An inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith ... I Peter 1:3-5

In today’s society, we are inundated with information on leaving a legacy for your children. We are asked questions, poked, prodded, and probed about our life goals. Where do you see yourselves in 5 years and where will you be financially by retirement. You'll need to buy life insurance, annuities, stocks, and bonds so that you will have a nest egg at 65, as well as leave an inheritance for your children and family, making sure they are provided for. Well, while I agree that your affairs should be in order so that you don’t burden your family when you leave this earth, I would not call that a legacy of love, it‘s just good planning. The same thought, concern, and planning should go into talking about the “life insurance” that’s eternal, now that‘s a legacy of love.

The word legacy has two similar meanings: inheritance or birthright handed down or left to or it can be described as bequest, which is a gift of sorts or something passed down or knowledge given to the next generation. Both of which I like for our content today. The scripture tell us in Ephesians 3:19, to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that we might be filled with all the fullness of God. This is what we should be passing on, the love of Christ so that others can also have the fullness of God. Inundating them with the information about this inheritance that is reserved for us in heaven. Knowldege is key and it is ours, just for the asking!

We should be creating a legacy that matters, one that lasts an eternity, not just a lifetime because our life is like a vapor, poof and it‘s gone. Naturally, after the funds of the inheritance runs out, you are left with nothing, where will your hope lie then? Oh, but there is good news today, there are some special perks, special benefits in Christ and we can enjoy them now and later. Once you have come into this marvelous light and you can see that the blessings are not only endless, but eternal. Paul also tells the Ephesians, “Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: that the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of HIS inheritance in the saints. We have not only hope, but an inheritance that is reserved and kept for us in heaven (2 Tim 4:8).

It is our goal, I pray, to let the love of God abide in us, permeate through us, so that it flows out of us and into the lives of others. That we are like Him in every way and would continue to stay the course until the day of His return. That we will leave a legacy of exaltation of what we’ve accomplished through Christ. Because honestly, only what we do for Christ will last and go on into eternity. Not that we should get any praise but that we would live a life that is pleasing to Christ according to the scriptures, what He has commanded of us, and that He alone would get the glory. We definitely don’t want our works to be evil spoken of because we want to be found performing acts of love that demonstrates the love of God that is in us (John 15:9). A true legacy whould be the passing down, giving, and bequeathing of love, telling others of the lively and living hope that's in you and that they too can share in this truth. That you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy, a legacy, an inheritance given to us by God.

What are you leaving behind as a legacy? What will be said of the life you’ve lived? What accomplishments of love through Christ will be noted? Whose life did you speak life into? Did you plant any seeds of love? Did you encourage someone along the way? Did your life exemplify the life you talked about? Did your life demonstrate the lively hope given to you by Christ? Let's give the gift of love to a dying world, commit to passing on this love that is abounding; love that is loyal, caring, and compassionate. Being, as well as leaving an example of how to love each other, minister, serve and entreat one another as the people of God. This is a legacy that will be remembered. We talk of love but often our actions speak differently; so let's walk and be love, for God is love. Help others to know this love and not just speak of love but show this love because love is action. We should freely give expressions of love and not just love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth to all. God is our perfect example of love and certainly, He is no respecter of persons.

Our legacy can be the gift that can be handed down from one generation to the next, just as God purposed from the beginning. There is never an issue of not being provided for because my God is rich in all things and He can supply all of our needs accroding to His riches and glory! We have the opportunity to pass this love on so that our children will be blessed and their children will be blessed. Let's live and teach this life we talk about, this will be our legacy, our inheritance of love.

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. Isaiah 55:8-12

Over the years, I have come to admit that I am a person who thinks absolutely too much. I have thoughts on top of thoughts, on top of thoughts, on top of thoughts. My mind is ever racing, ever moving and seriously, on overload at all times. It has taken quite a bit of talking to myself and numerous amounts of “please shut up“ to get myself out of the mode of thinking. If anyone heard me, they’d ask, who are you talking to? And certainly, I would then be deemed crazy for sure.

