Protection - Thursday, October 31, 2013 | Daily Word

Protection - Thursday, October 31, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM SAFE AND SECURE IN THE LIGHT OF GOD.

When we were children, we may have turned to the adults in our lives for safety and assurance. Trusted parents, grandparents, or teachers who loved and supported us were there to keep us safe and free from harm.

As a child of God, I know I can turn to God for that same assurance. As I walk the path of life, I am never alone. God is with me and within me as my guiding light—a light that never dims or fades.

If ever I feel anxious or worried, I turn within to the light of God and know that I am divinely guided and protected. I move forward in the assurance that the light of God illumines my path and keeps me safe and secure.

Do not fear, greatly beloved, you are safe. Be strong and courageous!—Daniel 10:19

Responsibility - Wednesday, October 30, 2013 | Daily Word

Responsibility - Wednesday, October 30, 2013 | Daily Word

Responsibility

I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR THE GOOD IN MY LIFE.

I have a responsibility to myself and others to be true to who I am. I am love. I am light. I am generosity. I am power. I am all things good because I am one with God.

At times, I may feel inadequate or burdened by regret. If so, I take responsibility to live from the truth of my birthright. I am made of the love of God. Nothing can prevent me from being true to the presence and power of God in me. I move forward undaunted, with courage and faith.

I set an example for others, as I am upright and sincere in my words and actions. As I let my inner light shine, as I act in love, I show the world my truth and demonstrate the power of accepting responsibility for myself.

The steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting … to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.—Psalm 103:17, 18

Change - Monday, October 28, 2013 | Daily Word

Change - Monday, October 28, 2013 | Daily Word

Change

I MOVE THROUGH CHANGE WITH EASE AND GRACE.

Life is alive and in motion. Nothing is stationary. Life is like a river: It may appear glossy and still on the surface, while the undercurrents are in constant motion. Moving with the divine flow of life, I focus on being wholly aware in each experience.

Change sometimes happens gently, like a ripple. At other times, I am navigating my way over a waterfall! Yet when I live my life with God in charge, I am able to adjust to shifting waters with ease and grace.

Through the power of God within me, I have an infinite ability to adapt to the changes in my life. I go with the flow and easily allow God to express through me. I am able to thrive through every kind of change.

I will not fail you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous.—Joshua 1:5-6

Garden of Prayer - Sunday, October 27, 2013 | Daily Word

Garden of Prayer - Sunday, October 27, 2013 | Daily Word

Garden of Prayer

EVERY PRAYER CONNECTS ME TO THE DIVINE WITHIN.

Gardens can be as unruly as a field of wildflowers or as ordered as a bed of neatly planted flowers and shrubs. Prayer, like a garden, can be loose and free, or formal and structured. Some prayers are shouts of joy, while others are cries for comfort. We sometimes dance when we pray; other times we simply breathe and enter the Silence.

There is no wrong way to pray. Like the fragrance of a rose, every prayer awakens me to God’s good. Every prayer opens my heart.

Entering my prayer garden, I affirm the indwelling presence of Spirit and the divine qualities God has established in me. I am joy. I am love. I am at one with the One, and for this, I offer a prayer of thanksgiving.

Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.—Colossians 4:2

God - Saturday, October 26, 2013 | Daily Word

God - Saturday, October 26, 2013 | Daily Word

God

THERE IS ONLY ONE PRESENCE AND ONE POWER IN THE UNIVERSE—GOD THE GOOD.

I am comforted knowing that God—Creative Energy—is everywhere present as love, peace, joy, and wholeness. Most of all, I am grateful that God is my help in every need. No matter what I am experiencing, or how troubled I may be feeling, God is with me—not only available to me but is my very being.

God loves, protects, and guides me in every moment. I need only turn within to ask and be willing to receive. The simple awareness of God’s presence opens the way for God’s unfolding good in my life.

Thank you, God, for creating and sustaining me, for being the presence of love and light in the world and in me.

So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.—1 John 4:16

Communication - Friday, October 25, 2013 | Daily Word

Communication - Friday, October 25, 2013 | Daily Word

Communication

I COMMUNICATE WITH LOVE AND CLARITY.

I can communicate with others in many different ways: through my words and gestures or by writing, texting, or speaking. Communication connects us.

I ask myself: When I communicate, am I open and friendly? Or am I harsh or brash? Am I clear or vague? Do I make eye contact or look away? Am I positive and agreeable or critical and hurried? I consider how I communicate and mindfully direct my attitude.

