Healing the Soul – Part One, ”Who Are You?”

Monday, October 30, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




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Proverbs 4:23 (NIV), Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

God’s Design For You
Genesis 1:26, Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.

Unite Your Heart – Become Undivided
Psalm 86:10, For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. 11] Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. 12] I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore.

Reflection Questions
1. Why is your heart worth guarding above all else?
2. How are you Imago Dei?
3. What is Sanctification? How is it working in you?
4. Why is it essential to unite your heart?


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Who Helps You? – DAY #20: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Friday, October 27, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Who Helps You?



Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

This is great wisdom from Solomon, a man who experienced the heights of wisdom and the depths of foolishness. This was advice offered during his wisdom stage of life.

"Two are better than one"
We obviously have to take responsibility for ourselves and do the things that we're supposed to do. But working with others is always better than working alone, especially for difficult tasks. I remember a time when even the great Michael Jordan would score 50 points in a basketball game and the team would still lose. No matter how good one is, a team will defeat him. In life, the opposing team we face is a combination of circumstances, unhelpful people, the devil, and most of all, our own bad habits.

"Woe to him who is alone when he falls"
The thing about burning bridges (relationships) is that when you need a bridge (people) over troubled water, you won't have one to cross. We don't build relationships just so that we can pull on people when we have a need. The idea is simply to serve others. God will see to it that help will come when you need it. You must then have the courage to ask for help.

"One may be overpowered by another"
We are out-matched at times. We are sometimes dealing with circumstances beyond our understanding and control. The healthy thing to do is to have enough self-awareness to realize that you are outmatched and need to reach out for help.

"A threefold cord is not quickly broken"
A rope is strong because it is not one strand, but many strands woven together. Never underestimate the power of getting help from people who know what they're doing. Sometimes that's the hard part, finding someone who really knows how to help. A mentor of mine used to say, "If you don't know, don't help me."
However, don't procrastinate and make the mistake of thinking there's no one "good enough" to help you. One of the reasons we serve God is to gain wisdom and be led by His Spirit.

In conclusion: From the words of my late mother, "Now, what are YOU going to do?"

REFLECTION QUESTION: Who are the people who can, or should, help you? Write those names down or get recommendations.

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Physical Exercise: Is it worth your time

Who Are You? – DAY #19: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional | Firm Foundation Inspiration Minute #90

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Who Are You?




Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.

The most healthy thing you can do for your spirit, soul, and body is to know who you are. This is called "Imago Dei," which is Latin for "Image of God."

You were made in God's image and likeness. This means you don't look like the product of evolution, you don't look like your mistakes. You look like a divine, intentional, and purpose filled creation of Almighty God. The only created things or beings made in His image are people.

Being made in God's IMAGE speaks to His essence as persons who have the ability to commune with God and be aware of His presence. LIKENESS speaks how we "look like" God through our ability to do the things He wants us to do.

The next time you feel bad about yourself, or someone attempts to disrespect you or make you feel bad, remind yourself that you are a child of the Creator, made in His image, likeness, and full of power to take necessary action.

We are often aware that we are living below the fullness of that image and likeness. We see tragic examples of people in this world bringing misery to others. This is where Jesus makes the difference. Through His life and sacrifice, He granted to humans through the "New Birth" new capabilities that were lost though sin and defeat.

Embrace your true image and likeness!

REFLECTION QUESTION: Who are you?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Physical Exercise: Is it worth your time

The Amazing Benefits Package God has for His Children – DAY #17: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Tuesday, October 24, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  The Amazing Benefits Package 
God has for His Children 


Lesson by Stacy Williams

Psalm 103:2-4, “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion…”

Most companies usually have benefits packages that are provided to its employees. These benefits packages include benefits and privileges beyond an employee’s regular wage. Once you become an employed member of a company’s organization, you are entitled to the benefits that company offers.