The word says that “His thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” Our thoughts and ways could never compare to the Lord’s thoughts or ways. Our minds are inadequate of His thought process and full of uncertainty to be effective, especially when He already knows the thoughts and plans for our lives. We might not understand it, but nonetheless, His way is the right way. He sees the bigger picture, He sees into our tomorrows while we are yet living in our today. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11). He is thinking thoughts of peace and then says to "give" us our expected end. We cannot fathom, understand or see what is going on in the heavenlies on our behalf, we cannot even attain such high thoughts. I love how He says, an expected end, that means He has mapped out what will happen for our future. However, it is disturbing that believing it seems to be the problem for us. We are unsure and unable to give over to His leading or following His lead without question. It is difficult as a people because we need to seemingly need know the plan or have the need to be in control of our destiny.

God has made promises to us and regardless of what it looks like, regardless of what it feels like, hold on to them because God is not slack concerning those promises. That scripture has been a saving grace through my journey, in spite of myself. Remembering that God’s thoughts and plans toward me are sure and most definitely, in His hands. There is a familiar phrase that says, He may not come when you want Him, but He is always right on time! Whatever word has been spoken in our lives, we have to believe that it will come to fruition. Wait for it! God is working out something in us to get us to where He needs us to be for His purpose. Not be concerned with the why, the how or the what, but rest in Him that He has everything, every detail, small or large, under control. Verse 11 tells us that whatever He says, whatever word He has spoken, it goes out and accomplishes, it achieves, and is successful in what it sets out to do, it will not come back void, it will do just what He said it would do. We can rejoice in those words alone and our minds and hearts can be in perfect peace.

One thing is for certain, I know myself but God knows me best. I know that He shakes His head and says, my child, she is going to go through a process of thought until she finally says, “I apologize Lord, please forgive me again for trying to do things and figure out stuf myself.” Because honestly, while we're trying to figure it out, He’s already worked it out. We have to learn to stand on that and wait for it. We have to remember that God views everything differently from us; His perspectives, His ways, His thoughts, and His plans are not like ours. We have to align ourselves with Him, the Word, and believe by faith that His ways are perfect and for our good, even when we don’t understand what he’s doing. If we say we are going to stand in faith, trust and believe God for our life, then we do ourselves a disservice when we question God’s actions and motives or make decisions to do it “our way” because things are not happening like we want or as fast as we’d like them to. I can tell you how far that will get you from my own experiences. I have learned to trust God’s wisdom, His judgment, and His leading, but not to say that I don’t get off track from time to time. if I didn’t I wouldn’t be writing this word of encouragement today. It always comes to me as well. The more we grow in grace, the more we conform and get shaped into what God is trying to do in us and with us, the more we learn to lean to His understanding and not our own. Learning to trust and have confidence that He knows what’s best for us (Prov 3:5-6).

I know that my thoughts and my plans could not afford me the opportunities that only God can provide. No matter what we think we know, that His thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways of doing things are not our way. We just have to remember this at all times and also that He is God.

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church… Ephesians 3:11-21

Rules, regulations, guidelines and policies. We are quick to adhere to the laws of the land, obey the standards and policies of our jobs and the ways of the world, however, when it comes to heeding to the Word of God there is seemingly, always a kicking against the prick and a going against the grain when it comes to obeying the Word's guidelines, standards, and principles. Why is that? Of course, understanding that if this was not going to be an issue, then the Word would have not needed to speak to it, right? I’ve come to realized that the Word is always right, and we are enriched by God’s mercy and grace within them. There is a quality of life that comes with obeying the Word and walking in it.

Paul, in this passage is letting the Ephesians know that he is praying a prayer of realization, a prayer of understanding and knowledge for them, so that they would come to know and be strengthen by who Christ is and grounded in His love for them. Once they understand, then they would grasp the ultimate purpose of the church, which is to bring honor and glory to His name throughout our mission. We should be happy for others to see the love of Christ in us and working through us, which is the fullness of Him in this body (the church), that fills us all in all because His love passes all knowledge and understanding. The little we think we know is not to be compared. When that love is settled in you, when it abides in you and is rooted deep, then you will take hold of what you possess in Christ and it will make you walk right, talk right, and commit to right-eousness! You will take a firm hold of it’s concept and live by it when Christ dwells in your heart.

