Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Choose to Trust

Choose to Trust
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 63,64; Ps. 107; Jn. 2
July 31, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust..." (Psalm 40:4)

TODAY'S WORD
 

Is your trust in the Lord today? Trusting in the Lord is a decision we make just like we choose anything else in life. You chose what to wear today, you probably chose what you would have for breakfast, and you can choose to trust God today, too! Just like the decision to receive salvation, when you choose to trust God, there is a peace that settles on the inside of your heart. There are blessings in store for you when you trust Him.

No matter what you are facing in life today, you can have faith that God will come through for you. You can trust that His Word is always true. In Psalm 32, David calls God his "hiding place." In other words, not only can you choose to trust God in the midst of your difficulty; you can actually hide in Him and find rest for your soul. When the circumstances of life seem to be overwhelming, choose to trust that God is ordering your steps. Find security in Him knowing that He's making your crooked places straight and leading you into the everlasting life He has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, today I choose to put my trust in You. I know You are a good and faithful God, and I trust that You have my best interest at heart. Help me stay focused on Your goodness today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - For Your Sake

For Your Sake
Today's Devotional Reading: Is.57-59; Ps. 103; 2 Pet. 3
July 29, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"The Lord isn't really being slow about His promise, as some people think. No, He is being patient for your sake" (2 Peter 3:9, NLT)

TODAY'S WORD

Have you discovered that God's timing is not always our timing? I know I have. It's easy to question and wonder why you've been waiting for your breakthrough for 15 years and your neighbor got their breakthrough in 15 minutes! In the Bible, Abraham waited 20 years for his promise, and in the upper room they waited about ten days. I don't know how long you'll have to wait, but you've got to understand that God has your best interest at heart. He is being patient for your sake. He's aligning things and waiting for the exact right moment! If you'll just continue waiting with the right attitude, then at the right time, God will bring it to pass.

Remember, God is always working behind the scenes for your good. Just because you don't see any changes taking place doesn't mean they aren't happening. Keep standing, keep believing, keep hoping because your breakthrough is coming for your sake!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Heavenly Father, thank You for divine time. I may not always understand what you are doing, but grant me patience in the process. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

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Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - The Way

The Way
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 53-56; 2 Pet. 2
July 28, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"'...how can we know the way?' Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me'" (John 14:5-6).

TODAY'S WORD

Do you need direction in your life today? Not only is Jesus the way to life in eternity, but Jesus is the way to everything you need in this life here on earth. Do you need to know the way out of debt? Look to the Father through Jesus. Do you need to know the way to having better relationships...the way to overcome an addiction...to live in peace and joy? When you know Jesus, you know the Way. No matter what you are facing today, no matter what challenges or obstacles are in your life, He will make a way for you even when you don't see how. God loves you so much that He wants to strengthen and empower you to live in total victory. That's why He sent His Son, Jesus, to this earth-to show you the way to live an abundant life! Open your heart today and receive all that God has given you through Jesus. As you do, you'll see His hand lead you in the way of victory in every area of your life!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to show me the way. I invite You into every area of my life. Keep me close to You always. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Take Refuge in Him

Take Refuge in Him
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 50-52; Ps. 92; 2 Pet. 1
July 27, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him" (Psalm 34:8).

TODAY'S WORD
 

Where do you take refuge when the storms of life come? Where do you go for comfort and safety? Some people find it easy to turn to their friends, their job, or even a bowl of ice-cream! OK, I'm not big into the ice-cream, but.... There's nothing wrong with any of those things, but God the Father wants us to turn to Him first. He wants us to take refuge in Him. He longs to protect us and defend us and give us His strength. We serve a good God, and when we take refuge in Him, He will pour out His abundant blessing in our lives. Taste and see that the Lord is good today. Taste and see that His promises are good. When you turn to God, the Bible promises that you will find rest and refuge for your soul. No matter what you may be facing today, come to the Father. He will give you His peace and strength, and you'll live the blessed life He has prepared for you!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I open my heart to You and choose to take refuge in You. Thank You for Your peace and rest and for showing me Your hand of blessing in every area of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - A well-balanced Christian

