In a time where everyone has an opinion about everything, can you trust it? There is only one source for absolute and accurate instruction – that is the Word of God. Life is too important to depend on our own understanding and “will” to get through the difficult decisions that come our way.

PROVERBS 3:5-6 With all your heart, you must trust the Lord and not your own flawed judgment. Always let Him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow (CEV).

If you have a decision to make, what I’ve learned is to STOP and wait until you have peace about it. If you can’t feel peace in the moment, then there is a good reason to delay. It’s important to be “this” thoughtful.

JOHN 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

Cleanse by Lee Gossett

We know that Scripture tells us that life and death are in the power of our tongues.

JOYFUL by Lee Gossett

 MATTHEW 5:12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, For so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. The Message translation reads, “You can be glad when that happens – give a cheer, even! For though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble” (MSG)

So how are we to have joy in the midst of our battles? Joy and happiness are totally different because one depends on what’s happening in our life at the time. Happiness does not bring contentment – it comes and goes. Joy is from the very heart of God through the Holy Spirit.

JOHN 15:11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full (ESV).

No one person or circumstances can take God’s joy from you. No doubt, we will have many challenges throughout our life. I know some of you right now are going through indescribable pain. As Christians, we must endure and press through sufferings knowing that we’re saved by the grace of God.

1 PETER 1:6-9 So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold – though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls (NLT).

Dear friends, don’t depend on the people or the world to bring you “short lived” happiness – experience real and everlasting joy knowing that when we persevere through the many trials of life, God is always with us. For inasmuch as we abide in Him, the fruit we produce in our lives will be joy (GALATIANS 5:22).

1 THESSALONIANS 5:16 Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

REVILE (INSULT)By Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake (NKJV).

The Message translation reads, “Not only that – count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable” (MSG).

These days, more and more, “truth” is in question. But, what is truth? Understanding truth can be the difference between eternal life with God and separation at the time of death. Dear friends, if you ignore the truth, there will be consequences for it. That is an absolute fact. Honestly, most of the pain and suffering I’ve experienced throughout my life has been due to the consequences of believing the lies of Satan, the ultimate deceiver, and not truth. In research, one author defines what truth is NOT:  WHAT makes you feel good at the moment, WHAT the majority says is true – your closest friends, WHAT is believed by a majority and shared publicly. And, haven’t we seen that truth in every aspect of the happenings in our world? Just think about it. We don’t have to search to hard to find the truth because oftentimes it’s right in front of us, but some will refuse to believe as they did during the time Jesus walked the earth performing miracles and healing people.

Can you imagine? All this proof, and yet, many still would not believe. In the past several years, it has been my attempt to share God’s truth with you – not my truth or anyone else’s. I realize that in sharing truth, comes tremendous responsibility. Right now, there are those of you that are so deep in sin, that darkness has covered your eyes to the point that you don’t know the truth any more. I want to ask you something today. If there is something I’ve shared you don’t believe as truth, ask a trusted Christian friend. In my heart, I believe you already know the truth, but have made a decision to suffer the consequences. Now, more than ever we need to know God’s absolute truth. If you refuse to turn away from sin, only God can reveal His truth to you in a personal relationship with Him.

JOHN 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (ESV).  

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

PERSECUTED by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven (NKJV).

The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom” (MSG).

Have you ever felt persecuted by others for what you believed? For those of us living a godly life today, there will be persecution throughout our lives. It is clearly confirmed as truth in the Bible.

2 TIMOTHY 3:12 Don’t be naïve. There are difficult times ahead. As the end approaches, people are going to be self-absorbed, money-hungry, self-promoting, stuck-up, profane, contemptuous of parents, crude, coarse, dog-eat-dog, unbending, slanderers impulsively wild, savage, cynical, treacherous, ruthless, bloated windbags, addicted to lust, and allergic to God. They’ll make a show of religion, but behind the scenes they’re animals. Stay clear of these people (MSG).

Just think for a moment about the tension in our world over false “truth” versus what God’s Word tells us. Who are you going to believe? If it hasn’t happened to you yet, as a believer, you will be treated harshly for what you hold most dear in your life and that is the irrefutable and absolute truth of God. It is a true statement to say that in order for “true” righteousness to exist, there has to be a relationship with Jesus Christ because without God, we can do nothing.

JOHN 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me – and I in him – bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing (NET Bible).

Dear friends, there is no way to be devoted to God and to the fallen world. They’re not meant to exist together in our hearts and minds. It’s impossible to serve both God and the world. In this truth, I believe, is at the heart of most all persecution. We are either transformed by the renewal of our minds throughout our lives or we’re not.

My prayer for each of you today is that you would live your life to be a true expression of what you believe which should convict the heart of each and every one of us today. So, whatever you’re going through right now know that in the midst of your suffering, your faith is being tested and what you endure of earth will be glorified, eternally, in Heaven.

2 CORINTHIANS 4:17-18 For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever (NLT). AMEN

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

PEACEMAKERS by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:9  Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God (NKJV). The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. Jesus is known as the Prince of Peace. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family (MSG).