A mission of love is a message of love. Like Paul, saying I love you enough not only to pray for you but to reprimand you, to tell you what God has put in my heart to say; to set you on the path of righteousness, toward a course for blessings for your life. If God chastises us, “For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth (Heb 12:6), it would stand to reason that sometimes we will have to set some things in order according to the Word of God with those who are in need of correction. Especially, from those who have rule over us and are the shepherds of our souls. Oftentimes, they are misunderstood by many when the words of admonishment does not appeal to the flesh and are merely trying to help build up those in the faith; knowing that it is for our good and God’s glory. It gets hard sometimes dealing with “folk.” Sure they will get mad, resign and even leave the church but we cannot get discouraged or weary in well doing (Gal 6:6-10). It would be easy just to give up or give in to the pressures of the inner workings of the church, but we are on a mission of love, called by God to do a good work, even when folks try their best to buck, kick, and speak against what’s right, we must stand firmly for righteousness.

When we understand these truths, we’ll understand that our purpose and our goal is to teach all nations, all people, about the this love. We were commissioned to do so (Matt 28:19-20). Then, we will understand why it is important to be taught to observe all things that which He has commanded. The way we represent must be pleasing in His sight and so that we do not bring an offence to the ministry and by giving no offence in any thing, so that the ministry is not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned or that is not genuine, by the word of truth, and by the power of God (2 Cor 6). Our life ought to bring about a change that others will see and ask, “what is it about you?“ A new you that has changed because all the old stuff and junk, old baggage, old ways are gone (I Cor 5:17). Especially, if we say we represent Christ, the world should see the change in us. The word is full of scriptures that invoke us to walk upright, to be holy, to not give offence or be a stumblingblock to others because we have been called to a greater power in Christ Jesus.

Because of His mission of love, we were chosen by the Father, redeemed by His son and sealed by His Spirit. therefore we have a message of love because we have trusted and heard the truth and believed. We show this love in the way we represent Christ. We must be mindful of this so that it can be seen by the world so that they see the love of Christ dwells in our hearts; rooted and grounded in His love. With that, we can go out on our mission of love to proclaim our message of love.

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. John 10:9-18

I had the opportunity to read a simple, yet profound phrase yesterday that absolutely made me want to scream in excitement. This is what it said, “the stone was not rolled away to let Jesus out, but to let you and I in” (Luke 24:2-3). It was like, I should know this right? But honestly, I had not thought about it in that way before. I was to say the least, wowed! Most times, people will voice many nuggets but to actually “hear” one and it moves in your spirit like a lightning bolt is a wonderful feeling. It’s as if a switch was turned on there was light! When the Lord wants you to hear a word in a certain context, you’ll get it immediately and suddenly… I love that about Him!

I begin to think about how it would not be possible for us to be able to enter in if Jesus had not come and fulfilled His purpose. Being in that tomb with the stone was all a part of the plan. Had He not come to save the lost or to complete His mission, the women that day or us, would not have the opportunity to enter in to see that He was gone or have a way to enter in into His Kingdom. Everything He did, taught, accomplished, everyone He healed, touched or delivered would have been for naught if He had not died or got up. We would not have this chance or choice to enter in.

We are now benefactors because we have entered in; because He is the way, the truth and the life, we have access because we have been justified by His grace, made heirs according to the hope of eternal life (Titus 3:7). The door is open and once you’ve entered in, you can rest assure that no man can pluck you out of His hand. There we can find rest for our soul, a place of safety, and a refreshing (Hebrews 4). Restoration also takes place after entering in; even a metamorphosis, a change if you let it, takes place. The scripture says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; … just by entering in. He also told us, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Who wouldn’t want to enter in for that promise? He gave His life willingly so that we might live. He had the power to lay it down, and the power to take it again and He did it all just for us. This was the commandment He received from His Father and because He loved us and so that we can have all that He promised.

Today, I am not only thankful, but grateful that He did it just for me… the death, burial and resurrection took on a whole new meaning for me yesterday. Gave me the chance to mediate on the meaning and understanding on a new level just what His getting up from the grave signifies and all of it took place just by entering in.

