Develop your potential and do something now

**Joyce Meyer


You may know that God's created you with great potential, but you cannot stop there. you have to develop your potential.


I believe that many people are unhappy because they are not doing anything to develop their potential. If you want to see your potential developed to its fullest, do not wait until everything is perfect. Do something now. Start laying your hand to whatever is in front of you.


You must give your potential some form by doing something with it. You will never find what you are capable of doing if you never try anything.


Do not be afraid of falling that you never take a chance. Do not stay in the safety zone. You may feel safe, but you will never succeed at developing your full potential or being fulfilled in what you are doing. Step out into what you feel God is leading you to do, and you will soon discover what you can and cannot do.


You are full of God-given potential, and He wants to do more through your life than you could ever imagine, but it requires your cooperation. Step put and serve Him wholeheartedly today.


Prayer starter: Lord, in everything I do, I want to serve you wholeheartedly. Thank You for encouraging me to step out and take action, developing the great potential you have given me.

Colossians 3:23

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men

You have potential

**Joyce Meyer


It is amazing how many gifted people there are who just sit on the sidelines of life and do nothing. They never take a step forward to use the gifts God has given them because they do not believe they are gifted in the first place. Are you one of them?


The truth is, God has given each of us gifts, talents and abilities. He has a great plan for you and has equipped you to do great things for His kingdom. But until you see yourself the way He sees you and trust Him to enable you to use your gifts, you would not live up to your God-given potential.


If you are struggling with low self-esteem, a poor self-image and lacking confidence, I want you to know that God created you with amazing potential. And when you trust God and believe you can do whatever He says you can do, you will fulfill His destiny for your life.


Remember, "all things are possible with God." When you put your confidence in Him, you will be free to live up to your potential.


Prayer starter: God, help me to see myself through Your eyes, with the gifts and talents You have given me. I believe that You made me with great potential because You are a great God. Today, I put my confidence in You and believe that all things are possible with You!

Mark 10:27

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."

Receiving forgiveness, not condemnation

**Joyce Meyer

Every single day of our lives we need forgiveness. The Holy Spirit sets off the alarm in our spirit to recognize sin, and He gives us the power of the blood of Jesus to continuously cleanse us from sin and keep us in right standing with Him.

But if we are overcome with condemnation, we can be certain it is not from God. He sent Jesus to die for us, to pay the price for our sins. Jesus bore our sin and condemnation on the cross (see Isaiah 53).

When God breaks the yoke of sin from us, He removes the guilt too. He is faithful and just to forgive all our sins and to continually cleanse us form all unrighteousness. (see 1 John 1:9).

The devil knows that condemnation and shame keep us from approaching God in prayer so we can receive forgiveness and enjoy intimate fellowship with Him.

Feeling Bad about ourselves or believing that God is angry with us only separates us from His presence. He will never leave you, so do not withdraw from Him because of condemnation. Receive His forgiveness and walk with Him.

Prayer starter: God, thank You for showing me that condemnation is not from You. Today, Ireceive Your forgiveness. You have cleansed me of sin so that I can live in right standing with You.

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Conviction is necessary

**Joyce Meyer

I never want to be out of fellowship with the Lord. I must have Him to get through every single day of my life.

That is why I am so grateful for the conviction of the Holy Spirit. He lets me know if I am doing something that grieves God or interferes with our fellowship. He convicts and concinces me of what is right.

God loves us even more than we love our own children, and in His love, He disciplines us. He tells us again and again when we are on the wrong path. He may tell us fifteen dfferent ways, trying to get our attention.

His message of convicting love is everywhere. He wants us to listen to Him because He loves us. But if we persist in our ways, He will withhold privilenges and blessing from us because He wants us to grow up.

Remember, if you yield to conviction, it will lift you up and out of sin and lead you back to the heart of God. Let conviction lift you to a new level in God. Do not resist it; receive it!

Prayer starter: Lord, convict me of sin. I realize that conviction is a blessing and vitally necessary to walk with You properly. Get me where I need to be so that I can fellowship with You.

Hebrews 12:6

because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.