Being a child of God comes with many benefits far greater than any company could offer. The sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross allows us to become children of God. If we are children of God, then we are entitled to all of the benefits offered to us in Christ. Psalm 103:2-4 lists some of the many benefits believers receive as children of God.

1) Forgiveness of sins – Christ’s death and resurrection paid our sin debt. As children of God, we have forgiveness for all of our sins.

Ephesians 1:7-8, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us.”

2) Healing from disease – When Jesus died for forgiveness of our sins, he also provided for our healing.

1 Peter 2:24, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”

3) Redemption from the “pit” – Christ’s atoning death has bought us back (redeemed us) from death, destruction, and an eternity separated from Him.

Colossians 1:13-14, “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

4) Covering of love and compassion – Christ love and compassion covers and encircles us as a crown encircles one’s head.

1 John 3:1, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”

REFLECTION QUESTION: What other “benefits” can you praise God for today?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Physical Exercise: Is it worth your time

Honoring God With Our Physical Bodies – DAY #16: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Monday, October 23, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Honoring God With Our Physical Bodies 



Lesson by Jonathan Hudson

Corinthians 6:19-20, Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

The focus Scripture states, “Our body is a temple” and we should “honor God with our body." The question is: How do we honor God with a physical body that has limitations, ailments, and at some point will no longer function?

Try to think of honoring your physical body like buying a brand new vehicle. A vehicle is a depreciating asset - it will, over time, lose its value and eventually cease to operate. But, we still make the effort (or we should) to get oil changes, rotate tires, get car washes, respond to recalls, and get repairs to maintain the vehicle. In that way we honor our purchase, and showcase good stewardship.

We were bought at a price, more valuable than a vehicle because of Christ. We should be good stewards of our bodies, because unlike a vehicle, we cannot buy another physical life. This means exercising, eating well, resting well, going to the doctor, and treating your physical body like it has been paid for, as our Scripture alludes. It is a daily mindset of personal growth. Because when the body prospers, the spirit and the soul can too.

Luke 22:39 says, “Jesus left the upper room with his disciples and, as was his habit, went to the Mount of Olives, his place of secret prayer.”

Doing something as simple as taking a walk, God can provide insight and revelation for your life. Jesus knew that in His place of prayer (which we can assume was a remote mountainous destination with a challenging uphill hike) He could be alone and hear from God.

I am truly grateful for my body that Jesus has paid for. The body that allows me to ride a bike, run, swing a tennis racket, a golf club, hike, and just enjoy God’s creation in nature and receive insight and revelation.

Our physical bodies are a gift, and should be honored as such.

REFLECTION QUESTION: What can I do daily to honor God with my body? 

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Physical Exercise: Is it worth your time

Expect What You Pray For – DAY #15: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Sunday, October 22, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Expect What You Pray For



Acts 12:12 When this had dawned on him, he went to lthe house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!" 15"You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." 16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.

The prayer meeting at Mary's house was well attended. The people prayed fervently. They cried out to God and asked Him to deliver Peter from jail. There was only one small problem: When the Lord delivered Peter from jail and brought him to the house where the people were praying, they did not believe that God had actually answered their prayers.

Someone even told Rhoda, "Girl, are you crazy! How can Peter be at the door if we are still praying for him?" Another "prayer warrior" told her that she only saw Peter's angel at the door.

The lesson is simple: When you pray, start expecting to see God's answer!

Whatever the circumstance, whether something only a miraculous intervention can change, or something in the physical world such as material provision or health, BELIEVE when you pray. God has unlimited resources in heaven and earth, so we don't need to always concern ourselves with exactly how God will do it.

Remember that God is doing much more than we realize or recognize. Your part is to believe, obey God's directions, and walk in wisdom. God's part is to open the door, like He did for Peter.

REFLECTION QUESTION: What things have you prayed about that you need to expect? Be specific.

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Physical Exercise: Is it worth your time

Physical Exercise: Is it Worth Your Time? – DAY #14: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Saturday, October 21, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Physical Exercise: Is it Worth Your Time?