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch. John 10:23-30

I consider myself a country girl at heart, having spent countless summers with my Granny in Kentucky. One of the things I remember most is the huge porch, complete with a two person swing to enjoy the sounds of summer, relax or just a place to hang out. This was our gathering place early each morning before she went to work; I could be found drinking tea and she would have her little bottle of Cola. I have sweet memories of the various conversations regarding life and discussions about so many topics, there was no stone left unturned. She gave me nuggets that would balance my life in the years to come. I miss those days from my youth when life was simple and carefree on the porch, our gathering place where there was so much to learn if you were willing to listen.
　
Solomon's Porch, according to history, can be found left of the eastern gate of the outer court and like most porches it was located directly in front of the temple. It was originally called the porch of judgment, where decisions were made and disputes were settled, as well as scholars of the law meeting to hear and answer questions. It was a gathering place, a place where there was so much to learn especially if you had an ear to hear and it was at the porch where Jesus was seen often, speaking and teaching the people or just walking through as He was this day.

In this passage, Jesus walks in the temple in Solomon’s porch during festival time, a time of rededicating the temple and God to His people. They gathered around Him and He begins to reveal (because they asked) to the Jewish leaders of the connection, the oneness between Him and His Father (vss 24-30). On the porch, He revealed to them again some vital information about who He was and reminded them that they had been told before but they had not believed. He tells them because they were not His sheep, they could not hear and lets them know that only His sheep hear his voice and follow him. Solomon's Porch was a special place of gathering for Jesus, as well as the disciples (Acts 3:11).

The concept of Solomon's Porch is a perfect example of unity and fellowship in gathering. I think of the renewal and restoration that could take place if we just met on the porch, discussing some things, listening, hearing, and asking questions; the place where great decisions, resolutions and choices are made; a place where ministries are birthed and purpose is realized. Scholars of the word could deposit nuggets that could help a babe in Christ soar and the evidence of that word would spring forth and grow as Jesus intended. Think of a place where coming together with the Spirit of God, ultimately becoming one spirit, and one mind on one accord. We would have Upper Room experiences, manifestations of God's power and miracles in our home, in our families, in our health, and in our lives.

Just sitting on the porch, simple and carefree, listening and learning, while sipping on some tea.

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the Lord of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built. Zechariah 8:9

“He laid the foundation, opened up the way, what more can He do?” The “seasoned” saints might remember that song from the days of old and sadly, we don’t sing songs like that anymore. Simple, yet powerful songs that gave us strength to keep going and keep striving in Jesus. This song tells us that God has already laid the foundation for us and given us all we need to go forth. We beloved, building up ourselves on our most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keeping ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. There’s not anymore that He can do, the rest is up to us to built on; our choice to make and the decision to continue because our hope and future lies in Him.

In the passage today, Zechariah is sent by God to encourage the children of Israel to complete their unfinished responsibility in the rebuilding of the temple of God. He doesn’t rebuke or speak harshly to them but gently encourages them on how important it is that the temple is completed. He tells them that their future blessings were contingent or dependent upon their present obedience to God’s instructions and then the promised restoration, as well as consolation would come. I can tell you that the Word of God still stands true today, nothing has changed about that. We, who have been given the opportunity to build on the foundation that is Jesus Christ (I Cor 3:11).

This is and we are a work in progress. It is important that we continue the work that has been begun in us. Christ has come, foundation laid, time to build. The fulfillment of His will in us is to be strong and proceed in every work or task that He has given us to do. Regardless of the what comes to hinder and prevent us from building, don't stop. God will bring comfort, and restoration to those in distress, so just keep working, don’t complain or murmur or get off track. However, in the event that you do, get up and get back to building.

Definitely, we are working on a building, which is the temple of God, which is our body (I Cor 3:16; II Cor 6:16-18), preparation and diligence is the key in the building of it. This comes with prayer, fasting, reading the Word of God, as well as doers of the Word (James 1:22), fellowshipping with one another for strength and support, and listening the voice of God in regards to how He wants you to move, and manuver in Him. We are not just working on a building but a future in Christ and that should motivate us to want to build. And honestly, there is none other for which we could build.

The Lord is saying, hear what I am saying in these days, stay on course, stay focused, and be confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it and complete it until the day of Jesus Christ (Phi 1:6). Keep building, the rewards are great!!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. Ephesians 4:12-16

I am still amazed while on this journey, how impacted we are with who and what we encounter along the way. When I think back over the journey of my life, I remember those who I’ve come in contact with and how each played an intricate part of my growth and deposited into my life or vice versa. I thank God for those who I have yet to meet along the way. Sometimes, you get the opportunity to hear how you have strengthened or encouraged, but most importantly to me, is what I can do to be a blessing; how can I be a help in my understanding of what you need; how can I encourage you and love you through, with the mercy, and kindness of my heart in word and deed. How can I help uplift someone’s spirit who is burdened or downtrodden, bitter, and hurt. Sure, we can pray, but oftentimes, more is needed of us than just a prayer. So, what else are we doing to help in the building of our brothers and sisters in need?