False evidence appearing real

**Joyce Meyer


There is a debilitating fear that Satan tries to put on us every day. I call fear False Evidence Appearing Real. It is intended to keep us from having the power, love, and sound mind God wants us to have.


Sometimes we think of fear as an emotion, but it is actually a spirit. In fact, dear is one of Satan's favorite tools, and he particularly loves to harass Christians with it.


But Jesus said, "All things can be (are possible) to him who believes!" (Mark 9:23 AMP). And an on-fire, Bible-believing Christian who is fearless is the enemy's worst fear!


It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith, and that is true. We can't live in faith and fear at the same time. Fear paralyzes us and keeps us from receiving God's promises. It keeps us from stepping out and obeying what God has called us to do.


Fear must be confronted head-on with the power of faith. We must proclaim the Word of God and command fear to leave. So the next time fear knocks on your door, send faith to answer!


Prayer starter: Lord, alert me when I am confronted by False Evidence Appearing Real. I know that with Your help, I can respond with the power of faith and send fear running every time.

2 Timothy 1:7

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

Facing the cost of self-discipline

**Joyce Meyer


As Christians, many of us have the idea that everything in our lives should be perfect simply because we are Christians. But Jesus clearly warned us, "In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration!" (John 16:33 AMP).


Jesus said we would have to deal with worldly troubles. These things are a part of life that we must all face when we lay down our selfish desires to follow Him.


The apostle Paul wrote, "But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it" (1 Corinthians 9:27).


Paul is speaking here about self-discipline. Being self-disciplined means laying down our sinful desires and doing the right thing by God's grace, no matter what the cost.


It is not always easy. Dying to self will bring necessary suffering, but remember, even in the face of our suffering, there is hope, for Christ has overcome the world! And like Paul said, we can "rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer."


Prayer starter: God, I decide in advance to please You, whether my flesh is willing or not. Even if I need to suffer to do Your will, I know that there is hope, for Your Spirit is in me, and You have overcome the world.

Romans 12:12

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

The flesh is weak, but you do not have to be

**Joyce Meyer


The night before Jesus was crucified, He gathered the disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane and made just one request: "All of you must keep awake (give strict attention, be cautious and active) and watch and pray, that you may not come into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41).


All the disciples had to do was stay awake and pray, but they kept falling asleep. Jesus, on the other hand, did pray, and an angel strengthened Him in spirit, enabling Him to endure the cross. The disciples did not pray, they slept, and proved that the flesh truly is weak.


To me, this story proves the critical importance of prayer. As Christians, we must realize that without daily prayer and interaction with God, we have nothing.


We all struggle with living according to out 'weak flesh,' but when we make prayer a priority, God strengthens us in the spirit, allowing us to overcome the limitations of the flesh.


What are you relying on for strength today? Your flesh? Or are you experiencing the power that God so graciously gives us when we come to Him?


Prayer starter: God, I thank You for the strength You give me when I pray. I know that without You, I am weak, so I choose to continually come to You in prayer, knowing that Your strength is more than enough for me.

Matthew 26:41

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

Generosity

**Ps Bernard


The principle of the dominant spirit:
a) greed - "I want more"
b) poverty - "I don't have enough"
Generosity is the antidote for greed and poverty.


Three concepts:
a) nobility
b) full of spirit
c) overflowing


Intentional and faith:
Genesis 22:1-8 God TESTED Abraham
- to test what is in the heart


- NEVER pray for condition (IF....THEN...)
- God does not work for condition, but faith!!!


God was so generous that HE gave us Jesus...

The hidden power of confession

**Joyce Meyer


What do you usually think of when you hear the word "confession"? Many people think first of the definition that has a negative connotation, being forced to admit you have done something wrong. But when we agree with God's Word by "confessing", it out loud, the result is always positive. 


An acquaintance of mine says we cannot defeat Goliath with our mouths shut. When David was preparing to do battle with the giant Goliath, he ran toward him, confessing  out loud what he believed the end result of the battle would be: "This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand..." (1 Samuel 17:46 AMP).


