afternoon, I moved into a new dimension of faith and prayer.  LORD, cover and  protect my son under the Blood of Jesus!  Surround the campus with his assigned angels as they dwell at every doorpost, every entrance, and exit, and every destination he will travel.  May the Holy Ghost dwell in and with him! Cover the campus and all students/faculty, in Jesus name!

As one of the speakers orated on Friday night: 'give it time' ... yet another one on Saturday morning said: 'it's time to GO HOME!'  Scary thoughts but a reality that parents face when sending their child or children off to college; but I know God has a major plan for my son and he definitely has work to do over these next 4 years.

Thousands of miles from him but only a call or text away (if he needs anything), I know God is present with him everyday and everywhere. 

My son is in good hands with his new "campus family"- can't wait to hear his wonderful stories of "Life On Campus with JFD" (that is, if he dares to share them with his mom). hahaha 

I'm sure as the days progress, I may feel less like an Empty Nester but -- this one may take a while. 

Just sharing some real thoughts and a new experience from a parent's perspective.  Be blessed and enjoy your week!

- Pastor D

(c) 8/25/2014

Happy Friday everybody and TGIF!

I pray that each of you have had a great week.  Mine has been a blessing and somewhat challenging; but overall, God is still Awesome.  He's faithful like that! Amen! 

 

Giving God thanks and praise as I appreciate who He is and what good He keeps on doing in my life.  To Him be the glory!  Whatever the test, I know my Judge will judge justly.

 

I want to offer you some words of encouragement to take you through your weekend: God loves you unconditionally!!!  Regardless of who you are and what you've done OR going to do, God still loves His children.  Yes, He'll extend His corrective hand when we get off track but also to help us STAY on track.  Yes, He knows we're flawed so He does not expect for us to be perfect but strive FOR perfection; which means, always do our BEST!  No excuses to err continuously, especially when we have the knowledge to do better.

 

Remember, your real promotion and reward comes from God so just hold on to His unchanging hand.  Live and walk in peace with everyone and NEVER sweat the small stuff!  This life is temporal so don't take it too serious - BUT serious enough to pay attention and stay focused. 

 

Accomplish and achieve great things; and according to God's plan, it will happen.  (Jer 29:11) So wait your turn...it's coming.  (Ecc 9:11) Be patient and not anxious.  Expect - but not to a fault of disappointment.

 

Our God is big! Therefore, He has BIG things in store for His kids.  Keep watching for that open door; but while you wait for that door to open, be in prayer as you wait - in - faith!

 

Be blessed God's people and have a wonderful - yet cool weekend!

- Pastor D

Today's Prayer

Thank You Lord for this day.  Thank You for the power of the Cross.  Thank You for allowing Jesus to win every battle in my life because the war has already been won.  Thank You for Your power and might Lord. 

In Jesus' name, I declare that my wars will be won all the days of my life!  Lord, I bind every demon of discord and loose the Spirit of Christian unity in my home, my church and on my job.  I decree it in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

Lord, I bind every stronghold of the Jezebel spirit in my presence and loose the spirit of Gideon to destroy that spirit where ever I am and go, in the name of Jesus!

Lord, I bind every evil scheme and trick of the enemy and loose the omnipotent Power of the Covering of Holy Spirit to cut down the devil..in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost!

In the name of Jesus, I bind every spirit of discord and loose the spirit of harmony in all my surroundings.   

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, I bind the spirit of deception and loose the spirit of truth. By the power and authority given me, I declare it and decree it and seal this prayer in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Amen!!!

Your Armor is Your D-Fence

When life tries to get you down, shout D-Fence!

When the enemy tries to attack your mind, holler back with D-Fence! When the devil tries to attack your body, yell D-Fence!

Look up towards heaven to ask God for help and He will lift you up.  One way to keep your life from spinning out of control is to keep your mind focused on God's promises.  Keep the whole armor of God on everyday.  Keep that Word close everyday.  Hold on to your faith everyday.

Just like you get dressed to go out and face the day, dress up in your whole armor.  It's a spiritual warfare going on out there!!  And what better way to fight the war, than to have on the whole armor of God.  Yes the battle is the Lord's but that does not mean you won't have to fight.  So, why not fight the enemy with God's SWord! 