Every interaction with another is an opportunity for a blessing. I choose to communicate from the love of God in my heart. I choose to be friendly and cooperative, open to others’ ideas, and share my own ideas with love and clarity. I am welcoming and warm as I express the love of God that I am.

My words declare the uprightness of my heart, and what my lips know they speak sincerely.—Job 33:3

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread

Re-Creation

October 24, 2013 — by Marvin Williams

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Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:12-21

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. —2 Corinthians 5:17

Bible in a Year:
Jeremiah 3-5; 1 Timothy 4

Chris Simpson’s life used to be consumed by hate. After he and his wife lost their first child, he was confused and angry. He directed that anger toward various ethnic groups and covered his body with hate-filled tattoos.

After listening to his son mimic his hatred, though, Simpson knew he needed to change. He watched a Christian movie about courage and began attending church. One month later he was baptized as a follower of Jesus Christ. Simpson is now a new person and is leaving the hate behind him, which includes the painful and expensive process of having his tattoos removed.

The apostle Paul knew something about this kind of deep transformation. He hated Jesus and persecuted His followers (Acts 22:4-5; 1 Cor. 15:9). But a personal encounter and spiritual union with Christ (Acts 9:1-20) changed all of that, causing him to reevaluate his life in light of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. This union with Christ made Paul a new person. The old order of sin, death, and selfishness was gone and a new beginning, a new covenant, a new perspective and way of living had come.

Following Jesus is not turning over a new leaf; it is beginning a new life under a new Master.

For Further Thought
What is the evidence that my union with Christ
has transformed my old humanity? Are there
indicators that I am not the me I used to be?

Being in Christ is not rehabilitation, it’s re-creation.

Dynamic - Wednesday, October 23, 2013 | Daily Word

Dynamic - Wednesday, October 23, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM A DYNAMIC BEING, FULL OF LIFE!

I may take for granted that I will rise in the morning and function throughout the day, go to work or to school, and accomplish the tasks before me. However, I know in every endeavor, I am powered by divine life.

I am blessed with the ability to read or hear these words and understand their meanings. I am blessed with the capacity to think, plan, visualize, share, and comprehend ideas. How wonderful my mind is!

I am blessed with a body that circulates energy and nutrition without conscious direction. Designed for renewal, healing, and maintaining my natural state of wholeness, I am wondrously made!

I am grateful for my vibrant body and active mind. I am a dynamic being, full of life!

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.—Luke 2:40

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread

Losing And Finding Our Lives In Him

October 23, 2013 — by David C. McCasland

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Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: Luke 9:18-27

For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. —Luke 9:24

Bible in a Year:
Jeremiah 1-2; 1 Timothy 3

When Mother Teresa died in 1997, people marveled again at her example of humble service to Christ and to people in great need. She had spent 50 years ministering to the poor, sick, orphaned, and dying through the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India.

After extensive interviews with her, British journalist Malcolm Muggeridge wrote: “There is much talk today about discovering an identity, as though it were something to be looked for, like a winning number in a lottery; then, once found, to be hoarded and treasured. Actually, . . . the more it is spent the richer it becomes. So, with Mother Teresa, in effacing herself, she becomes herself. I never met anyone more memorable.”

I suspect that many of us may be afraid of what will happen if we obey Jesus’ words: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it” (Luke 9:23-24).

Our Savior reminded His followers that He came to give us life abundantly (John 10:10). We are called to lose our lives for Christ, and in so doing discover the fullness of life in Him.

“Take up thy cross and follow Me,”
I hear the blessed Savior call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave His all? —Ackley

As we lose our lives for Christ, we find fullness of life in Him.

The Keys to Success | Daily Word

The Keys to Success | Daily Word

Harmony - Monday, October 21, 2013 | Daily Word

Harmony - Monday, October 21, 2013 | Daily

I AM AN AGENT OF HARMONY IN THE WORLD.

When I am making a shared decision with others, I tap into Spirit for the qualities I need. I call forth patience, humility, and understanding so that I may listen carefully and share my thoughts clearly and honestly.

Accepting that my view may not prevail, I honor the group’s decision, whether it’s a political election, a community planning session, or simply selecting a restaurant with a group of friends. In remaining open and flexible, I am an agent of harmony in the world.

As I express my thoughts and preferences without argument or strife, I build a resource of inner harmony that helps me live in cooperation with others.

Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.—Colossians 3:14

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread

Text Size: Zoom In

O Glorious Day!

October 21, 2013 — by Dave Branon

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Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: Matthew 27:27-31;28:1-6

He is not here; for He is risen. —Matthew 28:6

Bible in a Year:
Isaiah 62-64; 1 Timothy 1

It was the day after. My favorite team had just lost its final game and the dream of a championship was now over. It was cold out and a bit gloomy as I got in the car to go to work. None of this should have mattered much, but it was shaping up to be a blue Monday.

But then a song came on the radio that transformed my perspective. It was Casting Crowns singing “Glorious Day.” “One day they led [Christ] up Calvary’s mountain, one day they nailed Him to die on a tree.” Nothing encouraging yet. “Suffering anguish, despised and rejected”—more bad news. But then the song describes the good news of Christ’s resurrection and His victory over death.

Out of that worst of days—out of the noontime darkness on that Jerusalem hillside—has come the only true hope for mankind. Because Jesus “took the nails for me,” as the song says, “He carried my sins far away.” And one day He’s coming back—“O glorious day!”

Perhaps today did not start out well for you. Maybe you face a host of trouble that threatens to turn this into a day of despair. Turn your attention to Jesus. Review what He did for you at Calvary and how He conquered death by His resurrection: “He is not here; for He is risen”! (Matt. 28:6). That can make any day a glorious day!

Living, He loved me; dying, He saved me;
Buried, He carried my sins far away;
Rising, He justified freely forever;
One day He’s coming—O glorious day! —Chapman

Christ’s empty tomb fills us with hope.

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Healing - Sunday, October 20, 2013 | Daily Word

Healing - Sunday, October 20, 2013 | Daily Word

GOD’S HEALING POWER IS AT WORK IN ME NOW.

Scripture tells many stories of healing by Jesus. When the sick experienced Jesus’ faith as their own, their minds were healed of doubt and disbelief, and their bodies were renewed. Jesus saw their wholeness, not their illness. Once they, too, caught his powerful vision, their physical health was restored.

Jesus attributed the healing power to God. Through the power of faith, healing power is activated. With faith, I release any doubt about my own health and wholeness. I see myself whole and well, and my body responds with renewed life and vigor.

I am grateful for the healing power of God flowing through me now.

To the centurion Jesus said, “Go; let it be done for you according to your faith.” And the servant was healed in that hour.—Matthew 8:13

Free - Saturday, October 19, 2013 | Daily Word

Free - Saturday, October 19, 2013 | Daily Word

French novelist and philosopher Albert Camus once wrote, “Freedom is nothing else but a chance to be better.” Each day, I can choose to be better … to learn more, love more, and experience more. I have the freedom to make different choices and seek greater meaning and fulfillment.

My freedom does not depend on outer conditions, for it is within me. It is a blessing I inherit as a child of God. I am free to choose fear or faith; criticism or support; victimhood or mastery.

With gratitude, I accept my inherent freedom, embrace its potential, and use it to create a full and satisfying life. I am free to be my best possible self. I am boundless. In the spirit of God, I grow and evolve each day.

A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you.—Ezekiel 36:26

Divine Order - Friday, October 18, 2013 | Daily Word

Divine Order - Friday, October 18, 2013 | Daily Word

MY LIFE IS ALWAYS IN DIVINE ORDER.

The sun shines brightly after a storm; spring is reborn at winter’s end; dawn follows the darkness of night. It’s easy to see these natural occurrences as an affirmation of divine order. However, when challenges arise, like the loss of a job or the end of a relationship, I may struggle to see this order at play in my own life.

As I turn within and open to divine understanding, I realize that divine order is not just a temporary or occasional occurrence—it’s always unfolding. Every moment of my life offers a new opportunity to deepen my spiritual understanding. I let go and let God as I trust in divine order, open to the blessings it brings.

This God—his way is perfect; the promise of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.—Psalm 18:30

Let Go, Let God - Thursday, October 17, 2013 | Daily Word

Let Go, Let God - Thursday, October 17, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM A CHANNEL THROUGH WHICH GOD’S POWER FLOWS.

If I am ever at an impasse, I let go and let God. What I fear I cannot do, God can do through me. What I cannot understand, God’s light will make clear.

I let go of anxiety; I let go of fear; I let go of doubt. I turn everything over to the spirit of God within me, and as I do, I am free.