A well-balanced Christian
Today's Devotional Reading: Is 46-49; 1 Pet. 5
July 26, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Be well-balanced, for your enemy goes about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour." (I Peter 5:8 AMP)

TODAY'S WORD

Excess is the enemy's playground. He knows that if he can get you over into extremes in any area, then he can keep you from experiencing God's best. When you get out of balance, you give the enemy a foothold. But when you have your priorities in order, there's security, protection, and safety. When you are taking care of yourself, your family, and your relationship with God, you are going to be strong and healthy. The enemy won't have a chance!

We encourage you to examine your heart and life today. Ask the Lord to show you if there are areas where you may be out of balance. Ask Him to help you make the right adjustments so that you are able to be effective in every area of your life. As you work towards balance, you will walk in the abundant life that God has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

God, I will not let the busyness of life dictate my priorities. I will consciously choose how I spend my time and my money so that my priorities align with Your purpose. You are my priority! In Jesus' Name - Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Show "Brotherly" Love

 Show "Brotherly" Love
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 40-42; I Pet. 3
July 24, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing." (I Peter 3: 7-9)

TODAY'S WORD

The Bible encourages us to treat our  spouse in a sympathetic or "brotherly" manner. This scripture is referring to the Greek word "phileo" - the love you feel for a friend. Some people are more considerate and understanding of their friend's faults than they are of their husband or wife's. They are quick to make excuses for their friend's behavior. They say, "Aw, he didn't mean it that way," or "That's just the way she is." But those same people can be quick to point out their mate's mistakes. Instead of being amused, the way you would if it were your friend, you let your spouse's differences and shortcomings irritate you.

Overlook the little things that have sometimes irritated you and begin to look for opportunities to encourage and brag on your spouse. Learn to laugh together at the things you used to argue about. Enjoy your spouse and make the most of your time together - See the best in them!

As you honor and encourage one another, your blessings will begin to multiply in ways you haven't even imagined and every tomorrow will be even brighter than today.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

God, after You, my spouse will be my first priority. Today I will overlook faults or habits that would have irritated me yesterday. Help me to see my spouse the way that You do-as the perfect person for me in every way. In Jesus' name, Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Embrace Change

Embrace Change
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 36,37; Ps. 76; 1 Pet. 1
July 22, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

He changes times and seasons." (Daniel 2:21)

TODAY'S WORD

God is always looking to take us to higher levels. He wants us to grow and increase in every area of life. I have been thinking lately that change is often a catalyst for growth in our lives. It keeps us from getting stuck in a rut. God will supernaturally open and close doors to keep us on the path toward our destiny. He will "stir us" out of comfortable situations and stretch us because He loves us too much to allow us to live in mediocrity. Just like a mother eagle will stir her young, God will stir His children. Do you know how an eaglet learns to fly? That eagle will take her eaglet to the very highest point-way out of its comfort zone-and then she releases it. As the eaglet falls, the mother swoops down and picks it back up again. She does this over and over until the eaglet spreads its wings and soars through the air. That's what God wants for you today. He wants you to soar in life! You might feel like that eaglet learning to fly (like you have just been dropped), but know that God is right there with you! He'll never leave you. Embrace God's change today, knowing that He is using it to take you up higher so that you can live in victory all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Dear God, today I open my heart and mind to receive all that You have for me. I trust that You are with me directing my every step. I embrace Your seasons of change and thank You for helping me grow and increase in every area. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Established in Love

Established in Love
Today's Devotional Reading: 2 Ki. 18,19; 2 Chr. 32; Jas. 5
July 21, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"May you be rooted and grounded in love..." (Ephesians 3:17)