For so many years, it was extremely difficult to find a place of peace in our lives because of constant turmoil over many things. But, as I’ve learned through the years, you can’t help someone find peace in their life until you experience it for yourself. There’s a peace in my spirit that I know comes from God and not man. God gives me His peace every day because of what His life means to me as a Christian and as His child. No one can ever take that away from me. The times where I haven’t experienced peace is because I didn’t follow His plan for my life. Peace doesn’t mean we have an easy life, but that God’s peace surpasses anything we can imagine in this world.

PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus (NLT).

Dear friends, you will never know true inner peace apart from God.

JOHN 14:27 I’m leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

PURE by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God (NKJV).  The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when you get inside your world – your mind and heart – put right. Then you can see God in the outside world (MSG).

Clean. Blameless. Unstained from guilt. Well, I guess these descriptive words alone exclude the majority of us, don’t they?  Dear friends, there is only one way we can live our lives “pure in heart” and that is through Jesus Christ knowing that every day He is refining us through the fire. Our desire to be transparent before God and obedient to His call regardless of the cost or what we lose in the process is our purpose in living. Unless we are willing to lose our life, we can never fulfill the destiny and plan He has for each of us. And, know this next statement as truth. There will come a time where you have to “stand” for who and what you believe in which is the exact opposite of what the world tells you is truth.

JAMES 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (KJV).

Truly, God wants to purify our lives and the things that keep us from doing all He’s called us to do. I believe we are in a season of God’s refinement which is always difficult and uncomfortable. So, what’s holding you back from going all the way with God?

1 JOHN 3:1-3 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure (NIV). 

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

MERCY by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:7 Blessed are the merciful, For they will be shown mercy (NKJV).  The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full,’ you find yourselves cared for” (MSG).

 (Shouting moment … PRAISE GOD FOR MERCY)!

When you are blessed, it means you are willing to show mercy to others (especially) when they don’t deserve it. You forgive and give it to God. We didn’t deserve mercy as sinners, but God in His love for us, gives us new mercy each and every moment of the day. We all have acted and reacted out of our own ignorance; but our wonderful Father God is quick to forgive if we repent and ask His forgiveness for wrongdoing – no matter what we did, who we did it to or haven’t done.

1 TIMOTHY 1:13  … even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief (NLT).

I’m thankful and so very grateful for His mercy throughout my life. If I had only known the truth; I had no idea what I was doing and making the same mistakes. Dear friends, were it not for God’s mercy, I couldn’t do what I do every day by sharing the gospel with each of you on Facebook (of all places). God enables me to do what I do every day through HIS strength. So, thanking and praising God today for not only His grace, but an abundance of mercy. As Christians, we may not always agree with the choices of others, but AS CHRISTIANS, we can be merciful and always loving towards others regardless of how they choose to live their lives. Remember, we are ALL sinners saved by God’s grace and unconditional love. It is a FREE gift to all.

TITUS 3:5 He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and a new life through the Holy Spirit (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

HUNGER by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled (NKJV). The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat” (MSG).

Without food or water, we could not survive. Personally, I believe these needs are the deep desires within each of our hearts as Christians. Therefore, the spiritual “food and drink” essential to our lives is our righteousness in Christ. Nothing else can satisfy this longing or thirst within our spirits. Jentezen Franklin wrote an incredible book entitled “The Fasting Edge.”  In his book, he shares that we are called to make a choice – anything not lining up with the Word of God has to go.  We’re reminded that Jesus prayed and fasted so why shouldn’t we? Fasting prepares us for what we’ve yet to face building confidence and endurance for the trials and battles to come.

MATTHEW 4:4 Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy:  “It takes more than bread to stay alive. It takes a steady stream of words from God’s mouth” (MSG).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

MEEK by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:5 God blesses those who are meek, For they shall inherit the earth (NKJV). The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are – no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourself, yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought” (MSG).

In some translations, you will find “meek” as meaning mildness, gentleness of spirit or simply being humble. Meekness is a wonderful example of humility in how Jesus must have been seen through the eyes of those He touched while on the earth. In our time, meekness is having humility towards God and gentleness towards others. The Apostle Paul affirms this characteristic when he tells us how we should continue live our lives.

EPHESIANS 4:1-2 I, therefore, the prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live worthily of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, and with patience, bearing with one another in love (NET Bible).

For those who believe in Christ, we are called to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with humility and gentleness.

1 PETER 3:15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect (NIV).

When I was a teenager, I remember a “sidewalk pastor” who “preached” outside of the pharmacy where I worked. He always scared me because he was constantly yelling words from the Bible. It made a huge impression on me, and hearing him, made me think that God must have been a very powerful, angry man. Oh dear friends, that is far from truth! God was born into this world in a manger, humbled himself to mankind even unto death, and was crucified on an old rugged cross for you and me – Jesus Christ is the greatest known example of true humility then, now, and forevermore.

PHILIPPIANS 2:6-8 When the time came, he set aside privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death and the worst kind of death at that – a crucifixion (MSG).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

MOURN by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted (NKJV). The Message translation reads, “You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you” (MSG).

Beloved friends, when you’ve experienced deep pain at this level, God is the ONLY source of comfort. I believe God’s heart grieves for those in sin who refuse to repent or attempt to justify it. I’ve cried so many tears in my life over sin – the guilt and shame over things I’ve done that can never be erased from MY mind. In God’s eyes, I am no longer condemned, but justified and forgiven for ALL. It’s only by God’s grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit that I can be humble and comforted in these moments.