Lesson by Elder Gaylan Owens

1 Timothy 4:7-8 NKJV, But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.

I think firstly we have to put in context the relationship of Paul the writer and Timothy the recipient of the letter. Paul is an older, more mature man whose days of youth were behind him. He has the benefit of having lived through that time thus enabling him to reflect and advise the young man that he's mentoring. Timothy is a young man, probably extremely healthy and in great physical shape. Since he is a meek young man, he's able to receive instruction and glean wisdom from his mentor, Paul.

Based upon the relationship of these two men and the Scriptures, I see two life directives: Priority and Balance.

It is of greater priority to sow to your spirit man and to your soul than to your body by exercising. Exercising ourselves towards godliness will increase our stature in the kingdom of God. Educating and training oneself sets an individual up for a lifetime career of earning a living. 

We know that as we age our body declines, muscle mass and bone density decrease as well as many other things that occur as part of the aging process. The balance act of physical exercise is a lifetime commitment. Although the Scripture says bodily exercise only profits a little, it does profit.

When we tailor our exercise and activities to our age we make our bodies stronger, improve our circulation and maybe even lose or maintain our weight. Anyone who has been an athlete will tell you it's best to stay in shape, as opposed to always trying to get in shape. We know that if the Lord delays His return, our physical bodies will eventually fail us or we will die, but until that happens we should choose to exercise our bodies in appreciation to our Heavenly Father for the vessel He blessed us with.

REFLECTION QUESTION: Faith without corresponding action has no value at all. What action(s) aligns with your prayer of faith (what you have asked God for)?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Physical Exercise: Is it worth your time

Nourishment for Your Soul – DAY #13: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Friday, October 20, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Nourishment for Your Soul  


Lesson by Patricia A. Hudson

Isaiah 55:1-3 (Easy to Read Version – ERV)
All you people who are thirsty, come! Here is water for you to drink.
Don’t worry if you have no money. Come, eat and drink until you are full!
You don’t need money. The milk and wine are free.
2 Why waste your money on something that is not real food? Why should you work for something that does not really satisfy you? Listen closely to me and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the food that satisfies your soul.
3 Listen closely to what I say. Listen to me so that you will live. I will make an agreement with you that will last forever.

Food costs money, lasts only a short time, and meets only physical needs. But God offers us free nourishment that feeds our soul. How do we get it? We are to come, listen, seek, and call on God. God’s love, grace and provisions are freely offered, but to nourish our souls we must receive by faith, the Word of God, that reveals these promises. We will starve spiritually without this spiritual food as surely as we will starve physically without natural food.

Matthew 4:4 (AMP), But Jesus replied, “It is written and forever remains written, Man shall not live and be upheld and sustained by bread alone, but by every word that comes forth from the mouth of God."

Isaiah 55:11 states how much God is committed to those who listen, seek and call on Him,
"So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty (void), but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it."

As Christ Followers, we find wisdom and understanding that guides us to choose straight paths (Proverbs 3:5-8), best practices and solid decisions in “every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.” Also, we understand there are additional resources that support Prosperity of Spirit, Soul, and Body. Some of these resources are clergy, people trained in specialized fields, and research/information.

Faith without corresponding action has no value at all. Believe God and the words He has spoken and act on them! If your spirit needs to prosper, make it a priority to develop daily time with God. If your soul needs to prosper, avail yourself to resources that strengthen your mind, will and emotions. If your body needs to prosper, seek resources from health professionals.

REFLECTION QUESTION: Faith without corresponding action has no value at all. What action(s) aligns with your prayer of faith (what you have asked God for)?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Broken to Healed – DAY #12: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Thursday, October 19, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Broken to Healed 


Lesson by Min. Shawn R. Carter

Psalms 147:3 NKJV, He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds.

What is a broken heart? It is a heart that is distressed, saddened, in despair due to a physical, psychological or emotional loss. A broken heart can occur for various reasons like sickness, disease, sadness, grief, divorce and death.