This is a good example of how we should approach the enemies in our own lives. We must open our mouths and speak the Word of God.


I strongly encourage you to confess the Word of God out loud daily. Each time a thought comes to your mind that does not agree with God's Word, confess the truth of His Word out loud, and you will find that the power of the Word will overcome the lie.


Prayer starter: God, I know that Your Word is powerful...nothing can stand against it. Every time I find myself in a difficult situation, remind me to confess Your Word out loud.

Jeremiah 23:29

"Is not my word like fire," declares the Lord, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?"

Don't worry...Worship!

**Joyce Meyer


I remember a morning when I sat down to pray and instead began to worry about whatever my current situation was and to consider what I was going to do about it.


Suddenly I heard that still, small voice inside my spirit say, "Joyce, are you going to worship your problem or Me?" See, God was more than willing to handle my problem if I was willing to forget it and spend time worshiping Him.


When we worship the Lord, we release the emotional or mental burden that weighs us down. It is swallowed up in the awesomeness of God. When we keep our eyes on Him and worship, we will always see His plan for our lives work out all things for our good.


The Bible says there is no lack for those who truly worship the Lord with godly fear. Do you want to be sure all your needs will be met? Then remember to worship, not worry.


Regardless of the difficulties you face, just keep praising God and giving Him glory. Faith will rise in your heart, and you will overcome. 


Prayer starter: God, I will not worry. In stead, I choose to worship You. You are great and mighty, and I know that my needs are met because of Your goodness and love  for me.

Psalm 34:9

Fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing.

Who is your real enemy?

**Joyce Meyer


Are you facing challenging circumstances? Are you in need of provision in some area and not sure where it is going to come from? Many Christians today are dealing with serious hardships. Some have lost their jobs and benefits. Others struggle with critical problems and live with constant concern about how to cover the cost of medicine and doctor visits in addition to simple necessities such as shelter, food and clothing. 


There are many things in the world that threaten us. But our biggest enemy, fear, is not "out there."


Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that we are at war not with flesh and blood, but with the enemy of our souls. We must not be confused about the identity of the enemy in our battles.


Thankfully, our unseen God is more than capable of dealing with out unseen enemy. When we come to a deep understanding of God's unconditional love for us, we realize He will always take care of everything that concerns us.


You do not have to be afraid of your unseen enemy. Trust in God, the only One who can defeat the spiritual forces of darkness.


Prayer starter: Lord, do not let me forget who my real enemy is, and do not let me forget that You are all-powerful. I know I cannot handle everything the enemy throws my way, but You can.

Ephesians 6:12

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

God can set you free from the prison of your past

**Joyce Meyer


I come from a background of abuse and was raised in a dysfunctional home. My childhood was filled with fear and torment.


As a young adult trying to live for Christ and follow the Christian lifestyle, I believed that my future would always be marred by my past. I thought, "How can anyone who has the kind of past I do ever be really all right? It is impossible!"


But Jesus said, "The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon Me...He has sent Me to announce release to the captives...." Jesus came to open the prison doors and set the captives free.


I could not make any progress until I realized that God wanted to release me from the prison of my past. I had to believe that neither my past nor my present determined my future, unless I let it. I had to let God miraculously set me free.


You may have had a miserable past that continues to affect your present in negative and depressing ways. But I say to you boldly, your future is not determined by your past or your present! Let God break off the chains of your past.


Prayer starter: God, I believe that Your are more powerful than my past. I receive the freedom You give me. My past will not determine my future.

Luke 4:18-19

The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he was anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.

Conquering the wilderness mentality

**Joyce Meyer


The Israelite wandered around in the wilderness for forty years to make what was actually an eleven-day journey. Why?


Once, as I pondered this situation, the Lord said to me, "The Israelite could not move on because they had a wilderness mentality." The Israelite had no positive vision for their lives, no dreams. They needed to let go of that mentality and trust God.


We really should not view the Israelite with astonishment because most of us do the same things they did. We keep going around the same mountains instead of making progress, and it takes us years to experience victory over something that could have been dealt with quickly.