In letting go and letting God, I am a channel through which God’s power flows. When I let go and let God, I am filled with new energy and strength. I am inspired with understanding. I feel confident and sure of the right steps to take.

Whenever I feel burdened with responsibility or weighed down by doing, I let go and let God. I am never alone. God is in me, with me, and for me.

Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.—1 Peter 5:7

A Guide to Fervent Prayer by A.W. Pink-Introduction

A Guide to Fervent Prayer by A.W. Pink-Introduction

World Peace - Wednesday, October 16, 2013 | Daily Word

World Peace - Wednesday, October 16, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM A RADIATING CENTER OF PEACE IN THE WORLD.

I will not experience a world at peace until I know peace in my own heart and mind. I embrace my part in creating a peaceful world by being mindful of how I respond to various circumstances. Do I feel self-­righteous or indignant at what I hear in the news? Do I become defensive when I perceive a personal attack? Am I holding on to bitterness or resentment?

If I uncover inner discord, I do not judge myself harshly; rather, I choose differently. I choose peacefulness. Through the harmonizing power of Divine Love—both in and all around me—I enfold my experiences in acceptance and compassion. I am serene as I radiate peace and harmony in the world.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body.—Colossians 3:15

Allow - Monday, October 14, 2013 | Daily Word

Allow - Monday, October 14, 2013 | Daily Word

I ALLOW ONLY DIVINE IDEAS TO GOVERN MY THINKING.

I am the gatekeeper of my thoughts. Although many thoughts come and go in the course of a day, I am mindful of which ones rule my consciousness. Aware that divine ideas manifest good in my life, I allow these ideas to govern my thinking.

If fear or doubt arises, I pause to acknowledge the thoughts surrounding these feelings. I ask myself, Are they true and worthy of my attention? Only powerful, true, life-­affirming thoughts deserve my attention. I release those that do not produce the good I seek. I center myself in my heart space and allow divine ideas of peace, love, harmony, and abundance to take hold.

Whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.—Philippians 4:8

Life - Sunday, October 13, 2013 | Daily Word

Life - Sunday, October 13, 2013 | Daily Word

Life

I AM LIFE. I AM A PRECIOUS GIFT, AND I AM WORTHY.

Life is a precious gift to cherish, to live, and to explore. Along with the gift of living, we are given tools to grow and succeed.

Among these gifts, we are given strength to keep going when times get tough. We find a storehouse of energy within us. Our hearts are infused with courage and steadfastness to keep our commitment strong.

We are given wisdom and understanding to make right choices. God’s light illuminates our path, leading us around, over, and through any stumbling blocks to fulfillment.

And we are given love. We have love to share as we cultivate the many blessings of life. We are life. We are precious. We are ourselves gifts to the world!

Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift.—Revelation 22:17

Life - Sunday, October 13, 2013 | Daily Word

Life - Sunday, October 13, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM LIFE. I AM A PRECIOUS GIFT, AND I AM WORTHY.

Life is a precious gift to cherish, to live, and to explore. Along with the gift of living, we are given tools to grow and succeed.

Among these gifts, we are given strength to keep going when times get tough. We find a storehouse of energy within us. Our hearts are infused with courage and steadfastness to keep our commitment strong.

We are given wisdom and understanding to make right choices. God’s light illuminates our path, leading us around, over, and through any stumbling blocks to fulfillment.

And we are given love. We have love to share as we cultivate the many blessings of life. We are life. We are precious. We are ourselves gifts to the world!

Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift.—Revelation 22:17

Step by Step - Saturday, October 12, 2013 | Daily Word

Step by Step - Saturday, October 12, 2013 | Daily Word

Step by Step

I TRUST SPIRIT TO GUIDE ME ONE STEP AT A TIME.

Hiking can be a great adventure. Above the multicolored canopy of trees, sunshine warms the morning air. With each step, my feet and the earth meet. I may only pass this way once, so I cherish every moment. In some spots the path is smooth and level; in others, rocky and steep. On returning home, I rejoice in all I have seen and experienced.

My spiritual journey is also an adventure. Sometimes all falls into place easily. At other times, challenges and obstacles arise. I welcome each experience, and I cherish my awareness of Spirit’s abiding presence. Through prayer, I tap into the wisdom of Spirit. Divine light illumines my way. Step by step, I trust in Spirit to guide me home.

I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go.—Psalm 32:8