PROVERBS 28:13 People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy (NLT).

Here are a few examples of God’s mercy:  Truth that I’ve shared that has deeply wounded people I love. Deep hurts I’ve carried for many years that I can’t trust anyone with but God, Heartache over lost things that most people have never experienced – maybe today, there are some of you mourning in similar or different ways. One early morning, I was in the floor in the midst of an “ugly cry.” There was no way any one person could comfort me in this moment of “mourning,” BUT GOD. And, He did.

2 CORINTHIANS 7:10 For Godly grief, produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death (ESV).

Dear friends, the Holy Spirit lovingly caught me in that one moment and held me in a way that I’d never experienced before. He told me how much HE loved me. He also told me that what was happening was something only “I” could go through, but that through the pain, He would be glorified.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us (NLT). And, in the midst of this season, I knew my relationship with God would grow deeper and more intimate. That’s exactly what’s happened in my life. Since that morning, I recommitted my life to Christ, and I will serve Him regardless of the cost because of the “price” He paid for ME. 2 CORINTHIANS 5:21 For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

POOR by Lee Gossett

MATTHEW 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven (ESV).

Jesus was talking about humility over the pride in a man’s heart knowing that there is nothing of monetary value or even good works we have to offer God on this side of eternity or after we die that is of true worth. God opposes any one that is proud believing that they can buy their way to Heaven through giving or any other worldly means. To be poor in spirit means that we have a spiritual bankruptcy and understanding that there is absolutely nothing we can do to win eternal favor in God’s kingdom.

ROMANS 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (NLT).

There is not enough money or good deeds we can do to add worth to our lives on earth – nothing. We accumulate things, but there is nothing in comparison to God and eternal life with Him in Heaven. As Christians, understanding the concept of poor in spirit means we recognize that we cannot “earn” salvation. It is a free gift to all who will receive it. Jesus Christ died to give us this gift through His sacrifice on the cross. And, not one of us is spiritually worthy to receive it which therefore leaves us “poor in spirit” knowing that any works we attempt cannot save us.

EPHESIANS 2:8-9 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

BEATITUDES by Lee Gossett

Today, in my devotions, I found myself in The Beatitudes (MATTHEW 5) which Jesus shared from the Sermon on the Mount. I researched multiple definitions for the word “beatitudes,” but the one I love is this one:  “supremely blessed.” Isn’t it beautiful? Dear friends, if you are a believer in Christ and follow Him with your whole heart you are truly “supremely blessed!” In some aspect, this tells us how righteous we need to be to enter God’s kingdom or what our character should look like to others. But, we also must search “the rest of the story” to find out the answers.

GALATIANS 5:22-24 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires (NASB).

In the next few days, I’d like to share each of these with you. For those of you who know Christ as your Lord and Savior, we are so blessed beyond anything we could ever imagine in this world. It’s important to note that those who share these qualities are definitely those of us who love God and cherish His Word – believing on His Word alone. I think it’s a beautiful image of who we are in Christ and what awaits us in Heaven.

JOHN 20:29 Jesus said, “So you believe because you’ve seen with your own eyes. Even better blessings are in store for those who believe without seeing” (MSG).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

TEARS by Lee Gossett

Throughout my life, I’ve cried thousands of tears over the loss of many different things. In the light of the happenings in our world today, I don’t know how we can’t help but mourn the loss of many things affecting our nation.

PSALM 56:8 You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book (NLT).

Perhaps, you are in that kind of season, too … . One day, we will stand before God to give an account of our life and the quality of what we did while we were here. Dear friends, I pray that you are thinking more about what’s ahead of you than what’s behind you. God is more interested in how we finish the race.

1 CORINTHIANS 3:13 Their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work (NIV).

Two of the most beautiful verses capture the essence of a Father’s love to His children. They can be found in the Book of REVELATION 21:4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away (NIV) and REVELATION 7:17 Because the Lamb in the middle of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes (NET Bible).

There’s something about the image of God wiping tears from my face that brings tears to my eyes even now. Whatever you’re facing today, please know that God loves you.

JAMES 1:12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised for those who love Him (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

GUILT by Lee Gossett

As human beings, we are all guilty before God.

 ROMANS 3:19 Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God (NLT).

Not one of us is perfectly righteous regardless of what others think. Many people deceive themselves into thinking otherwise by not standing for what Scripture says is God’s “absolute” truth. Have you ever had a guilty conscience over something? Can I get a witness in here tonight? Admittedly, I certainly have. Then, there are those who feel constant condemnation over something they said or did unable to forgive themselves and live in a constant state of shameful regret.

Dear friends, the only way to get beyond feelings of guilt is through repentance by confession of sin. We must all forgive as Christ forgives us.

PSALM 103:12 He has removed our sin as far from us as the east is from the west (NLT).

God’s grace is greater than any sin you’ve ever committed. But, we must always remember that grace does not condone sin or is a license to sin. That’s wrong thinking. Scriptures tell us for those who repent, there is no condemnation, ever.