TODAY'S WORD
 

Did you know there is tremendous power in love? In the same way that a tree will grow taller and stronger when its roots grow deep, you'll be stronger and have more of God's power operating in your life when you are rooted and established in love. Faith works by love, and I Corinthians 13 gives us a picture of what that looks like...among other things, love is patient and kind. It does not seek its own way. It is not jealous or boastful or proud. When you choose love instead of choosing your own way, you are showing that God is first place in your life. You are establishing yourself in love. The more you choose to walk in love, the deeper and stronger your roots will grow. And when you are established in love, you'll have more of God's favor and blessing upon your life! Choose love today, and let it be firm within you. Let that love build security in you and empower you. As you do, you'll see God working through you, and you'll live as an overcomer in every area!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, I come to You today and invite You to search my heart and mind. Show me how to love others better so that I can be established in Your love. Thank You for loving me so that I can show Your love to others. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Blessed Wherever You Go

Blessed Wherever You Go
Today's Devotional Reading: 2 Chr. 29-31; Jas. 4
July 20, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today...you will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country." (Deuteronomy 28:1-3)

TODAY'S WORD

God wants to pour out His blessings on you today. Living in obedience and integrity is the key that unlocks the door to His abundance. When you put God and His Word first place in your life, the Bible says you'll be blessed in the city and in the country-that means you will be blessed wherever you go!

Yesterday we moved offices from our current ministry center. This morning I head back to set up a new office and continue to move. I don't like to move, but I know that I'll be blessed no matter where I go.

This chapter goes on to say that you will be so blessed that you will even lend and not borrow. Can you see yourself in that position? Can you see yourself living in that kind of abundance? It's not God's plan for you to live with a "barely-get-by" attitude-our God is more than enough! Get a vision for that in your heart today. Make room in your thoughts for the blessing of God. See yourself as a vessel of God's blessing in the lives of others. As you live a life of obedience, you will prosper in all of your ways. You'll rise higher and live the abundant life God has for you!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for Your hand of blessing on my life. I choose today to put You first in everything I do. Help me to walk in integrity and honor You always. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Are You in the Business of Blessing?

Are You in the Business of Blessing?
Today's Devotional Reading: 2 Ki. 17; 2 Chr. 28; Os. 46; Jas. 3
July 19, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Out of the same mouth we bless people and we curse people and that should not be so." (James 3:10)

TODAY'S WORD

The Bible encourages us to use our words to bless people. "To bless" means to speak well of, to pronounce favor, and to declare good things. And everyone has someone who needs to receive your blessing, especially your spouse and children.

Are you giving your children the blessings of love, affection, and encouragement? Are you speaking words that build them up and bless their future? You may not have received this approval from your own parents. Perhaps there wasn't a lot of love in your home. Perhaps your mom or dad always talked down to you. Let us challenge you to be the one to break the stronghold over your family. Decide today that you are going to stop talking down to one another. Choose instead to encourage each other. Stop focusing on what others are doing wrong and start thanking them for what they are doing right. Begin right now to bless each other's future.

Your decision to be a positive influence will have a greater impact on your family than you could ever imagine. It will affect generations to come. Speak these blessings over your family, your children, those whom you love and care for. If you will bless others, God will certainly bless your own life beyond what you ever hoped or dreamed.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"God, I want to use my words to bless, encourage, and lift others up. Help me to start today, in my own home, to purposefully use what I say to bless my friends and family. Give me uplifting words to say and the discipline to keep negative criticisms to myself. In Jesus' name - Amen."

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Persevere Until You See the Promise

Persevere Until You See the Promise
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 32-35; Jas. 2
July 18, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised" (Hebrews 10:36).