This scripture comes to us as Paul speaks to the Ephesians in regards to the position and the practice of the believer. In this passage, he speaks on the purpose of the gifts, which are mentioned in verses 7-11. He tells them that it is imperative of the believer to realize his responsibility to conduct themselves according to their individual calling because each is given for the body to fit and join together as one. Being a blessing one to another should be a determined behavior consisting of unity, love, and even maturity, especially for the work they were called to do. So it is with us as believers, our gifts are to be used for the edification of the body of Christ.

We are all parts that fit jointly together for the work of the ministry, for the perfecting of the saints, for the edifying or the building up of the body of Christ. We must learn that is not about a denomination or a title, but it’s about the work, and about the souls we need to reach, the ones we will come in contact with as we are journeying. Until we all come into the knowledge of who God is and His purpose for our lives and until we all come into the unity of faith, we are just running around doing “stuff” and wasting time. People are in need and hurting, drowning in the sea of depression, dealing with oppression, being tortured by the rulers of darkness of this earth. Yes, the enemy is running rampant seeking whom he can devour; trying to kill and destroy our purpose. He is after our minds and our dreams. Our youth, the dreamers, are being targeted with a vengenace. They are dealing with demonic forces like never before and we are playing church when we should be concentrating on becoming one, fitly joined together as God intended. We are strong and mighty together; linked together as one, with each wonderful part working effectively and in love and in the pulling down of strongholds. Think of the work we could accomplish, think of the people we could impact and help get loosed from the bondages that keep them bound, both physically and mentally. Think about how many we could chase to flight if were working together. Truly, we are better together.

We were not made to travel alone, we are here to be helpers to one another for kingdom building. Every person we encounter, helps in our growth whether we are giving or receiving. We are all members of this one body and it is not about us. We need each other for the journey is tedious, full of obstacles, potholes, and bumpy roads. Things will run across the road to try and startle and hinder us, throw us off and make us swerve, but stay on course. Did I mention we may get knocked down? But just get up, dust off and keep on traveling. These will be great testaments for the people you’ll encounter. It helps you grow stronger, builds your faith and help someone along the way. Your strength, courage and faith will be beneficial in the building up of another and you'll want to gladly share because we are one body, many members, fitly joined together increasing the kingdom in love!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD. Isaiah 54:13-17

Do you want to see me broken? Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops. Weakened by my soulful cries… I have to tell you that this will not happen regardless of what you bring, because today I lift my voice and sing, that I rise into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear, can you hear me? Still I rise! As much as I love Maya Angelou, the words of her poem cannot compare to my testament of how "I still rise.” It’s meaning and it’s significance for me is the strength, joy and peace, regardless of what I face, can only be found in Jesus and that enables me to still rise above it all.

The enemy is pulling out all the stops, in every area, and in every aspect of our lives, whenever and wherever he can. In our homes, our children, our families, in our churches, and on our jobs. He moves on our bodies and tries to keep us down in our health. Case and point for last week: this is the first year (and it’s only April) that I can remember being completely bedridden with issues of sickness in my wonderful 50 years plus. Twice, in two months, I’ve been attacked in my body and unable to barely get out of bed, while experiencing pain like never before. Surely, he is on a mission but so am I. Because I am praying while laying! Sometimes, you have to let the enemy know, that no matter what you bring to discourage, dissuade, hinder, or try to make unpleasant, there is no weapon, no device, no tactic, or infliction formed, that will prosper against us!

Sure, we’ll get wounded, but we get up and get back on the field; not to mention that while we are down, we have to remain prayerful. Not letting the enemy take control of our mind or permeate and control our thoughts. He comes in to keep us down and keep up depressed. He would love to see us full of anxieties, worrying about every little thing, our situations and our circumstances to throw us off course and our focus off, our Help. Staying focused and keeping the word in our hearts is a must, so that we have something to draw from when a word is needed. And remembering and knowing that our light affliction is only for a moment (2 Cor 4:5-17). Also, remembering that we are going through and coming out because of His mercy and His grace.