ROMANS 8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (NIV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

AUTHORITY by Lee Gossett

Today, I’m extremely grateful for the covering of my husband. I totally respect the certain order of how God intended marriage to be and not how the world sees it. There will come a time in your life where you will have to submit to the authority of someone; maybe someone you have little reverence for because you’ve been wounded or hurt by them. Quite honestly, some of us will be better at submission than others. It’s a difficult concept for most people to grasp especially if it’s a matter of respect for the other person.

ROMANS 13:1 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God (NLT).

Until we are capable (willing) to submit to the authority of others, we will not be in a good place to handle authority that we’ve been given. Submission to authority is an act of obedience to God (not obedience to the other person).

1 PETER 5:3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example (NLT).

Again, it’s not about dominance over another person, but about being examples to those around us of healthy submission and respect for others.

1 PETER 5:5 In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

FOUNDATION by Lee Gossett

Yesterday, we celebrated our youngest grandson’s first birthday. Jeff and I gave him a Children’s Bible. We’re never too young (or old) to begin hearing the word of God. Perhaps you grew up in a home where the Bible had a prominent place on top of the television; the only time it was opened was to place birth or death announcements inside. That was the way it was in my home. We all need a foundation to start learning and knowing about God’s Word.

JOHN 14:6 I am the way, the truth, and the life (ESV).

There are so many Bible translations, and yet many people today doubt that real truth can be identified. Why is truth so important to a Christian’s foundation? Scripture tells us we are to put on every piece of God’s armor, and one of the essential components is “the belt of truth.” It’s mentioned first in the Book of EPHESIANS 6:14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body of armor of God’s righteousness (NLT). The belt of truth held the spiritual sword which is God’s Word. To know and follow God’s truth frees us to follow the life God intended for us.

JOHN 8:32 And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free (ESV).

Now, more than ever we’re in a season where we ALL need to know God’s “absolute” truth. I pray your foundation in God’s truth will remain strong throughout life guiding you through all darkness.

2 TIMOTHY 2:19 But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the Lord must turn away from evil” (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

IMPERFECT by Lee Gossett

Oh my goodness, I am about as imperfect as anyone could possibly be, and I’m willing to admit it with all sincerity. I’ve failed many times throughout my life (still do today) and for many years I was ashamed of the person I became and my choices.

ROMANS 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (NIV).

But, then I heard a message about grace, and it totally transformed my life. I realized I didn’t have to be perfect to come to God. He was waiting for me to come to Him, “just as I was” … a sinner in desperate need of a Savior. Truthfully, there are very few things that we can do perfectly and many people die trying to live the “perfect” life. The honest truth is that we cannot be perfect, ever. It’s impossible! Whose standard are you trying to live up to each and every day? Why do we continually try to measure up to society’s standards of “perfect?” Many of us set very high, and often, unrealistic standards for ourselves on a regular basis. I have to admit that I’ve been guilty of doing this very thing throughout my life.

1 JOHN 1:8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us (ESV).

Dear friends, God is perfecting us moment to moment as we draw near to Him and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in us. That is the perfect life!

PHILIPPIANS 1:6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

FRIENDSHIP by Lee Gossett

I’ve been blessed in my life to know many amazing people and even more honored to call very few – covenant friends. The friendships I’ve enjoyed through the years have added so much joy and happiness to my life.

1 JOHN 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God (ESV).

Jesus is the perfect model of a “true friend” to each of us regardless of who we are or where we came from – His love knows no boundaries. Jesus even provides a great definition for us in the Book of John.

JOHN 15:13-15 Greater love has no one than this:  to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you (NIV).

Friendship is more about a personal relationship, and believe me, if you have even a few good friends you are blessed more than you know. Scripture tells us that Jesus is a friend who sticks closer than a brother or sister (PROVERBS 18:24). AMEN. Of course, I love the song that goes, “What a friend we have in Jesus … .” Count your friends as blessings in your life; truly, they are one of the greatest gifts to us in this fallen world.

MATTHEW 18:20 Where two are three are gathered in my name, there am I among them (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

ETERNITY by Lee Gossett

Many people don’t believe in eternity and that life will end when we take our last breath.

2 CORINTHIANS 5:8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord (NIV).

That is, life as we know it here on earth. Regardless of what people believe or don’t believe, the only thing that matters is what Jesus says about it.

JOHN 14:3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am (NLT).

He wants all of us to have eternal life with Him. Therefore, Jesus is about the eternal business of His Father. Our time is limited, and not one of us knows the day or when He will come. It’s not God’s will that anyone of us should depart this life for eternity.

2 PETER 3:9 The Lord isn’t slow about keeping his promises, as some people think he is. In fact, God is patient because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost (CEV).

Most people will live their lives without thinking about the eternal consequences focusing on their own needs and desires.  Dear friends, if you don’t believe in God, you will spend eternity separated from Him in a place called Hell. It’s something you can’t even begin to imagine – none of us can. As we enter the Easter season, I pray your eyes will be opened to see things as you’ve never seen them before as God reveals the sacrificial love of His only Son, Jesus Christ.

JOHN 3:16 For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believe in him will not perish but have eternal life (NLT). AMEN.

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

FEELINGS by Lee Gossett

We must never forget that our feelings will cause us to stumble and oftentimes makes wrong choices.