TODAY'S WORD

What are you believing God for today? Promotion? Healing? Stronger relationships? Deliverance? A New Home? God has promised all these things to you in His Word because it's His heart for you to live in blessing and wholeness all the days of your life. When you do the will of God by obeying His Word and precepts, it opens the door for His promises to be fulfilled in your life. You may be doing all the right things today-don't give up! Perseverance will carry you to the promise. Perseverance means that you are focused and believing in what God says about your situation. It's looking away from distractions and any negative, defeating thoughts. I know this is hard, I've been there and living there even now, but perseverance looks away from discouragement and looks to the Word of God. Perseverance has a voice, and it says things like, "No weapon formed against me shall prosper...if God is for me, who can be against me! I am more than a conqueror through Jesus!" Whatever you are believing for today, keep believing! Stand strong and fight the good fight of faith. Ask God to give you endurance, perseverance, and patience so that you can see His promises fulfilled in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for Your good promises to me. I ask that You give me a heart that is steadfast and fixed on You today. Fill me with Your peace and perseverance so I can live in victory all the days of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen!

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - What's In Your Hand?

What's In Your Hand?
Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 15-18; Heb. 10
July 13, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Then the LORD said to him, "What is that in your hand?" (Exodus 4:2).

TODAY'S WORD

Do you ever feel inadequate for what you are called to do? You're not the first one! So often, when we think of Moses, we remember him as the great spiritual giant who led the Israelites out of captivity. But did you know that Moses doubted himself, too? He didn't feel equipped. In fact, he was even self-conscious because he had a stuttering problem! God simply said to him, "What do you have in your hand?" In the next few moments, God showed Moses that it didn't matter what equipment he thought he needed. The God of the universe can take what you have and turn it into whatever it needs to be in order for you to accomplish what you've been called to. So what's in your hand today? It may not seem like much, but God wants to use it. He wants to take you to places you never dreamed. He wants to pour out His blessing and favor so you can live the abundant life He has in store for you!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I release to You all that I am and all that I have. I invite You to flood every part of my being and use me for Your glory. Thank You for using what is in my hand. In Jesus Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - New Garments

New Garments
Today's Devotional Reading: Isaiah 8,9,10; Hebrews 8
July 11, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Provide for those who grieve...a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor" (Isaiah 61:3 NIV).

TODAY'S WORD

Do you need a new garment today? I'm not talking about a physical garment. I'm talking about what's covering your mind and emotions. Are you clothed with despair and disappointment? Are you wearing "heaviness"? If you've gone through a hurtful situation, the Bible says there is a time to grieve, and it's important to release that hurt to the Lord. But the Bible also tells us that God wants to give you a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. You can put on a garment of praise instead of a heavy, burdened spirit. What's holding you back today? Are the garments of yesterday weighing you down and holding you back? The garment of praise is light and filled with peace and joy. Don't carry those heavy burdens around anymore! Today is the day for new garments! Forgive those who have hurt you and begin to praise Him! Thank God for life today. Thank Him for the beautiful sunrise. Thank him for restoring you, even if you don't see it yet. And this verse says, you will be called an oak of righteousness, strong and secure, and you will display the splendor of the Lord all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, I come to You today and ask that You take off my old, heavy garments of despair and heaviness. Make me new today. Give me a garment of praise so that I can be a display of Your glory and splendor. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Blessings on the Other Side

Blessings on the Other Side
Today's Devotional Reading: Mich 5-7; Heb. 7
July 10, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings" (Psalm 84:6).

TODAY'S WORD

Do you feel like you are walking through a tough place in your life today? When you walk through the "valley of weeping", God is walking with you. He wants to strengthen and empower you to keep moving forward. He is leading you to a place of blessing and refreshing! Be encouraged today, it's not over until God says it's over, and He always causes us to triumph! The Bible says that weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning! It also says that the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn shining brighter until the full day. No matter how dark your circumstance may seem, you are on a path that is shining brighter and brighter. Know today that there is a place of victory on the other side of your challenge. Keep believing and keep expecting. As you continue to meditate on the goodness of God and declare His favor in your life, you will be strengthened and refreshed in your inner man. You will rise higher and higher, and you will live the life of victory the Lord has in store for you!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for leading me to my place of blessing. I trust that You are faithful and believe that You have a good plan for my life. Help me to always hear Your voice so I can follow You all the days of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Blessings on the Other Side

Blessings on the Other Side

Today's Devotional Reading: Mich 5-7; Heb. 7
July 10, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place
of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings"
(Psalm 84:6).

