Tag Archive | Choosing Life

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Scripture for the week of February 2, 2025
By JoBeth Kested

 

“You are My witnesses,” says the Lord, “and My servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, nor shall there be after Me. Isaiah 43:10 NKJV

Have you ever considered that there is a big difference between “believing in God” verses “believing God”? Believing in God allows us to believe what we want to believe about God as we attempt to fit Him into the box of our own preferences and understanding. Believing God means we have chosen to acknowledge the absolute sovereignty of the Bible, believing God is Who He says He is and also believing that He will do what He says He will do. God declares in this verse that He has chosen us even before we choose Him! He invites us to “know” Him in an intimate personal relationship that opens the eyes of our understanding with the ability to BELIEVE that He Is The One and Only True GOD that always was, always is and always will be! Let your light so shine that others also see and believe.

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Scripture for the week of December 29, 2024
By JoBeth Kested

He (Moses) said, “Please show me your glory.” Yahweh passed by before him, and proclaimed, “Yahweh! Yahweh, a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, and abundant in loving kindness and truth, keeping loving kindness for thousands, forgiving iniquity and disobedience and sin…” Exodus 33:18, 34:6-7a (WEB)

Have you ever wondered what the glory of God is? Many might think it is the display of supernatural signs, wonders and miracles. God’s response to Moses’ request to see His glory is the revelation of His endless mercy, loving kindness, compassion and forgiveness towards all who are separated from Him. The Hebrew meaning of His name Yahweh is, “I Am that I Am”. So, God is declaring in these verses, “I Am that I really, really Am a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, abundant in truth, extending loving kindness and forgiveness to thousands who are separated from me in their rebellious ways.” May we always discover the glory of God’s merciful love and forgiveness for us when we stumble from our foolish and selfish choices. Lord, let the grace of Your glorious light breakthrough the darkness in the world as we look toward the new year ahead. Amen!

Hanukkah Blessings

During this Season of Light and Dedication remember always that Yeshua (King Jesus) said: John 8:12 CJB 12 Yeshua spoke to them again: “I am the light of the world; whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light which gives life.”

On Hanukkah.. we dedicate our lives to Him and miracles, signs and wonders are given as we walk in His Light.. as He IS the Light of Life.

Don’t miss out because you think you know something about Him! There is always more..

What if Ruach HaKodesh overshadowed Mary on the first night of Hanukkah? What if Abba has know that Hanukkah and December 25 this year in 5785..2024 would be on the same day?

He who holds the stars.. who calls them each by name has ordained Hanukkah as the miraculous Time of Light.

We have a few days left to celebrate Hanukkah. As Abba to open the eyes of your understanding and receive His Holy Spirit of Revelation and Understanding.

Blessings and Shalom-Love Beyond Measure, Beth Auman

Heaven’s Flames: Witness the Power of God Answering by Fire By Lorena Cox

Heaven’s Flames: Witness the Power of God Answering by Fire

The phrase “God answers by fire” is often associated with the biblical story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, found in 1 Kings 18:20-40.
In this dramatic event, which it’s one of my favorite biblical stories, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to call on their god to send fire to consume their sacrifice. Despite their fervent ritualistic efforts over and over again, no fire comes.
When Elijah prays to the God of Israel, fire immediately falls from heaven and consumes the offering, demonstrating that the God of Israel is the true Living God that the God is Israel is Lord.
What about our prayers?
Are the prayers being answered by fire?
What causes God to answer by fire?
The answer, faith in God!
Pleasing God through faith causes God to respond.
Through faith, we are saying:
“God, this is your moment to demonstrate your power for you to be glorified.
Everyone will know, you did it and not me.
Now, here is the offering, here is the sacrifice, here is my prayer.”
I hear the Lord say “move out of the way, my fire is coming down now!”

I encourage you and me, let’s keep praying with faith in God!

Our Mighty God who hears our heart, knows every word before we say it, He is pleased to answer our prayers by fire.?

Here are 15 powerful decrees for you to speak over yourself and watch God answer your prayers by fire in the presence of your enemies.

1. I decree that God answers my prayers by fire.
– Reference: 1 Kings 18:24 – “Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the LORD. The god who answers by fire—he is God.”

2. I decree that the power of God is manifest in my life through miraculous signs and wonders.
– Reference: Acts 2:19 – “I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke.”

3. I decree that the fire of God’s presence consumes every obstacle in my path.
– Reference: Hebrews 12:29 – “For our God is a consuming fire.”

4. I decree that the same God who answered Elijah by fire is working powerfully in my life.
– Reference: 1 Kings 18:38 – “Then the fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.”

5. I decree that my faith is strengthened as I witness God’s mighty works.
– Reference: Psalm 77:14 – “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.”

6. I decree that the fire of the Holy Spirit ignites my passion for God’s purposes.
– Reference: Acts 2:3 – “They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.”

7. I decree that God’s fire purifies and refines every area of my life.
– Reference: Malachi 3:2-3 – “But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver.”

8. I decree that God’s fire burns away all impurities and leaves me holy and set apart.
– Reference: Isaiah 6:6-7 – “Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, ‘See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.'”

9. I decree that the fire of God brings clarity and direction to my life.
– Reference: Exodus 3:2-4 – “There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. So Moses thought, ‘I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.’ When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’ And Moses said, ‘Here I am.'”

10. I decree that God’s fire ignites a revival in my heart and in my community.
– Reference: Luke 3:16 – “John answered them all, ‘I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.'”

11. I decree that the fire of God’s love consumes all fear and doubt within me.
– Reference: 1 John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

12. I decree that God’s fire empowers me to live boldly and confidently.
– Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

13. I decree that the presence of God is evident in my life through the fire of His Spirit.
– Reference: Acts 2:4 – “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”

14. I decree that God’s fire illuminates my path and guides me in truth.
– Reference: Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

15. I decree that I am filled with the fire of God’s passion and zeal.
– Reference: Romans 12:11 – “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

Blessings and Love,
Lorena Cox

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Scripture for the Week of December 20, 2024

“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:1-2 (NASB)

Have you ever been on a scavenger hunt where you had to look for clues that help you seek and find a “treasure”? In this part of the Christmas story we are reminded of the wise men who came looking for a newborn King of the Jews, the promised Messiah, because they were following a star seen in the heavens. They first looked for Him in a palace, but only found Jesus in Bethlehem after searching the scriptures. They gave valuable treasures of gold, frankincense and myrrh and bowed down in worship. Maybe some of us are looking for life or promises of hope, peace, love or even faith in all the wrong places? This Christmas season, may we each follow the light of His glory and find anew or afresh the reality of Jesus our Savior, Emmanuel – God with us. Let us join with the angels who sang, “Glory to God in the highest”! Wise men still seek Him.

The Hidden Meaning of Contentious by Lorena Cox

Unlocking the Hidden Meanings of “Contentious” in Scripture: A Journey of Self-Reflection and Growth

This week, while reading scripture, I came across the word
“Contentious”.
To my surprise, the word contentious was mostly accompanied by the word “woman”.
This word kept calling my attention. I like word studies, but before I even look into it, I asked the Lord what is this about?
Why is being mentioned only for women?
After seeing it three times….I thought I am praying this one…I surely don’t want to be a contentious wife!
I prayed but without saying it I am thinking again why it’s only mentioned for women. I read some more…and BAM! I found it ladies ? prayer answered.

Memorize it “Proverbs 26:21”.
“As charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to kindle strife.”
I am hallelujah!! ?
Ladies, we are still mentioned 4 times out of five ?.
I’m injecting a little humor here.
If you do some study on this word contentious, you will identify the meaning more in depth.

Hebrew word used on the following verses means strife, quarreling, scolding

Pr 21:19 Better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and angry woman.

Pr 25:24 It is better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

Pr 26:21 As charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to kindle strife.

Pr 27:15 A continual dripping on a very rainy day And a contentious woman are alike;

On this verse, Hebrew word means quarrels, controversies

Pr 21:9 Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

Contentious word is mentioned five times in the Old Testament, and all of them are in the book of Proverbs.

On the New Testament; however, the word contentious is mentioned only one time in the book of 1 Corinthians.

The Merriam Webster dictionary describe it as follow:
1-as in aggressive
feeling or displaying eagerness to fight
2-as in controversial
“given to arguing”
a tiresomely contentious person who likes to argue for the sake of arguin

This moment of insight, brings us into a place of self evaluation. Are we contentious wives? Are we contentious with our children?
Some of the (top)synonyms of contentious for your reference are:

– aggressive
– militant
– hostile
– confrontational
– combative
– irritable
– ugly
– pugnacious
– assaultive
– belligerent
– acidic
– argumentative

According to 1 Corinthians 11:16 “But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.”

In other words, contentious shouldn’t be part of our culture and behavior. Each one of us, continue to become more like Jesus, and in this path, we take a moment to meditate on this as we evaluate ourselves.

It’s important to note the opposite of contentious.
According to Merriam Webster dictionary here are some (top) antonyms for your reference.

– peaceful
– peaceable
– nonaggressive pacific pleasant
– uncontentious
– friendly
– amiable
– conciliatory
– amicable
– cordial
– unwarlike
– benevolent
– gracious

Abba desires for every one of us, to be women/wives, men/husbands gracious to each other. Only Holy Spirit can help us on this journey to stay away from being contentious and becoming more peaceful and gracious.

Let’s repent individually for being contentious spouses in any way our form. Even if we feel like our behavior has not been this way. Let’s humble ourselves before God.

Now, let’s decree in Jesus name.

I decree that we are virtuous spouses, wives of noble character by and through the empowerment and leading of the Holy Spirit.

Let’s say out loud the following decrees based on Proverbs 21:19, 25:24, 26:21, 27:15, and 21:9.

1. I will strive to be peaceful and avoid contentious behavior, creating a harmonious environment.
2. I will cultivate a spirit of calmness and patience, steering clear of anger and strife.
3. I will foster relationships built on mutual respect and kindness, avoiding quarrels.
4. I will be mindful of my words and actions, ensuring they contribute to peace and unity.
5. I will continuously evaluate my behavior, choosing to act with grace and humility.

Some BONUS decrees based on Proverbs 31.

1. I will be virtuous and honorable in all my actions.
2. I will commit to diligent work and manage my household with wisdom and care.
3. I will provide and care for my family, ensuring their well-being.
4. I will extend my hand to the poor and needy, offering help and kindness.
5. I will speak with wisdom and teach kindness.
6. I will ensure the affairs of my household are well-managed, avoiding idleness.
7. I will be known for my strength, dignity, and preparedness for the future.
8. I will cultivate a reputation of good deeds, earning respect from others.
9. I will value inner beauty and godly character over outward appearances.

Hope you enjoy!
God bless you. Lorena Cox

Scripture Of The Week by JoBeth Kested

Scripture for the week of December 8, 2024

By JoBeth Kested

“Comfort, yes, comfort My people!” Says your God. “Speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her, that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned… The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight and the rough places smooth; the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” Isaiah 40:1-5 (NKJV)

Have you ever struggled with the sorrow and sadness of this life or the overwhelming grief of a great tragedy with longing for comfort? Sometimes the agony of loss and the pain of injustice we experience in this world can be hard to bear as we search for our lost hope in the puddles of our tears. The prophet Isaiah twice declares to the people of God “comfort, comfort” (meaning a double portion) along with the end of warfare and mercy for their sinfulness. He exhorts them to prepare a way for the Lord; with the promise that the extreme highs and lows will be made right, the crooked and rough will be made straight and smooth, and that all would see the glory of the goodness of the Lord in their land. Oh, Lord, comfort, comfort the wounded hearts of your people once again. May Jesus, the Prince of Peace, be revealed for the healing of the nations and for the glory of the LORD to shine in all the earth. Amen.

If You Know And Do It Anyway

Repentance is for Everyone. Check yourself today. Put it under the blood of Yeshua. Walk upright before ADONAI with clean hands and a pure heart.

Two Keys: Know the Word of God, Repentance

 

Blessings and Shalom in Yeshua. Love Beyond Measure, Beth Auman

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Scripture for the week of November 17, 2024
By JoBeth Kested

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord… Jeremiah 29:11-14a (NKJV)

Have you ever felt like you messed up so bad that you are beyond forgiveness and undeserving of God’s love? Sometimes it feels like God is playing Hide and Seek and not to be found. But, these verses assure us that God is listening and really does hear our prayers when we cry out to Him. Listening implies that He is waiting and anticipating to hear our voice so He can reveal Himself and the good plans He has prepared for us. Though it may be hard to fathom, the truth is, God harbors no thoughts of evil against us. He is always thinking of how to show us His plans for our future that includes renewing our dashed hopes and bestowing His peace that passes our understanding. Be encouraged in this promise to you today, that you will find the Lord when you pray and seek Him with all your heart. Praise the Lord!

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Scripture for the week of November 3, 2024
By JoBeth Kested

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? It is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect. Psalm 18:30-32 (NKJV)

Are you frustrated with your imperfections, disappointed in the imperfect people in your life, or weary of this imperfect world? What a huge comfort to discover the realization that the ways of our God are perfect and to know with assurance that His Word has proven to be perfect, too. He is the protector and defender of all who put their trust in Him. He alone is the Almighty God above all gods and majestic Lord above all lords. There is nothing in this world more sure, more solid, and more dependable than our God; The Rock. Our loving, compassionate and merciful God lifts us out of our pity puddles of discouragement, renews our strength and even makes our crooked rough roads into perfect paths of peace. Thank You, Lord!