1 CORINTHIANS 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it (ESV).

Feelings and emotions are extremely powerful. Our feelings can fool us into making less than the best choices for our lives. If we only knew the outcome of our choices before we made them, right? At times, we can be a self-centered which can cause us to go in the exact opposite direction of where we should go.

PROVERBS 25:28 A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls (ESV).

We can never forget how much nature is at work throughout our lives. It can blur our vision and create bias if we’re not watchful.

ROMANS 7:15 I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate (ESV)

One day we will all give an account for everything we do and everything we say.

Matt 12:36-37 And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you” (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

TIME by Lee Gossett

You and I have been given an incredible gift every day – the gift of time. Whether we choose to limit it on nonsensical things or value its brevity, one day we’ll reflect on how we lived our lives in this season. Hopefully, our time in the world was more about answering God’s call than pursuing our own personal agendas. Dear friends, we have one opportunity and can never recover the minutes or days once they pass.

JAMES 4:14 Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes (ESV).

Probably like most of you, I earnestly pray to fulfill my destiny which was planned before the foundations of the world.

PROVERBS 16:3 Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established (ESV).

It’s hard to imagine that even though God is outside our scope of time, He is and will ever be “eternally timeless” in that He remains with us now and for generations that follow after us.

PSALM 90:4 For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night (ESV).

We simply cannot comprehend or even understand it, but we know it as absolute truth. I pray you, too, are thinking upon these things and living your life according to all God has promised you. In the end, what’s truly important is that we find God, accept Him as our Lord and Savior, and to live life in a way that brings honor and integrity to Him.

EPHESIANS 1:4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love (NIV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

TRANSFORMED by Lee Gossett

There is a clear distinction between transformed and conformed. The Bible tells us we are to be transformed by the renewing of our mind and not to be conformed to the world.

COLOSSIANS 1:13 For He has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son (NLT).

The bottom line is we must change the way we think, act, and respond. Transformation occurs over a lifetime as we learn and grow in God’s Word. It is a lifetime process.

ROMANS 12:1-2 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I lead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living a holy sacrifice – the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think, then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

DISTRACTIONS by Lee Gossett

There are many different things throughout the course of the day that can distract us. Driving is impossible at times, isn’t it? Not too many years ago, I remember the older generation saying radios should be banned from cars because they were too much of a diversion for young drivers. Now, it seems funny to think about it because just look at the many distractions that we face simply getting IN our transportation of today. Dear friends, the truth is that Satan will cause countless distractions throughout your Christian walk.

1 PETER 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you (KJV).

Even though, we are being perfected, he’s getting better at better at his tactical game, too. Be watchful. He can purposely derail your life from fulfilling your destiny and purpose if you allow annoyances to get in the way of your walk with God.

1 PETER 5:8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (NLT).

Once you recognize the attempts are from the enemy to keep you bound and blocked then you can fight the “good fight” with all the weapons God has given you.

EPHESIANS 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one (ESV).

Remember, you are more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus! ROMANS 8:37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (NIV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

MOTIVES by Lee Gossett

Sadly, we have to think about the motives of others and whether they have our best interests at hearts or their own.  We are easily fooled, dear friends, but God is not. For example, we may choose to take on a certain role in our local church, but our motives could be for purely selfish reasons. God evaluates our hearts in times like these, and our impure motives can stand in the way of our truly fulfilling the purpose God intended for us because “we” get in the way. When thinking and praying about these daily devotions, I always seek God and His heart for the words.

COLOSSIANS 3:17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him (ESV).

I know I cannot do it alone and certainly not without God.

1 THESSALONIANS 2:4 But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts (ESV).

In everything I do, I earnestly pray God will receive all glory and honor because my only purpose is to please Him.

GALATIANS 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh (ESV).

Even though others may not understand why I do what I do, only God knows my heart. He understands what I do and why I do it. Every day, it means that I submit my whole self to the guidance of the Holy Spirit – to completely and totally surrender ALL that I am to Him so that my heart remains pure and pleasing to God.

PROVERBS 16:2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

ENDINGS by Lee Gossett

At some point in time, life will end as we know it. I pray you are ready and that the life you’re living is one of a transformed sinner saved by the grace of God.

EPHESIANS 4:22-24 To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness (ESV).

Life is a series of endings and new beginnings. We go in and out of so many seasons throughout life – certain seasons are better than most and some are worse. But, usually with endings come new beginnings and new possibilities of positive things for the future.

JEREMIAH 29:11 for I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope (ESV).

Do you realize that every time we sin, we have an opportunity to begin anew with a right spirit by simply confessing a heartfelt prayer to God and asking His forgiveness? He forgives us and never remembers what we did (or didn’t do). If only, we all could forgive in that way by simply letting go.

LUKE 7:47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven – for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little” (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

PURPOSE by Lee Gossett

Many of us live our entire lives questioning if and when we’ll find our purpose – in other words, “Why did God put me here and what is His ultimate will for my life?

ECCLESIASTES 12:13-14 Now all has been heard; there is the conclusion of the matter:  Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil (NIV).

Whatever we do, I believe it is our purpose to honor, respect God in all things and live our lives according to His Word.  The day will come where we will ALL be accountable for how we lived our lives – many will be judged and few will receive God’s grace. The Bible is very clear in this matter.