Weapons will form.  The fiery darts will be thrown but  the Spirit will intercede for us!  When the enemy will try to foul you but our Referee (God) will come to our D-Fence and place us on the free-throw line of Grace, to help you shoot those 2 points called hope and faith. And it's a SWISH - the devil is defeated!

Yes the enemy will rear its ugly head; but for those of us who serve a God who sits high and looks low, we can rest assure that vengeance is truly the Lord's and He WILL repay!

Trust God and always wear your whole armor; leave nothing to chance.  Enjoy life and be in constant prayer. Pray about everything! Always  remain alert as you fight.  Pray in the spirit.  Don't let the enemy catch you with your buckle loose.  Trust and believe in God's Word and stand firmly on it!

The whole armor will protect us from head to toe.  The full armor protects our hearts and souls.  The full armor is heavy artillery needed, so we can keep on fighting. 

Don't give up!  Keep on fighting until Jesus comes back! Remain true to the Gospel and watch the Word work on our behalf.  If you believe God, then He will come through for you just like He has for me.

Be blessed and have a great weekend!

-Pastor D

Transitions

Transitions can often be challenging.
Transitions are necessary to move to the next level. 
Transitions sometimes mean leaving others behind. 
Transitions let you know who is with you and who is not.
Most of all, transitions help us to grow closer to God and trust Him even the more.
Thank you God for my transitions.

A Spring of Prayer

Thank You Lord for a new season of life.  Thank You God for seeing me through another day.  Thank You Father for loving me unconditionally.  And most of all, thank You God for saving me. I love You today and everyday.  You have been so good to me and my family and I praise You God for covering and protecting us - from dangers seen and unseen. 

Lord God, keep watch over me and my family, our home and everywhere our feet may tread.  Cover us with the blood of the Lamb - Jesus - from the crown of our heads to the soles of our feet.  Thank You Lord for covering our doorposts and Thank You Lord for offering Your unconditional grace and undeserved mercy.  Thank You for your unmerited Grace and your endless blessings.  I just give You thanks today and every day for all the good and for challenging me to continue to fight to defend the Gospel as You give me the wisdom and knowledge to do it.

I ask you Lord to continue Your favor over my life, in and throughout my life.  Although I am undeserving of your favor, it is necessary to do what I do.  Thank You Creator,  for making me who I am.  And for why I am???...well Lord....only You know the answer to that. 

Thank You for allowing me to be free to be who I am because of WHOSE I am.  I am in You and free to be me so that others may feel comfortable being them.  And as I serve & worship  You Lord, help me to help others in the spirit of excellence.  As we all journey to reach our destinations, Lord lead and guide us along the way, in Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

-Pastor D

Don't Stop Dreaming

Don't let anyone kill your dreams.  Remember, you are the seed of Promise and NO one can kill your dreams.  Be blessed and have a wonderful 2nd quarter of 2014!

God Is Love

God is love and love is for all who desire to be loved.  When you love God, it's easy to love people. So why is it so hard to love with a genuine heart?  Perhaps it's because some people don't love God or themselves so it's hard to love someone else.

I say, try to love God by accepting His Son (if you have not already done so) then try loving yourself the way God loves you -- unconditionally.  Then try loving someone else the way you love yourself -- treating them with respect and accepting them with their flaws (because we ALL have them).  Once you've done this, you've experienced the perfect love.  1 John 4:17-18

Be blessed,

- Pastor D

My Prayer for 2014

Good morning Lord!  Thank You for allowing me to see another day.  As I enter into a New Season, a New Year, I am thankful to You, for a clean slate. Thank You for looking past my faults because you KNOW my needs.  In spite of me, You've loved me anyway. Regardless of my errors, You've forgiven me and You keep on cleansing me as I walk in righteousness and more love. 

I am THANKFUL to You Lord, for allowing me and my family to experience another season of Your grace.  Lord, even though we as Your children remain on the radar of the enemy, I thank You Lord God, for being our shield and taking the hit for us.  Thank You for keeping us from dangers seen and unseen; I am so GRATEFUL! 

As I enter into this season of prayer, Lord, I trust that You and only You will give me direction and guidance in 2014.  I am listening and awaiting for more of Your power, love, and goodness to unfold in my life as You perfect my ways to continue to reflect Yours.  By Your grace, I am saved -- thanks Father!!! 

Thank You Lord for all that You've done and all You're going to do in my life.  I trust YOU Lord! I seal this prayer, in the matchless name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior...Amen, Amen, and Amen!!!