We need a new mindset. We need to start believing that God's Word is true. Matthew 19:26 tells us that with God all things are possible. All He needs is our faith in Him. He needs for us to believe, and He will do the rest.


The Lord is saying the same thing to you and me today that He said to the children of Israel: "You have dwelt long enough on this mountain." It is time for us to move on!


Prayer starter: God, I have spent enough time going around the same old mountains in my life. With You, I know I can move on, so I put my faith in You and let go of my wilderness mentality!

Deuteronomy 1:6

The Lord our God said to us at Horeb, "You have stayed long enough at this mountain.

True love must give

**Joyce Meyer


Everyone desires to be loved and accepted. But many of us try to find happiness the wrong way. We attempt to find it in getting, but it is found in giving. The love of God is the most wonderful gift we are given. Once it flows to us, it needs to flow from us to others; otherwise, it becomes stagnant.


Love must give because that is its nature. First John 4:11 highlights how we must give the love we receive: "Beloved, if God loved us so [very much], we also ought to love one another."


Living in God's true love is a process. First, God loves us, and by faith, we receive His love. We then love ourselves in a balanced way, give love back to God, and learn to love other people. 


Love must follow this course or it is not complete. Once we have God's love in us, we can give it away. We can choose to love others lavishly. We can love them as deeply and unconditionally as God has loved us.


Prayer starter: Lord, I do not want Your love to become stagnant in me. Help me to not only receive Your love, but to complete the process by choosing to love others lavishly.

1 John 4:10-11

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

What is God's love like?

**Joyce Meyer


Why does God love us as imperfect as we are? Because He wants to, it pleases Him. It is in His very nature to love us, no matter how sinful our actions may be.


God conquers evil with good (see Romans 12:21). He does that by pouring out His limitless grace upon is so that when we sin, His grace becomes greater than our sin. And just as it is impossible for God not to love, so it is impossible for us to do anything to keep Him from loving us.


God loves because that is His nature. He is love (see 1 John 4:8). He may not always love everything we do, but He does love us. God's love is the power that forgives our sins, heals our emotional wounds and mends our broken hearts (see Psalm 147:3). God's love is unconditional; it is based on Him, not us! Once you realize that God loves you regardless of what you have or haven't done, you can experience incredible breakthrough. You can quit trying to earn His love and simply receive it and enjoy it.


Prayer starter: God, Your love is incredible. Focusing on Your love reminds me that it is based on Your goodness, not my actions. Help me to receive Your love for me.

Ephesians 1:5

he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will

Learning to be content in every situation

**Joyce Meyer


The Bible teaches us to be content no matter what our circumstances may be. The apostle Paul wrote, "Not that I am implying that I was in any personal want, for I have learned how to be content (satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or disquieted) in whatever state I am."


Contentment is a decision to be happy with what you already have. Unfortunately, we usually learn to be content by living discontented lives for a long time and then finally saying, "Lord, I do not want to live this way any longer." But, it does not have to be that way.


You can choose to be content every day. This is worth more than all the material possessions you could possibly accumulate in a lifetime.


Paul made this clear when he wrote in 1 Timothy 6:6, "Godliness accompanied with contentment (that contentment which is a sense of inward sufficiency) is great and abundant gain."


What is sure to make us happy? Choosing contentment in the Lord, every day. Saying to God, "Lord, I only want what You want me to have," is the only way to have real peace and lasting happiness.


Prayer starter: Lord, I only want what You want for me. Like the apostle Paul, I choose to be content in every circumstance.

Philippians 4:11

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

Desiring God more than His blessings

**Joyce Meyer


How many of us can actually say, "I am not jealous of anyone else or envious of what others have. If God gave it to them, then I want them to enjoy it"?


The word says, "Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have" (Hebrews 13:5 NKJV). I believe God tests us to see if we will live by this verse.


There are times when He will put somebody in front of us who has exactly what we want, just to see how we will respond. Until we can pass His "I am happy for you because you are blessed" test, we are never going to have any more than what we have right now.