John 16:33 Jesus said, In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Everyone will experience a broken heart. We can take comfort in the fact that we are not alone. Even though we may feel alone or broken, the truth is God is with us.

Psalms 34:18 reads, The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Not only is God with us, but there are people that He uses to help, encourage, and heal us. He uses our friends, pastors, co-workers, physicians, psychologists and counselors. He gives us the strength we need to heal. 

During open heart surgery, the surgeon repairs or replaces whatever is causing the heart’s dysfunction. He finishes his work by bandaging or binding up the wounded area. God repairs our heart as we continue to draw close to Him. He replaces our mourning with joy. He binds our wounded heart with peace as we faithfully seek his face.

REFLECTION QUESTION: How is God healing your heart? How has God healed your heart?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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Mind Over Matter, Or A Good Attitude? – DAY #11: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Mind Over Matter, Or A Good Attitude? 



Philippians 2:5, Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus

Ephesians 4:22 NIV, You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off the old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds."

John Maxwell wrote: "Life is 10% of what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it."

Good health is not about "Mind over Matter," but a good attitude helps.

Cultivating a new attitude begins in the heart, but is made real in the soul. Your soul is your mind, will and emotions. Your soul represents what you think, what you do, and how you feel. Thinking, doing and feeling dominates our lives, so we had better seek to align our mind, will and emotions with the Lord and facts. Again, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all the these things will be added to you.

Most of us have a good idea about what is required to live a healthier life, but a poor attitude hinders taking action.

According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, the word "attitude" means "an internal position or feeling with regard to something else." Other words often used as synonyms are: "disposition, feeling, mood, opinion, sentiment, temper, tone, perspective, frame of mind, outlook, view, or morale."

Airplane pilots often use the term "attitude" to describe their horizontal relationship to the horizon. If the airplane attitude isn’t aligned properly, the plane will make contact with the ground at the wrong angle and cause a crash.

Your attitude is your inward disposition toward other things, such as people, circumstances, and healthy behavior. As with an airplane, attitude is applied whenever you must deal with things outside of yourself. If our attitude is bad in relation to facts about health and science, bad outcomes will follow. Faith and prayer won't change it.

According to God’s word, when you become a Christ follower, a part of your new creation is the development of new attitudes — your attitude should become like that of Jesus.

Is there any question that Jesus lived a healthy lifestyle. If He did, we can too!

REFLECTION QUESTION: What attitudes do you need to adjust or completely change?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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You Are a Masterpiece: Live Like It! – DAY #10: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Tuesday, October 17, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  You Are a Masterpiece: Live Like It! 



Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

Did you know that you are a masterpiece? One definition of “masterpiece” is: “The most outstanding work of a creative artist or craftsman.”

What is God's greatest creation? Is it the atom, the flowers, the oceans, planet Earth, the sun, or the galaxies? None of these amazing items were made in His image and likeness.

You are God's greatest creative work, because He chose to craft people in a manner that would allow us to identify with God and have relationship with Him. As a masterpiece creation of God, it follows that we should respect God's creation (ourselves) enough to make out health a top priority–in spirit, soul, and body.

The text states, “He has created us anew in Christ Jesus...” While every person is a masterpiece creation of God, those who have not received Jesus as Savior and Lord are locked out of their full potential because of an unregenerate spirit. They look like a masterpiece paint- ing hidden in a basement, discolored and barely recognizable.

Those who have received Jesus as Lord and Savior can fully realize the benefits of redemption and new life. You look like a masterpiece painting only hours after its completion with all its vibrant color and on full display. The best part is this: You are “unlocked” and now qualify to do all the “good things” that God destined for you before time began.

Live like God's masterpiece, do good work, take care of yourself, take care of others, and give God all the glory!

REFLECTION QUESTION: In what ways are you a masterpiece creation of God?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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You Are A Lighthouse – SHINE!

Monday, October 16, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Sharing this aerial video from a recent vacation. This is Pigeon Point lighthouse about 50 miles south of San Francisco on the Pacific Ocean coast. It was built in 1871 and is still the tallest lighthouse on the west coast.
 