We must learn to stand on God’s word because it’s powerful and if Jesus used it on the devil, I’m sure that it is a must for us as well. Throw the Word at him, let him know “for it is written, that No weapon that is formed against me shall prosper” and “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe (Proverbs 29:25) or “For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings, Selah” (Ps 61). There are so many scriptures that we can quote and stand on to keep our minds in perfect peace. An idle mind, a mind with no peace is the devil’s playground, he will begin to work there non-stop once he gets you down because his goal is to keep you down. It’s imperative that we learn to fight him with the word of God.

I had to laugh at myself this past Saturday morning, I felt better but not quite a hundred percent, yet I got up out of bed and yelled, “oh yeah, baby I’m back!” With the power and the authority, as well as the intensity, in which I intended. I don’t care what comes against you, whether it’s sickness, family, children, no finances, just to name a few, we must remember that NO weapon, device, tactic, or affliction formed or appears, or raises its ugly head will or can prosper against us, why? Because not only is this God’s promise to us but this is our heritage as servants of the most High God. No matter what befalls us, God is there, our refuge, our protection and our very present help at all times and types of trouble. We are safe even when the enemy rises up against us so yYou can let him know today that although you seek to destroy me, my faith, my joy, and my peace, and you may have me down for a moment but I still have the victory and today, still I rise!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. Matthew 24:4-5

Advertisement is a lucrative business. It is how we, the consumers, are sold on so many unnecessary items; and product and packaging is the key. If it looks good, then it must be good; if it sounds alluring, then you must try it. From make-up to medicine and so many other products; advertisement is geared towards making everything seem so appealing and entice us to "try and buy."

Matthew writes this gospel to convince the Jewish readers that Jesus is the King of the Jews, and has come in the flesh and is without a doubt, the real thing. He is the prophesied Messiah that’s mentioned in the Old Testament and the promised Deliverer! Yet, the people still reject the idea, even with the wonderful presentation, they still don’t believe that He is, who He says He is.

During this time, Jesus is talking to his disciples about some questions they have. I love the way He answers and I paraphrase, He says as opposed to be worrying about the when and what of things to come, be concerned about not being deceived by what you see and hear and in particular, who, you hear it from. In verses 6-13, Jesus tells them of some things to come and how they will come and “who” could possibly bring you information in regards to what’s happening (verses 23-26). However, He cautions them to beware, be on guard, be careful, take heed and pay attention, and not let any man deceive, mislead, misinform, or convince you otherwise because many shall come in my name, claiming to be the Christ.

We have to know that we know, who is the real thing. For Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light deceiving many (2 Cor 22:13-15). False prophets will come and entice you with their words and their wonders. For the time will come when man will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables (2 Tim 4:3-4). They will come with the presentation of what they’re selling will want you to “try and buy” but beware of these wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matt 7:15) for their only purpose is to draw you in as prey to devour you. We need not be concerned about the how and the when, and the what of things, but concerned about the who. Who are we going to trust, who are we going to believe, who are we going to take refuge in, who are we going to have faith and stand in? Who?

Jesus is the same always, and unchangeable, according to Hebrews 13:8. He is the one absolute constant in our life, the real deal, the real thing. His faithfulness, love, care, and devotion to us cannot to be compared to any other. Although, the false prophets and angels of light can also come in that way, give it some time because soon whatever is in you wil eventually come out. You can only fake it for so long before the real you shows up. But not the Lord, He never changes. His way is the right way - for He is the way, the truth and the life. Jesus will lead and guide us on the course to righteousness, heading on the right path even during the tumultuous times, both now and in times coming. He admonishes us to follow His lead, follow His word and to stay on course, so that we are not deceived or mislead. Know the word and know Jesus, He will never lead us astray or instruct us to anything unwise. But you have to know Him and know the difference!

If I took a little taste test (Psalm 34:8) today, I guarantee you that I know Coke from Pepsi. Simple illustration, because you have to know the real thing!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this word, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth. Ephesians 6:10-17

It is amazing how much we take for granted; in our homes, our health, our children, basically, our lives in general. There is so much going on in the atmosphere that we just don’t see with the natural eye. And that which we do see, is sometimes hard to comprehend or acknowledge, let alone verbalize. We deal with much in the way of spiritual wickedness and darkness that most of us don‘t know or realize. We’ve talked about the dangers seen and unseen and how they come to us in various forms, of which is not expected, sitting or crouching idly by waiting for the opportunity to come in and wreak havoc and cause discord.