If you have asked God for something and He has not given it to you yet, rest assured that He is not holding out on you. He simply wants to make sure that you rid yourself of jealousy and make Him your top priority.


God wants us to prosper in every way. He wants people to see His goodness and how well He takes care of us. But we must desire God more than we desire His blessings.


Prayer starter: God, I want You to show me the areas of my life where I have Given in to jealousy and covetousness, and help me rearrange my priorities. I want to desire You more than You blessings.

Hebrews 13:5

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

The difference between healthy and unhealthy shame

**Joyce Meyer


Every day we encounter two different kinds of shame and it is critical that we know the difference.


There is a type of shame that is normal and healthy. For example, if I lose or break something that belongs to someone else, I feel disappointed about my mistakes. I wish I had not been so careless or negligent. I am sorry, but I can ask for forgiveness, receive it and go on with my life.


Healthy shame reminds us that we are imperfect human beings with weaknesses and limitations. It reminds us that we need God.


Unfortunately, when the healthy shame does not stop there, it becomes unhealthy and poisonous. When a person does not ask for or receive forgiveness, they can punish themselves and start to hate who they are.


Do not spend your life in this position. Remember your rightful position as an heir and child of God (see Romans 8:17). Unhealthy shame will make you forget who you are in Christ, but healthy shame will remind you that you are nothing without Him. Today, ask God to help you discern the difference.


Prayer starter: Lord, I do not want to live under the weight of unhealthy shame. Help me to remember how much You love me. Because You have forgiven me, I do not need to punish myself.

Psalm 25:20

Guard my life and rescue me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.

God can set you free from your shame

**Joyce Meyer


Do you ever wonder what life was life for Adam and Eve before they sinned?


Genesis 2:25 tells us that though Adam and Eve were naked in the Garden of Eden, they were not shamed. I believe that in addition to indicating they were without clothes, this Scripture also implies they were totally open and honest with each other, not hiding behind any masks, not playing any games. they were free to be themselves because they had no sense of shame. Once they had sinned, however, they hid themselves (see Genesis 3:6-8).


If not for the work Jesus did on the cross, all of us would have to live with the overwhelming shame of sin. But because of His sacrifice, mankind has the opportunity to enjoy perfect freedom with one another and with God.


Unfortunately, most of us still live with the burden of shame, even though the Word of God promises us and assures us that we can be free of it (see Isaiah 61:7).


God can deliver you from shame. Pray and ask Him to set you free from the shame that tries to build up within you.


Prayer starter: Lord, I receive the freedom from shame that You purchased for me on the cross. No more hiding, no more feeling worthless. You have erased my sin and now I want to live free and open before You.

Isaiah 61:7

Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.

Good roots = Good fruit!

**Joyce Meyer


It is important to realize that our behavior comes from somewhere. Bad behavior is like the bad fruit of a bad tree with bad roots.


You can spend your entire life dealing with outward symptoms, but the bad fruit will manifest somewhere else if the root is not eliminated. The principle never fails: rotten fruit comes from rotten roots, and good fruit comes from good roots.


To really deal with bad fruit, you must follow Paul's admonition to the Colossians to be "deeply planted" in God.


You may need to carefully examine your own roots. If they were unpleasant, harmful or abusive, do not be discouraged; you can be uprooted from that bad soil and transplanted into the good soil of Christ Jesus, so that you become rooted and grounded in Him and in His love.


Remember, uprooting can be painful. Being replanted and becoming rooted and grounded is a process that requires time and effort, but it is by faith and patience that we inherit God's promises.


My prayer for you is that you will be deeply planted and rooted in Christ, producing good fruit wherever you go!


Prayer starter: Lord, help me to transplant my roots from bad soil and deeply plant them in Christ so that I can be a good tree with good roots, producing good fruit. I know it may be painful, but through faith and patience, I know you can help me make a change in my life.

Colossians 2:7

rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

God is the only lasting source

**Joyce Meyer


As human beings we are created by God to be happy and to feel good about ourselves. As a matter of fact, we must feel good about ourselves, or eventually we will develop some sort of unhealthy, uncontrolled behavior to get the good feelings we crave.