This lighthouse has helped guide ships safely away from dangers and towards safe harbor. Last Sunday, my message reflected on the fact that, in Christ, we are (or should be) "the light of the world." For us, not shining is not an option! As beautiful a setting as this is on that rocky shore, the LIGHThouse not useful until it gets dark. We are living in dark times, and it is time to shine bright!
 
YOU ARE A LIGHTHOUSE:
• Beneficial when conditions are dark
• Provide warning of dangers
• Confirm direction
• Beacon of hope

Listen to or watch the teaching, "You Are Called to Shine As Lights In the World."

Called, Justified, Glorified: You Were Called to Shine As Lights

Sunday, October 15, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




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Romans 8:29, For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.

Philippians 2:15, That you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.

Not shining is not an option for us.

Romans 8:29, For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.

You are predestined to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ

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"SHINE! Your Greatest Benefit to Others" DAY #8: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Sunday, October 15, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  SHINE! Your Greatest Benefit to Others 



Philippians 2:15, That you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. 

Our prosperity of spirit, soul, and body is linked directly to status as "Children of God." Children carry the DNA of their parents. As Christ followers, we carry the spiritual DNA of the Lord.

Jesus is the difference we can bring to our world. His Life also empowers and protects our lives. He is the SOURCE of our healing and strength as helpful things in this world become our resource. Never confuse sources and resources. 

As we continue to grow and draw closer to the Lord, we glow like lights. This is not something we try to do. It is an outcome of living close to God and being "blameless and harmless."

Here is a profound statement of ultimate purpose, the greatest benefit we offer to people within our circles of influence and interaction:

"Among whom you shine as lights in the world." (Philippians 2:15)

SHINE!

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What are some of characteristics of your spiritual DNA?  In what ways do you shine

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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"Pay Attention" - DAY #7: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Saturday, October 14, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Pay Attention 



Isaiah 30:20-21 "...Yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, But your eyes shall see your teachers. 21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand Or whenever you turn to the left.

While we can learn a lot on our own, we learn best from those who have expertise and training. We also benefit from paying attention to persons gifted to preach and teach. Preaching inspires us, but teaching trains us. You can run fast after great preaching, but you will run long after good teaching. This is especially true for our prosperity – spirit, soul, and body.

Isaiah spoke a word of restoration to his generation, and we speak to our generation. Verse 19 begin by saying, "For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem; You shall weep no more." In order to dwell successfully in any place and to avoid the weeping that comes from our own errors, we need teachers.

We need Bible teachers as well as mentors and instructors who have knowledge and skill in our areas of need. Some of the worse teachers are your friends and non-parent family members, who are more committed to making you happy than telling you the truth.

As the text indicates, teachers often end up moved into a "corner" because they are not saying what people want to hear. It is foolish not to listen to a teacher who has walked the path you are attempting to walk, just because you don't like how the teaching makes you feel sometimes. A good teacher isn't as concerned about your feelings as your welfare.

Take Isaiah's advice, go find and listen to your teachers. When you hear their voice, you will also hear God's voice saying, "Here is the way, walk in it."

When you listen, learn and do, your wandering and weeping will come to an end.

REFLECTION QUESTION: In addition to the Lord, who do you need to pay attention to? 

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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"What to Do When You Feel Overwhelmed" - DAY #6: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Friday, October 13, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  What to Do When You Feel Overwhelmed 


The precursor to mental illness is mental and emotional distress. Some pressure and stress in life is normal. Abnormal pressure and stress is harmful. Sometimes, abnormal things come when we lose focus on our purpose.

In challenging times, you might identify with David’s words:

Psalms 142:3-4 “When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk...Look on my right hand and see, For there is no one who acknowledges me; Refuge has failed me; No one cares for my soul.”