MATTHEW 7:13-14 Enter through the narrow gate, because the gate is wide and the way is spacious that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. How narrow is the gate and difficult the way that leads to life, and there are few who find it (NET Bible).

It’s easy to be distracted by failed relationships, job loss outside of our control, deterioration of our physical health, and simply struggling to maintain a sense of order in our chaotic lives. Dear friends, this is where we get into trouble as we continue to pick at the “scabs” (failures and mistakes) in our lives which keeps the wound from healing.

2 TIMOTHY 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (ESV).

My prayer for you today is that you will keep your focus on God as He keeps His eyes on you. May it bring peace to your spirit knowing that our future home and eternity with God is closer than we think.

1 JOHN 3:2 Dear friends we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

TRAGEDY by Lee Gossett

With the icy conditions, my sweet neighbor fell down her stairs yesterday morning. Now, after emergency surgery to repair a compound fracture comes the long weeks of healing. There is not one thing that happens in our lives that is without meaning. There is meaning and purpose behind every small thing that happens to us. Even in the midst of tragedy, God speaks to us because He understands our pain and frustration.

PSALM 73:1 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (ESV). He even understands why we question. The way we react in the face of tragedy speaks a lot to our disposition as Christians.

PSALM 57:2 I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me (ESV).

As she said tonight, “I’m so very thankful that it wasn’t my hip!” How grateful she was tonight for knowing that it could have been so much worse. In times like these, we are reminded that we live in a fallen world and when tragedy strikes (and it will), we know God loves us and His will is perfect even though it’s hard for us to grasp at times. Guess what? He knows this too!

PSALM 34:18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit (ESV). He will give us His strength to face tragedy in His sovereignty.

PHILIPPIANS 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

SICKNESS by Lee Gossett

There is not one of us that is spared from sickness or disease. We know in this world we will suffer. We will have troubles. We will experience loss. We will get sick. Eventually, we will die.

2 CORINTHIANS 4:17 For our light and monetary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all (NIV).

None of us are guaranteed a life without physical pain. Many people believe that sin is what causes our illnesses or sickness.

ISAIAH 53:5 He was wounded because of our rebellious deeds, crushed because of our sins; he endured punishment that made us well; because of his wounds we have been healed (NET Bible).

Frankly, that’s wrong thinking. And, when this type of bad news comes, especially if it’s terminal, we ask ourselves one question, “Why?” Dear friends, we may not know the answer to this question while here on earth, but we must know and believe that God gives us His strength to endure during these times.

ROMANS 5:3-4 We can rejoice too when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation (NLT).

God sees everything in our lives (good and bad), and everything has meaning and purpose under Heaven. Trust in Him and know that all things will work together.

JOHN 14:27 I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift that world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid (NLT). 

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

DWELL by Lee Gossett

There is a secret place within each of us where we meet God.

MATTHEW 6:6 But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything will reward you (NLT).

Many early mornings, I will wake up, grab a cup of coffee, and simply sit in the low light of the living room. It’s in these quiet, peaceful moments that are more special than any other time of day because I know God meets me in that “secret” place where only He lives. No one else knows of this place as it is only known by my Heavenly Father.

MARK 1:35 Then Jesus got up early in the morning when it was still very dark, departed, and went out to a deserted place, and there he spent time in prayer (NET Bible).

Quiet time in the car on the way to work, school or play is good, but are you really distraction free of earthly things? Dear friends, I ask you to please take time to find a place of spiritual rest and solitude where you are totally relaxed and can be open with God. Come and set up your “tent” and camp in His presence.

PSALM 91:1 Live under the protection of God Most High and stay in the shadow of God All Powerful (CEV).

He already knows everything about you and longs so much to have a close connection to you. What is standing in your way?

PSALM 27:4-5 One thing I ask form the Lord, this only do I seek:  that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock (NIV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

LOVE by Lee Gossett

“Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so … .” One of the first songs we learn as little children whether it was in Vacation Bible School, the local church or from a loved one. Jesus is pure love.

1 JOHN 4:16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love …” (ESV).

There is nothing that can ever separate us from His love even when we fail

ROMANS 8:39 Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (ESV)

He loves us.

JOHN 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life (ESV).

Dear friends, on this national celebrated day of “love,” take time to share His love with others and remember how very much He loves you.

ROMANS 5:8 But God show his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

ABIDE by Lee Gossett

What does it mean to abide in Christ? It’s the difference between being saved and being lost. We see it all around us, don’t we? As Christians, how we react to situations speaks a lot to who we are in Christ versus the rest of the world. As Christians, we should ALL “remain” in Christ, staying connected to Him in all areas of our lives. Jesus defined it best as He compared Himself to a grapevine and believers as branches.

JOHN 15:4 Remain in me and I will remain in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me (NET Bible).

If we cut ourselves off or sin rots our branches, we will fall away and die. Simply, dear friends, our lives should reflect His life and love as we remain inseparable from Him. As believers, we are NEVER without God. What do people see when they see you? Genuine belief comes from knowing Christ and never abandoning His truth. So, are you abiding in Christ and following His example or living like the rest of the world?

JOHN 8:31 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings” (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

ENCOURAGEMENT by Lee Gossett

As Christians, we are to lift each other up in the faith because all of us have difficult days.