Think about it. A person who is addicted to drugs probably began using them because his pain was so intense he felt compelled to get rid of it, even if only temporarily. The same thing is true of drinking, or using food as a comfort. If we do not get good feelings from the inside, then we attempt to create them through outside means.


God created us that way and He is the only one who can satisfy us. When we go to something other than God to make us feel good about ourselves, we are really just replacing something real with a cheap substitute.


Whatever your emotional needs are today, know that only God can meet them. He is the only lasting source of life. Go to Him today, He is only one who can satisfy.


Prayer starter: God, I do not want to waste my time chasing cheap substitutes. You are the only One who can satisfy. Show me how to daily find my true delight and satisfaction in You and only You.

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Giving your all to God

**Joyce Meyer


Many people want to receive from God, but they are not willing to give all of themselves to Him. But you can be different. Will you make a fresh commitment to be a giver and invest yourself, your time, and your money in the Lord's work?


Do not let devil talk you out of giving just because you have bills to pay and obligations that cause you to worry. Jesus urges us not to be worried or anxious about anything, for God knows our needs and promises to care for us (see Matthew 6:25-34).


Proverbs 3:9-10 says, "Honor the Lord with your capital and sufficient [from righteous labors] and with the firstfruits of all your income; so shall your storage places be filled with plenty, and your vats shall be overflowing with new wine." When you give God your all, He will be faithful to take care of you.


Give yourself to God. Give Him everything you are, everything you hope to be, all your dreams, visions, hopes and desires. Make everything His, and He will demonstrates His power through your life.


Prayer starter: God, today O give You my all: my hands, my mouth, my mind, my body, my money and my time. Everything I have is Yours, I want to to do Your will today.

Proverbs 3:9-10

Honor the Lord with you wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops;

then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

Controlling your tongue

**Joyce Meyer


A significant key to glorifying God is controlling our tongue. Psalm 50:23 says, "He who brings an offering of praise and thanksgiving honors and glories Me...."


What would happen of you gave your mouth to God each day so that only godly words came from your lips? And I am not just talking about praising and thanking God in your quiet time, or speaking positive, encouraging words over yourself. The health of your relationship depends on how you speak to, over and about others.


Psalm 34:13 says, "Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit." Do you lie to others? Do you insult them or speak ill of them? Or do you speak encouraging, life-giving words that bring joy to everyone you meet?


Dedicate your mouth to God and use it only for what pleases Him, praise and worship, edification and exhortation, and giving thanks. Place your lips on the altar each morning. Give your mouth to God through praying His Word: "O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise" (Psalm 51:15).


Prayer starter: Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will praise and thank You. Help me use my words to bring joy and life to those around me and to praise and glorify You.

Psalm 34:13

keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.

Are you a consecrated vessel?

**Joyce Meyer


The Bible refers to us as earthen, or frail, human vessels (see 2 Cor. 4:7). Like stoneware formed on the potter's wheel, we are made of clay (see Is. 64:8). God formed Adam out of "the dust of the ground," according to Genesis 2:7, and Psalm 103:14 says, "He knows our frame, He [earnestly] remembers and imprints [on His heart] that we are dust" (AMP).


Though we are weak and imperfect, when we fill our vessels (ourselves) with the word of God, we become containers of His blessing, ready to be poured out for His use. All of us are valuable to the Lord, God can use even cracked pots!


But first we must be wholly consecrated to God. Second Timothy 2:21 reminds us, "Whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separated himself from contact with contaminating and corrupting influences] will [then himself] be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes, consecrated and profitable to the Master, fit and ready for any good work."


Today, when you become a set apart vessel, God will do incredible things through your life.


Prayer starter: Lord, I am Yours. I want to be a vessel fit for Your use. I dedicate myself to You. I want to be filled with Your Word, fir and ready for every good word You have for me.

2 Timothy 2:21

If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

Give relationship...not religion

**Joyce Meyer


When you tell someone about your faith, do you give them religion...or relationship?


