Praying For Unity

Never mind the gov’t circus today, I am posting the photo below because of what’s actually literally in the photo. It’s the Gwynn Oak Amusement Park’s Carousel, which happens to be my biological family legacy in Washington, D.C. (Source: Carroll County Times Newspaper)

Life is a Merry-Go-Round… and I am proud of the change from 1963 it represents and brought forth. It takes both sides working together.

Ephesians 4:3 Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Join me in praying …

Heavenly Father,

I ask that You, God, would bring peace and unity to our nation. I uplift those who are truly struggling financially from the government shutdown. I pray for godly wisdom and safety for our government leaders. May our country remain strong in its resolve and learn to thrive together again.

In Jesus name, Amen

Snow Days

Yeah, winter has officially arrived just in time for a 3 day weekend for students. The snowstorm is only a few inches, but the top layer is icy due to sleet and freezing rain this afternoon.

Do you remember trying to make a snowman, or laying in freshly fallen snow to create snow angels, or even building the ultimate snow fort? I miss those childhood days of playing in the snow and coming back in to warm up by the fire with hot cocoa.

Remember to be smarter than the average bear, by avoiding any chance of frostbite by

• Bundling up and wearing extra layers before going outside.

• Bring in your beloved pets inside due to the near the sub-zero temperatures.

• Keep your children from playing outside for long periods of time.

Here is a Bible verse about Winter:

Job 37:9-10 From its chamber comes the whirlwind, and cold from the scattering winds. By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I pray for God to keep the snowplow guys safe while driving, plowing, and shoveling during the snowy conditions. I ask that God place a hedge of protection upon you, as He keeps you and your family safe and warm this winter. May God’s blessings and favor be with you and yours this winter season.

In Jesus name, Amen

A Prayer for California

Please join me in Praying for California:

Heavenly Father,

We are asking You, God, to comfort those who are grieving over lost loved ones due to the horrific fire in California. Give Your strength to the firefighters and first responders, and especially for those rescue crews who are searching through the rubble.

Help our nation to provide the necessary finances and more resources to those who are displaced to be able to rebuild their lives. Grant them peace and understanding in the days and years ahead to come.

Restore their Hope in You, God, the author and finisher of our faith. May they draw ever closer to You, Father God, during their time of need.

In the precious name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.

A Bread Crumb & Fish

One year I bought my Dad, who was a pastor, a Christian t-shirt that reads ”ABREADCRUMB & FISH”. We know the font lettering is a play on words for ”Abercrombie & Finch’” Company.

However, the Bible reference is actually from Matthew 15:36-38 where Jesus feeds the 5,000. Verses 36 Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. 37 They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward, the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 38 The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.

Do you need a miracle in your life? The same-shirt states ”He still works miracles every day!”

• Isn’t it great that God never takes a break?

• Jesus is there for us no matter what the situation.

• God is able to do more than we can ever imagine.

Praying God provides the miracle you need!

God is Awesome!

How do you define the character of God? I define God as being Awesome! The word “Awesome” is mentioned 38 times in the Bible. In the Greek language, awesome is pronounced phobos. It has two meanings: 1. to fear and 2. to respect God.

Here are some “Awesome” verses:

• Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders? (Ex 15:11)
• “God is clothed with awesome majesty.” (Job 37:22)
• “Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds toward the children of man.” (Ps 66:5)
• “And I said, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments.” (Neh. 1:5)
• “Awesome is God from his sanctuary; the God of Israel—he is the one who gives power and strength to his people. Blessed be God! (Ps 68:35)
• “I prayed to the Lord my God and made a confession, saying, “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments.” (Dan 9).

Praying for you to have an awesome day with God!

Click to watch Our God is an Awesome God by Michael W. Smith