TODAY'S WORD

Do you feel like you are walking through a tough place in your life
today? When you walk through the "valley of weeping", God is walking
with you. He wants to strengthen and empower you to keep moving
forward. He is leading you to a place of blessing and refreshing! Be
encouraged today, it's not over until God says it's over, and He
always causes us to triumph! The Bible says that weeping may endure
for the night, but joy comes in the morning! It also says that the
path of the righteous is like the light of dawn shining brighter until
the full day. No matter how dark your circumstance may seem, you are
on a path that is shining brighter and brighter. Know today that there
is a place of victory on the other side of your challenge. Keep
believing and keep expecting. As you continue to meditate on the
goodness of God and declare His favor in your life, you will be
strengthened and refreshed in your inner man. You will rise higher and
higher, and you will live the life of victory the Lord has in store
for you!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for leading me to my place of blessing. I
trust that You are faithful and believe that You have a good plan for
my life. Help me to always hear Your voice so I can follow You all the
days of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Extend Forgiveness

Extend Forgiveness

Today's Devotional Reading: Mich 1-4; Heb. 6
July 9, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34).

TODAY'S WORD 

When you've been hurt or offended, sometimes it's tempting to hold on to unforgiveness. But we have to remember, when people wrong us, our battle is not against flesh and blood. In other words, that person who hurt you is not the real enemy. The Bible says that your adversary is the devil, and he knows that if you don't forgive, then your prayers won't be effective. Unforgiveness puts up a barrier in your life to the power of God. In fact, if we don't forgive others, we can't be forgiven by God. But when you choose forgiveness, you open the door for God's healing power to flow through your life. Disarm the enemy in your life today by choosing forgiveness. Bless those who curse you and pray for those who wrong you. Look at what Jesus did-when He was betrayed, beaten, mocked, and disrespected, He chose forgiveness. As you follow His example, you will open the door for God to move in your life, and you'll live in victory in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for forgiving me and giving me new life. I choose today to extend the gift of forgiveness to others. I bless those who have wronged me and ask You to heal every broken place in my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Keep Walking Through

Keep Walking Through

Today's Devotional Reading: Hos. 13, 14; Ps. 100, 102; Heb. 5
July 8, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me..." (Psalm 23:4).

TODAY'S WORD

Everyone faces challenges and difficulties in life. If you are going through a valley today, know that you are not alone. God is with you! He is working behind the scenes on your behalf, and He will carry you through. Remember, your challenges didn't come to stay, they came to pass. Don't get stuck in the valley by allowing your setbacks to become the focus of your life. Jesus endured the pain of the cross for the joy that was set before Him, and when you focus on your victory, you will be able to keep walking through that valley! Shake off bitterness and self-pity today and be determined to press forward. With God on your side, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. As you keep an attitude of faith and expectancy, your challenges will become easier, and you will move forward and live the life of victory the Lord has in store for you.

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for giving me strength during the difficult times. I trust that You are with me today and choose to focus on the victory You have in store. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - By His Spirit

By His Spirit

Today's Devotional Reading: Hos. 10-12; Ps. 73; Heb. 4
July 7, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty" (Zechariah 4:6).

TODAY'S WORD

Inthis day and age, we are equipped with so many wonderful resources in the natural: technology, education, abilities. It's easy to rely on our own natural strength for so many things. We have to remember that this natural world is only temporary, but the spiritual realm is eternal.