GALATIANS 6:2 Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ (NLT).

There is not one of us is exempt from the hardships of simply living life even in the best of circumstances. Life can just be difficult. Scripture tells us to take heart because our Lord and Savior, Jesus, overcame the world and knowing this truth is the basis for our daily walk of faith. Truly, Jesus is greater than any problem or obstacle we would ever face throughout our entire lives. One thing I really enjoy is to be an encouragement to other people and help them find their way through life’s challenges and pain.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing (ESV).

Everything I’ve been through in my life, God has prepared in this season to do just that very thing. I’m so grateful and blessed to share and lift each of you up in prayer while offering a few words of encouragement on a regular basis. Humbly, I never take this privilege for granted.

ECCLESIASTES 4:9-10 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

WORSHIP by Lee Gossett

A dear friend prayed with me years ago to receive the gift of praying in the Spirit. Honestly, I was really struggling in this area because I never really felt intimately close to God. Do you know what I mean? Once God awakened my spirit to His, I truly knew understood the concept of a heart for worship in the life of a Christian.

JOHN 4:23 But the time is coming – indeed it’s here now – when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way (NLT).

Worship is a state of mind, body, and spirit deep within you. If you don’t experience this level of a pure heart in closeness to God, perhaps there is something standing in the way – perhaps unconfessed sin, unforgiveness, and distractions of worldly things.

JOHN 17:17 Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth (NLT).

Dear friends, the only way to experience this kind of intimate worship is to know God as your Father and acknowledge all that He has done for you through reading and sharing His Word. The Bible is God breathed and inspired. To know Him is to know His Word.

JOHN 4:24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

TORMENT by Lee Gossett

In this world, we will experience good things as well as the bad things. Look around. So many people live tormented lives. It doesn’t take long to see it once you see how they act and react in situations where there is pressure or a great deal of stress. Or maybe it’s even the little things that set them off, right? Most times, these people are not forgiving of others’ offenses and take it as a personal attack against them. But, we know the truth, don’t we? As believers, we will experience attacks from Satan, and he will use whatever is at his disposal to attack us.

1 PETER 5:8 Be sober-minded, be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (ESV).

His goal is to destroy our lives so we will turn away from God. When we go through trials, we should press inward and not back away.

James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and e will flee from you (ESV).

We can go back to the Garden of Eden to trace where the story began. When Adam disobeyed God, it created the existence of sin and therefore the fallen world we live in today.

ACTS 4:12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved (ESV).

Father God, I pray for anyone reading this “word,” if they are experiencing torment, please draw their hearts near to you. For we know all things work together for those who love the Lord; we trust you with the outcome and know you will guide us through whatever circumstances exist. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN.

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

WARFARE by Lee Gossett

Every day we live, we are fighting against principalities of darkness. I see it all around me and in almost every situation. Then, there are those situations we can’t see with our human eyes, but know that God has intervened on our behalf; we’re grateful.

EXODUS 14:14 The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm (NLT).

Dear friends, I ask you to pray for your loved ones in this area of spiritual warfare for God to give them strength to persevere in the midst of it.  In the Book of Ephesians, we are told we must “put on” our spiritual armor.

EPHESIANS 6:11 Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil (NET Bible).

Please don’t leave home without it. We are to trust in God no matter how strong the attacks come against us. Always remember, it is God’s power, not ours. Never take your eyes off God. We stand firm.

EPHESIANS 6:12 For we are not fighting against flesh and blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorizes of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world and against evil spirits in the heavenly places (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

JOY by Lee Gossett

There’s nothing like going through troublesome times in life and feeling joy in the midst of it all. You’re probably thinking, “Really?” It’s very true.

JAMES 1:2 Count it all joy, when you meet trials of various kinds (ESV).

If you’ve been through many difficulties in your life, then you know God is the source of all joy because it’s during these times that our faith and endurance is tested. Regardless of what you’re going through in life, God can bring joy in the middle of it all because we know we’ve stayed the course with His help.

JOHN 15:11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow (NLT)

The truest form of joy is everlasting, and it doesn’t depend on a person or the circumstances we find ourselves in. Simply, we trust and we believe.

ROMANS 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in him, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (NET Bible) AMEN!

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

REST by Lee Gossett

These days, I feel so weary and overwhelmed with so many things in this season of uncertainty. I don’t know if you have weeks like this … or not.  I’m simply being honest.

EXODUS 33:14 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (ESV).

God desires for our rest because He knows how much we need it. For most of us, we have to force ourselves to rest because of work pressures or just life, don’t we? The worst thing that could happen to any of us is total burnout. Where we just can barely put one foot in front of the other.

PSALM 127:2 It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones (NLT).

Jesus asked us clearly to come to Him when we are worn and weary because there is rest in His presence. Oh Lord, how I long to be in your presence tonight! Each one of us should take time to care for ourselves regardless of what the world says we should do. Rest in Christ Jesus is a precious gift from our loving Heavenly Father. Tonight, I rest in Him.

MATTHEW  11:28-30 Then Jesus said, “Come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and my load is not hard to carry (NET Bible).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

FINISHED by Lee Gossett

Simply, I want to share with you about finishing the race set before you. Each and every one of us has a race we’re fighting to finish. Along the way, there will be hurdles and obstacles throughout the course of life. The Apostle Paul talked about finishing our race strong and enduring until the end to accomplish the purpose God created within us.