At all times, life brings joys and challenges. David faced all manner of difficulties and pain, but he learned to stay close to the Lord, and he wrote Psalms (or songs) to help carry his heart to God. Those among us who are called to serve can easily become commodities, fixtures, and tools for others. 

There are times when it feels like, "no one cares for my soul." People often ask, or tell you, what you can do for them. Few ask, "How are you? How may I serve you?" This is, in part, the cost we must count to be a servant. This is why the Apostle Paul told Timothy, "Take heed to yourself..." (1 Timothy 4:16) You are always responsible for your own health and rest.

Our strength is found in the words and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ!

John 10:9-10, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”

The same principles that apply to "sheep" apply to leaders and servants. I listened to a teaching by Bishop T.D. Jakes who said, "The enemy is always trying to destroy what is within you" The point he made was this: While we focus on present circumstances, the "thief" (satan) is working to undermine your purpose, your future, and the things God intends to bring through your life for coming generations. Part of that comes from demands not related to your purpose.

Remember that only God through Christ has the grace and power to cause you to experience "life, and that more abundantly.”

Go that way.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What is the enemy trying to destroy within you? What things not related to your purpose do you need to let go? Has self-pity become an issue?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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PREVIOUS LESSONS:

"Who is Your Partner for Life?" - DAY #5: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Thursday, October 12, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Who is Your Partner For Life?


Matthew 11:28, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Prosperity of spirit, soul and body begins and ends with the One who makes all things possible! Jesus said, "Come to me...."

The yoke of Christ is an invitation to partner with Him. Yokes are used to link oxen together so that they, with less effort, can do the work of plowing fields.

When you take Jesus' yoke and begin the work of plowing your fields of life, you will notice that this yoke, unlike any other kind of yoke, is easy. You will also notice that this burden, unlike any other burden, is light. When you ask yourself, “Why is this yoke easy and this burden light?” Look over to your side, and you will see Jesus in the same yoke with you and bearing the same burden with you!

Only when yoked with Jesus will you find rest for your soul – for your mind, will and emotions. Nothing short of walking with Jesus, and learning of Him, will make an everlasting difference. You will be able to be at rest while you live and work.

What is REST?
R - Repentance from sin, labors and heavy burdens. “Change Your Mind”
E - Expectation of a new life through faith in God and the obedience to the Gospel
S - Salvation and living is by grace through faith and not of yourselves. Receive the gift of God.
T - Testify of the goodness of God. 

REFLECTION QUESTION: What difficult things or heavy burdens would become easy or light if you were yoked to Jesus while doing it?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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PREVIOUS LESSONS:

"Set Your Mind and Keep It Set" - DAY 4: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Set Your Mind and Keep It Set 


Romans 7:22 For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man ....25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.

Ephesians 4:23, “Be renewed in the spirit of your mind...”

The excerpts of scripture shown above highlight the power of our thinking. While the new birth occurred in our hearts, renewal happens in our minds. The mind is often the battleground, the place where progress is either won or lost.

Below are some scriptures and suggested affirmations to help build your faith and develop/maintain a victorious mindset:

1. Mortify my mind: Romans 8:5-8,12-14
“Carnality does not control my lifestyle. My mind is the property of Jesus. Satan, keep your hands off! I am dead to sin and alive to God. I am dead to things carnal and alive to things spiritual. I am a debtor to the Holy Spirit who gave me life.

2. Clear my mind: 1 John 3:11-12
“I clear my mind of anger, envy and disappointment at others. I give place for the peace of God to flood my mind. Jesus, you are my peace. I dig up seeds of bitterness and cast them away. I have the mind of Christ.” (Hebrews 12:14-15; 1 Corinthians 2:16)

3. Renew my mind: Ephesians 4:23
“I have the power through my Lord Jesus Christ to replace wrong thought patterns with thoughts that please God. I can root out, pluck down, throw down and destroy anything in me that is not of God. I can build and plant anything that is of God.” (Jeremiah 1:10)

4. Set my mind: Colossians 3:1-4
“I am a decisive person by the grace of God. My mind taps into the riches of God’s wisdom, knowledge and understanding. My mind is innovative, creative and productive in every purpose of God. I am disciplined in my thought life and repel every fiery dart from Satan.”