The Bible says we must be born again (see John 3:1-8), it does not say we must be religious. Unfortunately, we as Christians often present the Gospel to people like it is a list of religious rules, not true relationship with God.


But following "Christian" rules and going to church would not make you a Christian anymore than sitting in a garage will make you a car.


Religious rules and regulations can be harsh, hard and pressing, but that is not what Jesus wants for people. Jesus wants people to live in relationship with Him.


If someone asks us, "What religion are you?" We should talk about our personal relationship with Jesus instead of what church we attend. I like to answer that question by saying, "Thank you for asking. I do not have any religion, but I do have Jesus."


We need to start asking people, "Do you know Jesus? Is He your friend? Do you have a personal relationship with Him?" Next time someone asks about your faith, give them relationship...not religion.


Prayer starter: God, it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that someone needs to follow a list of rules to really be a Christian, but that is not the kind of faith You want from people. Empower me to share Your Gospel with others in a way that leads them not into a religious system, but into a one-on-one, life-changing relationship with You.

John 3:3

In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again."

Do not get burned out on too much activity

**Joyce Meyer


In the early days of my walk with the Lord, I was very enthusiastic and eager to serve Him, so I signed up for everything that seemed even remotely interesting to me. One result of it all was that I quickly discovered what I was anointed to do.


Because of my busy life, I was not spending time with God on a regular basis. I was doing good things for God, but somehow ignoring Him in the process. As a result, I often spent time feeling frustrated because I was doing works of the flesh.


"Works of the flesh" are things we do without God's power flowing through us. They are difficult, they drain us, and they produce no joy or fulfillment. They are often good things, but not 'God things.'


People can literally get burned out on religious activity as they struggle to serve God in their own strength. But Jesus did not die for us to have ceaseless activity...He died so that we could be have a deep personal relationship with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.


Do you need to cut out some works of the flesh today to truly be with God?


Prayer starter: Lord, I realize that doing good works is no replacement for truly knowing You. Help me to find my rest in You as I lay useless activity aside to spend more time with You.

Matthew 11:28-30

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Let God be your tour guide

**Joyce Meyer


When He walked on this earth, Jesus always knew the right thing to do because He did only what He saw His Father do. As our Lord, we can trust Him to lead us down the right path every day.


Psalm 48:14 says that God will be our guide even unto death! How wonderful to know that we have a guide to get us from one destination in life to the next.


When my husband, Dave, and I visit a new place, we often hire a guide. Once we decided to explore by ourselves, but we quickly discovered that this was a complete waste of time. We spent most of the day lost, desperately trying to find our way back.


Sometimes I think we treat life the same way Dave and I treated that trip. It is always easier to follow an experienced guide than to wander aimlessly on your own. Instead of going your own way, do what you see your Father do, and let Him guide you. God is committed to guiding us, so it is clearly important that we follow.


Prayer starter: God, I do not want to live life like a tourist without a guide, aimlessly going my own way. Only You can show me what to do and how to live, so I choose to follow Your guidance every day.

Psalm 48:14

For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.

Passing life's tests

**Joyce Meyer


Life is filled with challenges that test our determination and our faith in God. Whether we are faced with the impending threat of evil or with everyday hassles, the quality of our character is sure to be tested on a regular basis.


It would be a great mistake to overlook the fact that God tests our hearts, our emotions and our minds. What does it mean to test something? It means to put pressure on it to see if it will do what it says it will do. Will it hold up under stress? Can it perform at the level its maker says it can? Is it genuine when measured against a true standard of quality?


God does the same with us.


Are you being tested today? The key is to keep trusting God, even if you do not understand. There is no such thing as trusting God without unanswered questions, but when you push ahead, despite your doubts, He will build you up and make you strong.


Prayer starter: Lord, when tested, I want to be ready, holding up under pressure, following You no matter what. Show me daily how to put my trust in You, even when I struggle with unanswered questions.

Psalm 7:9

O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure.

Setting your enemies free

**Joyce Meyer


When dealing with past hurts, we all know that it is right to forgive, even when it is difficult. However. few of us rarely take the next step that God wants us to take.


A common misconception is that all we have to do is make the decision to forgive and our job is finished, but Jesus also said, "Invoke blessings upon and pray for the happiness of those who curse you, implore God's blessing (favor) upon those who abuse you [who revile, reproach, disparage, and high-handedly misuse you]" (Luke 6:28 AMP). In addition, Romans 12:14 says that we are to bless the people who persecute us and treat us cruelly.


We are to actively bless our enemies. God calls us to extend mercy to people who do not deserve it. Why?


When you forgive, it opens a door for God to heal you, but honestly, it does not do much for the person who offended you. But when you bless them, you ask God to bring truth to them so they can repent and experience the real freedom He provides. Forgiveness sets you free...blessing your enemies sets them free.


Prayer starter: God, I thank You for helping me walk in forgiveness, but I do not want to stop here. I ask You to bless those who have hurt me. In the same way that You have brought healing to my life, bring healing to them so they can experience Your goodness and walk in Your love.

Romans 12:14

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Making a decision to forgive

**Joyce Meyer


When someone hurts us, we often react as though that individual has stolen from us. We feel that they owe us, yet God wants us to let it go.


If we refuse to forgive, what hope do we have receiving what we need? To receive from God what He has promised in His Word, we must obey Him, regardless of how difficult it may be. We must forgive.


The greatest deception that Satan has perpetuated in the area of forgiveness is the idea that if our feelings have not changed, we have not truly forgiven. When you decide to forgive someone, do not let the devil convince you that because you still have the same feelings, you have not really forgive the person.


You can make the right decision to forgive and not "feel" any differently. That is when faith steps in. You have done your part, now wait on God. He will do His part and heal your emotions, make you whole, and change your feelings toward the person who hurt you.


Prayer starter: Lord, I choose to forgive those who have hurt me. I release them from their debt, in Jesus' name. Heal my heart and make me whole.

Mark 11:25

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.

When life does not go according to plan

**Joyce Meyer


The apostle Paul tells us in Romans 8:28 that all things work together for good. Notice Paul does not say that all things are good, but that all things work together for good.


Paul also tells us in Romans 12:16 to "readily adjust yourself to[people, things]." The idea is that we must learn to become the kind of person who plans things but who does not fall apart if that plan does not work out.


Let's say you get in your car and it would not start. There are two ways you can look at the situation. You can think, "I knew it! My plans always flop."


Or you can tell yourself, "Well, I cannot leave home right now, but that is ok. I believe this change in plans is going to work out for my good. God is in control."


Allow God to be the glory and lifter of your head (see Psalm 3:3). He wants to lift everything: your hopes, attitudes, moods, head, hands, heart, your entire life. Remember, even when life does not go according to plan, He is good.


Prayer starter: Lord, because I know that you are in control and work all things for good, I can be flexible when life does not follow my plan. When my plans do not work out, help me to find the good and stay positive.

Romans 8:28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Removing Distractions

**Joyce Meyer


One of Satan's more cunning weapons is distraction. He knows if we become sidetracked by the cares of the world that, more than likely, we will begin to neglect our time with God.


To keep us faithful and in close fellowship and communion with Him, sometimes God wants us to remove distractions that are separating us from Him, even if it hurts.


For example, if out career or desire for money or social status are more important to us than pleasing God, we need to get our priorities straight. Or maybe a relationship is keeping you from spending time with God and you are looking for that person's attention and approval more than God's. The bottom line is, any situation or desire in our life that keeps us from being led by the Holy Spirit or living for God is an unhealthy distraction that is not good for us.


God wants us to be moved by His Spirit, not by distractions. So today, set aside all of the distractions of life and purposely focus on God. When you seek God first with your whole heart, you will find Him. He is always there waiting for you.


Prayer starter: Lord, I ask You to help me remove all of the distractions in my life, even if it hurts. Help me to seek You above all else and be led by the Holy Spirit in my daily life. I want to live for You!

Matthew 6:33

But seek first his kingdom and his righteous, and all these things will be given to you as well.