Today our hotel/ministry center sale will close and so will a chapter in my life. This has been a place that God had us in for the last six years. While my heart is sad, I know it is not my strength that leads, but rather God is the one who will order my steps.

We aren't limited to the earth's resources; we have unlimited spiritual resources by the Spirit of God. There are things in life that can't happen by human thinking and reasoning. There are things that won't be solved by natural power and might. But God is not limited by the resources of this world. When you open the door of faith in your heart, God will move through you in powerful ways by His Spirit. By His Spirit, you can overcome temptation. By His Spirit, you can receive healing. By His Spirit, you can fulfill every dream and desire in your heart. No matter what challenges or obstacles you may be facing today, know that you can live in complete victory by His Spirit!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for giving me access to all Your spiritual blessings by Your Spirit today. I choose to rely on You and trust that You are working in my life. I praise and bless You, knowing that You are leading me in victory in every area of my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Mustard Seed Faith

Mustard Seed Faith

Today's Devotional Reading: Hos. 6-9; Heb. 3
July 6, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea' and it will obey you" (Luke 17:6).

TODAY'S WORD

A mustard seed is a very small thing. But when it's planted, it grows into a huge tree. In the same way, Jesus is saying that a little bit of faith can bring tremendous results! As a believer in Him, you already have enough faith on the inside of you to overcome any obstacle. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead actually dwells in you! It doesn't matter if you grew up in church or not; it doesn't matter what you know or don't know; God wants to work in your life today. And you may not see how, but all you have to do is believe God. With God, all things are possible. Do you have mustard seed faith today? The Bible says that faith without works is dead. When you have faith, your words and actions reflect it. Take a step of faith today and declare your trust in Him. Even if you don't see how, declare that God is working behind the scenes in your life. As you act on your mustard seed faith, you'll see it grow stronger and stronger, and you will live in victory all the days of your life!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father God, today I confess my trust and reliance on You. Thank You for depositing seeds of faith in my heart so that I can live in total victory. I believe that with You all things are possible! In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Hope Comes From Him

Hope Comes From Him

Today's Devotional Reading: Hos. 2-5; Heb. 2
July 5, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Find rest, o my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him" (Psalm 62:5).

TODAY'S WORD

God is constantly planting seeds of hope and victory in your life. He's constantly trying to deposit His faith on the inside of you. Often times, when we're anxious and worried, it's difficult to hear His voice of hope and confidence. But when we stop and quiet ourselves, when we find rest in Him, we will recognize His voice of hope. You'll hear Him saying to your heart, "Your best days are still in front of you, you are more than a conqueror, you're the head and not the tail." As you receive His hope, it creates a foundation for faith to rise inside your heart. The Bible says that faith gives substance to things hoped for. In other words, your hope gives your faith something to work toward. If the cares of this world have left you frustrated and empty today, make the decision right now to open your heart and allow the Lord to deposit His hope on the inside of you. It doesn't matter what you are facing today or what's happened in your past, God wants to give you hope today. He wants to pour out His blessing in every area of your life so that you will live the abundant life He has for you!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, I ask for Your hope today. Thank You for lifting me up into heavenly places with You. Show me how to be a vessel of hope to those who are around me today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Declare Your Freedom

Declare Your Freedom

Today's Devotional Reading: 2 Ki. 15,16; Hos. 1; Heb 1
July 4, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"You have been set free from sin..." (Romans 6:18).

TODAY'S WORD

Today we celebrate Independence Day in America. July 4, 1776 was the day America declared independence from Britain, but the battle for freedom went on until 1783-seven years later. Even though they declared their freedom in 1776, they had to stand and fight for many years before the British would accept and recognize the United States of America.