5. Focus my mind: Romans 6:16-18
“I see clearly what I must do. There is no cloud of confusion in me. My mind will grasp everything I need to know. I cast down imaginations and opinions born of pride. My mind is the tool and servant of my Lord Jesus Christ!”

6. Guard my mind: Proverbs 4:10-26
“I guard my mind from the seeds of Satan. My mind is the gateway to my heart and I will protect the treasure of God’s Word in me. The cares of this world; the deceitfulness of riches; and the lusts of other things will not choke the Word in me. God’s healing power dominates my body and mind. The forces of the life of God flow out of me to bless others.” (Mark 4:19)

REFLECTION QUESTION: What are you determined to do today to shape and control your thinking? 

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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PREVIOUS LESSONS:
DAY #1: What Is The Will of God?
DAY #3: "Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ"



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"Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ" - DAY #3: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Tuesday, October 10, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ 


Romans 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.

There are two powerful forces at work in this world and in your life. The first force or "bad law" is what the Apostle Paul called the "law of sin and death."

Like gravity, the law of sin and death, introduced into the earth by Adam, affects everyone. This is a law, or principle, that no one can escape or overcome in one's own strength. Even "nice" people have sinned and experienced a spiritual death.

The second powerful force or "good law" at work in the earth is what the Apostle Paul called "the law of the Spirit of life in Christ." This force, power, or principle is something that God had to introduce into the earth through Jesus Christ to counteract the law of sin and death.

As the wording suggests, this law is all about life. It's all about Jesus Christ. It's all about freedom and health for your spirit, soul and body. This "Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" helps you overcome negative and harmful factors in life.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: How would you explain "law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" to another person? How does Jesus make this law or principle effective?

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

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PREVIOUS LESSONS:
DAY #1: What Is The Will of God?

"Is Scripture Alone Enough For Healing?" - DAY #2: Firm Foundation October 21-Day Devotional

Monday, October 09, 2023 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


  Is Scripture Alone Enough For Healing? 


Proverbs 4:20-22, My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man’s whole body.

Proverbs 16:24, Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

There are many Scripture texts that reference healing, but are obviously not intended as medical statements. However, this does not mean that Scripture has no bearing on physical health.

We regard ourselves as God’s creation. We are a comprehensive, integrated person. We are spirit, soul, and body –– made in God’s image and likeness. While we relate to God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we also know there is never any separation of the Godhead. God is One.

Christ followers only get in trouble when we “spiritualize” things that are based in the natural world and science, which God created. For example, there is no praying over gravity to suspend it. There is no “believing by faith” that we won’t age. In similar manner, there are no words we can speak, apart from a miracle, that can heal a bone disease.

Many of us lived through the era of “name-it-claim-it,” in which people suffered greatly, and died. This occurred by failure to recognize that, “Faith, without works is dead, being alone.” (James 2:17) We need to stay grounded in Scripture, God’s wisdom, and best practices. The COVID pandemic also exposed poor practice as many attempted to discount science or substitute faith for wisdom. Poor choices cost many people their lives.

Speaking positively is a best practice, though "positive confession" alone is not enough. Saying foolish, empty, and vain things are not helpful and is a violation of the Word of God and teachings of Christ. Obedience is important, whether or not you understand the effects of it.

Proverbs 18:21, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Matthew 12:36, But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.

When it comes to healthy living in spirit, soul, and body, we are looking at doing all things well, all the time.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Why does only using Scripture for healing come short? What is the value of this text? “Having done everything, to stand. Stand firm then…” (Ephesians 6:13-14)

ACTION ITEMS BASED ON TODAY'S LESSON:

_____________________

PREVIOUS LESSONS:
DAY #1: What Is The Will of God?



Donate to New Covenant Church: https://cash.app/$newcovenantindy





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