Paul speaks to the Ephesians in regards to what is needed to live daily as a believer. He also speaks to them in regards to the position, the practice, as well as the responsibility of this spiritual walk. He makes them aware that it’s necessary to understand that spiritual warfare is a daily experience for servants of God, for those who are walking upright while living in this world. His best advice is to be “strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.” It’s going to take some strength and some power to deal with the strongholds and the demonic activity that comes and would love to overtake us. We must learn to pull down these strongholds that have us bound; we have to break and bind those things that would cause us hurt or harm. We have to continually motivate ourselves to draw on our Source, which is Christ, because we are not wrestling (fighting, struggling, battling) against flesh and blood, it’s not someone tangible, not a physical opponent that you can feel and touch but against rulers of darkness and wickedness assigned to areas and territories; and yes, it’s against us and our families, if we are living and walking as a child of God.

None of us are exempt from this activity, this is why Paul tells us in verse 10 and 13, to put on the whole armour of God, that we might be able to withstand in the evil day and against the cunning devices, plans, and attacks of the devil. It is our responsibility to suit up everyday in order to protect ourselves from the enemy because he is walking about and seeking whom he can devour and destroy (I Peter 5:8). Just as any soldier would do to prepare for battle, he gets suited up, puts on all of his gear, gets his weapons ready to fight. This is why it is imperative that we are covered from head to toe with the armour that’s for our protection. There’s a war going on and we have to be prepared for whatever comes our way.

The tactics of the enemy will never be the same, he has to come up with new strategies. In turn, we have to stay connected the Lord, seek His counsel and His guidance for an effective course of action. Most importantly, we have to stay suited for battle daily having our belt of truth tightened, wearing our breastplate of righteousness and integrity, our feet shod or covered in preparation, so that we are planted firmly and ready for his attacks, positioned with our shield of faith that blocks all of the fiery darts he throws our way and last, but certainly not least is our most effective weapon of attack—our sword, which is the word of God! Without this important piece of the armour, we will be ineffective. The Word of God is our greatest weapon, it provides the strength and the power we need to destroy the enemy, just one word or words, appropriately applied can destroy or send the enemy back to his camp. Like any enemy, he is going to keep trying, so we have to be ready for the next phase of attack.

In the midst of all that is going on around us, things we are dealing with in our homes, our families, our jobs and the nations, let’s remember to stay prayerful and armed for warfare, keeping verse 12 always in our mind, "for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this word, against spiritual wickedness in high places." We have to be battle ready, so suit up!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. John 15:1-7

Admittedly, I confess that I would have made myself a “Superwoman” t-shirt being an independent and strong woman, helping to raise my brothers, as well as being a single mother for years. Always, in the habit of being in control of things, having to make decisions because I felt as if I had no choice. And of course being of the mentality that if you want something done right, then do it yourself. Having to be connected to someone who wants to take care of you or says “don’t worry, I’ll handle it” or “let me help you” was extremely hard to accept until I made the right connection. It has definitely been a learning process over the years but I realize that it is impossible to do anything without Christ. For in Him I live, move and have my being (Acts 17:28).

We are an extension of Christ, He is the source of life for us. We are connected to Him, as part of the body or as the tree, naturally speaking, we are to develop a union and a bond with Him. We must understand that we cannot function properly apart or detached from the source. We’d die without the life that's provided for us through Him. Naturally, as branches are attached to the tree, they live because of the life or the sap it provides for nourishment and strength to grow. Such as it is with us, unless we stay attached to the vine, as branches, we will wither, become dry and fall by the wayside. What good are we then to ourselves or anyone else? The vine is also our source of nourishment and strength; our life provider. The Lord is the vine, He is our lifeline, through Him life flows and our dependence relies solely in Him.