ACTS 20:24 But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus – the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God (NLT).

He was talking about what the grace of God was enabling him to do because we cannot endure until the end without Christ. I pray that each one of us will finish “our” race and not competing against others to win.

1 CORINTHIANS 9:24 Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win (NLT)

Because in the end, we all want to finish well, don’t we? Whatever God has called you to do, do it! And do it with all the authority that Christ has given you. Leave nothing unfinished and endure until the end.

PHILIPPIANS 3:12-14 I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong:  By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward – to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back (MSG).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

PROVISION by Lee Gossett

God is our provider – not man, not a job.  As any parent should, God wants to provide for His children.

MATTHEW 6:26 Remember:  “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want … .” Acquiring things of the world is not provision. If you haven’t already learned this lesson, there is a HUGE difference between what we need and what we want. The Bible says we are to be content with what we have (HEBREWS 13:5). Now, more than ever it’s not about the accumulation of “things,” but trusting in God to do more for us than we could ever possibly imagine or hope for. Scripture says that we have not because we ask not.

MATTHEW 7:7 Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you (NLT).

God sees our hearts, and He knows our needs even before we ask Him.

PHILIPPIANS 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus (ESV).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

EVERLASTING by Lee Gossett

The Greek meaning of this word translated is “perpetual, eternal, forever.” Once we have everlasting life and have committed ourselves to Christ, then our life continues to evolve until we reach eternity meaning our spirituality continues even after death.

JOHN 3:16 For this is how God loved the world:  He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life (NLT).

So, God is telling us when we believe in Him, we are secured for all eternity. Isn’t that a beautiful thought for today?  I remember when I became truly committed about my Christian walk, I didn’t really feel anything right away. I thought it would be an instantaneous transformation. My goodness, dear friends, I certainly didn’t know any better! But, now that I’ve matured in my faith by reading the Bible and praying every day, I know that it’s a lifetime of transformation. Every day, my heart grows closer and closer to God and further away from the things of this world. I’m connected to Him in a way that is a rebirth and fresh renewal every day I live in this physical body. If you believe in Christ, please know that your eternity is secure in Heaven.

1 PETER 1:3-5 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance – an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

HOPE by Lee Gossett

What an amazing word! I love the song, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness … .” When you have hope, there is no doubt.

DEUTERONOMY 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear and be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you (ESV)

It’s a sure thing regardless of how the view of the world seems to you in this moment, God has great plans for you – for your future. Hope is not a state of optimism, but it’s an assurance deep within our spirit; it’s what we cling to in times of distress and uncertainty when life is just hard.

ROMANS 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer (ESV).

Hope is what helps us put one foot in front of the other and keeps us moving forward. Hope is foundational for Christians.  And, our blessed hope is waiting for the day when Jesus comes down from Heaven to take us to our eternal home. Hope keeps our souls alive as believers when reality is staring at us. It’s our anchor when storms come our way. And, the storms will come. It’s not wishful thinking. For with God, all things are possible (MARK 9:23).

ROMANS 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope (ESV). AMEN

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

MISTAKES by Lee Gossett

On any given day, any one of us are capable of making mistakes – some days, we simply fail, don’t we?

PSALM 37:24 Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand (NLT).

God does not make mistakes and neither does He deceive or change His mind. He’s not human like we are. Scripture says His understanding is beyond measure.

PSALM 147:5 Our Lord is great and awesome is His power; there is no limit to His wisdom (NET Bible).

Regardless of our relationship with God or how much we seek Him, we still can stumble and fall. God pours His love into us when we fall because we’re His children. He never gives up on us. It’s in these times where we learn our greatest lessons, isn’t it? Everything that happens has a purpose in life.

ROMANS 8:28 And we know that all things work together for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose (NET Bible).

Dear friends, I hope you’ll remember this when times are difficult and life is handing you hard lessons that God paid a tremendous for all of our sins – past, present, and future.

PSALM 49:7-8 Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death by paying a ransom to God. Redemption does not come easily, for no one can ever pay enough (NLT).

© Lee Gossett 2015

 

WEAKNESS by Lee Gossett

God says His grace is sufficient for us especially in times of weakness.

2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in your weakness … .”  (NIV).

But, why do we still fight it? Why are we constantly trying to prove ourselves to others to gain acceptance or approval? Scripture tells us God is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit .

PSALM 34:17-20 The godly cry out and the Lord hears; he saves them from all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; he delivers those who are discouraged. The godly face many dangers, but the Lord saves them from each one of them. He protects all his bones; and not one of them is broken (NET Bible).

I really needed to hear this today! What about you? Then, there are those days where we can’t seem to put one foot in front of the other because life comes hard and fast, usually it happens without any warning. Dear friends, we cannot live life alone and absent from God. If you don’t believe me, try it. You WILL fail. For those of you in the fight, I pray for God to meet you where you are today. Please know He will pick you up, right where you are, and deliver you from all evil intent against you.

LUKE 18:1 Then Jesus told them a parable to show them they should always pray and not lose heart (NET Bible).

© Lee Gossett 2015