In the same way, we have to be determined to stand against the opposing forces in our lives. We have to declare our freedom from addiction, poverty, sickness and lack. We have to stand and fight until we fully experience that freedom and peace that God has promised. I love what the early colonists did once they signed the Declaration of Independence. They read it out loud in public. They published it in the newspaper. They spread the word. They continued to declare and celebrate even though they were in the midst of the battle. Whatever battle you may be facing today, declare that you are free. Declare that you are an overcomer. Celebrate the victory that is on its way! As you stand strong and declare your freedom, you will experience His victory and you will live in true freedom all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for setting me free in every area of my life. I declare today that nothing can hold me back. I declare that I am free from sickness, poverty, lack and addiction. I declare that You have set me free and thank You for freedom in every area of my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - The God Kind of Faith

The God Kind of Faith

Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 6,7; 2 Chr. 26,27; Philem.
July 3, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"...the life which I now life in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God..." (Galatians 2:20).

TODAY'S WORD

Faith is all around us. People have faith in so many different things: faith that a friend will be true, faith that your job is taking you on a certain career path, faith that the chair you are sitting on is going to hold you up! Faith is simply believing in something. But there are different kinds, or levels, of faith. There's a difference between having faith in God and having the faith of God. When you open your heart to the God kind of faith, you're actually allowing Him to believe through you. The God kind of faith will cause you to believe for things when you don't even know how they'll happen. And it probably won't make sense in your mind, but you have to allow your spirit to rise higher than your thinking. Don't talk yourself out of believing. Don't focus on all the reasons why not, instead allow God's faith to rise up within you. Meditate on His Word that says, you can do all things through Christ and you are strong in the Lord and the power of His might. As you allow God's faith to flow through you, He'll take you places you've never dreamed. You will rise higher and higher and live the abundant life the Lord has for you!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I humbly open my heart to You. Use me for Your glory and have Your way in my life. I choose to believe in You and invite You to believe through me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Your Sun and Shield

Your Sun and Shield

Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 4,5; Ps. 115,116; Jude
July 2, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless" (Psalm 84:11).

TODAY'S WORD

God has a heart to pour out His favor and goodness in your life. He longs to be your sun and shield. What does the sun do for us? It lights our way, it keeps us warm, it nourishes the plants of the earth so that we can have food. The earth is sustained by its relationship to the sun, and God wants to sustain you through your relationship with Him. He wants to be your shield of protection against all the fiery darts of the enemy. He wants to light and direct your path. Are you ready to receive Him as your sun and shield today? Have you been relying on something or someone else to be your protection or give you direction? If you have, decide today to put down whatever you've been putting your trust in and choose to lean on your heavenly Father. Open your heart and receive all He has for you. Receive His favor, blessing and protection today. As you do, you'll see your path shine brighter and brighter, and you'll move forward in the life of victory the Lord has prepared for you!

 

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Father in heaven, today I open my heart and mind to You. I receive Your blessing and favor and ask that You direct my every step. Show me Your ways that I may walk with You today and always. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita

Daily Devotional from Pastor Eric & Rita - Forget Not His Benefits

Forget Not His Benefits

Today's Devotional Reading: Is. 1-3; Titus 3
July 1, 2010

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits..." (Psalm 103:2).

TODAY'S WORD

God has given us many benefits today! He's given us so much to be thankful for. When you meditate on His goodness, faithfulness and blessings in your life, it will change you on the inside.

When you focus on the fact that He saved you and set you free, the challenges and obstacles in your life will begin to fade away. Psalm 103 goes on to say that, "He crowns you with love and compassion and satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed." No matter what you may be facing today, forget not His benefits! God wants to satisfy you with good things. If you need healing today, healing is a benefit. If you've made mistakes in your life, forgiveness is a benefit. If you feel tired and overwhelmed, strength is a benefit. As you turn your thoughts toward the Father today, He will strengthen and empower you to live as an over comer in every area of your life.

A PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY

Heavenly Father, I humbly come to You today. Thank You for Your blessings and benefits in my life. I choose to focus on Your goodness and believe You have so much more in store for me. I honor You today in all I do. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

We sure love you!

Eric & Rita