The natural vine must be pruned so there can be growth in the highest degree, as well as complete development as it was intended. The cutting away or removal of unwanted or unnecessary things is needed because otherwise these things will hinder growth. When we abide, dwell, reside, live, and rest in Him and He in us, a pruning must also take place for proper growth and development. This in turn brings or presents evidence of what we produce, which should be good fruit (Gal 5:22). If the root is holy, and displaying the fruit of the Spirit, then the branches should be a representation of the vine. If we resist the process or fail to yield so that we can bear much fruit, we eventually begin deteriorate and our connection becomes severed from the branch. The connection is essential to life.

I take joy in putting not only all of my trust in the Lord, but resting and abiding always in Him. He is my all in all, my joy in sorrow, my help in need, my consoler in weariness, my strength in weakness, my comforter of peace, and my source for everything. I don’t have a need to be Superwoman, because I have the Vine (or the Divine) Connection, He makes sure that I know He’s in control of everything that concerns me. He assures me that He is taking care of and will take care of things presently and in my future (Jer 29:11). For without Him I can do nothing, but He even encourages me by saying, that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! (Phil 4:13)

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works. Psalm 145:9-12

For your goodness, and your mercy towards us, we offer praise! This psalm embodies the lyrics and the true intense emotions of this song. When we begin to think on the goodness of the Lord and how merciful He is in our lives, how can we do anything else but praise Him for all that He does; for such beauty that speaks of His goodness, and His mercies to all?

It is because of His mercies that we are not consumed everyday. I think of how clueless we are as to the many dangers, seen and unseen, He keeps us from–moment by moment. We can’t see all that He sees or to what lengths of protection we receive on an individual basis; I'm not only thankful, but grateful as to how He constantly and completely covers me I often speak of the germs that are airborne, the bacteria, viruses and other things lurking in the atmosphere that vaccinations are unable to handle, yet, He defends, wards off, shelters, and watches over us continually. The Lord is so good to us all.

How then shall we speak of His tender, gentle, kind, sympathetic, caring, compassionate, and sensitive mercies? His power and His mighty acts? Boldly and willingly and without fail we should make known how wonderful He is toward us and how He is always ready, willing and able to bless us, and we should as this psalm says, praise and bless Him; make known His of works because He is worthy of glory and honor. We can speak of the splendid majesty of His kingdom and all He did to ensure our place in it.

The word says that all of His work shall praise Him, and the saints shall bless Him. Absolutely, and without a doubt you can find me giving Him praise, and glory; speaking of His wonder working power in my life. I will bless Him and His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

For your goodness and your tender mercy towards me… I offer praise!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde

Then he showed me the river whose waters give life, sparkling like crystal, flowing out from of the throne of God and of the Lamb. Rev 22:1 (Amplified)

In my attempts to be the best at being healthy, I have a bottle of life water, 0 calories, 0 total fat, 0 sugars because it’s naturally sweetened (they say); vitamin enhanced, yumberry pomegranate flavored water beverage with my protein mix. Sounds refreshing doesn’t it? While drinking, I began to think of the true water of life, the living water, pure and refreshing.

In this passage, John is shown the river of the water of life in a vision, while exiled. A fresh, ever-flowing evidence of a pure sparkling water coming from of the throne of God. It takes imagination to envision God’s design of the water flowing from His throne down the center from it, with a tree of life on each side bearing twelve different types of fruit. Being an artist and designer, we tend to think outside the box for creative ways to display our talents, and this example from the Ultimate Designer communicates His love, as well as exemplifying His peace, joy and the refreshing that can only come from Him. Peace like a river is a phrase I love because it takes me to a place beside the waters, where there is a calm, a peacefulness, and a place of restoration for me (Psalm 23:2-3). This will be a wonderful sight to see.

This water of life was described as being a sea of glass, like unto crystal, clear and pure. Can you imagine having seen this water? A water that cannot compare to anything we’ve seen with the natural eye. Verse 17 says, Come and let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely. It is ours for the asking. Jesus told the woman at the well - if you only knew the gift of God, and Who it is that saith to you, give Me to drink, thou would have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water.

Living water that truly is life, not contained in a bottle and comparative only in description with the attributes from my life water; 0 calories, yet He is filling; 0 total fat, although He is the bread of life; 0 sugars, for He is naturally sweet, yes, sweeter than a honeycomb; vitamin enhanced, He who loads us daily with benefits and fully fortified (Hebrews 4:16) to help us start our day. Who wouldn't want to drink of this water?

I urge you to get some life water today because this is the daily refreshing that we need for our souls!

Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde