Tag Archive | Faith

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Apr13

Scripture for the week of April 13, 2025
By JoBeth Kested

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV

Have you ever felt like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole? Do you have the repetitive lies of the world going round and round in your head: “Not qualified, not smart, not pretty, too fat or too old”? Maybe it is time to heed the advice of this scripture and to stop trying to conform to the self eliminating standards of this world. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Believe you are who God says you are; accepted in the beloved, (Eph. 1:6) fearfully and wonderfully made, (Ps. 139:14) child of God, (John 1:12) and that your gifts make room for you (Pr. 18:16). The more we focus on who God says we are the more we will clearly discern His good, pleasing and perfect will for us. Oh Lord, renew our minds with the washing of Your Word that we might find our perfect place in Your will. Amen.

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Mar30

Scripture for the week of March 30, 2025
By JoBeth Kested

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NKJV

Have you ever felt like the cowardly lion in the Wizard of Oz; lacking in strength and courage? Are you feeling overwhelmed and afraid of facing what may be ahead of you? The Lord spoke this word to Joshua as he faced the daunting challenge of leading the children of Israel into their promised land where they faced giants and enemy armies. Sometimes, we find impossible giants and overwhelming enemies in front of us, that we must overcome, on the road to our promised land of destiny, too. Our Almighty God would not command us to be strong and of good courage without also giving us the promise that He is with us and able to supply all our needs. (Philippians 4:19) Father God, grant us strength in our weakness, courage instead of fear, and renewed faith in the power of Your presence for the future and hope you have planned for us. God is Good! Amen! (Jeremiah 29:11)

Scripture OfThe Week By JoBeth Kested

Mar16

Scripture for the Week of March 16, 2025
By JoBeth Kested

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6 (NIV)

Have you ever tried to find your way in the dark without a light? Are you aware that darkness flees at the speed of light at 186,000 miles per second? In Genesis chapter one, God said, “Let there be light” and He created light to break out of the darkness. This verse reveals that God is also able to shine the light of His extravagant love into the dark places of woundedness, fear or shame in our hearts. He sheds the dawning light of His glory to know the perfection, beauty and resurrection power we can each find in our personal relationship with Jesus face to face. Jesus proclaimed in John 8:12 “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Let the light of Jesus’ love be shed into your heart (Romans 4:5) and through you to others as you follow Him. Grace, grace, Lord!

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Feb2

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.

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

Dec23

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

The Hidden Meaning of Contentious by Lorena Cox

Dec14

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

Dec8

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.

Scripture Of The Week By JoBeth Kested

Nov25


Scripture for the week of November 24, 2024

By JoBeth Kested

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever. To him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1-4 (NIV)

What would you answer if asked what is your greatest need or desire? Most of us would acknowledge the deepest longingly of our hearts is to be loved. We all long for and cherish the loving relationships of family and friends. We are encouraged in these scriptures to give thanks to The Lord, God of gods, and Lord of lords because His love endures forever. In this Psalm, there are twenty-six declarations that His love endures forever after verses extolling the majesty of God’s creation, His awesome wonders, His mighty power and extravagant mercy. During this season of Thanksgiving we often remember and share the many things we have to be thankful for. It is also good to be reminded how blessed we are and to give thanks that The Lord God Almighty is good, He does great wonders and His steadfast love for us endures forever!

If You Know And Do It Anyway

Nov23

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